Barron GRE Vocabulary List
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Barron GRE vocabulary covers all test sections. Its original version is about 3000 words around. Years by years, GRE test-takers have added words to the list by themselves. We merged some popular editions and shrank it to 4000 approximately.
Meanwhile, we added online meaning matching and spelling practices, flashcards, and 9 non-English definitions, such as Chinese, Hindi, Arabic, Korean. PDF version of the GRE vocabulary is available for VIP to download.
Besides, we present all 4000 words in one page. By handy Filter and Find, you can show what you just need or highlight selected words. We categorized the 4000 GRE words into 20 groups that are providing interactive features to assist your studying.
Meanwhile, we added online meaning matching and spelling practices, flashcards, and 9 non-English definitions, such as Chinese, Hindi, Arabic, Korean. PDF version of the GRE vocabulary is available for VIP to download.
Besides, we present all 4000 words in one page. By handy Filter and Find, you can show what you just need or highlight selected words. We categorized the 4000 GRE words into 20 groups that are providing interactive features to assist your studying.
- Barron GRE Vocabulary 1
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- Barron GRE Vocabulary 3
- Barron GRE Vocabulary 4
- Barron GRE Vocabulary 5
- Barron GRE Vocabulary 6
- Barron GRE Vocabulary 7
- Barron GRE Vocabulary 8
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- Barron GRE Vocabulary 10
- Barron GRE Vocabulary 11
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- Barron GRE Vocabulary 14
- Barron GRE Vocabulary 15
- Barron GRE Vocabulary 16
- Barron GRE Vocabulary 17
- Barron GRE Vocabulary 18
- Barron GRE Vocabulary 19
- Barron GRE Vocabulary 20
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Barron GRE Vocabulary List 1
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abase
abash
abate
abbreviate
abdicate
aberrant
abet
abeyance
abhor
abject
abjure
ablution
abnegation
abode
abolish
abominable
aboriginal
abortive
abrasive
abridge
abrogate
abscond
absolute
absolve
abstemious
abstinence
abstract
abstruse
abusive
abut
abysmal
abyss
academic
accede
accelerate
accessible
accessory
acclaim
acclimate
acclivity
accolade
accommodate
accomplice
accord
accost
accretion
accrue
acerbity
acetic
acidulous
acknowledge
acme
acne
acoustics
acquiesce
acquittal
acrid
acrimonious
acrophobia
actuarial
actuate
acuity
acumen
acute
adage
adamant
adapt
addendum
addiction
addle
adept
adhere
adherent
adjacent
adjunct
admonish
adorn
adroit
adulation
adulterate
advent
adventitious
adversary
adverse
adversity
advocacy
advocate
aesthetic
affable
affected
affidavit
affiliation
affinity
affirmation
affliction
affluence
affront
agenda
agglomeration
aggrandize
aggregate
aghast
agility
agitate
agnostic
agrarian
alacrity
alchemy
alcove
alias
alienate
alimentary
alimony
allay
allege
allegiance
allegory
alleviate
alliteration
allocate
alloy
allude
allure
aloft
altercation
altruistic
amalgamate
amass
ambidextrous
ambience
ambiguous
ambivalence
amble
ambrosia
ambulatory
ambush
ameliorate
amenable
amend
amenities
amiable
amicable
amiss
amity
amnesia
amnesty
amoral
amorous
amorphous
amphibian
amphitheater
ample
amputate
amulet
analgesic
analogous
analogy
anarchist
anarchy
anathema
ancestry
anchor
ancillary
anecdote
anemia
anesthetic
anguish
angular
animated
animosity
animus
annals
annex
annihilate
annotate
annuity
annul
anodyne
anoint
anomalous
anomaly
anonymity
antagonism
antecede
antecedents
antediluvian
anthem
anthology
anthropoid
anthropologist
anthropomorphic
anticlimax
antidote
antipathy
antiquated
Word and Definition List
abase 
humiliate; lower or depress in rank or esteem
E.g.Defeated, Queen Zenobia was forced to abase herself before the conquering Romans, who made her march in chains before the emperor in the procession celebrating his triumph.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Defeated, Queen Zenobia was forced to abase herself before the conquering Romans, who made her march in chains before the emperor in the procession celebrating his triumph.
abash
embarrass; make ashamed or uneasy; disconcert
E.g.Her open admiration should not abash him at all.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Her open admiration should not abash him at all.
abate
subside; decrease; become less in amount or intensity
E.g.Rather than leaving immediately, they waited for the storm to abate.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Rather than leaving immediately, they waited for the storm to abate.
abbreviate
make shorter; reduce to shorter form intended to represent full form, as for word or phrase
E.g.Because we were running out of time, the lecturer had to abbreviate her speech.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Because we were running out of time, the lecturer had to abbreviate her speech.
abdicate
give up, renounce, abandon, lay down, or withdraw from, as a right or claim
E.g.When Edward VIII did abdicate the British throne to marry the woman he loved, he surprised the entire world.
Show examples and contexts E.g.When Edward VIII did abdicate the British throne to marry the woman he loved, he surprised the entire world.
aberrant
abnormal; markedly different from an accepted norm
E.g.Given the aberrant nature of the data, we doubted the validity of the entire experiment.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Given the aberrant nature of the data, we doubted the validity of the entire experiment.
abet
aid, usually in doing something wrong; encourage
E.g.She was unwilling to abet him in the swindle he had planned.
Show examples and contexts E.g.She was unwilling to abet him in the swindle he had planned.
abeyance
suspended action; temporary cessation or suspension
E.g.The deal was held in abeyance until her arrival.
Show examples and contexts E.g.The deal was held in abeyance until her arrival.
abhor
fill with horror and loathing; horrify; hate
E.g.One of the things I abhor is the threat to withhold aid.
Show examples and contexts E.g.One of the things I abhor is the threat to withhold aid.
abject
being of the most miserable kind; wretched; lacking pride; brought low in condition or status
E.g.On the streets of New York the homeless live in abject poverty, huddling in doorways to find shelter from the wind.
Show examples and contexts E.g.On the streets of New York the homeless live in abject poverty, huddling in doorways to find shelter from the wind.
abjure
renounce upon oath; abandon forever
E.g.He will abjure his allegiance to the king.
Show examples and contexts E.g.He will abjure his allegiance to the king.
ablution
washing or cleansing of the body, especially as part of religious rite
E.g.His ablution was accompanied by loud noises that he humorously labeled "Opera in the Bath.".
Show examples and contexts E.g.His ablution was accompanied by loud noises that he humorously labeled "Opera in the Bath.".
abnegation
repudiation; self-sacrifice; renouncing your own interests in favor of interests of others
E.g.No act of abnegation was more pronounced than his refusal of any rewards for his discovery.
Show examples and contexts E.g.No act of abnegation was more pronounced than his refusal of any rewards for his discovery.
abode
act of waiting; delay; stay or continuance in a place
E.g.I shall take up my abode in a religious house near Lisle -- a nunnery you would call it; there I shall be quiet and unmolested.
Show examples and contexts E.g.I shall take up my abode in a religious house near Lisle -- a nunnery you would call it; there I shall be quiet and unmolested.
abolish
cancel; put an end to; destroy completely
E.g.In a letter to the British government, the EU has demanded that Britain abolish laws protecting religious freedom rights with regards to "sexual orientation."
Show examples and contexts E.g.In a letter to the British government, the EU has demanded that Britain abolish laws protecting religious freedom rights with regards to "sexual orientation."
abominable
detestable; extremely unpleasant; very bad
E.g.Mary liked John until she learned he was dating Susan; then she called him an abominable young man.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Mary liked John until she learned he was dating Susan; then she called him an abominable young man.
aboriginal
being the first of its kind in a region; primitive; native
E.g.Her studies of the primitive art forms of the aboriginal Indians were widely reported in the scientific journals.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Her studies of the primitive art forms of the aboriginal Indians were widely reported in the scientific journals.
abortive
unsuccessful; failing to accomplish an intended objective; fruitless
E.g.They warmed themselves beside these great hearthfires; they tried their powers in abortive creations, in work laid aside and taken up again with new glow of enthusiasm.atize Beijing peacefully.
Show examples and contexts E.g.They warmed themselves beside these great hearthfires; they tried their powers in abortive creations, in work laid aside and taken up again with new glow of enthusiasm.atize Beijing peacefully.
abrasive
rubbing away; tending to grind down
E.g.Ash can also cause long-term abrasive damage to planes that could lead to later disasters if not dealt with.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Ash can also cause long-term abrasive damage to planes that could lead to later disasters if not dealt with.
abridge
condense; shorten; reduce length of written text
E.g.Because the publishers felt the public wanted a shorter version of War and Peace, they proceeded to abridge the novel.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Because the publishers felt the public wanted a shorter version of War and Peace, they proceeded to abridge the novel.
abrogate
abolish, do away with, or annul, especially by authority
E.g.He intended to abrogate the decree issued by his predecessor.
Show examples and contexts E.g.He intended to abrogate the decree issued by his predecessor.
abscond
leave quickly and secretly and hide oneself, often to avoid arrest or prosecution
E.g.The teller who did abscond with the bonds went un-captured until someone recognized him from his photograph on "America's Most Wanted.".
Show examples and contexts E.g.The teller who did abscond with the bonds went un-captured until someone recognized him from his photograph on "America's Most Wanted.".
absolute
perfect in quality or nature; complete; totally unlimited; certain
E.g.Although the King was an absolute monarch, he did not want to behead his unfaithful wife without certain evidence.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Although the King was an absolute monarch, he did not want to behead his unfaithful wife without certain evidence.
absolve
let off hook; relieve of requirement or obligation
E.g.I absolve you from this responsibility.
Show examples and contexts E.g.I absolve you from this responsibility.
abstemious
sparing or moderation in eating and drinking; temperate
E.g.Concerned whether her vegetarian son's abstemious diet provided him with sufficient protein, the worried mother pressed food on him.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Concerned whether her vegetarian son's abstemious diet provided him with sufficient protein, the worried mother pressed food on him.
abstinence
restraint from eating or drinking; refraining from indulging appetite or desire
E.g.The doctor recommended total abstinence from salted foods.
Show examples and contexts E.g.The doctor recommended total abstinence from salted foods.
abstract
theoretical; not concrete; not applied or practical; difficult to understand
E.g.To him, hunger was an abstract concept; he had never missed a meal.
Show examples and contexts E.g.To him, hunger was an abstract concept; he had never missed a meal.
abstruse
obscure; profound; difficult to understand.
E.g.She carries around abstruse works of philosophy, not because she understands them but because she wants her friends to think she does.
Show examples and contexts E.g.She carries around abstruse works of philosophy, not because she understands them but because she wants her friends to think she does.
abusive
coarsely insulting; physically harmful; characterized by improper or wrongful use
E.g.There has been abusive language on both sides that never want to get agreement from beginning.
Show examples and contexts E.g.There has been abusive language on both sides that never want to get agreement from beginning.
abut
border upon; adjoin; touch or end at one end or side; lie adjacent
E.g.Where our estates abut, we must build a fence.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Where our estates abut, we must build a fence.
abysmal
bottomless; very profound; limitless; very bad
E.g.She spent hours sitting alone, in abysmal misery, because it seemed to be in plain sight, yet she couldn't define it.
Show examples and contexts E.g.She spent hours sitting alone, in abysmal misery, because it seemed to be in plain sight, yet she couldn't define it.
abyss
enormous chasm; vast bottomless pit; any deep, immeasurable space; hell
E.g.Are we to believe that the only thing between us and the abyss is the size of the deficit, and the more the government borrows, the better off we shall be?
Show examples and contexts E.g.Are we to believe that the only thing between us and the abyss is the size of the deficit, and the more the government borrows, the better off we shall be?
academic
related to school; not practical or directly useful; relating to scholarly organization; based on formal education
E.g.The dean's talk about reforming the college admissions system was only an academic discussion.
Show examples and contexts E.g.The dean's talk about reforming the college admissions system was only an academic discussion.
accede
agree; give consent, often at insistence of another; concede
E.g.The idea that one of the two chief executives should eventually accede to the role, as has happened in the past, would raise fresh doubts about the board's independence.
Show examples and contexts E.g.The idea that one of the two chief executives should eventually accede to the role, as has happened in the past, would raise fresh doubts about the board's independence.
accelerate
move faster; cause to develop or progress more quickly; occur sooner than expected
E.g.Demand for Taiwanese goods likely will accelerate from the second quarter, as strong Asian demand offsets the effects of a U.S. slowdown.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Demand for Taiwanese goods likely will accelerate from the second quarter, as strong Asian demand offsets the effects of a U.S. slowdown.
accessible
easily approached or entered; obtainable; easy to talk to or get along with
E.g.Simon and James will no longer be posting to The Hearing; however, all previous posts will remain accessible here.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Simon and James will no longer be posting to The Hearing; however, all previous posts will remain accessible here.
accessory
additional object; useful but not essential thing; subordinate or supplementary item
E.g.Another accessory is a tripod, which is needed to prevent camera shake especially when the shutter speed drops below tenth second at a wide angle shot.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Another accessory is a tripod, which is needed to prevent camera shake especially when the shutter speed drops below tenth second at a wide angle shot.
acclaim
applaud; announce with great approval
E.g.The NBC sportscasters acclaim every American victory in the Olympics and decried every American defeat.
Show examples and contexts E.g.The NBC sportscasters acclaim every American victory in the Olympics and decried every American defeat.
acclimate
accustom or become accustomed to a new environment or situation; adapt
E.g.One of the difficulties of our present air age is the need of travelers to acclimate themselves to their new and often strange environments.
Show examples and contexts E.g.One of the difficulties of our present air age is the need of travelers to acclimate themselves to their new and often strange environments.
acclivity
upward slope, as of hill
E.g.The car would not go up the acclivity in high gear.
Show examples and contexts E.g.The car would not go up the acclivity in high gear.
accolade
award of merit; expression of approval; praise
E.g.In Hollywood, an "Oscar" is the highest accolade.
Show examples and contexts E.g.In Hollywood, an "Oscar" is the highest accolade.
accommodate
do a favor or service for; provide for; supply with; make suitable; adapt; allow for
E.g.As for the stage in the public auditorium, it can easily be adjusted to accommodate from a full-scale musical production to one by a solo vocalist.
Show examples and contexts E.g.As for the stage in the public auditorium, it can easily be adjusted to accommodate from a full-scale musical production to one by a solo vocalist.
accomplice
partner in crime; associate in wrongdoing
E.g.Because your accomplice is an anonymous stranger, it's safer than asking a friend to participate in your ruse.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Because your accomplice is an anonymous stranger, it's safer than asking a friend to participate in your ruse.
accord
settlement or compromise of conflicting opinions; written agreement between two states
E.g.Although the accord is a small step forward, politicians around the world have their work cut out for them.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Although the accord is a small step forward, politicians around the world have their work cut out for them.
accost
approach and speak to boldly or aggressively, as with demand or request
E.g.When the two young men wanted to accost me, I was frightened because I thought they were going to attack me.
Show examples and contexts E.g.When the two young men wanted to accost me, I was frightened because I thought they were going to attack me.
accretion
growth or increase in size by gradual external addition, fusion, or inclusion
E.g.The accretion of wealth marked the family's rise in power.
Show examples and contexts E.g.The accretion of wealth marked the family's rise in power.
accrue
increase, accumulate, or come about as a result of growth; accumulate over time
E.g.The Premier League awards three points for a win and one for a draw, so in a 38-game season the maximum a team can accrue is 114 points.
Show examples and contexts E.g.The Premier League awards three points for a win and one for a draw, so in a 38-game season the maximum a team can accrue is 114 points.
acerbity
bitterness of speech and temper; sourness or acidness of taste, character, or tone
E.g.The meeting of the United Nations General Assembly was marked with such acerbity that informed sources held out little hope of reaching any useful settlement of the problem.
Show examples and contexts E.g.The meeting of the United Nations General Assembly was marked with such acerbity that informed sources held out little hope of reaching any useful settlement of the problem.
acetic
having properties of vinegar; sour
E.g.The salad had an exceedingly acetic flavor.
Show examples and contexts E.g.The salad had an exceedingly acetic flavor.
acidulous
slightly sour in taste or in manner; sharp; caustic
E.g.James was unpopular because of his sarcastic and acidulous remarks.
Show examples and contexts E.g.James was unpopular because of his sarcastic and acidulous remarks.
acknowledge
declare to be true or admit; express obligation, thanks
E.g.Although I acknowledge that the Beatles' tunes sound pretty dated today, I still prefer them to the songs my brothers play.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Although I acknowledge that the Beatles' tunes sound pretty dated today, I still prefer them to the songs my brothers play.
acme
the highest point or level, as of achievement or development; maturity or perfection of animal
E.g.His success in this role marked the acme of his career as an actor.
Show examples and contexts E.g.His success in this role marked the acme of his career as an actor.
acne
skin condition, usually of the face, that is common in adolescents, characterized by red pimples, caused by inflammation
E.g.General Hospital, said The root cause of acne is a lipid-rich gland, the sebaceous gland, which sits a few millimetres below the surface of the skin.
Show examples and contexts E.g.General Hospital, said The root cause of acne is a lipid-rich gland, the sebaceous gland, which sits a few millimetres below the surface of the skin.
acoustics
science of sound; quality that makes a room easy or hard to hear in
E.g.Carnegie Hall is liked by music lovers because of its fine acoustics.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Carnegie Hall is liked by music lovers because of its fine acoustics.
acquiesce
assent; agree without protesting
E.g.Although she appeared to acquiesce to her employer's suggestions, I could tell she had reservations about the changes he wanted made.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Although she appeared to acquiesce to her employer's suggestions, I could tell she had reservations about the changes he wanted made.
acquittal
state of being found or proved not guilty; judgment of not guilty
E.g.His acquittal by the jury surprised those who had thought him guilty.
Show examples and contexts E.g.His acquittal by the jury surprised those who had thought him guilty.
acrid
unpleasantly sharp or bitter to taste or smell; bitterly pungent
E.g.The air seemed to have different grades of warmth and chill in it; they were passing a farmyard with strong-smelling, acrid from the sour smell of manure.
Show examples and contexts E.g.The air seemed to have different grades of warmth and chill in it; they were passing a farmyard with strong-smelling, acrid from the sour smell of manure.
acrimonious
bitter and sharp in language, tone, or manner
E.g.The candidate attacked his opponent in highly acrimonious terms.
Show examples and contexts E.g.The candidate attacked his opponent in highly acrimonious terms.
acrophobia
fear of heights; abnormal fear of high places
E.g.A born salesman, he could convince someone with a bad case of acrophobia to sign up for a life membership in a sky-diving club.
Show examples and contexts E.g.A born salesman, he could convince someone with a bad case of acrophobia to sign up for a life membership in a sky-diving club.
actuarial
calculating; pertaining to insurance statistics
E.g.According to recent actuarial tables, life expectancy is greater today than it was a century ago.
Show examples and contexts E.g.According to recent actuarial tables, life expectancy is greater today than it was a century ago.
actuate
put into motion or action; activate
E.g.I fail to understand what might actuate you to reply to this letter so nastily.
Show examples and contexts E.g.I fail to understand what might actuate you to reply to this letter so nastily.
acuity
sharpness; acuteness of vision or perception; keenness
E.g.In time his youthful acuity of vision failed him, and he needed glasses.
Show examples and contexts E.g.In time his youthful acuity of vision failed him, and he needed glasses.
acumen
mental keenness; quickness of perception
E.g.However, her team's political acumen is clearly beyond mine, an Ivy League Medical Science Professor and NOT a Political "Science" Professor.
Show examples and contexts E.g.However, her team's political acumen is clearly beyond mine, an Ivy League Medical Science Professor and NOT a Political "Science" Professor.
acute
quickly perceptive; keen; having a sharp point or tip; extremely sharp or severe
E.g.Her early writing was grounded in acute observation of the natural world.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Her early writing was grounded in acute observation of the natural world.
adage
wise saying; brief familiar proverb; expression of popular wisdom
E.g.After reflecting on how I felt a year ago during the election itself and how I feel now, I do have to say that the old adage is true: governing is harder than campaigning.
Show examples and contexts E.g.After reflecting on how I felt a year ago during the election itself and how I feel now, I do have to say that the old adage is true: governing is harder than campaigning.
adamant
extremely hard; inflexible; stubbornly unyielding
E.g.Speaker Pelosi came out of that meeting, and she was once again adamant about saying a public option must be in the bill.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Speaker Pelosi came out of that meeting, and she was once again adamant about saying a public option must be in the bill.
adapt
make fit for; change to suit a new purpose
E.g.One way to adapt is to become smaller, generation by generation.
Show examples and contexts E.g.One way to adapt is to become smaller, generation by generation.
addendum
something added or to be added, especially a supplement to a book
E.g.The date on the bottom of the addendum is April 2007.
Show examples and contexts E.g.The date on the bottom of the addendum is April 2007.
addiction
compulsive physiological and psychological need for a substance; being abnormally dependent on something
E.g.No matter what form we find it in, addiction is not fun; drugs, alcohol, overeating, overworking, smoking or sex.
Show examples and contexts E.g.No matter what form we find it in, addiction is not fun; drugs, alcohol, overeating, overworking, smoking or sex.
addle
muddle; drive crazy; become confused
E.g.This idiotic plan is confusing enough to addle anyone.
Show examples and contexts E.g.This idiotic plan is confusing enough to addle anyone.
adept
expert at; very skilled; having or showing knowledge and skill and aptitude
E.g.Mr. Williams was known as an adept improviser who effortlessly switched between classical, jazz and pop styles.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Mr. Williams was known as an adept improviser who effortlessly switched between classical, jazz and pop styles.
adhere
stick fast; stick to firmly; be compatible or in accordance with
E.g.That is why the claying is necessary; it makes the grain adhere to the earth, otherwise it would float.
Show examples and contexts E.g.That is why the claying is necessary; it makes the grain adhere to the earth, otherwise it would float.
adherent
person who adheres; one who follows or upholds a leader, party, cause
E.g.In the wake of the scandal, John, the senator's one-time adherent, quickly deserted him.
Show examples and contexts E.g.In the wake of the scandal, John, the senator's one-time adherent, quickly deserted him.
adjacent
adjoining; neighboring; close to; lying near
E.g.Philip's best friend Jason lived only four houses down the block, close but not immediately adjacent.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Philip's best friend Jason lived only four houses down the block, close but not immediately adjacent.
adjunct
something added on or attached generally nonessential or inferior
E.g.Although I don't absolutely need a second computer, I plan to buy a laptop to serve as an adjunct to my desktop model.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Although I don't absolutely need a second computer, I plan to buy a laptop to serve as an adjunct to my desktop model.
admonish
warn; counsel someone against something to be avoided
E.g.I would again admonish the reader carefully to consider the nature of our doctrine.
Show examples and contexts E.g.I would again admonish the reader carefully to consider the nature of our doctrine.
adorn
enhance or decorate with or as if with ornaments
E.g.This small icon indicates that the plastic yard sign they adorn is either recyclable.
Show examples and contexts E.g.This small icon indicates that the plastic yard sign they adorn is either recyclable.
adroit
skillful and adept under pressing conditions
E.g.I should work in adroit references to this evening's speeches.
Show examples and contexts E.g.I should work in adroit references to this evening's speeches.
adulation
excessive flattery or admiration; unmerited praise
E.g.The rock star thrived on the adulation of his groupies and yes men.
Show examples and contexts E.g.The rock star thrived on the adulation of his groupies and yes men.
adulterate
make impure by adding inferior or tainted substances
E.g.It is a crime to adulterate foods without informing the buyer.
Show examples and contexts E.g.It is a crime to adulterate foods without informing the buyer.
advent
coming or arrival, especially of something extremely important
E.g.Reasoning by analogy, we can come to no other conclusion, unless their advent is anticipated by the arrival of ready-made colonists from the more advanced earth, like ourselves.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Reasoning by analogy, we can come to no other conclusion, unless their advent is anticipated by the arrival of ready-made colonists from the more advanced earth, like ourselves.
adventitious
accidental; casual; not inherent but added extrinsically
E.g.He found this adventitious meeting with his friend extremely fortunate.
Show examples and contexts E.g.He found this adventitious meeting with his friend extremely fortunate.
adversary
opponent in contest; someone who offers opposition
E.g.The young wrestler struggled to defeat his adversary.
Show examples and contexts E.g.The young wrestler struggled to defeat his adversary.
adverse
in opposing direction; harmful or unfavorable; acting or serving to oppose
E.g.The recession had a highly adverse effect on father's investment portfolio: he lost so much money that he could no longer afford the house.
Show examples and contexts E.g.The recession had a highly adverse effect on father's investment portfolio: he lost so much money that he could no longer afford the house.
adversity
state of misfortune, hardship, or affliction; misfortune
E.g.A young boy who's strength in adversity is an inspiration to all who know him.
Show examples and contexts E.g.A young boy who's strength in adversity is an inspiration to all who know him.
advocacy
support; active pleading on behalf of something
E.g.No threats could dissuade Bishop Desmond Tutu from his advocacy of the human rights of black South Africans.
Show examples and contexts E.g.No threats could dissuade Bishop Desmond Tutu from his advocacy of the human rights of black South Africans.
advocate
speak, plead, or argue in favour of; plead for; push for something
E.g.The some doctors advocate a smoking ban in the entire house.
Show examples and contexts E.g.The some doctors advocate a smoking ban in the entire house.
aesthetic
elegant or tasteful; of or concerning appreciation of beauty or good taste
E.g.Kenneth Cole, the American designer known for his modern, urban aesthetic, is hawking $35 T-shirts.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Kenneth Cole, the American designer known for his modern, urban aesthetic, is hawking $35 T-shirts.
affable
easily approachable; warmly friendly
E.g.Accustomed to cold, aloof supervisors, Nicholas was amazed at how affable his new employer was.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Accustomed to cold, aloof supervisors, Nicholas was amazed at how affable his new employer was.
affected
speaking or behaving in artificial way; emotionally stirred or moved; infected or attacked
E.g.The other boys laughed so unmercifully at what they termed my affected accent.
Show examples and contexts E.g.The other boys laughed so unmercifully at what they termed my affected accent.
affidavit
written statement made under oath
E.g.This is an official affidavit from the court and it is saying that the whole thing was a hoax.
Show examples and contexts E.g.This is an official affidavit from the court and it is saying that the whole thing was a hoax.
affiliation
partnership; alliance; association in the same family or society
E.g.This affiliation is a way for us to be able to provide our clients with the full spectrum of services and expertise they need.
Show examples and contexts E.g.This affiliation is a way for us to be able to provide our clients with the full spectrum of services and expertise they need.
affinity
natural attraction, liking, or feeling of kinship; relationship by marriage
E.g.She felt an affinity with all who suffered; their pains were her pains.
Show examples and contexts E.g.She felt an affinity with all who suffered; their pains were her pains.
affirmation
positive assertion; confirmation; solemn pledge by one who refuses to take an oath
E.g.Despite Tom's affirmation of innocence, Aunt Polly still suspected he had eaten the pie.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Despite Tom's affirmation of innocence, Aunt Polly still suspected he had eaten the pie.
affliction
cause or condition of pain, suffering, or distress
E.g.Even in the midst of her affliction, Elizabeth tried to keep up the spirits of those around her.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Even in the midst of her affliction, Elizabeth tried to keep up the spirits of those around her.
affluence
abundance; a plentiful supply of material goods; wealth
E.g.Foreigners are amazed by the affluence and luxury of the American way of life.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Foreigners are amazed by the affluence and luxury of the American way of life.
affront
insult; offense; intentional act of disrespect
E.g.When Mrs. Proudie was not seated beside the Archdeacon at the head table, she took it as a personal affront and refused to speak to her hosts for a week.
Show examples and contexts E.g.When Mrs. Proudie was not seated beside the Archdeacon at the head table, she took it as a personal affront and refused to speak to her hosts for a week.
agenda
items of business at a meeting; list or program of things to be done or considered
E.g.His agenda is certainly different from the President's and the administration's, but we will seek additional opportunities to work together with him.
Show examples and contexts E.g.His agenda is certainly different from the President's and the administration's, but we will seek additional opportunities to work together with him.
agglomeration
collection; heap; act or process of gathering into a mass
E.g.It took weeks to assort the agglomeration of miscellaneous items she had collected on her trip.
Show examples and contexts E.g.It took weeks to assort the agglomeration of miscellaneous items she had collected on her trip.
aggrandize
increase scope of; extend; intensify; make greater in power, influence, stature, or reputation
E.g.The history of the past quarter century illustrates how a President may aggrandize his power to act aggressively in international affairs without considering the wishes of Congress.
Show examples and contexts E.g.The history of the past quarter century illustrates how a President may aggrandize his power to act aggressively in international affairs without considering the wishes of Congress.
aggregate
gather into a mass, sum, or whole; amount to
E.g.Before the Wall Street scandals, dealers managed to aggregate great wealth in short periods of time.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Before the Wall Street scandals, dealers managed to aggregate great wealth in short periods of time.
aghast
struck by shock, terror, or amazement
E.g.The film grabs you by the throat so that any feeling of being aghast is contained – and you hold on to that feeling up to the very last scene.
Show examples and contexts E.g.The film grabs you by the throat so that any feeling of being aghast is contained – and you hold on to that feeling up to the very last scene.
agility
mentally quick; moving quickly and lightly
E.g.The agility of the acrobat amazed and thrilled the audience.
Show examples and contexts E.g.The agility of the acrobat amazed and thrilled the audience.
agitate
cause to move with violence or sudden force; upset; disturb
E.g.Since President has now announced that Emergency, the only demand that the lawyers can now agitate is the restoration of the old Supreme Court.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Since President has now announced that Emergency, the only demand that the lawyers can now agitate is the restoration of the old Supreme Court.
agnostic
one who is skeptical of existence of a god or any ultimate reality
E.g.William's presence by so much as a purr or a claw, and I have noticed that the agnostic is the only creature living who can treat a preacher with so much contempt.
Show examples and contexts E.g.William's presence by so much as a purr or a claw, and I have noticed that the agnostic is the only creature living who can treat a preacher with so much contempt.
agrarian
pertaining to land or its cultivation; relating to agricultural or rural matters
E.g.The economic relationship between the two nations has expanded during the past decade amid China's economic boom and Argentina's rise in agrarian production.
Show examples and contexts E.g.The economic relationship between the two nations has expanded during the past decade amid China's economic boom and Argentina's rise in agrarian production.
alacrity
cheerful promptness or willingness; eagerness; speed or quickness
E.g.Phil and Dave were raring to get off to the mountains; they packed up their ski gear and climbed into the van with alacrity.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Phil and Dave were raring to get off to the mountains; they packed up their ski gear and climbed into the van with alacrity.
alchemy
medieval chemistry; magical or mysterious power or process of transforming
E.g.The changing of baser metals into gold was the goal of the students of alchemy in medieval.
Show examples and contexts E.g.The changing of baser metals into gold was the goal of the students of alchemy in medieval.
alcove
nook; small, recessed section of a room
E.g.In front of centre window in alcove is a small table on which is a parlour lamp, and some newspapers, including the "New York Sun."
Show examples and contexts E.g.In front of centre window in alcove is a small table on which is a parlour lamp, and some newspapers, including the "New York Sun."
alias
assumed name; another name; name that has been assumed temporarily
E.g.Since the alias is already defined in our management pack it should work fine.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Since the alias is already defined in our management pack it should work fine.
alienate
cause to become unfriendly or hostile; transfer property or ownership; isolate or dissociate emotionally
E.g.We could not see what should again alienate us from one another, or how one brother could again oppress another.
Show examples and contexts E.g.We could not see what should again alienate us from one another, or how one brother could again oppress another.
alimentary
providing nourishment; concerned with food, nutrition, or digestion
E.g.The alimentary canal in our bodies is so named because digestion of foods occurs there.
Show examples and contexts E.g.The alimentary canal in our bodies is so named because digestion of foods occurs there.
alimony
payment by a husband to his divorced wife, or vice versa
E.g.Also, payer and payee can't file joint tax returns in the same year alimony is paid.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Also, payer and payee can't file joint tax returns in the same year alimony is paid.
allay
calm; pacify; reduce the intensity of; relieve
E.g.The crew tried to allay the fears of the passengers by announcing that the fire had been controlled.
Show examples and contexts E.g.The crew tried to allay the fears of the passengers by announcing that the fire had been controlled.
allege
state without proof; assert to be true
E.g.If what Justice Department prosecutors allege is true, the five guards should have to answer for what happened on Sept. 16, 2007.
Show examples and contexts E.g.If what Justice Department prosecutors allege is true, the five guards should have to answer for what happened on Sept. 16, 2007.
allegiance
loyalty to a nation, sovereign, or cause; fidelity to any person or thing; devotion
E.g.They didn't want to salute the flag, saying that kind of allegiance is only for God.
Show examples and contexts E.g.They didn't want to salute the flag, saying that kind of allegiance is only for God.
allegory
symbolic representation of abstract ideas or principles in narrative, dramatic, or pictorial form
E.g.Pilgrim's Progress is an allegory of the temptations and victories of man's soul.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Pilgrim's Progress is an allegory of the temptations and victories of man's soul.
alleviate
provide physical relief, as from pain; make easier; remove in part
E.g.This should alleviate the pain; if it does not, we shall have to use stronger drugs.
Show examples and contexts E.g.This should alleviate the pain; if it does not, we shall have to use stronger drugs.
alliteration
repetition of beginning sound in poetry
E.g."The furrow followed free" is an example of alliteration.
Show examples and contexts E.g."The furrow followed free" is an example of alliteration.
allocate
assign; distribute according to plan
E.g.Even though the Red Cross did allocate a large sum for the relief of the sufferers of the disaster, many people perished.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Even though the Red Cross did allocate a large sum for the relief of the sufferers of the disaster, many people perished.
alloy
combine; mix; make less pure; lessen or moderate
E.g.Our concern for Dwight Gooden, who injured his pitching arm in the game, will alloy our delight at the Yankees' victory.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Our concern for Dwight Gooden, who injured his pitching arm in the game, will alloy our delight at the Yankees' victory.
allude
refer casually or indirectly, or by suggestion
E.g.Try not to mention divorce in Jack's presence because he will think you allude to his marital problems with Jill.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Try not to mention divorce in Jack's presence because he will think you allude to his marital problems with Jill.
allure
attract with something desirable; be highly, often subtly attractive
E.g.Promises of quick profits allure the unwary investor.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Promises of quick profits allure the unwary investor.
aloft
in or into a high place; high or higher up
E.g.It tried to remain aloft, but its flying grew wild and reckless.
Show examples and contexts E.g.It tried to remain aloft, but its flying grew wild and reckless.
altercation
noisy quarrel; contention in words; dispute carried on with heat or anger; controversy
E.g.So loud were their voices raised in altercation that the storm without was scarce heeded.
Show examples and contexts E.g.So loud were their voices raised in altercation that the storm without was scarce heeded.
altruistic
unselfishly generous; concerned for others
E.g.In providing tutorial assistance and college scholarships for hundreds of economically disadvantaged youths, Eugene Lang performed a truly altruistic deed.
Show examples and contexts E.g.In providing tutorial assistance and college scholarships for hundreds of economically disadvantaged youths, Eugene Lang performed a truly altruistic deed.
amalgamate
combine; unite in one body; mix or alloy a metal with mercury
E.g.The unions will attempt to amalgamate their groups into one national body.
Show examples and contexts E.g.The unions will attempt to amalgamate their groups into one national body.
amass
collect; gather for oneself, as for one's pleasure or profit
E.g.The miser's aim is to amass and hoard as much gold as possible.
Show examples and contexts E.g.The miser's aim is to amass and hoard as much gold as possible.
ambidextrous
capable of using either hand with equal ease
E.g.A switch-hitter in baseball should be naturally ambidextrous.
Show examples and contexts E.g.A switch-hitter in baseball should be naturally ambidextrous.
ambience
particular environment or surrounding influence; atmosphere of environment
E.g.A certain ambience is lost when you choose a tampon over a cocktail glass at a party.
Show examples and contexts E.g.A certain ambience is lost when you choose a tampon over a cocktail glass at a party.
ambiguous
unclear or doubtful in meaning
E.g.His ambiguous instructions misled us; we did not know which road to take.
Show examples and contexts E.g.His ambiguous instructions misled us; we did not know which road to take.
ambivalence
state of having contradictory or conflicting emotional attitudes, such as love and hate
E.g.Torn between loving her parents one minute and hating them the next, she was confused by the ambivalence of her feelings.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Torn between loving her parents one minute and hating them the next, she was confused by the ambivalence of her feelings.
amble
moving at an easy pace; walk slowly or leisurely
E.g.When she first mounted the horse, she was afraid to urge the animal to go faster than a gentle amble.
Show examples and contexts E.g.When she first mounted the horse, she was afraid to urge the animal to go faster than a gentle amble.
ambrosia
something with delicious flavor or fragrance; fruit dessert made of oranges and bananas with shredded coconut
E.g.Hughes got a taste of that ambrosia, and he'll never forget the satisfaction it brings.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Hughes got a taste of that ambrosia, and he'll never forget the satisfaction it brings.
ambulatory
able to walk; formed or adapted for walking; not stationary
E.g.Juan was a highly ambulatory patient; not only did he refuse to be confined to bed, but he insisted on riding his skateboard up and down the halls.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Juan was a highly ambulatory patient; not only did he refuse to be confined to bed, but he insisted on riding his skateboard up and down the halls.
ambush
disposition or arrangement of troops for attacking an enemy unexpectedly from a concealed station
E.g.They separated into three hostile tribes, and darted upon each other from ambush with dreadful war-whoops, and killed each other by thousands.
Show examples and contexts E.g.They separated into three hostile tribes, and darted upon each other from ambush with dreadful war-whoops, and killed each other by thousands.
ameliorate
make or become better; improve; grow better
E.g.Many social workers have attempted to ameliorate the conditions of people living in the slums.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Many social workers have attempted to ameliorate the conditions of people living in the slums.
amenable
responsive to advice or suggestion; responsible to higher authority; willing to comply with; agreeable
E.g.He was amenable to any suggestions that came from those he looked up to.
Show examples and contexts E.g.He was amenable to any suggestions that came from those he looked up to.
amend
change for the better; improve; remove faults or errors
E.g.Would McCain amend executive orders to ensure that communications between persons outside government and White House staff are disclosed to the public?
Show examples and contexts E.g.Would McCain amend executive orders to ensure that communications between persons outside government and White House staff are disclosed to the public?
amenities
convenient features; courtesies
E.g.In addition to the customary amenities for the business traveler-fax machines, modems, a health club-the hotel offers the services of a butler versed in the social courtesies.
Show examples and contexts E.g.In addition to the customary amenities for the business traveler-fax machines, modems, a health club-the hotel offers the services of a butler versed in the social courtesies.
amiable
good-natured and likable; lovable; warmly friendly
E.g.In Little Women, Beth is the amiable daughter whose loving disposition endears her to all who know her.
Show examples and contexts E.g.In Little Women, Beth is the amiable daughter whose loving disposition endears her to all who know her.
amicable
exhibiting friendliness or goodwill; not quarrelsome
E.g.Beth's sister Jo is the hot-tempered tomboy who has a hard time maintaining amicable relations with those around her.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Beth's sister Jo is the hot-tempered tomboy who has a hard time maintaining amicable relations with those around her.
amiss
out of proper order; not in perfect shape; faulty
E.g.I knew that weapons would not come in amiss, and I re-entered his room to get his rifle and shot-gun.
Show examples and contexts E.g.I knew that weapons would not come in amiss, and I re-entered his room to get his rifle and shot-gun.
amity
friendship; peaceful relations, as between nations
E.g.Student exchange programs such as the Experiment in International Living were established to promote international amity.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Student exchange programs such as the Experiment in International Living were established to promote international amity.
amnesia
partial or total loss of memory, usually resulting from shock or illness
E.g.Selective amnesia is a politically valuable trait.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Selective amnesia is a politically valuable trait.
amnesty
general pardon granted by government, especially for political offenses
E.g.If the amnesty is approved by parliament, it will apply to capital stashed in off-shore tax havens up to the end of last year.
Show examples and contexts E.g.If the amnesty is approved by parliament, it will apply to capital stashed in off-shore tax havens up to the end of last year.
amoral
lacking moral sensibility; not caring about right and wrong.
E.g.Compared with evil immorality, being amoral is more like being naughty.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Compared with evil immorality, being amoral is more like being naughty.
amorous
moved by sexual love; loving
E.g."Love them and leave them" was the motto of the amorous Don Juan.
Show examples and contexts E.g."Love them and leave them" was the motto of the amorous Don Juan.
amorphous
formless; lacking shape or definition
E.g.As soon as we have decided on our itinerary, we shall send you a copy; right now, our plans are still amorphous.
Show examples and contexts E.g.As soon as we have decided on our itinerary, we shall send you a copy; right now, our plans are still amorphous.
amphibian
able to live both on land and in water
E.g.Frogs are classified as amphibian.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Frogs are classified as amphibian.
amphitheater
oval building with tiers of seats from central open space or arena
E.g.The spectators in the amphitheater cheered the gladiators.
Show examples and contexts E.g.The spectators in the amphitheater cheered the gladiators.
ample
more than enough in size or scope or capacity; fairly large
E.g.They insist that food are being provided to the Palestinians in ample supplies, and that the only way to weaken Hamas is to maintain the blockade.
Show examples and contexts E.g.They insist that food are being provided to the Palestinians in ample supplies, and that the only way to weaken Hamas is to maintain the blockade.
amputate
cut off part of body, especially by surgery; prune
E.g.When the doctors had to amputate the young man's leg to prevent the spread of cancer, he did not let the loss of a limb keep him from participating in sports.
Show examples and contexts E.g.When the doctors had to amputate the young man's leg to prevent the spread of cancer, he did not let the loss of a limb keep him from participating in sports.
amulet
object worn, especially around neck, as a charm against evil or injury; charm
E.g.In Thailand, the Jatukam Ramathep amulet is popular with everyone from Bangkok bankers to village taxi drivers.
Show examples and contexts E.g.In Thailand, the Jatukam Ramathep amulet is popular with everyone from Bangkok bankers to village taxi drivers.
analgesic
serving to reduce sensibility to pain without loss of consciousness
E.g.The analgesic qualities of this lotion will provide temporary relief.
Show examples and contexts E.g.The analgesic qualities of this lotion will provide temporary relief.
analogous
comparable; similar or alike
E.g.She called our attention to the things that had been done in an analogous situation and recommended that we do the same.
Show examples and contexts E.g.She called our attention to the things that had been done in an analogous situation and recommended that we do the same.
analogy
similarity in some respects; comparison based on similarity
E.g.This analogy is almost always noted without further comment, although in fact it may be taken further.
Show examples and contexts E.g.This analogy is almost always noted without further comment, although in fact it may be taken further.
anarchist
person who seeks to overturn established government; advocate of abolishing authority
E.g.Denying she was an anarchist, Katya maintained she wished only to make changes in our government, not to destroy it entirely.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Denying she was an anarchist, Katya maintained she wished only to make changes in our government, not to destroy it entirely.
anarchy
absence of governing body; state of disorder; political disorder and confusion
E.g.One might say that eastern Congo is already in anarchy, but Congo has faded from the headlines in recent months.
Show examples and contexts E.g.One might say that eastern Congo is already in anarchy, but Congo has faded from the headlines in recent months.
anathema
solemn curse; someone or something regarded as a curse
E.g.To the Ayatolla, America and the West were anathema; he loathed the democratic nations, cursing them in his dying words.
Show examples and contexts E.g.To the Ayatolla, America and the West were anathema; he loathed the democratic nations, cursing them in his dying words.
ancestry
family descent; series or line of ancestors; lineage
E.g.David can trace his ancestry as far back as the seventeenth century, when one of them was a court trumpeter somewhere in Germany.
Show examples and contexts E.g.David can trace his ancestry as far back as the seventeenth century, when one of them was a court trumpeter somewhere in Germany.
anchor
secure or fasten firmly; be fixed in place; narrate or coordinate
E.g.We set the post in concrete to anchor it in place.
Show examples and contexts E.g.We set the post in concrete to anchor it in place.
ancillary
serving as aid or accessory; auxiliary
E.g.In an ancillary capacity, Doctor Watson was helpful; however, Holmes could not trust the good doctor to solve a perplexing case on his own.
Show examples and contexts E.g.In an ancillary capacity, Doctor Watson was helpful; however, Holmes could not trust the good doctor to solve a perplexing case on his own.
anecdote
short account of amusing or interesting event; short narrative; secret story of history or biography
E.g.Of all the millions who are moved by this historic occasion, while I am amongst these, my anecdote is and would be far less remarkable.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Of all the millions who are moved by this historic occasion, while I am amongst these, my anecdote is and would be far less remarkable.
anemia
condition in which blood lacks red corpuscles; deficiency of red blood cells; lack of vitality
E.g.Long standing illnesses often result in anemia, loss of weight and occasional bleeding from the stomach.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Long standing illnesses often result in anemia, loss of weight and occasional bleeding from the stomach.
anesthetic
substance that causes loss of sensation; producing temporary loss or impairment of feeling
E.g.His monotonous voice acted like an anesthetic; his audience was soon asleep.
Show examples and contexts E.g.His monotonous voice acted like an anesthetic; his audience was soon asleep.
anguish
agonizing physical or mental pain; extreme suffering
E.g.Visiting the site of the explosion, the governor wept to see the anguish of the victims and their families.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Visiting the site of the explosion, the governor wept to see the anguish of the victims and their families.
angular
sharp-cornered; consisting of an angle or angles; stiff in manner
E.g.Mr. Spock's features, though angular, were curiously attractive, in a Vulcan way.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Mr. Spock's features, though angular, were curiously attractive, in a Vulcan way.
animated
having life or vigor or spirit; filled with activity; in form of cartoon
E.g.On entering his room I found Holmes in animated conversation with two men.
Show examples and contexts E.g.On entering his room I found Holmes in animated conversation with two men.
animosity
bitter hostility; active hatred; hostile feeling or act
E.g.I've worked for Bill Clinton for years, and Bill Clinton, another Democrat who pushed socially responsible programs, got a lot of animosity from the right.
Show examples and contexts E.g.I've worked for Bill Clinton for years, and Bill Clinton, another Democrat who pushed socially responsible programs, got a lot of animosity from the right.
animus
feeling of enmity or ill will; attitude that informs one's actions; disposition
E.g.The animus of the speaker became obvious to all when he began to indulge in sarcastic and insulting remarks.
Show examples and contexts E.g.The animus of the speaker became obvious to all when he began to indulge in sarcastic and insulting remarks.
annals
chronological record of the events of successive years
E.g.In the annals of this period, we find no mention of democratic movements.
Show examples and contexts E.g.In the annals of this period, we find no mention of democratic movements.
annex
append or attach; take possession of; incorporate into an existing political unit
E.g.Mexico objected to the United States' attempts to annex the territory that later became the state of Texas.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Mexico objected to the United States' attempts to annex the territory that later became the state of Texas.
annihilate
destroy completely; reduce to nonexistence
E.g.The enemy in its revenge tried to annihilate the entire population.
Show examples and contexts E.g.The enemy in its revenge tried to annihilate the entire population.
annotate
comment; make explanatory notes
E.g.In the appendix to the novel, the editor sought to annotate many of the author's more esoteric references.
Show examples and contexts E.g.In the appendix to the novel, the editor sought to annotate many of the author's more esoteric references.
annuity
annual payment of allowance or income; periodical payment, amounting to a fixed sum in each year
E.g.The annuity he setup with the insurance company supplements his social security benefits so that he can live very comfortably without working.
Show examples and contexts E.g.The annuity he setup with the insurance company supplements his social security benefits so that he can live very comfortably without working.
annul
make or declare void or invalid; reduce to nothing
E.g.The parents of the eloped couple tried to annul the marriage.
Show examples and contexts E.g.The parents of the eloped couple tried to annul the marriage.
anodyne
source of relaxation or comfort; medicine that relieves pain
E.g.The sound of classical music is usually just anodyne I need after a tough day at work.
Show examples and contexts E.g.The sound of classical music is usually just anodyne I need after a tough day at work.
anoint
apply oil or similar substance to; put oil on during religious ceremony as a sign of sanctification or consecration.
E.g.He described how the prophet Samuel to anoint David with oil, crown him king of Israel.
Show examples and contexts E.g.He described how the prophet Samuel to anoint David with oil, crown him king of Israel.
anomalous
deviating from normal or common order, form, or rule
E.g.He was placed in the anomalous position of seeming to approve procedures which he despised.
Show examples and contexts E.g.He was placed in the anomalous position of seeming to approve procedures which he despised.
anomaly
irregularity; person or something that is unusual; departure from normal or common order
E.g.No doubt, this anomaly is the result of the uncertain international environment and high interest rates.
Show examples and contexts E.g.No doubt, this anomaly is the result of the uncertain international environment and high interest rates.
anonymity
state of being nameless; one that is unknown or unacknowledged
E.g.In my view, death in anonymity is the ultimate insult to human dignity.
Show examples and contexts E.g.In my view, death in anonymity is the ultimate insult to human dignity.
antagonism
active resistance; condition of being an opposing principle, force, or factor
E.g.Barry showed his antagonism toward his new stepmother by ignoring her whenever she tried talking to him.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Barry showed his antagonism toward his new stepmother by ignoring her whenever she tried talking to him.
antecede
precede; go before in time, and sometimes in place, rank, or logical order
E.g.The invention of the radiotelegraph should antecede the development of television by a quarter of a century.
Show examples and contexts E.g.The invention of the radiotelegraph should antecede the development of television by a quarter of a century.
antecedents
preceding events or circumstances that influence what comes later; ancestors or early background
E.g.Smuggled out of Germany and adopted by a Christian family, she knew nothing of her birth and antecedents until she was reunited with her family in 1989.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Smuggled out of Germany and adopted by a Christian family, she knew nothing of her birth and antecedents until she was reunited with her family in 1989.
antediluvian
antiquated; extremely old and ancient; belonging to very ancient times
E.g.Looking at his great aunt's antique furniture, which must have been cluttering up her attic since the time of Noah's flood, the young heir exclaimed, "Heavens! How positively antediluvian!".
Show examples and contexts E.g.Looking at his great aunt's antique furniture, which must have been cluttering up her attic since the time of Noah's flood, the young heir exclaimed, "Heavens! How positively antediluvian!".
anthem
song of praise or patriotism; song of devotion or loyalty
E.g.Let us now all join in singing the national anthem.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Let us now all join in singing the national anthem.
anthology
book of literary selections by various authors
E.g.This anthology of science fiction was compiled by the late Isaac Asimov.
Show examples and contexts E.g.This anthology of science fiction was compiled by the late Isaac Asimov.
anthropoid
manlike; resembling a human, especially in shape or outward appearance
E.g.The gorilla is the strongest of the anthropoid animals.
Show examples and contexts E.g.The gorilla is the strongest of the anthropoid animals.
anthropologist
one who studies history and science of mankind
E.g.Eighty-three years ago, an anthropologist from the Field Museum dug up the remains of 22 people from marked graves in Labrador, Canada.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Eighty-three years ago, an anthropologist from the Field Museum dug up the remains of 22 people from marked graves in Labrador, Canada.
anthropomorphic
having human form or characteristics
E.g.Primitive religions often have deities with anthropomorphic characteristics.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Primitive religions often have deities with anthropomorphic characteristics.
anticlimax
letdown in thought or emotion; decline viewed in disappointing contrast with previous rise
E.g.After the fine performance in the first act, the rest of the play was an anticlimax.
Show examples and contexts E.g.After the fine performance in the first act, the rest of the play was an anticlimax.
antidote
medicine to counteract a poison or disease; agent that relieves or counteracts
E.g.They believe that because this anti-heroin antidote is what finally worked with some of the victims.
Show examples and contexts E.g.They believe that because this anti-heroin antidote is what finally worked with some of the victims.
antipathy
strong feeling of aversion; dislike
E.g.Tom's extreme antipathy for disputes keeps him from getting into arguments with his temperamental wife.
Show examples and contexts E.g.Tom's extreme antipathy for disputes keeps him from getting into arguments with his temperamental wife.
antiquated
too old to be fashionable, suitable, or useful; obsolete; aged
E.g.We are tolerably conversant with the early English poets; and can discover no resemblance whatever, except in antiquated spelling and a few obsolete words.
Show examples and contexts E.g.We are tolerably conversant with the early English poets; and can discover no resemblance whatever, except in antiquated spelling and a few obsolete words.