southasianspellingbee.comsouthasianspellingbee.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/2004cwl-moderate... ·...

2004 Scripps National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing with Moderate Frequency

21 of 289

gussetn/ SgEsDt /F > Ea usually triangular or diamond-shaped insert (as of cloth or leather)placed in a seam to give ease orexpansibility.Eileen sewed a gusset into thewaistband of her hiking pants.

guttateadj/ SgEZTCt /Lresembling a drop or having spotsthat resemble drops.Symptoms of Janet’s illnessincluded a high fever and guttateskin lesions.

guyot

gyascutus

gymnast

gymnuren/ SjimTn(y)U(E)r /Gka small whitish insectivorousmammal of southeastern Asiahaving a long snout and a longnaked tail.The gymnure, also called themoonrat, is usually black withwhitish head, but some individualsare all white.

gynecocentricadj/ TgInDkPSsentrik /Gkdominated by or emphasizingfeminine interests or point of view.Lucy enjoyed the movie mostly forits gynecocentric plot.

gynecocracy

gynecology

gyration

gyrocompass

gyromancyn/ SjIrETman(t)sG /Gk + Gkdivination in which one walking inor around a circle falls fromdizziness and prognosticates fromthe place of the fall.In one form of gyromancy, a circleis marked with the alphabet so thatwords may be formed as the divinerfalls on the letters.

habitn/ ShabDt /L > F > Ea behavior pattern acquired byfrequent repetition.It is a Yorkshire habit to say whatyou think with blunt frankness, andold Ben Weatherstaff was aYorkshire moor man.

habitable

habituatedadj/ hESbichETwCZDd /Lmade familiar through use orexperience : accustomed.Although now habituated to acomfortable life, Edna never forgotthe pain of her poverty-strickenchildhood.

habitue

haddock

hafnium

haggardly

hagiographern/ ThagGSBgrEfE(r) /Gkone who writes about the life of asaint.Most biographies of the saints areanonymous, but some areattributed to a particularhagiographer.

hagiolith

hailstonesn pl/ ShClTstPnz /E + Eballs or lumps of ice falling from acloud.The hailstones damaged the finishof many cars in the neighborhood.

haircut

hairdo

hairiestadj/ Sha(a)rGDst /Ethe most covered with or as if withhair.“That’s the hairiest baby I’ve everseen!” exlaimed Mr. Feeney.

halfback

hallucinations

hallucinatory

halluxn/ ShalEks /Lthe innermost digit (as the big toe)of the hind limb : big toe.The football player becameafflicted with an arthritic halluxthat affected his mobility.

halogenn/ ShalEjDn /Gkany of the five elements fluorine,chlorine, bromine, iodine, andastatine forming group VII A of theperiodic table.A halogen normally appears in thefree state as a diatomic molecule.

halter


Page 122 of 289

hambon/ ShBm(T)bV /Sw geog namea Swedish round danced to variousmelodies in triple time.Joel learned to dance the hambowhen he visited relatives inSweden.

hammer

hamotzi

hamper

hamster

handbill

handicapn/ ShandGTkap /Ean advantage given a weakercontestant or a disadvantageimposed upon a stronger contestantin order to equalize chances ofwinning.Mr. Shore’s golf handicap hasremained unchanged after six yearsof play.

handicapper

handiwork

handkerchiefn/ ShaNkE(r)chEf /E + F > Ea piece of cloth that is used forvarious personal purposes or as acostume accessory.Mr. Van Deventer bought amatching tie and handkerchief offthe bargain rack.

handsome

hangar

hangdogadj/ ShaNTdOg /E + Edejected, cowed, pitiful.When asked why he had such ahangdog look, the little boy repliedthat he couldn’t find his puppy.

hanguln/ ShBNgEl /Kashmiria deer of Kashmir closely related tothe red deer of Europe.The deer hunter pointed out hismost recent trophy — the mountedhead of a hangul.

haori

hapchance

haphazardry

happenstancen/ ShapEnz(T)tan(t)s /E + La circumstance regarded as beingdue to chance.By happenstance, Gloria foundherself in the position of being awitness to a robbery.

hapticadj/ ShapTtik /Gkrelating to or based on the sense oftouch.The human body’s haptic sensor isthe skin.

harassmentn/ hESrasmEnt /Fthe act or an instance of vexing,troubling, or annoying continuallyor chronically.The employee sued the company forharassment that occurred over aperiod of two years.

hardihood

hardscrabble

hariolation

harmfully

harmlessadj/ ShBrmlDs /Elacking capacity or intent to injure.The snake was a harmless littlething that would not hurt anyoneand seemed in a hurry to get out ofthe room.

harmony

harpyn/ ShBrpG /Gk > La predatory monster in chieflyclassical mythology represented ashaving a woman’s head and bodyand claws of a vulture and as beingan instrument of divine vengeance.Mrs. Byrd did not realize that theharpy Jill drew to illustrate Romanmythology had personalsignificance.

harras

harriedv/ SharGd /Ekept under constant attack or threatof attack : harassed.A mosquito harried Charlie as hetried to sleep.

harrow

harrowingadj/ Sha(T)rPiN /Eacutely distressing or painful :agonizing.Laura worried that a trip to theSouth Dakota badlands would be atrip through miles of harrowingand hazardous countryside.

harvester


Page 123 of 289

hastateadj/ ShaTstCt /Lshaped like a spear or the head of aspear.Michael has a letter opener with ahastate blade that looks like aNeolithic weapon.

hastener

hastilude

hastilyadv/ ShCstDlG /F > Ehurriedly.The hastily executed maneuversaved the ship from the rocks.

hatched

haul

haunchesn pl/ ShOnchEs /Gmc > F > Ehips : hindquarters.The guard dog sat on his haunchesand growled a warning to all whocame near.

hausfrau

Havartin/ hESvBrtG /Danish geog namea semisoft Danish cheese with amild to sharp flavor.Rivka served raw vegetables andmild Havarti with crackers to herparty guests.

Hawaiianadj/ hESwByEn /Hawaiianof or relating to the island, state, orTerritory of Hawaii, the Hawaiianislands, or the inhabitants ofHawaii.Maureen won a Hawaiian vacationon a game show.

hawk

hawkern/ ShOkE(r) /G&Eone that sells wares especially inthe streets : peddler.Sabrina tried to ignore the hawkeras he extolled the virtues of beefjerky.

hawse

hawsern/ ShOzE(r) /L > F > E[Note: Could be confused withHausa, houser.] a large rope fortowing or mooring a ship orsecuring it at a dock.Jody passed the hawser around themooring post and disembarkedfrom the boat.

hawthorn

hayloftn/ ShCTlOft /E + ON > Ea loft or scaffold for hay.Uncle Albert forbade the childrenfrom playing in the hayloft.

hazard

haziness

hazing

headpiece

headset

hearse

heartburn

heartthrob

heathenness

heaven

heavyweight

hebdomadal

hebephrenian/ ThGbESfrGnGE /Gka form of schizophrenia that ischaracterized by silliness,delusions, hallucinations, andregression and that has an earlyinsidious onset.The prognosis for hebephrenia,which presents itself initiallyduring youth, is unfavorable.

hebetudinous

hecatombn/ ShekETtPm /Gka large number or quantity.The hecatomb of soldiers slain inthe War Between the States makesthis war the deadliest conflict inour country’s history.

heckle

hectorv/ ShektE(r) /Gk nameharass, intimidate, bully, ordomineer by bluster, scolding, orpersonal pressure.Some seniors like to hectorunderclassmen on the first day ofschool.

hedebo

hedge

hedgehopper

hedgerown/ ShejTrP /Ea row of shrubs or trees enclosingor separating fields.The property belonging to theestate extended from the hedgerowat the left of the house to the stonepillar one mile down the road.

hedonic

heedful


Page 124 of 289

heedless

heftyadj/ SheftG /Eimpressively large.Little Jolene sat on several heftybooks in order to reach thedesktop.

heiferette

heighten

heist

heliacaladj/ hDSlIEkEl /Gkrelating to or near the Sun—usedespecially of the last setting of astar before and its first rising afterinvisibility due to conjunction withthe Sun.The Egyptian rural year wasdetermined by the heliacal rising ofSirius.

helical

heliciformadj/ hDSlisDTfOrm /Gk + Ecfspiral.Emmett picked up several smallheliciform shells while playing onthe beach.

helicline

heliocentricadj/ ShGlGPTsentrik /Gkhaving or relating to the Sun as thecenter.Copernicus proposed in the 16thcentury a heliocentric theory ofplanetary arrangement.

heliophyten/ ShGlGETfIt /Gk + Gka plant thriving in or tolerating fullsunlight.The cactus is a good example of aheliophyte.

heliosisn/ ThGlGSPsDs /Gksunstroke.Ben stayed indoors for a weekfollowing his bout with heliosis onthe rafting trip.

heliport

helixn/ ShGliks /Gk > Lsomething spiral in form.Each tendril of a grape vine formsa helix.

hellebore

helmetn/ ShelmDt /Gmc > Fany of various protective headcoverings usually made of a hardmaterial to resist impact.The steel helmet protected thesoldier from shrapnel.

helminthoidadj/ helSminTthOid /Gkresembling a parasitic worm (as aroundworm, tapeworm, or leech).The calves’ emaciation and stuntedgrowth were found to be a result ofinfestation by helminthoidorganisms.

helpful

hemeran/ ShemErE /Gka stratigraphic zone comprising thetime range of a particular fossilspecies.Work on the excavation stoppedwhen the workers accidentallyunearthed a wide, rich hemera.

hemicadj/ ShGmik /Gkof or relating to blood.Hemic problems caused Ron'sbreathing difficulty.

hemiplegia

hemiplegicadj/ ThemDSplGjik /Gkmarked by paralysis of one lateralhalf of the body or part of itresulting from injury to the motorcenters of the brain.Marc’s automobile accident lefthim in a hemiplegic condition.

hemlock

hemochromatosisn/ ThGmPTkrPmEStPsDs /Gka disease characterized bywidespread deposition of iron-containing pigments in the tissuesresulting in bronzing of the skin,associated with cirrhosis of theliver and pancreas.“Bronze diabetes” is the commonname for hemochromatosis.

hemodialysisn/ ThGmPdISalEsDs /Gk + Gk + Gkthe process of removing blood froman artery (as of a kidney patient),purifying it, adding vitalsubstances, and returning it to avein.Mr. Barnes is glad that hishemodialysis can be done at homeinstead of at the hospital.


Page 125 of 289

hemolymphn/ ShGmETlim(p)f /Gk > L > Ethe circulatory fluid of variousinvertebrate animals that isfunctionally comparable to theblood and lymph of vertebrates.The hemolymph of insects isusually green, yellow, or colorless.

hemophilic

hemostatn/ ShGmETstat /Gkan instrument for compressing ableeding vessel.A hemostat is an indispensable toolin surgery.

henneryn/ ShenETrG /E + Ecf[has near homonym: henry] anenclosure or house for poultry.Bill painted the small hennery andput fresh straw inside it for thechickens.

heortologyn/ ThGTO(r)StBlEjG /Gk + Gka study of religious calendars;especially : a study of the historyand the meaning of the seasons andfestivals of the church year.Barbara’s thesis on medievalItalian heortology was publishedlast year to modest critical acclaim.

hepatectomy

hepatomegalyn/ ThepEZPSmegElG /Gk + Gkenlargement of the liver.An accumulation of glycogen in theliver can result in hepatomegaly.

heptachord

heptagonal

heptastich

herald

heraldryn/ SherEldrG /Gmc > F > Ea branch of knowledge that dealswith the history and practice ofbearing and displaying armorialensigns and with the art ofdescribing them.When she began studying heraldry,Jenny realized that she would haveto learn a dictionary full ofspecialized terms.

herb

herbal

herbicide

herbivore

herbivorousadj/ T(h)ErSbivErEs /Lfeeding on plants.Most insects are herbivorous andfeed on virtually every part of aplant, from the flower to the root.

herbsn pl/ S(h)Erbz /L > F > Eplants or plant parts valued for theirmedicinal, savory, or aromaticqualities.Karl guarded carefully the secret ofwhich herbs he put in his barbecuesauce.

hereafter

hereinbelow

heresimachn/ hESrGzETmak /Gkan active opponent of heresy andheretics.During the Inquisition,Torquemada was Spain’s mostzealous heresimach.

heretofore

heritably

hermetic

hero

heroism

heron

herpetofauna

hesitate

hessian

hesychastn/ ShesDkast /Gkone of a set of Eastern Orthodoxmonastics practicing a solitarymeditative form of prayer.A monk who is a hesychast seeksinner stillness through prayer.

heterodynedv/ SheZErETdInd /Gkcombined (a radio frequency) witha different frequency so that a beatis produced.The incoming radio signals had tobe heterodyned down to 150kilohertz for recording with a taperecorder.

heterogeneityn/ TheZErEjDSnGEZG /Gk + Lcfthe quality or state of differing inkind.Sherman was amazed at theheterogeneity of the fraternitymembers.

heteronomy


Page 126 of 289

heteronymn/ SheZErETnim /Gkone of two or more words spelledalike that differ in pronunciationand meaning.Each of the words spelled b-a-s-s inthe following sentence is aheteronym: The fisherman in hisbass voice cried out that he hadcaught a bass.

heterotrichosisn/ TheZErPtrESkPsDs /Gka condition of having hair ofvariegated color.When Granny saw rainbow-coloredhair for the first time, shewondered if she were seeing afreakish case of heterotrichosis.

heterozygoten/ TheZErPSzIgPt /Gkan animal or plant that containsgenes for both members of at leastone pair of alternative Mendeliancharacters such as whether or notone can roll one’s tongue.Certain genetic disorders areasymptomatic in the heterozygote.

hewv/ ShyV /E[has homonym: hue] shape, form,create, or bring into being with oras if with hard rough blows orefforts.Dr. King told his listeners that withfaith they would be able to “hewout of the mountain of despair astone of hope.”hewgag

hewnadj/ ShyVn /Efelled, cut, or shaped by hewing (aswith an ax).From the hewn stump in the frontyard new shoots began to sprout.

hexafoos

hexagonaladj/ hekSsagEnFl /Gk + Ecfhaving six angles and six sides :six-sided.A cell of a honeycomb is one ofmany hexagonal forms in nature.

hexametern/ hekSsamEZE(r) /Gka line of six metrical feet.Gil read the difficult hexameterwithout pause or problem, to theastonishment of ProfessorWinterbottom.

hexerei

hideaway

hideosity

hidrosis

highbinding

highlight

highroadn/ ShITrPd /E + Ethe best approach : an easy way.The highroad to the lodge was veryscenic.

hilarity

hinder

hindquarter

hindrance

hindsight

hintingly

Hippocraticadj/ ThipESkraZik /Gk nameof or relating to Hippocrates or tothe school of medicine that took hisname.Dr. Owens takes the Hippocraticoath literally.

hippocrepiform

hirsuteness

hirsutismn/ ShErTsVtTizEm /Lexcessive growth of hair of normalor abnormal distribution.Hirsutism is often the result of ahormonal imbalance in the body.

histogenesis

histogenyn/ hiSstBjEnG /Gkthe formation and differentiation oftissues.The 19th-century physiologistTheodor Schwann was renownedfor his pioneering study ofhistogeny.

historian

historicize

Hitchcockianadj/ hichSkBkGEn /American nameof, relating to, or suggestive of thecinematic style or technique ofAlfred Hitchcock.One Hitchcockian mark was to puthimself in the background of ascene in the film, usually when theaudience would least expect to seethe director.

hither


Page 127 of 289

hithertoadv/ ShiLE(r)TtV /Eup to this time.Frieda discovered an opening to ahitherto unknown cave.

Hitlerianadj/ hitSlirGEn /G nameof, relating to, or suggestive ofdictator Adolf Hitler or his regimein Germany.The regime’s Hitlerian disregard ofhuman life and human rightsrepulsed and disgusted thecommission.

hittableadj/ ShiZEbEl /ON > E + Lcapable of being struck.The batter cursed himself formissing a perfectly hittable ball.

hobbyist

hobgoblin

hobnail

hobnob

hodad

hoedownn/ ShPTdaUn /E + Ea lively old-time dance.Pamela enjoyed the hoedowntremendously.

hoggish

hogsheadn/ ShOgzThed /E + Ea U.S. unit of capacity equal to 63gallons.We grew enough apples in ourbackyard this year to yield 1hogshead of cider.

hogwash

hokum

holcodont

holdall

holiday

holistic

Hollerithn/ ShBlETrith /namea code for representingalphanumeric information on punchcards.Billy started programming backwhen mainframe computers stillhad special readers for Hollerith.

hollygrape

holography

holometabolousadj/ hBlPTmDStabElEs /Gk > L + Ecfof an insect : characterized bydevelopment with completemetamorphosis.Most beetles, butterflies, and mothsare holometabolous insects.

holophrasis

holophrasticadj/ ThBlESfrastik /Gk + Gkexpressing a complex of ideas in asingle word.Holophrastic utterances are one ofthe first stages in children’sacquisition of speech.

holozoic

holster

homagen/ S(h)Bmij /L > F > Ereverential regard : respect,deference.The Lord Chancellor demandedhomage wherever he went.

hombren/ SBm(T)brC /L > Sp[has homonym: ombre] man,fellow, guy.Tex was too fast to let that hombreget the drop on him.

homebound

homeopathy

Homericadj/ hPSmerik /Gk nameof or relating to the Greek poetHomer, his age, or his writings.The Homeric portrayal of death ispessimistic and offers nounambiguously attractive hope of areward for a good life.

homestretch

homiletic

hominivorous

hominoidn/ ShBmETnOid /L + Ecfresembling the family of mammalsto which humans and theirancestors belong.Chewbacca has markedly hominoidfeatures.

homogeneousadj/ ShPmETjGnGEs /Gkrelating to, occurring in, or being asystem that contains no internalphysical boundaries.Roger’s lecture was about thehomogeneous catalytic role thatchlorine plays in the depletion ofthe ozone layer.

homonymous


Page 128 of 289

homophonen/ ShBmETfPn /Gkone of two or more wordspronounced alike but different inmeaning or derivation or spelling.When Andrew’s mom was inschool, a homophone was called a“homonym.”

homuncularadj/ ThPSmENkyElEr /Lresembling or characteristic of alittle man, specifically oneartificially produced by analchemist.The three-dimensional gingerbreadman that Jana baked had ahomuncular quality.

honcho

hone

honestly

honestone

honeycombn/ ShEnGTkPm /Ea mass of hexagonal prismatic waxcells built by bees as a nest andstore of food.A swarm of bees covered the largehoneycomb.

honeypot

honeysuckle

honor

honorariumn/ TBnESrerGEm /Lan honorary payment or rewardusually given as compensation forservices.Dr. Ferraro donated thehonorarium she received for herspeech at the Rotary Club to alocal animal shelter.

hoodlumn/ ShVdlEm /unknowna criminal usually belonging to agang : thug.The young hoodlum was arrestedfor vandalism.

hooey

hoofer

hooroosh

hooves

hopper

hopperdozer

horizontalize

hornpipen/ ShO(E)rnTpIp /Ea lively folk dance of the BritishIsles.A musical instrument called “thehornpipe” gave its name to apopular sailors’ dance.

horologistn/ hESrBlEjDst /La maker of clocks or watches.After working as a watchrepairman for seven years, Mattdecided to become a full-fledgedhorologist.

horoscope

horoscopic

horribleadj/ ShOrEbEl /Llikely to arouse fear, dread, orabhorrence.A horrible sound came from insidethe fall festival’s haunted house.

horrid

horrificallyadv/ hOSrifDk(E)lG /Lin a manner inspiring horror orfear.The real consequences of a nuclearwar could be horrifically worsethan previously imagined.

horrified

horrify

horsehair

horst

horticultural

hostileadj/ ShBstFl /L[has homonym: hostel] offering anunpleasant or forbiddingenvironment.The snow and ice-coveredmountains presented a hostilepicture of the next segment of thejourney.

hostilely

hovel

howbeit

howledv/ ShaUld /Euttered or emitted a loud sustaineddoleful sound or outcrycharacteristic of dogs and wolves.The wind howled cruelly in aneffort to tear them loose.

hox

hoydenishadj/ ShOidFnish /D? + Ecflively, tomboyish, unladylike.Mrs. Taylor remarked that even adie-hard feminist would considerZoe’s behavior hoydenish.


Page 129 of 289

hubristicadj/ hyVSbristik /Gkinsolent, vain, arrogant.Without question, Rick was themost hubristic intern Dr. Hallberghad ever encountered.

huckaback

huckster

huen/ ShyV /Egradation of color.An inspired painter reveals moodthrough the use of hue and shade.

hueless

hulav/ ShVlE /Hawaiianperform a sinuous mimeticPolynesian dance of traditionalform and topical adaptation,usually accompanied by chants andrhythmic drumming.Leilani was invited to hula for theguests at the luau.

hulkingadj/ ShElkiN /Gk > L > E + Ecfof great size or powerful build.One look at the hulking guardwould cause anyone to think twiceabout making him angry.

humanioran pl/ (h)yVTmanGSPrE /Lthe branches of learning regardedas having primarily a culturalcharacter and usually includinglanguages, literature, history,mathematics, and philosophy.Mateo received his degree ingeneral studies or, as he likes tocall it, “humaniora.”

humanitariann/ (T)hyVTmanESterGEn /L + Ecfa person who is actively concernedin promoting human welfare andespecially social reform.Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. willalways be remembered as a greathumanitarian.

humblyadv/ ShEmblG /Ein a modest or meek manner.Anita humbly protested that herwork did not deserve to hang on themuseum’s walls.

humdinger

humid

humidityn/ hyVSmidEZG /La moderate degree of wetnessespecially of the atmosphere.In addition to the heat andhumidity, the hikers had to dealwith pesky mosquitoes.

humiliate

humilityn/ hyVSmilEZG /Lthe quality or state of being humblein spirit : freedom from pride orarrogance.We all need humility in the face ofwhat we do not understand.

humituren/ ShyVmETchU(E)r /L&Lan integer average of temperatureand humidity.When the temperature is 85degrees Fahrenheit and the relativehumidity is 90, the humiture is 88.

hummingbird

hummocky

humstrum

humusn/ S(h)yVmEs /L[Note: Could be confused withadjective humous. Also, has nearhomonym: hummus.] the organicportion of soil.Mario’s compost heap provides anannual supply of humus for hisgarden.

hunchingv/ ShEnchiN /unknownassuming a bent or crookedposture.After hours of hunching in the car,Huey was glad for an opportunityto stretch at the rest stop.

hundred

hundredweightn/ ShEndrDdTwCt /E + Ea unit of weight equal to 100pounds—called also “shorthundredweight.”Ronnie may be teased for onlybeing a hundredweight, but he isrespected for his quickness.

Hungariann/ ThENSga(a)rGEn /European geog namea native or inhabitant of Hungary, acountry in central Europe.Many a Hungarian has settledhappily in the United States.

hungry

hurdlen/ ShErdFl /Ean artificial barrier over whichhorses leap in a race.Gordon’s mount cleared the lasthurdle with ease and won the race.


Page 130 of 289

huren/ ShyU(E)r /F > E[has homonym: hewer] a close-fitting cap.The 15th-century painting depicteda peasant wearing a gray hure.

hurlingv/ ShErliN /imit? Eimpelling with great vigor.For lack of something better to do,Simon spent the afternoon hurlingstones into the creek.

hurriedlyadv/ ShErDdlG /E? + Ecffquickly, hastily.Jennifer dressed hurriedly in thecold room.

husbandryn/ ShEzbEndrG /ON > Ethe cultivation or production ofplants and animals : agriculture,farming.The barn was well stocked withtools of husbandry.

husky

hustingsn pl/ ShEstiNz /ON > Ean election platform : stump.After the political conventions, theelection heated up as each party’snominee took to the hustings withrenewed zeal.

hustlev/ ShEsEl /Dmove or act with vigorous speed.“You’d better hustle if you want tomake your train!” Betty shouted.

hydran/ ShIdrE /Gk > La many-sided problem or obstaclethat presents new difficulties eachtime one aspect of it is solved orovercome.The problem was a hydra ofimmense proportion.

hydroacousticadj/ ThI(T)drPESkVstik /Gkof or relating to the transmission ofsound in water.Whales use a form of hydroacousticcommunication.

hydrocortisonen/ ThI(T)drPSkO(r)ZETsPn /Gk + La crystalline hormone that is usedin the treatment of certain allergicdiseases.At one time available only incompounds prescribed by doctors,hydrocortisone is now found inmany over-the-countermedications.

hydrologicaladj/ ThIdrESlBjDkEl /Gkof or relating to the study of wateron the surface of the land, in thesoil and underlying rocks, and inthe atmosphere.The hydrological cycle includes theevaporation of oceanic water intothe atmosphere and its eventualreturn as precipitation.

hydropathy

hydrophobian/ ThIdrESfPbGE /Gkan acute viral disease of thenervous system of warm-bloodedanimals that is fatal when untreatedand is transmitted with infectedsaliva usually through the bite of ananimal : rabies.In recent years many raccoonshave succumbed to hydrophobia.

hydroponicsn pl/ ThIdrESpBniks /Gkthe growing of plants in nutrientsolutions with or without sand,gravel, or other inert medium toprovide mechanical support.Hydroponics is invaluable inregions having poor or no soil.

hydroxyzine

hyetometern/ ThIEStBmEZE(r) /Gkrain gage.Ambrose set up a hyetometer in thefront yard as part of his sciencefair project.

hygeianadj/ hISjGEn /Gk name[Note: Could be confused withhygiene.] of or relating to health ormedical practice.Janice does not know whichhygeian career she will pursue, butshe is currently very interested innutrition.


Page 131 of 289

hygienicadj/ ThIjGSenik /Gkof, relating to, or conducive tohealth or the science which dealswith the establishment andmaintenance of health in theindividual and the group.The minister reported that betterhygienic conditions had reducedinfant mortality significantly overthe past ten years.

hygienically

hygrometern/ hISgrBmEZE(r) /Gkany of several instruments formeasuring the humidity of theatmosphere.Eileen wondered what wouldhappen if she took the hygrometerinto the shower with her.

hygroscope

hyoidn/ ShITOid /Gka bone or complex of bonessituated at the base of the tongue,supporting the tongue and itsmuscles.X rays showed damage to thepatient’s larynx and hyoid.

hypallagen/ hISpalE(T)jG /Gkthe interchange in syntacticrelationship between two terms.The sentence “you are becomedead to the law” is hypallage for“the law has become dead to you.”hyperboreanadj/ ThIpE(r)SbPrGEn /Gkof, relating to, or inhabiting anextreme northern region : frigid.Polar bears are among the fewanimals that can survive inhyperborean regions.

hyperkalemia

hyperopian/ ThIpESrPpGE /Gka condition in which visual imagescome to a focus behind the retinaand vision is better for distant thanfor near objects : farsightedness.Mom attributed her difficulty inreading fine print to hyperopia.

hypertonic

hyphenic

hypnosis

hypocaustn/ ShIpPTkOst /Gka central heating system of anancient Roman building consistingof an underground furnace or firechamber and a series of tile fluesfor distribution of the heat.Jessamyn pointed out the remainsof the hypocaust that had heatedthe public baths.

hypochloriten/ ThI(T)pPSklPrTIt /Gka salt or ester of a weak acid usedchiefly as an oxidizing agent,bleaching agent, disinfectant, andchlorinating agent.Sodium hypochlorite is the primaryingredient in commercial laundrybleaches.

hypocrite

hypopharynxn/ ThI(T)pPSfariN(k)s /Gka thickened fold on the floor of themouth of many insects thatresembles a tongue.In a chewing insect thehypopharynx secretes digestivejuices.

hypotacticadj/ ThIpEStaktik /Gkof, relating to, or exhibitingsyntactic subordination (as byconjunction).Yun loved the complicatedhypotactic prose of academicGerman.

Hypotherian pl/ ThIpPSthirGE /Gka hypothetical order including theas yet undiscovered ancestors ofthe mammals.Speculation about the ancestors ofthe mammals will remain just thatuntil a member of the orderHypotheria is discovered.

hypothermia

hypothesizev/ hISpBthETsIz /Gkmake an assumption in order todraw out its logical or empiricalconsequences.We can hypothesize that everystatement is true, but then we willhave to accept contradictions astruth.

hypoxemia

hypozeuxis

hypsometern/ hipSsBmEZE(r) /Gk + Gkany of various instruments used todetermine the height of trees bytriangulation.Being a forester, Steve was anexpert at using a hypsometer.


Page 132 of 289

hyraxn/ ShITraks /Gk > Lany of a family of small thicksetmammals with short legs and ears,feet with soft pads and broad nails,and a rudimentary tail.The hyrax feeds on a wide varietyof plants and can digest fiber veryefficiently.

hysterics

hysterogenic

ibexn/ SITbeks /Lone of several wild goats livingchiefly in high mountain areas andhaving large recurved horns.While on a ski trip in the SwissAlps, Pierre spotted an ibex.

ibidem

ibuprofenn/ TIbyUSprPfDn /ISVa nonsteroidal anti-inflammatorydrug used to relieve pain and fever.Because aspirin upsets herstomach, Angela takes ibuprofen torelieve minor pains.

iceberg

iceboundadj/ SIsTbaUnd /E + Esurrounded with ice so as to beincapable of advancing.The harbor was icebound duringmuch of the winter.

ichor

ichorousadj/ SIkErEs /Gk[has near homonym: Icarus] thin,watery.In severe psoriasis the skinbecomes hard and then cracks, andfrom the cracks there is anichorous discharge.

ichthyic

ichthyism

ichthyologist

ichthyosaurn/ SikthGPTsO(E)r /Gk + Gkany of an order of extinct fishlikereptiles of the Mesozoic era havinga long snout and a large caudal fin.Its streamlined body and paddle-like limbs enabled the ichthyosaurto move swiftly through the water.

ickiness

iconoclasm

iconoduly

iconographern/ TIkESnBgrEfE(r) /Ga maker or designer of figures ordrawings especially of aconventional or mechanical type.The congregation was quitepleased with the inspirational scenedepicted by the iconographer.

icotype

ictericadj/ SikTterik /Gk > Lof, relating to, or affected withjaundice.Hepatitis A is one common diseasethat has an icteric stage lastingfrom days to weeks.

ictus

idealist

idealizev/ ISdG(E)TlIz /Gkmake into a perfect example.Greer tends to idealize her friends.

ideatev/ SIdGTCt /Gk + Ecfremember, imagine, or think ofwhen not in the presence of.Painters often rely on their abilityto ideate a landscape or a face.

ideological

idiasmn/ SidGTazEm /Gkan individual mannerism (as inliterary style).James Joyce’s main idiasm was hispenchant for writing in stream ofconsciousness.

idiom

idiomatic

idiomaticallyadv/ TidGESmaZDk(E)lG /Gkin a manner conforming to thelanguage peculiar to a people or toa district, community, or class.The immigrant student quicklylearned to speak Englishidiomatically.

idiopathicadj/ TidGESpathik /Gkarising spontaneously or from anobscure or unknown cause.After carefully examining Leila, thedoctor announced that her suddenhearing loss was idiopathic andmight disappear with time.

idiophone

idiosyncrasies


3 of 289

idiosyncrasy

idleadj/ SIdFl /E[has homonyms: idol, idyl, idyll]given to rest or ease.Not one to be idle, Ben assistsothers whenever he completes hisassigned tasks.

idol

idolizationn/ TIdFlDSzCshEn /Gk > L > F > Ethe act of loving or revering toexcess, or the state of being reveredto excess.The public’s idolization ofcelebrities inevitably causes themto change the nature of their publiccontacts.

idunitn/ ISdEnDt /Ean autobiographical or confessionalaccount usually of a sensationalcharacter.Everyone expected the colorfulWall Street broker to write anidunit after his conviction forembezzlement.

ignescent

ignition

ignore

illaudable

illeist

illfare

illimitableadj/ i(l)SlimDZEbEl /Lnot capable of being restricted orbounded.The capacity of human beings toabsorb what they wish to absorband to ignore the rest seems to beillimitable.

illiteracyn/ i(l)SliZErEsG /Linability to read or write.The administration promised tolaunch a campaign againstilliteracy.

illogical

illogicalityn/ (T)i(l)TlBjESkalEZG /Gk + Ecffthe quality or state of reasoningunsoundly through ignorance ornegligence of logic.The English teacher pointed out theillogicality in saying “My cup isfuller than yours.”illuminable

illuminometern/ DTlVmESnBmEZE(r) /L + Ecf + Gka photometer for measuring theillumination of surfaces.Houston and Kennelly called theirinvention an illuminometer.

illustriousadj/ DSlEstrGEs /L + Ecfnotably or brilliantly outstanding.The ambassador’s illustriousachievements are knownthroughout the land.

imaginev/ DSmajDn /L > F > Eform an idea of.Louis became dizzy when he triedto imagine himself sky-diving orhang-gliding.

imagon/ DSmC(T)gP /Lan insect in its final adult matureusually winged state.A butterfly has a caterpillar stageand a chrysalis stage before itemerges as an imago, or butterfly.

imbibition

imbroglio

imitate

immanentadj/ SimEnEnt /Lremaining or operating within thesubject considered : indwelling.Stefan told a story about a forestgod immanent in the large redwoodnear our camping spot.

immaterial

immeasurable

immeasurablyadv/ i(m)Smezh(E)rEblG /L > Ecf + L + L > F > Ein a manner that is incapable ofbeing measured.A two-volume index addsimmeasurably to the usefulness ofthe encyclopedia.

immediacy


Page 134 of 289

immemorialadj/ i(m)mDSmPrGEl /L > Fnot within the reach of memory,record, or tradition : indefinitelyancient.Daring teenagers have beenclimbing Devil’s Rock since timeimmemorial.

immerge

immigrant

immiscibilityn/ i(m)SmisESbilEZG /Linability to mix or becomehomogeneous.Rain falling on an oil slickdemonstrates the immiscibility ofthe two liquids.

immitigable

immittance

immobile

immobilizev/ i(m)SmPbETlIz /L > Finterfere with or prevent freedomof movement or effective use of.The general planned to use hissecret weapon to immobilize enemyforces.

immortelle

immund

immuneadj/ DSmyVn /Lprotected, guarded.Wearing her heavy parka madeJudith immune to the cold wind.

immunity

immunize

immunology

impartialityn/ TimTpBrshGSalEZG /Lfreedom from bias or favoritism.Justice is often personified with ablindfold and scales to representimpartiality.

impartible

impassionate

impatient

impeach

impeachmentn/ DmSpGchmEnt /F > Econviction of misconduct andusually removal from office.Faced with almost certainimpeachment, Richard Nixonbecame the first United Statespresident to resign from office.

impelv/ DmSpel /Lurge or drive by force or constraint.Contrary to the best calculations ofpolicy, the nation will impel itsgovernment to war.

impenitently

impercipientadj/ TimpE(r)SsipGEnt /Llacking intuitive recognition orinsight.The critic complained that thenovel’s characters were soimpercipient that no one couldpossibly care about them.

imperfect

imperilv/ DmSperEl /L > F > Eexpose to danger of imminent harmor loss.The investigation into fund-raisingefforts could imperil thecandidate’s political future.

imperilment

imperious

imperiously

impermeable

impertinent

impetratedv/ SimpETtrCZEd /Lobtained by request or entreaty :procured.Lisa impetrated a bottle of Dijonmustard from the couple at the nexttable and spread some on hersandwich.

impetuous

impignorate

impingement

impious

impishadj/ Simpish /Erelating to a person who behavesmischievously.Troy’s impish behavior was nottolerated at his new school.

impishness

implicate


Page 135 of 289

implosionn/ DmSplPzhEn /Lthe action of bursting inward.Judd’s chemistry experimentcreated a small implosion after theoxygen was consumed.

impluvium

impofo

impoliteadj/ TimpESlIt /Llacking in politeness, in etiquette,or in consideration of others.“All I meant was that perhaps itisn’t too important,” Milorepeated, trying not to be impolite.

imponderable

importunateadj/ DmSpOrchEnDt /Ltroublesomely urgent : overlypersistent in request or demand.Peter’s importunate requests forassistance cause people to ignoreand also avoid him.

importunev/ TimpErStVn /L&Fpress or urge with frequent orunreasonable requests ortroublesome persistence.The political organization wasasked not to importune shoppers tosign petitions in front of the store.

imposingadj/ DmSpPziN /L > F + Ecfimpressive because of size, scope,bearing, dignity, or grandeur.The imposing statues at thetemple’s entrance awed thevisitors.

imprecatev/ SimprDTkCt /Linvoke evil upon : curse.The defendant’s attorney expectsthat the angry plaintiff mayimprecate her during cross-examination.

imprecatory

impreg

impregnableadj/ imSpregnEbEl /L > F > Eincapable of being taken by assault.Three feet of densely packed snowenveloping Dieter’s fort rendered itimpregnable.

impressiveadj/ DmSpresiv /L + Ecftending to arouse the strong interestor admiration of another.The singer’s vocal range is veryimpressive.

improvement

improvident

improving

improvisationn/ (T)imTprBvESzCshEn /L > Fthe act of creating anextemporaneous composition (as ofmusic or poetry).Joel found he had a real gift forimprovisation on his saxophone.

improvisationaladj/ imTprBvESzCshEnFl /Lcomposed extemporaneously.Patrick enjoys improvisationaldancing but not ballroom dancing.

impudentadj/ SimpyEdEnt /Ldisrespectful, insolent.The bully stood before the principalwith an impudent and haughty lookin his eye.

impugnableadj/ DmSpyVnEbEl /Lcapable of being called intoquestion.Although the senator’s loyalty wasnever doubted, his judgment wascertainly impugnable.

impugnment

impuissant

imu

inability

inaccessibleadj/ TinikSsesEbEl /Lnot capable of being reached,entered, or approached.Damian remodeled his store’sentrance because it wasinaccessible to people inwheelchairs.

inadequacyn/ inSadDkwEsG /Lthe state of being not fullysufficient for a specified or impliedrequirement.The psychologist spoke about thefeelings of failure, powerlessness,and inadequacy that overwhelmpeople in a society obsessed withsuccess.

inadvertentlyadv/ TinEdSvErtEntlG /Ecf + L + Ecfunintentionally.Grace inadvertently locked herkeys in the trunk of her car.


Page 136 of 289

inamissible

inappetence

inaudible

inaugurate

inauguratorn/ DSnOgyETrCZE(r) /La person who begins or bringsabout the beginning of something.Geoffrey of Monmouth is creditedas the inaugurator of the legends ofKing Arthur.

incalescent

incandesce

incantationsn pl/ TinTkanStCshEnz /Luses of spells or verbal charmsspoken or sung as part of ritual ormagic.The priest pronounced barelyaudible incantations over the sickman.

incarnadine

incavation

incentive

inched

incineratedv/ DnSsinETrCZDd /Lcaused to burn to ashes.Janna incinerated her love lettersin the wood stove.

incipiently

incise

incision

incisiveadj/ inSsIsiv /Lhaving a cutting edge or piercingpoint.Mr. Cunningham’s wit was asincisive as the stroke of a fang.

incisor

incitev/ DnSsIt /L[has near homonym: insight] moveto a course of action : stir up : urgeon.Patrick Henry’s goal was to incitehis listeners to rebel.

inclemency

inclinometer

inclusion

incogitant

incognitan/ TinTkBgSnGZE /L[has near homonym: incognito] awoman in disguise; especially : oneconcealing her real quality or stateunder some unobtrusiveappearance.Though her employers knew her asJane Swanson, the incognita wasreally a dangerous terrorist namedCarmen Leblanc.

incoherentlyadv/ TinkPShirEntlG /Lin a manner lacking orderlycontinuity or relevance.The distraught woman explainedrather incoherently that shecouldn’t find her three-year-olddaughter.

incommensurateadj/ TinkESmen(t)s(E)rDt /Lnot equal in measure or extent.Stephanie’s expenditures areincommensurate with her salary, soshe is looking for a higher-payingposition.

incommodingv/ TinkESmPdiN /Lgiving inconvenience or distress to.Mr. Elton offered to take thedrawing to London, and Emma didher best to pack it as to ensure itssafety without much incommodinghim.

incommunicado

incompatibleadj/ TinkEmSpaZEbEl /Lincapable of harmoniouscombination.Marriage would not do for Emma;it would be incompatible with whatshe owed to her father.

incompletable

incomplete

inconcinnityn/ inTkEnSsinEZG /Llack of suitability or congruity :awkward or unsuitable form orcharacter.There was an obvious inconcinnitybetween the lawyer’s offense andthe penalty imposed by the judge.

incongruent

inconsolableadj/ TinkEnSsPlEbEl /Lincapable of being consoled :grieved beyond comfort.A friend advised the inconsolablewidow to consider going to livewith her daughter for a while.


Page 137 of 289

inconvenientadj/ TinkEnSvGnyEnt /Lgiving trouble, uneasiness, orannoyance.Rachel’s mom complains that thelocation of the kitchen in relation totheir garage is terriblyinconvenient.

incorporeal

incorporeityn/ TinTkO(r)pESrGEZG /Lthe quality or state of having nomaterial body or form.The students in the introductoryphysics class were puzzled by theincorporeity of the photon.

incorruptibleadj/ TinkESrEptEbEl /Lincapable of being bribed orchanged from good to bad inmorals, manners, or actions.The local police force prided itselfon being incorruptible.

incrassate

incredulous

incrementaladj/ TiNkrESmentFl /L > Eof, relating to, constituting, orresulting from slight orimperceptible augmentations.Though Nathan’s day-to-daygrowth was incremental, he greweight inches in a year’s time.

incriminate

incroyable

incunabula

incur

incurrableadj/ DnSkErEbEl /L[has near homonym: incurable]liable to be brought down upononeself.When laws are violated, penaltiesare incurrable.

indecisivelyadv/ TindDSsIsDvlG /L + Ecfindistinctly, vaguely.Tim’s answer was givenindecisively.

indefectible

indehiscent

indelibly

index

indexically

indignantadj/ DnSdignEnt /Lfilled with or marked by intenseresentment.Mrs. Calloway was indignant overthe committee’s decision.

indignityn/ DnSdignEZG /Lsomething humiliating or injuriousto one’s self-esteem : insult,outrage.The prisoners were forced to sufferone indignity after another.

indirect

indirectly

indirubin

indiscreet

indispensable

indisputableadj/ indDSspyVZEbEl /Lthat is beyond argument :unquestionable.Geraldo considered the result ofhis experiment indisputable.

indistinguishableadj/ TindDSstiNgwishEbEl /Lincapabable of being perceived asbeing separate or different.Mom could not be conned intobelieving that margarine isindistinguishable from butter.

individual

individuality

individually

indivisibleadj/ TindDSvizEbEl /Lnot separable into parts.Democritus postulated theexistence of the atom, which hethought was the smallest indivisibleunit of matter.

inducible

industry

inebriacy

inebrietyn/ TinESbrIEZG /Ldrunkenness.Arthur saw very little humor in thecomedian’s feigned inebriety.

inedita

ineffaceable


Page 138 of 289

inefficientadj/ inDSfishEnt /Ecf + Lwasteful of time or energy inperforming work.Measuring once and cutting twiceis more inefficient than measuringtwice and cutting once.

ineligibility

ineligibleadj/ inSelDjEbEl /Lnot qualified to be chosen.According to the rules, last year’schampion is ineligible to competethis year.

inerrantadj/ inSerEnt /Lfree from error or mistake.The minister expressed staunchcommitment to the inerrantauthority of Scripture.

inescapable

inesculentadj/ inSeskyElEnt /Lnot suitable for use as foodespecially for human beings :inedible.Gary was sick for several daysafter eating an inesculentmushroom.

inessentialadj/ TinDSsenchEl /Lnot necessary : dispensable.The soldier claims that enforcementof inessential regulations is pettyharassment of the weak by thestrong.

inestimableadj/ inSestEmEbEl /Ltoo valuable or excellent to bemeasured or appreciated.The soldier died in battle, unawareof the inestimable service he hadperformed for his country.

inevitabilityn/ (T)iTnevEZESbilEZG /Lthe quality or state of beingincapable of being avoided orevaded.The character rages throughout theplay at the unfairness of life andthe inevitability of death.

inexcusable

inexcusablyadv/ TinikSskyVzEblG /L + Ecfnot justifiably, not apologetically.Toby is inexcusably late for hisviolin lesson.

inexhaustibleadj/ TinigSzOstEbEl /Lincapable of being used up :unfailing.After her visit to Third Worldcountries, Jody realized that shelived in a land that had aninexhaustible wealth in agriculture.

inexpensiveness

infallibility

infamous

infanticiden/ DnSfantETsId /La killing of a newly or recentlyborn child.In ancient Rome the head of thefamily had the right to commitinfanticide.

infantry

infatuate

infatuatedadj/ DnSfachETwCZDd /Lpossessed with or marked by astrong attachment or foolish orunreasoning love.The young man, infatuated with hisfirst love, was blind to her faults.

inferv/ DnSfEr /Lderive by reasoning or implication.The reader was left to infer whatJojo’s crime was.

inference

inferential

infideln/ SinfETdel /L > Fan unbeliever in respect to aparticular religion.Ann’s favorite painting in themuseum is a 17th-century portraitentitled Conversion of the Infidel.

infiltration

infirmarian

infirmaryn/ DnSfErm(E)rG /La hospital or place where the sickare lodged for treatment.The camp nurse confined Jason tothe infirmary after he fainted.

infirmityn/ DnSfErmEZG /Lfeebleness, frailty.Fortunately Grandpa Edgar’sinfirmity of body is notaccompanied by mental infirmity.


Page 139 of 289

inflammableadj/ DnSflamEbEl /Lcapable of being easily set on fire.Inflammable hair products carry awarning label.

inflexibleadj/ inSfleksEbEl /L > Erigid.Nature’s laws are more inflexiblethan iron.

inflorescence

influence

influenceable

influential

infralittoral

infraredadj/ TinfrESred /L + Elying outside the visible spectrumat its red end.The sun’s infrared radiation isresponsible for the warmth felt indirect sunlight.

infrastructuren/ SinfrETstrEkchE(r) /Lthe underlying foundation or basicframework (as of an organizationor a system).Martin’s economics projectrequired him to set up a citygovernment, complete withinfrastructure.

infrigidate

infundibular

infuriatedv/ DnSfyUrGTCtEd /Lenraged, maddened.The traffic jam infuriated thosedrivers with little or no patience.

ingenuity

ingots

ingravescence

ingredientn/ DnSgrGdGEnt /Lsomething that enters into acompound or is a component partof any combination or mixture.Grandma refuses to reveal thesecret ingredient that makes herchocolate cake so delicious.

ingress

ingurgitatev/ DnSgErjETtCt /Lswallow, devour, or drink greedilyor in large quantity.Even if Fran’s dog has recentlybeen fed, he will ingurgitateanything that is put in front of him .

inhaust

inherent

inhospitableadj/ TinhBSspiZEbEl /Lproviding no shelter or sustenance.Deserts seem to be inhospitable tofrogs, yet 23 species live inAustralia’s arid regions.

inhumanness

inionn/ SinGTBn /Gkthe external occipital protuberanceof the skull.The coroner determined that thecause of the hitchhiker’s death wasa blow to the inion.

inirritability

initiate

inject

injudiciously

inkblot

inlier

innate

innavigableadj/ i(n)SnavDgEbEl /Lnot deep enough or wide enough toafford passage to ships.Since the dam was built, the GreenRiver has been innavigable.

innocuously

innoxious

innuendo

inoculumv/ DSnBkyElEm /Lmaterial (as spores, bacteria, orcontaminated fluids) used orsuitable for use as an immunity-inducing agent.Dr. Srinivasan administered thediphtheria inoculum quickly andplaced a small bandage over thespot.

inordinateadj/ DSnO(r)dFnDt /Lexceeding in amount, quantity,force, intensity, or scope theordinary, reasonable, or prescribedlimits.Andrew thought Amanda wastaking an inordinate amount oftime getting ready for her date.

inosculatev/ DnSBskyETlCt /Lunite or join so as to become ormake as if one : blend.Through surgery Dr. Manning willinosculate the torn tissues.


Page 140 of 289

insatiateadj/ inSsCsh(G)Dt /Lnot satisfied.The pirates were fierce fighters,hardy seamen, and insatiateplunderers.

inscription

inseam

insecticolous

insectival

insectivorousadj/ TinTsekStiv(E)rEs /L + Ecffeeding on insects : depending oninsects as food.Some birds and spiders areinsectivorous.

inselbergn/ Sin(t)sElTbErg /Gan isolated mountain partly buriedby the debris derived from andoverlapping its slopes.The bare, rounded inselberg ofrock stands like an island in a seaof vegetation.

insensateadj/ inSsenTsCt /Lunfeeling : cruel, harsh.Brian despised and protested theinsensate strategy of the war.

insensitiveadj/ inSsen(t)sEZiv /L > F > Elacking feeling.Only a thoroughly insensitiveperson would not respond to achild’s cry for help.

inseparablyadv/ inSsepErEblG /Lin a manner so as not to beseparated or disjoined.The city of Las Vegas isinseparably associated withgambling.

insignificantadj/ TinTsigSnifDkEnt /Lof little size or importance.Marcella told her brother not to letan insignificant quarrel with hisbest friend spoil the friendship.

insincerityn/ TinsEnSserEZG /Lthe quality or state in which one isnot what one appears to be or doesnot express what one appears toexpress.George’s apology oozed withinsincerity.

insinuator

insinuendo

insistence

insolationn/ Tin(t)(T)sPSlCshEn /L[has near homonym: insulation]solar radiation that has beenreceived (as by Earth).Insolation can cause a lake’stemperature to rise by severaldegrees in a matter of hours.

insoluble

inspection

inspector

inspissate

installation

instantaneity

instantly

instep

instigatorn/ SinztETgCZE(r) /Lone that provokes or incites.The substitute teacher named Verneas the instigator of the disruption.

instinct

instinctivelyadv/ inzStiN(k)tDvlG /L + Ecffin a manner determined by naturalimpulse or propensity.Instinctively Josey knew that hehad taken a wrong turn at thecorner.

institute

instructed

instructible

instrument

insufferable

insufflator

insular

insulatev/ Sin(t)sETlCt /Lseparate or shield from conductingbodies by means of nonconductorsso as to prevent transfer ofelectricity, heat, or sound.The material used to insulate themusic department’s practice roomswas ineffective.

insuperable


Page 141 of 289

insuppressibleadj/ insESpresEbEl /L > Ecf + L + L > Ecfimpossible to put down or out ofexistence.The crowd’s anger provedinsuppressible, and the police hadto be called.

insurgencyn/ DnSsErjEnsG /L + Ecfa condition of revolt against arecognized government that doesnot reach the proportions of anorganized revolutionarygovernment and is not recognizedas belligerency.Installation of a puppet governmentresulted in widespread insurgency.

insurgentsn pl/ DnSsErjEn(t)s /L[has homonym: insurgence]persons who rise in revolt againstcivil authority or an establishedgovernment.To strengthen, perpetuate, andextend slavery was the object forwhich the insurgents would rendthe Union even by war.

integer

integraladj/ SintDgrEl /Lof, relating to, or serving to form awhole.Political and economicindependence are integral to oneanother.

integrand

integrity

intellectualism

intellectualizev/ TintFlSekchE(wE)lIz /L + Ecfgive rational form or content to.Sometimes Marie tries so hard tointellectualize her problems thatshe loses track of what she reallyfeels.

intelligentsia

intemperance

inteneratev/ DnStenETrCt /Lmake sympathetic or sensitive :soften.The captive’s pleas served tointenerate the victor’s heart.

intenseadj/ DnSten(t)s /Lexisting in a strained or extremedegree.Mr. Siberell’s slight twitch was asign of intense anxiety.

intensification

intensivelyadv/ inSten(t)sDvlG /Lzealously, eagerly.This summer Jeremy is studyingintensively for the Utah bar exam.

intercut

interested

interferant

interfere

interferencen/ TintE(r)SfirEn(t)s /Lthe act of meddling in or hamperingan activity or process.Rachel’s contribution to the groupproject turned out to beinterference, not help.

interferingv/ TintE(r)Sfi(E)riN /L + Ecfentering into or taking a part in theconcerns of others.Gladden thought his older brotherwas interfering in his decision toattend Ohio University.

interferon

interfluve

intergalactic

interim

interjectv/ TintE(r)Sjekt /Linterpose, interpolate.Jared tried without success tointerject a comment at the meeting.

interlacev/ TintE(r)SlCs /F > Eunite by or as if by weaving ortwining together.The counselor showed the campershow to interlace leather cords tomake a lanyard.

interloper

intermediate

intermissionn/ TintE(r)SmishEn /La planned interruption in aprogram.During the intermission the lobbywas filled with patrons discussingthe first act.


Page 142 of 289

internecionn/ TintErSneshEn /L[Note: Could be confused withinternecine.] mutual destruction :massacre.The Civil War Battle of Antietam isthe bloodiest single-day battle inAmerican history, an internecionthat claimed more than 23,000lives.

interosseousadj/ TintE(r)SBsGEs /Lsituated between bones; especially :lying between the bones of the legor forearm.When Kate fell, she damaged theinterosseous membrane of her rightforearm.

interpretant

interpretation

interrogatev/ DnSterETgCt /Lquestion typically with formality,command, and thoroughness forfull information and circumstantialdetail.Ms. Chapin called Darina to theoffice to interrogate her about themissing bicycle.

interstices

interstitial

intertrigon/ TintE(r)StrI(T)gP /Linflammation produced by chafingof adjacent areas of skin.The shirtless runner developedintertrigo along his sides frompumping his arms while running.

interval

interveinal

interwrought

intestate

intimidatedv/ DnStimETdCZDd /Lmade timid or fearful : frightened.Jerry’s dog is intimidated by loudnoises and hides under the bedduring thunderstorms.

intimidator

intolerant

intonaco

intonationn/ TintESnCshEn /La pitch phenomenon in speech thatmakes a syntactical or emotionaldistinction.Molly judged from Luke’sintonation that he was moredisappointed than he would admit.

intradosn/ SintrETdBs /L + Fthe interior curve of an arch.Maryanne believed that the archeddoorway of her new home neededsome decoration, so she stenciledthe intrados.

intramontane

intraneous

intravasation

intricacy

intriguingly

introspectv/ SintrETspect /Llook within (as one’s own mind).Bokeem likes to sit on the edge ofthe pond in his aunt’s backyard andintrospect.

introuvable

intrude

intruder

intuition

intuitive

intussusception

inunction

inunctum

invadable

invariablyadv/ inSverGEblG /L > Fwithout exception or change :always, consistently.He invariably leaped before helooked and never cared where hewas going as long as he knew whyhe shouldn’t have gone to wherehe’d been.

invasion

invention

inverness

inversionn/ DnSvErzhEn /La reversal of normal atmospherictemperature gradient : increase oftemperature of the air withincreasing altitude.Rapid cooling of Earth’s surfacecauses an inversion wherein thelower levels of air are colder thanthe higher levels.

invertebraten/ inSvErZETbrCt /Lan animal having no backbone orinternal skeleton.Carla’s example of an invertebratewas the jellyfish that she found onthe beach last summer.


Page 143 of 289

invertedadj/ DnSvErZEd /Lturned upside down or inside out.The blood rushed to his head as hezoomed across the field in invertedflight.

investituren/ DnSvestETchU(E)r /Lthe ceremonial conferral ofsymbols of office or honor.The new archbishop arrived at hisinvestiture with a letter ofappointment from the pope, thendonned his miter and offered ahomily.

invigorating

inviscatev/ DnSviTskCt /Lencase in a sticky substance : makeviscid.When Lauren learned that somehunters smear birdlime onbranches to inviscate birds, shebecame enraged.

invisibleadj/ TinSvizEbEl /Lof such small size as to be hardlynoticeable.Isaiah felt invisible sitting in theback of the lecture hall.

invite

involucren/ SinvETlVkE(r) /La rosette of bracts surrounding acomposite flower head.The florist pointed out theinvolucre around the daisy’s flowerhead.

involuntary

involuteadj/ SinvETlVt /Lcurled spirally.Seashells are generally eitherinvolute or orbicular.

involve

iodopsinn/ TIESdBpsDn /Gka photosensitive violet pigment inthe retinal cones of most animalsthat is important in daylight vision.The cone cells in the human eyecontain three types of iodopsin thatrespond to red, blue, and green.

iridaceousadj/ TirESdCshEs /Gk > Lresembling an iris.The showy iridaceous flowers werethe hit of the exhibit.

iridescev/ TirESdes /Gkshow colors like those of therainbow especially in shiftingpatterns of hues and shades thatvary with a change of light or pointof view.Fini sat on the dock watching thegasoline spill iridesce on the water.

iridescence

iridescently

iridium

iridizev/ SirEdIz /L + Ecfmake to show colors like those ofthe rainbow.Mohandas proceeded to iridize thepolished metal surface by applyingheat to it.

irksomeadj/ SErksEm /Ecausing annoyance or vexation :irritating.Gary found the speaker’s nasalvoice irksome.

irokon/ DSrP(T)kP /Yorubaa very large timber tree of tropicalwestern Africa with strong durablestreaky lustrous brown wood that isextremely resistant to termite attackand often used as a substitute forteak.Logs of iroko were shipped toMystic Seaport from Ghana for thebuilding of the Amistad replica.

ironclad

ironically

ironworker

irony

irrebuttableadj/ TirESbEZEbEl /Ecf + F > F + Ecfimpossible to refute or contradict.The researchers were convincedthat their findings wereirrebuttable.

irrefutable

irremeable

irremediable

irremovable

irreproachableadj/ irDSprPchEbEl /L + F > Eblameless, faultless, impeccable.The Seeing Eye dog’s behaviorduring the airplane flight wasirreproachable.

irreption


Page 144 of 289

irresponsible

irretrievableadj/ TirDStrGvEbEl /Ecf + F > E + Ecfimpossible to recoup, repair, orovercome.By not going to college when hehad the opportunity, Jack sufferedan irretrievable loss.

irreverentadj/ iSrev(E)Trent /Lnot proceeding from or expressinghonor or respect.Mother considers it irreverent toleave church before the service isover.

irrisionn/ DSrizhEn /La laughing at a person or thing.When Mrs. Scott’s hat blew off, theclass broke out in irrision.

irritableadj/ SirEZEbEl /Llikely to become impatient, angry,or disturbed.Caleb is especially irritable whenhe is tired.

irritatorn/ SirETtCZE(r) /Lone that aggravates or incitesdispleasure.Calvin is the class irritator andlikes to make the teacher shout athim.

isarithmn/ SIsETriLm /Gk[has homonym: isorhythm] a linedrawn on a chart or map to connectpoints having equal numericalvalues (as of temperature,elevation, or density of population).Noelle traced the elevation isarithmfrom the topographical map ontoher hiking map.

iscariotic

ischium

isentropicadj/ TIsFnStrBpik /Gktaking place without change of theamount of energy in a system notavailable for doing work.If steam could be expanded in aturbine with no friction or otherlosses, expansion would beisentropic.

island

islay

isobarn/ SIsPbBr /Gk > ISVan imaginary line on a mapconnecting places on the surface ofEarth with equal barometricpressure.Ned noted that the weather map’sisobar passed directly through hishometown.

isochronaladj/ ISsBkrEnFl /Gkuniform in time : recurring atregular intervals.Even early humans realized thatsunrise was isochronal and notrandomly recurring.

isochronous

isocracy

isogenous

isoglossn/ SIsPTglBs /Gka boundary line between places orregions that differ in a particularlinguistic feature.The shape of the isogloss confirmedMatilda’s theory about regionaldialects.

isolate

isolation

isolationistadj/ TIsESlCsh(E)nDst /L > It > F + Ecffof, characterized by, or favoring apolicy directed towards keeping anation apart from other nations by adeliberate abstention from alliancesand other international andeconomic relations.Isolationist sentiment has oftenbeen strong in the United States.

isometric

isometricsn pl/ TIsESmetriks /Gk + Gkexercise or a system of exercisesinvolving contraction of themuscles against resistance.On January first, Maggie began anambitious program of isometrics.

isonomy

isothermal

Israeliten/ SizrGElTIt /Heb > Gka member of one of the ten Hebrewtribes anciently inhabiting thenorthern part of Palestine.On his trip through the valleyJacob met an Israelite tending asmall flock of sheep.

issuance


Page 145 of 289

issue

italicize

iviedadj/ SIvGd /Ecovered with ivy.The ivied ruins attested to themagnificence of the originalcathedral.

iwan

jabber

jackbootn/ SjakTbVt /nickname + Ea laceless military boot reaching tothe calf.The jackboot has come tosymbolize cruel militaryoppression.

jackdaw

jackhammer

jackrabbit

jackroller

Jacksonianadj/ jakSsPnGEn /American nameof or relating to Andrew Jackson,his views or policies, or his era.The politician preached his brandof Jacksonian politics in all thetown squares through which hepassed.

Jacobinn/ SjakEbDn /Lmember of an extremist politicalgroup advocating equalitariandemocracy and famous for itsterrorist policies during the FrenchRevolution of 1789.The Bostonian Federalists grew upunder the impression that aJacobin was a repulsive creature.

jacopever

jacqueminot

jaded

jagged

jailbird

janglingv/ SjaNgliN /Gmc > F > Esounding harshly or discordantly.Though Hector’s alarm clock wasjangling, he remained fast asleep.

japonaiserien/ zhATpOnez(E)SrG /Fa style of art reflecting Japanesequalities or motifs.The restaurant’s ambience wasenhanced by the use ofjaponaiserie.

jaranan/ hESrBnE /Spa couple dance of Yucatan that isperformed with waltz andzapateado steps.In Cancun one still sees couplesdancing the jarana.

jasm

jasminewood

jaywalk

jazz

jealous

jeans

jejunelyadv/ jDSjVnlG /Lin an immature or juvenile manner.Although the colors of the paintingwere unusual and bold, Samguessed that the brushstrokes hadbeen executed jejunely.

jejunum

jellify

jeopardous

jersey

jessamine

jessamy

jetbead

jettisonable

jetty

jewel

jewelsn pl/ SjVElz /F > Eornaments of precious metal oftenset with gems.“The last rays of sun were fallingthrough a glade of the wood andwere shining bright as jewels onthe flowery mantle of the wreck,”Sam read aloud.

jimmiesn pl/ SjimGz /unknowntiny rod-shaped bits of variouslyflavored candy often sprinkled onice cream and pastry.Carol order vanilla ice cream withchocolate jimmies.

jingle

jingly

jingoishadj/ SjiN(T)gPish /proper name? + Ecfmarked by arrogant nationalism.Senator Clark’s jingoish foreignpolicy recommendations wereroundly denounced by hiscolleagues.

jitney

jockey


Page 146 of 289

jodhpurs

jogger

join

jollity

jordanonn/ SjO(r)dFnTBn /F name + Gkcfa small usually localized populationslightly but effectivelydifferentiated from related forms.The Himalayan blackberry plant isa very aggressive jordanon thatcan spread over a radius of 10 feetin a year.

joropo

jorum

jounce

journalesen/ TjErnFlSGz /L > F > E + L > Pg&Ita style of writing held to becharacteristic of newspapers.The word transpired is consideredjournalese because it rarely occursoutside of newspapers.

journalist

joviallyadv/ SjPvGElG /Lin a jolly, good-humored manner.Mr. Edwards jovially donned theSanta Claus suit and took a seatnear the children.

Jovianadj/ SjPvGEn /Lrelating to the planet Jupiter.The Jovian magnetic field is muchstronger than Earth’s.

jowly

joyfullyadv/ SjOif(E)lG /Ein a happy or jubilant manner.At the age of six Malachy joyfullybegan school.

joyousadj/ SjOiEs /L > F > E + Ecfhappy, joyful.Jeremy was utterly joyous as herevealed his latest work of art.

joyride

judgev/ SjEj /L > F > Eform an authoritative opinionabout.An experienced editor can judgethe quality of a manuscript from afew sample pages.

judgmental

judicature

juggins

jughead

juicily

julep

junco

Jungianadj/ SyUNGEn /Swiss nameof, relating to, or having thecharacteristics of the psychologicaldoctrines of Carl G. Jung.Becky showed how the novel Mistsof Avalon made extensive use ofJungian archetypes.

juration

juratory

jurimetrics

juror

jury

justified

justify

jut

jute

kale

Kallikakn/ SkalETkak /Gk > US literary namea stupid person.Andrea’s brother teased her bycalling her a Kallikak.

kalon

kamelaukionn/ TkBmESlaUkTyOn /Gka tall brimless hat worn by priestsand monks in some Eastern rites.When Kathy visited Crete, abearded priest in a tall blackkamelaukion asked her if she wasfrom Chicago.

kamikn/ SkBmik /Esk[has homonym: comic] an Eskimosealskin boot.Among Alaskan natives, thehomemade kamik is still the mostcommon footwear.

kanjin/ SkBn(T)jG /Jpna Japanese system of writing basedon the Chinese one and composedprincipally of characters borrowedor adapted from Chinese.Evan was awarded the universitylinguistics prize for his paper onthe history of kanji.


Page 147 of 289

Kantianadj/ SkantGEn /G nameof or relating to the Germanphilosopher Immanuel Kant.Professor Smith’s lectures betrayeda strong bias toward Kantianmetaphysics.

kaolinic

kaolinize

karman/ SkBrmE /Sktin Hinduism and Buddhism, thesum total of the ethicalconsequences of a person’s good orbad actions comprising thoughts,words, and deeds.In Buddhism, harming anotherbeing is believed to contribute tobad karma.

karyogamy

karyology

karyotin

karyotypen/ SkarGETtIp /Gk + Gkthe sum of the specificcharacteristics of a cell nucleusincluding chromosome number,form, size, and points of spindle-fiber attachment.Most male children are of the 46-XY karyotype, which means theyhave 46 chromosomes includingone XY pair.

kathakn/ kEStBk /Skt > Bengan intricate dance of northern Indiathat includes passages of narrativepantomime.The kathak Simon saw in Delhi toldthe story of an emperor disguisedas a poor beggar.

kathakalin/ TkBZESkBlG /Skt > Malayalana spectacular lyric dance drama ofsouthern India performed withacrobatic energy and highlystylized pantomime.The dancers in the kathakali hadpainted faces and stylized costumesand headwear.

Katmanduadj/ TkatTmanSdV /Nepalese geog nameof or from Katmandu, the capital ofNepal.Marisa has a Katmandu prayer rughanging on her wall.

Keatsianadj/ SkGtsGEn /E nameof, relating to, or characteristic ofthe English poet John Keats.Mr. Gardner criticized the poet’sexcessive use of Keatsian allusions.

keelage

keenlyadv/ SkGnlG /Ein a manner characterized byintense interest.The cat watched keenly as thenuthatches came and went from thebirdfeeder.

keenness

keitloan/ SkItlEwE /Sechuanaa black rhinoceros that has aposterior horn and which has beenconsidered to constitute a distinctspecies.While on safari, Roger and Sandysaw a rare keitloa.

kelpfish

Kelvinadj/ SkelvDn /E namerelating to, conforming to, orhaving a thermometric scale onwhich the unit of measurementequals the Celsius degree andaccording to which absolute zero is0 degrees Kelvin.The Kelvin scale has been adoptedas the international standard forscientific temperaturemeasurement.

kemanchan/ kESmBnchE /Per > Aran Arabian violin that has usually asingle string and a gourd resonatorand is held vertically when played.When his mother was transferred tothe Middle East for her job,Michael took up the kemancha.

kench

kentledge

kerchoo

kernellyadj/ SkErnFlG /E[has near homonym: carnally]having or containing whole grainsor seeds.Jeffrey is quite fond of a certainkind of kernelly bread.

ketonen/ SkGTtPn /Gany of a class of organiccompounds (as acetone) that arecharacterized by a carbonyl groupattached to two carbon atoms.Certain diseases in humans aremarked by the presence ofexcessive amounts of ketone in thecirculatory system.


Page 148 of 289

kettlen/ SkeZFl /ON > Ea cooking utensil with a bailhandle.A soup kettle hung from a hook inthe castle kitchen’s enormousfireplace.

kewpie

keyholen/ SkGThPl /E + Ea hole or aperture for receiving akey.In the dark, Demmie could not findthe keyhole.

Keynesianadj/ SkCnzGEn /E nameof or relating to the advocacy ofmonetary and fiscal programs bygovernment to increaseemployment.Professor Rabin is a proponent ofKeynesian economics.

keystone

khatun

khedive

kibbutzn/ kiSbUts /Heba collective farm or settlement inIsrael.Meredith’s pen pal lives on akibbutz.

kibbutznik

kibe

kickv/ Skik /Egive impetus to something with ausually fast blow with the foot,generally with the intention ofscoring or gaining ground.Julio could kick the football 75yards but was uninterested intrying out for the team.

kicksorter

kidneyn/ SkidnG /Eone of a pair of vertebrate organssituated in the body cavity near thespinal cavity that serve to excretewaste products.In an effort to save his daughter’slife, the prisoner sued the state tobe allowed to give her his onlykidney.

kidskin

kiekie

kier

kilderkinn/ SkildE(r)kDn /(L + D) > Ea cask about half the size of acommon barrel and sometimessmaller.By a 16th-century English statute akilderkin for beer had to contain 18gallons; one for ale, 16 gallons.

killarneyn/ kDSlBrnG /Ir geog namea moderate yellowish green togreen that is stronger than Gretnagreen.Seamus said that all the fuss aboutthe difference between killarneyand Gretna green was nonsense.

killcrop

killjoy

kiloliter

kilometern/ kDSlBmEZE(r) /Gk > Fa metric unit of length equal to1,000 meters.Bob knew he was out of shapewhen he couldn’t run a kilometerwithout gasping for air.

kilowatts

Kilroyn/ SkilTrOi /Amer namean inveterate traveler.Most of Lyra’s postcard collectioncomes from her uncle Thor, who isquite a Kilroy.

kindhearted

kindred

kingfisher

kinless

kinship

kinsman

kipper

kirimon

kirsch

kirtlen/ SkErZFl /E[has homonyms: curdle, curtal] agarment resembling a tunic or coatusually reaching to the knees andworn by men often as the principalbody garment until the 16thcentury.Ethelred’s kirtle snagged as hemounted his steed.

kiteflying

kitten

klavern


Page 149 of 289

kleptomania

klezmorim

klipspringern/ SklipTspriNE(r) /Afrikaansa small agile African antelopeinhabiting mountainous regions.Because of its specially adaptedhooves, the klipspringer cantraverse the mountain crags.

klistern/ SklistE(r) /G > Norw[has homonym: clyster] a soft waxused on skis especially for cornsnow or crust.Wary of the spring skiingconditions, Maria applied someklister to her skis.

klompen

klutz

klystron

knack

knavish

kneeboard

knell

knelt

knickknack

knife

knifelikeadj/ SnIfTlIk /ON? > E + Eresembling an instrument with asharp edge.The tops of the trees created aknifelike silhouette on the horizon.

knitwear

knotn/ SnBt /E[Note: The definition provided isnot the one most commonlyassociated with this word. Inaddition, word has homonyms:naught, not.] 1 nautical mile perhour—used as a unit ofmeasurement in expressing the rateof speed of airplanes and seagoingships.Lester had trouble explaining thedifference between a ship movingat 1 knot and a car moving at 1mile per hour.

knothole

knottiness

known

knucklesome

kobold

koftgarin/ SkOftgE(T)rG /Per > HindiIndian damascene work in whichsteel is inlaid with gold.While on vacation in India, Tylersaw many types of koftgari for sale.

koinonian/ TkOinESnGE /Gkintimate spiritual communion andparticipative sharing in a commonreligious commitment and spiritualcommunity.Karl’s book details how koinoniadeveloped among the 12 apostles.

komatik

kosharen/ kPSsha(a)(E)r /Keresa Pueblo Indian clown societywhose members imitate ancestralspirits in ceremonies invoking rain.While visiting a Pueblo Indianhistorical site Alan learned aboutthe tribe’s different societies,including the koshare.

koto

kouros

kraft

krakenn/ SkrBkEn /Norwa fabulous Scandinavian seamonster perhaps imagined on thebasis of chance sightings of giantsquids.Granddad has an engraving thatdepicts a kraken in a fjord.

krakowiakn/ krESkPvGTak /Pola Polish group folk dance thatcombines elements of the ancientround, the more recent square, andthe modern polka.The krakowiak is a lively dancenamed for the area of Polandwhere it originated.

krilln/ Skril /Norw[has near homonym: creel]planktonic crustaceans and larvaethat constitute the principal food ofwhalebone whales.Researchers are studying ways toprocess protein-rich krill intohuman food.

krone


Page 150 of 289

kugeln/ SkVgEl /G > Yiddisha baked pudding (as of potatoes,noodles, bread, or cabbage) servedas a side dish or dessert.Natalie often makes a noodle kugelto accompany a roast chicken.

kulakn/ kVSlak /Turkish > Russa prosperous or wealthy peasantfarmer in 19th-century Russia.The kulak was a member of themiddle class in pre-revolutionaryRussia.

kundalinin/ TkUndFlSGnG /Sktthe yogic life-force that is held tolie at the base of the spine until it issent to the head to triggerenlightenment.The ultimate goal of a yogi is toawaken the kundalini.

kurun/ SkV(T)rV /Forea rare progressive fatal disease ofthe brain that is caused by a slowvirus and occurs amongtribespeople in eastern NewGuinea.People who have kuru havesymptoms similar to those ofAlzheimer’s disease.

kvetch

kyoodlev/ kIS(y)VdFl /imitmake loud useless noises : holler,yap.Rover began to kyoodle from thebackyard whenever the lettercarrier approached the house.

labileadj/ SlCbDl /L[has homonym: label] readily orcontinually undergoing chemical orphysical or biological change orbreakdown.The problem at the end of thechapter was to explain how asubstance can bethermodynamically stable but stilllabile.

labiovelar

laborer

laburnumn/ lESbErnEm /Lany plant of a small genus ofpoisonous shrubs and trees havingpendulous racemes of bright yellowflowers.The laburnum, also known as“golden rain,” is often cultivatedfor Easter decoration.

lacertilianadj/ TlasE(r)StilGEn /Lof or relating to a lizard.The zoo’s exhibit includedserpentine and lacertilian reptiles.

lacery

lacework

laches

lackluster

laconism

lacquer

lacquering

lactoprene

lacustrine

ladybug

lagging

lagunan/ lESgVnE /L > Sp[Note: The pronunciation of thisword is close to that of lagoon,which can also be spelled l-a-g-u-n-e.] lagoon, lake, pond.Water at the bottom of a tropicallaguna is almost always foul.

laicize

lakefront

lalopathy

lamentationsn pl/ TlamEnStCshEnz /Lvocal expressions of sorrow :complaints.The chorus in the Greek tragedyuttered wild lamentations for thefallen hero.

lamina

laminectomy

lampistryn/ SlampDstrG /Gk > L > Fthe work of a maker or tender oflight-giving devices.Tonia recently completed anapprenticeship in lampistry.

lancen/ Slan(t)s /L > F > Ea weapon consisting of a long shaftwith a sharp steel head.The jouster settled the lance firmlyunder his arm and charged at thetarget.

landlubber

landowner

landwehr


Page 151 of 289

langleyn/ SlaNlG /Am namea unit of solar radiation equivalentto 1 gram calorie per squarecentimeter of irradiated surface.Like many other measurementterms, the langley was named aftera prominent scientist.

languidly

languishv/ SlaNgwish /L > Flose strength or animation : loseforce or vividness : fade.Watching her plants languish in thedrought was difficult for thegardener.

lankadj/ SlaNk /Eslender and thin.Abe Lincoln was tall andexceedingly lank with long armsand legs.

lansquenetn/ Tlan(t)skESnet /G > Fa card game similar to faro playedin central Europe since the 15thcentury or before.Unknown to the duke, the duchesswas in deep debt from long nightsspent playing lansquenet.

lanthanum

laparoscopyn/ TlapESrBskEpG /Gk + Gkvisual examination of the interiorof the abdomen by using a longslender optical instrument insertedthrough the abdominal wall.Modern-day surgeons are welltrained in the techniques oflaparoscopy.

laparotomyn/ TlapESrBZEmG /Gk + Gksurgical cutting of the abdominalwall.Kevin’s appendix was removed viaa laparotomy.

lapidarianadj/ TlapESda(a)rGEn /L + Eof, relating to, or inscribed onstone.Janice enjoyed reading thelapidarian epitaphs in the oldcemetery.

lapidicolousadj/ TlapESdikElEs /L + Lliving under a stone—usedespecially of an insect.As Jake overturned the large stone,he saw hundreds of lapidicolousbeetles scurrying about.

lapse

lapwingn/ SlaTpwiN /Ean abundant crested plover that isnoted for its slow irregular flappingflight and its shrill wailing cry.Some species of lapwing have wingspurs for use in fighting.

largamente

larghissimoadv/ lBrSgGsETmP /L > Itin as slow a manner as possible—-used as a direction in music.During the dream scene theorchestra was told to playlarghissimo.

larkspur

larnaxn/ SlBrTnaks /Gka chest usually of terra cotta andoften ornamented that was used inancient Greece especially as asepulchral chest.Francis saw a larnax in Greecethat was said to contain theremains of a general in Alexanderthe Great’s army.

larvarium

lasev/ SlCz /E back-formationemit coherent light.When excited by an electriccurrent, the rube crystal began tolase.

lasque

latch

latchetn/ SlachDt /L > F > Ea narrow strap especially of leatherby which a shoe or sandal isfastened upon the foot.Nora used a nylon shoelace toreplace her sandal’s leatherlatchet.

latent

laterite

latifundia

latken/ SlBtkE /Gk > Russ > Yiddishgriddle cake; especially : one madefrom grated raw potato.Mary preferred her latke withoutonion.


Page 152 of 289

latterlyadv/ SlaZE(r)lG /E + Ecfcoming after something else : later.Margo was a fishing guide for awhile and latterly a mechanic.

latticedadj/ SlaZDst /Gmc? > F > Efurnished with a framework madeby crossing laths or other thin stripsso as to form a network.Cyrus fashioned a latticed roof forhis tree house.

latticework

latticinio

lauann/ lESwBn /Tagany of various Philippine timbersthat are moderately close-grainedand rather stringy and of moderatestrength and durability.The contractor told Mrs. Zemeckisthat hollow-core doors with aveneer of lauan were the mosteconomical choice for her newhome.

laudanum

laugh

laundry

laureate

laureateshipn/ SlOrGDtTship /L + Ethe office of poet laureate.In Britain, the poet laureateship isawarded by the sovereign on therecommendation of the primeminister.

lavabon/ lESvB(T)bP /La washbasin and a tank with aspigot that are both fastened to awall.Alessandra purchased an antiquelavabo shaped like a lion’s headand installed it in her garden.

lavish

lavishly

lawyer

laziness

lazuline

leaflet

leakage

lean

leapfrogn/ SlGpfrOg /E + Ea game in which one player bendsdown on all fours and anotherplaces his hands on the firstplayer’s shoulders or back andleaps over him.Only children under tha age of 13were allowed to enter the leapfrograces.

learnable

leashn/ SlGsh /F > E[Note: The definition provided isnot the one most commonlyassociated with this word.] a set ofthree animals (as greyhounds,foxes, bucks, or hares).A leash of borzois was on the trailof a wolf.

lebbek

lebensraum

leberwurst

lecture

lecturer

ledge

ledger

leech

leewardlyadj/ SlVE(r)dlG /E + E + Ecftending to fall off away from thewind.She was such a leewardly vesselthat the captain was more thanonce forced to anchor on a leeshore.

lefse

legal

legalese

legatee

legatoadv/ lDSgB(T)tP /L > Itin a manner that is smooth andconnected between successivetones.The opposite of legato in musicaldirection is staccato.

legendary

leggings

legionary

legitimatelyadv/ lDSjiZEmDtlG /Laccording to law or rules.Mabel legitimately owned theautomobile, even though shecouldn’t locate her title orregistration.

legroom

lekvar


Page 153 of 289

lemma

lengthwiseadv/ SleN(k)thTwIz /E + Ein the direction of the length.The subway passenger opened hispaper and expertly folded itlengthwise.

lepidoteadj/ SlepETdPt /Gkcovered with flakes or scurfyscales.Lepidote rhododendrons have tinyscales on the undersides of theirleaves.

leporid

lepper

leprechaun

leprosarium

lerot

lesions

letterhead

leucocholy

leukergy

lever

levitate

lexical

lexigraphy

liar

libation

liberal

libertariann/ TlibE(r)SterGEn /L > F > E + Ecffone who upholds the principles ofindividual freedom of thought andaction.A libertarian would cut downconstitutional authority to thesmallest proportions, while anauthoritarian leaves but little scopefor private judgment.

liberty

librationn/ lISbrCshEn /Lan oscillation in the apparent aspectof a secondary body (as a planet ora satellite) as seen from the primaryobject around which it revolves.The latitudinal libration of theMoon occurs because its axis istilted slightly.

librin pl/ SlITbrI /Lbooks of records (as of deeds orwills).Working among the old, dusty libriall day gave Curtis a sinusheadache.

licentious

licitation

lido

lieblich

lierre

lifeguard

lifemanship

ligation

lightfastnessn/ SlItTfastnEs /E + E + Ecfresistance to fading or change ofcolor by light.Oleanna was satisfied with thelightfastness of the dyes.

lighthousen/ SlItThaUs /E + Ea tower or other building equippedto guide navigators by means of apowerful light.The damage done to the lighthousewas repaired as soon as possibleafter the storm.

lighttightadj/ SlItTtIt /E + Scand > Eimpenetrable by light.Brother Stephen made sure that theroom was lighttight.

lignite

likelihood

likely

likewise

lilies

lilt

limacine

limbless

limbon/ SlimTbP /L > Ea West Indian acrobatic dance thatinvolves bending over backwardand passing under a horizontal polewhich is lowered slightly for eachsuccessive pass.The limbo is often enjoyed atinformal backyard parties.


Page 154 of 289

limeaden/ SlITmCd /Ar > F > Ea drink made with lime juice, sugar,and water.Gertrude served chilled limeadeand sugar cookies.

limelightn/ SlImTlIt /E + Ethe white light produced by a stagelighting instrument in which anoxyhydrogen flame is directed on acylinder of lime.The limelight followed the actor ashe paced back and forth across thestage.

limen

limequat

limicolous

limited

limned

Limogesn/ lGSmPzh /F geog namea superior variety of china.On Thanksgiving Mother set thetable with Limoges.

linden

lineagen/ SlinGij /F > Ea group of persons (as a family orclan) tracing descent from acommon ancestor who is regardedas its founder.Marcel can trace his lineage to twopassengers on the Mayflower.

lineamentsn pl/ SlinGEmEnts /L[has near homonym: liniments] thedistinguishing or characteristicfeatures of something immaterial.Frieda decided to entitle her thesis“The Lineaments of Democracy.”linearityn/ TlinGSarEZG /L + Ecfthe quality or state of involvingmeasurement in one dimensiononly.When he graphed the data, Guswas pleased with the linearity.

lineolate

lingual

linguipotence

linguisticsn pl/ liNSgwistiks /Lthe study of human speech in itsvarious aspects (as the structure ofa language including such factorsas phonetics, accent, syntax,semantics, grammar, and therelation between writing andspeech).The professor of linguistics spentmore time in class on wordformation than he had originallyallocated.

linkage

linnet

linsangn/ SlinTsaN /Malayeither of two nocturnal chieflyforest-dwelling Asian mammalsthat are related to the mongooses,civets, and genets.The linsang has a yellowish coatwith dark spots in one species anddark bands in another species.

linteln/ SlintFl /L > F > Ea horizontal architectural memberspanning and usually carrying theload above an opening.The lintel over the front door of thesea captain’s house was decoratedwith a carving of a pineapple.

lioness

lionizedv/ SlIETnIzd /Gk > L > F > E + Ecftreated or regarded as a celebrity orobject of interest.The Olympic gold medalist waslionized by her proud hometown.

lipogenousadj/ lDSpBjEnEs /Gkproducing or tending to producefat.The veterinarian advised Beth tofeed Fluffy a less lipogenous diet.

lipogramn/ SlipETgram /Gka writing composed of words nothaving a certain letter.Samantha used the search functionof her word processing program toensure that her lipogram wasaccurately constructed.

lipogrammatismn/ TlipESgramETtizEm /Gkthe practice of writing somethingcomposed of words not having acertain letter.As an exercise in lipogrammatism,the writer wrote a novel withoutonce using a word with an e in it.


Page 155 of 289

lipolyticadj/ TlIpESliZik /Gk + Gkof, relating to, causing, or resultingfrom the hydrolysis of fat.The taste of rancid butter is causedby the action of lipolyticmicroorganisms.

liquation

liquefacient

liquefy

liquor

listener

literacyn/ SliZErEsG /L+ Ecfthe quality or state of being able toread and write.Barbara and Laura Bush are bothvery active in promoting literacy inour country.

literatim

lithe

lithely

lithoglyph

lithophane

lithophyten/ SlithETfIt /Gk + Gka plant or a plantlike organism thatgrows on the surface of rocks.Lichen is a very common type oflithophyte.

litigate

litigious

litigiously

littern/ SliZE(r) /L > F > E[has near homonym: lidder] theoffspring at one birth of amultiparous animal.All the pups except one in Daisy’slitter are black and white.

littlish

liturate

liturgiologist

livelong

liveryn/ Sliv(E)rG /F > Edistinctive dress (as of anorganization, profession,occupation).The hotel doorman’s spotless liverywas green with gold braid.

livestock

lizard

llaneron/ lBSne(T)rP /Spa cowboy or herdsman in SpanishAmerica.The llanero stared curiously as therevolutionary army sped past.

llano

loathev/ lPL /E[Note: Adjective can be spelledloath, loth, loathe.] feel strongaversion for : detest, abhor.Practically all the students atRidgeview Middle School loathethe vice-principal.

lobbyistn/ SlBbGDst /Gmc > L + Ecfa person who conducts activitieswith the objective of influencingpublic officials and especiallymembers of a legislative body.The firm employed an experiencedlobbyist to make their case to thelegislators.

lobster

localitis

locoweedn/ SlPkPTwGd /Sp + Eany of several wild larkspurs ofwestern North America that arepoisonous to livestock.A cow that has eaten locoweedbehaves very strangely.

locution

lodge

loftily

loge

logopedicsn pl/ TlOgESpGdiks /Gkthe scientific study and treatment ofspeech defects.Many children with speech defectshave been successfully treated atthe center for logopedics.

logrolling

loiteringv/ SlOiZE(r)iN /D > Efrittering away time in the course ofdoing something or proceedingsomewhere.Amanda would have been ready tomeet the bus if she hadn’t beenloitering in front of the TV.

loneliest


Page 156 of 289

longeron

longirostrine

longitude

loose

loquat

lorcha

lord

lotic

lotion

lottery

loucheadj/ SlVsh /L > F[has near homonym: luge] devious,perverse, sinister.After she caught the boys who hadteased her poodle, Miss Vorrelltold them she had never seen such“louche behavior.”lousen/ SlaUs /E[has homonym: Laos] any ofvarious small wingless usuallyflattened insects that are parasiticon warm-blooded animals.The sucking louse has piercing andsucking mouthparts and lives onblood and tissue fluids of mammalsas an external parasite.

lousicide

lousy

louvar

lovelorn

lucarnen/ lVSkBrn /OFrk > Fdormer window.Violette waved to her father beforeclosing the lucarne.

luciformadj/ SlVsETfOrm /Lof, relating to, or having thecharacteristics of light.Some Platonists held that the soulis luciform.

lucifugousadj/ lVSsifyEgEs /Lavoiding light.Owls and bats are lucifugouscreatures of the night.

lucigenn/ SlVsEjDn /L + Gka lamp or torch giving a bright lightby burning a mixture of oil mixedwith hot air.Mr. Hannay of Glasgow inventedthe lucigen, which can be used tolight large, open spaces.

lucren/ SlVkE(r) /L[has near homonym: (trademarkword) luger] monetary gain : profit,reward.Sarah was eager to be a runner forthe investment firm because of thecontacts she could make, not forthe lucre the job would bring.

luff

luggage

lugubriously

lulledv/ SlEld /E imit?made quiet.The sound of Debby crooning tohim usually lulled Roger to sleepquickly.

lumbagon/ TlEmSbCTgP /Lmuscular rheumatism involving themuscles of the lower back andusually accompanied by pain.Because of his father’s lumbago,Tim had to do all the snowshoveling.

lumberjack

lumbriciformadj/ TlEmSbrisETfOrm /L + Lresembling an earthworm.The anteater, with its elongatedsnout and lumbriciform tongue, iswell adapted to licking up insects.

lumbricoid

luminancen/ SlVmEnEn(t)s /L + Ecfthe quality or state of emitting asteady suffused light from within.The luminance of the 25-watt bulbwas not great enough for readingthe map.

luminarismn/ SlumETnETrizEm /L > F + Ecfthe concern with or skill in theportrayal of effects of light andshade in painting.The painter Joseph Turner was apioneer of luminarism.

luminoscopen/ SlVmEnETskPp /L + Gkan instrument used for detectingrare metals in the soil by means ofultraviolet light.The survey team used aluminoscope and other devices todetermine the composition ofvarious soils.


Page 157 of 289

lumpenadj/ SlUmpEn /Gof, relating to, or being anamorphous group of dispossessedand uprooted individuals set off bytheir inferior station from theeconomic and social class withwhich they are identified.Though he was a member of theCommunist Party, Jeromeconsidered himself an intellectual,not one of the lumpen proletariat.

lumpkin

lunaradj/ SlVnE(r) /Lof, taking place on, or relating tothe Moon.The Babylonian calendar wasbased on the lunar cycle.

lunation

lunetten/ lVSnet /L > Fthe figure or shape of a crescentmoon.The wiper formed a lunette ofvisibility on the rain-speckledwindshield.

lupineadj/ SlVTpIn /L > Eof, relating to, or resembling awolf.The stray dog had a lupine look toit.

luridadj/ SlUrDd /Lwan and ghastly pale inappearance.Jessie was frightened by the luridfigures at Madame Tussaud’s waxmuseum, especially that of Jack theRipper.

lurkingv/ SlErkiN /Elying in ambush : prowling.Patrick’s runaway imaginationpictured a monster lurking underhis bed or in his closet.

lusciouslyadv/ SlEshEslG /Ein a manner that is richly luxuriousor highly appealing to the senses.The colors of the silk carpet glowedlusciously in the firelight.

lutaceousadj/ lVStCshEs /L + Ecfformed from or having the finetexture of mud : clayey—used ofconglomerate rock.Nina dug a fossil shell out of thelutaceous river bluff.

luteovirescent

Lutzn/ SlUts /Swiss namea figure-skating jump in which theskater takes off from the backoutside edge of one skate, rotatescounterclockwise, and lands on theback outside edge of the otherskate.Nancy Kerrigan demonstrated aperfect Lutz in the instructionalskating video.

luxuriate

lyddite

lying

lymphocyten/ Slim(p)fETsIt /Gka colorless weakly motile cell thatis produced in lymphoid tissue.When a lymphocyte recognizes avirus in a cell, it will attempt to killthat cell.

lyncine

lyophilize

lyrebird

lyricadj/ Slirik /Gkcharacterized by or expressive ofdirect usually intense personalemotion.The lyric quality of Sue-Lynn’spoetry is tremendously powerful.

lyrical

lyricism

lyricist

lysisn/ SlIsDs /Gkthe gradual decline of a diseaseprocess.The lysis of Hugh’s fever wasswifter than Dr. Quinley expected.

lyssa

maarn/ SmBr /Ga more or less circular volcaniccrater that is produced byexplosion.Jenny had always pictured avolcano as a conical mountaintopped by a maar, but whilevisiting Hawaii she learned thatthere are several other shapes.

mabe

macaroonsn pl/ TmakESrVnz /It > Fsmall cakes composed chiefly ofegg whites, sugar, and groundalmonds or coconut.Joel serves tea and macaroons tothe hotel guests at three o’clockevery afternoon.


Page 158 of 289

mace

machinatev/ SmakETnCt /Gk > Lscheme or contrive to bring(something undesirable) about :plot.Robert feared that one of hiscoworkers would machinate tohave the entire accountingdepartment replaced.

machinery

machismon/ mBSchGz(T)mP /Spa strong sense of masculine pride :an exaggerated masculinity.The Olympic boxer raised his fist tothe crowd in a display ofmachismo.

machtpolitik

macilencyn/ SmasElEnsG /Lleanness of body : emaciation.It seems that now, as in the early’60s, macilency is important tofashion models.

mackereler

maco

macrodontadj/ SmakrPTdBnt /Gkhaving large teeth.Little Red Riding Hood found itstrange that her grandmother hadbecome a macrodont creature sincetheir last visit.

macron

macrophagousadj/ maSkrBfEgEs /Gk + Gk[Note: Could be confused withmicrophagous.] feeding onrelatively large particulate matter.The textbook described themacrophagous tissue cell.

macroscopic

macrotia

macrotous

macrurous

maculacy

macumban/ mESkVmbE /Pga Brazilian ritual or cult that islargely of African origin andcombines sorcery with dancing,drumming, and chanting.The tourists were invited to see anexhibition of macumba in Rio deJaneiro.

madras

maduro

magen/ SmCj /Gk > L > Emagician.The mage muttered a few words,waved his hand, and disappeared.

magical

magiciann/ mESjishEn /Gk > L > F > Eone who entertains an audience bytricks of illusion and sleight ofhand.The magician specialized in cardtricks.

magma

magnaten/ SmagTnCt /L > E[Note: Alternate pronunciation hashomonym: magnet.] a personprominent in the management of alarge industry or enterprise.The oil magnate bequeathed hisfortune to the local university.

magnesium

magnificence

magnificentlyadv/ magSnifEsEntlG /L + Ecfgrandly, impressively.At her coronation the queen wasmagnificently dressed in a robe ofpurple velvet and ermine.

magnify

magniloquent

magnituden/ SmagnETtVd /L > Egreatness of size or extent :vastness.The magnitude of the shift fromprevious policies left all membersof the organization unsure of theirroles.

magnum

maguey

mahimahin/ SmBhGSmBhG /Marquesan, Tahitian, & Hawaiiana spiny-finned fish which is widelydistributed in tropical andtemperate seas and is esteemed asfood.Today’s special is mahimahimarinated in a soy-ginger sauce.


Page 159 of 289

maieuticadj/ mCSyVZik /Gkof or relating to the dialecticmethod practiced by Socrates inorder to elicit and clarify ideas ofothers.Instead of giving lectures,Professor Ewing used maieuticdialogs to get students to think forthemselves.

maim

Mainern/ SmCnE(r) /American geog namea native or resident of Maine.The old Mainer tried his hand atraising buffalo.

mainprise

majestic

majorette

makeshiftadj/ SmCkTshift /Eserving as a temporary expedient.Until he could afford somethingbetter, Mr. Gray made makeshiftbookshelves out of boards and milkcrates.

malacology

maladroitlyadv/ TmalESdrOitlG /F + Ecfin a manner marked by a lack ofdexterity or skill : clumsily.The driving instructor reached forthe wheel when his studentmaladroitly steered the car onto theshoulder.

malapert

malar

malarial

malcontent

maledictory

maleficence

malevolently

malfeasance

malfunction

malicious

malignancy

malisonn/ SmalEsEn /L > F > Emalediction, curse.Jared muttered one malison afteranother when he took a look at hisalgebra test grade.

malleation

Malthusianadj/ malSth(y)VzhEn /E name + Ecfof or relating to doctrines holdingthat population tends to increase ata faster rate than its means ofsubsistence, resulting in povertyand degradation unless thepopulation is checked by moralrestraint, disease, or war.The candidate’s Malthusiansuggestion that the epidemic was ablessing in disguise was poorlyreceived by voters.

maltreat

mamba

mamelon

mammalian

mammonn/ SmamEn /Aram > Gk > Lmaterial wealth or possessionsespecially having an evil power ordebasing influence : wealth,money.After becoming a millionaire, Mr.Wei renounced mammon andentered a monastery.

mammonism

mana

manaclesn pl/ SmanDkElz /L > F > Esomething used as a restraint.Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream”speech delineated how many liveswere still “sadly crippled by themanacles of segregation and thechains of discrimination.”manageabilityn/ TmanijESbilEZG /L > It + Ecffthe quality or state of being capableof being managed or controlled.After shampooing her hair, Millyapplied a conditioner formanageability.

mancinism

mandalan/ SmEndElE /Skta graphic mystic symbol of theuniverse that is typically in theform of a circle enclosing a squareand often bearing symmetricallyarranged representations of deitiesand is used chiefly in Hinduism andBuddhism as an aid to meditation.The lama took three days toconstruct an elaborate mandalafrom colored sand and thendestroyed it.

mandibular


Page 160 of 289

mandirn/ SmEnTdir /Skt > Hindia Hindu temple.The 900-year-old mandir at AngkorWat is the object of a massiverestoration project that has lastedseveral decades.

mandlen

mandorlan/ SmBndPrTlB /L > Ita panel or contour in the shape ofan almond.At the top of the altarpiece Christ isdepicted seated within a mandorlafull-face and holding a book.

mane

manesn pl/ SmBTnCs /Lthe spirits of the dead and gods ofthe lower world in ancient Romanbelief.Roman household members wereexpected to call on the manes oftheir ancestors for comfort andguidance in their daily lives.

manian/ SmCnGE /Gkexcessive or unreasonableenthusiasm.During half time at the Super Bowl,one sportscaster reported on themania of many of the fans.

maniac

maniacally

manicurist

manifoldadj/ SmanETfPld /Emarked by diversity or variety :numerous and varied.Andrew is intrigued by themanifold opportunities in the fieldof engineering.

manipurin/ TmanESpUrG /Indian geog namea dance form associated with theManipur region of northern Indiaand characterized by a gentlelyrical style.Rajiv is writing his thesis on thehistory of the manipuri.

mankind

manometern/ mESnBmEZE(r) /Gk + Gkan instrument for measuring thepressure of gases and vapors.Mr. Glazebrook used a manometerto measure the densities of thecurrents on either side of thepartition.

manorn/ SmanE(r) /L > F > E[has homonym: manner] the houseor hall of an estate : mansion.The lord of the manor was agracious man, giving the servantsgood food and plenty of time off.

manse

mantillan/ manStG(y)E /Spa light scarf often of black laceworn over the head and shouldersespecially by Spanish and LatinAmerican women.Before leaving for church, Angelacovered her long black hair with alacy mantilla.

mantissa

manual

manually

manufacture

manzanilla

manzanitan/ TmanzESnGZE /L > Span evergreen tree or shrub of thePacific coast of North America thathas a smooth bark, thick shinyleaves, and edible red berries.Steven took many photographs ofthe large manzanita standing aloneon the windswept cliff.

mapped

maquette

marathonn/ SmarETthBn /Gk geog namea footrace usually 26 miles 385yards in length.Ernie’s goal is to become asuccessful long-distance runnerand win at least one big marathon.

marathoner

marcasite

marcottagen/ SmBrTkBZij /L? > Fa form of plant propagation inwhich the rooting medium is boundto the plant rather than enclosed ina pot or other container.Philip’s nursery is widely knownfor its successful marcottage usingsphagnum.

maremma


Page 161 of 289

marginalian pl/ TmBrjESnClGE /Lnotes written in the border of apage.Gordon was excited to find somehistorically interesting marginaliain his great-grandfather’s lawbooks.

marginality

mariculture

marigold

marigoldsn pl/ SmarETgPldz /E name + Eany of numerous yellow-floweredplants.Paul planted a border of marigoldsaround his vegetable garden.

marimba

marinaden/ SmarETnCd /L > Ita brine or pickle usually containingvinegar or wine, oil, spices, andherbs in which a food (as meat orfish) is soaked to enrich its flavor.Elise added chili oil to themarinade.

marinara

marinatev/ SmarETnCt /L > It?[Note: Could be confused withmarinade.] season (as meat or fish)by steeping in a brine usuallycontaining vinegar or wine, oil,spices, and herbs.Becky will marinate the pork inItalian dressing overnight for aspicy effect.

marionettes

marital

marlin

marmoraceous

marmorate

marmorationn/ TmBrmESrCshEn /Lvariegation resembling that ofmarble : marbling.The interior decorator showedJonathan how to use two colors ofpaint, a sponge, and a feather tocreate marmoration.

marmotn/ SmBrmEt /Fa stout-bodied short-legged rodentthat has coarse fur, a short bushytail and very small ears, lives inburrows, and hibernates in winter.When sensing danger, the marmotsits upright and gives an alarmwhistle.

maroon

marquen/ SmBrk /It > Fa brand or make of a product—usedespecially of sports cars.The car salesman made a facewhen Derek drove up in a coupe ofa competing marque.

martenn/ SmBrtFn /Gmc > F > E[has homonym: martin] any ofseveral slender semiarborealcarnivorous mammals chiefly ofthe Northern Hemisphere that arelarger than the related weasels.The marten is an opportunistichunter, thriving on mice, squirrels,rabbits, and grouse.

Martianadj/ SmBrshEn /Lof or relating to the planet Mars orits hypothetical inhabitants.The Martian year is approximately687 Earth days.

martinn/ SmBrtFn /F name[has homonym: marten] a smallEuropean swallow.Although a martin is a small bird, itis often the terror of hawks, crows,and eagles.

martyrolatry

martyrsn pl/ SmBrZErz /Gk > L > Ethose who sacrifice their life,station, or what is of great value forthe sake of principle.Many early Christians becamemartyrs in the Roman Coliseum.

Marxistadj/ SmBrksDst /G nameof, relating to, or having thecharacteristics of Karl Marx’sdoctrine based on the definition ofall value as being created by labor.Lenin was influenced by Marxistthought when he developed hiscommunist theory of government.

mascot

masochisticadj/ TmasESkistik /G name + Ecfrelating to, marked by, or given totaking pleasure in physical ormental suffering inflicted on one byoneself or by another.Runners have long enduredderisive comments fromnonrunners about their apparentlymasochistic tendencies.


Page 162 of 289

massiveadj/ Smasiv /L > F > Eweighty, heavy.The Neanderthal’s massive, sturdylimbs were much stronger than theCro-Magnon’s.

massotherapy

masthead

matchbook

materfamilias

materialist

materializev/ mEStirGETlIz /L + Ecfcome into actual existence :develop into something tangible.The skill of the artist was evident asthe portrait began to materialize.

materially

maternal

matriculatev/ mEStrikyETlCt /Lbecome admitted to membership ina body, society, or institution (as acollege or university) and haveone’s name officially registeredafter having previously metentrance requirements.Meredith received a letter invitingher to matriculate at MIT.

matrifocaladj/ TmatrESfPkEl /L + Lgravitating toward or centered uponthe mother.A matrifocal culture, for example,is one where a newlywed couple isexpected to move to the bride’smother’s village.

matripotestaladj/ TmatrGTpPStestFl /Lof, relating to, or being the powerexercised by a matriarch.Even the queen’s matripotestalauthority was not enough to savethe prince’s marriage.

mature

maud

maunderv/ SmOndE(r) /L > F > Emove or progress slowly anduncertainly without definite aim orcourse.Ken and Barb maunder down theboulevard every Sunday.

maxillaen pl/ makSsilG /Lthe mouthparts posterior to themandibles in insects.In most insects the pair of maxillaeis used to manipulate the food.

maxillary

maxixen/ mESshGsh(E) /Pga ballroom dance of Brazilianorigin roughly like the two-step.The maxixe became a populardance in Europe and the UnitedStates in 1914.

mazer

meadowwink

meagernessn/ SmGgE(r)nDs /L > F > E + Ecfthe quality or state of being small,thin, or inadequate.The meagerness of supportingevidence rendered the politician’sbook and speeches unconvincing toAlbert.

meaningful

meanness

meant

meantime

meanwhile

measurev/ SmezhE(r) /Lascertain a unit quantity.The class spent an entire hourtrying to measure the Dawsontwins to see who was taller.

mechanic

medalet

medevacn/ SmeZD(T)vak /L + Lemergency evacuation of the sickor wounded (as from a combatarea).During the simulated battle thelieutenant called for medevac of hisplatoon’s wounded soldiers.

mediastinum

mediator

medicaster

medicate

mediocrity

meditatev/ SmedETtCt /Ldwell in thought; especially :practice religious contemplation.Eileen likes to meditate in thechapel every morning beforebreakfast.

medius

medley


Page 163 of 289

medusan/ mDd(y)VsE /Gk[Note: Could be confused withmedusan.] a small hydrozoanjellyfish.The medusa propels itself throughthe water by contracting its bell-shaped body and ejecting waterfrom under the bell.

meekness

meeting

megalopolitan

megatheren/ SmegETthi(E)r /Gk + Gka member of the genusMegatherium of ground sloths ofthe Pliocene and Pleistoceneepochs.The movie Jurassic Park wouldhave been much less exciting if thescientists had cloned a megathererather than giant reptiles.

megatonn/ SmegETtEn /Gk + Ean explosive force equivalent tothat of a million tons of TNT.The latest military creation is abomb that will deliver 1 megaton ofexplosive force directly to thetarget specified without any errorwhatsoever.

megrimsn pl/ SmGgrDmz /F > Elow spirits : the blues.Whenever Ben got the megrims, hewould play a recording of theWilliam Tell Overture to revive hisspirits.

meiobarsn pl/ SmIETbBrz /Gkregions of low barometric pressure.On most weather maps, meiobarsare indicated by the letter L.

meiosis

Meistersingern/ SmIstE(r)TsiNE(r) /Ga member of a German guild in the15th and 16th centuries formed forthe cultivation of poetry and music.Mr. Heinz can trace his family treeback to a Bavarian Meistersingerborn in 1498.

melange

melanocomous

melanoman/ TmelESnPmE /Gk > La malignant skin tumor that startsas a black mole and metastasizesrapidly.People who have black moles areencouraged to check themregularly for signs of a melanoma.

meldn/ Smeld /G[Note: The definition provided isnot the one most commonlyassociated with this word.] a cardor combination of cards that hasscoring value in a game.After drawing a seventh ace incanasta, Lauren could hardlysuppress her smile as she laid themeld down on the table.

melichrous

meliorate

melis

melismaticadj/ TmelDzSmaZik /Gkrelating to or having melodicembellishment or ornamentation.The chorus embroidered theanthem with melismatic lines.

melittologistn/ TmelEStBlEjDst /Gkan entomologist specializing in thestudy of bees.It was a big breakthrough for themelittologist who discovered howbees communicate with each other.

melleousadj/ SmelGEs /Lresembling or containing honey.The beekeeper cut a melleouschunk of honeycomb from the hiveand put it in a jar.

melody

melon

membranate

membrane

membranousadj/ SmembrEnEs /L > Fthin, pliable, and often somewhattransparent.The dragonfly’s membranous wingsseemed very delicate.

memoirs

memorizev/ SmemETrIz /Llearn something in a manner thatcan be remembered.Camille used flashcards tomemorize the multiplication tables.


Page 164 of 289

menacedv/ SmenEst /F > Emade a show of intention to harm :made a threatening gesture,statement, or act against.Rosemary watched as a blue jayand a stray cat menaced andthreatened each other in her backyard.

menacing

menald

Menckenesen/ TmeNkESnGz /Amer namethe peculiarly vigorous racyflamboyant and often caustic stylecharacteristic of the journalist H.L.Mencken.It is difficult to read through adaily paper without finding afeature writer who employsMenckenese.

menckenian

mendelevium

menhaden

mensch

mental

mentalist

menticide

mephitic

mercantile

mercantilistadj/ SmErkEnTtGlist /L > It > Fof or relating to the theory orpractice of an economic systemintended to increase a nation’spower and especially monetarywealth by a strict governmentalregulation of the entire nationaleconomy.In pursuit of a “favorable balanceof trade,” the mercantilist policyput strict limits on imports offoreign goods.

mercaptann/ mErSkapTtan /L > D > Gany of a class of compounds thatare analogous to the alcohols andphenols but contain sulfur insteadof oxygen and have verydisagreeable odors.A mercaptan is added to odorlessnatural gas so that leaks can bedetected.

mercerizev/ SmErsETrIz /E name + Ecfgive (cotton yarn or cloth) luster,strength, and receptiveness to dyesby treatment under tension withcaustic soda.English cloth manufacturers beganto mercerize cotton in the 1860s.

mercifully

mercury

meretricious

merfolk

meridienne

merinon/ mESrGTnP /Sp[Note: Could be confused withmarina.] a fine wool and cottonyarn used for knitwear.Darcy decided to use the leftoverskein of merino to knit a pair ofmittens.

merit

meritable

meritorious

meropia

mesan/ SmCsE /L > Spa usually isolated hill or mountainhaving abrupt or steeply slopingsides and a level top.The hikers planned to have theirpicnic on top of the faraway mesa.

mesenteryn/ SmesFnTterG /Gka membranous tissue or one of themembranes that envelop andsupport visceral organs (as theintestines).The mesentery attaches parts of thesmall intestine to the posterior wallof the abdomen.

mesmerizedv/ SmezmETrIzd /Austrian name + Ecfspellbound : hypnotized.Tracy gazed at the screen saver,mesmerized by the changingpatterns.


Page 165 of 289

mesomorphn/ SmezPTmOrf /Gkan intermediate or average type ofhuman body.Students classified the mummy as amesomorph.

Mesopotamianadj/ TmesEpEStCmGEn /Gkof, relating to, or characteristic ofMesopotamia, a region between theTigris and Euphrates Rivers.The Code of Hammurabi andGilgamesh are famousMesopotamian literary documents.

mesotherm

Mesozoicadj/ TmezESzPik /Gkof or relating to a division ofgeological history that includes thetime between the Permian and theTertiary periods.Dinosaurs and evergreen treesarose during the Mesozoic era.

messaline

messenger

mestizon/ meSstG(T)zP /L > Spa person whose ancestors belongedto two or more races.The tour guide, a mestizo himself,spoke at length about the culture ofhis South American ancestors.

metabolizev/ mDStabETlIz /Gksubject to the processes by which aparticular substance is handled inthe living body.Tooth decay results from the lacticacid produced when bacteriametabolize sugar.

metacarpaladj/ meZESkBrpEl /Gk + Gkof or relating to the part of the handor forefoot between the wrist andthe digits or fingers.When the car door slammed shuton her hand, Sara suffered aninjury to one of her metacarpalbones.

metagen/ SmGZij /Ethe official measuring of contentsor weight (as of coal or grain).Arrangements must be made withrespect to the metage of grain inthe port of London.

metallurgyn/ SmeZFlTErjG /Gk > La science and technology that dealswith the extraction of metals fromtheir ores, refining them, andpreparing them for use and includesprocesses and the study of thestructure and properties of metals.Several experts in metallurgytestified in the lawsuit regardingthe failure of welds at the steamplant.

metalworking

metamorphosev/ TmeZESmPrTfPz /Gk > F?change into a different physicalform.The witch had a potion which couldmetamorphose a man into a mouse.

metanoian/ TmeZESnOi(y)E /Gka fundamental transformation ofmind or character; specifically : aspiritual conversion.After years of dissolute living,Augustine experienced a metanoiaand became a leadingecclesiastical figure.

meteorn/ SmGZGE(r) /Gk[has homonym: meatier] a streakof light in the night sky producedby the passage through Earth’satmosphere of one of the countlesssmall particles of solid matter in thesolar system.Hans accidentally captured ameteor on film as he was trying totake pictures of lightning.

meteorologistn/ TmGZGESrBlEjDst /Gka specialist in a science that dealswith the atmosphere and itsphenomena.Most television stations employ ameteorologist to deliver weatherforecasts.

metheglinn/ mEStheglDn /Wa beverage usually made offermented honey and water andoften spiced or medicated.When Mr. Galen lost his voice,Glynnis said that a cup of hermetheglin might be just what heneeded.

methuselah

meticulously

metrical

metrologyn/ mEStrBlEjG /Gkthe science of weights andmeasures.Nobody as a child really plans acareer in metrology; likelexicography, it comes into one’slife by chance.

metropolis


Page 166 of 289

metropolitanadj/ TmetrESpBlEtFn /Gkof, relating to, or characteristic ofan important city.One advantage of living in ametropolitan area is the abundanceof cultural offerings.

miasmic

micaceousadj/ mISkCshEs /Lconsisting of or containing any of agroup of minerals that crystallize inmonoclinic forms readilyseparating into very thin leaves.The class divided into small groupsto examine the micaceous mineralsunder the microscope.

Micawberishadj/ mDSkOb(E)rish /E namebeing habitually expectant of anupturn in one's fortunes.True to his Micawberish nature,Buddy spent his last dollar on alottery ticket.

Michigandern/ TmishESgandE(r) /Algonquian + Ea native or resident of Michigan.Jack called himself a“Michigander” with a note of pridein his voice.

microbial

microburstn/ SmIkrPTbErst /Gk + Ea violent short-lived localizeddowndraft that creates extremewind shears at low altitudes that isusually associated withthunderstorms.A microburst causes a conditionknown as “wind shear,” a quickchange in the wind’s speed ordirection.

microcircuitry

microfilm

microhmmetern/ SmITkrPmTmGZE(r) /Gk + G name + Gka sensitive ohmmeter for measuringvery small resistances.In the physics lab Mr. McGurkdemonstrated the use of amicrohmmeter to ascertain minuteelectrical resistances.

micrometer

micronsn pl/ SmITkrBnz /Gkunits of length, each equal to 0.001millimeter or about 0.000039 inch.A human hair is about 100 micronsthick.

microphakian/ TmIkrPSfCkGE /Gkabnormal smallness of the lens ofthe eye.Mr. Hurst’s vision is somewhatimpaired by his microphakia.

microphonen/ SmIkrETfPn /Gk + Gkan instrument whereby soundwaves are caused to generate ormodulate an electric current usuallyfor the purpose of transmitting orrecording sound (as speech ormusic).Each of the principal singers has acordless microphone attached tohis or her costume.

microscopicadj/ TmIkrESskBpik /Gk + Gk + Ecfinvisible without the use of amagnification device.The crime lab technician foundmicroscopic traces of blood onWolfgang’s shoelaces.

middayn/ SmidTdC /Enoon.The clocktower bells chime everymidday.

midget

mightilyadv/ SmIZFlG /Ein a powerful manner.The rebels triumphed mightily overthe dictator’s military forces.

mightyadj/ SmIZG /Ehaving or wielding great power orauthority.Will fancied himself one of themore mighty and well-heeled menin town.

migratev/ SmITgrCt /Lpass periodically from one regionor climate to another for feeding orbreeding.Some birds migrate south to findwarmer weather during winter.

migratoryadj/ SmIgrETtPrG /Lmarked by periodic movementfrom one region or climate toanother.The migratory monarch butterfliestravel long distances southward inthe fall, and those that survivereturn in the spring.


Page 167 of 289

mihrabn/ SmGrEb /Ara niche or chamber in a mosqueindicating the direction of Meccaand usually containing a copy ofthe Koran.A rich mosaic decorates the mihrabof the mosque that Mahmoudattends.

mileage

milieu

milinch

militarize

miljee

milkman

milliampere

millibarsn pl/ SmilETbBrz /L > ISV + Gk > ISVunits of atmospheric pressure, eachequal to 0.001 bar or 1,000 dynesper square centimeter.A record low pressure of 870millibars was measured in the eyeof a typhoon near Guam in October1979.

millicurie

milline

Miltonicadj/ milStBnik /E namecharacteristic of or relating to theEnglish poet John Milton or hiswork.A reading of those critics who haveattempted an analysis of theMiltonic simile reveals a completeand far-reaching difference ofopinion.

mimeticadj/ mDSmeZik /Gkcharacterized by or exhibiting asuperficial resemblance to otherorganisms or to natural objects andthereby securing concealment,protection, or some otheradvantage.A butterfly’s mimetic colorationprotects it against many predators.

mimetically

mimicked

mimotype

minaretedadj/ TminESreZDd /Ar > Turk > Fhaving or characterized by aslender lofty tower such as thatattached to a mosque.The outline of a large minaretedpalace appeared as the trainapproached Istanbul.

minefield

miniaceous

minimn/ SminDm /La U.S. unit of liquid capacityequivalent to 0.003759 cubic inch.Ms. Brock told us to add a minim ofreactant to our acid solution, butshe didn’t tell us how to measure itout.

minimum

minionn/ SminyEn /Celt? > F[has homonym and near homonym:minyan and mignon] an obsequiousor servile dependent.The candidate’s most devotedminion has high hopes of beingoffered a prominent cabinet post.

minister

minium

minnow

minstrelsn pl/ Smin(t)strElz /L > F > Eprofessional musical entertainers ofa kind originating in medievaltimes.Off to one side a group of minstrelssang songs that delighted both theyoung and old.

minuten/ SminDt /La unit of time equal to the 60th partof an hour and containing 60seconds.Mary believes she could havefinished all the exam questions ifshe had had one more minute towork.

minyann/ SminyEn /Heb[Word has homonym: minion.Also, word might be confused withmignon.] the number ofparticipants necessary forconducting Jewish public worship,defined by the rules of Mishnah asnot fewer than ten males above theage of 13.Until Mr. Green arrived at thesynagogue, not enough people werepresent to constitute a minyan.

miombon/ mISBm(T)bP /E Afr namea sparse open deciduous woodlandcharacteristic of dry parts of easternAfrica.The Oyondi family lived near asmall grove in the miombo, wherethere was some shade from the hotsunshine.


Page 168 of 289

miragesn pl/ mDSrBzhDz /L > Foptical phenomena that are oftenobserved on still days over desertsor hot pavements and that have themirrorlike appearance of a quietlake or pool in which distantobjects are seen inverted byreflection though usually distorted.Janet explained that mirages areillusions, which are not real.

mirth

mirthfuladj/ SmErthfEl /E + Ecffull of gladness or gaiety.The stand-up comedian quickly puthis audience in a mirthful mood.

miscegenation

misconceptionn/ miskEnSsepshEn /E + La wrong or inaccurate thought,idea, or notion.That a cactus plant never needswater is a misconception.

misconstrued

miscreants

miser

miserabilism

misery

mishap

misinterpreted

misogamistn/ mDSsBgEmDst /Gkone who hates marriage.Ben explained that although heenjoys being a bachelor, he is not amisogamist.

missal

Mississippiann/ TmisESsipGEn /E namea native or resident of Mississippi.As a native Mississippian, Drewthought he had an obligation todefend his state.

misspell

misspellingn/ mi(s)SspeliN /E + Gmc > F > E + Ecfan incorrect sequence of letterscomposing a word.Mr. Sommerstein was willing tooverlook the occasional misspellingor silly mistake, but he could nottolerate comma splices.

misstatementn/ mi(s)SstCtmEnt /Ecf + L > F > E + Ecfa false or incorrect declaration orremark.Jessie stands by her claim that hermisstatement was unintentional.

misstepn/ Smisstep /Ea wrong step.Higher and higher they climbed upfrightful crumbling cliffs and alongdesperately narrow ledges where asingle misstep meant only “good-by.”mistinessn/ SmistGnDs /Ethe quality or state of beingobscured by or covered with waterin the form of particles suspendedin the atmosphere.A heavy mistiness hung in thevalley and obscured the mountains.

mitomycin

mitosis

mixture

mizzenmast

mnemonicallyadv/ nGSmBnDk(E)lG /Gk + Ecffin a manner assisting or intended toassist memory.The word homes is often usedmnemonically to name the GreatLakes.

mobile

moccasin

moch

modern

modernization

modify

modulation

moduloprep/ SmBjETlP /Lwith respect to a number thatdivides the difference of two othernumbers without leaving aremainder.Betsy’s date calculation programuses modulo seven arithmetic.

moist

molaradj/ SmPlE(r) /L[has homonym: moler] containing6.023 x 10 to the 23rd powermolecules of solute in one liter ofsolution.To make 3.40 molar potassiumnitrate, Eileen put 3.40 moles ofpotassium nitrate into one liter ofthe solution.

molehill


Page 169 of 289

molineadj/ SmPlDn /L > F > AF(of a cross) having the end of eacharm forked and recurved.There are twelve families of millerswho bear crosses moline on theirfamily crests.

mollycoddle

moloch

molybdenite

momentary

monandry

monarchically

monasticadj/ mESnastik /Gk > Lsecluded from earthly concerns anddevoted to religion.Though many people enjoy aperiod of retreat from materialismand worldliness, real commitmentto a monastic life is rare.

monauraladj/ mBnSOrEl /Lof, relating to, affecting, ordesigned for use with one ear.Tom’s doctor referred him to aspecialist to have his monaural andbinaural hearing tested.

moneyless

moniliform

monition

monitoryadj/ SmBnETtPrG /Lgiving a friendly reproof, warning,or reminder.Randall spoke gently to his nephew,but the monitory tone wasunmistakable.

monoceros

monochromat

monofilament

monogram

monolater

monolithic

monophagous

monoplegia

monopolizationn/ mETnBpElDSzCshEn /Gkthe quality or state of having orgetting exclusive ownership orcontrol through legal privilege,command of supply, or groupaction.The corporation was prosecuted forparticipating in a conspiracy forthe purposes of restraint of tradeand monopolization.

monoprint

monorail

monostich

monosyllable

monsieur

monster

monten/ SmBntG /L > It > Spa card game in which players selectany two of four cards faced in alayout and bet that one of them willbe matched before the other ascards are dealt one at a time fromthe pack.On the long bus trip Olivia taughther little sister how to play monte.

Montessorianadj/ TmBntESsPrGEn /It nameof, following, or relating to asystem for training young childrenemphasizing free physical activity,informal and individual instruction,early development of writing andreading, and extended sensorymotor training.The Montessorian learningenvironment contains materials forall levels of children’s readiness.

monticle

monturen/ SmBnchE(r) /Fa frame or setting especially for ajewel.The diamond’s monture wasplatinum, but the band was gold.

monument

monumentaladj/ TmBnyESmentFl /Lhaving impressive bulk or size.The entrance to the library wasflanked by monumental statues oflions.

moonletn/ SmVnlDt /E[has near homonym: moonlit] asmall natural or artificial satellite ofEarth or of another celestial body.Each particle in the rings of Saturnis a moonlet.

mooring

moquette

moral

morale

morcellation

mordant


Page 170 of 289

morganite

Mormonadj/ SmOrmEn /name of a bookof or relating to members of theChurch of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.Mormon houses often have enoughpreserved food in them to feed anarmy.

Mornayn/ TmOrSnC /F name?[has homonym: morné] a cheese-flavored cream sauce.Mornay can be served with seafoodor vegetables.

morphemen/ SmOrTfGm /Gk > Fa meaningful linguistic unit thatcontains no smaller meaningfulparts.One morpheme that carriesmeaning but does not stand on itsown is the plural ending -s.

mortadellan/ TmO(r)ZESdelE /L > Ita smoked sausage made of choppedbeef, pork, and pork fat andseasoned with pepper and garlic.Barbara made a sandwich ofItalian bread, provolone cheese,and sliced mortadella.

mortally

mortiferousadj/ mO(r)Stif(E)rEs /L + Ldeadly, fatal.In the 14th century the mortiferousblack death wiped out about a thirdof the population of Europe.

mortification

n/ TmO(r)ZEfDSkCshEn /La sense of humiliation and shamecaused by something that woundsone’s pride or self-respect.Sandy’s low test score filled himwith mortification.

mosaicism

moselle

moss

moth

motherly

motif

motile

motitationn/ TmPZEStCshEn /La quivering movement.Laurie could tell by the motitationof her brother’s lower lip that hewas about to start sobbing.

motivate

motive

motton/ SmBZ(T)P /L > Ita short suggestive expression of aguiding principle.Elaine’s personal motto is“Fortune favors the bold.”moue

mountebankery

mourningv/ SmP(E)rniN /E[has homonym: morning] feelingsorrow or grief for.Jacob was mourning the loss of histurtle until a neighbor found it andreturned it to him.

movie

movimento

moxie

Mozarabicadj/ mPSzarEbik /Ar > Spof, relating to, or used by SpanishChristians in the period of Muslimdomination of Spain.The talk on Mozarabic poetry atseven o’clock interfered withMica’s dinner plans.

muckrakingn/ SmEkTrCkiN /Ethe action or practice ofinvestigating with the purpose ofdigging up scandal.Uncle Woody accused thecandidate for mayor of engaging inmuckraking as a substitute forproposing an intelligent policy.

mucronate

muddledom

muishondn/ SmIsThBnt /D > Afrikaanseither of two southern Africanweasels that emit a fetid odor whendisturbed.Within two yards of his foot, Jerrysaw a striped muishond with its twofront feet firmly planted on a blackcobra.

mulen/ SmyVl /L > F[Note: The definition provided isnot the one most commonlyassociated with this word. Inaddition, word has homonym:mewl.] a shoe or house slipperwithout quarter and often with alow heel.As Dorothy was about to thrust herfoot into the velvet mule, shenoticed a tear in her stocking.


Page 171 of 289

multiloquence

multiphyletic

multiple

multiplyv/ SmEltETplI /Lincrease in number especiallygreatly or in multiples.Before the printing press there wasno way to multiply an originalmanuscript except by handwrittencopies.

multivious

mummifyv/ SmEmETfI /Per > L > E + Ecfmake into or like a mummy.Ancient Egyptian embalmers usedresin and linen strips to mummifytheir subjects.

mundane

mundungusn/ TmEnSdENgEs /Sptobacco having an offensive smell.Hank preferred his own blend ofmundungus and refused to try anyother.

munificent

murder

murderern/ SmErdErEr /Eone who commits the crime ofunlawfully killing a personespecially with maliceaforethought.The convicted murderer continuedto claim that he acted in self-defense.

murmuration

Musesn pl/ SmyVzDz /Gk > L > F > E[has homonym: meuses] the ninesister goddesses associated with theGraces in Greek mythology andregarded as presiding over learningand the creative arts (as poetry andmusic).The Muses gave the poet his songand sang it through his lips.

musette

musket

musketeer

muskratn/ SmETskrat /Algonquian?an abundant aquatic rodent foundthroughout the United States andCanada living in holes in the banksof ponds or streams.Gloria shrieked as the muskratsank its teeth into her ankle.

mustangn/ SmETstaN /L > Spthe small hardy naturalized horse ofthe western plains directlydescended from horses brought inby the Spaniards.Veronica’s father explained that awild mustang would not be a goodhouse pet.

Mustelidaen pl/ TmESstelETdG /La large family of rather small litheactive carnivorous mammalsincluding many importantfurbearers and some destructivepredators and varying greatly fromthe weasel to the wolverine.Karen thinks that of all theMustelidae, the otter is the mostfascinating to watch.

musteline

mustinessn/ SmEstGnDs /F + Ecffthe quality or state of smelling ofdamp and decay.Todd found the basement’smustiness too much to bear.

mutagenic

mutagenicityn/ TmyVZEjESnisEZG /L + Gkthe capacity to induce mutations.The newly developed artificialsweetener was studied for evidenceof mutagenicity.

mutationn/ myVStCshEn /L > F > Ean often abrupt major change.The appearance of spots marked amutation in the plant species.

mutelyadv/ SmyVtlG /L > F > E + Ecfin a manner characterized by theinability to speak.Nino sat by mutely as we conversedin the parlor.

mutineern/ TmyVtFnSiE(r) /L > Fone that refuses to obey or observeauthority.The sailors protested that the veryperson who was accusing them wasthe ringleader and chief mutineer.

mutinyn/ SmyVt(F)nG /L > Finsurrection against or willfulrefusal to obey constituted,recognized, or traditional authority.Captain Bligh, unable to suppressthe mutiny, was set adrift in arowboat.


Page 172 of 289

muzzlen/ SmEzEl /L > F > Ethe projecting jaws and nose of ananimal : snout.Sam’s dog was always poking itsmuzzle into everything.

mycetismusn/ TmIsEStizmEs /Gkmushroom poisoning.In the Babar series of children’sbooks, Babar succeeds the King ofthe Elephants, who has died from acase of mycetismus.

mycophile

mydriatic

myeloman/ TmIESlPmE /Gka primary tumor of the bonemarrow.A combination of radiation anddrugs is being used to treat Carla’smyeloma.

myosin

myotonian/ TmIEStPnGE /Gktonic spasm of one or moremuscles; also : a conditioncharacterized by such spasms.The crash victim will be kept in theemergency room until the doctorsknow what is causing the myotonia.

myriacanthousadj/ TmirGESkan(t)thEs /Gkhaving numerous spines orprickles.The prickly pear is Tina’s favoritemyriacanthous plant.

myriad

myringa

myrmidons

myrtle

mysticadj/ Smistik /Gkbaffling or incomprehensible to theunderstanding.Reason cannot traverse the mysticgulf between god and man.

mystify

mytacism

mythn/ Smith /Gka traditional story that is usually ofunknown origin and that serves toexplain some practice, belief,institution, or natural phenomenon.The Greek myth about Persephoneexplains the coming of winterweather.

mythopoeia

mythopoeicadj/ TmithESpGik /Gk + Ecfcreating or tending to create mythor myths.Mythopoeic humans attempted toexplain natural phenomena, suchas the rising and setting of the sun.

myths

myxomatosisn/ mikTsPmEStPsDs /Gka severe virus disease of rabbitsthat is marked by fever andsubcutaneous tumors, is transmittedby mosquitoes, and has been usedin biological control of rabbits inplague areas.The warren of rabbits wasdecimated by an outbreak ofmyxomatosis.

myxovirusn/ TmiksESvIrEs /Gk + Lany of a group of rather largeRNA-containing viruses thatincludes the influenza viruses.Upon returning from thepediatrician’s office, Kellyfrightened her father byannouncing that she had amyxovirus.

nadiral

nagging

nahcolite

naillike

naivete

nanization

nanogram

naphthan/ SnafJE /Iranian > Gkany of various volatile oftenflammable liquid hydrocarbonmixtures used chiefly as solventsand diluents and as raw materialsfor conversion to gasoline.On the fractionation column usedfor separating the components ofcrude oil, naphtha lies betweengasoline and kerosene.

naphthalatedadj/ SnafthETlCZDd /Iranian > Gk > Lcleaned with solvents to preservestrength and resiliency.Peggy had her wool coatnaphthalated for the coming winterseason.

naphthalene

naphthalenic


Page 173 of 289

naphthenen/ SnafTthGn /Iranian > Gk + ISVany of a series of saturated cyclichydrocarbons that occur in variouskinds of petroleum, in shale, and intar oil.Naphthene is an important part ofall liquid refinery products.

napkin

napoleonn/ nESpPlyEn /F namea man’s high boot worn especiallyin the 19th century.The artist asked the huntsman towear a black napoleon as his bootfor the painting.

naprapath

narcissismn/ SnBrsETsizEm /Gk name > Loverevaluation of one’s ownattributes or achievements or ofthose of one’s own group.The once successful politician fellvictim to narcissism and eventuallybecame less effective.

narcissist

narcohypnia

narialadj/ Sna(a)rGEl /Lof or relating to the nostrils.There are several different sorts ofsepta, but perhaps the best knownis the narial septum.

narisn/ Sna(a)rDs /Lthe opening of the nose or nasalcavity of a vertebrate.The biology book had anillustration showing how a naris isconnected to the throat by apassageway.

narrator

nasaump

nasuteadj/ nCSsVt /Lhaving a well-developed proboscis.For Halloween, Emma wore anasute rubber mask and large earsmade of gray felt.

national

nativisticadj/ TnCZDSvistik /L > F > E + Ecffof, being, or having thecharacteristics of a movementadvocating the perpetuation ofnative cultural traits and a removalof foreign culture elements.The group’s nativistic effortsincluded the renunciation of the useof electricity and fossil fuels.

natte

naturally

naught

naughty

naumachian/ nOSmCkGE /Gkan ancient Roman spectaclerepresenting a naval battle.To celebrate the naval victory theemperor ordered an elaboratenaumachia.

nauseously

naveln/ SnCvEl /E[has homonym: naval] a mark ordepression in the middle of theabdomen, marking the point ofattachment of the umbilical cord.John asked his religion teacherwhether Adam had a navel.

navicella

navicularadj/ nESvikyElE(r) /L + Ecf[Note: Could be confused withnavicula.] resembling or having theshape of a boat.While discussing the skeletalsystem, Mr. Gray called thestudents’ attention to a smallnavicular bone in the wrist.

navigate

navigator

naysay

neap

Neapolitanadj/ TnGESpBlEtFn /Gk > Lof, relating to, or characteristic ofNaples, Italy, or its residents.Merri enjoys going to an Italianrestaurant where the waiters singNeapolitan folk songs.

nebbish

nebulosityn/ TnebyESlBsEZG /Lthe quality or state of beingunclear, hazy, or indistinct.The author’s nebulosity invitedseveral different interpretations ofhis work.

necessitous

necessity

nectarivorousadj/ TnektESriv(E)rEs /Gk > L + Lfeeding on nectar.Samantha’s colorful flower gardenattracts many nectarivorous birdsand insects.

needlecraft


Page 174 of 289

nefandous

nefariously

negligence

negotiabilityn/ nDTgPsh(G)ESbilEZG /Lthe quality or state of beingsuccessfully traversed or otherwisesuccessfully managed.Department of Transportationofficials explained that roaddesign, negotiability of curves, andother factors determine speedlimits.

neighborly

neither

neoclassicist

neodymium

neonatal

neonedadj/ SnGTBnd /Gk + Ecfof, equipped with, or lighted byneon lamps.The museum installation wasneoned, which produced an eerybluish-white glow.

neophiliacn/ TnGPSfilGTak /Gkone who has a love of orenthusiasm for what is new ornovel.A true neophiliac, Vince visits tradeshows at every opportunity.

neoprenen/ SnGETprGn /Gk + ISVa synthetic rubber characterized byresistance to the elements.To waterski on the chilly lake,Susan and Ed wore wetsuits madeof neoprene.

neoterismn/ nGSBZETrizEm /Gka newly invented word or phrase.Cineplex is a neoterism recentlyadded to the dictionary.

nephriticadj/ nDSfriZik /Gkarising from, originating in, oraffecting the kidneys.Al’s nephritic inflammationalarmed the doctor.

nephritis

nephrolithn/ SnefrETlith /Gk + Gka kidney stone.Physicians can now disintegrate anephrolith by shock waves.

nephrolithotomyn/ TnefrElDSthBZEmG /Gk + Gk + Gkthe surgical operation of removinga solid concretion from the kidney.Mr. Case regrets that anephrolithotomy rather than shock-wave therapy is the necessarytreatment for his kidney stones.

neptunium

Nereidn/ SnirGDd /Gk namean often malevolent nymph ofGreek folklore dwelling in springsor trees as well as in the sea.In the adventure movie set inAtlantis, one Nereid after anotherswam by as the film began.

neriticadj/ nDSriZik /Gk > L > ISVof, relating to, or constituting thebelt or region of shallow wateradjoining the seacoast and usuallyconsidered to extend from low-tidemark to a depth of 100 fathoms.The neritic zone is home to a largenumber of species such as corals,oysters, and algae.

Neronianadj/ nDSrPnGEn /L nameof or relating to the Romanemperor Nero or his times.Neronian rule was marked bytyranny.

nervy

nestle

netherworld

netsuken/ SnetskG /Jpna small object carved in wood orivory or wrought in metal, piercedwith holes, and used by theJapanese as a toggle to fasten asmall pouch or purse to the kimonosash.Hiroko cherished hergrandmother’s ivory netsuke.

neurasthenia

neurergic

neuritis

neuroticismn/ n(y)VSrBZETsizEm /Gk > La condition, character, or traitrelated to nervous dysfunction.The critic observed that narcissismand neuroticism are the trademarksof many TV sitcoms.


Page 175 of 289

neurotogenicadj/ n(y)VTrBZESjenik /Gk + Gktending to produce a functionaldisorder of the central nervoussystem usually manifested byanxiety, phobias, obsessions, orcompulsions.Abby is being treated forneurotogenic problems resultingfrom interpersonal conflicts.

neutrinon/ n(y)VStrG(T)nP /L > Itan uncharged elementary particlethat comes in two forms associatedrespectively with the electron andthe muon.The neutrino is the mostpenetrating of the subatomicparticles.

newfangled

newlywed

newscaster

newsworthy

newtonn/ Sn(y)VtFn /E namethe unit of force in the meter-kilogram-second system ofphysical units that is of such sizethat under its influence a bodywhose mass is 1 kilogram wouldexperience an acceleration of 1meter per second per second.Monica learned that 1 newtonequals 100,000 dynes.

Newtonianadj/ n(y)VStPnGEn /E nameof, relating to, or following SirIsaac Newton, his discoveries, ordoctrines.Perhaps the best known Newtoniandiscovery is his theory ofgravitation.

nibblev/ SnibEl /unknownbite lightly.Deer nibble on the leaves of plants.

nibbling

niccolite

nickel

nickname

nicotine

nidulationn/ TnijESlCshEn /Lnest-building.Carla is writing a book on varietiesof nidulation among smallmammals.

nighttime

nihilistic

nimble

nimbostratusn/ Tnim(T)bPSstrCZEs /La low dark gray rainy cloud layer.The day was dreary with thenimbostratus blocking the rays ofthe Sun completely.

nimbusn/ SnimbEs /La luminous vapor, cloud, oratmosphere about a god or goddesswhen on Earth.Detecting a nimbus about thestranger, Sir Sidney treated herwith extraordinary deference.

nineteenadj/ nInStGn /Ebeing one more than 18 in number.Nineteen years is a long life for acat.

ninnyish

ninth

niobiumn/ nISPbGEm /Gk name > La platinum-gray ductile metallicelement that occurs combined invarious rare minerals but almostalways is associated with tantalumand that is used in alloys to inhibitcorrosion.Niobium is a hypoallergenic metalused in many items such asartificial joints, dental implants,and the posts of pierced earrings.

nirvanan/ nirSvBnE /Skta place or state of rest, harmony, orpleasure.Fiona’s idea of nirvana is aweekend at her lakeside cabin.

nitrogation

nitrogenousadj/ nIStrBjEnEs /Gk > L > Fof, relating to, or containingnitrogen in combined form (as innitrates or proteins).Every year farmers addnitrogenous fertilizers to the soilfor better crop production.

noblest

noctambulous

noctilucentadj/ TnBktESlVsFnt /Lvisible or glowing at night.Noctilucent clouds are thin sheetsof ice crystals that form so highthat the Sun can illuminate them atnight when it is well below thehorizon.


Page 176 of 289

noctilucousadj/ TnBktESlVkEs /Lshining at night : phosphorescent.The noctilucous algae turned thestream into a shining path throughthe trees.

noctovision

nodular

noisette

noisy

nomadic

nominalism

nominate

nomocracyn/ nPSmBkrEsG /Gkgovernment in accordance with asystem of law.Several Middle Eastern countriesare governed according to Muslimnomocracy.

nomographern/ nPSmBgrEfE(r) /Gka writer of laws.During his term as a state senator,Wilbur became an experiencednomographer.

nonchalantlyadv/ TnBnshESlBntlG /L > Fwith an air of jaunty unconcern orindifference.Ron’s cat lay nonchalantly in themost highly trafficked area of hishouse.

nonchitinous

noncombatantadj/ TnBnkEmSbatFnt /Lnot usually engaged in or assignedto duties that directly forwardconflict or controversy.The red cross on the side of thepanel truck signaled that it was anoncombatant vehicle.

nonentityn/ TnBnSentEZG /La person who is totallyundistinguished or unimpressive inmind, character, or achievement :one of small or mediocre talents.For years treated as a nonentity byrecording companies, the singernow has a hit single and is well onthe road to fame.

nonexistentadj/ TnBnigSzistEnt /Lnot having the state common tophysical objects, living beings,objects of thought, and anythingelse.The map is so old that some of theindicated landmarks are nownonexistent.

nonfeasance

nonnativeadj/ TnBnSnCZiv /Lnot born in the place or region towhich reference is had.Metropolitan areas typically haverelatively large proportions ofnonnative population.

nonnuclearadj/ TnBnSn(y)VklGE(r) /Ecf + L > Fnot involving the use of atombombs : conventional.General Williams believes that theworst kind of nonnuclear war ispreferable to the mildest nuclearwar.

nonrepatriable

nonvolatileadj/ TnBnSvBlEZFl /L > F > Enot readily becoming a vapor at arelatively low temperature.Meteoric matter provides muchinformation about the abundance ofnonvolatile elements in space.

noodledom

noospheren/ SnPETsfi(E)r /Gkthe realm of human consciousnessand mental activity especially inregard to its influence on thebiosphere and in relation toevolution.Professor Morrison gave histheoretical biology class a timelineof the history of the noosphere.

Nordicadj/ SnOrdik /Fof or relating to the Germanicpeoples of northern Europe.The Nordic languages, especiallyOld Norse, borrowed importantwords from Anglo-Saxon.

normal

Norwegianadj/ nO(r)SwGjEn /L geog nameof, relating to, or characteristic ofNorway.Paul bought a pound of Norwegiansmoked salmon.

nosegayn/ SnPzTgC /E + Ea small bunch of flowers suitable tobe worn on the person.As the princess entered the theater,a small child in a colorful peasantcostume offered her a nosegay.

nosography


Page 177 of 289

Nostradamusn/ TnBstrESdCmEs /F nameone professing to foretell futureevents.Wally consulted the localNostradamus for footballpredictions.

notacanthousadj/ TnPZESkan(t)Jes /Gkhaving spines on the back.Paleontologists have foundevidence that some dinosaurs werenotacanthous.

notch

noticeableadj/ SnPZDsEbEl /L + Ecfflikely to attract attention :conspicuous.The bank teller reported that theonly really noticeable thing aboutthe robber was his tiny mustache.

notify

notochordal

notornis

notturno

nougatine

nourishingadj/ SnErishiN /L > F > E + Ecfnutritious.Fresh fruits and vegetables arethought to be more nourishing thancanned fruits and vegetables.

nourishment

nouveau

novachord

novelese

novelistn/ SnBvElDst /La writer of prose narratives ofconsiderable length and a certaincomplexity that deal imaginativelywith human experience through aconnected sequence of eventsinvolving a group of persons in aspecific setting.As a novelist, Margaret specializesin science-fiction stories.

novelisticadj/ TnBvESlistik /L > F > E + Ecffof, relating to, or characteristic of along prose narrative that usuallyportrays imaginative characters andevents.Sandy preferred reading novelisticfiction over the short-story form.

novena

novenaryadj/ SnBvETnerG /Lof or relating to the number nine :based on the number nine.Mischievous Buttons did not attainthe novenary life expectationassociated with her species.

novilleron/ TnPvGSye(E)(T)rP /Spa bullfighter aspiring to become amatador.All summer the novillero practicedin the pasture with young bulls.

nowhere

nozzle

nuances

nucleolusn/ n(y)VSklGElEs /La spherical body in a cell nucleusthat is associated with a specificpart of a chromosome and containsmuch ribosomal RNA.The nucleolus is that part of thecell in which protein-producingribosomes are formed.

nucleus

nudicaulousadj/ Tn(y)VdESkOlEs /Lhaving leafless stems.Nudicaulous glassworts are plantscommon in tidal marshes.

nullify

numen

numerical

numismaticsn pl/ Tn(y)VmEzSmaZiks /Gk > F > Lthe study of coins, tokens, medals,paper money, and objects closelyresembling them in form orpurpose.An individual well known in thefield of numismatics gave a lectureon wampum to the class in NativeAmerican history.

nuptial

nuque

nursery

nurturancen/ SnErchErEn(t)s /Laffectionate care and attention.Children who receive adequatenurturance often are friendly andoutgoing.


Page 178 of 289

nutatev/ Sn(y)VTtCt /Lwobble so as to cause a smallirregularity in the precession of theequinoxes.The plane of the Moon’s orbitaround Earth is tilted by about 5degrees, causing Earth to nutate.

nutcracker

nuthatchn/ SnEtThach /Ea small bird that creeps over thetrunk and branches of trees and hashabits similar to those of thetitmouse and creeper.The tiny bird crawling headfirstdown the tree is probably anuthatch.

nutmeg

nutrian/ Sn(y)VtrGE /L > Spthe fur of an aquatic water rodentthat is treated to resemble beaver.While windowshopping Lorenestopped to look at a set of earmuffsmade from nutria.

nutritious

nyctinasty

nylon

oafish

oafishly

oathn/ SPth /Ea usually formal affirmation madesolemn by being coupled with theinvocation of something viewed assacred.Deirdre made Tom take an oath ofsilence before telling him hersecret.

obducedv/ BbSd(y)Vst /Lcovered : enveloped.Melanie saw that the cells wereobduced by a thin membrane.

obduracy

obedience

obediential

obeliscal

obelus

obey

obituaristn/ TPSbichETwerDst /L + Ecfthe writer of a record or notice of aperson's death.The obituarist composed abalanced assessment of the artist’sachievements.

objectivity

objurgate

oblastn/ SBTblAst /OSlav > Russa governmental subdivision of theformer USSR corresponding to anautonomous province or state.Krasnoyarsk Province is a largeoblast in central Russia.

oblation

obligedadj/ ESblIjd /L > F > Econstrained by physical, moral, orlegal force.Calvin will feel obliged to behaveethically even if he does not signthe honor code.

obliterableadj/ ESbliZErEbEl /Lcapable of being removed fromexistence or destroyed.Fortunately, the actor’s flubbedlines were obliterable from thevideotape.

oblivescence

oblivionizev/ ESblivGETnIz /L > Erelegate to a state of beingforgotten.Larry wondered if hypnosis mighthelp him oblivionize his feelings forhis former girlfriend.

oblong

obnoxiously

obnubilatev/ BbSn(y)VbETlCt /Lcover or obscure by or as if byclouds : becloud.Strong emotions can oftenobnubilate sound reasoning.

oboen/ SPbP /Fa wooden double-reed windinstrument.Tommy introduced his mother tohis friend who played the oboe inthe orchestra.

obscureadj/ EbzSkyU(E)r /L > F > Enot readily understood.The idea the paragraph was tryingto convey was expressed in anunnecessarily obscure way.


Page 179 of 289

obsequityn/ EbSsekwEZG /Lthe quality or state of beingcompliant to excess.The server waited on the dinerswith great obsequity.

obsequy

observatoryn/ EbSzErvETtPrG /La building or place given over to orequipped for observation of naturalphenomena.Slowly, the roof of the observatoryopened to afford a clear view forthe great reflecting telescopewithin.

obsessional

obsidional

obtestation

obtrude

obtruncatev/ BbStrENTkCt /Lcut the head or top from.George’s decision to obtruncate thepin oak might be bad for the tree inthe long run.

obturatorn/ SBbt(y)ETrCZE(r) /La device for preventing the escapeof gas through the breechmechanism of a breech-loadinggun.A faulty obturator was the cause ofthe backfire from the Civil Warreenactor’s gun.

obtuse

obtusely

obvallate

obvelationn/ TBbvESlCshEn /L[Note: Could be confused withobligation.] an act or instance ofcovering with or as if with a veil :concealment.A prophecy is often an obvelationas well as a revelation.

Occidentn/ SBksEdEnt /Lregions or countries lying to thewest of a specified or implied pointof orientation.Jane knows where “the Orient” is,but she has not heard the termOccident.

occupancyn/ SBkyEpEnsG /L > Fthe condition of residing in abuilding as an owner or tenant.The contractor promised theowners that their house would beready for occupancy in two moreweeks.

occupation

occupied

oceanfront

oceanodromous

oceanographyn/ TPshESnBgrEfG /Gka science that deals with the wholebody of salt water that coversnearly three-fourths of the surfaceof the globe.Recent advances in oceanographyinclude the use of electronic echosounders to monitor the structureand movement of currents.

ochlocracy

ochronosis

octagon

octahedronn/ TBktEShGdrEn /Gka solid bounded by eight planefaces.Tanya bought a music box in theform of an octahedron for her newgrandson.

octameter

octarchy

octogenary

octopodous

oddity

odiferousadj/ PSdif(E)rEs /L > Ehaving a strong gamy often acridsmell.Mahmud stood in a doorway as thelong odiferous line of camelspassed by.

odontalgic

odorin/ PSdPrTG /Jpnany lively Japanese folk or theaterdance characterized by rapidfootwork.The dancers in the odori wereextraordinarily light on their feet.

odoriferousadj/ PdESrif(E)rEs /Lbearing or yielding an odor.Perfumes are composed of solvents,fixatives, and odoriferous elements.

odorless

oenomel

oenophilist


Page 180 of 289

oerstedn/ SErTsted /Dan namethe centimeter-gram-secondelectromagnetic unit of magneticintensity equal to the intensity of amagnetic field in a vacuum inwhich a unit magnetic poleexperiences a mechanical force of 1dyne in the direction of the field.The oersted is used to measuremagnetic induction.

offal

offensiveadj/ ESfen(t)siv /Lmaking attack : relating to orcharacterized by attack.The offensive team is the one inpossession of the ball.

offertoryn/ SOfE(r)TtPrG /Lan antiphon, anthem, or othermusical selection sung or playedduring a religious service in whichmonetary gifts are received fromthe congregation.Linda and Mike sang a duet for theoffertory during last week’s churchservice.

officiate

officinally

officiousadj/ ESfishEs /Lvolunteering one’s services wherethey are neither asked nor needed :meddlesome.The officious busybodies offeredhelp just to satisfy their curiosity.

often

ogival

Ogygianadj/ PSjijGEn /Gk nameancient, primeval.The sailors found the unchartedisland in an Ogygian state ofwilderness.

ohmmetern/ SP(m)TmGZE(r) /G name + Gkan instrument for indicatingdirectly electric resistance.Brent showed Aru how to use anohmmeter to test the resistance of acircuit.

oily

olecranonn/ PSlekrETnBn /Gk > Lthe large process of the ulna thatprojects behind the elbow joint andforms the bony prominence of theelbow—called also “funny bone.”When the arm is extended, theolecranon fits into a depression inthe humerus.

oleiferousadj/ TPlGSif(E)rEs /L + Lproducing oil.The oleiferous castor beans are thesource of castor oil.

olfactometryn/ TBlTfakStBmEtrG /L + Gk + Ecfthe testing and measurement of thesensitivity of the sense of smell.When Godfrey couldn’t smell anyaromas from foods, his doctorrecommended that he undergoolfactometry.

olfactorily

olidadj/ SBlDd /Lhaving a strong disagreeable smell.An olid sticky liquid was seepingfrom under the door of thecloakroom.

oligemiaadj/ TBlESgGmGE /Gk > La condition in which the totalvolume of the blood is reduced.One of the health seminar sessionsexplores the relationship betweenoligemia and migraine headaches.

oligophagousadj/ TBlESgBfEgEs /Gkeating only a few specific kinds offood—used especially of an insect.Oligophagous insects feed upononly a limited number of usuallyrelated plants.

oligophrenic

oligopoly

oligopsonyn/ TBlESgBpsEnG /Gka market situation in which each ofa limited number of buyers isstrong enough to influence themarket but not strong enough toignore the reaction to suchinfluence by his competitors.Buyers of expensive printingpresses constitute an oligopsony,since there are only a few dozen inthe whole world.

olivaceousadj/ TBlESvCshEs /Gk > L > F > E + L + Ecfof the color olive or olive green.While walking through the saltmarsh, Janice came upon alaughing gull’s nest of threeolivaceous eggs.

olive

southasianspellingbee.comsouthasianspellingbee.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/2004cwl-moderate... ·...

Documents