2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List

2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently

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diphtherian/ difSthirGE /Gkan acute highly contagious bacterialdisease chiefly of young childrenthat is marked by swelling andobstruction of the throat.During the Depression, diphtheriaclaimed the lives of many children.

diphthongn/ SdifTthON /Gka gliding monosyllabic sound thatstarts at or near the articulatoryposition for one vowel and movesto or toward the position foranother.Many people do not pronounce thediphthong in the word realtorcorrectly.

diphyodontadj/ dISfiETdBnt /Gkhaving deciduous and permanentsets of teeth successively.The teeth of most reptiles arenaturally replaced throughout life,but most mammals are diphyodont.

diploma

diplopian/ dDSplPpGE /Gka disorder of vision in which twoimages of a single object are seen,owing to unequal action of the eyemuscles.Shirley noticed that her medicineproduced the side effects ofdizziness and diplopia.

dipnoous

dipodyn/ SdipEdG /Gk > La prosodic unit or measure of twofeet.The teacher commented on thepoet’s use of dipody for dramaticeffect.

diptychn/ Sdip(T)tik /Gka picture or series of picturespainted on two tablets connected byhinges.The church’s altarpiece is aByzantine diptych.

diremption

dirigibility

dirigiblen/ SdirEjEbEl /L + Ecfairship.The explosion of the dirigibleHindenburg is famous for itsdramatic radio coverage.

dirigismen/ dGrGzhGsm(F) /L > Feconomic planning and control bythe state.Dirigisme is a characteristic ofsocialist law.

dirndl

disaffiliate

discalcedadj/ diSskalst /Lunshod, barefooted.The discalced runner became acelebrity at the Olympics.

discern

discerp

discerptibleadj/ dDSsErptEbEl /L + Ecfcapable of being torn to pieces orpulled apart.Al’s pet dog made short work of hisdiscerptible stuffed animals.

disclaimantn/ dDSsklCmEnt /L > Fone who makes a denial ordisavowal of legal claim.The disclaimant did not want anypart of his grandfather’s estate.

discoloration

discomfituren/ dDSskEmfETchU(E)r /L > F > Ethe state of being disconcerted orabashed : confusion,embarrassment.The bright lights added to Verne’sdiscomfiture as he stood behind thelectern.

discothequen/ SdiskETtek /Gk > L > Fa nightclub for dancing to recordedmusic.Allen is a disk jockey at a populardiscotheque in Chicago.

discredit

discrepancyn/ dDSskrepEnsG /Ldifference, variation, inconsistency.The accountant found a mysteriousdiscrepancy between the twopayroll records.

discretionn/ dDSskreshEn /Lpower of decision : individualjudgment.The Constitution was framed andadopted to establish a governmentthat should not depend on stateopinion and state discretion.

discursive


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disdainn/ dDsSdCn /L > F > Ea feeling of contempt and aversionfor something regarded asunworthy of or beneath one : scorn,contempt.This,” said Clara with completedisdain, “is my little brother.

disemboguev/ TdisDmSbPg /L > Spdischarge water from an outlet ormouth.Many streams disembogue into theriver along its course.

disentanglev/ TdisDnStaNgEl /L > Ecf + Estraighten out : unravel.Mrs. Luce helped Daviddisentangle the strands of the plotin Hamlet.

disguisev/ dDsSgIz /E, Fchange the customary dress orappearance of.Ben tried to disguise his voice whenhe telephoned Jill.

disintegrationn/ dDsTintESgrCshEn /Lthe act or process of shatteringsuddenly : flying to bits.Mark caused the disintegration ofthe mirror when he slammed thedoor.

disinter

dismaladj/ SdizmEl /L > F > Emarked by gloom, dejection,somberness, or depression ofspirits.The children who forgot theirgloves spent a dismal recesslooking out the window at thesnow.

disparagev/ dDSsparij /F > Espeak slightingly of.Arthur did not want to disparagehis mother’s cooking, so hecomplimented her on her pot roastand secretly fed it to the dog.

disparate

disponible

disputatiousadj/ TdispyEStCshEs /Linclined to argue for or againstsomething asserted or maintained.Helen did not enjoy going to familyreunions because of herdisputatious relatives.

disquisitionn/ TdiskwESzishEn /Lan elaborate analytical orexplanatory discussion : discourse.Rhetta’s first book was a lengthydisquisition on the Irish potatofamine.

disseminate

dissentientadj/ dESsench(G)Ent /Lnot concurring : disagreeing.There was not a dissentient voiceon the subject.

dissertation

dissident

dissilient

dissipatedv/ SdisETpCZDd /Ldispelled, dissolved.Mr. Knightley walked in soon aftertea and dissipated everymelancholy fancy.

dissonant

dissuadev/ dDSswCd /Ldivert by advice or persuasion :turn from something by reasoning.Penny tried to dissuade her friendfrom making a choice she mightlater regret.

dissymmetryn/ di(s)SsimEtrG /Gk + Gk + Gkthe absence of or the lack ofbalanced proportions.The quilt designer was inspired bydissymmetry in crystal formations.

distillate

dithyrambn/ SdithDTram /Gka statement or piece of writing inan exalted impassioned styleusually in praise of something.Dennis launched into a dithyrambon Moira’s beauty and manifoldvirtues.

ditokousadj/ SdiZEkEs /Gkproducing two eggs or young at atime.Most common songbirds areditokous.


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dittologyn/ diStBlEjG /Gka double reading or twofoldinterpretation (as of a biblical text).Millicent’s first lecture of thesemester was a dittology of thestory of Genesis entitled “Serpentor Savior?”

diuretic

diurnaladj/ dISErnFl /Lactive chiefly during the daytime.Few cats are naturally diurnal,which can be a problem for light-sleeping owners.

divagatev/ SdIvETgCt /Lmove or extend in differentdirections from a common point.Several ancient caravan routesdivagate from the extinct oasis.

divergent

division

divorce

divulgev/ dDSvElj /Ltell or make known.Ken was reluctant to divulge thedetails of the merger.

docentn/ SdPsFnt /La person who guides groupsthrough a museum or art galleryand discusses and comments on theexhibits.Judd’s interest in ancient historywas sparked by a knowledgeabledocent during a field trip to amuseum.

docilelyadv/ SdBsDl(l)G /Lin an obedient or submissivemanner.Greg’s pet dog docilely follows hisevery command.

docilityn/ dBSsilEZG /Lthe quality or state of being easilytaught, led, or managed.Docility and intelligence areimportant qualities that breederslook for in the horses they buy.

dockhand

doctrinairen/ TdBktrDSna(a)(E)r /L > Fone who attempts to put into effectsome especially political theorywith little or no regard for practicaldifficulties.Benito described his opponent asan ivory-tower doctrinaire.

documentaryn/ TdBkyESmentErG /La presentation (as a film or novel)that has the objective quality,authority, or force ofdocumentation in the representationof a scene, place, condition of lifeor of a social or political problemor cause.The documentary is being producedby environmentalists who protestthe destruction of forests.

dolcissimoadv/ dPlSchGsETmP /L > Itvery sweet or soft—used as adirection in music.The composer and the conductorargued over whether the passageshould be played dolcissimo.

dolefuladj/ SdPlfEl /L > E + Ecfattended with or indicating grief ora morose or despairing attitude.Martha had a doleful look on herface as she gazed out the window atthe rain.

dolioformadj/ SdPlGETfOrm /Lshaped like a barrel.The barrel cactus is a commondolioform plant of the deserts ofNorth and South America.

dolorifugen/ dESlOrETfyVj /L > F > Esomething that banishes ormitigates grief.Martina was so heartbroken whenher dog died that her dad broughthome a new puppy as a dolorifuge.

dolorimetry

dolorousadj/ SdPlErEs /Lexpressive of sorrow or affliction.In a dolorous voice the reporterdescribed the scene of the disaster.

dolphinn/ SdBlfDn /Gk > L > Prov > F > Eany of various small toothedwhales with the snout more or lesselongated into a beak and the neckvertebrae partially fused.The trained dolphin performed itsfeats with great agility and grace.

domain


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domesticadj/ dESmestik /Lrelating to the household or thefamily.Selma’s domestic situation changeddrastically after she married a packrat.

domineering

donnism

doraphobia

dorcastryn/ SdOrkEsTtrG /Biblical name + Ecfa church auxiliary organized toplan and execute benevolent work.The dorcastry served freeThanksgiving dinners for thehomeless.

dormancyn/ SdO(r)mEnsG /L > F > E + Ecfthe quality or state of beinginactive.Certain Australian frogs undergolong periods of dormancy duringdrought.

dormitories

dorsicollar

dosage

dosseret

dossiern/ SdOsTyC /Fan accumulation of records, reports,miscellaneous pertinent data, anddocuments bearing on a singlesubject of study or investigation :file.The physician kept a carefuldossier on each of her patients.

dotard

douaniern/ dwAnyC /Fa customs officer.At the international airport thedouanier insisted on searching theluggage of everyone proceedingthrough customs.

doubluren/ TdESblU(E)r /L > Fthe lining of a book cover;especially : an ornamental lining.The doublure is an important cluein identifying pirated editions ofearly novels.

douceur

doughinessn/ SdPGnDs /Ethe quality or state of being notthoroughly baked.The doughiness of the cakemortified Mrs. Cavendish.

doughtyadj/ SdaUZG /E[has homonym: dowdy] marked byfearless resolution and by stoutnessin contest or struggle : valiant.Daniel was a soldier’s soldier—rough, tough, and doughty.

dowagern/ SdaUDjE(r) /Fone of the elder women of assuredposition who tend to set the tone ofan assembly, social group, orcommunity.Great Aunt Georgine is thedowager of the Arts Council.

dowitcher

doxologyn/ dBkSsBlEjG /Gka commonly short hymn or formulaexpressing praise to God.One common doxology inProtestant churches is set to a tunecalled “Old Hundred.”

drainage

drama

dramaturgyn/ SdramETtErjG /Gk > L > F > Ethe technical devices that are usedin writing plays and that tend todistinguish the play from otherliterary forms.Shakespeare was skilled at bothpoetry and dramaturgy.

dreadfuladj/ SdredfEl /Earousing feelings of disapproval ordissatisfaction.“Turn off that dreadful song,”Cynthia’s mom calmly demanded.

drepaniformadj/ drESpanETfOrm /Gk + Ecfhooked or curved like a sickle.As Cliff walked home, thedrepaniform Moon did little to lighthis way.

dressagen/ drESsBzh /Fthe execution by a horse ofmaneuvers involving changes ofgait, pace, and airs in response tobarely perceptible movements of arider’s hands, legs, and weight.While in Austria, Derrick attendedan exhibition of dressage at afamous equestrian school.


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drisheenn/ drDSshGn /IrGaela sausage prepared with sheep’sblood, milk, and seasonings.While in County Cork, Mr.O’Donnell ordered drisheen andeggs for breakfast.

drivelv/ SdrivEl /Etalk stupidly and carelessly withoutdue thought, knowledge, orconsideration.Bart’s opinion is highly valued, forhe is not one to drivel.

dromedaryn/ SdrBmETderG /Gk > L > F > Ea camel of unusual speed, bred andtrained especially for riding, andhaving a single large hump on theback.Camel rides at the zoo featured adromedary.

dromomanian/ TdrBmESmCnGE /Gk > Lan exaggerated desire to wander.Yielding to his dromomania, Jackbought a recreational vehicle andspent the summer touring thecountry.

drosophilistn/ drPSsBfElDst /G + L + Ecfone who uses the vinegar fly in thestudy of genetics.The drosophilist has helped toadvance our knowledge of genesand the role they play in heredity.

drudgeryn/ SdrEj(E)rG /Edull, fatiguing, or unrelieved workor expenditure of effort.Machines now take much of thedrudgery out of housework.

dubietyn/ d(y)VSbIEZG /Lthe quality or state of beingdoubtful or skeptical : uncertainty.There was dubiety in his voice anda hint of uncertainty in his eye.

duchy

ductile

dudgeonn/ SdEjEn /unknownaggrieved or angered feeling : illhumor.Fuming at the insult, Carl stalkedoff in high dudgeon.

duetn/ d(y)VSet /Itperformance of a musicalcomposition or movement for twosingers or two instrumentalists.Stephan and Christiana’s duetfeatured Bach’s concerto for twoviolins in D Minor.

dulcamaran/ TdElkESmBrE /La sprawling Old World poisonousplant that is common as a weed inAmerica and has purple flowersand oval coral-red berries and thathas a taste at first sweetish and thenbitter.The dried stems of the dulcamarawere once used in pharmaceuticalpreparations as a sedative.

dulcetadj/ SdElsDt /L > F > Epleasing to the ear.Hiroshi marveled at the dulcettones of the quartet.

dulcitude

dumbbelln/ SdEmTbel /Ean exercise device that consists ofround weights joined by a bar.With great effort, Tony hoisted thedumbbell above his shoulder.

dune

dungeon

dunnagen/ SdEnij /unknown[Note: Could be confused withtonnage, tunnage.] cushioning orpadding used in a shippingcontainer to protect fragile articlesagainst shock and breakage.Mother used popcorn as dunnagein her gift boxes to her family inGermany.

duodenitisn/ Td(y)VETdGSnIZDs /Linflammation of the first part of thesmall intestine.George’s cramps were diagnosedas duodenitis.

duplicitous

durableadj/ Sd(y)UrEbEl /L > F > Eable to exist for a long time :lasting.Jimmy brought along a pair ofdurable hiking boots for his trekthrough the mountainous terrain.

duressn/ d(y)ESres /L > F > E[has near homonym: dress]stringent compulsion by threat ofdanger, hardship, or retribution.Contracts signed under duress arenot valid.

durezza


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duvetn/ d(y)VSvC /ON > Fa warm bedcover : quilt, comforter.Sally stored her duvet in the linencloset and used a light bedspreadduring the summer months.

dvandvan/ SdvBn(T)dvB /Skta class of compound words havingtwo constituents that are equal inrank and related to each other as ifjoined by and.The word secretary-treasurer is anexample of a dvandva.

dwarfn/ SdwO(E)rf /Ean abnormally small person.The adult dwarf was offended whenpeople treated him as a child.

dwindling

dynamitardn/ SdInEmDTtBrd /Gk > Sw + Ecfone that uses explosives foranarchistic or other political acts ofviolence.Police agents seized thedynamitard in an old warehouse.

dynamite

dynasty

dysbarism

dyscalculian/ TdiskalSkyVlGE /Gk + Limpairment of mathematical abilitydue to an organic condition of thebrain.Because she disliked math class somuch, Kathy was convinced thatshe suffered from dyscalculia.

dysentery

dyslexian/ dDSsleksGE /Gka disturbance of the ability to read.In Maria’s school, students withdyslexia are given special trainingto improve their reading, spelling,and writing.

dyspepsia

dysphemia

dysphemismn/ SdisfETmizEm /Lsubstitution of a disagreeable,offensive, or disparaging word orexpression for an agreeable orinoffensive one; also, a word orexpression so substituted.Rachel, whose father is an automechanic, cringes every time shehears the dysphemism greasemonkey.

dysphorian/ dDSsfPrGE /Gka generalized state of feelingunwell or unhappy.Edith has had frequent cryingspells and periods of dysphoriasince early childhood.

dysrhythmian/ dDsSriLmGE /Gka condition characterized byvarious psychological andphysiological effects and whichoccurs following long flightthrough several time zones andprobably results from disruption ofhuman body rhythms that occur in24-hour cycles : jet lag.The travel agent gave the tourgroup several tips on how to avoiddysrhythmia.

eagle

eaglet

earlobe

earnestn/ SErnDst /E[Note: The definition provided isnot the one most commonlyassociated with this word.]something of value given by abuyer to a seller to bind a bargain.Ms. Giblin gave the sellers $3,000as earnest so that they would notentertain other offers.

eavesdrop

ebony

ebriosity

ebullience

ebullientadj/ DSbUlyEnt /Lcharacterized by enthusiasm orexuberance.Angela tried to be as ebullient aspossible during the cheerleadingtryouts.

ebullition

eburnated

eccentric

ecchymosisn/ TekESmPsDs /Gk > Lthe escape of blood into the tissuesfrom ruptured blood vesselsmarked by a livid black-and-blue orpurple spot or area.A black eye results fromecchymosis.

ecclesiasticn/ DTklGzGSastik /Gka person in holy orders orconsecrated to the service of thechurch.The new bishop was an ecclesiasticof high learning and virtue.


5

ecclesiasticaladj/ DTklGzGSastDkEl /Gk > Lbelonging to, suggestive of, orsuitable for use in a church buildingor service of worship.Ramona designed and sewed all theecclesiastical garments worn in thechurch’s services.

ecclesiology

echelonn/ SeshETlBn /L > Fone of a series of levels or grades(as of leadership or responsibility)in an organization or field ofactivity.Employees at every echelon of thecompany were encouraged to makesuggestions.

echelonment

echolalian/ TekPSlClGE /Gk + Gkthe often pathological repetition ofwhat is said by other people as ifimitating them.The speech of autistic persons issometimes characterized byecholalia.

eclecticadj/ eSklektik /Gk + Gkcomposed of elements drawn fromvarious sources.Gaynor’s eclectic taste in musicmakes selecting CDs for her acinch.

eclipsen/ DSklips /L > F > Ethe obscuration of one celestialbody by another.Susan and Stuart flew to Mexico toview a total eclipse of the Sun.

ecloguen/ SeTklOg /Gk > La poem in which shepherds areintroduced conversing.The bucolic view of meadows andhills inspired Shelley to composean eclogue.

ecologistn/ GSkBlEjDst /Gk > Ga specialist in the branch of scienceconcerned with theinterrelationship of organisms andtheir environment.Kimberly will work as a summerintern for an ecologist in theEverglades.

economistn/ GSkBnEmDst /Gka specialist in or student of thesocial science that studies theproduction, distribution, andconsumption of commodities.Adam Smith was the mostinfluential economist of the 18thcentury.

ecrun/ CSkrV /L > F[has near homonym: accrue] of atextile : a light grayish yellowishbrown that is yellower and lighterthan gravel.The bridal gown is available inboth ecru and white.

ecstasy

ecstaticadj/ ekSstaZik /Gkcaused by, expressing, or causing astate of exaltation or rapturousdelight.Maria was ecstatic when herboyfriend proposed to her.

ecuelle

ecumenopolisn/ TekyEmDSnBpElEs /Gka single city encompassing thewhole world that is held to be apossibility of the future.Many science fiction stories arebased on the premise of Earth’sfuture ecumenopolis.

eczematousadj/ igSzGmEZEs /Gkrelating to or having thecharacteristics of an inflammatoryskin condition characterized byredness, itching, and lesions.Eczematous skin eruptions may bedue to allergies to certain foods,drugs, or cosmetics.

edaciousadj/ DSdCshEs /L + Ecf[has near homonym: audacious]voracious, devouring.Mary Ellen’s edacious appetite forgossip is offensive to all.

edaphonn/ SedETfBn /Gk > ISVthe animal and plant life present insoils.Stephanie is studying the edaphonof the river delta.

edelweissn/ SCdFlTwIs /Ga small perennial herb growinghigh in the Alps.Eva recognized the edelweiss by itsdistinctive white petals.

edentulate

edible


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edificen/ SedEfDs /Lbuilding; especially : a large ormassive structure (as a church orgovernment building).To Amy, the most beautiful edificein our nation’s capital is theNational Cathedral.

editorial

edulcoratev/ DSdElkETrCt /Lfree from harshness (as of attitude): make pleasant.Ben is under the mistakenimpression that his flattery willedulcorate the stern judge.

eerily

efface

effervesce

effervescentadj/ TefE(r)SvesFnt /Limpossible or difficult to restrain orsuppress : bubbling, exuberant.Sean’s effervescent personalitycaught the attention of the jobrecruiter.

effete

efficacious

efficacyn/ SefDkEsG /Lthe power to produce an effect :effectiveness.For Harriet, the idea of beingpreferred by Mr. Elton had all theusual weight and efficacy.

efficiency

effigyn/ SefEjG /L > Fa full or partial representationespecially of a person.Andy felt a chill when he spottedthe effigy of his ancestor in thecathedral crypt.

effluviumn/ eSflVvGEm /Lan exhalation or smell especiallywhen unpleasant.The effluvium from the backed-updrain nauseated Mr. Locke.

effronteryn/ DSfrEntErG /L > Fflagrant boldness that is offensiveor insolent : gall.Chuck had the effrontery tointerrupt the senator during hisspeech.

effulgence

effulgentadj/ eSfUljEnt /Lmarked by or as if by brightlyshining light.An effulgent flash of intuitionenabled Tony to solve the geometryexam’s final problem.

effusiveadj/ DSfyVsiv /Lexpressing or marked byunrestrained emotion : undulydemonstrative.Troy was bowled over by theeffusive greeting of his Labradorretriever.

egalitarianadj/ (T)GTgalESterGEn /L > Fmarked by or adhering to a beliefthat all persons are equal inintrinsic worth and are entitled toequal access to the rights andprivileges of their society.The senator promised to helpcreate and expand opportunitiesand distribute them in anegalitarian fashion.

egocentricadj/ TGgPSsentrik /L + Gk > Eself-centered, selfish.Dillard’s friends claimed there wasnot an egocentric bone in his body.

egregiousadj/ DSgrGjEs /Lflagrant : glaringly evident.As a medical researcher, Lauraknew that many of the reports ofmedical breakthroughs ontelevision contained egregiouserrors.

egregiously

egressn/ SGgres /Lthe act or right of going or comingout.Every hotel should provideaccessible ways of egress.

eider

eiderdownn/ SIdE(r)TdaUn /ON > Icel > Gthe small fluffy under feathers ofany of several large northern seaducks.The price tag on the sleeping bagstuffed with eiderdown shockedKevin’s parents.


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eideticadj/ ISdeZik /Gk[has near homonym: identic] of orrelating to voluntarily produciblevisual images having almostphotographic accuracy : vivid,lifelike.Sometimes Grandma would fallinto eidetic reveries and talk to herlong-deceased brother.

eigne

einsteinium

ejector

ekisticsn pl/ DSkistiks /Gka science dealing with humansettlements and drawing on theresearch and experience ofprofessionals in various fields (asarchitecture, engineering, cityplanning, and sociology).Dora’s degree in sociology aidedher in her study of ekistics.

elasticity

electrolysisn/ DTlekStrBlEsDs /Gkthe destruction of hair roots with anelectric current.Electrolysis was one of the meansof hair removal demonstrated inRoweena’s cosmetology class.

electuaryn/ DSlekchETwerG /Gk > L > Ea medicated paste prepared withhoney or other sweet substance,used in veterinary practice, andadministered by smearing on theteeth, gums, or tongue.The veterinarian patiently smearedan electuary on the horse’s gums.

eleemosynaryadj/ TelESmBsFnTerG /Lof or relating to charity : charitable,philanthropic.Participation in eleemosynaryactivities is a graduationrequirement at Janie’s school.

elegiacal

elementary

elephantineadj/ TelESfanTtGn /Gk > Lof enormous size or weight :uncommonly large : immense,massive.Troy was served an elephantine icecream sundae.

eligibleadj/ SelDjEbEl /L[Note: The definition provided isnot the one most commonlyassociated with this word.]preferable, desirable.The quietness of the game made itparticularly eligible for Mr.Woodhouse, who had often beendistressed by the more animatedsort.

elisionn/ DSlizhEn /Lthe use of a speech form that lacksa final or initial sound that a variantspeech form has.Today’s French class concentratedon when to use elision.

elixirn/ DSliksE(r) /Gk? > Ar > L > Ea substance or concoction held tobe capable of prolonging lifeindefinitely.Explorers through the ages havesought the elixir of life, betterknown as the “fountain of youth.”

ellipsen/ DSlips /Gkan elongated circle.The walking path behind the schoolforms an ellipse around the tenniscourts.

ellipticity

elocutionn/ TelESkyVshEn /Lthe art of oratorical or expressivepublic speaking.Senator Okada is a master ofelocution.

eloquencen/ SelEkwEn(t)s /Ldiscourse marked by apt and fluentdiction and imaginative fervor.The defense lawyer addressed thecourtroom audience witheloquence.

elucidatev/ DSlVsETdCt /Lmake intelligible by clearexplanation or careful analysis.Belinda asked Mrs. Dent toelucidate the complicated essayquestion.

elutriation

emanometern/ TemESnBmEZE(r) /L + Gkany of various devices designed tomeasure quantities or intensity of aheavy gaseous element producedby radioactive disintegration.The emanometer detecteddangerous amounts of radon inTheo’s basement.


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embarcaderon/ emTbBrkESde(T)rP /L > Spa landing place; especially : alanding place on an inlandwaterway.An organ grinder and his monkeyentertained visitors at theembarcadero of the restoredvillage.

embarrass

embarrassmentn/ DmSbarEsmEnt /Pg > Sp > Fconfusion or discomposure ofmind.Locking his car keys in his cartrunk caused Andy muchembarrassment.

embassy

embellishv/ DmSbelish /F > Eenhance, amplify, or garnish (anaccount) by elaboration withinessential but decorative orfanciful details.Ivan likes to embellish his stories alittle differently each time he tellsthem.

embezzlementn/ DmSbezElmEnt /F > AF > Efraudulent appropriation of moneyby a person to whom it has beenentrusted.The FBI investigation led to theunion leader’s indictment forembezzlement.

emblem

embouchuren/ SBmbVTshU(E)r /L > Fthe position and use of the lips inproducing a musical tone on a windinstrument.After six weeks of criticism abouther poor embouchure, Kirstenswitched from the clarinet to thepiano.

embrasuren/ DmSbrCzhE(r) /Fan opening with sides flaringoutward in a wall or parapet of afortification usually for allowingthe firing of cannon.Bobby and Jackie amusedthemselves during the castle tourby climbing into every embrasureto look out the windows.

embrocate

embrocationn/ TembrESkCshEn /Gk > Lliniment.The fact that Della’s throat is somuch better can be attributed to theexcellent embrocation her motherapplied regularly.

embroidery

embryo

embryonicadj/ TembrGSBnik /Gk > L + Ecfbeing in an early and undevelopedstage.Delia disclosed embryonic plansfor the new theater.

emeraldn/ Sem(E)rEld /Gk > L > F > Ea highly prized gemstone of richgreen color.Beth’s grandfather has a lovelyunmounted emerald that he plansto give to her for a graduationpresent.

emeritusadj/ DSmerEZEs /Lretired from an office after gainingrecognition.Our summer school teacher, Dr.Benteen, is Professor Emeritus ofhistory from Dartmouth University.

emigrantn/ SemDgrEnt /L[has near homonym: immigrant] aperson who leaves a country orregion to establish permanentresidence elsewhere.Sidney’s great-great-grandfatherwas an Irish emigrant during thepotato famine.

eminentadj/ SemEnEnt /L[has homonym and nearhomonyms: emanent andimmanent, imminent] standing outso as to be readily perceived.The National Cathedral is abuilding of eminent beauty.

eminently

emissaries

emissaryn/ SemETserG /Lan agent or representative usuallyempowered to act more or lessindependently.Each government sent an emissaryto the trade talks.

emolliate


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emollientadj/ DSmBlyEnt /L[Note: Could be confused withemolument.] soothing especially tothe skin or mucous membrane.Erna usually applies an emollientcream to her hands after washingdishes.

emolumentn/ DSmBlyEmEnt /L[Note: Could be confused withemollient.] profit or perquisitesfrom office, employment, or labor.The waitress who did not report thetips portion of her emolument facedincarceration for tax evasion.

empanadan/ TempESnBdE /L > Spa turnover filled with meat.For the hike Luke packed anempanada and an apple in hisknapsack.

empathy

empennagen/ TBmpESnBzh /Fcf + L + Fcfthe tail assembly of an aircraft.After the accident the FAA orderedthe airline to inspect theempennage of every plane in itsfleet.

emphaticallyadv/ DmSfaZDkElG /Gkin a markedly forceful manner.At the school board meeting Jonahspoke emphatically in favor ofrequiring students to wearuniforms.

emphyseman/ Tem(p)fESzGmE /Gka condition characterized by air-filled, blisterlike expansions in thetissues of the lungs.Most cases of emphysema arecaused by smoking.

empiricaladj/ DmSpirDkEl /Gk > Loriginating in or relying or basedon factual information, observation,or direct sense experience usuallyas opposed to theoreticalknowledge.Epidemiologists rely heavily onempirical data in predicting thespread of a contagious disease.

empleomanian/ TemplGPSmCnGE /F > Sp + Gk > Lan excessive desire for holdingpublic office.Otis’s empleomania drove him tosquander his fortune on politicalcampaigns.

emporium

empyreann/ TemTpISrGEn /Gk > Lthe highest heaven or heavenlysphere in ancient and medievalcosmology usually described as asphere of fire or light.According to Ptolemy, there arefive heavens, the last of which iscalled the “empyrean,” from theGreek word meaning “fiery.”

emu

emulate

enamel

encephalitisn/ DnTsefESlIZDs /Gkinflammation of the brain,especially when due to infectiousagents or their toxins.The symptoms of encephalitisusually include fever, headache,and tremors.

enchiladan/ enchESlBdE /Spa tortilla topped or rolled up with ahighly seasoned meat or otherfilling and served with tomatosauce seasoned with chili.The sampler platter included ataco, an enchilada, and a burrito.

enclaven/ SenTklCv /L > Fa district or region (as in a city)inhabited by a particular race or setapart for a special purpose.The Warsaw Ghetto was aninfamous enclave during WorldWar II.

enclitic

encomiumn/ DnSkPmGEm /Gkan often formal expression of warmor high praise : eulogy.At the dedication of the warmemorial, the president offered anencomium for the fallen heroes.

encumbrance

encyclical

endocrinology


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endophytousadj/ enSdBfEZEs /Gkliving within the tissues of plants.Most vascular plants could notgrow without the endophytous fungithat inhabit their roots and supplyessential nutrients.

endorsement

endow

endurable

energeticadj/ TenE(r)SjeZik /Gkmarked by energy.The energetic captain kept thepolice force ready for anyemergency.

enervatev/ SenE(r)TvCt /L[has near homonym with oppositemeaning: innervate] lessen thenerve, vitality, or strength of.Being outside in the heat of the daywould enervate Grandma, so sheweeds her garden in the cool hoursof early morning.

enervatedadj/ SenE(r)TvCZDd /Llacking physical, mental, or moralvigor.After the 15-mile mountain hike,Marsha found herself completelyenervated.

enfiladen/ SenfETlCd /Farrangement (as of rooms,doorways, trees) in opposite andparallel rows.The hallway of the huge hotel wasseemingly endless, with an enfiladeof doors appearing to grow evertinier in the distance.

engineern/ TenjDSni(E)r /F > Ea person trained to plan andsupervise projects in a technicalfield.The chief engineer and his teamdesigned a flood control plan forthe city.

enhance

enigmaticadj/ Te(T)nigSmaZik /Gk > Linexplicable, puzzling.Marla scribbled an enigmaticmessage on Lance’s arm cast.

enlightenmentn/ DnSlItFnmEnt /Ecf + E + Ecfthe act or means of furnishing withuseful information.The rules of the debate will beposted on the bulletin board for theenlightenment of all participants.

enmityn/ SenmEZG /L > Fhostility, animosity.The enmity which Mr. and Mrs.Elton dared not show in opendisrespect to Miss Woodhousefound a broader vent incontemptuous treatment of her bestfriend.

ennead

ennuin/ BnSwG /Flanguor or emptiness of spirit :boredom.Though she claimed to dislikeschool, Tara felt a certain ennuiwhen not doing somethingacademic.

ensconced

ensemblen/ BnSsBmbEl /L > Fa group of supporting players,singers, or dancers.The principals in the play wereably supported by the ensemble.

ensilage

entablature

ententen/ BnStBnt /L > Fa written or unwritten internationalunderstanding usually less formallybinding than an alliance.The president decided that hergovernment’s policy of isolationismwould not be broken by an entente.

entertain

enthymemen/ Sen(t)thETmGm /Gkan argument or truncated syllogismin which one of the propositions isunderstood but not stated.A good example of an enthymeme isthe statement “We are dependent;therefore, we should be humble.”

entitle

entomogenousadj/ TentESmBjEnEs /Gkgrowing on or in the bodies ofinsects.Some scale insects that feed ontrees have entomogenous fungi.

entomologistn/ TentESmBlEjDst /Gkone specializing in the study ofinsects.Dirk has wanted to be anentomologist since he was in thethird grade.


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entouragen/ TBntESrBzh /L > Fone’s attendants or subordinates.The rock star and his entourageoccupied an entire floor of thehotel.

entrance

entremetsn pl/ TBntrESmC(z) /L > Fdishes (as vegetables or savories)served in addition to the maincourse of a meal.At some restaurants, entremetsmust be ordered separately fromthe main course.

entrepreneurn/ TBntrEp(r)ESnEr /L > Fthe organizer of an economicventure; especially : one whoorganizes, owns, manages, andassumes the risks of a business.The local college gives accountingclasses for the first-timeentrepreneur.

enumerate

enunciatev/ GSnEn(t)sGTCt /Lutter articulate sounds.Mr. Dubek reminded Val to standstraight and enunciate clearly.

enunciator

environsn pl/ DnSvIrEnz /L > F > Evicinity, neighborhood.Residents of the subdivision and itsimmediate environs are eligible tojoin the neighborhood poolassociation.

envisagev/ DnSvizij /Fhave a mental picture of in advanceof realization.Benjamin could scarcely envisagethe scale of the project, so he brokeit down into smaller, moremanageable units.

envisagement

enzymen/ SenTzIm /Gkany of a very large class ofcomplex proteinaceous substancesthat are produced by living cellsand that are essential to life byacting as catalysts.Emil Fischer theorized in 1894 thatan enzyme acts like a lock to whicha certain reactant is the key.

ephapse

ephedrinen/ DSfedrDn /Gka white crystalline alkaloid usedoften in the form of a salt (as thesulfate) chiefly in relieving hayfever, asthma, and nasalcongestion.Ephedrine has been used to treatthe bronchoconstriction associatedwith asthma.

ephemeral

ephemerisn/ DSfem(E)rDs /Gka publication giving the computedplaces of the celestial bodies foreach day of the year.Tracy’s attorney consulted anephemeris to verify her story abouthaving seen Venus on the morningof the crime.

epiceden/ SepETsGd /Gka funeral song or ode.The poet laureate composed anepicede for the queen’s funeral.

epicure

epidemic

epidermisn/ TepESdErmDs /Gkthe outer layer of the skin of avertebrate.The paper cut, though painful,barely broke Kayla’s epidermis.

epigramn/ SepETgram /Gka short poem with a witty orsatirical point.Kelly kept a calendar on her deskthat gave a humorous epigram foreach day of the year.

epilepsyn/ SepETlepsG /Gka chronic nervous disorder ofhumans and other animals thatinvolves changes in the state ofconsciousness and of motion.Epilepsy is sometimes caused byglandular disturbances.

epiphanyn/ DSpifEnG /Gkan appearance or revelatorymanifestation of a divine being or agod.Apuleius’s Metamorphosesincludes a description of anepiphany of the goddess Isis.

episcopacy


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epistemologyn/ DTpistESmBlEjG /Gkthe study of the method andgrounds of knowledge especiallywith reference to its limits andvalidity; broadly : the theory ofknowledge.The middle books of Plato’sRepublic are the key to hisepistemology.

epistle

epistrophe

epitaph

epitaphsn pl/ SepETtafs /Gkinscriptions on or at tombs orgraves in memory of those buriedthere.For amusement the children like toread the epitaphs in the old churchcemetery.

epithetn/ SepETthet /Gka disparaging or abusive word orphrase.Donnie apologized for shouting anepithet at Mr. Garibaldi.

epitome

epitomizev/ DSpiZETmIz /Gkserve as the typical representationof.Sharon’s choice of clothing mustsurely be an attempt to epitomizebad taste.

epoch

epoche

eponymousadj/ DSpBnEmEs /Gk + Ecfbearing the name of, being, orrelating to one for whom or whichsomething is named.Jason will play the role of JuliusCaesar in the drama club’spresentation of the eponymousplay.

epopee

epyllionn/ eSpilGEn /Gka relatively short narrative poemresembling an epic in theme, tone,or style.Is “Hiawatha” short enough to beconsidered an epyllion?

equanimityn/ TGkwESnimEZG /Levenness of mental disposition :emotional balance especially understress.The writer learned to accept withequanimity the rejections frompublishers.

equation

equatorn/ GSkwCZE(r) /Lthe great circle of the celestialsphere whose plane isperpendicular to the axis of Earth.Spring begins when the Sun movesnorth across the equator.

equatorialadj/ TGkwEStPrGEl /Lof, at, or relating to the equator.The length of the days and nightsdoesn’t vary much in equatorialregions.

equestrienne

equilateral

equilibristn/ TGkwESlibrDst /L > Fone who balances himself inunnatural positions and performshazardous movements.Of all the acts in the circus, Yancyliked the equilibrist best.

equilibriumn/ TGkwESlibrGEm /La state of dynamic balance attainedin a reversible chemical reactionwhen the velocities in bothdirections are equal.Marge injected a flask of colorlessnitrogen dioxide with dinitrogentetroxide, a brown gas, to illustratechemical equilibrium: Whenequilibrium occurred, the gas in theflask stopped becoming browner.

equine

equinoctialadj/ TGkwESnBkshEl /L > F > Erelating to either of the two timeseach year when the Sun crosses theequator and day and night areeverywhere of equal length.Marge began making preparationsfor her annual spring equinoctialfestival.

equinoxn/ SGkwETnBks /L > Eeither of the two times each yearwhen the Sun crosses the equatorand day and night are everywhereof equal length, being about March21st and September 23rd.Legend has it that you can balancean egg on its end only during theequinox.

equipage

equipment

equipped

equitable


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equityn/ SekwEZG /Lthe money value of a property or ofan interest in a property in excessof claims or liens (as mortgagedindebtedness) against it.During the three-year real estateboom, Jan’s home equity went up300%.

equivalentadj/ DSkwiv(E)lEnt /Lcorresponding or virtually identicalespecially in effect or function.Butter and margarine areequivalent in most recipes.

eradicable

eradicatev/ DSradETkCt /L[has homonym with oppositemeaning: irradicate] do away with: destroy completely.Many wheat farmers use aerialsprays to eradicate weeds,diseases, and insect pests fromtheir fields.

erasure

eremologyn/ TerESmBlEjG /Gk + Gka science concerned with the desertand its phenomena.Professor Heath’s research ondesert flora was hailed as asignificant contribution toeremology.

ergotn/ SErgEt /Fa fungal disease of rye and othercereals.An outbreak of ergot destroyed Mr.Kern’s crop.

erminen/ SErmDn /Gmc > F > Eany of several weasels that assumewhite winter fur usually with moreor less black on the tail.Despite the outcry of animalactivists, the fine fur of the ermineis still used for ornamentation ofsome designer clothing.

errancy

errand

erroneous

ersatzadj/ SerTzBts /Gsubstitute, synthetic : simulated.Because copper was needed forarmaments, pennies were madewith an ersatz material duringWorld War II.

erubescentadj/ Ter(y)ESbesFnt /Lbecoming red : reddening.Eufemia’s erubescent complexionmade her embarrassment obvious.

eruditeadj/ SeryETdIt /L > Echaracterized by a love ofknowledge for its own sake :devoted to the pursuit of learning.The speaker’s presentation was acompilation of research that wouldinterest only the most eruditescholars in his field.

erumpent

escalator

escamotagen/ eskAmOtAAzh /Fjuggling, hand trickery.The street magician accompaniedhis deft escamotage with jokes anda distracting patter.

escargotn/ eskArgP /OProv > Fa snail prepared for use as food.Saul fished the escargot out of itsshell with a tiny fork and popped itinto his mouth.

eschew

esconson

escritoiren/ SeskrETtwBr /L > Fa piece of furniture resembling abureau and providing a writingsurface or desk area behind ahinged front that drops down.Jennifer bought a valuable 18th-century escritoire at Sotheby’s.

escrow

esotericadj/ TesESterik /Gkdifficult to understand.Phil found the article onmetaphysics too esoteric.

espadrillen/ SespETdril /L > Prov > Fa flat sandal having a fabric upperand a flexible often rope sole.Marsha put on her other espadrilleand headed for the beach.

espalier

especially


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espionagen/ SespGETnBzh /Fthe practice of spying or using spiesto obtain information about theplans and activities especially of aforeign government or a competingcompany.After discovering that Mr.Carmichael had sold companytrade secrets to a competitor, hisemployer charged him withindustrial espionage.

esplanaden/ SesplETnBd /L > It > Fa level open stretch of paved orgrassy ground; especially : onedesigned for walking or driving andoften providing a vista (as overwater).Carole decided to go for a stroll onthe esplanade before dinner.

espresso

essencen/ SesFn(t)s /Lan extract (as from fruit) used asflavoring in cooking.Tatiana could taste thepomegranate essence in the cake’sfrosting.

esteem

estimableadj/ SestEmEbEl /Lworthy of esteem or respect.The statesman had a tarnishedyouth but is now, in many ways, anestimable figure.

estrepementn/ DSstrGpmEnt /F > AFwaste or needless destruction oflands; especially : damage wroughtby a tenant for life.The tenant’s estrepement of thefarm had made the land almostuseless.

estuarine

estuaryn/ Ses(h)chETwerG /La water passage where the tidemeets the current of a stream.Small boats were warned not totravel the estuary without aid.

esurientadj/ DSsUrGEnt /Lhaving a huge appetite : greedy.Which one of you esurient fellowsordered the extra-large pizza?

ethnic

ethos

etiolationn/ TGZGESlCshEn /Fthe yellowing or whitening of agreen plant through lack ofsunlight.Rhonda uses a special lamp on herhouseplants to prevent etiolation.

etiquetten/ SeZDkDt /Fthe forms required by goodbreeding or prescribed by authorityto be observed in social or officiallife.The defendant’s attorney advisedhim on the observance ofcourtroom etiquette.

etymologyn/ TeZESmBlEjG /Gk > L > Ea branch of linguistics concernedwith the complete history of alinguistic form (as a word ormorpheme).Students have rated Dr. Bailly’sclass in etymology the best coursein the English department.

etymonn/ SeZETmBn /Gkthe word in a foreign language thatis the source of a particularloanword.The etymon of the English wordcantata is the same word in Italian.

eucalyptusn/ TyVkESliptEs /Gka tree or shrub native to westernAustralia.Brad planted a eucalyptus in thevain hope of attracting koalas.

eulogyn/ SyVlEjG /Gka composition (as a set oration) incommendation of someone orsomething (as of the character andaccomplishments of a deceasedperson).The university president delivered amoving eulogy at the funeral of thedean.

euphemismn/ SyVfETmizEm /Gka polite term used to avoid thedirect naming of an unpleasantreality.Marjorie referred to her illnesswith a vague euphemism.


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euphoricadj/ yVSfOrik /Gkcharacterized by a feeling of well-being or elation.The golfer was absolutely euphoricafter making a hole in one.

eurythermn/ SyUrEthErm /Gk + Gkan organism that tolerates a widerange of temperature.Whereas some animals hibernateduring the winter, a eurytherm isactive throughout the cold months.

eustacy

eutaxyn/ SyVTtaksG /Gkgood order or management.Rose’s Christmas decorationroutine was an example of theeutaxy she practiced constantly.

euthanasia

evaluatev/ DSvalyETwCt /L > F > Eexamine and judge concerning theworth, quality, significance,amount, degree, or condition of.The company sent Chris to evaluatethe project’s potential for profit.

evanescentadj/ TevESnesFn(t) /Lof short life or duration : fleeting.The joy and moral stimulation ofwork is often forgotten in the madchase of evanescent profits.

evaporable

evidentiaryadj/ TevESdench(E)rG /L + Ecfbeing, relating to, or affordingevidence.Because he is not an expert inforensics, Harvey's opinion has noevidentiary value.

evincible

evisceratev/ DSvisETrCt /Ltake out the entrails of :disembowel, gut.The chef showed his apprenticehow to eviscerate a fish.

eviternity

exacerbatev/ igSzasE(r)bCt /Lmake more violent or bitter :intensify the bad qualities of.Cindy learned how name-callingcould exacerbate an already violentargument.

exaggeratev/ igSzajETrCt /Lmisrepresent on the side oflargeness (as of size, extent, orvalue) : overstate the truth.Like any fisherman, Tio tends toexaggerate the size of his catches.

example

exanimate

exaration

excelsior

excerpta

exchequer

exclamationn/ TeksklESmCshEn /Lvehement expression (as of protest,reproach, or complaint).Trudy gave a loud exclamation asthe plane took off without her.

exclamatorily

excoriatev/ ekSskPrGTCt /Lcensure scathingly.Mr. Dent proceeded to excoriateEllen in front of the entire pepsquad.

excoriate

exculpatev/ Sek(T)skElTpCt /Lclear from alleged fault or guilt.Greg is positive that the honorcouncil will exculpate him after athorough investigation.

excursion

exedent

exemplaryadj/ igSzemplErG /Ldeserving imitation : commendable.Hubert was praised for hisexemplary conduct.

exercise

exhibit

exhilarate

exhortation

exigency


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exiguousadj/ egSzigyEwEs /Lscanty in amount : meager, narrow.Fran’s father disapproves of herplan to use her exiguous savingsfor the down payment on amotorcycle.

existential

exoneratev/ igSzBnETrCt /Lclear from accusation or blame.DNA analysis has the potentialeither to exonerate suspects or toplace them at the scene of thecrime.

exonerated

exoneration

exorbitantadj/ igSzO(r)bEZEnt /L > F > Eexcessive.The ferryman charged anexorbitant rate to carry peopleacross the strait.

exoskeletonn/ TeksPSskelEtFn /Gk + Gk > Lan external supportive or protectivestructure or framework of an insect.An exoskeleton provides protectionfor an insect, much like a suit ofarmor.

exoticadj/ igSzBZik /Gkfrom another country : not native tothe place where found.Little did Polly know that the exoticbird she bought had been illegallysmuggled into the country.

expatiatev/ ekSspCshGTCt /Lspeak or write at length or inconsiderable detail.The mighty bulk of the whaleaffords a congenial theme whereonto enlarge, amplify, and expatiate.

expatriate

expectorant

expeditiousadj/ TekspESdishEs /Lacting with promptness orefficiency : speedy.Mrs. Elton boasted that her horseswere extremely expeditious andthat her carriage probably drovefaster than anyone else’s.

expensiveadj/ ikSspen(t)siv /Lcharacterized by high price or cost.The concert tickets were expensive,but the event sold out a monthbefore the performance date.

expiatev/ SekspGTCt /Lextinguish the guilt incurred by :make conciliation for.Buddhist doctrine holds that onemust expiate the sins committed inpast lives.

expostulatev/ ikSspBschETlCt /Lreason earnestly with a person forpurposes of dissuasion orremonstrance.Nelson takes every opportunity toexpostulate about politics withstrangers on the subway.

expungev/ ikSspEnj /L + Lstrike out, obliterate, or mark fordeletion (as a word, line, orsentence).Jeff agreed to expunge the wordstupid from his book report.

exquisite

exsculptate

exsiccatev/ SeksDTkCt /L + Ldrive moisture from (as by theaction of heat).Sara wants to exsiccate the plumsshe picked to see if they will reallyturn into prunes.

exsuccousadj/ ek(s)SsEkEs /L + Ldevoid of all juices or sap : driedup.The exsuccous orange in Tamra’slocker must have been left theremonths ago.

exsufflation

extemporaneousadj/ TekTstempESrCnGEs /Lcomposed, performed, or uttered onor as if on the spur of the moment.Suzi gave an extemporaneous talkabout bonsai at the craft clubmeeting.

extempore

extensive

extinctadj/ ikSstiN(k)t /L > Eno longer living : deceased, dead.Latin is an extinct language.


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extirpatev/ SekstE(r)TpCt /Lpull up or out by or as if by theroots or stem.Fay made it her mission toextirpate every weed in the lawn.

extract

extraneousadj/ ekSstrCnGEs /Lexisting or originating outside orbeyond.Leona didn’t let extraneous noisesbother her while she was studying.

extraordinary

extraterrestrialadj/ ekstrETtDSrestrGEl /Loriginating or existing outsideEarth or its atmosphere.The shiny rock appeared to Zeldato be extraterrestrial.

extravaganzan/ ikTstravESganzE /L > Ita lavish or spectacular show orevent.The Mardi Gras extravaganza inNew Orleans has several carnival-like parades.

extravasatev/ ikSstravETsCt /Lpour out or erupt.When extreme heat and pressurebuild within a volcano, molten lavamay extravasate into the air.

extricatev/ SekstrETkCt /Lpull out.When the whistle blew, Jason triedto extricate himself from the bottomof the pile of players.

exuberance

fabled

fabricate

facade

facetiosityn/ fETsGshGSBsEZG /L + Ecfthe quality or state of being jocularin an often clumsy or inappropriateway.Mrs. Foster did not appreciateBarney’s facetiosity during herhistory class.

facetious

facial

facileadj/ SfasEl /Leasily accomplished or attained.Sarpedon’s facile backgammonvictory over his sister made himsuspicious of her intent.

facilelyadv/ SfasEl(l)G /L + Ecfin an easy manner : with ease orassurance.Andy sat down at the piano andplayed facilely through a book ofshow tunes.

facilitate

facilitatorn/ fESsilETtCZ(E)r /L + Ecffone that makes something easier orless difficult.As a teacher, Mr. Logan considershimself a facilitator of learningrather than a dispenser ofinformation.

faconne

facsimilen/ fakSsimElG /Lan exact and detailed copy.Jared bought a facsimile of NoahWebster’s 1828 dictionary.

factitious

factotumn/ fakStPZEm /La person having many diverseactivities or responsibilities : ageneral servant.Mrs. Alexander has so manyresponsibilities not related toinstruction that she feels more likea factotum than a teacher.

faculan/ SfakyElE /Lany of the bright regions of theSun’s photosphere seen most easilynear the Sun’s edge and occurringmost frequently in proximity tosunspots.Seymour tracked the Sun’s rotationby charting the position of a facula.

facultative

faddist

Fahrenheitadj/ SfarEnThIt /G namerelating or conforming to athermometric scale on which understandard atmospheric pressure theboiling point of water is at 212degrees and the freezing point at 32degrees.Nathan knew it was hot outside, buthe was astonished to learn that thetemperature was 100 degreesFahrenheit.

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faineantadj/ SfCnGEnt /Fidle and ineffectual.Lack of purpose can contribute to afaineant life.

faint

falbala

falcateadj/ SfalTkCt /Lhooked or curved like a sickle—used also of the Moon or aninferior planet when less than halfits disk is illuminated.The Moon’s falcate form loomedabove the horizon.

falcon

faldstool

fallacious

fallibilityn/ TfalESbilEZG /Lliability or proneness to err.The executive pardon can be seenas a recognition of the fallibility ofour system of justice.

falsetton/ fOlSseZ(T)P /L > Itan artificially high voice.Dad draped a mop over his headand sang “Mary Had a LittleLamb” in falsetto.

falsify

famishv/ Sfamish /Edeprive of food : starve.The war will famish many peopletrapped in the besieged city.

fanaticismn/ fESnaZETsizEm /L + Ecfexcessive enthusiasm and intenseuncritical devotion usually towardsome controversial matter (asreligion, politics, or philosophy).Throughout history, politicalfanaticism has led to many violentwars.

fanchonetten/ TfanchESnet /Fan open tart covered with meringueor sometimes whipped cream.Randy ordered a lemon fanchonettefor dessert.

fandangon/ fanSdaN(T)gP /Pg? > Spa lively Spanish dance usuallyperformed by a man and womanwith castanets and in triple time.Craig and Ursula danced afandango in the high school talentcompetition.

fanfaronade

fantasizev/ SfantETsIz /Gk > L > F > E + Ecfcreate or develop imaginative andoften fantastic views, ideas, orexplanations.After Calvin was elected to thestudent council, all he ever did wasfantasize about becoming presidentof the United States.

fantoccinin pl/ TfBntESchGnG /L > Itpuppets moved by strings ormechanical devices.So many spectators stopped towatch the fantoccini that the puppetshows had to be moved to one ofthe park’s larger amphitheaters.

farcicaladj/ SfBrsDkEl /Lreceiving or meriting laughter oramused scorn as utterly withoutclaim to serious consideration or aslaughably inept.Shakespeare employs farcicalcharacters in many of his plays toprovide comic relief.

farcically

farewell

farinaceousadj/ TfarESnCshEs /Lcontaining or rich in starch.Common farinaceous foods includebread and pasta.

faro

faroucheadj/ fESrVsh /L > Flacking social graces andexperience : marked by shynessand lack of polish.As a teenager, Inez was ratherfarouche, hesitant to make eyecontact with strangers.

farraginous

farragon/ fESrB(T)gP /La confused, disordered, or irrationalassemblage (as of words or ideas).The candidate’s concession speechwas a rambling farrago thatunderscored his instability.


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farthingalen/ SfBrLDnTgCl /L > Sp > Fa support worn especially in the16th century beneath a skirt toswell out and extend it at the hipline.No lady-in-waiting at the court ofQueen Elizabeth I would have beenseen in public without afarthingale.

fascinate

fascine

fascismn/ SfaTshizEm /Lany program for setting up acentralized autocratic nationalregime with severely nationalisticpolicies exercising rigid censorshipand forcible suppression ofopposition.Given the current regime’s fascism,a coup was inevitable.

fashion

fastidious

fastishadj/ Sfastish /Erather speedy.Jane’s mutt was a fastish runnerdespite its injured leg.

fathomn/ SfaLEm /Ea unit of length equal to 6 feetbased on the distance betweenfingertips of a man’s outstretchedarms and used especially formeasuring the depth of water.The fathom, once standard onBritish admiralty charts, has beenreplaced by the meter.

fatiguen/ fEStGg /Fweariness from work or exertion.Fatigue results from doing toomuch too fast.

fatuousadj/ SfachEwEs /Lmarked by want of intelligence andrational consideration.Lenny characterized Nestor’sattempts to build a perpetualmotion machine as fatuous.

faucet

faveolateadj/ fESvGElDt /Lhoneycombed.The tiny chapel had a faveolateceiling.

fealtyn/ SfG(E)ltG /L > F > Efaithfulness, allegiance.One by one, the nobles knelt beforethe queen and swore fealty to thecrown.

feasibleadj/ SfGzEbEl /L > F > Ecapable of being done, executed, oreffected.Because our Constitution is simpleand practical, it is feasible to meetextraordinary needs by makingchanges without loss of essentialform.

feature

febrifugaladj/ fESbrif(y)DgEl /Lmitigating or removing fever.Aspirin is well known for itsanalgesic and febrifugal properties.

febrilityn/ fDSbrilEZG /Lfeverishness.As her febrility increased, thepatient became delirious.

fecklessadj/ SfekTlDs /Eimpractical and shiftless.Mort was worried that his longperiods of unemployment wouldmake him look feckless when heapplied for a job.

fecundadj/ SfGkEnd /Lmarked by noteworthy intellectualproductivity and inventiveness.The Renaissance was a fecund erafor the arts.

federal

fedoran/ fDSdPrE /F namea soft felt hat with a low crowncreased lengthwise and with orwithout a high roll on the side brim.Brent stepped into the spotlight andpulled his fedora low over one eye.

feign

feigned

feigningv/ fCniN /L > F > Esimulating falsely.Darla wondered if her mother wasfeigning good feelings about herdecision to marry Edgar.


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feintv/ SfCnt /Fmake a pretense of.George broke his hand when heattempted to feint a punch at thewall but overshot his target.

felicific

felicitousadj/ fDSlisEZEs /Lmarked by general happiness orgood fortune.All of Rob’s college roommatesshowed up for the felicitousoccasion of his wedding.

felicityn/ fDSlisEZG /Lthe quality or state of being happy.Liberty from British rule becamemore and more necessary for thefelicity of the American colonists.

feliformadj/ SfGlETfOrm /L + Lcf > Ecfresembling a cat.Eric found a feliform stone in acave.

felonious

felsenmeern/ SfelzEnTme(E)r /Gan assemblage of rock fragmentscompletely mantling the surfaceand commonly present inmountainous regions.Our guide showed us a field offelsenmeer formed from underlyingbedrock by the action produced byfrost.

feminineadj/ SfemEnDn /Lfemale.The feminine characters wereplayed by men and the masculinecharacters were played by womenin Cornell Theatre’s production ofKing Lear.

femoraladj/ SfemErEl /L[has homonym: femerell] of,relating to, or located near thethigh.The femoral artery supplies bloodto the abdomen and lowerextremities.

fenestratedadj/ SfenETstrCZDd /Lprovided with or characterized bywindows.Symmetrically fenestrated buildingscharacterize Georgianarchitecture.

fenestration

fenneln/ SfenFl /L > Ea perennial European herbintroduced to North America andcultivated for the aromatic flavor ofits seeds.Celene often flavors her vegetableswith curry powder and fennel.

feraciousadj/ fESrCshEs /Lproducing abundantly : prolific.Sylvia decided to can some of thetomatoes from her extraordinarilyferacious plants.

feraladj/ SferEl /Llacking a human personality due tobeing reared in isolation from all ornearly all human contacts.The television executive rejectedthe idea of another series about aferal child trying to adjust tomodern culture.

fermatan/ ferSmBZE /L > Ita prolongation at the discretion ofthe performer of a musical note,chord, or rest beyond its given timevalue.To the conductor’s consternation,Dean exaggerated each fermata.

fermeture

ferocious

ferraiolone

ferrous

ferrulen/ SferEl /L > F > E[has homonym: feral] a band orcap usually of metal enclosing theend of a cane, tool handle, tableleg, or similar object to strengthenit or prevent splitting and wearing.Both the knob and the ferrule ofMr. Benson’s walking stick weremade of finely engraved silver.

ferruminatev/ fESrVmETnCt /Ljoin together (as metals) : solder.Fortunately, Tom’s dad was able toferruminate the broken parts of themetal toy.


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fervorousadj/ SfErv(E)rEs /Lfull of intensity of feeling orexpression.The crowd couldn’t help but beswayed by Greg’s fervorousspeech.

fescue

festoon

feudn/ SfyVd /Gmc > F > Ea relationship of aggressivehostility : quarrel.A feud over the propertyboundaries developed between thetwo families.

fianchettov/ TfGEnScheZ(T)P /F + Itmove (a bishop) in a chess game tothe position Knight 2.The analysts correctly predictedthat Evangeline would fianchettoher bishop.

fiascon/ fGSa(T)skP /Gmc > Itan utter and often ridiculous failureespecially of an ambitious orpretentious undertaking.The attempt to distribute campaignleaflets by air turned into a fiascowhen the wind changed direction.

fibrillar

fibrositis

fibrousadj/ SfIbrEs /Lcontaining, consisting of, or likefibers.The fibrous content of fruits andvegetables is beneficial to thedigestive system.

fichu

fictile

fiction

fictitious

fideism

fiduciaryadj/ fDSd(y)VshGTerG /Lof, having to do with, or involvinga confidence or trust.Zoe acted in a fiduciary capacityduring the lease negotiations.

fiendish

fierce

fieryadj/ SfI(E)rG /Eof the color of fire : red.Kevin knew that a photographwould not portray the fiery sunsetin its full splendor.

filamentn/ SfilEmEnt /L > Fa fine conductor that is renderedincandescent by the passage of anelectric current.Beulah could see that the filamentwas broken, so she replaced thebulb.

filassen/ fDSlas /L > Fa vegetable fiber prepared formanufacture.At the mill, sisal plants areprocessed into filasse.

filialadj/ SfilGEl /Lbefitting a child in relation to his orher parents.During adolescence, many childrenfeel uncomfortable demonstratingfilial love in public.

filibustern/ SfilEbEstE(r) /F > Spthe use of extreme delaying tactics(as speaking merely to consumetime) in an attempt to preventaction by the majority in adeliberative assembly.The Senate effectively killed the billwith a filibuster.

filoselle

finance

financiern/ TfinEnSsi(E)r /Fa large-scale investor.Marv’s uncle, a Boston financier,works one day a week in a soupkitchen.

finesse

fingent

finger

finiteadj/ SfITnIt /L > Ehaving clear limits.Phoebe’s creativity was bound by afinite set of resources.


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firkinn/ SfErkDn /D > Ea British unit of weight for butterequal to 56 pounds.Lord Nelson wrote, “I beg that youwill send us the following articles:50 pounds loaf sugar, 1 firkin ofgood butter, and 2 pounds of blackpepper.”

firmamentn/ SfErmEmEnt /L > Ethe vault or arch of the sky :heavens.Carmen looked to the firmamentfor a sign, but none wasforthcoming.

firnificationn/ TfirnEfDSkCshEn /G + L > Ethe process whereby snow becomespartially compacted and forms thesurface part of the upper end of aglacier.Solid ice is the end product offirnification.

fiscaladj/ SfiskEl /F > Spof or relating to financial matters.Several of the president’s advisorson fiscal policy are participating inthe symposium.

fissileadj/ SfisEl /Lcapable of being split, cleft, ordivided in the direction of the grainor along natural planes of cleavage.The fissile quality of cedar makes itan excellent material forboxmaking.

fission

fissiparousadj/ fiSsipErEs /L + Ltending to break up into parts or todisintegrate : divisive, factional.Strong leadership is needed to keepthe fissiparous tendencies of thepolitical party in check.

fissuren/ SfishE(r) /L[has homonym: fisher] a narrowopening, chasm, or crack of somelength and considerable depthusually occurring from somebreaking, rending, or parting.A fissure ran through Irene’sbackyard after the earthquake.

fisticuffsn pl/ SfistDTkEfs /E + Ea fight with the fists : boxing.The two campers’ friendly rivalryended in a round of mock fisticuffs.

flageolet

flagitious

flagitiouslyadv/ flESjishEslG /L > Ein a grossly wicked manner.The criminal was sentenced to tenyears’ imprisonment for hisflagitiously cruel assault.

flagonn/ SflagEn /Gmc? > L > F > E[has near homonym: flacon] alarge usually metal or potteryvessel with handle and spout andoften a lid used to hold liquid.The knights passed around a flagonof ale before riding off to battle.

flail

flambeaun/ SflamTbP /Fa flaming torch usually made bycombining thick wicks saturatedwith a quick-burning substance (aspitch).A procession of skiers zigzaggeddown the slope, each of thembearing a flambeau.

flamboyantlyadv/ flamSbOi(y)EntlG /Fin a showy and unrestrainedmanner.At the pep rally the studentsflamboyantly demonstrated theirsupport for the football team.

flamencon/ flESmeN(T)kP /D > Sp[has near homonym: flamingo] avigorous rhythmic dance of theAndalusian Gypsies.The dancer entertained the patronsat the Spanish restaurant with arousing flamenco.

flamingon/ flESmiN(T)gP /L > OProv > Sp > Pg[has near homonym: flamenco]any of several aquatic birds thathave remarkably long legs andneck, webbed feet, and usuallyrosy-white plumage.Tom and his buddies placed a giantplastic pink flamingo on the roof ofthe school.

flammableadj/ SflamEbEl /Lcapable of being easily ignited andof burning with extreme rapidity.Both gasoline and kerosene areflammable, but gasoline is moreexplosive.


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flammeousadj/ SflamGEs /Lconsisting of or resembling thecolor of flame.Flammeous maple leaves carpetedthe lawn of the inn.

flammiferousadj/ flaSmif(E)rEs /L + Ecfproducing flame or bright withflame.The flammiferous volcano was anawesome spectacle to behold.

flaneur

flangen/ Sflanj /F? > Ea rim or edge projecting at rightangles to provide a means ofattachment to another part.The plumber pointed out a chippedflange that had caused the leak.

flanneladj/ SflanFl /W > Ea napped cotton fabric of softyarns.The sleeves of his plaid flannelshirt were rolled back to the elbow.

flannelette

flautinon/ flaUStG(T)nP /Ita small flute : piccolo.Harriet plays many windinstruments, but she especiallyenjoys playing flautino in abaroque music group.

flaxen

fleabanen/ SflGTbCn /E + Eany of various plants of the familyCompositae that are supposed todrive away fleas.A young rabbit was hidden under aclump of fleabane.

fleeciness

flexibility

flexuosity

flibbertigibbetn/ SflibE(r)ZGTjibDt /Ea light-minded or silly restlessperson.Mrs. French proved far less of aflibbertigibbet than the world tookher to be.

flimflammer

flippantadj/ SflipEnt /imit? + Ecftreating or tending to treat withunsuitable levity that which isserious or to which respect is due.The principal chastised Clyde andhis friends for their flippantbehavior during the memorialservice.

flocculent

flokatin/ flPSkBtG /Gka hand-woven Greek wool rug witha thick shaggy pile.Katina loves to hear the story ofhow her grandparents came to theUnited States with all theirpossessions wrapped in one flokati.

floppetyadj/ SflBpEZG /E imitsoft and flexible.Moira purchased her floppetystraw hat during a visit to KeyWest.

floridadj/ SflOrDd /L[has near homonym: fluoride]flushed or tinged with red : ruddy.Marsha’s face was florid when shefinished her five-mile run.

floriferousadj/ flPSrif(E)rEs /L + Ecfbearing flowers; especially :blooming freely.Begonias are floriferous even in theshade.

florilegiumn/ TflPrESlGjGEm /La volume or collection of briefextracts or writings : anthology.Frank pulled a tattered florilegiumfrom the shelf.

floruit

flotillan/ flPStilE /ON > F > Spa small fleet or a fleet of smallwatercraft.The Boy Scouts launched a flotillaof toy sailboats across the lake.

flotsamn/ SflBtsEm /F > AFwreckage of a ship or its cargofound floating on the sea.Flotsam is part of wreckage,whereas jetsam has beendeliberately cast overboard.

flourish


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fluctuantadj/ SflEkchEwEnt /Lmoving like a wave : varying andunstable.The fluctuant beam from Amy’sflashlight resulted from weakbatteries.

flue

flummeryn/ SflEm(E)rG /Wporridge made of flour or meal.Hulbert made flummery for dessert.

fluorescentadj/ flU(E)SresFnt /L > F + L > Ecf[has homonym: florescent]emitting electromagnetic radiationespecially in the form of visiblelight.The fluorescent bulb above Gary’scubicle thrummed noisily.

fluoridationn/ TflUrESdCshEn /L + Ecffthe adding of a binary compound offluorine to drinking water.Fluoridation has been proven todeter tooth decay.

fluorocarbonn/ SflU(E)rPTkBrbEn /L + Lany of a class of chemically inertcompounds (as tetrafluoroethylene)composed entirely of carbon andfluorine and used chiefly aslubricants and in making resins andplastics.Fluorocarbon is used to make thenonstick coatings for pots andpans.

fluvialadj/ SflVvGEl /Lof or relating to rivers.A lawyer specializing in fluvial lawtold Emmett that he could claimpossession of the newly formedisland in the Rum River.

fluxionn/ SflEkshEn /Lthe action of flowing.The fluxion of many liquids slowsin cold weather.

fogginessn/ SfOgGnDs /Scand? + Ecffthe quality or state of being coveredor enveloped with vapor condensedto fine particles of water suspendedin the lower atmosphere.Severe fogginess was blamed forthe ten-car pileup on theexpressway.

foiblen/ SfOibEl /Fa minor flaw or shortcoming inpersonal character or behavior :failing, weakness.Kevin’s tendency to procrastinateis a foible he claims he will one daycorrect.

foistv/ SfOist /Dforce another to accept especiallyby stealth or deceit.Brent knew that Karen would foistanother kitten upon him if hewasn’t careful.

foliaceous

foliagen/ SfPl(G)ij /F&Lthe mass of leaves of a plant asproduced in nature : leafage.Tourists who come to see fallfoliage at its peak are sometimesreferred to as “leaf peepers.”

foliiformadj/ SfPlGETfOrm /Fhaving the shape of a leaf.In October, Rhoda and Lamardecorated the classroom windowswith foliiform cutouts.

folliculitisn/ fETlikyESlIZDs /Linflammation of one or more smallcavities in the skin.An ingrown hair on Bo’s cheekresulted in folliculitis.

folliculose

fontinaladj/ SfBntFnEl /Lgrowing in or near springs.Cottonwoods are well-knownfontinal trees throughout theAmerican Southwest.

foraminateadj/ fESramETnCt /Lperforated.Sid examined the foraminate leafunder a microscope.

forayn/ SfOTrC /F > Ea raid or brief invasion.Captain McMaster led his troopson a foray into the village.

forbearance

forceps


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foreclosable

foreignness

forensic

forensicsn pl/ fESren(t)siks /Lthe art or study of argumentativediscourse.Tara’s performance in her class inforensics practically guaranteedher a spot on the debate club team.

foreordain

forestallment

forfeitv/ SfOrfDt /L > F > Elose or lose the right to by someerror, fault, offense, or crime.Individuals who are convicted of afelony forfeit their right to vote.

forfeiture

forgeable

forgotten

formaldehyden/ fOrmSaldEThId /L + Ar > Sp > L + L + Gkan aqueous solution that is usedchiefly as a disinfectant andpreservative.The medical laboratory containedspecimens preserved informaldehyde.

formicaryn/ SfOrmETkerG /Lan ant hill or ant nest.Junior made the mistake of sittingon a formicary of red ants.

formicivorousadj/ TfOrmESsiv(E)rEs /L + Ecf + L + Ecffeeding on ants.Formicivorous woodpeckers spendmuch of their time on the groundlooking for ants.

formidableadj/ SfO(r)mDdEbEl /L > Etending to inspire awe or wonderusually by reason of notable size,quantity, superiority, or excellence.Though the competition wasformidable, Bernie was confidenthe would emerge victorious.

forsoothadv/ fE(r)SsVth /Ein truth : certainly.Forsooth, the queen was the mostbeautiful woman in the world.

forsythian/ fE(r)SsithGE /Brit nameany plant of a small genus ofornamental shrubs that have brightyellow flowers which appear beforethe leaves in early spring.The gardener planted forsythiaalong the entire outer edge of theyard.

fortemente

fortieth

fortituden/ SfO(r)ZETtVd /L > Ethe strength or firmness of mindthat enables a person to encounterdanger with coolness and courage.John Kennedy displayedexceptional fortitude after hispatrol boat was attacked duringWorld War II.

fortuitousadj/ fO(r)StVEZEs /Loccurring by chance withoutevident causal need or relation orwithout deliberate intention.Their meeting was fortuitous, butDan and Mattie believed that theyhad been destined to be together.

fossil

fossilizev/ SfBsETlIz /L > ISVturn (as remains of organisms frompast geologic eras) into amineralized form in Earth’s crust.Since not all plant materialsfossilize equally well, some plantswill be preserved and others willvanish in the course of time.

fossorialadj/ fBSsPrGEl /Ladapted to digging.Gophers are fossorial rodentshaving strong claws on theirforelimbs.

foudroyant

fougasse

fouladj/ SfaUl /Eoffensive to the senses : rotten.The spoiled contents of therefrigerator created an extremelyfoul odor.

foulard

foundation


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foundryn/ SfaUndrG /Fa building or establishment wheremetal or glass casting is carried on.The students saw molten metalbeing poured into engine blockmolds at the foundry.

fracas

fraction

fragile

fragrant

frailty

franchise

franchiseen/ TfranchISzG /L > F + Ecfone who is granted a right tooperate a unit in a chain of businessestablishments.The franchisee agreed to pay thefranchisor an initial fee and apercentage of gross sales.

frangibleadj/ SfranjEbEl /Lcapable of being broken :breakable, brittle, fragile.Road signs are designed to befrangible so that they won’tseverely damage cars that hit them.

frankincensen/ SfraNkDnTsen(t)s /Ea gum resin containing volatile oil.Aunt Ruby likes to burnfrankincense at Christmastime.

fraternal

fraudn/ SfrOd /L > F > Edeceit, trickery; especially :misrepresentation intended toinduce another to part withsomething of value or to surrendera legal right.Joel is suing his former managerfor fraud and breach of contract.

fraudulentadj/ SfrOjElEnt /Lcharacterized by or based ontrickery or deceit especially wheninvolving misrepresentation.The manufacturer was chargedwith fraudulent advertising.

fraughtadj/ SfrOt /OFris? > G > D > Eburdened or menaced with.The work of the firefighter isfraught with danger.

freckles

freight

fremitus

freneticallyadv/ frDSneZDk(E)lG /Gk > L > F > Ein a frenzied, hectic manner.Four dancers moved freneticallyaround the stage.

frescaden/ fresSkCd /Gmc > OProv > Fa cool walk : shady place.The landscape architect’ssuggestion of a long frescade undera grape arbor thrilled her client.

frescon/ SfresTkP /Gmc > Itthe art of painting on freshly spreadmoist lime plaster with pigmentssuspended in a water vehicle.Fresco is a demanding techniquebecause the image cannot bechanged after the plaster dries.

Freudianadj/ SfrOidGEn /Austrian name + Ecfof, relating to, or according withthe theories of Austrian neurologistSigmund Freud and his system ofpsychoanalysis.A Freudian slip of the tongue mayreveal the speaker’s deep-seatedconcerns and reasons for action.

friableadj/ SfrIEbEl /L > Feasily crumbled, pulverized, orreduced to powder.The sand sculpture was so friablethat it crumbled in Carl’s handswhen he tried to pick it up.

fricasseen/ SfrikETsG /Fa stew of meat or other foods inlight or brown gravy.Mrs. Delaney prefers to make herfricassee with chicken.

friend

friendliness

frieze

frigorificadj/ TfrigESrifik /Lcausing cold.Michael was curious about how thefrigorific device for wine bottlescould possibly work.


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frissonn/ frGSsPM /L > Fshudder, quiver, chill; especially : apleasurable sensation of fright orgloom : thrill.Amy suddenly awakened from anightmare and felt a frisson ofterror.

frittatan/ frGStBZE /L > Itan unfolded omelet oftencontaining chopped vegetables ormeats.Tony’s frittata was filled withseasoned asparagus tips.

frivolityn/ frDSvBlEZG /L > Fthe quality or state of being notserious : playfulness.The Mardi Gras celebration wasmarked by boisterousness andfrivolity.

frivolousadj/ Sfriv(E)lEs /L > Eof little weight or importance.Mr. Peterson offered only frivolousremarks at the hearing.

frolic

frolicking

frolicsomeadj/ SfrBlikTsEm /L + Ecffull of gaiety and mirth : playful.Each year the Kentucky Derbyattracts horse lovers who enjoy thefrolicsome festivities associatedwith the race.

frondeurn/ frPMdQQr /L? > Frebel, malcontent, dissident.The mayor’s denouncementreferred to Jules as a “frondeur.”

frontispiecen/ SfrEntDTspGs /L > Fan illustration preceding andusually facing the title page of abook or magazine.Morgan was hired to draw theschool yearbook’s frontispiece.

frontonn/ SfrBnTtBn /L > It > Fa court or building for the game ofjai alai.The fronton looked bigger ontelevision than in actuality.

froufroun/ SfrVTfrV /F imitabundant or excessiveornamentation (as ruffles, beading,flowers) in women’s clothing.The slippers covered with froufrouhad to be “for looks” only.

frugaladj/ SfrVgEl /Leconomical in the use orexpenditure of resources.The “Golden Fleece Award” wasstarted by Senator WilliamProxmire, who advocated a morefrugal government.

fruitionn/ frVSishEn /L > F > Ethe state of being real,accomplished, or complete.The new civic center came tofruition after many years’ planningand labor.

fruticetumn/ TfrVZESsGZEm /La collection of shrubs grown forornament or study.At the botanical garden, thearboretum and fruticetum werecombined under one roof.

fruticose

fuchsia

fudge

fughettan/ f(y)VSgeZE /Ita short or condensed musical piecein which one or two melodicthemes are repeated bysuccessively entering voices.The Vienna Boys’ Choir performeda fughetta in their concert at St.Paul’s Cathedral.

fugitive

fugue

fulgurantadj/ SfUlg(y)ErEnt /Lflashing like lightning : dazzling.Emily’s fulgurant diamond broochattracted many eyes at the dinnerparty.

fuliginousadj/ fyVSlijEnEs /Lhaving the color of soot : dark,dusky.Smoke-belching factories cast afuliginous cloud over the entirecity.

fulsomeadj/ SfUlsEm /Eoffensive to the senses : disgusting.The fulsome odor of a skunk drovethe campers out of their tent.


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fulvousadj/ SfUlvEs /Ldull brownish yellow.When Mr. Brown’s soybean fieldturned fulvous, he knew it was timeto harvest.

fumigate

funambulistn/ fyVSnambyElDst /Lan acrobat who performs feats on arope extended through the air atsome height.A hush came over the crowd as thefunambulist balanced himself onone foot.

fungiciden/ SfEnjETsId /Lan agent that destroys a group oflower plants including molds, rusts,mildews, mushrooms, and yeasts.A fungicide was sprayed on theapple trees to protect the fruit.

furfuraceousadj/ TfErf(y)ESrCshEs /Lconsisting of or covered with flakyparticles : scaly, scurfy.The dermatologist recommended adandruff-removing shampoo totreat Linda’s furfuraceous scalp.

furibund

furloughn/ SfEr(T)lP /Da leave of absence granted to agovernmental or institutionalemployee (as a soldier, civilservant, or missionary).While on furlough last year, theLees raised $10,000 for the dentalclinic.

furniture

fuselagen/ SfyVsETlBzh /Fthe central body portion of anairplane designed to accommodatethe crew and the passengers orcargo.Leslie pointed out the bulbousfuselage of a Boeing 747 on thetarmac.

fusilladen/ SfyVsETlCd /Fa number of shots firedsimultaneously or in rapidsuccession especially with smallarms : volley.The first rank of infantrymen fireda fusillade, sank to their knees, andwaited for the second rank to fireover their heads.

gabbron/ Sga(T)brP /L? > Ita rock of a family of granularigneous rocks.An outcropping of gabbro showedthrough the soil.

gadabout

gadgeteer

gainsayv/ SgCnTsC /Espeak against : contradict.The ruling of the umpire allowedno one to gainsay his decision.

gait

gaiter

galacticadj/ gESlaktik /Gk > Lextremely great : huge.Ralph was overwhelmed by thestore’s galactic profusion ofmerchandise.

galaxy

galette

gallantry

galleonn/ SgalGEn /F > Sp[has homonyms and nearhomonym: gallein, Gallian andGalium] a heavily built chieflysquare-rigged sailing ship of the15th to early 18th centuries.Traci built a model of a Spanishgalleon out of matchsticks for herhistory project.

galleryn/ Sgal(E)rG /geog name > L > Fa platform projecting from one ormore interior walls (as of a theater)for additional accommodation (asof a part of an audience); especially: the highest of such platforms in atheater commonly having thecheapest seats.For the opera’s openingperformance there wasn’t a vacantseat in the entire gallery.

gallimaufryn/ TgalESmOfrG /Fmedley, mixture, hodgepodge,jumble.Ever since her around-the-worldtrip, Lindsey uses a gallimaufry offoreign phrases when she speaks.

galling

gallipot

gallop

gallopingadj/ SgalEpiN /Fmarked by a bounding and fastnatural three-beat gait of a horse.A galloping horse splashed throughthe waves on Sunset Beach.


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gallyware

galoreadj/ gESlP(E)r /IrGaelabundant, plentiful, profuse.Edie found bargains galore at theflea market.

gambadon/ gamSbC(T)dP /Ita long boot or legging attached toeach side of a saddle to protect therider’s feet and legs from the wet orcold.Preparing for a ride in the rain, thehorseman attached a gambado toeach stirrup strap.

gambit

gamble

gambolv/ SgambEl /GK > L > OProv > F[has homonym: gamble] bound orspring as in dancing or play.Susan watched the fawns gambol inthe field.

gamopetalousadj/ TgamESpeZFlEs /Gkhaving the corolla composed ofunited petals.The flowers of the huckleberry,bluebell, and foxglove aregamopetalous.

gamutn/ SgamEt /Gk > Lan entire range from one extreme toanother.The gamut of fall fashions includedmicro-miniskirts as well as ankle-length dresses.

ganglionn/ SgaNglGEn /Gk > La mass of nerve tissue containingnerve cells.Each insect ganglion controlscertain activities and is more orless independent of the others.

gangrenen/ SgaNTgrGn /Gk > Llocal death of soft tissues (as fromdisease, injury, or infection)resulting from loss of blood supply.The soldier knew that if gangreneset in, his wounded leg would needto be amputated.

garage

gardenesqueadj/ TgBrdFnSesk /Gmc > F > E + Ecfresembling or relating to a plot ofland devoted to the growing ofherbs, fruits, flowers, or vegetables.Rosita turned her balcony into agardenesque area with vines andpotted plants.

garderoben/ SgBrTdrPb /F > Ea wardrobe or its contents.The seamstress hung the completedgown in the garderobe.

gargantuanadj/ gBrSganch(Ew)En /F nameof tremendous size or volume.The seemingly gargantuan gorillain the movie was really a four-foot-high computerized model.

garish

garlionn/ SgBrlyEn /E + L > F > Ea hybrid vegetable resulting from across between garlic and onion.Shannon uses garlion in herspaghetti sauce.

garnisheev/ TgBrnDSshG /Gmc > F > E + Ecftake by legal writ the wages orother property of a debtor.Norton was afraid the court wouldgarnishee his entire salary to payhis back taxes.

garrison

garrulousadj/ SgarElEs /Lgiven to conversation : loquacious,talkative.The old colonel turned quitegarrulous when talking of war.

gasconadev/ TgaskESnCd /F nameboast or bluster especially toexcess.Mr. Clay could gasconade at suchlength that his listeners becamebored.

gaseousadj/ SgasGEs /Lhaving the form of or being a fluid(as air) that has neither independentshape nor volume but tends toexpand indefinitely.The energy required to completelyseparate one mole of a solid ioniccompound into gaseous ions iscalled “lattice energy.”

gasification

gastric


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gastriloquistn/ gaSstrilEkwDst /Gk + Lventriloquist.Lanny hired a gastriloquist toentertain at Betsy’s birthday party.

gastronomical

gastronomyn/ gaSstrBnEmG /Gk > Fthe art or science of good eating :epicurism.Chef Bernie specializes in Frenchgastronomy.

gaucheadj/ SgPsh /Gmc > Flacking in social graces or ease,tact, and familiarity with politeusage.Gertrude was embarrassed by hercousin’s gauche behavior at thechristening.

gaucherien/ SgPshETrG /Gmc > Fa tactless or awkward action; often: a bit of social or literary crudity.Daphne’s mom told her that usingone’s dinner napkin as ahandkerchief is an unforgivablegaucherie.

gaufretten/ gOSfret /Fa wafer of crisply fried potato cutto resemble a small waffle.At the summer festival the Frenchrestaurant featured gaufrette.

gauleitern/ SgaUTlIZE(r) /Ga political functionary occupying asubordinate but important positionin a totalitarian regime.The memoirs of the gauleitercontained little of historicalimportance.

gauze

gazellen/ gESzel /Ar > Fany of numerous small graceful andswift African and Asian antelopesnoted for the luster and softexpression of their eyes.The fawn and white coloration ofthe gazelle serves to minimizedetection by predators.

gazetteern/ TgazESti(E)r /Venetian dialect > It > Fa geographical dictionary in whichnames and descriptions of placesare usually given in alphabeticalorder.Chandra consulted her gazetteer tofind the capital of Sri Lanka.

gazpachon/ gASspA(T)chP /Spa soup made of uncooked choppedtomatoes, cucumbers, peppers,onion, garlic with vinegar, oil, andcondiments, and served cold.The restaurant was famous for itsgazpacho.

gelatigenous

gelatinousadj/ jESlatFnEs /L > It > F + Ecfresembling gelatin or jellyespecially in appearance andconsistency.Troy stepped on a gelatinous massof frog eggs.

gendarmen/ SzhBnTdBrm /Fa continental European policeofficer; especially : a French policeofficer.The gendarme asked the victim fora description of the mugger.

genealogyn/ TjGnGSBlEjG /Gka study of family ancestral linesand the methods of investigation ofthem.Many Americans interested ingenealogy eventually come to theNational Archives in Washington,D.C., to do research.

generalissimo

generosity

genesis

genethliacal

geniohyoid

genitive

genociden/ SjenETsId /Gk + Lthe use of deliberate systematicmeasures calculated to bring aboutthe extermination of a racial,political, or cultural group.What stands between civilizationand genocide is the respect for therights and lives of all humanbeings.

genren/ SzhB(M)nrE /L > Fa category of artistic compositioncharacterized by a particular style,form, or content.Most of the director’s work hasbeen in the genre of science fiction.

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gentilitialadj/ TjentESlishEl /L + Ecfrelating or peculiar to a people or afamily.In 1917 the gentilitial name ofBritain’s royal family was changedto Windsor.

gentility

genuflectv/ SjenyETflekt /Ltouch the knee to the floor orground especially in worship.Amy asked the tour guide ifeveryone had to genuflect uponentering the cathedral.

geochronyn/ jGSBkrEnG /Gka system of time divisions used ingeology.In geochrony, time is divided intoeras, periods, and epochs.

geodesyn/ jGSBdEsG /Gka branch of applied mathematicsused to determine the exactpositions and areas of largeportions of Earth’s surface andalso the gravitational field of Earth.An expert in geodesy, Dr. Buckdetermined the variation in gravitybetween the highest and lowestpoints of Earth’s exposed surface.

geognosyn/ jGSBgnEsG /Gk + Gka branch of geology that deals withthe materials of Earth and itsgeneral exterior and interiorconstitution.Hilda’s research in geognosyinvolved classifying several kindsof minerals and recording theirdistribution throughout the world.

geometric

geosynclinen/ TjG(T)PSsinTklIn /Gka great downward flexure of Earth'scrust.A deep layer of sediment hasaccumulated in the geosyncline.

geraniumn/ jESrCnGEm /Gk > Lany of a widely distributed genus ofplants having regular usually white,pink, or purple flowers.For decoration, Anita placed apotted geranium at the side of thefront door.

geriatricsn pl/ TjerGSatriks /Gk + Ea branch of medicine that dealswith the problems and diseases ofold age and aging people.Marie’s expertise in geriatricsmade her well qualified to work inthe city’s Department of Aging.

germaneadj/ jE(r)SmCn /L > F > Ehaving a close relationship :appropriate, pertinent.Judge Beacon ruled that theplaintiff’s past record was notgermane to the current case.

germiciden/ SjErmETsId /L > Fan agent that destroys germs (asdisease germs).Mouthwash is a commongermicide.

gerontocracy

gerrymanderv/ SjerGTmandE(r) /American name + Gk > Ldivide (an area) into political unitsso as to give special advantages toone group.The governor vetoed the bill thatwould gerrymander a county infavor of his opponent.

gerundn/ SjerEnd /Lthe English verbal noun ending in -ing.In the sentence “Swimming isClaudia’s favorite activity,” theword swimming is a gerund.

gestapon/ gDSstB(T)pP /G acronyma secret-police organization thatoperates especially against personssuspected of treason or sedition andemploys means held to beunderhanded and terrorist.In the novel, morality becamenothing more than subservience tothe dictates of the ruthless gestapo.

gesticulatev/ jeSstikyETlCt /Lmake gestures or motions of thebody or limbs especially whenspeaking.The way public figures gesticulatewhile talking is often fodder forcomedians.

gesturen/ Sjes(h)chE(r) /La movement usually of the body orlimbs that symbolizes oremphasizes an idea, sentiment, orattitude.When Alex made the winningtouchdown, Coach Miller swunghis hands up in the air as a gestureof victory.


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gesundheitinterj/ gESzUntThIt /G—used to wish good healthespecially to one who has justsneezed.“Gesundheit” echoed throughoutthe school when Mr. Brownsneezed during an intercomannouncement.

ghastliness

ghastlyadj/ SgastlG /Egiving rise to terror : frightening.The gnarled trees appeared ghastlyin the moonlight.

ghetto

ghoul

giallolino

gibberish

gibbousadj/ SjibEs /L > F > Eseen with more than half but not allof the apparent disk of a moon or aplanet illuminated.Vladimir and Sonya took a longromantic walk under the gibbousMoon.

gigantesque

giganticadj/ jISgantik /Gkgreater in size than the usual orexpected.The American flag flying over theservice station is so gigantic that itcan be seen from a mile away.

gimmick

gimmickyadj/ SgimDkG /unknown + Ecfhaving or being like a new andingenious device, scheme, or ideawith a novel or unconventionaltwist.The advertisement displayedgimmicky gizmos, such as awristwatch that played NotreDame’s fight song.

ginghamn/ SgiNEm /Malaya fabric in plain weave made insolid colors, checks, plaids, andstripes.Betsy made curtains of bluegingham for her kitchen.

gingivitisn/ TjinjESvIZDs /Linflammation of the gums.To prevent gingivitis Beth has herteeth cleaned regularly.

ginglymusn/ SjiNglDmEs /Gka hinge joint admitting of motion inone plane only.In health class Jerry learned thatthe humerus and the ulna areconnected by a ginglymus.

giraffen/ jESraf /Ar > Ita large fleet African ruminantmammal that is the tallest of livingquadrupeds and has a very longneck and a short coat with darkblotches separated by pale lines.Each giraffe has a unique patternof coat markings that distinguishesit from all other giraffes.

girth

gizzardn/ SgizE(r)d /Iranian? > L > F > Ethe muscular enlargement of thealimentary canal of birds thatserves to grind the food, itsmuscular action being commonlyassisted by gravel swallowed by thebird.Aunt Lena’s favorite part of thechicken is the gizzard.

glabrescent

glabrousadj/ SglCbrEs /Lhaving an epidermal covering thatis totally or relatively devoid ofhairs or down.Mr. Franklin showed the firstgraders that reptiles, unlikemammals, are completely glabrous.

glacialadj/ SglCshEl /Lextremely cold, frigid, freezing.A glacial wind withered the rosesovernight.

glaciology

gladiatorn/ SgladGTCZE(r) /Celt > La person engaged in a fight to thedeath as public entertainment forancient Romans.The victorious gladiator wascheered by the excited crowd in theColiseum.

glasphalt


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glaucoman/ glOSkPmE /Gk > La disease of the eye marked byincreased pressure within theeyeball that damages the optic diskand results in gradual loss of visionand ultimate blindness.Ophthalmologists routinely test forglaucoma as part of their eyeexaminations.

glaucousadj/ SglOkEs /Gk[has homonym: Glaucus] of a paleyellow green color.The antique glass beads had aglaucous color that matchedPamela’s dress exactly.

glaziern/ SglCzhE(r) /E[has near homonyms: glacier,glazer] one whose work is cuttingand setting glass.Mom called a glazier who agreedto repair our broken window onThursday.

glimpsen/ Sglim(p)s /Ea brief fleeting look : a momentaryor incomplete view.From the taxi the passengerscaught a glimpse of the JeffersonMemorial.

glioman/ glISPmE /Gka tumor arising from the tissuewhich supports the essentialelements of nervous tissue.An examination by our veterinarianrevealed that the problems our dogwas having were caused by aglioma.

glissadev/ glDSsBd /Fmove along smoothly andeffortlessly : glide.Kris watched the skaters glissadeover the frozen pond.

glissandon/ glDSsBn(T)dP /F + Ita rapid series of consecutive notesplayed on a piano, harp, or othersimilar instrument by sliding one ormore fingers across adjacent keysor strings.Joachim diligently practiced theglissando at the end of the firstmovement.

globule

glockenspieln/ SglBkEnTs(h)pGl /Celt > Ga percussion musical instrumentconsisting of a series of graduatedmetal bars tuned to the chromaticscale and played with twohammers.The glockenspiel tinkled to life asits player joined in a rendition ofBeethoven’s “Ode to Joy.”

gloggn/ SglUg /Swa Swedish hot punch made from asweetened highly spiced mixture ofwines, almonds, raisins, andusually orange peel.Each evening a bowl of hot gloggawaited the returning skiers.

glomerulus

glossary

glottogonicadj/ TglBZPSgBnik /Gkof or relating to the origin oflanguage.Three Russian linguists lectured ontheir glottogonic research.

gloxinian/ glBkSsinGE /G namea greenhouse herb having largeflowers with a turbinate calyx andirregular bell-shaped corolla;especially : a Brazilian herb that isthe source of many horticulturalvarieties.Charlena’s gloxinia bears brightpink, trumpetlike flowers in earlysummer.

glucosen/ SglVTkPs /Gk > Fthe sweet colorless sugar thatoccurs especially in plant saps andfruits and normally in blood.Glucose is formed from water andcarbon dioxide by photosynthesis.

gluttonouslyadv/ SglEt(F)nEslG /L > F > Ein a manner marked by excess ineating and drinking especiallywhen habitual.After eating gluttonously, Jack tooka short nap on the couch.

glycogen

gnocchin pl/ SnBkG /Gmc? > Itdumplings of a pasta often madewith cheese or riced potato andserved with a sauce.Celeste ladled a cream sauce overthe gnocchi before serving them.

gnome

gnomon


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goalien/ SgPlG /Ea player who defends the goal invarious games.Jake rifled off shot after shot ongoal, but the goalie was too good.

goateen/ (T)gPStG /Ea small trim pointed or tufted beardon a man’s chin.Sally wanted to know why shecouldn’t have a goatee when shegrew up.

gobemouchen/ (T)gPbSmVsh /F + L > Fa credulous person; especially : onewho believes everything heard.Jack’s brothers are always makingup fantastic stories to tell himbecause he is such a gobemouche.

goldenrodn/ SgPldEnTrBd /E + Ea yellow flower with long stalkswith small clusters of petals.Many people are allergic to thegoldenrod.

golemn/ SgPlEm /Heb > Yiddishan artificial figure constructed torepresent a human being andendowed with life.Some people believe that MaryShelley based her story ofFrankenstein on the ancient Jewishtradition of the golem.

gondola

gondolier

gonfalonn/ SgBnfETlBn /F > It[Note: Could be confused withsynonym gonfanon.] a flag thathangs from a crosspiece or frame.As a distinguished alumnus, Walterwas asked to carry the gonfalon ofthe College of Arts and Sciences atthe graduation ceremony.

gongorismn/ SgBNgETrizEm /Sp namean excessively involved, ornate,and artificial style of writing.In his later years, the poet lapsedinto gongorism.

goosander

gorgeousadj/ SgOrjEs /F > Echaracterized by brilliance ormagnificence of any kind.The parade floats were gorgeouswith their array of flowers.

gorgetn/ SgOrjDt /Fa specially colored patch on thethroat.The woodpecker sported a broadblack gorget and beautiful red andwhite plumage.

gorgonizev/ SgO(r)gETnIz /Gk namestupefy, petrify.The glare of Mrs. McGillicutty hasthe potential to gorgonize even themost arrogant student.

gorillan/ gESrilE /Gk > L[has homonym: guerrilla] ananthropoid ape of the forest regionof equatorial West Africa.The behavior of the gorilla hasbeen extensively studied byanthropologists and zoologists.

gory

goslingn/ SgBzliN /Ea young goose.Judy rescued a stray gosling fromMrs. Porter’s cat.

gossamern/ SgBsEmE(r) /Ea fine filmy substance consisting offragments or strands of cobweboften seen floating in air in calmclear weather or caught on grass orbushes.The dew and gossamer had driedfrom the grass by midmorning.

gossipn/ SgBsDp /Erumor, report, tattle, or behind-the-scenes information especially of anintimate or personal nature.“Turn a deaf ear to gossip,”advised Mrs. Dunbar.

gougen/ SgaUj /Celt > L > F > Ea chisel for scooping or cuttingholes, channels, or grooves (as inwood or stone).Adrian used a gouge to incise aleaf pattern on the bench.


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gouramin/ gVSrBmG /Malayany of several small brightlycolored Asian fishes often kept inthe tropical aquarium.Jonathan bought a colorfulgourami for his new aquarium.

gourd

gourmetn/ TgU(E)rSmC /Fa connoisseur in eating anddrinking.At the market the gourmet chose hisingredients with the greatest ofcare.

governessn/ SgEvE(r)nDs /Gk > L > F > Ea woman entrusted with the careand supervision of a child or youngperson; especially : a femaleteacher employed in a privatehousehold.Alice plans to enroll in a coursethat will enable her to be a certifiedgoverness.

gracile

gracilityn/ graSsilEZG /Lthe quality of being pleasing inmovement.David’s youthful gracility was oneof his chief assets as a dancer.

grackle

gradient

graffiti

grallatorialadj/ TgralEStPrGEl /Lof or belonging to the wading birds.The horned screamer is a SouthAmerican grallatorial bird with along projection on its forehead anda shrill cry.

grammarn/ SgramE(r) /Gk > L > F > Ea branch of linguistic study thatdeals with the classes of words,their means of indicating relation toeach other, and their functions inthe sentence as employed accordingto established usage.Mrs. Cates makes sure that herstudents can define the eight partsof speech before she progresses toother aspects of grammar.

grammatically

gramophilen/ SgramETfIl /Gka lover and protector of oldphonograph records.Earl became a real gramophileafter inheriting his uncle’s recordcollection.

grandeurn/ SgranjE(r) /L > Fpersonal greatness characterizedchiefly by dignity of character,largeness of spirit, or significantscope of accomplishment.After Katherine Graham’s death,many magazines ran featurearticles describing her grandeur inthe world of newspapers.

grandiloquencen/ granSdilEkwEn(t)s /Lthe use of lofty words or phrases :bombast.Professor Simon’s grandiloquencefailed to impress Robbie.

grandioseadj/ SgrandGTPs /L > It > Fimpressive because of uncommonlargeness, scope, effect, grandeur,or majesty.Cleo didn’t want to listen to all ofNicolette’s grandiose ideas for theparty.

granophyre

granule

graphospasm

grapnel

graticulen/ SgraZDTkyVl /Lthe network of lines of latitude andlongitude upon which a map isdrawn.Jeff plotted a graticule before hebegan to draw his map of theislands.

gratinatev/ SgratFnTCt /F > Ecfcook with a covering of butteredcrumbs or grated cheese until acrust or crisp surface forms.Mom decided to gratinate themacaroni for lunch.

gratuitous

gravel

graveolentadj/ grESvGElEnt /Lhaving a rank smell.Elaine quickly disposed of therotten, graveolent egg.


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gravitatev/ SgravETtCt /Lmove casually but inexorably asthough under an external force.Ellen tends to grativate toward theshoe store in any mall.

greffiern/ SgrefGTC /L > Fregistrar, recorder.The office of the greffier is linedwith ledgers.

gregariousadj/ grDSga(a)rGEs /Lmarked by an instinctive ortemperamental preference for asocial rather than a solitaryexistence.Because of their gregarious nature,dogs make good house pets.

grenadiern/ TgrenESdi(E)r /Fa soldier who carries and throwsmissiles consisting of a containerfitted with a priming charge and abursting charge and filled with adestructive agent (as gas, highexplosive, incendiary chemicals).The grenadier started the assault,followed immediately by theriflemen.

gressorialadj/ greSsPrGEl /Ladapted for walking.Some birds, such as the turkey,have gressorial feet.

grievance

grievousadj/ SgrGvEs /F > Ecausing, characterized by, orindicative of severe physical painor suffering.Jason screamed as if the scratch onhis leg were a grievous wound.

grimacen/ SgrimDs /Gmc > Fa deliberate or involuntarydistortion of the face expressive ofsome feeling (as contempt,disapprobation, complacency).The camera caught Allie’s grimaceduring the pep rally.

griotn/ SgrG(T)P /Fany of a class of musician-entertainers of West Africa whoseperformances include tribalhistories and genealogies.While doing research for his bookRoots, Alex Haley was stunned tomeet a griot who was able to tellthe story of how Haley’s ancestorswere captured by slavers and sentto America.

grisaillen/ grDSzI /Fpainting in monochrome usually inshades of gray often as decorationto simulate sculptured relief.The old manuscript contained agrisaille of a skeleton personifyingdeath.

grissini

gristlinessn/ Sgris(E)lGnDs /Ethe quality or state of containingtough fiber or cartilage especiallyin table meats.When Ruth noticed the gristlinessof the beef, she decided to cut it upand cook it in a stew.

gristmill

grizzled

groceries

grocery

groggy

grosgrainn/ SgrPTgrCn /Fa firm fabric in plain weave.The ribbon in Alta’s hair was madeof grosgrain.

grotesque

grovelv/ SgrBvEl /ON > Ecreep on the earth or with the faceto the ground as one’s natural gaitor manner of locomotion.Jacques let his pig grovel throughthe forest to find truffles.

grueln/ SgrVEl /Gmc > F > Ea liquid food made by boiling acereal (as cornmeal, oatmeal, flour)in water or milk.Isabella and her father had a nicebasin of gruel together.

gruyere

guardiann/ SgBrdGEn /F > AF > Eone to whom a person or thing iscommitted for protection, security,or preservation.Alcibiades’ guardian was thefamous statesman Pericles.


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guavan/ SgwBvE /Arawak > Spthe globular yellow fruit of a smallshrubby tropical American tree.A slice of guava topped offRawonda’s fruit salad.

gubernatorialadj/ TgVbE(r)nEStPrGEl /L + Ecfof or relating to a governor orgovernment.The gubernatorial signature wasrequired for the law to becomeeffective.

guerdon

guernseyn/ SgErnzG /E geog namean animal of the breed of fawn andwhite dairy cattle producing richyellowish milk.A lone guernsey grazed in themiddle of the herd of black andwhite holsteins in Mr. Henley’spasture.

guessv/ Sges /Scand? > Eform an opinion or judgment ofwithout knowledge.Harvey decided to guess how muchsugar to put in the pie.

guffawv/ (T)gESfO /imitlaugh noisily or coarsely.The comic hoped that the audiencemembers would guffaw at his jokes,but they merely snickered.

guidonn/ SgIdBn /OProv > Fa usually swallow-tailed flag borneby a military unit usually as a unitmarker.Leah was selected to carry theguidon in the ROTC parade.

guignolet

guile

guillemot

guillochen/ gDSlPsh /F name?a pattern (as on metalwork) madeby interlacing curved lines.The dense guilloche on the irongate prevented people fromreaching through to turn the insideknob.

guillotinen/ SgilETtGn /F namea machine for beheading by meansof a heavy ax or blade that slidesdown in vertical guides.The guillotine was considered amerciful means of capitalpunishment when it was invented.

guipure

guitarn/ gDStBr /Gk > Ar > Sp > F[Note: Could be confused withcatarrh.] a flat-bodied stringedinstrument with a long fretted neckand usually six strings plucked witha pick or with the fingers.Brett’s parents bought him anacoustic guitar for his 15thbirthday.

gullibilityn/ TgElESbilEZG /E + Ecffthe quality or state of being easilydeceived.Gertrude’s gullibility made her theobject of many practical jokes.

gullible

gulosityn/ gyVSlBsEZG /Lexcessive appetite : greediness.It would be much easier for Roslynto lose weight if she could curb hergulosity.

gummiferousadj/ TgESmif(E)rEs /Egypt > Gk > L + Lproducing or bearing a colloidalsubstance that is gelatinous whenmoist but hardens on drying.A sapodilla is a gummiferous tree.

gummosisn/ TgESmPsDs /Lthe pathological production ofsticky exudates in plants as a resultof cell degeneration.Plants afflicted with gummosis areoften beset with ants.

gumptionn/ SgEm(p)shEn /unknownblended initiative, resolution, andeffort.Of all his brothers, only Grandpahad the gumption to leave the oldcountry and come to America.

gurneyn/ SgErnG /American namea wheeled cot or stretcher.The gurney squeaked ominously asHeywood was wheeled into theoperating room.


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gustatoryadj/ SgEstETtOrG /L + Ecfof, relating to, affecting, orassociated with the sense of taste.Gaylord was hired as a food tasterbecause of his highly refinedgustatory skills.

gutturaladj/ SgEZErEl /L > Fbeing or belonging to a speechsound that is articulated in thethroat.Guttural consonants posed aproblem for Emily in German class.

gutturalizev/ SgEZErElIz /L + Ecfpronounce or utter with soundsarticulated in the throat.Because of her Germanbackground, Ursula has a tendencyto gutturalize certain words.

gymkhanan/ jimSkBnE /Per&Gk > Hindia horseback-riding meet featuringgames and novelty contests.Clem practiced daily with his horseso that he could enter severalevents in the upcoming gymkhana.

gymnasium

gypsumn/ SjipsEm /Sem > Gk > Lplasterboard.Kiki nailed a sheet of gypsum to thegarage wall.

gyratev/ SjITrCt /Gk > Lturn or swing back and forth oftenrapidly with or as if with a circularor spiral motion.Couples on the dance floor startedto gyrate as a new song began.

gyrations

gyroscope

gyroscopic

haberdashern/ ShabE(r)TdashE(r) /AF > Ea dealer in men’s furnishings (asshirts, ties, hats).Another upscale haberdasher hasopened a shop on Brighton Street.

habiliment

habilimentsn pl/ hESbilEmEn(t)s /Fclothing suited to or characteristicof a calling, occupation, orprofession : garb, costume.Burt dressed for the rodeo in thehabiliments of a cowboy.

habilitate

habitatn/ ShabETtat /Lthe place where a plant or animalspecies naturally lives and grows.The government appropriatedmoney to preserve the naturalhabitat of the endangered species.

habitualadj/ hESbich(E)wEl /Lestablished by or repeated by forceof a developed mode of behaviorthat has become nearly orcompletely involuntary.Brian had to explain his habitualtardiness to the assistant principal.

haciendan/ T(h)BsGSendE /L > Spthe main building of a farm orranch.A winding, tree-lined driveway ledto the hacienda.

hackamoren/ ShakETmP(E)r /Ar > Spa bridle that consists of a halteroften of soft rope or braidedhorsehair and is used especially inbreaking and training horses.Charlene pulled back on thehackamore and cried “Whoa!”

hacked

hackneyedadj/ ShaknGd /E geog namecommonplace : trite.The marketing adjective extremewill soon be as hackneyed as superand ultra.

haggardadj/ ShagE(r)d /Fhaving a worn or emaciatedappearance caused by suffering,anxiety, or age.Ever since she last saw him in thecourtroom, Frank’s haggard faceand wild eyes had haunted her.

haggisn/ ShagDs /Ea pudding especially popular inScotland made of the heart, liver,and lungs of a sheep or a calfminced with suet, onions, oatmeal,and seasonings and boiled in thestomach of the animal.Haggis is often served on January25, the birthday of the Scottish poetRobert Burns.

hagiocracy

hagiography


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haikun/ ShITkV /Jpnan unrhymed verse form ofJapanese origin having three linescontaining usually five, seven, andfive syllables, respectively.Compressing an image or idea intoonly 17 syllables is what makes ahaiku most challenging to compose.

halberdier

halcyonadj/ ShalsGEn /Gk > L > Epleasingly or idyllically calm orpeaceful : serene.Aaron spent the halcyon afternoonin his hammock.

halibutn/ ShalEbEt /Ethe largest of the flatfishes, beingan inhabitant of all northern seas.At the aquarium, Ernie saw ahalibut the size of a sleeping bag.

halieuticsn pl/ ThalGS(y)VZiks /Gkthe art or practice of fishing.Izaak Walton's The CompleatAngler is the most famous book onhalieutics.

halitosisn/ ThalEStPsDs /La condition of having bad breath.The new mouthwash is advertisedto cure halitosis.

hallucinationn/ hETlVsFnSCshEn /Lperception of objects with noreality.Maynard swears that the ghost hesaw was no hallucination.

hallucinogenn/ hESlVsFnFTjen /L + Gka substance that inducesperceptions of objects with noreality; especially : one takenorally.The medicine that the doctorsprescribed was an effective painkiller, but in larger doses itsometimes became a frighteninghallucinogen.

halophyten/ ShalETfIt /Gk + Gka plant that grows naturally in soilshaving a high content of varioussalts.Australian aborigines grind intoflour the seeds of a halophyte thatgrows in the coastal mud flats.

hamadryadn/ ThamESdrITad /Gk > La nymph of trees and woods;especially : a nymph whose lifebegins and ends with that of aparticular tree.Darcy sat on a bench in thearboretum and imagined she was ahamadryad.

hamartian/ ThBTmBrStGE /Gka defect of character : error, guilt,or sin especially of the tragic heroin a literary work.Overweening ambition proved to beMacbeth’s hamartia.

hamateadj/ ShCTmCt /Lhooked.Elliott examined the hamate hairson the insect’s forelegs.

hammering

hammock

hamulus

handleable

hansomn/ Shan(t)sEm /E name[has homonym: handsome] a lighttwo-wheeled covered carriage withthe driver’s seat elevated behindand with the reins passed over thetop.Holmes and Watson jumped into ahansom and ordered the driver tofollow discreetly the cab ahead.

haphazardadj/ hapShazE(r)d /ON > E + Ar > F > Eaimless, random.The apartment’s haphazardfurniture arrangement made it lookuntidy.

haplologyn/ haSplBlEjG /Gkcontraction of a word by theomission of one or more similarsounds or syllables inpronunciation.The use of “probly” instead ofprobably in hasty speech is anexample of haplology.

happiness

haranguen/ hESraN /Gmc? > It > F > Ea bombastic, ranting speech.Amasa’s harangue at thesophomore assembly offendednearly everyone.

harass

harbingern/ ShBrbDnjEr /Gmc > F > Esomething that presages orforeshadows what is to come.The howling wind was theharbinger of a storm.


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hardinessn/ ShBrdGnDs /Ethe capability of endurance orresistance.The rose’s hardiness was severelytested by a cold snap.

haren/ Sha(a)(E)r /E[has homonym: hair] any ofvarious timid long-eared gnawingmammals with a divided upper lip,long strong hind legs adapted toleaping, and a short tail.Most schoolchildren have heard thestory of the tortoise and the hare.

haricotn/ SharETkP /Fthe ripe seed or the unripe pod ofany of several beans used as avegetable.The baby nibbled on a haricot andwrinkled her nose.

Harlequinadj/ ShBrlDk(w)Dn /E > F > It > Fa stock character in comedy andpantomime who appears variouslyas a clown and a magician andusually wears a mask andvariegated tights and carries awooden sword.The children especially enjoyed thebuffoonish antics of the Harlequin.

harmonica

harnessn/ ShBrnDs /ON > F > Ethe gear or tackle other than a yokeof a draft animal such as a horse.The horse pulling the carriagethrough Central Park had silverbells on its harness that jingledwhenever the driver shook thereins.

harpoon

harpsichordn/ ShBrpsETkOrd /L > Ita keyboard instrument resemblingthe grand piano in shape andproducing tones by the plucking ofwire strings with quills or leatherpoints.Kristin heard the jangling tones ofthe harpsichord through thepractice room door.

harridann/ SharEdEn /F?a haggard old woman.Ruth asked a woman in the townsquare if she could take herpicture, but the harridan just shookher fist at her and walked away.

harrier

harrumphv/ hESrEm(p)f /imitmake a pompous throat-clearingsound.Monique wished that Mr. Nickelswouldn’t harrumph directly into themicrophone.

hartaln/ hBrStBl /Hindiconcerted cessation of work andbusiness especially as a protestagainst a political situation.The Goa liberation committeecalled a hartal on Friday inmemory of Indians killed byPortuguese fire on Monday.

hartebeestn/ ShBrZETbGst /D > Afrikaansa large African antelope with shortringed divergent horns.The hartebeest grazes mainly onthe open plains and scrublands ofsub-Saharan Africa.

hassockn/ ShasDk /Ea bulky upholstered footstool.Phyllis decided to purchase thewing chair with the matchinghassock.

hatchet

hauberkn/ ShO(T)bErk /Gmc > F > Ea long tunic of ring or chain mailthat with a close-fitting helmet anda shield constituted the maindefensive armor of the 12th to 14thcenturies.Most of the Norman soldiers worea hauberk, which was put on overthe head.

haulagen/ ShOlij /Gmc > F > Ea charge made for transportingsomething.Paul's final bill for his new carincluded haulage for transportationfrom the factory to the dealer.

hauntedadj/ ShOntEd /Gmc > F > Einhabited by or as if by apparitions: frequented by ghosts.The deserted Victorian houseoutside town is said to be haunted.

hauteurn/ hOStEr /F[has near homonyms: auteur andhotter] an assumption of superiority: arrogant or condescendingmanner.The young couple was put off bythe waiter’s hauteur.

haversack


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havocn/ ShavEk /Gmc > F > AF > Ewide and general damage ordestruction.The havoc created by the hurricanemade the area look like a war zone.

hazardousadj/ ShazE(r)dEs /Ar > F > Eexposed or exposing one to dangeror peril.The mountain road has manyhazardous curves.

headache

hearthn/ ShBrth /Ea brick, stone, or cement area offloor in front of a fireplace.Toby placed a plate of cookies anda glass of milk on the hearth forSanta.

heathenn/ ShGLEn /Ea person whose culture orenlightenment is of an inferiorgrade.Embarrassed by her brother’sbehavior in front of her friends,Simone asked her mother to sendthe little heathen outside.

heathern/ SheLE(r) /Ea common evergreen low-growingshrubby plant that has racemes oftiny usually purplish pink flowers.The true heather of Scotland is alsocalled “ling” or “common heath.”

hebdomadn/ ShebdETmad /Gka group of seven.Though some people think there isjust a hebdomad of stars in thePleiades, there are actually manymore.

hebetatev/ ShebETtCt /Lblunt the sensitivity or keenness of: make dull or obtuse.Some parents fear that video gameshebetate young minds.

hebetude

heckelphone

hectaren/ ShekTta(a)(E)r /Gk > F + L > Fa metric unit of area equal to10,000 square meters.The firefighters reported that morethan a hectare of land was on fire.

hedgehogn/ ShejThOg /Eany of several Old World nocturnalspine-bearing mammals.Prudence spotted a hedgehog in thestrawberry patch.

hedgingly

hegemonyn/ hDSjemEnG /Gkpreponderant influence or authority(as of a government or state) :leadership, dominance.Nazi Germany attempted worldhegemony and failed.

heifern/ ShefE(r) /Ea young cow.This year’s blue-ribbon heiferbelongs to Mrs. Cates.

heinous

heinousnessn/ ShCnEsnDs /Gmc > F > E + Ecfthe quality or state of beinghatefully or shockingly evil.Even the police were appalled bythe heinousness of the crime.

heiressn/ SerDs /L > F > E[has near homonym: eros] a femalewho inherits or is entitled to inheritgreat wealth.Antoine dreamed that he marriedan heiress and moved to an island.

heirloom

heldentenor

helicon

helicopter

heliography

heliolatry

heliophobousadj/ ThGlGSBfEbEs /Gk + Gk + Ecfavoiding the sun : shade-loving.Jackie planted ferns, hostas, andother heliophobous plants in hershady garden.

heliotrope

helium

helmeted


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helotryn/ ShelEtrG /Gk > L + Ecfthe slaves or serfs of a country oran estate.In ancient Sparta the helotry wasrequired to serve in the army.

hemeralopian/ ThemErESlPpGE /Gka defect of vision characterized byreduced visual capacity in brightlights.A deficiency of vitamin A can leadto hemeralopia.

hemispheren/ ShemDTsfi(E)r /Gka half of the celestial sphere.Vince’s star chart depicts allvisible heavenly objects in thehemisphere.

hemophiliacn/ ThGmESfilGTak /Gkone affected with a tendency touncontrolled bleeding.A hemophiliac must take care toavoid even minor cuts and bruises.

hemorrhage

hemorrhagic

hendiadysn/ henSdIEdDs /Gkthe expression of an idea by twonouns connected by and instead ofby a noun and an adjective.Thierry used the hendiadys ironand bit to denote an iron bit.

hennan/ ShenE /Ara reddish brown dye used in tintingthe hair, skin, or nails red.The ancient use of henna isconfirmed by the presence of thedye in Egyptian mummies.

henninn/ ShenDn /Fa high cone-shaped headdressusually with a thin veil pendentfrom the top worn by Europeanwomen in the 15th century.Lady Agnes appeared at the king’sball wearing an elegant hennin.

hepatitisn/ ThepEStIZDs /Gk > Linflammation of the liver.Serum hepatitis can be transmittedthrough blood transfusions andunsterilized hypodermic needles.

heptarchy

herbaceousadj/ (h)ErSbCshEs /Lof, relating to, or having thecharacteristics of a nonwoodyplant.Monique surrounded her patio withherbaceous perennials.

herbalistn/ S(h)ErbElDst /L + Ecffone that collects, grows, or deals inmedicinal plants.Lisa consulted an herbalistregarding her wart.

herbariumn/ T(h)ErSba(a)rGEm /La room, building, or institutionhousing a collection of dried plantspecimens.Jackson was looking forward tovisiting the herbarium while onvacation.

hercogamy

Herculeanadj/ ThErkyESlGEn /Gk name > Lof heroic proportions.Jim’s competitor was known for hisHerculean frame and greatstrength.

hereditary

heresyn/ SherEsG /Gkdissent from a dominant theory oropinion in any field.Much of what used to beconsidered scientific heresy is nowregarded as truth.

hereticaladj/ hDSreZDkEl /Lof, relating to, or characterized bydeparture from accepted beliefs orstandards : unorthodox.A free society allows the expressionof all opinions, however hereticalthey may seem.

heritage

hermeneuticsn pl/ ThErmESn(y)VZiks /Gkthe study of the general principlesof biblical interpretation.Experts in hermeneutics met todiscuss the Dead Sea scrolls.


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hermeticallyadv/ hE(r)SmeZDk(E)lG /Gk + Ecffin a manner that prevents entry orchange.With its flowered wallpaper andquaint furniture, the old houselooked as though it had beenhermetically sealed sometime in the1880s.

hermit

hermitagen/ ShErmDZij /Gk + L > Fa secluded residence or privateretreat.Dave’s father has always dreamedof living in the city during the weekand escaping to some countryhermitage on the weekends.

heroicadj/ hDSrPik /Gk > Larising from, exhibiting, orsuggestive of boldness, spirit, ordaring.The mountain climbers made aheroic effort to reach the peak.

heroinen/ SherEwDn /Gk > L[has homonym: heroin] theprincipal female character in adrama, novel, story, or narrativepoem.In the melodrama the spunkyheroine took the law into her ownhands and brought down thevillain.

herpetologyn/ ThErpEStBlEjG /Gk > La branch of the science of animallife that treats of reptiles andamphibians.Jason studied herpetology to learnabout the habits of cold-bloodedcreatures.

herring

hesitancy

hesthogenous

heteroclite

heterodoxadj/ SheZErETdBks /Gkdiffering from an establishedreligious point of view.Father O’Driscoll holds a fewheterodox opinions that astonishhis parish.

heterogeneous

heuristicadj/ S(h)yUTristik /Gkof or relating to exploratoryproblem-solving techniques thatutilize self-educating strategies toimprove performance.The computer that beat GaryKasparov in the chess tournamentwas programmed to use heuristicmethods.

hexamethyl

hibachin/ hGSbBchG /Jpna charcoal brazier.Antoni’s hot dog fell through thegrill of the hibachi onto theglowing coals below.

hibernate

hibiscusn/ hISbiskEs /Lany plant or flower of a largewidely distributed genus of herbs,shrubs, or small trees with dentateor lobed leaves and large showyflowers.Darla planted a hibiscus outsideher bedroom window.

hideousadj/ ShidGEs /F > Eoffensive to the sight : gruesome,ugly.During the thunderstorm, Erniesaw a hideous face at the window.

hiemaladj/ ShIEmEl /Lof or relating to winter : wintry.Inger’s favorite hiemal activity isskiing.

hierarchyn/ ShIETrBrkG /Gk > L > F > Ea form of government administeredby an authoritarian group.Michelle’s study of hierarchy madeher appreciate living in the UnitedStates.

hieroglyphn/ ShI(E)rETglif /Gka character used in a system ofwriting mainly in pictorialcharacters.The Egyptian hieroglyph for theword king was a royal headcomplete with beard.

hieroglyphicsn pl/ ThI(E)rPSglifiks /Gkcharacters in the ancient Egyptianwriting system which are for themost part recognizable pictures ofobjects.Egyptian hieroglyphics remained amystery until the Rosetta Stoneprovided the key to decipheringthem.


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hierophantn/ ShI(E)rETfant /Gka priest in ancient Greece.The hierophant portrayed in Tim’shistory book was dressed in ananimal skin and wore a crown ofleaves.

hilarious

Himalayann/ ThimESlCEn /Asian geog nameany of a breed of domestic catsdeveloped by crossing the Persianand Siamese.A Himalayan won “Best of Show”in the local cat competition thiswinter.

hippodromen/ ShipETdrPm /Gk > L > Fan arena for equestrianperformances.The circus horses performed for thespectators in the hippodrome.

hippogriffn/ ShipETgrif /Gk > L > It > F[Note: Could be confused withhippogriffin.] a legendary animalhaving the foreparts of a wingedgriffin and the body andhindquarters of a horse.The Gothic cathedral containedmany strange carvings, including ahippogriff and several gargoyles.

hippopotamianadj/ Thi(T)pPpEStCmGEn /Gk > L + Ecfunwieldy because of massive size.Uncle Lon’s hippopotamianarmchair takes up half the livingroom.

hippopotamusn/ ThipESpBZEmEs /Gkany of various large herbivorousfour-toed chiefly aquatic mammalswith an extremely large head andmouth, bare and very thick skin,and short legs.The hippopotamus spends most ofthe day in water because in thewarm, dry air it loses waterthrough its skin.

hippotigrineadj/ ThipEStIgrDn /Gk + Gkof or relating to the zebra.The city zoo has a special exhibiton the hippotigrine environment.

hircineadj/ ShErTsIn /Lof, relating to, or resembling a goat;especially : resembling a goat insmell.After the week-long camping trip,the Flidre family was relieved toget out of their hircine clothes andinto the shower.

hirsute

hirundineadj/ hDSrEndDn /Lof, relating to, or resembling theswallow.The hirundine population in near-equatorial countries rises sharplywhen autumn returns to thenorthern hemisphere.

histrionic

histrionicsn pl/ ThistrGSBniks /Ltheatrical performances.Teresa loved the theater from anearly age and excelled inhistrionics while in school.

hitchhike

hoarsenessn/ ShP(E)rsnDs /Ethe quality or state of having arough-sounding voice.Paul’s remedy for hoarseness is hotwater with lemon.

hoaxn/ ShPks /unknown[has homonym: hokes] an actintended to trick or dupe : a pieceof trickery.Sarah forwarded the e-mailmessage, unaware she wasparticipating in a hoax.

hoboism

hoeing

hoistv/ ShOist /imit D or Graise, lift, elevate.Manuel decided to use a crane tohoist the stone into place.

hokkun/ ShO(T)kV /Jpna fixed lyric form of Japaneseorigin having three short unrhymedlines of five, seven, and fivesyllables and being typicallyepigrammatic or suggestive.Haiku, the most familiar form ofhokku, pertains to the seasons.

holard

holiness

hollandaise

hollyhock


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holocaustn/ ShBlETkOst /Gka complete or thorough sacrifice ordestruction especially by fire.Many lives were lost in the hotelholocaust.

homburgn/ ShBmTbErg /Ga man’s hat of smooth-finished feltwith a stiff curled brim and a hightapered crown creased lengthwise.The villain in the movie wore adark suit and a black homburg.

homelyadj/ ShPmlG /Ecommonplace, familiar.Mr. Mann can translate the mostcomplex issue into homely terms.

homespun

homesteadn/ ShPmzTted /E + Ethe home and land of a family;especially : ancestral home.The city offered reduced propertytaxes on any homestead occupiedby the legal owner.

homilyn/ ShBmElG /Gka lecture or discussion on a moraltheme : admonition.At the baccalaureate service, Mr.Lopez gave a brief homily on thetheme “To thine own self be true.”

hominy

homogenized

homologous

homonym

homophonous

honorificn/ TBnESrifik /Lconferring or conveying publicesteem.Dr. Ellerman received an honorificwreath at the banquet.

hoochinoo

hoodwink

horden/ ShP(E)rd /Mongolic > Pol > G&F[has homonym: hoard] a vastnumber : crowd, swarm.To prepare for the horde oftourists, the police department isusing computer modeling to aid inlogistics.

horizontaladj/ ThOrESzBntFl /L + Ecfplaced or operating in a planeparallel to the horizon.Lori wore a sweater with red andblue horizontal stripes.

hormone

horologiumn/ ThOrESlPj(G)Em /Lan instrument (as a clock) formeasuring time.A sundial was the ancientEgyptians’ horologium.

horrendous

horripilationn/ hOTripESlCshEn /La bristling of the hair of the head orbody (as from disease, terror, orchilliness) : gooseflesh.Jennifer reacted to the movie’sscary scenes with noticeablehorripilation.

horticulturen/ ShO(r)ZETkElchE(r) /Lthe science and art of growingfruits, vegetables, flowers, orornamental plants.Mr. Sakai’s skill in horticulture haswon him many blue ribbons atgarden shows.

hosannan/ hPSzanE /Heb > Gk > L > Ean expression of enthusiastic praise: acclamation.Mr. Wong greeted Katya with aloud hosanna.

hospicen/ ShBspDs /La facility or program designed toprovide a caring environment forsupplying the physical andemotional needs of the terminallyill.Rebekah works as a counselor at ahospice for the elderly.

hospitable

hospitality

hostage

hostelryn/ ShBstFlrG /L > F > Ea place where food and lodging areavailable to the traveler : inn, hotel.To celebrate their tenthanniversary, the Mortons returnedto the French hostelry where theyspent their honeymoon.

hotelless

howel


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howitzern/ ShaUDtsE(r) /Czech > G > Da cannon employed to fireprojectiles at a target (as enemyartillery behind a ridge) whichcannot be reached by flat-trajectoryweapons.Corporal Slater towed the howitzerto the base of the ridge.

hoylen/ ShOil /unknowna natural object used as an archerymark at short range.Martha used a large mushroom inher backyard as a hoyle.

hubbubn/ ShETbEb /Celt?a noisy confusion of sound.In the hubbub after the concert,Bronwen did not notice thepickpocket who took her wallet.

hubristicallyadv/ hyVSbristDk(E)lG /Gkinsolently, vainly, arrogantly.Lance’s opinions, though brilliantand sound, are unwelcome becausehe conveys them so hubristically.

huisache

humaneadj/ hyVSmCn /L > F > Emarked by compassion, sympathy,or consideration for other humanbeings or animals.Sharon received an award for herhumane treatment of stray pets.

humectantn/ hyVSmektEnt /La substance that promotes retentionof moisture.Toothpastes contain a humectant tocarry the abrasive and otheragents.

humerus

humidorn/ ShyVmETdO(E)r /L or F + Ecfa case or enclosure (as for storingcigars) in which the air is keptproperly humidified.Art always kept his expensivecigars in a humidor.

humiliationn/ (T)hyVTmilGSCshEn /L > F > Ethe state of being reduced to alower position in one's own eyes orthe eyes of another : an instance ofbeing humbled.Mary did not even try to controlher rage and humiliation.

humoresquen/ T(h)yVmESresk /(E + Fcf) > Ga musical composition typicallywhimsical or fanciful in character.Schumann’s opus 88 is ahumoresque for violin, cello, andpiano.

hundredthadj/ ShEndrDdth /Ebeing number 100 in a countableseries.Residents lined the streets to watchthe parade on Danville’s hundredthanniversary.

hurl

hurricanen/ ShErETkCn /Taino > Spa tropical cyclone with winds of 73miles per hour or greater.When the townspeople realized thatthe hurricane was heading theirway, they boarded up theirwindows and evacuated.

hurtle

hussarn/ hESzBr /L > Serb > Hung[Note: Could be confused withhuzza, huzzah.] a member of thelight cavalry of various Europeanarmies usually distinguished by abrilliant much-decorated uniform.In a short story by Thomas Hardy,a young Englishwoman has an ill-fated romance with a homesickGerman hussar.

hutch

hyacinthn/ ShIETsin(t)th /Gk > La common garden flower widelygrown for its beauty and fragrance.Mimi planted a hyacinth right nextto her screened porch.

hyalithe

hybridn/ ShIbrDd /Lan offspring of two animals orplants of different races, breeds,varieties, species, or genera.A hybrid often has increased vigorand strength.

hybridizev/ ShIbrDTdIz /Lcause to produce offspring that area cross between breeds : interbreed.Horace is attempting to hybridize alarge, showy, red rose and asmaller, more fragrant variety.


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hydrangean/ hISdrCnjE /Gk > Lany of a genus of shrubs of thefamily Saxifragaceae having showyclusters of usually sterile white ortinted flowers.Although the flowers of thehydrangea are spectacular, theleaves are poisonous.

hydrantn/ ShIdrEnt /Gka discharge pipe with a valve andspout at which water may be drawnfrom the mains of waterworks.The city workers affixed a metalrod with a red diamond on the topof the hydrant in Mishi’s yard sothey would be able to find it if itsnowed.

hydraulicadj/ hISdrOlik /Gk > Loperated, moved, or effected bymeans of water.The stream and the waterwheelwere sure signs that the grain millwas operated by hydraulic power.

hydrofoil

hydrogenn/ ShIdrDjEn /Gk > Fa nonmetallic element that is thesimplest and lightest of theelements and which is normally acolorless, odorless, and highlyflammable diatomic gas.Hydrogen and oxygen are thecomponents of water.

hydrolysisn/ hISdrBlEsDs /Gk + Gka chemical process ofdecomposition involving thesplitting of a bond and the additionof the hydrogen cation and thehydroxide anion of water.Digestive enzymes promote thehydrolysis of nutrients into simplercompounds.

hydrophilousadj/ hISdrBfElEs /Gkpollinated by the agency of water.The ultimate adaptation to aquaticlife is the formation of completelysubmerged hydrophilous flowers.

hyetologyn/ ThIEStBlEjG /Gka branch of meteorology that dealswith precipitation (as of rain orsnow).Even a period of extended droughtcan be of interest to a student ofhyetology.

hygiene

hygienist

hymnn/ Shim /Gka song of praise to God.Wesley remembered every hymnfrom his days at the Episcopalschool.

hymnodyn/ ShimnEdG /Gka body of hymns of a specified kindor period.Gospel songs enjoy wide popularityin American hymnody.

hypaethral

hyperbolen/ hISpErbE(T)lG /Gkextravagant exaggeration thatrepresents something as muchgreater or less, better or worse, ormore intense than it really is or thatdepicts the impossible as actual.To say that life as we know it willnever be the same after the nextelection is hyperbole.

hypercriticaladj/ ThIpE(r)SkriZDkEl /Gkmeticulously or excessivelyinclined to notice faults andimperfections.Ellen’s skating coach washypercritical of her technique theday before a competition.

hyperglycemian/ ThIpE(r)glISsGmGE /Gkexcess of sugar in the blood.Since diabetes runs in her family,Carla is regularly tested forhyperglycemia.

hypertensionn/ ThIpE(r)StenchEn /Gk + Labnormally high arterial bloodpressure.Doctors recommend reducing saltintake for patients withhypertension.

hypertrophicadj/ ThIpErStrBfik /Gk + Gk + Ecfaffected with or tending towardovergrowth or excessivedevelopment of an organ or part.After Blake lost one kidney, theother became hypertrophic.

hyphen

hypnology


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hypochondrian/ ThIpESkBndrGE /Gkextreme depression of mind orspirits often centered on imaginaryphysical ailments.Having found nothing physicallywrong with her, Sylvia’s doctornoted that her persistent complaintsabout her health are probably dueto hypochondria.

hypochondriacn/ ThIpESkBndrGTak /Gkone whose depression is centeredon imaginary physical ailments.Colin was an hysterical half-crazylittle hypochondriac.

hypocorismn/ hISpBkETrizEm /Gka pet name or term of endearment.Susan’s parents bestowed thehypocorism “Bubbles” on herwhen she was a toddler.

hypocrisyn/ hDSpBkrEsG /Gk > L > F > Ethe act or practice of pretending tobe what one is not or to haveprinciples or beliefs that one doesnot have.The abominable proceeding wasnothing but a system of hypocrisyand deceit, espionage andtreachery.

hypodermic

hypothesis

hypothetical

hypotrophyn/ hISpBtrEfG /Gksubnormal growth.Nutritional deficiency resulted inhypotrophy among the aborigines.

hypsography

hyssopn/ ShisEp /Sem > Gk > L > F > Ea European mint that has highlyaromatic and pungent leaves and isoften cultivated in gardens as aremedy for bruises.Aunt Cara made a paste of hyssopand oil and applied it to Darien’sbruised shoulder.

hysterian/ hDSsterGE /Gk > Lconduct or an outbreak of conductexhibiting unmanageable fear oremotional excess.Hysteria overcame the defendantwhen the guilty verdict wasannounced.

hystericaladj/ hiSsterDkEl /Gkexhibiting unrestrainedemotionalism.When their team won the worldchampionship, the fans becamehysterical with joy.

icequake

ichneumonn/ ikSn(y)VmEn /Gkany member of the insect familyIchneumonidae.The ichneumon burrowed into thecaterpillar larva, providing anatural check on the destructiveinsect.

ichnoliten/ SiknETlIt /Gka fossil footprint.The museum guide showed us anichnolite of a plesiosaur.

ichthyologyn/ TikJGSBlEjG /Gka branch of zoology that deals withfishes.Mr. Pout didn’t need a degree inichthyology to see that he hadcaught a dead branch.

iciclen/ SITsikEl /Ea pendent usually conical mass ofice formed by the freezing ofdripping water.By evening, the longest iciclehanging from the eaves had grownto about two feet.

iconoclastn/ ISkBnETklast /Gk > Lone who attacks established beliefs,ideals, customs, or institutions.Malcolm has always consideredhimself the iconoclast of the family.

icosahedronn/ TITkPsEShGdrEn /Gka figure or solid formed by 20plane faces.The icosahedron occurs frequentlyin nature in molecular and viralstructures.

identical

idiosyncraticadj/ TidGPTsinSkraZik /Gkmarked by a peculiarity of physicalor mental constitution ortemperament.In his autobigraphy Andrewdescribed the idiosyncraticbehavior of his zany upper-classfamily.


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idiosyncraticallyadv/ TidGETsinSkraZDk(E)lG /G > Ein a manner peculiar to theindividual.Because Emily Dickinson wrote soidiosyncratically, her poems areimmediately recognizable.

idly

idolater

idolatry

idyllicadj/ ISdilik /Gkpleasing or picturesque in itsnatural simplicity.The Elsons spent a week in anidyllic little town in the Pyrenees.

igneousadj/ SignGEs /Lof, relating to, or suggestive of fire.The igneous desert air shimmeredon the horizon.

ignominious

ignominyn/ SignETminG /L > Fdisgraceful or dishonorableconduct, quality, or action.Although the coward was glad tobe alive, he felt the ignominy ofabandoning his comrades.

ignoramusn/ TignESrCmEs /Lan utterly uninformed person :dunce.Schuyler is so afraid of his ownintelligence that he refuses to speakin class and refers to himself as a“happy ignoramus.”

ignorance

ikebanan/ TikDSbBnE /Jpnthe Japanese art of flower arrangingthat emphasizes form and balance.Hana is trained in ikebana, and herarrangements are displayed inmany restaurants throughout thecity.

ileitisn/ TilGSIZDs /Linflammation of the lower smallintestine.Stella mistook her ileitis forindigestion.

iliacus

illegitimate

illeism

illicit

illiterate

illuminatin pl/ DTlVmESnBZ(T)G /L > Itpersons who are or who claim to beunusually enlightened.The mayoral candidate workedhard to win the support of the city’silluminati.

illuminationn/ DTlVmESnCshEn /L > F > Ea giving of physical light or thestate of being lighted up.Because of its many windows,Sarah’s office always has ampleillumination.

illusion

illustratev/ SilETstrCt /Lmake clear by giving or by servingas an example or instance.The stained-glass windowsillustrate the Nativity scene.

illustration

image

imagery

imaginaryadj/ DSmajETnerG /Lhaving no real existence : existingonly in imagination or fancy :fictitious, hypothetical.Not all of the characters in thenovelist’s best seller wereimaginary.

imbecilen/ SimbEsEl /L > Fone marked by mental deficiency.The professor told his students thatthey should not be writing as iftheir reader were an imbecile.

imbecilicadj/ TimbESsilik /L > F + Ecfcharacteristic or suggestive of onethat acts stupidly or recklessly.Iris effectively tuned out herbrother-in-law as he describedanother of his imbecilic money-making schemes.

imitative

immalleableadj/ i(m)SmalGEbEl /L > F > Enot open to outside forces orinfluences : unyielding, rigid.Dean remained immalleable in hisrefusal to resign.


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immatureadj/ imTmEStU(E)r /Llacking complete growth ordevelopment.The immature insect resembles theadult in form and eating habits butdiffers in size, body proportions,and color pattern.

immenseadj/ DSmen(t)s /L > Fcharacterized by greatness in sizeor degree.Wilbur’s portliness is a reflectionof his immense appetite.

immersion

imminentadj/ SimEnEnt /Lready to take place : near at hand.Although Ellen’s departure datewas imminent, she was not ready togo.

immiscibleadj/ i(m)SmisEbEl /Lnot capable of mixing or beingmixed.Oil and water are immiscible.

immiserization

immolatev/ SimETlCt /L[has near homonym: emulate]sacrifice or abnegate (as oneself)usually in the interests of somecause or objective.Sheri persuaded the monk not toimmolate himself in protest.

immortaladj/ i(m)SmOrZFl /Lconnected with or possessingeverlasting life.The priest warned his flock of themany dangers to their immortalsouls, such as envy, greed, andsloth.

immuredv/ DSmyU(E)rd /L[has near homonyms: enured,inured] enclosed within or as ifwithin walls.While Sir Walter Raleigh wasimmured in the Tower of London,he used his time to write hisHistorie of the World.

immutableadj/ i(m)SmyVZEbEl /Lnot capable of or susceptible tochange.The immutable laws ofthermodynamics preclude theinvention of a perpetual motionmachine.

impair

impalpableadj/ imSpalpEbEl /L + L + Lincapable of being felt by thetouch.The puppy began chasing hisimpalpable shadow.

imparisyllabic

impassen/ SimTpas /Fbarrier, deadlock.A rockslide created an impasse onthe mountain road.

impeccableadj/ TimSpekEbEl /Lfree from fault or blame : flawless.A background investigationaffirmed the candidate’simpeccable character.

impeccancy

impecunious

impedancen/ DmSpGdFn(t)s /Lthe apparent opposition in anelectrical circuit to the flow of analternating current that is analagousto the actual electrical resistance toa direct current.A high-fidelity amplifier must havea low output impedance to makeloudspeakers produce naturalsound.

impedimentn/ DmSpedEmEnt /Lhindrance, block.Clementine’s lack of a degree wasan impediment to her getting agood job.

impedimentan pl/ DmTpedESmentE /Lthings that hinder progress ormovement; especially : baggage,equipment, or supplies.Regina always travels with onesmall carry-on bag and considersanything more to be impedimenta.

impenetrableadj/ imSpenEtrEbEl /L > F > Eincapable of being comprehended.Sarah found Einstein’s theoriesimpenetrable.

imperativally

imperative


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imperceptibleadj/ impE(r)SseptEbEl /Lextremely slight, gradual, or subtle.The air was filled with a delicate,springlike fragrance, almostimperceptible.

imperialadj/ imSpirGEl /L[Note: The definition provided isnot the one most commonlyassociated with this word.] beingthe British legal standard :belonging to the official Britishseries of weights and measures.Several measurement terms areused both in the U.S. customaryand British imperial systems.

imperturbableadj/ TimpErStErbEbEl /L > Eunlikely to be disconcerted,agitated, or alarmed.Hitherto imperturbable, Stacysuddenly showed signs of alarm.

imperviousadj/ imSpErvGEs /Lnot allowing entrance or passagethrough : impenetrable.Ted covered the woodpile with atarp impervious to water.

impetigon/ TimpEStI(T)gP /Lan acute contagious skin diseasetransmitted by contact betweenpersons or between healthy andinfected skin.Impetigo can quickly make therounds in a kindergarten class.

impetusn/ SimpEZEs /La driving or impelling force.Ralph’s new girlfriend was theimpetus behind his new exerciseprogram.

impinge

implacableadj/ imSplakEbEl /L > Fnot capable of being appeased orpacified.The defeated candidate harboredimplacable resentment toward hisopponent.

implausible

imponderabilia

importancen/ DmSpOrtFn(t)s /Lthe quality or state of being markedby or possessing consequence :weight, significance.Mrs. Lynch cannot understand whysome students do not see theimportance of good manners.

impossibleadj/ imSpBsEbEl /L > It > Fincapable of being or occurring.So many things are possible just aslong as you don’t know they’reimpossible.

impoverishv/ DmSpBv(E)rish /F > Emake poor : reduce to indigence.Medical bills will impoverish theWilliams family if outside aid is notavailable.

impresarion/ TimprESsBrGTP /It[has homonym: empresario] theprojector, manager, or conductor ofan opera or concert company.The impresario arranged for theopera company to perform inseveral cities.

imprescriptibleadj/ TimprGSskriptEbEl /L > Finalienable, absolute.A dictator considers few humanrights imprescriptible.

impressionableadj/ DmSpresh(E)nEbEl /L + L > E + Ecfeasily influenced or affected.Dan’s grandmother considered himvery young and veryimpressionable.

imprimaturn/ TimprDSmBZE(r) /La sign or mark of approval.The dean put her imprimatur on thesmoking ban.

imprimis

impromptuadv/ DmSprBm(p)Tt(y)V /L > Fwithout previous study,preparation, or consideration : onthe spur of the moment.Leah is able to speak impromptuand at length on countless subjects.

impropriety

impugnv/ DmSpyVn /Lassail by words or arguments :make insinuations against.Josie’s comment was a feebleattempt to impugn Sara’s honesty.


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impuissance

impunityn/ DmSpyVnEZG /Lexemption or freedom frompunishment, harm, or loss.Mr. Starks allowed anglers totrespass on his land with impunity.

imputable

inaccurate

inadvertence

inagglutinable

inanimateadj/ inSanEmDt /Lnot endowed with consciousness oranimal life.Vera talked to her plants as if theywere not inanimate objects.

inanitionn/ TinESnishEn /Lthe exhausted condition whichresults from a complete lack offood and water.The injured hiker, finally foundafter a three-day search, had to betreated for inanition.

inanityn/ DSnanEZG /Lmeaningless quality : shallowness.The inanity of conversation at theparty made Karen think up anexcuse to leave early.

inauguration

incandescencen/ Tin(T)kEnSdesFn(t)s /L > Fthe glowing of a body due to itshigh temperature.The first light bulbs wereilluminated via the phenomenon ofincandescence.

incandescent

incarceratev/ DnSkBrsETrCt /Lput in prison.Because the crime was his firstoffense, Lonnie was hopeful thatthe judge would not incarceratehim.

incendiaryn/ DnSsendGTerG /L[Note: Could be confused withincendiarist.] a person whodeliberately sets fire to a buildingor other property.The state fire inspectors determinedthat the fire was the work of anincendiary.

incensen/ SinTsen(t)s /L > F > Ethe perfume or the smoke exhaledfrom spices and gums whenburned.Incense filled the chapel with asweet fragrance.

incense

incessancy

incessantadj/ inSsesFnt /Lcontinuing or following withoutinterruption.Incessant changes in other parts ofthis restless country bypass theinhabitants of Sleepy Hollow.

inchoateadj/ inSkPDt /Limperfectly formed or formulated :unorganized.The songwriter explained that hismelodies usually begin as inchoatehumming.

incienson/ Tin(t)sGSen(t)(T)sP /L > Spa desert shrub producing a resinthat when burned emits a fragrantodor.Early missionaries in the Southwestused to burn incienso in theirchurches.

incipient

inclementadj/ inSklemEnt /Lunmerciful, rigorous.The harsh sentence of an inclementjudge took 30 years of Sam’s life.

incognito

incoherence

incompetent

incomprehensibleadj/ TinTkBmprDShen(t)sEbEl /L > Elying above or beyond the reach ofthe human mind.Every civilization tries to penetratethe incomprehensible mysteries ofcreation.

inconclusible

incondite

incongruous

inconnu

inconscientadj/ inSkBnchEnt /L > Flacking consciousness or fullawareness.The inconscient pedestrian was aneasy victim for the mugger.

incontrovertible


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incorrigibleadj/ inSkOrDjEbEl /Lbad beyond the possibility ofcorrection or rehabilitation : utterlybad or depraved.They sentenced the incorrigibleoffender to life imprisonment.

increment

incubatorn/ SiNkyETbCZE(r) /Lan apparatus for housing prematureor sick babies in an environment ofcontrolled humidity, oxygensupply, and temperature.Who would have thought that thestar linebacker spent the first threemonths of his life in an incubator?

inculcatev/ DnSkElTkCt /Lteach and impress by frequentrepetitions or admonitions.Religion is professed and practicedin various forms, yet most of theminculcate honesty, truth,temperance, gratitude, and the loveof humanity.

incumbent

incunabulumn/ TDnkyESnabyElEm /La book printed before 1501.Alfred was looking at anincunabulum in the British Librarywhen he met his future wife.

incurvariidadj/ TinTkErSva(a)rGDd /Lof or relating to a member of theIncurvariidae family of minutemoths.Many brilliantly coloredincurvariid moths are foundworldwide.

indebtedadj/ DnSdeZDd /L > F > Eowing gratitude (as for a favorreceived or a kind act done).Carmen was indebted to her pianoteacher for helping her perfect hertechnique.

indefatigableadj/ TindDSfaZDgEbEl /Lincapable of being tired out :untiring.The mayor thanked hisindefatigable campaign workers fortheir invaluable help in getting himreelected.

indefeasibleadj/ indDSfGzEbEl /L > F > AFnot capable of being or liable tobeing voided, annulled, or undone.The Constitution vests the populacewith indefeasible rights.

indelibleadj/ EnSdelEbEl /Lthat cannot be removed, washedaway, or erased : permanent.Lily’s narrow escape fromdrowning left an indelible mark onher personality.

indemnify

indemnity

independence

indescribableadj/ TindDSskrIbEbEl /Lthat cannot be described withprecision.The aromatic herb has a pepperyodor and an indescribable butdelicious flavor.

indicate

indician pl/ DnSdish(G)E /Lindications, signs, tokens, criteria.The reporter used many differentindicia of public sentiment toobtain a reliable rating of theleader’s popularity.

indicible

indictmentn/ DnSdItmEnt /L > AFan official written statementcharging a person with an offense.The grand jury’s indictment of theseven men charges that theyconspired to smuggle guns into thecountry.

indigenousadj/ DnSdijEnEs /Loriginating or produced naturally ina particular land or region orenvironment.Tomatoes are not indigenous toEurope.

indolence

indomitableadj/ DnSdBmEZEbEl /Lincapable of being subdued.The pens, the tongues, the fortunes,and the indomitable wills of manywomen were pledged to secure theright of the elective franchise.

indubitableadj/ (T)inSd(y)VbEZEbEl /Lnot open to question or doubt.Shakespeare is considered by manyto be the indubitable master ofEnglish literature.

indulgent


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indurateadj/ Sind(y)ErDt /L > Ephysically or morally hardened.The war contributed greatly toHerbert’s seemingly induratemanner, but he was always tenderwith his pigeons.

industrious

ineducable

ineffableadj/ inSefEbEl /Lincapable of being expressed inwords.Sarena’s joy at being chosen forthe play was ineffable.

ineluctableadj/ TinDSlEktEbEl /Lnot to be avoided, changed, orresisted : inevitable.Mrs. Badger joked that death andtaxes are the only two ineluctableaspects of life.

ineludibleadj/ TinESlVdEbEl /L + Ecfinescapable.Detective Marchand’s bloodhoundswere considered by many to beineludible.

inenarrableadj/ TinGSnarEbEl /Lincapable of being narrated :indescribable, ineffable.The sight of his newborn sonbrought Elijah inenarrablepleasure.

ineptitude

ineradicableadj/ TinDSradDkEbEl /Lincapable of being rooted out ordestroyed completely.In the 1920s Britain had to yield toIreland’s ineradicable will forindependence.

inertian/ DSnErshE /Lindisposition to motion, exertion, oraction.The senator railed against theinertia of the citizenry.

inexorableadj/ TiSneks(E)rEbEl /Lunyielding, inflexible, relentless.The inexorable force of thehurricane changed the shape ofBell Island.

inexplicable

inextinguishable

inextirpable

inextricable

infatuation

infaust

infectiousadj/ DnSfekshEs /Lproducing the establishment of apathogen in its host after invasion.Katie’s sore throat is not infectious,so she will not have to miss anyschool.

inferioradj/ DnSfirGE(r) /Lof poor quality : second-rate.An inferior violinist has no chanceof becoming an orchestra’sconcertmaster.

inficete

infinitesimaladj/ TinTfinEStes(E)mEl /L + Ecfimmeasurably or incalculably small: very minute.Infinitesimal yellow flecks on theleaf made it appear metallic.

inflammatoryadj/ DnSflamETtPrG /Ltending to excite anger, animosity,disorder, or tumult.Rachel received a two-daysuspension after she delivered aninflammatory speech at theassembly.

influenzan/ TinTflVSenzE /L > Itan acute highly contagiousinfectious virus disease.Influenza kept Russell out of schoolfor a week.

infractible

infrangibleadj/ inSfranjEbEl /Lnot capable of being broken orseparated into parts.Though it looks like the finestchina, Jennifer’s teapot is made ofan infrangible polymer.

infusible

ingenious

ingenuen/ SBnjETnV /L > Fa stage part representing a characterthat is youthful, innocent,appealing, sweet, and sympathetic.Stephanie was one of three studentscalled back in the tryouts for theingenue in the school’s springmusical.


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ingenuous

inglenook

ingratiate

inimical

inimitableadj/ iSnimEZEbEl /Lnot capable of being copied :matchless.Charmed by Miss Woodhouse, Mr.Elton considered all of herdrawings inimitable.

iniquitous

initial

initials

initiative

initiatoryadj/ DSnish(G)ETtOrG /Lconstituting an introduction orbeginning.On page three of the book is aninitiatory paragraph that givespersonal information about theauthor.

injurious

inmate

innermostadj/ SinE(r)TmOst /Efarthest inward.Starletta reached the cave’sinnermost chambers by crawling onher hands and knees and sometimeson her stomach.

innkeeper

innocuityn/ TiTnBSkyVEZG /Lthe quality or state of beingharmless.Thelma was wary of the seeminginnocuity of her sister’s remarks.

innocuousadj/ iSnBkyEwEs /Lnot likely to arouse ill will or giveoffense : inoffensive.Betty was dismayed when Henryinterpreted her innocuous remarkas an insult.

innovationn/ TinESvCshEn /Lthe introduction of something new.The people of the small villagewere suspicious of all innovation.

innumerableadj/ DSn(y)Vm(E)rEbEl /Ltoo many to be numbered orcounted.Katie’s seemingly innumerablechicken pox blisters slowly fadedaway.

inoculatev/ DSnBkyETlCt /L > Eintroduce microorganisms,vaccines, or sera into a living bodyto establish immunity to a disease.Dr. Cooper had to bribe Frankwith a lollipop before he would lether inoculate him.

inoculator

inquilinen/ SinkwETlIn /Lan animal that lives habitually inthe nest or abode of some otherspecies.The burrowing owl is an inquilinewho lives in prairie dog colonies.

inquisitorn/ DnSkwizEZE(r) /La person whose official duty is toexamine and inquire.When the inquisitor asked a verypersonal question, the witnessglared at him and remained silent.

insalubriousadj/ TinsESlVbrGEs /L + Ecftending to impair health :unwholesome, noxious.Andrew has vowed to give up allhis insalubrious habits.

insatiable

inscribe

inscrutableadj/ inzSkrVZEbEl /Lnot readily comprehensible :mysterious.Kayla’s grin was so inscrutablethat no one could tell if she werehappy or up to somethingmischievous.

insecticiden/ DnSsektETsId /Lan agent that destroys insects.Malathion is an insecticide withlow toxicity to mammals.

insentient

inseparable

insessorial

insidiousadj/ DnSsidGEs /Lhaving a gradual, cumulative, andusually hidden effect : subtle.Loretta’s suspicion led her to posea question with the insidious designof further discovery.


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insinuatev/ DnSsinyETwCt /Limpart or communicate with artfulindirect wording or obliquereference : hint, imply.Did April insinuate that she won’tbe inviting Dante to the party?

insipidadj/ DnSsipDd /Ldull, uninteresting, commonplace.Jed could hardly bear listening tothe sportscaster’s insipidcomments.

insititiousadj/ Tin(t)sEStishEs /Lconstituting an insertion.Research that Jennifer failed toinclude in her bound report wasincluded as insititious pages.

insolencen/ Sin(t)s(E)lEn(t)s /L[has homonyms and nearhomonym: insolents, insulants andinsulins] the quality or state ofbeing haughty and contemptuous orbrutal in behavior or language.In Greek mythology Athenatransformed Arachne into a spiderfor her insolence.

insolent

insomnian/ DnSsBmnGE /Lprolonged inability to obtainadequate sleep : sleeplessness.Cora’s doctor suggests that herinsomnia may be caused by theemotional stress of her new job.

insomniac

insouciance

insouciantadj/ DnSsVsGEnt /Fexhibiting or characterized byfreedom from concern or care.The pompous, insouciant aristocratnever had to work a day in his life.

instantaneousadj/ TinzstEnStCnGEs /Ldone or occurring without anyperceptible duration of time.Harold’s slow, nervous marriageproposal was balanced by Emily’sinstantaneous reply.

instaurationn/ TinzTtOSrCshEn /Lrestoration after decay, lapse, ordilapidation.The instauration of the Statue ofLiberty was a long and complicatedproject.

insulinn/ Sin(t)sElDn /L + Ecfa protein pancreatic hormone that isessential especially for themetabolism of carbohydrates andwhich is used in the treatment andcontrol of diabetes mellitus.Marty gives himself an injection ofinsulin every morning to control hisdiabetes.

insurrectionn/ Tin(t)sESrekshEn /L > F > Ean act or instance of revoltingagainst civil or political authorityor against an establishedgovernment.The dictator quickly suppressed thepeasants' insurrection.

insusceptibilityn/ TinsETseptESbilEZG /Lthe quality or state of beingincapable of being moved, affected,or impressed.Sylvia prides herself on herinsusceptibility to flattery.

intaglion/ DnStal(T)yP /Itan engraving or incised figure instone or other hard material.Judd was pleased with the intaglioon his signet ring.

intangible

integumentn/ DnStegyEmEnt /Lan enveloping layer, membrane, orstructure (as the skin of a fish or theexoskeleton of an insect).The dried cicada integumentattached to the brick wallfascinated the children.

intercede

interceptv/ TintE(r)Ssept /Lstop or interrupt the progress orcourse of.Rick will intercept the office mail,as requested by Dr. Taylor.

intercessoryadj/ TintE(r)Sses(E)rG /Lrelating to or marked by the act ofpleading in behalf of another.The congregation joined inintercessory prayers for the sickparishioners.

interfered

interior


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interlocutorn/ TintE(r)SlBkyEZE(r) /Lone who takes part in a dialogue orconversation.The seminar leader instructedeveryone to choose an interlocutorand discuss the video one-on-one.

interlucent

intermentn/ DnStErmEnt /L > F > Ethe act or ceremony of placing adead body in a grave or tomb.Uncle Oliver’s desire was that onlyfamily members be present at hisinterment.

intermezzon/ TintE(r)Smet(T)sP /L > Ita movement coming between themajor sections of a symphony orother extended work.The singers were able to take abreak while the orchestra playedthe intermezzo.

interminableadj/ DnStErmDnEbEl /Lhaving no end : wearisomelyprotracted.Dad complained about theinterminable lines at the themepark.

intermittencen/ TintE(r)SmitFn(t)s /Lperiodic cessation or interruption.The intermittence of the movingwindshield wipers supposedlyallows better visibility during alight rain.

intermittentadj/ TintE(r)SmitFnt /Lcoming and going at intervals : notcontinuous.The weather forecast warned ofintermittent showers for theafternoon.

internal

international

internecineadj/ TintErSneTsGn /Lmarked by great slaughter : deadly.Many areas of the former SovietUnion have been plagued withinternecine struggles.

interpellation

interpolate

interregnumn/ TintE(r)SregnEm /Lthe time during which a throne isvacant between the death,abdication, or expulsion of asovereign and the coronation of hisor her successor.The prime minister urged citizensto band together during theinterregnum.

interrogatoryn/ TintESrBgETtPrG /La formal question or inquiry.The principal instructed Betty toprepare within two days a writtenresponse to the interrogatoryregarding her honor offense.

interruptv/ TintESrEpt /Lprevent (one) from proceeding byintrusive or interpolated commentor action.“Must you always interrupt likethat?” asked Mr. Kelley.

intersperse

intersticen/ DnStErstDs /La space that intervenes between onething and another : a space betweenthings closely set.The tightly-woven cloth lookedsolid, but a sharp needle easilyfound an interstice to slip through.

intertriginous

intestacy

intolerableadj/ inStBl(E)rEbEl /Lnot capable of being endured :unbearable.The intolerable cold made Janice’seyes water.

intractableadj/ inStraktEbEl /Lnot easily governed, managed, ordirected.The intractable child was amusingfor a while.

intrait

intramural

intrepidadj/ inStrepDd /Lcharacterized by resolutefearlessness in meeting dangers orhardships and enduring them withfortitude.Bob’s military honors attest to hisintrepid character.


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intricateadj/ SintrDkDt /L > Ehaving many complexlyinterrelating parts or elements :complicated.Jason described the intricatemechanism of the clock as“awesome.”

intrinsic

introduction

introit

intuitableadj/ DnSt(y)VDZEbEl /Lknowable by insight or withoutrational thought.Ashley believes that the concepts ofgood and evil are intuitable.

inumbratev/ SinEmTbrCt /Lput in shadow : shade.Carl watched the cloud temporarilyinumbrate the soccer field.

inundate

inurement

invective

inveighv/ DnSvC /Lprotest bitterly or violently.When the suspect was arraigned,he began to inveigh against whathe claimed was police brutality.

inveigle

invidiousadj/ DnSvidGEs /Lof an unpleasant or objectionablenature : hateful.It is not uncommon for Sean torespond with invidious remarksthat may or may not be true.

invincible

inviolableadj/ inSvIElEbEl /Lsecure from assault or trespass.An electrified security fence, tenfeet high, did not make the filmstar’s estate inviolable.

invitation

ionospheren/ ISBnEsfi(E)r /Gkthe part of Earth's atmospherecontaining free electrically chargedparticles.Ham radio operators transmit theirsignals great distances by bouncingthem off the ionosphere.

iotan/ ISPZE /Gkan infinitesimal amount : a verysmall degree.The analgesic worked so well thatJeremy felt not even an iota of pain.

ipseity

irascibleadj/ DSrasEbEl /Lmarked by hot temper and resentfulanger.After breaking his leg, Lenniebecame so irascible that his friendsstopped visiting him.

irateadj/ TISrCt /Lfeeling and showing a high degreeof anger.When Calvin returned home late,his father was irate.

iridescentadj/ SirETdesFnt /Lshowing colors like those of therainbow especially in shiftingpatterns of hues and shades thatvary with a change of light or pointof view.Louis C. Tiffany developed afamous type of iridescent glass.

irradiatev/ DSrCdGTCt /Lthrow rays of light upon : shineupon.Cynthia’s beauty seemed toirradiate the room with a mysticalglow.

irreconcilableadj/ TiTrekEnSsIlEbEl /Lnot capable of being brought intofriendly accord or understanding.Bill finally realized that hisdifferences with Sheila wereirreconcilable.

irredeemable

irregular

irrelevantadj/ TiSrelEvEnt /Lnot applicable or pertinent :foreign, extraneous.Patrick introduced irrelevantarguments to cloud the centralissue.

irreparable


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irrepressibleadj/ irDSpresEbEl /Limpossible to repress, restrain, orcontrol.Sondra’s irrepressible urge to drivefast earned her a speeding ticket.

irresistible

irretrievablyadv/ TirDStrGvEblG /L > F > Eso as to be impossible to recoup,repair, or overcome.Environmentalists bemoan theirretrievably lost sections of therain forest.

irrevocabilityn/ iTrevEkESbilEZG /L > F > E + E cffthe quality or state of beingunalterable.The chairman insisted upon theirrevocability of the rules of order.

irrevocable

irrigation

irritabilityn/ TirEZESbilEZG /Lquick excitability to annoyance,impatience, or anger.On the second day of Josh’s diet,his irritability was apparent toeveryone around him.

irritate

isagogen/ SIsETgPjG /Gka scholarly introduction to a branchof study or research.The eminent economist wrote anisagoge for the new economics text.

isinglassn/ SIzFnTglas /Dmica especially when in thintransparent sheets.Isinglass is economically importantbecause its low iron content makesit a good electrical and thermalinsulator.

islen/ SIl /L > F > E[has homonyms: aisle, I’ll] a smallpiece of land surrounded by wateron all sides.Kent dreamed of vacationing on atropical isle.

isocryme

isogramn/ SI(T)sETgram /Gk + Gka line on a map or chart alongwhich there is a constant value (asof temperature, pressure, orrainfall).The meteorologist drew an isogramon the map to show places havingthe same barometric pressure.

isohyetaladj/ TI(T)sPShIEZFl /Gk > ISVrelating to or indicating equalrainfall.The weather forecaster’s mapshows isohyetal areas of the GreatPlains.

isolabilityn/ TIsElESbilEZG /L > F > Ethe capability of being placed aloneor apart.According to the philosophicalprinciple of isolability, everyisolated event must have anisolated cause.

isomorphicadj/ TIsPSmOrfik /Gkbeing of identical or similar form orshape or structure.English spelling is difficult becauseof the frequent lack of isomorphiccorrespondence between thespoken word and the written word.

isoscelesadj/ ISsBsETlGz /Gk > Lhaving two equal sides—used of atriangle.Zola counted 16 isosceles triangleson the playground equipment.

isotope

issuable

isthmusn/ SismEs /Gk > La narrow strip of land runningthrough a body of water andconnecting two larger land areas.The country of Panama is anisthmus connecting North andSouth America.

italicization

itemize

iterancen/ SiZErEn(t)s /L > E[Note: Could be confused withiterancy.] repetition,repetitiousness, recurrence.Carol noticed an iterance of thename Elizabeth in her genealogicalchart.

iterativeadj/ SiZErEtiv /Lmarked by or involving repetitionor recurrence.The name Elizabeth formed aniterative pattern in Maggie’sgenealogical chart.


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itinerantadj/ IStin(E)rEnt /Ltraveling about from place to place.The large farm employed manyitinerant workers during theharvest season.

itineraryn/ IStinETrerG /La sketch of the prospective courseof a journey or trip.The senator’s itinerary called forten stops in two days.

ivoryadj/ SIv(E)rG /Hamitic > L > F > Eof a creamy white color.The ivory sweater that Karenpurchased qualifies as “winterwhite.”

izzat

jabberwockyn/ SjabE(r)TwBkG /E nonsense namemeaningless speech, writing, orpatter : gibberish.Dina listened as the two babiescarried on a lengthy conversationin jabberwocky.

jabotn/ zhaSbP /Fa ruffle or pleated frill of cloth,lace, or both attached down thecenter front of a shirt, blouse, ordress bodice.Tom insisted that the shirt of hisCaptain Hook costume have ajabot.

jacal

jacamarn/ SjakETmBr /Tupi > Fany of many brightly colored birdsinhabiting tropical forests fromMexico to Argentina.Tio recognized the cry of thejacamar but couldn’t see the birdthrough the thick foliage.

jackanapesn/ SjakETnCps /E nicknamean impertinent or conceited fellow.Billy was thrown out of Englishclass for being an insolentjackanapes.

jackknife

jaconet

jacquardn/ jaSkBrd /F namea fabric of an intricate variegatedweave.In the antique store’s front windowwas a fabulous jacquard thatportrayed the Last Supper.

jadeiten/ SjCTdIt /Sp > Fa monoclinic mineral found chieflyin Myanmar that when cutconstitutes a valuable variety ofjade.Alexis bought a necklace made ofjadeite and black onyx at the craftbazaar.

jaguarn/ SjagTwBr /Tupi&Guarani > Pg&Spa large cat chiefly of Central andSouth America that is larger andstockier than the leopard and isbrownish yellow or buff with blackspots.Although the jaguar is a goodclimber, it usually stalks its prey onthe ground.

jaleo

jalousien/ SjalEsG /F[has near homonym: jealousy] ablind or shutter having horizontalslats that are adjustable or fixed atan angle to admit light and air andto permit looking out without beingseen from the outside.Helen hung a jalousie in eachdownstairs window of her newhouse.

jambalayan/ TjEmbESlIE /Prov > Frice cooked with ham, sausage,chicken, shrimp, or oysters andusually tomato and seasoned withherbs.No trip to New Orleans would becomplete without sampling a bowlof spicy jambalaya.

jamboreen/ TjambESrG /unknowna long mixed program ofentertainment.The finale at the jamboree was abrilliant display of fireworks.

jangle

janiformadj/ SjanETfOrm /L + Lhaving a face on each of two sides.While in Rome, Stacey bought areplica of an ancient coin depictinga janiform figure.


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janitorn/ SjanEZE(r) /Lone that keeps the premises of anapartment, office, or other buildingclean and free of refuse, tends theheating system, and makes minorrepairs.Morris took a part-time job as ajanitor at an apartment complex inexchange for free rent.

japeryn/ SjCp(E)rG /Ejesting talk : jokes.Tired of the disk jockey’s japery,Terry turned the radio off.

jaraben/ hESrB(T)bC /Ar > Spany of several provincial Mexicancouple dances that have thezapateado as their basic step.The jarabe is sometimes performedat Mexican weddings.

jardiniere

jargonn/ SjBrgEn /imit > F > Ethe technical terminology orcharacteristic idiom of specialistsor workers in a particular activityor area of knowledge.Anna was sure the computerprogrammers were speakingEnglish, but their jargon made itimpossible for her to understandwhat they were saying.

jarl

jasper

jaundicen/ SjOndDs /L > F > Eyellowish pigmentation of the skin,tissues, and body fluids caused bythe deposition of bile pigments.David’s jaundice was brought onby a liver problem.

jauntilyadv/ SjOntFlG /F > E + Ecffin a light or carefree manner.Steve’s hat was perched jauntily onthe side of his head.

jauntyadj/ SjOntG /L > Fnonchalant or sprightly in manneror appearance.The music teacher is far morejaunty at the keys of a piano than inthe classroom.

javelinn/ Sjav(E)lDn /Celt > Fa slender shaft of wood not lessthan 260 centimeters long, tippedwith iron or steel, and intended tobe thrown for distance as anathletic feat or exercise.Lucas threw the javelin only 20 feeton his first attempt.

javellization

jealousyn/ SjelEsG /F[has near homonym: jalousie] adisposition or state of mind that isintolerant of rivalry orunfaithfulness.Tormented by jealousy,Shakespeare’s Othello is driven tomurder his wife.

jecorize

jejuneadj/ jDSjVn /Limmature, juvenile.Dennis rejected the jejune poemsfor publication.

jellyfish

jeopardizev/ SjepE(r)TdIz /L > F > E + Ecfexpose to danger : imperil.Mr. Turner refuses to jeopardizehis family by driving at high speed.

jeopardy

jerboan/ jDrSbPE /Arany of several social nocturnal OldWorld jumping rodents with longhind legs and a long tail.The well-developed jumping abilityof the jerboa enables it to escapefrom many predators.

jeremiadn/ TjerESmIEd /Heb name > Gk > L > Fa protracted speech marked by deepmisery.The old philosopher gave a movingjeremiad against a culture thatvalues knowledge above wisdom.

jerkinn/ SjErkDn /unknowna close-fitting hip-length jacket.As his quest led him northward, theknight began wearing a jerkin foradditional warmth.

jeroboam


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jettisonv/ SjeZEsEn /L > F > Edrop (as auxiliary equipment,bombs, cargo, or fuel) from anairplane in flight (as for lighteningthe load or providing greatersafety).The airplane’s malfunctioningengine prompted the crew tojettison all unnecessary cargo.

jettisoned

jibboom

jicaman/ ShGkEmE /Nahuatl > Spa tall-climbing Mexican vine withshowy flowers and a sweet wateryroot that is sometimes eaten raw orcooked.Suleika made a coleslaw of jicamaand shredded carrot.

jillion

jinete

jingoism

jittery

jocose

jocosityn/ jPSkBsEZG /Lthe quality or state of being givento jokes and jesting.Lennie’s jocosity endeared him tono one.

jocularadj/ SjBkyElE(r) /Lgiven or disposed to jesting.The jocular keynote speakerpeppered his remarks withhumorous anecdotes.

jocundadj/ SjBkEnd /Lfeeling or exhibiting mirth or goodcheer : cheerful.The jocund host made everyone feelcompletely at ease.

jodhpurn/ SjBdpE(r) /Indian geog namea short riding boot; especially : anankle-length boot fastened with astrap that is buckled at the side.Among young or short equestrians,the jodhpur is a popular choice ofboot.

joist

jongleurn/ zhPMSglEr /Fan itinerant medieval minstrelreciting and singing for hire.Timothy went to the RenaissanceFair dressed as a jongleur, with ahandmade lute and a velvet cap.

jostlement

journal

journalismn/ SjErnFlTizEm /Fan academic study concerned withthe collection and editing of newsor the editorial or businessmanagement of a news medium.Students of journalism atNorthwestern University often listthe class taught by Oprah Winfreyas one of their favorites.

journey

joviality

jubilantadj/ SjVbElEnt /Lmanifesting or expressingexultation or gladness.Fans were jubilant when the batterhit the winning home run in thebottom of the ninth inning.

jubilarian

jubilation

judicial

judiciary

judiciousadj/ jVSdishEs /Ldirected or governed by soundusually dispassionate judgment :characterized by discretion.Jane’s mom saw to it that hersummer activities were a judiciousmixture of chores and amusement.

juggernautn/ SjEgE(r)TnOt /Skt > Hindia massive force or object thatadvances irresistibly and crusheswhatever is in its path.Sherman’s armies moved like ajuggernaut through the South.

jugglern/ SjEg(E)lE(r) /L > F > E[has near homonym: jugular] oneskilled in keeping several objects inmotion in the air at the same timeby alternately tossing and catchingthem.The crowd was most impressedwhen the juggler started jugglingflaming torches.

jugularadj/ SjEgyElE(r) /Lof or relating to the throat or neck.It is easy to find one’s own pulse inthe jugular region.


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juiciness

juicy

julienneadj/ SjVlGTen /F (name?)[has homonym: Julian] cut in longthin strips—used especially ofvegetables and fruits.Bruce added julienne cucumber tothe salad.

jumart

jumelle

junction

juncturen/ SjEN(k)chE(r) /Ljoint, seam.Lulu found a note wedged in thejuncture between the two seats.

jungle

junipern/ SjVnEpE(r) /L > Ean evergreen shrub or treecharacterized by low, lateralspreading.Grandma gathers berries from herjuniper to use in cooking.

junketn/ SjENkDt /L > It > Ea pleasure trip or tour made by anofficial at public expense ostensiblyfor purposes of inspection,investigation, or other publicbusiness.Many citizens complained that themayor’s business trip to Japan wasmerely a junket.

juntan/ ShUntE /L > Sp[has somewhat near homonyms:hunter, junto] a closely knit groupof persons composing ordominating a governmentespecially after a revolutionaryseizure of power.The military junta set up itsheadquarters in the formerpresidential palace.

jurimetriciann/ TjUrDmEStrishEn /L + Gk > Ea specialist in the application ofscientific methods to legalproblems.The judge heard testimony from ajurimetrician and a forensicpathologist.

jurisdictionn/ TjUrDsSdikshEn /Lthe limits or territory within whichany particular power may beexercised.Sgt. Voss couldn’t issue thereckless driver a ticket because thehighway was outside hisjurisdiction.

jurisprudencen/ TjUrDSsprVdFn(t)s /L[has homonym: jurisprudents] thescience or philosophy of law.Tom is a professor of jurisprudenceat Yale Law School.

jussiveadj/ SjEsiv /L + Ecfexpressing or having the effect of acommand.There was a jussive tone to Mr.Contreras’s request, and the boysobeyed him immediately.

justice

justiciableadj/ TjESstish(G)EbEl /L > Fcapable of being decided by legalprinciples or by a court of justice :liable to trial in a court of justice.The judge decided that Al’s disputewith his employer was justiciableunder the new law.

justifiable

juvenilen/ SjVvETnIl /F or Lof or relating to childhood.Many breakfast-cerealadvertisements are geared to ajuvenile audience.

juvenilian pl/ TjVvESnilGE /Lartistic or literary compositionsproduced in the author’s youth andtypically marked by immaturity ofstyle, treatment, or thought.The artist’s juvenilia showed thathe had been developing the samethemes throughout his career.

juxtaposev/ SjEkstETpPz /Lplace side by side.Picasso often used collage tojuxtapose coarse and refinedelements in his art.

juxtapositionn/ TjEkstEpESzishEn /Lthe act or an instance of placingtwo or more objects in a closespatial or ideal relationship.The justaposition of the differentstyles within the same painting wonthe praise of the art critic.


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Kabukin/ kESbVkG /Jpntraditional Japanese popular dramawith singing and dancingperformed in a stylized manner.Performers of Kabuki must learn tomove with great control.

kairosn/ SkITrBs /Gka time when conditions are right forthe accomplishment of a crucialaction.Feeling that the kairos would neverbe better, Barbara approached herboss and demanded a raise.

kaiser

kaiserdomn/ SkIzE(r)dEm /Gthe territory ruled by the Germanemperors from 1871 to 1918.Otto was the best clockmaker in thekaiserdom.

kakemonon/ TkBkESmP(T)nP /Jpna picture or writing on silk or paperthat usually has a roller at its loweredge.Yasuki hung a kakemono in theliving room.

kakistocracyn/ TkakDSstBkrEsG /Gkgovernment by the worstindividuals.Denny thought the current studentcouncil was a kakistocracy.

kaleidoscopen/ kESlIdETskPp /Gk + Ean instrument that contains loosefragments of colored glass confinedbetween two flat plates and twoplane mirrors placed so thatchanges of position exhibit itscontents in an endless variety offorms.Raj received a fancy brasskaleidoscope for a birthdaypresent.

kamikaze

kangaroo

kanone

karate

karst

karting

katabaticadj/ TkaZESbaZik /Gkof or relating to the downwardmotion of air (as in air drainageinduced by surface cooling).The ventilation system relied onkatabatic action for optimalefficiency.

katanan/ kEStBnE /Jpna single-edged sword that is thelonger of a pair worn by theJapanese samurai.Hiroko proudly showed the guestsher great-grandfather’s katanahanging on the wall.

katharometern/ TkathESrBmEZE(r) /Gkan apparatus for determining thecomposition of a gas mixture.With the help of a katharometer,the chemist was able to analyze theengine’s exhaust.

katzenjammer

kaumographern/ kOSmBgrEfE(r) /Gka worker who transfers designs,trademarks, or other printedmaterial to cloth articles with a hotiron.The sweatshirt store employs akaumographer to decorate shirtswith designs chosen by thecustomer.

keepsake

keeshond

kempt

kenneln/ SkenFl /L > F > E[has near homonym: quenelle] ahouse for a dog or pack of hounds.Jack plans to help his father build akennel for their beagles.

kenon/ SkG(T)nP /F[has homonym: kino] a gameresembling lotto or bingo in whichnumbers printed on pellets aretaken from a sack and announced tothe players who cover the numberson cards and in which five numberscovered in the same horizontal rowwin for the player.The casino coffee shop had runnersto sell the diners cards for keno.

kepin/ SkCpG /L > G > Fa military cap having a close-fittingband, a round flat top slopingtoward the front, and a visor.In the foyer of the French embassythere is a statue of a general with akepi atop his head.


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keratitisn/ TkerEStIZDs /Gkinflammation of the cornea of theeye.After being struck in the eye, theboxer had to be treated forkeratitis.

keratoderman/ TkerEZPSdErmE /Gka hard, callous condition of theskin.The patient’s keratoderma causedhim pain and loss of movement.

keratoplastyn/ SkerEZPTplastG /Gkplastic surgery on the cornea.Keratoplasty, especially cornealgrafting, has improved the vision ofmany people.

kerchiefn/ SkErchDf /F > Ea square of cloth usually foldedworn by women as a headcovering.Before Eileen went out to tend toher garden, she put on a blue andwhite kerchief.

kerfn/ SkErf /Ea slit or notch made in cuttingusually by a saw or cutting torch.Roger’s toy racetrack is made froma piece of wood with a wide kerfalong which the little cars move.

kerflop

kernel

kerplunkadv/ kE(r)SplENk /imitwith a thud.Mimi dropped the apple kerplunkonto Mrs. Vega’s desk.

kerseymere

kestreln/ SkestrEl /L > F > Ea common small European falcon.Sean found an injured kestrel onthe roof of the library.

ketch

khaki

kibitz

kibitzern/ SkibDtsE(r) /Yiddishan outsider or nonparticipant wholooks on and may offer unwantedadvice or comment.Officer Morrow ordered thekibitzer to stand back and get out ofthe way of the rescue squad.

kidnap

kielbasan/ kilSbBsE /Pol[Note: A differently pronouncedvariant of the word is kielbasy.] asmoked sausage.Adria ordered a half-pound ofpotato salad and a kielbasa fromthe deli.

kilim

kiln

kilotonn/ SkilETtEn /Gk + Ean explosive force equivalent tothat of 1,000 tons of TNT—usedespecially in reference to an atomor hydrogen bomb.Given the strength of nuclearbombs, 1 kiloton is a small amountof explosive force.

kilowatt

kimono

kindergartenadj/ SkindE(r)TgBrtFn /Gof or relating to an elementary levelor initial phase.After her request to skip from thesixth to the eighth grade wasdenied, Kathleen was openlyscornful of the kindergarten mathproblems the teacher keptassigning.

kindling

kindness

kinesiologyn/ kDTnGsGSBlEjG /Gkthe study of the principles ofmechanics and anatomy in relationto human movement.All physical therapy students arerequired to take a course inkinesiology.

kineticadj/ kDSneZik /Gkrelating to the motion of matter andthe forces and energy associatedtherewith.The kinetic theory of gases treatseach molecule in a gas as a point,which has mass but negligiblevolume.

kingdom


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kinkajoun/ SkiNkETjV /Algonquian > Fa slender long-tailed mammal ofCentral and South America relatedto the raccoon.The kinkajou is sometimes calledthe honey bear.

kishken/ SkishkE /Slav > Yiddishbeef or fowl casing stuffed with asavory filling (as of matzoth flour,chicken fat, and onion) and roasted.Steve ate four helpings of hisgrandmother’s kishke.

kitschn/ Skich /Gartistic or literary material held tobe of low quality, often produced toappeal to popular taste, and markedespecially by sentimentalism,sensationalism, and slickness.Souvenir shops are filled withkitsch for the undiscriminatingtourists.

kiwi

klendusityn/ klenSd(y)VsEZG /Gkthe tendency of a plant or variety toescape infection as a result ofhaving some property that preventsor hinders inoculation : disease-escaping ability.The plant’s thick cuticle is largelyresponsible for its klendusity.

klinotaxisn/ TklInEStaksDs /Gkdirectional orientation involvingturning toward a stimulus.The klinotaxis of honeybees isdependent on the angle of the sun.

klompn/ SklBmp /D[has homonym: clomp] a woodenshoe worn in the Low countries.The Dutch villager proudly showedPam a klomp that he had justfinished carving.

knapsackn/ SnapTsak /G&Da bag or case often of canvassupported on the back by a strapover each shoulder and usedespecially for carrying supplieswhile on a march or hike.The next morning, Boris found ayoung snapping turtle in hisknapsack.

knave

knavery

knead

kneadableadj/ SnGdEbEl /E + Ecfhaving the proper texture formixing into a well-blended wholeby or as if by repeatedly drawingout and pressing together.Flour was mixed with otheringredients to produce a kneadabledough.

knickknacky

knight

knightling

knishn/ kESnish /Russ > Yiddisha round or square of rich baking-powder dough folded over a savorymeat or cheese filling and baked orfried.Sol searched his new neighborhoodin vain for a restaurant that serveda decent knish.

knishes

knock

knockabout

knolln/ SnPl /Ea usually small rounded landeminence.Drucilla lay at the top of the knollto catch some rays.

knout

knuckle

knucks

knurl

kohlrabin/ kPlSrBbG /Ga variety of cabbage having aturnip-shaped edible stem.The flesh of the kohlrabi resemblesthat of the turnip but is sweeter andmilder.

kookaburran/ SkUkETbErE /Australian namea kingfisher of Australia that isabout the size of a crow, has a callresembling loud laughter, and feedsin part on reptiles.While vacationing in Melbourne,Lindsay was at first startled by thepeculiar chortling of a kookaburra.

kuchenn/ SkVkEn /Gany of several varieties of coffeecake typically made from sweetyeast dough and variously shaped,flavored, and frosted.Aunt Mitzi served a warm applekuchen for Christmas brunch.

2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List

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