欧路词典2

dressy

dressy /dr'esi/ (dressier dressiest) [ADJ] Dressy clothes are smart clothes which you wear when you want to look elegant or formal. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

energetically

energetically adverb adverb BrE BrE / /ˌenəˈdʒetɪ kli / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˌenərˈdʒetɪ kli / / with a lot of energy or enthusiasm He energetically denied the charge....

endemic

en|dem|ic /end'emɪk/ 1 [ADJ] If a disease or illness is endemic in a place, it is frequently found among the people who live there. (TECHNICAL) Polio was then endemic among children my age. 2 [ADJ] If you say that a condition or problem is endemic, you mean that it is very common and strong, and cannot be dealt with easily. (WRITTEN) Street crime is virtually endemic in large cities. ...powerful radicals with an endemic hatred and fear of the West. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

eponymous

epony|mous /ɪp'ɒnɪməs/ [ADJ] ADJ n An eponymous hero or heroine is the character in a play or book whose name is the title of that play or book. (FORMAL) el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

ethos

ethos /'iːθɒs/ [N-SING] usu with supp An ethos is the set of ideas and attitudes that is associated with a particular group of people or a particular type of activity. (FORMAL) The whole ethos of the hotel is effortless service. ...the traditional public service ethos. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

euro

euro /j'ʊəroʊ/ (euros) [N-COUNT] oft the N The euro is a unit of currency that is used by the member countries of the European Union which have accepted European monetary union. Millions of words have been written about the introduction of the euro... Governments and businesses will start keeping accounts in euros. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

gilt

gilt /g'ɪlt/ (gilts) 1 [ADJ] usu ADJ n A gilt object is covered with a thin layer of gold or gold paint. ...marble columns and gilt spires. 2 [N-COUNT] Gilts are gilt-edged stocks or securities. (BRIT BUSINESS)...

green thumb

green thumb noun noun BrE ; NAmE ( North American English ) ( British English green fingers ) [ singular ] if you have a green thumb, you are good at making plants grow...

encore

en|core /'ɒŋkɔːr, -k'ɔːr/ (encores) [N-COUNT] An encore is a short extra performance at the end of a longer one, which an entertainer gives because the audience asks for it. Lang's final encore last night was `Barefoot'. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

entropy

en|tro|py /'entrəpi/ [N-UNCOUNT] Entropy is a state of disorder, confusion, and disorganization. (TECHNICAL) el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

go beyond

go beyond phrasal verb phrasal verb Phrasal Verbs go beyond something to be more than something synonym exceed This year's sales figures go beyond all our expectations ( = are much better than we thought they would be )....

dozing

v. 假寐（doze的现在分词）；推土

excruciate

vt. (精神上)残酷折磨;(使精神上受)极大痛苦 时 态: excruciated, excruciating, excruciates 名 词: excruciation

escot

vt. 〈废〉供养,维持

eloquently

eloquently adverb adverb BrE BrE / /ˈeləkwəntli / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈeləkwəntli / / 1 in a way that uses language and expresses your opinions well, especially when you are speaking in public She spoke eloquently on the subject. 2 a look or movement that expresses something eloquently shows a lot of feeling His face expressed his grief more eloquently than any words....

emission

emis|sion /ɪm'ɪʃən/ (emissions) [N-VAR] An emission of something such as gas or radiation is the release of it into the atmosphere. (FORMAL) The emission of gases such as carbon dioxide should be stabilised at their present level... Sulfur emissions from steel mills become acid rain. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

eminent

emi|nent /'emɪnənt/ [ADJ] usu ADJ n An eminent person is well-known and respected, especially because they are good at their profession. ...an eminent scientist. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

empirically

empirically adverb adverb BrE BrE / /ɪmˈpɪrɪ kli / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ɪmˈpɪrɪ kli / / ( formal ) in a way that is based on experiments or experience rather than ideas or theories Such claims need to be tested empirically. opposite theoretically...

get down to sth

开始认真对待

erotic

erot|ic /ɪr'ɒtɪk/ 1 [ADJ] If you describe something as erotic, you mean that it involves sexual feelings or arouses sexual desire. It might sound like some kind of wild fantasy, but it wasn't an erotic experience at all. ...photographs of nude women in erotic poses. ● erotically [ADV] ADV with v, ADV adj The film is shot seductively, erotically... 2 [ADJ] ADJ n Erotic art shows naked people or sexual acts, and is intended to produce feelings of sexual pleasure. Erotic paintings also became a fine art. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

estimable

es|ti|mable /'estɪməbəl/ [ADJ] usu ADJ n If you describe someone or something as estimable, you mean that they deserve admiration. (FORMAL) ...the estimable Miss Cartwright. = admirable el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

ethics

ethics See ethic

excite

ex|cite /ɪks'aɪt/ (excites exciting excited) 1 [VERB] V n, V If something excites you, it makes you feel very happy, eager, or enthusiastic. I only take on work that excites me, even if it means turning down lots of money... Where the show really excites is in the display of avant-garde photography. 2 [VERB] V n If something excites a particular feeling, emotion, or reaction in someone, it causes them to experience it. Daniel's early exposure to motor racing did not excite his interest... = arouse el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

epilogue

epi|logue /'epɪlɒg, AM -lɔːg/ (epilogues) in AM, also use epilog [N-COUNT] usu the N in sing An epilogue is a passage or speech which is added to the end of a book or play as a conclusion. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

fissure

fis|sure /f'ɪʃər/ (fissures) [N-COUNT] A fissure is a deep crack in something, especially in rock or in the ground.

force majeure

force majeure noun noun BrE BrE / / ˌfɔːs mæˈʒɜː(r) / / ; NAmE NAmE / / ˌfɔːrs mæˈʒɜːr / / [ uncountable ] ( from French , law ) unexpected circumstances, such as war, that can be used as an excuse when they prevent somebody from doing something that is written in a contract Word Origin French, literally 'superior strength' ....

frantically

frantically adverb adverb BrE BrE / /ˈfræntɪ kli / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈfræntɪ kli / / 1 quickly and with a lot of activity, but in a way that is not very well organized They worked frantically to finish on time. 2 without controlling your emotions because you are extremely frightened or worried about something 'What do I do now?' she thought frantically....

futurism

fu|tur|ism /fj'uːtʃərɪzəm/ [N-UNCOUNT] Futurism was a modern artistic and literary movement in the early twentieth century. ♦ fur|ni|ture /f'ɜːrnɪtʃər/ [N-UNCOUNT] Furniture consists of large objects such as tables, chairs, or beds that are used in a room for sitting or lying on or for putting things on or in. Each piece of furniture in their home suited the style of the house....

gintrap

gin trap noun noun BrE ; NAmE a device for trapping small wild animals or birds

glean

glean /gl'iːn/ (gleans gleaning gleaned) [VERB] V n from n, V n If you glean something such as information or knowledge, you learn or collect it slowly and patiently, and perhaps indirectly. At present we're gleaning information from all sources... 10,000 pages of evidence were gleaned from hundreds and hundreds of interviews. = gather glu|ten /gl'uːtən/ [N-UNCOUNT] Gluten is a substance found in cereal grains such as wheat....

gravy

gra|vy /gr'eɪvi/ (gravies) [N-MASS] Gravy is a sauce made from the juices that come from meat when it cooks. gra|vy boat (gravy boats) [N-COUNT] A gravy boat is a long narrow jug that is used to serve gravy. gra|vy train (gravy trains) [N-COUNT] oft on the N If an organization or person earns a lot of money without doing much work, you can say that they are on the gravy train. (JOURNALISM) We were disgusted when bosses awarded themselves a massive pay rise. How can they get on the gravy train, but ask us to take a wage freeze?...

gunflint

n. (燧发枪的)引火燧石

dygoram

n. (磁罗经)自差曲线图

hare

hare /h'eər/ (hares haring hared) 1 [N-VAR] A hare is an animal like a rabbit but larger with long ears, long legs, and a small tail. 2 [VERB] V adv/prep If you hare off somewhere, you go there very quickly. (BRIT INFORMAL) ...an over-protective mother who keeps haring off to ring the babysitter....

harassment

har|ass|ment /h'ærəsmənt, hər'æs-/ [N-UNCOUNT] oft adj N Harassment is behaviour which is intended to trouble or annoy someone, for example repeated attacks on them or attempts to cause them problems. The party has accused the police of harassment. har|bin|ger /h'ɑːrbɪndʒər/ (harbingers) [N-COUNT] usu N of n Something that is a harbinger of something else, especially something bad, is a sign that it is going to happen. (LITERARY) The November air stung my cheeks, a harbinger of winter....

goop

n. [俚]笨蛋；黏糊糊的东西；无礼貌的人 形容词: goopy

Eldorado

n. 〈西〉理想中的黄金国,富庶之乡

filthy lucre

n. 不义之财;用卑鄙手段得来的钱财

Eva

n. 伊娃, 女子名

etcaeteras

n. 其余,等等的人或物

etceteras

n. 其余,等等的物(人们)

factions

n. 内讧；派系（faction的复数）

heartstring

n. 心弦

gibblegabble

n. 快速而不清说的言语,乱语

effacement

n. 抹消,抹杀

frottage

n. 摩擦；擦印画；性摩擦

embolite

n. 氯溴银矿

Hanoi

n. 河内（越南首都）

Gary

n. 盖理

Elissa

n. 艾丽莎（人名）

effervesce

vi. 冒气泡,起泡沫 时 态: effervesced, effervescing, effervesces 名 词: effervescence or 形容词: effervescent 副 词: effervescently

heirloom

heir|loom /'eərluːm/ (heirlooms) [N-COUNT] An heirloom is an ornament or other object that has belonged to a family for a very long time and that has been handed down from one generation to another. heir ap|par|ent (heirs apparent) [N-COUNT] usu sing, oft the N to n, poss N The heir apparent to a particular job or position is the person who is expected to have it after the person who has it now. (JOURNALISM)...

hedonism

he|don|ism /h'iːdənɪzəm/ [N-UNCOUNT] Hedonism is the belief that gaining pleasure is the most important thing in life. (FORMAL) heav|en|ly body (heavenly bodies) [N-COUNT] A heavenly body is a planet, star, moon, or other natural object in space....

endeavor

Endeavor BrE ; NAmE the name of a US space shuttle ( = spacecraft that can be used again ) used by NASA. It first flew in 1992 and was used by astronauts in 1993 to repair the Hubble Space Telescope....

Ethiopia

Ethiopia noun noun BrE BrE / /ˌiːθiˈəʊpiə / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˌiːθiˈoʊpiə / / [ singular ] a country in north-eastern Africa

gunnel

gunnel BrE BrE / /ˈɡʌnl / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈɡʌnl / / = gunwale

hatching

- n. 剖面线；画影线；孵化 - v. 孵化；给...加影线；策划（hatch的ing形式） - adj. 孵化的

enraged

- adj. 暴怒的；忿怒填胸的 - v. 使发怒；触怒（enrage的过去分词）

fuming

- adj. 熏的；冒烟的 - v. 蒸发；冒烟（fume的现在分词）

excelsior

- adj. 精益求精的 - n. 细刨花

econ.

- economic 经济学的 - economical 经济的

folklike

- n. 人们,亲属(复数),民族 - adj. 民间的

hash brown

- n. 剁碎的食物；混杂，拼凑；重新表述 - vt. 搞糟，把...弄乱；切细；推敲 时 态: hashed, hashing, hashes

Dutch

Dutch /d'ʌtʃ/ 1 [ADJ] Dutch means belonging or relating to the Netherlands, or to its people, language, or culture. 2 [N-PLURAL] the N The Dutch are the people of the Netherlands. 3 [N-UNCOUNT] Dutch is the language that is spoken by the people who live in the Netherlands. Dutch cour|age [N-UNCOUNT] Dutch courage is the courage that you get by drinking alcoholic drinks. (INFORMAL)...

fauve

Fauve noun noun BrE BrE / /fəʊv / / ; NAmE NAmE / /foʊv / / a member of a group of French painters who were important in Fauvism

gamete

gam|ete /g'æmiːt/ (gametes) [N-COUNT] Gamete is the name for the two types of male and female cell that join together to make a new creature. (TECHNICAL)

enthrall

enthrall See enthral

EHMO

推广的休克尔分子轨道法

facilitators

服务性企业

G13

本神

fines

细粉;细屑

front matter

(出版)前页(扉页、版权页、目次等)

drooping

adj. 下垂的,无力的

ever-increasing

adj. 不断增长的

dynomite

adj. 优质的，极好的

exceptionable

adj. 会引起反感的;可提出异议的 名 词: exceptionability 副 词: exceptionably

girly

adj. 像少女的

drench

drench /dr'entʃ/ (drenches drenching drenched) [VERB] V n, get V-ed, V-ed To drench something or someone means to make them completely wet. They turned fire hoses on the people and drenched them... They were getting drenched by icy water... We were completely drenched and cold... = soak ● -drenched [COMB in ADJ] ...the rain-drenched streets of the capital. dress cir|cle [N-SING] The dress circle is the lowest of the curved rows of seats upstairs in a theatre. dress code (dress codes) [N-COUNT] The dress code of a place is the rules about what kind of clothes people are allowed to wear there. There is a strict dress code: no trainers or jeans. dress down [PHRASAL VERB] V P If you dress down, you wear clothes that are less smart than usual. She dresses down in baggy clothes to avoid hordes of admirers. dress-down Fri|day (dress-down Fridays) [N-COUNT] In some companies employees are allowed to wear clothes that are less smart than usual on a Friday. This day is known as a dress-down Friday. But is it really feasible to don sportswear to the office without the excuse of dress-down Friday? dress re|hears|al (dress rehearsals) 1 [N-COUNT] The dress rehearsal of a play, opera, or show is the final rehearsal before it is performed, in which the performers wear their costumes and the lights and scenery are all used as they will be in the performance. 2 [N-COUNT] You can describe an event as a dress rehearsal for a later, more important event when it indicates how the later event will be. These elections, you could almost say, are a dress rehearsal for the real elections. dress sense [N-UNCOUNT] Someone's dress sense is their ability to choose clothes that make them look attractive. I've no dress sense at all... dress shirt (dress shirts) [N-COUNT] A dress shirt is a special shirt which men wear on formal occasions. It is worn with a dinner jacket and bow tie. dress up 1 [PHRASAL VERB] V P, V P in/as n If you dress up or dress yourself up, you put on different clothes, in order to make yourself look smarter than usual or to disguise yourself. You do not need to dress up for dinner... Little girls dress up as angels for fiestas. 2 [PHRASAL VERB] V n P If you dress someone up, you give them special clothes to wear, in order to make them look smarter or to disguise them. Mother loved to dress me up. 3 [PHRASAL VERB] V P n (not pron), V n P If you dress something up, you try to make it seem more attractive, acceptable, or interesting than it really is. Politicians dress up their ruthless ambition as a pursuit of the public good... However you dress it up, a bank only exists to lend money. 4 see also dressed up, dressing-up dres|sage /dr'esɑːʒ/ [N-UNCOUNT] Dressage is a competition in which horse riders have to make their horse perform controlled movements. ♦ dressed /dr'est/ 1 [ADJ] usu v-link ADJ If you are dressed, you are wearing clothes rather than being naked or wearing your night clothes. If you get dressed, you put on your clothes. He was fully dressed, including shoes... He went into his bedroom to get dressed. 2 [ADJ] v-link ADJ in/as n, adv ADJ If you are dressed in a particular way, you are wearing clothes of a particular colour or kind. ...a tall thin woman dressed in black. see also well-dressed dressed up 1 [ADJ] usu v-link ADJ If someone is dressed up, they are wearing special clothes, in order to look smarter than usual or in order to disguise themselves. You're all dressed up. Are you going somewhere?... 2 [ADJ] v-link ADJ as/in n If you say that something is dressed up as something else, you mean that someone has tried to make it more acceptable or attractive by making it seem like that other thing. He tried to organise things so that the trip would be dressed up as a UN mission. 3 dressed up to the nines: see nine dress|er /dr'esər/ (dressers) 1 [N-COUNT] A dresser is a chest of drawers, usually with a mirror on the top. (AM; in BRIT, use dressing table) 2 [N-COUNT] A dresser is a piece of furniture which has cupboards or drawers in the lower part and shelves in the top part. It is usually used for storing china. (mainly BRIT) 3 [N-COUNT] adj N You can use dresser to refer to the kind of clothes that a person wears. For example, if you say that someone is a smart dresser, you mean that they wear smart clothes....

dynamite

dy|na|mite /d'aɪnəmaɪt/ 1 [N-UNCOUNT] Dynamite is a type of explosive that contains nitroglycerin. Fifty yards of track was blown up with dynamite. 2 [N-UNCOUNT] If you describe a piece of information as dynamite, you think that people will react strongly to it. (INFORMAL) Her diaries are political dynamite. 3 [N-UNCOUNT] If you describe someone or something as dynamite, you think that they are exciting. (INFORMAL) The first kiss is dynamite. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

earthenware

earthen|ware /'ɜːrðənweər/ 1 [ADJ] ADJ n Earthenware bowls, pots, or other objects are made of clay that is baked so that it becomes hard. ...earthenware pots. = terracotta 2 [N-UNCOUNT] Earthenware objects are referred to as earthenware. ...colourful Italian china and earthenware. = terracotta edu|cat|ed guess (educated guesses) [N-COUNT] An educated guess is a guess which is based on a certain amount of knowledge and is therefore likely to be correct. Estimating the right cooking time will always be an educated guess....

ebony

eb|ony /'ebəni/ 1 [N-UNCOUNT] oft N n Ebony is a very hard, heavy, dark-coloured wood. ...a small ebony cabinet. 2 [ADJ] Something that is ebony is a very deep black colour. (LITERARY) He had rich, soft ebony hair. edu|cat|ed guess (educated guesses) [N-COUNT] An educated guess is a guess which is based on a certain amount of knowledge and is therefore likely to be correct. Estimating the right cooking time will always be an educated guess....

egregious

egre|gious /ɪgr'iːdʒəs/ [ADJ] usu ADJ n Egregious means very bad indeed. (FORMAL) ...the most egregious abuses of human rights. = grievous edu|cat|ed guess (educated guesses) [N-COUNT] An educated guess is a guess which is based on a certain amount of knowledge and is therefore likely to be correct. Estimating the right cooking time will always be an educated guess....

elves

elves /'elvz/ Elves is the plural of elf. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

emulate

emu|late /'emjʊleɪt/ (emulates emulating emulated) [VERB] V n If you emulate something or someone, you imitate them because you admire them a great deal. (FORMAL) Sons are traditionally expected to emulate their fathers. ● emulation [N-UNCOUNT] ...a role model worthy of emulation. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

endorsement

en|dorse|ment /ɪnd'ɔːrsmənt/ (endorsements) 1 [N-COUNT] oft N of/for n An endorsement is a statement or action which shows that you support or approve of something or someone. This is a powerful endorsement for his softer style of government. 2 [N-COUNT] An endorsement is a note on someone's driving licence saying that they have been found guilty of a driving offence. (BRIT) 3 [N-COUNT] An endorsement for a product or company involves appearing in advertisements for it or showing support for it. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

engraver

en|grav|er /ɪngr'eɪvər/ (engravers) [N-COUNT] An engraver is someone who cuts designs or words on metal, glass, or wood. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

enlighten

en|light|en /ɪnl'aɪtən/ (enlightens enlightening enlightened) [VERB] no cont, V n, V n To enlighten someone means to give them more knowledge and greater understanding about something. (FORMAL) A few dedicated doctors have fought for years to enlighten the profession... If you know what is wrong with her, please enlighten me. ● enlightening [ADJ] usu ADJ n ...an enlightening talk on the work done at the animal park... el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

enlistment

en|list|ment /ɪnl'ɪstmənt/ (enlistments) 1 [N-UNCOUNT] also N in pl Enlistment is the act of joining the army, navy, marines, or air force. Canadians seek enlistment in the US Marines because they don't see as much opportunity in the Canadian armed forces. 2 [N-VAR] Enlistment is the period of time for which someone is a member of one of the armed forces. At the end of my term of enlistment I decided to return to civilian life. = service el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

enticement

en|tice|ment /ɪnt'aɪsmənt/ (enticements) [N-VAR] An enticement is something which makes people want to do a particular thing. Among other enticements, they advertized that they would take guests to Ramsgate for the day. = inducement el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

esoteric

eso|ter|ic /'iːsoʊt'erɪk, AM 'esə-/ [ADJ] If you describe something as esoteric, you mean it is known, understood, or appreciated by only a small number of people. (FORMAL) ...esoteric knowledge. ...a spoiled aristocrat with pretentious airs and esoteric tastes. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

espresso

es|pres|so /espr'esoʊ/ (espressos) [N-UNCOUNT] Espresso coffee is made by forcing steam or boiling water through ground coffee beans. ...Italian espresso coffee. [N-COUNT] An espresso is a cup of espresso coffee. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

eternity

eter|nity /ɪt'ɜːrnɪti/ 1 [N-UNCOUNT] Eternity is time without an end or a state of existence outside time, especially the state which some people believe they will pass into after they have died. I have always found the thought of eternity terrifying. 2 [N-SING] a N If you say that a situation lasted for an eternity, you mean that it seemed to last an extremely long time, usually because it was boring or unpleasant. The war continued for an eternity... = age eter|nal tri|an|gle (eternal triangles) [N-COUNT] usu sing You use the eternal triangle to refer to a relationship involving love and jealousy between two men and a woman or two women and a man....

evermore

evermore adverb adverb BrE BrE / / ˌevəˈmɔː(r) / / ; NAmE NAmE / / ˌevərˈmɔːr / / ( also for evermore ) ( literary ) always

even

even adjective adjective BrE BrE / /ˈiːvn / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈiːvn / / smooth/level 1 smooth, level and flat You need an even surface to work on. opposite uneven not changing 2 not changing very much in amount, speed, etc. an even temperature all year Children do not learn at an even pace. opposite uneven equal 3 ( of an amount of something ) equal or the same for each person, team, place, etc. Our scores are now even. the even distribution of food opposite uneven 4 ( of two people or teams ) equally balanced or of an equal standard an even contest The two players were pretty even. opposite uneven numbers 5 that can be divided exactly by two 4, 6, 8, 10 are all even numbers. opposite odd same size 6 equally spaced and the same size even features/teeth opposite uneven calm 7 calm; not changing or becoming upset She has a very even temperament. He spoke in a steady, even voice. Nothing disturbed the even tenor of our life. Word Origin Old English efen (adjective), efne (adverb), of Germanic origin; related to Dutch even, effen and German eben. Extra examples The floor isn't completely even. The scores remained more or less even throughout the competition. Try to keep the room at a fairly even temperature. Try to keep your stitches absolutely even. The political goal was a more even distribution of wealth. The scores were even at 2-2. There is a more even division in the contest for the deputy leadership. This seems to be a more even contest. Try to keep your baby's room at an even temperature. Until then the match looked fairly even. Idioms be even ( informal ) to no longer owe somebody money or a favour If I pay for the meals then we're even. See related entries: Running a business be/get even (with somebody) ( informal ) to cause somebody the same amount of trouble or harm as they have caused you I'll get even with you for this, just you wait. break even to complete a piece of business, etc. without either losing money or making a profit The company just about broke even last year. have an even chance (of doing something) to be equally likely to do or not do something She has more than an even chance of winning tomorrow. There's an even chance that the jury will find him guilty. the honours are even no particular person, team, etc. is doing better than the others in a competition, an argument, etc. on an even keel living, working or happening in a calm way, with no sudden changes, especially after a difficult time Business is now back on an even keel after the postal strike. Setting her life back on an even keel after their break-up had been incredibly difficult. even adverb adverb BrE BrE / /ˈiːvn / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈiːvn / / 1 used to emphasize something unexpected or surprising He never even opened the letter ( = so he certainly didn't read it ). It was cold there even in summer ( = so it must have been very cold in winter ). Even a child can understand it ( = so adults certainly can ). She didn't even call to say she wasn't coming. 2 used when you are comparing things, to make the comparison stronger You know even less about it than I do. She's even more intelligent than her sister. 3 used to introduce a more exact description of somebody/something It's an unattractive building, ugly even. Which Word? although / even though / though You can use these words to show contrast between two clauses or two sentences. Though is used more in spoken than in written English. You can use although, even though and though at the beginning of a sentence or clause that has a verb. Notice where the commas go: Although/​Even though/​Though everyone played well, we lost the game. We lost the game, although/​even though/​though everyone played well. You cannot use even on its own at the beginning of a sentence or clause instead of although, even though or though: Even everyone played well, we lost the game. Word Origin Old English efen (adjective), efne (adverb), of Germanic origin; related to Dutch even, effen and German eben. Idioms even as ( formal ) just at the same time as somebody does something or as something else happens Even as he shouted the warning the car skidded. even if/though despite the fact or belief that; no matter whether I'll get there, even if I have to walk. I like her, even though she can be annoying at times. Which Word? although / even though / though You can use these words to show contrast between two clauses or two sentences. Though is used more in spoken than in written English. You can use although, even though and though at the beginning of a sentence or clause that has a verb. Notice where the commas go: Although/​Even though/​Though everyone played well, we lost the game. We lost the game, although/​even though/​though everyone played well. You cannot use even on its own at the beginning of a sentence or clause instead of although, even though or though: Even everyone played well, we lost the game. even/much/still less and certainly not No explanation was offered, still less an apology. He's too shy to ask a stranger the time, much less speak to a room full of people. even now/then 1 despite what has/had happened I've shown him the photographs but even now he won't believe me. Even then she would not admit her mistake. 2 ( formal ) at this or that exact moment The troops are even now preparing to march into the city. even so despite that There are a lot of spelling mistakes; even so, it's quite a good essay. even verb verb BrE BrE / /ˈiːvn / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈiːvn / / Verb Forms present simple I / you / we / they even BrE BrE / /ˈiːvn / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈiːvn / / he / she / it evens BrE BrE / /ˈiːvnz / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈiːvnz / / past simple evened BrE BrE / /ˈiːvnd / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈiːvnd / / past participle evened BrE BrE / /ˈiːvnd / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈiːvnd / / -ing form evening BrE BrE / /ˈiːvnɪŋ / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈiːvnɪŋ / / Word Origin Old English efen (adjective), efne (adverb), of Germanic origin; related to Dutch even, effen and German eben. Idioms even the score to harm or punish somebody who has harmed or cheated you in the past Phrasal Verbs even out even something out even something up...

experimentation

experimentation noun noun BrE BrE / /ɪkˌsperɪmenˈteɪʃn / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ɪkˌsperɪmenˈteɪʃn / / [ uncountable ] ( formal ) Experiments and research the activity or process of experimenting experimentation with new teaching methods Many people object to experimentation on embryos. See related entries: Experiments and research...

exemplify

ex|em|pli|fy /ɪgz'emplɪfaɪ/ (exemplifies exemplifying exemplified) [VERB] V n If a person or thing exemplifies something such as a situation, quality, or class of things, they are a typical example of it. (FORMAL) The room's style exemplifies Conran's ideal of `beauty and practicality'. ex|er|cise bike (exercise bikes) [N-COUNT] An exercise bike is a special bicycle which does not move, so that you can exercise on it at home or at a gym. ex|er|cise book (exercise books) [N-COUNT] An exercise book is a small book that students use for writing in. (mainly BRIT; in AM, usually use notebook)...

favorably

favorably See favourably

fiberglass

fiberglass See fibreglass

fortepiano

fortepiano noun noun BrE BrE / /ˌfɔːteɪˈpjɑːnəʊ / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˌfɔːrteɪˈpjɑːnoʊ / / ; BrE BrE / /ˌfɔːteɪ ˈpjænəʊ / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˌfɔːrteɪ ˈpjænoʊ / / ( pl. fortepian os ) a type of piano made in the 18th and early 19th centuries Word Origin mid 18th cent.: from forte 'loud' + piano 'soft'....

garnet

gar|net /g'ɑːrnɪt/ (garnets) [N-COUNT] A garnet is a hard, shiny stone that is used in making jewellery. Garnets can be red, yellow, or green in colour.

get across

get across [PHRASAL VERB] V P to n, V n P When an idea gets across or when you get it across, you succeed in making other people understand it. Officers felt their point of view was not getting across to ministers... I had created a way to get my message across while using as few words as possible. = get over get away with [PHRASAL VERB] V P P n/-ing If you get away with doing something wrong or risky, you do not suffer any punishment or other bad consequences because of it. The criminals know how to play the system and get away with it......

gill

gill /g'ɪl/ (gills) [N-COUNT] usu pl Gills are the organs on the sides of fish and other water creatures through which they breathe.

granular

granu|lar /gr'ænjʊlər/ [ADJ] usu ADJ n Granular substances are composed of a lot of granules, or feel or look as if they are composed of a lot of granules. ...a granular fertiliser....

grassroots

grassroots See grass roots

grouch

grouch /gr'aʊtʃ/ (grouches) 1 [N-COUNT] A grouch is someone who is always complaining in a bad-tempered way. (INFORMAL) He's an old grouch but she puts up with him. 2 [N-COUNT] A grouch is a bad-tempered complaint. (INFORMAL) One of the biggest grouches is the new system of payment. = gripe ground crew (ground crews) [N-COUNT-COLL] At an airport, the people who look after the planes when they are on the ground are called the ground crew. The airport ground crew tried to dissuade the pilot from taking off. ground floor (ground floors) [N-COUNT] usu the N in sing The ground floor of a building is the floor that is level or almost level with the ground outside. (BRIT; in AM, use first floor) She showed him around the ground floor of the empty house... Jenny now lives in a terraced ground floor flat. ground lev|el [N-UNCOUNT] oft prep N If something is at ground level, it is at the same level as the ground, as opposed to being higher up or below the surface. The hotel is set on three floors. There's a bar and cafe at ground level... The remaining block of woodland is cut down to ground level. ground plan (ground plans) 1 [N-COUNT] In British English, a ground plan is a plan of the ground floor of a building. In American English, a ground plan is a plan of any floor of a building. 2 [N-COUNT] A ground plan is a basic plan for future action. ground rent (ground rents) [N-VAR] Ground rent is rent that is paid by the owner of a flat or house to the owner of the land on which it is built. (mainly BRIT) ground rule (ground rules) [N-COUNT] usu pl, oft N for/of n The ground rules for something are the basic principles on which future action will be based. The panel says the ground rules for the current talks should be maintained. ground staff 1 [N-COUNT-COLL] The people who are paid to maintain a sports ground are called the ground staff. The ground staff do all they can to prepare the pitch. 2 [N-COUNT-COLL] At an airport, the ground staff are the employees of aeroplane companies who do not fly with the planes, but who work in the airport helping passengers and providing information. There had been a strike amongst British Airways ground staff. ground|bait /gr'aʊndbeɪt/ [N-UNCOUNT] Groundbait is food that you throw on to a river or lake when you are fishing in order to attract the fish. ground|break|ing /gr'aʊndbreɪkɪŋ/ also ground-breaking [ADJ] usu ADJ n You use groundbreaking to describe things which you think are significant because they provide new and positive ideas, and influence the way people think about things. ...his groundbreaking novel on homosexuality. ...groundbreaking research. ground|cloth /gr'aʊndklɒθ/ (groundcloths) [N-COUNT] A groundcloth is a piece of waterproof material which you put on the ground to sleep on when you are camping. (AM; in BRIT, use groundsheet) ground|hog /gr'aʊndhɒg, AM -hɔːg/ (groundhogs) [N-COUNT] A groundhog is a type of small animal with reddish-brown fur that is found in North America. = woodchuck ground|ing /gr'aʊndɪŋ/ [N-SING] oft N in n If you have a grounding in a subject, you know the basic facts or principles of that subject, especially as a result of a particular course of training or instruction. The degree provides a thorough grounding in both mathematics and statistics. ground|less /gr'aʊndləs/ [ADJ] usu v-link ADJ If you say that a fear, accusation, or story is groundless, you mean that it is not based on evidence and is unlikely to be true or valid. Fears that the world was about to run out of fuel proved groundless... A ministry official described the report as groundless. ground|nut /gr'aʊndnʌt/ (groundnuts) [N-COUNT] A groundnut is a peanut. (mainly BRIT) ground|sheet /gr'aʊndʃiːt/ (groundsheets) [N-COUNT] A groundsheet is a piece of waterproof material which you put on the ground to sleep on when you are camping. (BRIT; in AM, use groundcloth) grounds|keeper /gr'aʊndzkiːpər/ (groundskeepers) [N-COUNT] A groundskeeper is the same as a groundsman. (AM) grounds|man /gr'aʊndzmən/ (groundsmen) [N-COUNT] A groundsman is a person whose job is to look after a park or sports ground. (BRIT; in AM, use groundskeeper)...

handjob

handjob noun noun BrE BrE / /ˈhænd dʒɒb / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈhænd dʒɑːb / / ( taboo , slang ) the act of a person rubbing a man's penis with their hand to give sexual pleasure...

get off the ground

v. 开始发行；飞起；（使）取得进展

entirely

♦ en|tire|ly /ɪnt'aɪ'ərli/ 1 [ADV] ADV adj, ADV with v, ADV with cl/group Entirely means completely and not just partly. ...an entirely new approach... Fraud is an entirely different matter... Their price depended almost entirely on their scarcity... = completely, totally 2 [ADV] ADV with v, ADV group Entirely is also used to emphasize what you are saying. I agree entirely... Oh, the whole episode was entirely his fault. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

headquarters

♦ head|quarters /h'edkwɔːrtərz/ [N-SING-COLL] The headquarters of an organization are its main offices. ...fraud squad officers from London's police headquarters... = HQ...

effect

♦♦♦ ef|fect /ɪf'ekt/ (effects effecting effected) 1 [N-VAR] oft N of/on n, N of -ing, adj N The effect of one thing on another is the change that the first thing causes in the second thing. Parents worry about the effect of music on their adolescent's behavior... Even minor head injuries can cause long-lasting psychological effects. 2 [N-COUNT] An effect is an impression that someone creates deliberately, for example in a place or in a piece of writing. The whole effect is cool, light and airy. = impression 3 [N-PLURAL] with poss A person's effects are the things that they have with them at a particular time, for example when they are arrested or admitted to hospital, or the things that they owned when they died. (FORMAL) His daughters were collecting his effects. = belongings 4 [N-PLURAL] The effects in a film are the specially created sounds and scenery. 5 [VERB] V n If you effect something that you are trying to achieve, you succeed in causing it to happen. (FORMAL) Prospects for effecting real political change seemed to have taken a major step backwards. 6 see also greenhouse effect, placebo effect, side-effect, side-effect, sound effect, special effect 7 [PHRASE] PHR after v If you say that someone is doing something for effect, you mean that they are doing it in order to impress people and to draw attention to themselves. The Cockney accent was put on for effect. 8 [PHRASE] PHR with cl You add in effect to a statement or opinion that is not precisely accurate, but which you feel is a reasonable description or summary of a particular situation. That deal would create, in effect, the world's biggest airline. = effectively 9 [PHRASE] V inflects If you put, bring, or carry a plan or idea into effect, you cause it to happen in practice. These and other such measures ought to have been put into effect in 1985. = implement 10 [PHRASE] V inflects If a law or policy takes effect or comes into effect at a particular time, it officially begins to apply or be valid from that time. If it remains in effect, it still applies or is still valid. ...the ban on new logging permits which will take effect from July... The decision was taken yesterday and will remain in effect until further government instructions. 11 [PHRASE] V inflects You can say that something takes effect when it starts to produce the results that are intended. The second injection should only have been given once the first drug had taken effect... 12 [PHRASE] PHR after v You use effect in expressions such as to good effect and to no effect in order to indicate how successful or impressive an action is. Mr Morris feels the museum is using advertising to good effect... 13 [PHRASE] n PHR You use to this effect, to that effect, or to the effect that to indicate that you have given or are giving a summary of something that was said or written, and not the actual words used. A circular to this effect will be issued in the next few weeks... 14 [PHRASE] PHR after v If you say that something will happen with immediate effect or with effect from a particular time, you mean that it will begin to apply or be valid immediately or from the stated time. (BRIT mainly FORMAL) The price of the Saturday edition is going up with effect from 3 November. 15 cause and effect: see cause ♦♦ ef|fec|tive /ɪf'ektɪv/ 1 [ADJ] oft ADJ in -ing, ADJ against n Something that is effective works well and produces the results that were intended. The project looks at how we could be more effective in encouraging students to enter teacher training... Simple antibiotics are effective against this organism... ...an effective public transport system. ● effectively [ADV] usu ADV after v, also ADV -ed ...the team roles which you believe to be necessary for the team to function effectively... Services need to be more effectively organised than they are at present. ● effectiveness [N-UNCOUNT] oft N of n ...the effectiveness of computers as an educational tool. 2 [ADJ] ADJ n Effective means having a particular role or result in practice, though not officially or in theory. They have had effective control of the area since the security forces left. 3 [ADJ] v-link ADJ When something such as a law or an agreement becomes effective, it begins officially to apply or be valid. The new rules will become effective in the next few days. ef|fec|tive|ly /ɪf'ektɪvli/ [ADV] usu ADV before v, also ADV adj You use effectively with a statement or opinion to indicate that it is not accurate in every detail, but that you feel it is a reasonable description or summary of a particular situation. The region was effectively independent. ef|fec|tual /ɪf'ektʃuəl/ [ADJ] If an action or plan is effectual, it succeeds in producing the results that were intended. (FORMAL) This is the only effectual way to secure our present and future happiness. = effective ≠ ineffectual ef|femi|nate /ɪf'emɪnət/ [ADJ] If you describe a man or boy as effeminate, you think he behaves, looks, or sounds like a woman or girl. ...a skinny, effeminate guy in lipstick and earrings... ≠ manly ef|fer|ves|cent /'efərv'esənt/ 1 [ADJ] An effervescent liquid is one that contains or releases bubbles of gas. ...an effervescent mineral water. 2 [ADJ] If you describe someone as effervescent, you mean that they are lively, entertaining, enthusiastic, and exciting. ...an effervescent blonde actress... = bubbly, vivacious ● effervescence [N-UNCOUNT] He wrote about Gillespie's effervescence, magnetism and commitment....

figure

♦♦♦ fig|ure /f'ɪgər, AM -gjər/ (figures figuring figured) 1 [N-COUNT] A figure is a particular amount expressed as a number, especially a statistic. It would be very nice if we had a true figure of how many people in this country haven't got a job... It will not be long before the inflation figure starts to fall... New Government figures predict that one in two marriages will end in divorce. 2 [N-COUNT] A figure is any of the ten written symbols from 0 to 9 that are used to represent a number. = digit 3 [N-PLURAL] adj/num N An amount or number that is in single figures is between zero and nine. An amount or number that is in double figures is between ten and ninety-nine. You can also say, for example, that an amount or number is in three figures when it is between one hundred and nine hundred and ninety-nine. Inflation, which has usually been in single figures, is running at more than 12%... Crawley, with 14, was the only other player to reach double figures... 4 [N-COUNT] usu with supp, oft N of n You refer to someone that you can see as a figure when you cannot see them clearly or when you are describing them. She waited, standing on the bridge, until his figure vanished against the grey backdrop of the Palace... 5 [N-COUNT] In art, a figure is a person in a drawing or a painting, or a statue of a person. ...a life-size bronze figure of a brooding, hooded woman. 6 [N-COUNT] with supp, oft poss/adj N Your figure is the shape of your body. Take pride in your health and your figure... Janet was a natural blonde with a good figure. 7 [N-COUNT] with supp Someone who is referred to as a figure of a particular kind is a person who is well-known and important in some way. The movement is supported by key figures in the three main political parties. 8 [N-COUNT] with supp, usu n N, N of n If you say that someone is, for example, a mother figure or a hero figure, you mean that other people regard them as the type of person stated or suggested. Sometimes young lads just need to turn to a mother figure for a bit of a chat and reassurance. 9 [N-COUNT] also N num In books and magazines, the diagrams which help to show or explain information are referred to as figures. If you look at a world map (see Figure 1) you can identify the major wine-producing regions... 10 [N-COUNT] usu supp N In geometry, a figure is a shape, especially a regular shape. (TECHNICAL) Draw a pentagon, a regular five-sided figure. 11 [VERB] V that If you figure that something is the case, you think or guess that it is the case. (INFORMAL) She figured that both she and Ned had learned a lot from the experience. 12 [VERB] that/it V, also it V that If you say `That figures' or `It figures', you mean that the fact referred to is not surprising. (INFORMAL) When I finished, he said, `Yeah. That figures'... 13 [VERB] no passive, V in n, also V as n If a person or thing figures in something, they appear in or are included in it. Human rights violations figured prominently in the report. fig|ure eight (figure eights) [N-COUNT] A figure eight is the same as a figure of eight. (AM) figure-hugging [ADJ] Figure-hugging clothes fit very close to the body of the person who is wearing them. Figure-hugging is usually used to describe clothes worn by women. fig|ure of eight (figures of eight) [N-COUNT] A figure of eight is something that has the shape of the number 8, for example a knot or a movement done by a skater. (BRIT; in AM, usually use figure eight) fig|ure of speech (figures of speech) [N-COUNT] A figure of speech is an expression or word that is used with a metaphorical rather than a literal meaning. Of course I'm not. It was just a figure of speech. figure on [PHRASAL VERB] V P n/-ing If you figure on something, you plan that it will happen or assume that it will happen when making your plans. (INFORMAL) Jack worked as hard as he could to build his business, but he hadn't figured on a few obstacles. = reckon on figure out [PHRASAL VERB] V P wh/that, V P n (not pron), V n P If you figure out a solution to a problem or the reason for something, you succeed in solving it or understanding it. (INFORMAL) It took them about one month to figure out how to start the equipment... They're trying to figure out the politics of this whole situation... I don't have to be a detective to figure that out. = work out fig|ure skat|ing [N-UNCOUNT] Figure skating is skating in an attractive pattern, usually with spins and jumps included. figure|head /f'ɪgərhed, AM -gjər-/ (figureheads) 1 [N-COUNT] If someone is the figurehead of an organization or movement, they are recognized as being its leader, although they have little real power. The President will be little more than a figurehead. 2 [N-COUNT] A figurehead is a large wooden model of a person that was put just under the pointed front of a sailing ship in former times....

form

♦♦♦ form /f'ɔːrm/ (forms forming formed) 1 [N-COUNT] with supp, oft N of n A form of something is a type or kind of it. He contracted a rare form of cancer... Doctors are willing to take some form of industrial action... I am against hunting in any form. 2 [N-COUNT] with supp, oft N of n When something can exist or happen in several possible ways, you can use form to refer to one particular way in which it exists or happens. Valleys often take the form of deep canyons... They received a benefit in the form of a tax reduction... 3 [VERB] V, V n, V into n, also V n into n When a particular shape forms or is formed, people or things move or are arranged so that this shape is made. A queue forms outside Peter's study... They formed a circle and sang `Auld Lang Syne'... The General gave orders for the cadets to form into lines. 4 [N-COUNT] with supp The form of something is its shape. ...the form of the body. 5 [N-COUNT] usu with supp You can refer to something that you can see as a form if you cannot see it clearly, or if its outline is the clearest or most striking aspect of it. She thought she'd never been so glad to see his bulky form. 6 [VERB] V n If something is arranged or changed so that it becomes similar to a thing with a particular structure or function, you can say that it forms that thing. These panels folded up to form a screen some five feet tall... 7 [VERB] V n If something consists of particular things, people, or features, you can say that they form that thing. Cereals form the staple diet of an enormous number of people around the world. 8 [VERB] V n, V pron-refl into n If you form an organization, group, or company, you start it. They tried to form a study group on human rights... They formed themselves into teams. 9 [VERB] V, be V-ed When something natural forms or is formed, it begins to exist and develop. The stars must have formed 10 to 15 billion years ago... Huge ice sheets were formed. 10 [VERB] V n, V If you form a relationship, a habit, or an idea, or if it forms, it begins to exist and develop. This should help him form lasting relationships... An idea formed in his mind. 11 [VERB] V n If you say that something forms a person's character or personality, you mean that it has a strong influence on them and causes them to develop in a particular way. Anger at injustice formed his character. = mould 12 [N-UNCOUNT] usu supp N In sport, form refers to the ability or success of a person or animal over a period of time. His form this season has been brilliant... 13 [N-COUNT] A form is a paper with questions on it and spaces marked where you should write the answers. Forms usually ask you to give details about yourself, for example when you are applying for a job or joining an organization. You will be asked to fill in a form with details of your birth and occupation. ...application forms. 14 see also sixth form 15 [PHRASE] usu PHR after v, v-link PHR If you say that it is bad form to behave in a particular way, you mean that it is rude and impolite. (BRIT OLD-FASHIONED) It was thought bad form to discuss business on social occasions. 16 [PHRASE] v-link PHR If you say that someone is in good form, you mean that they seem healthy and cheerful. (BRIT) 17 [PHRASE] v-link PHR If you say that someone is off form, you think they are not performing as well as they usually do. (BRIT) = below par 18 [PHRASE] v-link PHR If you say that someone is on form, you think that they are performing their usual activity very well. (BRIT) Robert Redford is back on form in his new movie `Sneakers'. 19 [PHRASE] V inflects When something takes form, it develops or begins to be visible. As plans took form in her mind, she realized the need for an accomplice... The face of Mrs Lisbon took form in the dimness. 20 [PHRASE] v PHR, PHR with cl If someone or something behaves true to form, they do what is expected and is typical of them. My luck was running true to form... True to form, she kept her guests waiting for more than 90 minutes. ♦♦ for|mal /f'ɔːrməl/ (formals) 1 [ADJ] Formal speech or behaviour is very correct and serious rather than relaxed and friendly, and is used especially in official situations. He wrote a very formal letter of apology to Douglas... Business relationships are necessarily a bit more formal. ≠ informal ● formally [ADV] ADV with v He took her back to Vincent Square in a taxi, saying goodnight formally on the doorstep. ● formality [N-UNCOUNT] Lillith's formality and seriousness amused him. 2 [ADJ] ADJ n A formal action, statement, or request is an official one. UN officials said a formal request was passed to American authorities... No formal announcement had been made. ≠ informal ● formally [ADV] ADV with v Diplomats haven't formally agreed to Anderson's plan... 3 [ADJ] usu ADJ n Formal occasions are special occasions at which people wear smart clothes and behave according to a set of accepted rules. One evening the film company arranged a formal dinner after the play. ≠ informal [N-COUNT] Formal is also a noun. ...a wide array of events, including school formals and speech nights, weddings, and balls. 4 [ADJ] ADJ n Formal clothes are very smart clothes that are suitable for formal occasions. They wore ordinary ties instead of the more formal high collar and cravat. ≠ informal, casual ● formally [ADV] ADV after v, ADV -ed It was really too warm for her to dress so formally. 5 [ADJ] ADJ n Formal education or training is given officially, usually in a school, college, or university. Leroy didn't have any formal dance training. ● formally [ADV] ADV -ed Mr Dawe was the ancient, formally trained head gardener. 6 see also formality for|mal|de|hyde /fɔːrm'ældihaɪd/ [N-UNCOUNT] Formaldehyde is a strong-smelling gas, used especially to preserve parts of animals or plants for biological study. for|mal|ise /f'ɔːrməlaɪz/ see formalize for|mal|ism /f'ɔːrməlɪzəm/ [N-UNCOUNT] Formalism is a style, especially in art, in which great attention is paid to the outward form or appearance rather than to the inner reality or significance of things. ● formalist [ADJ] ADJ n ...art based on formalist principles....

fund

♦♦♦ fund /f'ʌnd/ (funds funding funded) 1 [N-PLURAL] Funds are amounts of money that are available to be spent, especially money that is given to an organization or person for a particular purpose. The concert will raise funds for research into Aids. ...government funds. see also fund-raising 2 [N-COUNT] oft n N A fund is an amount of money that is collected or saved for a particular purpose. ...a scholarship fund for undergraduate engineering students. see also trust fund 3 [VERB] V n, V-ed When a person or organization funds something, they provide money for it. The airport is being privately funded by a construction group. ...a new privately funded scheme. = finance ● -funded [COMB in ADJ] ...government-funded institutions. 4 [N-COUNT] N of n If you have a fund of something, you have a lot of it. He is possessed of an extraordinary fund of energy. fund-raising also fundraising [N-UNCOUNT] Fund-raising is the activity of collecting money to support a charity or political campaign or organization. Encourage her to get involved in fund-raising for charity. ♦ fun|da|men|tal /f'ʌndəm'entəl/ 1 [ADJ] usu ADJ n You use fundamental to describe things, activities, and principles that are very important or essential. They affect the basic nature of other things or are the most important element upon which other things depend. Our constitution embodies all the fundamental principles of democracy... A fundamental human right is being withheld from these people... = basic 2 [ADJ] usu ADJ n You use fundamental to describe something which exists at a deep and basic level, and is therefore likely to continue. But on this question, the two leaders have very fundamental differences... = profound 3 [ADJ] v-link ADJ to n If one thing is fundamental to another, it is absolutely necessary to it, and the second thing cannot exist, succeed, or be imagined without it. The method they pioneered remains fundamental to research into the behaviour of nerve cells. = vital 4 [ADJ] ADJ n You can use fundamental to show that you are referring to what you consider to be the most important aspect of a situation, and that you are not concerned with less important details. The fundamental problem lies in their inability to distinguish between reality and invention... = basic fun|da|men|tal|ism /f'ʌndəm'entəlɪzəm/ [N-UNCOUNT] Fundamentalism is the belief in the original form of a religion or theory, without accepting any later ideas. Religious fundamentalism was spreading in the region. ● fundamentalist [N-COUNT] oft N n He will try to satisfy both wings of the party, the fundamentalists and the realists. ...fundamentalist Christians. fun|da|men|tal|ly /f'ʌndəm'entəli/ 1 [ADV] ADV with cl/group You use fundamentally for emphasis when you are stating an opinion, or when you are making an important or general statement about something. Fundamentally, women like him for his sensitivity and charming vulnerability... He can be very charming, but he is fundamentally a bully... = basically 2 [ADV] ADV with v You use fundamentally to indicate that something affects or relates to the deep, basic nature of something. He disagreed fundamentally with the President's judgment... Environmentalists say the treaty is fundamentally flawed. = profoundly fun|da|men|tals /fʌndəm'entəlz/ [N-PLURAL] usu the N, oft N of n The fundamentals of something are its simplest, most important elements, ideas, or principles, in contrast to more complicated or detailed ones. ...teaching small children the fundamentals of road safety... They agree on fundamentals, like the need for further political reform. = basics...

encrust

- vt. 包上外壳；装饰外层 - vi. 结壳 时 态: encrusted, encrusting, encrusts

Freudian

Freud|ian /fr'ɔɪdiən/ [ADJ] usu ADJ n Freudian means relating to the ideas and methods of the psychiatrist Freud, especially to his ideas about people's subconscious sexual feelings. ...the Freudian theory about daughters falling in love with their father. Freud|ian slip (Freudian slips) [N-COUNT] If someone accidentally says something that reveals their subconscious feelings, especially their sexual feelings, this is referred to as a Freudian slip....

frisbee

Fris|bee /fr'ɪzbi/ (Frisbees) [N-COUNT] A frisbee is a light plastic disc that one person throws to another as a game. (TRADEMARK)

Greco-Roman

adj. 希腊罗马的,希腊罗马式的

gestural

adj. 手势的；示意动作的

gushy

adj. 易动感情的；流出的 比较级: gushier, gushiest 副 词: gushily 名 词: gushiness

frolicky

adj. 爱闹着玩的,嬉戏的

duplex

du|plex /dj'uːpleks, AM d'uː-/ (duplexes) 1 [N-COUNT] A duplex is a house which has been divided into two separate units for two different families or groups of people. (AM) 2 [N-COUNT] A duplex or a duplex apartment is a flat or apartment which has rooms on two floors. (AM) el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

efficacy

ef|fi|ca|cy /'efɪkəsi/ [N-UNCOUNT] usu with poss If you talk about the efficacy of something, you are talking about its effectiveness and its ability to do what it is supposed to. (FORMAL) Recent medical studies confirm the efficacy of a healthier lifestyle. edu|cat|ed guess (educated guesses) [N-COUNT] An educated guess is a guess which is based on a certain amount of knowledge and is therefore likely to be correct. Estimating the right cooking time will always be an educated guess....

effigy

ef|fi|gy /'efɪdʒi/ (effigies) 1 [N-COUNT] An effigy is a quickly and roughly made figure, often ugly or amusing, that represents someone you hate or feel contempt for. 2 [N-COUNT] An effigy is a statue or carving of a famous person. (FORMAL) edu|cat|ed guess (educated guesses) [N-COUNT] An educated guess is a guess which is based on a certain amount of knowledge and is therefore likely to be correct. Estimating the right cooking time will always be an educated guess....

embellish

em|bel|lish /ɪmb'elɪʃ/ (embellishes embellishing embellished) 1 [VERB] be V-ed with n, V n If something is embellished with decorative features or patterns, it has those features or patterns on it and they make it look more attractive. The stern was embellished with carvings in red and blue... Ivy leaves embellish the front of the dresser... 2 [VERB] V n, V-ed If you embellish a story, you make it more interesting by adding details which may be untrue. I launched into the parable, embellishing the story with invented dialogue and extra details... Irving popularized the story in a dramatic and embellished account. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

embryonic

em|bry|on|ic /'embri'ɒnɪk/ [ADJ] usu ADJ n An embryonic process, idea, organization, or organism is one at a very early stage in its development. (FORMAL) ...Romania's embryonic democracy. ...embryonic plant cells. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

enchanting

en|chant|ing /ɪntʃ'ɑːntɪŋ, -tʃ'ænt-/ [ADJ] If you describe someone or something as enchanting, you mean that they are very attractive or charming. She's an absolutely enchanting child... The overall effect is enchanting. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

enclosure

en|clo|sure /ɪnkl'oʊʒər/ (enclosures) [N-COUNT] An enclosure is an area of land that is surrounded by a wall or fence and that is used for a particular purpose. This enclosure was so vast that the outermost wall could hardly be seen. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

etymological

ety|mo|logi|cal /'etɪməl'ɒdʒɪkəl/ [ADJ] usu ADJ n Etymological means concerned with or relating to etymology. (FORMAL) `Gratification' and `gratitude' have the same etymological root. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

expressly

expressly adverb adverb BrE BrE / /ɪkˈspresli / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ɪkˈspresli / / ( formal ) 1 clearly; definitely She was expressly forbidden to touch my papers. 2 for a special and deliberate purpose synonym especially The rule was introduced expressly for this purpose....

extermination

extermination noun noun BrE BrE / /ɪk ˌstɜːmɪˈneɪʃn / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ɪk ˌstɜːrmɪˈneɪʃn / / [ uncountable ] the act of killing all the members of a group of people or animals the extermination of rats and other vermin...

exuberance

exu|ber|ance /ɪgzj'uːbərəns, AM -z'uːb-/ [N-UNCOUNT] Exuberance is behaviour which is energetic, excited, and cheerful. Her burst of exuberance and her brightness overwhelmed me. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

exceptional

ex|cep|tion|al /ɪks'epʃənəl/ 1 [ADJ] You use exceptional to describe someone or something that has a particular quality, usually a good quality, to an unusually high degree. ...children with exceptional ability... His translation is exceptional in its poetic quality. = extraordinary ● exceptionally [ADV] ADV adj/adv He's an exceptionally talented dancer... = extremely 2 [ADJ] Exceptional situations and incidents are unusual and only likely to happen very infrequently. (FORMAL) School governors have the discretion to allow parents to withdraw pupils in exceptional circumstances. = unusual ● exceptionally [ADV] ADV with cl Exceptionally, in times of emergency, we may send a team of experts... el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

fearless

fear|less /f'ɪərləs/ [ADJ] If you say that someone is fearless, you mean that they are not afraid at all, and you admire them for this. ...his fearless campaigning for racial justice. fel|low feel|ing also fellow-feeling [N-UNCOUNT] Fellow feeling is sympathy and friendship that exists between people who have shared similar experiences or difficulties. fel|low|ship /f'eloʊʃɪp/ (fellowships) 1 [N-COUNT] with supp A fellowship is a group of people that join together for a common purpose or interest. ...the National Schizophrenia Fellowship... At Merlin's instigation, Arthur founds the Fellowship of the Round Table. 2 [N-COUNT] A fellowship at a university is a post which involves research work. He was offered a research fellowship at Clare College. 3 [N-UNCOUNT] Fellowship is a feeling of friendship that people have when they are talking or doing something together and sharing their experiences. ...a sense of community and fellowship. = companionship...

femoral

femoral adjective adjective BrE BrE / /ˈfemərəl / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈfemərəl / / [ only before noun ] ( anatomy ) connected with the thigh bone the femoral artery...

fine

fine adjective adjective BrE BrE / /faɪn / / ; NAmE NAmE / /faɪn / / ( finer , finest ) Attractiveness very good 1 [ usually before noun ] of high quality; good a very fine performance fine clothes/wines/workmanship a particularly fine example of Saxon architecture the finest collection of paintings in Europe She's a fine actor and an even finer dancer. Jim has made a fine job of the garden. people who enjoy the finer things in life ( = for example art, good food, etc. ) He tried to appeal to their finer feelings ( = feelings of duty, love, etc. ). It was his finest hour ( = most successful period ) as manager of the England team. very well 2 ( of a person ) in good health 'How are you?' 'Fine, thanks.' I was feeling fine when I got up this morning. 'How's your throat?' 'It's fine as long as I don't cough.' Synonyms well all right OK fine healthy strong fit These words all describe somebody who is not ill and is in good health. well [not usually before noun] ( rather informal) in good health: I'm not feeling very well. Is he well enough to travel? Well is used especially to talk about your own health, to ask somebody about their health or to make a comment on it. all right [not before noun] ( rather informal) not feeling ill; not injured: Are you feeling all right? OK [not before noun] ( informal) not feeling ill; not injured: She says she's OK now, and will be back at work tomorrow. all right or ok? These words are slightly less positive than the other words in this group. They are both used in spoken English to talk about not actually being ill or injured, rather than being positively in good health. Both are rather informal but OK is slightly more informal than all right. fine [not before noun] (not used in negative statements) ( rather informal) completely well: 'How are you?' 'Fine, thanks.' Fine is used especially to talk about your health, especially when somebody asks you how you are. It is also used to talk about somebody's health when you are talking to somebody else. Unlike well it is not often used to ask somebody about their health or make a comment on it: Are you keeping fine? healthy in good health and not likely to become ill: Keep healthy by exercising regularly. strong in good health and not suffering from an illness: After a few weeks she was feeling stronger. Strong is often used to talk about becoming healthy again after an illness. fit ( especially British English ) in good physical health, especially because you take regular physical exercise: I go swimming every day in order to keep fit. Patterns all right/​OK/​fit for something all right/​OK/​fit to do something to feel/​look well/​all right/​OK/​fine/​healthy/​strong/​fit to keep (somebody) well/​healthy/​fit perfectly well/​all right/​OK/​fine/​healthy/​fit physically well/​healthy/​strong/​fit acceptable/good enough 3 (also used as an exclamation ) used to tell somebody that an action, a suggestion or a decision is acceptable 'I'll leave this here, OK?' 'Fine.' 'Bob wants to know if he can come too.' ' That's fine by me.' 4 used to say you are satisfied with something Don't worry. Your speech was fine. You go on without me. I'll be fine. 'Can I get you another drink?' 'No, thanks. I'm fine.' ( ironic ) This is a fine ( = terrible ) mess we're in! ( ironic ) You're a fine one to talk! ( = you are not in a position to criticize, give advice, etc. ) attractive 5 [ usually before noun ] pleasing to look at a fine view a fine-looking woman a fine figure of a man See related entries: Attractiveness delicate 6 [ usually before noun ] attractive and delicate fine bone china She has inherited her mother's fine features ( = a small nose, mouth, etc. ). weather 7 ( especially British English ) bright and not raining a fine day/evening I hope it stays fine for the picnic. very thin 8 very thin or narrow fine blond hair a fine thread a brush with a fine tip detail/distinctions 9 [ usually before noun ] difficult to see or describe synonym subtle You really need a magnifying glass to appreciate all the fine detail. There's no need to make such fine distinctions. There's a fine line between love and hate ( = it is easy for one to become the other ). We still have to iron out the finer details. with small grains 10 made of very small grains fine sand Use a finer piece of sandpaper to finish. opposite coarse person 11 [ only before noun ] that you have a lot of respect for He was a fine man. words/speeches 12 sounding important and impressive but unlikely to have any effect His speech was full of fine words which meant nothing. metals 13 ( specialist ) containing only a particular metal and no other substances that reduce the quality fine gold Word Origin adjective Middle English: from Old French fin, based on Latin finire'to finish' , from finis'end' . Extra examples George looks fine now. He has done an exceptionally fine job of reorganizing things. Her hair is very fine. I feel absolutely fine. I knew that everything would turn out fine in the end. It's turned out fine again today. Let's hope it stays fine for the wedding this afternoon. This paper's not very good quality, but it's fine for rough work. a very fine distinction 'Bob wants to know if he can come too.' 'That's fine by me.' 'Can I get you another drink?' 'No thanks. I'm fine.' 'I'll leave this here, OK?' 'Fine.' Acupuncture uses fine needles inserted into the patient's skin. He tried to appeal to their finer feelings. He was a fine man and a fine soldier. His fine blond hair came down almost to his shoulders. I need a brush with a fine tip. It was a fine example of leadership. It was his finest hour as manager of the England team. It's a particularly fine example of Saxon architecture. She was absolutely fine throughout the pregnancy. She's a fine actor and an even finer dancer. That summer saw weeks of fine dry weather. The next morning turned out fine again. They enjoy good food and fine wines. This is a fine mess we're in. You could see the sweat in the fine hairs above his upper lip. You go on without me. I'll be fine. You're a fine one to talk! Your speech was absolutely fine. people who enjoy the finer things in life Idioms chance would be a fine thing ( British English , informal ) people say chance would be a fine thing to show that they would like to do or have the thing that somebody has mentioned, but that they do not think that it is very likely get something down to a fine art ( informal ) to learn to do something well and efficiently I spend so much time travelling that I've got packing down to a fine art. in fine/good fettle ( old-fashioned , informal ) healthy; in good condition The team is in fine fettle. Park Foods is in fine fettle after selling off all non-core businesses. not to put too fine a point on it used to emphasize something that is expressed clearly and directly, especially a criticism Not to put too fine a point on it, I think you are lying. walk/tread a fine/thin line to be in a difficult or dangerous situation where you could easily make a mistake He was walking a fine line between being funny and being rude. fine adverb adverb BrE BrE / /faɪn / / ; NAmE NAmE / /faɪn / / ( informal ) in a way that is acceptable or good enough Keep going like that—you're doing fine. Things were going fine until you showed up. That arrangement suits me fine. ( British English ) An omelette will do me fine ( = will be enough for me ). Word Origin adverb Middle English: from Old French fin, based on Latin finire'to finish' , from finis'end' . Idioms cut it/things fine ( informal ) to leave yourself just enough time to do something If we don't leave till after lunch we'll be cutting it very fine. fine noun noun BrE BrE / /faɪn / / ; NAmE NAmE / /faɪn / / Types of punishment a sum of money that must be paid as punishment for breaking a law or rule a parking fine Offenders will be liable to a heavy fine ( = one that costs a lot of money ). Under the new law, motorists face fines of up to £1 000. She has already paid over $2 000 in fines. Synonyms rate charge fee rent fine fare toll rental These are all words for an amount of money that is charged or paid for something. rate a fixed amount of money that is asked or paid for something: a low hourly rate of pay interest rates charge an amount of money that is asked for goods or services: an admission charge fee ( rather formal) an amount of money that you have to pay for professional advice or services, to go to a school or college, or to join an organization: legal fees an annual membership fee rent an amount of money that you regularly have to pay for use of a building or room. In American English, rent can be used to mean rental: The weekly rent on the car was over $300. fine a sum of money that must be paid as punishment for breaking a law or rule: a parking fine fare the money that you pay to travel by bus, plane, taxi, etc. toll an amount of money that you have to pay to use a particular road or bridge. rental an amount of money that you have to pay to use something for a particular period of time. rent or rental? In British English rent is only money paid to use a building or room: for other items use rental. In American English rent can be used for both, but rental is still more common for other items. Patterns (a) rate/​charge/​fee/​rent/​fine/​fare/​toll/​rental for something (a) rate/​charge/​fee/​rent/​toll/​rental on something at a rate/​charge/​fee/​rent/​fare/​rental of... for a charge/​fee to pay (a) rate/​charge/​fee/​rent/​fine/​fare/​toll/​rental to charge (a) rate/​fee/​rent/​fare/​toll/​rental Collocations Criminal justice Breaking the law break/​violate/​obey/​uphold the law be investigated/​arrested/​tried for a crime/​a robbery/​fraud be arrested/ ( especially North American English ) indicted/​convicted on charges of rape/​fraud/ ( especially US English ) felony charges be arrested on suspicion of arson/​robbery/​shoplifting be accused of/​be charged with murder/ ( especially North American English ) homicide/​four counts of fraud face two charges of indecent assault admit your guilt/​liability/​responsibility (for something) deny the allegations/​claims/​charges confess to a crime grant/​be refused/​be released on/​skip/​jump bail The legal process stand/​await/​bring somebody to/​come to/​be on trial take somebody to/​come to/​settle something out of court face/​avoid/​escape prosecution seek/​retain/​have the right to/​be denied access to legal counsel hold/​conduct/​attend/​adjourn a hearing/​trial sit on/​influence/​persuade/​convince the jury sit/​stand/​appear/​be put/​place somebody in the dock plead guilty/​not guilty to a crime be called to/​enter ( British English ) the witness box take/​put somebody on the stand/ ( North American English ) the witness stand call/​subpoena/​question/​cross-examine a witness give/​hear the evidence against/​on behalf of somebody raise/​withdraw/​overrule an objection reach a unanimous/​majority verdict return/​deliver/​record a verdict of not guilty/​unlawful killing/​accidental death convict/​acquit the defendant of the crime secure a conviction/​your acquittal lodge/​file an appeal appeal (against)/challenge/​uphold/​overturn a conviction/​verdict Sentencing and punishment pass sentence on somebody carry/​face/​serve a seven-year/​life sentence receive/​be given the death penalty be sentenced to ten years (in prison/​jail) carry/​impose/​pay a fine (of $3 000)/a penalty (of 14 years imprisonment) be imprisoned/​jailed for drug possession/​fraud/​murder do/​serve time/​ten years be sent to/​put somebody in/​be released from jail/​prison be/​put somebody/​spend X years on death row be granted/​be denied/​break (your) parole See related entries: Types of punishment Word Origin noun Middle English: from Old French fin'end, payment' , from Latin finis'end' (in medieval Latin denoting a sum paid on settling a lawsuit). The original sense was 'conclusion' (surviving in the phrase in fine); also used in the medieval Latin sense, the word came to denote a penalty of any kind, later specifically a monetary penalty. Extra examples Drivers risk heavy fines for driving without a licence. He was forced to pay a hefty fine. Heavy fines were levied on motoring offenders. I got a fine for parking illegally. I got a parking fine for parking on double yellow lines. The club is struggling to pay £75 000 in fines to the football league. The offence carries a maximum fine of £500. They face up to five years in prison and more than $1 million in fines. Violations carry a maximum fine of $1 000. a fine for water pollution Offenders will be liable to a heavy fine. fine verb verb BrE BrE / /faɪn / / ; NAmE NAmE / /faɪn / / Verb Forms present simple I / you / we / they fine BrE BrE / /faɪn / / ; NAmE NAmE / /faɪn / / he / she / it fines BrE BrE / /faɪnz / / ; NAmE NAmE / /faɪnz / / past simple fined BrE BrE / /faɪnd / / ; NAmE NAmE / /faɪnd / / past participle fined BrE BrE / /faɪnd / / ; NAmE NAmE / /faɪnd / / -ing form fining BrE BrE / /ˈfaɪnɪŋ / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈfaɪnɪŋ / / Types of punishment [ often passive ] to make somebody pay money as an official punishment fine somebody (for something/for doing something) She was fined for speeding. Any company found to be breaking these rules will be heavily fined. fine somebody something (for something/for doing something) The company was fined £20 000 for breaching safety regulations. He got fined £200 for parking illegally. See related entries: Types of punishment Word Origin verb Middle English: from Old French fin'end, payment' , from Latin finis'end' (in medieval Latin denoting a sum paid on settling a lawsuit). The original sense was 'conclusion' (surviving in the phrase in fine); also used in the medieval Latin sense, the word came to denote a penalty of any kind, later specifically a monetary penalty....

flirtatious

flir|ta|tious /flɜːrt'eɪʃəs/ [ADJ] Someone who is flirtatious behaves towards someone else as if they are sexually attracted to them, usually not in a very serious way. He was dashing, self-confident and flirtatious. float around [PHRASAL VERB] V P A rumour or idea that is floating around is often heard or talked about. There are still some unfounded fears floating around out there about cancer being contagious....

flit

flit /fl'ɪt/ (flits flitting flitted) 1 [VERB] V prep/adv, V prep/adv If you flit around or flit between one place and another, you go to lots of places without staying for very long in any of them. Laura flits about New York hailing taxis at every opportunity... He spends his time flitting between Florence, Rome and Bologna. 2 [VERB] V from n to n, V prep If someone flits from one thing or situation to another, they move or turn their attention from one to the other very quickly. She flits from one dance partner to another... He's prone to flit between subjects with amazing ease. 3 [VERB] V prep/adv If something such as a bird or a bat flits about, it flies quickly from one place to another. ...the parrot that flits from tree to tree. 4 [VERB] V across n, V through n If an expression flits across your face or an idea flits through your mind, it is there for a short time and then goes again. He was unable to prevent a look of interest from flitting across his features... Images and memories of the evening flitted through her mind. float around [PHRASAL VERB] V P A rumour or idea that is floating around is often heard or talked about. There are still some unfounded fears floating around out there about cancer being contagious....

full-blown

full-blown [ADJ] ADJ n Full-blown means having all the characteristics of a particular type of thing or person. Before becoming a full-blown director, he worked as the film editor on Citizen Kane. ful|ly fledged also fully-fledged [ADJ] ADJ n Fully fledged means complete or fully developed. Hungary is to have a fully-fledged Stock Exchange from today....

fungus

fun|gus /f'ʌŋgəs/ (fungi) [N-MASS] A fungus is a plant that has no flowers, leaves, or green colouring, such as a mushroom or a toadstool. Other types of fungus such as mould are extremely small and look like a fine powder. ♦ fur|ni|ture /f'ɜːrnɪtʃər/ [N-UNCOUNT] Furniture consists of large objects such as tables, chairs, or beds that are used in a room for sitting or lying on or for putting things on or in. Each piece of furniture in their home suited the style of the house....

get go

get-go noun noun BrE BrE / /ˈɡet ɡəʊ / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈɡet ɡoʊ / / ( especially North American English , informal ) the beginning He's covered this case from the get-go....

go-getter

go-getter (go-getters) [N-COUNT] If someone is a go-getter, they are very energetic and eager to succeed. god|parent /g'ɒdpeərənt/ (godparents) [N-COUNT] usu with poss In the Christian religion, if you are the godparent of a younger person, you promise to help bring them up in the Christian faith....

groove

groove /gr'uːv/ (grooves) [N-COUNT] A groove is a deep line cut into a surface. Their wheels left grooves in the ground.

groovy

groovy /gr'uːvi/ (groovier grooviest) [ADJ] If you describe something as groovy, you mean that it is attractive, fashionable, or exciting. (INFORMAL, OLD-FASHIONED) ...the grooviest club in London....

haughty

haugh|ty /h'ɔːti/ [ADJ] usu ADJ n You use haughty to describe someone's behaviour or appearance when you disapprove of the fact that they seem to be very proud and to think that they are better than other people. He spoke in a haughty tone. ● haughtily [ADV] usu ADV with v, also ADV adj Toni looked at him rather haughtily. hate cam|paign (hate campaigns) [N-COUNT] usu sing A hate campaign is a series of actions which are intended to harm or upset someone, or to make other people have a low opinion of them. The media has waged a virulent hate campaign against her. hate crime (hate crimes) [N-COUNT] A hate crime is a crime, especially against people such as homosexuals and members of ethnic minorities, that is motivated by feelings of hatred. hate mail also hate-mail [N-UNCOUNT] If someone receives hate mail, they receive unpleasant or threatening letters....

hauteur

hau|teur /oʊt'ɜːr, AM hoʊt'ʊr/ [N-UNCOUNT] You can use hauteur to describe behaviour which you think is proud and arrogant. (FORMAL) Once, she had been put off by his hauteur. haven't /h'ævənt/ Haven't is the usual spoken form of `have not'. hav|er|sack /h'ævərsæk/ (haversacks) [N-COUNT] A haversack is a canvas bag that is usually worn over one shoulder. (mainly BRIT)...

heads-up

heads-up noun noun BrE ; NAmE ( pl. heads-up , heads-ups ) heads-up (about something) ( especially North American English ) a piece of information given in advance of something or as advice Send everyone a heads-up about the changes well in advance. Can anyone give me a heads-up about how to change the format? This is a heads-up about the seminar this week. His statement said that he was not given a heads-up about the FBI raid....

headset

head|set /h'edset/ (headsets) 1 [N-COUNT] A headset is a small pair of headphones that you can use for listening to a radio or recorded music, or for using a telephone. 2 [N-COUNT] A headset is a piece of equipment that you wear on your head so you can see computer images or images from a camera in front of your eyes. heart at|tack (heart attacks) [N-COUNT] If someone has a heart attack, their heart begins to beat very irregularly or stops completely. He died of a heart attack brought on by overwork. heart fail|ure [N-UNCOUNT] Heart failure is a serious medical condition in which someone's heart does not work as well as it should, sometimes stopping completely so that they die. heart-rending also heartrending [ADJ] usu ADJ n You use heart-rending to describe something that causes you to feel great sadness and pity. ...heart-rending pictures of refugees......

headstone

head|stone /h'edstoʊn/ (headstones) [N-COUNT] A headstone is a large stone which stands at one end of a grave, usually with the name of the dead person carved on it. = gravestone, tombstone heart at|tack (heart attacks) [N-COUNT] If someone has a heart attack, their heart begins to beat very irregularly or stops completely. He died of a heart attack brought on by overwork. heart fail|ure [N-UNCOUNT] Heart failure is a serious medical condition in which someone's heart does not work as well as it should, sometimes stopping completely so that they die. heart-rending also heartrending [ADJ] usu ADJ n You use heart-rending to describe something that causes you to feel great sadness and pity. ...heart-rending pictures of refugees......

hegemonic

hegemonic adjective adjective BrE BrE / /ˌhedʒɪˈmɒnɪk / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˌhedʒɪ ˈmɑːnɪk / / ; BrE BrE / / ˌheɡɪˈmɒnɪk / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˌheɡɪ ˈmɑːnɪk / / ( formal ) showing control by one country, organization, etc. over other countries, etc. within a particular group hegemonic control...

hegemony

he|gemo|ny /hɪg'eməni, AM -dʒ'em-/ [N-UNCOUNT] Hegemony is a situation in which one country, organization, or group has more power, control, or importance than others. (FORMAL)...

fillagree

n. (filigree的变体)金银细丝工艺,华而不实的事物

ethnics

n. 伦理学,人种学

Freud

n. 佛洛伊德（856-1939，奥地利心理分析学家及精神病学家）

ensample

n. 例子（等于example）

eavesdropping

n. 偷听

frater

n. 兄弟，会友

heartburning

n. 嫉妒

gentamicin

n. 庆大霉素,艮他霉素

Dresden

n. 德累斯顿（东德的一都市）

emigre

n. 流亡者；移居者（尤指因政治因素而移居外国者）

fusing

n. 熔融,熔化

Everest

n. 珠穆朗玛峰(世界最高峰)

habituate

vt. 使习惯于 时 态: habituated, habituating, habituates

federation

♦ fed|era|tion /f'edər'eɪʃən/ (federations) 1 [N-COUNT] A federation is a federal country. ...the Russian Federation. 2 [N-COUNT] usu with supp, oft in names A federation is a group of societies or other organizations which have joined together, usually because they share a common interest. ...the British Athletic Federation... The organization emerged from a federation of six national agencies. feel for 1 [PHRASAL VERB] V P n, V adv/prep P n If you feel for something, for example in the dark, you try to find it by moving your hand around until you touch it. I felt for my wallet and papers in my inside pocket... I slumped down in my usual armchair and felt around for the newspaper. 2 [PHRASAL VERB] V P n If you feel for someone, you have sympathy for them. She cried on the phone and was very upset and I really felt for her....

golf

♦ golf /g'ɒlf/ [N-UNCOUNT] Golf is a game in which you use long sticks called clubs to hit a small, hard ball into holes that are spread out over a large area of grassy land. golf ball (golf balls) [N-COUNT] A golf ball is a small, hard white ball which people use when they are playing golf. golf club (golf clubs) 1 [N-COUNT] A golf club is a long, thin, metal stick with a piece of wood or metal at one end that you use to hit the ball in golf. 2 [N-COUNT] A golf club is a social organization which provides a golf course and a building to meet in for its members. golf course (golf courses) also golf-course [N-COUNT] A golf course is a large area of grass which is specially designed for people to play golf on....

halt

♦ halt /h'ɔːlt/ (halts halting halted) 1 [VERB] V, V n When a person or a vehicle halts or when something halts them, they stop moving in the direction they were going and stand still. They halted at a short distance from the house... She held her hand out flat, to halt him. 2 [VERB] V n, V When something such as growth, development, or activity halts or when you halt it, it stops completely. Striking workers halted production at the auto plant yesterday... The flow of assistance to Vietnam's fragile economy from its ideological allies has virtually halted. 3 [VERB] only imper, V `Halt!' is a military order to stop walking or marching and stand still. The colonel ordered `Halt!' 4 [PHRASE] V inflects, oft PHR to n If someone calls a halt to something such as an activity, they decide not to continue with it or to end it immediately. The Russian government had called a halt to the construction of a new project in the Rostov region. 5 [PHRASE] PHR after v If someone or something comes to a halt, they stop moving. The elevator creaked to a halt at the ground floor. 6 [PHRASE] PHR after v If something such as growth, development, or activity comes or grinds to a halt or is brought to a halt, it stops completely. Her political career came to a halt in December 1988......

hearing

♦ hear|ing /h'ɪərɪŋ/ (hearings) 1 [N-UNCOUNT] oft poss N A person's or animal's hearing is the sense which makes it possible for them to be aware of sounds. His mind still seemed clear and his hearing was excellent. 2 [N-COUNT] A hearing is an official meeting which is held in order to collect facts about an incident or problem. The judge adjourned the hearing until next Tuesday. 3 see also hard of hearing 4 [PHRASE] usu PHR after v If someone gives you a fair hearing or a hearing, they listen to you when you give your opinion about something. Weber gave a fair hearing to anyone who held a different opinion. 5 [PHRASE] usu PHR after v If someone says something in your hearing or within your hearing, you can hear what they say because they are with you or near you. No one spoke disparagingly of her father in her hearing. hear|ing aid (hearing aids) [N-COUNT] A hearing aid is a device which people with hearing difficulties wear in their ear to enable them to hear better. hear|ing dog (hearing dogs) [N-COUNT] Hearing dogs are dogs that have been specially trained to help deaf people. hear|say /h'ɪərseɪ/ [N-UNCOUNT] Hearsay is information which you have been told but do not know to be true. Much of what was reported to them was hearsay......

edge

♦♦ edge /'edʒ/ (edges edging edged) 1 [N-COUNT] usu with supp The edge of something is the place or line where it stops, or the part of it that is furthest from the middle. We were on a hill, right on the edge of town... She was standing at the water's edge... 2 [N-COUNT] usu with supp The edge of something sharp such as a knife or an axe is its sharp or narrow side. ...the sharp edge of the sword. 3 [VERB] V prep/adv If someone or something edges somewhere, they move very slowly in that direction. He edged closer to the telephone, ready to grab it... 4 [N-SING] usu the N of n The edge of something, especially something bad, is the point at which it may start to happen. They have driven the rhino to the edge of extinction... = verge, brink 5 [N-SING] oft N over n, N in n/-ing If someone or something has an edge, they have an advantage that makes them stronger or more likely to be successful than another thing or person. The three days France have to prepare could give them the edge over England... Through superior production techniques they were able to gain the competitive edge. = advantage 6 [N-SING] a N If you say that someone or something has an edge, you mean that they have a powerful quality. Featuring new bands gives the show an edge... Greene's stories had an edge of realism. 7 [N-SING] oft N of n, N to n If someone's voice has an edge to it, it has a sharp, bitter, or emotional quality. But underneath the humour is an edge of bitterness... 8 see also cutting edge, knife-edge, 9 [PHRASE] usu v-link PHR If you or your nerves are on edge, you are tense, nervous, and unable to relax. My nerves were constantly on edge. 10 [PHRASE] N inflects, usu v-link PHR, v PHR If you say that someone is on the edge of their seat or chair, you mean that they are very interested in what is happening or what is going to happen. 11 [PHRASE] V inflects, PHR n If something takes the edge off a situation, usually an unpleasant one, it weakens its effect or intensity. A spell of poor health took the edge off her performance. 12 to set your teeth on edge: see tooth edge out [PHRASAL VERB] V P n (not pron), V n P of n, also V n P If someone edges out someone else, they just manage to beat them or get in front of them in a game, race, or contest. France edged out the British team by less than a second... McGregor's effort was enough to edge Johnson out of the top spot. -edged /-edʒd/ [COMB in ADJ] -edged combines with words such as `sharp', `raw', and `dark' to form adjectives which indicate that something such as a play or a piece of writing is very powerful or critical. (JOURNALISM) ...a sharp-edged satire that puts the Hollywood system under the microscope. ...the raw-edged vitality and daring of these works. see also edge, edged, edged /'edʒd/ [ADJ] v-link ADJ with/in n If something is edged with a particular thing, that thing forms a border around it. ...a large lawn edged with flowers and shrubs. [COMB in ADJ] Edged is also a combining form. ...a lace-edged handkerchief. edge|ways /'edʒweɪz/ The spelling edgewise /'edʒwaɪz/is also used, especially in American English. [PHRASE] V inflects If you say that you cannot get a word in edgeways, you are complaining that you do not have the opportunity to speak because someone else is talking so much. (INFORMAL) He spent all the time talking and they could not get a word in edgeways....

except

♦♦ ex|cept /ɪks'ept/ 1 [PREP] You use except to introduce the only thing or person that a statement does not apply to, or a fact that prevents a statement from being completely true. I wouldn't have accepted anything except a job in Europe... I don't take any drugs whatsoever, except aspirin for colds... [CONJ] oft CONJ that/when/where/if Except is also a conjunction. Freddie would tell me nothing about what he was writing, except that it was to be a Christmas play... 2 [PREP-PHRASE] You use except for to introduce the only thing or person that prevents a statement from being completely true. He hadn't eaten a thing except for one forkful of salad... Everyone was late, except for Richard. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

exvoto

〈拉〉出于许愿,为了还愿

from time to time

不时，有时

fall short of

缺乏；达不到

dryad

dryad noun noun BrE BrE / /ˈdraɪæd / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈdraɪæd / / (in stories) a female spirit who lives in a tree Word Origin via Old French and Latin from Greek druas, druad-'tree nymph' , from drus'tree' ....

duly

duly /dj'uːli, AM d'uː-/ 1 [ADV] ADV before v If you say that something duly happened or was done, you mean that it was expected to happen or was requested, and it did happen or it was done. Westcott appealed to Waite for an apology, which he duly received. 2 [ADV] ADV before v If something is duly done, it is done in the correct way. (FORMAL) ...the duly elected president of the country. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

eclectic

ec|lec|tic /ɪkl'ektɪk/ [ADJ] An eclectic collection of objects, ideas, or beliefs is wide-ranging and comes from many different sources. (FORMAL) ...an eclectic collection of paintings, drawings, and prints. = diverse edu|cat|ed guess (educated guesses) [N-COUNT] An educated guess is a guess which is based on a certain amount of knowledge and is therefore likely to be correct. Estimating the right cooking time will always be an educated guess....

efficient

♦ ef|fi|cient /ɪf'ɪʃənt/ [ADJ] If something or someone is efficient, they are able to do tasks successfully, without wasting time or energy. With today's more efficient contraception women can plan their families and careers. ● efficiently [ADV] I work very efficiently and am decisive, and accurate in my judgement. edu|cat|ed guess (educated guesses) [N-COUNT] An educated guess is a guess which is based on a certain amount of knowledge and is therefore likely to be correct. Estimating the right cooking time will always be an educated guess....

economic

♦♦♦ eco|nom|ic /'iːkən'ɒmɪk, 'ek-/ 1 [ADJ] usu ADJ n Economic means concerned with the organization of the money, industry, and trade of a country, region, or society. ...Poland's radical economic reforms... The pace of economic growth is picking up. ● economically [ADV] ADV adj/-ed, ADV after v, ADV with cl ...an economically depressed area... Economically and politically, this affair couldn't come at a worse time. 2 [ADJ] If something is economic, it produces a profit. The new system may be more economic but will lead to a decline in programme quality. = profitable edu|cat|ed guess (educated guesses) [N-COUNT] An educated guess is a guess which is based on a certain amount of knowledge and is therefore likely to be correct. Estimating the right cooking time will always be an educated guess....

drive home

开车送回家；把...敲入；使人理解

Dubai

迪拜(阿拉伯联合酋长国的酋长国之一)

encaustic

- adj. 上釉烧的,烧上蜡的,烧上彩色的 - n. 蜡画法,蜡画,瓷画

fungible

- adj. 可互换的,代替的 - n. 代替物 名 词: fungibility

endorsed

- adj. 批注的；授让的 - v. 批注（文件，公文等）；支持，赞同（endorse的过去式）

guaranty

- n. 保证,保证书,担保物,抵押物 - vt. 保证,抵押,担保

entrance

- n. 入口；进入 - vt. 使出神，使入迷 时 态: entranced, entrancing, entrances 名 词: entrancement 副 词: entrancingly

expediter

- n. 原料供给人 - 发布公报官员 - 促进者

fretting

- n. 微振磨损；侵蚀 - v. 给弦乐器装品定音；用回纹饰装饰；使烦躁；侵蚀（fret的ing形式）

fists

- n. 拳套；拳头（fist的复数形式） - v. 紧握；用拳头打（fist的第三人称单数）

fisting

- n. 拳指性交 - v. 拳打；紧握（fist的ing形式）

evolved

- n. 进化了的 - v. 使逐步形成（evolve的过去分词）

fixate

- vi. 注视；固定下来 - vt. 注视...；使固定 时 态: fixated, fixating, fixates

fledge

- vi. 长羽毛 - vt. 装上羽毛 时 态: fledged, fledging, fledges

extenuate

- vt. (用偏袒的辩解或借口)减轻 - 低估,藐视 时 态: extenuated, extenuating, extenuates 形容词: extenuative 名 词: extenuator 形容词: extenuatory

hallow

- vt. 使...神圣；把...视为神圣 - n. 圣徒 时 态: hallowed, hallowing, hallows

get down on

- vt. 获得；变成；使得；受到 - n. 幼兽；生殖 - vi. 变得；成为；到达 时 态: got gotten , got getting, gets 形容词: getable or

EMI

EMI BrE ; NAmE Electric and Musical Industries a large international music company started in 1931 when two other companies joined together. The new company included many of the most famous recording labels, such as Columbia, HMV and Parlophone, and the recording studios at Abbey Road in London....

fauvism

Fauvism noun noun BrE BrE / / ˈfəʊvɪzəm / / ; NAmE NAmE / / ˈfoʊvɪzəm / / [ uncountable ] ( art ) a style of painting that uses bright colours and in which objects and people are represented in a non-realistic way. It was popular in Paris for a short period from 1905. Word Origin from French fauvisme, from fauve'wild beast' . The name originated from a remark of the French art critic Louis Vauxcelles at the Salon of 1905; coming across a quattrocento-style statue in the midst of works by Matisse and his associates, he is reputed to have said, "Donatello au milieu des fauves!" ("Donatello among the wild beasts")....

Flemish

Flem|ish /fl'emɪʃ/ 1 [ADJ] Flemish means belonging or relating to the region of Flanders in northern Europe, or to its people, language, or culture. 2 [N-UNCOUNT] Flemish is a language spoken in Belgium. fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

grail

Grail /gr'eɪl/ 1 [N-PROPER] The Grail or the Holy Grail is the cup that was used by Jesus Christ at the Last Supper. In medieval times, many people tried to find the Grail without success. 2 [N-SING] oft the N of n If you describe something as a grail or a holy grail, you mean that someone is trying very hard to obtain or achieve it. The discovery is being hailed as The Holy Grail of astronomy. grace|ful /gr'eɪsfʊl/ 1 [ADJ] Someone or something that is graceful moves in a smooth and controlled way which is attractive to watch. His movements were so graceful they seemed effortless. ...graceful ballerinas. ● gracefully [ADV] ADV with v She stepped gracefully onto the stage. 2 [ADJ] Something that is graceful is attractive because it has a pleasing shape or style. His handwriting, from earliest young manhood, was flowing and graceful. ● gracefully [ADV] ADV adj/-ed She loved the gracefully high ceiling, with its white-painted cornice. 3 [ADJ] If a person's behaviour is graceful, it is polite, kind, and pleasant, especially in a difficult situation. Aubrey could think of no graceful way to escape Corbet's company... He was charming, cheerful, and graceful under pressure. ● gracefully [ADV] ADV with v We managed to decline gracefully. grace|less /gr'eɪsləs/ 1 [ADJ] Something that is graceless is unattractive and not at all interesting or charming. It was a massive, graceless house. ≠ graceful 2 [ADJ] A graceless movement is clumsy and uncontrolled. ...a graceless pirouette. ● gracelessly [ADV] ADV with v He dropped gracelessly into a chair opposite her. 3 [ADJ] If you describe someone as graceless, you mean that their behaviour is impolite. She couldn't stand his blunt, graceless manner. ● gracelessly [ADV] ADV with v The task fell to Mr Harris to deliver this bad news. It was gracelessly done....

Glaciated

adj. 冻结成冰的,受到冰河作用的

exsertile

adj. 可伸出的,可突出的

glamourous

adj. 富有魅力的, 迷人的

enthroned

adj. 登上王位的

ever-present

adj. 经常存在的

dressily

adj. 衣着讲究的,打扮入时的

etched

adj. 被侵蚀的,被蚀刻的,风化的

ellitoral

adj. 远岸浅海底的

glistening

adj. 闪耀的,反光的

grandioso

adj.,adv. 〈意〉雄伟的(地),壮丽的(地),崇高的(地)

effusively

effusively adverb adverb BrE BrE / /ɪˈfjuːsɪvli / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ɪˈfjuːsɪvli / / in a way that shows much or too much emotion

egalitarian

egali|tar|ian /ɪg'ælɪt'eəriən/ [ADJ] Egalitarian means supporting or following the idea that all people are equal and should have the same rights and opportunities. I still believe in the notion of an egalitarian society. egg cup (egg cups) also eggcup [N-COUNT] An egg cup is a small container in which you put a boiled egg while you eat it. egg on [PHRASAL VERB] V n P, V n P to-inf If you egg a person on, you encourage them to do something, especially something dangerous or foolish. He was lifting up handfuls of leaves and throwing them at her. She was laughing and egging him on... They egged each other on to argue and to fight. egg tim|er (egg timers) also egg-timer [N-COUNT] An egg timer is a device that measures the time needed to boil an egg. egg whisk (egg whisks) [N-COUNT] An egg whisk is a piece of kitchen equipment used for mixing the different parts of an egg together. egg|head /'eghed/ (eggheads) [N-COUNT] If you think someone is more interested in ideas and theories than in practical actions you can say they are an egghead. (INFORMAL) The Government was dominated by self-important eggheads. = boffin egg|nog /'egnɒg/ also egg nog [N-UNCOUNT] Eggnog is a drink made from egg, milk, sugar, spices, and alcohol such as rum or brandy. egg|plant /'egplɑːnt, -plænt/ (eggplants) [N-VAR] An eggplant is a vegetable with a smooth, dark purple skin. (AM; in BRIT, use aubergine)...

ego

ego /'iːgoʊ, 'egoʊ/ (egos) [N-VAR] Someone's ego is their sense of their own worth. For example, if someone has a large ego, they think they are very important and valuable. He had a massive ego, never would he admit he was wrong. see also alter ego, super-ego ego trip (ego trips) [N-COUNT] If you say that someone is on an ego trip, you are criticizing them for doing something for their own satisfaction and enjoyment, often to show that they think they are more important than other people. ego|cen|tric /'iːgoʊs'entrɪk, 'eg-/ [ADJ] Someone who is egocentric thinks only of themselves and their own wants, and does not consider other people. He was egocentric, a man of impulse who expected those around him to serve him. = self-centred...

egotistical

egotistical See egoistic

elaborately

elaborately adverb adverb BrE BrE / /ɪˈlæbərətli / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ɪˈlæbərətli / / in a very complicated and detailed way; in a carefully prepared and organized way an elaborately decorated room...

elf

elf /'elf/ (elves) [N-COUNT] usu pl In fairy stories, elves are small magical beings who play tricks on people. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

elongate

elon|gate /'iːlɒŋgeɪt, AM ɪl'ɔːŋ-/ (elongates elongating elongated) [VERB] V n, V If you elongate something or if it elongates, you stretch it so that it becomes longer. (FORMAL) `Mom,' she intoned, elongating the word... Corn is treated when the stalk starts to elongate. = lengthen el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

embezzle

em|bez|zle /ɪmb'ezəl/ (embezzles embezzling embezzled) [VERB] V n If someone embezzles money that their organization or company has placed in their care, they take it and use it illegally for their own purposes. One former director embezzled $34 million in company funds. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

encapsulation

encapsulation noun noun BrE BrE / /ɪnˌkæpsjuˈleɪʃn / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ɪnˌkæpsjuˈleɪʃn / / [ uncountable , countable ] ( formal ) the act of expressing the most important parts of something in a few words, a small space or a single object She gave a succinct and colourful encapsulation of what happened....

enchanter

enchanter noun noun BrE BrE / /ɪn ˈtʃɑːntə(r) / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ɪn ˈtʃæntər / / (in stories) a man who has magic powers that he uses to control people...

endorse

en|dorse /ɪnd'ɔːrs/ (endorses endorsing endorsed) 1 [VERB] V n If you endorse someone or something, you say publicly that you support or approve of them. I can endorse their opinion wholeheartedly. 2 [V-PASSIVE] be V-ed, have n V-ed If someone's driving licence is endorsed, an official record is made on it that they have been found guilty of a driving offence. (BRIT) For failing to report the accident, his licence was endorsed... He also had his licence endorsed with eight penalty points. 3 [VERB] V n When you endorse a cheque, you write your name on the back of it so that it can be paid into someone's bank account. The payee of the cheque must endorse the cheque. 4 [VERB] V n If you endorse a product or company, you appear in advertisements for it. The twins endorsed a line of household cleaning products. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

enrage

en|rage /ɪnr'eɪdʒ/ (enrages enraging enraged) [VERB] be V-ed by n, V n If you are enraged by something, it makes you extremely angry. He was enraged by news of plans to demolish the pub... He enraged the government by renouncing the agreement. ● enraged [ADJ] I began getting more and more enraged at my father... el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

entrails

en|trails /'entreɪlz/ [N-PLURAL] The entrails of people or animals are their inside parts, especially their intestines. = innards el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

envious

en|vi|ous /'enviəs/ [ADJ] oft ADJ of n If you are envious of someone, you want something that they have. I don't think I'm envious of your success... Do I sound envious? I pity them, actually. ...envious thoughts. ● enviously [ADV] ADV with v `You haven't changed,' I am often enviously told. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

ethnicity

eth|nic|ity /eθn'ɪsɪti/ (ethnicities) [N-VAR] Ethnicity is the state or fact of belonging to a particular ethnic group. He said his ethnicity had not been important to him. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

extraterrestrial

extra|ter|res|trial /'ekstrətɪr'estriəl/ (extraterrestrials) also extra-terrestrial 1 [ADJ] usu ADJ n Extraterrestrial means happening, existing, or coming from somewhere beyond the planet Earth. (FORMAL) NASA has started a 10-year search for extraterrestrial intelligence. ...extraterrestrial rocks. 2 [N-COUNT] Extraterrestrials are living creatures that some people think exist or may exist in another part of the universe. ex|trem|ism /ɪkstr'iːmɪzəm/ [N-UNCOUNT] Extremism is the behaviour or beliefs of extremists. Greater demands were being placed on the police by growing violence and left and right-wing extremism....

expatriate

ex|pat|ri|ate /eksp'ætriət, -p'eɪt-/ (expatriates) [N-COUNT] An expatriate is someone who is living in a country which is not their own. ...British expatriates in Spain. [ADJ] ADJ n Expatriate is also an adjective. The French military is preparing to evacuate women and children of expatriate families. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

fabricate

fab|ri|cate /f'æbrɪkeɪt/ (fabricates fabricating fabricated) 1 [VERB] V n, V-ed If someone fabricates information, they invent it in order to deceive people. All four claim that officers fabricated evidence against them... Eleven key officials were hanged on fabricated charges. ● fabrication [N-VAR] She described the interview with her in an Italian magazine as a `complete fabrication'... This story is total fabrication. = invention 2 [VERB] be V-ed from n, V n, also V n from n If something is fabricated from different materials or substances, it is made out of those materials or substances. All the tools are fabricated from high quality steel. ...a plant which fabricates airplane components. = manufacture el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

falter

fal|ter /f'ɔːltər/ (falters faltering faltered) 1 [VERB] V If something falters, it loses power or strength in an uneven way, or no longer makes much progress. Normal life is at a standstill, and the economy is faltering... 2 [VERB] V If you falter, you lose your confidence and stop doing something or start making mistakes. I have not faltered in my quest for a new future......

faux

faux adjective adjective BrE BrE / /fəʊ / / ; NAmE NAmE / /foʊ / / artificial, but intended to look or seem real The chairs were covered in faux animal skin. His accent was so faux. Word Origin French, 'false' ....

filial

fil|ial /f'ɪliəl/ [ADJ] ADJ n You can use filial to describe the duties, feelings, or relationships which exist between a son or daughter and his or her parents. (FORMAL) His father would accuse him of neglecting his filial duties......

fray

fray /fr'eɪ/ (frays fraying frayed) 1 [VERB] V, V at n, V n, V-ing, V-ed If something such as cloth or rope frays, or if something frays it, its threads or fibres start to come apart from each other and spoil its appearance. The fabric is very fine or frays easily... The stitching had begun to fray at the edges... Her washing machine tends to fray edges on intricate designs. ...fraying edges in the stair carpet... He wore frayed jeans and cowboy shirts. 2 [VERB] V, V n If your nerves or your temper fray, or if something frays them, you become nervous or easily annoyed because of mental strain and anxiety. Tempers began to fray as the two teams failed to score... This kind of living was beginning to fray her nerves. 3 [N-SING] the N The fray is an exciting or challenging activity, situation, or argument that you are involved in. There will have to be a second round of voting when new candidates can enter the fray... He would be inspiring young people to get into the political fray. free agent (free agents) 1 [N-COUNT] If you say that someone is a free agent, you are emphasizing that they can do whatever they want to do, because they are not responsible to anyone or for anyone. We are not free agents; we abide by the decisions of our president. 2 [N-COUNT] If a sports player is a free agent, he or she is free to sign a contract with any team. (AM) free and easy also free-and-easy [ADJ] Someone or something that is free and easy is casual and informal. ...the free and easy atmosphere of these cafés. = easy-going, laid-back free en|ter|prise [N-UNCOUNT] Free enterprise is an economic system in which businesses compete for profit without much government control. (BUSINESS) free fall (free falls) also free-fall 1 [N-VAR] oft into/in N If the value or price of something goes into free fall, it starts to fall uncontrollably. (JOURNALISM) Sterling went into free fall... The price did a free fall. 2 [N-UNCOUNT] In parachuting, free fall is the part of the jump before the parachute opens. free-floating [ADJ] ADJ n Free-floating things or people are able to move freely and are not controlled or directed by anything. ...a system of free-floating exchange rates. free-for-all (free-for-alls) 1 [N-SING] A free-for-all is a situation in which several people or groups are trying to get something for themselves and there are no controls on how they do it. 2 [N-COUNT] A free-for-all is a disorganized fight or argument which lots of people join in. free form also free-form [ADJ] ADJ n A free form work of art or piece of music has not been created according to a standard style or convention. ...free-form jazz. free house (free houses) [N-COUNT] In Britain, a free house is a pub which is not owned by a particular company and so can sell whatever beers it chooses. free kick (free kicks) [N-COUNT] In a game of football, when there is a free kick, the ball is given to a member of one side to kick because a member of the other side has broken a rule. free love [N-UNCOUNT] A belief in free love is the belief that it is acceptable and good to have sexual relationships without marrying, often several relationships at the same time. (OLD-FASHIONED) free mar|ket (free markets) [N-COUNT] usu sing A free market is an economic system in which business organizations decide things such as prices and wages, and are not controlled by the government. (BUSINESS) ...the creation of a free market. ...free market economies. free-marketeer (free-marketeers) [N-COUNT] A free-marketeer is someone, especially a politician, who is in favour of letting market forces control the economy. (BUSINESS) free pass (free passes) [N-COUNT] A free pass is an official document that allows a person to travel or to enter a particular building without having to pay. free port (free ports) [N-COUNT] A free port is a port or airport where goods can be brought in from foreign countries without payment of duty if they are going to be exported again. (BUSINESS) free radi|cal (free radicals) [N-COUNT] usu pl Free radicals are atoms that contain one or more unpaired electrons. Free radicals are believed to be a cause of ageing, heart disease, and some cancers. (TECHNICAL)...

freckle

freck|le /fr'ekəl/ (freckles) [N-COUNT] usu pl Freckles are small light brown spots on someone's skin, especially on their face. He had short ginger-coloured hair and freckles. free agent (free agents) 1 [N-COUNT] If you say that someone is a free agent, you are emphasizing that they can do whatever they want to do, because they are not responsible to anyone or for anyone. We are not free agents; we abide by the decisions of our president. 2 [N-COUNT] If a sports player is a free agent, he or she is free to sign a contract with any team. (AM) free and easy also free-and-easy [ADJ] Someone or something that is free and easy is casual and informal. ...the free and easy atmosphere of these cafés. = easy-going, laid-back free en|ter|prise [N-UNCOUNT] Free enterprise is an economic system in which businesses compete for profit without much government control. (BUSINESS) free fall (free falls) also free-fall 1 [N-VAR] oft into/in N If the value or price of something goes into free fall, it starts to fall uncontrollably. (JOURNALISM) Sterling went into free fall... The price did a free fall. 2 [N-UNCOUNT] In parachuting, free fall is the part of the jump before the parachute opens. free-floating [ADJ] ADJ n Free-floating things or people are able to move freely and are not controlled or directed by anything. ...a system of free-floating exchange rates. free-for-all (free-for-alls) 1 [N-SING] A free-for-all is a situation in which several people or groups are trying to get something for themselves and there are no controls on how they do it. 2 [N-COUNT] A free-for-all is a disorganized fight or argument which lots of people join in. free form also free-form [ADJ] ADJ n A free form work of art or piece of music has not been created according to a standard style or convention. ...free-form jazz. free house (free houses) [N-COUNT] In Britain, a free house is a pub which is not owned by a particular company and so can sell whatever beers it chooses. free kick (free kicks) [N-COUNT] In a game of football, when there is a free kick, the ball is given to a member of one side to kick because a member of the other side has broken a rule. free love [N-UNCOUNT] A belief in free love is the belief that it is acceptable and good to have sexual relationships without marrying, often several relationships at the same time. (OLD-FASHIONED) free mar|ket (free markets) [N-COUNT] usu sing A free market is an economic system in which business organizations decide things such as prices and wages, and are not controlled by the government. (BUSINESS) ...the creation of a free market. ...free market economies. free-marketeer (free-marketeers) [N-COUNT] A free-marketeer is someone, especially a politician, who is in favour of letting market forces control the economy. (BUSINESS) free pass (free passes) [N-COUNT] A free pass is an official document that allows a person to travel or to enter a particular building without having to pay. free port (free ports) [N-COUNT] A free port is a port or airport where goods can be brought in from foreign countries without payment of duty if they are going to be exported again. (BUSINESS) free radi|cal (free radicals) [N-COUNT] usu pl Free radicals are atoms that contain one or more unpaired electrons. Free radicals are believed to be a cause of ageing, heart disease, and some cancers. (TECHNICAL)...

galvanize

gal|va|nize /g'ælvənaɪz/ (galvanizes galvanizing galvanized) in BRIT, also use galvanise [VERB] V n, be V-ed into n/-ing, also V n into n/-ing To galvanize someone means to cause them to take action, for example by making them feel very excited, afraid, or angry. The aid appeal has galvanised the German business community... They have been galvanised into collective action-militarily, politically and economically. = stir...

gee

gee /dʒ'iː/ [EXCLAM] People sometimes say gee to emphasize a reaction or remark. (AM INFORMAL) Gee, it's hot... Gee thanks, Stan. gee whiz /dʒ'iː hw'ɪz/ also gee whizz 1 [EXCLAM] People sometimes say gee whiz in order to express a strong reaction to something or to introduce a remark or response. (AM INFORMAL) Gee whiz, they carried on and on, they loved the evening. 2 [ADJ] ADJ n You use gee whiz to describe something that is new, exciting, and impressive, but that is perhaps more complicated or showy than it needs to be. (mainly AM INFORMAL) The trend now is towards `lifestyle' electronics-black, shiny gee-whiz things that people like to own....

geezer

gee|zer /g'iːzər/ (geezers) [N-COUNT] Some people use geezer to refer to a man. (mainly BRIT INFORMAL, OLD-FASHIONED) ...an old bald geezer in a posh raincoat. = bloke gela|tine /dʒ'elɪtiːn, AM -tən/ (gelatines) also gelatin [N-MASS] Gelatine is a clear tasteless powder that is used to make liquids become firm, for example when you are making desserts such as jelly....

genital

geni|tal /dʒ'enɪtəl/ (genitals) 1 [N-PLURAL] Someone's genitals are their external sexual organs. 2 [ADJ] ADJ n Genital means relating to a person's external sexual organs. Keep the genital area clean. gee whiz /dʒ'iː hw'ɪz/ also gee whizz 1 [EXCLAM] People sometimes say gee whiz in order to express a strong reaction to something or to introduce a remark or response. (AM INFORMAL) Gee whiz, they carried on and on, they loved the evening. 2 [ADJ] ADJ n You use gee whiz to describe something that is new, exciting, and impressive, but that is perhaps more complicated or showy than it needs to be. (mainly AM INFORMAL) The trend now is towards `lifestyle' electronics-black, shiny gee-whiz things that people like to own....

genitalia

geni|ta|lia /dʒ'enɪt'eɪliə/ [N-PLURAL] A person's or animal's genitalia are their external sexual organs. (FORMAL) gee whiz /dʒ'iː hw'ɪz/ also gee whizz 1 [EXCLAM] People sometimes say gee whiz in order to express a strong reaction to something or to introduce a remark or response. (AM INFORMAL) Gee whiz, they carried on and on, they loved the evening. 2 [ADJ] ADJ n You use gee whiz to describe something that is new, exciting, and impressive, but that is perhaps more complicated or showy than it needs to be. (mainly AM INFORMAL) The trend now is towards `lifestyle' electronics-black, shiny gee-whiz things that people like to own....

gentrification

gentrification noun noun BrE BrE / /ˌdʒentrɪfɪˈkeɪʃn / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˌdʒentrɪfɪˈkeɪʃn / / [ uncountable ] the process of changing an area, a person, etc. so that they are suitable for, or can mix with, people of a higher social class than before the rapid gentrification of certain neighbourhoods outside Manhattan...

gentrify

gen|tri|fy /dʒ'entrɪfaɪ/ (gentrifies gentrifying gentrified) [VERB] usu passive, be V-ed When a street or area is gentrified, it becomes a more expensive place to live because wealthy people move into the area and buy the houses where people with less money used to live. The local neighbourhood, like so many areas of Manhattan, is gradually being gentrified. ● gentrification [N-UNCOUNT] ...the gentrification of the area....

geode

geode noun noun BrE BrE / /ˈdʒiː əʊd / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈdʒiː oʊd / / ( geology ) a small hole in rock that has crystals around the inside Word Origin late 17th cent.: via Latin from Greek geōdēs'earthy' , from gē'earth' ....

get down to

get down to [PHRASAL VERB] V P P n If you get down to something, especially something that requires a lot of attention, you begin doing it. With the election out of the way, the government can get down to business. get away with [PHRASAL VERB] V P P n/-ing If you get away with doing something wrong or risky, you do not suffer any punishment or other bad consequences because of it. The criminals know how to play the system and get away with it......

get on

get on 1 [PHRASAL VERB] pl-n V P, V P with n If you get on with someone, you like them and have a friendly relationship with them. The host fears the guests won't get on... What are your neighbours like? Do you get on with them? = get along 2 [PHRASAL VERB] V P with n, V P If you get on with something, you continue doing it or start doing it. Jane got on with her work... Let's get on. 3 [PHRASAL VERB] V P adv, V P adv If you say how someone is getting on, you are saying how much success they are having with what they are trying to do. Livy's getting on very well in Russian. She learns very quickly... When he came back to see me I asked how he had got on. 4 [PHRASAL VERB] V P If you try to get on, you try to be successful in your career. (mainly BRIT) Politics is seen as a man's world. It is very difficult for women to get on. 5 [PHRASAL VERB] usu cont, V P If someone is getting on, they are getting old. (INFORMAL) I'm nearly 31 and that's getting on a bit for a footballer. get on to 1 [PHRASAL VERB] V P P n If you get on to a topic when you are speaking, you start talking about it. We got on to the subject of relationships. 2 [PHRASAL VERB] V P P n If you get on to someone, you contact them in order to ask them to do something or to give them some information. (mainly BRIT) I got on to him and explained some of the things I had been thinking of....

get on with

get on with phrasal verb phrasal verb Friendly , Friends Phrasal Verbs get on with somebody | get on (together) ( both British English ) ( also get along with somebody , get along (together) North American English , British English ) to have a friendly relationship with somebody She's never really got on with her sister. She and her sister have never really got on. We get along just fine together. See related entries: Friendly , Friends get on with something 1 ( also get along with something ) used to talk or ask about how well somebody is doing a task I'm not getting on very fast with this job. 2 to continue doing something, especially after an interruption Be quiet and get on with your work. ( informal ) Get on with it! We haven't got all day....

geometry

ge|om|etry /dʒi'ɒmɪtri/ 1 [N-UNCOUNT] Geometry is the branch of mathematics concerned with the properties and relationships of lines, angles, curves, and shapes. ...the very ordered way in which mathematics and geometry describe nature. 2 [N-UNCOUNT] usu with poss The geometry of an object is its shape or the relationship of its parts to each other. They have tinkered with the geometry of the car's nose....

giraffe

gi|raffe /dʒɪr'ɑːf, -r'æf/ (giraffes) [N-COUNT] A giraffe is a large African animal with a very long neck, long legs, and dark patches on its body. giv|en name (given names) [N-COUNT] oft with poss A given name is a person's first name, which they are given at birth in addition to their surname. (FORMAL) = first name...

glimmer

glim|mer /gl'ɪmər/ (glimmers glimmering glimmered) 1 [VERB] V, V-ing If something glimmers, it produces or reflects a faint, gentle, often unsteady light. The moon glimmered faintly through the mists. ...the glimmering ocean. 2 [N-COUNT] A glimmer is a faint, gentle, often unsteady light. In the east there is the slightest glimmer of light. = flicker 3 [N-COUNT] N of n A glimmer of something is a faint sign of it. Despite an occasional glimmer of hope, this campaign has not produced any results... He is celebrating his first glimmer of success. glu|ten /gl'uːtən/ [N-UNCOUNT] Gluten is a substance found in cereal grains such as wheat....

glisten

glis|ten /gl'ɪsən/ (glistens glistening glistened) [VERB] V, V with n If something glistens, it shines, usually because it is wet or oily. The calm sea glistened in the sunlight... Darcy's face was white and glistening with sweat. glu|ten /gl'uːtən/ [N-UNCOUNT] Gluten is a substance found in cereal grains such as wheat....

gnaw

gnaw /n'ɔː/ (gnaws gnawing gnawed) 1 [VERB] V at/on n, V n If people or animals gnaw something or gnaw at it, they bite it repeatedly. Woodlice attack living plants and gnaw at the stems... Melanie gnawed a long, painted fingernail. = chew 2 [VERB] V at n, V-ing If a feeling or thought gnaws at you, it causes you to keep worrying. (WRITTEN) Doubts were already gnawing away at the back of his mind... Mary Ann's exhilaration gave way to gnawing fear. = nag glu|ten /gl'uːtən/ [N-UNCOUNT] Gluten is a substance found in cereal grains such as wheat....

go off

go off 1 [PHRASAL VERB] V P n, V P n If you go off someone or something, you stop liking them. (BRIT INFORMAL) `Why have they gone off him now?'--`It could be something he said.'... I started to go off the idea. 2 [PHRASAL VERB] V P If an explosive device or a gun goes off, it explodes or fires. A few minutes later the bomb went off, destroying the vehicle. 3 [PHRASAL VERB] V P If an alarm bell goes off, it makes a sudden loud noise. Then the fire alarm went off. I just grabbed my clothes and ran out. 4 [PHRASAL VERB] V P If an electrical device goes off, it stops operating. As the water came in the windows, all the lights went off. 5 [PHRASAL VERB] V P adv/prep If you say how an organized event went off, you are saying whether everything happened in the way that was planned or hoped. The meeting went off all right... 6 [PHRASAL VERB] V P Food or drink that has gone off has gone bad. (BRIT) Don't eat that! It's mouldy. It's gone off! go off with 1 [PHRASAL VERB] V P P n If someone goes off with another person, they leave their husband, wife, or lover and have a relationship with that person. I suppose Carolyn went off with some man she'd fallen in love with. 2 [PHRASAL VERB] V P P n If someone goes off with something that belongs to another person, they leave and take it with them. He's gone off with my passport....

godforsaken

god|forsaken /g'ɒdfərs'eɪkən/ also God-forsaken [ADJ] ADJ n If you say that somewhere is a godforsaken place, you dislike it a lot because you find it very boring and depressing. I don't want to stay here, in this job and in this God-forsaken country. god|father /g'ɒdfɑːðər/ (godfathers) 1 [N-COUNT] A godfather is a male godparent. 2 [N-COUNT] A powerful man who is at the head of a criminal organization is sometimes referred to as a godfather. ...the feared godfather of the Mafia. 3 [N-COUNT] N of n You can refer to a man who started or developed something such as a style of music as the godfather of that thing. (JOURNALISM) ...the godfather of soul, James Brown....

godliness

god|li|ness /g'ɒdlinəs/ 1 [N-UNCOUNT] Godliness is the quality of being godly. 2 [PHRASE] If someone says that cleanliness is next to godliness, they are referring to the idea that people have a moral duty to keep themselves and their homes clean. god|father /g'ɒdfɑːðər/ (godfathers) 1 [N-COUNT] A godfather is a male godparent. 2 [N-COUNT] A powerful man who is at the head of a criminal organization is sometimes referred to as a godfather. ...the feared godfather of the Mafia. 3 [N-COUNT] N of n You can refer to a man who started or developed something such as a style of music as the godfather of that thing. (JOURNALISM) ...the godfather of soul, James Brown....

gonna

gon|na /g'ɒnə, AM g'ɔːnə/ Gonna is used in written English to represent the words `going to' when they are pronounced informally. Then what am I gonna do?

goose

goose /g'uːs/ (geese) 1 [N-COUNT] A goose is a large bird that has a long neck and webbed feet. Geese are often farmed for their meat. 2 [N-UNCOUNT] Goose is the meat from a goose that has been cooked. ...roast goose. 3 see also wild goose chase goose bumps [N-PLURAL] If you get goose bumps, the hairs on your skin stand up so that it is covered with tiny bumps. You get goose bumps when you are cold, frightened, or excited. = goose pimples goose pim|ples [N-PLURAL] Goose pimples are the same as goose bumps. goose-step (goose-steps goose-stepping goose-stepped) [VERB] V When soldiers goose-step, they lift their legs high and do not bend their knees as they march. ...photos of soldiers goose-stepping beside fearsome missiles....

goose egg

goose egg noun noun BrE ; NAmE ( North American English , informal ) a score of zero in a game Word Origin late 19th cent.: with reference to the shape of the zero; compare with duck 'a score of zero in cricket'....

gout

gout /g'aʊt/ [N-UNCOUNT] Gout is a disease which causes people's joints to swell painfully, especially in their toes. grace|ful /gr'eɪsfʊl/ 1 [ADJ] Someone or something that is graceful moves in a smooth and controlled way which is attractive to watch. His movements were so graceful they seemed effortless. ...graceful ballerinas. ● gracefully [ADV] ADV with v She stepped gracefully onto the stage. 2 [ADJ] Something that is graceful is attractive because it has a pleasing shape or style. His handwriting, from earliest young manhood, was flowing and graceful. ● gracefully [ADV] ADV adj/-ed She loved the gracefully high ceiling, with its white-painted cornice. 3 [ADJ] If a person's behaviour is graceful, it is polite, kind, and pleasant, especially in a difficult situation. Aubrey could think of no graceful way to escape Corbet's company... He was charming, cheerful, and graceful under pressure. ● gracefully [ADV] ADV with v We managed to decline gracefully. grace|less /gr'eɪsləs/ 1 [ADJ] Something that is graceless is unattractive and not at all interesting or charming. It was a massive, graceless house. ≠ graceful 2 [ADJ] A graceless movement is clumsy and uncontrolled. ...a graceless pirouette. ● gracelessly [ADV] ADV with v He dropped gracelessly into a chair opposite her. 3 [ADJ] If you describe someone as graceless, you mean that their behaviour is impolite. She couldn't stand his blunt, graceless manner. ● gracelessly [ADV] ADV with v The task fell to Mr Harris to deliver this bad news. It was gracelessly done....

gorilla

go|ril|la /gər'ɪlə/ (gorillas) [N-COUNT] A gorilla is a very large ape. It has long arms, black fur, and a black face.

gramophone

gramo|phone /gr'æməfoʊn/ (gramophones) [N-COUNT] A gramophone is an old-fashioned type of record player. (mainly BRIT; in AM, usually use phonograph) ...a wind-up gramophone with a big horn. ...gramophone records. grace|ful /gr'eɪsfʊl/ 1 [ADJ] Someone or something that is graceful moves in a smooth and controlled way which is attractive to watch. His movements were so graceful they seemed effortless. ...graceful ballerinas. ● gracefully [ADV] ADV with v She stepped gracefully onto the stage. 2 [ADJ] Something that is graceful is attractive because it has a pleasing shape or style. His handwriting, from earliest young manhood, was flowing and graceful. ● gracefully [ADV] ADV adj/-ed She loved the gracefully high ceiling, with its white-painted cornice. 3 [ADJ] If a person's behaviour is graceful, it is polite, kind, and pleasant, especially in a difficult situation. Aubrey could think of no graceful way to escape Corbet's company... He was charming, cheerful, and graceful under pressure. ● gracefully [ADV] ADV with v We managed to decline gracefully. grace|less /gr'eɪsləs/ 1 [ADJ] Something that is graceless is unattractive and not at all interesting or charming. It was a massive, graceless house. ≠ graceful 2 [ADJ] A graceless movement is clumsy and uncontrolled. ...a graceless pirouette. ● gracelessly [ADV] ADV with v He dropped gracelessly into a chair opposite her. 3 [ADJ] If you describe someone as graceless, you mean that their behaviour is impolite. She couldn't stand his blunt, graceless manner. ● gracelessly [ADV] ADV with v The task fell to Mr Harris to deliver this bad news. It was gracelessly done....

grandiose

gran|di|ose /gr'ændioʊs/ [ADJ] If you describe something as grandiose, you mean it is bigger or more elaborate than necessary. Not one of Kim's grandiose plans has even begun.

graph

graph /gr'ɑːf, gr'æf/ (graphs) [N-COUNT] A graph is a mathematical diagram which shows the relationship between two or more sets of numbers or measurements. graph pa|per [N-UNCOUNT] Graph paper is paper that has small squares printed on it so that you can use it for drawing graphs. graph|ic /gr'æfɪk/ (graphics) 1 [ADJ] If you say that a description or account of something unpleasant is graphic, you are emphasizing that it is clear and detailed. The descriptions of sexual abuse are graphic. ...graphic scenes of drug taking. = explicit ● graphically [ADV] ADV with v Here, graphically displayed, was confirmation of the entire story. 2 [ADJ] ADJ n Graphic means concerned with drawing or pictures, especially in publishing, industry, or computing. ...fine and graphic arts. 3 [N-UNCOUNT] Graphics is the activity of drawing or making pictures, especially in publishing, industry, or computing. ...a computer manufacturer which specialises in graphics. 4 [N-COUNT] usu pl Graphics are drawings and pictures that are composed using simple lines and sometimes strong colours. The articles are noticeably shorter with strong headlines and graphics... The Agriculture Department today released a new graphic to replace the old symbol....

grasshopper

grass|hopper /gr'ɑːshɒpər, gr'æs-/ (grasshoppers) [N-COUNT] A grasshopper is an insect with long back legs that jumps high into the air and makes a high, vibrating sound. grass over [PHRASAL VERB] usu passive, be V-ed P If an area of ground is grassed over, grass is planted all over it. The asphalt playgrounds have been grassed over or sown with flowers. grass roots also grass-roots, grassroots [N-PLURAL] oft N n The grass roots of an organization or movement are the ordinary people who form the main part of it, rather than its leaders. You have to join the party at grass-roots level. grass up see grass 4 grass|hopper /gr'ɑːshɒpər, gr'æs-/ (grasshoppers) [N-COUNT] A grasshopper is an insect with long back legs that jumps high into the air and makes a high, vibrating sound....

grateful

grate|ful /gr'eɪtfʊl/ [ADJ] usu v-link ADJ, usu ADJ to n, ADJ for n/-ing If you are grateful for something that someone has given you or done for you, you have warm, friendly feelings towards them and wish to thank them. She was grateful to him for being so good to her... I should like to extend my grateful thanks to all the volunteers. ● gratefully [ADV] ADV with v `That's kind of you, Sally,' Claire said gratefully. grass over [PHRASAL VERB] usu passive, be V-ed P If an area of ground is grassed over, grass is planted all over it. The asphalt playgrounds have been grassed over or sown with flowers. grass roots also grass-roots, grassroots [N-PLURAL] oft N n The grass roots of an organization or movement are the ordinary people who form the main part of it, rather than its leaders. You have to join the party at grass-roots level. grass up see grass 4 grass|hopper /gr'ɑːshɒpər, gr'æs-/ (grasshoppers) [N-COUNT] A grasshopper is an insect with long back legs that jumps high into the air and makes a high, vibrating sound....

gratifying

gratifying adjective adjective BrE BrE / /ˈɡrætɪfaɪɪŋ / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈɡrætɪfaɪɪŋ / / ( formal ) pleasing and giving satisfaction It is gratifying to see such good results. He felt a gratifying sense of being respected and appreciated. Synonyms satisfying rewarding pleasing gratifying fulfilling These words all describe an experience, activity or fact that gives you pleasure because it provides something you need or want. satisfying that gives you pleasure because it provides something you need or want: It's satisfying to play a game really well. rewarding (of an experience or activity) that makes you happy because you think it is useful or important; worth doing: Nursing can be a very rewarding career. pleasing ( rather formal) that gives you pleasure, especially to look at, hear or think about: It was a simple but pleasing design. gratifying ( formal) that gives you pleasure, especially because it makes you feel that you have done well: It is gratifying to see such good results. fulfilling (of an experience or activity) that makes you happy, because it makes you feel your skills and talents are being used: I'm finding the work much more fulfilling now. satisfying, rewarding or fulfilling? Almost any experience, important or very brief, can be satisfying. Rewarding and fulfilling are used more for longer, more serious activities, such as jobs or careers. Satisfying and fulfilling are more about your personal satisfaction or happiness; rewarding is more about your sense of doing something important and being useful to others. Patterns a satisfying/​rewarding/​gratifying/​fulfilling experience/​feeling (a) satisfying/​rewarding/​fulfilling job/​career/​work to find something satisfying/​rewarding/​pleasing/​gratifying...

gravely

gravely adverb adverb BrE BrE / /ˈɡreɪvli / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈɡreɪvli / / ( formal ) 1 in a very serious and important way; in a way that gives you a reason to feel worried She is gravely ill. Local people are gravely concerned. 2 in a way that is serious in manner, as if something sad, important or worrying has just happened He nodded gravely as I poured out my troubles....

graveyard

grave|yard /gr'eɪvjɑːrd/ (graveyards) 1 [N-COUNT] A graveyard is an area of land, sometimes near a church, where dead people are buried. They made their way to a graveyard to pay their traditional respects to the dead. 2 [N-COUNT] usu sing, oft N of n If you call a place a graveyard of particular things, you mean that there are many broken or unwanted things of that kind there. This had once been the greatest port in the world, now it was a graveyard of rusting cranes. grave|yard shift (graveyard shifts) [N-COUNT] usu the N If someone works the graveyard shift, they work during the night. (mainly AM)...

gravitas

gravi|tas /gr'ævɪtæs/ [N-UNCOUNT] If you say that someone has gravitas, you mean that you respect them because they seem serious and intelligent. (FORMAL) He is pale, dark, and authoritative, with the gravitas you might expect of a Booker prize winner. grave|yard shift (graveyard shifts) [N-COUNT] usu the N If someone works the graveyard shift, they work during the night. (mainly AM)...

gravitate

gravi|tate /gr'ævɪteɪt/ (gravitates gravitating gravitated) [VERB] V towards/to n If you gravitate towards a particular place, thing, or activity, you are attracted by it and go to it or get involved in it. Traditionally young Asians in Britain have gravitated towards medicine, law and engineering. grave|yard shift (graveyard shifts) [N-COUNT] usu the N If someone works the graveyard shift, they work during the night. (mainly AM)...

gravel

grav|el /gr'ævəl/ [N-UNCOUNT] oft N n Gravel consists of very small stones. It is often used to make paths. ...a gravel path leading to the front door. grave|yard shift (graveyard shifts) [N-COUNT] usu the N If someone works the graveyard shift, they work during the night. (mainly AM)...

graze

graze /gr'eɪz/ (grazes grazing grazed) 1 [VERB] V, be V-ed, V n, V -ing When animals graze or are grazed, they eat the grass or other plants that are growing in a particular place. You can also say that a field is grazed by animals. Five cows graze serenely around a massive oak... The hills have been grazed by sheep because they were too steep to be ploughed... Several horses grazed the meadowland. ...a large herd of grazing animals. 2 [VERB] V n If you graze a part of your body, you injure your skin by scraping against something. I had grazed my knees a little. ● grazed [ADJ] ...grazed arms and legs. 3 [N-COUNT] A graze is a small wound caused by scraping against something. 4 [VERB] V n If something grazes another thing, it touches that thing lightly as it passes by. A bullet had grazed his arm......

greedy

greedy /gr'iːdi/ (greedier greediest) [ADJ] If you describe someone as greedy, you mean that they want to have more of something such as food or money than is necessary or fair. He attacked greedy bosses for awarding themselves big rises... She is greedy and selfish. ● greedily [ADV] ADV with v Livy ate the pasties greedily and with huge enjoyment....

grievous

griev|ous /gr'iːvəs/ 1 [ADJ] usu ADJ n If you describe something such as a loss as grievous, you mean that it is extremely serious or worrying in its effects. Their loss would be a grievous blow to our engineering industries... Mr Morris said the victims had suffered from a very grievous mistake. ● grievously [ADV] ADV with v Birds, sea-life and the coastline all suffered grievously. 2 [ADJ] usu ADJ n A grievous injury to your body is one that causes you great pain and suffering. He survived in spite of suffering grievous injuries. ● grievously [ADV] ADV with v, ADV adj Nelson Piquet, three times world champion, was grievously injured. griev|ous bodi|ly harm [N-UNCOUNT] If someone is accused of grievous bodily harm, they are accused of causing very serious physical injury to someone. The abbreviation GBH is often used. (LEGAL) They were both found guilty of causing grievous bodily harm....

grinder

grind|er /gr'aɪndər/ (grinders) 1 [N-COUNT] oft n N In a kitchen, a grinder is a device for crushing food such as coffee or meat into small pieces or into a powder. ...an electric coffee grinder. 2 [N-COUNT] oft supp N A grinder is a machine or tool for sharpening, smoothing, or polishing the surface of something. grind|ing /gr'aɪndɪŋ/ 1 [ADJ] ADJ n If you describe a bad situation as grinding, you mean it never gets better, changes, or ends. Their grandfather had left his village in order to escape the grinding poverty. ● grindingly [ADV] ADV adj Nursing was ill-paid and grindingly hard work. 2 [PHRASE] PHR after v If you say that something comes to a grinding halt, you are emphasizing that it stops very suddenly, especially before it was meant to. A car will come to a grinding halt if you put water in the petrol tank. 3 see also grind grind|stone /gr'aɪndstoʊn/ (grindstones) [N-COUNT] A grindstone is a large round stone that turns like a wheel and is used for sharpening knives and tools. grin|go /gr'ɪŋgoʊ/ (gringos) [N-COUNT] Gringo is sometimes used by people from Latin America to refer to people from other countries, especially the United States and Britain. This word could cause offence....

grinding

grind|ing /gr'aɪndɪŋ/ 1 [ADJ] ADJ n If you describe a bad situation as grinding, you mean it never gets better, changes, or ends. Their grandfather had left his village in order to escape the grinding poverty. ● grindingly [ADV] ADV adj Nursing was ill-paid and grindingly hard work. 2 [PHRASE] PHR after v If you say that something comes to a grinding halt, you are emphasizing that it stops very suddenly, especially before it was meant to. A car will come to a grinding halt if you put water in the petrol tank. 3 see also grind grind|ing /gr'aɪndɪŋ/ 1 [ADJ] ADJ n If you describe a bad situation as grinding, you mean it never gets better, changes, or ends. Their grandfather had left his village in order to escape the grinding poverty. ● grindingly [ADV] ADV adj Nursing was ill-paid and grindingly hard work. 2 [PHRASE] PHR after v If you say that something comes to a grinding halt, you are emphasizing that it stops very suddenly, especially before it was meant to. A car will come to a grinding halt if you put water in the petrol tank. 3 see also grind grind|stone /gr'aɪndstoʊn/ (grindstones) [N-COUNT] A grindstone is a large round stone that turns like a wheel and is used for sharpening knives and tools. grin|go /gr'ɪŋgoʊ/ (gringos) [N-COUNT] Gringo is sometimes used by people from Latin America to refer to people from other countries, especially the United States and Britain. This word could cause offence....

grimace

gri|mace /grɪm'eɪs, gr'ɪməs/ (grimaces grimacing grimaced) [VERB] V, V at n If you grimace, you twist your face in an ugly way because you are annoyed, disgusted, or in pain. (WRITTEN) She started to sit up, grimaced, and sank back weakly against the pillow... She grimaced at Cerezzi, then turned to Brenda. [N-COUNT] Grimace is also a noun. He took another drink of his coffee. `Awful,' he said with a grimace....

groin

groin /gr'ɔɪn/ (groins) [N-COUNT] Your groin is the front part of your body between your legs.

guardian

guard|ian /g'ɑːrdiən/ (guardians) 1 [N-COUNT] usu with poss A guardian is someone who has been legally appointed to look after the affairs of another person, for example a child or someone who is mentally ill. 2 [N-COUNT] usu N of n The guardian of something is someone who defends and protects it. The National Party is lifting its profile as socially conservative guardian of traditional values. guard|ian an|gel (guardian angels) [N-COUNT] A guardian angel is a spirit who is believed to protect and guide a particular person....

guild

guild /g'ɪld/ (guilds) [N-COUNT] oft in names, N of n A guild is an organization of people who do the same job. ...the Writers' Guild of America. guilt com|plex (guilt complexes) [N-COUNT] If you say that someone has a guilt complex about something, you mean that they feel very guilty about it, in a way that you consider is exaggerated, unreasonable, or unnecessary....

guilt

guilt /g'ɪlt/ 1 [N-UNCOUNT] Guilt is an unhappy feeling that you have because you have done something wrong or think that you have done something wrong. Her emotions had ranged from anger to guilt in the space of a few seconds... Some cancer patients experience strong feelings of guilt. 2 [N-UNCOUNT] Guilt is the fact that you have done something wrong or illegal. The trial is concerned only with the determination of guilt according to criminal law... You weren't convinced of Mr Matthews' guilt. guilt com|plex (guilt complexes) [N-COUNT] If you say that someone has a guilt complex about something, you mean that they feel very guilty about it, in a way that you consider is exaggerated, unreasonable, or unnecessary....

gulp

gulp /g'ʌlp/ (gulps gulping gulped) 1 [VERB] V n If you gulp something, you eat or drink it very quickly by swallowing large quantities of it at once. She quickly gulped her tea. 2 [VERB] V, V with quote If you gulp, you swallow air, often making a noise in your throat as you do so, because you are nervous or excited. (WRITTEN) I gulped, and then proceeded to tell her the whole story... `I'm sorry,' he gulped. 3 [VERB] V n into n, V for n If you gulp air, you breathe in a large amount of air quickly through your mouth. She gulped air into her lungs... He slumped back, gulping for air. 4 [N-COUNT] oft N of n A gulp of air, food, or drink, is a large amount of it that you swallow at once. I took in a large gulp of air... When his whisky came he drank half of it in one gulp. gulp down [PHRASAL VERB] V P n, V n P If you gulp down food or drink, you quickly eat or drink it all by swallowing large quantities of it at once. She gulped down a mouthful of coffee... He'd gulped it down in one bite....

gummy

gum|my /g'ʌmi/ [ADJ] Something that is gummy is sticky. My eyes are gummy. = sticky

gubernatorial

gu|ber|na|to|rial /g'uːbərnət'ɔːriəl/ [ADJ] ADJ n Gubernatorial means relating to or connected with the post of governor. ...a well-known Dallas lawyer and former Texas gubernatorial candidate. guest book (guest books) [N-COUNT] A guest book is a book in which guests write their names and addresses when they have been staying in someone's house or in a hotel. guest house (guest houses) also guesthouse 1 [N-COUNT] A guest house is a small hotel. (BRIT) 2 [N-COUNT] A guest house is a small house in the grounds of a large house, where visitors can stay. (AM) guest of hon|our (guests of honour) in AM, use guest of honor [N-COUNT] usu sing If you say that someone is the guest of honour at a dinner or other social occasion, you mean that they are the most important guest. guest room (guest rooms) [N-COUNT] A guest room is a bedroom in a house or hotel for visitors or guests to sleep in. guest work|er (guest workers) [N-COUNT] A guest worker is a person, especially one from a poor country, who lives and works in a different country for a period. guff /g'ʌf/ [N-UNCOUNT] If you say that what someone has said or written is guff, you think that it is nonsense. (INFORMAL) guf|faw /gʌf'ɔː/ (guffaws guffawing guffawed) 1 [N-COUNT] A guffaw is a very loud laugh. He bursts into a loud guffaw. 2 [VERB] V, V with quote, also V at n To guffaw means to laugh loudly. As they guffawed loudly, the ticket collector arrived... `Ha, ha,' everyone guffawed. `It's one of Viv's shock tactics.'...

gyrate

gy|rate /dʒaɪr'eɪt, AM dʒ'aɪreɪt/ (gyrates gyrating gyrated) 1 [VERB] V, V-ing If you gyrate, you dance or move your body quickly with circular movements. The woman began to gyrate to the music. ...a room stuffed full of gasping, gyrating bodies. ● gyration [N-COUNT] usu pl Prince continued his enthusiastic gyrations on stage. 2 [VERB] V prep, also V To gyrate means to turn round and round in a circle, usually very fast. The aeroplane was gyrating about the sky in a most unpleasant fashion. 3 [VERB] V adv/prep, also V If things such as prices or currencies gyrate, they move up and down in a rapid and uncontrolled way. (JOURNALISM) Interest rates began to gyrate up towards 20 per cent in 1980 and then down and up again. ● gyration [N-COUNT] usu pl, with supp ...the gyrations of the currency markets....

halcyon

hal|cy|on /h'ælsiən/ [ADJ] ADJ n A halcyon time is a time in the past that was peaceful or happy. (LITERARY) It was all a far cry from those halcyon days in 1990, when he won three tournaments on the European tour. half-baked [ADJ] usu ADJ n If you describe an idea or plan as half-baked, you mean that it has not been properly thought out, and so is stupid or impractical. This is another half-baked scheme that isn't going to work... half board [N-UNCOUNT] If you stay at a hotel and have half board, your breakfast and evening meal are included in the price of your stay at the hotel, but not your lunch. (mainly BRIT) half-brother (half-brothers) [N-COUNT] Someone's half-brother is a boy or man who has either the same mother or the same father as they have....

hallucination

hal|lu|ci|na|tion /həl'uːsɪn'eɪʃən/ (hallucinations) [N-VAR] A hallucination is the experience of seeing something that is not really there because you are ill or have taken a drug. The drug induces hallucinations at high doses......

hallucinatory

hal|lu|ci|na|tory /həl'uːsɪnətri, AM -tɔːri/ [ADJ] usu ADJ n Hallucinatory is used to describe something that is like a hallucination or is the cause of a hallucination. It was an unsettling show. There was a hallucinatory feel from the start......

hammer out

hammer out [PHRASAL VERB] V P n (not pron), also V n P If people hammer out an agreement or treaty, they succeed in producing it after a long or difficult discussion. I think we can hammer out a solution......

hamster

ham|ster /h'æmstər/ (hamsters) [N-COUNT] A hamster is a small furry animal which is similar to a mouse, and which is often kept as a pet.

handpick

hand-pick (hand-picks hand-picking hand-picked) also handpick [VERB] be V-ed, V n If someone is hand-picked, they are very carefully chosen by someone in authority for a particular purpose or a particular job. He was hand-picked for this job by the Admiral... Sokagakkai was able to hand-pick his successor....

handicraft

handi|craft /h'ændikrɑːft, -kræft/ (handicrafts) 1 [N-COUNT] usu pl Handicrafts are activities such as embroidery and pottery which involve making things with your hands in a skilful way. 2 [N-COUNT] usu pl Handicrafts are the objects that are produced by people doing handicrafts. She sells handicrafts to the tourists....

hands-on

hands-on [ADJ] usu ADJ n Hands-on experience or work involves actually doing a particular thing, rather than just talking about it or getting someone else to do it. Ninety-nine per cent of primary pupils now have hands-on experience of computers... hand|some /h'ænsəm/ 1 [ADJ] A handsome man has an attractive face with regular features. ...a tall, dark, handsome sheep farmer. = good-looking 2 [ADJ] A handsome woman has an attractive appearance with features that are large and regular rather than small and delicate. ...an extremely handsome woman with a beautiful voice. 3 [ADJ] ADJ n A handsome sum of money is a large or generous amount. (FORMAL) They will make a handsome profit on the property. ● handsomely [ADV] ADV with v He was rewarded handsomely for his efforts. 4 [ADJ] ADJ n If someone has a handsome win or a handsome victory, they get many more points or votes than their opponent. The opposition won a handsome victory in the election. ● handsomely [ADV] ADV after v The car ran perfectly to the finish, and we won handsomely....

harebrained

hare-brained also harebrained [ADJ] usu ADJ n You use hare-brained to describe a scheme or theory which you consider to be very foolish and which you think is unlikely to be successful or true. This isn't the first hare-brained scheme he's had. = crackpot...

hark

hark /h'ɑːrk/ (harks harking harked) == hark back to 1 [PHRASAL VERB] V P P n If you say that one thing harks back to another thing in the past, you mean it is similar to it or takes it as a model. ...pitched roofs, which hark back to the Victorian era. 2 [PHRASAL VERB] V P P n When people hark back to something in the past, they remember it or remind someone of it. The result devastated me at the time. Even now I hark back to it....

harp

harp /h'ɑːrp/ (harps harping harped) [N-VAR] oft the N A harp is a large musical instrument consisting of a row of strings stretched from the top to the bottom of a frame. You play the harp by plucking the strings with your fingers. harp on [PHRASAL VERB] V P n, V P about n If you say that someone harps on a subject, or harps on about it, you mean that they keep on talking about it in a way that other people find annoying. Jones harps on this theme more than on any other... She concentrated on the good parts of her trip instead of harping on about the bad....

harass

har|ass /h'ærəs, hər'æs/ (harasses harassing harassed) [VERB] V n If someone harasses you, they trouble or annoy you, for example by attacking you repeatedly or by causing you as many problems as they can. A woman reporter complained one of them sexually harassed her in the locker room......

harem

har|em /h'ɑːr'iːm, AM h'erəm/ (harems) [N-COUNT] If a man, especially a Muslim, has several wives or sexual partners living in his house, they can be referred to as his harem....

harrow

har|row /h'æroʊ/ (harrows) [N-COUNT] A harrow is a piece of farm equipment consisting of a row of blades fixed to a heavy frame. When it is pulled over ploughed land, the blades break up large lumps of soil....

harrowing

har|row|ing /h'æroʊɪŋ/ [ADJ] usu ADJ n A harrowing experience is extremely upsetting or disturbing. You've had a harrowing time this past month.

hearse

hearse /h'ɜːrs/ (hearses) [N-COUNT] A hearse is a large car that carries the coffin at a funeral. hear|ing aid (hearing aids) [N-COUNT] A hearing aid is a device which people with hearing difficulties wear in their ear to enable them to hear better. hear|ing dog (hearing dogs) [N-COUNT] Hearing dogs are dogs that have been specially trained to help deaf people. hear|say /h'ɪərseɪ/ [N-UNCOUNT] Hearsay is information which you have been told but do not know to be true. Much of what was reported to them was hearsay......

hearten

heart|en /h'ɑːrtən/ (heartens heartening heartened) [VERB] be V-ed, V n If someone is heartened by something, it encourages them and makes them cheerful. He will have been heartened by the telephone opinion poll published yesterday... The news heartened everybody. = cheer ● heartened [ADJ] v-link ADJ, oft ADJ by n, ADJ that I feel heartened by her progress... ● heartening [ADJ] oft it v-link ADJ to-inf This is heartening news. hearth rug (hearth rugs) also hearthrug [N-COUNT] A hearth rug is a rug which is put in front of a fireplace....

heavy-handed

heavy-handed [ADJ] If you say that someone's behaviour is heavy-handed, you mean that they are too forceful or too rough. ...heavy-handed police tactics... He|brew /h'iːbruː/ 1 [N-UNCOUNT] Hebrew is a language that was spoken by Jews in former times. A modern form of Hebrew is spoken now in Israel. He is a fluent speaker of Hebrew. 2 [ADJ] Hebrew means belonging to or relating to the Hebrew language or people. ...the respected Hebrew newspaper Haarez......

heavyweight

heavy|weight /h'eviweɪt/ (heavyweights) 1 [N-COUNT] A heavyweight is a boxer weighing more than 175 pounds and therefore in the heaviest class. 2 [N-COUNT] oft supp N If you refer to a person or organization as a heavyweight, you mean that they have a lot of influence, experience, and importance in a particular field, subject, or activity. He was a political heavyweight. He|brew /h'iːbruː/ 1 [N-UNCOUNT] Hebrew is a language that was spoken by Jews in former times. A modern form of Hebrew is spoken now in Israel. He is a fluent speaker of Hebrew. 2 [ADJ] Hebrew means belonging to or relating to the Hebrew language or people. ...the respected Hebrew newspaper Haarez......

hefty

hefty /h'efti/ (heftier heftiest) 1 [ADJ] usu ADJ n Hefty means large in size, weight, or amount. (INFORMAL) She was quite a hefty woman... If he is found guilty he faces a hefty fine. 2 [ADJ] usu ADJ n A hefty movement is done with a lot of force. (INFORMAL) Lambert gave Luckwell a hefty shove to send him on his way....

drumroll

n. 击鼓;击鼓声

facture

n. 制作；发票；制作法

flayer

n. 剥皮者；痛责者；抢劫者

Gina

n. 吉娜（男子名）

Effie

n. 埃菲（女子名）

entombment

n. 埋葬,埋没

footstone

n. 基石

gibble-gabble

n. 快速而不清说的言语,乱语

Ferrari

n. 法拉利（世界上最闻名的赛车和运动跑车的生产厂家， 总部在意大利的摩德纳）

gamboge

n. 藤黄,雌黄 形容词: gamboge

ethnarch

n. 行政长官；殖民地等的统治者 名 词: ethnarchy

grantee

n. 被授与者；受让人

fading

n. 褪色,枯萎,衰退

froster

n. 起霜的人;速冻机

grandiosity

n. 雄伟, 壮观

glyptodon

n. 雕齿兽

ecclesia

n. （古希腊城邦的）市民议会；教堂会众；教堂

ebbing

v. 沉陷；退潮（ebb的现在分词）

famish

vt. & vi. 使挨饿,感到极饿 时 态: famished, famishing, famishes 名 词: famishment

envenom

vt. 使有毒，下毒 时 态: envenomed, envenoming, envenoms

estrange

vt. 使疏远(尤指家庭成员之间) 时 态: estranged, estranging, estranges 名 词: estrangement 名 词: estranger

emphasise

vt. 强调; 加强语气; 重读

epitomise

vt. 成为(某事物)的缩影

eulogise

vt. （英）颂扬；赞扬（等于eulogize）

drain

♦ drain /dr'eɪn/ (drains draining drained) 1 [VERB] V n adv/prep, V n, V prep/adv If you drain a liquid from a place or object, you remove the liquid by causing it to flow somewhere else. If a liquid drains somewhere, it flows there. Miners built the tunnel to drain water out of the mines... Now the focus is on draining the water... Springs and rivers that drain into lakes carry dissolved nitrates and phosphates... 2 [VERB] V n, V If you drain a place or object, you dry it by causing water to flow out of it. If a place or object drains, water flows out of it until it is dry. Vast numbers of people have been mobilised to drain flooded land... The soil drains freely and slugs aren't a problem. 3 [VERB] V n, V If you drain food or if food drains, you remove the liquid that it has been in, especially after it has been cooked or soaked in water. Drain the pasta well, arrange on four plates and pour over the sauce... Wash the leeks thoroughly and allow them to drain. 4 [N-COUNT] A drain is a pipe that carries water or sewage away from a place, or an opening in a surface that leads to the pipe. Tony built his own house and laid his own drains. 5 [VERB] V from n, V of n, be V-ed of n If the colour or the blood drains or is drained from someone's face, they become very pale. You can also say that someone's face drains or is drained of colour. (LITERARY) Harry felt the colour drain from his face... Thacker's face drained of colour... Jock's face had been suddenly drained of all colour... 6 [VERB] V n If something drains you, it leaves you feeling physically and emotionally exhausted. My emotional turmoil had drained me. ● drained [ADJ] United left the pitch looking stunned and drained. ● draining [ADJ] This work is physically exhausting and emotionally draining. 7 [N-SING] usu adj N, N on n If you say that something is a drain on an organization's finances or resources, you mean that it costs the organization a large amount of money, and you do not consider that it is worth it. ...an ultra-modern printing plant, which has been a big drain on resources... see also brain drain 8 [VERB] be V-ed, V n If you say that a country's or a company's resources or finances are drained, you mean that they are used or spent completely. The state's finances have been drained by war... The company has steadily drained its cash reserves. 9 [PHRASE] usu PHR after v If you say that something is going down the drain, you mean that it is being destroyed or wasted. (INFORMAL) They were aware that their public image was rapidly going down the drain... 10 [PHRASE] usu PHR after v If you say that a business is going down the drain, you mean that it is failing financially. (INFORMAL) Small local stores are going down the drain. drain|age /dr'eɪnɪdʒ/ [N-UNCOUNT] Drainage is the system or process by which water or other liquids are drained from a place. Line the pots with pebbles to ensure good drainage......

dump

♦ dump /d'ʌmp/ (dumps dumping dumped) 1 [VERB] V n prep/adv If you dump something somewhere, you put it or unload it there quickly and carelessly. (INFORMAL) We dumped our bags at the nearby Grand Hotel and hurried towards the market... 2 [VERB] be V-ed, V n If something is dumped somewhere, it is put or left there because it is no longer wanted or needed. (INFORMAL) The getaway car was dumped near a motorway tunnel... The government declared that it did not dump radioactive waste at sea. ● dumping [N-UNCOUNT] German law forbids the dumping of hazardous waste on German soil. 3 [N-COUNT] A dump is a place where rubbish is left, for example on open ground outside a town. ...companies that bring their rubbish straight to the dump... = tip 4 [N-COUNT] If you say that a place is a dump, you think it is ugly and unpleasant to live in or visit. (INFORMAL) 5 [VERB] V n To dump something such as an idea, policy, or practice means to stop supporting or using it. (INFORMAL) Ministers believed it was vital to dump the poll tax before the election. = ditch 6 [VERB] V n If a firm or company dumps goods, it sells large quantities of them at prices far below their real value, usually in another country, in order to gain a bigger market share or to keep prices high in the home market. (BUSINESS) It produces more than it needs, then dumps its surplus onto the world market. 7 [VERB] V n If you dump someone, you end your relationship with them. (INFORMAL) I thought he was going to dump me for another girl... = ditch 8 [VERB] V n into n To dump computer data or memory means to copy it from one storage system onto another, such as from disk to magnetic tape. (COMPUTING) All the data is then dumped into the main computer. 9 [N-COUNT] A dump is a list of the data that is stored in a computer's memory at a particular time. Dumps are often used by computer programmers to find out what is causing a problem with a program. (COMPUTING) ...a screen dump. dump truck (dump trucks) [N-COUNT] A dump truck is a truck whose carrying part can be tipped backwards so that the load falls out....

equity

♦ equi|ty /'ekwɪti/ 1 [N-UNCOUNT] In finance, your equity is the sum of your assets, for example the value of your house, once your debts have been subtracted from it. (BUSINESS) To capture his equity, Murphy must either sell or refinance. ...a Personal Equity Plan. see also negative equity 2 [N-UNCOUNT] Equity is the quality of being fair and reasonable in a way that gives equal treatment to everyone. We base this call on grounds of social justice and equity. equiva|lence /ɪkw'ɪvələns/ [N-UNCOUNT] If there is equivalence between two things, they have the same use, function, size, or value. ...the equivalence of science and rationality....

era

♦ era /'ɪərə/ (eras) [N-COUNT] usu supp N, N of n You can refer to a period of history or a long period of time as an era when you want to draw attention to a particular feature or quality that it has. ...the nuclear era... It was an era of austerity. = age el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

etc

♦ etc /et s'etrə/ also etc. etc is used at the end of a list to indicate that you have mentioned only some of the items involved and have not given a full list. etc is a written abbreviation for `et cetera'. She knew all about my schoolwork, my hospital work etc. ...a packed programme of events-shows, dances, coach tours, sports, etc. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

exhibition

♦ ex|hi|bi|tion /'eksɪb'ɪʃən/ (exhibitions) 1 [N-COUNT] An exhibition is a public event at which pictures, sculptures, or other objects of interest are displayed, for example at a museum or art gallery. ...an exhibition of expressionist art. 2 [N-SING] N of n An exhibition of a particular skilful activity is a display or example of it that people notice or admire. He responded in champion's style by treating the fans to an exhibition of power and speed. = display 3 see also exhibit el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

formula

♦ for|mu|la /f'ɔːrmjʊlə/ (formulae /f'ɔːrmjʊliː/or formulas) 1 [N-COUNT] usu with supp A formula is a plan that is invented in order to deal with a particular problem. It is difficult to imagine how the North and South could ever agree on a formula to unify the divided peninsula. ...a peace formula. 2 [N-SING] N for n A formula for a particular situation, usually a good one, is a course of action or a combination of actions that is certain or likely to result in that situation. Clever exploitation of the latest technology would be a sure formula for success... = recipe 3 [N-COUNT] A formula is a group of letters, numbers, or other symbols which represents a scientific or mathematical rule. He developed a mathematical formula describing the distances of the planets from the Sun. 4 [N-COUNT] In science, the formula for a substance is a list of the amounts of various substances which make up that substance, or an indication of the atoms that it is composed of. 5 [N-UNCOUNT] Formula is a powder which you mix with water to make artificial milk for babies. ...bottles of formula. fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

gear

♦ gear /g'ɪər/ (gears gearing geared) 1 [N-COUNT] The gears on a machine or vehicle are a device for changing the rate at which energy is changed into motion. On hills, he must use low gears... The car was in fourth gear... He put the truck in gear and drove on. 2 [N-UNCOUNT] The gear involved in a particular activity is the equipment or special clothing that you use. About 100 officers in riot gear were needed to break up the fight. ...fishing gear... They helped us put our gear back into the van. 3 [N-UNCOUNT] Gear means clothing. (INFORMAL) I used to wear trendy gear but it just looked ridiculous. 4 [V-PASSIVE] be V-ed to n, be V-ed towards -ing If someone or something is geared to or towards a particular purpose, they are organized or designed in order to achieve that purpose. Colleges are not always geared to the needs of mature students... My training was geared towards winning gold in Munich. gear lev|er (gear levers) or gear stick [N-COUNT] A gear lever or a gear stick is the lever that you use to change gear in a car or other vehicle. (BRIT; in AM, usually use gearshift) gear stick see gear lever gear up [PHRASAL VERB] usu passive, V P for/to n, be V-ed P to-inf If someone is gearing up for a particular activity, they are preparing to do it. If they are geared up to do a particular activity, they are prepared to do it. ...another indication that the Government is gearing up for an election... The factory was geared up to make 1,100 cars a day. gear|box /g'ɪərbɒks/ (gearboxes) [N-COUNT] A gearbox is the system of gears in an engine or vehicle. gear|shift /g'ɪərʃɪft/ (gearshifts) also gear shift [N-COUNT] In a vehicle, the gearshift is the same as the gear lever. (mainly AM) gee /dʒ'iː/ [EXCLAM] People sometimes say gee to emphasize a reaction or remark. (AM INFORMAL) Gee, it's hot... Gee thanks, Stan....

guitar

♦ gui|tar /gɪt'ɑːr/ (guitars) [N-VAR] oft the N A guitar is a musical instrument with six strings and a long neck. You play the guitar by plucking or strumming the strings. guinea fowl (guinea fowl) [N-COUNT] A guinea fowl is a large grey African bird that is often eaten as food. guinea pig (guinea pigs) also guinea-pig 1 [N-COUNT] If someone is used as a guinea pig in an experiment, something is tested on them that has not been tested on people before. ...a human guinea pig... Nearly 500,000 pupils are to be guinea pigs in a trial run of the new 14-plus exams. 2 [N-COUNT] A guinea pig is a small furry animal without a tail. Guinea pigs are often kept as pets....

egg

♦♦ egg /'eg/ (eggs egging egged) 1 [N-COUNT] An egg is an oval object that is produced by a female bird and which contains a baby bird. Other animals such as reptiles and fish also lay eggs. ...a baby bird hatching from its egg. ...ant eggs. 2 [N-VAR] In Western countries, eggs often means hen's eggs, eaten as food. Break the eggs into a shallow bowl and beat them lightly. ...bacon and eggs. 3 [N-COUNT] usu supp N Egg is used to refer to an object in the shape of a hen's egg. ...a chocolate egg. 4 [N-COUNT] An egg is a cell that is produced in the bodies of female animals and humans. If it is fertilized by a sperm, a baby develops from it. It only takes one sperm to fertilize an egg. 5 see also Easter egg, nest egg, 6 [PHRASE] usu v PHR If someone puts all their eggs in one basket, they put all their effort or resources into doing one thing so that, if it fails, they have no alternatives left. The key word here is diversify; don't put all your eggs in one basket. 7 [PHRASE] face inflects, have/with PHR If someone has egg on their face or has egg all over their face, they have been made to look foolish. If they take this game lightly they could end up with egg on their faces. 8 a chicken and egg situation: see chicken egg cup (egg cups) also eggcup [N-COUNT] An egg cup is a small container in which you put a boiled egg while you eat it. egg on [PHRASAL VERB] V n P, V n P to-inf If you egg a person on, you encourage them to do something, especially something dangerous or foolish. He was lifting up handfuls of leaves and throwing them at her. She was laughing and egging him on... They egged each other on to argue and to fight. egg tim|er (egg timers) also egg-timer [N-COUNT] An egg timer is a device that measures the time needed to boil an egg. egg whisk (egg whisks) [N-COUNT] An egg whisk is a piece of kitchen equipment used for mixing the different parts of an egg together. egg|head /'eghed/ (eggheads) [N-COUNT] If you think someone is more interested in ideas and theories than in practical actions you can say they are an egghead. (INFORMAL) The Government was dominated by self-important eggheads. = boffin egg|nog /'egnɒg/ also egg nog [N-UNCOUNT] Eggnog is a drink made from egg, milk, sugar, spices, and alcohol such as rum or brandy. egg|plant /'egplɑːnt, -plænt/ (eggplants) [N-VAR] An eggplant is a vegetable with a smooth, dark purple skin. (AM; in BRIT, use aubergine)...

especially

♦♦ es|pe|cial|ly /ɪsp'eʃəli/ 1 [ADV] ADV with cl/group You use especially to emphasize that what you are saying applies more to one person, thing, or area than to any others. Millions of wild flowers colour the valleys, especially in April and May... Re-apply sunscreen every two hours, especially if you have been swimming. = particularly 2 [ADV] ADV adj/adv You use especially to emphasize a characteristic or quality. Babies lose heat much faster than adults, and are especially vulnerable to the cold in their first month. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

extra

♦♦ ex|tra /'ekstrə/ (extras) 1 [ADJ] ADJ n You use extra to describe an amount, person, or thing that is added to others of the same kind, or that can be added to others of the same kind. Police warned motorists to allow extra time to get to work... Extra staff have been taken on to cover busy periods... There's an extra blanket in the bottom drawer of the cupboard. = additional 2 [ADJ] v-link ADJ If something is extra, you have to pay more money for it in addition to what you are already paying for something. The price of your meal is extra. [PRON] Extra is also a pronoun. Many of the additional features now cost extra... [ADV] Extra is also an adverb. You may be charged 10% extra for this service. 3 [N-COUNT] usu pl Extras are additional amounts of money that are added to the price that you have to pay for something. There are no hidden extras. 4 [N-COUNT] usu pl Extras are things which are not necessary in a situation, activity, or object, but which make it more comfortable, useful, or enjoyable. Optional extras include cooking tuition at a top restaurant... 5 [N-COUNT] The extras in a film are the people who play unimportant parts, for example as members of a crowd. 6 [ADV] ADV adj/adv You can use extra in front of adjectives and adverbs to emphasize the quality that they are describing. (INFORMAL) I'd have to be extra careful... What makes a magnificent garden extra special?... = especially 7 to go the extra mile: see mile extra- /'ekstrə-/ [PREFIX] extra- is used to form adjectives indicating that something is outside something or is not part of it. (FORMAL) The move was extra-constitutional... They competed for power through a combination of parliamentary and extra-parliamentary methods... The report says torture was widespread, as were extra-judicial executions by government troops....

file

♦♦ file /f'aɪl/ (files filing filed) 1 [N-COUNT] A file is a box or a folded piece of heavy paper or plastic in which letters or documents are kept. He sat behind a table on which were half a dozen files. ...a file of insurance papers. 2 [N-COUNT] oft N of/on n A file is a collection of information about a particular person or thing. We already have files on people's tax details, mortgages and poll tax... You must record and keep a file of all expenses. 3 [VERB] V n If you file a document, you put it in the correct file. They are all filed alphabetically under author. 4 [N-COUNT] In computing, a file is a set of related data that has its own name. 5 [VERB] V n, V for n If you file a formal or legal accusation, complaint, or request, you make it officially. A number of them have filed formal complaints against the police... I filed for divorce on the grounds of adultery a few months later. 6 [VERB] V n When someone files a report or a news story, they send or give it to their employer. Catherine Bond filed that report for the BBC from Nairobi... 7 [VERB] V prep/adv When a group of people files somewhere, they walk one behind the other in a line. Slowly, people filed into the room and sat down. 8 [N-COUNT] A file is a hand tool which is used for rubbing hard objects to make them smooth, shape them, or cut through them. 9 [VERB] V n If you file an object, you smooth it, shape it, or cut it with a file. Manicurists are skilled at shaping and filing nails. 10 see also nail file, rank and file 11 [PHRASE] v-link PHR, PHR after v Something that is on file or on someone's files is recorded or kept in a file or in a collection of information. His fingerprints were on file in Washington... We'll keep your details on file... It is one of the most desperate cases on her files. 12 [PHRASE] PHR after v A group of people who are walking or standing in single file are in a line, one behind the other. We were walking in single file to the lake. file-sharing or file sharing [N-UNCOUNT] oft N n File-sharing is a method of distributing computer files, for example files containing music, among a large number of users. (COMPUTING) ...legal action to close down file-sharing sites offering music for free. fil|ial /f'ɪliəl/ [ADJ] ADJ n You can use filial to describe the duties, feelings, or relationships which exist between a son or daughter and his or her parents. (FORMAL) His father would accuse him of neglecting his filial duties... fili|bus|ter /f'ɪlɪbʌstər/ (filibusters filibustering filibustered) 1 [N-COUNT] A filibuster is a long slow speech made to use up time so that a vote cannot be taken and a law cannot be passed. (mainly AM) Senator Seymour has threatened a filibuster to block the bill. 2 [VERB] V, V n If a politician filibusters, he or she makes a long slow speech in order to use up time so that a vote cannot be taken and a law cannot be passed. (mainly AM) They simply threatened to filibuster until the Senate adjourns... A group of senators plans to filibuster a measure that would permit drilling in Alaska. fili|gree /f'ɪlɪgriː/ [N-UNCOUNT] oft N n The word filigree is used to refer to delicate ornamental designs made with gold or silver wire....

flat

♦♦ flat /fl'æt/ (flats flatter flattest) 1 [N-COUNT] also N num A flat is a set of rooms for living in, usually on one floor and part of a larger building. A flat usually includes a kitchen and bathroom. (mainly BRIT; in AM, usually use apartment) Sara lives with her husband and children in a flat in central London... It started a fire in a block of flats... Later on, Victor from flat 10 called. = apartment 2 [ADJ] Something that is flat is level, smooth, or even, rather than sloping, curved, or uneven. Tiles can be fixed to any surface as long as it's flat, firm and dry... After a moment his right hand moved across the cloth, smoothing it flat... The sea was calm, perfectly flat. 3 [ADJ] ADJ n, v-link ADJ, ADJ after v Flat means horizontal and not upright. Two men near him threw themselves flat... As heartburn is usually worse when you're lying down in bed, you should avoid lying flat. 4 [ADJ] usu ADJ n A flat object is not very tall or deep in relation to its length and width. Ellen is walking down the drive with a square flat box balanced on one hand. = shallow 5 [ADJ] ADJ n, v-link ADJ, ADJ after v Flat land is level, with no high hills or other raised parts. To the north lie the flat and fertile farmlands of the Solway plain... The landscape became wider, flatter and very scenic... 6 [N-COUNT] usu pl, usu n N A low flat area of uncultivated land, especially an area where the ground is soft and wet, can be referred to as flats or a flat. The salt marshes and mud flats attract large numbers of waterfowl. 7 [N-COUNT] usu sing, the N of n You can refer to one of the broad flat surfaces of an object as the flat of that object. He slammed the counter with the flat of his hand. ...eight cloves of garlic crushed with the flat of a knife. 8 [ADJ] usu ADJ n Flat shoes have no heels or very low heels. People wear slacks, sweaters, flat shoes, and all manner of casual attire for travel. [N-PLURAL] Flats are flat shoes. (AM) His mother looked ten years younger in jeans and flats. 9 [ADJ] A flat tyre, ball, or balloon does not have enough air in it. 10 [N-COUNT] A flat is a tyre that does not have enough air in it. Then, after I finally got back on the highway, I developed a flat. 11 [ADJ] A drink that is flat is no longer fizzy. Could this really stop the champagne from going flat? ≠ fizzy 12 [ADJ] A flat battery has lost some or all of its electrical charge. (mainly BRIT; in AM, use dead) His car alarm had been going off for two days and, as a result, the battery was flat. 13 [ADJ] If you have flat feet, the arches of your feet are too low. The condition of flat feet runs in families. 14 [ADJ] ADJ n A flat denial or refusal is definite and firm, and is unlikely to be changed. The Foreign Ministry has issued a flat denial of any involvement... ● flatly [ADV] usu ADV with v, also ADV adj He flatly refused to discuss it... 15 [ADJ] num n ADJ If you say that something happened, for example, in ten seconds flat or ten minutes flat, you are emphasizing that it happened surprisingly quickly and only took ten seconds or ten minutes. You're sitting behind an engine that'll move you from 0 to 60mph in six seconds flat... 16 [ADJ] ADJ n A flat rate, price, or percentage is one that is fixed and which applies in every situation. Fees are charged at a flat rate, rather than on a percentage basis... Sometimes there's a flat fee for carrying out a particular task... = fixed ≠ variable 17 [ADJ] If trade or business is flat, it is slow and inactive, rather than busy and improving or increasing. During the first eight months of this year, sales of big pickups were up 14% while car sales stayed flat... = sluggish 18 [ADJ] If you describe something as flat, you mean that it is dull and not exciting or interesting. The past few days have seemed comparatively flat and empty... 19 [ADJ] You use flat to describe someone's voice when they are saying something without expressing any emotion. `Whatever you say,' he said in a deadly flat voice. `I'll sit here and wait.'... Her voice was flat, with no question or hope in it. ● flatly [ADV] ADV after v I know you,' he said flatly, matter-of-fact, neutral in tone. 20 [ADJ] n ADJ Flat is used after a letter representing a musical note to show that the note should be played or sung half a tone lower than the note which otherwise matches that letter. Flat is often represented by the symbol after the letter. ...Schubert's B flat Piano Trio (Opus 99). ≠ sharp 21 [ADV] ADV after v If someone sings flat or if a musical instrument is flat, their singing or the instrument is slightly lower in pitch than it should be. Her vocal range was, to say the least of it, limited, and she had a distressing tendency to sing flat. [ADJ] Flat is also an adjective. He had been fired because his singing was flat. 22 [PHRASE] v-link PHR If you say that something is as flat as a pancake, you are emphasizing that it is completely flat. My home state of Illinois is flat as a pancake... 23 [PHRASE] V inflects, oft PHR on n If you fall flat on your face, you fall over. A man walked in off the street and fell flat on his face, unconscious. 24 [PHRASE] V inflects If an event or attempt falls flat or falls flat on its face, it is unsuccessful. Liz meant it as a joke but it fell flat... If it wasn't for the main actress, Ellen Barkin, the plot would have fallen flat on its face. = fail 25 [PHRASE] v-link PHR If you say that you are flat broke, you mean that you have no money at all. (INFORMAL) Two years later he is flat broke and on the dole. = skint 26 [PHRASE] PHR after v, PHR n If you do something flat out, you do it as fast or as hard as you can. Everyone is working flat out to try to trap those responsible... They hurtled across the line in a flat-out sprint. 27 [PHRASE] PHR n/adj, PHR with v You use flat out to emphasize that something is completely the case. (mainly AM INFORMAL) That allegation is a flat-out lie... 28 [PHRASE] On the flat means on level ground. He had angina and was unable to walk for more than 200 yards on the flat. 29 in a flat spin: see spin flat cap (flat caps) [N-COUNT] A flat cap is the same as a cloth cap. (mainly BRIT) flat-footed 1 [ADJ] v-link ADJ, ADJ n, ADJ after v If you are flat-footed, the arches of your feet are too low. He told me I was flat-footed. 2 [ADJ] ADJ n, v-link ADJ, ADJ after v If you describe a person or action as flat-footed, you think they are clumsy, awkward, or foolish. ...flat-footed writing... The government could be caught flat-footed. flat pack (flat packs) also flat-pack [N-COUNT] usu N n Flat pack furniture is furniture such as shelves and cupboards which you buy as a number of separate pieces and assemble yourself. (BRIT)...

go upstairs

上楼

ex post facto

事后的(地),追溯的(地)

get hold of

抓住；得到；把握

egocentrism

自我中心

dying-out

衰减

follow up on

追踪；继续采用

entailment

需要; 限定继承

goose bump

鸡皮疙瘩

gear case

齿轮箱

drones

- n. [昆]雄蜂；（英）懒汉；遥控飞机（drone的复数形式） - v. 混（日子）；懒散地打发时间（drone的三单形式）；闲散度日（drone的三单形式）

fold

-fold /-foʊld/ [SUFFIX] -fold combines with numbers to form adverbs which say how much an amount has increased by. For example, if an amount increases fourfold, it is four times greater than it was originally. By the late eighties their number had grown fourfold... Pretax profit surged almost twelvefold. [ADJ] ADJ n -fold also combines with numbers to form adjectives. One survey revealed a threefold increase in breast cancer. fold in or fold into [PHRASAL VERB] V P n (not pron), V n P n In cooking, if you fold in an ingredient or fold it into the other ingredients, you mix it very gently into the other ingredients. Fold in the flour... Fold the cream into the egg yolk mixture. fold up [PHRASAL VERB] V n P, V P n (not pron) If you fold something up, you make it into a smaller, neater shape by folding it, usually several times. She folded it up, and tucked it into her purse... He folded up his paper and put it away. see also fold 4, fold-up ≠ unfold...

Greek

Greek /gr'iːk/ (Greeks) 1 [ADJ] Greek means belonging or relating to Greece. 2 [N-COUNT] A Greek is a person who comes from Greece. 3 [N-UNCOUNT] Greek is the language used in Greece. I had to learn Greek. 4 [N-UNCOUNT] Greek or Ancient Greek was the language used in Greece in ancient times. green bean (green beans) [N-COUNT] usu pl Green beans are long narrow beans that are eaten as a vegetable. green belt (green belts) [N-COUNT] A green belt is an area of land with fields or parks around a town or city, where people are not allowed to build houses or factories by law. Green Be|ret (Green Berets) [N-COUNT] A Green Beret is a British or American commando. (INFORMAL) green card (green cards) [N-COUNT] A green card is a document showing that someone who is not a citizen of the United States has permission to live and work there. Nicollette married Harry so she could get a green card. green on|ion (green onions) [N-COUNT] Green onions are small onions with long green leaves. (mainly AM; in BRIT, usually use spring onions) = scallion Green Pa|per (Green Papers) [N-COUNT] In Britain, a Green Paper is a document containing ideas about a particular subject that is published by the Government so that people can discuss them before any decisions are made. Green Par|ty [N-PROPER] The Green Party is a political party that is particularly concerned about protecting the environment. green pep|per (green peppers) [N-COUNT] A green pepper is an unripe pepper that is used in cooking or eaten raw in salads. green revo|lu|tion also Green Revolution [N-SING] The green revolution is the increase in agricultural production that has been made possible by the use of new types of crops and new farming methods, especially in developing countries. green sal|ad (green salads) [N-VAR] A green salad is a salad made mainly with lettuce and other green vegetables....

gulf

Gulf [N-PROPER] the N, oft N n The Gulf is used to refer to the Arabian Gulf, the Persian Gulf and the surrounding countries. ...the Gulf crisis. ...the Gulf War. ...the oil wells of the Gulf. gulf /g'ʌlf/ (gulfs) 1 [N-COUNT] oft N between pl-n A gulf is an important or significant difference between two people, things, or groups. Within society, there is a growing gulf between rich and poor. ...the gulf between rural and urban life. 2 [N-COUNT] A gulf is a large area of sea which extends a long way into the surrounding land. Hurricane Andrew was last night heading into the Gulf of Mexico....

drab

drab /dr'æb/ (drabber drabbest) 1 [ADJ] If you describe something as drab, you think that it is dull and boring to look at or experience. ...his drab little office... = dreary ● drabness [N-UNCOUNT] ...the dusty drabness of nearby villages. 2 see also dribs and drabs draft dodg|er (draft dodgers) [N-COUNT] A draft dodger is someone who avoids joining the armed forces when normally they would have to join. (mainly AM) draftee /dr'ɑːft'iː, dr'æft-/ (draftees) [N-COUNT] A draftee is the same as a conscript. (AM) drafts|man (draftsmen /dr'ɑːftsmən, dr'æfts-/) see draughtsman...

draftsman

drafts|man (draftsmen /dr'ɑːftsmən, dr'æfts-/) see draughtsman draft dodg|er (draft dodgers) [N-COUNT] A draft dodger is someone who avoids joining the armed forces when normally they would have to join. (mainly AM) draftee /dr'ɑːft'iː, dr'æft-/ (draftees) [N-COUNT] A draftee is the same as a conscript. (AM) drafts|man (draftsmen /dr'ɑːftsmən, dr'æfts-/) see draughtsman...

drastically

drastically adverb adverb BrE BrE / /ˈdræstɪ kli / / , BrE / /ˈdrɑːstɪ kli / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈdræstɪ kli / / in an extreme way that has a sudden, serious or violent effect on something Output has been drastically reduced. Things have started to go drastically wrong....

drastic

dras|tic /dr'æstɪk/ 1 [ADJ] If you have to take drastic action in order to solve a problem, you have to do something extreme and basic to solve it. Drastic measures are needed to clean up the profession... He's not going to do anything drastic about economic policy. = radical 2 [ADJ] A drastic change is a very great change. ...a drastic reduction in the numbers of people dying. ● drastically [ADV] ADV with v As a result, services have been drastically reduced. domi|no ef|fect [N-SING] If one event causes another similar event, which in turn causes another event, and so on, you can refer to this as a domino effect. The domino effect if one train is cancelled is enormous....

drawbridge

draw|bridge /dr'ɔːbrɪdʒ/ (drawbridges) [N-COUNT] A drawbridge is a bridge that can be pulled up, for example to prevent people from getting into a castle or to allow ships to pass underneath it. domi|no ef|fect [N-SING] If one event causes another similar event, which in turn causes another event, and so on, you can refer to this as a domino effect. The domino effect if one train is cancelled is enormous....

drapery

dra|pery /dr'eɪpəri/ (draperies) 1 [N-UNCOUNT] also N in pl You can refer to cloth, curtains, or clothing hanging in folds as drapery or draperies. In the dining-room the draperies create an atmosphere of elegance. 2 [N-UNCOUNT] oft N n Drapery is cloth that you buy in a shop. (BRIT; in AM, use dry goods) My mother ran a couple of drapery shops. domi|no ef|fect [N-SING] If one event causes another similar event, which in turn causes another event, and so on, you can refer to this as a domino effect. The domino effect if one train is cancelled is enormous....

dread

dread /dr'ed/ (dreads dreading dreaded) 1 [VERB] V n/-ing, V that If you dread something which may happen, you feel very anxious and unhappy about it because you think it will be unpleasant or upsetting. I'm dreading Christmas this year... I'd been dreading that the birth would take a long time. ≠ look forward to 2 [N-UNCOUNT] Dread is a feeling of great anxiety and fear about something that may happen. She thought with dread of the cold winters to come. 3 [ADJ] usu ADJ n Dread means terrible and greatly feared. (LITERARY) ...a more effective national policy to combat this dread disease. = dreaded 4 see also dreaded 5 [PHRASE] V inflects, usu PHR wh If you say that you dread to think what might happen, you mean that you are anxious about it because it is likely to be very unpleasant. I dread to think what will happen in the case of a major emergency... domi|no ef|fect [N-SING] If one event causes another similar event, which in turn causes another event, and so on, you can refer to this as a domino effect. The domino effect if one train is cancelled is enormous....

dreadful

dread|ful /dr'edfʊl/ 1 [ADJ] If you say that something is dreadful, you mean that it is very bad or unpleasant, or very poor in quality. They told us the dreadful news... = awful, appalling ● dreadfully [ADV] ADV with v You behaved dreadfully... 2 [ADJ] ADJ n Dreadful is used to emphasize the degree or extent of something bad. We've made a dreadful mistake... = terrible ● dreadfully [ADV] ADV adj, ADV after v He looks dreadfully ill... 3 [ADJ] feel/look ADJ If someone looks or feels dreadful, they look or feel very ill, tired, or upset. Are you all right? You look dreadful... domi|no ef|fect [N-SING] If one event causes another similar event, which in turn causes another event, and so on, you can refer to this as a domino effect. The domino effect if one train is cancelled is enormous....

dresser

dress|er /dr'esər/ (dressers) 1 [N-COUNT] A dresser is a chest of drawers, usually with a mirror on the top. (AM; in BRIT, use dressing table) 2 [N-COUNT] A dresser is a piece of furniture which has cupboards or drawers in the lower part and shelves in the top part. It is usually used for storing china. (mainly BRIT) 3 [N-COUNT] adj N You can use dresser to refer to the kind of clothes that a person wears. For example, if you say that someone is a smart dresser, you mean that they wear smart clothes. dressed up 1 [ADJ] usu v-link ADJ If someone is dressed up, they are wearing special clothes, in order to look smarter than usual or in order to disguise themselves. You're all dressed up. Are you going somewhere?... 2 [ADJ] v-link ADJ as/in n If you say that something is dressed up as something else, you mean that someone has tried to make it more acceptable or attractive by making it seem like that other thing. He tried to organise things so that the trip would be dressed up as a UN mission. 3 dressed up to the nines: see nine...

drifter

drift|er /dr'ɪftər/ (drifters) [N-COUNT] If you describe someone as a drifter, you mean that they do not stay in one place or in one job for very long. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

driven

driv|en /dr'ɪvən/ Driven is the past participle of drive. driv|ing li|cence (driving licences) [N-COUNT] A driving licence is a card showing that you are qualified to drive because you have passed a driving test. (BRIT; in AM, use driver's license) driv|ing range (driving ranges) [N-COUNT] A driving range is an outdoor place where you can practise playing golf. driv|ing school (driving schools) [N-COUNT] A driving school is a business that employs instructors who teach people how to drive a car. driv|ing seat 1 [N-SING] usu the N In a vehicle such as a car or a bus, the driving seat is the seat where the person who is driving the vehicle sits. He got into the driving seat and started the engine. = driver's seat 2 [PHRASE] usu v-link PHR, PHR after v If you say that someone is in the driving seat, you mean that they are in control in a situation. At 69 he is as firmly in the driving seat of the company as ever....

drop out

drop out 1 [PHRASAL VERB] V P of n, V P If someone drops out of college or a race, for example, they leave it without finishing what they started. He'd dropped out of high school at the age of 16... She dropped out after 20 kilometres with stomach trouble. 2 [PHRASAL VERB] V P If someone drops out, they reject the accepted ways of society and live outside the usual system. She encourages people to keep their jobs rather than dropping out to live in a commune. see also drop-out el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

drown

drown /dr'aʊn/ (drowns drowning drowned) 1 [VERB] V, be V-ed, V pron-refl, V-ing When someone drowns or is drowned, they die because they have gone or been pushed under water and cannot breathe. A child can drown in only a few inches of water... Last night a boy was drowned in the river... He walked into the sea and drowned himself... Dolphins have sometimes been known to save drowning swimmers. 2 [VERB] V in n, be V-ed If you say that a person or thing is drowning in something, you are emphasizing that they have a very large amount of it, or are completely covered in it. ...people who gradually find themselves drowning in debt... The potatoes were drowned in chilli. 3 [VERB] V n If something drowns a sound, it is so loud that you cannot hear that sound properly. Clapping drowned the speaker's words for a moment... [PHRASAL VERB] V P n (not pron) Drown out means the same as drown. Their cheers drowned out the protests of demonstrators... 4 [PHRASE] V inflects If you say that someone is drowning their sorrows, you mean that they are drinking alcohol in order to forget something sad or upsetting that has happened to them. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

drudgery

drudg|ery /dr'ʌdʒəri/ [N-UNCOUNT] You use drudgery to refer to jobs and tasks which are boring or unpleasant but which must be done. People want to get away from the drudgery of their everyday lives. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

dub

dub /d'ʌb/ (dubs dubbing dubbed) 1 [VERB] V n as n, V n n If someone or something is dubbed a particular thing, they are given that description or name. (JOURNALISM) ...the man whom the Labour opposition dubbed as the `no change Prime Minister'... At the height of her career, Orson Welles dubbed her `the most exciting woman in the world'. 2 [VERB] usu passive, be V-ed into n If a film or soundtrack in a foreign language is dubbed, a new soundtrack is added with actors giving a translation. It was dubbed into Spanish for Mexican audiences. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

duckling

duck|ling /d'ʌklɪŋ/ (ducklings) [N-COUNT] A duckling is a young duck. see also ugly duckling duct /d'ʌkt/ (ducts) 1 [N-COUNT] usu with supp A duct is a pipe, tube, or channel which carries a liquid or gas. ...a big air duct in the ceiling. 2 [N-COUNT] with supp A duct is a tube in your body which carries a liquid such as tears or bile. ...tear ducts....

duke

duke /dj'uːk, AM d'uːk/ (dukes) [N-COUNT] oft the N of n A duke is a man with a very high social rank. ...the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

dull

dull /d'ʌl/ (duller dullest dulls dulling dulled) 1 [ADJ] If you describe someone or something as dull, you mean they are not interesting or exciting. I felt she found me boring and dull... = boring ≠ interesting ● dullness [N-UNCOUNT] They enjoy anything that breaks the dullness of their routine life. 2 [ADJ] Someone or something that is dull is not very lively or energetic. The body's natural rhythms mean we all feel dull and sleepy between 1 and 3pm. = sluggish ● dully [ADV] ADV after v His eyes looked dully ahead. ● dullness [N-UNCOUNT] Did you notice any unusual depression or dullness of mind? 3 [ADJ] usu ADJ n A dull colour or light is not bright. The stamp was a dull blue colour. ● dully [ADV] ADV with v The street lamps gleamed dully through the night's mist. 4 [ADJ] You say the weather is dull when it is very cloudy. It's always dull and raining. ≠ sunny 5 [ADJ] usu ADJ n Dull sounds are not very clear or loud. The coffin closed with a dull thud. ● dully [ADV] ADV after v He heard his heart thump dully but more quickly. 6 [ADJ] ADJ n Dull feelings are weak and not intense. The pain, usually a dull ache, gets worse with exercise... ≠ sharp ● dully [ADV] His arm throbbed dully. 7 [ADJ] If a knife or blade is dull, it is not sharp. (OLD-FASHIONED) = blunt ≠ keen 8 [VERB] V, V n If something dulls or if it is dulled, it becomes less intense, bright, or lively. Her eyes dulled and she gazed blankly... Share prices and trading have been dulled by worries over the war. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

dumb

dumb /d'ʌm/ (dumber dumbest dumbs dumbing dumbed) 1 [ADJ] Someone who is dumb is completely unable to speak. ...a young deaf and dumb man. = mute 2 [ADJ] v-link ADJ If someone is dumb on a particular occasion, they cannot speak because they are angry, shocked, or surprised. (LITERARY) We were all struck dumb for a minute. = speechless ● dumbly [ADV] ADV with v I shook my head dumbly, not believing him. 3 [ADJ] If you call a person dumb, you mean that they are stupid or foolish. (INFORMAL) The questions were set up to make her look dumb. 4 [ADJ] If you say that something is dumb, you think that it is silly and annoying. (AM INFORMAL) I came up with this dumb idea... = stupid dumb-bell /d'ʌmbel/ (dumb-bells) also dumbbell [N-COUNT] A dumb-bell is a short bar with weights on either side which people use for physical exercise to strengthen their arm and shoulder muscles. dumb down [PHRASAL VERB] V P n, also V n P, V If you dumb down something, you make it easier for people to understand, especially when this spoils it. No one favored dumbing down the magazine. ● dumbing down [N-UNCOUNT] He accused broadcasters of contributing to the dumbing down of America....

dumbbell

dumb-bell /d'ʌmbel/ (dumb-bells) also dumbbell [N-COUNT] A dumb-bell is a short bar with weights on either side which people use for physical exercise to strengthen their arm and shoulder muscles. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

dumping

dumping noun noun BrE BrE / /ˈdʌmpɪŋ / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈdʌmpɪŋ / / [ uncountable ] the act or practice of dumping something, especially dangerous substances a ban on the dumping of radioactive waste at sea...

dumps

dumps noun noun BrE BrE / /dʌmps / / ; NAmE NAmE / /dʌmps / / [ plural ] Word Origin early 16th cent. (originally singular in the sense 'a dazed or puzzled state' ): probably a figurative use of Middle Dutch domp'haze, mist' . Idioms down in the dumps ( informal ) feeling unhappy synonym depressed He'd been down in the dumps since his girlfriend left him. See related entries: Unhappiness...

dummy

dum|my /d'ʌmi/ (dummies) 1 [N-COUNT] A dummy is a model of a person, often used to display clothes. ...the bottom half of a shop-window dummy. = mannequin 2 [N-COUNT] oft N n You can use dummy to refer to things that are not real, but have been made to look or behave as if they are real. Dummy patrol cars will be set up beside motorways to frighten speeding motorists... = fake 3 [N-COUNT] A baby's dummy is a rubber or plastic object that you give the baby to suck so that he or she feels comforted. (BRIT; in AM, usually use pacifier) dum|my run (dummy runs) [N-COUNT] A dummy run is a trial or test procedure which is carried out in order to see if a plan or process works properly. (BRIT) Before we started we did a dummy run. = test run...

dunce

dunce /d'ʌns/ (dunces) [N-COUNT] If you say that someone is a dunce, you think they are rather stupid because they find it difficult or impossible to learn what someone is trying to teach them. Michael may have been a dunce at mathematics, but he was gifted at languages. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

dune

dune /dj'uːn, AM d'uːn/ (dunes) [N-COUNT] A dune is a hill of sand near the sea or in a desert. dung /d'ʌŋ/ [N-UNCOUNT] Dung is faeces from animals, especially from large animals such as cattle and horses....

dung

dung /d'ʌŋ/ [N-UNCOUNT] Dung is faeces from animals, especially from large animals such as cattle and horses. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

dunk

dunk /d'ʌŋk/ (dunks dunking dunked) [VERB] V n in n If you dunk something in a liquid, you put it in the liquid, especially for a particular purpose and for a short time. Dunk new plants in a bucket of water for an hour or so before planting. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

duo

duo /dj'uːoʊ, AM d'uː-/ (duos) 1 [N-COUNT] A duo is two musicians, singers, or other performers who perform together as a pair. ...a famous dancing and singing duo. 2 [N-COUNT] You can refer to two people together as a duo, especially when they have something in common. (mainly JOURNALISM) ...Britain's former golden Olympic duo of Linford Christie and Sally Gunnell. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

dupe

dupe /dj'uːp, AM d'uːp/ (dupes duping duped) 1 [VERB] V n into -ing, V n If a person dupes you, they trick you into doing something or into believing something which is not true. ...a plot to dupe stamp collectors into buying fake rarities... We know some sex offenders dupe the psychologists who assess them. 2 [N-COUNT] A dupe is someone who is tricked by someone else. He becomes an innocent dupe in a political scandal. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

dubious

du|bi|ous /dj'uːbiəs, AM d'uː-/ 1 [ADJ] If you describe something as dubious, you mean that you do not consider it to be completely honest, safe, or reliable. This claim seems to us to be rather dubious... = questionable ● dubiously [ADV] ADV after v, ADV adj/-ed Carter was dubiously convicted of shooting three white men in a bar. 2 [ADJ] v-link ADJ, oft ADJ about n If you are dubious about something, you are not completely sure about it and have not yet made up your mind about it. My parents were dubious about it at first but we soon convinced them. = doubtful ● dubiously [ADV] He eyed Coyne dubiously. 3 [ADJ] ADJ n If you say that someone has the dubious honour or the dubious pleasure of doing something, you are indicating that what they are doing is not an honour or pleasure at all, but is, in fact, unpleasant or bad. Nagy has the dubious honour of being the first athlete to be banned in this way... el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

duplicity

du|plic|ity /djuːpl'ɪsɪti, AM duː-/ [N-UNCOUNT] If you accuse someone of duplicity, you mean that they are deceitful. (FORMAL) Malcolm believed he was guilty of duplicity in his private dealings. = deceit du|rable goods or durables [N-PLURAL] Durable goods or durables are goods such as televisions or cars which are expected to last a long time, and are bought infrequently. (mainly AM; in BRIT, usually use consumer durables) du|ra|tion /djʊr'eɪʃən, AM dʊr-/ 1 [N-UNCOUNT] oft the N of n The duration of an event or state is the time during which it happens or exists. He was given the task of protecting her for the duration of the trial... Courses are of two years' duration. 2 [PHRASE] PHR after v If you say that something will happen for the duration, you mean that it will happen for as long as a particular situation continues. His wounds knocked him out of combat for the duration....

earthly

earth|ly /'ɜːrθli/ 1 [ADJ] ADJ n Earthly means happening in the material world of our life on earth and not in any spiritual life or life after death. ...the need to confront evil during the earthly life... 2 [ADJ] ADJ n Earthly is used for emphasis in phrases such as no earthly reason. If you say that there is no earthly reason why something should happen, you are emphasizing that there is no reason at all why it should happen. There is no earthly reason why they should ever change... edu|cat|ed guess (educated guesses) [N-COUNT] An educated guess is a guess which is based on a certain amount of knowledge and is therefore likely to be correct. Estimating the right cooking time will always be an educated guess....

duplicate

du|pli|cate (duplicates duplicating duplicated) The verb is pronounced /dj'uːplɪkeɪt, AM d'uː-/ The noun and adjective are pronounced /dj'uːplɪkət, AM d'uː-/ 1 [VERB] V n If you duplicate something that has already been done, you repeat or copy it. His task will be to duplicate his success overseas here at home... = replicate [N-COUNT] Duplicate is also a noun. Charles scored again, with an exact duplicate of his first goal. 2 [VERB] V n To duplicate something which has been written, drawn, or recorded onto tape means to make exact copies of it. ...a business which duplicates video and cinema tapes for the movie makers. = copy [N-COUNT] also in N Duplicate is also a noun. I'm on my way to Switzerland, but I've lost my card. I've got to get a duplicate. 3 [ADJ] ADJ n Duplicate is used to describe things that have been made as an exact copy of other things, usually in order to serve the same purpose. He let himself in with a duplicate key. 4 see also duplication el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

durable

du|rable /dj'ʊərəbəl, AM d'ʊr-/ [ADJ] Something that is durable is strong and lasts a long time without breaking or becoming weaker. Bone china is strong and durable. ● durability [N-UNCOUNT] Airlines recommend hard-sided cases for durability. du|rable goods or durables [N-PLURAL] Durable goods or durables are goods such as televisions or cars which are expected to last a long time, and are bought infrequently. (mainly AM; in BRIT, usually use consumer durables) du|ra|tion /djʊr'eɪʃən, AM dʊr-/ 1 [N-UNCOUNT] oft the N of n The duration of an event or state is the time during which it happens or exists. He was given the task of protecting her for the duration of the trial... Courses are of two years' duration. 2 [PHRASE] PHR after v If you say that something will happen for the duration, you mean that it will happen for as long as a particular situation continues. His wounds knocked him out of combat for the duration....

dwarf

dwarf /dw'ɔːrf/ (dwarfsor dwarves dwarfs dwarfing dwarfed) 1 [VERB] be V-ed, V n If one person or thing is dwarfed by another, the second is so much bigger than the first that it makes them look very small. His figure is dwarfed by the huge red McDonald's sign... The US air travel market dwarfs that of Britain. 2 [ADJ] ADJ n Dwarf is used to describe varieties or species of plants and animals which are much smaller than the usual size for their kind. ...dwarf shrubs. 3 [N-COUNT] In children's stories, a dwarf is an imaginary creature that is like a small man. Dwarfs often have magical powers. 4 [N-COUNT] In former times, people who were much smaller than normal were called dwarfs. (OFFENSIVE, OLD-FASHIONED) DVD burn|er (DVD burners) [N-COUNT] A DVD burner is a piece of computer equipment that you use for copying data from a computer onto a DVD. (COMPUTING) DVD-R /d'iː viː d'iː 'ɑːr/ (DVD-Rs) [N-COUNT] A DVD-R is a DVD which is capable of recording sound and images, for example from another DVD or from the Internet. DVD-R is an abbreviation for `digital video disc recordable' or `digital versatile disc recordable'....

dwell

dwell /dw'el/ (dwells dwelling dweltor dwelled) 1 [VERB] V on/upon n If you dwell on something, especially something unpleasant, you think, speak, or write about it a lot or for quite a long time. I'd rather not dwell on the past. 2 [VERB] V prep/adv If you dwell somewhere, you live there. (FORMAL) They are concerned for the fate of the forest and the Indians who dwell in it... = live 3 see also dwelling DVD burn|er (DVD burners) [N-COUNT] A DVD burner is a piece of computer equipment that you use for copying data from a computer onto a DVD. (COMPUTING) DVD-R /d'iː viː d'iː 'ɑːr/ (DVD-Rs) [N-COUNT] A DVD-R is a DVD which is capable of recording sound and images, for example from another DVD or from the Internet. DVD-R is an abbreviation for `digital video disc recordable' or `digital versatile disc recordable'....

dwelling

dwell|ing /dw'elɪŋ/ (dwellings) [N-COUNT] A dwelling or a dwelling place is a place where someone lives. (FORMAL) Some 3,500 new dwellings are planned for the area... = home el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

dwindle

dwin|dle /dw'ɪndəl/ (dwindles dwindling dwindled) [VERB] V, V-ing If something dwindles, it becomes smaller, weaker, or less in number. The factory's workforce has dwindled from over 4,000 to a few hundred... He is struggling to come to terms with his dwindling authority. = shrink el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

dynasty

dyn|as|ty /d'ɪnəsti, AM d'aɪn-/ (dynasties) 1 [N-COUNT] A dynasty is a series of rulers of a country who all belong to the same family. The Seljuk dynasty of Syria was founded in 1094. 2 [N-COUNT] with supp A dynasty is a period of time during which a country is ruled by members of the same family. ...carvings dating back to the Ming dynasty. 3 [N-COUNT] A dynasty is a family which has members from two or more generations who are important in a particular field of activity, for example in business or politics. ...the Kennedy dynasty. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

dying

dy|ing /d'aɪɪŋ/ 1 Dying is the present participle of die. 2 [ADJ] ADJ n A dying person or animal is very ill and likely to die soon. ...a dying man. [N-PLURAL] the N The dying are people who are dying. The dead and the dying were everywhere. 3 [ADJ] ADJ n You use dying to describe something which happens at the time when someone dies, or is connected with that time. It'll stay in my mind till my dying day... 4 [ADJ] ADJ n The dying days or dying minutes of a state of affairs or an activity are its last days or minutes. The islands were seized by the Soviet army in the dying days of the second world war... = final 5 [ADJ] ADJ n A dying tradition or industry is becoming less important and is likely to disappear completely. Shipbuilding is a dying business. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

earl

earl /'ɜːrl/ (earls) [N-COUNT] oft N of n An earl is a British nobleman. ...the first Earl of Birkenhead. edu|cat|ed guess (educated guesses) [N-COUNT] An educated guess is a guess which is based on a certain amount of knowledge and is therefore likely to be correct. Estimating the right cooking time will always be an educated guess....

frigging

frig|ging /fr'ɪgɪŋ/ [ADJ] ADJ n Frigging is used by some people to emphasize what they are saying, especially when they are angry or annoyed about something. (INFORMAL, RUDE)

earmark

ear|mark /'ɪərmɑːrk/ (earmarks earmarking earmarked) 1 [VERB] be V-ed for n, V n for n, be V-ed to-inf If resources such as money are earmarked for a particular purpose, they are reserved for that purpose. ...the extra money being earmarked for the new projects... The education department has earmarked £6m for the new school... Some of the money has been earmarked to pay for the re-settlement of people from contaminated areas. = set aside 2 [VERB] usu passive, be V-ed for n If something has been earmarked for closure or disposal, for example, people have decided that it will be closed or got rid of. Their support meant that he was not forced to sell the business which was earmarked for disposal last year... edu|cat|ed guess (educated guesses) [N-COUNT] An educated guess is a guess which is based on a certain amount of knowledge and is therefore likely to be correct. Estimating the right cooking time will always be an educated guess....

easel

easel /'iːzəl/ (easels) [N-COUNT] An easel is a wooden frame that supports a picture which an artist is painting or drawing. edu|cat|ed guess (educated guesses) [N-COUNT] An educated guess is a guess which is based on a certain amount of knowledge and is therefore likely to be correct. Estimating the right cooking time will always be an educated guess....

easement

easement noun noun BrE BrE / /ˈiːzmənt / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈiːzmənt / / [ uncountable ] 1 ( law ) the right to cross or use somebody's land for a particular purpose 2 ( literary ) a state or feeling of peace or happiness Word Origin late Middle English: from Old French aisement, from aisier, from the phrase a aise'at ease' ....

ebb

ebb /'eb/ (ebbs ebbing ebbed) 1 [VERB] V When the tide or the sea ebbs, its level gradually falls. When the tide ebbs it's a rock pool inhabited by crustaceans. 2 [N-COUNT] usu the N The ebb or the ebb tide is one of the regular periods, usually two per day, when the sea gradually falls to a lower level as the tide moves away from the land. ...the spring ebb tide... 3 [VERB] V If someone's life, support, or feeling ebbs, it becomes weaker and gradually disappears. (FORMAL) Were there occasions when enthusiasm ebbed? [PHRASAL VERB] V P Ebb away means the same as ebb. Their popular support is ebbing away. 4 [PHRASE] v-link PHR If someone or something is at a low ebb or at their lowest ebb, they are not being very successful or profitable. ...a time when everyone is tired and at a low ebb... 5 [PHRASE] usu PHR of n You can use ebb and flow to describe the way that something repeatedly increases and decreases or rises and falls. ...the ebb and flow of feeling and moods. edu|cat|ed guess (educated guesses) [N-COUNT] An educated guess is a guess which is based on a certain amount of knowledge and is therefore likely to be correct. Estimating the right cooking time will always be an educated guess....

echelon

eche|lon /'eʃəlɒn/ (echelons) [N-COUNT] usu adj N, oft N of n An echelon in an organization or society is a level or rank in it. (FORMAL) ...the lower echelons of society. edu|cat|ed guess (educated guesses) [N-COUNT] An educated guess is a guess which is based on a certain amount of knowledge and is therefore likely to be correct. Estimating the right cooking time will always be an educated guess....

eclipse

eclipse /ɪkl'ɪps/ (eclipses eclipsing eclipsed) 1 [N-COUNT] usu with supp, oft adj N, N of n An eclipse of the sun is an occasion when the moon is between the earth and the sun, so that for a short time you cannot see part or all of the sun. An eclipse of the moon is an occasion when the earth is between the sun and the moon, so that for a short time you cannot see part or all of the moon. ...an eclipse of the sun. ...the total lunar eclipse. 2 [VERB] be V-ed If one thing is eclipsed by a second thing that is bigger, newer, or more important than it, the first thing is no longer noticed because the second thing gets all the attention. The gramophone had been eclipsed by new technology such as the compact disc... = overshadow edu|cat|ed guess (educated guesses) [N-COUNT] An educated guess is a guess which is based on a certain amount of knowledge and is therefore likely to be correct. Estimating the right cooking time will always be an educated guess....

ECO

eco- /'iːkoʊ-/ [PREFIX] Eco- combines with nouns and adjectives to form other nouns and adjectives which describe something as being related to ecology. ...the eco-horror of the North Sea oil spill. edu|cat|ed guess (educated guesses) [N-COUNT] An educated guess is a guess which is based on a certain amount of knowledge and is therefore likely to be correct. Estimating the right cooking time will always be an educated guess....

ecosystem

eco|sys|tem /'iːkoʊsɪstəm, AM 'ekə-/ (ecosystems) [N-COUNT] An ecosystem is all the plants and animals that live in a particular area together with the complex relationship that exists between them and their environment. (TECHNICAL) ...the forest ecosystem. edu|cat|ed guess (educated guesses) [N-COUNT] An educated guess is a guess which is based on a certain amount of knowledge and is therefore likely to be correct. Estimating the right cooking time will always be an educated guess....

eccentric

ec|cen|tric /ɪks'entrɪk/ (eccentrics) [ADJ] If you say that someone is eccentric, you mean that they behave in a strange way, and have habits or opinions that are different from those of most people. He is an eccentric character who likes wearing a beret and dark glasses. = odd [N-COUNT] An eccentric is an eccentric person. On first impressions it would be easy to dismiss Duke as an eccentric. ● eccentrically [ADV] ...painters, eccentrically dressed and already half drunk. edu|cat|ed guess (educated guesses) [N-COUNT] An educated guess is a guess which is based on a certain amount of knowledge and is therefore likely to be correct. Estimating the right cooking time will always be an educated guess....

ecstatic

ec|stat|ic /ekst'ætɪk/ 1 [ADJ] If you are ecstatic, you feel very happy and full of excitement. His wife gave birth to their first child, and he was ecstatic about it... They were greeted by the cheers of an ecstatic crowd. = delirious ● ecstatically [ADV] We are both ecstatically happy. 2 [ADJ] ADJ n You can use ecstatic to describe reactions that are very enthusiastic and excited. For example, if someone receives an ecstatic reception or an ecstatic welcome, they are greeted with great enthusiasm and excitement. They gave an ecstatic reception to the speech... = rapturous edu|cat|ed guess (educated guesses) [N-COUNT] An educated guess is a guess which is based on a certain amount of knowledge and is therefore likely to be correct. Estimating the right cooking time will always be an educated guess....

ecstasy

ec|sta|sy /'ekstəsi/ (ecstasies) 1 [N-VAR] Ecstasy is a feeling of very great happiness. ...a state of almost religious ecstasy. 2 [N-UNCOUNT] Ecstasy is an illegal drug which makes people feel happy and energetic. 3 [PHRASE] N inflects If you are in ecstasy about something, you are very excited about it. If you go into ecstasies, you become very excited. My father was in ecstasy when I won my scholarship... She went into ecstasies over actors. edu|cat|ed guess (educated guesses) [N-COUNT] An educated guess is a guess which is based on a certain amount of knowledge and is therefore likely to be correct. Estimating the right cooking time will always be an educated guess....

edgy

edgy /'edʒi/ (edgier edgiest) [ADJ] If someone is edgy, they are nervous and anxious, and seem likely to lose control of themselves. (INFORMAL) She was nervous and edgy, still chain-smoking. = uptight, tense edit out [PHRASAL VERB] V P n (not pron), V n P If you edit something out of a book or film, you remove it, often because it might be offensive to some people. His voice will be edited out of the final film... She edited that line out again. = cut...

edifice

edi|fice /'edɪfɪs/ (edifices) [N-COUNT] An edifice is a large and impressive building. (FORMAL) The American consulate was a magnificent edifice in the centre of Bordeaux. edit out [PHRASAL VERB] V P n (not pron), V n P If you edit something out of a book or film, you remove it, often because it might be offensive to some people. His voice will be edited out of the final film... She edited that line out again. = cut...

efficiently

efficiently adverb adverb BrE BrE / /ɪˈfɪʃntli / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ɪˈfɪʃntli / / in a good and thorough way, with no waste of time, money or energy a very efficiently organized event Resources must be used efficiently to avoid waste. If markets fail or do not work efficiently, government has a role to play....

efface

ef|face /ɪf'eɪs/ (effaces effacing effaced) [VERB] V n To efface something means to destroy or remove it so that it cannot be seen any more. (FORMAL) ...an event that has helped efface the country's traditional image... see also self-effacing ♦♦ ef|fec|tive /ɪf'ektɪv/ 1 [ADJ] oft ADJ in -ing, ADJ against n Something that is effective works well and produces the results that were intended. The project looks at how we could be more effective in encouraging students to enter teacher training... Simple antibiotics are effective against this organism... ...an effective public transport system. ● effectively [ADV] usu ADV after v, also ADV -ed ...the team roles which you believe to be necessary for the team to function effectively... Services need to be more effectively organised than they are at present. ● effectiveness [N-UNCOUNT] oft N of n ...the effectiveness of computers as an educational tool. 2 [ADJ] ADJ n Effective means having a particular role or result in practice, though not officially or in theory. They have had effective control of the area since the security forces left. 3 [ADJ] v-link ADJ When something such as a law or an agreement becomes effective, it begins officially to apply or be valid. The new rules will become effective in the next few days. ef|fec|tive|ly /ɪf'ektɪvli/ [ADV] usu ADV before v, also ADV adj You use effectively with a statement or opinion to indicate that it is not accurate in every detail, but that you feel it is a reasonable description or summary of a particular situation. The region was effectively independent. ef|fec|tual /ɪf'ektʃuəl/ [ADJ] If an action or plan is effectual, it succeeds in producing the results that were intended. (FORMAL) This is the only effectual way to secure our present and future happiness. = effective ≠ ineffectual ef|femi|nate /ɪf'emɪnət/ [ADJ] If you describe a man or boy as effeminate, you think he behaves, looks, or sounds like a woman or girl. ...a skinny, effeminate guy in lipstick and earrings... ≠ manly ef|fer|ves|cent /'efərv'esənt/ 1 [ADJ] An effervescent liquid is one that contains or releases bubbles of gas. ...an effervescent mineral water. 2 [ADJ] If you describe someone as effervescent, you mean that they are lively, entertaining, enthusiastic, and exciting. ...an effervescent blonde actress... = bubbly, vivacious ● effervescence [N-UNCOUNT] He wrote about Gillespie's effervescence, magnetism and commitment....

effusive

ef|fu|sive /ɪfj'uːsɪv/ [ADJ] If you describe someone as effusive, you mean that they express pleasure, gratitude, or approval in a very enthusiastic way. He was effusive in his praise for the general... ● effusively [ADV] She greeted them effusively. edu|cat|ed guess (educated guesses) [N-COUNT] An educated guess is a guess which is based on a certain amount of knowledge and is therefore likely to be correct. Estimating the right cooking time will always be an educated guess....

elaborate

elabo|rate (elaborates elaborating elaborated) The adjective is pronounced /ɪl'æbərət/ The verb is pronounced /ɪl'æbəreɪt/ 1 [ADJ] usu ADJ n You use elaborate to describe something that is very complex because it has a lot of different parts. ...an elaborate research project. ...an elaborate ceremony that lasts for eight days. = complicated 2 [ADJ] usu ADJ n Elaborate plans, systems, and procedures are complicated because they have been planned in very great detail, sometimes too much detail. ...elaborate efforts at the highest level to conceal the problem. ...an elaborate management training scheme for graduates. = complicated ● elaborately [ADV] It was clearly an elaborately planned operation. 3 [ADJ] usu ADJ n Elaborate clothing or material is made with a lot of detailed artistic designs. He is known for his elaborate costumes. ● elaborately [ADV] ...elaborately costumed dolls. 4 [VERB] V n If you elaborate a plan or theory, you develop it by making it more complicated and more effective. His task was to elaborate policies which would make a market economy compatible with a clean environment. ● elaboration [N-UNCOUNT] oft N of n ...the elaboration of specific policies and mechanisms. 5 [VERB] V on n, V If you elaborate on something that has been said, you say more about it, or give more details. A spokesman declined to elaborate on a statement released late yesterday... Would you care to elaborate? el|bow grease [N-UNCOUNT] People use elbow grease to refer to the strength and energy that you use when doing physical work like rubbing or polishing. (INFORMAL) It took a considerable amount of polish and elbow grease before the brass shone like new. el|bow room 1 [N-UNCOUNT] Elbow room is the freedom to do what you want to do or need to do in a particular situation. (INFORMAL) His speech was designed to give himself more political elbow room. = leeway 2 [N-UNCOUNT] If there is enough elbow room in a place or vehicle, it is not too small or too crowded. (INFORMAL) There was not much elbow room in the cockpit of a Snipe. = space...

elapse

elapse /ɪl'æps/ (elapses elapsing elapsed) [VERB] V When time elapses, it passes. (FORMAL) Forty-eight hours have elapsed since his arrest. el|bow grease [N-UNCOUNT] People use elbow grease to refer to the strength and energy that you use when doing physical work like rubbing or polishing. (INFORMAL) It took a considerable amount of polish and elbow grease before the brass shone like new. el|bow room 1 [N-UNCOUNT] Elbow room is the freedom to do what you want to do or need to do in a particular situation. (INFORMAL) His speech was designed to give himself more political elbow room. = leeway 2 [N-UNCOUNT] If there is enough elbow room in a place or vehicle, it is not too small or too crowded. (INFORMAL) There was not much elbow room in the cockpit of a Snipe. = space...

elicit

elic|it /ɪl'ɪsɪt/ (elicits eliciting elicited) 1 [VERB] V n If you elicit a response or a reaction, you do or say something which makes other people respond or react. Mr Norris said he was hopeful that his request would elicit a positive response... 2 [VERB] V n If you elicit a piece of information, you get it by asking the right questions. (FORMAL) Phone calls elicited no further information. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

frilly

frilly /fr'ɪli/ [ADJ] usu ADJ n Frilly items of clothing or fabric have a lot of frills on them. ...maids in frilly aprons.

elite

elite /ɪl'iːt, eɪ-/ (elites) 1 [N-COUNT] You can refer to the most powerful, rich, or talented people within a particular group, place, or society as the elite. ...a government comprised mainly of the elite... We have a political elite in this country. 2 [ADJ] ADJ n Elite people or organizations are considered to be the best of their kind. ...the elite troops of the President's bodyguard. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

eligible

eli|gible /'elɪdʒɪbəl/ 1 [ADJ] usu v-link ADJ, usu ADJ for n, ADJ to-inf Someone who is eligible to do something is qualified or able to do it, for example because they are old enough. Almost half the population are eligible to vote in today's election... You could be eligible for a university scholarship. ● eligibility [N-UNCOUNT] oft N for n The rules covering eligibility for benefits changed in the 1980s. 2 [ADJ] usu ADJ n An eligible man or woman is not yet married and is thought by many people to be a suitable partner. He's the most eligible bachelor in Japan. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

eloquent

elo|quent /'eləkwənt/ 1 [ADJ] Speech or writing that is eloquent is well expressed and effective in persuading people. I heard him make a very eloquent speech at that dinner. ● eloquence [N-UNCOUNT] ...the eloquence of his prose. ● eloquently [ADV] Jan speaks eloquently about her art. 2 [ADJ] A person who is eloquent is good at speaking and able to persuade people. He was eloquent about his love of books. ...one particularly eloquent German critic. ● eloquence [N-UNCOUNT] I wish I'd had the eloquence of Helmut Schmidt. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

elucidate

elu|ci|date /ɪl'uːsɪdeɪt/ (elucidates elucidating elucidated) [VERB] V n, V If you elucidate something, you make it clear and easy to understand. (FORMAL) Haig went on to elucidate his personal principle of war... There was no need for him to elucidate. = clarify ● elucidation [N-UNCOUNT] ...Gerald's attempts at elucidation. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

elusive

elu|sive /ɪl'uːsɪv/ [ADJ] Something or someone that is elusive is difficult to find, describe, remember, or achieve. In London late-night taxis are elusive and far from cheap. ● elusiveness [N-UNCOUNT] ...the elusiveness of her character. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

elbow

el|bow /'elboʊ/ (elbows elbowing elbowed) 1 [N-COUNT] Your elbow is the part of your arm where the upper and lower halves of the arm are joined. He slipped and fell, badly bruising an elbow. 2 [VERB] V n with aside, V n prep, V way prep/adv If you elbow people aside or elbow your way somewhere, you push people with your elbows in order to move somewhere. They also claim that the security team elbowed aside a steward... Mr Smith elbowed me in the face... Brand elbowed his way to the centre of the group of bystanders. = jostle 3 [VERB] V n with aside/out, V way prep If someone or something elbows their way somewhere, or elbows other people or things out of the way, they achieve success by being aggressive and determined. Non-state firms gradually elbow aside the inefficient state-owned ones... Environmental concerns will elbow their way right to the top of the agenda. 4 to rub elbows with: see rub el|bow grease [N-UNCOUNT] People use elbow grease to refer to the strength and energy that you use when doing physical work like rubbing or polishing. (INFORMAL) It took a considerable amount of polish and elbow grease before the brass shone like new. el|bow room 1 [N-UNCOUNT] Elbow room is the freedom to do what you want to do or need to do in a particular situation. (INFORMAL) His speech was designed to give himself more political elbow room. = leeway 2 [N-UNCOUNT] If there is enough elbow room in a place or vehicle, it is not too small or too crowded. (INFORMAL) There was not much elbow room in the cockpit of a Snipe. = space...

elder

el|der /'eldər/ (elders) 1 [ADJ] ADJ n, the ADJ, the ADJ of n The elder of two people is the one who was born first. ...his elder brother. ...the elder of her two daughters. 2 [N-COUNT] poss N A person's elder is someone who is older than them, especially someone quite a lot older. (FORMAL) The young have no respect for their elders. 3 [N-COUNT] In some societies, an elder is one of the respected older people who have influence and authority. ...tribal elders. 4 [N-COUNT] An elder is a bush or small tree which has groups of small white flowers and black berries. el|der states|man (elder statesmen) 1 [N-COUNT] An elder statesman is an old and respected politician or former politician who still has influence because of his or her experience. 2 [N-COUNT] usu with supp An experienced and respected member of an organization or profession is sometimes referred to as an elder statesman....

elevation

el|eva|tion /'elɪv'eɪʃən/ (elevations) 1 [N-COUNT] with supp In architecture, an elevation is the front, back, or side of a building, or a drawing of one of these. (TECHNICAL) ...the addition of two-storey wings on the north and south elevations. 2 [N-COUNT] usu with supp The elevation of a place is its height above sea level. We're probably at an elevation of about 13,000 feet above sea level. = altitude 3 [N-COUNT] An elevation is a piece of ground that is higher than the area around it. 4 see also elevate el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

ellipsis

el|lip|sis /ɪl'ɪpsɪs/ [N-UNCOUNT] In linguistics, ellipsis means leaving out words rather than repeating them unnecessarily; for example, saying `I want to go but I can't' instead of `I want to go but I can't go'. (TECHNICAL) el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

emancipation

emancipation noun noun BrE BrE / /ɪˌmænsɪˈpeɪʃn / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ɪˌmænsɪˈpeɪʃn / / [ uncountable ] ( formal ) the act of freeing somebody, especially from legal, political or social restrictions the emancipation of slaves Wordfinder allow , emancipation , freedom , imprisonment , independence , liberty , oppress , restriction , rule , slave...

emanate

ema|nate /'eməneɪt/ (emanates emanating emanated) 1 [VERB] V from n, V n If a quality emanates from you, or if you emanate a quality, you give people a strong sense that you have that quality. (FORMAL) Intelligence and cunning emanated from him... He emanates sympathy. = radiate 2 [VERB] V from n If something emanates from somewhere, it comes from there. (FORMAL) ...reports emanating from America. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

emanation

ema|na|tion /'emən'eɪʃən/ (emanations) [N-COUNT] An emanation is a form of energy or a mass of tiny particles that comes from something. (FORMAL) el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

embark

em|bark /ɪmb'ɑːrk/ (embarks embarking embarked) 1 [VERB] V on/upon n, V on/upon n If you embark on something new, difficult, or exciting, you start doing it. He's embarking on a new career as a writer... The government embarked on a programme of radical economic reform. 2 [VERB] V on n, V When someone embarks on a ship, they go on board before the start of a journey. They travelled to Portsmouth, where they embarked on the battle cruiser HMS Renown... Bob ordered brigade HQ to embark. ● embarkation [N-UNCOUNT] Embarkation was scheduled for just after 4 pm. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

embargo

em|bar|go /ɪmb'ɑːrgoʊ/ (embargoes embargoing embargoed) 1 [N-COUNT] usu with supp If one country or group of countries imposes an embargo against another, it forbids trade with that country. The United Nations imposed an arms embargo against the country... He has called on the government to lift its embargo on trade with Vietnam. = ban 2 [VERB] be V-ed, V n, V-ed If goods of a particular kind are embargoed, people are not allowed to import them from a particular country or export them to a particular country. The fruit was embargoed... They embargoed oil shipments to the US. ...embargoed goods. = ban el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

embarrassed

em|bar|rassed /ɪmb'ærəst/ [ADJ] usu v-link ADJ A person who is embarrassed feels shy, ashamed, or guilty about something. He looked a bit embarrassed. ...an embarrassed silence. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

embarrassing

em|bar|rass|ing /ɪmb'ærəsɪŋ/ 1 [ADJ] Something that is embarrassing makes you feel shy or ashamed. That was an embarrassing situation for me... Men find it embarrassing to be honest. = uncomfortable, awkward ● embarrassingly [ADV] usu ADV adj/adv Stephens had beaten him embarrassingly easily. 2 [ADJ] oft ADJ to n Something that is embarrassing to a public figure such as a politician or an organization such as a political party causes problems for them. He has put the Bonn government in an embarrassing position... The speech was deeply embarrassing to Cabinet ministers. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

embed

em|bed /ɪmb'ed/ (embeds embedding embedded) 1 [VERB] V n in n, also V n prep If an object embeds itself in a substance or thing, it becomes fixed there firmly and deeply. One of the bullets passed through Andrea's chest before embedding itself in a wall. ● embedded [ADJ] oft ADJ in n There is glass embedded in the cut. 2 [VERB] usu passive, be V-ed in n If something such as an attitude or feeling is embedded in a society or system, or in someone's personality, it becomes a permanent and noticeable feature of it. This agreement will be embedded in a state treaty to be signed soon. ● embedded [ADJ] oft ADJ in n I think that hatred of the other is deeply embedded in our society. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

emblem

em|blem /'embləm/ (emblems) 1 [N-COUNT] usu with supp An emblem is a design representing a country or organization. ...the emblem of the Soviet Union. ...the Red Cross emblem. 2 [N-COUNT] usu N of n An emblem is something that represents a quality or idea. The eagle was an emblem of strength and courage. = symbol el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

emblematic

em|blem|at|ic /'embləm'ætɪk/ 1 [ADJ] usu v-link ADJ, usu ADJ of n If something, such as an object in a picture, is emblematic of a particular quality or an idea, it symbolically represents the quality or idea. Dogs are emblematic of faithfulness... = symbolic 2 [ADJ] usu v-link ADJ of n If you say that something is emblematic of a state of affairs, you mean that it is characteristic of it and represents its most typical features. The killing in Pensacola is emblematic of a lot of the violence that is happening around the world. = representative el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

embodiment

em|bodi|ment /ɪmb'ɒdimənt/ [N-SING] usu the N of n If you say that someone or something is the embodiment of a quality or idea, you mean that that is their most noticeable characteristic or the basis of all they do. (FORMAL) A baby is the embodiment of vulnerability. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

embody

em|body /ɪmb'ɒdi/ (embodies embodying embodied) 1 [VERB] V n, be V-ed in/by n To embody an idea or quality means to be a symbol or expression of that idea or quality. Jack Kennedy embodied all the hopes of the 1960s... That stability was embodied in the Gandhi family. = represent 2 [VERB] be V-ed in/by n, V n If something is embodied in a particular thing, the second thing contains or consists of the first. The proposal has been embodied in a draft resolution... UK employment law embodies arbitration and conciliation mechanisms for settling industrial disputes. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

embolism

em|bo|lism /'embəlɪzəm/ (embolisms) [N-COUNT] oft adj N An embolism is a serious medical condition that occurs when an artery becomes blocked, usually by a blood clot. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

embroil

em|broil /ɪmbr'ɔɪl/ (embroils embroiling embroiled) [VERB] V n in n, also V n If someone embroils you in a fight or an argument, they get you deeply involved in it. Any hostilities could result in retaliation and further embroil U.N. troops in fighting. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

embroider

em|broi|der /ɪmbr'ɔɪdər/ (embroiders embroidering embroidered) 1 [VERB] be V-ed with/in n, V n, V-ed, also V If something such as clothing or cloth is embroidered with a design, the design is stitched into it. The collar was embroidered with very small red strawberries... Matilda was embroidering an altar cloth covered with flowers and birds... I have a pillow with my name embroidered on it. 2 [VERB] V n, V on n If you embroider a story or account of something, or if you embroider on it, you try to make it more interesting by adding details which may be untrue. He told some lies and sometimes just embroidered the truth... She embroidered on this theme for about ten minutes. = embellish el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

embroidery

em|broi|dery /ɪmbr'ɔɪdəri/ (embroideries) 1 [N-VAR] Embroidery consists of designs stitched into cloth. The shorts had blue embroidery over the pockets... 2 [N-UNCOUNT] Embroidery is the activity of stitching designs onto cloth. She learned sewing, knitting and embroidery. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

emerald

em|er|ald /'emərəld/ (emeralds) 1 [N-COUNT] An emerald is a precious stone which is clear and bright green. 2 [COLOUR] Something that is emerald is bright green in colour. ...an emerald valley. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

emperor

em|per|or /'empərər/ (emperors) [N-COUNT; N-TITLE] An emperor is a man who rules an empire or is the head of state in an empire. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

emphatically

em|phati|cal|ly /ɪmf'ætɪkli/ 1 [ADV] ADV with v If you say something emphatically, you say it in a forceful way which shows that you feel very strongly about what you are saying. `No fast food', she said emphatically... Mr Davies has emphatically denied the charges. 2 [ADV] ADV with cl/group You use emphatically to emphasize the statement you are making. Making people feel foolish is emphatically not my strategy... el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

emphatic

em|phat|ic /ɪmf'ætɪk/ 1 [ADJ] An emphatic response or statement is one made in a forceful way, because the speaker feels very strongly about what they are saying. His response was immediate and emphatic... I answered both questions with an emphatic `Yes'. 2 [ADJ] v-link ADJ, oft ADJ that, ADJ about n If you are emphatic about something, you use forceful language which shows that you feel very strongly about what you are saying. The rebels are emphatic that this is not a surrender... He is especially emphatic about the value of a precise routine. 3 [ADJ] usu ADJ n An emphatic win or victory is one in which the winner has won by a large amount or distance. Yesterday's emphatic victory was their fifth in succession. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

emphysema

em|phy|sema /emfɪs'iːmə/ [N-UNCOUNT] Emphysema is a serious medical condition that occurs when the lungs become larger and do not work properly, causing difficulty in breathing. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

empirical

em|piri|cal /ɪmp'ɪrɪkəl/ [ADJ] usu ADJ n Empirical evidence or study relies on practical experience rather than theories. There is no empirical evidence to support his thesis. ● empirically [ADV] usu ADV adj/-ed, ADV after v ...empirically based research... They approached this part of their task empirically. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

empower

em|power /ɪmp'aʊər/ (empowers empowering empowered) 1 [VERB] be V-ed to-inf If someone is empowered to do something, they have the authority or power to do it. (FORMAL) The army is now empowered to operate on a shoot-to-kill basis... = authorize 2 [VERB] V n To empower someone means to give them the means to achieve something, for example to become stronger or more successful. What I'm trying to do is to empower people, to give them ways to help them get well. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

empowerment

em|pow|er|ment /ɪmp'aʊərmənt/ [N-UNCOUNT] oft the N of n The empowerment of a person or group of people is the process of giving them power and status in a particular situation. This government believes very strongly in the empowerment of women. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

en route

en route /'ɒn r'uːt/ see route el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

enamel

enam|el /ɪn'æməl/ (enamels) 1 [N-MASS] oft N n Enamel is a substance like glass which can be heated and put onto metal, glass, or pottery in order to decorate or protect it. ...a white enamel saucepan on the oil stove. ...enamel baths. 2 [N-MASS] oft N n Enamel is a hard, shiny paint that is used especially for painting metal and wood. ...enamel polymer paints... 3 [N-UNCOUNT] Enamel is the hard white substance that forms the outer part of a tooth. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

engagingly

engagingly adverb adverb BrE BrE / /ɪnˈɡeɪdʒɪŋli / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ɪnˈɡeɪdʒɪŋli / / in an interesting or pleasant way that attracts your attention She smiled engagingly....

engorge

engorge verb verb BrE BrE / /ɪnˈɡɔːdʒ / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ɪnˈɡɔːrdʒ / / Verb Forms present simple I / you / we / they engorge BrE BrE / /ɪnˈɡɔːdʒ / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ɪnˈɡɔːrdʒ / / he / she / it engorges BrE BrE / /ɪnˈɡɔːdʒɪz / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ɪnˈɡɔːrdʒɪz / / past simple engorged BrE BrE / /ɪnˈɡɔːdʒd / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ɪnˈɡɔːrdʒd / / past participle engorged BrE BrE / /ɪnˈɡɔːdʒd / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ɪnˈɡɔːrdʒd / / -ing form engorging BrE BrE / /ɪnˈɡɔːdʒɪŋ / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ɪnˈɡɔːrdʒɪŋ / / engorge something ( specialist ) to cause something to become filled with blood or another liquid and to swell Word Origin late 15th cent. (in the sense 'gorge; eat or fill to excess'): from Old French engorgier'feed to excess' , from en-'into' + gorge'throat' ....

engross

engross verb verb BrE BrE / /ɪnˈɡrəʊs / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ɪnˈɡroʊs / / Verb Forms present simple I / you / we / they engross BrE BrE / /ɪnˈɡrəʊs / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ɪnˈɡroʊs / / he / she / it engrosses BrE BrE / /ɪnˈɡrəʊsɪz / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ɪnˈɡroʊsɪz / / past simple engrossed BrE BrE / /ɪnˈɡrəʊst / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ɪnˈɡroʊst / / past participle engrossed BrE BrE / /ɪnˈɡrəʊst / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ɪnˈɡroʊst / / -ing form engrossing BrE BrE / /ɪn ˈɡrəʊsɪŋ / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ɪn ˈɡroʊsɪŋ / / engross somebody if something engrosses you, it is so interesting that you give it all your attention and time As the business grew, it totally engrossed him. Word Origin late Middle English (formerly also as ingross): based on en-, in- 'in' + late Latin grossus'large' . The current sense is from Old French en gros, from medieval Latin in grosso'wholesale'...

enigma

enig|ma /ɪn'ɪgmə/ (enigmas) [N-COUNT] usu sing If you describe something or someone as an enigma, you mean they are mysterious or difficult to understand. Iran remains an enigma for the outside world. = mystery el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

enumeration

enumeration noun noun BrE BrE / / ɪˌnjuːməˈreɪʃn / / ; NAmE NAmE / / ɪˌnuːməˈreɪʃn / / [ uncountable , countable ] ( formal ) the act of naming things one by one in a list; a list of this sort He was unsparing in his enumeration of what he perceived as their faults....

enunciation

enunciation noun noun BrE BrE / /ɪˌnʌnsiˈeɪʃn / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ɪˌnʌnsiˈeɪʃn / / 1 [ uncountable ] the act of saying or pronouncing words clearly With his precise enunciation you don't miss a syllable. 2 [ uncountable , countable ] ( formal ) an act of expressing an idea clearly and exactly a clear enunciation of the company's core values...

enact

en|act /ɪn'ækt/ (enacts enacting enacted) 1 [VERB] V n When a government or authority enacts a proposal, they make it into a law. (TECHNICAL) The authorities have failed so far to enact a law allowing unrestricted emigration... 2 [VERB] V n If people enact a story or play, they perform it by acting. She often enacted the stories told to her by her father. 3 [VERB] usu passive, be V-ed If a particular event or situation is enacted, it happens; used especially to talk about something that has happened before. (JOURNALISM) It was a scene which was enacted month after month for eight years. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

encapsulate

en|cap|su|late /ɪnk'æpsjʊleɪt/ (encapsulates encapsulating encapsulated) [VERB] V n, be V-ed in n, also V n in n To encapsulate particular facts or ideas means to represent all their most important aspects in a very small space or in a single object or event. A Wall Street Journal editorial encapsulated the views of many conservatives... His ideas were encapsulated in a book called `Democratic Ideals and Reality'. ● encapsulation [N-COUNT] usu sing, usu N of n ...a witty encapsulation of modern America. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

enchant

en|chant /ɪntʃ'ɑːnt, -tʃ'ænt/ (enchants enchanting enchanted) 1 [VERB] be V-ed, V n If you are enchanted by someone or something, they cause you to have feelings of great delight or pleasure. Dena was enchanted by the house... She enchanted you as she has so many others. ● enchanted [ADJ] Don't expect young children to be as enchanted with the scenery as you are. 2 [VERB] V n, V-ed In fairy stories and legends, to enchant someone or something means to put a magic spell on them. King Arthur hid his treasures here and Merlin enchanted the cave so that nobody should ever find them. ...Celtic stories of cauldrons and enchanted vessels. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

enclose

en|close /ɪnkl'oʊz/ (encloses enclosing enclosed) 1 [VERB] be V-ed in n, V n in n, V-ed If a place or object is enclosed by something, the place or object is inside that thing or completely surrounded by it. The rules state that samples must be enclosed in two watertight containers... Enclose the pot in a clear polythene bag... ...the enclosed waters of the Baltic. 2 [VERB] V n, V-ed If you enclose something with a letter, you put it in the same envelope as the letter. I have enclosed a cheque for £10... The enclosed leaflet shows how Service Care can ease all your worries. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

encompass

en|com|pass /ɪnk'ʌmpəs/ (encompasses encompassing encompassed) 1 [VERB] V n If something encompasses particular things, it includes them. His repertoire encompassed everything from Bach to Schoenberg. = embrace 2 [VERB] V n To encompass a place means to completely surround or cover it. The map shows the rest of the western region, encompassing nine states. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

encroach

en|croach /ɪnkr'oʊtʃ/ (encroaches encroaching encroached) 1 [VERB] V on/upon n, V-ing If one thing encroaches on another, the first thing spreads or becomes stronger, and slowly begins to restrict the power, range, or effectiveness of the second thing. (FORMAL) The new institutions do not encroach on political power... The movie industry had chosen to ignore the encroaching competition of television. 2 [VERB] V on n, V-ing If something encroaches on a place, it spreads and takes over more and more of that place. (FORMAL) The rhododendrons encroached ever more on the twisting drive... I turned into the dirt road and followed it through encroaching trees and bushes. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

encroachment

en|croach|ment /ɪnkr'oʊtʃmənt/ (encroachments) [N-VAR] usu with supp You can describe the action or process of encroaching on something as encroachment. (FORMAL) It's a sign of the encroachment of commercialism in medicine... el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

endear

en|dear /ɪnd'ɪər/ (endears endearing endeared) [VERB] V n to n, V pron-refl to n If something endears you to someone or if you endear yourself to them, you become popular with them and well liked by them. Their taste for gambling has endeared them to Las Vegas casino owners... He has endeared himself to the American public. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

endearing

en|dear|ing /ɪnd'ɪərɪŋ/ [ADJ] v-link ADJ If you describe someone's behaviour as endearing, you mean that it causes you to feel very fond of them. She has such an endearing personality... Henry's lisp is so endearing. ● endearingly [ADV] ADV with v, ADV adj He admits endearingly to doubts and hesitations... She is endearingly free of pretensions. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

enforce

en|force /ɪnf'ɔːrs/ (enforces enforcing enforced) 1 [VERB] V n If people in authority enforce a law or a rule, they make sure that it is obeyed, usually by punishing people who do not obey it. Until now, the government has only enforced the ban with regard to American ships... 2 [VERB] V n, V-ed To enforce something means to force or cause it to be done or to happen. They struggled to limit the cost by enforcing a low-tech specification... David is now living in Beirut again after an enforced absence. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

engagement

en|gage|ment /ɪng'eɪdʒmənt/ (engagements) 1 [N-COUNT] An engagement is an arrangement that you have made to do something at a particular time. (FORMAL) He had an engagement at a restaurant in Greek Street at eight. 2 [N-COUNT] usu sing, usu poss N An engagement is an agreement that two people have made with each other to get married. I've broken off my engagement to Arthur... 3 [N-COUNT] usu sing, usu poss N You can refer to the period of time during which two people are engaged as their engagement. 4 [N-VAR] A military engagement is an armed conflict between two enemies. The constitution prohibits them from military engagement on foreign soil. 5 see also engage en|gage|ment ring (engagement rings) [N-COUNT] An engagement ring is a ring worn by a woman when she is engaged to be married....

engaging

en|gag|ing /ɪng'eɪdʒɪŋ/ [ADJ] An engaging person or thing is pleasant, interesting, and entertaining. ...one of her most engaging and least known novels... He was engaging company. ♦ en|gi|neer|ing /'endʒɪn'ɪərɪŋ/ [N-UNCOUNT] Engineering is the work involved in designing and constructing engines and machinery, or structures such as roads and bridges. Engineering is also the subject studied by people who want to do this work. ...graduates with degrees in engineering. see also chemical engineering, civil engineering, genetic engineering, genetic engineering Eng|lish /'ɪŋglɪʃ/ 1 [ADJ] English means belonging or relating to England, or to its people or language. It is also often used to mean belonging or relating to Great Britain, although many people object to this. [N-PLURAL] the N The English are English people. 2 [N-UNCOUNT] English is the language spoken by people who live in Great Britain and Ireland, the United States, Canada, Australia, and many other countries. Eng|lish break|fast (English breakfasts) [N-COUNT] An English breakfast is a breakfast consisting of cooked food such as bacon, eggs, sausages, and tomatoes. It also includes toast and tea or coffee. (BRIT) English|man /'ɪŋglɪʃmən/ (Englishmen) [N-COUNT] An Englishman is a man who comes from England....

enslavement

en|slave|ment /ɪnsl'eɪvmənt/ 1 [N-UNCOUNT] oft N of n Enslavement is the act of making someone into a slave or the state of being a slave. ...the enslavement of African people. 2 [N-UNCOUNT] oft poss N, adj N, N to n Enslavement is the state of being trapped in a situation from which it is difficult to escape. ...the analysis of women's enslavement to appearance. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

engender

en|gen|der /ɪndʒ'endər/ (engenders engendering engendered) [VERB] V n If someone or something engenders a particular feeling, atmosphere, or situation, they cause it to occur. (FORMAL) It helps engender a sense of common humanity... ♦ en|gi|neer|ing /'endʒɪn'ɪərɪŋ/ [N-UNCOUNT] Engineering is the work involved in designing and constructing engines and machinery, or structures such as roads and bridges. Engineering is also the subject studied by people who want to do this work. ...graduates with degrees in engineering. see also chemical engineering, civil engineering, genetic engineering, genetic engineering Eng|lish /'ɪŋglɪʃ/ 1 [ADJ] English means belonging or relating to England, or to its people or language. It is also often used to mean belonging or relating to Great Britain, although many people object to this. [N-PLURAL] the N The English are English people. 2 [N-UNCOUNT] English is the language spoken by people who live in Great Britain and Ireland, the United States, Canada, Australia, and many other countries. Eng|lish break|fast (English breakfasts) [N-COUNT] An English breakfast is a breakfast consisting of cooked food such as bacon, eggs, sausages, and tomatoes. It also includes toast and tea or coffee. (BRIT) English|man /'ɪŋglɪʃmən/ (Englishmen) [N-COUNT] An Englishman is a man who comes from England....

engrave

en|grave /ɪngr'eɪv/ (engraves engraving engraved) [VERB] be V-ed with n, V n on/in n, have n V-ed prep, V-ed If you engrave something with a design or words, or if you engrave a design or words on it, you cut the design or words into its surface. Your wedding ring can be engraved with a personal inscription at no extra cost... Harrods will also engrave your child's name on the side... I'm having `John Law' engraved on the cap. ...a bottle engraved with her name. ♦ en|gi|neer|ing /'endʒɪn'ɪərɪŋ/ [N-UNCOUNT] Engineering is the work involved in designing and constructing engines and machinery, or structures such as roads and bridges. Engineering is also the subject studied by people who want to do this work. ...graduates with degrees in engineering. see also chemical engineering, civil engineering, genetic engineering, genetic engineering Eng|lish /'ɪŋglɪʃ/ 1 [ADJ] English means belonging or relating to England, or to its people or language. It is also often used to mean belonging or relating to Great Britain, although many people object to this. [N-PLURAL] the N The English are English people. 2 [N-UNCOUNT] English is the language spoken by people who live in Great Britain and Ireland, the United States, Canada, Australia, and many other countries. Eng|lish break|fast (English breakfasts) [N-COUNT] An English breakfast is a breakfast consisting of cooked food such as bacon, eggs, sausages, and tomatoes. It also includes toast and tea or coffee. (BRIT) English|man /'ɪŋglɪʃmən/ (Englishmen) [N-COUNT] An Englishman is a man who comes from England....

engulf

en|gulf /ɪng'ʌlf/ (engulfs engulfing engulfed) 1 [VERB] V n, V n If one thing engulfs another, it completely covers or hides it, often in a sudden and unexpected way. A seven-year-old boy was found dead after a landslide engulfed a block of flats... The flat is engulfed in flames. 2 [VERB] V n If a feeling or emotion engulfs you, you are strongly affected by it. ...the pain that engulfed him... el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

enigmatic

en|ig|mat|ic /'enɪgm'ætɪk/ [ADJ] Someone or something that is enigmatic is mysterious and difficult to understand. Haley studied her, an enigmatic smile on his face... She starred in one of Welles's most enigmatic films. ● enigmatically [ADV] ADV after v, ADV -ed/adj `Corbiere didn't deserve this,' she said enigmatically. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

enlarge

en|large /ɪnl'ɑːrdʒ/ (enlarges enlarging enlarged) 1 [VERB] V n, V When you enlarge something or when it enlarges, it becomes bigger. ...the plan to enlarge Ewood Park into a 30,000 all-seater stadium... The glands in the neck may enlarge. ● enlarged [ADJ] The UN secretary-general yesterday recommended an enlarged peacekeeping force. 2 [VERB] V on/upon n If you enlarge on something that has been mentioned, you give more details about it. (FORMAL) He didn't enlarge on the form that the interim government and assembly would take... = expand el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

enlist

en|list /ɪnl'ɪst/ (enlists enlisting enlisted) 1 [VERB] V in n, V as n, be V-ed, V If someone enlists or is enlisted, they join the army, navy, marines, or air force. Michael Hughes of Lackawanna, Pennsylvania, enlisted in the 82nd Airborne 20 years ago... He enlisted as a private in the Mexican War... Three thousand men were enlisted... He decided to enlist. 2 [VERB] V n, V n to-inf If you enlist the help of someone, you persuade them to help or support you in doing something. I had to cut down a tree and enlist the help of seven neighbours to get it out of the garden!... I've read that you've enlisted some 12-year-olds to help out in your campaign... el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

enlisted

en|list|ed /ɪnl'ɪstɪd/ [ADJ] usu ADJ n An enlisted man or woman is a member of the United States armed forces who is below the rank of officer. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

enquiry

en|quiry /ɪnkw'aɪ'əri/ see inquiry el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

ensemble

en|sem|ble /ɒns'ɒmbəl/ (ensembles) 1 [N-COUNT] usu sing An ensemble is a group of musicians, actors, or dancers who regularly perform together. ...an ensemble of young musicians... 2 [N-COUNT] usu sing, oft N of n An ensemble of things or people is a group of things or people considered as a whole rather than as separate individuals. (FORMAL) The state is an ensemble of political and social structures. = collection el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

etching

etch|ing /'etʃɪŋ/ (etchings) [N-COUNT] An etching is a picture printed from a metal plate that has had a design cut into it with acid. eter|nal tri|an|gle (eternal triangles) [N-COUNT] usu sing You use the eternal triangle to refer to a relationship involving love and jealousy between two men and a woman or two women and a man....

ensue

en|sue /ɪnsj'uː, AM -s'uː/ (ensues ensuing ensued) [VERB] no cont, V, V If something ensues, it happens immediately after another event, usually as a result of it. If the Europeans did not reduce subsidies, a trade war would ensue... A brief but embarrassing silence ensued. = follow el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

entail

en|tail /ɪnt'eɪl/ (entails entailing entailed) [VERB] V n, V n -ing If one thing entails another, it involves it or causes it. (FORMAL) Such a decision would entail a huge political risk... I'll never accept parole because that entails me accepting guilt. en|ter|prise zone (enterprise zones) [N-COUNT] An enterprise zone is an area, usually a depressed or inner-city area, where the government offers incentives in order to attract new businesses. (BUSINESS) Because it is in an enterprise zone, taxes on non-food items are 3.5% instead of the usual 7%. en|ter|pris|ing /'entərpraɪzɪŋ/ [ADJ] usu ADJ n An enterprising person is willing to try out new, unusual ways of doing or achieving something. Some enterprising members found ways of reducing their expenses or raising their incomes. ♦ en|ter|tain /'entərt'eɪn/ (entertains entertaining entertained) 1 [VERB] V n, V If a performer, performance, or activity entertains you, it amuses you, interests you, or gives you pleasure. They were entertained by top singers, dancers and celebrities... Children's television not only entertains but also teaches. ● entertaining [ADJ] To generate new money the sport needs to be more entertaining... This is a surprisingly entertaining film... 2 [VERB] V n, V If you entertain people, you provide food and drink for them, for example when you have invited them to your house. I don't like to entertain guests anymore... The Monroes continued to entertain extravagantly. ● entertaining [N-UNCOUNT] ...a cosy area for entertaining and relaxing. 3 [VERB] V n, V n If you entertain an idea or suggestion, you allow yourself to consider it as possible or as worth thinking about seriously. (FORMAL) I feel how foolish I am to entertain doubts... I wouldn't entertain the idea of such an unsociable job....

entangle

en|tan|gle /ɪnt'æŋgəl/ (entangles entangling entangled) 1 [VERB] V n with/in n If one thing entangles itself with another, the two things become caught together very tightly. The blade of the oar had entangled itself with something in the water. 2 [VERB] V n, V n in/with n If something entangles you in problems or difficulties, it causes you to become involved in problems or difficulties from which it is hard to escape. Bureaucracy can entangle ventures for months... His tactics were to entangle the opposition in a web of parliamentary procedure. en|ter|prise zone (enterprise zones) [N-COUNT] An enterprise zone is an area, usually a depressed or inner-city area, where the government offers incentives in order to attract new businesses. (BUSINESS) Because it is in an enterprise zone, taxes on non-food items are 3.5% instead of the usual 7%. en|ter|pris|ing /'entərpraɪzɪŋ/ [ADJ] usu ADJ n An enterprising person is willing to try out new, unusual ways of doing or achieving something. Some enterprising members found ways of reducing their expenses or raising their incomes. ♦ en|ter|tain /'entərt'eɪn/ (entertains entertaining entertained) 1 [VERB] V n, V If a performer, performance, or activity entertains you, it amuses you, interests you, or gives you pleasure. They were entertained by top singers, dancers and celebrities... Children's television not only entertains but also teaches. ● entertaining [ADJ] To generate new money the sport needs to be more entertaining... This is a surprisingly entertaining film... 2 [VERB] V n, V If you entertain people, you provide food and drink for them, for example when you have invited them to your house. I don't like to entertain guests anymore... The Monroes continued to entertain extravagantly. ● entertaining [N-UNCOUNT] ...a cosy area for entertaining and relaxing. 3 [VERB] V n, V n If you entertain an idea or suggestion, you allow yourself to consider it as possible or as worth thinking about seriously. (FORMAL) I feel how foolish I am to entertain doubts... I wouldn't entertain the idea of such an unsociable job....

entangled

en|tan|gled /ɪnt'æŋgəld/ 1 [ADJ] oft ADJ in/with n If something is entangled in something such as a rope, wire, or net, it is caught in it very firmly. ...a whale that became entangled in crab nets. 2 [ADJ] v-link ADJ, oft ADJ in/with n If you become entangled in problems or difficulties, you become involved in problems or difficulties from which it is hard to escape. This case was bound to get entangled in international politics. en|ter|prise zone (enterprise zones) [N-COUNT] An enterprise zone is an area, usually a depressed or inner-city area, where the government offers incentives in order to attract new businesses. (BUSINESS) Because it is in an enterprise zone, taxes on non-food items are 3.5% instead of the usual 7%. en|ter|pris|ing /'entərpraɪzɪŋ/ [ADJ] usu ADJ n An enterprising person is willing to try out new, unusual ways of doing or achieving something. Some enterprising members found ways of reducing their expenses or raising their incomes. ♦ en|ter|tain /'entərt'eɪn/ (entertains entertaining entertained) 1 [VERB] V n, V If a performer, performance, or activity entertains you, it amuses you, interests you, or gives you pleasure. They were entertained by top singers, dancers and celebrities... Children's television not only entertains but also teaches. ● entertaining [ADJ] To generate new money the sport needs to be more entertaining... This is a surprisingly entertaining film... 2 [VERB] V n, V If you entertain people, you provide food and drink for them, for example when you have invited them to your house. I don't like to entertain guests anymore... The Monroes continued to entertain extravagantly. ● entertaining [N-UNCOUNT] ...a cosy area for entertaining and relaxing. 3 [VERB] V n, V n If you entertain an idea or suggestion, you allow yourself to consider it as possible or as worth thinking about seriously. (FORMAL) I feel how foolish I am to entertain doubts... I wouldn't entertain the idea of such an unsociable job....

entice

en|tice /ɪnt'aɪs/ (entices enticing enticed) [VERB] V n prep, V n to-inf, also V n To entice someone to go somewhere or to do something means to try to persuade them to go to that place or to do that thing. Retailers have tried almost everything to entice shoppers through their doors... They'll entice doctors to move from the cities by paying them better salaries. = lure el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

entitlement

en|ti|tle|ment /ɪnt'aɪtəlmənt/ (entitlements) [N-VAR] oft N to n An entitlement to something is the right to have it or do it. (FORMAL) They lose their entitlement to benefit when they start work. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

entourage

en|tou|rage /'ɒntʊr'ɑːʒ/ (entourages) [N-COUNT] usu poss N, N of n A famous or important person's entourage is the group of assistants, servants, or other people who travel with them. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

entrench

en|trench /ɪntr'entʃ/ (entrenches entrenching entrenched) [VERB] V n, V pron-refl If something such as power, a custom, or an idea is entrenched, it is firmly established, so that it would be difficult to change it. ...a series of measures designed to entrench democracy and the rule of law... These dictators have entrenched themselves politically and are difficult to move. ● entrenched [ADJ] The recession remains deeply entrenched. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

entrust

en|trust /ɪntr'ʌst/ (entrusts entrusting entrusted) [VERB] V n to n, V n with n, be V-ed to-inf If you entrust something important to someone or entrust them with it, you make them responsible for looking after it or dealing with it. If parents wanted to entrust their child to the best surgeons, they traveled to Bologna's medical school... He was forced to entrust an assistant with the important task of testing and demonstrating aircraft to prospective customers... They can be entrusted to solve major national problems. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

envision

en|vi|sion /ɪnv'ɪʒən/ (envisions envisioning envisioned) [VERB] V n, V that, also V wh If you envision something, you envisage it. (AM; also BRIT LITERARY) In the future we envision a federation of companies... Most people do stop at this point, not envisioning that there is anything beyond. = imagine el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

envoy

en|voy /'envɔɪ/ (envoys) 1 [N-COUNT] with supp An envoy is someone who is sent as a representative from one government or political group to another. 2 [N-COUNT] An envoy is a diplomat in an embassy who is immediately below the ambassador in rank. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

ephemera

ephem|era /ɪf'emərə/ 1 [N-UNCOUNT] You can refer to things which last for only a short time as ephemera. (LITERARY) 2 [N-UNCOUNT] oft adj N Ephemera is things people collect such as old postcards, posters, and bus tickets, which were only intended to last a short time when they were produced. ...tickets and other printed ephemera. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

ephemeral

ephem|er|al /ɪf'emərəl/ [ADJ] If you describe something as ephemeral, you mean that it lasts only for a very short time. (FORMAL) He talked about the country's ephemeral unity being shattered by the defeat... = transient el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

epic

epic /'epɪk/ (epics) 1 [N-COUNT] usu supp N An epic is a long book, poem, or film, whose story extends over a long period of time or tells of great events. ...the Middle High German epic, `Nibelungenlied', written about 1200... At three hours and 21 minutes, it is an over-long, standard Hollywood epic. [ADJ] usu ADJ n Epic is also an adjective. ...epic narrative poems... Like `Gone With The Wind' it's an unashamed epic romance. 2 [ADJ] usu ADJ n Something that is epic is very large and impressive. ...Columbus's epic voyage of discovery. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

Epiphany

epipha|ny /ɪp'ɪfəni/ (epiphanies) 1 [N-UNCOUNT] Epiphany is a Christian festival on the 6th of January which celebrates the arrival of the wise men who came to see Jesus Christ soon after he was born. 2 [N-COUNT] An epiphany is a moment of sudden insight or understanding. ...Isaac Newton's epiphany about gravity and a falling apple. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

epistle

epis|tle /ɪp'ɪsəl/ (epistles) 1 [N-COUNT] supp N An epistle is a letter. (LITERARY) 2 [N-COUNT] usu N to n In the Bible, the Epistles are a series of books in the New Testament which were originally written as letters to the early Christians. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

epitome

epito|me /ɪp'ɪtəmi/ [N-SING] usu the N of n If you say that a person or thing is the epitome of something, you are emphasizing that they are the best possible example of a particular type of person or thing. (FORMAL) Maureen was the epitome of sophistication... el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

epitomize

epito|mize /ɪp'ɪtəmaɪz/ (epitomizes epitomizing epitomized) in BRIT, also use epitomise [VERB] be V-ed by n, V n If you say that something or someone epitomizes a particular thing, you mean that they are a perfect example of it. Lyonnais cooking is epitomized by the so-called `bouchons'. ...the sleek lift that epitomized the hotel's glossy decor. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

epidemic

epi|dem|ic /'epɪd'emɪk/ (epidemics) 1 [N-COUNT] oft n N, N of n If there is an epidemic of a particular disease somewhere, it affects a very large number of people there and spreads quickly to other areas. A flu epidemic is sweeping through Moscow. ...a killer epidemic of yellow fever. 2 [N-COUNT] with supp, oft N of n If an activity that you disapprove of is increasing or spreading rapidly, you can refer to this as an epidemic of that activity. ...an epidemic of serial killings... Drug experts say it could spell the end of the crack epidemic. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

episode

epi|sode /'epɪsoʊd/ (episodes) 1 [N-COUNT] usu with supp You can refer to an event or a short period of time as an episode if you want to suggest that it is important or unusual, or has some particular quality. This episode is bound to be a deep embarrassment for Washington... Unfortunately it was a rather sordid episode of my life. 2 [N-COUNT] oft N of n An episode of something such as a series on radio or television or a story in a magazine is one of the separate parts in which it is broadcast or published. The final episode will be shown next Sunday. = instalment 3 [N-COUNT] usu with supp An episode of an illness is short period in which a person who suffers from it is affected by it particularly badly. (MEDICAL) = attack el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

epoch

epoch /'iːpɒk, AM 'epək/ (epochs) [N-COUNT] usu with supp If you refer to a long period of time as an epoch, you mean that important events or great changes took place during it. The birth of Christ was the beginning of a major epoch of world history. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

equivalence

equiva|lence /ɪkw'ɪvələns/ [N-UNCOUNT] If there is equivalence between two things, they have the same use, function, size, or value. ...the equivalence of science and rationality. equiva|lence /ɪkw'ɪvələns/ [N-UNCOUNT] If there is equivalence between two things, they have the same use, function, size, or value. ...the equivalence of science and rationality....

equilibrium

equi|lib|rium /'iːkwɪl'ɪbriəm/ (equilibria) 1 [N-VAR] Equilibrium is a balance between several different influences or aspects of a situation. (FORMAL) Stocks seesawed ever lower until prices found some new level of equilibrium... For the economy to be in equilibrium, income must equal expenditure. 2 [N-UNCOUNT] oft poss N Someone's equilibrium is their normal calm state of mind. I paused in the hall to take three deep breaths to restore my equilibrium... el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

eradication

eradication noun noun BrE BrE / /ɪˌrædɪˈkeɪʃn / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ɪˌrædɪˈkeɪʃn / / [ uncountable ] the act of destroying or getting rid of something completely, especially something bad the eradication of weeds a tuberculosis eradication programme...

eraser

eras|er /ɪr'eɪzər, AM -r'eɪs-/ (erasers) [N-COUNT] An eraser is an object, usually a piece of rubber or plastic, which is used for removing something that has been written using a pencil or a pen. (AM; also BRIT FORMAL) ...a large, flat, pink India-rubber eraser. = rubber el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

erasure

eras|ure /ɪr'eɪʒər, AM -reɪʃ-/ [N-UNCOUNT] oft N of n The erasure of something is the removal, loss, or destruction of it. (FORMAL) ...a further erasure of the UK's thin manufacturing base. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

erect

erect /ɪr'ekt/ (erects erecting erected) 1 [VERB] V n, V n, V n If people erect something such as a building, bridge, or barrier, they build it or create it. (FORMAL) Opposition demonstrators have erected barricades in roads leading to the parliament building... The building was erected in 1900-1901... We all unconsciously erect barriers against intimacy. = construct 2 [VERB] V n, V n If you erect a system, a theory, or an institution, you create it. Japanese proprietors are erecting a complex infrastructure of political influence throughout America... He erected a new doctrine of precedent. 3 [ADJ] People or things that are erect are straight and upright. Stand reasonably erect, your arms hanging naturally... el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

erode

erode /ɪr'oʊd/ (erodes eroding eroded) 1 [VERB] V, be V-ed If rock or soil erodes or is eroded by the weather, sea, or wind, it cracks and breaks so that it is gradually destroyed. By 1980, Miami beach had all but totally eroded... Once exposed, soil is quickly eroded by wind and rain. = wear away ● eroded [ADJ] ...the deeply eroded landscape. 2 [VERB] V n, V If someone's authority, right, or confidence erodes or is eroded, it is gradually destroyed or removed. (FORMAL) His critics say his fumbling of the issue of reform has eroded his authority... America's belief in its own God-ordained uniqueness started to erode. 3 [VERB] V n, V If the value of something erodes or is eroded by something such as inflation or age, its value decreases. Competition in the financial marketplace has eroded profits... The value of the dollar began to erode rapidly just around this time. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

eroticism

eroti|cism /ɪr'ɒtɪsɪzəm/ [N-UNCOUNT] Eroticism is sexual excitement, or the quality of being able to arouse sexual excitement. (FORMAL) Almost all of Massenet's works are pervaded with an aura of eroticism. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

err

err /'ɜːr/ (errs erring erred) 1 [VERB] V in n, V If you err, you make a mistake. (FORMAL, OLD-FASHIONED) It criticises the main contractor for seriously erring in its original estimates... If you make a threat be sure to carry it out if he errs again. 2 [PHRASE] V inflects If you err on the side of caution, for example, you decide to act in a cautious way, rather than take risks. They may be wise to err on the side of caution... He probably erred on the conservative rather than the generous side. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

errand

er|rand /'erənd/ (errands) 1 [N-COUNT] An errand is a short trip that you make in order to do a job for someone, for example when you go to a shop to buy something for them. She went off on some errand... 2 [PHRASE] V inflects If you run an errand for someone, you do or get something for them, usually by making a short trip somewhere. She was forever running errands for her housebound grandmother... el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

eternally

eternally adverb adverb BrE BrE / /ɪ ˈtɜːnəli / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ɪ ˈtɜːrnəli / / 1 in a way that exists or continues forever without an end I'll be eternally grateful to you for this. women trying to look eternally young 2 ( informal ) in a way that keeps happening and never seems to stop I am eternally amazed at what some people will do for money....

erratic

er|rat|ic /ɪr'ætɪk/ [ADJ] Something that is erratic does not follow a regular pattern, but happens at unexpected times or moves along in an irregular way. Argentina's erratic inflation rate threatens to upset the plans. = unpredictable ● erratically [ADV] Police stopped him for driving erratically. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

escapist

es|cap|ist /ɪsk'eɪpɪst/ [ADJ] Escapist ideas, activities, or types of entertainment make people think about pleasant or unlikely things instead of the uninteresting or unpleasant aspects of their life. ...a little escapist fantasy. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

escalate

es|ca|late /'eskəleɪt/ (escalates escalating escalated) [VERB] V, V into n, V n If a bad situation escalates or if someone or something escalates it, it becomes greater in size, seriousness, or intensity. (JOURNALISM) Both unions and management fear the dispute could escalate... The protests escalated into five days of rioting... Defeat could cause one side or other to escalate the conflict. ● escalation [N-VAR] The threat of nuclear escalation remains. ...a sudden escalation of violence. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

eschew

es|chew /ɪstʃ'uː/ (eschews eschewing eschewed) [VERB] V n If you eschew something, you deliberately avoid doing it or becoming involved in it. (FORMAL) Although he appeared to enjoy a jet-setting life, he eschewed publicity and avoided nightclubs. = avoid el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

escort

es|cort (escorts escorting escorted) The noun is pronounced /'eskɔːrt/ The verb is pronounced /ɪsk'ɔːrt/ 1 [N-COUNT] An escort is a person who travels with someone in order to protect or guard them. He arrived with a police escort shortly before half past nine. [PHRASE] PHR after v If someone is taken somewhere under escort, they are accompanied by guards, either because they have been arrested or because they need to be protected. ...a group being taken under police escort to the city outskirts. 2 [N-COUNT] An escort is a person who accompanies another person of the opposite sex to a social event. Sometimes people are paid to be escorts. My sister needed an escort for a company dinner. 3 [VERB] V n prep/adv If you escort someone somewhere, you accompany them there, usually in order to make sure that they leave a place or get to their destination. I escorted him to the door... el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

espouse

es|pouse /ɪsp'aʊz/ (espouses espousing espoused) [VERB] V n If you espouse a particular policy, cause, or belief, you become very interested in it and give your support to it. (FORMAL) She ran away with him to Mexico and espoused the revolutionary cause. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

espousal

es|pous|al /ɪsp'aʊzəl/ [N-SING] usu poss N of n A government's or person's espousal of a particular policy, cause, or belief is their strong support of it. (FORMAL) ...the Slovene leadership's espousal of the popular causes of reform and nationalism. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

essence

es|sence /'esəns/ (essences) 1 [N-UNCOUNT] usu N of n The essence of something is its basic and most important characteristic which gives it its individual identity. The essence of consultation is to listen to, and take account of, the views of those consulted. ...the essence of life... [PHRASE] PHR with cl/group You use in essence to emphasize that you are talking about the most important or central aspect of an idea, situation, or event. Though off-puttingly complicated in detail, local taxes are in essence simple. [PHRASE] V inflects If you say that something is of the essence, you mean that it is absolutely necessary in order for a particular action to be successful. Speed was of the essence in a project of this type. = crucial 2 [N-MASS] Essence is a very concentrated liquid that is used for flavouring food or for its smell. ...a few drops of vanilla essence. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

estranged

es|tranged /ɪstr'eɪndʒd/ 1 [ADJ] usu ADJ n An estranged wife or husband is no longer living with their husband or wife. (FORMAL) ...his estranged wife. 2 [ADJ] oft ADJ from n If you are estranged from your family or friends, you have quarrelled with them and are not communicating with them. (FORMAL) Joanna, 30, spent most of her twenties virtually estranged from her father. 3 [ADJ] v-link ADJ, usu ADJ from n If you describe someone as estranged from something such as society or their profession, you mean that they no longer seem involved in it. (FORMAL) Arran became increasingly estranged from the mainstream of Hollywood. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

et al

et al. /'et 'æl/ et al. is used after a name or a list of names to indicate that other people are also involved. It is used especially when referring to books or articles which were written by more than two people. ...Blough et al. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

et cetera

et cetera BrE BrE / /ˌet ˈsetərə / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˌet ˈsetərə / / ; BrE BrE / / ˌɪt ˈsetərə / / ; NAmE NAmE / / ˌɪt ˈsetərə / / = etc....

etc.

etc. abbreviation abbreviation BrE BrE / /ˌet ˈsetərə / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˌet ˈsetərə / / ; BrE BrE / / ˌɪt ˈsetərə / / ; NAmE NAmE / / ˌɪt ˈsetərə / / used after a list to show that there are other things that you could have mentioned (the abbreviation for 'et cetera ') Remember to take some paper, a pen, etc. We talked about the contract, pay, etc....

eternal

eter|nal /ɪt'ɜːrnəl/ 1 [ADJ] Something that is eternal lasts for ever. Whoever believes in Him shall have eternal life. ...the quest for eternal youth. ● eternally [ADV] ADV adj, ADV with v She is eternally grateful to her family for their support... 2 [ADJ] If you describe something as eternal, you mean that it seems to last for ever, often because you think it is boring or annoying. In the background was that eternal hum. = interminable, never-ending eter|nal tri|an|gle (eternal triangles) [N-COUNT] usu sing You use the eternal triangle to refer to a relationship involving love and jealousy between two men and a woman or two women and a man....

ether

ether /'iːθər/ [N-UNCOUNT] Ether is a colourless liquid that burns easily. It is used in industry and in medicine as an anaesthetic. ...a sweetish smell of ether and iodine. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

ethically

ethically adverb adverb BrE BrE / /ˈeθɪ kli / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈeθɪ kli / / 1 in the correct way according to your beliefs and principles Doctors felt ethically obliged to continue the treatment. 2 in a moral or acceptable way The committee judged that he had not behaved ethically....

ethical

ethi|cal /'eθɪkəl/ 1 [ADJ] usu ADJ n Ethical means relating to beliefs about right and wrong. ...the medical, nursing and ethical issues surrounding terminally-ill people. ● ethically [ADV] ADV adj/-ed, ADV after v Attorneys are ethically and legally bound to absolute confidentiality. 2 [ADJ] If you describe something as ethical, you mean that it is morally right or morally acceptable. ...ethical investment schemes... ● ethically [ADV] ADV after v Mayors want local companies to behave ethically. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

ethnological

ethnological adjective adjective BrE BrE / /ˌeθnə ˈlɒdʒɪkl / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˌeθnə ˈlɑːdʒɪkl / / connected with the scientific study and comparison of human races...

ethic

eth|ic /'eθɪk/ (ethics) 1 [N-PLURAL] Ethics are moral beliefs and rules about right and wrong. Refugee workers said such action was a violation of medical ethics. 2 [N-PLURAL] with supp Someone's ethics are the moral principles about right and wrong behaviour which they believe in. He told the police that he had thought honestly about the ethics of what he was doing. 3 [N-UNCOUNT] Ethics is the study of questions about what is morally right and wrong. ...the teaching of ethics and moral philosophy. 4 [N-SING] with supp An ethic of a particular kind is an idea or moral belief that influences the behaviour, attitudes, and philosophy of a group of people. ...the ethic of public service. ...an indomitable work ethic and determination to succeed. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

ethnography

eth|nog|ra|phy /eθn'ɒgrəfi/ [N-UNCOUNT] Ethnography is the branch of anthropology in which different cultures are studied and described. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

ethnographic

eth|no|graph|ic /'eθnəgr'æfɪk/ [ADJ] Ethnographic refers to things that are connected with or relate to ethnography. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

etiquette

eti|quette /'etɪket/ [N-UNCOUNT] Etiquette is a set of customs and rules for polite behaviour, especially among a particular class of people or in a particular profession. This was such a great breach of etiquette, he hardly knew what to do. = protocol el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

etcetera

et|cet|era /ets'etrə/ also et cetera see etc el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

eugenics

eugen|ics /juːdʒ'enɪks/ [N-UNCOUNT] Eugenics is the study of methods to improve the human race by carefully selecting parents who will produce the strongest children. (TECHNICAL) el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

euphemism

euphemism /j'uːfəmɪzəm/ (euphemisms) [N-COUNT] oft N for n A euphemism is a polite word or expression that is used to refer to things which people may find upsetting or embarrassing to talk about, for example sex, the human body, or death. The term `early retirement' is nearly always a euphemism for redundancy nowadays. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

euphoria

eupho|ria /juːf'ɔːriə/ [N-UNCOUNT] oft N of/over n Euphoria is a feeling of intense happiness and excitement. There was euphoria after the elections... = elation el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

evacuation

evacuation noun noun BrE BrE / /ɪˌvækjuˈeɪʃn / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ɪˌvækjuˈeɪʃn / / [ uncountable , countable ] 1 the process of moving people from a place of danger to a safer place the emergency evacuation of thousands of people after the earthquake 2 the act of emptying a building or other place of people because it is not safe for them to stay there Officials ordered the evacuation of the Florida Keys as the tropical storm approached....

extraneous

extra|neous /ɪkstr'eɪniəs/ [ADJ] usu ADJ n Extraneous things are not relevant or essential to the situation you are involved in or the subject you are talking about. (FORMAL) We ought not to bring in extraneous matters in trying to find a basis for a settlement... el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

evacuate

evacu|ate /ɪv'ækjueɪt/ (evacuates evacuating evacuated) 1 [VERB] V n, be V-ed from To evacuate someone means to send them to a place of safety, away from a dangerous building, town, or area. They were planning to evacuate the seventy American officials still in the country... Since 1951, 18,000 people have been evacuated from the area. ● evacuation [N-VAR] ...the evacuation of the sick and wounded... An evacuation of the city's four-million inhabitants is planned for later this week. 2 [VERB] V n, V If people evacuate a place, they move out of it for a period of time, especially because it is dangerous. The fire is threatening about sixty homes, and residents have evacuated the area... Officials ordered the residents to evacuate. ● evacuation [N-VAR] ...the mass evacuation of the Bosnian town of Srebrenica... Burning sulfur from the wreck has forced evacuations from the area. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

evade

evade /ɪv'eɪd/ (evades evading evaded) 1 [VERB] V n, V n If you evade something, you find a way of not doing something that you really ought to do. By his own admission, he evaded taxes as a Florida real-estate speculator... Delegates accused them of trying to evade responsibility for the failures of the past five years. 2 [VERB] V n If you evade a question or a topic, you avoid talking about it or dealing with it. Too many companies, she says, are evading the issue. 3 [VERB] V n, V n If you evade someone or something, you move so that you can avoid meeting them or avoid being touched or hit. She turned and gazed at the river, evading his eyes... He managed to evade capture because of the breakdown of a police computer. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

evangelical

evan|geli|cal /'iːvændʒ'elɪkəl/ 1 [ADJ] Evangelical Christians emphasize the importance of the Bible and the need for personal belief in Christ. ...an evangelical Christian. 2 [ADJ] usu ADJ n If you describe someone's behaviour as evangelical, you mean that it is very enthusiastic. With almost evangelical fervour, Marks warns against deliberately seeking a tan... el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

evasion

eva|sion /ɪv'eɪʒən/ (evasions) 1 [N-VAR] usu with supp, oft N of n, n N Evasion means deliberately avoiding something that you are supposed to do or deal with. Many Koreans were angered at what they saw as an evasion of responsibility... He was arrested for tax evasion. 2 [N-VAR] If you accuse someone of evasion when they have been asked a question, you mean that they are deliberately avoiding giving a clear direct answer. We want straight answers. No evasions... eva|sive /ɪv'eɪsɪv/ 1 [ADJ] If you describe someone as evasive, you mean that they deliberately avoid giving clear direct answers to questions. He was evasive about the circumstances of his first meeting with Stanley Dean... ● evasively [ADV] ADV with v `I can't possibly comment on that,' Paul said evasively. ● evasiveness [N-UNCOUNT] oft poss N She looked at him closely to see if his evasiveness was intentional. 2 [PHRASE] V inflects If you take evasive action, you deliberately move away from someone or something in order to avoid meeting them or being hit by them. At least four high-flying warplanes had to take evasive action....

evasive

eva|sive /ɪv'eɪsɪv/ 1 [ADJ] If you describe someone as evasive, you mean that they deliberately avoid giving clear direct answers to questions. He was evasive about the circumstances of his first meeting with Stanley Dean... ● evasively [ADV] ADV with v `I can't possibly comment on that,' Paul said evasively. ● evasiveness [N-UNCOUNT] oft poss N She looked at him closely to see if his evasiveness was intentional. 2 [PHRASE] V inflects If you take evasive action, you deliberately move away from someone or something in order to avoid meeting them or being hit by them. At least four high-flying warplanes had to take evasive action. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

eve

eve /'iːv/ (eves) [N-COUNT] usu sing, usu the N of n The eve of a particular event or occasion is the day before it, or the period of time just before it. (JOURNALISM) ...on the eve of his 27th birthday. see also Christmas Eve, New Year's Eve el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

eviction

evic|tion /ɪv'ɪkʃən/ (evictions) [N-VAR] Eviction is the act or process of officially forcing someone to leave a house or piece of land. He was facing eviction, along with his wife and family... ...an eviction order. evil eye 1 [N-SING] the N Some people believe that the evil eye is a magical power to cast a spell on someone or something by looking at them, so that bad things happen to them. 2 [N-SING] usu the If someone gives you the evil eye, they look at you in an unpleasant way, usually because they dislike you or are jealous of you....

evince

evince /ɪv'ɪns/ (evinces evincing evinced) [VERB] V n If someone or something evinces a particular feeling or quality, they show that feeling or quality, often indirectly. (FORMAL) The entire production evinces authenticity and a real respect for the subject matter... evil eye 1 [N-SING] the N Some people believe that the evil eye is a magical power to cast a spell on someone or something by looking at them, so that bad things happen to them. 2 [N-SING] usu the If someone gives you the evil eye, they look at you in an unpleasant way, usually because they dislike you or are jealous of you....

exuberant

exu|ber|ant /ɪgzj'uːbərənt, AM -z'uːb-/ [ADJ] If you are exuberant, you are full of energy, excitement, and cheerfulness. ...an exuberant young girl who decided to become a screen actress. ● exuberantly [ADV] They both laughed exuberantly. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

evidently

evi|dent|ly /'evɪdəntli/ 1 [ADV] ADV with cl/group, ADV before v You use evidently to say that something is obviously true, for example because you have seen evidence of it yourself. The man wore a bathrobe and had evidently just come from the bathroom... The two Russians evidently knew each other. = clearly, obviously 2 [ADV] ADV with cl/group, ADV before v You use evidently to show that you think something is true or have been told something is true, but that you are not sure, because you do not have enough information or proof. From childhood, he was evidently at once rebellious and precocious... = apparently 3 [ADV] ADV with cl You can use evidently to introduce a statement or opinion and to emphasize that you feel that it is true or correct. (FORMAL) Quite evidently, it has nothing to do with social background. evil eye 1 [N-SING] the N Some people believe that the evil eye is a magical power to cast a spell on someone or something by looking at them, so that bad things happen to them. 2 [N-SING] usu the If someone gives you the evil eye, they look at you in an unpleasant way, usually because they dislike you or are jealous of you....

evocative

evoca|tive /ɪv'ɒkətɪv/ [ADJ] oft ADJ of n If you describe something as evocative, you mean that it is good or interesting because it produces pleasant memories, ideas, emotions, and responses in people. (FORMAL) Her story is sharply evocative of Italian provincial life. ● evocatively [ADV] ADV with v, ADV adj ...the collection of islands evocatively known as the South Seas. evil eye 1 [N-SING] the N Some people believe that the evil eye is a magical power to cast a spell on someone or something by looking at them, so that bad things happen to them. 2 [N-SING] usu the If someone gives you the evil eye, they look at you in an unpleasant way, usually because they dislike you or are jealous of you....

evolve

evolve /ɪv'ɒlv/ (evolves evolving evolved) 1 [VERB] V, V from n, V into n When animals or plants evolve, they gradually change and develop into different forms. The bright plumage of many male birds has evolved to attract females... Maize evolved from a wild grass in Mexico. ...when amphibians evolved into reptiles. 2 [VERB] V into n, V from n, V, V n If something evolves or you evolve it, it gradually develops over a period of time into something different and usually more advanced. ...a tiny airline which eventually evolved into Pakistan International Airlines... Popular music evolved from folk songs... As medical knowledge evolves, beliefs change... This was when he evolved the working method from which he has never departed. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

ex officio

ex of|fi|cio /'eks ɒf'ɪʃioʊ/ [ADJ] ADJ n Ex officio is used to describe something such as a rank or privilege that someone is entitled to because of the job or position they have. (FORMAL) ...ex officio members of the Advisory Council. ...an ex-officio degree. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

excavation

excavation noun noun BrE BrE / /ˌekskəˈveɪʃn / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˌekskəˈveɪʃn / / 1 [ countable , uncountable ] the activity of digging in the ground to look for old buildings or objects that have been buried for a long time 2 [ countable , usually plural ] a place where people are digging to look for old buildings or objects The excavations are open to the public. 3 [ uncountable ] the act of digging, especially with a machine Word Origin early 17th cent.: from French, or from Latin excavatio(n-), from excavare'hollow out' , from ex-'out' + cavare'make or become hollow' (from cavus'hollow' ). Extra examples Further archaeological excavations are now being carried out. Further excavations at the site are now being carried out. More discoveries were made as the excavation proceeded. The excavations took place between 1925 and 1939. recent excavations of underground burial chambers...

exceptionally

exceptionally adverb adverb BrE BrE / /ɪkˈsepʃənəli / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ɪkˈsepʃənəli / / 1 used before an adjective or adverb to emphasize how strong or unusual the quality is The weather, even for January, was exceptionally cold. I thought Bill played exceptionally well. There was an exceptionally high tide. an exceptionally gifted child 2 only in unusual circumstances Exceptionally, students may be accepted without formal qualifications....

excessively

excessively adverb adverb BrE BrE / /ɪkˈsesɪvli / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ɪkˈsesɪvli / / to a much greater level or degree than seems reasonable or appropriate excessively high prices The country relies excessively on borrowing from abroad....

execution

execution noun noun BrE BrE / /ˌeksɪˈkjuːʃn / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˌeksɪˈkjuːʃn / / Types of punishment , Terrorism 1 [ uncountable , countable ] the act of killing somebody, especially as a legal punishment He faced execution by hanging for murder. Over 200 executions were carried out last year. See related entries: Types of punishment , Terrorism 2 [ uncountable ] ( formal ) the act of doing a piece of work, performing a duty, or putting a plan into action He had failed in the execution of his duty. The idea was good, but the execution was poor. The company is liable for any damage caused by faulty execution of the building work. 3 [ uncountable ] ( formal ) skill in performing or making something, such as a piece of music or work of art Her execution of the piano piece was perfect. 4 [ uncountable ] ( law ) the act of following the instructions in a legal document, especially those in somebody's will The solicitors are proceeding with the execution of her mother's will. Word Origin late Middle English: via Old French from Latin executio(n-), from exsequi'follow up, punish' , from ex-'out' + sequi'follow' . Extra examples Executions were carried out in the prison yard. Human rights organizations have accused the army of summary executions. If caught, the men could face execution. She was charged with obstruction of a police officer in the execution of his duties. She was taken prisoner and suffered eventual execution. The US Supreme Court refused to stay the execution. The army oversaw the trial and execution of the king. The court has discretion to stay or suspend execution of the order. The judge had granted a stay of execution. The tribunal ordered the execution of 42 coup plotters. a senator's request to suspend federal executions execution by hanging great ideas and flawless execution prisoners who are on death row awaiting execution proper execution of the exercise the Supreme Court decision to ban juvenile executions the hours before his scheduled execution the poor execution of the film the successful execution of the contract Idioms a stay of execution ( law ) a delay in following the order of a court to grant a stay of execution There will be no stay of execution and few mourners for this concrete tower block, due to be demolished next month....

exacerbate

ex|ac|er|bate /ɪgz'æsərbeɪt/ (exacerbates exacerbating exacerbated) [VERB] V n If something exacerbates a problem or bad situation, it makes it worse. (FORMAL) Longstanding poverty has been exacerbated by racial divisions. = aggravate ● exacerbation [N-UNCOUNT] usu the N of n ...the exacerbation of global problems. ex|act sci|ence [N-SING] usu with brd-neg If you say that a particular activity is not an exact science, you mean that there are no set rules to follow or it does not produce very accurate results. Forecasting floods is not an exact science....

exaggerated

ex|ag|ger|at|ed /ɪgz'ædʒəreɪtɪd/ [ADJ] Something that is exaggerated is or seems larger, better, worse, or more important than it actually needs to be. They should be sceptical of exaggerated claims for what such courses can achieve... Western fears, he insists, are greatly exaggerated. ● exaggeratedly [ADV] ADV adj/-ed, ADV after v ...an exaggeratedly feminine appearance... She laughed exaggeratedly at their jokes. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

exalted

ex|alt|ed /ɪgz'ɔːltɪd/ [ADJ] usu ADJ n Someone or something that is at an exalted level is at a very high level, especially with regard to rank or importance. (FORMAL) You must decide how to make the best use of your exalted position. = lofty ♦♦♦ ex|am|ple /ɪgz'ɑːmpəl, -z'æmp-/ (examples) 1 [N-COUNT] oft N of n An example of something is a particular situation, object, or person which shows that what is being claimed is true. The doctors gave numerous examples of patients being expelled from hospital... Listed below are just a few examples of some of the family benefits available. 2 [N-COUNT] oft N of n An example of a particular class of objects or styles is something that has many of the typical features of such a class or style, and that you consider clearly represents it. Symphonies 103 and 104 stand as perfect examples of early symphonic construction... = illustration 3 [PHRASE] PHR with cl/group You use for example to introduce and emphasize something which shows that something is true. Take, for example, the simple sentence: `The man climbed up the hill'... A few simple precautions can be taken, for example ensuring that desks are the right height. 4 [N-COUNT] oft N to n If you refer to a person or their behaviour as an example to other people, you mean that he or she behaves in a good or correct way that other people should copy. He is a model professional and an example to the younger lads... 5 [N-COUNT] In a dictionary entry, an example is a phrase or sentence which shows how a particular word is used. The examples are unique to this dictionary. 6 [PHRASE] V inflects If you follow someone's example, you behave in the same way as they did in the past, or in a similar way, especially because you admire them. Following the example set by her father, she has fulfilled her role and done her duty... 7 [PHRASE] V inflects, PHR n To make an example of someone who has done something wrong means to punish them severely as a warning to other people not to do the same thing. Let us at least see our courts make an example of these despicable criminals. 8 [PHRASE] V inflects If you set an example, you encourage or inspire people by your behaviour to behave or act in a similar way. An officer's job was to set an example......

exasperate

ex|as|per|ate /ɪgz'ɑːspəreɪt, -z'æs-/ (exasperates exasperating exasperated) [VERB] V n If someone or something exasperates you, they annoy you and make you feel frustrated or upset. The sheer futility of it all exasperates her. ● exasperation [N-UNCOUNT] Mahoney clenched his fist in exasperation... ♦♦♦ ex|am|ple /ɪgz'ɑːmpəl, -z'æmp-/ (examples) 1 [N-COUNT] oft N of n An example of something is a particular situation, object, or person which shows that what is being claimed is true. The doctors gave numerous examples of patients being expelled from hospital... Listed below are just a few examples of some of the family benefits available. 2 [N-COUNT] oft N of n An example of a particular class of objects or styles is something that has many of the typical features of such a class or style, and that you consider clearly represents it. Symphonies 103 and 104 stand as perfect examples of early symphonic construction... = illustration 3 [PHRASE] PHR with cl/group You use for example to introduce and emphasize something which shows that something is true. Take, for example, the simple sentence: `The man climbed up the hill'... A few simple precautions can be taken, for example ensuring that desks are the right height. 4 [N-COUNT] oft N to n If you refer to a person or their behaviour as an example to other people, you mean that he or she behaves in a good or correct way that other people should copy. He is a model professional and an example to the younger lads... 5 [N-COUNT] In a dictionary entry, an example is a phrase or sentence which shows how a particular word is used. The examples are unique to this dictionary. 6 [PHRASE] V inflects If you follow someone's example, you behave in the same way as they did in the past, or in a similar way, especially because you admire them. Following the example set by her father, she has fulfilled her role and done her duty... 7 [PHRASE] V inflects, PHR n To make an example of someone who has done something wrong means to punish them severely as a warning to other people not to do the same thing. Let us at least see our courts make an example of these despicable criminals. 8 [PHRASE] V inflects If you set an example, you encourage or inspire people by your behaviour to behave or act in a similar way. An officer's job was to set an example......

excavate

ex|ca|vate /'ekskəveɪt/ (excavates excavating excavated) 1 [VERB] V n When archaeologists or other people excavate a piece of land, they remove earth carefully from it and look for things such as pots, bones, or buildings which are buried there, in order to discover information about the past. A new Danish expedition is again excavating the site in annual summer digs. ● excavation [N-VAR] ...the excavation of a bronze-age boat... 2 [VERB] V n To excavate means to dig a hole in the ground, for example in order to build there. A contractor was hired to drain the reservoir and to excavate soil from one area for replacement with clay. ● excavation [N-VAR] ...the excavation of canals. ♦♦♦ ex|am|ple /ɪgz'ɑːmpəl, -z'æmp-/ (examples) 1 [N-COUNT] oft N of n An example of something is a particular situation, object, or person which shows that what is being claimed is true. The doctors gave numerous examples of patients being expelled from hospital... Listed below are just a few examples of some of the family benefits available. 2 [N-COUNT] oft N of n An example of a particular class of objects or styles is something that has many of the typical features of such a class or style, and that you consider clearly represents it. Symphonies 103 and 104 stand as perfect examples of early symphonic construction... = illustration 3 [PHRASE] PHR with cl/group You use for example to introduce and emphasize something which shows that something is true. Take, for example, the simple sentence: `The man climbed up the hill'... A few simple precautions can be taken, for example ensuring that desks are the right height. 4 [N-COUNT] oft N to n If you refer to a person or their behaviour as an example to other people, you mean that he or she behaves in a good or correct way that other people should copy. He is a model professional and an example to the younger lads... 5 [N-COUNT] In a dictionary entry, an example is a phrase or sentence which shows how a particular word is used. The examples are unique to this dictionary. 6 [PHRASE] V inflects If you follow someone's example, you behave in the same way as they did in the past, or in a similar way, especially because you admire them. Following the example set by her father, she has fulfilled her role and done her duty... 7 [PHRASE] V inflects, PHR n To make an example of someone who has done something wrong means to punish them severely as a warning to other people not to do the same thing. Let us at least see our courts make an example of these despicable criminals. 8 [PHRASE] V inflects If you set an example, you encourage or inspire people by your behaviour to behave or act in a similar way. An officer's job was to set an example......

excursion

ex|cur|sion /ɪksk'ɜːrʃən, AM -ʒən/ (excursions) 1 [N-COUNT] You can refer to a short journey as an excursion, especially if it is made for pleasure or enjoyment. In Bermuda, Sam's father took him on an excursion to a coral barrier. = trip 2 [N-COUNT] An excursion is a trip or visit to an interesting place, especially one that is arranged or recommended by a holiday company or tourist organization. Another pleasant excursion is Malaga, 18 miles away. = outing 3 [N-COUNT] usu N into n, oft poss N If you describe an activity as an excursion into something, you mean that it is an attempt to develop or understand something new that you have not experienced before. ...Radio 3's latest excursion into ethnic music, dance and literature... el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

executor

ex|ecu|tor /ɪgz'ekjʊtər/ (executors) [N-COUNT] An executor is someone whose name you write in your will when you want them to be responsible for dealing with your affairs after your death. (LEGAL) ex|ecu|tor /ɪgz'ekjʊtər/ (executors) [N-COUNT] An executor is someone whose name you write in your will when you want them to be responsible for dealing with your affairs after your death. (LEGAL)...

exceed

ex|ceed /ɪks'iːd/ (exceeds exceeding exceeded) 1 [VERB] V n, V n If something exceeds a particular amount or number, it is greater or larger than that amount or number. (FORMAL) Its research budget exceeds $700 million a year... His performance exceeded all expectations. 2 [VERB] V n If you exceed a limit or rule, you go beyond it, even though you are not supposed to or it is against the law. (FORMAL) He accepts he was exceeding the speed limit... ♦♦♦ ex|am|ple /ɪgz'ɑːmpəl, -z'æmp-/ (examples) 1 [N-COUNT] oft N of n An example of something is a particular situation, object, or person which shows that what is being claimed is true. The doctors gave numerous examples of patients being expelled from hospital... Listed below are just a few examples of some of the family benefits available. 2 [N-COUNT] oft N of n An example of a particular class of objects or styles is something that has many of the typical features of such a class or style, and that you consider clearly represents it. Symphonies 103 and 104 stand as perfect examples of early symphonic construction... = illustration 3 [PHRASE] PHR with cl/group You use for example to introduce and emphasize something which shows that something is true. Take, for example, the simple sentence: `The man climbed up the hill'... A few simple precautions can be taken, for example ensuring that desks are the right height. 4 [N-COUNT] oft N to n If you refer to a person or their behaviour as an example to other people, you mean that he or she behaves in a good or correct way that other people should copy. He is a model professional and an example to the younger lads... 5 [N-COUNT] In a dictionary entry, an example is a phrase or sentence which shows how a particular word is used. The examples are unique to this dictionary. 6 [PHRASE] V inflects If you follow someone's example, you behave in the same way as they did in the past, or in a similar way, especially because you admire them. Following the example set by her father, she has fulfilled her role and done her duty... 7 [PHRASE] V inflects, PHR n To make an example of someone who has done something wrong means to punish them severely as a warning to other people not to do the same thing. Let us at least see our courts make an example of these despicable criminals. 8 [PHRASE] V inflects If you set an example, you encourage or inspire people by your behaviour to behave or act in a similar way. An officer's job was to set an example......

exceedingly

ex|ceed|ing|ly /ɪks'iːdɪŋli/ [ADV] usu ADV adj, also ADV after v Exceedingly means very or very much. (OLD-FASHIONED) We had an exceedingly good lunch... = extremely ♦♦♦ ex|am|ple /ɪgz'ɑːmpəl, -z'æmp-/ (examples) 1 [N-COUNT] oft N of n An example of something is a particular situation, object, or person which shows that what is being claimed is true. The doctors gave numerous examples of patients being expelled from hospital... Listed below are just a few examples of some of the family benefits available. 2 [N-COUNT] oft N of n An example of a particular class of objects or styles is something that has many of the typical features of such a class or style, and that you consider clearly represents it. Symphonies 103 and 104 stand as perfect examples of early symphonic construction... = illustration 3 [PHRASE] PHR with cl/group You use for example to introduce and emphasize something which shows that something is true. Take, for example, the simple sentence: `The man climbed up the hill'... A few simple precautions can be taken, for example ensuring that desks are the right height. 4 [N-COUNT] oft N to n If you refer to a person or their behaviour as an example to other people, you mean that he or she behaves in a good or correct way that other people should copy. He is a model professional and an example to the younger lads... 5 [N-COUNT] In a dictionary entry, an example is a phrase or sentence which shows how a particular word is used. The examples are unique to this dictionary. 6 [PHRASE] V inflects If you follow someone's example, you behave in the same way as they did in the past, or in a similar way, especially because you admire them. Following the example set by her father, she has fulfilled her role and done her duty... 7 [PHRASE] V inflects, PHR n To make an example of someone who has done something wrong means to punish them severely as a warning to other people not to do the same thing. Let us at least see our courts make an example of these despicable criminals. 8 [PHRASE] V inflects If you set an example, you encourage or inspire people by your behaviour to behave or act in a similar way. An officer's job was to set an example......

excessive

ex|ces|sive /ɪks'esɪv/ [ADJ] If you describe the amount or level of something as excessive, you disapprove of it because it is more or higher than is necessary or reasonable. ...the alleged use of excessive force by police... The government says that local authority spending is excessive. ● excessively [ADV] ADV adj, ADV with v Managers are also accused of paying themselves excessively high salaries... Mum had started taking pills and drinking excessively. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

exclamation

ex|cla|ma|tion /'ekskləm'eɪʃən/ (exclamations) [N-COUNT] An exclamation is a sound, word, or sentence that is spoken suddenly, loudly, or emphatically and that expresses excitement, admiration, shock, or anger. Sue gave an exclamation as we got a clear sight of the house. ex|cla|ma|tion mark (exclamation marks) [N-COUNT] An exclamation mark is the sign ! which is used in writing to show that a word, phrase, or sentence is an exclamation. (BRIT; in AM, use exclamation point)...

exclude

ex|clude /ɪkskl'uːd/ (excludes excluding excluded) 1 [VERB] V n from n, V-ed, also V n If you exclude someone from a place or activity, you prevent them from entering it or taking part in it. The Academy excluded women from its classes... Many of the youngsters feel excluded. 2 [VERB] V n from n, V n If you exclude something that has some connection with what you are doing, you deliberately do not use it or consider it. They eat only plant foods, and take care to exclude animal products from other areas of their lives... In some schools, Christmas carols are being modified to exclude any reference to Christ. 3 [VERB] usu with brd-neg, V n To exclude a possibility means to decide or prove that it is wrong and not worth considering. I cannot entirely exclude the possibility that some form of pressure was applied to the neck. 4 [VERB] V n To exclude something such as the sun's rays or harmful germs means to prevent them physically from reaching or entering a particular place. This was intended to exclude the direct rays of the sun... el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

excluding

ex|clud|ing /ɪkskl'uːdɪŋ/ [PREP] You use excluding before mentioning a person or thing to show that you are not including them in your statement. Excluding water, half of the body's weight is protein. ≠ including el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

excrement

ex|cre|ment /'ekskrɪmənt/ [N-UNCOUNT] Excrement is the solid waste that is passed out of a person or animal's body through their bowels. (FORMAL) The cage smelled of excrement. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

excruciating

ex|cru|ci|at|ing /ɪkskr'uːʃieɪtɪŋ/ 1 [ADJ] If you describe something as excruciating, you are emphasizing that it is extremely painful, either physically or emotionally. I was in excruciating pain and one leg wouldn't move... = unbearable ● excruciatingly [ADV] usu ADV adj, also ADV after v He found the transition to boarding school excruciatingly painful... 2 [ADJ] If you describe something as excruciating, you mean that it is very unpleasant to experience, for example because it is very boring or embarrassing. Meanwhile, the boredom is excruciating... There was a moment of excruciating silence. ● excruciatingly [ADV] usu ADV adj, also ADV with v The dialogue is excruciatingly embarrassing. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

exemplary

ex|em|pla|ry /ɪgz'empləri/ 1 [ADJ] usu ADJ n If you describe someone or something as exemplary, you think they are extremely good. Underpinning this success has been an exemplary record of innovation. 2 [ADJ] usu ADJ n An exemplary punishment is unusually harsh and is intended to stop other people from committing similar crimes. He demanded exemplary sentences for those behind the violence. ex|er|cise bike (exercise bikes) [N-COUNT] An exercise bike is a special bicycle which does not move, so that you can exercise on it at home or at a gym. ex|er|cise book (exercise books) [N-COUNT] An exercise book is a small book that students use for writing in. (mainly BRIT; in AM, usually use notebook)...

exert

ex|ert /ɪgz'ɜːrt/ (exerts exerting exerted) 1 [VERB] V n If someone or something exerts influence, authority, or pressure, they use it in a strong or determined way, especially in order to produce a particular effect. (FORMAL) He exerted considerable influence on the thinking of the scientific community on these issues... 2 [VERB] V pron-refl If you exert yourself, you make a great physical or mental effort, or work hard to do something. Do not exert yourself unnecessarily. ● exertion [N-UNCOUNT] also N in pl He clearly found the physical exertion exhilarating... ex|er|cise bike (exercise bikes) [N-COUNT] An exercise bike is a special bicycle which does not move, so that you can exercise on it at home or at a gym. ex|er|cise book (exercise books) [N-COUNT] An exercise book is a small book that students use for writing in. (mainly BRIT; in AM, usually use notebook)...

exfoliate

ex|fo|li|ate /eksf'oʊlieɪt/ (exfoliates exfoliating exfoliated) [VERB] V n, also V To exfoliate your skin means to remove the dead cells from its surface using something such as a brush or a special cream. Exfoliate your back at least once a week. ● exfoliating [ADJ] ...a gentle exfoliating cream. ● exfoliation [N-UNCOUNT] There is little doubt that skin does benefit from exfoliation. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

exhibit

ex|hib|it /ɪgz'ɪbɪt/ (exhibits exhibiting exhibited) 1 [VERB] V n If someone or something shows a particular quality, feeling, or type of behaviour, you can say that they exhibit it. (FORMAL) He has exhibited symptoms of anxiety and overwhelming worry... = show 2 [VERB] usu passive, be V-ed When a painting, sculpture, or object of interest is exhibited, it is put in a public place such as a museum or art gallery so that people can come to look at it. You can also say that animals are exhibited in a zoo. His work was exhibited in the best galleries in America, Europe and Asia. ● exhibition [N-UNCOUNT] usu for/on N Five large pieces of the wall are currently on exhibition in London. 3 [VERB] V When artists exhibit, they show their work in public. By 1936 she was exhibiting at the Royal Academy. 4 [N-COUNT] An exhibit is a painting, sculpture, or object of interest that is displayed to the public in a museum or art gallery. Shona showed me round the exhibits. 5 [N-COUNT] An exhibit is a public display of paintings, sculpture, or objects of interest, for example in a museum or art gallery. (AM; in BRIT, use exhibition) ...an exhibit at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. 6 [N-COUNT] An exhibit is an object that a lawyer shows in court as evidence in a legal case. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

existential

ex|is|ten|tial /'egzɪst'enʃəl/ 1 [ADJ] ADJ n Existential means relating to human existence and experience. (FORMAL) Existential questions requiring religious answers still persist. 2 [ADJ] ADJ n You use existential to describe fear, anxiety, and other feelings that are caused by thinking about human existence and death. (FORMAL) `What if there's nothing left at all?' he cries, lost in some intense existential angst. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

existentialist

ex|is|ten|tial|ist /'egzɪst'enʃəlɪst/ (existentialists) 1 [N-COUNT] An existentialist is a person who agrees with the philosophy of existentialism. 2 [ADJ] If you describe a person or their philosophy as existentialist, you mean that their beliefs are based on existentialism. ...existentialist theories. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

exorbitant

ex|or|bi|tant /ɪgz'ɔːrbɪtənt/ [ADJ] If you describe something such as a price or fee as exorbitant, you are emphasizing that it is much greater than it should be. Exorbitant housing prices have created an acute shortage of affordable housing for the poor. = excessive ● exorbitantly [ADV] ...exorbitantly high salaries. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

exoticism

ex|oti|cism /ɪgz'ɒtɪsɪzəm/ [N-UNCOUNT] Exoticism is the quality of seeming unusual or interesting, usually because of associations with a distant country. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

exotic

ex|ot|ic /ɪgz'ɒtɪk/ [ADJ] Something that is exotic is unusual and interesting, usually because it comes from or is related to a distant country. ...brilliantly coloured, exotic flowers... She flits from one exotic location to another. ● exotically [ADV] ...exotically beautiful scenery. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

expansive

ex|pan|sive /ɪksp'ænsɪv/ 1 [ADJ] ADJ n If something is expansive, it covers or includes a large area or many things. (FORMAL) ...an expansive grassy play area... They have played an expansive style of rugby. 2 [ADJ] If you are expansive, you talk a lot, or are friendly or generous, because you are feeling happy and relaxed. He was becoming more expansive as he relaxed... ● expansively [ADV] usu ADV with v `I'm here to make them feel good,' he says expansively. 3 [ADJ] usu ADJ n If you describe something such as a period of time or an economy as expansive, you mean that it is associated with growth or expansion. An active and expansive market economy is a necessary condition for progress. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

expat

ex|pat /'ekspæt/ (expats) [N-COUNT] An expat is the same as an expatriate. (BRIT INFORMAL) el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

expectancy

ex|pec|tan|cy /ɪksp'ektənsi/ [N-UNCOUNT] Expectancy is the feeling or hope that something exciting, interesting, or good is about to happen. The supporters had a tremendous air of expectancy. see also life expectancy = anticipation ex|pec|tant /ɪksp'ektənt/ 1 [ADJ] If someone is expectant, they are excited because they think something interesting is about to happen. An expectant crowd gathered... She turned to me with an expectant look on her face. ● expectantly [ADV] ADV after v The others waited, looking at him expectantly. 2 [ADJ] ADJ n An expectant mother or father is someone whose baby is going to be born soon....

expedite

ex|pedite /'ekspɪdaɪt/ (expedites expediting expedited) [VERB] V n If you expedite something, you cause it to be done more quickly. (FORMAL) We tried to help you expedite your plans. = speed up el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

expendable

ex|pend|able /ɪksp'endəbəl/ [ADJ] If you regard someone or something as expendable, you think it is acceptable to get rid of them, abandon them, or allow them to be destroyed when they are no longer needed. (FORMAL) Once our services cease to be useful to them, we're expendable... During the recession, training budgets were seen as an expendable luxury. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

experienced

ex|pe|ri|enced /ɪksp'ɪəriənst/ [ADJ] oft ADJ in n/-ing If you describe someone as experienced, you mean that they have been doing a particular job or activity for a long time, and therefore know a lot about it or are very skilful at it. ...lawyers who are experienced in these matters... It's a team packed with experienced and mature professionals... el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

explicit

ex|plic|it /ɪkspl'ɪsɪt/ 1 [ADJ] Something that is explicit is expressed or shown clearly and openly, without any attempt to hide anything. ...sexually explicit scenes in films and books. ...explicit references to age in recruitment advertising. = overt ≠ implicit ● explicitly [ADV] ADV with v, ADV adj The play was the first commercially successful work dealing explicitly with homosexuality... ● explicitness [N-UNCOUNT] When the book was published, the energy and explicitness caught the popular imagination. 2 [ADJ] v-link ADJ, oft ADJ about n If you are explicit about something, you speak about it very openly and clearly. He was explicit about his intention to overhaul the party's internal voting system. ● explicitly [ADV] ADV with v She has been talking very explicitly about AIDS to these groups. expo /'eskpoʊ/ (expos) also Expo [N-COUNT] usu with supp, oft in names An expo is a large event where goods, especially industrial goods, are displayed. ...the 1995 Queensland Computer Expo. ex|po|nent /ɪksp'oʊnənt/ (exponents) 1 [N-COUNT] usu N of n An exponent of an idea, theory, or plan is a person who supports and explains it, and who tries to persuade other people that it is a good idea. (FORMAL) ...a leading exponent of test-tube baby techniques. = advocate 2 [N-COUNT] with supp An exponent of a particular skill or activity is a person who is good at it. ...the great exponent of expressionist dance, Kurt Jooss....

exploitative

ex|ploita|tive /ɪkspl'ɔɪtətɪv/ [ADJ] If you describe something as exploitative, you disapprove of it because it treats people unfairly by using their work or ideas for its own advantage, and giving them very little in return. (FORMAL) The expansion of Western capitalism incorporated the Third World into an exploitative world system. expo /'eskpoʊ/ (expos) also Expo [N-COUNT] usu with supp, oft in names An expo is a large event where goods, especially industrial goods, are displayed. ...the 1995 Queensland Computer Expo. ex|po|nent /ɪksp'oʊnənt/ (exponents) 1 [N-COUNT] usu N of n An exponent of an idea, theory, or plan is a person who supports and explains it, and who tries to persuade other people that it is a good idea. (FORMAL) ...a leading exponent of test-tube baby techniques. = advocate 2 [N-COUNT] with supp An exponent of a particular skill or activity is a person who is good at it. ...the great exponent of expressionist dance, Kurt Jooss....

expound

ex|pound /ɪksp'aʊnd/ (expounds expounding expounded) [VERB] V n If you expound an idea or opinion, you give a clear and detailed explanation of it. (FORMAL) Schmidt continued to expound his views on economics and politics. = explain [PHRASAL VERB] V P n Expound on means the same as expound. Lawrence expounded on the military aspects of guerrilla warfare. ex|po|sé /eksp'oʊzeɪ, AM 'ekspoʊz'eɪ/ (exposés) [N-COUNT] oft N of n An exposé is a film or piece of writing which reveals the truth about a situation or person, especially something involving shocking facts. The movie is an exposé of prison conditions in the South....

exponent

ex|po|nent /ɪksp'oʊnənt/ (exponents) 1 [N-COUNT] usu N of n An exponent of an idea, theory, or plan is a person who supports and explains it, and who tries to persuade other people that it is a good idea. (FORMAL) ...a leading exponent of test-tube baby techniques. = advocate 2 [N-COUNT] with supp An exponent of a particular skill or activity is a person who is good at it. ...the great exponent of expressionist dance, Kurt Jooss. expo /'eskpoʊ/ (expos) also Expo [N-COUNT] usu with supp, oft in names An expo is a large event where goods, especially industrial goods, are displayed. ...the 1995 Queensland Computer Expo. ex|po|nent /ɪksp'oʊnənt/ (exponents) 1 [N-COUNT] usu N of n An exponent of an idea, theory, or plan is a person who supports and explains it, and who tries to persuade other people that it is a good idea. (FORMAL) ...a leading exponent of test-tube baby techniques. = advocate 2 [N-COUNT] with supp An exponent of a particular skill or activity is a person who is good at it. ...the great exponent of expressionist dance, Kurt Jooss....

far-flung

far-flung (farther-flung farthest-flung) [ADJ] ADJ n Far-flung places are a very long distance away from where you are or from important places. Ferries are a lifeline to the far-flung corners of Scotland. ...one of the farthest-flung outposts of the old Roman Empire. = remote Far East [N-PROPER] the N The Far East is used to refer to all the countries of Eastern Asia, including China, Japan, North and South Korea, and Indochina. far-fetched [ADJ] If you describe a story or idea as far-fetched, you are criticizing it because you think it is unlikely to be true or practical. The storyline was too far-fetched and none of the actors was particularly good. = unrealistic...

exponential

ex|po|nen|tial /'ekspən'enʃəl/ [ADJ] usu ADJ n Exponential means growing or increasing very rapidly. (FORMAL) The policy tried to check the exponential growth of public expenditure. ● exponentially [ADV] ADV after v The quantity of chemical pollutants has increased exponentially. expo /'eskpoʊ/ (expos) also Expo [N-COUNT] usu with supp, oft in names An expo is a large event where goods, especially industrial goods, are displayed. ...the 1995 Queensland Computer Expo. ex|po|nent /ɪksp'oʊnənt/ (exponents) 1 [N-COUNT] usu N of n An exponent of an idea, theory, or plan is a person who supports and explains it, and who tries to persuade other people that it is a good idea. (FORMAL) ...a leading exponent of test-tube baby techniques. = advocate 2 [N-COUNT] with supp An exponent of a particular skill or activity is a person who is good at it. ...the great exponent of expressionist dance, Kurt Jooss....

exquisite

ex|quis|ite /ɪkskw'ɪzɪt, 'ekskwɪzɪt/ [ADJ] Something that is exquisite is extremely beautiful or pleasant, especially in a delicate way. The Indians brought in exquisite beadwork to sell... Mr Zhang's photography is exquisite. ● exquisitely [ADV] usu ADV adj/-ed ...exquisitely crafted dolls' houses. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

extant

ex|tant /ekst'ænt, 'ekstənt/ [ADJ] If something is extant, it is still in existence, in spite of being very old. (FORMAL) Two fourteenth-century manuscripts of this text are still extant... The oldest extant document is dated 1492. = surviving el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

extenuating

ex|tenu|at|ing /ɪkst'enjueɪtɪŋ/ [ADJ] usu ADJ n If you say that there are extenuating circumstances for a bad situation or wrong action, you mean that there are reasons or factors which partly excuse it. (FORMAL) The defendants decide to admit their guilt, but insist that there are extenuating circumstances. = mitigating el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

external

ex|ter|nal /ɪkst'ɜːrnəl/ 1 [ADJ] usu ADJ n External is used to indicate that something is on the outside of a surface or body, or that it exists, happens, or comes from outside. ...a much reduced heat loss through external walls. ...internal and external allergic reactions. ≠ internal ● externally [ADV] usu ADV with v Vitamins can be applied externally to the skin. ...externally imposed conditions. 2 [ADJ] ADJ n External means involving or intended for foreign countries. ...the commissioner for external affairs. ...Jamaica's external debt. ...the republic's external borders. ● externally [ADV] usu ADV after v ...protecting the value of the mark both internally and externally. 3 [ADJ] ADJ n External means happening or existing in the world in general and affecting you in some way. ...a reaction to external events... Such events occur only when the external conditions are favorable. 4 [ADJ] ADJ n External experts, for example external examiners, come into an organization from outside in order to do a particular job fairly and impartially, or to check that a particular job was done properly. (mainly BRIT) = outside ● externally [ADV] ADV -ed There must be externally moderated tests. 5 [PHRASE] v-link PHR, PHR after v If medicine is for external use, it is intended to be used only on the outside of your body, and not to be eaten or drunk. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

extinction

ex|tinc|tion /ɪkst'ɪŋkʃən/ 1 [N-UNCOUNT] The extinction of a species of animal or plant is the death of all its remaining living members. An operation is beginning to try to save a species of crocodile from extinction... 2 [N-UNCOUNT] If someone refers to the extinction of a way of life or type of activity, they mean that the way of life or activity stops existing. The loggers say their jobs are faced with extinction because of declining timber sales. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

extrapolate

ex|trapo|late /ɪkstr'æpəleɪt/ (extrapolates extrapolating extrapolated) [VERB] V from n, V n from n If you extrapolate from known facts, you use them as a basis for general statements about a situation or about what is likely to happen in the future. (FORMAL) Extrapolating from his American findings, he reckons about 80% of these deaths might be attributed to smoking... It is unhelpful to extrapolate general trends from one case. ● extrapolation [N-VAR] His estimate of half a million HIV positive cases was based on an extrapolation of the known incidence of the virus. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

extravagance

ex|trava|gance /ɪkstr'ævəgəns/ (extravagances) 1 [N-UNCOUNT] Extravagance is the spending of more money than is reasonable or than you can afford. ...gross mismanagement and financial extravagance... When the company went under, tales of his extravagance surged through the industry. 2 [N-COUNT] An extravagance is something that you spend money on but cannot really afford. Her only extravagance was horses... ex|trem|ism /ɪkstr'iːmɪzəm/ [N-UNCOUNT] Extremism is the behaviour or beliefs of extremists. Greater demands were being placed on the police by growing violence and left and right-wing extremism....

fantasize

fan|ta|size /f'æntəsaɪz/ (fantasizes fantasizing fantasized) in BRIT, also use fantasise 1 [VERB] V about n/-ing, V that If you fantasize about an event or situation that you would like to happen, you give yourself pleasure by imagining that it is happening, although it is untrue or unlikely to happen. I fantasised about writing music... Her husband died in 1967, although she fantasised that he was still alive. 2 [VERB] V, V about/over n, also V n If someone fantasizes, they try to excite themselves sexually by imagining a particular person or situation. Research has shown that men are likely to fantasize far more frequently than women... I tried to fantasize about Christine: those wondering blue eyes, that coppery red hair of hers. Far East [N-PROPER] the N The Far East is used to refer to all the countries of Eastern Asia, including China, Japan, North and South Korea, and Indochina. far-fetched [ADJ] If you describe a story or idea as far-fetched, you are criticizing it because you think it is unlikely to be true or practical. The storyline was too far-fetched and none of the actors was particularly good. = unrealistic...

extravagant

ex|trava|gant /ɪkstr'ævəgənt/ 1 [ADJ] Someone who is extravagant spends more money than they can afford or uses more of something than is reasonable. We are not extravagant; restaurant meals are a luxury and designer clothes are out... ● extravagantly [ADV] ADV with v Jeff had shopped extravagantly for presents for the whole family. 2 [ADJ] Something that is extravagant costs more money than you can afford or uses more of something than is reasonable. Her Aunt Sallie gave her an uncharacteristically extravagant gift... ...her extravagant lifestyle. ● extravagantly [ADV] ADV adj/-ed By supercar standards, though, it is not extravagantly priced for a beautifully engineered machine. 3 [ADJ] Extravagant behaviour is extreme behaviour that is often done for a particular effect. He was extravagant in his admiration of Hellas... They may make extravagant shows of generosity. ● extravagantly [ADV] ADV with v, ADV adj ...extravagantly bizarre clothes. 4 [ADJ] usu ADJ n Extravagant claims or ideas are unrealistic or impractical. They have to compete by adorning their products with ever more extravagant claims... Don't be afraid to consider apparently extravagant ideas. = wild ex|trem|ism /ɪkstr'iːmɪzəm/ [N-UNCOUNT] Extremism is the behaviour or beliefs of extremists. Greater demands were being placed on the police by growing violence and left and right-wing extremism....

extravaganza

ex|trava|gan|za /ɪkstr'ævəg'ænzə/ (extravaganzas) [N-COUNT] usu sing, with supp An extravaganza is a very elaborate and expensive show or performance. ...a magnificent firework extravaganza. ...an all-night musical extravaganza. = spectacular ex|trem|ism /ɪkstr'iːmɪzəm/ [N-UNCOUNT] Extremism is the behaviour or beliefs of extremists. Greater demands were being placed on the police by growing violence and left and right-wing extremism....

extremist

ex|trem|ist /ɪkstr'iːmɪst/ (extremists) 1 [N-COUNT] If you describe someone as an extremist, you disapprove of them because they try to bring about political change by using violent or extreme methods. The country needs a strong intelligence service to counter espionage and foreign extremists... A previously unknown extremist group has said it carried out Friday's bomb attack. ...a marked rise in extremist violence. 2 [ADJ] usu ADJ n If you say that someone has extremist views, you disapprove of them because they believe in bringing about change by using violent or extreme methods. ex|trem|ism /ɪkstr'iːmɪzəm/ [N-UNCOUNT] Extremism is the behaviour or beliefs of extremists. Greater demands were being placed on the police by growing violence and left and right-wing extremism....

exude

ex|ude /ɪgzj'uːd, AM -z'uːd/ (exudes exuding exuded) 1 [VERB] V n, V If someone exudes a quality or feeling, or if it exudes, they show that they have it to a great extent. (FORMAL) The guerrillas exude confidence. Every town, they say, is under their control... A dogged air of confidence exuded. = radiate 2 [VERB] V n, V from n If something exudes a liquid or smell or if a liquid or smell exudes from it, the liquid or smell comes out of it slowly and steadily. (FORMAL) Nearby was a factory which exuded a pungent smell. ...the fluid that exudes from the cane toad's back. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

eye popping

eye-popping adjective adjective BrE BrE / /ˈaɪ pɒpɪŋ / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈaɪ pɑːpɪŋ / / so exciting, large or impressive that it is very surprising or difficult to believe; amazing The company's stock-market value peaked last summer at an eye-popping $30 billion. The special effects in the film were truly eye-popping. More Like This Descriptive compound adjectives with parts of the body back-breaking , ear-splitting , eye-popping , gut-wrenching , hair-raising , lung-busting , jaw-dropping , mind-boggling , nail-biting , rib-tickling , side-splitting , spine-chilling , stomach-churning , toe-curling See worksheet....

eye sore

eye|sore /'aɪsɔːr/ (eyesores) [N-COUNT] usu sing You describe a building or place as an eyesore when it is extremely ugly and you dislike it or disapprove of it. Poverty leads to slums, which are an eyesore and a health hazard. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

facilitation

facilitation noun noun BrE BrE / /fəˌsɪlɪˈteɪʃn / / ; NAmE NAmE / /fəˌsɪlɪˈteɪʃn / / [ uncountable , singular ] ( formal ) the process or fact of making something possible or easier the facilitation of international communication...

factoid

factoid noun noun BrE BrE / /ˈfæktɔɪd / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈfæktɔɪd / / 1 something that is widely accepted as a fact, although it is probably not true 2 a small piece of interesting information, especially about something that is not very important Here's a pop factoid for you....

facile

fac|ile /f'æsaɪl, AM -səl/ [ADJ] If you describe someone's arguments or suggestions as facile, you are criticizing them because their ideas are too simple and indicate a lack of careful, intelligent thinking. The subject of racism is admittedly too complex for facile summarization. = simplistic fac|ile /f'æsaɪl, AM -səl/ [ADJ] If you describe someone's arguments or suggestions as facile, you are criticizing them because their ideas are too simple and indicate a lack of careful, intelligent thinking. The subject of racism is admittedly too complex for facile summarization. = simplistic...

fad

fad /f'æd/ (fads) [N-COUNT] You use fad to refer to an activity or topic of interest that is very popular for a short time, but which people become bored with very quickly. Hamnett does not believe environmental concern is a passing fad. = craze fade out 1 [PHRASAL VERB] V P, also V P of n When something fades out, it slowly becomes less noticeable or less important until it disappears completely. He thought her campaign would probably fade out soon in any case. = fizzle out 2 [PHRASAL VERB] V P, also V P of n When light, an image, or a sound fades out, it disappears after gradually becoming weaker. You'll need to be able to project two images onto the screen as the new one fades in and the old image fades out....

fatality

fa|tal|ity /fət'ælɪti/ (fatalities) [N-COUNT] A fatality is a death caused by an accident or by violence. (FORMAL) Drunk driving fatalities have declined more than 10 percent over the past 10 years....

faint

faint /f'eɪnt/ (fainter faintest faints fainting fainted) 1 [ADJ] usu ADJ n A faint sound, colour, mark, feeling, or quality has very little strength or intensity. He became aware of the soft, faint sounds of water dripping... He could see faint lines in her face... There was still the faint hope deep within him that she might never need to know. ● faintly [ADV] usu ADV after v, also ADV adj He was already asleep in the bed, which smelled faintly of mildew... She felt faintly ridiculous. = slightly 2 [ADJ] ADJ n A faint attempt at something is one that is made without proper effort and with little enthusiasm. Caroline made a faint attempt at a laugh... A faint smile crossed the Monsignor's face and faded quickly... ● faintly [ADV] ADV after v John smiled faintly and shook his head. 3 [VERB] V, V If you faint, you lose consciousness for a short time, especially because you are hungry, or because of pain, heat, or shock. She suddenly fell forward on to the table and fainted... I thought he'd faint when I kissed him. = pass out [N-COUNT] oft in a N Faint is also a noun. She slumped to the ground in a faint. 4 [ADJ] v-link ADJ Someone who is faint feels weak and unsteady as if they are about to lose consciousness. Other signs of angina are nausea, sweating, feeling faint and shortness of breath. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

faintly

faintly adverb adverb BrE BrE / /ˈfeɪntli / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈfeɪntli / / 1 in a way that cannot be clearly seen, heard or smelt She could faintly hear music playing. It smelled faintly of smoke. a faintly glowing fire 2 slightly; to a small degree He looked faintly embarrassed. The whole thing was faintly ridiculous. 3 in a way that is not enthusiastic She smiled faintly....

falafel

falafel noun ( also felafel ) noun BrE BrE / /fəˈlæfl / / ; NAmE NAmE / /fəˈlæfl / / [ uncountable , countable ] ( pl. falafel , falafels ) Savoury dishes a Middle Eastern dish consisting of small balls formed from crushed chickpeas, usually eaten with flat bread; one of these balls See related entries: Savoury dishes Word Origin from colloquial Egyptian Arabic falāfil, plural of Arabic fulful, filfil'pepper' ....

fall out

fall out 1 [PHRASAL VERB] V P If something such as a person's hair or a tooth falls out, it comes out. Her hair started falling out as a result of radiation treatment. 2 [PHRASAL VERB] V P with n, pl-n V P If you fall out with someone, you have an argument and stop being friendly with them. You can also say that two people fall out. She fell out with her husband... Mum and I used to fall out a lot. 3 see also fallout el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

fallen

fall|en /f'ɔːlən/ 1 Fallen is the past participle of fall. 2 [N-PLURAL] the N The fallen are soldiers who have died in battle. (LITERARY) Work began on establishing the cemeteries as permanent memorials to the fallen. = dead 3 see also fall el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

falcon

fal|con /f'ɔːlkən, f'ælk-/ (falcons) [N-COUNT] A falcon is a bird of prey that can be trained to hunt other birds and animals. fal|con|er /f'ɔːlkənər, f'ælk-/ (falconers) [N-COUNT] A falconer is someone who trains and uses falcons for hunting....

fallacy

fal|la|cy /f'æləsi/ (fallacies) [N-VAR] oft N that, N of n/-ing A fallacy is an idea which many people believe to be true, but which is in fact false because it is based on incorrect information or reasoning. It's a fallacy that the affluent give relatively more to charity than the less prosperous... el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

famine

fam|ine /f'æmɪn/ (famines) [N-VAR] Famine is a situation in which large numbers of people have little or no food, and many of them die. Thousands of refugees are trapped by war, drought and famine... The civil war is obstructing distribution of famine relief by aid agencies....

fancy

fancy adjective adjective BrE BrE / /ˈfænsi / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈfænsi / / ( fancier , fanciest ) 1 unusually complicated, often in an unnecessary way; intended to impress other people a kitchen full of fancy gadgets They added a lot of fancy footwork to the dance. He's always using fancy legal words. opposite simple 2 [ only before noun ] ( especially of small things ) with a lot of decorations or bright colours fancy goods ( = things sold as gifts or for decoration ) He was the fanciest dresser in the room. compare plain 3 ( sometimes disapproving ) expensive or connected with an expensive way of life fancy restaurants with fancy prices Don't come back with any fancy ideas. 4 ( North American English ) ( of food ) of high quality Word Origin late Middle English: contraction of fantasy. fancy noun noun BrE BrE / /ˈfænsi / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈfænsi / / ( pl. fanc ies ) 1 [ countable , uncountable ] something that you imagine; your imagination synonym fantasy night-time fancies that disappear in the morning a child's wild flights of fancy 2 [ singular ] a feeling that you would like to have or to do something synonym whim She said she wanted a dog but it was only a passing fancy. 3 [ countable , usually plural ] ( British English ) a small decorated cake Word Origin late Middle English: contraction of fantasy. Idioms as/whenever, etc. the fancy takes you as/whenever, etc. you feel like doing something We bought a camper van so we could go away whenever the fancy took us. catch/take somebody's fancy to attract or please somebody She looked through the hotel advertisements until one of them caught her fancy. take a fancy to somebody/something ( especially British English ) to start liking somebody/something, often without an obvious reason He's taken quite a fancy to his next-door neighbour. tickle somebody's fancy ( informal ) to please or amuse somebody See if any of these tickle your fancy. If you see something that tickles your fancy, I'll buy it for you....

fang

fang /f'æŋ/ (fangs) [N-COUNT] usu pl Fangs are the two long, sharp, upper teeth that some animals have. The cobra sank its venomous fangs into his hand. Far East [N-PROPER] the N The Far East is used to refer to all the countries of Eastern Asia, including China, Japan, North and South Korea, and Indochina. far-fetched [ADJ] If you describe a story or idea as far-fetched, you are criticizing it because you think it is unlikely to be true or practical. The storyline was too far-fetched and none of the actors was particularly good. = unrealistic...

farce

farce /f'ɑːrs/ (farces) 1 [N-COUNT] A farce is a humorous play in which the characters become involved in complicated and unlikely situations. 2 [N-UNCOUNT] Farce is the style of acting and writing that is typical of farces. The plot often borders on farce. 3 [N-SING] also no det If you describe a situation or event as a farce, you mean that it is so disorganized or ridiculous that you cannot take it seriously. The elections have been reduced to a farce. Far East [N-PROPER] the N The Far East is used to refer to all the countries of Eastern Asia, including China, Japan, North and South Korea, and Indochina. far-fetched [ADJ] If you describe a story or idea as far-fetched, you are criticizing it because you think it is unlikely to be true or practical. The storyline was too far-fetched and none of the actors was particularly good. = unrealistic...

fart

fart /f'ɑːrt/ (farts farting farted) [VERB] V If someone farts, air is forced out of their body through their anus. (INFORMAL, RUDE) He'd been farting all night. [N-COUNT] Fart is also a noun. ...a loud fart....

fascism

fas|cism /f'æʃɪzəm/ [N-UNCOUNT] Fascism is a set of right-wing political beliefs that includes strong control of society and the economy by the state, a powerful role for the armed forces, and the stopping of political opposition....

fastidious

fas|tidi|ous /fæst'ɪdiəs/ 1 [ADJ] If you say that someone is fastidious, you mean that they pay great attention to detail because they like everything to be very neat, accurate, and in good order. ...her fastidious attention to historical detail... He was fastidious about his appearance. = meticulous 2 [ADJ] If you say that someone is fastidious, you mean that they are concerned about keeping clean to an extent that many people consider to be excessive. Be particularly fastidious about washing your hands before touching food. ● fastidiously [ADV] Ernestine kept her daughters fastidiously clean....

fathom

fath|om /f'æðəm/ (fathoms fathoming fathomed) 1 [N-COUNT] oft num N A fathom is a measurement of 1.8 metres or 6 feet, used when referring to the depth of water. We sailed into the bay and dropped anchor in five fathoms of water. 2 [VERB] no cont, oft with brd-neg, V wh, V n If you cannot fathom something, you are unable to understand it, although you think carefully about it. I really couldn't fathom what Steiner was talking about... Jeremy's passive attitude was hard to fathom. [PHRASAL VERB] V P wh, V P n (not pron), also V n P Fathom out means the same as fathom. We're trying to fathom out what's going on... I'm having difficulty using my video editing equipment and can't fathom out the various connections....

faux pas

faux pas /f'oʊ p'ɑː/ (faux pas) [N-COUNT] A faux pas is a socially embarrassing action or mistake. (FORMAL) It was not long before I realised the enormity of my faux pas. = gaffe, blunder...

fauna

fau|na /f'ɔːnə/ (faunas) [N-COUNT-COLL] Animals, especially the animals in a particular area, can be referred to as fauna. (TECHNICAL) ...the flora and fauna of the African jungle... Brackish waters generally support only a small range of faunas....

faze

faze /f'eɪz/ (fazes fazed) [VERB] no cont, oft with brd-neg, V n If something fazes you, it surprises, shocks, or frightens you, so that you do not know what to do. (INFORMAL) Big concert halls do not faze Melanie... fel|low feel|ing also fellow-feeling [N-UNCOUNT] Fellow feeling is sympathy and friendship that exists between people who have shared similar experiences or difficulties. fel|low|ship /f'eloʊʃɪp/ (fellowships) 1 [N-COUNT] with supp A fellowship is a group of people that join together for a common purpose or interest. ...the National Schizophrenia Fellowship... At Merlin's instigation, Arthur founds the Fellowship of the Round Table. 2 [N-COUNT] A fellowship at a university is a post which involves research work. He was offered a research fellowship at Clare College. 3 [N-UNCOUNT] Fellowship is a feeling of friendship that people have when they are talking or doing something together and sharing their experiences. ...a sense of community and fellowship. = companionship...

fable

fa|ble /f'eɪbəl/ (fables) 1 [N-VAR] A fable is a story which teaches a moral lesson. Fables sometimes have animals as the main characters. ...the fable of the tortoise and the hare... Each tale has the timeless quality of fable. 2 [N-VAR] You can describe a statement or explanation that is untrue but that many people believe as fable. Is reincarnation fact or fable? ...little-known horticultural facts and fables. = myth el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

facade

fa|cade /fəs'ɑːd/ (facades) also façade 1 [N-COUNT] The facade of a building, especially a large one, is its front wall or the wall that faces the street. 2 [N-SING] oft N of n A facade is an outward appearance which is deliberately false and gives you a wrong impression about someone or something. They hid the troubles plaguing their marriage behind a facade of family togetherness. = show, semblance el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

facilitator

fa|cili|ta|tor /fəs'ɪlɪteɪtər/ (facilitators) [N-COUNT] A facilitator is a person or organization that helps another person or organization to do or to achieve a particular thing. (FORMAL) el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

familial

fa|mil|ial /fəm'ɪliəl/ [ADJ] usu ADJ n Familial means relating to families in general, or typical of a family. (FORMAL) Gerard also took on wider familial responsibilities.

fatal

fa|tal /f'eɪtəl/ 1 [ADJ] A fatal action has very undesirable effects. It would clearly be fatal for Europe to quarrel seriously with America... He made the fatal mistake of compromising early... It would deal a fatal blow to his fading chances of success. ● fatally [ADV] ADV with v Failure now could fatally damage his chances in the future. 2 [ADJ] A fatal accident or illness causes someone's death. A hospital spokesman said she had suffered a fatal heart attack. ● fatally [ADV] usu ADV with v The dead soldier is reported to have been fatally wounded in the chest....

fatalistic

fa|tal|is|tic /f'eɪtəl'ɪstɪk/ [ADJ] oft ADJ about n If someone is fatalistic about something, especially an unpleasant event or situation, they feel that they cannot change or control it, and therefore that there is no purpose in trying. People we spoke to today were really rather fatalistic about what's going to happen. = resigned...

fatigue

fa|tigue /fət'iːg/ (fatigues) 1 [N-UNCOUNT] Fatigue is a feeling of extreme physical or mental tiredness. She continued to have severe stomach cramps, aches, fatigue, and depression... Clarke says his team could have lasted another 15 days before fatigue would have begun to take a toll. 2 [N-UNCOUNT] with supp, usu n N You can say that people are suffering from a particular kind of fatigue when they have been doing something for a long time and feel they can no longer continue to do it. ...compassion fatigue caused by endless TV and celebrity appeals. ...the result of four months of battle fatigue. 3 [N-PLURAL] Fatigues are clothes that soldiers wear when they are fighting or when they are doing routine jobs. He never expected to return home wearing US combat fatigues. 4 [N-UNCOUNT] usu n N Fatigue in metal or wood is a weakness in it that is caused by repeated stress. Fatigue can cause the metal or wood to break. The problem turned out to be metal fatigue in the fuselage. fa|tigued /fət'iːgd/ [ADJ] usu v-link ADJ If you are feeling fatigued, you are suffering from extreme physical or mental tiredness. fa|tigu|ing /fət'iːgɪŋ/ [ADJ] usu v-link ADJ Something that is fatiguing makes you feel extremely physically or mentally tired. Jet travel is undeniably fatiguing....

feast

feast /f'iːst/ (feasts feasting feasted) 1 [N-COUNT] A feast is a large and special meal. Lunch was a feast of meat and vegetables, cheese, yoghurt and fruit, with unlimited wine... The fruit was often served at wedding feasts... = banquet 2 [VERB] V on n If you feast on a particular food, you eat a large amount of it with great enjoyment. They feasted well into the afternoon on mutton and corn stew... 3 [VERB] V If you feast, you take part in a feast. Only a few feet away, their captors feasted in the castle's banqueting hall. ● feasting [N-UNCOUNT] The feasting, drinking, dancing and revelry continued for several days. 4 [N-COUNT] A feast is a day or time of the year when a special religious celebration takes place. The Jewish feast of Passover began last night... = festival 5 [PHRASE] V inflects If you feast your eyes on something, you look at it for a long time with great attention because you find it very attractive. She stood feasting her eyes on the view. fel|low feel|ing also fellow-feeling [N-UNCOUNT] Fellow feeling is sympathy and friendship that exists between people who have shared similar experiences or difficulties. fel|low|ship /f'eloʊʃɪp/ (fellowships) 1 [N-COUNT] with supp A fellowship is a group of people that join together for a common purpose or interest. ...the National Schizophrenia Fellowship... At Merlin's instigation, Arthur founds the Fellowship of the Round Table. 2 [N-COUNT] A fellowship at a university is a post which involves research work. He was offered a research fellowship at Clare College. 3 [N-UNCOUNT] Fellowship is a feeling of friendship that people have when they are talking or doing something together and sharing their experiences. ...a sense of community and fellowship. = companionship...

feat

feat /f'iːt/ (feats) [N-COUNT] If you refer to an action, or the result of an action, as a feat, you admire it because it is an impressive and difficult achievement. A racing car is an extraordinary feat of engineering. fel|low feel|ing also fellow-feeling [N-UNCOUNT] Fellow feeling is sympathy and friendship that exists between people who have shared similar experiences or difficulties. fel|low|ship /f'eloʊʃɪp/ (fellowships) 1 [N-COUNT] with supp A fellowship is a group of people that join together for a common purpose or interest. ...the National Schizophrenia Fellowship... At Merlin's instigation, Arthur founds the Fellowship of the Round Table. 2 [N-COUNT] A fellowship at a university is a post which involves research work. He was offered a research fellowship at Clare College. 3 [N-UNCOUNT] Fellowship is a feeling of friendship that people have when they are talking or doing something together and sharing their experiences. ...a sense of community and fellowship. = companionship...

feeble

fee|ble /f'iːbəl/ (feebler feeblest) 1 [ADJ] If you describe someone or something as feeble, you mean that they are weak. He told them he was old and feeble and was not able to walk so far... The feeble light of a tin lamp. ● feebly [ADV] ADV with v His left hand moved feebly at his side. 2 [ADJ] If you describe something that someone says as feeble, you mean that it is not very good or convincing. This is a particularly feeble argument. = weak ● feebly [ADV] ADV with v I said `Sorry', very feebly, feeling rather embarrassed. = weakly feel for 1 [PHRASAL VERB] V P n, V adv/prep P n If you feel for something, for example in the dark, you try to find it by moving your hand around until you touch it. I felt for my wallet and papers in my inside pocket... I slumped down in my usual armchair and felt around for the newspaper. 2 [PHRASAL VERB] V P n If you feel for someone, you have sympathy for them. She cried on the phone and was very upset and I really felt for her....

feign

feign /f'eɪn/ (feigns feigning feigned) [VERB] V n, V-ed, also V to-inf If someone feigns a particular feeling, attitude, or physical condition, they try to make other people think that they have it or are experiencing it, although this is not true. (FORMAL) One morning, I didn't want to go to school, and decided to feign illness... `Giles phoned this morning,' Mirella said with feigned indifference. = affect feel for 1 [PHRASAL VERB] V P n, V adv/prep P n If you feel for something, for example in the dark, you try to find it by moving your hand around until you touch it. I felt for my wallet and papers in my inside pocket... I slumped down in my usual armchair and felt around for the newspaper. 2 [PHRASAL VERB] V P n If you feel for someone, you have sympathy for them. She cried on the phone and was very upset and I really felt for her....

felony

felo|ny /f'eləni/ (felonies) [N-COUNT] In countries where the legal system distinguishes between very serious crimes and less serious ones, a felony is a very serious crime such as armed robbery. (LEGAL) He pleaded guilty to six felonies. fel|low feel|ing also fellow-feeling [N-UNCOUNT] Fellow feeling is sympathy and friendship that exists between people who have shared similar experiences or difficulties. fel|low|ship /f'eloʊʃɪp/ (fellowships) 1 [N-COUNT] with supp A fellowship is a group of people that join together for a common purpose or interest. ...the National Schizophrenia Fellowship... At Merlin's instigation, Arthur founds the Fellowship of the Round Table. 2 [N-COUNT] A fellowship at a university is a post which involves research work. He was offered a research fellowship at Clare College. 3 [N-UNCOUNT] Fellowship is a feeling of friendship that people have when they are talking or doing something together and sharing their experiences. ...a sense of community and fellowship. = companionship...

fetishistic

fetishistic adjective adjective BrE BrE / /ˌfetɪˈʃɪstɪk / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˌfetɪˈʃɪstɪk / / 1 ( usually disapproving ) spending too much time doing or thinking about a particular thing or thinking that it is much more important than it really is a fetishistic attachment to monarchy 2 connected with sexual fetishism 3 involving the worship of an object because it is believed to have magic powers Colonialists dismissed local rituals as 'fetishistic'....

felt

felt /f'elt/ 1 Felt is the past tense and past participle of feel. 2 [N-UNCOUNT] Felt is a thick cloth made from wool or other fibres packed tightly together. fel|low feel|ing also fellow-feeling [N-UNCOUNT] Fellow feeling is sympathy and friendship that exists between people who have shared similar experiences or difficulties. fel|low|ship /f'eloʊʃɪp/ (fellowships) 1 [N-COUNT] with supp A fellowship is a group of people that join together for a common purpose or interest. ...the National Schizophrenia Fellowship... At Merlin's instigation, Arthur founds the Fellowship of the Round Table. 2 [N-COUNT] A fellowship at a university is a post which involves research work. He was offered a research fellowship at Clare College. 3 [N-UNCOUNT] Fellowship is a feeling of friendship that people have when they are talking or doing something together and sharing their experiences. ...a sense of community and fellowship. = companionship...

fella

fel|la /f'elə/ (fellas) also feller [N-COUNT] usu with supp You can refer to a man as a fella. (INFORMAL) He's an intelligent man and a nice fella... = fellow feel for 1 [PHRASAL VERB] V P n, V adv/prep P n If you feel for something, for example in the dark, you try to find it by moving your hand around until you touch it. I felt for my wallet and papers in my inside pocket... I slumped down in my usual armchair and felt around for the newspaper. 2 [PHRASAL VERB] V P n If you feel for someone, you have sympathy for them. She cried on the phone and was very upset and I really felt for her....

fencer

fencer noun noun BrE BrE / /ˈfensə(r) / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈfensər / / Combat sports a person who takes part in the sport of fencing See related entries: Combat sports...

ferment

fer|ment (ferments fermenting fermented) The noun is pronounced /f'ɜːrment/ The verb is pronounced /fərm'ent/ 1 [N-UNCOUNT] Ferment is excitement and trouble caused by change or uncertainty. The whole country has been in a state of political ferment for some months. = turmoil 2 [VERB] V, V n If a food, drink, or other natural substance ferments, or if it is fermented, a chemical change takes place in it so that alcohol is produced. This process forms part of the production of alcoholic drinks such as wine and beer. The dried grapes are allowed to ferment until there is no sugar left and the wine is dry... To serve the needs of bakers, manufacturers ferment the yeast to produce a more concentrated product. ● fermentation [N-UNCOUNT] Yeast is essential for the fermentation that produces alcohol. fel|low feel|ing also fellow-feeling [N-UNCOUNT] Fellow feeling is sympathy and friendship that exists between people who have shared similar experiences or difficulties. fel|low|ship /f'eloʊʃɪp/ (fellowships) 1 [N-COUNT] with supp A fellowship is a group of people that join together for a common purpose or interest. ...the National Schizophrenia Fellowship... At Merlin's instigation, Arthur founds the Fellowship of the Round Table. 2 [N-COUNT] A fellowship at a university is a post which involves research work. He was offered a research fellowship at Clare College. 3 [N-UNCOUNT] Fellowship is a feeling of friendship that people have when they are talking or doing something together and sharing their experiences. ...a sense of community and fellowship. = companionship...

fester

fes|ter /f'estər/ (festers festering festered) 1 [VERB] V, V-ing If you say that a situation, problem, or feeling is festering, you disapprove of the fact that it is being allowed to grow more unpleasant or full of anger, because it is not being properly recognized or dealt with. Resentments are starting to fester. ...festering wounds of the legacy of British imperialism. 2 [VERB] V, V-ing If a wound festers, it becomes infected, making it worse. The wound is festering, and gangrene has set in... Many of the children are afflicted by festering sores. fes|tive /f'estɪv/ 1 [ADJ] usu ADJ n Something that is festive is special, colourful, or exciting, especially because of a holiday or celebration. The town has a festive holiday atmosphere... 2 [ADJ] ADJ n Festive means relating to a holiday or celebration, especially Christmas. The factory was due to shut for the festive period......

festive

fes|tive /f'estɪv/ 1 [ADJ] usu ADJ n Something that is festive is special, colourful, or exciting, especially because of a holiday or celebration. The town has a festive holiday atmosphere... 2 [ADJ] ADJ n Festive means relating to a holiday or celebration, especially Christmas. The factory was due to shut for the festive period... fes|tive sea|son [N-SING] usu the N People sometimes refer to the Christmas period as the festive season. = Christmas...

festivity

fes|tiv|ity /fest'ɪvɪti/ (festivities) 1 [N-UNCOUNT] Festivity is the celebration of something in a happy way. There was a general air of festivity and abandon. 2 [N-COUNT] usu pl Festivities are events that are organized in order to celebrate something. The festivities included a huge display of fireworks. fel|low feel|ing also fellow-feeling [N-UNCOUNT] Fellow feeling is sympathy and friendship that exists between people who have shared similar experiences or difficulties. fel|low|ship /f'eloʊʃɪp/ (fellowships) 1 [N-COUNT] with supp A fellowship is a group of people that join together for a common purpose or interest. ...the National Schizophrenia Fellowship... At Merlin's instigation, Arthur founds the Fellowship of the Round Table. 2 [N-COUNT] A fellowship at a university is a post which involves research work. He was offered a research fellowship at Clare College. 3 [N-UNCOUNT] Fellowship is a feeling of friendship that people have when they are talking or doing something together and sharing their experiences. ...a sense of community and fellowship. = companionship...

fete

fete /f'eɪt/ (fetes feting feted) also fête 1 [N-COUNT] A fete is an event that is usually held outdoors and includes competitions, entertainments, and the selling of used and home-made goods. 2 [VERB] usu passive, be V-ed If someone is feted, they are celebrated, welcomed, or admired by the public. Anouska Hempel, the British dress designer, was feted in New York this week at a spectacular dinner... fel|low feel|ing also fellow-feeling [N-UNCOUNT] Fellow feeling is sympathy and friendship that exists between people who have shared similar experiences or difficulties. fel|low|ship /f'eloʊʃɪp/ (fellowships) 1 [N-COUNT] with supp A fellowship is a group of people that join together for a common purpose or interest. ...the National Schizophrenia Fellowship... At Merlin's instigation, Arthur founds the Fellowship of the Round Table. 2 [N-COUNT] A fellowship at a university is a post which involves research work. He was offered a research fellowship at Clare College. 3 [N-UNCOUNT] Fellowship is a feeling of friendship that people have when they are talking or doing something together and sharing their experiences. ...a sense of community and fellowship. = companionship...

gilded

gilded adjective adjective BrE BrE / /ˈɡɪldɪd / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈɡɪldɪd / / [ only before noun ] 1 covered with a thin layer of gold or gold paint a gilded picture frame 2 ( literary ) rich and belonging to the upper classes the gilded youth ( = rich, upper-class young people ) of the Edwardian era...

fetish

fet|ish /f'etɪʃ/ (fetishes) 1 [N-COUNT] oft n N If someone has a fetish, they have an unusually strong liking or need for a particular object or activity, as a way of getting sexual pleasure. ...rubber and leather fetishes. ...fetish wear for sexual arousal. 2 [N-COUNT] usu with supp If you say that someone has a fetish for doing something, you disapprove of the fact that they do it very often or enjoy it very much. What began as a postwar fetish for sunbathing is rapidly developing into a world health crisis. 3 [N-COUNT] In some cultures, a fetish is an object, especially a carved object, which is considered to have religious importance or magical powers. fel|low feel|ing also fellow-feeling [N-UNCOUNT] Fellow feeling is sympathy and friendship that exists between people who have shared similar experiences or difficulties. fel|low|ship /f'eloʊʃɪp/ (fellowships) 1 [N-COUNT] with supp A fellowship is a group of people that join together for a common purpose or interest. ...the National Schizophrenia Fellowship... At Merlin's instigation, Arthur founds the Fellowship of the Round Table. 2 [N-COUNT] A fellowship at a university is a post which involves research work. He was offered a research fellowship at Clare College. 3 [N-UNCOUNT] Fellowship is a feeling of friendship that people have when they are talking or doing something together and sharing their experiences. ...a sense of community and fellowship. = companionship...

feces

fe|ces /f'iːsiːz/ see faeces fel|low feel|ing also fellow-feeling [N-UNCOUNT] Fellow feeling is sympathy and friendship that exists between people who have shared similar experiences or difficulties. fel|low|ship /f'eloʊʃɪp/ (fellowships) 1 [N-COUNT] with supp A fellowship is a group of people that join together for a common purpose or interest. ...the National Schizophrenia Fellowship... At Merlin's instigation, Arthur founds the Fellowship of the Round Table. 2 [N-COUNT] A fellowship at a university is a post which involves research work. He was offered a research fellowship at Clare College. 3 [N-UNCOUNT] Fellowship is a feeling of friendship that people have when they are talking or doing something together and sharing their experiences. ...a sense of community and fellowship. = companionship...

fedora

fe|do|ra /fɪd'ɔːrə/ (fedoras) [N-COUNT] A fedora is a type of hat which has a brim and is made from a soft material such as velvet. feel for 1 [PHRASAL VERB] V P n, V adv/prep P n If you feel for something, for example in the dark, you try to find it by moving your hand around until you touch it. I felt for my wallet and papers in my inside pocket... I slumped down in my usual armchair and felt around for the newspaper. 2 [PHRASAL VERB] V P n If you feel for someone, you have sympathy for them. She cried on the phone and was very upset and I really felt for her....

ferocious

fe|ro|cious /fər'oʊʃəs/ 1 [ADJ] A ferocious animal, person, or action is very fierce and violent. ...a ferocious guard-dog... The police had had to deal with some of the most ferocious violence ever seen on the streets of London. = fierce 2 [ADJ] A ferocious war, argument, or other form of conflict involves a great deal of anger, bitterness, and determination. Fighting has been ferocious... A ferocious battle to select a new parliamentary candidate is in progress. 3 [ADJ] If you describe actions or feelings as ferocious, you mean that they are intense and determined. Lindbergh was startled at the ferocious depth of anti-British feeling. fel|low feel|ing also fellow-feeling [N-UNCOUNT] Fellow feeling is sympathy and friendship that exists between people who have shared similar experiences or difficulties. fel|low|ship /f'eloʊʃɪp/ (fellowships) 1 [N-COUNT] with supp A fellowship is a group of people that join together for a common purpose or interest. ...the National Schizophrenia Fellowship... At Merlin's instigation, Arthur founds the Fellowship of the Round Table. 2 [N-COUNT] A fellowship at a university is a post which involves research work. He was offered a research fellowship at Clare College. 3 [N-UNCOUNT] Fellowship is a feeling of friendship that people have when they are talking or doing something together and sharing their experiences. ...a sense of community and fellowship. = companionship...

fetus

fe|tus /f'iːtəs/ see foetus fel|low feel|ing also fellow-feeling [N-UNCOUNT] Fellow feeling is sympathy and friendship that exists between people who have shared similar experiences or difficulties. fel|low|ship /f'eloʊʃɪp/ (fellowships) 1 [N-COUNT] with supp A fellowship is a group of people that join together for a common purpose or interest. ...the National Schizophrenia Fellowship... At Merlin's instigation, Arthur founds the Fellowship of the Round Table. 2 [N-COUNT] A fellowship at a university is a post which involves research work. He was offered a research fellowship at Clare College. 3 [N-UNCOUNT] Fellowship is a feeling of friendship that people have when they are talking or doing something together and sharing their experiences. ...a sense of community and fellowship. = companionship...

fictitious

fic|ti|tious /fɪkt'ɪʃəs/ 1 [ADJ] usu ADJ n Fictitious is used to describe something that is false or does not exist, although some people claim that it is true or exists. We're interested in the source of these fictitious rumours. 2 [ADJ] A fictitious character, thing, or event occurs in a story, play, or film but never really existed or happened. The persons and events portrayed in this production are fictitious. = fictional, imaginary fiddle around 1 [PHRASAL VERB] V P with n, also V P If you fiddle around or fiddle about with a machine, you do things to it to try and make it work. Two of them got out to fiddle around with the engine. = tinker 2 [PHRASAL VERB] V P P n If you say that someone is fiddling around with or fiddling about with something, you mean that they are changing it in a way that you disapprove of. Right now in Congress, they're fiddling around with the budget and so on......

fixation

fixa|tion /fɪks'eɪʃən/ (fixations) [N-COUNT] usu sing, usu with supp If you accuse a person of having a fixation on something or someone, you mean they think about a particular subject or person to an extreme and excessive degree. The country's fixation on the war may delay a serious examination of domestic needs. fix on [PHRASAL VERB] V P n If you fix on a particular thing, you decide that it is the one you want and will have. The Vietnamese government has fixed on May 19th to celebrate his anniversary. fix up 1 [PHRASAL VERB] V P n (not pron), also V n P If you fix something up, you arrange it. I fixed up an appointment to see her... 2 [PHRASAL VERB] V P n (not pron), also V n P If you fix something up, you do work that is necessary in order to make it more suitable or attractive. I've fixed up Matthew's old room... = do up 3 [PHRASAL VERB] V n P with n, also V n P If you fix someone up with something they need, you provide it for them. He was fixed up with a job. fix|at|ed /fɪks'eɪtɪd, f'ɪkseɪtɪd/ [ADJ] v-link ADJ on/with/by n If you accuse someone of being fixated on a particular thing, you mean that they think about it to an extreme and excessive degree. But by then the administration wasn't paying attention, for top officials were fixated on Kuwait....

fiddle

fid|dle /f'ɪdəl/ (fiddles fiddling fiddled) 1 [VERB] V with n If you fiddle with an object, you keep moving it or touching it with your fingers. Harriet fiddled with a pen on the desk. 2 [VERB] V with n If you fiddle with something, you change it in minor ways. She told Whistler that his portrait of her was finished and to stop fiddling with it. 3 [VERB] V with n If you fiddle with a machine, you adjust it. He turned on the radio and fiddled with the knob until he got a talk show. 4 [VERB] V n If someone fiddles financial documents, they alter them dishonestly so that they get money for themselves. (BRIT INFORMAL) He's been fiddling the books... 5 [N-VAR] oft the N Some people call violins fiddles, especially when they are used to play folk music. Hardy as a young man played the fiddle at local dances. = violin 6 [PHRASE] v-link PHR Someone who is as fit as a fiddle is very healthy and full of energy. I'm as fit as a fiddle-with energy to spare. 7 [PHRASE] V inflects, oft PHR to n If you play second fiddle to someone, your position is less important than theirs in something that you are doing together. She hated the thought of playing second fiddle to Rose. fiddle around 1 [PHRASAL VERB] V P with n, also V P If you fiddle around or fiddle about with a machine, you do things to it to try and make it work. Two of them got out to fiddle around with the engine. = tinker 2 [PHRASAL VERB] V P P n If you say that someone is fiddling around with or fiddling about with something, you mean that they are changing it in a way that you disapprove of. Right now in Congress, they're fiddling around with the budget and so on......

filing

filing noun noun BrE BrE / /ˈfaɪlɪŋ / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈfaɪlɪŋ / / 1 [ uncountable ] the act of putting documents, letters, etc. into a file 2 [ countable ] ( especially North American English ) something that is placed in an official record a bankruptcy filing 3 filings [ plural ] very small pieces of metal, made when a larger piece of metal is filed iron filings...

filter out

filter out [PHRASAL VERB] V P n (not pron), V n P of/from n, also V n P To filter out something from a substance or from light means to remove it by passing the substance or light through something acting as a filter. Children should have glasses which filter out UV rays... Plants and trees filter carbon dioxide out of the air and produce oxygen. filter out [PHRASAL VERB] V P n (not pron), V n P of/from n, also V n P To filter out something from a substance or from light means to remove it by passing the substance or light through something acting as a filter. Children should have glasses which filter out UV rays... Plants and trees filter carbon dioxide out of the air and produce oxygen. fil|ter tip (filter tips) [N-COUNT] A filter tip is a small device at the end of a cigarette that reduces the amount of dangerous substances that pass into the smoker's body. Filter tips are cigarettes that are manufactured with these devices....

filth

filth /f'ɪlθ/ 1 [N-UNCOUNT] Filth is a disgusting amount of dirt. Thousands of tons of filth and sewage pour into the Ganges every day. = muck 2 [N-UNCOUNT] People refer to words or pictures, usually ones relating to sex, as filth when they think they are very disgusting and rude. The dialogue was all filth and innuendo. filter out [PHRASAL VERB] V P n (not pron), V n P of/from n, also V n P To filter out something from a substance or from light means to remove it by passing the substance or light through something acting as a filter. Children should have glasses which filter out UV rays... Plants and trees filter carbon dioxide out of the air and produce oxygen. fil|ter tip (filter tips) [N-COUNT] A filter tip is a small device at the end of a cigarette that reduces the amount of dangerous substances that pass into the smoker's body. Filter tips are cigarettes that are manufactured with these devices....

fine-tune

fine-tune (fine-tunes fine-tuning fine-tuned) [VERB] V n If you fine-tune something, you make very small and precise changes to it in order to make it as successful or effective as it possibly can be. We do not try to fine-tune the economy on the basis of short-term predictions... ● fine-tuning [N-UNCOUNT] There's a lot of fine-tuning to be done yet. fin|ger|ing /f'ɪŋgərɪŋ/ [N-UNCOUNT] Fingering is the method of using the most suitable finger to play each note when you are playing a musical instrument, especially the piano. finger|mark /f'ɪŋgərmɑːrk/ (fingermarks) [N-COUNT] A fingermark is a mark which is made when someone puts a dirty or oily finger onto a clean surface. finger|nail /f'ɪŋgərneɪl/ (fingernails) also finger-nail [N-COUNT] Your fingernails are the thin hard areas at the end of each of your fingers. = nail finger|print /f'ɪŋgərprɪnt/ (fingerprints fingerprinting fingerprinted) 1 [N-COUNT] usu pl Fingerprints are marks made by a person's fingers which show the lines on the skin. Everyone's fingerprints are different, so they can be used to identify criminals. The detective discovered no fewer than 35 fingerprints. [PHRASE] V inflects If the police take someone's fingerprints, they make that person press their fingers onto a pad covered with ink, and then onto paper, so that they know what that person's fingerprints look like. They were photographed and had their fingerprints taken. 2 [VERB] usu passive, be V-ed If someone is fingerprinted, the police take their fingerprints. He took her to jail, where she was fingerprinted and booked....

fingerprint

finger|print /f'ɪŋgərprɪnt/ (fingerprints fingerprinting fingerprinted) 1 [N-COUNT] usu pl Fingerprints are marks made by a person's fingers which show the lines on the skin. Everyone's fingerprints are different, so they can be used to identify criminals. The detective discovered no fewer than 35 fingerprints. [PHRASE] V inflects If the police take someone's fingerprints, they make that person press their fingers onto a pad covered with ink, and then onto paper, so that they know what that person's fingerprints look like. They were photographed and had their fingerprints taken. 2 [VERB] usu passive, be V-ed If someone is fingerprinted, the police take their fingerprints. He took her to jail, where she was fingerprinted and booked....

fireplace

fire|place /f'aɪ'ərpleɪs/ (fireplaces) [N-COUNT] In a room, the fireplace is the place where a fire can be lit and the area on the wall and floor surrounding this place. fire|place /f'aɪ'ərpleɪs/ (fireplaces) [N-COUNT] In a room, the fireplace is the place where a fire can be lit and the area on the wall and floor surrounding this place....

fixated

fix|at|ed /fɪks'eɪtɪd, f'ɪkseɪtɪd/ [ADJ] v-link ADJ on/with/by n If you accuse someone of being fixated on a particular thing, you mean that they think about it to an extreme and excessive degree. But by then the administration wasn't paying attention, for top officials were fixated on Kuwait. fix on [PHRASAL VERB] V P n If you fix on a particular thing, you decide that it is the one you want and will have. The Vietnamese government has fixed on May 19th to celebrate his anniversary. fix up 1 [PHRASAL VERB] V P n (not pron), also V n P If you fix something up, you arrange it. I fixed up an appointment to see her... 2 [PHRASAL VERB] V P n (not pron), also V n P If you fix something up, you do work that is necessary in order to make it more suitable or attractive. I've fixed up Matthew's old room... = do up 3 [PHRASAL VERB] V n P with n, also V n P If you fix someone up with something they need, you provide it for them. He was fixed up with a job. fix|at|ed /fɪks'eɪtɪd, f'ɪkseɪtɪd/ [ADJ] v-link ADJ on/with/by n If you accuse someone of being fixated on a particular thing, you mean that they think about it to an extreme and excessive degree. But by then the administration wasn't paying attention, for top officials were fixated on Kuwait....

fizzle

fiz|zle /f'ɪzəl/ (fizzles fizzling fizzled) [VERB] V into/to n, also V If something fizzles, it ends in a weak or disappointing way after starting off strongly. Our relationship fizzled into nothing. [PHRASAL VERB] V P Fizzle out means the same as fizzle. The railway strike fizzled out on its second day as drivers returned to work. = peter out fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

fidelity

fi|del|ity /fɪd'elɪti/ 1 [N-UNCOUNT] oft N to n Fidelity is loyalty to a person, organization, or set of beliefs. (FORMAL) I had to promise fidelity to the Queen. = loyalty ≠ disloyalty 2 [N-UNCOUNT] Fidelity is being loyal to your husband, wife, or partner by not having a sexual relationship with anyone else. Wanting fidelity implies you're thinking about a major relationship. ≠ infidelity 3 [N-UNCOUNT] with poss, oft N to n The fidelity of something such as a report or translation is the degree to which it is accurate. (FORMAL) ...the fidelity of these early documents. = accuracy...

fiduciary

fi|du|ci|ary /fɪd'uːʃiəri/ [ADJ] usu ADJ n Fiduciary is used to talk about things which relate to a trust, or to the people who are in charge of a trust. (LEGAL) They have a case against their directors for breach of fiduciary duty....

finalist

fi|nal|ist /f'aɪnəlɪst/ (finalists) [N-COUNT] A finalist is someone who reaches the last stages of a competition or tournament by doing well or winning in its earlier stages. The twelve finalists will be listed in the Sunday Times. fi|nan|cial ad|vis|er (financial advisers) [N-COUNT] A financial adviser is someone whose job it is to advise people about financial products and services. (BUSINESS) fi|nan|cial con|sult|ant (financial consultants) [N-COUNT] A financial consultant is the same as a financial adviser. (BUSINESS) fi|nan|cial ser|vices The form financial service is used as a modifier. [N-PLURAL] A company or organization that provides financial services is able to help you do things such as make investments or buy a pension or mortgage. (BUSINESS) ...voluntary organisations that provide independent advice to consumers on financial services. ...financial service companies. fi|nan|cial year (financial years) [N-COUNT] usu sing, usu with supp A financial year is a period of twelve months, used by government, business, and other organizations in order to calculate their budgets, profits, and losses. (BRIT BUSINESS; in AM, use fiscal year) ...33,000 possible job losses in the coming financial year. = fiscal year...

finesse

fi|nesse /fɪn'es/ [N-UNCOUNT] If you do something with finesse, you do it with great skill and style. ...handling momentous diplomatic challenges with tact and finesse.

finite

fi|nite /f'aɪnaɪt/ 1 [ADJ] Something that is finite has a definite fixed size or extent. (FORMAL) Only a finite number of situations can arise... The fossil fuels (coal and oil) are finite resources. ≠ infinite 2 [ADJ] usu ADJ n A finite clause is a clause based on a verb group which indicates tense, such as `went', `is waiting', or `will be found', rather than on an infinitive or a participle. Compare non-finite. fir tree (fir trees) [N-COUNT] A fir tree is the same as a fir....

flabby

flab|by /fl'æbi/ (flabbier flabbiest) 1 [ADJ] Flabby people are rather fat, with loose flesh over their bodies. This exercise is brilliant for getting rid of flabby tums. 2 [ADJ] If you describe something as flabby, you are criticizing it for being disorganized or wasteful. You hear talk about American business being flabby. ≠ lean fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

flail

flail /fl'eɪl/ (flails flailing flailed) [VERB] V, V n If your arms or legs flail or if you flail them about, they wave about in an energetic but uncontrolled way. His arms were flailing in all directions... He gave a choked cry, flailed his arms wildly for a moment, and then went over the edge. [PHRASAL VERB] V P Flail around means the same as flail. He starting flailing around and hitting Vincent in the chest. flak jack|et (flak jackets) [N-COUNT] A flak jacket is a thick sleeveless jacket that soldiers and policemen sometimes wear to protect themselves against bullets....

flake

flake /fl'eɪk/ (flakes flaking flaked) 1 [N-COUNT] usu with supp, oft N of n, n N A flake is a small thin piece of something, especially one that has broken off a larger piece. Large flakes of snow began swiftly to fall. ...oat flakes. 2 [VERB] V If something such as paint flakes, small thin pieces of it come off. They can see how its colours have faded and where paint has flaked. [PHRASAL VERB] V P Flake off means the same as flake. The surface corrosion was worst where the paint had flaked off. flak jack|et (flak jackets) [N-COUNT] A flak jacket is a thick sleeveless jacket that soldiers and policemen sometimes wear to protect themselves against bullets....

flamboyant

flam|boy|ant /flæmb'ɔɪənt/ [ADJ] If you say that someone or something is flamboyant, you mean that they are very noticeable, stylish, and exciting. Freddie Mercury was a flamboyant star of the British hard rock scene. ● flamboyance [N-UNCOUNT] Campese was his usual mixture of flamboyance and flair. fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

flank

flank /fl'æŋk/ (flanks flanking flanked) 1 [N-COUNT] An animal's flank is its side, between the ribs and the hip. He put his hand on the dog's flank. 2 [N-COUNT] A flank of an army or navy force is one side of it when it is organized for battle. The assault element, led by Captain Ramirez, opened up from their right flank. 3 [N-COUNT] usu N of n The side of anything large can be referred to as its flank. They continued along the flank of the mountain. 4 [VERB] be V-ed by n, V n If something is flanked by things, it has them on both sides of it, or sometimes on one side of it. The altar was flanked by two Christmas trees... Bookcases flank the bed... flap /fl'æp/ (flaps flapping flapped) 1 [VERB] V, V n If something such as a piece of cloth or paper flaps or if you flap it, it moves quickly up and down or from side to side. Grey sheets flapped on the clothes line... They would flap bath towels from their balconies as they chatted. = flutter 2 [VERB] V pl-n, V If a bird or insect flaps its wings or if its wings flap, the wings move quickly up and down. The bird flapped its wings furiously... A pigeon emerges, wings flapping noisily, from the tower. 3 [VERB] V n If you flap your arms, you move them quickly up and down as if they were the wings of a bird. ...a kid running and flapping her arms. 4 [N-COUNT] usu with supp A flap of cloth or skin, for example, is a flat piece of it that can move freely up and down or from side to side because it is held or attached by only one edge. He drew back the tent flap and strode out into the blizzard. ...a loose flap of skin. 5 [N-COUNT] A flap on the wing of an aircraft is an area along the edge of the wing that can be raised or lowered to control the movement of the aircraft. ...the sudden slowing as the flaps were lowered....

flare

flare /fl'eər/ (flares flaring flared) 1 [N-COUNT] A flare is a small device that produces a bright flame. Flares are used as signals, for example on ships. ...a ship which had fired a distress flare. 2 [VERB] V If a fire flares, the flames suddenly become larger. Camp fires flared like beacons in the dark. [PHRASAL VERB] V P Flare up means the same as flare. Don't spill too much fat on the barbecue as it could flare up. 3 [VERB] V If something such as trouble, violence, or conflict flares, it starts or becomes more violent. Even as the President appealed for calm, trouble flared in several American cities. [PHRASAL VERB] V P Flare up means the same as flare. Dozens of people were injured as fighting flared up. 4 [VERB] V If people's tempers flare, they get angry. Tempers flared and harsh words were exchanged. 5 [VERB] V, V n If someone's nostrils flare or if they flare them, their nostrils become wider, often because the person is angry or upset. I turned to Jacky, my nostrils flaring in disgust... He stuck out his tongue and flared his nostrils. 6 [VERB] V If something such as a dress flares, it spreads outwards at one end to form a wide shape. ...a simple black dress, cut to flare from the hips. 7 [N-PLURAL] also a pair of N Flares are trousers that are very wide at the bottom. 8 see also flared flare up [PHRASAL VERB] V P If a disease or injury flares up, it suddenly returns or becomes painful again. Students often find that their acne flares up before and during exams. see also flare 2, 3, flare-up...

flatter

flat|ter /fl'ætər/ (flatters flattering flattered) 1 [VERB] V n, V n into -ing If someone flatters you, they praise you in an exaggerated way that is not sincere, because they want to please you or to persuade you to do something. I knew she was just flattering me. ...a story of how the president flattered and feted him into taking his side. 2 [VERB] V pron-refl that, V pron-refl If you flatter yourself that something good is the case, you believe that it is true, although others may disagree. If someone says to you `you're flattering yourself' or `don't flatter yourself', they mean that they disagree with your good opinion of yourself. I flatter myself that this campaign will put an end to the war... You flatter yourself. Why would we go to such ludicrous lengths? 3 [VERB] V n, V If something flatters you, it makes you appear more attractive. Orange and khaki flatter those with golden skin tones... My philosophy of fashion is that I like to make clothes that flatter. 4 see also flat, flattered, fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

flattering

flat|ter|ing /fl'ætərɪŋ/ 1 [ADJ] If something is flattering, it makes you appear more attractive. Some styles are so flattering that they instantly become classics... It wasn't a very flattering photograph. 2 [ADJ] If someone's remarks are flattering, they praise you and say nice things about you. There were pleasant and flattering obituaries about him... fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

flawless

flaw|less /fl'ɔːləs/ [ADJ] If you say that something or someone is flawless, you mean that they are extremely good and that there are no faults or problems with them. She attributed her flawless complexion to the moisturiser she used... Discovery's takeoff this morning from Cape Canaveral was flawless. = perfect ● flawlessly [ADV] ADV with v, ADV adj Each stage of the battle was carried off flawlessly. fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

flay

flay /fl'eɪ/ (flays flaying flayed) [VERB] V n When someone flays an animal or person, they remove their skin, usually when they are dead. They had to flay the great, white, fleecy animals and cut them up for food... flea mar|ket (flea markets) [N-COUNT] A flea market is an outdoor market which sells cheap used goods and sometimes also very old furniture....

flagrant

fla|grant /fl'eɪgrənt/ [ADJ] ADJ n You can use flagrant to describe an action, situation, or someone's behaviour that you find extremely bad or shocking in a very obvious way. The judge called the decision `a flagrant violation of international law'... = blatant ● flagrantly [ADV] usu ADV with v, also ADV adj It is a situation where basic human rights are being flagrantly abused. fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

flea

flea /fl'iː/ (fleas) [N-COUNT] A flea is a very small jumping insect that has no wings and feeds on the blood of humans or animals. flea mar|ket (flea markets) [N-COUNT] A flea market is an outdoor market which sells cheap used goods and sometimes also very old furniture....

gimme

gim|me /g'ɪmi/ Gimme is sometimes used in written English to represent the words `give me' when they are pronounced informally. `Gimme a break, kid! You know how much those things cost?'

fleeting

fleet|ing /fl'iːtɪŋ/ [ADJ] usu ADJ n Fleeting is used to describe something which lasts only for a very short time. The girls caught only a fleeting glimpse of the driver... She wondered for a fleeting moment if he would put his arm around her. = brief ● fleetingly [ADV] usu ADV with v, also ADV adj A smile passed fleetingly across his face... fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

flesh out

flesh out [PHRASAL VERB] V P n (not pron), also V n P If you flesh out something such as a story or plan, you add details and more information to it. He talked with him for an hour and a half, fleshing out the details of his original five-minute account... fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

flick

flick /fl'ɪk/ (flicks flicking flicked) 1 [VERB] V prep/adv, V n prep/adv, also V, V n If something flicks in a particular direction, or if someone flicks it, it moves with a short, sudden movement. His tongue flicked across his lips... He flicked his cigarette out of the window. [N-COUNT] oft a N of n Flick is also a noun. ...a flick of a paintbrush. 2 [VERB] V n from/off n, V n away If you flick something away, or off something else, you remove it with a quick movement of your hand or finger. Shirley flicked a speck of fluff from the sleeve of her black suit... Alan stretched out his hand and flicked the letter away. 3 [VERB] V n, V n prep If you flick something such as a whip or a towel, or flick something with it, you hold one end of it and move your hand quickly up and then forward, so that the other end moves. He helped her up before flicking the reins... She sighed and flicked a dishcloth at the counter... [N-COUNT] Flick is also a noun. ...a flick of the whip. 4 [VERB] V n, V n with on/off If you flick a switch, or flick an electrical appliance on or off, you press the switch sharply so that it moves into a different position and works the equipment. He flicked a light-switch on the wall beside the door... Sam was flicking a flashlight on and off... 5 [VERB] V through n If you flick through a book or magazine, you turn its pages quickly, for example to get a general idea of its contents or to look for a particular item. If you flick through television channels, you continually change channels very quickly, for example using a remote control. She was flicking through some magazines on a table... [N-SING] a N Flick is also a noun. I thought I'd have a quick flick through some recent issues. flick-knife (flick-knives) also flick knife [N-COUNT] A flick-knife is a knife with a blade in the handle that springs out when a button is pressed. (BRIT; in AM, use switchblade)...

flimsy

flim|sy /fl'ɪmzi/ (flimsier flimsiest) 1 [ADJ] A flimsy object is weak because it is made of a weak material, or is badly made. ...a flimsy wooden door. ...a pair of flimsy shoes. 2 [ADJ] Flimsy cloth or clothing is thin and does not give much protection. ...a very flimsy pink chiffon nightgown. 3 [ADJ] If you describe something such as evidence or an excuse as flimsy, you mean that it is not very good or convincing. The charges were based on very flimsy evidence. = weak, unconvincing flow chart (flow charts) [N-COUNT] A flow chart or a flow diagram is a diagram which represents the sequence of actions in a particular process or activity. ♦♦ flow|er /fl'aʊ'ər/ (flowers flowering flowered) 1 [N-COUNT] A flower is the part of a plant which is often brightly coloured, grows at the end of a stem, and only survives for a short time. Each individual flower is tiny. ...large, purplish-blue flowers. 2 [N-COUNT] usu pl A flower is a stem of a plant that has one or more flowers on it and has been picked, usually with others, for example to give as a present or to put in a vase. ...a bunch of flowers sent by a new admirer. 3 [N-COUNT] usu pl Flowers are small plants that are grown for their flowers as opposed to trees, shrubs, and vegetables. ...a lawned area surrounded by plants and flowers... The flower garden will be ablaze with colour every day. 4 [VERB] V When a plant or tree flowers, its flowers appear and open. Several of these rhododendrons will flower this year for the first time. 5 [VERB] V When something flowers, for example a political movement or a relationship, it gets stronger and more successful. Their relationship flowered. = blossom 6 [PHRASE] usu v-link PHR, PHR after v When a plant is in flower or when it has come into flower, its flowers have appeared and opened. 7 see also flowered...

fling

fling /fl'ɪŋ/ (flings flinging flung) 1 [VERB] V n prep/adv, V n prep/adv If you fling something somewhere, you throw it there using a lot of force. The woman flung the cup at him... He once seized my knitting, flinging it across the room. 2 [VERB] V pron-refl prep/adv If you fling yourself somewhere, you move or jump there suddenly and with a lot of force. He flung himself to the floor. 3 [VERB] V n prep/adv If you fling a part of your body in a particular direction, especially your arms or head, you move it there suddenly. She flung her arms around my neck and kissed me. = throw 4 [VERB] V n prep/adv If you fling someone to the ground, you push them very roughly so that they fall over. The youth got him by the front of his shirt and flung him to the ground. 5 [VERB] V n prep/adv If you fling something into a particular place or position, you put it there in a quick or angry way. Peter flung his shoes into the corner... 6 [VERB] V pron-refl into n If you fling yourself into a particular activity, you do it with a lot of enthusiasm and energy. She flung herself into her career... 7 [N-COUNT] oft N with n If two people have a fling, they have a brief sexual relationship. (INFORMAL) She claims she had a brief fling with him 30 years ago. = affair 8 Fling can be used instead of `throw' in many expressions that usually contain `throw'. flow chart (flow charts) [N-COUNT] A flow chart or a flow diagram is a diagram which represents the sequence of actions in a particular process or activity. ♦♦ flow|er /fl'aʊ'ər/ (flowers flowering flowered) 1 [N-COUNT] A flower is the part of a plant which is often brightly coloured, grows at the end of a stem, and only survives for a short time. Each individual flower is tiny. ...large, purplish-blue flowers. 2 [N-COUNT] usu pl A flower is a stem of a plant that has one or more flowers on it and has been picked, usually with others, for example to give as a present or to put in a vase. ...a bunch of flowers sent by a new admirer. 3 [N-COUNT] usu pl Flowers are small plants that are grown for their flowers as opposed to trees, shrubs, and vegetables. ...a lawned area surrounded by plants and flowers... The flower garden will be ablaze with colour every day. 4 [VERB] V When a plant or tree flowers, its flowers appear and open. Several of these rhododendrons will flower this year for the first time. 5 [VERB] V When something flowers, for example a political movement or a relationship, it gets stronger and more successful. Their relationship flowered. = blossom 6 [PHRASE] usu v-link PHR, PHR after v When a plant is in flower or when it has come into flower, its flowers have appeared and opened. 7 see also flowered...

foghorn

fog|horn /f'ɒghɔːrn/ (foghorns) also fog horn [N-COUNT] A foghorn is a piece of equipment that makes a loud noise and is used to warn ships about the position of land and other ships in fog. fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

folklore

folk|lore /f'oʊklɔːr/ [N-UNCOUNT] Folklore is the traditional stories, customs, and habits of a particular community or nation. In Chinese folklore the bat is an emblem of good fortune. folk song (folk songs) also folksong [N-COUNT] A folk song is a traditional song that is typical of a particular community or nation....

flirt

flirt /fl'ɜːrt/ (flirts flirting flirted) 1 [V-RECIP] V with n, V (non-recip) If you flirt with someone, you behave as if you are sexually attracted to them, in a playful or not very serious way. Dad's flirting with all the ladies, or they're all flirting with him, as usual... He flirts outrageously. ● flirtation [N-VAR] oft N with n ...a professor who has a flirtation with a student... She was aware of his attempts at flirtation. 2 [N-COUNT] Someone who is a flirt likes to flirt a lot. 3 [VERB] V with n If you flirt with the idea of something, you consider it but do not do anything about it. Di Pietro, 45, has been flirting with the idea of a political career. ● flirtation [N-VAR] ...the party's brief flirtation with economic liberalism. flow chart (flow charts) [N-COUNT] A flow chart or a flow diagram is a diagram which represents the sequence of actions in a particular process or activity. ♦♦ flow|er /fl'aʊ'ər/ (flowers flowering flowered) 1 [N-COUNT] A flower is the part of a plant which is often brightly coloured, grows at the end of a stem, and only survives for a short time. Each individual flower is tiny. ...large, purplish-blue flowers. 2 [N-COUNT] usu pl A flower is a stem of a plant that has one or more flowers on it and has been picked, usually with others, for example to give as a present or to put in a vase. ...a bunch of flowers sent by a new admirer. 3 [N-COUNT] usu pl Flowers are small plants that are grown for their flowers as opposed to trees, shrubs, and vegetables. ...a lawned area surrounded by plants and flowers... The flower garden will be ablaze with colour every day. 4 [VERB] V When a plant or tree flowers, its flowers appear and open. Several of these rhododendrons will flower this year for the first time. 5 [VERB] V When something flowers, for example a political movement or a relationship, it gets stronger and more successful. Their relationship flowered. = blossom 6 [PHRASE] usu v-link PHR, PHR after v When a plant is in flower or when it has come into flower, its flowers have appeared and opened. 7 see also flowered...

flock

flock /fl'ɒk/ (flocks flocking flocked) 1 [N-COUNT-COLL] usu N of n A flock of birds, sheep, or goats is a group of them. They kept a small flock of sheep... They are gregarious birds and feed in flocks. 2 [N-COUNT-COLL] N of n You can refer to a group of people or things as a flock of them to emphasize that there are a lot of them. These cases all attracted flocks of famous writers. ...his flock of advisers. 3 [VERB] V to n, V to-inf, V prep/adv If people flock to a particular place or event, a very large number of them go there, usually because it is pleasant or interesting. The public have flocked to the show... The criticisms will not stop people flocking to see the film... His greatest wish must be that huge crowds flock into the beautiful park. float around [PHRASAL VERB] V P A rumour or idea that is floating around is often heard or talked about. There are still some unfounded fears floating around out there about cancer being contagious....

floe

floe /fl'oʊ/ see ice floe flog /fl'ɒg/ (flogs flogging flogged) 1 [VERB] V n If someone tries to flog something, they try to sell it. (BRIT INFORMAL) They are trying to flog their house. 2 [VERB] be V-ed, V n If someone is flogged, they are hit very hard with a whip or stick as a punishment. In these places people starved, were flogged, were clubbed to death... Flog them soundly. ● flogging [N-VAR] He was sentenced to a flogging and life imprisonment... 3 [PHRASE] V inflects If you say that someone is flogging a dead horse, you mean that they are trying to achieve something impossible. (INFORMAL)...

flop

flop /fl'ɒp/ (flops flopping flopped) 1 [VERB] V prep/adv, V prep/adv If you flop into a chair, for example, you sit down suddenly and heavily because you are so tired. Bunbury flopped down upon the bed and rested his tired feet... She flopped, exhausted, on to a sofa. = collapse 2 [VERB] V prep/adv, V prep/adv If something flops onto something else, it falls there heavily or untidily. The briefcase flopped onto the desk... His hair flopped over his left eye. 3 [N-COUNT] oft adj N If something is a flop, it is completely unsuccessful. (INFORMAL) It is the public who decide whether a film is a hit or a flop. = failure 4 [VERB] V If something flops, it is completely unsuccessful. (INFORMAL) The film flopped badly at the box office. flow chart (flow charts) [N-COUNT] A flow chart or a flow diagram is a diagram which represents the sequence of actions in a particular process or activity. ♦♦ flow|er /fl'aʊ'ər/ (flowers flowering flowered) 1 [N-COUNT] A flower is the part of a plant which is often brightly coloured, grows at the end of a stem, and only survives for a short time. Each individual flower is tiny. ...large, purplish-blue flowers. 2 [N-COUNT] usu pl A flower is a stem of a plant that has one or more flowers on it and has been picked, usually with others, for example to give as a present or to put in a vase. ...a bunch of flowers sent by a new admirer. 3 [N-COUNT] usu pl Flowers are small plants that are grown for their flowers as opposed to trees, shrubs, and vegetables. ...a lawned area surrounded by plants and flowers... The flower garden will be ablaze with colour every day. 4 [VERB] V When a plant or tree flowers, its flowers appear and open. Several of these rhododendrons will flower this year for the first time. 5 [VERB] V When something flowers, for example a political movement or a relationship, it gets stronger and more successful. Their relationship flowered. = blossom 6 [PHRASE] usu v-link PHR, PHR after v When a plant is in flower or when it has come into flower, its flowers have appeared and opened. 7 see also flowered...

floppy

flop|py /fl'ɒpi/ [ADJ] Something that is floppy is loose rather than stiff, and tends to hang downwards. ...the girl with the floppy hat and glasses. flop|py disk (floppy disks) in BRIT, also use floppy disc [N-COUNT] A floppy disk is a small magnetic disk that is used for storing computer data and programs. Floppy disks are used especially with personal computers....

flounce

flounce /fl'aʊns/ (flounces flouncing flounced) 1 [VERB] V adv/prep, V If you flounce somewhere, you walk there quickly with exaggerated movements, in a way that shows you are annoyed or upset. She flounced out of my room in a huff... She will flounce and argue when asked to leave the room. 2 [N-COUNT] A flounce is a piece of cloth that has been sewn into folds and put around the edge of something, for example a skirt, dress, tablecloth, or curtain. ...a gown with a flounce round the hem. = frill flow chart (flow charts) [N-COUNT] A flow chart or a flow diagram is a diagram which represents the sequence of actions in a particular process or activity. ♦♦ flow|er /fl'aʊ'ər/ (flowers flowering flowered) 1 [N-COUNT] A flower is the part of a plant which is often brightly coloured, grows at the end of a stem, and only survives for a short time. Each individual flower is tiny. ...large, purplish-blue flowers. 2 [N-COUNT] usu pl A flower is a stem of a plant that has one or more flowers on it and has been picked, usually with others, for example to give as a present or to put in a vase. ...a bunch of flowers sent by a new admirer. 3 [N-COUNT] usu pl Flowers are small plants that are grown for their flowers as opposed to trees, shrubs, and vegetables. ...a lawned area surrounded by plants and flowers... The flower garden will be ablaze with colour every day. 4 [VERB] V When a plant or tree flowers, its flowers appear and open. Several of these rhododendrons will flower this year for the first time. 5 [VERB] V When something flowers, for example a political movement or a relationship, it gets stronger and more successful. Their relationship flowered. = blossom 6 [PHRASE] usu v-link PHR, PHR after v When a plant is in flower or when it has come into flower, its flowers have appeared and opened. 7 see also flowered...

follow up

follow up [PHRASAL VERB] V P n (not pron), V n P If you follow up something that has been said, suggested, or discovered, you try to find out more about it or take action about it. State security police are following up several leads... An officer took a statement from me, but no one's bothered to follow it up. see also follow 5, follow-up = investigate fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

gigantic

gi|gan|tic /dʒaɪg'æntɪk/ [ADJ] If you describe something as gigantic, you are emphasizing that it is extremely large in size, amount, or degree. ...gigantic rocks... A gigantic task of national reconstruction awaits us. = colossal...

flounder

floun|der /fl'aʊndər/ (flounders floundering floundered) 1 [VERB] V, V If something is floundering, it has many problems and may soon fail completely. What a pity that his career was left to flounder... The economy was floundering. = founder 2 [VERB] V, V around If you say that someone is floundering, you are criticizing them for not making decisions or for not knowing what to say or do. Right now, you've got a president who's floundering, trying to find some way to get his campaign jump-started... I know that you're floundering around, trying to grasp at any straw. = dither 3 [VERB] V adv/prep, also V If you flounder in water or mud, you move in an uncontrolled way, trying not to sink. Three men were floundering about in the water. flow chart (flow charts) [N-COUNT] A flow chart or a flow diagram is a diagram which represents the sequence of actions in a particular process or activity. ♦♦ flow|er /fl'aʊ'ər/ (flowers flowering flowered) 1 [N-COUNT] A flower is the part of a plant which is often brightly coloured, grows at the end of a stem, and only survives for a short time. Each individual flower is tiny. ...large, purplish-blue flowers. 2 [N-COUNT] usu pl A flower is a stem of a plant that has one or more flowers on it and has been picked, usually with others, for example to give as a present or to put in a vase. ...a bunch of flowers sent by a new admirer. 3 [N-COUNT] usu pl Flowers are small plants that are grown for their flowers as opposed to trees, shrubs, and vegetables. ...a lawned area surrounded by plants and flowers... The flower garden will be ablaze with colour every day. 4 [VERB] V When a plant or tree flowers, its flowers appear and open. Several of these rhododendrons will flower this year for the first time. 5 [VERB] V When something flowers, for example a political movement or a relationship, it gets stronger and more successful. Their relationship flowered. = blossom 6 [PHRASE] usu v-link PHR, PHR after v When a plant is in flower or when it has come into flower, its flowers have appeared and opened. 7 see also flowered...

flourish

flour|ish /fl'ʌrɪʃ, AM fl'ɜːr-/ (flourishes flourishing flourished) 1 [VERB] V If something flourishes, it is successful, active, or common, and developing quickly and strongly. Business flourished and within six months they were earning 18,000 roubles a day... = thrive ≠ flounder ● flourishing [ADJ] London quickly became a flourishing port. 2 [VERB] V If a plant or animal flourishes, it grows well or is healthy because the conditions are right for it. The plant flourishes particularly well in slightly harsher climes. = thrive ● flourishing [ADJ] Britain has the largest and most flourishing fox population in Europe. 3 [VERB] V n If you flourish an object, you wave it about in a way that makes people notice it. He flourished the glass to emphasize the point. [N-COUNT] Flourish is also a noun. He took his peaked cap from under his arm with a flourish and pulled it low over his eyes. 4 [N-COUNT] If you do something with a flourish, you do in a showy way so that people notice it. flow chart (flow charts) [N-COUNT] A flow chart or a flow diagram is a diagram which represents the sequence of actions in a particular process or activity. ♦♦ flow|er /fl'aʊ'ər/ (flowers flowering flowered) 1 [N-COUNT] A flower is the part of a plant which is often brightly coloured, grows at the end of a stem, and only survives for a short time. Each individual flower is tiny. ...large, purplish-blue flowers. 2 [N-COUNT] usu pl A flower is a stem of a plant that has one or more flowers on it and has been picked, usually with others, for example to give as a present or to put in a vase. ...a bunch of flowers sent by a new admirer. 3 [N-COUNT] usu pl Flowers are small plants that are grown for their flowers as opposed to trees, shrubs, and vegetables. ...a lawned area surrounded by plants and flowers... The flower garden will be ablaze with colour every day. 4 [VERB] V When a plant or tree flowers, its flowers appear and open. Several of these rhododendrons will flower this year for the first time. 5 [VERB] V When something flowers, for example a political movement or a relationship, it gets stronger and more successful. Their relationship flowered. = blossom 6 [PHRASE] usu v-link PHR, PHR after v When a plant is in flower or when it has come into flower, its flowers have appeared and opened. 7 see also flowered...

fluctuate

fluc|tu|ate /fl'ʌktʃueɪt/ (fluctuates fluctuating fluctuated) [VERB] V, V-ing If something fluctuates, it changes a lot in an irregular way. Body temperature can fluctuate if you are ill. ...the fluctuating price of oil. ● fluctuation [N-VAR] usu N in/of n Don't worry about tiny fluctuations in your weight... The calculations do not take into account any fluctuation in the share price. flow chart (flow charts) [N-COUNT] A flow chart or a flow diagram is a diagram which represents the sequence of actions in a particular process or activity. ♦♦ flow|er /fl'aʊ'ər/ (flowers flowering flowered) 1 [N-COUNT] A flower is the part of a plant which is often brightly coloured, grows at the end of a stem, and only survives for a short time. Each individual flower is tiny. ...large, purplish-blue flowers. 2 [N-COUNT] usu pl A flower is a stem of a plant that has one or more flowers on it and has been picked, usually with others, for example to give as a present or to put in a vase. ...a bunch of flowers sent by a new admirer. 3 [N-COUNT] usu pl Flowers are small plants that are grown for their flowers as opposed to trees, shrubs, and vegetables. ...a lawned area surrounded by plants and flowers... The flower garden will be ablaze with colour every day. 4 [VERB] V When a plant or tree flowers, its flowers appear and open. Several of these rhododendrons will flower this year for the first time. 5 [VERB] V When something flowers, for example a political movement or a relationship, it gets stronger and more successful. Their relationship flowered. = blossom 6 [PHRASE] usu v-link PHR, PHR after v When a plant is in flower or when it has come into flower, its flowers have appeared and opened. 7 see also flowered...

fluff

fluff /fl'ʌf/ [N-UNCOUNT] oft n of N Fluff consists of soft threads or fibres in the form of small, light balls or lumps. For example, you can refer to the fur of a small animal as fluff. She noticed some bits of fluff on the sleeve of her sweater. flow chart (flow charts) [N-COUNT] A flow chart or a flow diagram is a diagram which represents the sequence of actions in a particular process or activity. ♦♦ flow|er /fl'aʊ'ər/ (flowers flowering flowered) 1 [N-COUNT] A flower is the part of a plant which is often brightly coloured, grows at the end of a stem, and only survives for a short time. Each individual flower is tiny. ...large, purplish-blue flowers. 2 [N-COUNT] usu pl A flower is a stem of a plant that has one or more flowers on it and has been picked, usually with others, for example to give as a present or to put in a vase. ...a bunch of flowers sent by a new admirer. 3 [N-COUNT] usu pl Flowers are small plants that are grown for their flowers as opposed to trees, shrubs, and vegetables. ...a lawned area surrounded by plants and flowers... The flower garden will be ablaze with colour every day. 4 [VERB] V When a plant or tree flowers, its flowers appear and open. Several of these rhododendrons will flower this year for the first time. 5 [VERB] V When something flowers, for example a political movement or a relationship, it gets stronger and more successful. Their relationship flowered. = blossom 6 [PHRASE] usu v-link PHR, PHR after v When a plant is in flower or when it has come into flower, its flowers have appeared and opened. 7 see also flowered...

folly

fol|ly /f'ɒli/ (follies) 1 [N-VAR] oft N of n/-ing, it v-link N to-inf If you say that a particular action or way of behaving is folly or a folly, you mean that it is foolish. It's sheer folly to build nuclear power stations in a country that has dozens of earthquakes every year. 2 [N-COUNT] A folly is a small tower or other unusual building that is built as a decoration in a large garden or park, especially in Britain in former times. fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

fondly

fondly adverb adverb BrE BrE / /ˈfɒndli / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈfɑːndli / / 1 in a way that shows great affection synonym affectionately He looked at her fondly. I fondly remember my first job as a reporter. She is still fondly remembered by her former students. 2 in a way that shows hope that is not reasonable or realistic I fondly imagined that you cared for me....

gigabyte

gi|ga|byte /g'ɪgəb'aɪt/ (gigabytes) [N-COUNT] In computing, a gigabyte is one thousand and twenty-four megabytes.

fluke

fluke /fl'uːk/ (flukes) [N-COUNT] usu sing, also by N If you say that something good is a fluke, you mean that it happened accidentally rather than by being planned or arranged. (INFORMAL) The discovery was something of a fluke... By sheer fluke, one of the shipowner's employees was in the city. flow chart (flow charts) [N-COUNT] A flow chart or a flow diagram is a diagram which represents the sequence of actions in a particular process or activity. ♦♦ flow|er /fl'aʊ'ər/ (flowers flowering flowered) 1 [N-COUNT] A flower is the part of a plant which is often brightly coloured, grows at the end of a stem, and only survives for a short time. Each individual flower is tiny. ...large, purplish-blue flowers. 2 [N-COUNT] usu pl A flower is a stem of a plant that has one or more flowers on it and has been picked, usually with others, for example to give as a present or to put in a vase. ...a bunch of flowers sent by a new admirer. 3 [N-COUNT] usu pl Flowers are small plants that are grown for their flowers as opposed to trees, shrubs, and vegetables. ...a lawned area surrounded by plants and flowers... The flower garden will be ablaze with colour every day. 4 [VERB] V When a plant or tree flowers, its flowers appear and open. Several of these rhododendrons will flower this year for the first time. 5 [VERB] V When something flowers, for example a political movement or a relationship, it gets stronger and more successful. Their relationship flowered. = blossom 6 [PHRASE] usu v-link PHR, PHR after v When a plant is in flower or when it has come into flower, its flowers have appeared and opened. 7 see also flowered...

flunk

flunk /fl'ʌŋk/ (flunks flunking flunked) [VERB] V n If you flunk an exam or a course, you fail to reach the required standard. (mainly AM INFORMAL) Your son is upset because he flunked a history exam. = fail flow chart (flow charts) [N-COUNT] A flow chart or a flow diagram is a diagram which represents the sequence of actions in a particular process or activity. ♦♦ flow|er /fl'aʊ'ər/ (flowers flowering flowered) 1 [N-COUNT] A flower is the part of a plant which is often brightly coloured, grows at the end of a stem, and only survives for a short time. Each individual flower is tiny. ...large, purplish-blue flowers. 2 [N-COUNT] usu pl A flower is a stem of a plant that has one or more flowers on it and has been picked, usually with others, for example to give as a present or to put in a vase. ...a bunch of flowers sent by a new admirer. 3 [N-COUNT] usu pl Flowers are small plants that are grown for their flowers as opposed to trees, shrubs, and vegetables. ...a lawned area surrounded by plants and flowers... The flower garden will be ablaze with colour every day. 4 [VERB] V When a plant or tree flowers, its flowers appear and open. Several of these rhododendrons will flower this year for the first time. 5 [VERB] V When something flowers, for example a political movement or a relationship, it gets stronger and more successful. Their relationship flowered. = blossom 6 [PHRASE] usu v-link PHR, PHR after v When a plant is in flower or when it has come into flower, its flowers have appeared and opened. 7 see also flowered...

fluorescent

fluo|res|cent /flʊər'esənt/ 1 [ADJ] usu ADJ n A fluorescent surface, substance, or colour has a very bright appearance when light is directed onto it, as if it is actually shining itself. ...a piece of fluorescent tape. ● fluorescence [N-UNCOUNT] ...the green fluorescence it gives off under ultraviolet radiation. 2 [ADJ] usu ADJ n A fluorescent light shines with a very hard, bright light and is usually in the form of a long strip. ...fluorescent light tubes. flow chart (flow charts) [N-COUNT] A flow chart or a flow diagram is a diagram which represents the sequence of actions in a particular process or activity. ♦♦ flow|er /fl'aʊ'ər/ (flowers flowering flowered) 1 [N-COUNT] A flower is the part of a plant which is often brightly coloured, grows at the end of a stem, and only survives for a short time. Each individual flower is tiny. ...large, purplish-blue flowers. 2 [N-COUNT] usu pl A flower is a stem of a plant that has one or more flowers on it and has been picked, usually with others, for example to give as a present or to put in a vase. ...a bunch of flowers sent by a new admirer. 3 [N-COUNT] usu pl Flowers are small plants that are grown for their flowers as opposed to trees, shrubs, and vegetables. ...a lawned area surrounded by plants and flowers... The flower garden will be ablaze with colour every day. 4 [VERB] V When a plant or tree flowers, its flowers appear and open. Several of these rhododendrons will flower this year for the first time. 5 [VERB] V When something flowers, for example a political movement or a relationship, it gets stronger and more successful. Their relationship flowered. = blossom 6 [PHRASE] usu v-link PHR, PHR after v When a plant is in flower or when it has come into flower, its flowers have appeared and opened. 7 see also flowered...

flurry

flur|ry /fl'ʌri, AM fl'ɜːri/ (flurries) 1 [N-COUNT] usu N of n A flurry of something such as activity or excitement is a short intense period of it. ...a flurry of diplomatic activity aimed at ending the war. 2 [N-COUNT] oft N of n A flurry of something such as snow is a small amount of it that suddenly appears for a short time and moves in a quick, swirling way. flow chart (flow charts) [N-COUNT] A flow chart or a flow diagram is a diagram which represents the sequence of actions in a particular process or activity. ♦♦ flow|er /fl'aʊ'ər/ (flowers flowering flowered) 1 [N-COUNT] A flower is the part of a plant which is often brightly coloured, grows at the end of a stem, and only survives for a short time. Each individual flower is tiny. ...large, purplish-blue flowers. 2 [N-COUNT] usu pl A flower is a stem of a plant that has one or more flowers on it and has been picked, usually with others, for example to give as a present or to put in a vase. ...a bunch of flowers sent by a new admirer. 3 [N-COUNT] usu pl Flowers are small plants that are grown for their flowers as opposed to trees, shrubs, and vegetables. ...a lawned area surrounded by plants and flowers... The flower garden will be ablaze with colour every day. 4 [VERB] V When a plant or tree flowers, its flowers appear and open. Several of these rhododendrons will flower this year for the first time. 5 [VERB] V When something flowers, for example a political movement or a relationship, it gets stronger and more successful. Their relationship flowered. = blossom 6 [PHRASE] usu v-link PHR, PHR after v When a plant is in flower or when it has come into flower, its flowers have appeared and opened. 7 see also flowered...

foolhardy

fool|hardy /f'uːlhɑːrdi/ [ADJ] oft it v-link ADJ to-inf If you describe behaviour as foolhardy, you disapprove of it because it is extremely risky. When he tested an early vaccine on himself, some described the act as foolhardy... fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

futility

fu|til|ity /fjuːt'ɪlɪti/ [N-UNCOUNT] oft N of n/-ing Futility is a total lack of purpose or usefulness. ...the injustice and futility of terrorism. ♦ fur|ni|ture /f'ɜːrnɪtʃər/ [N-UNCOUNT] Furniture consists of large objects such as tables, chairs, or beds that are used in a room for sitting or lying on or for putting things on or in. Each piece of furniture in their home suited the style of the house....

flush

flush /fl'ʌʃ/ (flushes flushing flushed) 1 [VERB] V, V colour If you flush, your face goes red because you are hot or ill, or because you are feeling a strong emotion such as embarrassment or anger. Do you sweat a lot or flush a lot?... He turned away embarrassed, his face flushing red. [N-COUNT] Flush is also a noun. There was a slight flush on his cheeks. ● flushed [ADJ] oft ADJ with n Her face was flushed with anger. 2 [VERB] V n, V When someone flushes a toilet after using it, they fill the toilet bowl with water in order to clean it, usually by pressing a handle or pulling a chain. You can also say that a toilet flushes. She flushed the toilet and went back in the bedroom. ...the sound of the toilet flushing. [N-COUNT] usu sing Flush is also a noun. He heard the flush of a toilet. 3 [VERB] V n down n If you flush something down the toilet, you get rid of it by putting it into the toilet bowl and flushing the toilet. He was found trying to flush banknotes down the toilet. 4 [VERB] V n If you flush a part of your body, you clean it or make it healthier by using a large amount of liquid to get rid of dirt or harmful substances. Flush the eye with clean cold water for at least 15 minutes... = cleanse [PHRASAL VERB] V P n (not pron), also V n P Flush out means the same as flush. ...an `alternative' therapy that gently flushes out the colon to remove toxins. 5 [VERB] V n with out If you flush dirt or a harmful substance out of a place, you get rid of it by using a large amount of liquid. That won't flush out all the sewage, but it should unclog some stinking drains. 6 [VERB] V n out of n, V n with out If you flush people or animals out of a place where they are hiding, you find or capture them by forcing them to come out of that place. They flushed them out of their hiding places... The Guyana Defence Force is engaged in flushing out illegal Brazilian miners operating in the country. 7 [ADJ] v-link ADJ, oft ADJ with n If one object or surface is flush with another, they are at the same height or distance from something else, so that they form a single smooth surface. Make sure the tile is flush with the surrounding tiles. = level 8 [N-SING] N of n The flush of something is an intense feeling of excitement or pleasure that you have when you are experiencing it and for a short time afterwards. ...the first flush of young love. ...in the flush of victory. flush out see flush 4 flushed /fl'ʌʃt/ [ADJ] v-link ADJ with n If you say that someone is flushed with success or pride you mean that they are very excited by their success or pride. Grace was flushed with the success of the venture......

fluster

flus|ter /fl'ʌstər/ (flusters flustering flustered) [VERB] be V-ed, V n If you fluster someone, you make them feel nervous and confused by rushing them and preventing them from concentrating on what they are doing. The General refused to be flustered... She was a very calm person. Nothing could fluster her. ● flustered [ADJ] usu v-link ADJ She was so flustered that she forgot her reply. flow chart (flow charts) [N-COUNT] A flow chart or a flow diagram is a diagram which represents the sequence of actions in a particular process or activity. ♦♦ flow|er /fl'aʊ'ər/ (flowers flowering flowered) 1 [N-COUNT] A flower is the part of a plant which is often brightly coloured, grows at the end of a stem, and only survives for a short time. Each individual flower is tiny. ...large, purplish-blue flowers. 2 [N-COUNT] usu pl A flower is a stem of a plant that has one or more flowers on it and has been picked, usually with others, for example to give as a present or to put in a vase. ...a bunch of flowers sent by a new admirer. 3 [N-COUNT] usu pl Flowers are small plants that are grown for their flowers as opposed to trees, shrubs, and vegetables. ...a lawned area surrounded by plants and flowers... The flower garden will be ablaze with colour every day. 4 [VERB] V When a plant or tree flowers, its flowers appear and open. Several of these rhododendrons will flower this year for the first time. 5 [VERB] V When something flowers, for example a political movement or a relationship, it gets stronger and more successful. Their relationship flowered. = blossom 6 [PHRASE] usu v-link PHR, PHR after v When a plant is in flower or when it has come into flower, its flowers have appeared and opened. 7 see also flowered...

flute

flute /fl'uːt/ (flutes) [N-VAR] oft the N A flute is a musical instrument of the woodwind family. You play it by blowing over a hole near one end while holding it sideways to your mouth. flow chart (flow charts) [N-COUNT] A flow chart or a flow diagram is a diagram which represents the sequence of actions in a particular process or activity. ♦♦ flow|er /fl'aʊ'ər/ (flowers flowering flowered) 1 [N-COUNT] A flower is the part of a plant which is often brightly coloured, grows at the end of a stem, and only survives for a short time. Each individual flower is tiny. ...large, purplish-blue flowers. 2 [N-COUNT] usu pl A flower is a stem of a plant that has one or more flowers on it and has been picked, usually with others, for example to give as a present or to put in a vase. ...a bunch of flowers sent by a new admirer. 3 [N-COUNT] usu pl Flowers are small plants that are grown for their flowers as opposed to trees, shrubs, and vegetables. ...a lawned area surrounded by plants and flowers... The flower garden will be ablaze with colour every day. 4 [VERB] V When a plant or tree flowers, its flowers appear and open. Several of these rhododendrons will flower this year for the first time. 5 [VERB] V When something flowers, for example a political movement or a relationship, it gets stronger and more successful. Their relationship flowered. = blossom 6 [PHRASE] usu v-link PHR, PHR after v When a plant is in flower or when it has come into flower, its flowers have appeared and opened. 7 see also flowered...

flutter

flut|ter /fl'ʌtər/ (flutters fluttering fluttered) 1 [VERB] V, V n, V-ing If something thin or light flutters, or if you flutter it, it moves up and down or from side to side with a lot of quick, light movements. Her chiffon skirt was fluttering in the night breeze. ...a butterfly fluttering its wings. ...the fluttering white lace handkerchief. [N-COUNT] Flutter is also a noun. ...a flutter of white cloth. 2 [VERB] V adv/prep, V If something light such as a small bird or a piece of paper flutters somewhere, it moves through the air with small quick movements. The paper fluttered to the floor... The birds were active, whirring and fluttering among the trees. 3 [N-COUNT] oft N on n If you have a flutter, you have a small bet on something such as a horse race. (BRIT INFORMAL) I had a flutter on five horses. = bet flow chart (flow charts) [N-COUNT] A flow chart or a flow diagram is a diagram which represents the sequence of actions in a particular process or activity. ♦♦ flow|er /fl'aʊ'ər/ (flowers flowering flowered) 1 [N-COUNT] A flower is the part of a plant which is often brightly coloured, grows at the end of a stem, and only survives for a short time. Each individual flower is tiny. ...large, purplish-blue flowers. 2 [N-COUNT] usu pl A flower is a stem of a plant that has one or more flowers on it and has been picked, usually with others, for example to give as a present or to put in a vase. ...a bunch of flowers sent by a new admirer. 3 [N-COUNT] usu pl Flowers are small plants that are grown for their flowers as opposed to trees, shrubs, and vegetables. ...a lawned area surrounded by plants and flowers... The flower garden will be ablaze with colour every day. 4 [VERB] V When a plant or tree flowers, its flowers appear and open. Several of these rhododendrons will flower this year for the first time. 5 [VERB] V When something flowers, for example a political movement or a relationship, it gets stronger and more successful. Their relationship flowered. = blossom 6 [PHRASE] usu v-link PHR, PHR after v When a plant is in flower or when it has come into flower, its flowers have appeared and opened. 7 see also flowered...

flux

flux /fl'ʌks/ [N-UNCOUNT] oft in N If something is in a state of flux, it is constantly changing. Education remains in a state of flux which will take some time to settle down. fly at [PHRASAL VERB] V P n If you fly at someone, you attack them, either physically by hitting them, or with words by insulting them. She flew at him for making a very anti-British remark. = let fly at fly-by-night [ADJ] ADJ n A fly-by-night businessman is someone who wants to make money very quickly, without caring about the quality or honesty of the service they offer. (INFORMAL) ...fly-by-night operators who fail to complete jobs. = cowboy fly-drive [ADJ] ADJ n On a fly-drive holiday, you travel part of the way to your destination by aeroplane, and collect a hired car at the airport so that you can drive the rest of the way. ...a fly-drive break in New Zealand. fly-fishing also fly fishing [N-UNCOUNT] Fly-fishing is a method of fishing in which a silk or nylon model of a small winged insect is used as bait....

fragrant

fra|grant /fr'eɪgrənt/ [ADJ] oft ADJ with n Something that is fragrant has a pleasant, sweet smell. ...fragrant oils and perfumes... The air was fragrant with the smell of orange blossoms....

foolproof

fool|proof /f'uːlpruːf/ [ADJ] Something such as a plan or a machine that is foolproof is so well designed, easy to understand, or easy to use that it cannot go wrong or be used wrongly. The system is not 100 per cent foolproof... I spent the day working out a foolproof plan to save him. fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

footage

foot|age /f'ʊtɪdʒ/ [N-UNCOUNT] Footage of a particular event is a film of it or the part of a film which shows this event. They are planning to show exclusive footage from this summer's festivals. fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

footprint

foot|print /f'ʊtprɪnt/ (footprints) [N-COUNT] A footprint is a mark in the shape of a foot that a person or animal makes in or on a surface. fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

fore

fore /f'ɔːr/ 1 [PHRASE] PHR after v If someone or something comes to the fore in a particular situation or group, they become important or popular. A number of low-budget independent films brought new directors and actors to the fore. 2 [ADJ] ADJ n Fore is used to refer to parts at the front of an animal, ship, or aircraft. There had been no direct damage in the fore part of the ship. = front fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

forebear

fore|bear /f'ɔːrbeər/ (forebears) [N-COUNT] usu with poss Your forebears are your ancestors. (LITERARY) I'll come back to the land of my forebears. = forefather fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

foreboding

fore|bod|ing /fɔːrb'oʊdɪŋ/ (forebodings) [N-VAR] Foreboding is a strong feeling that something terrible is going to happen. His triumph was overshadowed by an uneasy sense of foreboding. fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

foreground

fore|ground /f'ɔːrgraʊnd/ (foregrounds) 1 [N-VAR] oft in the N The foreground of a picture or scene you are looking at is the part or area of it that appears nearest to you. He is the bowler-hatted figure in the foreground of Orpen's famous painting. ≠ background 2 [N-SING] usu the N, oft in/to N If something or someone is in the foreground, or comes to the foreground, they receive a lot of attention. This is another worry that has come to the foreground in recent years. fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

forehead

fore|head /f'ɒrɪd, f'ɔːrhed/ (foreheads) [N-COUNT] oft poss N Your forehead is the area at the front of your head between your eyebrows and your hair. = brow fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

foremost

fore|most /f'ɔːrmoʊst/ 1 [ADJ] The foremost thing or person in a group is the most important or best. He was one of the world's foremost scholars of ancient Indian culture... 2 [PHRASE] PHR n/prep, PHR with cl, PHR after v You use first and foremost to emphasize the most important quality of something or someone. It is first and foremost a trade agreement... fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

foreshadow

fore|shad|ow /fɔːrʃ'ædoʊ/ (foreshadows foreshadowing foreshadowed) [VERB] V n If something foreshadows an event or situation, it suggests that it will happen. The disappointing sales figures foreshadow more redundancies... fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

foreword

fore|word /f'ɔːrwɜːrd/ (forewords) [N-COUNT] oft N to n The foreword to a book is an introduction by the author or by someone else. fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

formative

forma|tive /f'ɔːrmətɪv/ [ADJ] usu ADJ n A formative period of time or experience is one that has an important and lasting influence on a person's character and attitudes. She was born in Barbados but spent her formative years in east London. fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

fort

fort /f'ɔːrt/ (forts) 1 [N-COUNT; N-IN-NAMES] A fort is a strong building or a place with a wall or fence around it where soldiers can stay and be safe from the enemy. 2 [PHRASE] V inflects, oft PHR for n If you hold the fort for someone, or, in American English, if you hold down the fort, you look after things for them while they are somewhere else or are busy doing something else. His business partner is holding the fort while he is away. fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

free range

free-range [ADJ] usu ADJ n Free-range means relating to a system of keeping animals in which they can move and feed freely on an area of open ground. ...free-range eggs. free|dom fight|er (freedom fighters) [N-COUNT] If you refer to someone as a freedom fighter, you mean that they belong to a group that is trying to change the government of their country using violent methods, and you agree with or approve of this....

forte

forte /f'ɔːrteɪ, AM f'ɔrt/ (fortes) pronounced /f'ɔrt/for meaning 1 in American English. 1 [N-COUNT] usu sing, poss N You can say that a particular activity is your forte if you are very good at it. Originality was never his forte. = strong point 2 [ADV] ADV after v A piece of music that is played forte is played loudly. (TECHNICAL) fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

forage

for|age /f'ɒrɪdʒ, AM f'ɔːr-/ (forages foraging foraged) 1 [VERB] V for n If someone forages for something, they search for it in a busy way. They were forced to forage for clothing and fuel. 2 [VERB] V, V for n When animals forage, they search for food. We disturbed a wild boar that had been foraging by the roadside... The cat forages for food. fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

foray

for|ay /f'ɒreɪ, AM f'ɔːreɪ/ (forays) 1 [N-COUNT] oft poss N, usu N into n If you make a foray into a new or unfamiliar type of activity, you start to become involved in it. Emporio Armani, the Italian fashion house, has made a discreet foray into furnishings. ...her first forays into politics. 2 [N-COUNT] usu N into/to n You can refer to a short journey that you make as a foray if it seems to involve excitement or risk, for example because it is to an unfamiliar place or because you are looking for a particular thing. Most guests make at least one foray into the town... 3 [N-COUNT] oft N into n If a group of soldiers make a foray into enemy territory, they make a quick attack there, and then return to their own territory. These base camps were used by the PKK guerrillas to make forays into Turkey. = raid fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

forbear

for|bear /fɔːrb'eər/ (forbears forbearing forbore forborne) [VERB] V to-inf, V from -ing/n If you forbear to do something, you do not do it although you have the opportunity or the right to do it. (FORMAL) I forbore to comment on this... Protesters largely forbore from stone-throwing and vandalism. fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

forbid

for|bid /fərb'ɪd/ (forbids forbidding forbade forbidden) 1 [VERB] V n to-inf, V n If you forbid someone to do something, or if you forbid an activity, you order that it must not be done. They'll forbid you to marry... Brazil's constitution forbids the military use of nuclear energy. = prohibit 2 [VERB] V n to-inf, V n If something forbids a particular course of action or state of affairs, it makes it impossible for the course of action or state of affairs to happen. His own pride forbids him to ask Arthur's help... Custom forbids any modernisation. 3 God forbid: see god heaven forbid: see heaven for|bid|den fruit (forbidden fruits) [N-VAR] Forbidden fruit is a source of pleasure that involves breaking a rule or doing something that you are not supposed to do. ...the forbidden fruit of an illicit romance....

forever

for|ever /fər'evər/ also for ever 1 [ADV] ADV with v If you say that something will happen or continue forever, you mean that it will always happen or continue. I think that we will live together forever... I will forever be grateful for his considerable input. 2 [ADV] ADV after v If something has gone or changed forever, it has gone or changed completely and permanently. The old social order was gone forever... Their lives changed forever. 3 [ADV] ADV after v If you say that something takes forever or lasts forever, you are emphasizing that it takes or lasts a very long time, or that it seems to. (INFORMAL) The drive seemed to take forever... fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

forgery

for|gery /f'ɔːrdʒəri/ (forgeries) 1 [N-UNCOUNT] Forgery is the crime of forging money, documents, or paintings. He was found guilty of forgery. 2 [N-COUNT] You can refer to a forged document, banknote, or painting as a forgery. The letter was a forgery. fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

forgo

for|go /fɔːrg'oʊ/ see forego fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

formaldehyde

for|mal|de|hyde /fɔːrm'ældihaɪd/ [N-UNCOUNT] Formaldehyde is a strong-smelling gas, used especially to preserve parts of animals or plants for biological study. fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

formality

for|mal|ity /fɔːrm'ælɪti/ (formalities) 1 [N-COUNT] If you say that an action or procedure is just a formality, you mean that it is done only because it is normally done, and that it will not have any real effect on the situation. With the Cold War almost over, the talks were a mere formality. 2 [N-COUNT] usu pl Formalities are formal actions or procedures that are carried out as part of a particular activity or event. They are whisked through the immigration and customs formalities in a matter of minutes. 3 see also formal fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

freer

freer /fr'iːər/ Freer is the comparative of free. free|dom fight|er (freedom fighters) [N-COUNT] If you refer to someone as a freedom fighter, you mean that they belong to a group that is trying to change the government of their country using violent methods, and you agree with or approve of this....

fresco

fres|co /fr'eskoʊ/ (frescoesor frescos) [N-COUNT] A fresco is a picture that is painted on a plastered wall when the plaster is still wet. see also alfresco

frenetic

fre|net|ic /frɪn'etɪk/ [ADJ] If you describe an activity as frenetic, you mean that it is fast and energetic, but rather uncontrolled. ...the frenetic pace of life in New York... = frantic...

formation

for|ma|tion /fɔːrm'eɪʃən/ (formations) 1 [N-UNCOUNT] with supp, usu the N of n The formation of something is the starting or creation of it. ...the formation of a new government. = creation 2 [N-UNCOUNT] with supp The formation of an idea, habit, relationship, or character is the process of developing and establishing it. My profession had an important influence in the formation of my character and temperament. = development 3 [N-COUNT] also a N, usu in N If people or things are in formation, they are arranged in a particular pattern as they move. He was flying in formation with seven other jets... 4 [N-COUNT] n N A rock or cloud formation is rock or cloud of a particular shape or structure. ...a vast rock formation shaped like a pillar... Enormous cloud formations formed a purple mass. fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

formidable

for|mi|dable /f'ɔːrmɪdəbəl, fərm'ɪd-/ [ADJ] If you describe something or someone as formidable, you mean that you feel slightly frightened by them because they are very great or impressive. We have a formidable task ahead of us... Marsalis has a formidable reputation in both jazz and classical music... fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

formulaic

for|mu|laic /f'ɔːrmjʊl'eɪɪk/ [ADJ] If you describe a way of saying or doing something as formulaic, you are criticizing it because it is not original and has been used many times before in similar situations. His paintings are contrived and formulaic. = conventional fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

fortify

for|ti|fy /f'ɔːrtɪfaɪ/ (fortifies fortifying fortified) 1 [VERB] V n To fortify a place means to make it stronger and more difficult to attack, often by building a wall or ditch round it. ...British soldiers working to fortify an airbase in Bahrain. 2 [VERB] usu passive, be V-ed with n, V-ed If food or drink is fortified, another substance is added to it to make it healthier or stronger. It has also been fortified with vitamin C... ...fortified cereal products. forward-looking [ADJ] If you describe a person or organization as forward-looking, you approve of the fact that they think about the future or have modern ideas....

fortitude

for|ti|tude /f'ɔːrtɪtjuːd, AM -tuːd/ [N-UNCOUNT] If you say that someone has shown fortitude, you admire them for being brave, calm, and uncomplaining when they have experienced something unpleasant or painful. (FORMAL) He suffered a long series of illnesses with tremendous dignity and fortitude. = courage, grit forward-looking [ADJ] If you describe a person or organization as forward-looking, you approve of the fact that they think about the future or have modern ideas....

fortuitous

for|tui|tous /fɔːrtj'uːɪtəs, AM -t'uː-/ [ADJ] You can describe something as fortuitous if it happens, by chance, to be very successful or pleasant. Their success is the result of a fortuitous combination of circumstances. = lucky for|tune cookie (fortune cookies) [N-COUNT] A fortune cookie is a sweet, crisp cake which contains a piece of paper which is supposed to say what will happen to you in the future. Fortune cookies are often served in Chinese restaurants....

fossilize

fos|sil|ize /f'ɒsɪlaɪz/ (fossilizes fossilizing fossilized) in BRIT, also use fossilise 1 [VERB] V, be V-ed, V-ed If the remains of an animal or plant fossilize or are fossilized, they become hard and form fossils, instead of decaying completely. The most important parts, the flowers, rarely fossilise... The survival of the proteins depends on the way in which bones are fossilised. ...fossilized dinosaur bones. 2 [VERB] V n, V If you say that ideas, attitudes, or ways of behaving have fossilized or have been fossilized, you are criticizing the fact that they are fixed and unlikely to change, in spite of changing situations or circumstances. What they seem to want to do in fact is fossilize the particular environment in which people live and work... Needs change while policies fossilize. ● fossilized [ADJ] ...these fossilized organisations. forward-looking [ADJ] If you describe a person or organization as forward-looking, you approve of the fact that they think about the future or have modern ideas....

foster

fos|ter /f'ɒstər, AM f'ɔːst-/ (fosters fostering fostered) 1 [ADJ] ADJ n Foster parents are people who officially take a child into their family for a period of time, without becoming the child's legal parents. The child is referred to as their foster child. Little Jack was placed with foster parents... 2 [VERB] V n If you foster a child, you take it into your family for a period of time, without becoming its legal parent. She has since gone on to find happiness by fostering more than 100 children. 3 [VERB] V n To foster something such as an activity or idea means to help it to develop. He said that developed countries had a responsibility to foster global economic growth to help new democracies... forward-looking [ADJ] If you describe a person or organization as forward-looking, you approve of the fact that they think about the future or have modern ideas....

frieze

frieze /fr'iːz/ (friezes) [N-COUNT] A frieze is a decoration high up on the walls of a room or just under the roof of a building. It consists of a long panel of carving or a long strip of paper with a picture or pattern on it....

fright

fright /fr'aɪt/ (frights) 1 [N-UNCOUNT] Fright is a sudden feeling of fear, especially the fear that you feel when something unpleasant surprises you. The steam pipes rattled suddenly, and Franklin uttered a shriek and jumped with fright... The birds smashed into the top of their cages in fright... To hide my fright I asked a question. 2 [N-COUNT] usu sing A fright is an experience which makes you suddenly afraid. The snake picked up its head and stuck out its tongue which gave everyone a fright... The last time you had a real fright, you nearly crashed the car. = scare 3 [PHRASE] V inflects If a person or animal takes fright at something, they are suddenly frightened by it, and want to run away or to stop doing what they are doing. An untrained horse had taken fright at the sound of gunfire... When costs soared, the studio took fright and recalled the company from Rome. fright|en /fr'aɪtən/ (frightens frightening frightened) 1 [VERB] V n, V n If something or someone frightens you, they cause you to suddenly feel afraid, anxious, or nervous. He knew that Soli was trying to frighten him, so he smiled to hide his fear... Most children are frightened by the sight of blood. = scare 2 [PHRASE] V inflects If something frightens the life out of you, frightens the wits out of you, or frightens you out of your wits, it causes you to feel suddenly afraid or gives you a very unpleasant shock. Fairground rides are intended to frighten the life out of you....

foul

foul /f'aʊl/ (fouler foulest fouls fouling fouled) 1 [ADJ] If you describe something as foul, you mean it is dirty and smells or tastes unpleasant. ...foul polluted water... The smell was quite foul. = disgusting 2 [ADJ] usu ADJ n Foul language is offensive and contains swear words or rude words. He was sent off for using foul language in a match last Sunday... He had a foul mouth. = filthy 3 [ADJ] usu ADJ n If someone has a foul temper or is in a foul mood, they become angry or violent very suddenly and easily. Collins was in a foul mood even before the interviews began. = bad 4 [ADJ] Foul weather is unpleasant, windy, and stormy. 5 [VERB] V n If an animal fouls a place, it drops faeces onto the ground. It is an offence to let your dog foul a footpath. 6 [VERB] V n In a game or sport, if a player fouls another player, they touch them or block them in a way which is not allowed according to the rules. Middlesbrough's Jimmy Phillips was sent off for fouling Steve Tilson. 7 [N-COUNT] oft N on n A foul is an act in a game or sport that is not allowed according to the rules. He picked up his first booking for a 45th-minute foul on Bull. [ADJ] ADJ n Foul is also an adjective. ...a foul tackle. 8 [PHRASE] V inflects, PHR n If you fall foul of someone or run foul of them, you do something which gets you into trouble with them. (mainly BRIT) He had fallen foul of the FBI. foul-mouthed [ADJ] If you describe someone as foul-mouthed, you disapprove of them because they use offensive words or say very rude things. foul play 1 [N-UNCOUNT] Foul play is criminal violence or activity that results in a person's death. The report says it suspects foul play was involved in the deaths of two journalists. 2 [N-UNCOUNT] Foul play is unfair or dishonest behaviour, especially during a sports game. Players were warned twice for foul play....

foyer

foy|er /f'ɔɪər, fw'aɪeɪ/ (foyers) [N-COUNT] The foyer is the large area where people meet or wait just inside the main doors of a building such as a theatre, cinema, or hotel. = lobby...

focal

fo|cal /f'oʊkəl/ 1 [ADJ] ADJ n Focal is used to describe something that relates to the point where a number of rays or lines meet. ...the focal plane of the telescope. 2 [ADJ] ADJ n Focal is used to describe something that is very important. ...one of the focal centres of the Far East. fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

forensic

fo|ren|sic /fər'ensɪk/ (forensics) 1 [ADJ] ADJ n Forensic is used to describe the work of scientists who examine evidence in order to help the police solve crimes. They were convicted on forensic evidence alone... Forensic experts searched the area for clues. 2 [N-UNCOUNT] Forensics is the use of scientific techniques to solve crimes. ...the newest advances in forensics. ...federal forensics legislation. fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

fraction

frac|tion /fr'ækʃən/ (fractions) 1 [N-COUNT] oft N of n A fraction of something is a tiny amount or proportion of it. She hesitated for a fraction of a second before responding... I opened my eyes just a fraction. 2 [N-COUNT] A fraction is a number that can be expressed as a proportion of two whole numbers. For example, ½ and &xFrac13; are both fractions. The students had a grasp of decimals, percentages and fractions....

fractious

frac|tious /fr'ækʃəs/ [ADJ] If you describe someone as fractious, you disapprove of them because they become upset or angry very quickly about small unimportant things. Nancy was in a fractious mood... The children were predictably fractious....

fracture

frac|ture /fr'æktʃər/ (fractures fracturing fractured) 1 [N-COUNT] A fracture is a slight crack or break in something, especially a bone. At least one-third of all women over ninety have sustained a hip fracture. 2 [VERB] V n, V, V-ed If something such as a bone is fractured or fractures, it gets a slight crack or break in it. You've fractured a rib, maybe more than one... One strut had fractured and been crudely repaired in several places... He suffered a fractured skull. 3 [VERB] V n, V If something such as an organization or society is fractured or fractures, it splits into several parts or stops existing. (FORMAL) His policy risks fracturing the coalition... It might be a society that could fracture along class lines. frag|ile /fr'ædʒaɪl, AM -dʒəl/ 1 [ADJ] If you describe a situation as fragile, you mean that it is weak or uncertain, and unlikely to be able to resist strong pressure or attack. (JOURNALISM) The fragile economies of several southern African nations could be irreparably damaged... His overall condition remained fragile. = unstable ● fragility [N-UNCOUNT] oft N of n By mid-1988 there were clear indications of the extreme fragility of the Right-wing coalition. 2 [ADJ] Something that is fragile is easily broken or damaged. He leaned back in his fragile chair. ≠ sturdy ● fragility [N-UNCOUNT] oft N of n Older drivers are more likely to be seriously injured because of the fragility of their bones....

frail

frail /fr'eɪl/ (frailer frailest) 1 [ADJ] Someone who is frail is not very strong or healthy. She lay in bed looking particularly frail. = weak 2 [ADJ] Something that is frail is easily broken or damaged. The frail craft rocked as he clambered in. = fragile...

franchising

franchising noun noun BrE BrE / /ˈfræntʃaɪzɪŋ / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈfræntʃaɪzɪŋ / / [ uncountable ] the business or activity of giving or selling franchises to people...

franchise

fran|chise /fr'æntʃaɪz/ (franchises franchising franchised) 1 [N-COUNT] oft n N, N to n, N n A franchise is an authority that is given by an organization to someone, allowing them to sell its goods or services or to take part in an activity which the organization controls. (BUSINESS) ...fast-food franchises... Talk to other franchise holders and ask them what they think of the parent company. 2 [VERB] V n, V-ed If a company franchises its business, it sells franchises to other companies, allowing them to sell its goods or services. (BUSINESS) She has recently franchised her business... It takes hundreds of thousands of dollars to get into the franchised pizza business. ● franchising [N-UNCOUNT] One of the most important aspects of franchising is the reduced risk of business failure it offers to franchisees. 3 [N-UNCOUNT] also the N Franchise is the right to vote in an election, especially one in which people elect a parliament. ...the introduction of universal franchise... The 1867 Reform Act extended the franchise to much of the male working class....

fraudulent

fraudu|lent /fr'ɔːdʒʊlənt/ [ADJ] usu ADJ n A fraudulent activity is deliberately deceitful, dishonest, or untrue. ...fraudulent claims about being a nurse. ● fraudulently [ADV] ADV with v The report concludes that I acted neither fraudulently nor improperly. free agent (free agents) 1 [N-COUNT] If you say that someone is a free agent, you are emphasizing that they can do whatever they want to do, because they are not responsible to anyone or for anyone. We are not free agents; we abide by the decisions of our president. 2 [N-COUNT] If a sports player is a free agent, he or she is free to sign a contract with any team. (AM) free and easy also free-and-easy [ADJ] Someone or something that is free and easy is casual and informal. ...the free and easy atmosphere of these cafés. = easy-going, laid-back free en|ter|prise [N-UNCOUNT] Free enterprise is an economic system in which businesses compete for profit without much government control. (BUSINESS) free fall (free falls) also free-fall 1 [N-VAR] oft into/in N If the value or price of something goes into free fall, it starts to fall uncontrollably. (JOURNALISM) Sterling went into free fall... The price did a free fall. 2 [N-UNCOUNT] In parachuting, free fall is the part of the jump before the parachute opens. free-floating [ADJ] ADJ n Free-floating things or people are able to move freely and are not controlled or directed by anything. ...a system of free-floating exchange rates. free-for-all (free-for-alls) 1 [N-SING] A free-for-all is a situation in which several people or groups are trying to get something for themselves and there are no controls on how they do it. 2 [N-COUNT] A free-for-all is a disorganized fight or argument which lots of people join in. free form also free-form [ADJ] ADJ n A free form work of art or piece of music has not been created according to a standard style or convention. ...free-form jazz. free house (free houses) [N-COUNT] In Britain, a free house is a pub which is not owned by a particular company and so can sell whatever beers it chooses. free kick (free kicks) [N-COUNT] In a game of football, when there is a free kick, the ball is given to a member of one side to kick because a member of the other side has broken a rule. free love [N-UNCOUNT] A belief in free love is the belief that it is acceptable and good to have sexual relationships without marrying, often several relationships at the same time. (OLD-FASHIONED) free mar|ket (free markets) [N-COUNT] usu sing A free market is an economic system in which business organizations decide things such as prices and wages, and are not controlled by the government. (BUSINESS) ...the creation of a free market. ...free market economies. free-marketeer (free-marketeers) [N-COUNT] A free-marketeer is someone, especially a politician, who is in favour of letting market forces control the economy. (BUSINESS) free pass (free passes) [N-COUNT] A free pass is an official document that allows a person to travel or to enter a particular building without having to pay. free port (free ports) [N-COUNT] A free port is a port or airport where goods can be brought in from foreign countries without payment of duty if they are going to be exported again. (BUSINESS) free radi|cal (free radicals) [N-COUNT] usu pl Free radicals are atoms that contain one or more unpaired electrons. Free radicals are believed to be a cause of ageing, heart disease, and some cancers. (TECHNICAL)...

frazzled

frazzled adjective adjective BrE BrE / /ˈfræzld / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈfræzld / / ( informal ) Tiredness tired and easily annoyed They finally arrived home, hot and frazzled. See related entries: Tiredness...

fringe

fringe /fr'ɪndʒ/ (fringes) 1 [N-COUNT] A fringe is hair which is cut so that it hangs over your forehead. (BRIT; in AM, use bangs) 2 [N-COUNT] A fringe is a decoration attached to clothes, or other objects such as curtains, consisting of a row of hanging strips or threads. The jacket had leather fringes. 3 [N-COUNT] usu on the N of n To be on the fringe or the fringes of a place means to be on the outside edge of it, or to be in one of the parts that are farthest from its centre. ...black townships located on the fringes of the city... They lived together in a mixed household on the fringe of a campus. 4 [N-COUNT] usu pl, the N of n The fringe or the fringes of an activity or organization are its less important, least typical, or most extreme parts, rather than its main and central part. The party remained on the fringe of the political scene until last year. 5 [ADJ] ADJ n Fringe groups or events are less important or popular than other related groups or events. The monarchists are a small fringe group who quarrel fiercely among themselves. fringe ben|efit (fringe benefits) 1 [N-COUNT] usu pl Fringe benefits are extra things that some people get from their job in addition to their salary, for example a car. (BUSINESS) 2 [N-COUNT] oft N of -ing/n The fringe benefits of doing something are the extra advantages which you get from it, although you may not have expected them and they were not the main reason for doing it. His support was one of the nicest fringe benefits of pursuing this research. = bonus fringed /fr'ɪndʒd/ 1 [ADJ] ADJ n Fringed clothes, curtains, or lampshades are decorated with fringes. Emma wore a fringed scarf round her neck. 2 [ADJ] v-link ADJ with n If a place or object is fringed with something, that thing forms a border around it or is situated along its edges. Her eyes were large and brown and fringed with incredibly long lashes. = edged...

fringe benefit

fringe ben|efit (fringe benefits) 1 [N-COUNT] usu pl Fringe benefits are extra things that some people get from their job in addition to their salary, for example a car. (BUSINESS) 2 [N-COUNT] oft N of -ing/n The fringe benefits of doing something are the extra advantages which you get from it, although you may not have expected them and they were not the main reason for doing it. His support was one of the nicest fringe benefits of pursuing this research. = bonus...

frolic

frol|ic /fr'ɒlɪk/ (frolics frolicking frolicked) [VERB] V When people or animals frolic, they play or move in a lively, happy way. ...lambs frolicking in the fields.

frothy

frothy /fr'ɒθi, AM fr'ɔːθi/ (frothier frothiest) [ADJ] usu ADJ n A frothy liquid has lots of bubbles on its surface. ...frothy milk shakes.

frugal

fru|gal /fr'uːgəl/ 1 [ADJ] People who are frugal or who live frugal lives do not eat much or spend much money on themselves. She lives a frugal life. ● frugality [N-UNCOUNT] We must practise the strictest frugality and economy. ● frugally [ADV] ADV with v We lived fairly frugally... He frugally saved various bits of the machine in carefully marked boxes. 2 [ADJ] A frugal meal is small and not expensive. The diet was frugal: cheese and water, rice and beans. fruit bowl (fruit bowls) [N-COUNT] A fruit bowl is a large bowl in which fruit is kept and displayed. fruit cock|tail (fruit cocktails) [N-VAR] Fruit cocktail is a mixture of pieces of different kinds of fruit eaten as part of a meal. fruit fly (fruit flies) [N-COUNT] Fruit flies are very small flies which eat fruit and rotting plants. fruit ma|chine (fruit machines) [N-COUNT] A fruit machine is a machine used for gambling. You put money into it and if a particular combination of symbols, especially fruit, appears, you win money. (BRIT; in AM, use slot machine) fruit sal|ad (fruit salads) [N-VAR] Fruit salad is a mixture of pieces of different kinds of fruit. It is usually eaten as a dessert. fruit|cake /fr'uːtkeɪk/ (fruitcakes) also fruit cake 1 [N-VAR] A fruitcake is a cake that contains raisins, currants, and other dried fruit. 2 [N-COUNT] If you refer to someone as a fruitcake, you mean that they are mad or that their behaviour is very strange. (INFORMAL) fruit|ful /fr'uːtfʊl/ 1 [ADJ] Something that is fruitful produces good and useful results. We had a long, happy, fruitful relationship... The talks had been fruitful, but much remained to be done. = productive ● fruitfully [ADV] ADV with v ...taking their skills where they can be applied most fruitfully. 2 [ADJ] Fruitful land or trees produce a lot of crops. ...a landscape that was fruitful and lush. = fertile frui|tion /fru'ɪʃən/ [N-UNCOUNT] usu to N If something comes to fruition, it starts to succeed and produce the results that were intended or hoped for. (FORMAL) These plans take time to come to fruition... fruit|less /fr'uːtləs/ [ADJ] Fruitless actions, events, or efforts do not achieve anything at all. It was a fruitless search... Talks have so far have been fruitless. = unproductive...

fudge

fudge /f'ʌdʒ/ (fudges fudging fudged) 1 [N-UNCOUNT] Fudge is a soft brown sweet that is made from butter, cream, and sugar. 2 [VERB] V n If you fudge something, you avoid making a clear and definite decision, distinction, or statement about it. Both have fudged their calculations and avoided specifics....

fugue

fugue /fj'uːg/ (fugues) [N-COUNT] A fugue is a piece of music that begins with a simple tune which is then repeated by other voices or instrumental parts with small variations. (TECHNICAL) full-back (full-backs) also fullback [N-COUNT] In rugby or football, a full-back is a defending player whose position is towards the goal which their team is defending. full-blooded [ADJ] ADJ n Full-blooded behaviour and actions are carried out with great commitment and enthusiasm. Experts are agreed that full-blooded market reform is the only way to save the economy. ≠ half-hearted full-blown [ADJ] ADJ n Full-blown means having all the characteristics of a particular type of thing or person. Before becoming a full-blown director, he worked as the film editor on Citizen Kane. full board also full-board [N-UNCOUNT] If the price at a hotel includes full board, it includes all your meals. (mainly BRIT) full dress [N-UNCOUNT] Someone who is in full dress is wearing all the clothes needed for a ceremony or formal occasion. full-flavoured in AM, use full-flavored [ADJ] Full-flavoured food or wine has a pleasant fairly strong taste. full-fledged [ADJ] Full-fledged means the same as fully fledged....

full-throated

full-throated [ADJ] ADJ n A full-throated sound coming from someone's mouth, such as a shout or a laugh, is very loud. ...full-throated singing. ful|ly fledged also fully-fledged [ADJ] ADJ n Fully fledged means complete or fully developed. Hungary is to have a fully-fledged Stock Exchange from today....

fusion

fu|sion /fj'uːʒən/ (fusions) 1 [N-COUNT] oft N of pl-n A fusion of different qualities, ideas, or things is something new that is created by joining them together. His previous fusions of jazz, pop and African melodies have proved highly successful. 2 [N-VAR] oft N of pl-n The fusion of two or more things involves joining them together to form one thing. His final reform was the fusion of regular and reserve forces. 3 [N-UNCOUNT] In physics, fusion is the process in which atomic particles combine and produce a large amount of nuclear energy. ...research into nuclear fusion. ♦ fur|ni|ture /f'ɜːrnɪtʃər/ [N-UNCOUNT] Furniture consists of large objects such as tables, chairs, or beds that are used in a room for sitting or lying on or for putting things on or in. Each piece of furniture in their home suited the style of the house....

glamor

glam|or /gl'æmər/ see glamour glad rags [N-PLURAL] You can refer to clothes that you wear to parties and other special occasions as your glad rags. (INFORMAL)

fulfilment

ful|fil|ment /fʊlf'ɪlmənt/ also fulfillment 1 [N-UNCOUNT] Fulfilment is a feeling of satisfaction that you get from doing or achieving something, especially something useful. ...professional fulfilment. = satisfaction 2 [N-UNCOUNT] usu N of n The fulfilment of a promise, threat, request, hope, or duty is the event or act of it happening or being made to happen. Visiting Angkor was the fulfilment of a childhood dream. = realization full-back (full-backs) also fullback [N-COUNT] In rugby or football, a full-back is a defending player whose position is towards the goal which their team is defending. full-blooded [ADJ] ADJ n Full-blooded behaviour and actions are carried out with great commitment and enthusiasm. Experts are agreed that full-blooded market reform is the only way to save the economy. ≠ half-hearted full-blown [ADJ] ADJ n Full-blown means having all the characteristics of a particular type of thing or person. Before becoming a full-blown director, he worked as the film editor on Citizen Kane. full board also full-board [N-UNCOUNT] If the price at a hotel includes full board, it includes all your meals. (mainly BRIT) full dress [N-UNCOUNT] Someone who is in full dress is wearing all the clothes needed for a ceremony or formal occasion. full-flavoured in AM, use full-flavored [ADJ] Full-flavoured food or wine has a pleasant fairly strong taste. full-fledged [ADJ] Full-fledged means the same as fully fledged....

fulminate

ful|mi|nate /f'ʊlmɪneɪt, f'ʌl-/ (fulminates fulminating fulminated) [VERB] V against/about n If you fulminate against someone or something, you criticize them angrily. (FORMAL) They all fulminated against the new curriculum. ful|ly fledged also fully-fledged [ADJ] ADJ n Fully fledged means complete or fully developed. Hungary is to have a fully-fledged Stock Exchange from today....

functionality

func|tion|al|ity /f'ʌŋkʃən'ælɪti/ [N-UNCOUNT] The functionality of a computer or other machine is how useful it is or how many functions it can perform. It is significantly more compact than any comparable laptop, with no loss in functionality. ful|ly fledged also fully-fledged [ADJ] ADJ n Fully fledged means complete or fully developed. Hungary is to have a fully-fledged Stock Exchange from today....

functionary

func|tion|ary /f'ʌŋkʃənəri, AM -neri/ (functionaries) [N-COUNT] A functionary is a person whose job is to do administrative work, especially for a government or a political party. (FORMAL) ful|ly fledged also fully-fledged [ADJ] ADJ n Fully fledged means complete or fully developed. Hungary is to have a fully-fledged Stock Exchange from today....

fundraising

fund-raising also fundraising [N-UNCOUNT] Fund-raising is the activity of collecting money to support a charity or political campaign or organization. Encourage her to get involved in fund-raising for charity. fu|ner|al di|rec|tor (funeral directors) [N-COUNT] A funeral director is a person whose job is to arrange funerals. fu|ner|al home (funeral homes) [N-COUNT] A funeral home is a place where a funeral director works and where dead people are prepared for burial or cremation. fu|ner|al par|lour (funeral parlours) [N-COUNT] A funeral parlour is a place where a funeral director works and where dead people are prepared for burial or cremation. (BRIT; in AM, use funeral home)...

fund-raiser

fund|rais|er /f'ʌndreɪzər/ (fundraisers) also fund-raiser 1 [N-COUNT] A fundraiser is an event which is intended to raise money for a particular purpose, for example, for a charity. Organize a fundraiser for your church. 2 [N-COUNT] A fundraiser is someone who works to raise money for a particular purpose, for example, for a charity. Sir Anthony was a keen fundraiser for the Liberal Democrats. ♦ fur|ni|ture /f'ɜːrnɪtʃər/ [N-UNCOUNT] Furniture consists of large objects such as tables, chairs, or beds that are used in a room for sitting or lying on or for putting things on or in. Each piece of furniture in their home suited the style of the house....

fundamentals

fun|da|men|tals /fʌndəm'entəlz/ [N-PLURAL] usu the N, oft N of n The fundamentals of something are its simplest, most important elements, ideas, or principles, in contrast to more complicated or detailed ones. ...teaching small children the fundamentals of road safety... They agree on fundamentals, like the need for further political reform. = basics ♦ fur|ni|ture /f'ɜːrnɪtʃər/ [N-UNCOUNT] Furniture consists of large objects such as tables, chairs, or beds that are used in a room for sitting or lying on or for putting things on or in. Each piece of furniture in their home suited the style of the house....

funnel

fun|nel /f'ʌnəl/ (funnels funnelling funnelled) in AM, use funneling, funneled 1 [N-COUNT] A funnel is an object with a wide, circular top and a narrow short tube at the bottom. Funnels are used to pour liquids into containers which have a small opening, for example bottles. 2 [N-COUNT] A funnel is a metal chimney on a ship or railway engine powered by steam. ...a merchantman with three masts and two funnels. 3 [N-COUNT] You can describe as a funnel something that is narrow, or narrow at one end, through which a substance flows and is directed. These fires create convection funnels, and throw a lot of particles into the upper atmosphere. 4 [VERB] V adv/prep, be V-ed adv/prep, also V n adv/prep If something funnels somewhere or is funnelled there, it is directed through a narrow space. The winds came from the north, across the plains, funnelling down the valley... High tides in the North Sea were funnelled down into the English Channel by a storm. 5 [VERB] V n prep/adv If you funnel money, goods, or information from one place or group to another, you cause it to be sent there as it becomes available. Its Global Programme on AIDS funnelled money from donors to governments... = channel ♦ fur|ni|ture /f'ɜːrnɪtʃər/ [N-UNCOUNT] Furniture consists of large objects such as tables, chairs, or beds that are used in a room for sitting or lying on or for putting things on or in. Each piece of furniture in their home suited the style of the house....

fury

fury /fj'ʊəri/ [N-UNCOUNT] Fury is violent or very strong anger. She screamed, her face distorted with fury and pain. = rage fuse box (fuse boxes) [N-COUNT] oft the N in sing The fuse box is the box that contains the fuses for all the electric circuits in a building. It is usually fixed to a wall....

furtive

fur|tive /f'ɜːrtɪv/ [ADJ] If you describe someone's behaviour as furtive, you disapprove of them behaving as if they want to keep something secret or hidden. With a furtive glance over her shoulder, she unlocked the door and entered the house. ♦ fur|ni|ture /f'ɜːrnɪtʃər/ [N-UNCOUNT] Furniture consists of large objects such as tables, chairs, or beds that are used in a room for sitting or lying on or for putting things on or in. Each piece of furniture in their home suited the style of the house....

fuse

fuse /fj'uːz/ (fuses fusing fused) 1 [N-COUNT] A fuse is a safety device in an electric plug or circuit. It contains a piece of wire which melts when there is a fault so that the flow of electricity stops. The fuse blew as he pressed the button to start the motor... Remove the circuit fuse before beginning electrical work. 2 [VERB] V, V n When an electric device fuses or when you fuse it, it stops working because of a fault. (BRIT) The wire snapped at the wall plug and the light fused... Rainwater had fused the bulbs. 3 [N-COUNT] A fuse is a device on a bomb or firework which delays the explosion so that people can move a safe distance away. A bomb was deactivated at the last moment, after the fuse had been lit. 4 [V-RECIP] pl-n V, V with n, V pl-n, V n with n, pl-n V together, also V pl-n together When things fuse or are fused, they join together physically or chemically, usually to become one thing. You can also say that one thing fuses with another. The skull bones fuse between the ages of fifteen and twenty-five... Conception occurs when a single sperm fuses with an egg... Manufactured glass is made by fusing various types of sand... Their solution was to isolate specific clones of B cells and fuse them with cancer cells... The flakes seem to fuse together and produce ice crystals. 5 [V-RECIP] V n with n, V pl-n, pl-n V, also V with n If something fuses two different qualities, ideas, or things, or if they fuse, they join together, especially in order to form a pleasing or satisfactory combination. His music fused the rhythms of jazz with classical forms... What they have done is fuse two different types of entertainment, the circus and the rock concert... Past and present fuse. = combine 6 [PHRASE] V inflects If you blow a fuse, you suddenly become very angry and are unable to stay calm. (INFORMAL) For all my experience, I blew a fuse in the quarter-final and could have been sent off. 7 [PHRASE] V inflects If someone or something lights the fuse of a particular situation or activity, they suddenly get it started. Hopes for an early cut in German interest rates lit the market's fuse early on. 8 [PHRASE] V inflects If you say that someone has a short fuse or is on a short fuse you mean that they are quick to react angrily when something goes wrong. I have a very short fuse and a violent temper. fuse box (fuse boxes) [N-COUNT] oft the N in sing The fuse box is the box that contains the fuses for all the electric circuits in a building. It is usually fixed to a wall....

fuss

fuss /f'ʌs/ (fusses fussing fussed) 1 [N-SING] also no det Fuss is anxious or excited behaviour which serves no useful purpose. I don't know what all the fuss is about... He just gets down to work without any fuss. 2 [VERB] V about, V over n, V prep, V If you fuss, you worry or behave in a nervous, anxious way about unimportant matters or rush around doing unnecessary things. Carol fussed about getting me a drink... My wife was fussing over the food and clothing we were going to take... A team of waiters began fussing around the table... `Stop fussing,' he snapped. 3 [VERB] V over n If you fuss over someone, you pay them a lot of attention and do things to make them happy or comfortable. Auntie Hilda and Uncle Jack couldn't fuss over them enough. 4 [PHRASE] V inflects If you make a fuss or kick up a fuss about something, you become angry or excited about it and complain. (INFORMAL) I kick up a fuss if my wife wants to spend time alone. 5 [PHRASE] V inflects, PHR n If you make a fuss of someone, you pay them a lot of attention and do things to make them happy or comfortable. (BRIT) When I arrived my nephews made a big fuss of me. ♦ fur|ni|ture /f'ɜːrnɪtʃər/ [N-UNCOUNT] Furniture consists of large objects such as tables, chairs, or beds that are used in a room for sitting or lying on or for putting things on or in. Each piece of furniture in their home suited the style of the house....

fuzzy

fuzzy /f'ʌzi/ (fuzzier fuzziest) 1 [ADJ] Fuzzy hair sticks up in a soft, curly mass. He had fuzzy black hair and bright black eyes. 2 [ADJ] If something is fuzzy, it has a covering that feels soft and like fur. ...fuzzy material. 3 [ADJ] A fuzzy picture, image, or sound is unclear and hard to see or hear. A couple of fuzzy pictures have been published. ...fuzzy bass lines. 4 [ADJ] If you or your thoughts are fuzzy, you are confused and cannot think clearly. He had little patience for fuzzy ideas. ≠ clear 5 [ADJ] You describe something as fuzzy when it is vague and not clearly defined. The border between science fact and science fiction gets a bit fuzzy. = hazy 6 [ADJ] ADJ n Fuzzy logic is a type of computer logic that is supposed to imitate the way that humans think, for example by adapting to changing circumstances rather than always following the same procedure. ♦ fur|ni|ture /f'ɜːrnɪtʃər/ [N-UNCOUNT] Furniture consists of large objects such as tables, chairs, or beds that are used in a room for sitting or lying on or for putting things on or in. Each piece of furniture in their home suited the style of the house....

fugitive

fu|gi|tive /fj'uːdʒɪtɪv/ (fugitives) [N-COUNT] A fugitive is someone who is running away or hiding, usually in order to avoid being caught by the police. ...the fugitive train robber. full-back (full-backs) also fullback [N-COUNT] In rugby or football, a full-back is a defending player whose position is towards the goal which their team is defending. full-blooded [ADJ] ADJ n Full-blooded behaviour and actions are carried out with great commitment and enthusiasm. Experts are agreed that full-blooded market reform is the only way to save the economy. ≠ half-hearted full-blown [ADJ] ADJ n Full-blown means having all the characteristics of a particular type of thing or person. Before becoming a full-blown director, he worked as the film editor on Citizen Kane. full board also full-board [N-UNCOUNT] If the price at a hotel includes full board, it includes all your meals. (mainly BRIT) full dress [N-UNCOUNT] Someone who is in full dress is wearing all the clothes needed for a ceremony or formal occasion. full-flavoured in AM, use full-flavored [ADJ] Full-flavoured food or wine has a pleasant fairly strong taste. full-fledged [ADJ] Full-fledged means the same as fully fledged....

furious

fu|ri|ous /fj'ʊəriəs/ 1 [ADJ] usu v-link ADJ, oft ADJ at/with n, ADJ that Someone who is furious is extremely angry. He is furious at the way his wife has been treated... I am furious that it has taken so long to uncover what really happened. ● furiously [ADV] usu ADV with v He stormed out of the apartment, slamming the door furiously behind him. 2 [ADJ] usu ADJ n Furious is also used to describe something that is done with great energy, effort, speed, or violence. A furious gunbattle ensued. ● furiously [ADV] usu ADV with v Officials worked furiously to repair the centre court. ♦ fur|ni|ture /f'ɜːrnɪtʃər/ [N-UNCOUNT] Furniture consists of large objects such as tables, chairs, or beds that are used in a room for sitting or lying on or for putting things on or in. Each piece of furniture in their home suited the style of the house....

fusillade

fu|sil|lade /fj'uːzɪl'eɪd, AM -l'ɑːd/ [N-SING] usu N of n A fusillade of shots or objects is a large number of them fired or thrown at the same time. (FORMAL) Both were killed in a fusillade of bullets fired at close range. ♦ fur|ni|ture /f'ɜːrnɪtʃər/ [N-UNCOUNT] Furniture consists of large objects such as tables, chairs, or beds that are used in a room for sitting or lying on or for putting things on or in. Each piece of furniture in their home suited the style of the house....

futile

fu|tile /fj'uːtaɪl, AM -təl/ [ADJ] oft it v-link ADJ to-inf If you say that something is futile, you mean there is no point in doing it, usually because it has no chance of succeeding. He brought his arm up in a futile attempt to ward off the blow... It would be futile to sustain his life when there is no chance of any improvement. = pointless ♦ fur|ni|ture /f'ɜːrnɪtʃər/ [N-UNCOUNT] Furniture consists of large objects such as tables, chairs, or beds that are used in a room for sitting or lying on or for putting things on or in. Each piece of furniture in their home suited the style of the house....

gadget

gadg|et /g'ædʒɪt/ (gadgets) [N-COUNT] usu with supp A gadget is a small machine or device which does something useful. You sometimes refer to something as a gadget when you are suggesting that it is complicated and unnecessary. ...kitchen gadgets including toasters, kettles and percolators. ...the latest gadget for the technology obsessed: pocket-sized computers that you write on with a pen....

gaggle

gag|gle /g'ægəl/ (gaggles) [N-COUNT-COLL] usu N of n You can use gaggle to refer to a group of people, especially if they are noisy or disorganized. A gaggle of journalists sit in a hotel foyer waiting impatiently....

gaiety

gai|ety /g'eɪɪti/ [N-UNCOUNT] Gaiety is a feeling, attitude, or atmosphere of liveliness and fun. Music rang out adding to the gaiety and life of the market. = joyfulness

gal

gal /g'æl/ (gals) [N-COUNT; N-VOC] Gal is used in written English to represent the word `girl' as it is pronounced in a particular accent. ...a Southern gal who wants to make it in the movies. gal also gal. gal is a written abbreviation for gallon or gallons. Diesel cost 60p/gal in some places....

gall

gall /g'ɔːl/ (galls galling galled) 1 [N-UNCOUNT] oft the N of n, the N to-inf If you say that someone has the gall to do something, you are criticizing them for behaving in a rude or disrespectful way. She had the gall to suggest that I might supply her with information about what Steve was doing. = nerve 2 [VERB] it V n that, V n, also it V n to-inf If someone's action galls you, it makes you feel very angry or annoyed, often because it is unfair to you and you cannot do anything about it. It must have galled him that Bardo thwarted each of these measures... It was their serenity which galled her most. ● galling [ADJ] usu v-link ADJ It was especially galling to be criticised by this scoundrel. 3 [N-COUNT] A gall is a growth on the surface of a plant that is caused by an insect, disease, fungus, or injury. gall blad|der (gall bladders) [N-COUNT] Your gall bladder is the organ in your body which contains bile and is next to your liver....

gangrene

gan|grene /g'æŋgriːn/ [N-UNCOUNT] Gangrene is the decay that can occur in a part of a person's body if the blood stops flowing to it, for example as a result of illness or injury. Once gangrene has developed the tissue is dead....

garb

garb /g'ɑːrb/ [N-UNCOUNT] oft in adj N, oft with poss Someone's garb is the clothes they are wearing, especially when these are unusual. (WRITTEN) ...a familiar figure in civilian garb... He wore the garb of a scout, not a general. = attire gar|age sale (garage sales) [N-COUNT] If you have a garage sale, you sell things such as clothes, toys and household items that you do not want, usually in your garage. (mainly AM) garb /g'ɑːrb/ [N-UNCOUNT] oft in adj N, oft with poss Someone's garb is the clothes they are wearing, especially when these are unusual. (WRITTEN) ...a familiar figure in civilian garb... He wore the garb of a scout, not a general. = attire...

garage

gar|age /g'ærɑːʒ, -rɪdʒ, AM gər'ɑːʒ/ (garages) 1 [N-COUNT] A garage is a building in which you keep a car. A garage is often built next to or as part of a house. 2 [N-COUNT; N-IN-NAMES] A garage is a place where you can get your car repaired. In Britain, you can also buy fuel for your car, or buy cars. Nancy took her car to a local garage for a check-up... gar|age sale (garage sales) [N-COUNT] If you have a garage sale, you sell things such as clothes, toys and household items that you do not want, usually in your garage. (mainly AM) garb /g'ɑːrb/ [N-UNCOUNT] oft in adj N, oft with poss Someone's garb is the clothes they are wearing, especially when these are unusual. (WRITTEN) ...a familiar figure in civilian garb... He wore the garb of a scout, not a general. = attire...

gardenia

gar|denia /gɑːrd'iːniə/ (gardenias) [N-COUNT] A gardenia is a type of large, white, or yellow flower with a very pleasant smell. A gardenia is also the bush on which these flowers grow....

gargoyle

gar|goyle /g'ɑːrgɔɪl/ (gargoyles) [N-COUNT] A gargoyle is a decorative stone carving on old buildings. It is usually shaped like the head of a strange and ugly creature, and water drains through it from the roof of the building....

garish

gar|ish /g'eərɪʃ/ [ADJ] You describe something as garish when you dislike it because it is very bright in an unattractive, showy way. They climbed the garish purple-carpeted stairs. ...the restaurant's garish, illuminated signs. = gaudy ● garishly [ADV] ADV adj/-ed ...a garishly patterned three-piece suite....

garland

gar|land /g'ɑːrlənd/ (garlands) [N-COUNT] usu pl, oft N of n A garland is a circular decoration made from flowers and leaves. People sometimes wear garlands of flowers on their heads or around their necks. They wore garlands of summer flowers in their hair....

garment

gar|ment /g'ɑːrmənt/ (garments) [N-COUNT] A garment is a piece of clothing; used especially in contexts where you are talking about the manufacture or sale of clothes. Many of the garments have the customers' name tags sewn into the linings....

garner

gar|ner /g'ɑːrnər/ (garners garnering garnered) [VERB] V n, V n If someone has garnered something useful or valuable, they have gained it or collected it. (FORMAL) Durham had garnered three times as many votes as Carey... He has garnered extensive support for his proposals... = acquire...

gasp

gasp /g'ɑːsp, g'æsp/ (gasps gasping gasped) 1 [N-COUNT] usu with supp A gasp is a short quick breath of air that you take in through your mouth, especially when you are surprised, shocked, or in pain. An audible gasp went round the court as the jury announced the verdict... She gave a small gasp of pain. 2 [VERB] V for n, V, also V with quote When you gasp, you take a short quick breath through your mouth, especially when you are surprised, shocked, or in pain. She gasped for air and drew in a lungful of water... I heard myself gasp and cry out. 3 [PHRASE] usu PHR of n, PHR n You describe something as the last gasp to emphasize that it is the final part of something or happens at the last possible moment. ...the last gasp of a dying system of censorship... gee whiz /dʒ'iː hw'ɪz/ also gee whizz 1 [EXCLAM] People sometimes say gee whiz in order to express a strong reaction to something or to introduce a remark or response. (AM INFORMAL) Gee whiz, they carried on and on, they loved the evening. 2 [ADJ] ADJ n You use gee whiz to describe something that is new, exciting, and impressive, but that is perhaps more complicated or showy than it needs to be. (mainly AM INFORMAL) The trend now is towards `lifestyle' electronics-black, shiny gee-whiz things that people like to own....

gastric

gas|tric /g'æstrɪk/ [ADJ] ADJ n You use gastric to describe processes, pain, or illnesses that occur in someone's stomach. (MEDICAL) He suffered from diabetes and gastric ulcers. gee whiz /dʒ'iː hw'ɪz/ also gee whizz 1 [EXCLAM] People sometimes say gee whiz in order to express a strong reaction to something or to introduce a remark or response. (AM INFORMAL) Gee whiz, they carried on and on, they loved the evening. 2 [ADJ] ADJ n You use gee whiz to describe something that is new, exciting, and impressive, but that is perhaps more complicated or showy than it needs to be. (mainly AM INFORMAL) The trend now is towards `lifestyle' electronics-black, shiny gee-whiz things that people like to own....

gaudy

gaudy /g'ɔːdi/ (gaudier gaudiest) [ADJ] If something is gaudy, it is very brightly-coloured and showy. ...her gaudy orange-and-purple floral hat. = garish gee whiz /dʒ'iː hw'ɪz/ also gee whizz 1 [EXCLAM] People sometimes say gee whiz in order to express a strong reaction to something or to introduce a remark or response. (AM INFORMAL) Gee whiz, they carried on and on, they loved the evening. 2 [ADJ] ADJ n You use gee whiz to describe something that is new, exciting, and impressive, but that is perhaps more complicated or showy than it needs to be. (mainly AM INFORMAL) The trend now is towards `lifestyle' electronics-black, shiny gee-whiz things that people like to own....

gauge

gauge /g'eɪdʒ/ (gauges gauging gauged) 1 [VERB] V n, V n If you gauge the speed or strength of something, or if you gauge an amount, you measure or calculate it, often by using a device of some kind. He gauged the wind at over thirty knots... Distance is gauged by journey time rather than miles. 2 [N-COUNT] oft n N A gauge is a device that measures the amount or quantity of something and shows the amount measured. ...temperature gauges. ...pressure gauges. 3 [VERB] V n If you gauge people's actions, feelings, or intentions in a particular situation, you carefully consider and judge them. ...as he gauged possible enemy moves and his own responses... = assess 4 [N-SING] usu N of n A gauge of someone's feelings or a situation is a fact or event that can be used to judge them. The index is the government's chief gauge of future economic activity. = measure 5 [N-COUNT] usu n N A gauge is the distance between the two rails on a railway line. ...a narrow gauge railway. 6 [N-COUNT] A gauge is the thickness of something, especially metal or wire. gee whiz /dʒ'iː hw'ɪz/ also gee whizz 1 [EXCLAM] People sometimes say gee whiz in order to express a strong reaction to something or to introduce a remark or response. (AM INFORMAL) Gee whiz, they carried on and on, they loved the evening. 2 [ADJ] ADJ n You use gee whiz to describe something that is new, exciting, and impressive, but that is perhaps more complicated or showy than it needs to be. (mainly AM INFORMAL) The trend now is towards `lifestyle' electronics-black, shiny gee-whiz things that people like to own....

gaunt

gaunt /g'ɔːnt/ 1 [ADJ] If someone looks gaunt, they look very thin, usually because they have been very ill or worried. Looking gaunt and tired, he denied there was anything to worry about. = drawn 2 [ADJ] ADJ n If you describe a building as gaunt, you mean it is very plain and unattractive. (LITERARY) Above on the hillside was a large, gaunt, grey house. gee whiz /dʒ'iː hw'ɪz/ also gee whizz 1 [EXCLAM] People sometimes say gee whiz in order to express a strong reaction to something or to introduce a remark or response. (AM INFORMAL) Gee whiz, they carried on and on, they loved the evening. 2 [ADJ] ADJ n You use gee whiz to describe something that is new, exciting, and impressive, but that is perhaps more complicated or showy than it needs to be. (mainly AM INFORMAL) The trend now is towards `lifestyle' electronics-black, shiny gee-whiz things that people like to own....

gauzy

gauzy /g'ɔːzi/ [ADJ] ADJ n Gauzy material is light, soft, and thin, so that you can see through it. ...thin, gauzy curtains. gee whiz /dʒ'iː hw'ɪz/ also gee whizz 1 [EXCLAM] People sometimes say gee whiz in order to express a strong reaction to something or to introduce a remark or response. (AM INFORMAL) Gee whiz, they carried on and on, they loved the evening. 2 [ADJ] ADJ n You use gee whiz to describe something that is new, exciting, and impressive, but that is perhaps more complicated or showy than it needs to be. (mainly AM INFORMAL) The trend now is towards `lifestyle' electronics-black, shiny gee-whiz things that people like to own....

gavel

gav|el /g'ævəl/ (gavels) [N-COUNT] usu sing, oft poss N A gavel is a small wooden hammer that the person in charge of a law court, an auction, or a meeting bangs on a table to get people's attention. gee whiz /dʒ'iː hw'ɪz/ also gee whizz 1 [EXCLAM] People sometimes say gee whiz in order to express a strong reaction to something or to introduce a remark or response. (AM INFORMAL) Gee whiz, they carried on and on, they loved the evening. 2 [ADJ] ADJ n You use gee whiz to describe something that is new, exciting, and impressive, but that is perhaps more complicated or showy than it needs to be. (mainly AM INFORMAL) The trend now is towards `lifestyle' electronics-black, shiny gee-whiz things that people like to own....

gaze

gaze /g'eɪz/ (gazes gazing gazed) 1 [VERB] V at n, V at n If you gaze at someone or something, you look steadily at them for a long time, for example because you find them attractive or interesting, or because you are thinking about something else. She stood gazing at herself in the mirror... Sitting in his wicker chair, he gazed reflectively at the fire... 2 [N-COUNT] usu sing, usu with poss You can talk about someone's gaze as a way of describing how they are looking at something, especially when they are looking steadily at it. (WRITTEN) She felt increasingly uncomfortable under the woman's steady gaze... The interior was shielded from the curious gaze of passersby. 3 [PHRASE] oft v-link PHR If someone or something is in the public gaze, they are receiving a lot of attention from the general public. You won't find a couple more in the public gaze than Michael and Lizzie. gee whiz /dʒ'iː hw'ɪz/ also gee whizz 1 [EXCLAM] People sometimes say gee whiz in order to express a strong reaction to something or to introduce a remark or response. (AM INFORMAL) Gee whiz, they carried on and on, they loved the evening. 2 [ADJ] ADJ n You use gee whiz to describe something that is new, exciting, and impressive, but that is perhaps more complicated or showy than it needs to be. (mainly AM INFORMAL) The trend now is towards `lifestyle' electronics-black, shiny gee-whiz things that people like to own....

gelatin

gelatin noun noun BrE BrE / /ˈdʒelətɪn / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈdʒelətɪn / / ( also gelatine BrE BrE / /ˈdʒelətiːn / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈdʒelətiːn / / ) [ uncountable ] a clear substance without any taste that is made from boiling animal bones and is used to make jelly, film for cameras, etc. Word Origin early 19th cent.: from French gélatine, from Italian gelatina, from Latin gelata'frozen' , from gelare'freeze' , from gelu'frost' ....

gem

gem /dʒ'em/ (gems) 1 [N-COUNT] A gem is a jewel or stone that is used in jewellery. ...a gold mask inset with emeralds and other gems. 2 [N-COUNT] oft N of n If you describe something or someone as a gem, you mean that they are especially pleasing, good, or helpful. (INFORMAL) ...a gem of a hotel, Castel Clara... Miss Famous, as she was called, was a gem. gela|tine /dʒ'elɪtiːn, AM -tən/ (gelatines) also gelatin [N-MASS] Gelatine is a clear tasteless powder that is used to make liquids become firm, for example when you are making desserts such as jelly....

genitals

genitals noun noun BrE BrE / /ˈdʒenɪtlz / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈdʒenɪtlz / / ( also genitalia BrE BrE / /ˌdʒenɪˈteɪliə / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˌdʒenɪˈteɪliə / / ) [ plural ] Body parts a person's sex organs that are outside their body See related entries: Body parts...

generalization

gen|er|ali|za|tion /dʒ'enrəlaɪz'eɪʃən/ (generalizations) in BRIT, also use generalisation [N-VAR] A generalization is a statement that seems to be true in most situations or for most people, but that may not be completely true in all cases. He is making sweeping generalisations to get his point across... The evaluation of conduct involves some amount of generalization. gee whiz /dʒ'iː hw'ɪz/ also gee whizz 1 [EXCLAM] People sometimes say gee whiz in order to express a strong reaction to something or to introduce a remark or response. (AM INFORMAL) Gee whiz, they carried on and on, they loved the evening. 2 [ADJ] ADJ n You use gee whiz to describe something that is new, exciting, and impressive, but that is perhaps more complicated or showy than it needs to be. (mainly AM INFORMAL) The trend now is towards `lifestyle' electronics-black, shiny gee-whiz things that people like to own....

generosity

gen|er|os|ity /dʒ'enər'ɒsɪti/ [N-UNCOUNT] If you refer to someone's generosity, you mean that they are generous, especially in doing or giving more than is usual or expected. There are stories about his generosity, the massive amounts of money he gave to charities. ...a man of great generosity of spirit. ≠ meanness gee whiz /dʒ'iː hw'ɪz/ also gee whizz 1 [EXCLAM] People sometimes say gee whiz in order to express a strong reaction to something or to introduce a remark or response. (AM INFORMAL) Gee whiz, they carried on and on, they loved the evening. 2 [ADJ] ADJ n You use gee whiz to describe something that is new, exciting, and impressive, but that is perhaps more complicated or showy than it needs to be. (mainly AM INFORMAL) The trend now is towards `lifestyle' electronics-black, shiny gee-whiz things that people like to own....

genesis

gen|esis /dʒ'enɪsɪs/ [N-SING] usu with poss The genesis of something is its beginning, birth, or creation. (FORMAL) The project had its genesis two years earlier... = origin ge|net|ic en|gi|neer|ing [N-UNCOUNT] Genetic engineering is the science or activity of changing the genetic structure of an animal, plant, or other organism in order to make it stronger or more suitable for a particular purpose. Scientists have used genetic engineering to protect tomatoes against the effects of freezing. ge|net|ic finger|print|ing [N-SING] Genetic fingerprinting is a method of identifying people using the genetic material in their bodies....

geographical

geo|graphi|cal /dʒ'iːəgr'æfɪkəl/ The form geographic /dʒ'iːəgr'æfɪk/is also used. [ADJ] usu ADJ n Geographical or geographic means concerned with or relating to geography. ...a vast geographical area. ● geographically [ADV] It is geographically more diverse than any other continent....

germane

ger|mane /dʒɜːrm'eɪn/ [ADJ] oft ADJ to n Something that is germane to a situation or idea is connected with it in an important way. (FORMAL) ...the suppression of a number of documents which were very germane to the case... Fenton was a good listener, and his questions were germane. = relevant...

germinate

ger|mi|nate /dʒ'ɜːrmɪneɪt/ (germinates germinating germinated) 1 [VERB] V, V n If a seed germinates or if it is germinated, it starts to grow. Some seed varieties germinate fast, so check every day or so... First, the researchers germinated the seeds. ● germination [N-UNCOUNT] usu with supp The poor germination of your seed could be because the soil was too cold. 2 [VERB] V, also V into n If an idea, plan, or feeling germinates, it comes into existence and begins to develop. He wrote to Eliot about a `big book' that was germinating in his mind. get away with [PHRASAL VERB] V P P n/-ing If you get away with doing something wrong or risky, you do not suffer any punishment or other bad consequences because of it. The criminals know how to play the system and get away with it......

get around

get around 1 [PHRASAL VERB] V P n To get around a problem or difficulty means to overcome it. None of these countries has found a way yet to get around the problem of the polarization of wealth. = get over 2 [PHRASAL VERB] V P n If you get around a rule or law, you find a way of doing something that the rule or law is intended to prevent, without actually breaking it. Although tobacco ads are prohibited, companies get around the ban by sponsoring music shows. 3 [PHRASAL VERB] V P that, it V P that If news gets around, it becomes well known as a result of being told to lots of people. They threw him out because word got around that he was taking drugs... I'll see that it gets round that you've arrived. = get about 4 [PHRASAL VERB] V P n If you get around someone, you persuade them to allow you to do or have something by pleasing them or flattering them. Max could always get round her. 5 [PHRASAL VERB] V P If you get around, you visit a lot of different places as part of your way of life. He claimed to be a journalist, and he got around. get around to [PHRASAL VERB] V P P n/-ing When you get around to doing something that you have delayed doing or have been too busy to do, you finally do it. (in BRIT, also use get round to) I said I would write to you, but as usual I never got around to it......

get at

get at 1 [PHRASAL VERB] V P n To get at something means to succeed in reaching it. A goat was standing up against a tree on its hind legs, trying to get at the leaves. 2 [PHRASAL VERB] V P n If you get at the truth about something, you succeed in discovering it. We want to get at the truth. Who killed him? And why? = find out 3 [PHRASAL VERB] usu cont, V P If you ask someone what they are getting at, you are asking them to explain what they mean, usually because you think that they are being unpleasant or are suggesting something that is untrue. `What are you getting at now?' demanded Rick. get around to [PHRASAL VERB] V P P n/-ing When you get around to doing something that you have delayed doing or have been too busy to do, you finally do it. (in BRIT, also use get round to) I said I would write to you, but as usual I never got around to it......

gimmick

gim|mick /g'ɪmɪk/ (gimmicks) [N-COUNT] A gimmick is an unusual and unnecessary feature or action whose purpose is to attract attention or publicity. It is just a public relations gimmick... The exhibition is informative, up to date, and mercifully free of gimmicks....

get down

get down 1 [PHRASAL VERB] V n P If something gets you down, it makes you unhappy. At times when my work gets me down, I like to fantasize about being a farmer. 2 [PHRASAL VERB] V P on n, V P If you get down, you lower your body until you are sitting, kneeling, or lying on the ground. She got down on her hands and knees on the floor... `Get down!' she yelled. `Somebody's shooting!' 3 [PHRASAL VERB] V n P, also V P n (not pron) If you get something down, especially something that someone has just said, you write it down. The idea has been going around in my head for quite a while and now I am getting it down on paper. 4 [PHRASAL VERB] V n P, also V P n (not pron) If you get food or medicine down, you swallow it, especially with difficulty. (INFORMAL) I bit into a hefty slab of bread and cheese. When I had got it down I started talking. get down to [PHRASAL VERB] V P P n If you get down to something, especially something that requires a lot of attention, you begin doing it. With the election out of the way, the government can get down to business....

get off

get off 1 [PHRASAL VERB] V P with n If someone who has broken a law or rule gets off, they are not punished, or are given only a very small punishment. He is likely to get off with a small fine. 2 [PHRASAL VERB] V P If you get off, you leave a place because it is time to leave. At eight I said `I'm getting off now.' 3 [PHRASAL VERB] V P n If you tell someone to get off a piece of land or a property, you are telling them to leave, because they have no right to be there and you do not want them there. I told you. Get off the farm. 4 [PHRASAL VERB] V P, V P n You can tell someone to get off when they are touching something and you do not want them to. I kept telling him to get off... `Get off me!' I screamed. get on to 1 [PHRASAL VERB] V P P n If you get on to a topic when you are speaking, you start talking about it. We got on to the subject of relationships. 2 [PHRASAL VERB] V P P n If you get on to someone, you contact them in order to ask them to do something or to give them some information. (mainly BRIT) I got on to him and explained some of the things I had been thinking of....

get through

get through 1 [PHRASAL VERB] V P n If you get through a task or an amount of work, especially when it is difficult, you complete it. I think you can get through the first two chapters. 2 [PHRASAL VERB] V P n If you get through a difficult or unpleasant period of time, you manage to live through it. It is hard to see how people will get through the winter... = survive 3 [PHRASAL VERB] V P n If you get through a large amount of something, you use it. (mainly BRIT) You'll get through at least ten nappies a day. 4 [PHRASAL VERB] V P to n, V P to n, also V P If you get through to someone, you succeed in making them understand something that you are trying to tell them. An old friend might well be able to get through to her and help her... The message was finally getting through to him. 5 [PHRASAL VERB] V P to n, V P If you get through to someone, you succeed in contacting them on the telephone. Look, I can't get through to this number... I've been trying to ring up all day and I couldn't get through. 6 [PHRASAL VERB] V P n, also V P If you get through an examination or get through, you pass it. (mainly BRIT) Did you have to get through an entrance examination? 7 [PHRASAL VERB] V P, V P n If a law or proposal gets through, it is officially approved by something such as a parliament or committee. ...if his referendum law failed to get through... Such a radical proposal would never get through parliament. = go through...

genealogy

ge|neal|ogy /dʒ'iːni'ælədʒi/ [N-UNCOUNT] Genealogy is the study of the history of families, especially through studying historical documents to discover the relationships between particular people and their families. ● genealogical [ADJ] ADJ n ...genealogical research on his family. gene thera|py [N-UNCOUNT] Gene therapy is the use of genetic material to treat disease....

genetic

ge|net|ic /dʒɪn'etɪk/ [ADJ] You use genetic to describe something that is concerned with genetics or with genes. Cystic fibrosis is the most common fatal genetic disease in the United States. ● genetically [ADV] usu ADV adj Some people are genetically predisposed to diabetes. ge|net|ic en|gi|neer|ing [N-UNCOUNT] Genetic engineering is the science or activity of changing the genetic structure of an animal, plant, or other organism in order to make it stronger or more suitable for a particular purpose. Scientists have used genetic engineering to protect tomatoes against the effects of freezing. ge|net|ic finger|print|ing [N-SING] Genetic fingerprinting is a method of identifying people using the genetic material in their bodies....

genie

ge|nie /dʒ'iːni/ (genies) 1 [N-COUNT] In stories from Arabia and Persia, a genie is a spirit which appears and disappears by magic and obeys the person who controls it. 2 [PHRASE] V inflects If you say that the genie is out of the bottle or that someone has let the genie out of the bottle, you mean that something has happened which has made a great and permanent change in people's lives, especially a bad change. gee whiz /dʒ'iː hw'ɪz/ also gee whizz 1 [EXCLAM] People sometimes say gee whiz in order to express a strong reaction to something or to introduce a remark or response. (AM INFORMAL) Gee whiz, they carried on and on, they loved the evening. 2 [ADJ] ADJ n You use gee whiz to describe something that is new, exciting, and impressive, but that is perhaps more complicated or showy than it needs to be. (mainly AM INFORMAL) The trend now is towards `lifestyle' electronics-black, shiny gee-whiz things that people like to own....

gibberish

gib|ber|ish /dʒ'ɪbərɪʃ/ [N-UNCOUNT] If you describe someone's words or ideas as gibberish, you mean that they do not make any sense. When he was talking to a girl he could hardly speak, and when he did speak he talked gibberish. = nonsense...

gifted

gift|ed /g'ɪftɪd/ 1 [ADJ] Someone who is gifted has a natural ability to do something well. ...one of the most gifted players in the world... He was witty, amusing and gifted with a sharp business brain. 2 [ADJ] A gifted child is much more intelligent or talented than average. ...a state program for gifted children....

gig

gig /g'ɪg/ (gigs gigging gigged) 1 [N-COUNT] A gig is a live performance by someone such as a musician or a comedian. (INFORMAL) The two bands join forces for a gig at the Sheffield Arena on November 28... He supplemented his income with occasional comedy gigs. = show 2 [VERB] V When musicians or other performers gig, they perform live in public. (INFORMAL) By the time he was 15, Scott had gigged with a handful of well-known small bands....

glamour

glam|our /gl'æmər/ in AM, also use glamor [N-UNCOUNT] Glamour is the quality of being more attractive, exciting, or interesting than ordinary people or things. ...the glamour of show biz. giv|en name (given names) [N-COUNT] oft with poss A given name is a person's first name, which they are given at birth in addition to their surname. (FORMAL) = first name...

glimpse

glimpse /gl'ɪmps/ (glimpses glimpsing glimpsed) 1 [N-COUNT] usu N of n If you get a glimpse of someone or something, you see them very briefly and not very well. Some of the fans had waited 24 hours outside the Hyde Park Hotel to catch a glimpse of their heroine. 2 [VERB] V n If you glimpse someone or something, you see them very briefly and not very well. She glimpsed a group of people standing on the bank of a river. 3 [N-COUNT] usu N of n A glimpse of something is a brief experience of it or an idea about it that helps you understand or appreciate it better. As university campuses become increasingly multi-ethnic, they offer a glimpse of the conflicts society will face tomorrow. ...a glimpse into the future. glu|ten /gl'uːtən/ [N-UNCOUNT] Gluten is a substance found in cereal grains such as wheat....

glister

glister verb verb BrE BrE / /ˈɡlɪstə(r) / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈɡlɪstər / / [ intransitive ] ( literary ) Verb Forms present simple I / you / we / they glister BrE BrE / /ˈɡlɪstə(r) / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈɡlɪstər / / he / she / it glisters BrE BrE / /ˈɡlɪstəz / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈɡlɪstərz / / past simple glistered BrE BrE / /ˈɡlɪstəd / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈɡlɪstərd / / past participle glistered BrE BrE / /ˈɡlɪstəd / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈɡlɪstərd / / -ing form glistering BrE BrE / /ˈɡlɪstərɪŋ / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈɡlɪstərɪŋ / / to shine brightly with little flashes of light, like a diamond synonym glitter...

glitter

glit|ter /gl'ɪtər/ (glitters glittering glittered) 1 [VERB] V, V prep If something glitters, light comes from or is reflected off different parts of it. The bay glittered in the sunshine... The Palace glittered with lights. = sparkle 2 [N-UNCOUNT] Glitter consists of tiny shining pieces of metal. It is glued to things for decoration. Decorate the tunic with sequins or glitter. 3 [N-UNCOUNT] You can use glitter to refer to superficial attractiveness or to the excitement connected with something. She was blinded by the glitter and the glamour of her own life. glu|ten /gl'uːtən/ [N-UNCOUNT] Gluten is a substance found in cereal grains such as wheat....

gloat

gloat /gl'oʊt/ (gloats gloating gloated) [VERB] V over/about n, V over/about n, also V If someone is gloating, they are showing pleasure at their own success or at other people's failure in an arrogant and unpleasant way. Anti-abortionists are gloating over the court's decision... This is nothing to gloat about. glu|ten /gl'uːtən/ [N-UNCOUNT] Gluten is a substance found in cereal grains such as wheat....

glossary

glos|sa|ry /gl'ɒsəri, AM gl'ɔːs-/ (glossaries) [N-COUNT] A glossary of special, unusual, or technical words or expressions is an alphabetical list of them giving their meanings, for example at the end of a book on a particular subject. glove com|part|ment (glove compartments) or glove box [N-COUNT] The glove compartment in a car is a small cupboard or shelf below the front windscreen. gloved /gl'ʌvd/ [ADJ] usu ADJ n A gloved hand has a glove on it. (mainly WRITTEN)...

glorified

glo|ri|fied /gl'ɔːrɪfaɪd/ [ADJ] ADJ n You use glorified to indicate that something is less important or impressive than its name suggests. Sometimes they tell me I'm just a glorified waitress... glu|ten /gl'uːtən/ [N-UNCOUNT] Gluten is a substance found in cereal grains such as wheat....

glorify

glo|ri|fy /gl'ɔːrɪfaɪ/ (glorifies glorifying glorified) [VERB] V n, V n To glorify something means to praise it or make it seem good or special, usually when it is not. This magazine in no way glorifies gangs. ...the banning of songs glorifying war and racism. ● glorification [N-UNCOUNT] ...the glorification of violence. glu|ten /gl'uːtən/ [N-UNCOUNT] Gluten is a substance found in cereal grains such as wheat....

glorious

glo|ri|ous /gl'ɔːriəs/ 1 [ADJ] Something that is glorious is very beautiful and impressive. She had missed the glorious blooms of the Mediterranean spring. ...a glorious Edwardian opera house. = magnificent ● gloriously [ADV] usu ADV adj ...gloriously embroidered costumes. 2 [ADJ] If you describe something as glorious, you are emphasizing that it is wonderful and it makes you feel very happy. The win revived glorious memories of his championship-winning days... We opened the windows and let in the glorious evening air. = wonderful ● gloriously [ADV] ...her gloriously happy love life. 3 [ADJ] A glorious career, victory, or occasion involves great fame or success. Harrison had a glorious career spanning more than six decades... ● gloriously [ADV] usu ADV adj But the mission was successful, gloriously successful. 4 [ADJ] Glorious weather is hot and sunny. I got dressed and emerged into glorious sunshine... The sun was out again, and it was a glorious day. ● gloriously [ADV] ADV adj For a change, it was a gloriously sunny day. glu|ten /gl'uːtən/ [N-UNCOUNT] Gluten is a substance found in cereal grains such as wheat....

glue

glue /gl'uː/ (glues glueing or gluing glued) 1 [N-MASS] Glue is a sticky substance used for joining things together, often for repairing broken things. ...a tube of glue. ...high quality glues. 2 [VERB] V n prep/adv, be V-ed together If you glue one object to another, you stick them together using glue. Glue the fabric around the window... They are glued together. 3 [V-PASSIVE] be V-ed to n If you say that someone is glued to something, you mean that they are giving it all their attention. They are all glued to the Olympic Games. glue sniff|ing [N-UNCOUNT] Glue sniffing is the practice of breathing the vapour from glue in order to become intoxicated. = solvent abuse...

gluttonous

glut|ton|ous /gl'ʌtənəs/ [ADJ] If you think that someone eats too much and is greedy, you can say they are gluttonous. ...a selfish, gluttonous and lazy person. glu|ten /gl'uːtən/ [N-UNCOUNT] Gluten is a substance found in cereal grains such as wheat....

gluten

glu|ten /gl'uːtən/ [N-UNCOUNT] Gluten is a substance found in cereal grains such as wheat. glu|ten /gl'uːtən/ [N-UNCOUNT] Gluten is a substance found in cereal grains such as wheat....

gradation

gra|da|tion /grəd'eɪʃən, AM greɪd-/ (gradations) [N-COUNT] usu pl, with supp Gradations are small differences or changes in things. (FORMAL) But TV images require subtle gradations of light and shade. grade cross|ing (grade crossings) [N-COUNT] A grade crossing is a place where a railroad track crosses a road at the same level. (AM; in BRIT, use level crossing) grade school (grade schools) [N-VAR] oft in N In the United States, a grade school is the same as an elementary school. I was just in grade school at the time, but I remember it perfectly....

go about

go about 1 [PHRASAL VERB] V P n/-ing The way you go about a task or problem is the way you approach it and deal with it. I want him back, but I just don't know how to go about it. 2 [PHRASAL VERB] V P n When you are going about your normal activities, you are doing them. We were simply going about our business when we were pounced upon by these police officers. 3 [PHRASAL VERB] V P prep, V P -ing If you go about in a particular way, you behave or dress in that way, often as part of your normal life. He used to go about in a black cape... He went about looking ill and unhappy. = go around glu|ten /gl'uːtən/ [N-UNCOUNT] Gluten is a substance found in cereal grains such as wheat....

goggle

gog|gle /g'ɒgəl/ (goggles goggling goggled) 1 [VERB] V at n, V If you goggle at something, you stare at it with your eyes wide open, usually because you are surprised by it. She goggled at me... He goggled in bewilderment. = gape 2 [N-PLURAL] also a pair of N Goggles are large glasses that fit closely to your face around your eyes to protect them from such things as water, wind, or dust. god|parent /g'ɒdpeərənt/ (godparents) [N-COUNT] usu with poss In the Christian religion, if you are the godparent of a younger person, you promise to help bring them up in the Christian faith....

gorgeous

gor|geous /g'ɔːrdʒəs/ 1 [ADJ] If you say that something is gorgeous, you mean that it gives you a lot of pleasure or is very attractive. (INFORMAL) ...gorgeous mountain scenery... It's a gorgeous day... Some of the Renaissance buildings are gorgeous. = beautiful ● gorgeously [ADV] ADV adj/-ed She has a gorgeously warm speaking voice. 2 [ADJ] If you describe someone as gorgeous, you mean that you find them very sexually attractive. (INFORMAL) The cosmetics industry uses gorgeous women to sell its skincare products... All the girls in my house are mad about Ryan, they think he's gorgeous. 3 [ADJ] usu ADJ n If you describe things such as clothes and colours as gorgeous, you mean they are bright, rich, and impressive. ...a red-haired man in the gorgeous uniform of a Marshal of the Empire. ● gorgeously [ADV] ADV adj/-ed ...gorgeously embroidered clothing....

gotcha

gotcha /g'ɒtʃə/ [INTERJ] Gotcha is used in written English to represent the words `got you' when they are pronounced informally. `Gotcha, didn't I?' grace|ful /gr'eɪsfʊl/ 1 [ADJ] Someone or something that is graceful moves in a smooth and controlled way which is attractive to watch. His movements were so graceful they seemed effortless. ...graceful ballerinas. ● gracefully [ADV] ADV with v She stepped gracefully onto the stage. 2 [ADJ] Something that is graceful is attractive because it has a pleasing shape or style. His handwriting, from earliest young manhood, was flowing and graceful. ● gracefully [ADV] ADV adj/-ed She loved the gracefully high ceiling, with its white-painted cornice. 3 [ADJ] If a person's behaviour is graceful, it is polite, kind, and pleasant, especially in a difficult situation. Aubrey could think of no graceful way to escape Corbet's company... He was charming, cheerful, and graceful under pressure. ● gracefully [ADV] ADV with v We managed to decline gracefully. grace|less /gr'eɪsləs/ 1 [ADJ] Something that is graceless is unattractive and not at all interesting or charming. It was a massive, graceless house. ≠ graceful 2 [ADJ] A graceless movement is clumsy and uncontrolled. ...a graceless pirouette. ● gracelessly [ADV] ADV with v He dropped gracelessly into a chair opposite her. 3 [ADJ] If you describe someone as graceless, you mean that their behaviour is impolite. She couldn't stand his blunt, graceless manner. ● gracelessly [ADV] ADV with v The task fell to Mr Harris to deliver this bad news. It was gracelessly done....

gotta

got|ta /g'ɒtə/ Gotta is used in written English to represent the words `got to' when they are pronounced informally, with the meaning `have to' or `must'. Prices are high and our kids gotta eat. grace|ful /gr'eɪsfʊl/ 1 [ADJ] Someone or something that is graceful moves in a smooth and controlled way which is attractive to watch. His movements were so graceful they seemed effortless. ...graceful ballerinas. ● gracefully [ADV] ADV with v She stepped gracefully onto the stage. 2 [ADJ] Something that is graceful is attractive because it has a pleasing shape or style. His handwriting, from earliest young manhood, was flowing and graceful. ● gracefully [ADV] ADV adj/-ed She loved the gracefully high ceiling, with its white-painted cornice. 3 [ADJ] If a person's behaviour is graceful, it is polite, kind, and pleasant, especially in a difficult situation. Aubrey could think of no graceful way to escape Corbet's company... He was charming, cheerful, and graceful under pressure. ● gracefully [ADV] ADV with v We managed to decline gracefully. grace|less /gr'eɪsləs/ 1 [ADJ] Something that is graceless is unattractive and not at all interesting or charming. It was a massive, graceless house. ≠ graceful 2 [ADJ] A graceless movement is clumsy and uncontrolled. ...a graceless pirouette. ● gracelessly [ADV] ADV with v He dropped gracelessly into a chair opposite her. 3 [ADJ] If you describe someone as graceless, you mean that their behaviour is impolite. She couldn't stand his blunt, graceless manner. ● gracelessly [ADV] ADV with v The task fell to Mr Harris to deliver this bad news. It was gracelessly done....

graffiti

graf|fi|ti /grəf'iːti/ [N-UNCOUNT-COLL] Graffiti is words or pictures that are written or drawn in public places, for example on walls or posters. There's no vandalism, no graffiti, no rubbish left lying about. grace|ful /gr'eɪsfʊl/ 1 [ADJ] Someone or something that is graceful moves in a smooth and controlled way which is attractive to watch. His movements were so graceful they seemed effortless. ...graceful ballerinas. ● gracefully [ADV] ADV with v She stepped gracefully onto the stage. 2 [ADJ] Something that is graceful is attractive because it has a pleasing shape or style. His handwriting, from earliest young manhood, was flowing and graceful. ● gracefully [ADV] ADV adj/-ed She loved the gracefully high ceiling, with its white-painted cornice. 3 [ADJ] If a person's behaviour is graceful, it is polite, kind, and pleasant, especially in a difficult situation. Aubrey could think of no graceful way to escape Corbet's company... He was charming, cheerful, and graceful under pressure. ● gracefully [ADV] ADV with v We managed to decline gracefully. grace|less /gr'eɪsləs/ 1 [ADJ] Something that is graceless is unattractive and not at all interesting or charming. It was a massive, graceless house. ≠ graceful 2 [ADJ] A graceless movement is clumsy and uncontrolled. ...a graceless pirouette. ● gracelessly [ADV] ADV with v He dropped gracelessly into a chair opposite her. 3 [ADJ] If you describe someone as graceless, you mean that their behaviour is impolite. She couldn't stand his blunt, graceless manner. ● gracelessly [ADV] ADV with v The task fell to Mr Harris to deliver this bad news. It was gracelessly done....

grainy

grainy /gr'eɪni/ 1 [ADJ] A grainy photograph looks as if it is made up of lots of spots, which make the lines or shapes in it difficult to see. ...grainy black and white photos. 2 [ADJ] usu ADJ n Grainy means having a rough surface or texture, or containing small bits of something. ...the grainy tree trunk... Do not use a grainy mustard. ≠ smooth grace|ful /gr'eɪsfʊl/ 1 [ADJ] Someone or something that is graceful moves in a smooth and controlled way which is attractive to watch. His movements were so graceful they seemed effortless. ...graceful ballerinas. ● gracefully [ADV] ADV with v She stepped gracefully onto the stage. 2 [ADJ] Something that is graceful is attractive because it has a pleasing shape or style. His handwriting, from earliest young manhood, was flowing and graceful. ● gracefully [ADV] ADV adj/-ed She loved the gracefully high ceiling, with its white-painted cornice. 3 [ADJ] If a person's behaviour is graceful, it is polite, kind, and pleasant, especially in a difficult situation. Aubrey could think of no graceful way to escape Corbet's company... He was charming, cheerful, and graceful under pressure. ● gracefully [ADV] ADV with v We managed to decline gracefully. grace|less /gr'eɪsləs/ 1 [ADJ] Something that is graceless is unattractive and not at all interesting or charming. It was a massive, graceless house. ≠ graceful 2 [ADJ] A graceless movement is clumsy and uncontrolled. ...a graceless pirouette. ● gracelessly [ADV] ADV with v He dropped gracelessly into a chair opposite her. 3 [ADJ] If you describe someone as graceless, you mean that their behaviour is impolite. She couldn't stand his blunt, graceless manner. ● gracelessly [ADV] ADV with v The task fell to Mr Harris to deliver this bad news. It was gracelessly done....

grammatical

gram|mati|cal /grəm'ætɪkəl/ 1 [ADJ] ADJ n Grammatical is used to indicate that something relates to grammar. Should the teacher present grammatical rules to students? ...grammatical errors. ● grammatically [ADV] ADV adj/-ed ...grammatically correct language. 2 [ADJ] If someone's language is grammatical, it is considered correct because it obeys the rules of grammar. ...a new test to determine whether students can write grammatical English. ● grammatically [ADV] ADV after v One in five undergraduates cannot write grammatically. grace|ful /gr'eɪsfʊl/ 1 [ADJ] Someone or something that is graceful moves in a smooth and controlled way which is attractive to watch. His movements were so graceful they seemed effortless. ...graceful ballerinas. ● gracefully [ADV] ADV with v She stepped gracefully onto the stage. 2 [ADJ] Something that is graceful is attractive because it has a pleasing shape or style. His handwriting, from earliest young manhood, was flowing and graceful. ● gracefully [ADV] ADV adj/-ed She loved the gracefully high ceiling, with its white-painted cornice. 3 [ADJ] If a person's behaviour is graceful, it is polite, kind, and pleasant, especially in a difficult situation. Aubrey could think of no graceful way to escape Corbet's company... He was charming, cheerful, and graceful under pressure. ● gracefully [ADV] ADV with v We managed to decline gracefully. grace|less /gr'eɪsləs/ 1 [ADJ] Something that is graceless is unattractive and not at all interesting or charming. It was a massive, graceless house. ≠ graceful 2 [ADJ] A graceless movement is clumsy and uncontrolled. ...a graceless pirouette. ● gracelessly [ADV] ADV with v He dropped gracelessly into a chair opposite her. 3 [ADJ] If you describe someone as graceless, you mean that their behaviour is impolite. She couldn't stand his blunt, graceless manner. ● gracelessly [ADV] ADV with v The task fell to Mr Harris to deliver this bad news. It was gracelessly done....

grandeur

gran|deur /gr'ændʒər/ 1 [N-UNCOUNT] oft the N of n If something such as a building or a piece of scenery has grandeur, it is impressive because of its size, its beauty, or its power. ...the grandeur and natural beauty of South America... = magnificence, splendour 2 [N-UNCOUNT] oft poss N Someone's grandeur is the great importance and social status that they have, or think they have. He is wholly concerned with his own grandeur. 3 delusions of grandeur: see delusion grand|father clock (grandfather clocks) [N-COUNT] A grandfather clock is an old-fashioned type of clock in a tall wooden case which stands upright on the floor....

graphite

graph|ite /gr'æfaɪt/ [N-UNCOUNT] Graphite is a soft black substance that is a form of carbon. It is used in pencils and electrical equipment. grass over [PHRASAL VERB] usu passive, be V-ed P If an area of ground is grassed over, grass is planted all over it. The asphalt playgrounds have been grassed over or sown with flowers. grass roots also grass-roots, grassroots [N-PLURAL] oft N n The grass roots of an organization or movement are the ordinary people who form the main part of it, rather than its leaders. You have to join the party at grass-roots level. grass up see grass 4 grass|hopper /gr'ɑːshɒpər, gr'æs-/ (grasshoppers) [N-COUNT] A grasshopper is an insect with long back legs that jumps high into the air and makes a high, vibrating sound....

grapple

grap|ple /gr'æpəl/ (grapples grappling grappled) 1 [VERB] V with n If you grapple with a problem or difficulty, you try hard to solve it. The economy is just one of several critical problems the country is grappling with. = wrestle 2 [V-RECIP] V with n, pl-n V If you grapple with someone, you take hold of them and struggle with them, as part of a fight. You can also say that two people grapple. He was grappling with an alligator in a lagoon... They grappled desperately for control of the weapon. grass over [PHRASAL VERB] usu passive, be V-ed P If an area of ground is grassed over, grass is planted all over it. The asphalt playgrounds have been grassed over or sown with flowers. grass roots also grass-roots, grassroots [N-PLURAL] oft N n The grass roots of an organization or movement are the ordinary people who form the main part of it, rather than its leaders. You have to join the party at grass-roots level. grass up see grass 4 grass|hopper /gr'ɑːshɒpər, gr'æs-/ (grasshoppers) [N-COUNT] A grasshopper is an insect with long back legs that jumps high into the air and makes a high, vibrating sound....

grasp

grasp /gr'ɑːsp, gr'æsp/ (grasps grasping grasped) 1 [VERB] V n, V at n If you grasp something, you take it in your hand and hold it very firmly. He grasped both my hands... She was trying to grasp at something. see also grasping 2 [N-SING] with supp A grasp is a very firm hold or grip. His hand was taken in a warm, firm grasp. 3 [N-SING] with poss, oft in/from N If you say that something is in someone's grasp, you disapprove of the fact that they possess or control it. If something slips from your grasp, you lose it or lose control of it. The people in your grasp are not guests, they are hostages... She allowed victory to slip from her grasp. ...the task of liberating a number of states from the grasp of tyrants. 4 [VERB] V n, V that If you grasp something that is complicated or difficult to understand, you understand it. The Government has not yet grasped the seriousness of the crisis... He instantly grasped that Stephen was talking about his wife. 5 [N-SING] with supp, usu N of N A grasp of something is an understanding of it. They have a good grasp of foreign languages. 6 [PHRASE] v-link PHR If you say that something is within someone's grasp, you mean that it is very likely that they will achieve it. Peace is now within our grasp. grass over [PHRASAL VERB] usu passive, be V-ed P If an area of ground is grassed over, grass is planted all over it. The asphalt playgrounds have been grassed over or sown with flowers. grass roots also grass-roots, grassroots [N-PLURAL] oft N n The grass roots of an organization or movement are the ordinary people who form the main part of it, rather than its leaders. You have to join the party at grass-roots level. grass up see grass 4 grass|hopper /gr'ɑːshɒpər, gr'æs-/ (grasshoppers) [N-COUNT] A grasshopper is an insect with long back legs that jumps high into the air and makes a high, vibrating sound....

greenhouse

green|house /gr'iːnhaʊs/ (greenhouses) 1 [N-COUNT] A greenhouse is a glass building in which you grow plants that need to be protected from bad weather. 2 [ADJ] ADJ n Greenhouse means relating to or causing the greenhouse effect. green|house ef|fect [N-SING] The greenhouse effect is the problem caused by increased quantities of gases such as carbon dioxide in the air. These gases trap the heat from the sun, and cause a gradual rise in the temperature of the Earth's atmosphere. green|house gas (greenhouse gases) [N-VAR] Greenhouse gases are the gases which are responsible for causing the greenhouse effect. The main greenhouse gas is carbon dioxide....

grenade

gre|nade /grɪn'eɪd/ (grenades) [N-COUNT] A grenade or a hand grenade is a small bomb that can be thrown by hand. A hand grenade was thrown at an army patrol. grew /gr'uː/ Grew is the past tense of grow....

grievance

griev|ance /gr'iːvəns/ (grievances) [N-VAR] usu with supp If you have a grievance about something that has happened or been done, you believe that it was unfair. They had a legitimate grievance... The main grievance of the drivers is the imposition of higher fees for driving licences. ...a deep sense of grievance. griev|ous bodi|ly harm [N-UNCOUNT] If someone is accused of grievous bodily harm, they are accused of causing very serious physical injury to someone. The abbreviation GBH is often used. (LEGAL) They were both found guilty of causing grievous bodily harm....

grill

grill /gr'ɪl/ (grills grilling grilled) 1 [N-COUNT] A grill is a part of a stove which produces strong heat to cook food that has been placed underneath it. (BRIT; in AM, use broiler) Place the omelette under a gentle grill until the top is set. 2 [N-COUNT] A grill is a flat frame of metal bars on which food can be cooked over a fire. 3 [VERB] V n, V adv, V-ed When you grill food, or when it grills, you cook it using very strong heat directly above or below it. (BRIT; in AM, use broil) Grill the meat for 20 minutes each side... Apart from peppers and aubergines, many other vegetables grill well. ...grilled chicken. ● grilling [N-UNCOUNT] The breast can be cut into portions for grilling. 4 [VERB] V n about/on n, V n If you grill someone about something, you ask them a lot of questions for a long period of time. (INFORMAL) Grill your travel agent about the facilities for families with children... The police grilled him for hours. ● grilling [N-COUNT] They gave him a grilling about the implications of a united Europe. 5 [N-COUNT] A grill is a restaurant that serves grilled food. griev|ous bodi|ly harm [N-UNCOUNT] If someone is accused of grievous bodily harm, they are accused of causing very serious physical injury to someone. The abbreviation GBH is often used. (LEGAL) They were both found guilty of causing grievous bodily harm....

grim

grim /gr'ɪm/ (grimmer grimmest) 1 [ADJ] A situation or piece of information that is grim is unpleasant, depressing, and difficult to accept. They painted a grim picture of growing crime... There was further grim economic news yesterday... The mood could not have been grimmer. ● grimness [N-UNCOUNT] ...an unrelenting grimness of tone. 2 [ADJ] A place that is grim is unattractive and depressing in appearance. ...the tower blocks on the city's grim edges. 3 [ADJ] If a person or their behaviour is grim, they are very serious, usually because they are worried about something. (WRITTEN) She was a grim woman with a turned-down mouth... Her expression was grim and unpleasant. 4 [ADJ] If you say that something is grim, you think that it is very bad, ugly, or depressing. (INFORMAL) Things were pretty grim for a time....

grin

grin /gr'ɪn/ (grins grinning grinned) 1 [VERB] V, V at n, V-ing When you grin, you smile broadly. He grins, delighted at the memory... Sarah tried several times to catch Philip's eye, but he just grinned at her. ...a statue of a grinning old man cutting the throat of a deer. 2 [N-COUNT] oft adj N A grin is a broad smile. She came out of his office with a big grin on her face... Bobby looked at her with a sheepish grin. 3 [PHRASE] Vs inflect If you grin and bear it, you accept a difficult or unpleasant situation without complaining because you know there is nothing you can do to make things better. They cannot stand the sight of each other, but they will just have to grin and bear it....

grind

grind /gr'aɪnd/ (grinds grinding ground) 1 [VERB] V n, V-ed If you grind a substance such as corn, you crush it between two hard surfaces or with a machine until it becomes a fine powder. Store the peppercorns in an airtight container and grind the pepper as you need it. ...the odor of fresh ground coffee. [PHRASAL VERB] V P n (not pron), also V n P Grind up means the same as grind. He makes his own paint, grinding up the pigment with a little oil. 2 [VERB] V n prep If you grind something into a surface, you press and rub it hard into the surface using small circular or sideways movements. `Well,' I said, grinding my cigarette nervously into the granite step. [PHRASE] V inflects, V n If you grind your teeth, you rub your upper and lower teeth together as though you are chewing something. If you know you're grinding your teeth, particularly at night, see your dentist. 3 [VERB] V n, be V-ed to n If you grind something, you make it smooth or sharp by rubbing it against a hard surface. ...a shop where they grind knives... The tip can be ground to a much sharper edge to cut smoother and faster. 4 [VERB] V adv/prep If a vehicle grinds somewhere, it moves there very slowly and noisily. Tanks had crossed the border at five fifteen and were grinding south. 5 [N-SING] oft N of n The grind of a machine is the harsh, scraping noise that it makes, usually because it is old or is working too hard. The grind of heavy machines could get on their nerves. 6 [N-SING] oft adj N If you refer to routine tasks or activities as the grind, you mean they are boring and take up a lot of time and effort. (INFORMAL) The daily grind of government is done by Her Majesty's Civil Service... 7 see also grinding 8 [PHRASE] V inflects If a country's economy or something such as a process grinds to a halt, it gradually becomes slower or less active until it stops. The peace process has ground to a halt while Israel struggles to form a new government. 9 [PHRASE] V inflects If a vehicle grinds to a halt, it stops slowly and noisily. The tanks ground to a halt after a hundred yards because the fuel had been siphoned out. 10 to have an axe to grind: see axe to come to a grinding halt: see grinding grind down [PHRASAL VERB] V n P If you say that someone grinds you down, you mean that they treat you very harshly and cruelly, reducing your confidence or your will to resist them. There are people who want to humiliate you and grind you down. grind on [PHRASAL VERB] V P If you say that something grinds on, you disapprove of the fact that it continues to happen in the same way for a long time. Civil war in the Sudan has been grinding on for nine years. grind up see grind 1...

grotesque

gro|tesque /groʊt'esk/ (grotesques) 1 [ADJ] You say that something is grotesque when it is so unnatural, unpleasant, and exaggerated that it upsets or shocks you. ...the grotesque disparities between the wealthy few and nearly everyone else. ...a country where grotesque abuses are taking place. ● grotesquely [ADV] He called it the most grotesquely tragic experience that he's ever had. 2 [ADJ] If someone or something is grotesque, they are very ugly. They tried to avoid looking at his grotesque face and his crippled body. = hideous ● grotesquely [ADV] ADV adj/-ed ...grotesquely deformed beggars. 3 [N-COUNT] A grotesque is a person who is very ugly in a strange or unnatural way, especially one in a novel or painting. Grass's novels are peopled with outlandish characters: grotesques, clowns, scarecrows, dwarfs....

gripping

gripping adjective adjective BrE BrE / /ˈɡrɪpɪŋ / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈɡrɪpɪŋ / / Describing a story exciting or interesting in a way that keeps your attention a gripping story His books are always so gripping. The film was absolutely gripping. The film is a gripping account of the early days of the revolution. Synonyms interesting fascinating compelling stimulating gripping absorbing These words all describe somebody/​something that attracts or holds your attention because they are exciting, unusual or full of good ideas. interesting attracting your attention because it is exciting, unusual or full of good ideas: That's an interesting question, Daniel. fascinating extremely interesting or attractive: The exhibition tells the fascinating story of the steam age. compelling ( rather formal) so interesting or exciting that it holds your attention: Her latest book makes compelling reading. stimulating full of interesting or exciting ideas; making people feel enthusiastic: Thank you for a most stimulating discussion. gripping so exciting or interesting that it holds your attention completely: His books are always so gripping. absorbing so interesting or enjoyable that it holds your attention: Chess can be an extremely absorbing game. Patterns interesting/​fascinating/​stimulating for somebody interesting/​fascinating to somebody interesting/​fascinating that... interesting/​fascinating to see/​hear/​find/​learn/​know... a(n) interesting/​fascinating/​compelling/​gripping story/​read/​book a(n) interesting/​fascinating/​stimulating experience/​discussion/​idea to find something interesting/​fascinating/​compelling/​stimulating/​gripping/​absorbing Wordfinder comic , far-fetched , gripping , historical , mannered , moving , rambling , readable , story , tragic See related entries: Describing a story...

groom

groom /gr'uːm/ (grooms grooming groomed) 1 [N-COUNT] A groom is the same as a bridegroom. ...the bride and groom. 2 [N-COUNT] A groom is someone whose job is to look after the horses in a stable and to keep them clean. 3 [VERB] V n If you groom an animal, you clean its fur, usually by brushing it. The horses were exercised and groomed with special care. 4 [VERB] usu passive, be V-ed for n, be V-ed to-inf If you are groomed for a special job, someone prepares you for it by teaching you the skills you will need. George was already being groomed for the top job... Marshall was groomed to run the family companies....

grope

grope /gr'oʊp/ (gropes groping groped) 1 [VERB] V for n, V adv/prep If you grope for something that you cannot see, you try to find it by moving your hands around in order to feel it. With his left hand he groped for the knob, turned it, and pulled the door open... Bunbury groped in his breast pocket for his wallet. = fumble 2 [VERB] V way prep/adv If you grope your way to a place, you move there, holding your hands in front of you and feeling the way because you cannot see anything. I didn't turn on the light, but groped my way across the room. = feel 3 [VERB] V for n, also V towards n If you grope for something, for example the solution to a problem, you try to think of it, when you have no real idea what it could be. She groped for a simple word to express a simple idea. ● groping [N-VAR] They continue their groping towards a constitutional settlement. 4 [VERB] V n If one person gropes another, they touch or take hold of them in a rough, sexual way. (INFORMAL) He would try to grope her breasts and put his hand up her skirt. [N-COUNT] Grope is also a noun. She even boasted of having a grope in a cupboard with a 13-year-old....

grotty

grot|ty /gr'ɒti/ (grottier grottiest) [ADJ] If you describe something as grotty, you mean that it is unpleasant or of poor quality and you dislike it strongly. (BRIT INFORMAL) ...a grotty little flat in Camden. ground crew (ground crews) [N-COUNT-COLL] At an airport, the people who look after the planes when they are on the ground are called the ground crew. The airport ground crew tried to dissuade the pilot from taking off. ground floor (ground floors) [N-COUNT] usu the N in sing The ground floor of a building is the floor that is level or almost level with the ground outside. (BRIT; in AM, use first floor) She showed him around the ground floor of the empty house... Jenny now lives in a terraced ground floor flat. ground lev|el [N-UNCOUNT] oft prep N If something is at ground level, it is at the same level as the ground, as opposed to being higher up or below the surface. The hotel is set on three floors. There's a bar and cafe at ground level... The remaining block of woodland is cut down to ground level. ground plan (ground plans) 1 [N-COUNT] In British English, a ground plan is a plan of the ground floor of a building. In American English, a ground plan is a plan of any floor of a building. 2 [N-COUNT] A ground plan is a basic plan for future action. ground rent (ground rents) [N-VAR] Ground rent is rent that is paid by the owner of a flat or house to the owner of the land on which it is built. (mainly BRIT) ground rule (ground rules) [N-COUNT] usu pl, oft N for/of n The ground rules for something are the basic principles on which future action will be based. The panel says the ground rules for the current talks should be maintained. ground staff 1 [N-COUNT-COLL] The people who are paid to maintain a sports ground are called the ground staff. The ground staff do all they can to prepare the pitch. 2 [N-COUNT-COLL] At an airport, the ground staff are the employees of aeroplane companies who do not fly with the planes, but who work in the airport helping passengers and providing information. There had been a strike amongst British Airways ground staff. ground|bait /gr'aʊndbeɪt/ [N-UNCOUNT] Groundbait is food that you throw on to a river or lake when you are fishing in order to attract the fish. ground|break|ing /gr'aʊndbreɪkɪŋ/ also ground-breaking [ADJ] usu ADJ n You use groundbreaking to describe things which you think are significant because they provide new and positive ideas, and influence the way people think about things. ...his groundbreaking novel on homosexuality. ...groundbreaking research. ground|cloth /gr'aʊndklɒθ/ (groundcloths) [N-COUNT] A groundcloth is a piece of waterproof material which you put on the ground to sleep on when you are camping. (AM; in BRIT, use groundsheet) ground|hog /gr'aʊndhɒg, AM -hɔːg/ (groundhogs) [N-COUNT] A groundhog is a type of small animal with reddish-brown fur that is found in North America. = woodchuck ground|ing /gr'aʊndɪŋ/ [N-SING] oft N in n If you have a grounding in a subject, you know the basic facts or principles of that subject, especially as a result of a particular course of training or instruction. The degree provides a thorough grounding in both mathematics and statistics. ground|less /gr'aʊndləs/ [ADJ] usu v-link ADJ If you say that a fear, accusation, or story is groundless, you mean that it is not based on evidence and is unlikely to be true or valid. Fears that the world was about to run out of fuel proved groundless... A ministry official described the report as groundless. ground|nut /gr'aʊndnʌt/ (groundnuts) [N-COUNT] A groundnut is a peanut. (mainly BRIT) ground|sheet /gr'aʊndʃiːt/ (groundsheets) [N-COUNT] A groundsheet is a piece of waterproof material which you put on the ground to sleep on when you are camping. (BRIT; in AM, use groundcloth) grounds|keeper /gr'aʊndzkiːpər/ (groundskeepers) [N-COUNT] A groundskeeper is the same as a groundsman. (AM) grounds|man /gr'aʊndzmən/ (groundsmen) [N-COUNT] A groundsman is a person whose job is to look after a park or sports ground. (BRIT; in AM, use groundskeeper)...

groundbreaking

ground|break|ing /gr'aʊndbreɪkɪŋ/ also ground-breaking [ADJ] usu ADJ n You use groundbreaking to describe things which you think are significant because they provide new and positive ideas, and influence the way people think about things. ...his groundbreaking novel on homosexuality. ...groundbreaking research. grow apart [PHRASAL VERB] pl-n V P, V P from n If people who have a close relationship grow apart, they gradually start to have different interests and opinions from each other, and their relationship starts to fail. He and his wife grew apart... It sounds as if you have grown apart from Tom. grow into [PHRASAL VERB] V P n When a child grows into an item of clothing, they become taller or bigger so that it fits them properly. It's a bit big, but she'll soon grow into it. grow on [PHRASAL VERB] V P n If someone or something grows on you, you start to like them more and more. Slowly and strangely, the place began to grow on me....

groundhog

ground|hog /gr'aʊndhɒg, AM -hɔːg/ (groundhogs) [N-COUNT] A groundhog is a type of small animal with reddish-brown fur that is found in North America. = woodchuck grow apart [PHRASAL VERB] pl-n V P, V P from n If people who have a close relationship grow apart, they gradually start to have different interests and opinions from each other, and their relationship starts to fail. He and his wife grew apart... It sounds as if you have grown apart from Tom. grow into [PHRASAL VERB] V P n When a child grows into an item of clothing, they become taller or bigger so that it fits them properly. It's a bit big, but she'll soon grow into it. grow on [PHRASAL VERB] V P n If someone or something grows on you, you start to like them more and more. Slowly and strangely, the place began to grow on me....

grouse

grouse /gr'aʊs/ (grouses grousing groused) The form grouse is used as the plural for meaning 1. 1 [N-COUNT] oft N n A grouse is a wild bird with a round body. Grouse are often shot for sport and can be eaten. The party had been to the grouse moors that morning. [N-UNCOUNT] Grouse is the flesh of this bird eaten as food. The menu included roast grouse. 2 [VERB] V with quote, V about n, also V that, V If you grouse, you complain. `How come we never know what's going on?' he groused... When they groused about the parking regulations, they did it with good humor. 3 [N-COUNT] A grouse is a complaint. There have been grouses about the economy, interest rates and house prices. grow apart [PHRASAL VERB] pl-n V P, V P from n If people who have a close relationship grow apart, they gradually start to have different interests and opinions from each other, and their relationship starts to fail. He and his wife grew apart... It sounds as if you have grown apart from Tom. grow into [PHRASAL VERB] V P n When a child grows into an item of clothing, they become taller or bigger so that it fits them properly. It's a bit big, but she'll soon grow into it. grow on [PHRASAL VERB] V P n If someone or something grows on you, you start to like them more and more. Slowly and strangely, the place began to grow on me....

gruesome

grue|some /gr'uːsəm/ [ADJ] usu ADJ n Something that is gruesome is extremely unpleasant and shocking. There has been a series of gruesome murders in the capital. = grisly ● gruesomely [ADV] ADV adj, ADV with v He has spent periods in prison, where he was gruesomely tortured. ...a gruesomely compelling series of interviews. grow apart [PHRASAL VERB] pl-n V P, V P from n If people who have a close relationship grow apart, they gradually start to have different interests and opinions from each other, and their relationship starts to fail. He and his wife grew apart... It sounds as if you have grown apart from Tom. grow into [PHRASAL VERB] V P n When a child grows into an item of clothing, they become taller or bigger so that it fits them properly. It's a bit big, but she'll soon grow into it. grow on [PHRASAL VERB] V P n If someone or something grows on you, you start to like them more and more. Slowly and strangely, the place began to grow on me....

grumble

grum|ble /gr'ʌmbəl/ (grumbles grumbling grumbled) 1 [VERB] V about/at n, V that, V with quote, V If someone grumbles, they complain about something in a bad-tempered way. I shouldn't grumble about Mum-she's lovely really... Taft grumbled that the law so favored the criminal that trials seemed like a game of chance... `This is inconvenient,' he grumbled... It's simply not in her nature to grumble. = moan, whinge [N-COUNT] Grumble is also a noun. My grumble is with the structure and organisation of the material. ● grumbling [N-VAR] There have been grumblings about the party leader. 2 [VERB] V adv/prep, V-ing, also V If something grumbles, it makes a low continuous sound. (LITERARY) It was quiet now, the thunder had grumbled away to the west... The dogs made a noise, a rough, grumbling sound. [N-SING] usu N of n Grumble is also a noun. One could often hear, far to the east, the grumble of guns. grow apart [PHRASAL VERB] pl-n V P, V P from n If people who have a close relationship grow apart, they gradually start to have different interests and opinions from each other, and their relationship starts to fail. He and his wife grew apart... It sounds as if you have grown apart from Tom. grow into [PHRASAL VERB] V P n When a child grows into an item of clothing, they become taller or bigger so that it fits them properly. It's a bit big, but she'll soon grow into it. grow on [PHRASAL VERB] V P n If someone or something grows on you, you start to like them more and more. Slowly and strangely, the place began to grow on me....

guarded

guard|ed /g'ɑːrdɪd/ [ADJ] If you describe someone as guarded, you mean that they are careful not to show their feelings or give away information. The boy gave him a guarded look... In the office, Dr. Lahey seemed less guarded, more relaxed. ● guardedly [ADV] usu ADV with v, ADV adj, also ADV with cl `I am happy, so far,' he says guardedly... They are guardedly optimistic that the market is on the road to recovery. guard|ian an|gel (guardian angels) [N-COUNT] A guardian angel is a spirit who is believed to protect and guide a particular person....

guacamole

gua|ca|mo|le /gwɑːkəm'oʊli/ [N-UNCOUNT] Guacamole is a cold food from Mexico made of crushed avocados and other ingredients such as tomatoes and chillis. grow apart [PHRASAL VERB] pl-n V P, V P from n If people who have a close relationship grow apart, they gradually start to have different interests and opinions from each other, and their relationship starts to fail. He and his wife grew apart... It sounds as if you have grown apart from Tom. grow into [PHRASAL VERB] V P n When a child grows into an item of clothing, they become taller or bigger so that it fits them properly. It's a bit big, but she'll soon grow into it. grow on [PHRASAL VERB] V P n If someone or something grows on you, you start to like them more and more. Slowly and strangely, the place began to grow on me....

guava

gua|va /gw'ɑːvə/ (guavas) [N-VAR] A guava is a round yellow tropical fruit with pink or white flesh and hard seeds. guest book (guest books) [N-COUNT] A guest book is a book in which guests write their names and addresses when they have been staying in someone's house or in a hotel. guest house (guest houses) also guesthouse 1 [N-COUNT] A guest house is a small hotel. (BRIT) 2 [N-COUNT] A guest house is a small house in the grounds of a large house, where visitors can stay. (AM) guest of hon|our (guests of honour) in AM, use guest of honor [N-COUNT] usu sing If you say that someone is the guest of honour at a dinner or other social occasion, you mean that they are the most important guest. guest room (guest rooms) [N-COUNT] A guest room is a bedroom in a house or hotel for visitors or guests to sleep in. guest work|er (guest workers) [N-COUNT] A guest worker is a person, especially one from a poor country, who lives and works in a different country for a period. guff /g'ʌf/ [N-UNCOUNT] If you say that what someone has said or written is guff, you think that it is nonsense. (INFORMAL) guf|faw /gʌf'ɔː/ (guffaws guffawing guffawed) 1 [N-COUNT] A guffaw is a very loud laugh. He bursts into a loud guffaw. 2 [VERB] V, V with quote, also V at n To guffaw means to laugh loudly. As they guffawed loudly, the ticket collector arrived... `Ha, ha,' everyone guffawed. `It's one of Viv's shock tactics.'...

guerilla

guerilla See guerrilla

guise

guise /g'aɪz/ (guises) [N-COUNT] with supp, oft in/under the N of n You use guise to refer to the outward appearance or form of someone or something, which is often temporary or different from their real nature. He turned up at a fancy dress Easter dance in the guise of a white rabbit... guinea fowl (guinea fowl) [N-COUNT] A guinea fowl is a large grey African bird that is often eaten as food. guinea pig (guinea pigs) also guinea-pig 1 [N-COUNT] If someone is used as a guinea pig in an experiment, something is tested on them that has not been tested on people before. ...a human guinea pig... Nearly 500,000 pupils are to be guinea pigs in a trial run of the new 14-plus exams. 2 [N-COUNT] A guinea pig is a small furry animal without a tail. Guinea pigs are often kept as pets....

gumption

gump|tion /g'ʌmpʃən/ 1 [N-UNCOUNT] If someone has gumption, they are able to think what it would be sensible to do in a particular situation, and they do it. (INFORMAL) Surely anyone with marketing gumption should be able to sell good books at any time of year. 2 [N-UNCOUNT] oft the N to-inf If someone has the gumption to do something, they are brave enough to do it. He suspected that deep down, she admired him for having the gumption to disagree with her....

gunmetal

gunmetal noun noun BrE BrE / /ˈɡʌnmetl / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈɡʌnmetl / / [ uncountable ] 1 a metal that is a mixture of copper, tin and zinc 2 a dull blue-grey colour...

gunpowder

gun|powder /g'ʌnpaʊdər/ [N-UNCOUNT] Gunpowder is an explosive substance which is used to make fireworks or cause explosions.

gust

gust /g'ʌst/ (gusts gusting gusted) 1 [N-COUNT] oft N of n A gust is a short, strong, sudden rush of wind. A gust of wind drove down the valley... A hurricane-force gust blew off part of a church tower. 2 [VERB] V, V prep/adv When the wind gusts, it blows with short, strong, sudden rushes. The wind gusted again... The wind gusted up to 164 miles an hour. 3 [N-COUNT] N of n If you feel a gust of emotion, you feel the emotion suddenly and intensely. ...a small gust of pleasure....

gut

gut /g'ʌt/ (guts gutting gutted) 1 [N-PLURAL] A person's or animal's guts are all the organs inside them. By the time they finish, the crewmen are standing ankle-deep in fish guts. 2 [VERB] V n When someone guts a dead animal or fish, they prepare it for cooking by removing all the organs from inside it. It is not always necessary to gut the fish prior to freezing. 3 [N-SING] the/poss N The gut is the tube inside the body of a person or animal through which food passes while it is being digested. 4 [N-UNCOUNT] Guts is the will and courage to do something which is difficult or unpleasant, or which might have unpleasant results. (INFORMAL) The new Chancellor has the guts to push through unpopular tax increases... 5 [N-SING] usu N n A gut feeling is based on instinct or emotion rather than reason. Let's have your gut reaction to the facts as we know them. 6 [N-COUNT] usu sing You can refer to someone's stomach as their gut, especially when it is very large and sticks out. (INFORMAL) His gut sagged out over his belt. see also beer gut 7 [VERB] V n, V-ed To gut a building means to destroy the inside of it so that only its outside walls remain. Over the weekend, a firebomb gutted a building where 60 people lived... A factory stands gutted and deserted. 8 [N-UNCOUNT] Gut is string made from part of the stomach of an animal. Traditionally, it is used to make the strings of sports rackets or musical instruments such as violins. 9 see also gutted 10 [PHRASE] V inflects If you hate someone's guts, you dislike them very much indeed. (INFORMAL) We hate each other's guts. 11 [PHRASE] V inflects If you say that you are working your guts out or slogging your guts out, you are emphasizing that you are working as hard as you can. (INFORMAL) Most have worked their guts out and made sacrifices. gut-wrenching [ADJ] Gut-wrenching events or experiences make you feel extremely shocked or upset. (mainly JOURNALISM) Going to court can be an expensive, time consuming and gut wrenching experience that is best avoided....

gutter

gut|ter /g'ʌtər/ (gutters) 1 [N-COUNT] usu the N The gutter is the edge of a road next to the pavement, where rain water collects and flows away. It is supposed to be washed down the gutter and into the city's vast sewerage system. 2 [N-COUNT] A gutter is a plastic or metal channel fixed to the lower edge of the roof of a building, which rain water drains into. Did you fix the gutter? 3 [N-SING] the N If someone is in the gutter, they are very poor and live in a very bad way. Instead of ending up in jail or in the gutter he was remarkably successful. 4 see also gutter press gut|ter press [N-SING] the N You can refer to newspapers and magazines which print mainly stories about sex and crime as the gutter press. (BRIT; in AM, use scandal sheets) The gutter press has held the royals up to ridicule....

gym

gym /dʒ'ɪm/ (gyms) 1 [N-COUNT] A gym is a club, building, or large room, usually containing special equipment, where people go to do physical exercise and get fit. While the lads are golfing, I work out in the gym. ...the school gym. 2 [N-UNCOUNT] oft N n Gym is the activity of doing physical exercises in a gym, especially at school. (INFORMAL) ...gym classes....

halfway

half|way /h'ɑːfw'eɪ, AM h'æf-/ also half-way 1 [ADV] usu ADV prep/adv, also ADV after v Halfway means in the middle of a place or between two points, at an equal distance from each of them. Half-way across the car-park, he noticed she was walking with her eyes closed... He was halfway up the ladder... 2 [ADV] ADV prep/adv Halfway means in the middle of a period of time or of an event. By then, it was October and we were more than halfway through our tour. [ADJ] ADJ n Halfway is also an adjective. Welsh international Matthew Postle was third fastest at the halfway point. 3 [PHRASE] V inflects If you meet someone halfway, you accept some of the points they are making so that you can come to an agreement with them. The Democrats are willing to meet the president halfway. 4 [ADV] ADV adj Halfway means reasonably. (INFORMAL) You need hard currency to get anything halfway decent... half|way house (halfway houses) 1 [N-SING] A halfway house is an arrangement or thing that has some of the qualities of two different things. A halfway house between the theatre and cinema is possible. Olivier created one in his imaginative `Henry V' in 1945. 2 [N-COUNT] A halfway house is a home for people such as former prisoners, mental patients, or drug addicts who can stay there for a limited period of time to get used to life outside prison or hospital....

hallmark

hall|mark /h'ɔːlmɑːrk/ (hallmarks) 1 [N-COUNT] usu with poss The hallmark of something or someone is their most typical quality or feature. It's a technique that has become the hallmark of Amber Films... 2 [N-COUNT] A hallmark is an official mark put on things made of gold, silver, or platinum that indicates the quality of the metal, where the object was made, and who made it....

halogen

halogen noun noun BrE BrE / /ˈhælədʒən / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈhælədʒən / / ( chemistry ) any of a set of five chemical elements, including fluorine, chlorine and iodine, that react with hydrogen to form acids from which simple salts can be made. Halogens, in the form of gas, are used in lamps and cookers/stoves. Word Origin mid 19th cent.: from Greek hals, halo-'salt' + -gen....

handicap

handi|cap /h'ændikæp/ (handicaps handicapping handicapped) 1 [N-COUNT] A handicap is a physical or mental disability. He lost his leg when he was ten, but learnt to overcome his handicap. 2 [N-COUNT] A handicap is an event or situation that places you at a disadvantage and makes it harder for you to do something. Being a foreigner was not a handicap. 3 [VERB] V n If an event or a situation handicaps someone or something, it places them at a disadvantage. Greater levels of stress may seriously handicap some students... 4 [N-COUNT] In golf, a handicap is an advantage given to someone who is not a good player, in order to make the players more equal. As you improve, your handicap gets lower. I see your handicap is down from 16 to 12. 5 [N-COUNT] In horse racing, a handicap is a race in which some competitors are given a disadvantage of extra weight in an attempt to give everyone an equal chance of winning....

head off

head off 1 [PHRASAL VERB] V n P, also V P n (not pron) If you head off a person, animal, or vehicle, you move to a place in front of them in order to capture them or make them change the direction they are moving in. He changed direction swiftly, turned into the hallway and headed her off. 2 [PHRASAL VERB] V P n (not pron), V n P If you head something off, especially something unpleasant, you take action before it is expected to happen in order to prevent it from happening. He would ask Congress to intervene and head off a strike... You have to be good at spotting trouble on the way and heading it off....

handling

handling noun noun BrE BrE / /ˈhændlɪŋ / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈhændlɪŋ / / [ uncountable ] Driving 1 the way that somebody deals with or treats a situation, a person, an animal, etc. I was impressed by his handling of the affair. This horse needs firm handling. Why is he being so polite, as if I need tactful handling? 2 the action of organizing or controlling something data handling on computer 3 the action of touching, feeling or holding something with your hands toys that can stand up to rough handling In the manufacturing industries heavy materials handling is often done by robots. 4 the cost of dealing with an order, delivering goods, booking tickets, etc. a small handling charge 5 the way in which a vehicle can be controlled by the driver a car designed for easy handling See related entries: Driving 6 ( British English also carriage ) ( formal ) the act or cost of transporting goods from one place to another Extra examples Issues such as drug addiction require sensitive handling when featured in TV dramas. She was praised for her competent handling of the crisis. The cost is $11 plus $5 for shipping and handling. Timid children need gentle handling to build up their confidence. a small airport with limited passenger handling facilities hygienic food handling practice I was impressed by his handling of the situation. There is a $5 handling charge for each order. You pay only $29.99 plus shipping and handling....

hands down

hands-down adjective adjective BrE ; NAmE [ only before noun ] hands-down winner/favourite/choice ( informal ) easily the winner of a contest; definitely the one that people prefer These kits were hands-down favourites with our testers. Idioms hands down ( informal ) easily and without any doubt They won hands down. It is hands down the best movie this year. see also hands-down...

handsome

hand|some /h'ænsəm/ 1 [ADJ] A handsome man has an attractive face with regular features. ...a tall, dark, handsome sheep farmer. = good-looking 2 [ADJ] A handsome woman has an attractive appearance with features that are large and regular rather than small and delicate. ...an extremely handsome woman with a beautiful voice. 3 [ADJ] ADJ n A handsome sum of money is a large or generous amount. (FORMAL) They will make a handsome profit on the property. ● handsomely [ADV] ADV with v He was rewarded handsomely for his efforts. 4 [ADJ] ADJ n If someone has a handsome win or a handsome victory, they get many more points or votes than their opponent. The opposition won a handsome victory in the election. ● handsomely [ADV] ADV after v The car ran perfectly to the finish, and we won handsomely. hand|some /h'ænsəm/ 1 [ADJ] A handsome man has an attractive face with regular features. ...a tall, dark, handsome sheep farmer. = good-looking 2 [ADJ] A handsome woman has an attractive appearance with features that are large and regular rather than small and delicate. ...an extremely handsome woman with a beautiful voice. 3 [ADJ] ADJ n A handsome sum of money is a large or generous amount. (FORMAL) They will make a handsome profit on the property. ● handsomely [ADV] ADV with v He was rewarded handsomely for his efforts. 4 [ADJ] ADJ n If someone has a handsome win or a handsome victory, they get many more points or votes than their opponent. The opposition won a handsome victory in the election. ● handsomely [ADV] ADV after v The car ran perfectly to the finish, and we won handsomely....

hangover

hang|over /h'æŋoʊvər/ (hangovers) 1 [N-COUNT] If someone wakes up with a hangover, they feel sick and have a headache because they have drunk a lot of alcohol the night before. 2 [N-COUNT] with supp, usu N from n Something that is a hangover from the past is an idea or way of behaving which people used to have in the past but which people no longer generally have. As a hangover from rationing, they mixed butter and margarine. hanger-on (hangers-on) [N-COUNT] If you describe someone as a hanger-on, you are critical of them because they are trying to be friendly with a richer or more important person, especially in order to gain an advantage for themselves. For every one or two talented people in any group of artists, there are hordes of talentless hangers-on....

haphazard

hap|haz|ard /hæph'æzərd/ [ADJ] If you describe something as haphazard, you are critical of it because it is not at all organized or is not arranged according to a plan. The investigation does seem haphazard... ● haphazardly [ADV] usu ADV with v She looked at the books jammed haphazardly in the shelves....

hard headed

hard-headed [ADJ] You use hard-headed to describe someone who is practical and determined to get what they want or need, and who does not allow emotions to affect their actions. ...a hard-headed and shrewd businesswoman... = tough...

hard-hitting

hard-hitting [ADJ] usu ADJ n If you describe a report or speech as hard-hitting, you like the way it talks about difficult or serious matters in a bold and direct way. (JOURNALISM) In a hard-hitting speech to the IMF, he urged third world countries to undertake sweeping reforms....

hard-nosed

hard-nosed [ADJ] usu ADJ n You use hard-nosed to describe someone who is tough and realistic, and who takes decisions on practical grounds rather than emotional ones. (INFORMAL) If nothing else, Doug is a hard-nosed businessman. = unsentimental...

harsh

harsh /h'ɑːrʃ/ (harsher harshest) 1 [ADJ] Harsh climates or conditions are very difficult for people, animals, and plants to live in. The weather grew harsh, chilly and unpredictable. = severe ≠ mild ● harshness [N-UNCOUNT] ...the harshness of their living conditions. = severity 2 [ADJ] Harsh actions or speech are unkind and show no understanding or sympathy. He said many harsh and unkind things about his opponents. = cruel ● harshly [ADV] ADV with v She's been told that her husband is being harshly treated in prison... ● harshness [N-UNCOUNT] ...treating him with great harshness. = severity 3 [ADJ] Something that is harsh is so hard, bright, or rough that it seems unpleasant or harmful. Tropical colours may look rather harsh in our dull northern light. ● harshness [N-UNCOUNT] ...as the wine ages, losing its bitter harshness. 4 [ADJ] Harsh voices and sounds are ones that are rough and unpleasant to listen to. It's a pity she has such a loud harsh voice. ≠ soft, gentle ● harshly [ADV] ADV with v Chris laughed harshly. ● harshness [N-UNCOUNT] Then in a tone of abrupt harshness, he added, `Open these trunks!'. 5 [ADJ] If you talk about harsh realities or facts, or the harsh truth, you are emphasizing that they are true or real, although they are unpleasant and people try to avoid thinking about them. The harsh truth is that luck plays a big part in who will live or die. = bitter...

harness

har|ness /h'ɑːrnɪs/ (harnesses harnessing harnessed) 1 [VERB] V n If you harness something such as an emotion or natural source of energy, you bring it under your control and use it. Turkey plans to harness the waters of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers for big hydro-electric power projects. 2 [N-COUNT] A harness is a set of straps which fit under a person's arms and fasten round their body in order to keep a piece of equipment in place or to prevent the person moving from a place. 3 [N-COUNT] A harness is a set of leather straps and metal links fastened round a horse's head or body so that the horse can have a carriage, cart, or plough fastened to it. 4 [VERB] usu passive, be V-ed to n If a horse or other animal is harnessed, a harness is put on it, especially so that it can pull a carriage, cart, or plough. On Sunday the horses were harnessed to a heavy wagon for a day-long ride over the Border. harp on [PHRASAL VERB] V P n, V P about n If you say that someone harps on a subject, or harps on about it, you mean that they keep on talking about it in a way that other people find annoying. Jones harps on this theme more than on any other... She concentrated on the good parts of her trip instead of harping on about the bad....

hash

hash /h'æʃ/ 1 [PHRASE] V inflects, PHR n/-ing If you make a hash of a job or task, you do it very badly. (INFORMAL) The Government made a total hash of things and squandered a small fortune... 2 [N-COUNT] usu sing A hash is the sign '#', found on telephone keypads and computer keyboards. (mainly BRIT SPOKEN) 3 [N-UNCOUNT] Hash is hashish. (INFORMAL) hash browns also hashed browns [N-PLURAL] Hash browns or hashed browns are potatoes that have been chopped into small pieces, formed into small cakes, and cooked on a grill or in a frying pan....

hassle

has|sle /h'æsəl/ (hassles hassling hassled) 1 [N-VAR] A hassle is a situation that is difficult and involves problems, effort, or arguments with people. (INFORMAL) I don't think it's worth the money or the hassle... ...a day spent travelling, with all the usual hassles at airport check-in. 2 [VERB] V n If someone hassles you, they cause problems for you, often by repeatedly telling you or asking you to do something, in an annoying way. (INFORMAL) Then my husband started hassling me......

hatch

hatch /h'ætʃ/ (hatches hatching hatched) 1 [VERB] V, be V-ed When a baby bird, insect, or other animal hatches, or when it is hatched, it comes out of its egg by breaking the shell. As soon as the two chicks hatch, they leave the nest burrow... The young disappeared soon after they were hatched. 2 [VERB] V, V n When an egg hatches or when a bird, insect, or other animal hatches an egg, the egg breaks open and a baby comes out. The eggs hatch after a week or ten days... During these periods the birds will lie on the cage floor as if trying to lay or hatch eggs. 3 [VERB] V n If you hatch a plot or a scheme, you think of it and work it out. He has accused opposition parties of hatching a plot to assassinate the Pope. 4 [N-COUNT] A hatch is an opening in the deck of a ship, through which people or cargo can go. You can also refer to the door of this opening as a hatch. He stuck his head up through the hatch... 5 [N-COUNT] A hatch is an opening in a ceiling or a wall, especially between a kitchen and a dining room, which you can pass something such as food through. (mainly BRIT) 6 [PHRASE] V inflects If someone battens down the hatches, they prepare themselves so that they will be able to survive a coming difficulty or crisis. Many firms are battening down the hatches and preparing to ride out the storm. hatch|et job (hatchet jobs) [N-COUNT] usu sing, oft N on n To do a hatchet job on someone or something means to say or write something mentioning many bad things about them, which harms their reputation. (INFORMAL) Unfortunately, his idea of bold journalism was a hatchet job, portraying the staff in a negative light. hatch|et man (hatchet men) [N-COUNT] You can refer to someone who makes changes in an organization by getting rid of lots of people as a hatchet man, especially if you think they do so in an unnecessarily harsh way. (INFORMAL)...

hater

hat|er /h'eɪtər/ (haters) [N-COUNT] N of n If you call someone a hater of something, you mean that they strongly dislike that thing. Braccio was a hater of idleness. [COMB in N-COUNT] Hater is also a combining form. He was reputed to be a woman-hater... hate cam|paign (hate campaigns) [N-COUNT] usu sing A hate campaign is a series of actions which are intended to harm or upset someone, or to make other people have a low opinion of them. The media has waged a virulent hate campaign against her. hate crime (hate crimes) [N-COUNT] A hate crime is a crime, especially against people such as homosexuals and members of ethnic minorities, that is motivated by feelings of hatred. hate mail also hate-mail [N-UNCOUNT] If someone receives hate mail, they receive unpleasant or threatening letters....

haul

haul /h'ɔːl/ (hauls hauling hauled) 1 [VERB] V n prep/adv, V adv n If you haul something which is heavy or difficult to move, you move it using a lot of effort. A crane had to be used to haul the car out of the stream... She hauled up her bedroom window and leaned out. 2 [VERB] usu passive, be V-ed before n If someone is hauled before a court or someone in authority, they are made to appear before them because they are accused of having done something wrong. He was hauled before the managing director and fired. [PHRASAL VERB] usu passive Haul up means the same as haul. He was hauled up before the Board of Trustees... 3 [N-COUNT] with supp A haul is a quantity of things that are stolen, or a quantity of stolen or illegal goods found by police or customs. The size of the drugs haul shows that the international trade in heroin is still flourishing... 4 [PHRASE] If you say that a task or a journey is a long haul, you mean that it takes a long time and a lot of effort. Revitalising the Romanian economy will be a long haul. see also long-haul hate cam|paign (hate campaigns) [N-COUNT] usu sing A hate campaign is a series of actions which are intended to harm or upset someone, or to make other people have a low opinion of them. The media has waged a virulent hate campaign against her. hate crime (hate crimes) [N-COUNT] A hate crime is a crime, especially against people such as homosexuals and members of ethnic minorities, that is motivated by feelings of hatred. hate mail also hate-mail [N-UNCOUNT] If someone receives hate mail, they receive unpleasant or threatening letters....

haunt

haunt /h'ɔːnt/ (haunts haunting haunted) 1 [VERB] V n If something unpleasant haunts you, you keep thinking or worrying about it over a long period of time. The decision to leave her children now haunts her... 2 [VERB] V n Something that haunts a person or organization regularly causes them problems over a long period of time. The stigma of being a bankrupt is likely to haunt him for the rest of his life. 3 [N-COUNT] with supp A place that is the haunt of a particular person is one which they often visit because they enjoy going there. The Channel Islands are a favourite summer haunt for UK and French yachtsmen alike. 4 [VERB] V n A ghost or spirit that haunts a place or a person regularly appears in the place, or is seen by the person and frightens them. His ghost is said to haunt some of the rooms, banging a toy drum. hate cam|paign (hate campaigns) [N-COUNT] usu sing A hate campaign is a series of actions which are intended to harm or upset someone, or to make other people have a low opinion of them. The media has waged a virulent hate campaign against her. hate crime (hate crimes) [N-COUNT] A hate crime is a crime, especially against people such as homosexuals and members of ethnic minorities, that is motivated by feelings of hatred. hate mail also hate-mail [N-UNCOUNT] If someone receives hate mail, they receive unpleasant or threatening letters....

haunting

haunt|ing /h'ɔːntɪŋ/ [ADJ] usu ADJ n Haunting sounds, images, or words remain in your thoughts because they are very beautiful or sad. ...the haunting calls of wild birds in the mahogany trees. ● hauntingly [ADV] usu ADV adj Each one of these ancient towns is hauntingly beautiful. haven't /h'ævənt/ Haven't is the usual spoken form of `have not'. hav|er|sack /h'ævərsæk/ (haversacks) [N-COUNT] A haversack is a canvas bag that is usually worn over one shoulder. (mainly BRIT)...

haute cuisine

haute cuisine noun noun BrE BrE / / ˌəʊt kwɪˈziːn / / ; NAmE NAmE / / ˌoʊt kwɪˈziːn / / [ uncountable ] ( from French ) cooking of a very high standard More Like This Silent letters gnarled , gnash , gnat , gnaw , gnome haute cuisine , heir , (NAmE herb) , honour , hors d'oeuvre , hour knack , knee , kneel , knife , knight , knit , knob , knock , knot , know , knuckle psalm , psephology , psychic , ptarmigan , pterodactyl , psychology wrangle , wrap , wreath , wreck , wrench , wrestle , wriggle , wring , write , wrong bomb , climb , crumb , doubt , lamb , limb ascent , fascinate , muscle , scene , scissors height , right , sleigh , weight align , campaign , design , foreign , malign , reign , unfeigned balmy , calm , calf , half , yolk autumn , column , condemn , damn , hymn , solemn bristle , fasten , listen , mortgage , soften , thistle , wrestle biscuit , build , circuit , disguise , guilty , league , rogue , vague yacht answer , sword , two See worksheet. Word Origin French, literally 'high cookery' ....

havoc

hav|oc /h'ævək/ 1 [N-UNCOUNT] Havoc is great disorder, and confusion. Rioters caused havoc in the centre of the town. 2 [PHRASE] V inflects, PHR n If one thing plays havoc with another or wreaks havoc on it, it prevents it from continuing or functioning as normal, or damages it. The weather played havoc with airline schedules... haven't /h'ævənt/ Haven't is the usual spoken form of `have not'. hav|er|sack /h'ævərsæk/ (haversacks) [N-COUNT] A haversack is a canvas bag that is usually worn over one shoulder. (mainly BRIT)...

hazy

hazy /h'eɪzi/ (hazier haziest) 1 [ADJ] Hazy weather conditions are those in which things are difficult to see, because of light mist, hot air, or dust. The air was thin and crisp, filled with hazy sunshine and frost... ≠ clear 2 [ADJ] If you are hazy about ideas or details, or if they are hazy, you are uncertain or confused about them. I'm a bit hazy about that... I have only a hazy memory of what he was really like... ≠ clear 3 [ADJ] If things seem hazy, you cannot see things clearly, for example because you are feeling ill. My vision has grown so hazy... haz|ard|ous /h'æzərdəs/ [ADJ] Something that is hazardous is dangerous, especially to people's health or safety. They have no way to dispose of the hazardous waste they produce... = dangerous ≠ safe...

hazard

haz|ard /h'æzərd/ (hazards hazarding hazarded) 1 [N-COUNT] oft N to/for n, N of n A hazard is something which could be dangerous to you, your health or safety, or your plans or reputation. A new report suggests that chewing-gum may be a health hazard... 2 [VERB] V n If you hazard someone or something, you put them into a situation which might be dangerous for them. (mainly WRITTEN) He could not believe that, had the Englishman known how much he was at risk, he would have hazarded his grandson. 3 [VERB] V n If you hazard or if you hazard a guess, you make a suggestion about something which is only a guess and which you know might be wrong. I would hazard a guess that they'll do fairly well in the next election... haz|ard|ous /h'æzərdəs/ [ADJ] Something that is hazardous is dangerous, especially to people's health or safety. They have no way to dispose of the hazardous waste they produce... = dangerous ≠ safe...

heady

heady /h'edi/ (headier headiest) [ADJ] usu ADJ n A heady drink, atmosphere, or experience strongly affects your senses, for example by making you feel drunk or excited. ...in the heady days just after their marriage... heart at|tack (heart attacks) [N-COUNT] If someone has a heart attack, their heart begins to beat very irregularly or stops completely. He died of a heart attack brought on by overwork. heart fail|ure [N-UNCOUNT] Heart failure is a serious medical condition in which someone's heart does not work as well as it should, sometimes stopping completely so that they die. heart-rending also heartrending [ADJ] usu ADJ n You use heart-rending to describe something that causes you to feel great sadness and pity. ...heart-rending pictures of refugees......

heap

heap /h'iːp/ (heaps heaping heaped) 1 [N-COUNT] oft N of n A heap of things is a pile of them, especially a pile arranged in a rather untidy way. ...a heap of bricks... He has dug up the tiles that cover the floor and left them in a heap. 2 [VERB] V n prep/adv If you heap things somewhere, you arrange them in a large pile. Mrs. Madrigal heaped more carrots onto Michael's plate. [PHRASAL VERB] V P n (not pron), also V n P Heap up means the same as heap. Off to one side, the militia was heaping up wood for a bonfire. 3 [VERB] V n on/upon n If you heap praise or criticism on someone or something, you give them a lot of praise or criticism. The head of the navy heaped scorn on both the methods and motives of the conspirators. 4 [QUANT] QUANT of n-uncount/pl-n Heaps of something or a heap of something is a large quantity of it. (INFORMAL) You have heaps of time... I got in a heap of trouble. = load 5 [PHRASE] usu v-link PHR, PHR after v Someone who is at the bottom of the heap or at the top of the heap is low down or high up in society or an organization. Ordinary workers in state industry, once favoured, suddenly found themselves at the bottom of the heap. 6 [PHRASE] v PHR, v-link PHR If someone collapses in a heap, they fall heavily and untidily and do not move. The young footballer collapsed in a heap after a heavy tackle. heaped /h'iːpt/ 1 [ADJ] ADJ n A heaped spoonful has the contents of the spoon piled up above the edge. Add one heaped tablespoon of salt. 2 [ADJ] v-link ADJ with n A container or a surface that is heaped with things has a lot of them in it or on it in a pile, often so many that it cannot hold any more. The large desk was heaped with papers....

heartening

heartening adjective adjective BrE BrE / /ˈhɑːtnɪŋ / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈhɑːrtnɪŋ / / making you feel encouragement or hope It is heartening to see the determination of these young people. opposite disheartening...

heartland

heart|land /h'ɑːrtlænd/ (heartlands) 1 [N-COUNT] with supp, oft adj N, N of n Journalists use heartland or heartlands to refer to the area or region where a particular set of activities or beliefs is most significant. ...his six-day bus tour around the industrial heartland of America... 2 [N-COUNT] with supp The most central area of a country or continent can be referred to as its heartland or heartlands. (WRITTEN) For many, the essence of French living is to be found in the rural heartlands. hearth rug (hearth rugs) also hearthrug [N-COUNT] A hearth rug is a rug which is put in front of a fireplace....

heave

heave /h'iːv/ (heaves heaving heaved) 1 [VERB] V n prep/adv If you heave something heavy or difficult to move somewhere, you push, pull, or lift it using a lot of effort. It took five strong men to heave the statue up a ramp and lower it into place... [N-COUNT] Heave is also a noun. It took only one heave to hurl him into the river. 2 [VERB] V If something heaves, it moves up and down with large regular movements. His chest heaved, and he took a deep breath. 3 [VERB] V If you heave, or if your stomach heaves, you vomit or feel sick. My stomach heaved and I felt sick. 4 [VERB] V n If you heave a sigh, you give a big sigh. Mr Collier heaved a sigh and got to his feet. 5 [VERB] usu cont, V, V with n If a place is heaving or if it is heaving with people, it is full of people. (mainly BRIT INFORMAL) The Happy Bunny club was heaving... Father Auberon's Academy Club positively heaved with dashing young men. 6 to heave a sigh of relief: see sigh heat|er /h'iːtər/ (heaters) [N-COUNT] A heater is a piece of equipment or a machine which is used to raise the temperature of something, especially of the air inside a room or a car....

heaving

heaving adjective adjective BrE BrE / /ˈhiːvɪŋ / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈhiːvɪŋ / / [ not before noun ] heaving (with somebody/something) full of somebody/something The place was heaving with journalists....

heck

heck /h'ek/ 1 [EXCLAM] People sometimes say `heck!' when they are slightly irritated or surprised. (INFORMAL) Heck, if you don't like it, don't vote for him... 2 [PHRASE] PHR n People use a heck of to emphasize how big something is or how much of it there is. (INFORMAL) They're spending a heck of a lot of money... The truth is, I'm in one heck of a mess. 3 [PHRASE] quest PHR You use the heck in expressions such as `what the heck' and `how the heck' in order to emphasize a question, especially when you are puzzled or annoyed. (INFORMAL) What the heck's that?... The question was, where the heck was he? 4 [PHRASE] PHR with cl You say `what the heck' to indicate that you do not care about a bad aspect of an action or situation. (INFORMAL) What the heck, I thought, I'll give it a whirl. He|brew /h'iːbruː/ 1 [N-UNCOUNT] Hebrew is a language that was spoken by Jews in former times. A modern form of Hebrew is spoken now in Israel. He is a fluent speaker of Hebrew. 2 [ADJ] Hebrew means belonging to or relating to the Hebrew language or people. ...the respected Hebrew newspaper Haarez......

hectic

hec|tic /h'ektɪk/ [ADJ] A hectic situation is one that is very busy and involves a lot of rushed activity. Despite his hectic work schedule, Benny has rarely suffered poor health... = busy hedge about or hedge around [PHRASAL VERB] be V-ed P with n, be V-ed P with n If you say that something such as an offer is hedged about or is hedged around with rules or conditions, you mean that there are a lot of rules or conditions. The offer was hedged around with conditions... Many reduced fares are hedged around with restrictions. hedge fund (hedge funds) [N-COUNT] A hedge fund is an investment fund that invests large amounts of money using methods that involve a lot of risk. (BUSINESS)...

hector

hec|tor /h'ektər/ (hectors hectoring hectored) [VERB] V n If you say that someone is hectoring you, you do not like the way they are trying to make you do something by bothering you and talking to you aggressively. I suppose you'll hector me until I phone him. = bully ● hectoring [ADJ] usu ADJ n In a loud, hectoring tone, Alan told us that he wasn't going to waste time discussing nonsense. = bullying hedge about or hedge around [PHRASAL VERB] be V-ed P with n, be V-ed P with n If you say that something such as an offer is hedged about or is hedged around with rules or conditions, you mean that there are a lot of rules or conditions. The offer was hedged around with conditions... Many reduced fares are hedged around with restrictions. hedge fund (hedge funds) [N-COUNT] A hedge fund is an investment fund that invests large amounts of money using methods that involve a lot of risk. (BUSINESS)...

hedge

hedge /h'edʒ/ (hedges hedging hedged) 1 [N-COUNT] A hedge is a row of bushes or small trees, usually along the edge of a garden, field, or road. 2 [VERB] V against n, V n If you hedge against something unpleasant or unwanted that might affect you, especially losing money, you do something which will protect you from it. You can hedge against redundancy or illness with insurance... Today's clever financial instruments make it possible for firms to hedge their risks. 3 [N-COUNT] N against n Something that is a hedge against something unpleasant will protect you from its effects. Gold is traditionally a hedge against inflation. 4 [VERB] V, V with quote If you hedge, you avoid answering a question or committing yourself to a particular action or decision. They hedged in answering various questions about the operation... `I can't give you an answer now,' he hedged. 5 [PHRASE] V inflects If you hedge your bets, you reduce the risk of losing a lot by supporting more than one person or thing in a situation where they are opposed to each other. Hawker Siddeley tried to hedge its bets by diversifying into other fields... hedge about or hedge around [PHRASAL VERB] be V-ed P with n, be V-ed P with n If you say that something such as an offer is hedged about or is hedged around with rules or conditions, you mean that there are a lot of rules or conditions. The offer was hedged around with conditions... Many reduced fares are hedged around with restrictions. hedge fund (hedge funds) [N-COUNT] A hedge fund is an investment fund that invests large amounts of money using methods that involve a lot of risk. (BUSINESS)...

heighten

height|en /h'aɪtən/ (heightens heightening heightened) [VERB] V n, V, V-ed If something heightens a feeling or if the feeling heightens, the feeling increases in degree or intensity. The move has heightened tension in the state... Cross's interest heightened. ...a heightened awareness of the dangers that they now face. = intensify heir ap|par|ent (heirs apparent) [N-COUNT] usu sing, oft the N to n, poss N The heir apparent to a particular job or position is the person who is expected to have it after the person who has it now. (JOURNALISM)...

heir

heir /'eər/ (heirs) [N-COUNT] oft with poss, oft N to n An heir is someone who has the right to inherit a person's money, property, or title when that person dies. ...the heir to the throne. heir ap|par|ent (heirs apparent) [N-COUNT] usu sing, oft the N to n, poss N The heir apparent to a particular job or position is the person who is expected to have it after the person who has it now. (JOURNALISM)...

fille

n. （法）少女；女佣；姑娘

germinating

n.,adj. 发芽(的)

drift

♦ drift /dr'ɪft/ (drifts drifting drifted) 1 [VERB] V adv/prep, V When something drifts somewhere, it is carried there by the movement of wind or water. We proceeded to drift on up the river... The waves became rougher as they drifted. 2 [VERB] V prep/adv, V If someone or something drifts into a situation, they get into that situation in a way that is not planned or controlled. We need to offer young people drifting into crime an alternative set of values... There is a general sense that the country and economy alike are drifting. 3 [VERB] V prep/adv If you say that someone drifts around, you mean that they travel from place to place without a plan or settled way of life. You've been drifting from job to job without any real commitment. 4 [N-COUNT] usu N prep A drift is a movement away from somewhere or something, or a movement towards somewhere or something different. ...the drift towards the cities. 5 [VERB] V prep To drift somewhere means to move there slowly or gradually. As rural factories shed labour, people drift towards the cities. 6 [VERB] V prep/adv If sounds drift somewhere, they can be heard but they are not very loud. Cool summer dance sounds are drifting from the stereo indoors. 7 [VERB] V If snow drifts, it builds up into piles as a result of the movement of the wind. The snow, except where it drifted, was only calf-deep... 8 [N-COUNT] A drift is a mass of snow that has built up into a pile as a result of the movement of wind. ...a nine-foot snow drift. 9 [N-SING] poss N, N of n The drift of an argument or speech is the general point that is being made in it. Grace was beginning to get his drift... = gist drift off [PHRASAL VERB] V P to n, also V P If you drift off to sleep, you gradually fall asleep. It was only when he finally drifted off to sleep that the headaches eased. drift|er /dr'ɪftər/ (drifters) [N-COUNT] If you describe someone as a drifter, you mean that they do not stay in one place or in one job for very long....

dust

♦ dust /d'ʌst/ (dusts dusting dusted) 1 [N-UNCOUNT] Dust is very small dry particles of earth or sand. Tanks raise huge trails of dust when they move... 2 [N-UNCOUNT] Dust is the very small pieces of dirt which you find inside buildings, for example on furniture, floors, or lights. I could see a thick layer of dust on the stairs... 3 [N-UNCOUNT] oft n N Dust is a fine powder which consists of very small particles of a substance such as gold, wood, or coal. The air is so black with diesel fumes and coal dust, I can barely see. 4 [VERB] V n, V When you dust something such as furniture, you remove dust from it, usually using a cloth. I vacuumed and dusted the living room... She dusted, she cleaned, and she did the washing-up. ● dusting [N-UNCOUNT] I'm very fortunate in that I don't have to do the washing-up or the dusting. 5 [VERB] V n prep/adv, V adv/prep If you dust something with a fine substance such as powder or if you dust a fine substance onto something, you cover it lightly with that substance. Lightly dust the fish with flour... Dry your feet well and then dust between the toes with baby powder. 6 [PHRASE] V inflects If you say that something has bitten the dust, you are emphasizing that it no longer exists or that it has failed. (HUMOROUS, INFORMAL) In the last 30 years many cherished values have bitten the dust... 7 [PHRASE] V inflects If you say that something will happen when the dust settles, you mean that a situation will be clearer after it has calmed down. If you let the dust settle before doing something, you let a situation calm down before you try to do anything else. (INFORMAL) Once the dust had settled Beck defended his decision... 8 [PHRASE] V inflects If you say that something is gathering dust, you mean that it has been left somewhere and nobody is using it or doing anything with it. Many of the machines are gathering dust in basements... dust jack|et (dust jackets) also dust-jacket [N-COUNT] A dust jacket is a loose paper cover which is put on a book to protect it. It often contains information about the book and its author. dust off 1 [PHRASAL VERB] V P n (not pron) If you say that someone dusts something off or dusts it down, you mean they are using an old idea or method, rather than trying something new. Critics were busy dusting down the same superlatives they had applied to their first three films... 2 [PHRASAL VERB] V pron-refl P If you say that someone has dusted himself or herself off or dusted himself or herself down, you mean that they have managed to recover from a severe problem which has affected their life. She dusted herself down and left to build her own career... dust sheet (dust sheets) also dustsheet [N-COUNT] A dust sheet is a large cloth which is used to cover objects such as furniture in order to protect them from dust. dust storm (dust storms) [N-COUNT] A dust storm is a storm in which strong winds carry a lot of dust. dust-up (dust-ups) [N-COUNT] A dust-up is a quarrel that often involves some fighting. (INFORMAL) He's now facing suspension after a dust-up with the referee. = scrap...

enable

♦ en|able /ɪn'eɪbəl/ (enables enabling enabled) 1 [VERB] V n to-inf If someone or something enables you to do a particular thing, they give you the opportunity to do it. The new test should enable doctors to detect the disease early. ● enabling [ADJ] Researchers describe it as an enabling technology. 2 [VERB] V n to-inf, V n To enable something to happen means to make it possible for it to happen. The hot sun enables the grapes to reach optimum ripeness... The working class is still too small to enable a successful socialist revolution. 3 [VERB] V n to-inf To enable someone to do something means to give them permission or the right to do it. The republic's legislation enables young people to do a form of alternative service. ● enabling [ADJ] ADJ n Some protection for victims must be written into the enabling legislation. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

ear

♦ ear /'ɪər/ (ears) 1 [N-COUNT] Your ears are the two parts of your body, one on each side of your head, with which you hear sounds. He whispered something in her ear... I'm having my ears pierced. 2 [N-SING] with supp, usu N for n If you have an ear for music or language, you are able to hear its sounds accurately and to interpret them or reproduce them well. Moby certainly has a fine ear for a tune... An ear for foreign languages is advantageous. 3 [N-COUNT] oft adj N Ear is often used to refer to people's willingness to listen to what someone is saying. What would cause the masses to give him a far more sympathetic ear?... They had shut their eyes and ears to everything. 4 [N-COUNT] usu pl The ears of a cereal plant such as wheat or barley are the parts at the top of the stem, which contain the seeds or grains. 5 [PHRASE] usu v-link PHR If someone says that they are all ears, they mean that they are ready and eager to listen. (INFORMAL) 6 [PHRASE] V inflects If a request falls on deaf ears or if the person to whom the request is made turns a deaf ear to it, they take no notice of it. I hope that our appeals will not fall on deaf ears... He has turned a resolutely deaf ear to American demands for action. 7 [PHRASE] V inflects If you keep or have your ear to the ground, you make sure that you find out about the things that people are doing or saying. Jobs in manufacturing are relatively scarce but I keep my ear to the ground. 8 [PHRASE] V inflects If you lend an ear to someone or their problems, you listen to them carefully and sympathetically. They are always willing to lend an ear and offer what advice they can. 9 [PHRASE] V inflects If you say that something goes in one ear and out the other, you mean that someone pays no attention to it, or forgets about it immediately. That rubbish goes in one ear and out the other. 10 [PHRASE] N inflects, v-link PHR If someone says that you will be out on your ear, they mean that you will be forced to leave a job, an organization or a place suddenly. (INFORMAL) We never objected. We'd have been out on our ears looking for another job if we had. 11 [PHRASE] V inflects If you play by ear or play a piece of music by ear, you play music by relying on your memory rather than by reading printed music. Neil played, by ear, the music he'd heard his older sister practicing. 12 [PHRASE] V inflects If you play it by ear, you decide what to say or do in a situation by responding to events rather than by following a plan which you have decided on in advance. 13 [PHRASE] v-link PHR, oft PHR in n If you are up to your ears in something, it is taking up all of your time, attention, or resources. He was desperate. He was in debt up to his ears. 14 music to your ears: see music wet behind the ears: see wet eagle-eyed [ADJ] If you describe someone as eagle-eyed, you mean that they watch things very carefully and seem to notice everything. Three cannabis plants were found by eagle-eyed police officers....

echo

♦ echo /'ekoʊ/ (echoes echoing echoed) 1 [N-COUNT] oft N of n An echo is a sound which is caused by a noise being reflected off a surface such as a wall. He heard nothing but the echoes of his own voice. 2 [VERB] V, V prep/adv If a sound echoes, it is reflected off a surface and can be heard again after the original sound has stopped. His feet echoed on the bare board floor... The bang came suddenly, echoing across the buildings, shattering glass. = reverberate 3 [VERB] V, V with/in n, V-ing In a place that echoes, a sound is reflected off a surface, and is repeated after the original sound has stopped. The room echoed... The corridor echoed with the barking of a dozen dogs. ...the bare stone floors and the echoing hall. 4 [VERB] V n If you echo someone's words, you repeat them or express agreement with their attitude or opinion. Their views often echo each other... 5 [N-COUNT] usu N of n A detail or feature which reminds you of something else can be referred to as an echo. The accident has echoes of past disasters. 6 [VERB] V n If one thing echoes another, the first is a copy of a particular detail or feature of the other. Pinks and beiges were chosen to echo the colours of the ceiling. = repeat 7 [VERB] V prep If something echoes, it continues to be discussed and remains important or influential in a particular situation or among a particular group of people. The old fable continues to echo down the centuries. edu|cat|ed guess (educated guesses) [N-COUNT] An educated guess is a guess which is based on a certain amount of knowledge and is therefore likely to be correct. Estimating the right cooking time will always be an educated guess....

eliminate

♦ elimi|nate /ɪl'ɪmɪneɪt/ (eliminates eliminating eliminated) 1 [VERB] V n, V n from n To eliminate something, especially something you do not want or need, means to remove it completely. (FORMAL) The Sex Discrimination Act has not eliminated discrimination in employment... If you think you may be allergic to a food or drink, eliminate it from your diet. ● elimination [N-UNCOUNT] usu N of n ...the prohibition and elimination of chemical weapons. 2 [V-PASSIVE] be V-ed from n, be V-ed When a person or team is eliminated from a competition, they are defeated and so take no further part in the competition. I was eliminated from the 400 metres in the semi-finals... If you are eliminated in the show-jumping then you are out of the complete competition. = knock out 3 [VERB] V n If someone says that they have eliminated an enemy, they mean that they have killed them. By using the word `eliminate', they are trying to make the action sound more positive than if they used the word `kill'. He declared war on the government and urged right-wingers to eliminate their opponents... el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

embassy

♦ em|bas|sy /'embəsi/ (embassies) [N-COUNT] oft the adj N An embassy is a group of government officials, headed by an ambassador, who represent their government in a foreign country. The building in which they work is also called an embassy. The American Embassy has already complained... Mr Cohen held discussions at the embassy with one of the rebel leaders. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

emphasis

♦ em|pha|sis /'emfəsɪs/ (emphases /'emfəsiːz/) 1 [N-VAR] oft N on n Emphasis is special or extra importance that is given to an activity or to a part or aspect of something. Too much emphasis is placed on research... Grant puts a special emphasis on weather in his paintings. = stress 2 [N-VAR] Emphasis is extra force that you put on a syllable, word, or phrase when you are speaking in order to make it seem more important. `I might have know it!' Miss Burnett said with emphasis... The emphasis is on the first syllable of the last word. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

emphasize

♦ em|pha|size /'emfəsaɪz/ (emphasizes emphasizing emphasized) in BRIT, also use emphasise [VERB] V that, V how To emphasize something means to indicate that it is particularly important or true, or to draw special attention to it. But it's also been emphasized that no major policy changes can be expected to come out of the meeting... Discuss pollution with your child, emphasizing how nice a clean street, lawn, or park looks. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

employer

♦ em|ploy|er /ɪmpl'ɔɪər/ (employers) [N-COUNT] Your employer is the person or organization that you work for. He had been sent to Rome by his employer... The telephone company is the country's largest employer. ♦ em|ploy|ment /ɪmpl'ɔɪmənt/ 1 [N-UNCOUNT] Employment is the fact of having a paid job. She was unable to find employment... He regularly drove from his home to his place of employment. 2 [N-UNCOUNT] Employment is the fact of employing someone. ...the employment of children under nine. 3 [N-UNCOUNT] Employment is the work that is available in a country or area. ...economic policies designed to secure full employment. ≠ unemployment...

engage

♦ en|gage /ɪng'eɪdʒ/ (engages engaging engaged) 1 [VERB] V in n If you engage in an activity, you do it or are actively involved with it. (FORMAL) I have never engaged in the drug trade... 2 [VERB] V n If something engages you or your attention or interest, it keeps you interested in it and thinking about it. They never learned skills to engage the attention of the others. 3 [VERB] V n in n If you engage someone in conversation, you have a conversation with them. They tried to engage him in conversation... 4 [VERB] V with n If you engage with something or with a group of people, you get involved with that thing or group and feel that you are connected with it or have real contact with it. She found it hard to engage with office life... ● engagement [N-UNCOUNT] usu N with n And she, too, suffers from a lack of critical engagement with the literary texts. 5 [VERB] V n If you engage someone to do a particular job, you appoint them to do it. (FORMAL) We engaged the services of a recognised engineer... 6 [VERB] V, V n When a part of a machine or other mechanism engages or when you engage it, it moves into a position where it fits into something else. Press the lever until you hear the catch engage. ...a lesson in how to engage the four-wheel drive. 7 [VERB] V n When a military force engages the enemy, it attacks them and starts a battle. It could engage the enemy beyond the range of hostile torpedoes. 8 see also engaged, engaging el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

entertainment

♦ en|ter|tain|ment /'entərt'eɪnmənt/ (entertainments) [N-VAR] Entertainment consists of performances of plays and films, and activities such as reading and watching television, that give people pleasure. ...the world of entertainment and international stardom... en|ter|prise zone (enterprise zones) [N-COUNT] An enterprise zone is an area, usually a depressed or inner-city area, where the government offers incentives in order to attract new businesses. (BUSINESS) Because it is in an enterprise zone, taxes on non-food items are 3.5% instead of the usual 7%. en|ter|pris|ing /'entərpraɪzɪŋ/ [ADJ] usu ADJ n An enterprising person is willing to try out new, unusual ways of doing or achieving something. Some enterprising members found ways of reducing their expenses or raising their incomes. ♦ en|ter|tain /'entərt'eɪn/ (entertains entertaining entertained) 1 [VERB] V n, V If a performer, performance, or activity entertains you, it amuses you, interests you, or gives you pleasure. They were entertained by top singers, dancers and celebrities... Children's television not only entertains but also teaches. ● entertaining [ADJ] To generate new money the sport needs to be more entertaining... This is a surprisingly entertaining film... 2 [VERB] V n, V If you entertain people, you provide food and drink for them, for example when you have invited them to your house. I don't like to entertain guests anymore... The Monroes continued to entertain extravagantly. ● entertaining [N-UNCOUNT] ...a cosy area for entertaining and relaxing. 3 [VERB] V n, V n If you entertain an idea or suggestion, you allow yourself to consider it as possible or as worth thinking about seriously. (FORMAL) I feel how foolish I am to entertain doubts... I wouldn't entertain the idea of such an unsociable job....

entitle

♦ en|ti|tle /ɪnt'aɪtəl/ (entitles entitling entitled) 1 [VERB] V n to n, V n to-inf If you are entitled to something, you have the right to have it or do it. If the warranty is limited, the terms may entitle you to a replacement or refund... There are 23 Clubs throughout the U.S., and your membership entitles you to enjoy all of them. 2 [VERB] usu passive, be V-ed quote, V-ed quote If the title of something such as a book, film, or painting is, for example, `Sunrise', you can say that it is entitled `Sunrise'. Chomsky's review is entitled `Psychology and Ideology'. ...a performance entitled `United States'. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

equivalent

♦ equiva|lent /ɪkw'ɪvələnt/ (equivalents) 1 [N-SING] oft N of n If one amount or value is the equivalent of another, they are the same. The equivalent of two tablespoons of polyunsaturated oils is ample each day... Even the cheapest car costs the equivalent of 70 years' salary for a government worker. [ADJ] oft ADJ to n Equivalent is also an adjective. A unit is equivalent to a glass of wine or a single measure of spirits... They will react with hostility to the price rises and calls for equivalent wage increases are bound to be heard. = equal 2 [N-COUNT] usu with poss The equivalent of someone or something is a person or thing that has the same function in a different place, time, or system. ...the civil administrator of the West Bank and his equivalent in Gaza. ...the Red Cross emblem, and its equivalent in Muslim countries, the Red Crescent. = counterpart [ADJ] Equivalent is also an adjective. ...a decrease of 10% in property investment compared with the equivalent period in 1991. 3 [N-SING] the N of n You can use equivalent to emphasize the great or severe effect of something. His party has just suffered the equivalent of a near-fatal heart attack. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

ethnic

♦ eth|nic /'eθnɪk/ 1 [ADJ] usu ADJ n Ethnic means connected with or relating to different racial or cultural groups of people. ...a survey of Britain's ethnic minorities. ...ethnic tensions. ● ethnically [ADV] usu ADV -ed/adj ...a predominantly young, ethnically mixed audience. 2 [ADJ] ADJ n You can use ethnic to describe people who belong to a particular racial or cultural group but who, usually, do not live in the country where most members of that group live. There are still several million ethnic Germans in Russia. ● ethnically [ADV] ADV adj ...a large ethnically Albanian population. 3 [ADJ] Ethnic clothing, music, or food is characteristic of the traditions of a particular ethnic group, and different from what is usually found in modern Western culture. ...a magnificent range of ethnic fabrics. eth|nic cleans|ing [N-UNCOUNT] Ethnic cleansing is the process of using violent methods to force certain groups of people out of a particular area or country. In late May, government forces began the `ethnic cleansing' of the area around the town....

flee

♦ flee /fl'iː/ (flees fleeing fled) [VERB] no passive, V, V prep/adv, V n, V n If you flee from something or someone, or flee a person or thing, you escape from them. (WRITTEN) He slammed the bedroom door behind him and fled... He fled to Costa Rica to avoid military service. ...refugees fleeing persecution or torture... Thousands have been compelled to flee the country in makeshift boats. fo|cal point (focal points) [N-COUNT] The focal point of something is the thing that people concentrate on or pay most attention to. ...the focal point for the town's many visitors-the Royal Shakespeare Theatre....

evil

♦ evil /'iːvəl/ (evils) 1 [N-UNCOUNT] Evil is a powerful force that some people believe to exist, and which causes wicked and bad things to happen. There's always a conflict between good and evil in his plays. ≠ good 2 [N-UNCOUNT] Evil is used to refer to all the wicked and bad things that happen in the world. He could not, after all, stop all the evil in the world. 3 [N-COUNT] If you refer to an evil, you mean a very unpleasant or harmful situation or activity. Higher taxes may be a necessary evil. ...a lecture on the evils of alcohol. 4 [ADJ] If you describe someone as evil, you mean that they are very wicked by nature and take pleasure in doing things that harm other people. ...the country's most evil terrorists... She's an evil woman. 5 [ADJ] If you describe something as evil, you mean that you think it causes a great deal of harm to people and is morally bad. After 1760 few Americans refrained from condemning slavery as evil... 6 [ADJ] If you describe something as evil, you mean that you think it is influenced by the devil. I think this is an evil spirit at work... 7 [ADJ] You can describe a very unpleasant smell as evil. Both men were smoking evil-smelling pipes. 8 [PHRASE] usu v PHR If someone is putting off the evil day or the evil hour, they have to do something unpleasant and are trying to avoid doing it for as long as possible. You can simply go on putting off the evil day and eventually find yourself smoking as much as ever. 9 [PHRASE] If you have two choices, but think that they are both bad, you can describe the one which is less bad as the lesser of two evils, or the lesser evil. People voted for him as the lesser of two evils... evil eye 1 [N-SING] the N Some people believe that the evil eye is a magical power to cast a spell on someone or something by looking at them, so that bad things happen to them. 2 [N-SING] usu the If someone gives you the evil eye, they look at you in an unpleasant way, usually because they dislike you or are jealous of you....

exception

♦ ex|cep|tion /ɪks'epʃən/ (exceptions) 1 [N-COUNT] oft with the N of n, with N An exception is a particular thing, person, or situation that is not included in a general statement, judgment, or rule. Few guitarists can sing as well as they can play; Eddie, however, is an exception... There were no floral offerings at the ceremony, with the exception of a single red rose... The law makes no exceptions... With few exceptions, guests are booked for week-long visits. 2 [PHRASE] v-link PHR If you make a general statement, and then say that something or someone is no exception, you are emphasizing that they are included in that statement. Marketing is applied to everything these days, and books are no exception... Most people have no real idea how to change to healthy food, and Maureen was no exception. 3 [PHRASE] exception and V inflect, usu v-link PHR If you are making a general statement and you say that something is the exception that proves the rule, you mean that although it seems to contradict your statement, in most other cases your statement will be true. Wine-making and accountants don't usually go together, but Thierry Hasard is an exception that proves the rule. 4 [PHRASE] V inflects If you take exception to something, you feel offended or annoyed by it, usually with the result that you complain about it. He also took exception to having been spied on... = object 5 [PREP-PHRASE] You use with the exception of to introduce a thing or person that is not included in a general statement that you are making. Yesterday was a day off for everybody, with the exception of Lawrence... 6 [PHRASE] PHR with cl/group, PHR after v You use without exception to emphasize that the statement you are making is true in all cases. The vehicles are without exception old, rusty and dented... el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

excuse

♦ ex|cuse (excuses excusing excused) The noun is pronounced /ɪkskj'uːs/ The verb is pronounced /ɪkskj'uːz/ 1 [N-COUNT] oft N for n/-ing, N to-inf An excuse is a reason which you give in order to explain why something has been done or has not been done, or in order to avoid doing something. It is easy to find excuses for his indecisiveness... Once I had had a baby I had the perfect excuse to stay at home... If you stop making excuses and do it you'll wonder what took you so long. = justification [PHRASE] v-link PHR, oft PHR for n/-ing If you say that there is no excuse for something, you are emphasizing that it should not happen, or expressing disapproval that it has happened. There's no excuse for behaviour like that... Solitude was no excuse for sloppiness. 2 [VERB] V n by -ing, V n To excuse someone or excuse their behaviour means to provide reasons for their actions, especially when other people disapprove of these actions. He excused himself by saying he was `forced to rob to maintain my wife and cat'... That doesn't excuse my mother's behaviour. = justify 3 [VERB] V n for n/-ing, also V n, V n n If you excuse someone for something wrong that they have done, you forgive them for it. Many people might have excused them for shirking some of their responsibilities. = forgive 4 [VERB] usu passive, be V-ed from n/-ing, be V-ed n If someone is excused from a duty or responsibility, they are told that they do not have to carry it out. She is usually excused from her duties during the school holidays... She was excused duties on Saturday. 5 [VERB] V pron-refl If you excuse yourself, you use a phrase such as `Excuse me' as a polite way of saying that you are about to leave. He excused himself and went up to his room. 6 [CONVENTION] You say `Excuse me' when you want to politely get someone's attention, especially when you are about to ask them a question. Excuse me, but are you Mr Honig? 7 [CONVENTION] You use excuse me to apologize to someone when you have disturbed or interrupted them. Excuse me interrupting, but there's a thing I feel I've got to say. 8 [CONVENTION] You use excuse me or a phrase such as if you'll excuse me as a polite way of indicating that you are about to leave or that you are about to stop talking to someone. `Excuse me,' she said to Jarvis, and left the room... Now if you'll excuse me, I've got work to do. 9 [CONVENTION] You use excuse me, but to indicate that you are about to disagree with someone. (mainly BRIT) Excuse me, but I want to know what all this has to do with us. 10 [CONVENTION] You say excuse me to apologize when you have bumped into someone, or when you need to move past someone in a crowd. = sorry 11 [CONVENTION] You say excuse me to apologize when you have done something slightly embarrassing or impolite, such as burping, hiccupping, or sneezing. 12 [CONVENTION] You say `Excuse me?' to show that you want someone to repeat what they have just said. (AM; in BRIT, usually use pardon, sorry) el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

exile

♦ ex|ile /'eksaɪl, 'egz-/ (exiles exiling exiled) 1 [N-UNCOUNT] usu prep N If someone is living in exile, they are living in a foreign country because they cannot live in their own country, usually for political reasons. He is now living in exile in Egypt... He returned from exile earlier this year. ...after nearly six years of exile... During his exile, he also began writing books. 2 [VERB] be V-ed from n, V n, V-ed If someone is exiled, they are living in a foreign country because they cannot live in their own country, usually for political reasons. His second wife, Hilary, had been widowed, then exiled from South Africa... They threatened to exile her in southern Spain. ...Haiti's exiled president. 3 [N-COUNT] An exile is someone who has been exiled. 4 [VERB] usu passive, be V-ed from n If you say that someone has been exiled from a particular place or situation, you mean that they have been sent away from it or removed from it against their will. He has been exiled from the first team and forced to play in third team matches... = banish [N-UNCOUNT] oft N from n Exile is also a noun. Rovers lost 4-1 and began their long exile from the First Division. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

expectation

♦ ex|pec|ta|tion /'ekspekt'eɪʃən/ (expectations) 1 [N-UNCOUNT] also N in pl Your expectations are your strong hopes or beliefs that something will happen or that you will get something that you want. Students' expectations were as varied as their expertise... The car has been General Motors' most visible success story, with sales far exceeding expectations... 2 [N-COUNT] usu pl A person's expectations are strong beliefs which they have about the proper way someone should behave or something should happen. Stephen Chase had determined to live up to the expectations of the Company. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

dramatic

♦♦ dra|mat|ic /drəm'ætɪk/ 1 [ADJ] usu ADJ n A dramatic change or event happens suddenly and is very noticeable and surprising. A fifth year of drought is expected to have dramatic effects on the California economy... = striking ● dramatically [ADV] usu ADV with v, also ADV adj At speeds above 50mph, serious injuries dramatically increase. 2 [ADJ] A dramatic action, event, or situation is exciting and impressive. He witnessed many dramatic escapes as people jumped from as high as the fourth floor... ● dramatically [ADV] usu ADV with v, also ADV adj He tipped his head to one side and sighed dramatically. 3 [ADJ] ADJ n You use dramatic to describe things connected with or relating to the theatre, drama, or plays. ...a dramatic arts major in college... domi|no ef|fect [N-SING] If one event causes another similar event, which in turn causes another event, and so on, you can refer to this as a domino effect. The domino effect if one train is cancelled is enormous....

experiment

♦ ex|peri|ment (experiments experimenting experimented) The noun is pronounced /ɪksp'erɪmənt/ The verb is pronounced /ɪksp'erɪment/ 1 [N-VAR] An experiment is a scientific test which is done in order to discover what happens to something in particular conditions. The astronauts are conducting a series of experiments to learn more about how the body adapts to weightlessness... This question can be answered only by experiment. 2 [VERB] V with/on n, V If you experiment with something or experiment on it, you do a scientific test on it in order to discover what happens to it in particular conditions. In 1857 Mendel started experimenting with peas in his monastery garden... The scientists have already experimented at each other's test sites. ● experimentation [N-UNCOUNT] ...the ethical aspects of animal experimentation. ● experimenter [N-COUNT] When the experimenters repeated the tests on themselves, they observed an exactly opposite effect. 3 [N-VAR] An experiment is the trying out of a new idea or method in order to see what it is like and what effects it has. As an experiment, we bought Ted a watch. 4 [VERB] V, V with n To experiment means to try out a new idea or method to see what it is like and what effects it has. ...if you like cooking and have the time to experiment... He believes that students should be encouraged to experiment with bold ideas. ● experimentation [N-UNCOUNT] Decentralization and experimentation must be encouraged... el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

explanation

♦ ex|pla|na|tion /'eksplən'eɪʃən/ (explanations) 1 [N-COUNT] also of/in N If you give an explanation of something that has happened, you give people reasons for it, especially in an attempt to justify it. She told the court she would give a full explanation of the prosecution's decision on Monday... `It's my ulcer,' he added by way of explanation. 2 [N-COUNT] oft N for n If you say there is an explanation for something, you mean that there is a reason for it. The deputy airport manager said there was no apparent explanation for the crash... It's the only explanation I can think of. = reason 3 [N-COUNT] oft N of n If you give an explanation of something, you give details about it or describe it so that it can be understood. Haig was immediately impressed by Charteris's expertise and by his lucid explanation of the work. expo /'eskpoʊ/ (expos) also Expo [N-COUNT] usu with supp, oft in names An expo is a large event where goods, especially industrial goods, are displayed. ...the 1995 Queensland Computer Expo. ex|po|nent /ɪksp'oʊnənt/ (exponents) 1 [N-COUNT] usu N of n An exponent of an idea, theory, or plan is a person who supports and explains it, and who tries to persuade other people that it is a good idea. (FORMAL) ...a leading exponent of test-tube baby techniques. = advocate 2 [N-COUNT] with supp An exponent of a particular skill or activity is a person who is good at it. ...the great exponent of expressionist dance, Kurt Jooss....

extensive

♦ ex|ten|sive /ɪkst'ensɪv/ 1 [ADJ] Something that is extensive covers or includes a large physical area. ...an extensive tour of Latin America... When built, the palace and its grounds were more extensive than the city itself. ● extensively [ADV] ADV after v Mark, however, needs to travel extensively with his varied business interests. 2 [ADJ] Something that is extensive covers a wide range of details, ideas, or items. Developments in South Africa receive extensive coverage in The Sunday Telegraph... The facilities available are very extensive. ● extensively [ADV] ADV after v, ADV adj/-ed All these issues have been extensively researched in recent years. 3 [ADJ] If something is extensive, it is very great. The blast caused extensive damage, shattering the ground-floor windows... The security forces have extensive powers of search and arrest... ● extensively [ADV] ADV after v, ADV -ed Hydrogen is used extensively in industry for the production of ammonia. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

fairly

♦ fair|ly /f'eərli/ 1 [ADV] ADV adj/adv Fairly means to quite a large degree. For example, if you say that something is fairly old, you mean that it is old but not very old. Both ships are fairly new... We did fairly well but only fairly well. = quite 2 [ADV] ADV adj/adv You use fairly instead of `very' to add emphasis to an adjective or adverb without making it sound too forceful. Were you always fairly bright at school?... I'll have no income and no home and will need a job fairly badly. = pretty 3 see also fair el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

FALSE

♦ false /f'ɔːls/ 1 [ADJ] If something is false, it is incorrect, untrue, or mistaken. It was quite clear the President was being given false information by those around him... You do not know whether what you're told is true or false... His sister said he had deliberately given the hospital a false name and address. ≠ true ● falsely [ADV] ADV with v ...a man who is falsely accused of a crime. = wrongly 2 [ADJ] usu ADJ n You use false to describe objects which are artificial but which are intended to look like the real thing or to be used instead of the real thing. ...a set of false teeth... = artificial ≠ real 3 [ADJ] If you describe a person or their behaviour as false, you are criticizing them for being insincere or for hiding their real feelings. `Thank you,' she said with false enthusiasm... ≠ genuine ● falsely [ADV] ADV adj, ADV after v He was falsely jovial, with his booming, mirthless laugh... `This food is divine,' they murmur, falsely. false alarm (false alarms) [N-COUNT] When you think something dangerous is about to happen, but then discover that you were mistaken, you can say that it was a false alarm. ...a bomb threat that turned out to be a false alarm. false move [PHRASE] You use one false move to introduce the very bad or serious consequences which will result if someone makes a mistake, even a very small one. One false move and I knew Sarah would be dead. false posi|tive (false positives) [N-COUNT] oft N n A false positive is a mistaken result of a scientific test. For example, if the result of a pregnancy test is a false positive, it indicates that a woman is pregnant when she is not. ...a high rate of false positive results. false start (false starts) 1 [N-COUNT] A false start is an attempt to start something, such as a speech, project, or plan, which fails because you were not properly prepared or ready to begin. Any economic reform, he said, faced false starts and mistakes. 2 [N-COUNT] If there is a false start at the beginning of a race, one of the competitors moves before the person who starts the race has given the signal....

due

♦♦ due /dj'uː, AM d'uː/ (dues) 1 [PREP-PHRASE] v-link PREP n If an event is due to something, it happens or exists as a direct result of that thing. The country's economic problems are largely due to the weakness of the recovery... 2 [PREP-PHRASE] You can say due to to introduce the reason for something happening. Some speakers of English believe that it is not correct to use due to in this way. Due to the large volume of letters he receives Dave regrets he is unable to answer queries personally... 3 [ADJ] usu v-link ADJ, oft ADJ to-inf, ADJ prep/adv If something is due at a particular time, it is expected to happen, be done, or arrive at that time. The results are due at the end of the month... Mr Carter is due in London on Monday. ...customers who paid later than twenty days after the due date. 4 [ADJ] ADJ n Due attention or consideration is the proper, reasonable, or deserved amount of it under the circumstances. After due consideration it was decided to send him away to live with foster parents... = proper 5 [ADJ] v-link ADJ, oft ADJ to n Something that is due, or that is due to someone, is owed to them, either as a debt or because they have a right to it. I was sent a cheque for £1,525 and advised that no further pension was due... I've got some leave due to me and I was going to Tasmania for a fortnight. [PREP] oft n PREP n Due is also a preposition. He had not taken a summer holiday that year but had accumulated the leave due him. 6 [ADJ] v-link ADJ for n If someone is due for something, that thing is planned to happen or be given to them now, or very soon, often after they have been waiting for it for a long time. He is not due for release until 2020. [PREP] Due is also a preposition. I reckon I'm due one of my travels. 7 [N-PLURAL] oft poss N Dues are sums of money that you give regularly to an organization that you belong to, for example a social club or trade union, in order to pay for being a member. Only 18 of the UN's 180 members had paid their dues by the January deadline. 8 [ADV] ADV adv/adj Due is used before the words `north', `south', `east', or `west' to indicate that something is in exactly the direction mentioned. They headed due north... 9 [PHRASE] PHR with cl If you say that something will happen or take place in due course, you mean that you cannot make it happen any quicker and it will happen when the time is right for it. In due course the baby was born... 10 [PHRASE] You can say `to give him his due', or `giving him his due' when you are admitting that there are some good things about someone, even though there are things that you do not like about them. To give Linda her due, she had tried to encourage John in his school work. 11 [PHRASE] PHR cl You can say `with due respect' when you are about to disagree politely with someone. With all due respect, you're wrong. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

fantasy

♦ fan|ta|sy /f'æntəzi/ (fantasies) also phantasy 1 [N-COUNT] A fantasy is a pleasant situation or event that you think about and that you want to happen, especially one that is unlikely to happen. ...fantasies of romance and true love. = dream 2 [N-VAR] You can refer to a story or situation that someone creates from their imagination and that is not based on reality as fantasy. The film is more of an ironic fantasy than a horror story. 3 [N-UNCOUNT] Fantasy is the activity of imagining things. ...a world of imagination, passion, fantasy, reflection. 4 [ADJ] ADJ n Fantasy football, baseball, or another sport is a game in which players choose an imaginary team and score points based on the actual performances of the members of their team in real games. Haskins said he has been playing fantasy baseball for the past five years. Far East [N-PROPER] the N The Far East is used to refer to all the countries of Eastern Asia, including China, Japan, North and South Korea, and Indochina. far-fetched [ADJ] If you describe a story or idea as far-fetched, you are criticizing it because you think it is unlikely to be true or practical. The storyline was too far-fetched and none of the actors was particularly good. = unrealistic...

fault

♦ fault /f'ɔːlt/ (faults faulting faulted) 1 [N-SING] with poss If a bad or undesirable situation is your fault, you caused it or are responsible for it. There was no escaping the fact: it was all his fault... A few borrowers will find themselves in trouble with their repayments through no fault of their own. 2 [N-COUNT] usu with supp A fault is a mistake in what someone is doing or in what they have done. It is a big fault to think that you can learn how to manage people in business school. = error, mistake 3 [N-COUNT] usu with supp, oft poss N A fault in someone or something is a weakness in them or something that is not perfect. His manners had always made her blind to his faults. ...a short delay due to a minor technical fault... = failing, flaw 4 [VERB] with brd-neg, V n for n/-ing, V n If you cannot fault someone, you cannot find any reason for criticizing them or the things that they are doing. You can't fault them for lack of invention... It is hard to fault the way he runs his own operation. 5 [N-COUNT] A fault is a large crack in the surface of the earth. ...the San Andreas Fault. 6 [N-COUNT] A fault in tennis is a service that is wrong according to the rules. 7 [PHRASE] v-link PHR If someone or something is at fault, they are to blame or are responsible for a particular situation that has gone wrong. He could never accept that he had been at fault... 8 [PHRASE] V inflects, usu PHR with n If you find fault with something or someone, you look for mistakes and complain about them. I was disappointed whenever the cook found fault with my work. 9 [PHRASE] usu adj PHR If you say that someone has a particular good quality to a fault, you are emphasizing that they have more of this quality than is usual or necessary. Jefferson was generous to a fault... Others will tell you that she is modest to a fault, funny, clever and warm. fault line (fault lines) 1 [N-COUNT] A fault line is a long crack in the surface of the earth. Earthquakes usually occur along fault lines. = fault 2 [N-COUNT] A fault line in a system or process is an area of it that seems weak and likely to cause problems or failure. These issues have created a stark fault line within the Peace Process. = weakness fault|less /f'ɔːltləs/ [ADJ] Something that is faultless is perfect and has no mistakes at all. ...Mary Thomson's faultless and impressive performance on the show... Hans's English was faultless. = flawless ● faultlessly [ADV] ADV with v, ADV adj Howard was faultlessly dressed in a dark blue suit....

familiar

♦ fa|mili|ar /fəm'ɪliər/ 1 [ADJ] oft ADJ to n If someone or something is familiar to you, you recognize them or know them well. He talked of other cultures as if they were more familiar to him than his own... They are already familiar faces on our TV screens. ...the familiar names of long-established local firms. ● familiarity [N-UNCOUNT] Tony was unnerved by the uncanny familiarity of her face. 2 [ADJ] v-link ADJ with n If you are familiar with something, you know or understand it well. Lesinko is quite familiar with Central Television. He worked there for 25 years... ● familiarity [N-UNCOUNT] usu N with n The enemy would always have the advantage of familiarity with the rugged terrain. 3 [ADJ] If someone you do not know well behaves in a familiar way towards you, they treat you very informally in a way that you might find offensive. The driver of that taxi-cab seemed to me familiar to the point of impertinence... ● familiarity [N-UNCOUNT] She needed to control her surprise at the easy familiarity with which her host greeted the head waiter. ● familiarly [ADV] `Gerald, isn't it?' I began familiarly....

fiscal

♦ fis|cal /f'ɪskəl/ [ADJ] ADJ n Fiscal is used to describe something that relates to government money or public money, especially taxes. ...in 1987, when the government tightened fiscal policy. = financial ● fiscally [ADV] usu ADV adj, also ADV after v The scheme would be fiscally dangerous... Many members are determined to prove that they are fiscally responsible. see also procurator fiscal fis|cal year (fiscal years) [N-COUNT] usu sing, usu with supp The fiscal year is the same as the financial year. (BUSINESS) ...the budget for the coming fiscal year. ♦♦ fish /f'ɪʃ/ (fishor fishes fishes fishing fished) The form fish is usually used for the plural, but fishes can also be used. 1 [N-COUNT] A fish is a creature that lives in water and has a tail and fins. There are many different kinds of fish. I was chatting to an islander who had just caught a fish... The fish were counted and an average weight recorded. 2 [N-UNCOUNT] Fish is the flesh of a fish eaten as food. Does dry white wine go best with fish? 3 [VERB] V If you fish, you try to catch fish, either for food or as a form of sport or recreation. Brian remembers learning to fish in the River Cam. 4 [VERB] V n If you fish a particular area of water, you try to catch fish in it. On Saturday we fished the River Arno. 5 [VERB] V for n, V If you say that someone is fishing for information or praise, you disapprove of the fact that they are trying to get it from someone in an indirect way. He didn't want to create the impression that he was fishing for information... `Lucinda, you don't have to talk to him!' Mike shouted. `He's just fishing.' = angle 6 see also fishing 7 [PHRASE] If you tell someone that there are plenty more fish in the sea, you are comforting them by saying that although their relationship with someone has failed, there are many other people they can have relationships with. (INFORMAL)...

flag

♦ flag /fl'æg/ (flags flagging flagged) 1 [N-COUNT] A flag is a piece of cloth which can be attached to a pole and which is used as a sign, signal, or symbol of something, especially of a particular country. The Marines climbed to the roof of the embassy building to raise the American flag... They had raised the white flag in surrender. 2 [N-COUNT] with supp, usu adj N, N of n Journalists sometimes refer to the flag of a particular country or organization as a way of referring to the country or organization itself and its values or power. Joining John Whitaker will be his brother Michael also riding under the British flag... 3 [VERB] V, V If you flag or if your spirits flag, you begin to lose enthusiasm or energy. His enthusiasm was in no way flagging... By 4,000m he was beginning to flag. 4 see also flagged 5 [PHRASE] V inflects If you fly the flag, you show that you are proud of your country, or that you support a particular cause, especially when you are in a foreign country or when few other people do. Flag Day [N-UNCOUNT] In the United States, Flag Day is the 14th of June, the anniversary of the day in 1777 when the Stars and Stripes became the official U.S. flag. flag day (flag days) [N-COUNT] In Britain, a flag day is a day on which people collect money for a charity from people in the street. People are given a small sticker to wear to show that they have given money. flag down [PHRASAL VERB] V P n (not pron), V n P If you flag down a vehicle, especially a taxi, you wave at it as a signal for the driver to stop. They flagged down a passing family who stopped to help them... Marlette was already out of the door, flagging down a taxi. = hail...

folk

♦ folk /f'oʊk/ (folks) folk can also be used as the plural form for meaning 1. 1 [N-PLURAL] usu with supp You can refer to people as folk or folks. Country folk can tell you that there are certain places which animals avoid... ...old folks. = people 2 [N-PLURAL] usu poss N You can refer to your close family, especially your mother and father, as your folks. (INFORMAL) I've been avoiding my folks lately. 3 [N-VOC] You can use folks as a term of address when you are talking to several people. (INFORMAL) This is it, folks: the best record guide in the business. 4 [ADJ] ADJ n Folk art and customs are traditional or typical of a particular community or nation. ...traditional Chinese folk medicine. 5 [ADJ] ADJ n Folk music is music which is traditional or typical of a particular community or nation. ...Irish folk music. [N-UNCOUNT] Folk is also a noun. ...a variety of music including classical, jazz, and folk. 6 [ADJ] ADJ n Folk can be used to describe something that relates to the beliefs and opinions of ordinary people. Jack was a folk hero in the Greenwich Village bars... folk song (folk songs) also folksong [N-COUNT] A folk song is a traditional song that is typical of a particular community or nation....

foundation

♦ foun|da|tion /faʊnd'eɪʃən/ (foundations) 1 [N-COUNT] usu the N of/for n The foundation of something such as a belief or way of life is the things on which it is based. The issue strikes at the very foundation of our community... This laid the foundations for later modern economic growth. [PHRASE] V inflects If an event shakes the foundations of a society or a system of beliefs, it causes great uncertainty and makes people question their most deeply held beliefs. The destruction of war and the death of millions of young people shook the foundations of Western idealism... 2 [N-PLURAL] The foundations of a building or other structure are the layer of bricks or concrete below the ground that it is built on. 3 [N-COUNT] A foundation is an organization which provides money for a special purpose such as research or charity. ...the National Foundation for Educational Research. 4 [N-UNCOUNT] with brd-neg If a story, idea, or argument has no foundation, there are no facts to prove that it is true. The allegations were without foundation... Each complaint is analysed very closely, and if it has no foundation it is rejected. 5 [N-MASS] Foundation is a skin-coloured cream that you put on your face before putting on the rest of your make-up. 6 see also found foun|da|tion course (foundation courses) [N-COUNT] A foundation course is a course that you do at some colleges and universities in order to prepare yourself for a longer or more advanced course. (BRIT; in AM, use basic course) foun|da|tion stone (foundation stones) 1 [N-COUNT] oft with poss A foundation stone is a large block of stone built into a large public building near the bottom. It is often involved in a ceremony for the opening of the building, and has writing on it recording this. (mainly BRIT; in AM, use cornerstone) The Princess of Wales laid the foundation stone for the extension to the Cathedral. 2 [N-COUNT] usu N of n The foundation stone of something is the basic, important thing which its existence or success depends on. ...these foundation stones of the future: education, training, research, development....

grain

♦ grain /gr'eɪn/ (grains) 1 [N-COUNT] usu with supp A grain of wheat, rice, or other cereal crop is a seed from it. ...a grain of wheat. ...rice grains. 2 [N-MASS] Grain is a cereal crop, especially wheat or corn, that has been harvested and is used for food or in trade. ...a bag of grain. ...the best grains. 3 [N-COUNT] A grain of something such as sand or salt is a tiny hard piece of it. ...a grain of sand. ● -grained [COMB in ADJ] ...coarse-grained salt. 4 [N-SING] N of n A grain of a quality is a very small amount of it. There's more than a grain of truth in that. 5 [N-SING] the N The grain of a piece of wood is the direction of its fibres. You can also refer to the pattern of lines on the surface of the wood as the grain. Brush the paint generously over the wood in the direction of the grain. ● -grained [COMB in ADJ] ...a hard, heavy, straight-grained wood. 6 [PHRASE] V inflects If you say that an idea or action goes against the grain, you mean that it is very difficult for you to accept it or do it, because it conflicts with your previous ideas, beliefs, or principles. Privatisation goes against the grain of their principle of opposition to private ownership of industry. grain el|eva|tor (grain elevators) [N-COUNT] A grain elevator is a building in which grain such as corn is stored and which contains machinery for moving the grain. (AM)...

grip

♦ grip /gr'ɪp/ (grips gripping gripped) 1 [VERB] V n If you grip something, you take hold of it with your hand and continue to hold it firmly. She gripped the rope. 2 [N-COUNT] oft poss N A grip is a firm, strong hold on something. His strong hand eased the bag from her grip. 3 [N-SING] with supp, oft N on n Someone's grip on something is the power and control they have over it. The president maintains an iron grip on his country... Tony Blair last night tightened his grip on Labour mps with new powers to root out trouble-makers. 4 [VERB] V n If something grips you, it affects you very strongly. The entire community has been gripped by fear. 5 [VERB] usu passive, be V-ed If you are gripped by something such as a story or a series of events, your attention is concentrated on it and held by it. The nation is gripped by the dramatic story. ● gripping [ADJ] The film turned out to be a gripping thriller. = riveting 6 [N-UNCOUNT] If things such as shoes or car tyres have grip, they do not slip. ...a new way of reinforcing rubber which gives car tyres better grip. 7 [N-COUNT] A grip is a bag that is smaller than a suitcase, and that you use when you are travelling. 8 [PHRASE] V inflects, PHR n If you get to grips with a problem or if you come to grips with it, you consider it seriously, and start taking action to deal with it. The government's first task is to get to grips with the economy. 9 [PHRASE] V inflects If you get a grip on yourself, you make an effort to control or improve your behaviour or work. 10 [PHRASE] v-link PHR, PHR n If a person, group, or place is in the grip of something, they are being severely affected by it. Britain is still in the grip of recession. ...a region in the grip of severe drought. 11 [PHRASE] V inflects If you lose your grip, you become less efficient and less confident, and less able to deal with things. 12 [PHRASE] usu PHR after v If you say that someone has a grip on reality, you mean they recognize the true situation and do not have mistaken ideas about it. Shakur loses his fragile grip on reality and starts blasting away at friends and foe alike....

gross

♦ gross /gr'oʊs/ (grosser grossest grosses grossing grossed) The plural of the number is gross. 1 [ADJ] ADJ n You use gross to describe something unacceptable or unpleasant to a very great amount, degree, or intensity. The company were guilty of gross negligence. ...an act of gross injustice. ● grossly [ADV] ADV -ed/adj Funding of education had been grossly inadequate for years... She was grossly overweight. 2 [ADJ] If you say that someone's speech or behaviour is gross, you think it is very rude or unacceptable. He abused the Admiral in the grossest terms... I feel disgusted and wonder how I could ever have been so gross. 3 [ADJ] If you describe something as gross, you think it is very unpleasant. (INFORMAL) They had a commercial on the other night for Drug Free America that was so gross I thought Daddy was going to faint... He wears really gross holiday outfits. 4 [ADJ] v-link ADJ If you describe someone as gross, you mean that they are extremely fat and unattractive. I only resist things like chocolate if I feel really gross. 5 [ADJ] ADJ n Gross means the total amount of something, especially money, before any has been taken away. ...a fixed rate account guaranteeing 10.4% gross interest or 7.8% net until October. [ADV] ADV after v Gross is also an adverb. Interest is paid gross, rather than having tax deducted. ...a father earning £20,000 gross a year. 6 [ADJ] ADJ n Gross means the total amount of something, after all the relevant amounts have been added together. National Savings gross sales in June totalled £709 million. 7 [ADJ] ADJ n Gross means the total weight of something, including its container or wrapping. 8 [VERB] V n If a person or a business grosses a particular amount of money, they earn that amount of money before tax has been taken away. (BUSINESS) So far the films have grossed more than £590 million. 9 [NUM] usu a/num NUM A gross is a group of 144 things. He ordered twelve gross of the disks. gross do|mes|tic prod|uct (gross domestic products) [N-VAR] A country's gross domestic product is the total value of all the goods it has produced and the services it has provided in a particular year, not including its income from investments in other countries. (BUSINESS) = GDP gross na|tion|al prod|uct (gross national products) [N-VAR] A country's gross national product is the total value of all the goods it has produced and the services it has provided in a particular year, including its income from investments in other countries. (BUSINESS) = GNP...

edition

♦♦ edi|tion /ɪd'ɪʃən/ (editions) 1 [N-COUNT] usu supp N An edition is a particular version of a book, magazine, or newspaper that is printed at one time. A paperback edition is now available at bookshops. 2 [N-COUNT] usu supp N An edition is the total number of copies of a particular book or newspaper that are printed at one time. The second edition was published only in America. 3 [N-COUNT] with supp An edition is a single television or radio programme that is one of a series about a particular subject. They appeared on an edition of BBC2's Arena. = episode ♦♦ edi|tor /'edɪtər/ (editors) 1 [N-COUNT] An editor is the person who is in charge of a newspaper or magazine and who decides what will be published in each edition of it. 2 [N-COUNT] supp N An editor is a journalist who is responsible for a particular section of a newspaper or magazine. Cookery Editor Moyra Fraser takes you behind the scenes. 3 [N-COUNT] An editor is a person who checks and corrects texts before they are published. Your role as editor is important, for you can look at a piece of writing objectively. 4 [N-COUNT] supp N An editor is a radio or television journalist who reports on a particular type of news. ...our economics editor, Dominic Harrod. 5 [N-COUNT] An editor is a person who prepares a film, or a radio or television programme, by selecting some of what has been filmed or recorded and putting it in a particular order. She worked at 20th Century Fox as a film editor. 6 [N-COUNT] An editor is a person who collects pieces of writing by different authors and prepares them for publication in a book or a series of books. Michael Rosen is the editor of the anthology. 7 [N-COUNT] An editor is a computer program that enables you to change and correct stored data. (COMPUTING)...

element

♦♦ el|ement /'elɪmənt/ (elements) 1 [N-COUNT] usu pl, usu with supp The different elements of something are the different parts it contains. The exchange of prisoners of war was one of the key elements of the UN's peace plan. = constituent, component 2 [N-COUNT] with supp A particular element of a situation, activity, or process is an important quality or feature that it has or needs. Fitness has now become an important element in our lives. = factor 3 [N-COUNT] usu pl, supp N When you talk about elements within a society or organization, you are referring to groups of people who have similar aims, beliefs, or habits. ...criminal elements within the security forces. ...the hooligan element. 4 [N-COUNT] usu sing, N of n If something has an element of a particular quality or emotion, it has a certain amount of this quality or emotion. These reports clearly contain elements of propaganda. 5 [N-COUNT] An element is a substance such as gold, oxygen, or carbon that consists of only one type of atom. ≠ compound 6 [N-COUNT] usu sing The element in an electric fire or water heater is the metal part which changes the electric current into heat. 7 [N-PLURAL] the N You can refer to the weather, especially wind and rain, as the elements. The area where most refugees are waiting is exposed to the elements. 8 [PHRASE] v-link PHR If you say that someone is in their element, you mean that they are in a situation they enjoy. My stepmother was in her element, organizing everything... el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

entry

♦♦ en|try /'entri/ (entries) 1 [N-UNCOUNT] usu N to/into n If you gain entry to a particular place, you are able to go in. Bill was among the first to gain entry to Buckingham Palace when it opened to the public recently... Non-residents were refused entry into the region without authority from their own district... Entry to the museum is free. = entrance [PHRASE] No Entry is used on signs to indicate that you are not allowed to go into a particular area or go through a particular door or gate. 2 [N-COUNT] usu sing, usu with poss You can refer to someone's arrival in a place as their entry, especially when you think that they are trying to be noticed and admired. He made his triumphal entry into Mexico City. = entrance 3 [N-UNCOUNT] oft N into/to n Someone's entry into a particular society or group is their joining of it. He described Britain's entry into the European Exchange Rate Mechanism as an historic move. ...people who cannot gain entry to the owner-occupied housing sector. = entrance 4 [N-COUNT] An entry in a diary, account book, computer file, or reference book is a short piece of writing in it. Violet's diary entry for 20 April 1917 records Brigit admitting to the affair... 5 [N-COUNT] An entry for a competition is a piece of work, for example a story or drawing, or the answers to a set of questions, which you complete in order to take part in the competition. The closing date for entries is 31st December. 6 [N-SING] with supp, oft N of n Journalists sometimes use entry to refer to the total number of people taking part in an event or competition. For example, if a competition has an entry of twenty people, twenty people take part in it. Prize-money of nearly £90,000 has attracted a record entry of 14 horses from Britain and Ireland... Our competition has attracted a huge entry. 7 [N-UNCOUNT] oft n in/to n Entry in a competition is the act of taking part in it. Entry to this competition is by invitation only. ...an entry form. 8 [N-COUNT] usu sing The entry to a place is the way into it, for example a door or gate. = entrance el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

escape

♦♦ es|cape /ɪsk'eɪp/ (escapes escaping escaped) 1 [VERB] no passive, V from n, V to n, V If you escape from a place, you succeed in getting away from it. A prisoner has escaped from a jail in northern England... They are reported to have escaped to the other side of the border... He was fatally wounded as he tried to escape. ● escaped [ADJ] Officers mistook Stephen for an escaped prisoner. 2 [N-COUNT] usu poss N Someone's escape is the act of escaping from a particular place or situation. The man made his escape. 3 [VERB] V n, V adj, V prep You can say that you escape when you survive something such as an accident. The two officers were extremely lucky to escape serious injury... The man's girlfriend managed to escape unhurt... He narrowly escaped with his life when suspected right-wing extremists fired shots into his office. [N-COUNT] Escape is also a noun. I hear you had a very narrow escape on the bridge. 4 [N-COUNT] usu sing If something is an escape, it is a way of avoiding difficulties or responsibilities. But for me television is an escape. ...an escape from the depressing realities of wartime. 5 [ADJ] ADJ n You can use escape to describe things which allow you to avoid difficulties or problems. For example, an escape route is an activity or opportunity that lets you improve your situation. An escape clause is part of an agreement that allows you to avoid having to do something that you do not want to do. We all need the occasional escape route from the boring, routine aspects of our lives... This has, in fact, turned out to be a wonderful escape clause for dishonest employers everywhere. 6 [VERB] V n If something escapes you or escapes your attention, you do not know about it, do not remember it, or do not notice it. It was an actor whose name escapes me for the moment... 7 [VERB] V When gas, liquid, or heat escapes, it comes out from a pipe, container, or place. Leave a vent open to let some moist air escape. 8 see also fire escape es|cape art|ist (escape artists) [N-COUNT] An escape artist is the same as an escapologist. (mainly AM) es|capee /ɪsk'eɪp'iː/ (escapees) [N-COUNT] An escapee is a person who has escaped from somewhere, especially from prison....

estate

♦♦ es|tate /ɪst'eɪt/ (estates) 1 [N-COUNT] An estate is a large area of land in the country which is owned by a person, family, or organization. ...a shooting party on Lord Wyville's estate in Yorkshire. 2 [N-COUNT] People sometimes use estate to refer to a housing estate or an industrial estate. (BRIT) He used to live on the estate. 3 [N-COUNT] oft poss N Someone's estate is all the money and property that they leave behind them when they die. (LEGAL) His estate was valued at $150,000. 4 see also housing estate, industrial estate, es|tate agen|cy (estate agencies) [N-COUNT] An estate agency is a company that sells houses and land for people. (BRIT) es|tate agent (estate agents) [N-COUNT] An estate agent is someone who works for a company that sells houses and land for people. (BRIT; in AM, use Realtor, real estate agent) es|tate car (estate cars) [N-COUNT] An estate car is a car with a long body, a door at the rear, and space behind the back seats. (BRIT; in AM, use station wagon) es|teem /ɪst'iːm/ (esteems esteeming esteemed) 1 [N-UNCOUNT] Esteem is the admiration and respect that you feel towards another person. (FORMAL) He is held in high esteem by colleagues in the construction industry... 2 [VERB] V n If you esteem someone or something, you respect or admire them. (FORMAL) I greatly esteem your message in the midst of our hard struggle. 3 see also self-esteem es|teemed /ɪst'iːmd/ [ADJ] You use esteemed to describe someone who you greatly admire and respect. (FORMAL) He was esteemed by his neighbours... It is indeed an honour to serve my country in such an esteemed position. es|thete /'iːsθiːt, AM 'es-/ see aesthete es|thet|ic /iːsθ'etɪk, AM esθ-/ see aesthetic...

estimate

♦♦ es|ti|mate (estimates estimating estimated) The verb is pronounced /'estɪmeɪt/ The noun is pronounced /'estɪmət/ 1 [VERB] V wh, V that, V n, V n at amount If you estimate a quantity or value, you make an approximate judgment or calculation of it. Try to estimate how many steps it will take to get to a close object... I estimate that the total cost for treatment will be $12,500... He estimated the speed of the winds from the degree of damage... Some analysts estimate its current popularity at around ten per cent... ● estimated [ADJ] a ADJ amount There are an estimated 90,000 gangsters in the country. 2 [N-COUNT] usu with supp, oft N of/for n An estimate is an approximate calculation of a quantity or value. ...the official estimate of the election result... This figure is five times the original estimate... 3 [N-COUNT] oft with poss, N of n An estimate is a judgment about a person or situation which you make based on the available evidence. I hadn't been far wrong in my estimate of his grandson's capabilities. 4 [N-COUNT] An estimate from someone who you employ to do a job for you, such as a builder or a plumber, is a written statement of how much the job is likely to cost. el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

export

♦♦ ex|port (exports exporting exported) The verb is pronounced /ɪksp'ɔːrt/ The noun is pronounced /'ekspɔːrt/ 1 [VERB] V n, be V-ed to n, V, also V n to n To export products or raw materials means to sell them to another country. The nation also exports beef... They expect the antibiotic products to be exported to Southeast Asia and Africa... To earn foreign exchange we must export. ≠ import [N-UNCOUNT] also N in pl Export is also a noun. ...the production and export of cheap casual wear... ...illegal arms exports. 2 [N-COUNT] Exports are goods which are sold to another country and sent there. He did this to promote American exports... Ghana's main export is cocoa. ≠ import 3 [VERB] V n, V n to n To export something means to introduce it into another country or make it happen there. It has exported inflation at times. ...hecklers who said the deal would export jobs to Mexico. ≠ import 4 [VERB] be V-ed, also V n In computing, if you export files or information from one type of software into another type, you change their format so that they can be used in the new software. Files can be exported in ASCII or PCX formats. ≠ import expo /'eskpoʊ/ (expos) also Expo [N-COUNT] usu with supp, oft in names An expo is a large event where goods, especially industrial goods, are displayed. ...the 1995 Queensland Computer Expo. ex|po|nent /ɪksp'oʊnənt/ (exponents) 1 [N-COUNT] usu N of n An exponent of an idea, theory, or plan is a person who supports and explains it, and who tries to persuade other people that it is a good idea. (FORMAL) ...a leading exponent of test-tube baby techniques. = advocate 2 [N-COUNT] with supp An exponent of a particular skill or activity is a person who is good at it. ...the great exponent of expressionist dance, Kurt Jooss....

extend

♦♦ ex|tend /ɪkst'end/ (extends extending extended) 1 [VERB] V for amount, V to amount, V amount, V from n to n, V over n, also V to n If you say that something, usually something large, extends for a particular distance or extends from one place to another, you are indicating its size or position. The caves extend for some 18 kilometres... The main stem will extend to around 12ft, if left to develop naturally... Our personal space extends about 12 to 18 inches around us... The high-speed train service is planned to extend from Paris to Bordeaux... The new territory would extend over one-fifth of Canada's land mass. 2 [VERB] V from n If an object extends from a surface or place, it sticks out from it. A shelf of land extended from the escarpment. 3 [VERB] V from n to n, V over n, also V to n If an event or activity extends over a period of time, it continues for that time. ...a playing career in first-class cricket that extended from 1894 to 1920... The courses are based on a weekly two-hour class, extending over a period of 25 weeks. 4 [VERB] V to n/-ing, V beyond n If something extends to a group of people, things, or activities, it includes or affects them. The service also extends to wrapping and delivering gifts... His influence extends beyond the TV viewing audience. 5 [VERB] V n, V n, V-ed If you extend something, you make it longer or bigger. This year they have introduced three new products to extend their range... The building was extended in 1500. ...an extended exhaust pipe. 6 [VERB] V, V to amount If a piece of equipment or furniture extends, its length can be increased. ... a table which extends to accommodate extra guests... The table extends to 220cm. 7 [VERB] V n, V-ed If you extend something, you make it last longer than before or end at a later date. They have extended the deadline by twenty-four hours. ...an extended contract. 8 [VERB] V n to n If you extend something to other people or things, you make it include or affect more people or things. It might be possible to extend the technique to other crop plants. 9 [VERB] V n If someone extends their hand, they stretch out their arm and hand to shake hands with someone. The man extended his hand: `I'm Chuck'. = stretch out el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

feature

♦♦ fea|ture /f'iːtʃər/ (features featuring featured) 1 [N-COUNT] with supp, oft N of n A feature of something is an interesting or important part or characteristic of it. Patriotic songs have long been a feature of Kuwaiti life... The spacious gardens are a special feature of this property... 2 [N-PLURAL] usu poss N Your features are your eyes, nose, mouth, and other parts of your face. His features seemed to change... Her features were strongly defined. 3 [VERB] V n, V n When something such as a film or exhibition features a particular person or thing, they are an important part of it. It's a great movie and it features a Spanish actor who is going to be a world star within a year... This spectacular event, now in its 5th year, features a stunning catwalk show. = include 4 [VERB] V in/on n If someone or something features in something such as a show, exhibition, or magazine, they are an important part of it. Jon featured in one of the show's most thrilling episodes. 5 [N-COUNT] oft N on n A feature is a special article in a newspaper or magazine, or a special programme on radio or television. ...a special feature on the fund-raising project. 6 [N-COUNT] usu N n A feature or a feature film or movie is a full-length film about a fictional situation, as opposed to a short film or a documentary. ...the first feature-length cartoon, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. 7 [N-COUNT] A geographical feature is something noticeable in a particular area of country, for example a hill, river, or valley. fea|ture|less /f'iːtʃərləs/ [ADJ] If you say that something is featureless, you mean that it has no interesting features or characteristics. Malone looked out at the grey-green featureless landscape. = nondescript...

function

♦♦ func|tion /f'ʌŋkʃən/ (functions functioning functioned) 1 [N-COUNT] with supp The function of something or someone is the useful thing that they do or are intended to do. The main function of the merchant banks is to raise capital for industry. = purpose, role 2 [VERB] V If a machine or system is functioning, it is working or operating. The authorities say the prison is now functioning normally... 3 [VERB] V as n If someone or something functions as a particular thing, they do the work or fulfil the purpose of that thing. On weekdays, one third of the room functions as workspace. 4 [N-COUNT] A function is a series of operations that a computer performs, for example when a single key or a combination of keys is pressed. 5 [N-COUNT] usu sing, N of n If you say that one thing is a function of another, you mean that its amount or nature depends on the other thing. (FORMAL) Investment is a function of the interest rate. 6 [N-COUNT] A function is a large formal dinner or party. func|tion key (function keys) [N-COUNT] Function keys are the keys along the top of a computer keyboard, usually numbered from F1 to F12. Each key is designed to make a particular thing happen when you press it. (COMPUTING) Just hit the F5 function key to send and receive your e-mails. func|tion|al /f'ʌŋkʃənəl/ 1 [ADJ] Functional things are useful rather than decorative. ...modern, functional furniture... The decor is functional. 2 [ADJ] ADJ n Functional means relating to the way in which something works or operates, or relating to how useful it is. ...rules defining the territorial boundaries and functional limits of the local state. 3 [ADJ] Functional equipment works or operates in the way that it is supposed to. We have fully functional smoke alarms on all staircases. = operational...

generally

♦♦ gen|er|al|ly /dʒ'enrəli/ 1 [ADV] ADV with cl/group, ADV with v You use generally to give a summary of a situation, activity, or idea without referring to the particular details of it. University teachers generally have admitted a lack of enthusiasm about their subjects... Speaking generally, the space enterprise has served astronomy well. 2 [ADV] ADV with cl/group, ADV with v You use generally to say that something happens or is used on most occasions but not on every occasion. As women we generally say and feel too much about these things... It is generally true that the darker the fruit the higher its iron content... The warmer a place is, generally speaking, the more types of plants and animals it will usually support. = usually gee whiz /dʒ'iː hw'ɪz/ also gee whizz 1 [EXCLAM] People sometimes say gee whiz in order to express a strong reaction to something or to introduce a remark or response. (AM INFORMAL) Gee whiz, they carried on and on, they loved the evening. 2 [ADJ] ADJ n You use gee whiz to describe something that is new, exciting, and impressive, but that is perhaps more complicated or showy than it needs to be. (mainly AM INFORMAL) The trend now is towards `lifestyle' electronics-black, shiny gee-whiz things that people like to own....

grant

♦♦ grant /gr'ɑːnt, gr'ænt/ (grants granting granted) 1 [N-COUNT] A grant is an amount of money that a government or other institution gives to an individual or to an organization for a particular purpose such as education or home improvements. They'd got a special grant to encourage research... Unfortunately, my application for a grant was rejected. 2 [VERB] V n n, V n to n, be V-ed If someone in authority grants you something, or if something is granted to you, you are allowed to have it. (FORMAL) France has agreed to grant him political asylum... It was a Labour government which granted independence to India and Pakistan... Permission was granted a few weeks ago. = give 3 [VERB] V that If you grant that something is true, you accept that it is true, even though your opinion about it does not change. The magistrates granted that the charity was justified in bringing the action. [PHRASE] oft PHR that You use `I grant you' or `I'll grant you' to say that you accept something is true, even though your opinion about it does not change. He took a risk, I'll grant you. But when you think about it, the risk was pretty small... 4 [PHRASE] take inflects If you say that someone takes you for granted, you are complaining that they benefit from your help, efforts, or presence without showing that they are grateful. The officials felt taken for granted and grumbled loudly. 5 [PHRASE] take inflects If you take something for granted, you believe that it is true or accept it as normal without thinking about it. I was amazed that virtually all the things I took for granted up north just didn't happen in London. 6 [PHRASE] take inflects, PHR that If you take it for granted that something is the case, you believe that it is true or you accept it as normal without thinking about it. He seemed to take it for granted that he should speak as a representative....

event

♦♦♦ event /ɪv'ent/ (events) 1 [N-COUNT] An event is something that happens, especially when it is unusual or important. You can use events to describe all the things that are happening in a particular situation. ...the events of Black Wednesday... A new book by Grass is always an event. 2 [N-COUNT] usu with supp An event is a planned and organized occasion, for example a social gathering or a sports match. ...major sporting events. ...our programme of lectures and social events. 3 [N-COUNT] An event is one of the races or competitions that are part of an organized occasion such as a sports meeting. A solo piper opens Aberdeen Highland Games at 10am and the main events start at 1pm. 4 [PHRASE] You use in the event of, in the event that, and in that event when you are talking about a possible future situation, especially when you are planning what to do if it occurs. The bank has agreed to give an immediate refund in the unlikely event of an error being made... 5 [PHRASE] PHR with cl You say in any event after you have been discussing a situation, in order to indicate that what you are saying is true or possible, in spite of anything that has happened or may happen. In any event, the bowling alley restaurant proved quite acceptable. = anyway 6 [PHRASE] PHR with cl You say in the event after you have been discussing what could have happened in a particular situation, in order to indicate that you are now describing what actually did happen. (BRIT) `Don't underestimate us', Norman Willis warned last year. There was, in the event, little danger of that. event|ful /ɪv'entfʊl/ [ADJ] If you describe an event or a period of time as eventful, you mean that a lot of interesting, exciting, or important things have happened during it. Her eventful life included holding senior positions in the Colonial Service... even|tual /ɪv'entʃuəl/ [ADJ] ADJ n You use eventual to indicate that something happens or is the case at the end of a process or period of time. The eventual aim is reunification. = ultimate...

eye

♦♦♦ eye /'aɪ/ (eyes eyeing or eying eyed) 1 [N-COUNT] oft poss N in pl Your eyes are the parts of your body with which you see. I opened my eyes and looked... Maria's eyes filled with tears. ...a tall, thin white-haired lady with piercing dark brown eyes... He is now blind in one eye. 2 [VERB] V n prep/adv, V n If you eye someone or something in a particular way, you look at them carefully in that way. Sally eyed Claire with interest... Martin eyed the bottle at Marianne's elbow. 3 [N-COUNT] usu sing, with supp, oft a N for n You use eye when you are talking about a person's ability to judge things or about the way in which they are considering or dealing with things. William was a man of discernment, with an eye for quality... Their chief negotiator turned his critical eye on the United States... He first learnt to fish under the watchful eye of his grandmother. 4 [N-COUNT] An eye on a potato is one of the dark spots from which new stems grow. 5 [N-COUNT] An eye is a small metal loop which a hook fits into, as a fastening on a piece of clothing. 6 [N-COUNT] The eye of a needle is the small hole at one end which the thread passes through. 7 [N-SING] the N of n The eye of a storm, tornado, or hurricane is the centre of it. The eye of the hurricane hit Florida just south of Miami. 8 see also black eye, private eye, 9 [PHRASE] usu PHR after v, v-link PHR If you say that something happens before your eyes, in front of your eyes, or under your eyes, you are emphasizing that it happens where you can see it clearly and often implying that it is surprising or unpleasant. A lot of them died in front of our eyes... 10 [PHRASE] V inflects, PHR prep If you cast your eye or run your eye over something, you look at it or read it quickly. I would be grateful if he could cast an expert eye over it and tell me what he thought of it... 11 [PHRASE] V inflects If something catches your eye, you suddenly notice it. As she turned back, a movement across the lawn caught her eye. see also eye-catching 12 [PHRASE] V inflects If you catch someone's eye, you do something to attract their attention, so that you can speak to them. I tried to catch Chrissie's eye to find out what she was playing at. 13 [PHRASE] V inflects, oft after superl, oft with brd-neg To clap eyes on someone or something, or set or lay eyes on them, means to see them. (INFORMAL) That's probably the most bare and bleak island I've ever had the misfortune to clap eyes on... What was he doing when you last set eyes on him? 14 [PHRASE] PHR after v If you make eye contact with someone, you look at them at the same time as they look at you, so that you are both aware that you are looking at each other. If you avoid eye contact with someone, you deliberately do not look straight at them because you feel awkward or embarrassed. She was looking at me across the room, and we made eye contact several times... I spent a fruitless ten minutes walking up and down the high street, desperately avoiding eye contact with passers-by. 15 [PHRASE] V inflects, PHR n If you close your eyes to something bad or if you shut your eyes to it, you ignore it. Most governments must simply be shutting their eyes to the problem. 16 [PHRASE] V inflects If you cry your eyes out, you cry very hard. (INFORMAL) 17 [PHRASE] If there is something as far as the eye can see, there is a lot of it and you cannot see anything else beyond it. There are pine trees as far as the eye can see. 18 [PHRASE] V inflects If you say that someone has an eye for something, you mean that they are good at noticing it or making judgments about it. Susan has a keen eye for detail, so each dress is beautifully finished off. 19 [PHRASE] PHR with cl-group You use expressions such as in his eyes or to her eyes to indicate that you are reporting someone's opinion and that other people might think differently. The other serious problem in the eyes of the new government is communalism... Richard Dorrington was, in their eyes, a very sensible and reliable man... 20 [PHRASE] V inflects, oft PHR for n If you keep your eyes open or keep an eye out for someone or something, you watch for them carefully. (INFORMAL) I ask the mounted patrol to keep their eyes open... You and your friends keep an eye out-if there's any trouble we'll make a break for it. 21 [PHRASE] V inflects, PHR n If you keep an eye on something or someone, you watch them carefully, for example to make sure that they are satisfactory or safe, or not causing trouble. I'm sure you will appreciate that we must keep a careful eye on all our running costs... I went for a run there, keeping an eye on the children the whole time... 22 [PHRASE] You say `there's more to this than meets the eye' when you think a situation is not as simple as it seems to be. This whole business is very puzzling. There is a lot more to it than meets the eye. 23 [PHRASE] V inflects If something, especially something surprising or impressive, meets your eyes, you see it. The first sight that met my eyes on reaching the front door was the church enveloped in flames. 24 [PHRASE] V inflects, PHR n If you say that all eyes are on something or that the eyes of the world are on something, you mean that everyone is paying careful attention to it and what will happen. (JOURNALISM) All eyes will be on tomorrow's vote... The eyes of the world were now on the police. 25 [PHRASE] V inflects, PHR n If someone has their eye on you, they are watching you carefully to see what you do. As the boat plodded into British waters and up the English Channel, Customs had their eye on her. 26 [PHRASE] V inflects, PHR n If you have your eye on something, you want to have it. (INFORMAL) ...if you're saving up for a new outfit you've had your eye on. 27 [PHRASE] PHR after v If you say that you did something with your eyes open or with your eyes wide open, you mean that you knew about the problems and difficulties that you were likely to have. We want all our members to undertake this trip responsibly, with their eyes open. 28 [PHRASE] V inflects, oft PHR to n If something opens your eyes, it makes you aware that something is different from the way that you thought it was. Watching your child explore the world about her can open your eyes to delights long forgotten. 29 [PHRASE] V inflects, PHR with n, pl-n PHR If you see eye to eye with someone, you agree with them and have the same opinions and views. Yuriko saw eye to eye with Yul on almost every aspect of the production... 30 [PHRASE] V inflects, PHR n When you take your eyes off the thing you have been watching or looking at, you stop looking at it. She took her eyes off the road to glance at me... 31 [PHRASE] PHR after v If someone sees or considers something through your eyes, they consider it in the way that you do, from your point of view. She tried to see things through his eyes... 32 [PHRASE] v-link PHR, usu PHR in n If you say that you are up to your eyes in something, you are emphasizing that you have a lot of it to deal with, and often that you are very busy. (INFORMAL) I am up to my eyes in work... 33 the apple of your eye: see apple to turn a blind eye: see blind to feast your eyes: see feast in your mind's eye: see mind the naked eye: see naked to pull the wool over someone's eyes: see wool eye can|dy or eye-candy [N-UNCOUNT] Eye candy is used to refer to people or things that are attractive to look at but are not interesting in other ways. (INFORMAL) Back then, women on TV were mostly seen as eye candy... Animation has stopped being eye-candy for kids and geeks and become mainstream entertainment. eye-catching [ADJ] Something that is eye-catching is very noticeable. ...a series of eye-catching ads. = striking eye drops [N-PLURAL] Eye drops are a kind of medicine that you put in your eyes one drop at a time. eye-opener (eye-openers) [N-COUNT] usu sing, usu a N If you describe something as an eye-opener, you mean that it surprises you and that you learn something new from it. (INFORMAL) Writing these scripts has been quite an eye-opener to me. It proves that one can do anything if the need is urgent. = revelation eye patch (eye patches) [N-COUNT] An eye patch is a piece of material which you wear over your eye when you have damaged or injured it. eye shad|ow (eye shadows) also eye-shadow [N-MASS] Eye shadow is a substance which you can paint on your eyelids in order to make them a different colour. eye sock|et (eye sockets) [N-COUNT] Your eye sockets are the two hollow parts on either side of your face, where your eyeballs are. eye strain [N-UNCOUNT] If you suffer from eye strain, you feel pain around your eyes or at the back of your eyes, because you are very tired or should be wearing glasses. eye teeth [PHRASE] V inflects If you say that you would give your eye teeth for something, you mean that you want it very much and you would do anything to get it. (INFORMAL) She has the job most of us would give our eye teeth for. eye up [PHRASAL VERB] V P n (not pron), V n P If someone eyes you up, they look at you in a way that shows they consider you attractive. (BRIT INFORMAL) ...a slob who eyes up the women and makes lewd comments... The women sit in the corner and men eye them up. = ogle eye|ball /'aɪbɔːl/ (eyeballs eyeballing eyeballed) 1 [N-COUNT] Your eyeballs are your whole eyes, rather than just the part which can be seen between your eyelids. 2 [VERB] V n If you eyeball someone or something, you stare at them. (INFORMAL) The guard eyeballed him pretty hard despite his pass. 3 [PHRASE] PHR after v, v-link PHR, PHR n, oft PHR with n If you are eyeball to eyeball with someone, you are in their presence and involved in a meeting, dispute, or contest with them. You can also talk about having an eyeball to eyeball meeting or confrontation. (INFORMAL) ...proposals that the two armies end their eyeball to eyeball confrontation and withdraw. = face to face 4 [PHRASE] usu v-link PHR, adj/-ed PHR, PHR in n You use up to the eyeballs to emphasize that someone is in an undesirable state to a very great degree. (INFORMAL) He is out of a job and up to his eyeballs in debt. eye|brow /'aɪbraʊ/ (eyebrows) 1 [N-COUNT] usu pl, oft poss N Your eyebrows are the lines of hair which grow above your eyes. 2 [PHRASE] V inflects If something causes you to raise an eyebrow or to raise your eyebrows, it causes you to feel surprised or disapproving. An intriguing item on the news pages caused me to raise an eyebrow over my morning coffee......

fail

♦♦♦ fail /f'eɪl/ (fails failing failed) 1 [VERB] V to-inf, V in n, V, V-ed If you fail to do something that you were trying to do, you are unable to do it or do not succeed in doing it. The Workers' Party failed to win a single governorship... He failed in his attempt to take control of the company... Many of us have tried to lose weight and failed miserably... The truth is, I'm a failed comedy writer really. ≠ succeed 2 [VERB] V, V, V-ed If an activity, attempt, or plan fails, it is not successful. We tried to develop plans for them to get along, which all failed miserably... He was afraid the revolution they had started would fail... After a failed military offensive, all government troops and police were withdrawn from the island. ≠ succeed 3 [VERB] V to-inf, V to-inf If someone or something fails to do a particular thing that they should have done, they do not do it. (FORMAL) Some schools fail to set any homework... The bomb failed to explode. 4 [VERB] V, V If something fails, it stops working properly, or does not do what it is supposed to do. The lights mysteriously failed, and we stumbled around in complete darkness... In fact many food crops failed because of the drought. 5 [VERB] V, V-ed, V-ing If a business, organization, or system fails, it becomes unable to continue in operation or in existence. (BUSINESS) So far this year, 104 banks have failed. ...a failed hotel business... Who wants to buy a computer from a failing company? 6 [VERB] V, V-ing If something such as your health or a physical quality is failing, it is becoming gradually weaker or less effective. He was 58, and his health was failing rapidly... An apparently failing memory is damaging for a national leader. 7 [VERB] V n If someone fails you, they do not do what you had expected or trusted them to do. ...communities who feel that the political system has failed them. 8 [VERB] V in n If someone fails in their duty or fails in their responsibilities, they do not do everything that they have a duty or a responsibility to do. If we did not report what was happening in the country, we would be failing in our duty. 9 [VERB] V n, V If a quality or ability that you have fails you, or if it fails, it is not good enough in a particular situation to enable you to do what you want to do. For once, the artist's fertile imagination failed him... Their courage failed a few steps short and they came running back. 10 [VERB] V n If someone fails a test, examination, or course, they perform badly in it and do not reach the standard that is required. I lived in fear of failing my end-of-term exams. ≠ pass [N-COUNT] Fail is also a noun. It's the difference between a pass and a fail. 11 [VERB] V n If someone fails you in a test, examination, or course, they judge that you have not reached a high enough standard in it. ...the two men who had failed him during his first year of law school. ≠ pass 12 [PHRASE] PHR with cl You say if all else fails to suggest what could be done in a certain situation if all the other things you have tried are unsuccessful. If all else fails, I could always drive a truck. 13 [PHRASE] PHR with cl You use without fail to emphasize that something always happens. He attended every meeting without fail. 14 [PHRASE] PHR with cl You use without fail to emphasize an order or a promise. On the 30th you must without fail hand in some money for Alex... el|ement|al /'elɪm'entəl/ [ADJ] Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY) ...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony. = basic...

fear

♦♦♦ fear /f'ɪər/ (fears fearing feared) 1 [N-VAR] oft N of n/-ing Fear is the unpleasant feeling you have when you think that you are in danger. I was sitting on the floor shivering with fear. ...boyhood memories of sickness and fear of the dark... 2 [VERB] V n If you fear someone or something, you are frightened because you think that they will harm you. Many people fear change because they do not like the old ways to be disrupted. 3 [N-VAR] with supp, oft N of n/-ing, N that A fear is a thought that something unpleasant might happen or might have happened. These youngsters are motivated not by a desire to achieve, but by fear of failure... Then one day his worst fears were confirmed... 4 [VERB] V that, V n If you fear something unpleasant or undesirable, you are worried that it might happen or might have happened. She had feared she was going down with pneumonia or bronchitis... More than two million refugees have fled the area, fearing attack by loyalist forces. 5 [N-VAR] oft N that, N of n/-ing If you say that there is a fear that something unpleasant or undesirable will happen, you mean that you think it is possible or likely. There is a fear that the freeze on bank accounts could prove a lasting deterrent to investors. 6 [VERB] V for n, V for n If you fear for someone or something, you are very worried because you think that they might be in danger. Carla fears for her son... He fled on Friday, saying he feared for his life. 7 [N-VAR] N for n If you have fears for someone or something, you are very worried because you think that they might be in danger. He also spoke of his fears for the future of his country's culture. 8 [VERB] V that, V so/not You say that you fear that a situation is the case when the situation is unpleasant or undesirable, and when you want to express sympathy, sorrow, or regret about it. (FORMAL) I fear that a land war now looks very probable... `Is anything left at all?'--`I fear not.' = regret 9 [PHRASE] PHR n/-ing, usu v-link PHR, PHR after v If you are in fear of doing or experiencing something unpleasant or undesirable, you are very worried that you might have to do it or experience it. The elderly live in fear of assault and murder. 10 [PHRASE] PHR n/-ing, PHR with cl If you take a particular course of action for fear of something, you take the action in order to prevent that thing happening. She was afraid to say anything to them for fear of hurting their feelings... 11 [CONVENTION] You use `no fear' to emphasize that you do not want to do something. (BRIT INFORMAL) When I asked him if he wanted to change his mind, William said `No fear.' fel|low feel|ing also fellow-feeling [N-UNCOUNT] Fellow feeling is sympathy and friendship that exists between people who have shared similar experiences or difficulties. fel|low|ship /f'eloʊʃɪp/ (fellowships) 1 [N-COUNT] with supp A fellowship is a group of people that join together for a common purpose or interest. ...the National Schizophrenia Fellowship... At Merlin's instigation, Arthur founds the Fellowship of the Round Table. 2 [N-COUNT] A fellowship at a university is a post which involves research work. He was offered a research fellowship at Clare College. 3 [N-UNCOUNT] Fellowship is a feeling of friendship that people have when they are talking or doing something together and sharing their experiences. ...a sense of community and fellowship. = companionship...

great

♦♦♦ great /gr'eɪt/ (greater greatest greats) 1 [ADJ] ADJ n You use great to describe something that is very large. Great is more formal than big. The room had a great bay window. ...a great hall as long and high as a church. 2 [ADJ] Great means large in amount or degree. I'll take great care of it... Benjamin Britten did not live to a great age. 3 [ADJ] You use great to describe something that is important, famous, or exciting. ...the great cultural achievements of the past... America can be great again. ● greatness [N-UNCOUNT] A nation must take certain risks to achieve greatness. 4 [ADJ] usu ADJ n You can describe someone who is successful and famous for their actions, knowledge, or skill as great. Wes Hall was once one of the West Indies' great cricketers. ...the great George Padmore. ● greatness [N-UNCOUNT] Abraham Lincoln achieved greatness. 5 [N-PLURAL] with supp The greats in a particular subject or field of activity are the people who have been most successful or famous in it. (JOURNALISM) ...all the greats of Hollywood. ...cycling's all-time greats. 6 [N-PLURAL] The greats of popular modern music are records that have been successful and that continue to be popular. (JOURNALISM) ...a medley of rock'n'roll greats. 7 [ADJ] If you describe someone or something as great, you approve of them or admire them. (INFORMAL) Arturo has this great place in Cazadero... They're a great bunch of guys... I think she's great. 8 [ADJ] feel ADJ If you feel great, you feel very healthy, energetic, and enthusiastic. I feel just great. 9 [ADJ] You use great in order to emphasize the size or degree of a characteristic or quality. ...a great big Italian wedding. ...her sense of colour and great eye for detail. 10 [EXCLAM] You say great in order to emphasize that you are pleased or enthusiastic about something. Oh great! That'll be good for Fergus. 11 [EXCLAM] You say great in order to emphasize that you are angry or annoyed about something. `Oh great,' I thought. `Just what I need.' 12 [N-IN-NAMES] Great is used as part of the name of a species of plant or animal when there is another species of the same plant or animal which is smaller and has different characteristics. ...the great white shark. see also greater...

grow

♦♦♦ grow /gr'oʊ/ (grows growing grew grown) 1 [VERB] V When people, animals, and plants grow, they increase in size and change physically over a period of time. We stop growing at maturity. 2 [VERB] V If a plant or tree grows in a particular place, it is alive there. The station had roses growing at each end of the platform. 3 [VERB] V n If you grow a particular type of plant, you put seeds or young plants in the ground and look after them as they develop. I always grow a few red onions... 4 [VERB] V When someone's hair grows, it gradually becomes longer. Your nails also grow. Then the hair began to grow again and I felt terrific. 5 [VERB] V n If someone grows their hair, or grows a beard or moustache, they stop cutting their hair or shaving so that their hair becomes longer. You can also grow your nails. I'd better start growing my hair. 6 [VERB] V If someone grows mentally, they change and develop in character or attitude. They began to grow as persons. 7 [V-LINK] V adj, V to-inf You use grow to say that someone or something gradually changes until they have a new quality, feeling, or attitude. I grew a little afraid of the guy next door... He grew to love his work. 8 [VERB] V, V-ing If an amount, feeling, or problem grows, it becomes greater or more intense. Opposition grew and the government agreed to negotiate. ...a growing number of immigrants. 9 [VERB] V into n, V into n If one thing grows into another, it develops or changes until it becomes that thing. The boys grew into men... This political row threatens to grow into a full blown crisis. 10 [VERB] V out of n If something such as an idea or a plan grows out of something else, it develops from it. The idea for this book grew out of conversations with Philippa Brewster. 11 [VERB] V, V-ing If the economy or a business grows, it increases in wealth, size, or importance. (BUSINESS) The economy continues to grow. ...a fast growing business. 12 [VERB] V n If someone grows a business, they take actions that will cause it to increase in wealth, size, or importance. (BUSINESS) To grow the business, he needs to develop management expertise and innovation across his team. 13 [VERB] V, V n If a crystal grows, or if a scientist grows it, it forms from a solution. ...crystals that grow in cavities in the rock... We tried to grow some copper sulphate crystals with our children. 14 see also grown grow apart [PHRASAL VERB] pl-n V P, V P from n If people who have a close relationship grow apart, they gradually start to have different interests and opinions from each other, and their relationship starts to fail. He and his wife grew apart... It sounds as if you have grown apart from Tom. grow into [PHRASAL VERB] V P n When a child grows into an item of clothing, they become taller or bigger so that it fits them properly. It's a bit big, but she'll soon grow into it. grow on [PHRASAL VERB] V P n If someone or something grows on you, you start to like them more and more. Slowly and strangely, the place began to grow on me....

happen

♦♦♦ hap|pen /h'æpən/ (happens happening happened) 1 [VERB] V Something that happens occurs or is done without being planned. We cannot say for sure what will happen... 2 [VERB] V, V If something happens, it occurs as a result of a situation or course of action. She wondered what would happen if her parents found her... He trotted to the truck and switched on the ignition. Nothing happened. 3 [VERB] V to n When something, especially something unpleasant, happens to you, it takes place and affects you. If we had been spotted at that point, I don't know what would have happened to us... 4 [VERB] V to-inf, it V that If you happen to do something, you do it by chance. If it happens that something is the case, it occurs by chance. We happened to discover we had a friend in common... If it happens that I'm wanted badly somewhere, my mother will take the call and phone through to me here. 5 [PHRASE] V inflects, PHR with cl You use as it happens in order to introduce a statement, especially one that is rather surprising. She called Amy to see if she had any idea of her son's whereabouts. As it happened, Amy had....

even if

即使, 虽然

get down to business

开始谈正经事

grotesquery

怪诞,古怪

federate

捐赠提示 你现在使用的是免费版。免费版与正式版内容 完全一致。唯一区别在于免费版平均每100个词条会显示一个捐赠提示。如果你觉得本词典对你有帮助，可以考虑扫描下方二维码通过支付宝捐赠 任意金额。支付宝最低转账额度为0.01元。捐赠后将会获得本词典正式版。 1. 捐赠时务必在留言中写上你的邮箱 和本词典代号OALD。 2. 捐赠达到一元，可同时获赠Longman Study Dictionay of American English（First Edition）。 3. 如果没有支付宝账号，可以捐赠中国亚马逊礼品卡或美国亚马逊礼品卡，任意金额均可。将礼品卡充值码发送至 [email protected] 。 通过免费与捐赠的方式相结合，保障了所有人平等获得知识的权力，也可以给本人继续制作词典提供一点动力。 federate verb verb BrE BrE / /ˈfedəreɪt / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈfedəreɪt / / [ intransitive ] ( specialist ) Verb Forms present simple I / you / we / they federate BrE BrE / /ˈfedəreɪt / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈfedəreɪt / / he / she / it federates BrE BrE / /ˈfedəreɪts / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈfedəreɪts / / past simple federated BrE BrE / /ˈfedəreɪtɪd / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈfedəreɪtɪd / / past participle federated BrE BrE / /ˈfedəreɪtɪd / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈfedəreɪtɪd / / -ing form federating BrE BrE / /ˈfedəreɪtɪŋ / / ; NAmE NAmE / /ˈfedəreɪtɪŋ / / ( of states, organizations, etc. ) to unite under a central government or organization while keeping some local control Word Origin early 18th cent. (as an adjective): from late Latin foederatus, based on foedus, foeder-'league, covenant' ....