Microsoft Bookshelf 1991/AmericanHeritageDictionary.txt

Text File | 1991-01-01 | 31MB | 387,132 lines

 A
 a or A   n. pl. a's  or A's  1. The first letter of the modern English
 alphabet. 2. Any of the speech sounds represented by the letter a.  3.
 Something shaped like the letter A. 4. The first in a series. 5. The best
 or highest in quality or rank: grade A milk.  6.  a. The sixth tone in the
 scale of C major or the first note in the relative minor scale. b. The key
 or scale in which A is the tonic. c. A written or printed note representing
 this tone. d. A string, key, or pipe tuned to the pitch of this tone.



 a
 a(1)  indef. art.  1. Used before nouns and noun phrases that denote a
 single, but unspecified, person or thing: a region; a man.  2. Used before
 terms, such as few or many, denoting number: a hundred men; only a few of
 the voters.  3. The same: birds of a feather.  4. Any: not a drop to drink.
  5.  a. Used before a proper name to denote a type or a member of a class:
 the wisdom of a Socrates.  b. Used before a mass noun to indicate a single
 type or example: a dry wine.  [ME < OE an, one.]

      Usage: A  is used before a word beginning with a consonant (a frog )
 or a consonant sound (a university ); an  is used before a word beginning
 with a vowel (an egg ) or a vowel sound (an hour ). An  should not be used
 before words like historical  and hysterical  unless the h  is not
 pronounced, a practice now uncommon in American speech.
 a(2)   prep.  In every; to each; per: once a month; one dollar a pound.
 [ME a, < OE an in.]
 a(3)   v.  Regional.  Have: He'd a come if he could.  [ME < haven, to
 have.]



 a- or an-
 a-(1)   Without; not: amoral.  [Gk.]
 a-(2)   1. On; in: abed.  2. In the act of: aborning.  3. In the direction
 of: astern.  4. In a specified state or condition: abuzz.  [ME < OE < an,
 on.]



 aardvark  n.  A burrowing mammal, Orycteropus afer, of southern Africa,
 having a stocky, hairy body, large ears, a long, tubular snout, and
 powerful digging claws. [Obs. Afr. : aarde, earth (< Du. < M. Du. aerde) +
 vark, pig (< M. Du. varken).]



 aardwolf  n.  A hyenalike mammal, Proteles cristatus, of southern and
 eastern Africa, having gray fur with black stripes, and feeding mainly on
 termites and insect larvae. [Afr. : aarde, earth + wolf, wolf (< M. Du.).]



 Aaron  n.  In the Old Testament, the original high priest of the Hebrew
 nation, the older brother of Moses. [LLat. < Gk. Aaron < Heb. 'aharon.]



 Aaronic or Aaronical   adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, or characteristic of
 Aaron. 2. Of or pertaining to the lower order of priests in the Mormon
 Church.



 Ab  n.  Variant of Av.



 AB  n.  A human blood type of the ABO group.



 ab-
 ab-(1)   Away from: aboral.  [Lat. < ab.]
 ab-(2)   Used to indicate a centimeter-gram-second system electromagnetic
 unit: abcoulomb.  [< absolute.]



 aba  n.  1. A light fabric woven of the hair of camels or goats. 2. A
 loose-fitting sleeveless garment made of aba, worn by Arabs. [Ar. "aba'.]



 abaca  n.  A Philippine plant, Musa textilis, related to the banana. Its
 leafstalks are the source of Manila hemp. [Sp. abaca < Tagolog abaka.]



 aback  adv.  Archaic.  Back; backward. taken aback. Dumbfounded; startled.
 [ME abak < OE on baec : on, to + baec, back.]



 abacterial  adj.  Not caused by or identified with the presence of
 bacteria.



 abacus  n. pl. abacuses  or abaci  1. A manual computing device consisting
 of a frame holding parallel rods strung with movable counters. 2. A slab on
 the top of the capital of a column. [Lat. < Gk. abax, counting board.]



 abaft  adv.  Nautical.  Toward the stern.   -prep. Toward the stern from.
 [ME on baft : on, at + baft, rear < OE beaeftan, behind (be, at + aeftan,
 behind).]



 abalone  n.  Any of the various large, edible marine gastropods of the
 genus Haliotis, having an ear-shaped shell with a row of holes and a
 colorful, pearly interior, often used for making ornaments. [Am. Sp.
 abulon.]



 abampere  n.  A centimeter-gram-second electromagnetic unit of current,
 equal to the current that produces a force of two dynes per centimeter of
 length on each of two infinitely long straight parallel wires one
 centimeter apart. It is equal to 10 amperes.



 abandon  tr.v. -doned -doning -dons   1. To withdraw one's support or help
 from, esp. in spite of a duty, allegiance, or responsibility; desert:
 abandon a friend in trouble.  2. To give up by leaving or ceasing to
 operate or inhabit, esp. as a result of danger or other impending threat:
 abandon ship.  3. To surrender one's claim or right to; give up. 4. To
 desist from; cease trying to continue. 5. To yield (oneself) completely, as
 to emotion.   -n. 1. A complete surrender of inhibitions. 2. Unbounded
 enthusiasm. [ME abandounen < OFr. abandoner < a bandon : a, at (< Lat. ad)
 + bandon, control.]   abandonment n.



 abandoned  adj.  1. Deserted or forsaken. 2. Recklessly unrestrained;
 shameless.



 abapical  adj.  Being opposite to or directed away from the apex.



 abase  tr.v. abased abasing abases   To lower in rank, prestige, or
 esteem; humiliate. [ME abassen < OFr. abaissir : Lat. ad-, to + Med. Lat.
 bassus, low.]   abasement n.



 abash  tr.v. abashed abashing abashes   To make ashamed or uneasy;
 disconcert. [ME abaishen, to lose one's composure < OFr. esbahier : es-
 (intensive) + baer, to gape.]   abashment n.



 abasia  n.  Dysfunction of muscular coordination in walking. [NLat. : a-1
 + Gk. basis, step < bainein, to go.]



 abate  v. abated abating abates   -tr. 1. To reduce in amount, degree, or
 intensity; lessen. 2. To deduct from an amount; subtract. 3.  Law.  a. To
 put an end to. b. To make void. -intr. 1. To subside. 2.  Law. To become
 void. [ME abaten < OFr. abattre, to beat : a-, to (< Lat. ad-) + batre, to
 beat < Lat. battuere.]



 abatement  n.  1. Diminution in degree or intensity; moderation. 2. The
 amount abated; reduction. 3.  Law. The act of abating; elimination or
 annulment.



 abattoir  n.  A slaughterhouse. [Fr. < abattre, to strike down < OFr. -see
 abate.]



 abaxial  adj.  Away from the axis.



 abba  n.  Father. Used as a title of honor in several Eastern churches.
 [ME < LLat. < Gk. < Aram. abba, father.]



 abbacy  n. pl. -cies  The office, term, or jurisdiction of an abbot. [ME
 abbatie < LLat. abbatia < abba, father. -see abba.]



 abbatial  adj.  Of or pertaining to an abbey, abbot, or abbess. [ME
 abbacyal < LLat. abbatialis <  abbas, abbot.]



 abbe  n.  A French title originally given to the superior of an abbey, now
 applied to any ecclesiastical figure. [Fr. < OFr. < LLat. abbas, abbot.]



 abbess  n.  The female superior of a convent of nuns. [ME abesse < OFr. <
 LLat. abbatissa < abbas, abbot.]



 Abbevillian  adj.  Designating the earliest Paleolithic archaeological
 sites in Europe, characterized by bifacial stone hand axes. [After
 Abbeville, France.]



 abbey  n. pl. -beys  1. A monastery or convent. 2. An abbey church. [ME <
 OFr. abaie < LLat. abbatia < abbas, abbot.]



 abbot  n.  The superior of a monastery. [ME abbod < OE < LLat. abbas <
 LGk. abbas < Aram. abba, father.]



 abbreviate  tr.v. -ated -ating -ates   1. To make shorter. 2. To reduce (a
 word or phrase) to a shorter form intended to represent the full form. [ME
 abbreviaten < LLat. abbreviare : ab-, off + breviare, to shorten <  brevis,
 short.]   abbreviator n.



 abbreviation  n.  1. The act or product of abbreviating. 2. A shortened
 form of a word or phrase used chiefly in writing to represent the complete
 form; for example, Mass. for Massachusetts.



 ABC  n. pl. ABC's  1. ABC's  The alphabet. 2. ABC's  The rudiments of
 reading and writing.



 ABC art  n.  Minimal art.



 abcoulomb  n.  A centimeter-gram-second electromagnetic unit of charge,
 equal to the charge passing in one second through any cross section of a
 conductor carrying a steady current of one abampere. It is equal to ten
 coulombs.



 Abdias  n.  Obadiah. [LLat. < Gk.]



 abdicate  v. -cated -cating -cates   -tr. To relinquish (power or
 responsibility) formally. -intr. To relinquish formally high office or
 responsibility. [Lat. abdicare, to disclaim : ab-, away + dicare, to
 proclaim.]   abdicable adj.   abdication n.   abdicator n.



 abdomen  n.  1. The part of the body in mammals that lies between the
 thorax and the pelvis and encloses the viscera; belly. 2. In arthropods,
 the major posterior part of the body. [Lat., belly.]   abdominal adj.
 abdominally adv.



 abdominous  adj.  Potbellied.



 abducens  n. pl. abducentes  An abducens nerve. [Lat. abducens, pr.part.
 of abducere, to take away. -see abduct.]



 abducens nerve  n.  Either of the 6th pair of cranial nerves that convey
 the motor impulses to the eye muscles.



 abduct  tr.v. -ducted -ducting -ducts   1. To carry off by force; kidnap.
 2.  Physiology. To draw away from the median line of a bone or muscle or
 from an adjacent part or limb. [Lat. abducere, abduct- : ab-, away +
 ducere, to lead.]   abduction n.   abductor n.



 abeam  adv.  At right angles to the keel of a ship.



 abecedarian  n.  1. One who teaches or studies the alphabet. 2. One who is
 just learning; beginner.   -adj. 1. Pertaining to the alphabet. 2. Arranged
 alphabetically. 3. Elementary; rudimentary. [ME < Med. Lat. abecedarium,
 alphabet < LLat. abecedarius, alphabetical < the names of the letters A B C
 D.]



 abed  adv.  In bed.



 Abel  n.  In the Old Testament, the second son of Adam, slain by his elder
 brother, Cain. [ME < LLat. < Gk. < Heb. Hebhel.]



 abele  n.  The white poplar. [Du. abeel < OFr. abel < Med. Lat. albellus,
 dim. of Lat. albus, white.]



 Abelian group  n.  A commutative group. [After Niels Henrik Abel
 (1802-1829).]



 abelmosk  n.  A hairy plant, Hibiscus abelmoschus, of tropical Asia,
 having large yellow flowers and musk-scented seeds that are used in
 perfumery. [NLat. abelmoschus < Ar. habbalmusk, grain of musk : habb, grain
 +  mosk, musk < Pers. mushk.]



 Aberdeen Angus  n.  Any of a breed of black, hornless beef cattle that
 originated in Scotland. [After Aberdeen and Angus, former counties of
 Scotland.]



 aberrant  adj.  1. Deviating from the proper or expected course. 2.
 Deviating from what is normal; untrue to type.   aberrance  aberrancy n.



 aberration  n.  1. A deviation from the proper or expected course. 2. A
 departure from the normal or typical. 3. A disorder or abnormal alteration
 in one's mental state. 4.  a. A defect of focus, such as blurring in an
 image. b. A physical defect in an optical element, as in a lens, that
 causes such an imperfection. 5.  Astronomy. The apparent displacement of
 the position of a celestial body in the direction of motion of an observer
 on earth, caused by the motion of the earth and the finiteness of the
 velocity of light. [Lat. aberratio, diversion < aberrare, to go astray :
 ab-, from + errare, to stray.]



 abet  tr.v. abetted abetting abets   To encourage, incite, or help, esp.
 in wrongdoing. [ME abetten < OFr. abeter, to entice : a, to (< Lat. ad-) +
 beter, to bait, of Germanic orig.]   abetment n.   abettor  abetter n.



 abeyance  n.  1. The condition of being temporarily set aside; suspension.
 2.  Law. A condition of undetermined ownership, as of an estate that has
 not yet been assigned. [OFr. abeance, desire < abaer, to gape at : a-, at
 (< Lat. ad-) + baer, to gape.]   abeyant adj.



 abfarad  n.  A centimeter-gram-second electromagnetic unit of capacitance,
 equal to the capacitance of a capacitor having a charge of one abcoulomb
 and a potential difference of one abvolt. It is equal to one billion (109)
 farads.



 abhenry  n. pl. -ries  A centimeter-gram-second electromagnetic unit of
 inductance, equal to the inductance resulting from a current variation of
 one abampere per second that produces an induced electromotive force of one
 abvolt. It is equal to one billionth (10-9) henry.



 abhor  tr.v. -horred -horring -hors   1. To regard with horror or
 loathing; abominate. 2. To reject vehemently; shun. [ME abhorren < Lat.
 abhorrere, to shrink from : ab-, from + horrere, to shudder.]   abhorrence
 n.   abhorrer n.



 abhorrent  adj.  1. Disgusting; loathsome; repellent. 2. Feeling
 repugnance or loathing. 3. In opposition.   abhorrently adv.



 Abib  n.  In the ancient Hebrew calendar, an earlier name for the month of
 Nisan. [Heb. 'abhibh, (month of) fresh barley.]



 abidance  n.  1. An act or condition of abiding; continuance. 2.
 Adherence; compliance: abidance by parliamentary procedure.



 abide  v. abode  or abided  or abiding  or abides   -tr. 1. To wait
 patiently for. 2. To be in store for; await. 3. To withstand; persevere
 under. 4. To accept the consequences of. 5. To put up with; tolerate: can't
 abide such incompetence.  -intr. 1. To remain in one place or state. 2. To
 continue; endure:  Who can abide in the fierceness of his anger? (Cotton
 Mather). 3. To dwell or sojourn. Phrasal verb.  abide by. To conform to;
 comply with. [ME abiden < OE abidan : a- (intensive) + bidan, to remain.]
 abider n.



 abiding  adj.  Long-lasting; enduring.   abidingly adv.



 Abies  n.  A genus of firs in the pine family, with flattened, needlelike
 leaves and erect cones. [NLat. < Lat., silver fir.]



 abietic acid  n.  A yellowish resinous powder, C19H29COOH, isolated from
 rosin and used in lacquers, varnishes, and soaps. [< Lat. abies, abiet-,
 silver fir.]



 ability  n. pl. -ties  1. The quality of being able to do something;
 physical, mental, financial, or legal power to perform. 2. A natural or
 acquired skill or talent. [ME abilite < OFr. habilite < Lat. habilitas <
 habilis, able.]

      Synonyms: ability capacity faculty talent skill
 competence aptitude These nouns name qualities that enable a person to
 accomplish something. Ability  is the power, mental or physical, to do
 something, and usually implies doing it well. Capacity  refers to the
 condition that permits one to acquire that power. Faculty  denotes an
 ability, inherent or acquired, in one area of achievement: a faculty for
 mathematics .Talent  emphasizes inborn ability in a particular field,
 especially the arts.Skill  implies recognized ability acquired or developed
 through experience. Competence  suggests ability to do something
 satisfactorily but not outstandingly. Aptitude  usually implies inherent
 capacity for, and interest in, a particular activity.




 -ability or -ibility    Ability, inclination, or suitability for a
 specified action or condition: teachability.  [ME -abilitie < OFr. -abilite
 < Lat. -abilitas.]



 ab initio  adv.  From the beginning. [Lat.]



 abiogenesis  n.  The hypothetical development of living organisms from
 nonliving matter.   abiogenetic abiogenetical  adj.   abiogenist n.



 abiotic  adj.  Not biotic.   abiosis n.   abiotically adv.



 abject  adj.  1. Of the most contemptible kind: abject cowardice.  2. Of
 the most miserable kind; wretched: abject poverty.  [ME, outcast < Lat.
 abjectus, p.part. of abicere, to cast away : ab-, from + jacere,  to
 throw.]   abjectly adv.   abjectness  abjection n.



 abjure  tr.v. -jured -juring -jures   1. To recant solemnly; repudiate:
 abjure one's beliefs.  2. To renounce under oath; forswear. [ME abjuren <
 OFr. abjurer < Lat. abjurare : ab-, away + jurare, to swear.]   abjuration
 n.   abjurer n.



 ablation  n.  1. Surgical excision or amputation of any part of the body.
 2. The totality of erosive processes by which a glacier is reduced. 3.
 Aerospace. The dissipation of heat generated by atmospheric friction, esp.
 in the atmospheric re-entry of a spacecraft or missile, by means of a
 melting heat shield. [LLat. ablatio < ablatus, p.part. of auferre, to carry
 away : ab-, away + ferre, to carry.]



 ablative  adj.  Designating a grammatical case indicating separation,
 direction away from, and sometimes manner or agency, found in some
 Indo-European languages.   -n. 1. The ablative case. 2. A word in the
 ablative case. [ME < OFr. ablatif < Lat. ablativus < ablatus, p.part. of
 auferre, to carry away. -see ablation]



 ablative absolute  n.  In Latin grammar, an adverbial phrase syntactically
 independent from the rest of the sentence and containing two main elements
 both in the ablative case.



 ablaut  n.  A patterned change in root vowels of verb forms,
 characteristic of Indo-European languages, indicating alteration of tense,
 aspect, or function; for example, ring, rang, rung.  [G. Ablaut : ab, off
 (< OHG aba) + Laut, sound < MHG lut < OHG hlut.]



 ablaze  adj.  1. On fire. 2. Radiant with bright color.



 able  adj. abler ablest   1. Having sufficient ability or resources. 2.
 Especially capable or talented. [ME < OFr. < Lat. habilis < habere, to
 hold.]



 -able or -ible    1. Susceptible, capable, or worthy of a specified
 action: debatable.  2. Inclined or given to a specified state or action:
 blamable.  [ME < OFr. < Lat. -abilis.]



 able-bodied  adj.  Physically strong and healthy.



 able-bodied seaman  n.  A merchant seaman certified for all seaman's
 duties.



 able seaman  n.  An able-bodied seaman.



 abloom  adj.  In bloom; flowering.



 ablution  n.  1. A washing or cleansing of the body, esp. as part of a
 religious rite. 2. The liquid used in an ablution. [ME ablucioun < Lat.
 ablutio < abluere, to wash away : ab, away + luere, to wash.]   ablutionary
 adj.



 ably  adv.  In an able manner; capably.



 ABM  n.  Antiballistic missile.



 Abnaki  n. pl. Abnaki  or -kis  1. A tribe of North American Indians of
 Maine, New Brunswick, and southern Quebec. 2. A member of the Abnaki. 3.
 The Algonquian language of the Abnaki.



 abnegate  tr.v. -gated -gating -gates   To deny to oneself; renounce.
 [Lat. abnegare, abnegat-, to refuse : ab-, away + negare,  to deny.]



 abnegation  n.  Self-denial.



 abnormal  adj.  Not normal; deviant. [Lat. abnormis : ab-, away from +
 norma, rule.]   abnormally adv.



 abnormality  n. pl. -ties  1. The condition of not being normal. 2. An
 abnormal phenomenon.



 abnormal psychology  n.  Psychopathology.



 aboard  adv.  On board a ship, train, airplane, or other passenger
 vehicle.   -prep. On board of; on; in. [ME abord : a-, on + bord, ship.]



 abode  v.  Past tense and past participle of abide.   -n. 1. A dwelling
 place or home. 2. The act of abiding; sojourn. [ME abod < abiden, to wait.
 -see abide.]



 abohm  n.  A centimeter-gram-second electromagnetic unit of resistance
 equal to one billionth (10-9) of an ohm.



 abolish  tr.v. -ished -ishing -ishes   1. To do away with; annul. 2. To
 destroy completely. [ME abolisshen < OFr. abolir, aboliss- < Lat. abolere.]
   abolishable adj.   abolisher n.   abolishment n.

      Synonyms: abolish exterminate extinguish extirpate eradicate
 obliterate These verbs mean to get rid of. Abolish  applies only to doing
 away with conditions or regulations, not material things or persons.
 Exterminate  suggests destruction of living things by a deliberate,
 selective method. Extinguish , meaning to put out a flame or something
 likened to a flame, stresses the frailty of the object. Extirpate  suggests
 effective destruction by getting at the roots or causes, while eradicate
 stresses the resistance to dislodgment posed by the object. Obliterate
 means to destroy so as to leave no trace, and applies principally to
 things.




 abolition  n.  1. An act of abolishing or the state of being abolished. 2.
 The termination of slavery in the United States. [Fr. < Lat. abolitio <
 abolitus, p.part. of abolere, to abolish.]   abolitionary adj.



 abolitionism  n.  Advocacy of the abolition of slavery in the United
 States.   abolitionist n.



 abomasum  n. pl. -sa  The fourth division of the stomach in ruminant
 animals, in which true digestion takes place.   abomasal adj.



 A-bomb  n.  An atomic bomb.



 abominable  adj.  1. Unequivocally detestable; loathsome. 2. Thoroughly
 unpleasant or disagreeable: abominable weather.  [ME abhominable < OFr. <
 Lat. abominabilis < abominari, to abhor. -see abominate.]   abominably adv.




 abominable snowman  n.  A hirsute manlike animal reportedly inhabiting the
 snows of the high Himalayas.



 abominate  tr.v. -nated -nating -nates   1. To detest thoroughly; abhor.
 2.  Informal. To dislike intensely. [Lat. abominari, abominat-, to
 deprecate as a bad omen : ab-, away + omen, omen.]   abominator n.



 abomination  n.  1. An abhorrence for someone or something; disgust. 2.
 Something that elicits great dislike or abhorrence.



 aboral  adj.  Opposite to or away from the mouth.



 aboriginal  adj.  1. Existing from the beginning or being the earliest of
 its type in an area; indigenous. 2. Of or pertaining to aborigines.   -n.
 An aborigine.   aboriginally adv.



 aborigine  n.  1. An autochthonous inhabitant of a region. 2. aborigines
 The flora and fauna native to a geographical area. [< Lat. aborigines,
 original inhabitants : ab-, from + origine, beginning.]



 aborning  adv.  While coming into being or getting under way: a revolution
 that almost died aborning.



 abort  v. aborted aborting aborts   -intr. 1. To terminate pregnancy
 prematurely. 2. To cease growth before full development or maturation. 3.
 To terminate an operation or procedure with a missile or a space vehicle
 before completion, esp. because of equipment failure. -tr. 1. To cause to
 terminate pregnancy prematurely. 2. To interfere with the development of;
 conclude prematurely. 3. To terminate before completion.   -n. 1. The act
 of terminating an operation or procedure with a missile or space vehicle
 before completion, esp. because of equipment failure. 2.  Computer Science.
 A procedure to terminate execution of a program when an unrecoverable error
 or malfunction occurs. [Lat. abortare, freq. of aboriri, to disappear,
 miscarry : ab-, away + oriri, to appear.]



 abortifacient  adj.  Causing abortion.   -n. Anything used to induce
 abortion.



 abortion  n.  1. Induced termination of pregnancy before the fetus is
 capable of survival as an individual. 2. A fatally premature expulsion of
 an embryo or fetus from the womb. 3. Cessation of normal growth, esp. of an
 organ, prior to full development or maturation. 4. An aborted organism. 5.
 Something malformed or incompletely developed.



 abortionist  n.  One who performs abortions.



 abortive  adj.  1. Failing to accomplish an intended objective; fruitless.
 2. Partially or imperfectly developed.   abortively adv.   abortiveness n.



 ABO system  n.  The antigenic system of human blood, which, by functioning
 genetically as an allelic unit, produces the four human blood groups or
 types, A, B, AB and O.



 aboulia  n.  Variant of abulia.



 abound  intr.v. abounded abounding abounds   1. To be great in number or
 amount. 2. To be fully supplied or filled; teem. [ME abounden < OFr.
 abonder < Lat. abundare, to overflow : ab-, from + undare, to flow < unda,
 wave.]



 about  adv.  1. Approximately; nearly: lasted about an hour.  2. Almost:
 just about done.  3. To a reversed position or direction. 4. In no
 particular direction: wandering about town.  5. All around; on every side.
 6. In the area or vicinity; near. 7. In succession; one after another: Turn
 about is fair play.    -prep. 1. On all sides of; surrounding. 2. In the
 vicinity of; around. 3. Almost the same as; close to; near. 4. In reference
 to; relating to. 5. In the possession of: had his wits about him.  6. Ready
 or prepared to do something: The chorus is about to sing.  7. Involved with
 or engaged in: went about his business.    -adj. Moving here and there;
 astir: be up and about.  [ME < OE onbutan : on, in + butan, outside.]

      Synonyms: about around round These terms are sometimes
 interchangeable, as adverbs and prepositions. However, around  either
 specifies or suggests complete encirclement of something, whereas about
 and round  are less exact and indicate, more or less, semiencirclement: The
 children gathered about  (or round ) the fireplace; then they danced around
 the table.


      Usage: The construction not about to  is often used to express
 determination: We are not about to negotiate with terrorists.  A majority
 of the Usage Panel considers this usage acceptable in speech but not in
 formal writing.



 about-face  n.  1. The act of pivoting to face in the opposite direction
 from the original, esp. in a military maneuver. 2. A total change of
 attitude or standpoint.   -intr.v.-faced -facing -faces   To reverse
 direction.



 above  adv.  1. Overhead; on high: the clouds above.  2. In heaven;
 heavenward. 3. Upstairs: a table in the dining room above.  4. In or to a
 higher place. 5. In an earlier part of a given text: figures quoted above.
 6. In or to a higher rank or position: the ranks of major and above.
 -prep. 1. Over or higher than: a spring above the timberline.  2. Superior
 to in rank, position, or number; greater than: principles above expediency.
  3. Beyond the level or reach of: a shot heard above the music.  4. In
 preference to. 5. Too honorable to bend to: above petty intrigue.  6. More
 than: somewhat above normal temperature.    -n. Something that is above.
 -adj. Appearing earlier in the same text: flaws in the above
 interpretation.

       Idiom Section:  above all. First of all; most important. [ME aboven <
 OE abufan : a-, on + be, by + ufan, up.]

      Usage: The use of above  as an adjective or noun in referring to a
 preceding text is most common in business and legal writing. In general
 writing its use as an adjective (the above figures ) is accepted by a
 majority of the Usage Panel, but its use as a noun (read the above ) is
 accepted by only a minority.



 aboveboard  adv.  -adj. Without deceit or trickery.



 aboveground  adj.  1. Situated on or above the surface of the ground. 2.
 Operating or existing within the establishment or in accordance with
 conventional standards: journalistic practices unacceptable to the
 aboveground press.



 ab ovo  adv.  From the beginning. [Lat., from the egg.]



 abracadabra  n.  1. A word once held to possess magical powers to ward off
 disease or disaster. 2. Foolish or unintelligible talk. [LLat.]



 abrachia  n.  Congenital absence of arms. [a-1 + Gk. brakhion, arm.]



 abradant  n.  An abrasive.   -adj. Abrasive.



 abrade  tr.v. abraded abrading abrades   To rub off or wear away by
 friction; erode. [Lat. abradere, to scrape off : ab-, off + radere, to
 scrape.]



 Abraham  n.  In the Old Testament, the first patriarch and progenitor of
 the Hebrew people; father of Isaac. [ME < LLat. < LGk. < Heb. Abhraham.]



 abranchiate
 abranchial or abranchious    adj.  Having no gills. [Gk. a-, not +
 brankhia, gills.]



 abrasion  n.  1. The process of wearing down or rubbing away by means of
 friction. 2. A scraped or worn area. [Med. Lat. abrasio < Lat. abradere, to
 scrape off. -see abrade.]



 abrasive  adj.  Causing abrasion; harsh; rough.   -n. A substance that
 abrades.



 abreact  tr.v. -acted -acting -acts   To release (repressed emotions) by
 acting out, such as in words, action, or the imagination, the situation
 causing the conflict. [Transl. of G. abreagieren : ab-, away + reagieren,
 to react.]   abreaction n.



 abreast  adv.  1. Side by side. 2. Up to date with: keeping abreast of the
 latest developments.  [ME abrest < on brest : on, by + brest, breast.]



 abridge  tr.v. abridged abridging abridges   1. To reduce the length of (a
 written text); condense. 2. To curtail; cut short. [ME abregen < OFr.
 abregier < LLat. abbreviare, to shorten. -see abbreviate.]   abridger n.



 abridgment or abridgement   n.  1.  a. The action of abridging. b. The
 state of being abridged. 2. Condensation of a book.



 abroach  adj.  1. Opened or positioned so that a liquid, such as wine, can
 be let out. 2. Moving about; astir. [ME abroche < a, in + broche, a pointed
 object.]



 abroad  adv.  1. Out of one's own country. 2. In a foreign country or
 countries. 3. Away from one's home. 4. In circulation; at large. 5.
 Covering a large area; widely. 6. Not on target; in error. [ME abrod, wide
 < on brod : on, at + brod, broad.]



 abrogate  tr.v. -gated -gating -gates   To abolish or annul by authority.
 [Lat. abrogare, abrogat- : ab-, away + rogare, to propose.]   abrogation n.




 abrosia  n.  1. Abstinence from food; fasting. 2. A wasting away. [Gk.
 abrosia, fasting : a-, not + brosis, eating.]



 abrupt  adj.  1. Unexpectedly sudden. 2. Suprisingly curt; brusque. 3.
 Touching on one subject after another with sudden transitions: abrupt,
 nervous prose.  4. Steeply inclined. 5.  Biology. Appearing to be cut or
 broken off short; truncate. [Lat. abruptus, p.part of abrumpere, to break
 off : ab-, off + rumpere, to break.]   abruptly adv.   abruptness n.



 abruption  n.  An instance of suddenly breaking away or off.



 abscess  n.  A localized collection of pus in any part of the body, formed
 by tissue disintegration and surrounded by an inflamed area.
 -intr.v.-scessed -scessing -scesses   To form an abscess. [Lat. abscessus,
 absence < abscedere, to go away : ab-, away + cedere, to go.]



 abscise  v. -scised -scising -scises   -tr. To remove; cut off. -intr. To
 shed by abscission. [Lat. abscindere, absciss- : ab-, away + caedere, to
 cut.]



 abscisic acid or abscissic acid   n.  A common abscisin that inhibits
 plant growth.



 abscisin or abscissin   n.  A group of plant hormones that may promote
 leaf abscission while inhibiting certain other growth mechanisms.
 [abscis(sion) + -in.]



 abscissa  n. pl. -scissas  or -scissae  The coordinate representing the
 distance of a point from the y -axis in a plane Cartesian coordinate
 system, measured along a line parallel to the x -axis. [NLat. (linea)
 abscissa, (line) cut off < Lat. abscissus, p.part. of abscindere, to
 abcise.]



 abscission  n.  1. The act of cutting off. 2. The process by which plant
 parts, such as leaves, are shed.



 abscond  intr.v. -sconded -sconding -sconds   To leave quickly and
 secretly and hide oneself, esp. to avoid arrest or prosecution. [Lat.
 abscondere, to hide : ab-, away + condere, to put.]   absconder n.



 absence  n.  1. The state of being away. 2. The time during which one is
 away. 3. The condition of not having something needed or desirable; lack.



 absent  adj.  1. Missing or not present. 2. Not existent; lacking. 3.
 Feeling or exhibiting inattentiveness.   -tr.v. -sented -senting -sents
 To keep (oneself) away. [ME < OFr. < Lat. absens, p.part. of abesse, to be
 away : ab-, away + esse, to be.]   absently adv.



 absentee  n.  One who is absent.   -adj. 1. Of or pertaining to one that
 is absent. 2. Not in residence. -See Usage note at -ee1.



 absentee ballot  n.  A ballot marked and mailed in advance by a voter away
 from the place where he is registered.



 absenteeism  n.  Habitual failure to appear, esp. for work or other
 regular duty.



 absent-minded  adj.  Heedless of one's immediate surroundings or activity
 because of preoccupation with unrelated matters.   absent-mindedly adv.
 absent-mindedness n.



 absent without leave  adj.  Absent from one's assigned military post or
 duties without official permission but without the intention to desert.



 absinthe or absinth   n.  1. A green liqueur having a bitter licorice
 flavor and a high alcoholic content, prepared from wormwood and other
 herbs. 2. The wormwood. [Fr. < Lat. absinthium, wormwood.]



 absolute  adj.  1. Perfect in quality or nature; complete. 2. Not mixed;
 pure: absolute alcohol.  3.  a. Not limited by restrictions or exceptions;
 unconditional: absolute trust.  b. Unqualified in extent or degree; total:
 absolute silence.  4. Not limited by constitutional provisions or other
 restraints. 5. Unrelated to and independent of anything else. 6. Not to be
 doubted or questioned; positive: absolute proof.  7.  Grammar.  a. Denoting
 a construction in a sentence that is syntactically independent of the main
 clause. For example, in Their ship having sailed, we went home, Their ship
 having sailed is an absolute phrase. b. Pertaining to a transitive verb
 when its object is implied but not stated. For example, inspires in We have
 a teacher who inspires.  c. Pertaining to an adjective or pronoun that
 stands alone, the noun it modifies being implied but not stated. For
 example, Theirs and best in Theirs were the best.  8.  Physics.  a.
 Pertaining to measurements or units of measurement derived from fundamental
 relationships of space, mass, and time. b. Pertaining to absolute
 temperature. 9.  Law. Complete and unconditional; final.   -n. 1. Something
 that is absolute. 2. the Absolute   Philosophy.  a. Something regarded as
 the ultimate basis of all thought and being. b. Something regarded as
 independent of and unrelated to anything else. [ME absolut < Lat.
 absolutus, ended < absoluere, to finish : ab- from + solvere, to loose.]
 absoluteness n.



 absolute alcohol  n.  Ethyl alcohol containing no more than one per cent
 of water.



 absolute ceiling  n.  The maximum altitude above sea level at which an
 aircraft or missile can maintain horizontal flight under standard
 atmospheric conditions.



 absolutely  adv.  1. Definitely and completely; unquestionably. 2.
 Grammar. In a manner that does not take an object.

      Usage: Absolutely  is often used informally to mean "quite," as in an
 absolutely magnificent painting.  A majority of the Usage Panel disapproves
 of this use in formal writing.



 absolute magnitude  n.  The intrinsic magnitude of a star computed as if
 viewed from a distance of 10 parsecs or 32.6 light-years.



 absolute music  n.  Instrumental music that depends solely on its
 rhythmic, melodic, and contrapuntal structures.



 absolute pitch  n.  1. The precise pitch of an isolated tone, as
 established by its rate of vibration measured on a standard scale. 2. The
 ability to identify or sing any tone heard.



 absolute scale  n.  A scale of temperature with absolute zero as the
 minimum and scale units equal in magnitude to centigrade degrees.



 absolute temperature  n.  Temperature measured or calculated on the
 absolute scale.



 absolute value  n.  1. The numerical value or magnitude of a quantity, as
 of a vector or of a negative integer, without regard to its sign. 2. The
 modulus of a complex number, equal to the square root of the sum of the
 squares of the real and imaginary parts of the number.



 absolute zero  n.  Physics.  The temperature at which substances possess
 no thermal energy, equal to -273.15 deg. C or -459.67 deg. F.



 absolution  n.  Roman Catholic Chruch.  The formal remission of sin
 imparted by a priest as part of the sacrament of penance. [ME < OFr. < Lat.
 absolutio, acquittal < absolvere, to absolve.]



 absolutism  n.  1. A form of government in which all power is vested in
 the monarch and his advisers. 2. The political theory reflecting
 absolutism. 3. An absolute doctrine, principle, or opinion.   absolutist n.
   absolutistic adj.



 absolve  tr.v. -solved -solving -solves   1. To pronounce clear of blame
 or guilt. 2. To relieve of a requirement or obligation. 3.  a. To grant a
 remission of sin to. b. To pardon or remit (a sin). [ME absolven < Lat.
 absolvere. -see absolute.]   absolvable adj.   absolver n.



 absorb  tr.v. -sorbed -sorbing -sorbs   1. To take in through or as
 through pores or interstices; soak in or up. 2. To occupy the full
 attention, interest, or time of; engross. 3.  Chemistry.  Physics. To
 retain wholly, without reflection or transmission, that which is taken in.
 4. To take in; assimilate: immigrants absorbed into the mainstream of
 society.  5. To receive the impact of without recoil or echo. 6. To defray
 (costs). 7. To take in; accommodate: couldn't absorb the additional
 expense.  [OFr. absorber < Lat. absorbere : ab-, away + sorbere, to suck.]
  absorbability n.   absorbable adj.   absorber n.   absorbingly adv.



 absorbed  adj.  1. Engrossed. 2. Sucked up or in. 3. Assimilated.
 absorbedly adv.   absorbedness n.



 absorbefacient  adj.  Inducing or causing absorption.   -n. A medicine
 that induces absorption. [absorbe(nt)+ -facient.]



 absorbent  adj.  Capable of absorbing something: absorbent cotton.    -n.
 An absorbent substance.   absorbency n.



 absorptance  n.  The ratio of absorbed to incident radiation.
 [absorpt(ion) + -ance.]



 absorption  n.  1. The act or process of absorbing or the condition of
 being absorbed. 2. A state of mental concentration. [Lat. absorptio <
 absorbere, to absorb. -see absorb.]   absorptive adj.



 absorption nebula  n.  A nebula that absorbs all incident radiation
 without re-emission.



 absorption spectrum  n.  Physics.  The spectrum of dark lines and bands
 observed when radiation traverses an absorbing medium.



 abstain  intr.v. -stained -staining -stains   To refrain from something by
 one's own choice. [ME absteinen, to avoid < OFr. abstenir < Lat. abstinere,
 to hold back : ab-, away + tenere, to hold.]   abstainer n.



 abstemious  adj.  1. Eating and drinking in moderation. 2. Restricted to
 bare necessities; sparing. [Lat. abstemius : ab-, away + temetum, liquor.]
  abstemiously adv.   abstemiousness n.



 abstention  n.  The act or habit of abstaining. [LLat. abstentio < Lat.
 abstinere, to hold back. -see abstain.]



 abstinence  n.  1. Denial of the appetites, esp. denial of certain foods
 and drinks. 2. Habitual abstention from alcoholic beverages. [ME < OFr.
 abstenance < Lat. abstinentia < abstinere, to hold back. -see abstain.]
 abstinent adj.   abstinently adv.

      Synonyms: abstinence self-denial temperance sobriety
 continence These nouns express restraint of one's appetites or desires.
 Abstinence  implies the willful avoidance of pleasures, especially of food
 and drink, thought to be harmful. Self-denial  suggests resisting one's
 desires for some higher, moral goal. Temperance  and sobriety  both stress
 avoidance of alcohol, but temperance  is more often associated with mere
 curtailment of drinking, while sobriety  additionally suggests conservative
 action or manner. Continence  specifically refers to restraint of sexual
 activity.




 abstract  adj.  1. Considered apart from concrete existence: an abstract
 concept.  2. Not applied or practical; theoretical. 3. Not easily
 understood; abstruse. 4. Thought of or stated without reference to a
 specific instance: abstract words like "truth" and "justice."  5.
 Designating a genre of painting or sculpture whose intellectual and
 affective content depends solely on intrinsic form.   -n.    1. A statement
 summarizing the important points of a given text. 2. The concentrated
 essence of a larger whole. 3. Something abstract, as a term.   -tr.v.
 -stracted -stracting -stracts   1. To take away; remove. 2. To remove
 without permission; filch. 3. To consider (a quality, for example) without
 reference to a particular example or object. 4.  To summarize.

       Idiom Section:  in the abstract. Apart from actual substance or
 experience. [ME < Lat. abstractus, p.part. of abstrahere, to draw away :
 ab-, away + trahere, to draw.]   abstracter n.   abstractly adv.
 abstractness n.



 abstracted  adj.  1. Removed or separated. 2. Deep in thought;
 preoccupied; meditative.   abstractedly adv.   abstractedness n.

      Synonyms: abstracted absorbed distraught absent-minded These
 adjectives apply to absence of normal awareness of one's surroundings.
 Abstracted  implies complete and pleasureable mental involvement in the
 object of thought. Distraught  implies mental anxiety that makes
 concentration extremely difficult. Absent-minded  suggests the making of
 trivial errors because the mind is straying from the matter at hand.




 abstract expressionism  n.  A school of painting that flourished after
 World War II until the early 1960's, characterized by the exclusion of
 representational content.



 abstraction  n.  1. The act or process of removing or separating: the
 abstraction of metal from ore.  2.  a. The act or process of separating the
 inherent qualities or properties of something from the actual physical
 object or concept to which they belong. b. A product of this process; a
 general idea or word representing a physical concept. 3. Preoccupation;
 absent-mindedness. 4. An abstract work of art.



 abstractionism  n.  The theory and practice of abstract art.
 abstractionist n.



 abstractive  adj.  Of or derived by abstraction.



 abstract of title  n.  A brief history of the transfers of a piece of
 land, including all claims that could be made against it.



 abstruse  adj.  Difficult to understand; recondite. [Lat. abstrusus,
 hidden, p.part. of abstrudere, to hide : ab-, away + trudere, to push.]
 abstrusely adv.   abstruseness n.



 absurd  adj.  1. Ridiculously incongruous or unreasonable. 2. Of,
 pertaining to, or manifesting the view that there is no order or value in
 human life or in the universe; meaningless. 3. Of or relating to absurdism
 or the absurd.   -n. 1. The quality or condition of existing in a
 meaningless and irrational universe in which an individual's life has no
 meaning or purpose. 2. The literary genre that deals with the theme of an
 absurd universe. [Fr. absurde < Lat. absurdus.]   absurdity absurdness  n.
  absurdly adv.



 absurd theater  n.  Theater of the absurd.



 abulia or aboulia   n.  Loss or impairment of the ability to decide or act
 independently. [NLat. < Gk. aboulia, indecision : a-, without + boule,
 will.]   abulic adj.



 abundance  n.  1. A great or plentiful amount. 2. Fullness to overflowing:
  My thoughts . . . are from the abundance of my heart (De Quincey). 3.
 Affluence; wealth.



 abundant  adj.  1. In plentiful supply; ample. 2. Abounding with; rich: a
 region abundant in wildlife.  [ME aboundant < OFr. abondant < Lat.
 abundans, p.part. of abundare, to overflow. -see abound.]   abundantly adv.




 abuse  tr.v. abused abusing abuses   1.  a. To use wrongly or improperly;
 misuse. b.  Obsolete. To trick or deceive. 2. To hurt or injure by
 maltreatment. 3. To assail with contemptuous, coarse, or insulting words;
 revile.   -n.  1. Improper use or handling; misuse. 2. A corrupt practice
 or custom. 3. Physical maltreatment. 4. Insulting or coarse language. [ME
 abusen < OFr. abuser < abus, improper use < Lat. abusus, a using up,
 p.part. of abuti, to use up : ab-, away + uti, to use.]   abuser n.

      Synonyms: abuse misuse mistreat ill-treat maltreat These verbs
 mean to treat a person or thing wrongfully or harmfully. Abuse  applies to
 wrongful or unreasonable treatment by deed or word. Misuse  stresses
 incorrect or unknowledgeable handling; it implies but does not emphasize
 harm. Mistreat ,Mistreat, ill-treat,  and maltreat  all have the sense of
 inflicting injury, usually physical and often with intent to do harm.
 Mistreat  may imply only negligence or lack of knowledge on the offender's
 part, but more often refers to harm  inflicted deliberately. Ill-treat
 more specifically applies to harmful treatment of persons or animals.
 Maltreat  implies rough handling.




 abusive  adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, or characterized by abuse. 2. Wrongly
 or incorrectly used or treated. 3. Serving to abuse; insulting.   abusively
 adv.



 abut  v. abutted abutting abuts   -intr. To touch at one end or side of
 something; lie adjacent. -tr. To border upon; be next to. [ME abutten <
 OFr. abouter, to border on : a-, to + bout, end.]   abutter n.



 abutilon  n.  Any of various shrubs or plants of the genus Abutilon, esp.
 the flowering maple. [NLat. Abutilon, genus name < Ar. aubutilun.]



 abutment  n.  1. The act or process of abutting. 2.  a. Something that
 abuts. b. The point of contact of two abutting objects or parts. 3.  a.
 That part of a structure that bears the weight or pressure of an arch. b. A
 structure that supports the end of a bridge. c. A structure that anchors
 the cables of a suspension bridge.



 abuttals  pl.n.  The parts of a piece of land that abut against other
 property; boundaries.



 abuzz  adj.  1. Filled with a buzzing sound. 2. Filled or occupied with
 activity or talk.



 abvolt  n.    A centimeter-gram-second electromagnetic unit of potential
 difference, equal to the potential difference between two points such that
 one erg of work must be performed to move a one-abcoulomb charge from one
 of the points to the other. It is equal to one hundred-millionth (10-8) of
 a volt.



 abysm  n.  An abyss. [ME abime < OFr. < LLat. abyssus. -see abyss.]



 abysmal  adj.  1. Unfathomable; extreme. 2. Of or resembling an abyss.
 abysmally adv.



 abyss  n.  1.  a. The primeval chaos. b. The bottomless pit; hell. 2. An
 unfathomable chasm; a yawning gulf. 3. An immeasurably profound depth or
 void: the vast abysses of space and time.  [LLat. abyssus < Gk. abussos,
 bottomless : a-, without + bussos, bottom.]



 abyssal  adj.  1. Abysmal. 2. Of or pertaining to the great depths of the
 oceans.



 Abyssinian cat  n.  A short-haired cat of a breed developed from Near
 Eastern stocks, having a reddish-brown coat tipped with small black
 markings. [After Abyssinia, former name for Ethiopia.]



 Ac   The symbol for the element actinium.



 ac-   Variant of ad- (sense 1). Used before c, k, and q.



 -ac   Used to form adjectives from nouns: ammoniac.  [NLat. -acus, adj.
 suffix < Gk. -akos.]



 acacia  n.  1. Any of various chiefly tropical trees of the genus Acacia,
 having compound leaves and tight clusters of small yellow or white flowers.
 2. Gum arabic. [Lat. < Gk. akakia.]



 academe  n.  1. The scholastic world or environment. 2. A scholar,
 teacher, or pedant. 3. A college or university. 4. Academic life. [< Lat.
 Academia, the Academy.]



 academia  n.  The academic world; academe. [NLat. < Lat. Academia, the
 Academy.]



 academic  adj.    1. Of, pertaining to, or characteristic of a school. 2.
 Relating to studies that are liberal or classical rather than technical or
 vocational. 3. Pertaining or belonging to a scholarly organization. 4.
 Scholarly to the point of being unaware of the outside world. 5. Based on
 formal education. 6. Formalistic or conventional. 7. Theoretical or
 speculative without a practical purpose or intention. 8. Without purpose or
 use because of being beyond the point of implementation.   -n. A student or
 teacher.   academically adv.



 academic freedom  n.  Liberty to pursue and teach relevant knowledge and
 to discuss it freely without restriction from school or public officials or
 from other sources of influence.



 academician  n.  A member of an art, literary, or scientific academy or
 society.



 academicism or academism   n.  Traditional formalism, esp. when reflected
 in art.



 academy  n. pl. -mies  1. A school for special instruction. 2. A secondary
 or college-preparatory school, esp. a private one. 3. An association of
 scholars. 4. Academy  A specified society of scholars or artists. 5.
 Academy   a. Platonism. b. The disciples of Plato. [Lat. Academia < Gk.
 Akademia, the school where Plato taught.]



 Acadian  n.  1. One of the early French settlers of Acadia or their
 descendants. 2. A dialect of French spoken by the Acadians.   Acadian adj.



 acajou  n.  Mahogany, esp. when used for making furniture. [Fr., cashew <
 Port. caju.]



 acantho- or acanth-    Thorn: acanthoid.  [< Gk. akanthos, thorn plant <
 akantha, thorn.]



 acanthocephalan or acanthocephalid   n.  Any of various parasitic worms of
 the phylum Acanthocephala, having a proboscis armed with hooked spines. [<
 NLat. Acanthocephala, phylum name : acantho- + Gk. kephale, head.]



 acanthoid  adj.  Resembling a thorn or spine.



 acanthopterygian  n.  A fish of the superorder Acanthopterygii, which
 includes fishes having spiny fins, such as bass, perch, and mackerel. [<
 NLat. Acanthopterygii, superorder name : acantho- + Gk. pterugion, dim. of
 pterus, wing < pteron, feather.]   acanthopterygian adj.



 acanthus  n. pl. -thuses  or -thi  1. Any of various plants of the genus
 Acanthus, native to the Mediterranean region, having large, segmented,
 thistlelike leaves. 2.  Architecture. An ornament patterned after the
 leaves of the acanthus, used esp. on capitals of Corinthian columns. [NLat.
 Acanthus, genus name < Gk. akanthos, thorn plant < akantha, thorn.]



 acapnia  n.  The absence of carbon dioxide in the blood and tissues.
 [NLat. < Lat. acapnos, without smoke (which contains carbon dioxide) < Gk.
 akapnos : a-, not + kapnos, smoke.]



 a cappella  adv.Mus.  Without instrumental accompaniment. [Ital. : a, as +
 capella, chapel.]



 acari  n.  Plural of acarus.



 acariasis  n.  Infestation with mites. [acar(id) + -iasis.]



 acarid  n.  An arachnid of the order Acarina, which includes the mites and
 ticks. [NLat. Acaridae, family name < Acarus, genus name < Gk. akari, a
 kind of mite.]   acarid adj.



 acaroid resin  n.  A yellow or reddish gum obtained from various
 Australian grass trees, used in varnishes, lacquers, and the manufacture of
 paper. [NLat. acaroides.]



 acarology  n.  The study of mites and ticks. [acar(id) + -logy.]



 acarophily  n.  A symbiotic relationship to mites or ticks, usually in
 plants. [acar(id) + -phil(o)- + -y2.]



 acarophobia  n.  An abnormal fear of mites or ticks. [acar(id) + -phobia.]




 acarpous  adj.  Botany.  Producing no fruit; sterile.



 acarus  n. pl. -ri  A mite, esp. one of the genus Acarus.  [NLat. Acarus,
 genus name. -see acarid.]



 acatalectic  adj.  Designating a line of verse having the required number
 of syllables in the last foot.   -n. An acatalectic line. [LLat.
 acatalecticus < Gk. akatalektikos : a-, not + katalektikos, incomplete.
 -see catalectic.]



 acaudate or acaudal   adj.  Having no tail.



 acaulescent  adj.  Stemless or nearly so.



 accede  intr.v. -ceded -ceding -cedes   1. To give one's assent. 2. To
 arrive at or come into an office or dignity. 3. To become a party to an
 agreement or treaty. [ME acceden, to come near < Lat. accedere, to go near
 : ad-, to + cedere, to go.]   accedence n.   acceder n.



 accelerando  adj.  Music.  Gradually accelerating or quickening in time.
 Used as a direction. [Ital. < Lat. accelerandum < accelerare, to hasten.
 -see accelerate.]   accelerando adv.



 accelerate  v. -ated -ating -ates   -tr. 1. To increase the speed of. 2.
 To cause to occur sooner than expected. 3. To cause to develop or progress
 more quickly. 4.  Physics. To cause a change of velocity. -intr. To move or
 act faster. [Lat. accelerare : ad- (intensive) + celerare, to quicken <
 celer, swift.]   accelerative adj.



 acceleration  n.  1.  a. The act of accelerating. b. The process of being
 accelerated. 2.  Physics. The rate of change of velocity with respect to
 time.



 acceleration of gravity  n.  The acceleration of freely falling bodies
 under the influence of terrestrial gravity, equal to 980.665 cm/sec2 or
 approximately 32 ft/sec2 at sea level.



 accelerator  n.  1. One that accelerates. 2. A device, esp. the gas pedal
 of an automobile, for increasing the speed of a machine. 3.  Chemistry. A
 substance that increases the speed of a chemical reaction. 4.  Physics. A
 device, such as an electrostatic generator, cyclotron, or linear
 accelerator, that accelerates charged subatomic particles or nuclei to
 energies useful for research.



 accelerometer  n.  A device used to measure acceleration. [acceler(ation)
 + -meter.]



 accent  n.  1. The relative prominence of a particular syllable of a word
 by greater intensity or by variation or modulation of pitch or tone. 2.
 Vocal prominence or emphasis given to a particular syllable, word, or
 phrase. 3. A characteristic pronunciation, esp.: a. One determined by the
 regional or social background of the speaker. b. One determined by the
 phonetic habits of the speaker's native language carried over to his use of
 another language. 4. A mark or symbol used in the printing and writing of
 certain languages to indicate the vocal quality to be given to a particular
 letter: an acute accent.  5. A mark or symbol used in printing and writing
 to indicate the stressed syllables of a spoken word. 6. Rhythmically
 significant stress in a line of verse. 7.  a. Special stress given to a
 musical note within a phrase. b. A mark representing this stress. 8.
 Mathematics.  a. A mark or one of several marks used as a superscript to
 distinguish among variables represented by the same symbol. b. A mark used
 as a superscript to indicate the first derivative of a variable. 9. A mark
 or one of several marks used as a superscript to indicate a unit, such as
 feet (') and inches (") in linear measurement. 10. A distinctive feature or
 quality.   -tr.v. -cented -centing -cents   1. To stress or emphasize the
 pronunciation of. 2. To mark with a printed accent. 3. To call attention
 to; accentuate. [ME < OFr. < Lat. accentus, accentuation : ad-, to +
 cantus, song < canere, to sing (transl. of Gk. prosoidia, voice
 modulations).]



 accentual  adj.  1. Of or pertaining to accent. 2. Designating verse
 rhythm based on stress accents.   accentually adv.



 accentuate  tr.v. -ated -ating -ates   1. To pronounce with a stress or
 accent. 2. To mark with an accent. 3. To stress or emphasize. [Med. Lat.
 accentuare, accentuat- < Lat. accentus, accent.]   accentuation n.



 accept  v. -cepted -cepting -cepts   -tr. 1. To receive (something
 offered), esp. gladly. 2. To admit to a group or place. 3.  a. To regard as
 usual, proper, or right. b. To regard as true; believe in. c. To understand
 as having a specific meaning. 4. To bear up under resignedly or patiently:
 accept one's fate.  5.  a. To answer affirmatively: accept an invitation.
 b. To take upon oneself the duties or responsibilities of. 6. To be able to
 hold (something applied or inserted): This wood will not accept oil paints.
  7. To receive officially: accept the committee's report.  8. To consent to
 pay, as by a signed agreement. -intr. To receive something, esp. willingly.
 [ME accepten < Lat. acceptare, freq. of accipere, to receive : ad-, to +
 capere, to take.]



 acceptable  adj.  1. Worthy of being accepted. 2. Adequate enough to
 satisfy a need, requirement, or standard; satisfactory. 3. Designating an
 amount or level that can be endured or allowed.   acceptability
 acceptableness n.   acceptably adv.



 acceptance  n.  1. The act or process of accepting. 2. The state of being
 accepted or acceptable. 3. Favorable reception; approval. 4. Belief in
 something; agreement. 5.  a. A formal indication by a debtor of willingness
 to pay a time draft or bill of exchange. b. A written instrument so
 accepted. 6.  Law. Compliance by one party with the terms and conditions of
 another's offer so that a contract becomes legally binding between them.



 acceptant  adj.  Accepting willingly.



 acceptation  n.  1. The usual or accepted meaning, as of a word or
 expression. 2. Favorable reception. 3. Ready belief.



 accepted  adj.  Generally approved, believed, or recognized.



 acceptor or accepter   n.  1. One who signs a time draft or bill of
 exchange. 2.  Chemistry.  a. The reactant in an induced reaction that has
 an increased rate of reaction in the presence of the inductor. b. The atom
 that contributes no atoms to a covalent bond.



 access  n.  1. A means of approaching or nearing; passage. 2. The act of
 approaching. 3. The right to enter or make use of: has access to classified
 material.  4. The state or quality of being easy to approach or enter. 5.
 An increase of growth. 6. A sudden outburst: an access of rage.
 -tr.v.-cessed -cessing -cesses   To gain access to: accessed the
 information from the computer.  [ME acces, a coming to < OFr. < Lat.
 accessus < accedere, to arrive : ad-, to + cedere,  to come.]



 accessary  n.  Variant of accessory.



 accessible  adj.  1. Easily approached or entered. 2. Easily obtained. 3.
 Easy to communicate or get along with. 4. Open to: accessible to flattery.
   accessibility  accessibleness n.   accessibly adv.



 accession  n.  1. The attainment of rank or dignity. 2.  a. An increase by
 means of something added: an accession of property.  b. An addition. 3.
 Law.  a. The addition to or increase in value of property by means of
 improvements or natural growth. b. The right of a proprietor to ownership
 of such addition or increase. 4. Agreement or assent. 5. Access;
 admittance. 6. A sudden outburst.   -tr.v.-sioned -sioning -sions   To
 record as acquired.   accessional adj.



 accessory or accessary   n. pl. -ries  1. Something subordinate or
 supplementary; adjunct. 2.  a. One who incites, aids, or abets a lawbreaker
 in the commission of a crime, but is not present at the time of the crime:
 accessory before the fact.  b. One who aids a criminal after the commission
 of a crime, but was not present at the time of the crime: accessory after
 the fact.    -adj. 1. Having a secondary, supplementary, or subordinate
 function. 2. Serving to aid or abet a lawbreaker, either before or after
 the commission of the crime, without being present at the time the crime
 was committed. [ME accessorie < Med. Lat. accessorius < accessor, helper <
 Lat. accessus, approach. -see access.]   accessorial adj.   accessorily
 adv.   accessoriness n.



 accessory fruit  n.  A fruit, such as the pear, that contains fleshy
 tissue developed from floral parts as well as the ovary.



 accessory nerve  n.  Either of the 11th pair of cranial nerves of higher
 vertebrate species that supply motor impulses to the upper thorax and
 pharynx.



 access road  n.  A road that affords access to a certain area.



 access time  n.  Computer Science.  The time lag between a request for
 information stored in a computer and its delivery.



 acciaccatura  n.  Music.  A short grace note one half step below a
 principal note, sounded immediately before or at the same time as the
 principal note to add sustained dissonance. [Ital. < acciaccare, to crush.]




 accidence  n.  Grammar.  The section of morphology that deals with the
 inflections of words. [LLat. accidentia < Lat. accidens, accident.]



 accident  n.  1. An unexpected and undesirable event. 2. Something that
 occurs unexpectedly or unintentionally. 3. A circumstance or attribute that
 is not essential to the nature of something. 4. Fortune or chance: rich by
 accident of birth.  5.  Geology. An irregular or unusual natural formation
 or occurrence. [ME < OFr. < Lat. accidens,  pr.part. of accidere, to happen
 : ad-, to + cadere, to fall.]



 accidental  adj.  1. Occurring unexpectedly and unintentionally; by
 chance. 2. Not part of the real or essential nature of a thing. 3.  Music.
 Of or denoting a sharp, flat, or natural not indicated in the key
 signature.   -n. 1. A factor or attribute that is not essential. 2.  Music.
 A chromatically altered note not belonging to the key signature.
 accidentally adv.

      Synonyms: accidental fortuitous contingent incidental adventitious
  These adjectives are related in a general way but are not always
 interchangeable. Accidental  primarily refers to what occurs by chance or
 unexpectedly; it can also mean subordinate or nonessential. Fortuitous
 stresses chance or accident even more strongly, and inferentially minimizes
 cause. Contingent , in this context, describes what is possible but
 uncertain because of chance or unforeseen or uncontrollable factors.
 Incidental  refers to what is an adjunct to something else, and does not
 necessarily imply the operation of chance. Adventitious  applies to what is
 not inherent in something but added extrinsically, sometimes by accident or
 chance.




 accident insurance  n.  Insurance against injury or death because of
 accident.



 accident-prone  adj.  Having or susceptible to having a greater than
 average number of accidents or mishaps.



 accipiter  n.  A hawk of the genus Accipiter, characterized by short wings
 and a long tail. [NLat. Accipiter, genus name < Lat., hawk.]   accipitrine
 adj.



 acclaim  v. -claimed -claiming -claims   -tr. To salute or hail; applaud.
 -intr. To shout approval.   -n. Enthusiastic applause; acclamation. [Lat.
 acclamare, to shout at : ad-, at + clamore, to shout.]   acclaimer n.



 acclamation  n.  1. A shout or salute of enthusiastic approval. 2. An oral
 vote, esp. an enthusiastic vote of approval taken without formal ballot: a
 motion passed by acclamation.  [Lat. acclamatio < acclamare, to shout at.
 -see acclaim.]   acclamatory adj.



 acclimate  tr.  -intr.v.-mated -mating -mates   To accustom or become
 accustomed to a new environment or situation; adapt. [Fr. acclimater : a-,
 to (< Lat. ad) + climat, climate < OFr. -see climate.]



 acclimation  n.  1. The process of acclimating or of becoming acclimated.
 2. The adaptation of an organism to its natural climatic environment, as
 distinguished from acclimatization.



 acclimatization  n.  1. The process of acclimatizing; acclimation. 2. The
 climatic adaptation of an organism, esp. a plant, that has been moved to a
 new environment.



 acclimatize  tr.  -intr.v.-tized -tizing -tizes   To acclimate.
 acclimatizer n.



 acclivity  n. pl. -ties  An upward slope. [Lat. acclivitas < acclivis,
 uphill : ad-, to + clivus, slope.]



 accolade  n.  1. An embrace of greeting or salutation. 2. An expression of
 approval; praise. 3. The ceremonial bestowal of knighthood. [Fr. < Prov.
 acolada < acolar, to embrace : a-, to (< Lat. ad) + col, neck < Lat.
 collum, neck.]



 accommodate  v. -dated -dating -dates   -tr. 1. To do a favor or service
 for; oblige. 2. To provide for; supply with. 3. To contain comfortably;
 have space for. 4. To make suitable; adjust: accommodates himself well to
 new surroundings.  5. To settle; reconcile. -intr. To become adjusted, as
 the eye to focusing on objects at a distance. [Lat. accomodare, accomodat-,
 to fit : ad-, to + commodus, suitable. -see commodious.]   accommodative
 adj.   accommodativeness n.   accommodator n.



 accommodating  adj.  Helpful and obliging.   accommodatingly adv.



 accommodation  n.  1. The act of accommodating or state of being
 accommodated; adjustment. 2. Something that meets a need; convenience. 3.
 accommodations   a. Lodgings; room and board. b. A seat, compartment, or
 room on a public vehicle. 4. Reconciliation or settlement of opposing
 views; compromise. 5.  Physiology. Adaptation or adjustment in an organism,
 organ, or part, as in the lens of the eye to permit retinal focus of images
 of objects at different distances. 6. A loan or other financial favor.



 accommodation ladder  n.  A portable ladder or stairway hung from the side
 of a ship.



 accommodation paper  n.  A note or bill drawn, accepted, or endorsed by
 one or more parties to enable another party to obtain credit or raise money
 without consideration or collateral.



 accompaniment  n.  1. Something that accompanies; concomitant. 2.
 Something added for embellishment, completeness, or symmetry; complement.
 3. A vocal or instrumental part that supports a solo part.



 accompanist  n.  A performer, such as a pianist, who plays an
 accompaniment.



 accompany  v. -nied -nying -nies   -tr. 1. To go along with; join in
 company. 2. To supplement; add to. 3. To coexist or occur with. 4. To
 perform an accompaniment to. -intr. To play a musical accompaniment. [ME
 accompanien < OFr. acompagnier : a, to (< Lat. ad) + compaignon, companion.
 -see companion.]

      Synonyms: accompany conduct escort chaperon  (or chaperone).
 These verbs are compared as they mean to be with or to go with another
 person or persons. Accompany  suggests going with another on an equal
 basis. Conduct  implies guidance of others. Escort  stresses protective
 guidance. Chaperon  (or chaperone ) specifies adult supervision of young
 persons.




 accomplice  n.  One who aids or abets a lawbreaker in a criminal act,
 either as a principal or an accessory. [< ME a, a + complice, companion.
 -see complice.]



 accomplish  tr.v. -plished -plishing -plishes   1. To succeed in doing;
 bring to pass. 2. To reach the end of; complete. [ME accomplisshen < OFr.
 acomplir, accompliss-, to complete : a-, to (< Lat. ad) + complir, to
 complete < Lat. complere, to fill out. -see complete.]   accomplishable
 adj.   accomplisher n.



 accomplished  adj.  1. Completed; finished. 2. Skilled; expert: an
 accomplished pianist.



 accomplishment  n.  1. The act of accomplishing or state of being
 accomplished; completion. 2. Something completed successfully; achievement.
 3. Social poise.



 accord  tr.v. -corded -cording -cords   1. To cause to conform or agree;
 bring into harmony. 2. To grant; bestow upon: I accord you my blessing.
 -intr.v. To be in agreement, unity, or harmony.   -n. 1. Agreement;
 harmony. 2. A settlement or compromise of conflicting opinions. 3. A
 settlement of points at issue between nations.

       Idiom Section:  of (one's) own accord. Voluntarily. [ME accorden <
 OFr. acorder < Med. Lat. accordare : Lat. ad-, to + Lat. cor, heart.]



 accordance  n.  1. Agreement; conformity: in accordance with your
 instructions.  2. The act of granting.



 accordant  adj.  In agreement or harmony; consonant.   accordantly adv.



 according as  conj.  1. Corresponding to the way in which; precisely as:
 received the raise according as he was promised.  2. Depending on whether;
 if: according as he accepts your suggestion.



 accordingly  adv.  1. Correspondingly. 2. Consequently.



 according to  prep.  1. As stated or indicated by; on the authority of:
 according to historians.  2. In keeping with; in agreement with: according
 to instructions.  3. As determined by: a list arranged according to the
 alphabet.



 accordion  n.  A portable musical instrument with a small keyboard and
 free metal reeds that sound when air is forced past them by pleated bellows
 operated by the player.   -adj. Having folds or bends like the bellows of
 an accordion: accordion pleats.  [G. Akkordion < Akkord, chord < Fr.
 accord, harmony < OFr. acorder, to accord.]   accordionist n.



 accost  tr.v. -costed -costing -costs   1. To approach and speak to first.
 2. To solicit sexually. [OFr. accoster < Med. Lat. acostare, to adjoin :
 Lat. ad-, to + Lat. costa, side.]



 accouchement  n.  Parturition. [Fr. < accoucher, to assist in childbirth :
 a, to (< Lat. ad) + coucher, to put to bed < OFr., to lay down. -see
 couch.]



 account  n.  1.  a. A narrative or record of events. b. A written or oral
 explanation, as of blame or cause. 2.  a. A precise list or enumeration of
 monetary transactions. b. A detailed list or enumeration. 3. A business
 relationship involving the exchange of money or credit: a charge account.
 4. Worth, standing, or importance: a man of some account.  5. Profit or
 advantage.   -tr.v.-counted -counting -counts   To consider or esteem:
 accounted him a merciful man.  Phrasal verb.  account for. 1. To make or
 render a reckoning, as of funds received and paid out or of persons or
 things: survivors who have not been accounted for.  2. To be the
 explanation or cause of. 3. To be answerable for. 4. To kill, capture, or
 disable.

       Idiom Section:  call to account. 1. To challenge or contest. 2. To
 hold answerable for. give a good account of (oneself). To act in a
 creditable manner. on account. 1. On credit. 2. In part payment of. on
 account of. 1. Because of. 2.  Regional. Because. on no account. Under no
 circumstances. on (one's) own account. 1. On one's own behalf. 2. On one's
 own; by oneself: wants to work on his own account.  take into account. To
 take into consideration; allow for. [ME < OFr. acont < aconter, to reckon :
 a-, to (< Lat. ad) + cunter, to count, ult. < Lat. computare, to sum up.
 -see compute.]



 accountable  adj.  1. Answerable. 2. Capable of being explained.
 accountability  accountableness n.   accountably adv.



 accountant  n.  One who keeps, audits, and inspects the financial records
 of individuals or business concerns and prepares financial and tax reports.
   accountancy n.



 account executive  n.  An individual in an advertising firm who manages
 the account of one or more clients.



 accounting  n.  The bookkeeping methods involved in making a financial
 record of business transactions and in the preparation of statements
 concerning the assets, liabilities, and operating results of a business.



 accouter  tr.v. -tered -tering -ters   To outfit and equip, as for
 military duty. [Fr. accoutrer < OFr. acoustrer.]



 accouterment  n.  1. The act of accoutering. 2. accouterments  The
 equipment other than arms and dress issued to a soldier. 3. accouterments
 The outward forms whereby a thing may be recognized; trappings.



 accoutre  v.  Chiefly Brit.Variant of accouter.



 accoutrement  n.  Chiefly Brit.Variant of accouterment.



 accredit  tr.v. -ited -iting -its   1. To ascribe or attribute to; credit
 with. 2.  a. To supply with credentials or authority; authorize. b. To
 appoint as an ambassador to a foreign government. 3. To certify as meeting
 a prescribed standard. 4. To believe. 5. To enter on the credit side of an
 account book. [Fr. accrediter : a, to (< Lat. ad) + credit, credit < OFr.
 -see credit.]



 accreditation  n.  The act of accrediting or the state of being
 accredited, esp. the granting of approval to an institution of learning by
 an official review board after the school has met specific requirements.



 accrete  v. -creted -creting -cretes   -tr. To make larger or greater, as
 by increased growth. -intr. 1. To grow together; fuse. 2. To grow or
 increase gradually, as by addition. [Back-formation < accretion.]



 accretion  n.  1.  a. Growth or increase in size by gradual external
 addition, fusion, or inclusion. b. Something added externally to promote
 such growth or increase. 2.  Biology. The growing together of plant or
 animal tissues that are normally separate. 3.  Geology. Slow addition to
 land by deposition of water-borne sediment. 4.  Law. An increase of land
 along the shores of a body of water, as by alluvial deposit. 5.  Astronomy.
  An increase in the mass of a celestial object by the collection of
 surrounding interstellar gases and objects by gravity. [Lat. accretio <
 accrescere, to grow. -see accrue.]   accretionary accretive  adj.



 accretion disk  n.  A ring of interstellar material surrounding a
 celestial object with an intense gravitational field, as a black hole.



 accrual  n.  1. The act or process of accruing; increase. 2. Something
 that increases or accrues.



 accrue  intr.v. -crued -cruing -crues   1. To come to someone or something
 as a gain, addition, or increment. 2. To increase or accumulate, as by
 natural growth: accruing interest on capital.  3.  Law. To become an
 enforceable or permanent right. [ME acreuen, ult. < Lat. accrescere, to
 grow : ad-, to + crescere, to arise.]   accruement n.



 acculturate  v. -ated -ating -ates   -tr. To cause (a society, for
 example) to change by the process of acculturation. -intr. To change or be
 modified by acculturation.



 acculturation  n.  1.  a. The modification of the culture of a group or
 individual as a result of contact with a different culture. b. The
 modification of a primitive culture by means of such contact. 2. The
 process by which the culture of a particular society is instilled in a
 human being from infancy onward.



 accumbent  adj.  1. Lying down; reclining. 2.  Botany. Resting against
 another part, as a cotyledon. [Lat. accumbens, accumbent-, pr.part. of
 accumbere, to recline at table : ad-, near to + cumbere, to recline.]



 accumulate  v. -lated -lating -lates   -tr. To amass or gather; pile up;
 collect. -intr. To grow or increase; mount up. [Lat. accumulare, accumulat-
 : ad-, to + cumulare, to pile up < cumulus, heap.]   accumulable adj.



 accumulation  n.  1. The act of amassing or gathering, as into a heap or
 pile:  Little things grew by continual accumulation (Samuel Johnson). 2.
 The process of growing into a heap or large amount. 3. A mass of something
 heaped up or collected: an accumulation of rubbish.  4.  a. The growth of a
 principal sum by retention of interest or profit. b. The gradual purchase
 of securities in a depressed market in anticipation of rising prices. c. In
 reckoning the yield on a bond, the difference between its face value and
 its cost if the bond is purchased at a discount.



 accumulative  adj.  1. Characterized by or showing the effects of
 accumulation; cumulative. 2. Having a propensity to amass; acquisitive.
 accumulatively adv.   accumulativeness n.



 accumulator  n.  1. One that accumulates. 2. A register or electric
 circuit in a calculator or computer that stores figures for computation. 3.
  Chiefly British. An automobile storage battery.



 accuracy  n.  The quality or state of being accurate; correctness.



 accurate  adj.  1. In exact conformity to fact; errorless. 2. Deviating
 only slightly or within acceptable limits from a standard. [Lat. accuratus,
 done with care, p.part. of accurare, to do with care : ad-, to + curare, to
 care for < cura, care.]   accurately adv.   accurateness n.



 accursed or accurst   adj.  1. Under a curse; doomed. 2. Abominable;
 hateful. [ME acursed < acursen, to put a curse on : a- (intensive) + OE
 cursian, to curse < curs, curse.]   accursedly adv.   accursedness n.



 accusation  n.  1. An act of accusing. 2. An allegation. 3.  Law. A formal
 charge brought before a court against a person, stating that he is guilty
 of some punishable offense.



 accusative  adj.  Of or pertaining to the case of a noun, pronoun,
 adjective, or participle that is the direct object of a verb or the object
 of certain prepositions.   -n. The accusative case. [ME acusatif < OFr. <
 Lat. (casus) accusativus, (case) of accusation < accusare, to accuse.]
 accusatively adv.



 accusatorial or accusatory   adj.  Containing or implying accusation.



 accuse  v. -cused -cusing -cuses   -tr. 1. To charge with a shortcoming or
 error. 2. To bring charges against (someone) for a misdeed: two men accused
 of a crime.  -intr. To make an accusation against someone. [ME acusen <
 Lat. accusare : ad-, to + causa, lawsuit]   accuser n.   accusingly adv.



 accused  n.  Law.  The defendant or defendants in a criminal case: one of
 the accused.



 accustom  tr.v. -tomed -toming -toms   To familiarize, as by constant
 practice, use, or habit: accustomed himself to working long hours.  [ME
 accustomen < OFr. acostumer : a, to + costume, custom. -see custom.]



 accustomed  adj.  1. Usual, characteristic, or normal: worked with her
 accustomed thoroughness.  2. In the habit of: accustomed to sleeping late.




 AC/DC  adj.  Slang.  Bisexual (sense 3). [From the likening of a bisexual
 person to an appliance that works on either alternating or direct current.]




 ace  n.  1.  a. A single pip or spot on a playing card, die, or domino. b.
 A playing card, die, or domino having one spot or pip. 2. In racket games:
 a. A serve which one's opponent fails to return. b. A point scored by
 serving an ace. 3. The act of hitting a golf ball in the hole with one's
 first shot. 4.  Informal. A narrow margin. 5. A military aircraft pilot who
 has destroyed five or more enemy aircraft. 6. A person who is an expert in
 his field.   -adj. Informal.  Topnotch; first-rate.   -tr.v.aced acing aces
   1. To serve an ace against. 2. To hit an ace in golf. 3. To get the
 better of (someone). 4. To receive a grade of A on: she aced the exam.

       Idiom Section:  ace in the hole. 1. A hidden advantage. 2. A hole in
 one in golf. within an ace of. . On the verge of; very near to. [ME as <
 OFr. < Lat., unit.]



 -acean   1. -aceous. 2. An organism belonging to a taxonomic group:
 cetacean.  [< NLat -acea, neuter pl. of -aceus, -aceous.]



 acedia  n.  Spiritual torpor; ennui. [LLat. < Gk. akedeia, indifference :
 a-, without + kedos, care.]



 Aceldama  n.  A place with dreadful associations. [After Aceldama, a field
 bought with the money Judas received for betraying Jesus < Gk. Akeldama <
 Aram. haqel dema, field of blood.]



 acellular  adj.  Containing no cells.



 -aceous   1.  a. Of or relating to: amylaceous.  b. Resembling or having
 the nature of: amentaceous.  2. Belonging to a specified taxonomic
 category: orchidaceous.  [NLat -aceus < Lat.]



 acephalous  adj.  1. Headless or lacking a clearly defined head. 2. Having
 no leader. [Med. Lat. acephalus < Gk. akephalos : a-, without + kephale,
 head.]



 acequia  n.  Southwestern U.S.  An irrigation canal. [Sp. < Ar. assaqiyah,
 irrigation ditch.]



 acerate or acerated   adj.  Biology.  Pointed at one end; needle-shaped.
 [< Lat. acer, sharp.]



 acerb  adj.  1. Sour or bitter in taste. 2. Sharp or bitter in temper,
 mood, or expression. [Lat. acerbus.]



 acerbate  tr.v. -bated -bating -bates   To vex or annoy. [Lat. acerbare,
 acerbat-, to make harsh < acerbus, harsh.]



 acerbity  n. pl. -ties  1. Sourness of taste. 2. Sharpness or bitterness
 of temper, mood, or expression.



 acerose  adj.  Slender and sharp-pointed, as a pine needle. [NLat.
 acerosus < Lat. acer, sharp.]



 acervate  adj.  Growing in small heaps or compact clusters. [< Lat.
 acervare, acervat-, to heap up < acervus, heap.]   acervately adv.



 acet-   Variant of aceto-.



 acetabulum  n. pl. -la  1.  Anatomy. The cup-shaped cavity in the hipbone
 into which the head of the thighbone fits. 2.  Zoology. A sucker, such as
 that of an octopus or cuttlefish. [Lat., vinegar cup < acetum, vinegar.]
 acetabular adj.



 acetal  n.  1. A colorless, flammable, volatile liquid, CH3CH(OC2H5)2,
 used in cosmetics and as a solvent. 2. Any of the class of compounds formed
 from aldehydes combined with alcohol. [G. Azetal : acet-, aceto- + Alkohol,
 alcohol.]



 acetaldehyde  n.  A colorless, flammable liquid, C2H4O, used to
 manufacture acetic acid, perfumes, and drugs.



 acetamide or acetamid   n.  The crystalline amide of acetic acid,
 CH3CONH2, used as a solvent and wetting agent and in lacquers and
 explosives.



 acetaminophen  n.  A hydroxy derivative of acetanilide, C8H9NO2, used in
 chemical synthesis and, in medicine, to reduce pain and fever. [acet(o)- +
 amin(o)- + phen(ol).]



 acetanilide or acetanilid   n.  A white crystalline compound,
 C6H5NH(COCH3), used medicinally to relieve pain and reduce fever. [acet(o)-
 + anil(ine) + -ide.]



 acetate  n.  1. A salt or ester of acetic acid. 2. Cellulose acetate or
 any of various products, esp. fibers, derived from it.



 acetic  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or containing acetic acid or vinegar. [<
 Lat. acetum, vinegar. -see acetum]



 acetic acid  n.  A clear, colorless organic acid, CH3COOH, with a
 distinctive pungent odor, used as a solvent and in the manufacture of
 rubber, plastics, acetate fibers, pharmaceuticals, and photographic
 chemicals.



 acetic anhydride  n.  An organic liquid, (CH3CO)2O, with a pungent odor,
 combining with water to produce acetic acid and used in the manufacture of
 various organic acetate derivatives.



 acetify  tr.  -intr.v.-fied -fying -fies   To convert or become converted
 to acetic acid or vinegar.   acetification n.   acetifier n.



 aceto- or acet-    1. Acetic acid: acetify.  2. Acetyl: acetanilide.  [<
 Lat. acetum, vinegar. -see acetum.]



 acetoacetic acid  n.  A syrupy, colorless acid, CH3COCH2COOH, excreted in
 the urine and found in abnormal quantities in the urine of diabetics.



 acetone  n.  A colorless, volatile, extremely flammable liquid, CH3COCH3,
 widely used as an organic solvent.   acetonic adj.



 acetone body  n.  A ketone body.



 acetophenetidin  n.  A white powder or crystalline solid,
 CH3CONHC6H4OC2H5, used in medicine to reduce fever and relieve pain.
 [aceto- + phen(o) + et(hyl) + -id(e) + -in.]



 acetous  adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, or producing acetic acid or vinegar.
 2. Having an acetic taste; sour-tasting. [ME, sour < Med. Lat. acetus <
 Lat. acetum, vinegar. -see acetum.]



 acetum  n.  1. Vinegar. 2. An acetic acid solution of a drug. [Lat. acetum
 < acere, to be sour < acer, sharp.]



 acetyl  n.  The acetic acid radical CH3CO.   acetylic adj.



 acetylate  tr.v. -lated -lating -ates   To bring an acetyl group into (an
 organic molecule), using a reagent such as acetic anhydride.   acetylation
 n.



 acetylcholine  n.  A white crystalline compound, C7H17NO3, that transmits
 nerve impulses across intercellular gaps and forms salts used to lower
 blood pressure and increase peristalsis.



 acetylcholinesterase  n.  Cholinesterase.



 acetylene  n.  A colorless, highly flammable or explosive gas, C2H2, used
 for metal welding and cutting and as an illuminant.   acetylenic adj.



 acetylene series  n.  A series of unsaturated aliphatic hydrocarbons, each
 containing at least one triple carbon bond, having chemical properties
 resembling acetylene, and having the general formula CnH2n-2 with acetylene
 being the simplest member.



 acetylsalicylic acid  n.  Aspirin.



 acey-deucy  n.  A variation of backgammon. [ace + deuce.]



 achalasia  n.  The inability of a ring muscle or sphincter to relax.
 [NLat. : a-1 + Gk. khalasis, relaxation < khalan, to loosen.]



 Achates  n.  A loyal friend. [After Achates, the faithful companion of
 Aeneas, in the Aeneid, an epic poem by Virgil (70-19 b.c.).]



 ache  intr.v. ached aching aches   1. To suffer a dull, sustained pain. 2.
 To feel sympathy or compassion. 3.  Informal. To yearn painfully.   -n. 1.
 A dull, steady pain. 2.  Informal. A longing or desire. [ME aken < OE
 acan.]



 achene  n.  A small, dry, thinwalled fruit, such as that of the buttercup
 and dandelion, that does not split open when ripe. [NLat. achenium : Gk.
 a-, not + Gk. khainein, to yawn.]   achenial adj.



 Achernar  n.  A star in the constellation Eridanus that is one of the
 brightest stars in the sky and is 114 light-years from Earth. [< Ar. akhir
 alnahr, the end of the river.]



 Acheron  n.  Greek Mythology.  1. The river of woe over which Charon
 ferried the souls of the dead to Hades. 2. Hades. [Gk. Akheron.]



 Acheulian or Acheulean   adj.  Designating a stage of culture of the
 European Lower Paleolithic Age between the second and third interglacial
 periods, characterized by symmetrical stone hand axes. [Fr. acheuleen,
 after St. Acheul, France.]



 achieve  v. achieved achieving achieves   -tr. 1. To do or finish with
 success. 2. To attain or get with effort: finally achieved mastery of the
 piano.  -intr. To accomplish something successfully. [ME acheven < OFr.
 achever < a chief (venir), (to come) to a head.]   achievable adj.
 achiever n.



 achievement  n.  1. The act of accomplishing or finishing something. 2.
 Something that has been accomplished successfully, esp. by means of
 exertion, skill, practice, or perseverance.



 Achilles  n.  Greek Mythology.  The hero of Homer's Iliad, son of Peleus
 and Thetis. [Lat. < Gk. Akhilleus.]



 Achilles' heel  n.  A small but mortal weakness. [From Achilles' being
 vulnerable only in the heel.]



 Achilles jerk  n.  Reflex plantar flexian in response to a blow to the
 Achilles tendon.



 Achilles tendon  n.  The large tendon running from the heel bone to the
 calf muscle of the leg.



 achlamydeous  adj.  Botany.  Having no calyx or corolla.



 acholia  n.  A decrease or absence of bile secretion in the small
 intestine. [NLat. : a-1 + Gk. khole, bile.]



 achondrite  n.  A stony meteorite that contains no chondrules.
 achondritic adj.



 achondroplasia  n.  Improper development of cartilage at the ends of the
 long bones, resulting in congenital dwarfism.   achondroplastic adj.



 achromatic  adj.  1. Designating color perceived to have zero saturation
 and therefore no hue, such as neutral grays. 2. Refracting light without
 spectral color separation. 3.  Biology. Staining poorly with standard dyes.
 4.  Music. Having only the diatonic tones of the scale. [Gk. akhromatos :
 a-, not + khroma, color.]   achromatically adv.   achromatism
 achromaticity n.



 achromatic lens  n.  A combination of lenses to produce images free of
 chromatic aberrations.



 achromatin  n.  The part of a cell nucleus that is relatively uncolored by
 stains or dyes. [achromat(ic) + -in.]   achromatinic adj.



 achromatize  tr.v. -tized -tizing -tizes   To render achromatic; rid of
 color.



 achromic  adj.  Having no color; colorless. [a-1 + chromo- + -ic.]



 achy  adj. -ier -iest   Experiencing aches.   achiness n.



 acicula  n. pl. -lae  A needlelike bristle, spine, or crystal. [NLat. <
 Lat., hairpin, dim. of acus, needle.]   acicular  aciculate aciculated
 adj.



 acid  n.  1.  Chemistry.  a. Any of a large class of substances the
 aqueous solutions of which are capable of turning litmus indicators red, of
 reacting with and dissolving certain metals to form salts, of reacting with
 bases or alkalis to form salts, or having a sour taste. b. A substance that
 ionizes in solution to give the positive ion of the solvent. c. A substance
 capable of giving up a proton. d. A molecule or ion that can combine with
 another by forming a covalent bond with two electrons of the other. 2. A
 substance having a sour taste. 3. The quality of being sarcastic, bitter,
 or scornful: a letter oozing with acid.  4.  Slang. LSD.   -adj. 1.
 Chemistry.  a. Of or pertaining to an acid. b. Having a high concentration
 of acid. 2. Having a sour taste. 3. Biting; sarcastic, or scornful: an acid
 wit.  [Lat. acidus, sour < acere, to be sour < acer, sharp.]   acidly adv.
  acidness n.



 acid cell  n.  A parietal cell of the stomach.



 acidemia  n.  A condition in which blood pH is below normal.



 acid-fast  adj.  Not readily decolorized by acid. Used of bacteria.
 acid-fastness n.



 acidhead  n.  Slang.  A person who uses LSD, esp. frequently.



 acidic  adj.  1. Acid. 2. Tending to form an acid.



 acidify  tr.  -intr.v.-fied -fying -fies   To make or become acid.
 acidifiable adj.   acidification n.   acidifier n.



 acidimeter  n.  A hydrometer used to determine the specific gravity of
 acid solutions.   acidimetric adj.   acidimetry n.



 acidity  n.  1. The state, quality, or degree of being acid. 2.
 Hyperacidity.



 acidophilic or acidophilus   adj.  Microbiology.  1. Growing well in an
 acid medium. 2. Easily stained with acid dyes.   acidophil acidophile  n.



 acidophilus milk  n.  Milk containing bacterial cultures that thrive in
 dilute acid, often used in treating gastrointestinal disorders. [NLat.
 acidophilus, specific epithet of several species of bacteria : acid +
 -philus, -philous.]



 acidosis  n.  An abnormal increase in the acidity of the body's fluids,
 due either to acid-accumulation or bicarbonate depletion.   acldotic adj.



 acid precipitation  n.  Precipitation abnormally high in sulfuric and
 nitric acid content that is caused by industrial pollution.



 acid rain  n.  Acid precipitation falling as rain.



 acid rock  n.  Rock music with lyrics that suggest psychedelic
 experiences.



 acid test  n.  A decisive or critical test of worth or quality. [From the
 testing of gold in nitric acid.]



 acidulate  tr.  -intr.v.-lated -lating -lates   To make or become slightly
 acid. [acidul(ous) + -ate1.]   acidulation n.



 acidulous  adj.  Sour in feeling or manner; biting; caustic. [Lat.
 acidulus, sourish, dim. of acidus, sour. -see acid.]



 aciduria  n.  A condition marked by excessive amounts of acid in the
 urine.



 acinar  adj.  Of or pertaining to an acinus.



 acinus  n. pl. -ni  1.  Botany. One of the small divisions or drupelets of
 an aggregate fruit such as the raspberry. 2. A grape or a bunch of grapes.
 3.  Anatomy. One of the small saclike dilations composing a compound gland.
 [Lat., berry.]   acinic  acinous adj.



 ack-ack  n.  Slang.  1. An antiaircraft gun. 2. Antiaircraft fire.
 [British telephone code for AA, abbreviation for antiaircraft.]



 acknowledge  tr.v. -edged -edging -edges   1.  a. To confess, avow, or
 admit the existence, reality, or truth of. b. To recognize as being valid
 or having force or power. 2.  a. To express recognition of. b. To express
 thanks or gratitude for. 3. To report the receipt of. 4.  Law. To accept or
 certify as legally binding: acknowledge a deed.  [Blend of ME knowledgen,
 to acknowledge (< knowen, to know) and ME aknouen,  to recognize < OE
 oncnawan, to know.]   acknowledgeable adj.

      Synonyms: acknowledge admit own avow confess
 concede These verbs mean to make a disclosure, sometimes with reluctance or
 under pressure. To acknowledge  is to accept responsibility for something
 one makes known or to give recognition to someone. Admit  usually implies
 marked reluctance in acknowledging one's acts or accepting a different
 point of view as a result of pressure. Own  stresses personal acceptance
 of, and responsibility for, one's deeds. Avow , a strong term, means to
 assert openly and boldly and implies the likelihood of opposition. Confess
 usually emphasizes disclosure of wrongdoing. To concede  is to yield to a
 claim or demand, often with some reluctance.




 acknowledged  adj.  Commonly accepted or recognized.



 acknowledgment or acknowledgement   n.  1. The act of admitting or owning
 to something. 2. Recognition of someone's or something's existence,
 validity, authority, or right. 3. An answer or response in return for
 something done. 4. An expression or token of appreciation or thanks. 5. A
 formal declaration made to authoritative witnesses to ensure legal
 validity.



 aclinic line  n.  The magnetic equator.



 acme  n.  The point of utmost attainment; peak. [Gk. akme.]



 acne  n.  An inflammatory disease of the oil glands, characterized by
 pimples esp. on the face. [Poss. < Gk. akme, point.]   acned adj.



 acock  adj.  -adv. In a cocked position.



 acolyte  n.  1. One who assists a priest in the celebration of Mass. 2. An
 attendant or follower. [ME acolit < OFr. < Med. Lat. acolytus < Gk.
 akolouthos, attendant < akolouthein, to follow.]



 aconite  n.  1. The monkshood. 2. The dried, poisonous root of a species
 of monkshood, A. napellus, sometimes used in medicine to relieve pain or to
 reduce fever. [Fr. aconit < Lat. aconitum < Gk. akoniton.]



 acorn  n.  The fruit of the oak tree, consisting of a thick-walled nut
 usually set in a woody, cuplike base. [ME akorn < OE aecern.]



 acorn squash  n.  A type of squash shaped somewhat like an acorn and
 having a longitudinally ridged rind.



 acorn tube  n.  A small, acorn-shaped vacuum tube used in very high
 frequency devices.



 acotyledon  n.  A plant having no cotyledons, or seed leaves, such as a
 moss or fern.   acotyledonous adj.



 acoustic or acoustical   adj.  1. Of or pertaining to sound, the sense of
 hearing, or the science of sound. 2. Designed to carry sound or to aid in
 hearing. 3.  a. Of, relating to, or being a musical instrument, as a
 guitar, that does not feature electronically modified sound. b. Being a
 musical performance that features acoustic instruments: opened the show
 with an acoustic set.    -n. An acoustic musical instrument. [Gk.
 akoustikos, pertaining to hearing < akouein, to hear.]   acoustically adv.



 acoustician  n.  A specialist in acoustics.



 acoustic nerve  n.  The eighth cranial nerve, consisting of the cochlear
 nerve, which conducts acoustic stimuli to the brain, and the vestibular
 nerve, which conducts stimuli related to bodily equilibrium to the brain.



 acoustics  n.  1. The scientific study of sound, esp. of its generation,
 transmission, and reception. 2. The total effect of sound, esp. as produced
 in an enclosed space.



 acoustoelectric  adj.  Of or relating to electroacoustics. [acoust(ic) +
 electric.]   acoustoelectrically adv.



 acoustooptics  n.  The science of the interaction of acoustic and optical
 phenomena. [acoust(ic) + optics.]   acoustooptical adj.   acoustooptically
 adv.



 acquaint  tr.v. -quainted -quainting -quaints   1. To make familiar:
 acquaint yourself with the controls.  2. To inform: acquaint us with your
 plans.  [ME aqueinten < OFr. acointier < Med. Lat. adcognitare < Lat.
 accognoscere, to know perfectly : ad- (intensive) + cognoscere, to know.
 -see cognition.]



 acquaintance  n.  1. Knowledge or information about someone or something.
 2. Knowledge of a person acquired by a relationship less intimate than
 friendship. 3. A person or persons whom one knows.   acquaintanceship n.



 acquainted  adj.  1. Known by or familiar with another. 2. Informed or
 familiar: acquainted with the facts.



 acquiesce  intr.v. -esced -escing -esces   To consent or comply passively
 or without protest. [Lat. acquiescere : ad-, to + quiescere, to rest <
 quies, rest.]

      Usage: When acquiesce  takes a preposition, it is usually used with in
  (acquiesced in the ruling ) but sometimes with to  (acquiesced to her
 parents' wishes ). Acquiesced with  is obsolete.



 acquiescence  n.  1. Passive assent or agreement without protest. 2. The
 state of being acquiescent.   acquiescent adj.   acquiescently adv.



 acquire  tr.v. -quired -quiring -quires   1. To gain possession of. 2. To
 get by one's own efforts. [ME acquere < OFr. aquerre < Lat. acquirere, to
 add to : ad-,  to + quaerere,  to get.]   acquirable adj.



 acquired antibody  n.  An antibody produced by an immune response as
 compared with one occurring in the system naturally.



 acquired immune deficiency syndrome  n.  AIDS.



 acquired immunity  n.  Immunity developed in the physiology during a
 lifetime.



 acquirement  n.  1. The act of acquiring. 2. An attainment, such as a
 skill or social accomplishment.



 acquisition  n.  1. The act of acquiring. 2. Something acquired, esp. an
 addition to an established category or group. 3.  Aerospace. The process of
 locating a satellite, guided missile, or moving target so that its track or
 orbit can be determined. [ME adquisicioun, attainment < Lat. acquisitio <
 acquirere, to acquire : ad-, to + quaerere, to seek.]



 acquisitive  adj.  1. Characterized by a strong desire to gain and
 possess. 2. Tending to acquire and retain ideas or information: an
 acquisitive mind.    acquisitively adv.   acquisitiveness n.



 acquit  tr.v. -quitted -quitting -quits   1. To free or clear from a
 charge or accusation. 2. To release or discharge from a duty. 3. To repay
 (an obligation). 4. To conduct (oneself). [ME aquiten < OFr. aquiter.]
 acquitter n.



 acquittal  n.  Law.  The judgment of a jury or judge that a person is not
 guilty of a crime as charged.



 acquittance  n.  A written release from an obligation.



 acrasia  n.  Lack of self-control. [Gk. akrasia, incontinence < akrates,
 powerless : a-, not + kratos, strength.]



 acre  n.  1. A unit of area in the U.S. Customary System, used in land
 measurement and equal to 160 square rods, 4,840 square yards, or 43,560
 square feet. 2. acres  Property in the form of land; estate. 3. acres  A
 wide expanse of land. 4.  Archaic. A field or plot of land. [ME aker < OE
 aecer.]



 acreage  n.  Area of land in acres.



 acre-foot  n.  The volume of water, 43,560 cubic feet, that will cover an
 area of one acre to a depth of one foot.



 acre-inch  n.  One-twelfth of an acre-foot, equal to 3,630 cubic feet.



 acrid  adj.  1. Harsh to the taste or smell. 2. Caustic in language or
 tone. [< Lat. acer, sharp.]   acridity acridness  n.   acridly adv.



 acridine  n.  A coal tar derivative, C13H9N, that has a strongly
 irritating odor and is used in the manufacture of dyes and synthetics.



 acriflavine  n.  A brown or orange powder, C14H14N3Cl, derived from
 acridine and used as an antiseptic. [acri(dine) + flavin.]



 acrimonious  adj.  Bitter in language or tone; rancorous.   acrimoniously
 adv.   acrimoniousness n.



 acrimony  n.  Bitterness or ill-natured animosity, esp. in speech or
 manner. [Lat. acrimonia, sharpness < acer, sharp.]



 acro- or acr-    1.  a. Top; summit: acropetal.  b. Height: acrophobia.
 2.  a. Tip; beginning: acronym.  b. Extremity of the body: acromegaly.  [<
 Gk. akros, extreme.]



 acrobat  n.  One skilled in feats of agility and balance. [Fr. acrobate <
 Gk. akrobates < akrobatein, to walk on tiptoe : akros, high + batos, walker
 < bainein, to walk.]   acrobatic adj.   acrobatically adv.



 acrobatics  n.  1. The actions of an acrobat. 2. The art of an acrobat. 3.
 A display of spectacular agility: vocal acrobatics.



 acrocarpous  adj.  Having the spore-bearing capsule at the end or top of a
 leafy stem or stalk, as in many mosses. [NLat. acrocarpus < Gk. akrokarpos,
 bearing fruit at the top : akron, top + karpos, fruit.]



 acrocephaly or acrocephalia   n.  Oxycephaly.   acrocephalic adj.



 acrodrome or acrodromous   adj.  Coming to a point and having the veins
 terminate at the tip. Used of leaves.



 acrogen  n.  A flowerless plant, such as a fern or moss, having a stem
 from the tip of which all growth proceeds.   acrogenic acrogenous  adj.
 acrogenously adv.



 acrolein  n.  A colorless, flammable, poisonous liquid, CH2CHCHO, having
 an acrid odor and vapors dangerous to the eyes. [acr(id) + olein.]



 acromegaly  n.  Pathological enlargement of the bones of the hands, feet,
 and face, resulting from chronic overactivity of the pituitary gland. [Fr.
 acromegalie : Gk. akron, extremity + Gk. megas, big.]   acromegalic adj. n.




 acromelic  adj.  Of, relating to, or pertinent to the end of the
 extremities. [acro- + Gk. melos, limb.]



 acromion  n.  The outer extremity of the scapula or shoulder blade. [NLat.
 < Gk. akromion : akros, extreme + omion, dim. of omos, shoulder.]



 acronym  n.  A word formed from the initial letters of a name, as WAC for
 W omen's A rmy C orps, or by combining initial letters or parts of a series
 of words, as radar for ra dio d etecting a nd r anging.   acronymic
 acronymous adj.



 acropetal  adj.  Developing upward toward the apex from the base, as do
 certain forms of inflorescence.   acropetally adv.



 acrophobia  n.  Abnormally intense fear of being in high places.



 acropolis  n.  The fortified height or citadel of an ancient Greek city,
 esp. the citadel of Athens. [Gk. akropolis : akron, top + polis, city.]



 acrospire  n.  The first sprout from a germinating grain seed. [Var. of
 dial. akerspire < ME : acher, ear of grain (< OE aekher) + spire, shoot <
 OE spir.]



 across  prep.  1. On, at, or from the other side of: across the road.  2.
 So as to cross; over; through: draw lines across the paper.  3. From one
 side of to the other: a bridge across a river.  4. Into contact with: came
 across her old roommate.    -adv. 1. From one side to the other: The bridge
 swayed when he ran across.  2. On or to the opposite side: We came across
 by ferry.  3. Crossed; crosswise: with arms across.  [ME acrois < AN an
 croiz : an, in + croiz, cross.]



 across-the-board  adj.  1. Designating a racing wager whereby equal
 amounts are bet on the same contestant to win, place, or show. 2. Including
 all categories or members, esp. in an occupation or industry: an
 across-the-board wage increase.



 acrostic  n.  1. A poem or series of lines in which certain letters,
 usually the first in each line, form a name, motto, or message when read in
 sequence. 2. A word square. [Fr. acrostiche < OFr. < Gk. akrostikhis :
 akron, end + stikhos, line.]   acrostic adj.   acrostically adv.



 acrylate resin or acrylate   n.  Any of a class of acrylic resins used in
 emulsion paints, adhesives, plastics, and textile and paper finishes.



 acrylic  n.  1. Acrylic resin. 2. Acrylic fiber. 3. A paint containing
 acrylic resin. [acr(olein) + -yl + -ic.]   acrylic adj.



 acrylic acid  n.  An easily polymerized, colorless, corrosive liquid,
 H2C:CHCOOH, used as a monomer for acrylate resins.



 acrylic fiber  n.  Any of numerous synthetic fibers polymerized from
 acrylonitrile.



 acrylic resin  n.  Any of numerous thermoplastic or thermosetting polymers
 or copolymers of acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, esters of these acids, or
 acrylonitrile, used to produce synthetic rubbers and lightweight plastics.



 acrylonitrile  n.  A colorless, liquid organic compound, H2C:CHCN, used in
 the manufacture of acrylic rubber and fibers. [acryl(ic resin) + nitrile.]



 act  n.  1. The process of doing or performing something; action: the act
 of thinking.  2. Something that is done or performed; deed: a charitable
 act.  3. An enactment, edict, or decree, as of a judicial or legislative
 body. 4. A formal written record of proceedings or transactions. 5. One of
 the major divisions or sections of a play or opera. 6. A theatrical
 performance that forms part of a longer presentation: a juggling act.  7. A
 manifestation of intentional or unintentional insincerity; pose: put on an
 act.    -v.acted acting acts   -tr. 1. To play the part of; assume the
 dramatic role of. 2. To perform on the stage: act a drama.  3. To behave
 like or pose as; impersonate: act the fool.  4. To behave as suitable for:
 Act your age.  -intr. 1. To behave or comport oneself: She acts like a
 lady.  2.  a. To perform in a dramatic role or roles. b. To be suitable for
 theatrical performance: This scene acts well.  3. To behave affectedly or
 unnaturally; pretend. 4. To appear or seem to be: The dog acted ferocious.
 5. To carry out an action: She acted immediately.  6. To operate or
 function in a specific way: His mind acts quickly.  7. To serve or function
 as a substitute for someone or something: A coin can act as a screwdriver.
 Phrasal verb.  act on upon. 1. To act according to: He acted on my advice.
 2. To produce an effect on. act out. . 1.  a. To perform in or as if in a
 play; dramatize: act out a story.  b. To realize in action: wanted to act
 out his theory.  2.  Psychoanalysis.  To express (unconscious impulses, for
 example) in an overt manner without awareness or understanding. act up. .
 To misbehave or malfunction. [ME < OFr. acte < Lat. actus, a doing, and
 actum, a thing done, both < agere, to do.]   actability n.   actable adj.

      Usage: The nouns act  and action  are distinct in meaning. An act  is
 the deed accomplished by means of an action ; when Brutus killed Caesar, he
 committed the act  of murder by means of the action  of stabbing. We speak
 of a stop-action movie camera  (i.e., one that can arrest physical motion),
 but a criminal is caught in the act  (i.e., of committing a crime). A
 baseball pitcher may throw with an unnatural action  (i.e., a physical
 movement difficult for the human arm); a parent who abandons a child
 performs an unnatural act  (the deed is contrary to nature, not the series
 of activities with which it is performed).



 Actaeon  n.  Greek Mythology.  A young hunter who, having inadvertently
 observed Artemis while she was bathing, was turned by her into a stag and
 killed by his own dogs. [Lat. < Gk. Aktaion.]



 ACTH  n.  A pituitary hormone synthesized or extracted from mammalian
 pituitaries for use in stimulating secretion of cortisone and other adrenal
 cortex hormones. [a(dreno)c(ortico)t(ropic) h(ormone).]



 actin  n.  A muscle protein, active with myosin in muscular contraction.
 [Lat. actus, motion (< agere, to impel) + -in.]



 actin-   Variant of actino-.



 actinal  adj.  Of or designating the part of a sea anemone or similar
 animal from which the tentacles or rays radiate.   actinally adv.



 acting  adj.  1. Temporarily assuming the duties or authority of another.
 2. Containing directions for use in a dramatic performance.   -n. 1. The
 occupation of an actor. 2. Performance as an actor. 3. Simulated behavior;
 pretense.



 actinia or actinian   n. pl. -iae  or -ians  A sea anemone or a related
 animal. [NLat. Actinia, sea anemone genus < Gk. aktis, ray.]



 actinic  adj.  Of or pertaining to actinism.   actinically adv.



 actinic ray  n.  Photochemically active radiation, as of the sun.



 actinide  n.  Any of a series of chemically similar, mostly synthetic,
 radioactive elements with atomic numbers ranging from 89 (actinium) through
 103 (lawrencium).



 actinism  n.  The intrinsic property in radiation that produces
 photochemical activity.



 actinium  n.  Ac  A radioactive element found in uranium ores, used in
 equilibrium with its decay products as a source of alpha rays. Its longest
 lived isotope is Ac 227 with a half-life of 21.7 years. Atomic number 89;
 melting point 1,050 deg. C; boiling point (estimated) 3,200 deg. C;
 specific gravity (calculated) 10.07; valence 3.



 actino- or actin-    1. Radial in form: actinoid.  2. Actinic radiation:
 actinometer.  [< Gk. aktis, aktin-, ray.]



 actinocarpous  adj.  Having fruit or flowers radiating from one point.



 actinogen  n.  A radioactive element.



 actinoid
 actinoid(1)  adj.  Having a radial form, as a starfish.
 actinoid(2)  n.    An actinide.



 actinolite  n.  A greenish variety of amphibole.



 actinomere  n.  A segment composing part of the body of a radially
 symmetrical animal.



 actinometer  n.  Any of several radiometric instruments, such as a
 pyrheliometer, used chiefly for meteorological measurements of terrestrial
 and solar radiation.   actinometric actinometrical  adj.   actinometry n.



 actinomorphic or actinomorphous   adj.  Having radial symmetry; divisible
 vertically through two or more planes into similar halves.



 actinomycete  n.  Any of numerous generally filamentous and often
 pathogenic microorganisms of the family Actinomycetaceae, resembling both
 bacteria and fungi.



 actinomycin  n.  Any of various often toxic antibiotic substances found in
 soil bacteria. [< NLat. Antinomyces, a genus of soil bacteria : actino- +
 Gk. mukes, fungus.]



 actinomycosis  n.  An inflammatory infection of cattle, hogs, and
 sometimes man, caused by microorganisms of the genus Actinomyces, and
 characterized by lumpy tumors of the neck, chest, and abdomen.
 actinomycotic adj.



 actinon  n.  A radioactive inert gaseous isotope of radon, with a
 half-life of 3.92 seconds.



 actinouranium  n.  The isotope of uranium with mass number 235,
 fissionable with slow neutrons.



 actinozoan  n.  An anthozoan.



 action  n.  1. The state or process of acting or doing. 2. An act or deed.
 3. A movement or a series of movements. 4. The manner of movement: a horse
 with good action.  5. Habitual or vigorous activity; energy: a man of
 action.  6. actions  Behavior or conduct. 7.  a. The operating parts of a
 mechanism. b. The manner in which such parts operate. 8. A change that
 occurs in the body or in a bodily organ as a result of its functioning. 9.
 A physical change, as in position, mass, or energy, that an object or
 system undergoes. 10. The series of events and episodes that form the plot
 of a story or play. 11. The appearance of animation of a figure in painting
 or sculpture. 12.  Law.  a. A judicial process; lawsuit. b. The right of an
 individual to exercise his privilege to legal process. 13. Armed encounter;
 combat. 14. The most important or exciting work or activity in a specific
 field or area: always heads for where the action is. -See Usage note at
 act.



 actionable  adj.  Giving just cause for legal action.   actionably adv.



 action painting  n.  A style of abstract painting that uses techniques
 such as dribbling or splashing paint to achieve an effect of spontaneity.



 action potential  n.  A recorded change in electrical potential of a cell
 or tissue when stimulated.



 activate  tr.v. -vated -vating -vates   1. To set in motion; make active.
 2. To create or organize (a military unit, for example). 3. To purify
 (sewage) by aeration. 4.  Chemistry. To accelerate a reaction in, as by
 heat. 5.  Physics. To make (a substance) radioactive.   activation n.
 activator n.



 activated carbon or activated charcoal   n.  Highly absorbent carbon
 obtained by heating granulated charcoal to exhaust contained gases, used in
 gas absorption, solvent recovery, or deodorization, and as an antidote to
 certain poisons.



 activation analysis  n.  A method for analyzing a material for its
 component chemical elements by bombarding it with nuclear particles or
 gamma rays and identifying the resultant radiations.



 active  adj.  1. In action; moving. 2. Functioning or capable of
 functioning. 3. Causing or initiating action or change. 4. Engaged in
 activity; participating: an active member of a club.  5. In a state of
 action; not passive or quiescent: an active volcano.  6. Characterized by
 energetic action or activity; lively. 7.  Grammar.  a. Denoting a verb
 inflection or voice indicating that the subject of the sentence is
 performing or causing the action expressed by the verb. b. Expressing
 action rather than a state of being. Used of verbs such as run, speak,
 move.  8. Producing profit, interest, or dividends: active accounts.  9. On
 full military duty and full pay. 10.  Music. Suggesting that something
 follows: active tones.    -n. 1.  Grammar.  a. The active voice. b. A
 construction or form in the active voice. 2. A participating member of an
 organization. [ME actif < OFr. < Lat. activus < actus, moving, p.part. of
 agere, to impel.]   actively adv.   activeness n.

      Synonyms: active energetic dynamic vigorous lively These
 adjectives are compared as they qualify human activity. Active  suggests a
 moving to and fro with little rest; energetic , sustained enthusiastic
 action with unflagging strength; and dynamic , exemplary forcefulness of
 activity inspiring to others. Vigorous  implies manly capacity to act with
 healthy strength and firmness, while lively  suggests brisk alertness and
 energy.




 active immunity  n.  A long-lasting immunity to disease due to antibody
 production by an organism.



 active transport  n.  The movement of a chemical substance through a
 gradient of concentration or electrical potential in the direction opposite
 to normal diffusion, requiring the expenditure of energy.



 activism  n.  A theory or practice based on militant action.   activist n.




 activity  n. pl. -ties  1. The state of being active. 2. Energetic action
 or movement. 3. A specified form of supervised action or field of action.
 4. The intensity of a radioactive source.



 act of God  n.  Law.  An unforeseeable or inevitable occurrence, such as a
 tornado, caused by nature and not by man.



 actomyosin  n.  A system of actin and myosin that with other substances
 constitutes muscle fiber and is responsible for muscular contraction and
 expansion. [act(in) + myosin.]



 actor  n.  1. A male theatrical performer. 2. One who takes part;
 participant. [ME actour < Lat. actor, doer < agere, to do.]



 actress  n.  A female theatrical performer.



 Acts of the Apostles  n.  See table at Bible.



 actual  adj.  1. Existing in fact or reality: questioned her actual
 intentions.  2. Being, existing, or acting at the present moment; current.
 3. Corresponding to all human facts. 4. Based on fact: an actual account.
 [ME < OFr. actuel < Lat. actualis < actus, acting < agere, to do.]
 actually adv.



 actuality  n. pl. -ties  1. The state or fact of being actual; reality. 2.
 actualities  Actual conditions or facts.



 actualize  tr.v. -ized -izing -izes   1. To realize in action. 2. To
 describe or portray realistically.   actualization n.



 actuary  n. pl. -ies  A statistician who computes insurance risks and
 premiums. [Lat. actuarius, secretary of accounts < acta, records < actus,
 p.part. of agere, to do.]   actuarial adj.   actuarially adv.



 actuate  tr.v. -ated -ating -ates   1. To put into action or motion:
 actuate a mechanism.  2. To move to action. [Med. Lat. actuare, actuat- <
 Lat. actus, act < agere, to do.]   actuation n.



 actuator  n.  One that activates, esp. a device responsible for actuating
 a mechanical device, as one connected to a computer by a sensor link.



 acuate  adj.  Pointed at the end; sharpened. [ME acuat < Med. Lat. acuatus
 < Lat. acus, needle.]



 acuity  n.  Acuteness of perception; keenness. [ME acuite < OFr. < Lat.
 acutus, sharp. -see acute.]



 aculeate  adj.  Biology.  Having a sting or prickles: aculeate insects.
 [Lat. aculeatus < aculeus, sting, dim. of acus, needle.]



 acumen  n.  Quickness and accuracy of judgment; keenness of insight. [Lat.
 acumen < acuere, to sharpen < acus, needle.]



 acuminate  adj.  Tapering to a sharp point: acuminate leaves.    -tr.v.
 -nated -nating -nates   To sharpen or taper. [Lat. acuminatus, p.part. of
 acuminare, to sharpen < acumen, acuteness. -see acumen.]   acumination n.



 acupuncture  n.  A traditional Chinese therapeutic technique whereby the
 body is punctured with fine needles. [Lat. acus, needle + puncture.]
 acupuncturist n.



 acute  adj.  1. Having a sharp point or tip; not blunt. 2. Keenly
 perceptive or discerning; shrewd. 3. Reacting readily to impressions;
 sensitive. 4. Of great importance or consequence; crucial. 5. Extremely
 severe or sharp; intense: acute pain.  6.  Medicine. Reaching a crisis
 rapidly. Used of a disease. 7.  Music. High in pitch; shrill. 8.  Geometry.
 Designating angles less than 90 degrees. [Lat. acutus, p.part. of acuere,
 to sharpen < acus, needle.]   acutely adv.   acuteness n.



 acute accent  n.  A mark () indicating: a. A raised pitch, in certain
 languages such as Chinese and Ancient Greek. b. Primary stress of a spoken
 sound or syllable. c. Metrical stress in poetry. d. Sound quality or vowel
 length.



 acyclic  adj.  1.  Botany. Not having or forming whorls; not cyclic. 2.
 Chemistry. Having an open-chain molecular structure rather than a
 ring-shaped structure.



 acyl  n.  Chemistry.  A radical having the general formula RCO-, derived
 from an organic acid. [ac(id) + -yl.]



 ad
 ad(1)  n.  Informal.  An advertisement.
 ad(2)  n.  An advantage (sense 4).



 ad-   1. or ac-or af-or ag-or al- or
 ap-or as-or at-.Toward; to: adnoun.  2. Near; at: adrenal.  3. In:
 adumbrel.  [Lat. < ad, to.]



 -ad   Toward; in the direction of: cephalad.



 adage  n.  A short maxim or proverb. [Fr. < OFr. < Lat. adagium, proverb.]




 adagio  adv.  Music.  Slowly. Used as a direction.   -adj. Music.  Slow in
 tempo; slower than andante.   -n.pl. -agios  1.  Music. A composition or
 movement played in an adagio tempo. 2. A section of a pas de deux in which
 the ballerina and her partner perform steps requiring lyricism and great
 skill in lifting, balancing, and turning. [Ital. : ad-, at (< Lat.) + agio,
 ease < OProv. aize < Lat. adjacens, convenient. -see adjacent.]



 Adam
 Adam(1)  n.  1. In the Old Testament, the first man and progenitor of
 mankind. 2. The unregenerate side of human nature: the old Adam.  [LLat. <
 Heb. 'adham, man < 'adhamah, earth.]   Adamic adj.
 Adam(2)  adj.  Of or pertaining to the neoclassic style of furniture and
 architecture originated by Robert and James Adam.



 Adam-and-Eve  n.  The puttyroot. [From its human-shaped corms.]



 adamant  n.  1. A legendary stone believed to be impenetrable. 2. An
 extremely hard substance.   -adj. Firm in purpose or opinion; unyielding.
 [ME < OFr. adamaunt < Lat. adamas < Gk.]



 adamantine  adj.  1. Made of or resembling adamant. 2. Having the hardness
 or luster of a diamond. 3. Unyielding or inflexible.



 Adam's apple  n.  The projection of the largest laryngeal cartilage at the
 front of the throat, esp. in men. [Trans. of Heb. tappuah haadam.]



 Adam's needle  n.  The Spanish bayonet (sense 2). [From the spines on its
 leaves.]



 adapt  v. adapted adapting adapts   -tr. To adjust to a specified use or
 situation. -intr. To become adapted. [Lat. adaptare : ad-, to + aptare, to
 fit < aptus, fitting.]



 adaptable  adj.  Capable of adapting or of being adapted.   adaptability
 adaptableness n.



 adaptation  n.  1.  a. The state of being adapted. b. The act or process
 of adapting. 2. Something that is changed or changes so as to become
 suitable to a new or special use or situation. 3. An alteration or
 adjustment, often hereditary, by which a species or individual improves its
 condition in relationship to its environment. 4. The responsive alteration
 of a sense organ to repeated stimuli. 5. Change in behavior of an
 individual or group in adjustment to new or modified cultural surroundings.
   adaptational adj.   adaptationally adv.



 adapter or adaptor   n.  1. One that adapts. 2. A device used to effect
 operative compatibility between different parts of one or more pieces of
 apparatus.



 adaption  n.  Adaptation.



 adaptive  adj.  Tending toward, fit for, or having a capacity for
 adaptation.   adaptively adv.   adaptiveness n.



 adaptive radiation  n.  The evolution of a relatively unspecialized
 species into several related species characterized by different
 specializations that fit them for life in various environments.



 Adar  n.  The sixth month of the year in the Hebrew calendar. See table at
 calendar. [ME < Heb. Adhar < Akkadian addaru < adaru, to be dark.]



 Adar Sheni  n.  Veadar. [Heb. Adhar sheni, second Adar.]



 adaxial  adj.  Of, relating to, or being on the side toward the stem or
 axis.



 add  v. added adding adds   -tr. 1. To join or unite so as to increase in
 size, quantity, or scope. 2. To combine (a column of figures, for example)
 to form a sum. 3. To say or write further. -intr. 1. To create or
 constitute an addition: an exploit that will add to her reputation.  2. To
 find a sum in arithmetic. Phrasal verb.  add up. Informal.  To be
 reasonable, plausible, or consistent; make sense. add up to. Informal.  To
 mean; indicate. [ME adden < Lat. addere : ad-, to + dare, to give.]
 addable  addible adj.



 addax  n.  An antelope, Addax nasomaculatus, of northern Africa having
 long, spirally twisted horns. [Lat., of African orig.]



 added-value tax  n.  Value-added tax.



 addend  n.  Any of a set of numbers to be added. [Short for addendum.]



 addendum  n. pl. -da  Something added or to be added, esp. a supplement to
 a book. [Lat. < addere, to add.]



 adder
 adder(1)  n.  One that adds, esp. a computer device that performs
 arithmetic addition.
 adder(2)  n.  1. Any of various venomous Old World snakes of the family
 Viperidae, esp. the common viper, Vipera berus, of Eurasia. 2. Any of
 several nonvenomous snakes popularly believed to be harmful. [ME < an
 addre, alteration of a naddre : a, a + naddre, snake < OE naedre.]



 adder's-mouth  n.  Any of various orchids of the genus Malaxis, having
 clusters of small, usually greenish flowers. [From the resemblance of its
 flowers to the open mouths of snakes.]



 adder's-tongue  n.  1. Any of several ferns of the genus Ophioglossum,
 having a single sterile, leaflike frond, and a spore-bearing stalk. 2. The
 dogtooth violet. [From the resemblance of the spike at the base of the
 frond to a snake's tongue.]



 addict  tr.v. -dicted -dicting -dicts   To devote or give (oneself)
 habitually or compulsively: addicted to alcohol.    -n.  1. One who is
 addicted, esp. to narcotics. 2. A devoted fan: a soap opera addict.  [<
 Lat. addictus, bondsman, p.part of addicere, to sentence : ad-, to +
 dicere, to adjudge.]   addiction n.   addictive adj.



 Addison's disease  n.  A disease caused by failure of the adrenal cortex
 to function, marked by a bronzelike skin pigmentation, anemia, and
 prostration. [After Thomas Addison (1793-1860), its discoverer.]



 addition  n.  1. The act or process of adding. 2. Something added, esp. a
 room or section added to a building. 3. The process of computing with sets
 of numbers so as to find their sum.

       Idiom Section:  in addition. Also; as well as. in addition to. Over
 and above; besides. [ME < OFr. < Lat. additio < additus, p.part. of addere,
 to add.]   additional adj.   additionally adv.



 additive  adj.  Marked by, produced by, or involving addition.   -n. A
 substance added in small amounts to something else to improve, strengthen,
 or otherwise alter it.



 additive identity  n.  An identity element that in a given mathematical
 system leaves unchanged any element to which it is added.



 additive identity element  n.  Zero.



 additive inverse  n.  Inverse (sense 2.b.).



 addle  v. -dled -dling -dles   -tr. To muddle; confuse:  My brain is a bit
 addled by whiskey (O'Neill). -intr. 1. To become rotten; spoil. 2. To
 become confused.   -adj. 1. Mixed up; confused: addle-brained.  2. Spoiled
 or rotten. [< ME adel, muddled < OE, filth.]



 address  tr.v. -dressed -dressing -dresses   1. To speak to. 2. To make a
 formal speech to. 3. To direct (a spoken or written message) to the
 attention of: address a protest to the Council.  4. To mark with a
 destination: address a letter.  5.  a. To direct (oneself) in speech to. b.
 To direct the efforts or attention of (oneself): address oneself to a task.
  6. To dispatch or consign (a ship, for example) to an agent or factor. 7.
 To adjust and aim the club at (a golf ball) in preparing for a stroke.
 -n.  1. A formal spoken or written communication: polite forms of address.
 2. A formal speech. 3.  The written or printed indication on mail or other
 deliverable items indicating destination. 4.  The location at which a
 particular organization or person may be found or reached. 5. addresses
 Courteous attentions; wooing. 6. The manner or bearing of a person, esp. in
 conversation. 7. Skillfulness or tact in handling a situation. 8. The act
 of dispatching or consigning a ship, as to an agent or factor. 9.  Computer
 Science. A number used in information storage or retrieval that is assigned
 to a specific memory location. [ME adressen < OFr. adresser : a-, to (<
 Lat. ad-) + dresser, to arrange. -see dress.]



 addressable  adj.  Accessible through an address, as in computer memory.



 addressee  n.  One to whom something is addressed.



 addresser or addressor   n.  A person who or a machine that addresses.



 adduce  tr.v. -duced -ducing -duces   To cite as an example or means of
 proof in an argument; bring forward for consideration. [Lat. adducere, to
 bring to : ad-, to + ducere, to lead.]   adduceable  adducible adj.



 adduct  tr.v. -ducted -ducting -ducts   Physiology.  To pull or draw
 toward the main axis. Used of muscles. [Back-formation from adductor.]
 adduction n.   adductive adj.



 adductor  n.  A muscle that adducts. [NLat. < Lat. adducere, to bring to.
 -see adduce.]



 -ade   A sweetened beverage of: limeade.  [Fr., ult. < Lat. -ata, fem. of
 -atus, -ate.]



 Adelie penguin  n.  A common Antarctic penguin, Pygoscelis adeliae, of
 medium size, that has white underparts and a black back and head, and that
 lives and breeds in large exposed rookeries. [After the Adelie Coast,
 Antarctica.]



 -adelphous   Having one or more groups of stamens: diadelphous.  [NLat.
 -adelphus < Gk. adelphos, brother.]



 ademption  n.  Law.  The disposal by a testator of specific property
 bequeathed in his will so as to invalidate the bequest. [Lat. ademptio, a
 taking away < adimere, to take away : ad-, to + emere, to take.]



 aden-   Variant of adeno-.



 adenectomy  n.  Surgical excision of a gland.



 adenine  n.  A purine derivative, C5H5N5, that is a constituent of nucleic
 acid in organs, as the pancreas and spleen.



 adenitis  n.  Inflammation of a lymph node or gland.



 adeno- or aden-    Gland: adenectomy.  [< Gk. aden.]



 adenocarcinoma  n.  A malignant tumor originating in glandular tissue.
 adenocarcinomatous adj.



 adenohypophysis  n.  The anterior and intermediate glandular lobes of the
 pituitary gland.   adenohypophyseal  adenohypophysial adj.



 adenoid  n.  Lymphoid tissue growths in the nose above the throat that
 when swollen may obstruct nasal breathing, induce postnasal discharge, and
 make speech difficult.



 adenoidal  adj.  1. Glandlike; glandular. 2. Of or pertaining to the
 adenoids. 3.  a. Having a nasal or constricted tone: an adenoidal singer.
 b. Mouth-breathing or gaping.



 adenoma  n.  An epithelial tumor of glandular origin and structure that is
 usually benign or of low-grade malignancy.   adenomatous adj.



 adenosine  n.  An organic compound, C10H13N5O4, that is a structural
 component of nucleic acids. [Blend of adenine and ribose.]



 adenosine diphosphate  n.  ADP.



 adenosine monophosphate  n.  1. Cyclic AMP. 2. AMP.



 adenosine triphosphate  n.  ATP.



 adenovirus  n.  Any of various animal viruses that cause respiratory
 diseases, as catarrh, in humans.   adenoviral adj.



 adenylate cyclase or adenyl cyclase   n.  The enzyme that catalyzes
 formation of cyclic AMP from ATP. [aden(ine) + -yl + -ate1 + cycl- + -ase.]




 adept  adj.  Highly skilled or proficient.   -n.  A highly skilled person;
 expert. [Lat. adeptus, p.part. of adipisci, to arrive at.]   adeptly adv.
 adeptness n.



 adequate  adj.  1. Able to satisfy a requirement; suitable. 2. Barely
 satisfactory or sufficient. [Lat. adaequatus, p.part. of adaequare, to
 equalize : ad-, to + aequare, to make equal < aequus, equal.]   adequacy
 adequateness  n.   adequately adv.



 a deux  adj.  Of or involving two individuals, esp. when of a private or
 intimate nature.   -adv. Privately with only two individuals involved:
 dining a deux.  [Fr.]



 adhere  intr.v. -hered -hering -heres   1. To stick fast or together by or
 as if by grasping, suction, or being glued. 2. To be devoted as a follower
 or supporter. 3. To follow closely; carry out without deviation: adhere to
 a plan.  [Fr. adherer < Lat. adhaerere, to stick to : ad-, to + haerere, to
 stick.]



 adherence  n.  1. The process or condition of adhering. 2. Faithful
 attachment; devotion.



 adherent  adj.  1. Sticking or holding fast. 2.  Botany. Growing or fused
 together; adnate.   -n. A supporter, as of a cause or individual.
 adherently adv.



 adhesion  n.  1. The act or state of adhering. 2. Attachment or devotion;
 loyalty. 3. Assent or agreement. 4. A condition in which bodily tissues
 that are normally separate are joined together. 5. The physical attraction
 or joining of two substances, esp. the macroscopically observable
 attraction of dissimilar substances. 6. A fibrous band holding together
 normally separate anatomical structures. 7. The pathological aggregation of
 dissimilar body materials to a visceral surface due to inflammation or
 trauma. [Fr. adhesion < Lat. adhaesio < adhaerere, to adhere.]



 adhesiotomy  n. pl. -mies  The surgical division of adhesions.



 adhesive  adj.  1. Tending to adhere; sticky. 2. Gummed so as to adhere.
 -n. An adhesive substance, such as paste or cement.   adhesively adv.
 adhesiveness n.



 adhesive tape  n.  A tape lined on one side with an adhesive.



 ad hoc  adj.  -adv. For a specific purpose, case, or situation: an ad hoc
 committee.  [Lat., to this.]



 ad hominem  adj.  -adv. To the man; appealing to personal interests,
 prejudices, or emotions rather than to reason: an ad hominem argument.
 [Lat.]



 adiabatic  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or designating a reversible
 thermodynamic process executed at constant entropy; loosely, occurring
 without gain or loss of heat. [Gk. adiabatos, impassable : a-, not +
 diabatos, passable (dia, through + batos, passable < bainein,  to go).]
 adiabatically adv.



 adieu  interj.  Good-by; farewell.   -n.pl. adieus  or adieux  A farewell.
 [ME < OFr. a dieu, (I commend you) to God : a, to (< Lat. ad) + Dieu, God <
 Lat. deus.]



 ad infinitum  adj.  -adv. To infinity; without end; limitless. [Lat.]



 ad interim  adj.  -adv. In the meantime; meanwhile. [Lat.]



 adios  interj.  Good-by; farewell. [Sp. adios : a, to (< Lat. ad) + Dios,
 God < Lat. deus.]



 adipocere  n.  A brown, fatty, waxlike substance that forms on dead animal
 tissues in response to moisture. [adipo(se) + Lat. cera, wax.]



 adipose  adj.  Of or related to animal fat; fatty.   -n. The fat found in
 adipose tissue. [NLat. adiposus < Lat. adeps, lard.]   adiposeness
 adiposity n.



 adipose tissue  n.  Connective tissue in the body that contains stored
 cellular fat.



 adit  n.  An almost horizontal entrance to a mine. [Lat. aditus, access <
 adire, to approach : ad-, toward + ire, to go.]



 adjacency  n. pl. -cies  1. The state of being adjacent; contiguity. 2. A
 thing that is adjacent.



 adjacent  adj.  1. Close to; lying near. 2. Next to; adjoining. [ME < Lat.
 adjacens, pr.part. of adjacere, to lie near : ad-, near to + jacere, to
 lie.]   adjacently adv.



 adjacent angle  n.  Either of two angles having a common side and a common
 vertex.



 adjectival  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or functioning as an adjective.
 adjectivally adv.



 adjective  n.  1.  Grammar. Any of a class of words used to modify a noun
 or other substantive by limiting, qualifying, or specifying. 2.
 Linguistics. Any of a form class distinguished in English morphologically
 by one of several suffixes, as -able, -ous, -er, and -est, or syntactically
 by position in a phrase or sentence, as white in a white house.  3. A
 dependent or subordinate. [ME < OFr. adjectif < Lat. adjectivus < adjicere,
 to add to : ad-, to + jacere, to throw.]   adjectively adv.



 adjective pronoun  n.  Grammar.  A pronoun acting as an adjective, as
 which in which dictionaries? or himself in He himself said so.



 adjoin  v. -joined -joining -joins   -tr. 1. To be next to; be contiguous
 to. 2. To attach to; unite. -intr. To be contiguous. [ME ajoinen < OFr.
 ajoindre < Lat. adjungere, to join to : ad-, to + jungere, to join.]



 adjoining  adj.  Neighboring; contiguous; next to.



 adjourn  v. -journed -journing -journs   -tr. To suspend until a later
 stated time. -intr. 1. To suspend proceedings to another time or place. 2.
 Informal. To move from one place to another: adjourned to the living room.
 [ME ajournen < OFr. ajourner : a, to (< Lat. ad) + jour, day < Lat.
 diurnum.]   adjournment n.



 adjudge  tr.v. -judged -judging -judges   1. To determine or decide by
 judicial procedure; adjudicate. 2. To order judicially; rule. 3. To award
 (damages, for example) by law. 4. To regard, consider, or deem. [ME ajugen
 < OFr. ajuger < Lat. adjudicare. -see adjudicate.]



 adjudicate  tr.v. -cated -cating -cates   To hear and settle (a case) by
 judicial procedure. [Lat. adjudicare, adjudicat-, to award to (judicially)
 : ad-, to + judicare, to judge < judex, judge.]   adjudication n.
 adjudicative adj.   adjudicator n.



 adjunct  n.  1. Something attached to another thing but in a dependent or
 subordinate position. 2. A person associated with another in some duty or
 service in a subordinate or auxiliary capacity. 3. A word or words added in
 order to clarify, qualify, or modify other words. 4.  Logic. A nonessential
 attribute of a thing.   -adj. 1. Added or connected in a subordinate or
 auxiliary capacity: an adjunct clause.  2. Attached to a faculty or staff
 in a temporary or auxiliary capacity. [Lat. adjunctum < adjunctus, p.part.
 of adjungere, to join to. -see adjoin.]   adjunction n.   adjunctive adj.



 adjuration  n.  An earnest or solemn appeal.   adjuratory adj.



 adjure  tr.v. -jured -juring -jures   1. To command or enjoin solemnly, as
 under oath. 2. To appeal to or entreat earnestly. [ME adjuren < Lat.
 adjurare, to swear to : ad-, to + jurare, to swear.]   adjurer  adjuror n.



 adjust  v. -justed -justing -justs   -tr. 1. To change so as to match or
 fit; cause to correspond. 2. To bring into proper relationship. 3. To adapt
 or conform, as to new conditions: unable to adjust themselves to their
 environment.  4. To make accurate by regulation. 5. To decide how much is
 to be paid on (an insurance claim). 6. To correct (the range and direction
 of a gun) in firing. -intr. To adapt oneself; become suited or fit;
 conform. [Obs. Fr. adjuster < OFr. ajoster : Lat. ad, to + Lat. juxta,
 near.]   adjustable adj.   adjustably adv.   adjuster  adjustor n.



 adjustment  n.  1.  a. The act of making fit or conformable. b. The
 condition of being adjusted. 2. A means for adjusting. 3. The settlement of
 a debt or claim. 4. A modification or correction: an adjustment on a bill.




 adjutant  n.  1. A staff officer who helps a commanding officer with
 administrative affairs. 2. An assistant. 3. The marabou. [Lat. adjutans,
 adjutant-, pr.part. of adjutare, freq. of adjuvare, to help : ad-, to +
 juvare, to help.]   adjutancy n.



 adjutant general  n. pl. adjutants general  1. An adjutant of a unit
 having a general staff. 2. An officer in charge of the National Guard of
 one of the states of the United States. 3. Adjutant General. The chief
 administrative officer, a major general, of the U.S. Army.



 adjutant stork  n.  The marabou.



 adjuvant  n.  1. A pharmacological agent added to a drug to increase or
 aid its effect. 2. An immunological agent that increases the antigenic
 response. [Lat. adjuvans, adjuvant-, pr.part. of adjuvare, to help. -see
 aid.]



 Adlerian  adj.  Of or relating to a psychological school holding that
 behavior arises in subconscious efforts to compensate for inferiority or
 deficiency and that neurosis results from overcompensation. [After Alfred
 Adler (1870-1937).]



 ad lib  adv.  In an unrestrained manner; freely; spontaneously. [Short for
 ad libitum.]



 ad-lib  Informal.  v. -libbed -libbing -libs   -tr. To improvise and
 deliver extemporaneously. -intr. To improvise, as a speech; extemporize.
 -n. Words, music, or actions ad-libbed.   -adj. Spoken or performed
 spontaneously.   ad-libber n.



 ad libitum  adj.  Music.  Performed with freedom. Used as a direction.
 [Lat. ad, to + libitum, pleasure.]



 adman  n.  Informal.  A person employed in the advertising business.



 admeasure  tr.v. -ured -uring -ures   To divide and distribute
 proportionally; apportion. [ME amesuren < OFr. amesurer : a, to (< Lat. ad)
 + mesurer, to measure.]   admeasurement n.   admeasurer n.



 Admetus  n.  Greek Mythology.  A king of Thessaly and husband of Alcestis.
 [Lat. < Gk. Admetos.]



 administer  v. -tered -tering -ters   -tr. 1. To have charge of; manage.
 2.  a. To give or apply in a formal way: administer the last rites.  b. To
 apply as a remedy: administer a sedative.  3. To mete out; dispense:
 administer justice.  4. To manage or dispose of (a trust or estate) under a
 will or an official appointment. 5. To impose, offer, or tender (an oath,
 for example). -intr. 1. To manage as an administrator. 2. To minister:
 administering to their every pleasure.  [ME administren < OFr. administrer
 < Lat. administrare : ad, to + ministrare, to manage.]   administrable adj.
   administrant adj. n.



 administrate  tr.v. -trated -trating -trates   To administer.



 administration  n.  1. The management of affairs. 2. The activity of a
 sovereign state in the exercise of its powers or duties. 3. Administration
 The persons collectively who make up the executive branch of a government.
 4. The management of an institution, public or private. 5. The term of
 office of an executive officer or body. 6.  Law. The management and
 disposal of a trust or estate. 7. The dispensing, applying, or tendering of
 something, such as an oath, sacrament, or medicine.   administrative adj.
 administratively adv.



 administrator  n.  1. One who administers, esp. business or public
 affairs; executive. 2. A person appointed to administer an estate.



 admirable  adj.  Deserving admiration; excellent.   admirableness n.
 admirably adv.



 admiral  n.  1. The commander in chief of a navy or fleet. 2. An Admiral
 of the Fleet. 3. In the U.S. Navy, U.S. Coast Guard, and Royal Canadian
 Navy: a. An officer of the next-to-the-highest rank. b. A rear admiral. c.
 A vice admiral. 4. The ship carrying an admiral; flagship. 5.  Chiefly
 British. The head of a fishing fleet. 6. Any of various brightly colored
 butterflies of the genera Limenitis and Vanessa.  [ME amiral < OFr. < Ar.
 'amir al-, commander of.]



 Admiral of the Fleet  n.  The highest rank in the U.S. Navy and Royal
 Canadian Navy, equivalent to General of the Army or field marshal.



 admiralty  n. pl. -ties  1.  a. A court exercising jurisdiction over all
 maritime cases. b. Maritime law. 2. Admiralty. The department of the
 British government (Board of Admiralty) having control over naval affairs.



 admiration  n.  1. A feeling of pleasure, wonder, and approval. 2. An
 object of wonder; marvel. 3.  Archaic. Wonder.



 admire  v. -mired -miring -mires   -tr. 1. To regard with pleasure,
 wonder, and approval. 2. To have a high opinion of; esteem or respect. 3.
 Archaic. To marvel or wonder at. -intr. 1. To feel or express admiration.
 2.  Regional. To feel pleasure; be pleased. [Fr. admirer < OFr. amirer <
 Lat. admirari, to wonder at : ad-, at + mirari, to wonder < mirus,
 wonderful.]   admirer n.   admiringly adv.



 admissible  adj.  1. Capable of being accepted; allowable. 2. Worthy of
 admission.   admissibility  admissibleness n.   admissibly adv.



 admission  n.  1.  a. The act of admitting or allowing to enter. b. The
 state of being allowed to enter. 2. The right to enter; access. 3. The
 price required or paid for entering; entrance fee. 4. The act or process of
 acceptance and entry into a position or situation; appointment. 5. A
 confession of crime or wrongdoing. 6. A voluntary acknowledgment that
 something is true. 7. A fact or statement granted or admitted; concession.
 [ME < Lat. admissio < admittere, to admit.]   admissive adj.

      Usage: Admission  has a more general meaning than admittance,  which
 is used only to denote the obtaining of physical access to a place. To gain
 admittance  to a club is to enter its facilities; to gain admission  to a
 club is to become a member. One pays admission  to a theater (i.e., the
 price of entering) in order to be allowed admittance  (physical entry to
 the theater itself).



 admit  v. -mitted -mitting -mits   -tr. 1. To permit to enter. 2. To serve
 as a means of entrance: A ticket that admits the whole group.  3. To permit
 to join or exercise certain rights, functions, or privileges. 4. To have
 room for; accommodate. 5. To afford opportunity for; permit. 6. To
 acknowledge; confess: admit the truth.  7. To grant as true or valid, as
 for the sake of argument; concede. 8. To accept or allow as true or valid.
 -intr. 1. To afford possibility: a problem admitting of no solution.  2. To
 allow entrance; afford access: a door admitting to the hall.  [ME admitten
 < Lat. admittere : ad, to + mittere, to send.]



 admittance  n.  1. The act of admitting or entering. 2. Permission to
 enter; the power or right of entrance. 3.  Electricity. The reciprocal of
 impedance. -See Usage note at admission



 admittedly  adv.  By general admission; confessedly.



 admix  tr.  -intr.v.-mixed -mixing -mixes   To mix or blend.
 [Back-formation < obs. admixt, mixed into < Lat. admixtus, p.part. of
 admiscere, to mix into : ad, to + miscere, to mix.]



 admixture  n.  1.  a. The act of mingling or mixing. b. The state of being
 mingled or mixed. 2. A combination, mixture, or blend. 3. Something added
 in mixing.



 admonish  tr.v. -ished -ishing -ishes   1. To reprove mildly or kindly but
 seriously. 2. To counsel against something; caution. 3. To point out
 something forgotten or disregarded, by means of a warning, reproof, or
 exhortation. [ME admonishen, alteration of amonesten < OFr. amonester <
 VLat. *admonestare, var. of Lat. admonere : ad, to + monere, to warn.]
 admonisher n.   admonishingly adv.   admonishment n.

      Synonyms: admonish reprove rebuke reprimand reproach These
 verbs refer to adverse criticism intended as a corrective. Admonish
 stresses the act of advising or warning so that a fault may be rectified or
 a danger avoided. Reprove  usually implies gentle criticism and
 constructive intent. Rebuke  refers to sharp, usually angry, criticism, as
 does reprimand , which often also implies an official or otherwise formal
 act. Reproach  usually refers to sharp criticism made regretfully or
 unhappily out of a sense of disappointment.




 admonition  n.  1. Mild or kind reproof. 2. Cautionary advice or warning.
 [ME amonicioun < OFr. amonition < Lat. admonitio < admonere, to admonish.]



 admonitory  adj.  Expressing admonition.



 adnate  adj.  Biology.  Joined to or fused with another part or organ, as
 parts not usually united. [Lat. adnatus, var. of agnatus, connected by
 birth < agnasci, to be born in addition to. -see agnate.]   adnation n.



 ad nauseam  adv.  To the point of nausea; to a disgusting or ridiculous
 degree. [Lat.]



 adnexa  n.  Accessory or subordinate anatomical parts, as ovaries and
 oviducts. [NLat. < Lat. adnexus, annexus, p.part. of annectere, to bind to.
 -see ]   adnexal adj.



 adnoun  n.  Grammar.  An adjective, specifically when used as a noun, as
 in the bold and the brave.    adnominal adj.



 ado  n.  Bustle; fuss; trouble; bother. [ME < the phrase at do : at, to +
 do, to do.]



 adobe  n.  1. A sun-dried, unburned brick of clay and straw. 2. Clay or
 soil from which adobe is made. 3. A structure built with adobe. an adobe
 house.  [Sp. < Ar. attoba < al- toba, the brick : al, the + toba, brick.]



 adolescence  n.  1. The period of physical and psychological development
 from the onset of puberty to maturity. 2. A transitional period of
 development between youth and maturity: the adolescence of a nation.



 adolescent  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or undergoing adolescence.   -n. An
 adolescent boy or girl, esp. a teen-ager. [ME < OFr. < Lat. adolescens,
 pr.part. of adolescere, to grow up : ad, toward + alescere, to grow,
 inchoative of alere, to nourish.]



 Adonai  n.  Lord. Used in Judaism as a spoken substitute for the ineffable
 name of God. [Heb. adonai, my lord < Phoenician adon, lord.]



 Adonis  n.  1.  Greek Mythology. A youth loved by Aphrodite for his
 striking beauty. 2. adonis  A young man of great physical beauty. [Gk.
 Adonis < Phoenician adon, lord.]



 adopt  tr.v. adopted adopting adopts   1. To take into one's family
 through legal means and raise as one's own child. 2. To take and follow (a
 course of action, for example) by choice or assent: adopt a new technique.
 3. To take up and make one's own, as an idea. 4. To take on or assume:
 adopted an air of importance.  5. To vote to accept: adopt a resolution.
 6. To choose as a standard or required textbook or reference book in a
 course. [ME adopten < OFr. adopter < Lat. adoptare : ad, to + optare, to
 choose.]   adoptable adj.   adopter n.   adoption n.

      Usage: One refers to an adopted  child but to adoptive  parents.



 adoptee  n.  One that is adopted.



 adoptive  adj.  1.  a. Tending to adopt. b. Characteristic of adoption. 2.
 Related or acquired by adoption. -See Usage note at adopt.   adoptively
 adv.



 adorable  adj.  1.  Informal. Delightful; lovable; charming. 2.  Archaic.
 Worthy of worship or adoration.   adorability  adorableness n.   adorably
 adv.



 adoration  n.  1. The act of worship. 2. Profound love or regard.



 adore  v. adored adoring adores   -tr. 1. To worship as divine. 2. To love
 deeply; revere. 3.  Informal. To like very much. -intr. To worship. [ME
 adouren < OFr. adourer < Lat. adorare, to pray to : ad, to + orare, to
 pray.]   adorer n.   adoringly adv.



 adorn  tr.v. adorned adorning adorns   1. To be a decoration to; lend
 beauty to. 2. To fit out or decorate with or as if with ornaments. 3. To
 enhance the distinction, beauty, splendor, or glory of; add luster to. [ME
 adournen < OFr. adourner < Lat. adornare : ad, to + ornare, to decorate.]
 adorner n.



 adornment  n.  1. The act of adorning. 2. Something that adorns or
 beautifies; ornament.



 ADP  n.  An ester, C10H15N5O10P2, that is an adenosine derivative formed
 in cells and converted to ATP for the storage of energy.



 ad rem  adj.  Law.  To the point; pertinent. [Lat.]   ad rem adv.



 adrenal  adj.  1. At, near, or on the kidneys. 2. Of or pertaining to the
 adrenal glands or their secretions.   -n. An adrenal gland.   adrenally
 adv.



 adrenal cortex  n.  The three-zoned center of the adrenal glands.



 adrenal gland  n.  Either of two small dissimilarly shaped endocrine
 glands, one located above each kidney, consisting of the cortex, which
 secretes hormones, and the medulla, which secretes epinephrine.



 Adrenalin   A trademark for a preparation of adrenaline.



 adrenaline  n.  A secretion of the adrenal glands; epinephrine.



 adrenergic  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or having chemical activity like that
 of epinephrine, as certain nerve fibers. [adren(aline) + Gk. ergon, work.]



 adrenochrome  n.  A naturally occurring chemical formed during the
 oxidation of adrenaline. [adren(aline) + chrome.]



 adrenocorticotropic or adrenocorticotrophic   adj.  Stimulating or
 otherwise acting upon the cortex of the adrenal gland. [adren(al) +
 cortico- + -tropic.]



 adrenocorticotropic hormone or adrenocorticotroph  or adrenocorticotrophin
   n.  ACTH.



 adrift  adv.  -adj. 1. Drifting or floating freely; not anchored. 2.
 Without direction or purpose.



 adroit  adj.  1. Dexterous; deft. 2. Skillful and adept under pressing
 conditions. [Fr. < a droit : a, to (< Lat. ad) + droit, right < Lat.
 directus. -see direct.]   adroitly adv.   adroitness n.



 adscititious  adj.  Not inherent or essential; derived from something
 outside. [< Lat. ascitus, assumed, p.part. of asciscere, to assume : ad, to
 + sciscere, to accept, inchoative of scire, to know.]



 adsorb  tr.v. -sorbed -sorbing -sorbs   To take up by adsorption. [ad- +
 Lat. sorbere, to suck.]



 adsorbate  n.  An adsorbed substance.



 adsorbent  adj.  Capable of adsorption.   -n. An adsorptive material, such
 as activated carbon.



 adsorption  n.  The assimilation of gas, vapor, or dissolved matter by the
 surface of a solid or liquid. [adsorb + -tion.]   adsorptive adj.



 adularia  n.  A variety of orthoclase. [Ital. < Fr. adulaire, after Adula,
 a group of Swiss mountains.]



 adulate  tr.v. -lated -lating -lates   To praise excessively or fawningly.
 [Back-formation < adulation.]   adulator n.   adulatory adj.



 adulation  n.  Excessive praise or flattery. [ME adulacioun < OFr. < Lat.
 adulatio < adulari, to flatter.]



 adult  n.  1. One who has attained maturity or legal age. 2. A fully
 grown, mature organism.   -adj. 1. Fully developed and mature. 2.
 Pertaining to, befitting, or intended for mature persons: adult education.
 3.  a. Restricted to adults: adult movies.  b. Relating to or dealing with
 explicitly sexual or pornographic themes. [Lat. adultus, p.part. of
 adolescere, to grow up. -see adolescent.]   adulthood n.



 adulterant  n.  A substance that adulterates.   -adj. Adulterating.



 adulterate  tr.v. -ated -ating -ates   To make impure, spurious, or
 inferior by adding extraneous or improper ingredients.   -adj.  1.
 Spurious; adulterated. 2. Adulterous. [Lat. adulterare, adulterat-, to
 pollute.]   adulteration n.   adulterator n.



 adulterer  n.  A man who commits adultery.



 adulteress  n.  A woman who commits adultery.



 adulterine  adj.  1. Characterized by adulteration; spurious. 2.
 Unauthorized by law; illegal. 3. Born of adultery: adulterine offspring.
 [Lat. adulterinus < adulter, adulterer < adulterare, to adulterate.]



 adulterous  adj.  Relating to, inclined to, or marked by adultery.
 adulterously adv.



 adultery  n. pl. -ries  Voluntary sexual intercourse between a married
 person and a partner other than the lawful spouse. [ME < OFr. avouterie <
 Lat. adulterium < adulter, adulterer < adulterare, to adulterate.]



 adumbrate  tr.v. -brated -brating -brates   1. To give a sketchy outline
 of. 2. To prefigure indistinctly; foreshadow. 3. To disclose partially or
 guardedly. [Lat. adumbrare, adumbrat-, to overshadow : ad, to + umbra,
 shadow.]   adumbration n.   adumbrative adj.   adumbratively adv.



 adust  adj.  1. Burned; scorched. 2. Melancholy; gloomy. [ME < Lat.
 adustus, p.part. of adurere, to set fire to : ad, to + urere, to burn.]



 ad valorem  adj.  In proportion to the value: ad valorem duties on
 imported goods.  [Lat.]



 advance  v. -vanced -vancing -vances   -tr. 1. To move or cause to move
 forward. 2. To put forward; propose; suggest. 3. To aid the growth or
 progress of; further. 4. To raise in rank; promote. 5. To cause to occur
 sooner; hasten. 6. To raise in amount or rate; increase. 7. To pay (money
 or interest) before legally due. 8. To supply or lend, esp. on credit.
 -intr. 1. To go or move forward or onward. 2. To make progress; improve. 3.
 To rise in rank, position, or value. Phrasal verb.  advance on upon . To
 move against, as when attacking.   -n. 1. The act or process of moving or
 going forward. 2. Improvement; progress. 3. A rise or increase of price or
 value. 4. advances  Personal approaches made to secure acquaintance, favor,
 or an agreement; overtures. 5.  a. The furnishing of funds or goods on
 credit. b. The funds or goods so furnished; loan. 6. Payment of money
 before legally or normally due.   -adj. 1. Made or given ahead of time;
 prior. 2. Going before; in front; forward.

       Idiom Section:  in advance. 1. In front. 2. Ahead of time;
 beforehand. [ME avauncen < OFr. avauncer < VLat. *abantiare < Lat. abante,
 from before : ab, from + ante, before.]   advancer n.

      Synonyms: advance progress promote forward further These verbs
 all refer to movement forward or upward, literally or figuratively; they
 vary widely in application, however. Advance  alone is both transitive and
 intransitive. Intransitively it applies to forward movement (literal) and
 to enlargement of scope or importance, rise in status, or the like
 (figurative). Progress , which is only intransitive, also has both these
 senses, and differs principally in stressing the idea of steady and orderly
 movement toward a goal. Transitively, advance  alone applies to forward
 movement with reference to time (advance a deadline, advance money)  and to
 causing to rise in value (advance prices). Advance  and promote  are
 generally interchangeable when they mean to raise a person in rank or
 grade. Advance ,Advance, promote, forward,  and further  all have the
 transitive sense of making something (such as a cause, a career, or a
 business venture) go forward, figuratively, by providing assistance.
 Advance  and forward  are nonspecific in this sense; promote  and further
 stress active support and encouragement. Forward  alone has the transitive
 sense of sending something onward or ahead, especially mail.


      Usage: Advance,  as a noun, is used for forward movement (the advance
 of the army ) or for progress or improvement in a figurative sense.
 Advancement  is used mainly in the figurative sense: career advancement.
 In the figurative sense, moreover, there is a distinction between the two
 terms deriving from the transitive and intransitive forms of the verb
 advance.  The noun advancement  (unlike advance ) often implies the
 existence of an agent or outside force. Thus, the advance of science  means
 simply the progress of science, whereas the advancement of science  implies
 progress resulting from the action of an agent or force: The purpose of the
 legislation was the advancement of science.



 advanced  adj.  1. Highly developed or complex. 2. At a higher level than
 others. 3. Ahead of the times; progressive. 4.  a. Far along in course: an
 advanced stage of illness.  b. Very old: a man of advanced age.



 advanced degree  n.  A university degree higher than a bachelor's.



 advanced standing  n.  The status of a college student granted credit,
 usually after passing a qualifying test, for courses omitted or taken
 elsewhere.



 advance guard  n.  A detachment of troops sent ahead of the main force to
 reconnoiter and provide protection.



 advance man  n.  1. An agent, as for a performing troupe, who makes
 business and publicity arrangements in advance. 2. An assistant, as to a
 political candidate, who makes publicity arrangements and security checks
 in advance.



 advancement  n.  1. The act of advancing. 2. A forward step; improvement.
 3. Development; progress: the advancement of knowledge.  4. A promotion, as
 in rank. -See Usage note at advance.



 advantage  n.  1. A factor favorable or conducive to success. 2. Benefit
 or profit; gain. 3. A relatively favorable position; superiority of means.
 4.  a. The first point scored in tennis after deuce. b. The resulting
 score.   -tr.v. -taged -taging -tages  To afford profit or gain to;
 benefit.

       Idiom Section:  take advantage of. 1. To put to good use; avail
 oneself of. 2. To profit selfishly by; exploit. to advantage. . To good
 effect; profitably; favorably. [ME avauntage < OFr. < avant, before < Lat.
 abante, from before. -see advance.]



 advantageous  adj.  Affording benefit or gain; useful.   advantageously
 adv.   advantageousness n.



 advect  tr.v. -vected -vecting -vects   1. To convey horizontally by
 advection. 2. To transport (a substance) by advection. [Back-formation <
 advection.]



 advection  n.  A local change in a property of a system, as of atmospheric
 temperature, caused by motion of the fluid in a gradient of the property.
 [Lat. advectio, conveyance < advehere, to carry to : ad, to + vehere, to
 carry.]



 advent  n.  1. The coming or arrival, esp. of something momentous: the
 advent of the computer.  2. Advent   a. The birth or coming of Christ. b.
 The period including four Sundays before Christmas. [ME, the Advent season
 < OFr. < Lat. adventus, arrival < advenire, to come to : ad, to + venire,
 to come.]



 Adventist  n.  A member of any of several Christian denominations that
 believe Christ's second coming and the end of the world are near at hand.
 Adventism n.



 adventitia  n.  The outermost covering of an organ, as a blood vessel.
 [NLat. < Lat. adventicius, foreign. -see adventitious.]



 adventitious  adj.  1. Acquired by accident; added by chance. 2.  Biology.
 Appearing in an unusual place or in an irregular or sporadic manner:
 adventitious shoots.  [Lat. adventicious, foreign < adventus, arrival. -see
 advent.]   adventitiously adv.   adventitiousness n.



 adventive  Biology.  adj.  Not native to and not fully established in a
 new habitat or environment; locally or temporarily naturalized: an
 adventive weed.    -n. An adventive organism. [< Lat. adventus, arrival.
 -see advent.]   adventively adv.



 Advent Sunday  n.  The first Sunday of Advent.



 adventure  n.  1. An undertaking or enterprise of a hazardous nature. 2.
 An unusual experience or course of events marked by excitement and
 suspense. 3. Participation in hazardous or exciting experiences. 4. A
 financial speculation or business venture.   -v.-tured -turing -tures
 -tr. To venture; risk; dare. -intr. To take risks; engage in hazardous
 activities. [ME aventure < OFr. < Lat. adventurus, fut. part. of advenire,
 to arrive. -see advent.]   adventuresome adj.



 adventurer  n.  1. One who adventures. 2. A soldier of fortune. 3. A heavy
 speculator in business or trade. 4. One who seeks wealth and social
 position by unscrupulous means.



 adventuress  n.  A woman who seeks social and financial advancement by
 unscrupulous means.



 adventurous  adj.  1. Inclined to undertake new and daring enterprises;
 bold. 2. Hazardous; risky.   adventurously adv.   adventurousness n.



 adverb  n.  Grammar.  1. A part of speech comprising a class of words that
 modify a verb, adjective, or other adverb. 2. A word belonging to this
 class, as rapidly in He runs rapidly.  [ME adverbe < OFr. < Lat. adverbium
 : ad, to + verbum, word.]



 adverbial  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or used as an adverb.   adverbially
 adv.



 ad verbum  adv.  Word for word; verbatim. [Lat.]



 adversary  n. pl. -ies  An opponent; enemy. [ME adversarie < Lat.
 adversarius, enemy < adversus, against. -see adverse.]



 adversative  adj.  Expressing antithesis or opposition: the adversative
 conjunction but.    -n. An adversative word. [Lat. adversativus <
 adversari, to oppose < adversus, against. -see adverse.]   adversatively
 adv.



 adverse  adj.  1. Antagonistic in design or effect; opposed: adverse
 criticism.  2. Contrary to one's interests or welfare; unpropitious:
 adverse circumstances.  3. In an opposite or opposing direction or
 position. 4.  Botany. Facing the axis or main stem. -See Usage note at
 averse. [ME < OFr. advers < Lat. adversus, p.part. of advertere, to turn
 toward : ad-, toward + vertere, to turn.]   adversely adv.   adverseness n.




 adversity  n. pl. -ties  1. A state of hardship or affliction; misfortune.
 2. A calamitous event.



 advert
 advert(1)  intr.v. -verted -verting -verts   To call attention; refer:
 advert to a problem.  [ME adverten < OFr. avertir, to notice < Lat.
 advertere, to turn toward. -see adverse.]
 advert(2)   n.  Chiefly British.  An advertisement.



 advertise  v. -tised -tising -tises   -tr. 1. To make public announcement
 of, esp. to proclaim the qualities or advantages of (a product or business)
 so as to increase sales. 2. To make known; call attention to: advertised
 her disappointment.  3.  Archaic. To warn or notify:  This event advertises
 me that there is such a fact as death (Thoreau). -intr. 1. To call the
 attention of the public to a product or business. 2. To inquire or seek in
 a public notice, as in a newspaper: advertise for an apartment.  [ME
 advertisen, to notify < OFr. avertir, avertiss-, to notice. -see advert.]
 advertiser n.



 advertisement  n.  A notice designed to attract public attention or
 patronage.



 advertising  n.  1. The action of attracting public attention to a product
 or business. 2. The business of preparing and distributing advertisements.
 3. Printed or spoken advertisements collectively.



 advice  n.  1. Opinion about what could or should be done about a problem;
 counsel. 2. advices  Information or report, esp. when communicated from a
 distance: advices from an ambassador.  [ME avis < OFr., view < Med. Lat.
 advisus : Lat. ad-, to + visum, something seen < videre, to see.]



 advisable  adj.  Worthy of being recommended or suggested; prudent.
 advisability  advisableness n.   advisably adv.



 advise  v. -vised -vising -vises   -tr. 1. To offer advice to; counsel. 2.
 To recommend; suggest. 3. To inform; notify: advise a person of a decision.
  -intr. 1. To consult; take counsel: advised with her associates.  2. To
 offer advice. [ME avisen < OFr. aviser < avis, view. -see advice.]

      Usage: Advise  in the sense of "to inform" or "to notify" is
 acceptable to a majority of the Usage Panel, though many members would
 restrict this usage to business correspondence.



 advised  adj.  1. Considered; thought out: well-advised; ill-advised.  2.
 Informed: be kept advised.



 advisedly  adv.  With careful consideration; deliberately.



 advisee  n.  One that is advised.



 advisement  n.  Careful consideration.



 adviser or advisor   n.  1. One who advises. 2. A person who offers
 advice, esp. in an official or professional capacity. 3. A teacher who
 advises students in academic and personal matters.



 advisory  adj.  1. Empowered to advise: a student advisory committee.  2.
 Of, pertaining to, or containing advice: an advisory memorandum.    -n.pl.
 -ries  A report giving information and esp. a warning: a weather advisory.




 advocacy  n.  Active support, as of a cause, idea, or policy.



 advocate  tr.v. -cated -cating -cates   To speak in favor of; recommend.
 -n.  1. A person who argues for a cause; supporter or defender. 2. A person
 who pleads in another's behalf; intercessor. [< ME advocat, lawyer < OFr.
 avocat < Lat. advocatus, p.part. of advocare, to summon for counsel : ad-,
 to + vocare, to call.]   advocator n.



 advowson  n.  In English ecclesiastical law, the right to present a vacant
 benefice. [ME avouson < OFr. avoeson < Med. Lat. advocatia < Lat.
 advocatio, a summoning < advocare, to summon. -see advocate.]



 adytum  n. pl. -ta  The sanctum in an ancient temple. [Lat. < Gk. aduton <
 adutos, not to be entered : a-, not + duein, to enter.]



 adz or adze   n.  An axlike tool with a curved blade at right angles to
 the handle, used for dressing wood. [ME adese < OE adesa.]



 adzuki bean  n.  A plant, Phaseolus angularis, having yellow flowers and
 pods bearing edible seeds, widely cultivated as a food crop in the Orient.
 [J. azuki, red bean.]



 aeciospore  n.  A rust spore, formed in a chainlike series in an aecium.
 [aeci(um) + spore.]



 aecium  n. pl. -cia  A cuplike structure in rust fungi containing chains
 of aeciospores. [NLat. < Gk. aikia, injury < aeikes, injurious.]   aecial
 adj.



 aedes  n. pl. aedes  A mosquito of the genus Aedes, such as A. aegypti,
 that transmits yellow fever and dengue. [NLat. Aedes, genus name < Gk.
 aedes, unpleasant : a-, not + edos, pleasant.]



 aedile  n.  In ancient Rome, a magistrate who had charge of public works,
 police, and the grain supply. [Lat. aedilis < aedes, house.]



 Aegean  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or designating the prehistoric
 civilization that flourished in the Aegean area in the Bronze Age.



 Aegeus  n.  Greek Mythology.  A king of Athens and the father of Theseus.
 [Lat. < Gk. Aigeus.]



 Aegir  n.  The god of the sea in Norse mythology. [ON.]



 aegis  n.  1.  Greek Mythology. The shield of Zeus, lent by him to Athena.
 2. Protection. 3. Sponsorship; patronage. [Lat. < Gk. aigis.]



 Aegisthus  n.  Greek Mythology.  The son of Thyestes and lover of
 Clytemnestra. [Lat. < Gk. Aigisthos.]



 -aemia   Variant of -emia.



 Aeneas  n.  The Trojan hero of Virgil's Aeneid, son of Anchises and
 Aphrodite, who escaped the sack of Troy and wandered for seven years before
 settling in Italy. [Lat. < Gk. Aineias.]



 aeneous or aeneus   adj.  Having a brassy or golden-green color. [Lat.
 aeneus, of bronze < aes, bronze.]



 Aeolian  adj.  1. Of or pertaining to Aeolis or its people. 2. Of or
 pertaining to Aeolus, god of the winds. 3. aeolian. Variant of eolian.
 -n. 1. A member of one of the major Greek tribes that settled in central
 Greece, Lesbos, and Aeolis. 2. Aeolic.



 Aeolian harp  n.  A musical instrument consisting of an open box over
 which are stretched strings that sound when wind passes over them.



 Aeolic  n.  A group of dialects of ancient Greek spoken by the Aeolians.



 aeolipile  n.  An ancient prototypal steam engine consisting of a
 spherical or cylindrical vessel fitted with circumferential exhaust jets
 and mounted to permit free rotation about the steam inlet axis. [< Lat.
 Aeoli pylae, gates of Aeolus : Aeolus, Aeolus + pylae, gates < Gk. pule,
 gate.]



 Aeolus  n.  Greek Mythology.  1. The god of the winds. 2. A king of
 Thessaly and ancestor of the Aeolians. [Lat. < Gk. Aiolos < aiolos,
 nimble.]



 aeon  n.  Variant of eon.



 aeonian  adj.  Variant of eonian.



 aepyornis  n.  Any of an extinct genus of large, flightless birds of
 Madagascar. [NLat. Aepyornis, genus name : Gk. aipys, high + Gk. ornis,
 bird.]



 aequorin  n.  A protein that is secreted by jellyfish and interacts with
 seawater to produce bioluminescent light. [NLat. Aequorea, jellyfish genus
 + -in.]



 aer-   Variant of aero-.



 aerate  tr.v. -ated -ating -ates   1. To supply or charge (liquid) with a
 gas, esp. to charge with carbon dioxide. 2. To expose to the circulation of
 air for purification. 3. To supply (blood) with oxygen.



 aerator  n.  1. One that aerates. 2. A device for aerating liquids.



 aerial  adj.  1. Of, in, or caused by the air. 2. Living in the air. 3.
 Reaching high into the air; lofty. 4. Suggestive of air, as in lightness;
 airy. 5. Unsubstantial; imaginary. 6. Of, for, or by aircraft. 7.  Botany.
 Borne in the air rather than underground or under water: aerial roots.
 -n.  An antenna. [< Lat. aerius < Gk. aerios < aer, air.]



 aerialist  n.  An acrobat who performs on a tightrope, trapeze, or similar
 apparatus.



 aerial ladder  n.  A ladder that can be extended to reach high places,
 esp. one mounted on a fire engine.



 aerie or aery   n. pl. -ies  1. The nest of an eagle or other predatory
 bird built on a crag or other high place. 2. A house or stronghold built on
 a height. [Med. Lat. aeria < OFr. aire.]



 aero- or aer-    1.  a. Air; atmosphere: aeroballistics.  b. Gas: aerosol.
  2. Aviation: aeronautics.  [ME < OFr. < Lat. < Gk. < aer, air.]



 aeroballistics  n.(usedwithasing.verb).  Ballistics, esp. of missiles, in
 the atmosphere.   aeroballistic adj.



 aerobatics  n.  The performance of stunts, such as rolls and loops, with
 an airplane or glider. [aero- + (acro)batics.]



 aerobe  n.  An organism, such as a bacterium, requiring molecular oxygen
 or air to live. [Fr. aerobie : Gk. aer, air + Gk. bios, life.]



 aerobic  adj.  1. Living or occurring only in the presence of oxygen. 2.
 Of or relating to aerobics. 3. Of or relating to aerobes.



 aerobics  n.  A system of physical conditioning that involves vigorous
 exercise, as calisthenics, combined with dance routines. [< aerobic.]



 aerobiology  n.  The branch of biology dealing with the atmospheric
 dispersion of materials of biologic significance, as pollen or
 microorganisms.   aerobiological adj.   aerobiologically adv.



 aerobium  n.  An aerobe. [NLat. < aerobe.]



 aerodrome  n.  Chiefly British.  Variant of airdrome.



 aerodynamics  n.  The dynamics of gases, esp. of atmospheric interactions
 with moving objects.   aerodynamic adj.



 aerodyne  n.  A heavier-than-air aircraft deriving lift from motion.
 [aero- + Gk. dunamis, power < dunasthai, to be able.]



 aeroembolism  n.  1. The presence of air bubbles in the heart or blood
 vessels, often resulting from a wound in one of the large veins of the
 neck. 2. Caisson disease.



 aerofoil  n.  Chiefly British.  Variant of airfoil.



 aerogram or aerogramme   n.  An air-mail letter written on a standard
 lightweight form that folds into the shape of an envelope and can be sent
 at a low postage rate.



 aerolite or aerolith   n.  A chiefly silicious meteorite.   aerolitic adj.




 aerology  n.  Total atmospheric meteorology as opposed to surface-based
 study.   aerologic aerological  adj.   aerologist n.



 aeromagnetics  n.  The science of magnetic characteristics associated with
 atmospheric conditions.   aeromagnetic adj.   aeromagnetically adv.



 aeromechanics  n.  The science of the motion and equilibrium of air and
 other gases, comprising aerodynamics and aerostatics.   aeromechanical adj.
   aeromechanically adv.



 aeromedicine  n.  The medical study and treatment of disturbances,
 disorders, and diseases resulting from or associated with atmospheric
 flight.   aeromedical adj.



 aerometeorograph  n.  An aircraft instrument for simultaneously recording
 temperature, atmospheric pressure, and humidity.



 aerometer  n.  A device for determining the weight and density of air or
 other gas.



 aeronaut  n.  A pilot or navigator of a balloon or lighter-than-air craft.
 [aero- + Gk. nautes, sailor.]



 aeronautic or aeronautical   adj.  Of or pertaining to aeronautics.
 aeronautically adv.



 aeronautics  n.  1. The design and construction of aircraft. 2. The theory
 and practice of aircraft navigation.



 aeroneurosis  n.  A nervous exhaustion from prolonged piloting of
 aircraft.



 aeronomy  n.  The study of the upper atmosphere, esp. of regions of
 ionized gas.



 aeropause  n.  The region of the atmosphere above which aircraft cannot
 fly.



 aerophagia  n.  The abnormal, spasmodic swallowing of air, esp. as a
 symptom of hysteria.



 aerophobia  n.  The abnormal fear of air, esp. drafts.



 aerophore  n.  A device to supply air to a nonbreathing infant, or to a
 person in an anaerobic environment, such as a closed mine or an underwater
 area.



 aerophyte  n.  Botany.  An epiphyte.



 aeroplane  n.  Chiefly British.  Variant of airplane.



 aeroshell  n.  A protective, all-covering shell for a spacecraft entering
 an atmosphere from space at high speeds.



 aerosol  n.  1. A gaseous suspension of fine solid or liquid particles. 2.
  a. A substance, such as a detergent, insecticide, or paint, packaged under
 pressure with a gaseous propellant for release as an aerosol. b. An aerosol
 bomb. [aero- + sol(ution).]



 aerosol bomb  n.  A usually hand-held container or dispenser from which an
 aerosol is released.



 aerospace  adj.  1. Of or designating the earth's atmosphere and the space
 beyond. 2. Of or pertaining to the science or technology of flight.
 aerospace n.



 aerosphere  n.  The lower portion of the atmosphere in which both unmanned
 and manned flight is possible.



 aerostat  n.  An aircraft, esp. a balloon or dirigible, deriving its lift
 from the buoyancy of surrounding air rather than from aerodynamic motion.
 [Fr. aerostat : Gk. aer, air + Gk. statos, standing.]   aerostatic
 aerostatical adj.



 aerostatics  n.  The science of gases in equilibrium and of the
 equilibrium of balloons or aircraft under changing atmospheric flight
 conditions.



 aerothermodynamics  n.  The study of the thermodynamics of gases, esp. at
 high relative velocities.



 aery
 aery(1)  adj. -ier -iest   Ethereal.
 aery(2)   n.  Variant of aerie.



 Aesculapian  adj.  Of or pertaining to the healing art; medical. [After
 Aesculapius.]



 Aesculapius  n.  Roman Mythology.  The god of medicine and healing. [Lat.
 < Gk. Asklepios.]



 Aesir  pl.n.  The gods of Norse mythology. [ON, pl. of ass, god.]



 Aesopian or Aesopic   adj.  1. In the manner of Aesop's animal fables. 2.
 Veiled in allegorical suggestions, hints, and euphemisms so as to elude
 political censorship:  they could express their views only in a diluted
 form, resorting to Aesopian hints and allusions (Isaac Deutscher).



 aesthesia or esthesia   n.  The ability to feel or perceive.
 [Back-formation < anesthesia.]



 aesthete or esthete   n.  1. One who cultivates a superior appreciation of
 the beautiful. 2. A person whose pursuit and admiration of beauty is
 thought to be excessive or affected. [Back-formation < aesthetic.]



 aesthetic or esthetic   adj.  1. Of or pertaining to the criticism of
 taste. 2.  a. Of or pertaining to the sense of the beautiful: the aesthetic
 faculties.  b. Artistic: an aesthetic success.  3.  a. Having a love of
 beauty. b.  Informal. In accordance with accepted notions of good taste.
 [G. asthetisch < NLat. aestheticus < Gk. aisthetikos, of sense perception <
 aistheta, perceptible things < aisthenasthai, to perceive.]   aesthetically
 adv.



 aesthetician or esthetician   n.  A critic concerned with the theory of
 beauty and the fine arts.



 aestheticism or estheticism   n.  1. The pursuit of the beautiful; the
 cult of beauty and good taste. 2.  a. The belief that beauty is the basic
 principle from which all other principles are derived. b. A doctrine
 whereby art and artists are held to have no obligation or responsibility
 other than that of striving for beauty.



 aesthetics or esthetics   n.  1. The branch of philosophy that provides a
 theory of the beautiful and of the fine arts. 2. The theories and
 descriptions of the psychological response to beauty and artistic
 experiences. 3. In the philosophy of Kant, the branch of metaphysics
 concerned with the laws of perception.



 aestival  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or appearing in summer. [ME estival <
 OFr. < Lat. aestivalis < aestivus < aestas, summer.]



 aestivate  intr.v. -vated -vating -vates   1.  Zoology. To pass the
 summer, esp. in a state of dormancy. 2. To spend the summer. [Lat.
 aestivare < aestivus, summery. -see aestival.]



 aestivation  n.  1. The act of spending or passing the summer. 2.
 Zoology. A state of dormancy or torpor during the summer or periods of
 drought. 3.  Botany. The arrangement of petals, sepals, and other floral
 organs in the unopened bud.



 Aether  n.  Gk. Myth. The poetic personification of the clear upper air
 breathed by the Olympians. [Lat. < Gk. aither, upper air.]



 aetiology  n.  Variant of etiology.



 af-   Variant of ad-. Used before f.



 afar  adv.  1. From a distance: coming from afar.  2. At or to a distance;
 far away: saw it afar off.  [ME afer < on fer, far and of fer, from afar <
 OE feor, far.]



 afeard or afeared   adj.  Regional.  Archaic.  Afraid; frightened. [ME
 afered < OE afaered, p.part. of afaeran, to frighten : a- (intensive) +
 faeran, to frighten < faer, fear.]



 afebrile  adj.  Having no fever.



 affable  adj.  1. Easy to speak to; amiable. 2. Mild; gentle; benign.
 [OFr. < Lat. affabilis < affari, to speak to : ad-, to + fari, to speak.]
 affability n.   affably adv.



 affair  n.  1. Something done or to be done; business. 2. affairs
 Transactions and other business matters: a man of affairs.  3.  a. An
 occurrence, event, or matter. b. An object or contrivance: a first car that
 was a ramshackle affair.  c. affairs  Personal effects. 4. A private
 matter; personal concern. 5. A matter causing scandal and controversy: the
 Dreyfus affair.  6. A love affair, esp. a brief one; liaison. [ME afere <
 OFr. afaire < a faire, to do.]



 affect
 affect(1)  tr.v. -fected -fecting -fects   1. To have an influence on;
 bring about a change in. 2. To touch or move the emotions of. 3. To attack
 or infect, as a disease.   -n.  1.  Psychology.  a. A feeling or emotion as
 distinguished from cognition, thought, or action. b. A strong feeling
 having active consequences. 2.  Obsolete. A disposition, feeling, or
 tendency. [Lat. afficere, affect- : ad-, to + facere, to do.]   affectless
 adj.

      Synonyms: affect influence impress touch move
 strike These verbs can all mean to produce a mental or emotional effect. To
 affect  is to change a person's emotions in some usually specified way.
 Influence  implies a degree of control over the thinking and actions, as
 well as the emotions, of another. To impress  is to produce a marked,
 usually favorable, effect on the mind. Touch  usually means to arouse a
 brief sense of pathos, whereas move  suggests profound emotional effect
 capable of inciting action. Strike  implies instantaneous mental response
 to a stimulus such as a sight or an idea.


      Usage: Affect1  and effect  have no senses in common. As a verb,
 affect1  is most commonly used in the sense of "to influence" (how smoking
 affects health ). Effect  means "to bring about or execute": layoffs
 designed to effect savings.
 affect(2)  tr.v. -fected -fecting -fects   1. To simulate or imitate in
 order to make some desired impression; assume; feign. 2.  a. To display a
 preference for. b.  Archaic. To fancy; love. c. To tend to by nature; tend
 to assume: affect crystalline form.  3. To imitate; copy:  Spenser, in
 affecting the ancients, writ no language (Jonson). [ME affecten < Lat.
 affectare, to strive after, freq. of afficere, to affect, influence.]
 affecter n.



 affectation  n.  1. A show, pretense, or display. 2. An artificial
 behavior or mannerism adopted to impress others; affectedness. [Lat.
 affectatio < affectare,  to strive after. -see affect2.]

      Synonyms: affectation pose air  (and airs) mannerism These
 nouns refer largely to personal attributes acquired as adornments to human
 character. An affectation  is a little habit of speech or dress that the
 wearer has borrowed from his ideal, hoping to pass it off as genuinely his
 own. Pose  denotes an attitude adopted with the aim of calling favorable
 attention to oneself. Air , meaning a distinctive but intangible quality,
 does not usually imply sham: air of authority; air of a professor.  In the
 plural, however, it suggests affectation and snobbishness: put on airs.
 Mannerism  denotes a peculiar trait or quirk that others find obtrusive and
 distracting.




 affected
 affected(1)  adj.  1. Acted upon, influenced, or changed. 2. Emotionally
 stirred or moved. 3. Infected or attacked, as by disease.
 affected(2)  adj.  1. Assumed or simulated to impress others. 2. Speaking
 or behaving in an artificial way to make a particular impression. 3.
 Disposed or inclined.   affectedly adv.   affectedness n.



 affecting
 affecting(1)  adj.  Evoking a usually strong emotional response; moving: an
 affecting spectacle.    affectingly adv.
 affecting(2)  adj.  Obsolete.  1. Displaying love. 2. Feigning or
 pretending:  I never heard such a drawling, affecting rogue (Shakespeare).




 affection  n.  1. A fond or tender feeling toward another. 2. affections
 Feeling or emotion: an unbalanced state of affections.  3. Any pathological
 condition of the mind or body. 4. The act of influencing, affecting, or
 acting upon. 5. The state of being influenced or acted upon. 6. An
 attribute. 7. Mental disposition or tendency. [ME affeccioun < OFr.
 affection < Lat. affectio < afficere, to affect, influence.]   affectional
 adj.   affectionally adv.



 affectionate  adj.  1. Having or showing fond feelings or affection;
 loving; tender. 2.  Obsolete. Strongly or favorably disposed.
 affectionately adv.   affectionateness n.



 affective  adj.  1.  Psychology. Pertaining to or resulting from emotions
 or feelings rather than from thought. 2. Pertaining to or arousing
 affection or emotion; emotional.



 affenpinscher  n.  Any of a breed of small dogs of European origin, having
 dark, wiry, shaggy hair and a tufted muzzle. [G. Affe, monkey + Pinscher,
 terrier.]



 afferent  adj.  Directed toward a central organ or section, as nerves that
 conduct impulses from the periphery of the body inward to the spinal cord.
 [Lat. afferens, afferent-, pr.part. of afferre, to bring toward : ad-,
 toward + ferre, to bring.]



 affiance  tr.v. -anced -ancing -ances   To bind in a pledge of marriage;
 betroth. [OFr. afiancer < affier, to trust to < Med. Lat. affidare : Lat.
 ad-, to + Lat. fidus, faithful.]



 affiant  n.  Law.  One who makes an affidavit. [OFr. pr.part. of affier,
 to trust to. -see affiance.]



 affidavit  n.  Law.  A written declaration made under oath before a notary
 public or other authorized officer. [Med. Lat. affidavit, he has pledged <
 affidare, to pledge. -see affiance.]



 affiliate  v. -ated -ating -ates   -tr. 1. To adopt or accept as a
 subordinate associate. 2. To associate (oneself) as a subordinate,
 subsidiary, or member with. 3. To admit as one's own child; adopt. 4.  Law.
  a. To determine the paternity of (an illegitimate child). b. To refer an
 illegitimate child to (its father). -intr. To associate or connect oneself:
 a group that decided to affiliate.    -n. A person or organization
 associated with another in subordinate relationship. [Med. Lat. affiliare,
 affiliat-, to adopt : ad-, to + filius, son.]   affiliation n.



 affine  adj.  1. Of or pertaining to a mathematical transformation of
 coordinates that is equivalent to a translation, contraction, or expansion
 with respect to a fixed origin and fixed coordinate system. 2. Of or
 pertaining to the geometry of affine transformations. [OFr. affin, closely
 related. -see affined.]



 affined  adj.  Archaic.  1. Joined by kinship or affinity. 2. Beholden;
 bound. [Fr. affine < OFr. affin, closely related < Lat. affinis, related by
 marriage : ad-, to + finis, boundary.]



 affinity  n. pl. -ties  1. A natural personal attraction. 2. Relationship
 by marriage. 3. An inherent similarity between things. 4. A relationship or
 resemblance between biological species that implies a common origin. 5. A
 chemical attraction or force that causes the atoms of certain elements to
 combine with atoms of another element and remain in the combined state. [ME
 affinite < OFr. afinite < Lat. affinitas < affinis, related by marriage.
 -see affined.]

      Usage: Affinity  may be followed by of, between,  or with.  Thus,
 affinity of  persons, between  two persons, or with  another person. In
 technical writing, affinity  (meaning "a chemical or physical attraction")
 is followed by for: a dye with an affinity for synthetic fabrics.  In
 general usage affinity  retains some sense of a mutual relationship, and
 therefore its use with for  is less widely accepted. A majority of the
 Usage Panel accept this example: Even in school he showed an affinity for
 politics.  But a large majority reject this example: Her affinity for
 living in California led her to reject a chance to return to New York.



 affirm  v. -firmed -firming -firms   -tr. 1. To declare positively or
 firmly; maintain to be true. 2. To ratify or confirm. -intr. Law.  To
 declare solemnly and formally but not under oath. [ME affermen < OFr.
 afermer < Lat. affirmare : ad-, to + firmare, to strengthen < firmus,
 strong.]   affirmable adj.   affirmably adv.   affirmant adj. n.
 affirmation n.   affirmer n.



 affirmative  adj.  1. Affirming or asserting that something is true or
 factual. 2.  Logic. Denoting a proposition in which the predicate states
 something about the subject to be true, as apples have seeds.    -n. 1. An
 affirmative word or phrase. 2. The side in a debate that upholds a
 proposition.   affirmatively adv.

      Usage: The expressions in the affirmative  and in the negative,  as in
 she answered in the affirmative,  are generally regarded as pompous. She
 answered yes  would be more acceptable even at the most formal levels of
 style.



 affirmative action  n.  Action taken to provide equal opportunity, as in
 admissions or employment, for minority groups and women.



 affix  tr.v. -fixed -fixing -fixes   1. To secure (an object) to another;
 attach: affix a label to a package.  2. To impute; attribute: affix blame
 to him.  3. To place at the end; append: affix a postscript.    -n.  1.
 Something that is attached, joined, or added. 2. A word element, such as a
 prefix or suffix, that can only occur attached to a base, stem, or root.
 [Med. Lat. affiare, freq. of Lat. affigere : ad-, to + figere, to fasten.]
  affixable adj.   affixer n.



 afflatus  n.  A creative impulse; inspiration. [Lat., p.part. of afflare,
 to breathe on : ad-, toward + flare, to blow.]



 afflict  tr.v. -flicted -flicting -flicts   To inflict physical or mental
 suffering upon; cause grievous distress to:  The second pain which will
 afflict the souls of the damned in hell is the pain of conscience (Joyce).
 [ME afflighten < Lat. affligere, to cast down : ad-, to + fligere, to
 strike.]   afflicter n.   afflictive adj.   afflictively adv.



 affliction  n.  1. A condition of pain, suffering, or distress. 2. A cause
 of pain, suffering, or distress.



 affluence  n.  1. A plentiful supply of material goods; wealth; riches. 2.
 A plentiful supply; abundance. 3. A flowing toward.



 affluency  n.  Affluence.



 affluent  adj.  1. Rich; wealthy: an affluent society.  2. Copious;
 abundant. 3. Flowing freely.   -n. A stream or river that flows into
 another or other body of water; tributary. [ME, abundant < OFr. < Lat.
 affluens, pr.part. of affluere, to abound in : ad-, to + fluere, to flow.]
  affluently adv.



 afflux  n.  A flowing to or toward a particular area: an afflux of blood
 to the head.  [Lat. affluxus, p.part. of affluere, to flow to. -see
 affluent.]



 afford  tr.v. -forded -fording -fords   1. To have the financial means
 for; be able to meet the expense of. 2. To be able to spare or give up:
 could afford an hour for lunch.  3. To be able to do or perform (something)
 without incurring harm or criticism, or with benefit to oneself: can afford
 to be tolerant.  4. To provide: a sport affording good exercise.  [ME
 aforthen < OE geforoian, to carry out < foroian, to further < foro,
 forward.]   affordable adj.



 afforest  tr.v. -ested -esting -ests   To convert (open land) into forest.
 [Med. Lat. afforestare : ad-, to + forestare < foresta, forest.]
 afforestation n.



 affranchise  tr.v. -chised -chising -chises   To free from servitude;
 liberate from obligation or liabilities. [ME < OFr. afranchir, afranchiss-
 : a-, to (< Lat. ad-) + franchir, to free < franc, free. -see frank.]



 affray  n.  A noisy quarrel or brawl.   -tr.v.-frayed -fraying -frays
 Archaic.  To frighten. [ME < OFr. esfrei < esfreer, to disturb.]



 affricate  n.  A speech sound produced when the breath stream is
 completely stopped and then released at articulation, the t plus sh sound
 in clutch or the j sound in judge.  [Lat. affricare, affricat-, to rub
 against : ad-, to + fricare, to rub.]



 affricative  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or forming an affricate.   -n. An
 affricate.



 affright  Archaic.  tr.v. -frighted -frighting -frights   To arouse fear
 in; terrify.   -n. 1. Terror. 2. A cause of terror. 3. The act of
 frightening. [ME afrighten < OE afyrhtan.]   affrightment n.



 affront  tr.v. -fronted -fronting -fronts   1. To insult intentionally,
 esp. openly. 2. To meet face to face defiantly; confront.   -n. 1. An open
 or intentional offense, slight, or insult. 2.  Obsolete. An encounter or
 meeting. [ME afrounten < OFr. afronter : Lat. ad-, to + Lat. frons, face.]



 affusion  n.  A pouring on of liquid, as in baptism. [LLat. adfusio, <
 affundere, to pour on : ad-, to + fundere, to pour.]



 Afghan  n.  1. A native of Afghanistan. 2. Pashto. 3. afghan  A coverlet
 of wool, knitted or crocheted in colorful geometric designs. 4. An Afghan
 hound.   -adj. Of or pertaining to Afghanistan, its people, or their
 language. [Pashto afghani.]



 Afghan hound  n.  A large, slender dog of an ancient breed, having long,
 thick hair, a pointed muzzle, and drooping ears.



 afghani  n.  See table at currency. [Pashto.]



 aficionado  n. pl. -dos  An enthusiastic admirer or follower; devotee;
 fan. [Sp. < p.part. of aficionar, to induce a liking for < aficion, liking
 < Lat. affectio, affection.]



 afield  adv.  1. Off the usual or desired track. 2. Away from one's home
 or usual environment. 3. To or on a field.



 afire  adj.  -adv. 1. On fire; burning. 2. Intensely interested and
 involved.



 aflame  adj.  -adv. 1. On fire; flaming. 2. Keenly excited and interested.




 afloat  adj.  -adv. 1. Floating. 2. On a boat or ship away from the shore;
 at sea. 3. In circulation; prevailing. 4. Awash; flooded. 5. Drifting
 about; moving without guidance. 6. Free or out of difficulty, esp.
 financial difficulty: couldn't keep the business afloat.



 aflutter  adj.  In a flutter; nervous and excited.



 afoot  adj.  -adv. 1. Walking; on foot. 2. In the process of being carried
 out; astir.



 afore  adv.prep.  -conj. Archaic.  Before. [ME < OE onforan : on, at +
 for, fore.]



 aforementioned  adj.  Mentioned previously or before.



 aforesaid  adj.  Spoken of earlier.



 aforethought  adj.  Planned or intended beforehand; premeditated: malice
 aforethought.



 aforetime  Archaic.  adv.  At a former or past time; previously.   -adj.
 Earlier; former.



 a fortiori  adv.  For a stronger reason; all the more. Used of a
 conclusion arrived at with greater logical necessity than another. [Lat.]



 afoul of  prep.  In or into a condition of collision, entanglement, or
 conflict.

       Idiom Section:  run  fallafoul of.. To become entangled or in
 conflict with.



 afraid  adj.  1. Filled with fear. 2. Reluctant; averse: not afraid of
 work.  3. Filled with regret: I'm afraid you're wrong.  [ME affraied,
 p.part. of affraien, to frighten < OFr. esfreer, to disturb.]



 A-frame  n.  A structure, as a house, with steeply angled sides and a roof
 that reaches to the ground. [From its being shaped like a capital A.]



 afreet or afrit   n.  Arabic Myth. A powerful evil spirit or gigantic and
 monstrous demon. [Ar. 'ifrit.]



 afresh  adv.  Once more; anew; again.



 African  adj.  Of or pertaining to Africa or any of its peoples or
 languages.   -n. 1. A person born or living in Africa. 2. A member of one
 of the indigenous peoples of Africa.



 African lily  n.  A plant, Agapanthus africanus, native to southern
 Africa, having rounded clusters of blue, violet, or white flowers.



 African mahogany  n.  1.  a. Any of several African trees of the genus
 Khaya, esp. K. ivorensis, having wood similar to that of true mahogany. b.
 The wood of this tree, used for furniture, musical instruments, and boat
 interiors. 2. Any of various other African woods resembling true mahogany.



 African marigold  n.  A widely cultivated plant, Tagetes erecta, native to
 Mexico, having finely divided foliage and showy, rounded orange or yellow
 flowers.



 African sleeping sickness  n.  Sleeping sickness.



 African violet  n.  Any of several plants of the genus Saintpaulia, native
 to tropical Africa and widely cultivated as house plants, esp. S. ionantha,
 having violet, white, or pink flowers.



 Afrikaans  n.  A language that developed from 17th-century Dutch and is an
 official language of the Republic of South Africa. [Afr. < Du. Afrikaansch,
 African.]



 Afrikaner  n.  An Afrikaans-speaking descendant of the Dutch settlers of
 South Africa. [Afr., African < Lat. Africanus.]



 afrit  n.  Variant of afreet.



 Afro  n. pl. -ros  A rounded, bushy hair style.   -adj. 1. Of or for an
 Afro: an Afro comb.  2. Directly or indirectly African in style. [Perh.
 short for Afro-American.]



 Afro-   African: Afro-Asiatic.  [< Lat. Afer, an African.]



 Afro-American  adj.  Of or pertaining to American blacks of African
 ancestry, their history, or their culture.   -n. An American black of
 African ancestry.



 Afro-Asiatic  n.  A family of languages of southwestern Asia and northern
 Africa.   Afro-Asiatic adj.



 aft  adv.  -adj. Nautical.  At, in, toward, or close to the stern of a
 vessel. [Prob. shortening of abaft.]



 after  prep.  1. Behind in place or order. 2. In quest or pursuit of: seek
 after fame.  3. Concerning: asked after you.  4. Subsequent in time to; at
 a later time than: come after dinner.  5. Subsequent to and because of or
 regardless of: friends after all their differences.  6. Following
 continually: year after year.  7. Next to or lower than in order or
 importance. 8. In the style of; in imitation of: satires after Horace.  9.
 With the same or close to the same name as;!in honor or commemoration of:
 named after her mother.  10. According to the nature or desires of; in
 conformity to: a man after my own heart.  11. Past the hour of: five
 minutes after three.    -adv. 1. Behind; in the rear. 2. At a later or
 subsequent time; afterward.   -adj. 1. Subsequent in time or place; later;
 following: in after years.  2.  Nautical. Nearer the stern of a vessel;
 farther aft.    -conj. Following or subsequent to the time that: I saw her
 after I arrived.

       Idiom Section:  after all. 1. When everything is considered. 2.
 Eventually; ultimately. [ME < OE aefter.]



 afterbirth  n.  The placenta and fetal membranes expelled from the uterus
 after childbirth.



 afterburner  n.  1. A device for augmenting the thrust of a jet engine by
 burning additional fuel with the uncombined oxygen in the hot exhaust
 gases. 2. A device for burning or chemically altering unburned or partially
 burned carbon compounds in exhaust gases.



 aftercare  n.  Treatment or special care given to convalescent patients,
 esp. after undergoing surgery.



 afterclap  n.  An unexpected, often unpleasant sequel to a matter that had
 been considered closed.



 afterdamp  n.  An asphyxiating mixture of gases, primarily nitrogen and
 carbon dioxide, left in a mine after a fire or explosion.



 afterdeck  n.  Nautical.  The part of a ship's deck past amidships toward
 the stern.



 aftereffect  n.  An effect following its cause after some delay, esp. a
 delayed or prolonged physiological or psychological response to a stimulus.




 afterglow  n.  1. The light emitted or remaining after removal of a source
 of illumination, esp.: a. The atmospheric glow after sunset. b. The glow of
 an incandescent metal as it cools. c. Emission from a phosphor after
 removal of excitation. 2. The comfortable feeling following a pleasant
 experience. 3. A lingering impression of past brilliance.



 after-hours  adj.  1. Occurring after closing time: after-hours drinking.
 2. Open after a legal or established closing time: an after-hours club.



 afterimage  n.  A visual image that persists after a visual stimulus
 ceases.



 afterlife  n.  1. A life believed to follow death. 2. The part of one's
 life that follows a particular event.



 after-market  n.  The demand for goods or services, such as repairs,
 associated with the upkeep of a previous purchase.



 aftermath  n.  1. A consequence or result, esp. of a disaster or
 misfortune. 2. A period of time following a disastrous event. 3. A second
 crop of grass in the same season. [after + obs. math, mowing, < OE maeo.]



 aftermost  adj.  1.  Nautical. Nearest the stern; farthest aft. 2. Nearest
 the end or rear; hindmost; last.



 afternoon  n.  1. The part of the day from noon until sunset. 2. The
 closing part.



 afterpains  pl.n.  The cramps or pains following childbirth, resulting
 from the contraction of the womb.



 afterpiece  n.  A short comic piece performed after a play.



 aftersensation  n.  A sensory impression, such as an afterimage or
 aftertaste, that persists or recurs after removal of a stimulus.



 after-shave  n.  A usually fragrant lotion for use on the face after
 shaving.



 aftertaste  n.  1. A taste persisting in the mouth after the substance
 causing it is no longer present. 2. A feeling that remains after an event
 or experience.



 afterthought  n.  An idea, response, or explanation that occurs to one
 after an event or decision.



 aftertime  n.  The time to come; future.



 afterward or afterwards   adv.  In or at a later time; subsequently.



 afterword  n.  An epilogue (sense 2).



 afterworld  n.  A world thought to come after death.



 aftmost  adj.  Nautical.  Farthest aft; aftermost.



 Ag   The symbol for the element silver. [Lat. argentum.]



 ag-   Variant of ad-.Used before g.



 aga or agha   n.  A high official of the Ottoman Empire. [Turk. aga.]



 again  adv.  1. Once more; another time; anew. 2. To a previous place,
 position, or state: left home but went back again.  3. Furthermore;
 moreover. 4. On the other hand: might go and again might not.  5. In
 return; in response; back.

       Idiom Section:  again and again. Repeatedly; frequently. as much
 again. 1. The same amount. 2. Twice as much. [ME < OE ongeagn, against.]



 against  prep.  1. In a direction or course opposite to: row against the
 current.  2. So as to come into forcible contact with: waves dashing
 against the shore.  3. In contact with so as to rest or press on: leaned
 against the tree.  4. In hostile opposition or resistance to: struggle
 against fate.  5. Contrary to; opposed to: against my better judgment.  6.
 In contrast or comparison with the setting or background of: dark colors
 against a fair skin.  7. In preparation for; in anticipation of: food
 stored against winter.  8. As a defense or safeguard from: protection
 against the cold.  9. To the account or debt of: drew a check against her
 bank balance.  10. Directly opposite to; facing. [ME, alteration of againes
 < OE ongeagn.]



 agalactia  n.  Nonsecretion or dysfunctional secretion of milk following
 childbirth. [NLat. < Gk. agalaktia, lack of milk : a-, not + gala, milk.]



 agama  n.  Any of various small, long-tailed, insect-eating lizards of the
 family Agamidae, found in Old World tropics. [Carib.]



 Agamemnon  n.  Greek Mythology.  The king of Mycenae, leader of the Greeks
 against Troy, husband of Clytemnestra, and father of Orestes, Electra, and
 Iphigenia. [Gk. Agamemnon.]



 agamete  n.  An asexual reproductive cell that progresses into an adult
 individual.



 agamic  adj.  Biology.  Occurring or reproducing without the union of male
 and female cells; asexual or parthenogenetic. [< LLat. agamus, unmarried <
 Gk. agamos : a-, not + gamos, marriage.]   agamically adv.



 agamogenesis  n.  Asexual reproduction, as by budding, cell division, or
 parthenogenesis. [agam(ic) + -genesis.]



 agamous  adj.  Agamic.



 agapanthus  n.  Any plant of the genus Agapanthus, which includes the
 African lily. [NLat. Agapanthus, genus name : Gk. agape, love + Gk. anthos,
 flower.]



 agape
 agape(1)  adv.  -adj. 1. In a state of wonder or amazement. 2. Wide open.
 agape(2)   n.  1. Christian love. 2. Love that is spiritual, not sexual, in
 its nature. 3. In the early Christian Church, the love feast accompanied by
 Eucharistic celebration. [Gk. agape, love.]



 agar or agar-agar   n.  A gelatinous material prepared from certain marine
 algae and used as a base for bacterial culture media, as a laxative, and
 for thickening certain foods. [Short for Malay agar-agar.]



 agaric  n.  1. Any fungus of the family Agaricacae, including the common
 cultivated mushroom, Agaricus campestris.  2. The dried fruiting body of
 the fungus Fomes laricis, formerly used in medicine. [Lat. agaricum, a kind
 of fungus < Gk. agarikon.]



 agate  n.  1. A fine-grained, fibrous variety of chalcedony with color
 banding or irregular clouding. 2. A child's marble made of agate or a glass
 imitation of it. 3. A tool with agate parts, as a burnisher tipped with
 agate. 4. A printer's type size, approximately 51/2 points. [ME achate <
 OFr. acate < Lat. achates < Gk. akhates.]



 agate line  n.  A measure of space used in estimating printed advertising,
 usually one column wide and 1/14 of an inch deep.



 agave  n.  Any of numerous fleshy-leaved tropical American plants of the
 genus Agave, which includes the century plant. Some species yield valuable
 fibers. [NLat. Agave, genus name < Gk. agaue, fem. of agauos, noble.]



 age  n.  1. The period of time during which someone or something exists.
 2. A lifetime. 3. The time in life when a person becomes qualified to
 assume certain civil and personal rights and responsibilities, usually at
 eighteen or twenty-one years; legal age: under age.  4. A period of life
 denoted as differing from other periods; stage: the age of adolescence.  5.
 The latter portion of life; the state of being old. 6. Any period in
 history or geology designated by distinctive characteristics: the age of
 enlightenment.  7.  Informal. An extended period of time: left ages ago.
 8.  Psychology. Mental age.   -v.aged aging ages   -tr. To cause to grow
 older or more mature. -intr. 1. To become old. 2. To manifest traits
 associated with old age. 3. To develop a certain quality of ripeness;
 become mature: cheese aging at room temperature.  [ME < OFr. aage < Lat.
 aetas, age.]   ager n.



 -age   1. Collection; mass: sewerage.  2. Relationship; connection:
 parentage.  3. Condition; state: vagabondage.  4.  a. An action: blockage.
 b. Result of an action: breakage.  5. Residence or place of: vicarage.  6.
 Charge or fee: cartage.  [ME < OFr. < Lat. -aticum, n. and adj. suffix.]



 aged  adj.  1. Old; on in years. 2. Of, pertaining to, or characteristic
 of old age. 3.  Of the age of: aged three.  4.  Geology. Near the base
 level of erosion.   agedly adv.   agedness n.



 ageing  n.  British.  Variant of aging.



 ageism  n.  Discrimination based on age, esp. discrimination against
 middle-aged and elderly people.   ageist n.



 ageless  adj.  1. Never seeming to grow old. 2. Existing forever; eternal.
   agelessly adv.   agelessness n.



 agency  n. pl. -cies  1. Action; operation. 2. A mode of action; means. 3.
 A business or service authorized to act for others: an employment agency.
 4. A governmental department of administration or regulations. [Med. Lat.
 agentia < agens, effective. -see agent.]



 agenda  n.  1. A list of things to be done, esp. the program for a
 meeting. 2. Plural of agendum. [Lat. pl. of agendum, agendum.]

      Usage: Agenda,  meaning "list" or "program," is well established as a
 collective noun with singular verb; a great majority of the Usage Panel
 accepts such a combination.



 agendum  n. pl. -da  or -das  Something to be done, esp. an item on an
 agenda. [Lat., neuter gerund. of agere, to do.]



 agenesis  n.  Failure of an organism, organ, or part to develop.



 agent  n.  1. One that acts or has the power or authority to act. 2. One
 that acts for or as the representative of another: an insurance agent.  3.
 A means or mode by which something is done or caused; instrument. 4. A
 force or substance that causes some change: a chemical agent.  5. A
 representative of a government or administrative department of a
 government: an FBI agent.  6. A spy. [ME < Lat. agens, effective, pr.part.
 of agere, to do.]



 agential  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or acting as an agent or agency.



 agent provocateur  n. pl. agents provocateurs  A secret agent who
 infiltrates an organization in order to incite trouble designed to make its
 members commit acts that will incur punishment. [Fr.]



 age of consent  n.  Law.  The age at which a female may legally choose to
 have sexual intercourse.



 ageratum  n.  1. Any of various plants of the genus Ageratum, esp. A.
 houstonianum, a commonly cultivated species having clusters of usually
 violet-blue flowers. 2. Any of several other plants having flower clusters
 similar to the ageratum. [NLat. Ageratum, genus name < Gk. ageratos,
 ageless : a-, not + geras, old age.]



 aggie
 aggie(1)  n.  A playing marble. [ag(ate) + -ie.]
 aggie(2)  n.  1. An agricultural college. 2. A student enrolled at an
 agricultural college or in an agricultural program within a university.
 [ag(ricultural) + -ie.]



 aggiornamento  n. pl. -tos  The process of bringing up to date an
 institution or organization. [Ital. < aggiornare, to update : a-, to (<
 Lat. ad.) + giorno, day < Lat. diurnus, daily < dies, day.]



 agglomerate  tr.  -intr.v.-ated -ating -ates   To make or form into a
 rounded mass.   -adj.  Gathered into a rounded mass.   -n.  1. A confused
 or jumbled mass of things clustered together; heap. 2. A volcanic rock
 consisting of rounded and angular fragments fused together. [Lat.
 agglomerare, agglomerat-, to annex : ad-, to + glomerare, to form into a
 ball < glomus, ball.]   agglomerative adj.   agglomerator n.



 agglomeration  n.  1. The act or process of agglomerating. 2. The state of
 being agglomerated. 3. A confused or jumbled mass; agglomerate.



 agglutinate  v. -nated -nating -nates   -tr. 1. To join together by
 causing adhesion, as with glue. 2.  Linguistics. To form (words) by
 combining words or words and word elements. 3.  Physiology. To cause (red
 blood cells or microorganisms) to clump together. -intr. 1. To join
 together into a group or mass. 2.  Linguistics. To form words by
 agglutination. 3. To undergo agglutination. [Lat. agglutinare, agglutinat :
 ad-, to + glutinare, to glue < gluten, glue.]   agglutinant adj. n.



 agglutination  n.  1. The process of agglutinating; adhesion of distinct
 parts. 2. A mass formed by agglutinating. 3.  Linguistics. The formation of
 words from morphemes that retain their original forms and meanings with
 little change during the combination process.



 agglutinative  adj.  1. Tending toward, concerning, or characteristic of
 agglutination. 2.  Linguistics. Designating a language in which words are
 formed primarily by means of agglutination.



 agglutinin  n.  A substance that induces agglutination. [agglutin(ation) +
 -in.]



 agglutinogen  n.  An antigen that stimulates the production of an
 agglutinin. [agglutin(in) + -gen.]   agglutinogenic adj.



 aggrade  tr.v. -graded -grading -grades   To fill and raise the level of
 (the bed of a stream) by deposition of sediment.   aggradation n.
 aggradational adj.



 aggrandize  tr.v. -dized -dizing -dizes   1. To increase the scope of;
 enlarge; extend. 2. To make greater in power, influence, stature, or
 reputation. 3. To make seem greater; exaggerate. [Fr. aggrandir,
 aggrandiss- : a-, to (< Lat. ad-) + grandir, to grow larger < Lat. grandire
 < grandis, large.]   aggrandizement n.   aggrandizer n.



 aggravate  tr.v. -vated -vating -vates   1. To make worse or more
 troublesome; make more of a burden. 2.  Informal. To annoy or exasperate;
 provoke; irritate; vex. [Lat. aggravare, aggravat- : ad, to + gravare, to
 burden < gravis, heavy.]   aggravatingly adv.   aggravative adj.
 aggravator n.

      Usage: The word aggravate  is widely used to mean "to irritate," as in
 The mechanic's surliness aggravated me no end.  But many still insist that
 the word should be used only to mean "to make worse," in referring to a
 situation or condition, as in: The plight of the small farmer has been
 aggravated by the drought. Kim's bad back was aggravated by his refusal to
 get sufficient rest.



 aggravated assault  n.  Law.  Any of various assaults that are more
 serious than a common assault, esp. one performed with an intent to commit
 a crime.



 aggravation  n.  1. The act of aggravating. 2. The state of being
 aggravated. 3. A thing that irritates or makes worse, more troublesome, or
 more irritated. 4.  Informal. Exasperation; bothersomeness.



 aggregate  adj.  1. Gathered together into a mass or sum so as to
 constitute a whole; total. 2.  Botany. Crowded or massed into a dense
 cluster. 3. Composed of a mixture of minerals separable by mechanical
 means.   -n.  1. Any total or whole considered with reference to its
 constituent parts; an assemblage or group of distinct particulars massed
 together; gross amount:  An empire is the aggregate of many states under
 one common head (Burke). 2. The mineral materials, such as sand or stone,
 used in making concrete.   -tr.v. -gated -gating -gates   1. To gather into
 a mass, sum, or whole. 2. To total up to; amount to. [ME aggregat < Lat.
 aggregare, to add to : ad-, to + gregare,  to collect < grex, flock.]
 aggregately adv.   aggregation n.   aggregative adj.   aggregator n.



 aggregate fruit  n.  A fruit, such as the raspberry, developed from the
 pistils of a single flower and consisting of a coherent mass of drupelets.



 aggress  intr.v. -gressed -gressing -gresses   To start an attack or a
 quarrel. [Fr. aggresser < Lat. aggredi : ad-, toward + gradi, to go.]

      Usage: Though the verb aggress  has a long and honorable history, it
 has lately come to be associated primarily with the jargon of psychology
 and is often objected to.



 aggression  n.  1. The act of commencing hostilities or invasion; assault.
 2. The habit or practice of launching attacks. 3.  Psychoanalysis. Hostile
 action or behavior.



 aggressive  adj.  1. Inclined to move or act in a hostile fashion. 2.
 Assertive; bold; enterprising.   aggressively adv.   aggressiveness n.



 aggressor  n.  One that engages in aggression.



 aggrieve  tr.v. -grieved -grieving -grieves   1. To distress or afflict.
 2. To injure unjustly; give reason for just complaint. [ME agreven < OFr.
 agrever < Lat. aggravare, to make worse. -see aggravate.]



 aggrieved  adj.  1. Feeling distress or affliction. 2. Treated wrongly;
 offended. 3.  Law. Treated unjustly by a decision of the court or other
 legal authority.   aggrievedly adv.   aggrievedness n.



 agha  n.  Variant of aga.



 aghast  adj.  Shocked, as by something horrible; terrified. [ME agast,
 p.part. of agasten, to frighten : a- (intensive) + gasten, to frighten < OE
 gaestan < gast, ghost.]



 agile  adj.  1. Able to move in a quick and easy fashion; active. 2.
 Mentally alert. [OFr. < Lat. agilis < agere, to impel.]   agilely adv.
 agileness n.



 agility  n.  The state or quality of being agile; nimbleness; briskness.



 agin  prep.  Regional.  Against.



 aging  n.  1. The process of becoming old or mature. 2. An artificial
 process for imparting the characteristics and properties of age.



 agio  n. pl. -os  1. A premium paid for changing one kind of money to
 another. 2. An allowance or premium for the difference in value between two
 currencies being exchanged. [Ital. < Med. Gk. allagion, exchange < allage,
 change < allos, other.]



 agitate  v. -tated -tating -tates   -tr. 1. To move with violence or
 sudden forcefulness; excite physically: a storm agitating the ocean.  2. To
 upset; disturb: agitated by grief.  3. To arouse interest in (a cause, for
 example) by the written or spoken word; discuss; debate. 4.  Archaic. To
 ponder over; plan. -intr. To stir up public interest in a cause. [Lat.
 agitare, agitat-, freq. of agere, to impel.]   agitatedly adv.   agitative
 adj.



 agitation  n.  1. The act of agitating. 2. The state of being agitated;
 disturbance; commotion. 3. Extreme emotional disturbance; perturbation. 4.
 The stirring up of public interest in a matter of controversy, such as a
 political or social issue.   agitational adj.



 agitato  adj.  Music.  Agitated; fast and stirring. Used as a direction.
 [Ital. < Lat. agitare, to agitate.]   agitato adv.



 agitator  n.  1. A person who agitates, esp. one who engages in political
 agitation. 2. A machine mechanism that stirs or shakes, as in a washing.



 agitprop  n.  Communist-oriented political propaganda disseminated esp.
 through literature, drama, art, or music. [R., office of agitation and
 propaganda : agitatsiya, agitation + propaganda, propaganda.]



 Aglaia  n.  Greek Mythology.  One of the three Graces. [Gk. < aglaia,
 splendor < aglaos, bright.]



 agleam  adj.  -adv. Brightly shining.



 aglet  n.  1. A tag or metal sheath on the end of a lace, cord, or ribbon
 to facilitate its passing through eyelet holes. 2. A device similar to the
 aglet used for an ornament. [ME < OFr. aguillette, dim. of aguille, needle
 < LLat. acicula, dim. of Lat. acus, needle.]



 agley  adv.  Scots.  Off to one side; awry. [Scottish : a-, on + gley, to
 squint < ME glien.]



 aglimmer  adj.  -adv. Lighting up faintly; glimmering.



 aglitter  adj.  Glittering; sparkling.   aglitter adv.



 aglow  adj.  -adv. In a glow; glowing.



 aglycon or aglycone   n.  A nonsugar component of a glycoside that is
 resolvable through hydrolysis.



 agminate or agminated   adj.  Gathered in clusters. [< Lat. agmen, agmin-,
 multitude.]



 agnail  n.  1. A hangnail. 2. A painful sore or swelling around a
 fingernail or toenail. [ME angnail, corn < OE angnaegl, a sore under the
 nail : ang-, tight + naegel, nail.]



 agnate  adj.  1. Related on or descended from the father's or male side.
 2. From a common source; akin.   -n. A relative on the father's or male
 side only. [Lat. agnatus, a relation on the father's side < the p.part. of
 agnasci, to be born in addition to : ad-, to + nasci, to be born.]
 agnatic adj.   agnatically adv.   agnation n.



 Agni  n.  Hinduism.  The Vedic god of fire and guardian of man. [Skt.
 agnih, fire.]



 agnomen  n. pl. -nomina  1. An additional cognomen given to a Roman
 citizen, often in honor of military victories. 2. A nickname. [Lat. : ad-,
 to + nomen, name.]



 agnosia  n.  Pathologic loss of auditory, sensory, or visual
 comprehension. [NLat. < Gk. agnosia, ignorance : a-, not + gnosis,
 knowledge < gignoskein, to know.]



 agnostic  n.  Someone who believes that there can be no proof of the
 existence of God but does not deny the possibility that God exists.   -adj.
 Pertaining to agnostics or their doctrines. [< Gk. agnostos, unknown : a-,
 not + gnostos, known < gignoskein, to know.]   agnostically adv.



 agnosticism  n.  1.  Philosophy. The doctrines of the agnostics, holding
 that certainty, first or absolute truths, are unattainable and that only
 perceptual phenomena are objects of exact knowledge. 2.  Theology. A theory
 that does not deny God but denies the possibility of knowing Him.



 Agnus Dei  n.  1. The Lamb of God, an emblem of Christ. 2. An iconographic
 representation of the Agnus Dei. 3. A liturgical prayer to Christ. [Lat.]



 ago  adj.  Gone by; past: two years ago.    -adv. In the past: happened
 long ago.  [ME, p.part. of agon, to go away < OE agan : a- (intensive) +
 gan, to go.]

      Usage: Ago  may be followed by that  or when: It was a week ago that
 (or when ) I saw him.  It may not be followed by since: It was a week ago
 since I saw him. Since  is properly used without ago,  as in It has been a
 week since I saw him.



 agog  adv.  -adj. In a state of keen anticipation; highly excited; astir.
 [ME agogge < OFr. en gogue, in merriment.]



 -agog   Variant of -agogue.



 a gogo or ago-go   adv.  In a fast and lively manner; freely: dancing a
 gogo.  [Fr., galore. ]



 -agogue or -agog    A substance that stimulates the flow of: hemagogue.
 [LLat. -agogus < Gk. -agogos < agein, to lead.]



 agone  adj.  -adv. Archaic.  Gone; gone by; past. [ME agon, p.part. of
 agon, to go away. -see ago.]



 agonic  adj.  Having no angle. [< Gk. agonos : a-, not + gonia, angle.]



 agonic line  n.  An imaginary line on the earth's surface connecting
 points where the magnetic declination is zero.



 agonist  n.  1.  Physiology. A muscle that contracts and is opposed by
 contraction in another muscle, the antagonist. 2. One involved in a
 struggle or competition. [Back-formation < antagonist.]



 agonistic or agonistical   adj.  1. Striving to overcome in argument;
 competitive; combative. 2. Straining to achieve effect. 3. Of or pertaining
 to contests, originally those of the ancient Greeks. [Gk. agonistikos <
 agonistes, combatant < agon, contest.]   agonistically adv.



 agonize  v. -nized -nizing -nizes   -intr. 1. To be in extreme pain or
 suffer great anguish. 2. To make a great effort; struggle. -tr. To cause
 great pain or anguish to. [OFr. agoniser < Med. Lat. agonizare < Gk.
 agonizesthai, to struggle < agon, contest.]   agonizingly adv.



 agony  n. pl. -nies  1. The suffering of intense physical or mental pain.
 2. The struggle that precedes death. 3. A sudden or intense emotion of a
 particular sort: an agony of doubt.  4. A violent or intense struggle. [ME
 agonie < OFr. < Med. Lat. agonia < Gk. agonia < agon, struggle.]



 agony column  n.  A newspaper column containing advertisements chiefly
 about missing relatives or friends.



 agora
 agora(1)  n. pl. -rae  or -ras  A marketplace in ancient Greece,
 customarily used as a place of popular assembly. [Gk.]
 agora(2)   n. pl. -rot  or -roth  See table at currency. [Heb. 'agorah <
 agor, to collect.]



 agoraphobia  n.  Abnormal fear of open spaces. [Gk. agora, open space +
 -phobia.]   agoraphobiac n.   agoraphobic adj.



 agouti  n. pl. -tis  or -ties  Any of several burrowing rodents of the
 genus Dasyprocta, of tropical America, having grizzled brownish or
 dark-gray fur. [Fr. < Sp. (South America) aguti < Guarani acuti.]



 agr-   Variant of agro-.



 agraffe or agrafe   n.  1. A hook-and-loop arrangement used for a clasp on
 armor and clothing. 2. A cramp iron for holding stones together in
 building. [Fr. agrafe < OFr. agrafer, to hook onto : a-, to (< Lat. ad) +
 grafer, to hook < grafe, hook, of Germanic orig.]



 agranulocytosis  n.  A drug-induced disease marked by high fever, lesions
 of the mucous membranes, and a decrease in granular white blood corpuscles.




 agrapha or Agrapha   pl.n.  The sayings of Jesus not in the Bible. [Gk. <
 agraphos, unwritten : a- not + graphein, to write.]



 agraphia  n.  A disorder marked by the inability to write. [a-1 + Gk.
 graphein, to write.]   agraphic adj.



 agrarian  adj.  1. Relating to or concerning the land and its ownership,
 cultivation, and tenure. 2. Pertaining to agricultural or rural matters.
 -n. A person who favors equitable distribution of land. [< Lat. agrarius <
 ager, land.]   agrarianly adv.



 agrarianism  n.  A movement for equitable distribution of land and for
 agrarian reform.



 agravic  adj.  Of or relating to a condition of no gravitation. [a-1 +
 grav(ity) + -ic.]



 agree  v. agreed agreeing agrees   -intr. 1. To grant consent; accede:
 agreed to accompany us.  2. To come into or be in accord; match: a copy
 that agrees with the original.  3. To be of one opinion: didn't agree with
 me.  4. To come to an understanding or to terms: finally agreed on the
 solution.  5. To be suitable or appropriate: Spicy food does not agree with
 him.  6.  Grammar. To correspond in gender, number, case, or person. -tr.
 To grant or concede: agreed that we should go.  [ME agreen < OFr. agreer <
 VLat. *aggratare : Lat. ad-, to + Lat. gratus, pleasing.]

      Synonyms: agree conform harmonize accord correspond
 coincide These verbs all indicate compatible relationship between people or
 things. Agree  may indicate mere lack of incongruity or discord, but often
 it suggests acceptance of ideas or actions and thus accommodation. Conform
 stresses close resemblance in form, thought, or basic characteristics,
 sometimes the result of accommodation to established standards. Harmonize
 implies a relationship of unlike things combined or arranged to make a
 pleasing whole. Accord  implies close similarity between things or
 harmonious relationship or both. Correspond  refers either to actual
 similarity in form or nature or to similarity in function of unlike things.
 Coincide  stresses exact agreement in space, time, or thought.




 agreeable  adj.  1. To one's liking; pleasing; pleasant. 2. In accordance;
 suitable; conformable. 3. Ready to consent or submit.   agreeability
 agreeableness n.   agreeably adv.



 agreed  adj.  1. Determined by common consent: the agreed meeting place.
 2. Of one opinion: Both parties were agreed.  3. Allowed; granted: Want to
 leave? Agreed.



 agreement  n.  1. The act of agreeing. 2. Harmony of opinion; accord. 3.
 An arrangement between parties regarding a method of action; covenant. 4.
 Law.  a. A properly executed and legally binding compact. b. The writing or
 document embodying this. 5.  Grammar. Correspondence in gender, number,
 case, or person between words.



 agrestal or agrestial   adj.  Growing wild, esp. in cultivated areas, as
 weeds do. [Lat. agrestis < ager, land.]



 agrestic or agrestical   adj.  1. Rural; rustic. 2. Unpolished; crude.



 agria  n.  Intense or extensive pustular eruption. [< Gk. agria, wild <
 agros, field.]



 agribusiness  n.  Farming engaged in as big business, embracing the
 production, processing, and distribution of farm products and the
 manufacture of farm machinery, equipment, and supplies. [agri(culture) +
 business.]



 agriculture  n.  The science, art, and business of cultivating the soil,
 producing crops, and raising livestock; farming. [Lat. agricultura : ager,
 land + cultura, cultivation.]   agricultural adj.   agriculturally adv.
 agriculturist  agriculturalist n.



 agrimony  n. pl. -nies  1. Any of various plants of the genus Agrimonia,
 having compound leaves, long clusters of small yellow flowers, and bristly
 fruits. 2. Any of several plants similar or related to the agrimony, such
 as the hemp agrimony. [ME agrimonie < OFr. aigremoine < Lat. agrimonia,
 alteration of argemonia < Gk. argemone, poppy.]



 agrioecology  n.  The ecology of domestic or cultivated plants. [Gk.
 agrios, wild (< agros, field) + ecology.]



 agriology  n.  The study of peoples whose cultures are at an early stage
 of development. [Gk. agrios, wild (< agros, field) + -logy.]   agriological
 adj.



 agro- or agr-    Field; soil: agrology.  [< Gk. agros, field.]



 agrobiology  n.  The science of plant and animal growth and nutrition as
 related to soil variation and crop yield.   agrobiologic  agrobiological
 adj.   agrobiologically adv.   agrobiologist n.



 agrology  n.  The applied science of soils in relation to crops.
 agrologic  agrological adj.   agrologically adv.   agrologist n.



 agronomy or agronomics   n.  The application of the various soil and plant
 sciences to soil management and the raising of crops; scientific
 agriculture.   agronomic agronomical  adj.   agronomist n.



 agrostology  n.  The botanical study of grasses. [Gk. agrostis, a kind of
 wild grass (< agros, field) + -logy.]



 aground  adv.  -adj. Stranded in shallow water or on a reef or shoal: a
 ship that ran aground.



 agrypnia  n.  Insomnia. [Gk. < agrupnos, wakeful.]



 ague  n.  1. A fever, like that of malaria, in which there are periods of
 chill, fever, and sweating. 2. A chill or fit of shivering. [ME < OFr.,
 short for fievre ague, sharp fever < Med. Lat. febris acuta : febris, fever
 + acutus, sharp.]   aguish adj.   aguishly adv.   aguishness n.



 agueweed  n.  1. A plant, Gentiana quinquefolia, of eastern North America,
 having clusters of pale blue-violet or white flowers. 2. Boneset.



 ah  interj.  Used to express various emotions, such as surprise, delight,
 pain, satisfaction, or dislike.



 aha  interj.  Used to express surprise, triumph, or pleasure.



 ahead  adv.  1. At or to the front or head. 2. In advance; before. 3.
 Onward; forward.

       Idiom Section:  ahead of. . In front of. be ahead. Informal.  To be
 gaining or winning. get ahead. To attain success.



 ahem  interj.  Used to attract attention or to express doubt or warning.



 ahimsa  n.  A Buddhist and Hindu doctrine of nonviolence expressing belief
 in the sacredness of all living creatures. [Skt. ahimsa : a-, not + himsa,
 injury < himsati, he injures.]



 ahoy  interj.  Nautical.  Used to hail a ship or person or to attract
 attention.



 Ahriman  n.  The spirit of evil in Zoroastrianism, understood by some as
 the arch rival of Ormazd. [Pers. Ahriman, prob. < Avestan anra mainyu :
 anra, evil + mainyu, spirit.]



 Ahura Mazda  n.  Ormazd. [Avestan, wise god.]



 ai  n.  A three-toed sloth of the genus Bradypus.  [Port. < Tupi.]



 aid  v. aided aiding aids   -intr. To help; assist. -tr. To give help or
 assistance to.   -n. 1. The act or result of helping; assistance. 2. One
 that helps; an assistant or helper. 3. An aide-de-camp or aide. 4. In
 medieval England, a money payment to a feudal lord by a vassal. [ME aiden <
 OFr. aider < Lat. adjutare, freq. of adjuvare, to help : ad- (intensive) +
 juvare, to help.]   aider n.



 aide  n.  1. An aide-de-camp. 2. An assistant; helper: a nurse's aide.
 [Fr. < aider, to aid.]



 aide-de-camp  n. pl. aides-de-camp  A naval or military officer acting as
 secretary and confidential assistant to a superior officer of general or
 flag rank. [Fr.]



 aide-memoire  n.  1. Something that serves as an aid to memory, as a
 mnemonic device. 2. An outline or memorandum setting forth the major points
 of a proposed agreement or discussion, used esp. in diplomatic
 communications. [Fr.]



 AIDS  n.  A disease of no known etiology in which the body's immunological
 system is destroyed. [An acronym for acquired immune deficiency syndrome.]



 aigrette or aigret   n.  1. An ornamental tuft of upright plumes, esp. the
 tail feathers of an egret. 2. An ornament, such as a spray of gems,
 resembling an aigrette. [Fr., egret < OFr. -see egret.]



 aiguille  n.  1. A sharp, pointed mountain peak. 2. A needle-shaped drill
 for boring holes in rock or masonry. [Fr., needle. -see aglet.]



 aiguillette  n.  An ornamental cord or braid worn on the shoulder of a
 military uniform. [Fr. -see aglet.]



 aikido  n.  A Japanese method of self-defense in which one's opponent's
 strength and weight are used against him. [J. aikido : ai, mutual + ki,
 spirit + do, art.]



 ail  v. ailed ailing ails   -intr. To feel ill or have pain; be unwell.
 -tr. To cause pain; make ill or uneasy; trouble. [ME eilen < OE eglian <
 egle, troublesome.]



 ailanthus  n.  A deciduous tree, Ailanthus altissima, native to China but
 naturalized in North America esp. in urban areas that has compound leaves
 and clusters of greenish flowers with an unpleasant odor. [NLat. Ailanthus,
 genus name < Amboinese ai lanto, tree of heaven.]



 aileron  n.  Either of two movable flaps on the wings of an airplane that
 can be used to control the plane's rolling and banking movements. [Fr.,
 dim. of aile, wing < OFr. < Lat. ala.]



 ailment  n.  A physical or mental disorder, esp. a mild illness.



 ailurophile  n.  One who loves cats. [Gk. ailuros, cat + -phile.]



 ailurophobe  n.  One who hates or fears cats. [Gk. ailuros, cat + -phobe.]




 aim  v. aimed aiming aims   -tr. To direct (a weapon, remark, or blow, for
 example) at someone or something. -intr. 1. To direct a weapon: a gunner
 aiming carefully.  2. To determine a course: aim at better education.  3.
 To propose; intend: aim to solve the problem.    -n. 1. The act of aiming
 or pointing. 2. The sighting or line of fire of something aimed. 3.
 Obsolete. An object or point aimed at; target; mark. 4. Purpose; intention;
 plan. 5.  Obsolete. A conjecture; guess. [ME amen < OFr. aesmer, to guess
 at : a-, at (< Lat. ad) + esmer, to guess < Lat. aestimare, to estimate.]



 aimless  adj.  Without direction or purpose.   aimlessly adv.
 aimlessness n.



 ain  adj.  Scots.  Own.



 ain't  Nonstandard.   1. Am not. 2. Used also as a contraction for are
 not, is not, has not, and have not.

      Usage: Ain't  has acquired such a stigma over the years that it is
 beyond rehabilitation, even though it would serve a useful function as a
 contraction for am not  and even though its use as an alternate form for
 isn't, hasn't, aren't,  and haven't  has a good historical justification.
 In questions, the variant aren't I  is acceptable in speech to a majority
 of the Usage Panel, but in writing there is no generally acceptable
 substitute for the stilted am I not.



 Ainu  n. pl. Ainu  or -nus  1. A member of an aboriginal Caucasian people
 inhabiting the northernmost islands of Japan. 2. The language of the Ainus.




 aioli  n.  A rich garlic-flavored mayonnaise, used esp. on fish and
 vegetables. [Prov. : ai, garlic (< Lat. allium) + oli, oil (< Lat. oleum).]




 air  n.  1.  a. A colorless, odorless, tasteless gaseous mixture, mainly
 nitrogen (approximately 78 per cent) and oxygen (approximately 21 per cent)
 with lesser amounts of argon, carbon dioxide, neon, helium, and other
 gases. b. This mixture with varying amounts of moisture, low-altitude
 pollutants, and particulate matter, enveloping the earth; the atmosphere.
 c. The air or atmosphere in an enclosure. 2. The sky; firmament. 3. An
 atmospheric movement; breeze; wind. 4.  Archaic. Breath. 5. Public
 utterance; circulation: give air to one's grievances.  6. A peculiar or
 characteristic impression; aura: a room with an air of loneliness.  7.
 Personal bearing, appearance, or manner; mien: has an air of gentility.  8.
 airs  Affected manners; haughty pose: gives herself aristocratic airs.  9.
 Music. A melody or tune, esp.: a. The soprano or treble part in a
 harmonized composition. b. A solo with or without accompaniment. 10. Air
 conditioning.   -tr.v.aired airing airs   1. To expose so that air can dry,
 cool, or freshen; ventilate. 2. To give public utterance to; circulate.

       Idiom Section:  in the air. 1. Abroad; prevalent. 2. Uncertain; not
 settled; being thought out or formulated. on offthe air.. Being (or not
 being) broadcast on radio or television. take the air. To go outdoors for
 fresh air; take a short walk or ride. up in the air. 1. Not decided;
 uncertain; in suspense. 2. Agitated or excited; upset; angry. walk on air.
 To feel elated or extremely happy. [ME < OFr. < Lat. aer < Gk. aer.]



 air bag  n.  An automotive safety device consisting of a bag designed to
 inflate upon collision and prevent passengers from pitching forward.



 air base  n.  A base for military aircraft.



 air battery  n.  A rechargeable battery in which current is generated as a
 result of oxidation of metal.



 air bladder  n.  Biology.  1. An air-filled structure near the spinal
 column in many fishes that functions to maintain buoyancy or in some
 species as an aid in respiration or hearing. 2. Any air-filled saclike
 structure, such as one of the dilated parts of the thallus in certain
 seaweeds.



 airboat  n.  A swamp boat.



 airborne  adj.  1. Carried by or through the air: airborne pollen.  2.
 Transported in aircraft: airborne troops.  3. In flight; flying.



 airbrush or air brush   n.  An atomizer using compressed air to spray
 paint or other liquids on a surface   -tr.v.-brushed -brushing -brushes
 To spray with an airbrush.



 airburst  n.  An explosion of a bomb or shell in the atmosphere.



 Airbus   A trademark for a subsonic jet passenger airplane.



 air chamber  n.  1. Any enclosure filled with air for a special purpose.
 2. An air chamber, esp. in a hydraulic system, in which air elastically
 compresses and expands to regulate the flow of a fluid.



 air command  n.  A unit of the U.S. Air Force that is larger than an air
 force.



 air-condition  tr.v. -tioned -tioning -tions   To provide with or
 ventilate by air conditioning.



 air conditioner  n.  Any apparatus for controlling, esp. lowering, the
 temperature and humidity of an enclosure.



 air conditioning  n.  1. The state or condition produced by an air
 conditioner. 2. A system of air conditioners.



 air-cool  tr.v. -cooled -cooling -cools   1. To cool (an engine, for
 example) by a flow of air. 2. To air-condition.



 air corridor  n.  An air route established by international agreement.



 air cover  n.  1. Protective use of military aircraft during ground
 operations. 2. The aircraft used for air cover.



 aircraft  n. pl. aircraft  A machine or device, including airplanes,
 helicopters, gliders, and dirigibles, capable of atmospheric flight.



 aircraft carrier  n.  A large naval ship designed as a mobile air base at
 sea, having a long flat deck on which aircraft can take off and land.



 aircraftsman or aircraftman   n.  A noncommissioned member of the British
 Royal Air Force or the Royal Canadian Air Force.



 air-cushion or air-cushioned   adj.  Of or relating to a vehicle that is
 supported a short distance above the surface of land or water by a cushion
 of forced air.



 air division  n.  A unit of the U.S. Air Force larger than a wing and
 smaller than an air force.



 air door  n.  A temperature-controlled, strong current of air, usually
 directed upward, that is used instead of a door.



 airdrome  n.  1. An airport. 2. A landing field. 3. An airplane hangar.



 airdrop  n.  A delivery, as of supplies or troops, by parachute from
 aircraft in flight.   -tr. -intr.v.-dropped -dropping -drops   To drop from
 an aircraft.



 air-dry  tr.v. -dried -drying -dries   To dry by exposure to the air.
 -adj. Sufficiently dry so that further exposure to air will not evaporate
 moisture.



 Airedale  n.  A large terrier of a breed having rather long legs and a
 wiry tan coat marked with black. [After Airedale, a valley in Yorkshire,
 England.]



 air embolism  n.  An aeroembolism.



 air express  n.  A system of transportation of packages by air.



 airfare  n.  Fare for travel by airplane.



 airfield  n.  1. An airport having hard-surfaced runways where aircraft
 can take off and land. 2. A landing strip.



 airflow  n.  1. A flow of air. 2. The air currents caused by the motion of
 an object such as an airplane or automobile.



 airfoil  n.  An aircraft part or surface, such as a wing, propeller blade,
 or rudder, the shape and orientation of which control stability, direction,
 lift, thrust, or propulsion.



 air force  n.  1. The aviation branch of a country's armed forces, as the
 United States Air Force. 2. A unit of the U.S. Air Force larger than an air
 division and smaller than an air command.



 airframe  n.  An aircraft lacking only its power plant.



 air freight  n.  1. A system of transporting freight by air. 2. The amount
 charged for air freight.



 air gas  n.  Producer gas.



 airglow  n.  A low- or middle-latitude, more or less steady, faint
 photochemical luminescence in the upper atmosphere.



 air gun  n.  A gun discharged by compressed air.



 airhead  n.  An area of hostile or enemy-controlled territory secured by
 paratroops.



 air hole  n.  1. A hole or opening through which gas or air may pass. 2.
 An opening in the frozen surface of a body of water. 3. An air pocket.



 air hunger  n.  The gasping, deep respiration symptomatic of coma and
 diabetic acidosis.



 airing  n.  1. Exposure to air for freshening or drying. 2. Exposure to
 open air for exercise or health-promoting activity. 3. Exposure to public
 notice or attention. 4. A radio or television broadcast.



 air lane  n.  A regular route of travel for aircraft; airway.



 air layering  n.  A method of plant propagation in which a twig or shoot
 attached to the parent plant is wrapped in moist sphagnum moss or
 polyethylene plastic so that it will form roots and can later be removed
 and replanted.



 airless  adj.  1. Without air. 2. Lacking fresh air; stuffy. 3. Without a
 breeze or wind; still.   airlessness n.



 air letter  n.  1. An airmail letter. 2. A sheet of airmail paper that can
 be folded as an envelope with a message inside.



 airlift  n.  A system of transporting troops or supplies by air when
 surface routes are blocked.   -v.-lifted -lifting -lifts   -tr. To
 transport by air, as when ground routes are blocked. -intr. To transport
 supplies or troops by air.



 airline  n.  1.  a. A system for scheduled transport of passengers and
 freight by air. b. A business organization providing such a system of air
 transport. 2. An air route. 3. The shortest distance between two
 geographical points; a direct line; beeline.



 airliner  n.  An airplane adapted for carrying passengers and operated by
 an airline.



 air lock  n.  1. An airtight chamber, usually located between two regions
 of unequal pressure, in which air pressure can be regulated. 2. A bubble or
 pocket of air or vapor, as in a pipe, that stops the normal flow of fluid
 through the conducting part.



 airmail  tr.v. -mailed -mailing -mails   To send (a letter, for example)
 by air mail.   -adj. Of, relating to, or for use with air mail: an airmail
 stamp.



 air mail or airmail   n.  1. The system of conveying mail by aircraft. 2.
 Mail conveyed or to be conveyed by aircraft.



 airman  n.  1. An enlisted man or woman in the U.S. Air Force. 2. An
 enlisted man in the U.S. Navy working with aircraft. 3. An aviator.



 airman basic  n.  An enlisted man of the lowest rank in the U.S. Air
 Force.



 airman first class  n.  An enlisted man in the U.S. Air Force ranking
 above an airman and below a sergeant.



 air mass  n.  A large body of air with only small horizontal variations of
 temperature, pressure, and moisture.



 air mattress  n.  An inflatable airtight sack used as a mattress.



 Air Medal  n.  A decoration awarded by the U.S. Army, Air Force, or Navy
 for meritorious airborne conduct.



 air mile  n.  A unit of distance in air navigation.



 air piracy  n.  The hijacking of an airplane in flight; skyjacking.   air
 pirate n.



 airplane  n.  Any of various winged vehicles capable of flight, generally
 heavier than air and propelled by jet engines or propellers. [Alteration of
 aeroplane, prob. < Fr. aeroplane : aero-, aero- + planer, to glide < plan,
 level < Lat. planus, flat.]



 air plant  n.  An epiphyte.



 airplay  n.  The broadcasting of a record on the air by a radio station.



 air pocket  n.  A downward air current that causes an aircraft to lose
 altitude abruptly.



 air police  n.  Military police of an air force.



 airport  n.  1. A tract of leveled land where aircraft can take off and
 land, usually equipped with hard-surfaced landing strips, a control tower,
 hangars, and accommodations for passengers and cargo. 2. An installation
 similar to an airport in which the landing area is on water.



 airproof  adj.  Impermeable to air.   -tr.v.-proofed -proofing -proofs
 To make impermeable to air.



 air pump  n.  Equipment for compressing, removing, or forcing a flow of
 air.



 air raid  n.  An attack by hostile military aircraft, esp. when armed with
 bombs.



 air rifle  n.  A low-powered rifle, such as a BB gun, that uses manually
 compressed air to fire small pellets.



 air sac  n.  An air-filled space, as one of the spaces in a bird's body
 that forms a connection between the lungs and the bone cavities.



 airscrew  n.  Chiefly British.  The propeller of an airplane.



 air-shed  n.  1. The air supply of a given region. 2. The geographic area
 covered by an air supply. [air + (water)shed.]



 airship  n.  A self-propelled lighter-than-air craft with directional
 control surfaces; dirigible.



 airsick  adj.  Suffering from airsickness.



 airsickness  n.  Nausea and discomfort resulting from nervous tension or
 changes in pressure or motion in an aircraft.



 air sock  n.  A windsock.



 airspace  n.  1. The portion of the atmosphere above a particular land
 area, esp. a nation or other political subdivision. 2. The space occupied
 by an aircraft formation or used in a maneuver.



 air speed  n.  The speed, esp. of an aircraft, relative to the air.



 air splint  n.  An inflatable cylinder used to immobilize fractures and
 sprains of extremities.



 air spray  n.  1. A device for spraying liquids that uses compressed air.
 2. The liquid sprayed by an air spray.



 air spring  n.  An enclosed volume of air that by its resilience acts as a
 spring or shock absorber.



 airstrip  n.  A cleared area serving as an airfield, esp. in an emergency.




 airt  n.  Scots.  One of the cardinal points on the compass; a direction.
 [ME art < Sc. Gael. aird.]



 air taxi  n.  A small aircraft that makes short local flights to areas not
 serviced by regular airlines.



 airtight  adj.  1. Impermeable by air or gas. 2. Having no weak points;
 sound: an airtight excuse.



 airtime  n.  The time that a radio or television station is broadcasting.



 air-to-air missile  n.  A missile, usually guided, designed to be fired
 from aircraft at aircraft.



 air-to-surface missile  n.  A missile, usually guided, designed to be
 fired from aircraft at targets on the ground.



 air vesicle  n.  1. A terminal air sac in the lung, where gas exchange
 takes place in respiration. 2. An air-filled space that aids in flotation
 of many water plants.



 airwaves  pl.n.  The medium used for the transmission of radio and
 television signals.



 airway  n.  1. A passageway or shaft in which air circulates, as in
 ventilating a mine. 2. A designated route of passage for an aircraft; air
 lane.



 airworthy  adj. -thier -thiest   In fit condition to fly: an airworthy
 aircraft.    airworthiness n.



 airy  adj. -ier -iest   1. Having the constitution or nature of air. 2.
 High in the air; lofty. 3. Open to the air; breezy: airy chambers.  4.
 Performed in the air; aerial. 5. Resembling air; immaterial: an airy
 apparition.  6. Impractical; insubstantial; unreal. 7. Speculative;
 imaginative; visionary. 8. Light as air; delicate: an airy veil.  9.
 Displaying lofty nonchalance: dismissing him in an airy manner.  10.
 Light-hearted; gay: an airy mood.    airily adv.   airiness n.



 aisle  n.  1. A part of a church divided laterally from the nave by a row
 of pillars or columns. 2. A passageway between rows of seats, as in an
 auditorium. 3. A passageway, as between counters in a department store. [ME
 ele < OFr., wing of a building < Lat. ala.]



 aitch  n.  The letter h.  [Fr. hache.]



 aitchbone  n.  1. The rump bone in cattle. 2. The cut of meat containing
 the aitchbone. [ME hach-boon < the phrase an hach-boon, an aitchbone,
 alteration of a nachebon : nache, buttock (< OFr. < Lat. natis) + bon, bone
 < OE ban.]



 ajar
 ajar(1)  adv.  -adj. Partially opened: left the door ajar.  [ME on char :
 on, in + char, turn < OE cierr.]
 ajar(2)  adv.  -adj. Not harmonious; jarring: ajar with the times.



 Ajax  n.  Greek Mythology.  1. A warrior of great stature and prowess who
 fought against Troy; son of Telamon of Salamis. 2. A warrior of small
 stature and arrogant character who fought against Troy; son of Ileus of
 Locris. [Lat. < Gk. Aias.]



 akaryocyte  n.  A cell that has no nucleus.



 akee  n.  1. A tropical tree, Blighia sapida, native to Africa, having
 fragrant flowers and capsules containing black seeds. 2. The edible aril
 surrounding the seeds of the akee. [Native word in Liberia.]



 akene  n.  Variant of achene.



 akimbo  adj.  -adv. With the hands on the hips and the elbows bowed
 outward. [ME in kenebowe.]



 akin  adj.  1. Of the same kin; related by blood. 2. Having a similar
 quality or character; analogous. 3.  Linguistics. Cognate.



 Akkadian  n.  1. A native or inhabitant of ancient Akkad. 2. The Semitic
 language of the Akkadians.   Akkadian adj.



 Al   The symbol for the element aluminum.



 al-   Variant of ad-. Used before 1.



 -al
 -al(1)   Of, relating to, or characterized by: parental.  [ME < OFr. < Lat.
 -alis.]
 -al(2)   Action; process: retrieval.  [ME -aille < OFr. < Lat. -alia,
 neuter pl. of -alis, adj. suffix.]
 -al(3)   Aldehyde: citronellal.  [< aldehyde.]



 ala  n. pl. alae  A winglike structure or part, such as an ear lobe, the
 membranous border of some seeds, or one of the side petals of certain
 flowers, such as the sweet pea. [Lat., wing.]



 a la or a la   prep.  In the style or manner of: a poem a la Ogden Nash.
 [Fr., short for a la mode de, in the manner of.]



 alabaster  n.  1. A dense translucent, white or tinted fine-grained
 gypsum. 2. A variety of hard calcite, translucent and sometimes banded. 3.
 A pale yellowish pink to yellowish gray. [ME alabastre < OFr. < Lat.
 alabaster < Gk. alabastros, poss. of Egypt. orig.]



 a la carte  adv.  -adj. With a separate price for each item on the menu.
 [Fr., by the menu.]



 alack or alackaday   interj.  Archaic.  Used to express sorrow, regret, or
 alarm.



 alacrity  n.  1. Cheerful willingness; eagerness. 2. Speed or quickness;
 celerity. [Lat. alacritas < alacer, lively.]   alacritous adj.



 Aladdin  n.  In the Arabian Nights, a boy who acquires a magic lamp and a
 magic ring with which he can summon two jinn to fulfill any desire.



 alae  n.  Plural of ala.



 a la king  adj.  Cooked in a cream sauce with green pepper or pimiento and
 mushrooms.



 alameda  n.  Southwestern U.S.  A promenade or shaded walk, esp. one lined
 with poplars or other shade trees. [Sp. < alamo, poplar, alamo.]



 alamo  n. pl. -mos  Southwestern U.S.  A poplar tree, esp. a cottonwood.
 [Sp. alamo < Lat. alnus, alder and ulmus, elm.]



 alamode  n.  A lustrous plain-weave silk fabric for head coverings and
 scarfs. [< a la mode.]



 a la mode  adj.  1. According to or in style or fashion. 2.  a. Served
 with ice cream, as certain desserts. b. Braised with vegetables and served
 in a rich, brown sauce, as meats. [Fr., in the fashion.]



 alanine  n.  An amino acid, C3H7NO2, that is a constituent of most
 proteins. [G. Alanin, ult. < Aldehyd, aldehyde.]



 alar  adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, or having wings or alae. 2. Shaped like
 or resembling a wing. 3.  Anatomy. Pertaining to the armpit; axillary.
 [Lat. alaris < ala, wing.]



 alarm  n.  1. A sudden fear caused by an apprehension or realization of
 danger; fright. 2. A warning of approaching or existing danger. 3. An
 electrical or mechanical device that serves to warn of danger by means of a
 sound or signal. 4. The sounding mechanism of an alarm clock. 5. A call to
 arms.   -tr.v.alarmed alarming alarms   1. To frighten by a sudden
 revelation of danger. 2. To warn of or indicate approaching or existing
 danger. [ME < OFr. alarme < OItal. allarme < all' arme, to arms : alla, to
 (< Lat. ad illam, to that) + arme, arms < Lat. arma.]   alarmable adj.
 alarmingly adv.



 alarm clock  n.  A clock that can be set to sound a bell or buzzer at any
 desired hour.



 alarmist  n.  A person who needlessly alarms or attempts to alarm others,
 as by inventing or spreading false or exaggerated rumors of impending
 danger or catastrophe.   alarmism n.



 alarm reaction  n.  An innate mechanism in animals and man providing a
 response to novel or threatening circumstances.



 alarum  n.  Archaic.  An alarm, esp. a call to arms. [ME alarom, var. of
 alarm, alarm.]



 alary  adj.  1. Of or pertaining to wings. 2. Resembling a wing;
 wing-shaped. [Lat. alarius < ala, wing.]



 alas  interj.  Used to express sorrow, regret, grief, compassion, or
 apprehension of danger or evil.



 alaska  n.  1. A kind of heavy-duty rubberized overshoe. 2.  a. A heavy
 dress and coat fabric of cotton and wool. b. A yarn made of cotton and
 wool. [After Alaska.]



 Alaska cedar  n.  The Nootka cypress.



 Alaskan malamute  n.  The malamute.



 alastor or Alastor   n.  An avenging deity or spirit, the masculine
 personification of Nemesis, frequently evoked in Greek tragedy. [Gk.
 alastor < alastos, unforgettable : a-, not + lathein, to forget.]



 alate or alated   adj.  Biology.  Having thin, winglike extensions or
 parts; winged. [Lat. alatus < ala, wing.]



 alb  n.  A long white linen robe with tapered sleeves worn by a priest at
 Mass. [ME albe < OE < Med. Lat. alba < Lat. albus, white.]



 albacore  n. pl. albacore  or -cores  A large marine fish, Thunnus
 alalunga, of warm seas, having edible flesh that is a major source of
 canned tuna. [Port. albacor < Ar. al-bakrah : al, the + bakr, young camel.]




 Albanian  adj.  Of or pertaining to the People's Republic of Albania, its
 inhabitants, or their language.   -n. 1. A native or inhabitant of Albania.
 2. The Indo-European language of the Albanians.



 albatross  n. pl. albatross  or -trosses  1. Any of various large,
 web-footed birds of the family Diomedeidae, chiefly of the oceans of the
 Southern Hemisphere, having a hooked beak and long, narrow wings. 2. An
 obvious handicap or constant burden. [Prob. alteration of alcatras, pelican
 < Port. or Sp. alcatraz, of Ar. orig. (Sense 2 after the albatross in The
 Rime of the Ancient Mariner by S. T. Coleridge, 1772-1834, which the
 mariner killed and had to wear around his neck as a penance).]



 albedo  n. pl. -dos  The fraction of incident electromagnetic radiation
 reflected by a surface. [LLat., whiteness < Lat. albus, white.]



 albeit  conj.  Although; even though; notwithstanding. [ME, although it
 be.]



 albescent  adj.  Becoming white or moderately white; whitish. [Lat.
 albescens, albescent-, pr.part. of albescere, to become white < albus,
 white.]



 Albigenses  pl.n.  The members of a Catharist religious sect of southern
 France in the 12th and 13th centuries, exterminated for heresy by the
 Inquisition. [Med. Lat., pl. of Albigensis, inhabitant of Albiga, a town in
 southern France where the sect was dominant.]   Albigensian adj.
 Albigensianism n.



 albinism  n.  1. The congenital absence of normal pigmentation in a
 person, animal, or plant. 2. The condition of being an albino. [Fr.
 albinisme < G. Albinismus < Albino, albino.]



 albino  n. pl. -nos  An organism lacking normal pigmentation, as a person
 having abnormally pale skin, very light hair, and lacking normal eye
 coloring, or an animal having white hair or fur and red eyes. [Port. <
 albo, white < Lat. albus.]



 Albion  n.  A literary name for Britain. [Lat.]



 albite  n.  A widely distributed white feldspar, NaAlSi3O8, that is one of
 the common rock-forming plagioclase group. [Swed. albit < Lat. albus,
 white.]   albitic albitical  adj.



 album  n.  1. A book or binder with blank pages for the insertion and
 preservation of collections, as of stamps, photographs, or autographs. 2.
 a. A set of phonograph records stored together in jackets under one
 binding. b. The holder for such records. c. One or more 12-inch
 long-playing records in a slipcase. d. A phonograph record. e. A recording
 of different musical pieces. 3. A printed collection of musical
 compositions, pictures, or literary selections. 4. A tall, handsomely
 printed book, esp. popular in the 19th century, often having a profusion of
 illustrations and short, sentimental texts. [Lat., blank tablet < albus,
 white.]



 albumen  n.  1. A nutritive substance surrounding a developing embryo,
 such as the white of an egg or the material stored in a plant seed. 2.
 Albumin. [Lat. < albus, white.]



 albumin  n.  Any of several simple, water-soluble proteins that are
 coagulated by heat and are found in egg white, blood serum, milk, various
 animal tissues, and many plant juices and tissues. [album(en) + -in.]



 albuminoid or albuminoidal   adj.  Resembling albumin.   -n. Biochemistry.
  Protein.



 albuminous  adj.  Of, like, or pertaining to albumin or albumen.



 albuminuria  n.  The presence of albumin in the urine, sometimes
 indicative of kidney disease.   albuminuric adj.



 albumose  n.  Any of a class of albuminous substances formed by enzymatic
 action on proteins during digestion. [Fr. : albumine, albumin + -ose,
 -ose.]



 alburnum  n.  Sapwood. [Lat. < albus, white.]



 Alcaic  adj.  Of or designating a verse form used in Greek and Latin
 poetry, consisting of strophes having four tetrametric lines.   -n. Verse
 composed in Alcaic strophes. [LLat. Alcaicus, of Alcaeus < Gk. Alkaikos <
 Alkaios, a Greek lyric poet of the 7th cent. b.c.]



 alcaide or alcayde   n.  The commander or governor of a fortress in Spain
 or Portugal. [Sp. < Ar. al-qa'id, the commander < qad, to command.]



 alcalde  n.  The mayor or chief judicial official of a Spanish or
 Spanish-American town. [Sp. < Ar. al-qadi : al, the + qada, to judge.]



 alcayde  n.  Variant of alcaide.



 alcazar  n.  A Spanish palace or fortress, originally one built by the
 Moors. [Sp. alcazar < Ar. alqasr : al, the + qas, camp.]



 Alcestis  n.  Greek Mythology.  The wife of King Admetus of Thessaly, who
 agreed to die in place of her husband and was later rescued from Hades by
 Hercules. [Lat. < Gk. Alkestis.]



 alchemist  n.  A practitioner of alchemy.   alchemistic  alchemistical
 adj.



 alchemize  tr.v. -mized -mizing -mizes   To transform by or as if by
 alchemy.



 alchemy  n.  1. A medieval chemical philosophy having as its asserted aims
 the transmutation of base metals into gold, the discovery of the panacea,
 and the preparation of the elixir of longevity. 2. A seemingly magical
 power or process of transmuting:  that alchemy . . . by which women can
 concoct a subtle poison from ordinary trifles (Hawthorne). [ME alkamie <
 OFr. alquemie < Med. Lat. alchymia < Ar. al-kimiya : al, the + kimiya,
 alchemy < LGk. khemeia, perh. < Gk. Khemia, Egypt, of Egypt. orig.]
 alchemical alchemic  adj.   alchemically adv.



 Alcinous  n.  Greek Mythology.  A king of Phaeacia, father of Nausicaa,
 who entertained Odysseus. [Lat. < Gk. Alkinoos.]



 Alcmene  n.  Greek Mythology.  Amphitryon's wife, who gave birth to
 Hercules after being seduced by Zeus. [Lat. < Gk. Alkmene.]



 alcohol  n.  1. A colorless volatile flammable liquid, C2H5OH, synthesized
 or obtained by fermentation of sugars and starches and widely used, either
 pure or denatured, as a solvent, in drugs, cleaning solutions, explosives,
 and intoxicating beverages. 2. Intoxicating liquor containing alcohol. 3.
 Any of a series of hydroxyl compounds, the simplest of which are derived
 from saturated hydrocarbons, have the general formula CnH2n+1OH, and
 include ethanol and methanol. [Med. Lat., antimony < Ar. al-kohl : al, the
 + kohl, antimony.]



 alcoholic  adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, or resulting from alcohol. 2.
 Containing or preserved in alcohol. 3. Suffering from alcoholism.   -n. A
 person who drinks alcoholic liquors habitually and to excess or who suffers
 from alcoholism.



 alcoholicity  n.  Alcoholic content.



 alcoholism  n.  1. The compulsive consumption of and psycho-physiological
 dependence on alcoholic beverages. 2. A chronic pathological condition,
 chiefly of the nervous and gastroenteric systems, caused by habitual
 excessive alcoholic consumption. 3. Temporary mental disturbance, muscular
 incoordination, and paresis caused by excessive alcoholic consumption.



 alcoholize  tr.v. -ized -izing -izes   To saturate, mix, or treat with
 alcohol.   alcoholization n.



 alcoholometer  n.  A hydrometer for determining the percentage of alcohol
 in liquids.



 Alcoran  n.  The Koran.



 alcove  n.  1. A recess or partly enclosed extension connected to or
 forming part of a room. 2. A secluded bower or similar enclosed structure
 in a garden. [Fr. alcove < Sp. alcoba < Ar. al-qubbah : al, the + qubbah,
 vault.]



 Alcyone  n.  1.  Greek Mythology. The daughter of Aeolus who, in grief
 over the death of her husband Ceyx, threw herself into the sea and was
 changed into a kingfisher. 2.  Greek Mythology. A nymph, one of the
 Pleiades. 3.  Astronomy. The brightest star in the Pleiades, in the
 constellation Taurus. [Lat. < Gk. Alkuone.]



 Aldebaran  n.  A double star in the constellation Taurus, one of the
 brightest stars in the sky, 68 light-years from Earth. [Med. Lat. < Ar.
 al-dabaran : al, the + dabaran, following < dabar, to follow.]



 aldehyde  n.  1. Any of a class of highly reactive organic chemical
 compounds obtained by oxidation of primary alcohols, characterized by the
 common group CHO, and used in the manufacture of resins, dyes, and organic
 acids. 2. Acetaldehyde. [G. Aldehyd < NLat., short for alcohol
 dehydrogenatum, dehydrogenized alcohol.]



 al dente  adj.  -adv. Cooked enough to be firm but not soft: pasta al
 dente.  [Ital.]



 alder  n.  Any of various deciduous shrubs or trees of the genus Alnus,
 growing in cool, moist places, and having reddish wood used in cabinet
 work. [ME < OE alor.]



 alderman  n.  1. In many town and city governments, a member of the
 municipal legislative body. 2. In England and Ireland, a member of the
 higher branch of the municipal or borough council. 3. In Anglo-Saxon
 England: a. A lord or prince. b. The chief officer of a shire. [ME, a
 person of high rank < OE ealdorman : ealdor, chief (< eald, old) + man,
 man.]   aldermancy n.   aldermanic adj.



 Alderney  n. pl. -neys  One of a breed of small dairy cattle originally
 raised in the Channel Islands. [After Alderney, one of the Channel
 Islands.]



 aldol  n.  A thick colorless to pale-yellow liquid, C4H8O2, obtained from
 acetaldehyde and used to make perfumes and in ore flotation. [ald(ehyde) +
 -ol1.]



 aldolase  n.  An enzyme that catalyzes the breakdown of a fructose ester
 into triose sugars.



 aldose  n.  Chemistry.  Any of a class of monosaccharide sugars containing
 an aldehyde group. [ald(ehyde) + -ose1.]



 aldosterone  n.  A steroid hormone that is secreted by the adrenal cortex
 and serves as a regulator of the salt and water balance in the body.
 [ald(ehyde) + ster(ol) + -one.]



 aldrin  n.  An insecticide containing a naphthalene-derived compound,
 C12H8CI6. [After Kurt Alder (1902-1958).]



 ale  n.  A fermented alcoholic beverage containing malt and hops, similar
 to but heavier than beer. [ME < OE ealu.]



 aleatory  adj.  1. Dependent upon chance, luck, or an uncertain outcome.
 2. Of or pertaining to gambling. 3. aleatoric   Music. Using or consisting
 of sound sequences played at random or arrived at by chance, as by throwing
 dice. [Lat. aleatorius < aleator, gambler < alea, dice.]



 Alecto  n.  Greek Mythology.  One of the Furies. [Lat. < Gk. Alekto.]



 alee  adv.  Nautical.  At, on, or to the leeward side.



 alef  n.  Variant of aleph.



 alegar  n.  Vinegar produced by the fermentation of ale. [ME : ale, ale +
 egre, sharp < OFr. < Lat. acer.]



 alehouse  n.  A place where ale is sold and served.



 Alemanni  pl.n.  A group of Germanic tribes that settled in Alsace and
 nearby areas during the fourth century  A.D. and were defeated by the
 Franks in 496. [Lat., of Germanic orig.]



 Alemannic  n.  A group of High German dialects spoken in Alsace,
 Switzerland, and parts of southern Germany.   -adj. Of or pertaining to the
 Alemanni or their language.



 alembic  n.  1. An apparatus formerly used for distilling. 2. Something
 that purifies, alters, or transforms by a process comparable to
 distillation. [ME alambic < OFr. < Med. Lat. alembicus < Ar. al-anbiq : al,
 the + anbiq, still < Gk. ambix, cup.]



 aleph or alef   n.  The 1st letter of the Hebrew alphabet. See table at
 alphabet. [Heb. aleph < eleph, ox.]



 aleph-null  n.  The first transfinite number.



 alert  adj.  1. Vigilantly attentive; watchful: alert to danger.  2.
 Mentally responsive and perceptive; quick. 3. Brisk or lively in action.
 -n. 1. A warning signal of attack or danger, esp. a siren warning of an air
 raid. 2. The period of time during which an alert is in effect.
 -tr.v.alerted alerting alerts   To notify of approaching danger or action;
 warn.

       Idiom Section:  on the alert. . Watchful and prepared for danger or
 emergency. [Fr. alerte < Ital. all'erta, on the watch : alla, to (< Lat. ad
 illam, to that) + erta, watch, p.part. of ergere, to raise < Lat. erigere.]




 aleurone or aleuron   n.  Protein consisting of minute granules, forming
 the outermost layer of the endosperm in cereal grains. [G. Aleuron < Gk.
 aleuron, meal.]   aleuronic adj.



 Aleut  n. pl. Aleut  or Aleuts  1. An Eskimo native of the Aleutian
 Islands. 2. The language of the Aleuts. [R.]



 Aleutian  adj.  Of or pertaining to the Aleuts, their language, or their
 culture.



 alewife
 alewife(1)  n.  A fish, Alosa pseudoharengus, closely related to the
 herrings, of North American Atlantic waters and some inland lakes. [Perh. <
 alewife2.]
 alewife(2)  n.  A woman who keeps an alehouse.



 alexander or Alexander   n.  A cocktail made with creme de cacao, sweet
 cream, and brandy or gin. [From the name Alexander.]



 Alexandrian  adj.  1. Of or pertaining to Alexander the Great. 2. Of or
 pertaining to Alexandria, Egypt. 3. Of, characteristic of, or designating a
 learned school of Hellenistic literature, science, and philosophy located
 at Alexandria in the last three centuries  B.C.



 alexandrine or Alexandrine   n.  A line of English verse composed in
 iambic hexameter, usually with a caesura after the third foot, such as
 Pope's example: That like a wounded snake drags its slow length along.
 -adj. Of, pertaining to, or composed in alexandrines. [Fr. alexandrin <
 OFr. < Alexandre, title of a romance about Alexander the Great (356-323
 B.C.) that was written in this meter.]



 alexandrite  n.  A greenish chrysoberyl that appears red in artificial
 light, used as a gemstone. [G. Alexandrit, after Alexander I (1777-1825),
 Czar of Russia.]



 alexia  n.  A disorder in which cerebral lesions cause loss of the ability
 to read. [NLat. : a-1 + Gk. lexis, speech < legein, to speak.]



 alexipharmic  adj.  Preventing or resisting effects of poison or
 infection; antidotal; prophylactic.   -n. An antidote. [< Gk.
 alexipharmakos : alexein, to ward off + pharmakon, poison.]



 alfalfa  n.  A plant, Medicago sativa, native to Eurasia, having compound
 leaves with three leaflets and clusters of small purple flowers, widely
 cultivated for forage and used as a commercial source of chlorophyll. [Sp.
 < Ar. al-fasfasah.]



 alfilaria or alfileria   n.  A plant, Erodium cicutarium, native to Europe
 but widely naturalized in North America, having finely divided leaves and
 small pink or purplish flowers. [Mex. Sp. alfilerillo < Sp., dim. of
 alfiler, pin < Ar. al-khilal, the spine.]



 alforja  n.  Western U.S.  A canvas or leather saddlebag. [Sp. < Ar.
 al-khorj, the supply.]



 alfresco  adv.  In the fresh air; outdoors.   -adj. Taking place outdoors;
 outdoor. [Ital. al fresco, in the fresh (air) : a il, in the + fresco,
 fresh.]



 alga  n. pl. -gae  Any of various primitive, chiefly aquatic, one-celled
 or multicellular plants that lack true stems, roots, and leaves but usually
 contain chlorophyll. Included among the algae are kelps and other seaweeds,
 and the diatoms. [Lat., seaweed.]   algal adj.



 algarroba or algaroba   n.  1. The mesquite. 2. The carob. 3.
 The edible pod of either the mesquite or carob tree. [Sp. < Ar.
 al-kharrubah.]



 algebra  n.  1. A generalization of arithmetic in which symbols, usually
 letters of the alphabet, represent numbers or members of a specified set of
 numbers and are related by operations that hold for all numbers in the set.
 2. A set together with operations defined in the set that obey specified
 laws. [ME < Med. Lat. < Ar. al-jebr, the (science of) reuniting : al, the +
 jabr, reunification.]   algebraist n.



 algebraic  adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, or designating algebra. 2.
 Designating an expression, equation, or function in which only numbers,
 letters, and arithmetic operations are contained or used. 3. Indicating or
 restricted to a finite number of algebraic operations.   algebraically adv.




 algebraic language  n.  A computer language whose statements are designed
 to resemble algebraic expressions.



 algebraic logic  n.  The sequence of operations wherein a problem is
 entered into a calculator or computer in the order in which it would be
 written by hand.



 algebraic number  n.  A number that is a root of a polynomial equation
 with rational coefficients.



 -algia   Pain: neuralgia.  [Gk. < algos, pain.]



 algicide  n.  A chemical agent added to water to destroy algae. [alg(a) +
 -cide.]



 algid  adj.  Cold; chilly. [Fr. algide < Lat. algidus < algere, to be
 cold.]   algidity n.



 algin  n.  A gelatinous substance obtained from certain algae, esp. the
 giant kelp, and used as a thickener and emulsifier. [alg(a) + -in.]



 algo-   Pain: algometer.  [Gk. < algos, pain.]



 algoid  adj.  Of or resembling algae.



 Algol  n.  A double, eclipsing variable star in the constellation Perseus,
 almost as bright as Polaris. [Ar. al-ghul, the ghoul. -see ghoul.]



 ALGOL  n.  An arithmetic language by which numerical procedures may be
 precisely presented to a computer in a standard form. [alg(orithmic)
 o(riented) l(anguage).]



 algolagnia  n.  Sexual gratification derived from inflicting or
 experiencing pain. [NLat. : algo- + Gk. lagneia, lust.]   algolagnic adj.
 algolagnist n.



 algology  n.  The study of algae. [alg(a) + -logy.]   algological adj.
 algologically adv.   algologist n.



 algometer  n.  An apparatus for determining sensitivity to pain caused by
 pressure.   algometric algometrical  adj.   algometry n.



 Algonkian  n. pl. Algonkian  or -ans  1.  Geology. Formerly, late
 Proterozoic. 2. Variant of Algonquian. [After the Algonkin (Algonquin)
 Indians.]



 Algonkin  n. pl. Algonkin  or -kins  Variant of Algonquin.



 Algonquian or Algonkian   n. pl. Algonquian  or -ans  Algonkian  or -ans
 1. A family of North American Indian languages spoken in an area from
 Labrador to the Carolinas between the Atlantic coast and the Rocky
 Mountains. 2. A member of a tribe using an Algonquian language. [<
 Algonquin.]   Algonquian adj.



 Algonquin or Algonkin   n. pl. Algonquin  or -quins  Algonkin  or -kins
 1. Any of several North American Indian tribes formerly inhabiting the
 region along the Ottawa River and near the northern tributaries of the St.
 Lawrence River. 2. The Algonquian language of the Algonquins. 3. An Indian
 of the Algonquin tribes. [Canadian Fr.]



 algophobia  n.  Abnormal fear of pain.



 algorism  n.  The Arabic system of numeration; the decimal system. [ME
 algorisme < OFr. < Med. Lat. algorismus, after Muhammad ibn-Musa
 Al-Kharzimi (780-850?).]



 algoristic  adj.  Yielding an exact answer, as a computational system
 guaranteeing accurate solution. [< algorism.]



 algorithm  n.  Mathematics.  A mechanical or recursive computational
 procedure. [Var. of algorism.]   algorithmic adj.



 algorithmic language  n.  An arithmetic language presenting numerical
 procedures to a computer in standard form.



 alias  n.  1. An assumed name. 2.  Electronics. A false signal in
 telecommunication links from beats between signal frequency and sampling
 frequency.   -adv. Otherwise named: Johnson, alias Rogers.  [Lat.,
 otherwise < alius, other.]



 Ali Baba  n.  In the Arabian Nights, a poor woodcutter who gains entrance
 to the treasure cave of the forty thieves by saying the magic words "Open,
 Sesame!"



 alibi  n. pl. -bis  1.  Law. A form of defense whereby a defendant
 attempts to prove that he was elsewhere when the crime in question was
 committed. 2.  Informal. An excuse.   -intr.v.-bied -biing -bis   Informal.
  To make an excuse for oneself. [Lat., elsewhere : alius, other +ubi,
 where.]

      Usage: Alibi  (noun) in its nonlegal sense of "an excuse" is
 acceptable in written usage to almost half of the Usage Panel. As an
 intransitive verb (they never alibi ), it is unacceptable in written usage
 to a large majority of the Panel.



 alible  adj.  Having nutrients; nourishing. [Lat. alibilis < alere, to
 nourish.]



 alicyclic  adj.  Chemistry.  Of, pertaining to, or designating chemical
 compounds having both aliphatic and cyclic characteristics or structures.
 [ali(phatic) + cyclic.]



 alidade or alidad   n.  1. An indicator or sighting apparatus on a plane
 table, used in angular measurement. 2. A topographic surveying and mapping
 instrument with a telescope and graduated vertical circle. [Fr. < Med. Lat.
 allidada < al-'idada, revolving radius of a circle < 'adud, upper arm.]



 alien  adj.  1. Owing political allegiance to another country or
 government; foreign. 2. Belonging to, characteristic of, or derived from
 another country, place, society, or person; strange. 3. Being inconsistent
 or opposed; repugnant: Lying is alien to his nature.    -n. 1. An
 unnaturalized foreign resident of a country. 2. A member of another family,
 people, region, or country. 3. An outsider. 4.  Slang. A creature from
 outer space. 5.  Ecology. A plant native to one region but naturalized in
 another.   -tr.v.-ened -ening -ens   To transfer (property) to another. [ME
 < OFr. < Lat. alienus < alius, other.]



 alienable  adj.  Law.  Capable of being transferred to the ownership of
 another.   alienability n.



 alienage  n.  The status of being an alien.



 alienate  tr.v. -ated -ating -ates   1. To cause to become unfriendly or
 indifferent; estrange: alienate a friend.  2. To remove or dissociate
 (oneself, for example):  man cannot alienate himself from his own
 consciousness (Wylie Sypher). 3. To cause to be transferred; turn away:  he
 succeeded . . . in alienating the affections of my only ward (Oscar Wilde).
 4.  Law. To transfer (property) to the ownership of another. [Lat.
 alienare, alienat < alienus, alien.]   alienator n.



 alienation  n.  1. The condition of being alienated; isolation. 2.
 Psychology. A state of estrangement between the self and the objective
 world, or between different parts of the personality. 3.  Law. The act of
 transferring property or title to it to another.



 alienee  n.  Law.  A person to whom ownership of property is transferred.



 alienism  n.  Alienage.



 alienist  n.  Law.  A physician who has been accepted by a court as an
 expert on the mental competence of principals or witnesses appearing before
 it. [Fr. alieniste < aliene, insane < Lat. alienatus, p.part. of alienare,
 to deprive of reason. -see alienate.]



 alienor  n.  Law.  A person who transfers ownership of property to
 another.



 aliesterase  n.  An esterase contributing to ester-link hydrolysis,
 particularly in aliphatic esters. [ali(phatic) + esterase.]



 aliform  adj.  Shaped like a wing; alar. [Lat. ala, wing + -form.]



 alight
 alight(1)  intr.v. alighted  or alit  or alighting  or alights   1. To come
 down and settle, as after flight. 2. To dismount. 3.  Archaic. To come upon
 by chance. [ME alighten < OE alihtan : a- (intensive) + lihtan, to relieve
 of a burden < liht, light.]
 alight(2)  adj.  1. Burning; lighted. 2. Illuminated; lit up. [ME, p.part.
 of alighten, to set on fire < OE alihtan : a- (intensive) + lihtan, to
 shine < leoht, a light.]   alight adv.



 align or aline   v. aligned aligning aligns  or alined  or alining  or
 alines   -tr. 1. To arrange in a line. 2. To adjust (parts of a mechanism,
 for example) to produce a proper relationship or condition. 3. To ally
 (oneself, for example) with one side of an argument or cause. -intr. To
 fall into line. [Fr. aligner < OFr. : a-, to (< Lat. ad-) + ligne, line <
 Lat. linea.]   aligner n.



 alignment or alinement   n.  1. Arrangement or position in a straight
 line. 2. The process of aligning a device or mechanism or the condition of
 a device or mechanism being aligned. 3. A ground plan. 4. The act of
 aligning or the condition of being aligned.



 alike  adj.  Having close resemblance; similar:  All good books are alike
 (Hemingway).   -adv. In the same manner or to the same degree: They dress
 and walk alike.  [ME ilike < OE gelic.]   alikeness n.



 aliment  n.  1. Food or nourishment. 2. Something that supports or
 sustains.   -tr.v. -mented -menting -ments   To supply with food or other
 sustenance. [ME < Lat. alimentum < alere, to nourish.]   alimental adj.
 alimentally adv.



 alimentary  adj.  1. Of or pertaining to food or nutrition. 2. Providing
 nourishment.



 alimentary canal  n.  The mucous membrane-lined tube of the digestive
 system, extending from the mouth to the anus and including the pharynx,
 esophagus, stomach, and intestines.



 alimentation  n.  1. The act or process of giving or receiving
 nourishment. 2. Support; sustenance.   alimentative adj.



 alimony  n. pl. -nies  1.  Law. An allowance for support made under court
 order and usually given by a man to his former wife after a divorce or
 legal separation. 2. A means of livelihood maintenance. [Lat. alimonia,
 sustenance < alere, to nourish.]



 aline  v.  Variant of align.



 A-line  adj.  Having a fitted top and a flared bottom: an A-line dress.
 [From garments being shaped like a capital A.]



 alinement  n.  Variant of alignment.



 aliphatic  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or designating organic chemical
 compounds in which the carbon atoms are linked in open chains rather than
 rings. [< Gk. aleiphar, aleiphat-, oil.]



 aliquot  adj.  1.  Mathematics. Of, pertaining to, or designating an exact
 divisor or factor of a quantity, esp. of an integer. 2. Contained exactly
 or an exact number of times. [Fr. aliquote < Lat. aliquot, some number :
 alius, some + quot, how many.]



 alit  v.  A past tense and past participle of alight1.



 alive  adj.  1. Having life; living. 2. In existence or operation; active:
 keep your hopes alive.  3. Full of life; lively. 4. Now living. Used as an
 intensive: the strongest man alive.

       Idiom Section:  alive to. Aware of; sensitive to: alive to the moods
 of others.  alive with. Swarming with: a country alive with opportunity.
 [ME < on live : on, in (< OE) + live, life < OE lif.]   aliveness n.



 aliyah  n.  Immigration of Jewish people into Israel. [Heb. "aliyah,
 ascent.]



 alizarin or alizarine   n.  An orange-red compound, C14H8O4, used in dyes.
 [Fr. alizarine < alizari, madder root < Sp., prob. < Ar. al-'asarah, the
 juice pressed out.]



 alkahest  n.  The hypothetical universal solvent once sought by
 alchemists. [Med. Lat. alchahest.]



 alkalescent  adj.  Becoming alkaline; slightly alkaline. [alkal(i) +
 -escent.]   alkalescence  alkalescency n.



 alkali  n. pl. -lis  or -lies  1.  Chemistry. A carbonate or hydroxide of
 an alkali metal, the aqueous solution of which is bitter, slippery,
 caustic, and characteristically basic in reactions. 2. Any of various
 soluble mineral salts found in natural water and arid soils. 3. An alkali
 metal. [ME < Med. Lat. < Ar. al-qualiy, the ashes < qalay, to fry.]



 alkalify  tr.  -intr.v.-fied -fying -fies   To make or become alkaline.



 alkali metal  n.  Any of a group of soft, white, low-density, low-melting,
 highly reactive metallic elements, including lithium, sodium, potassium,
 rubidium, cesium, and francium.



 alkalimeter  n.  An apparatus for measuring alkalinity.   alkalimetry n.



 alkaline  adj.  1. Of, relating to, or containing an alkali. 2. Having a
 pH greater than 7.



 alkaline earth  n.  1. An oxide of an alkaline-earth metal. 2. An
 alkaline-earth metal.



 alkaline-earth metal  n.  Any of a group of metallic elements, esp.
 calcium, strontium, and barium, but generally including beryllium,
 magnesium, and radium.



 alkalinity  n.  The alkali concentration or alkaline quality of an
 alkali-containing substance.



 alkalize or alkalinize   v. -lized -lizing -lizes  or -ized  or -izing  or
 -izes   -tr. To make alkaline. -intr. To become an alkali.   alkalization
 n.



 alkaloid  n.  Any of various physiologically active, nitrogen-containing
 organic bases derived from plants, including nicotine, quinine, cocaine,
 atropine, and morphine. [alkal(i) + -oid.]   alkaloidal adj.



 alkalosis  n.  Pathologically high alkali content in the blood and
 tissues. [alkal(i) + -osis.]



 alkane  n.  A paraffin. [alk(yl) + -ane.]



 alkanet  n.  1.  a. A European plant, Alkanna tinctoria, the roots of
 which yield a red dye. b. The root of this plant or a dye prepared from it.
 2. Any of several hairy plants of the genus Anchusa, native to the Old
 World, having clusters of blue flowers. 3. The puccoon. [ME < Sp. alcaneta,
 dim. of alcana, henna < Med. Lat. alchanna < Ar. al-hinna', the henna.]



 alkene  n.  An olefin. [alk(yl) + -ene.]



 alkine  n.  Variant of alkyne.



 alkyd or alkyd resin   n.  A widely used durable synthetic resin derived
 from glycerol and phthalic anhydride. [alky(l) + (aci)d.]



 alkyl  n.  Chemistry.  A monovalent radical, such as ethyl or propyl,
 having the general formula CnH2n + 1. [G. Alkohol, alcohol + -yl.]



 alkylation  n.  Chemistry.  A process in which an alkyl group is added to
 or substituted in a compound, as in the reaction of olefins with paraffin
 hydrocarbons to make high-octane fuels.



 alkyne or alkine   n.  Any of a group of open-chain hydrocarbons with a
 triple bond and the general formula CnH2n-2. [alky(l) + -(i)ne2.]



 all  adj.  1. The total entity or extent of: all Christendom.  2. The
 entire or total number, amount, or quantity of: all the saints.  3. The
 utmost possible of: in all truth.  4. Every: all manner; all kinds.  5. Any
 whatsoever: beyond all doubt.  6. Nothing but; only: He was all skin and
 bones.    -pron. 1. Each and every one: All were drowned.  2. Each and
 every thing: Ten ships sailed and all returned.    -n. 1. Everything one
 has: He gave his all.  2. The whole number; totality.   -adv. 1. Wholly;
 entirely; completely: She is all wrong.  2. Each; apiece: a score of five
 all.  3. Exclusively: The cake is all for him.

       Idiom Section:  all but. Nearly; almost. all in. Informal.  Tired;
 exhausted. all in all. Everything being taken into account. at all. 1. In
 any and every way. 2. To any extent; whatever. for all. In spite of;
 despite. [ME al < OE all.]

      Usage: Constructions like all us students  are somewhat more informal
 than the corresponding all of us students.  The construction all that  is
 used informally in questions and negative sentences to mean "to the degree
 expected," as in The film was not all that exciting.  A majority of the
 Usage Panel finds examples like these to be unacceptable in formal writing.



 all-   Variant of allo-.



 alla breve  adv.  -adj. Music.  In duple or quadruple meter with the half
 note being the unit of time. [Ital., according to the breve.]



 Allah  n.  The supreme being in the Moslem religion. [Ar. Allah : al, the
 + Ilah, god.]



 allamanda or allamande   n.  Any of several woody vines of the genus
 Allamanda, native to tropical America, having showy, funnel-shaped yellow
 flowers. [NLat. Allamanda, genus name, after Jean N. S. Allamand
 (1713-1787).]



 all-American  adj.  1.  a. Representative of the best of its kind in the
 United States. b.  Sports. Chosen as the best amateur in the United States
 at a particular position or event. 2. Composed of Americans or American
 materials exclusively. 3. Entirely within the territorial limits of the
 United States. 4. Of all the Americas.   -n. All-American  An all-American
 athlete.



 allantoid or allantoidal   adj.  1. Of or having an allantois. 2. Shaped
 like a sausage.   -n. The allantois.



 allantois  n. pl. allantoides  A membranous sac that develops from the
 hindgut in the embryos of mammals, birds, and reptiles. In mammals it takes
 part in the formation of the umbilical cord and the placenta. [NLat. < Gk.
 allantoeides, sausage-shaped : allas, sausage + eidos, shape.]   allantoic
 adj.



 all-around or all-round   adj.  1. Comprehensive in extent or depth:
 all-around vocational training.  2. Able to do many or all things well;
 versatile: an all-around student.



 allay  tr.v. -layed -laying -lays   1. To lessen or relieve (pain or
 grief, for example); reduce the intensity of. 2. To calm or pacify; set to
 rest. [ME aleien < OE alecgan : a- (intensive) + lecgan, to lay.]   allayer
 n.



 all clear  n.  1. A signal, usually by siren, that an air raid is over. 2.
 An expression that signifies absence of immediate obstacles or impending
 danger.



 allegation  n.  1. Something alleged. 2. The act of alleging. 3. A
 statement offered without proof, such as an excuse or plea. 4.  Law. An
 assertion made by a party that must be proved or supported with evidence.
 [Fr. allegation < Lat. allegatio < allegare, to adduce : ad-, to + legare,
 to depute.]



 allege  tr.v. -leged -leging -leges   1. To assert to be true; affirm;
 declare. 2. To assert without proof. 3. To state (a plea or excuse, for
 example) in support or denial of a claim or accusation. 4.  Archaic. To
 cite or quote, as in confirmation. [ME alleggen < OFr. alegier < esligier,
 to disengage < LLat. *exlitigare : Lat. ex-, out + Lat. litigare, to sue.]
  allegeable adj.   alleger n.



 alleged  adj.  Represented as existing or as being as described but not so
 proved; supposed: an alleged infringement of regulations.    allegedly adv.


      Usage: An alleged  burglar is someone who is said to be a burglar but
 against whom no charges have yet been proved. An alleged  incident is an
 event that is said to have taken place but which has not yet been verified.
 In their zeal to protect the rights of the accused, newspapers and
 law-enforcement officials sometimes misuse alleged.  A man arrested for
 murder may be only an alleged  murderer, for example, but he is a real, not
 an alleged,  suspect in that his status as a suspect is not in doubt.
 Similarly, if a murder is known to have taken place, there is nothing
 alleged about the crime.



 Allegheny spurge  n.  A low-growing, shrubby plant, Pachysandra
 procumbens, of the southeastern United States, having evergreen leaves and
 spikes of white or purplish flowers. [After the Allegheny Mountains.]



 Allegheny vine  n.  The climbing fumitory.



 allegiance  n.  1. Loyalty or the obligation of loyalty, as to a nation,
 sovereign, or cause. 2. The obligations of a vassal to his overlord. [ME
 alligeaunce < OFr. ligeance < lige, liege. -see liege.]   allegiant adj.



 allegoric or allegorical   adj.  Pertaining to, characteristic of, or
 containing allegory.   allegorically adv.



 allegorize  v. -rized -rizing -rizes   -tr. 1. To express as or in the
 form of an allegory. 2. To interpret allegorically. -intr. To use or make
 allegory.   allegorization n.   allegorizer n.



 allegory  n. pl. -ries  1.  a. A literary, dramatic, or pictorial device
 in which each literal character, object, and event represents a symbol
 illustrating an idea or moral or religious principle. b. An instance of
 such representation. 2. A symbolic representation. [ME allegorie < Lat.
 allegoria < Gk. < allegorein, to interpret allegorically : allos, other +
 agoreuein, to speak.]   allegorist n.



 allegretto  Music.  adv.  In quick tempo; slower than allegro but faster
 than andante. Used as a direction.   -n.pl. -tos  An allegro movement or
 passage. [Ital., dim. of allegro, allegro.]   allegretto adj.



 allegro  Music.  adv.  In rapid tempo; faster than allegretto but slower
 than presto. Used as a direction.   -n.pl. -gros  An allegretto movement or
 passage. [Ital., lively < Lat. alacer.]   allegro adj.



 allele  n.  Any of a group of possible mutational forms of a gene. [G.
 Allel, short for Allelomorph, allelomorph.]   allelic adj.   allelism n.



 allelomorph  n.  An allele. [Gk. allelon, mutually (< allos, other) +
 -morph.]   allelomorphic adj.   allelomorphism n.



 alleluia  interj.  Hallelujah. [ME < Med. Lat. alleluja < LGk. allelouia <
 Heb. halleluyah.]



 allemande  n.  1.  a. A stately 16th-century dance in 2/2 time. b. A
 musical composition written to or as if to accompany this dance, often used
 as the first movement of a suite. 2. A lively, late 18th-century dance in
 3/4 time. [Fr., fem. of allemand, German < Lat. Alemanni, an ancient
 Germanic tribe.]



 Allentiac  n. pl. Allentiac  or -acs  1. A tribe of South American Indians
 inhabiting west-central Argentina. 2. A member of the Allentiac. 3. The
 language of the Allentiac. [Sp.]   Allentiac adj.



 allergen  n.  A substance that causes an allergy. [G. Allergen : Allergie,
 allergy + -gen, -gen.]   allergenic adj.



 allergic  adj.  1. Characteristic of or concerning allergy. 2. Having an
 allergy. 3.  Informal. Having a dislike; averse: allergic to work.



 allergist  n.  A physician specializing in allergies.



 allergy  n. pl. -gies  1. Hypersensitive or pathological reaction to
 environmental factors or substances, such as pollens, foods, dust, or
 microorganisms, in amounts that do not affect most people. 2. Anaphylaxis.
 3.  Informal. An adverse sentiment; antipathy. [G. Allergie : Gk. allos,
 other + Gk. ergon, effect.]



 allethrin  n.  A synthetic insecticide, C19H26O3, similar to pyrethrin.
 [all(yl) + (pyr)ethrin.]



 alleviate  tr.v. -ated -ating -ates   To make more bearable; reduce:
 taking drugs to alleviate the pain.  [LLat. alleviare, alleviat-, to
 lighten : Lat. ad-, to + levis, light.]   alleviation n.   alleviator n.



 alleviative or alleviatory   adj.  Promoting alleviation.



 alley
 alley(1)  n. pl. -leys  1. A narrow street or passageway between or behind
 city buildings. 2. A path between flowerbeds or trees in a garden or park.
 3. A bowling alley. 4. The parallel lanes on either side of a tennis court
 reserved for use in doubles matches.

       Idiom Section:  up one's alley. Slang.  Compatible with one's
 interests or qualifications. [ME alei < OFr. alee < aller, to walk < Lat.
 ambulare.]
 alley(2)  n. pl. -leys  A large playing marble, often used as the shooter.
 [Short for alabaster.]



 alley cat  n.  1. A homeless cat; stray. 2. A domestic cat with no known
 ancestry.



 alleyway  n.  A narrow passage between buildings.



 all-fired  adj.  Slang.  Extreme; excessive.   -adv. Slang.  Extremely;
 excessively. [Alteration of hell-fired.]



 All Fools' Day  n.  April Fools' Day.



 all fours  n.  1. All four limbs of an animal or person: A baby crawls on
 all fours.  2. Seven-up.



 all hail  interj.  Archaic.  All health.



 Allhallowmas or Allhallows   n.  All Saints' Day.



 all-heal  n.  Any of several plants reputed to have healing powers, as the
 self-heal.



 alliaceous  adj.  Characteristic of onions or garlic, esp. in odor or
 taste. [Lat. allium, garlic + -aceous.]



 alliance  n.  1.  a. A formal pact of union or confederation between
 nations in a common cause. b. The nations so conjoined. 2. A union,
 relationship, or connection by kinship, marriage, or common interest. 3. A
 union or congruence of quality or type; affinity. 4. The act of becoming or
 the state of being allied. [ME < OFr. aliance < alier, to ally.]



 allied  adj.  1. Joined or united in a close relationship. 2. Of a similar
 nature; related: allied studies.  3. Allied. Of or pertaining to the
 Allies.



 Allies  pl.n.  1. In World War I, the nations allied against the Central
 Powers of Europe. They were Russia, France, Great Britain, and later many
 others, including the United States. 2. In World War II, the nations,
 primarily Great Britain, Russia, and the United States, allied against the
 Axis.



 alligator  n.  1. Either of two large, amphibious reptiles, Alligator
 mississipiensis, of the southeastern United States, or A. sinensis, of
 China, having sharp teeth and powerful jaws, and differing from crocodiles
 in having a broader, shorter snout. 2. Leather made from the hide of an
 alligator. 3. A tool or fastener having strong, adjustable jaws often
 toothed. [< Sp. el lagarto, the lizard : el, the (< Lat. ille, that) +
 lagarto, lizard < Lat. lacertus.]



 alligatoring  n.  The formation of cracks on the surface of paint layers.
 [From the resemblance of the cracks to the pattern of an alligator's
 scales.]



 alligator pear  n.  The avocado.



 alligator snapping turtle or alligator snapper   n.  A large freshwater
 turtle, Macroclemys temmincki, of the south-central United States, having a
 rough carapace and a hooked beak.



 all-important  adj.  Very important; crucial.



 all-inclusive  adj.  Including everything; comprehensive.



 alliterate  v. -ated -ating -ates   -intr. 1. To use alliteration in
 speech or writing. 2. To have or contain alliteration. -tr. To form or
 arrange with alliteration. [Back-formation < alliteration.]



 alliteration  n.  The occurrence in a phrase or line of speech or writing
 of two or more words having the same initial sound, for example, wailing in
 the winter wind.  [ad- + Lat. littera, letter.]



 alliterative  adj.  Of, manifesting, or characterized by alliteration.
 alliteratively adv.   alliterativeness n.



 allium  n.  Any of various plants of the genus Allium, characterized by
 their pungent odor, and including the onion, leek, chive, garlic, and
 shallot. [NLat. Allium, genus name < Lat. allium, garlic.]



 all-night  adj.  1. Continuing all night: an all-night party.  2. Open all
 night: an all-night diner.



 allnighter  n.  Slang.  The act or an instance of staying up all night to
 complete a project.



 allo- or all-    1. Other; different: allopatric.  2. Isomeric:
 allocholesterol.  [Gk. < allos, other.]



 allocate  tr.v. -cated -cating -cates   1. To designate for a special
 purpose; set apart. 2. To distribute according to plan; allot. 3. To
 determine the location of; locate. [Med. Lat. allocare, allocat- : Lat.
 ad-, to + Lat. locare, to place < locus, place.]   allocable adj.
 allocation n.



 allocution  n.  A formal and authoritative speech or address, esp. one
 that advises or informs. [Lat. allocutio < alloqui, to speak to : ad-, to +
 loqui, to speak.]



 allogamy  n.  Cross-fertilization.   allogamous adj.



 allograft  n.  A homograft.



 allograph  n.  1. The form or shape of a letter of an alphabet or of any
 unit in a system of writing. 2. A letter or combination of letters that can
 represent one phoneme. 3. Writing, esp. a signature, made by one person for
 another.



 allomerism  n.  Consistency in crystalline form with variation in chemical
 composition.   allomerous adj.



 allometry  n.  Biology.  The study of the change in proportion of various
 parts of an organism as a consequence of growth.   allometric adj.



 allomorph
 allomorph(1)  n.  A paramorph.   allomorphic adj.   allomorphism n.
 allomorph(2)  n.  Any of the variant forms of a morpheme. For example, the
 phonetic s of cats, z of dogs, and iz of horses are allomorphs of the
 English morpheme s.  [allo- + morph(eme).]   allomorphic adj.
 allomorphism n.



 allonym  n.  The name of a person, usually a historical person, assumed by
 a writer. [Fr. allonyme : Gk. allos, other + onoma, name.]   allonymous
 adj.   allonymously adv.



 allopath or allopathist   n.  A person who practices or advocates
 allopathy.



 allopathy  n.  Therapy with remedies that produce effects differing from
 those of the disease treated. [G. Allopathie : Gk. allos, other + -pathie,
 -pathy.]   allopathic adj.   allopathically adv.



 allopatric  adj.  Ecology.  Occurring in separate, widely differing
 geographic areas. [allo- + Gk. patra, fatherland (< pater, father) + -ic.]
  allopatrically adv.



 allophane  n.  An amorphous, translucent, variously colored mineral,
 essentially hydrous aluminum silicate. [Gk. allophanes, appearing otherwise
 : allos, other + phainein, to appear.]



 allophone  n.  Any of the variant forms of a phoneme. For example, the
 aspirated p of pit and the unaspirated p of spit are allophones of the
 English phoneme p.    allophonic adj.



 allopurinol  n.  A drug, C5H4N4O3 used to treat gout by promoting uric
 acid excretion. [allo- + purin(e) + -ol2.]



 all-or-none  adj.  Characterized by either complete response or total lack
 of response or effect, as in neurological action above a threshold.



 allosteric  adj.  Of or relating to molecular binding to an enzyme at a
 site other than the enzymatically active one.



 allot  tr.v. -lotted -lotting -lots   1. To distribute by lot; apportion.
 2. To give or assign as one's portion; allocate: allot three weeks to a
 project.  [ME alotten < OFr. aloter : a-, to (< Lat. ad-) + lot, portion,
 of Germanic orig.]   allotter n.



 allotment  n.  1. The act of allotting. 2. Something that is allotted. 3.
 A portion of a serviceman's pay set aside for a member of his family or for
 insurance.



 allotrope  n.  A structurally differentiated form of an allotropic
 element. [Back-formation < allotropy.]



 allotropy  n.  The existence, esp. in the solid state, of two or more
 crystalline or molecular structural forms of an element.   allotropic
 allotropical  adj.   allotropically adv.



 all' ottava  adv.  Music.  At an octave higher or lower than written. Used
 as a direction. [Ital., at the octave.]



 allottee  n.  One to whom something is allotted.



 all out  adv.  With every possible effort.



 all-out  adj.  Using all one's resources: an all-out effort.



 all over  adv.  1. Over the whole area or extent: embroidered all over
 with roses.  2. Everywhere: searched all over for the money.  3. In all
 respects: She's her grandmother all over.



 all-over  adj.  Covering an entire surface.



 allow  tr.v. -lowed -lowing -lows   1. To let do or happen; permit. 2. To
 acknowledge or admit; concede: allow the legality of a claim.  3. To permit
 to have: allow oneself five dollars a day.  4. To make provision for: allow
 time for a coffee break.  5. To permit the presence of: No pets allowed.
 6. To provide (the needed amount): allow funds in case of emergency.  7. To
 admit; grant: I allow that to be true.  8. To allow as a discount or in
 exchange: allowed me twenty dollars on my old typewriter.  Phrasal verb.
 allow of. To permit: a treatise allowing of several interpretations.  [ME
 allouen, to approve, permit < OFr. alouer < both Lat. allaudare, to praise,
 and Med. Lat. allocare, to allocate.]   allowable adj.   allowably adv.



 allowance  n.  1. The act of allowing. 2. Something that is allowed. 3.
 Something given, as money, at regular intervals or for a specific purpose:
 a travel allowance.  4. A price reduction granted in exchange for used
 merchandise; discount. 5. A consideration for possibilities or modifying
 circumstances: an allowance for breakage.  6. An allowed difference in
 dimension of closely mating machine parts.   -tr.v.-anced -ancing -ances
 1. To restrict to an allowance. 2. To put on an allowance.



 allowedly  adv.  By general admission; admittedly.



 alloy  n.  1. A homogeneous mixture or solid solution, usually of two or
 more metals, the atoms of one replacing or occupying interstitial positions
 between the atoms of the other. 2. The relative degree of mixture with a
 base metal; fineness. 3. Something added that lowers value or purity.
 -tr.v. -loyed -loying -loys   1. To combine (metals) to form an alloy. 2.
 To lower purity or value of (a metal) by mixing with a cheaper metal. 3. To
 debase by the addition of an inferior element. [OFr. aloi < aloier, to
 alloy < Lat. alligare, to bind to : ad-, to + ligare, to bind.]



 all-purpose  adj.  Useful in many ways.



 all right  adv.  1. Satisfactory; average. 2. Correct: These figures are
 perfectly all right.  3. Uninjured. 4. Very well; yes. 5. Without a doubt:
 He's a fool, all right.

      Usage: It is still not acceptable to write all right  as a single
 word, alright,  despite the parallel to words like already  and altogether
 and despite the fact that in casual speech the expression is often
 pronounced as if it were one word.



 all-right  adj.  Slang.  1. Dependable; honorable: an all-right fellow.
 2. Good; excellent: an all-right movie.



 all-round  adj.  Variant of all-around.



 All Saints' Day  n.  November 1, a church festival in honor of all saints.




 allseed  n.  Any of several plants having many seeds, such as knotgrass.



 All Souls' Day  n.  November 2, observed by the Roman Catholic Church as a
 day of prayer for souls in purgatory.



 allspice  n.  1. A tropical American tree, Pimenta officinalis, having
 small white flowers and aromatic berries. 2. The dried berries of the
 allspice, used whole or ground as a spice.



 all-star  adj.  Made up wholly of star performers: an all-star cast.
 -n.Sports. A player chosen for an all-star team.



 all-time  adj.  Informal.  Of all time: an all-time attendance record.



 all told  adv.  With everything considered; in all.



 allude  intr.v. -luded -luding -ludes   To make an indirect reference to.
 [Lat. alludere, to play with : ad-, to + ludere, to play < ludus, game.]

      Usage: Allude  and allusion  are often used where the more general
 terms refer  and reference  would be preferable. Allude  and allusion
 apply to indirect reference that does not identify specifically. Refer  and
 reference,  unless qualified, usually imply direct, specific mention.



 allure  v. -lured -luring -lures   -tr. To entice with something
 desirable; tempt. -intr. To tempt or fascinate.   -n. The power to entice
 or tempt; fascination. [ME aluren < OFr. alurer : a-, to (< Lat. ad-) +
 loirre, bait, of Germanic orig.]   allurement n.   allurer n.   alluringly
 adv.



 allusion  n.  1. The act of alluding; indirect mention. 2. An indirect,
 but pointed or meaningful reference. -See Usage note at allude. [LLat.
 allusio, a playing with < Lat. alludere, to play with. -see allude.]



 allusive  adj.  Containing or making allusions; suggestive.   allusively
 adv.   allusiveness n.



 alluvia  n.  A plural of alluvium.



 alluvial  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or composed of alluvium.



 alluvial fan  n.  A fan-shaped accumulation of alluvium deposited at the
 mouth of a ravine.



 alluvion  n.  1. Alluvium. 2. The flow of water against a shore or bank.
 3. Inundation by water; flood. 4.  Law. The increasing of land, esp. along
 a river bed, by deposited alluvium. [Lat. alluvio < alluere, to wash
 against : ad-, to + luere, to wash.]



 alluvium  n. pl. -viums  or -via  Sediment deposited by flowing water, as
 in a river bed, flood plain, or delta. [Lat. < alluvius, alluvial <
 alluere, to wash against. -see alluvion.]



 ally  v. -lied -lying -lies   -tr. 1. To unite or connect in a formal
 relationship or bond, such as by treaty. 2. To unite or connect in a
 personal relationship, such as friendship or marriage. -intr. To enter into
 an alliance.   -n. pl. -lies  1. One that is united with another in some
 formal or personal relationship. 2. A friend or close associate. [ME allien
 < OFr. alier < Lat. alligare, to bind to. -see alloy.]



 allyl  n.  The univalent organic radical CH2:CHCH2. [Lat. allium, garlic +
 -yl (so called because it was first obtained from garlic).]   allylic adj.



 Almagest  n.  1. An exhaustive chronicle on astronomy and geography
 compiled by Ptolemy about  A.D.  150. 2. almagest  Any of several medieval
 treatises concerned with astronomy or alchemy. [ME almageste < OFr. < Ar.
 al-majisti : al, the + Gk. megiste (suntaxis), greatest (composition), fem.
 of megistos, greatest, superl. of megas, great.]



 alma mater or Alma Mater   n.  1. The school, college, or university that
 one has attended. 2. The anthem or school song of an institution of higher
 learning. [Lat., nourishing mother.]



 almanac  n.  1. An annual publication including calendars with weather
 forecasts, astronomical information, tide tables, and other related tabular
 information. 2. An annual publication composed of various lists, charts,
 and tables of useful information in many unrelated fields. [ME almenak <
 Med. Lat. almanach, perh. < Gk. almenikhiaka, calendars.]



 almandine or almandite   n.  A deep violet-red garnet, essentially
 FeAl2Si3O12, found in metamorphic rocks and used as a gemstone. [ME
 alabandine < Lat. alabandinus < Alabanda,  a town in ancient Asia Minor
 famous for its jewelry.]



 almighty  adj.  1. Having absolute power; all-powerful. 2.  Informal.
 Great or extreme: an almighty din.    -adv. Slang.  Extremely: almighty
 scared.    -n. the Almighty  God. [ME almighti < OE ealmihtig : eall, all +
 mihtig, mighty < miht, might.]   almightily adv.



 almond  n.  1. A small tree, Prunus amygdalus, native to the Mediterranean
 region, having pink flowers and fruit containing an edible nut. 2. The nut
 of the almond tree, ellipsoid in shape, and having a soft, yellowish-tan
 shell. 3. Something having the oval, pointed form of an almond. 4. A pale
 tan. [ME almande < OFr. < LLat. amandula, alteration of Lat. amygdala < Gk.
 amugdale.]



 almoner  n.  1. One who distributes alms. 2.  Chiefly British. A social
 worker in a hospital. [ME aumener < OFr. aumonier, ult. < Lat. eleemosyna,
 alms.]



 almost  adv.  Slightly short of; very nearly. [ME < OE ealmaest : eall,
 all + maest, most.]



 alms  pl.n.  Money or goods given to the poor in charity. [ME almes < OE
 aelmesse < LLat. eleemosyna < Gk. eleemosune < eleemon, pitiful < eleos,
 pity.]



 almshouse  n.  A poorhouse.



 almsman  n.  One dependent on alms for his support.



 alnico  n.  Any of several hard, strong alloys of aluminum, cobalt,
 copper, iron, nickel, and sometimes niobium or tantalum, used to make
 strong permanent magnets. [al(uminum) + ni(ckel) + co(balt).]



 aloe  n.  1. Any of various plants of the genus Aloe, mostly native to
 southern Africa, having fleshy, spiny-toothed leaves and red or yellow
 flowers. 2. aloes  (used with a sing. verb). A cathartic drug derived from
 Aloe barbadensis. 3. aloes  (used with a sing. verb). The fragrant wood of
 a tree, Aquilaria agallocha, of tropical Asia. [ME < OE aluwe < Lat. aloe <
 Gk. aloe.]   aloetic adj.



 aloft  adv.  1. In or into a high place; high or higher up. 2.  Nautical.
 At or toward the upper rigging.   -prep. On top of: birds perching aloft
 telephone wires.  [ME < ON a lopt : a, in + lopt, air.]



 alogical  adj.  Beyond or not falling within the bounds of logic.
 alogically adv.   alogicalness n.



 aloha  n.  Love. Used as an interjection to express greeting or farewell.
 [Hawaiian.]



 aloin  n.  A bitter crystalline compound obtained from the aloe and used
 as a laxative. [alo(e) + -in.]



 alone  adj.  1. Apart from anything or anyone else. 2. Excluding anyone
 else; sole; only. 3. With nothing further added: The drive alone takes four
 days.  4. Without equal; unique: alone in his ability to unite all factions
 of the party.

       Idiom Section:  leave alone. To refrain from interrupting or
 interfering with (someone). let alone. Not to speak of or think of: I
 haven't a minute to spare, let alone an hour.  let well enough alone. To be
 satisfied with things as they are. stand alone. To be without equal. [ME <
 al one, all one.]   alone adv.   aloneness n.

      Synonyms: alone lonely lonesome solitary These adjectives are compar
 as they describe lack of companionship. Alone  emphasizes isolation from
 others and does not imply unhappiness. Lonely  adds to isolation the
 painful consciousness of it. In lonesome , the desire for companionship is
 more plaintive, but less profound: lonely for a lover; lonesome for a
 friend. Solitary  stresses physical isolation, sometimes self-imposed.




 along  adv.  1. In a line with; following the length or path of: trees
 growing along by the river.  2. With a progressive onward motion; forward.
 3. In association; together: one thing along with another.  4. As company;
 as a companion: Bring your son along.  5.  Informal. Advanced to some
 degree: The evening was well along.  6.  Informal. Approaching something,
 such as a time or an age: along about midnight.    -prep. 1. Over, through,
 or by the length of. 2. In accordance with.

       Idiom Section:  all along. From the very beginning; throughout. be
 along. Informal.  To come to; arrive at a place: They will be along soon.
 get along. 1. To go onward. 2. To manage successfully; survive. 3. To be
 compatible; agree. 4.  Slang. To go away; get out. [ME < OE andlang : and,
 against + lang, long.]



 alongshore  adv.  Along, near, or by the shore.



 alongside  adv.  Along, near, at, or to the side of anything.   -prep. By
 the side of; side by side with.



 aloof  adj.  Distant, esp. in one's relations with other people;
 indifferent.   -adv. At a distance, but within view; apart. [Obs. aloof,
 toward the wind : a-2 + obs. loof, luff.]   aloofly adv.   aloofness n.



 alopecia  n.  Loss of hair; baldness. [Lat. alopecia, fox-mange < Gk.
 alopekia < alopex, fox.]   alopecic adj.



 aloud  adv.  1. In a loud tone. 2. With the voice; orally: Read this
 passage aloud.



 alp  n.  A high mountain. [Back-formation < the Alps, a group of mountains
 in Europe.]



 alpaca  n. pl. alpaca  or -as  1. A domesticated South American mammal,
 Lama pacos, related to the llama, and having fine, long wool. 2.  a. The
 silky wool of the alpaca. b. Cloth made from alpaca. 3. A glossy cotton or
 rayon and wool fabric, usually black. [Sp. < Aymara allpaca.]



 alpenglow  n.  A rosy glow with which snow-covered mountain peaks are
 suffused at sunrise or dusk on a clear day. [Partial transl. of G.
 Alpengluhen : Alpen, Alps + gluhen, to glow.]



 alpenhorn  n.  A curved wooden horn, sometimes as long as 20 feet, used by
 herdsmen in the Alps to call cows to pasture. [G. Alpenhorn : Alpen, Alps +
 Horn, horn.]



 alpenstock  n.  A long staff with an iron point, used by mountain
 climbers. [G. Alpenstock : Alpen, Alps + Stock, staff.]



 alpestrine  adj.  Growing at high altitudes; alpine or subalpine. [< Med.
 Lat. alpestris < Alpes, the Alps.]



 alpha  n.  1. The 1st letter in the Greek alphabet. See table at alphabet.
 2. The first of anything; beginning. 3.  Astronomy. The brightest or main
 star in a constellation.   -adj. 1. First in order of importance. 2.
 Chemistry. Closest to the functional group of atoms in a molecule. 3.
 Alphabetical. [Gk., of Phoenician orig.; akin to Heb. aleph, aleph.]



 alpha and omega  n.  1. The first and the last:  I am Alpha and Omega, the
 beginning and the ending, saith the Lord (Revelation 1:8). 2. The most
 important part of something.



 alphabet  n.  1. The letters of a given language, arranged in the order
 fixed by custom. 2. Any system of characters or symbols representing sounds
 or things. 3. The basic or elementary principles of anything; rudiments.
 [Lat. alphabetum < Gk. alphabetos : alpha, alpha + beta, beta, the first
 two letters of the Greek alphabet.]



 alphabetical or alphabetic   adj.  1. Arranged in the customary order of
 the letters of a language. 2. Of, pertaining to, or expressed by an
 alphabet.   alphabetically adv.



 alphabetize  tr.v. -ized -izing -izes   1. To arrange in alphabetical
 order. 2. To supply with an alphabet.   alphabetization n.   alphabetizer
 n.



 Alpha Centauri  n.  A double star in Centaurus, the brightest in the
 constellation, 4.4 light-years from Earth.



 Alpha Crucis  n.  A double star in the constellation Crux, approximately
 230 light-years from Earth.



 alpha decay  n.  The radioactive decay of an atomic nucleus by emission of
 an alpha particle.



 alpha helix  n.  A common structure of proteins, characterized by a single
 chain of amino acids stabilized by hydrogen bonds.   alpha-helical adj.



 alphanumeric or alphameric   adj.  1. Consisting of alphabetic and
 numerical symbols. 2. Consisting of alphabetic and numerical symbols and of
 punctuation marks, mathematical symbols, and other conventional symbols
 used in computer work. [alpha(betic) + numeric(al).]



 alpha particle  n.  A positively charged composite particle,
 indistinguishable from a helium atom nucleus and consisting of two protons
 and two neutrons.



 alpha privative  n.  The Greek negative prefix a- (an- before vowels).



 alpha ray  n.  A stream of alpha particles.



 alpha rhythm or alpha wave   n.  The most common electroencephalographic
 waveform found in recordings of the electrical activity of the adult
 cerebral cortex, characteristically 8 to 12 smooth, regular oscillations
 per second in subjects at rest.



 alphosis  n.  Lack of skin pigment, as in albinism. [Gk. alphos, leprosy +
 -osis.]



 alpine  adj.  1. Alpine  Of, pertaining to, or characteristic of the Alps
 or their inhabitants. 2. Of or pertaining to high mountains. 3.  Biology.
 Living or growing on mountains above the timberline. 4. Intended for or
 concerned with mountaineering. 5. Alpine  Of or pertaining to competitive
 downhill racing and slalom skiing events. 6. Alpine  Of or pertaining to a
 subdivision of the Caucasian race predominant around the Alps. [Lat.
 Alpinus < Alpes, the Alps.]



 alpinist or Alpinist   n.  A mountain climber.   alpinism n.



 already  adv.  By this or a specified time; before; previously. [ME alredi
 : al, all + redi, ready.]



 alright  adv.  Nonstandard.  All right.



 Alsatian  adj.  Of or pertaining to Alsace, its inhabitants, or their
 culture.   -n. 1. A native or inhabitant of Alsace. 2.  Chiefly British.
 The German shepherd.



 alsike clover  n.  A plant, Trifolium hybridum, native to Eurasia and
 widely cultivated for forage, having compound leaves and pink or whitish
 flowers. [After Alsike, Sweden.]



 also  adv.  Besides; in addition; likewise; too.   -conj. And in addition.
 [ME < OE ealswa : eall, all + swa, so.]

      Synonyms: also too likewise besides moreover
 furthermore These adverbs indicate the presence of, or introduce, something
 additional. The first three generally imply that the additional element or
 consideration is equal in weight to what precedes it. Also  is more formal
 in sound than too is very formal in tone, and may imply similarity between
 elements as well as equality. Besides  often introduces an additional
 element that reinforces what has gone before. Moreover  and furthermore
 frequently stress the importance of the additional element.




 also-ran  n.  Informal.  One that is defeated in a race, election, or
 other competition; loser.



 alt  adj.  Music.  Pitched in the first octave above the treble staff;
 high.   -n. 1. The first octave above the treble staff. 2. A note or tone
 in the alt octave. [Lat. altus, high.]



 Altaic  n.  A language family of Europe and Asia that includes the Turkic,
 Tungusic, and Mongolic subfamilies.   -adj. 1. Of or pertaining to the
 Altai Mountains. 2. Of or pertaining to Altaic. [After the Altai
 Mountains.]



 Altair  n.  A very bright, double, variable star in the constellation
 Aquila, approximately 15.7 light-years from Earth. [Ar. al-tair < al-nasr
 al-tair, the flying eagle.]



 altar  n.  1. Any elevated place or structure upon which sacrifices may be
 offered or before which religious ceremonies may be enacted. 2. In
 Christian churches, a table or similar structure before which the divine
 offices are recited and upon which the Eucharist is celebrated. [ME auter <
 OE altar < Lat. altare.]



 altar boy  n.  An attendant to an officiating clergyman in the performance
 of a liturgical service; acolyte.



 altarpiece  n.  A painting, carving, or other artwork placed above and
 behind an altar.



 altar rail  n.  A railing in front of the altar that separates the chancel
 from the rest of the church.



 altazimuth  n.  A mounting for astronomical telescopes that permits both
 horizontal and vertical rotation. [alt(itude) + azimuth.]



 alter  v. -tered -tering -ters   -tr. 1. To change or make different;
 modify. 2. To adjust (a garment) for a better fit. 3.  Informal. To
 castrate or spay. -intr. To change or become different. [ME alteren < Med.
 Lat. alterare < Lat. alter, other.]



 alterable  adj.  Capable of being altered.   alterability  alterableness
 n.   alterably adv.



 alteration  n.  1. The act or procedure of altering. 2. The condition
 resulting from altering; modification; change.



 alterative  adj.  1. Tending to alter or produce alteration. 2.  Medicine.
 Tending to restore normal health.   -n. Medicine.  An alterative treatment
 or medication.



 altercate  intr.v. -cated -cating -cates   To argue or dispute vehemently.
 [Lat. altercari, altercat-, to quarrel < alter, other.]



 altercation  n.  A heated and noisy quarrel.



 alter ego  n.  1. Another side of oneself; second self. 2. An intimate
 friend or constant companion. [Lat., other I.]



 alternate  v. -nated -nating -nates   -intr. 1. To occur in successive
 turns: The rainy season alternates with the dry season.  2. To pass from
 one state, action, or place to a second, back to the first, and so on
 indefinitely: alternate between optimism and pessimism.  -tr. 1. To do or
 execute by turns. 2. To cause to follow in turns; interchange regularly.
 -adj.  1. Happening or following in turns; succeeding each other
 continuously. 2. Designating or pertaining to every other one of a series:
 alternate lines.  3. In place of another; substitute: an alternate plan.
 4.  Botany.  a. Growing at alternating intervals on either side of a stem:
 alternate leaves.  b. Arranged alternately between other parts, as stamens
 between petals.   -n.  A person acting in the place of another; substitute.
 [Lat. alternare, alternat- < alternus, by turns < alter, other.]
 alternateness n.   alternately adv.



 alternate angle  n.  An angle on one side of a transversal that cuts two
 lines, having one of the intersected lines as a side.



 alternating current  n.  An electric current that reverses direction in a
 circuit at regular intervals.



 alternation  n.  Successive change from one thing to another and back
 again.



 alternation of generations  n.  Metagenesis.



 alternative  n.  1.  a. The choice between two mutually exclusive
 possibilities. b. Either of these possibilities. 2. One of a number of
 things from which one must be chosen: a third alternative.    -adj. 1.
 Allowing or necessitating a choice between two or more than two things. 2.
 Existing outside traditional or conventional institutions or systems: an
 alternative newspaper.    alternatively adv.

      Usage: Alternative  is widely used to denote simply "one of a set of
 possible courses of action," but many traditionalists continue to insist
 that its use be restricted to situations in which only two possible choices
 present themselves. In this stricter sense, alternative  is incompatible
 with all numerals (there are three alternatives ), and the use of two,  in
 particular, is held to be redundant (the two alternatives are life and
 death  would be unacceptable to traditionalists). Similarly,
 traditionalists reject as unacceptable sentences like there is no other
 alternative  on the grounds that it is equivalent to the simpler there is
 no alternative.



 alternative box  n.  An element in a flow chart that signifies a decision
 to be made.



 alternative school  n.  A school that is nontraditional, esp. in
 educational ideals or methods of teaching.



 alternator  n.  An electric generator that produces alternating current.



 althea or althaea   n.  1. The rose of Sharon. 2. Any plant of the genus
 Althaea, which includes the hollyhock. [Lat., mallows < Gk. althaia <
 althein, to heal.]



 althorn  n.  A brass wind instrument that sometimes replaces the French
 horn. [G. : alt, alto + Horn, horn.]



 although or altho   conj.  Regardless of the fact that; even though. [ME :
 al, all + though, though.]

      Usage: As conjunctions, although  and though  are generally
 interchangeable: Although  (or though ) she smiled, she was angry. Although
  is usually placed at the beginning of its clause (as in the preceding
 example), whereas though  may occur placed elsewhere and is the more common
 term when used to link words or phrases: wiser though poorer.



 altimeter  n.  An instrument for determining elevation, esp. an aneroid
 barometer used in aircraft that senses pressure changes that accompany
 changes in altitude. [Lat. altus, high + -meter.]   altimetry n.



 altiplano  n.  A high plateau, as in the Andean regions of Bolivia, Peru,
 and Argentina. [Am. Sp. : Lat. altus, high + Lat. planum, plain.]



 altitude  n.  1. The height of a thing above a reference level, esp. above
 sea level or above the earth's surface. 2. A high location or area. 3.
 Astronomy. The angular distance of a celestial object above the horizon. 4.
 The perpendicular distance from the base of a geometric figure to the
 opposite vertex, parallel side, or parallel surface. 5. A high position or
 rank. [ME < Lat. altitudo < altus, high.]   altitudinal adj.



 altitude sickness  n.  Illness with symptoms such as nausea,
 breathlessness, and nosebleed, caused by an oxygen deficiency, such as that
 encountered at high altitudes.



 alto  n. pl. -tos  Music.  1. A low, female singing voice; contralto. 2. A
 countertenor. 3. The range between soprano and tenor. 4. A singer whose
 voice lies within the alto range. 5. An instrument that sounds within the
 alto range. 6. A vocal or instrumental part written for an alto voice or
 instrument. an alto flute.  [Ital., high < Lat. altus.]



 altocumulus  n.  A cloud formation of rounded, fleecy, white or gray
 masses. [Lat. altus, high + cumulus.]



 altogether  adv.  1. Entirely; completely; utterly: lost the TV picture
 altogether.  2. With all included or counted; in all; all told: Altogether
 100 people were there.  3. On the whole; with everything considered:
 Altogether, I'm sorry it happened.    -n. A whole.

       Idiom Section:  in the altogether. Informal.  In the nude. [ME al
 togeder : al, all + togeder, together.]

      Usage: Altogether  should be distinguished from all together. All
 together  is used of a group to indicate that its members performed or
 underwent an action collectively: The nations stood all together. The
 prisoners were herded all together. All together  can be used only if it is
 possible to rephrase the sentence so that all  and together  may be
 separated by other words: The books lay all together in a heap. All the
 books lay together in a heap.



 alto-rilievo or alto-relievo   n. pl. alto-relievos  or alto-rilievi  High
 relief. [Ital. alto rilievo.]



 altostratus  n.  An extended cloud formation of bluish or gray sheets or
 layers. [Lat. altus, high + stratus.]



 altricial  adj.  Helpless and naked when hatched, as young pigeons. [<
 Lat. altrix, altric-, fem. of altor, nourisher < alere, to nourish.]



 altruism  n.  Concern for the welfare of others, as opposed to egoism;
 selflessness. [Fr. altruisme, prob. < Ital. altrui, someone else < Lat.
 alter, other.]   altruist n.   altruistic adj.   altruistically adv.



 alula  n. pl. -lae  The feathers attached to the part of a bird's wing
 corresponding to the thumb. [NLat., dim. of Lat. ala, wing.]   alular adj.



 alum  n.  Any of various double sulfates of a trivalent metal such as
 aluminum, chromium, or iron and a univalent metal such as potassium or
 sodium, esp. aluminum potassium sulfate, AlK(SO4)212H2O, widely used in
 industry as clarifiers, hardeners, and purifiers, and medicinally as
 topical astringents and styptics. [ME < OFr. < Lat. alumen.]



 alumina  n.  Any of several forms of aluminum oxide, Al2O3, occurring
 naturally as corundum, in a hydrated form in bauxite, and with various
 impurities as ruby, sapphire, and emery, used in aluminum production and in
 abrasives, refractories, ceramics, and electrical insulation. [NLat. < Lat.
 alumen, alum.]



 aluminate  n.  A chemical compound containing aluminum as part of a
 negative ion.



 aluminiferous  adj.  Containing or yielding aluminum, alumina, or alum.
 [Lat. alumen, alumin- + -ferous.]



 aluminium  n.  Chiefly British.  Variant of aluminum. [NLat. < alumina,
 alumina.]



 aluminize  tr.v. -nized -nizing -nizes   To coat or cover with aluminum or
 aluminum paint.



 aluminous  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or containing aluminum or alum.



 aluminum  n.  Symbol Al  A silvery-white, ductile metallic element, the
 most abundant in the earth's crust, but found only in combination, chiefly
 in bauxite. It is used to form many hard, light, corrosion-resistant
 alloys. Atomic number 13; atomic weight 26.98; melting point 660.2 deg. C;
 boiling point 2,467 deg. C; specific gravity 2.69; valence 3. [alumin(a) +
 -ium.]



 aluminum oxide  n.  Alumina.



 aluminum paste  n.  Aluminum powder ground in oil, used for aluminum
 paints.



 aluminum sulfate  n.  A white crystalline compound, Al2(SO4)3, used
 chiefly in papermaking, water purification, sanitation, and tanning.



 alumna  n. pl. -nae  A female graduate or former student of a school,
 college, or university. -See Usage note at alumnus. [Lat., fem. of
 alumnus.]



 alumnus  n. pl. -ni  A male graduate or former student of a school,
 college, or university. [Lat., pupil < alere, to nourish.]

      Usage: Alumni  is generally used to refer to both the alumni and
 alumnae of a coeducational institution.



 alumroot  n.  1. Any of various North American plants of the genus
 Heuchera, having clusters of small white, reddish, or green flowers and
 astringent roots. 2. The wild geranium.



 Alundum   A trademark for a hard, artificial abrasive of fused alumina,
 used in making oilstones and grinding wheels.



 alunite  n.  A gray mineral, chiefly K2Al3(OH)6(SO4)3, used in making alum
 and fertilizer. [Fr. < alun, alum < Lat. alumen.]



 alveolar  adj.  1. Of or pertaining to an alveolus. 2.  Anatomy.  a.
 Pertaining to the jaw section containing the tooth sockets. b. Pertaining
 to the alveoli of the lungs. 3. Phonet. Formed with the tip of the tongue
 touching or near the upper alveoli, as the English t, d, and s.    -n.
 Phonet. A sound produced alveolarly. [Fr. alveolaire < alveole, alveolus <
 Lat. alveolus.]   alveolarly adv.



 alveolate  adj.  Having alveoli; deeply pitted; honeycombed.   alveolation
 n.



 alveolus  n. pl. -li  1. A small cavity or pit, such as a honeycomb cell.
 2. A tooth socket in the jawbone. 3. An air sac of the lungs at the
 termination of a bronchiole. [Lat., small hollow, dim. of alveus, a hollow
 < alvus, belly.]



 always  adv.  1. At every time; invariably. 2. For all time; continuously;
 forever: They will be friends always.  3. At any time; in any event: You
 can always quit if you're unhappy.  [ME alwei < OE ealne weg, all the way :
 ealne, accusative of eall, all + weg, way.]



 alyssum  n.  1. Any of various plants of the genus Alyssum, having dense
 clusters of yellow or white flowers. 2. Sweet alyssum. [NLat. Alyssum,
 genus name < Gk. alusson, a plant believed to cure rabies : a-, not +
 lussa, rabies.]



 Alzheimer's disease  n.  A severe neurological disorder marked by
 progressive dementia and cerebral cortical atrophy. [After Alois Alz heimer
 (1864-1915).]



 am  v.  The first person singular, present indicative of be. [ME < OE
 eom.]



 Am   The symbol for the element americium.



 amah or ama   n.  In the Orient, a maidservant, esp. a wet nurse. [Port.
 ama, nurse < Med. Lat. amma, mother.]



 Amalekite  n.  In the Old Testament, a member of an ancient nomadic tribe
 reputedly descended from Esau's grandson Amalek. [Heb. Amaleqi, after
 Amaleq, Amalek.]



 amalgam  n.  1. Any of various alloys of mercury with other metals, as
 with tin or silver. 2. A combination of diverse elements. [ME < OFr.
 amalgame < Med. Lat. amalgama, prob. ult. < Gk. malagma, soft mass.]



 amalgamate  v. -mated -mating -mates   -tr. 1. To mix so as to make a
 unified whole; blend. 2. To mix or alloy (a metal) with mercury. -intr. 1.
 To combine, unite, or consolidate. 2. To unite or blend with another metal.
   amalgamative adj.   amalgamator n.



 amalgamation  n.  1. The act of or condition resulting from amalgamating.
 2. A consolidation, as of several corporations. 3. The dissolving of a
 metal in mercury to form an alloy.



 amandine  adj.  Prepared or garnished with almonds: swordfish amandine.
 [Fr. < amande, almond < OFr. almande. -see almond.]



 amanita  n.  Any of various mushrooms of the genus Amanita, most of which
 are extremely poisonous. [NLat. Amanita, genus name < Gk. amanitai, a
 fungus.]



 amantadine  n.  An antiviral drug, C10H17N.HCl, also used to treat
 Parkinson's disease. [Alteration of E. Adamantane, a hydrocarbon + -ine2.]



 amanuensis  n. pl. -ses  One employed to take dictation or to copy
 manuscript. [Lat. amanuensis < the phrase (servus) a manu, (slave) at
 handwriting.]



 amaranth  n.  1. Any of various, often weedy, plants of the genus
 Amaranthus, having clusters of small greenish or purplish flowers. 2. An
 imaginary flower that never fades. 3. A deep reddish purple to dark or
 grayish, purplish red. 4. A dark red to purple azo dye. [NLat. amaranthus,
 genus name, alteration of Lat. amarantus < Gk. amarantos, unfading : a-,
 not + marainein, to wither.]



 amaranthine  adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, or resembling the amaranth. 2.
 Eternally beautiful; unfading; everlasting. 3. Deep purple in color.



 amarelle  n.  A variety of sour cherry having pale-red fruit. [G. < Med.
 Lat. amarellum < Lat. amarus, bitter.]



 amaretto  n.  A liqueur flavored with almond. [Ital., dim. of amaro,
 bitter < Lat. amarus.]



 amaryllis  n.  1. A bulbous plant, Amaryllis belladonna, native to
 southern Africa, having large, lilylike reddish or white flowers. 2. Any of
 several plants related or similar to the amaryllis. 3. Amaryllis. In
 classical pastoral poetry, a conventional name for a shepherdess. [NLat.
 Amaryllis, genus name < Lat., name of a shepherdess < Gk. Amarullis.]



 amass  tr.v. amassed amassing amasses   1. To pile or gather up; collect.
 2. To accumulate, esp. for one's own pleasure or profit. [OFr. amasser :
 a-, to (< Lat. ad-) + masse, mass.]   amassable adj.   amasser n.
 amassment n.



 amateur  n.  1. A person who engages in an art, science, study, or
 athletic activity as a pastime rather than as a profession. 2. An athlete
 who has never participated in competition for money or a livelihood. 3. One
 lacking professional skill or ease in a certain area, as in art.   -adj. 1.
 Of, pertaining to, or performed by an amateur. 2. Made up of amateurs. 3.
 Not professional; unskillful. [Fr. < Lat. amator, lover < amare, to love.]
  amateurism n.



 amateurish  adj.  Characteristic of an amateur; not professional;
 unskillful.   amateurishly adv.   amateurishness n.



 Amati  n.  A violin made by Nicolo Amati or the members of his family.



 amative  adj.  Amorous. [Lat. amare, amat-, to love + -ive.]   amatively
 adv.   amativeness n.



 amatol  n.  A highly explosive mixture of ammonium nitrate and
 trinitrotoluene. [< am(monium) + (trinitro)tol(uene).]



 amatory  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or expressive of love, esp. sexual love.
 [Lat. amatorius < amator, lover < amare, to love.]



 amaurosis  n.  Total loss of vision; blindness. [Gk. amaurosis < amauros,
 dark.]   amaurotic adj.



 amaze  tr.v. amazed amazing amazes   1. To affect with surprise or great
 wonder; astonish. 2.  Obsolete. To bewilder.   -n. Archaic.  Amazement;
 wonder. [ME *amasen < OE amasian, to confound.]   amazedly adv.
 amazedness n.



 amazement  n.  1. A state of extreme surprise or wonder; astonishment. 2.
 Obsolete. Bewilderment; perplexity.



 Amazon  n.  1.  Greek Mythology. A member of a nation of female warriors
 reputed to have lived in Scythia, near the Black Sea. 2. amazon  A tall,
 vigorous, strong-willed woman. [ME < Lat. Amazon < Gk Amazon.]



 Amazonian  adj.  1. Characteristic of or resembling an Amazon. 2.
 amazonian  Vigorous and strong-willed. Used of women.



 amazonite  n.  A green variety of microcline, often used as a semiprecious
 stone. [After the Amazon River.]



 amazon stone  n.  Amazonite.



 ambage  n.  Archaic.  1. A winding or indirect pathway. 2. ambages
 Roundabout ways. [Back-formation < ME ambages, equivocation < Lat. ambages
 : ambi-, around + agere, to drive.]   ambagious adj.



 ambassador  n.  1. A diplomatic official of the highest rank appointed and
 accredited as representative in residence by one government to another. 2.
 Any of various diplomatic officials of the highest rank: a.
 ambassador-at-large  An ambassador not assigned to a particular country. b.
 ambassador extraordinary  An ambassador assigned to a specific mission. c.
 ambassador plenipotentiary  An ambassador empowered to negotiate treaties.
 3. A diplomatic official heading his country's permanent mission to certain
 international organizations, such as the United Nations. 4. Any authorized
 messenger or representative. [ME ambassadour < OFr. ambassadeur < Med. Lat.
 ambactia, mission, of Germanic orig.]   ambassadorial adj.   ambassadorship
 n.



 amber  n.  1. A hard, translucent, yellow, orange, or brownish-yellow
 fossil resin, used for making jewelry and other ornamental objects. 2. A
 brownish yellow. an amber necklace.    -adj. Brownish yellow. [ME ambre <
 OFr. < Med. Lat. ambra < Ar. ambar, ambergris.]



 ambergris  n.  A waxy, grayish substance formed in the intestines of sperm
 whales and found floating at sea or washed ashore, used as a fixative in
 perfumes. [ME < OFr. ambre gris : ambre, amber + gris, gray.]



 amberjack  n. pl. amberjack  or -jacks  Any of several food and game
 fishes of the genus Seriola, of temperate and tropical marine waters.



 ambi-   Both: ambiversion.  [Lat., around.]



 ambiance or ambience   n.  The special or distinctive atmosphere
 surrounding a person, place, or thing. [Fr. < ambiant, surrounding < Lat.
 ambiens. -see ambient.]



 ambidexterity  n.  1. The state or quality of being ambidextrous. 2.
 Deceit or hypocrisy.



 ambidextrous  adj.  1. Able to use both hands with equal facility. 2.
 Unusually dexterous; adroit. 3. Deceptive or hypocritical. [ME ambidexter,
 double dealing < Med. Lat. : Lat. ambi-,  on both sides + Lat. dexter,
 right-handed.]   ambidextrously adv.



 ambience  n.  Variant of ambiance.



 ambient  adj.  Surrounding; encircling. [Lat. ambiens, ambient-, pr.part.
 of ambire, to surround : ambi-, around + ire, to go.]



 ambiguity  n. pl. -ties  1. The state of being ambiguous. 2. Something
 ambiguous.



 ambiguity error  n.  A gross error, usually transient, in the readout of
 an electronic device that is caused by imprecise synchronism, as in
 analog-to-digital conversion.



 ambiguous  adj.  1. Susceptible of multiple interpretation. 2. Doubtful or
 uncertain. [Lat. ambiguus, uncertain < ambigere, to go about : ambi-,
 around + agere, to drive.]

      Synonyms: ambiguous equivocal obscure recondite abstruse
 vague cryptic enigmatic These adjectives mean lacking clarity of meaning.
 Ambiguous  indicates the presence of two or more possible meanings, usually
 because of faulty expression. An equivocal  statement is deliberately
 unclear or misleading, suggesting a hedging to avoid exposure of one's
 position. Obscure  suggests meaning hidden in difficult form, sometimes not
 worth digging out. Recondite  and abstruse , less pejorative, connote the
 erudite obscurity of the scholar: a recondite allusion missed by most
 readers; abstruse works of philosophy. Vague  primarily indicates a lack of
 definite form. Cryptic  suggests a puzzling terseness intended to
 discourage understanding, and enigmatic , great significance hidden in
 mysterious and challenging form.




 ambipolar  adj.  Applying equally to both positive ions and electrons in a
 plasma.



 ambit  n.  1. The external boundary of something; circuit. 2. The sphere
 or scope of something. [Lat. ambitus, a going around < ambire, to go
 around. -see ambient.]



 ambition  n.  1.  a. An eager or strong desire to achieve something. b.
 The object or goal desired. 2. A desire for exertion or activity. [ME
 ambicioun < OFr. ambition < Lat. ambitio < ambire, to go around (for
 votes). -see ambient.]



 ambitious  adj.  1. Full of, characterized by, or motivated by ambition.
 2. Greatly desirous; eager:  I am not ambitious of ridicule (Burke). 3.
 Showing or requiring much effort; challenging: an ambitious plan.
 ambitiously adv.   ambitiousness n.



 ambivalence  n.  1. The existence of mutually conflicting feelings or
 thoughts, such as love and hate, about some person, object, or idea. 2.
 Uncertainty or indecisiveness as to what course to follow. [G. Ambivalenz :
 Lat. ambi-, on both sides + Lat. valens, being strong < valere, to be
 strong.]



 ambivalent  adj.  Exhibiting ambivalence.



 ambiversion  n.  A personality trait showing both introversion and
 extroversion. [ambi- + (intro)version or (extro)version.]   ambivert n.



 amble  intr.v. -bled -bling -bles   1. To walk slowly or leisurely. 2. To
 move along smoothly by lifting first both legs on one side and then both on
 the other, as do horses and other animals.   -n. 1. An ambling gait, esp.
 that of a horse. 2. An unhurried or easy walk. [ME amblen < AN aumbler <
 Lat. ambulare, to walk.]   ambler n.



 amblygonite  n.  A white or greenish mineral, (Li,Na)Al(PO4)(F,OH), that
 is an important source of lithium. [G. Amblygonit < Gk. amblugonios,
 obtuse-angled : amblus, blunt + gonia, angle.]



 amblyopia  n.  Dimness of vision without apparent physical defect or
 disease of the eye. [Gk. ambluopia < ambluopos, dim-sighted : amblus, dim.
 + ops, eye.]   amblyopic adj.



 ambo  n. pl. ambos  or ambones  One of the two pulpits or raised stands in
 early Christian churches from which parts of the service were chanted or
 read. [Med. Lat. < Gk. ambon, raised edge.]



 Amboinese  n.  The language of Amboina.



 amboyna or amboina   n.  The reddish-brown, curly-grained wood of a tree,
 Pterocarpus indicus, of southeastern Asia, used for decorative cabinetwork.
 [After Amboina, an island in the Moluccas, Indonesia.]



 ambrosia  n.  1.  Greek and Roman Mythology. The food of the gods, thought
 to impart immortality. 2. Something with an esp. delicious flavor or
 fragrance. [Lat. < Gk. < ambrotos, immortal, immortalizing : a-, not +
 brotos, mortal.]



 ambrosial or ambrosian   adj.  1. Suggestive of ambrosia; fragrant or
 delicious. 2. Of or worthy of the gods; divine.   ambrosially adv.



 ambrotype  n.  An early type of photograph made by imaging a negative on
 glass backed by a dark surface. [Gk. ambrotos, immortal + type.]



 ambry  n. pl. -bries  1. A storeroom or cupboard; pantry. 2. In churches,
 a niche near the altar for keeping sacred vessels and vestments. [ME
 aumeneri, place where alms are distributed < OFr. aumonerie < Lat.
 armarium, closet < arma, tools.]



 ambsace  n.  1. Double aces, the lowest throw at dice. 2. Misfortune; bad
 luck. 3. The smallest amount or most worthless thing possible. [ME ambes as
 < OFr. < Lat. ambas as, : ambo, both + as, unit.]



 ambulacrum  n. pl. -cra  One of the five radial areas on the undersurface
 of the starfish and similar echinoderms, on which the tube feet are borne.
 [Lat., walk planted with trees < ambulare, to walk.]



 ambulance  n.  A vehicle specially equipped to transport the sick or
 wounded. [Fr. < (hopital) ambulant, mobile (hospital) < Lat. ambulans,
 ambulant.]



 ambulance chaser  n.  Slang.  1. A lawyer or a lawyer's agent who obtains
 clients by persuading victims of accidents to sue for damages. 2. A lawyer
 avid for clients.



 ambulant  adj.  Moving or walking about; shifting from place to place.
 [Fr. < Lat. ambulans, pr.part. of ambulare, to walk.]



 ambulate  intr.v. -lated -lating -lates   To walk from place to place;
 move about. [Lat. ambulare, ambulat-, to walk.]



 ambulatory  adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, or for walking. 2. Capable of
 walking; not bedridden. 3. Moving about; not stationary. 4.  Law. Capable
 of being changed or revoked, as a will during the life of the testator.
 -n.pl. -ries  A covered place for walking, as in a cloister.



 ambuscade  n.  An ambush.   -tr.v.-caded -cading -cades   To ambush. [OFr.
 embuscade < Ital. imboscata < imboscare, to ambush < Med. Lat. *imbuscare :
 Lat. in-, in + buscus, forest, of Germanic orig.]   ambuscader n.



 ambush  n.  1. The act of lying in wait to attack by surprise. 2. A
 surprise attack made from a concealed position. 3.  a. Those in hiding to
 make an ambush. b. Their hiding place. 4. A hidden peril or trap.
 -tr.v.-bushed -bushing -bushes   1. To hide and wait in ambush. 2. To
 attack from ambush. [ME embushen, to ambush < OFr. embuschier < Med. Lat.
 *imbuscare. -see ambuscade.]   ambusher n.



 ameba  n.  Variant of amoeba.



 amebean  adj.  Variant of amoebaean.



 amebiasis  n.  An infection caused by amoebas, esp. Entamoeba histolytica.
  [ameb(a) + -iasis.]



 amebic dysentery  n.  An acute, inflammatory amebiasis of the colon that
 is caused by the amoeba Entamoeba histolytica and results in severe pain
 and diarrhea.



 amebocyte  n.  Variant of amoebocyte.



 ameer  n.  Variant of emir.



 ameliorate  tr.  -intr.v.-rated -rating -rates   To make or become better;
 improve. [Alteration of meliorate.]



 amelioration  n.  1. The act of ameliorating. 2. The state of being
 ameliorated; improvement.



 amen  interj.  Used at the end of a prayer or a statement to express
 approval.   -adv. Verily; truly.   -n. 1. An utterance of the interjection
 amen. 2. An expression of conviction or assent. [ME < OE < LLat. amen < Gk.
 amen < Heb. amen, certainly < aman, to strengthen.]



 Amen or Amon   n.  The god of life and reproduction in Egyptian mythology,
 represented as a man with a ram's head.



 amenable  adj.  1. Willing to follow advice or suggestion. 2. Responsible
 to authority; accountable. 3. Open or liable to testing, criticism, or
 judgment. [Alteration of ME menable < OFr. < mener, to lead < Lat. minare,
 to drive < minari, to threaten < minae, threats.]



 amen corner  n.  A church seat reserved for persons leading responsive
 amens.



 amend  v. amended amending amends   -tr. 1. To improve; better. 2. To
 remove the faults or errors of; rectify. 3. To alter (a legislative
 measure, for example) formally by adding, deleting, or rephrasing. -intr.
 To better one's conduct; reform. [ME amenden < OFr. < Lat. emendare, to
 correct : ex-, out of + menda, fault.]



 amendatory  adj.  Serving or tending to amend; corrective.



 amendment  n.  1. A change for the better; improvement. 2. A correction.
 3.  a. A revision or change. b. A formal statement of such a change.



 amends  pl.n.  Reparation or payment made as satisfaction for insult or
 injury.

       Idiom Section:  make amends. . To make up (to someone) for insult or
 injury. [ME amendes < OFr., pl. of amende, reparation < amender, to amend.]




 amenity  n. pl. -ties  1. The quality of being pleasant or attractive;
 agreeableness. 2.  a. A feature that increases attractiveness or value,
 esp. of a piece of real estate or a geographical location. b. Something
 that increases physical or material comfort. 3. amenities  Social
 courtesies; pleasantries; civilities. [ME amenite < OFr. < Lat. amoenitas <
 amoenus, pleasant.]



 amenorrhea or amenorrhoea   n.  Abnormal suppression or absence of
 menstruation. [a-1 + Gk. men, month + -rrhea.]   amenorrheic adj.



 ament
 ament(1)  n.  A catkin. [Lat. amentum, strap.]
 ament(2)   n.  A mentally deficient or feeble-minded person. [< Lat. amens,
 ament-, insane : a-, out of + mens, mind.]



 amentaceous  adj.  1. Resembling or characteristic of an ament;
 catkinlike. 2. Having aments or catkins.



 amentia  n.  Subnormal mental development; feeble-mindedness. [Lat.
 amentia < amens, insane. -see ament2.]



 amentiferous  adj.  Botany.  Bearing aments or catkins.



 Amerasian  n.  An individual of mixed American and Asian descent.
 [Amer(ican) + Asian.]   Amerasian adj.



 amerce  tr.v. amerced amercing amerces   1. To punish by a fine imposed
 arbitrarily at the discretion of the court. 2. To punish by imposing an
 arbitrary penalty. [ME amercen < AN amercier < a merci, at the mercy of :
 a, to (< Lat. ad) + merci, mercy < Lat. merces, wages.]



 American  adj.  1. Of, relating to, or characteristic of the United States
 of America, its people, culture, government, or history. 2. Of, in, or
 pertaining to North or South America or the Western Hemisphere. 3. Of or
 pertaining to the Indians inhabiting America. 4. Indigenous to North or
 South America: American elm; American elk.    -n. 1. A native or inhabitant
 of America. 2. A citizen of the United States.   Americanness n.



 Americana  pl.n.  A collection of things relating to American history,
 folklore, or geography.



 American Beauty  n.  A type of rose bearing large, long-stemmed
 purplish-red flowers.



 American cheese  n.  A smooth, mild cheddar cheese, white to yellow in
 color.



 American dream  n.  An American ideal of social equality and esp. material
 success.



 American eagle  n.  The bald eagle, esp. as it appears on the Great Seal
 of the United States.



 American elk  n.  The wapiti.



 American English  n.  The English language as used in the United States.



 American Indian  n.  A member of any of the aboriginal peoples of North
 America (except the Eskimos), South America, and the West Indies,
 considered to belong to the Mongoloid ethnic division of the human species.




 Americanism  n.  1. A custom, trait, or tradition originating in the
 United States. 2. A usage of language characteristic of American English.
 3. Allegiance to the United States and its customs and institutions.



 Americanist  n.  1. One who studies a facet of America, such as its
 history or geology. 2. An anthropologist specializing in the study of
 American aboriginal culture. 3. A person, other than a U.S. citizen, who is
 sympathetic to the United States and its policies.



 American ivy  n.  The Virginia creeper.



 Americanize  v. -ized -izing -izes   -tr. To assimilate into American
 culture. -intr. To become American in spirit or methods.   Americanization
 n.



 American plan  n.  A system of hotel management in which a guest pays a
 fixed daily rate for room, meals, and service.



 American saddle horse  n.  A three-gaited or five-gaited high-stepping
 saddle horse of a breed originating in Kentucky.



 American sign language  n.  An American system of communication for the
 deaf that employs manual signs.



 American Spanish  n.  The Spanish language as used in the Western
 Hemisphere.



 American Standard Version  n.  A revised version of the King James Bible
 published in the United States in 1901.



 americium  n.  A white metallic transuranic element of the actinide
 series, having isotopes with mass numbers from 237 to 246 and half-lives
 from 25 minutes to 7,950 years. Its longest-lived isotopes, Am 241 and Am
 243, are alpha-ray emitters used as radiation sources in research. Atomic
 number 95; specific gravity 11.7; valences 3, 4, 5, 6. [After America.]



 Amerind or Amerindian   n.  An American Indian or an Eskimo. [Amer(ican) +
 Ind(ian).]   Amerindian adj.   Amerindic adj.



 Ameslan  n.  American sign language.



 amethopterin  n.  Methotrexate. [A(mino)- + meth- + pter(oyl), a chemical
 radical + -in.]



 amethyst  n.  1. A purple or violet form of transparent quartz used as a
 gemstone. 2. A purple variety of corundum, used as a gemstone. 3. A
 moderate purple to graying reddish purple. [ME amatiste < OFr. < Lat.
 amethystus < Gk. amethustos : a-, not + methuein, to be drunk (from the
 belief that it was a remedy for drunkenness).]   amethystine adj.



 ametropia  n.  An eye abnormality, such as nearsightedness,
 farsightedness, or astigmatism, resulting from faulty refraction. [Gk.
 ametros, without measure (a-, without + metron, measure) + -opia.]



 Amharic  n.  A Semitic language that is the official language in Ethiopia.
   -adj. Of or concerning Amhara. [After Amhara, a former province of
 Ethiopia.]



 amiable  adj.  1. Having a pleasant disposition; good-natured. 2. Cordial;
 sociable; congenial: an amiable gathering.  [ME < OFr. < LLat. amicabilis,
 amicable.]   amiability  amiableness n.   amiably adv.

      Synonyms: amiable affable good-natured obliging agreeable
 pleasant These adjectives all refer to a tendency to please in social
 relations. Amiable  implies friendliness and sweetness of disposition.
 Affable  especially fits a person who is easy to approach and difficult to
 anger. Good-natured  suggests a tolerant, easygoing disposition; sometimes
 it also implies a docile nature. Obliging  specifies disposition to comply
 with the will of others; agreeable  adds to this a sense of eagerness to
 please. Pleasant  applies broadly to favorable manner or appearance.




 amianthus or amiantus   n.  An asbestos with fine, silky fibers. [Lat.
 amiantus < Gk. amiantos, undefiled : a-, not + mianein, to defile.]



 amicable  adj.  Characterized by or showing friendliness; friendly. [ME <
 LLat. amicabilis < Lat amicus, friend.]   amicability  amicableness n.
 amicably adv.



 amice  n.  A liturgical vestment consisting of an oblong piece of white
 linen worn around the neck and shoulders and partly under the alb. [ME,
 alteration of amit < OFr. < Lat. amictus, mantle < amicio, to wrap around :
 ambi-, around + jacere, to throw.]



 amicus curiae  n. pl. amici curiae  Law.  A person invited to advise a
 court on a matter of law in a case to which he is not a party. [Lat.,
 friend of the court.]



 amid or amidst   prep.  Surrounded by; in the middle of. [ME < OE onmiddan
 : on, in + midde, middle.]



 amide  n.  1. An organic compound, such as acetamide, containing the CONH2
 group. 2. A compound with a metal replacing hydrogen in ammonia, such as
 sodium amide, NaNH2. [am(monia) + -ide.]   amidic adj.



 amidol  n.  A colorless crystalline compound (NH2)2C6H3OH2HCl, used as a
 photographic developer. [G. Amidol, a trademark.]



 amidships or amidship   adv.  Nautical.  Midway between the bow and the
 stern.



 amidst  prep.  Variant of amid.



 amigo  n. pl. -gos  A friend. [Sp. < Lat. amicus, friend.]



 amine  n.  Any of a group of organic compounds of nitrogen, such as
 ethylamine, C2H5NH2, that may be considered ammonia derivatives in which
 one or more hydrogen atoms has been replaced by a hydrocarbon radical.
 [am(monium) + -ine2.]



 -amine   Amine: diamine.  [< amine.]



 amino  adj.  Pertaining to an amine or other chemical compound containing
 NH2 combined with a nonacid organic radical. [< amino-.]



 amino-   Containing NH2 combined with a nonacid organic radical:
 aminopyrine.  [< amine.]



 amino acid  n.  1. An organic compound containing both an amino group
 (NH2) and a carboxylic acid group (COOH). 2. A compound of the form
 NH2CHRCOOH, found as essential components of the protein molecule.



 aminoacidemia  n.  A condition marked by excess amino acids in the blood.



 aminoaciduria  n.  A condition marked by excess amino acids in the urine.



 aminobenzoic acid  n.  Any of three benzoic acid derivatives, C7H7NO2,
 esp. the yellowish para form, which is part of the vitamin B complex.



 aminophenol  n.  One of three organic compounds with composition
 C6H4NH2OH, used as photographic developers and dye intermediates.



 aminopyrine  n.  A colorless crystalline compound, C13H17N3O, used to
 reduce fever and relieve pain. [amino- + (anti)pyrine.]



 amir  n.  Variant of emir.



 Amish  pl.n.  An orthodox Anabaptist sect that separated from the
 Mennonites in the late 17th century and exists today primarily in
 southeastern Pennsylvania.   -adj. Of or pertaining to this sect or its
 members. [G. amisch, after Jacob Amman, 17th-cent. Swiss Mennonite bishop.]




 amiss  adj.  Out of proper order: What is amiss?    -adv. In an improper
 or defective way.

       Idiom Section:  take amiss. To misunderstand; feel offended by. [ME
 amis < ON a mis.]



 amitosis  n.  Cell division characterized by simple nuclear cleavage
 without the formation of chromosomes.   amitotic adj.   amitotically adv.



 amitriptyline  n.  An antidepressant drug, C20H23N. [ami(no)- + tript-
 (alteration and shortening of tryptophan) + -yl + -ine2.]



 amity  n. pl. -ties  Peaceful relations, as between nations; friendship.
 [ME amite < OFr. < Med. Lat. *amicitas < Lat. amicus, friend.]



 ammeter  n.  An instrument that measures electric current. [am(pere) +
 -meter.]



 ammine  n.  Any of a class of chemical compounds, such as aniline, derived
 from replacement of hydrogen atoms in ammonia by univalent hydrocarbon
 radicals. [amm(onia) + -ine2.]   ammino adj.



 ammo  n.  Ammunition.



 ammonia  n.  1. A colorless, pungent gas, NH3, extensively used to
 manufacture fertilizers and a wide variety of nitrogen-containing organic
 and inorganic chemicals. 2. Ammonium hydroxide. [NLat. < Lat. (sal)
 ammoniacus, (salt) of Amen < Gk. Ammoniakos < Ammon, Amen (from its having
 been obtained from a region near the temple of Amen, in Libya).]



 ammoniac or ammoniacal
 ammoniac(1)  adj.  Of, containing, or similar to ammonia.
 ammoniac(2)  n.  A strong-smelling gum resin from the stems of a plant,
 Dorema ammoniacum, of northern Asia, formerly used in medicine as an
 expectorant and stimulant. [ME ammoniak < Ammoniacum < Gk. ammoniakon, of
 Amen. -see ammonia.]



 ammoniate  tr.v. -ated -ating -ates   To treat or combine with ammonia.
 -n. A compound that contains ammonia.   ammoniation n.



 ammonia water  n.  Ammonium hydroxide.



 ammonification  n.  1. Impregnation with ammonia or an ammonium compound.
 2. The generation of ammonia or ammonium compounds by the action of
 bacteria on nitrogenous organic matter in soil.



 ammonify  tr.  -intr.v.-fied -fying -fies   To subject or be subjected to
 ammonification.   ammonifier n.



 ammonite or ammonoid   n.  The coiled, flat, chambered shell of any of
 various extinct mollusks of the class Cephalopoda, found as fossils in
 Mesozoic formations. [NLat. Ammonites < Lat. (cornu) Ammonis, (horn) of
 Amen.]



 Ammonite  n.  A member of a Semitic people living east of the Jordan
 River, mentioned frequently in the Old Testament. [LLat. Ammonites, the
 Ammonites < Heb. "Ammon, city or people of Amman.]



 ammonium  n.  The chemical ion NH4+. [ammon(ia) + -ium.]



 ammonium carbonate  n.  A white powder with composition
 (NH4)HCO3(NH4)CO2NH2, used in baking powders, smelling salts, and
 fire-extinguishing compounds.



 ammonium chloride  n.  A slightly hygroscopic white crystalline compound,
 NH4Cl, used in dry cells, as a soldering flux, as an expectorant, and in
 various industrial applications.



 ammonium hydroxide  n.  A colorless basic aqueous solution of ammonia,
 NH4OH, used as a household cleanser and to manufacture a wide variety of
 products including textiles, rayon, rubber, fertilizer, and plastic.



 ammonium nitrate  n.  A colorless crystalline salt, NH4NO3, used in
 fertilizers, explosives, and solid rocket propellants.



 ammonium sulfate  n.  A brownish-gray to white crystalline salt,
 (NH4)2SO4, used in fertilizers and water purification.



 ammunition  n.  1.  a. The projectiles, along with their fuses and
 primers, that can be fired from guns or otherwise propelled. b. A nuclear,
 biological, chemical, or explosive material used as a weapon. 2. A means of
 offense or defense. [OFr. amunition, from the phrase la munition, the
 provisioning < Lat.  munitio, fortification. -see munition.]



 amnesia  n.  Partial or total loss of memory, esp. through shock,
 psychological disturbance, brain injury, or illness. [NLat. < Gk. amnesia,
 forgetfulness.]   amnesiac amnesic  n. & adj.   amnestic adj.



 amnesty  n. pl. -ties  A general pardon for offenders by a government,
 esp. for political offenses.   -tr.v.-tied -tying -ties   To grant amnesty
 to. [Lat. amnestia < Gk. amnestos, not remembered.]



 amniocentesis  n. pl. -ses  The surgical withdrawal of a sample of
 amniotic fluid from a pregnant female, esp. for use in the determination of
 sex or genetic disorder in the fetus. [NLat. : amnion + Gk. kentesis, act
 of pricking < kentein, to prick.]



 amniography  n. pl. -phies  Radiography of the uterine cavity following
 injection of a radiopaque substance. [amnio(n) + -graphy.]



 amnion  n. pl. -nions  or -nia  A thin, tough, membranous sac that
 contains a watery fluid in which the embryo of a mammal, bird, or reptile
 is suspended. [NLat. < Gk. amnion, plate to hold a sacrificial victim's
 blood.]   amniotic amnionic  adj.



 amnioscopy  n. pl. -pies  Endoscopic examination of the amniotic cavity.
 [amnio(n) + -scopy.]   amnioscope n.



 amoeba  n. pl. -bas  or -bae  Any of various protozoans of the genus
 Amoeba and related genera, occurring in water, soil, and as internal animal
 parasites, characteristically having an indefinite, changeable form and
 moving by means of pseudopodia. [NLat. < Gk. amoibe, change < ameibein, to
 change.]   amoebic adj.



 amoebaean or amoebean   adj.  Alternately answering, as dialogue. [LLat.
 amoebaeus < Gk. amoibaios < amoibe, change. -see amoeba.]



 amoebiasis  n.  Variant of amebiasis.



 amoebic dysentery  n.  Variant of amebic dysentery.



 amoebocyte  n.  A cell, such as a leucocyte, having amoebic form.
 [amoeb(a) + -cyte.]



 amoeboid  adj.  Of or resembling an amoeba, esp. in changeability of form
 and means of locomotion.



 amok  adv.  -adj. Variant of amuck.



 amole  n.  1. Any of several plants, chiefly of southwestern North
 America, having roots, bulbs, or other parts used as soap. 2. The parts of
 the amole used as soap. [Mex. Sp. < Nahuatl amolli.]



 among or amongst   prep.  1. In the midst of; surrounded by. 2. In the
 group, number, or class of: He is among the wealthy.  3. In the company of;
 in association with: traveling among a group of tourists.  4. With many; by
 many or the entire number of: a custom popular among the Greeks.  5. By the
 joint action of: Among us, we will get the job done.  6. With portions to
 each of: Distribute this among you.  7. Each with the other; between one
 another: Don't fight among yourselves.  [ME < OE on gemang : on, in +
 gemang, throng.]

      Synonyms: among amid between These prepositions are compared as they
 pertain to positions in space or to their figurative equivalents. Among
 refers to being surrounded, or approximately so, by objects that are
 individual and separable: living among the Indians. Amid  stresses being
 surrounded but not necessarily by separable things: a house amid the trees;
 remain cool amid confusion. Between  refers to a location in space that
 separates two objects: standing between two skyscrapers; caught between
 opposing viewpoints.




 amontillado  n. pl. -dos  A pale dry sherry. [Sp. : a-, to (< Lat. ad-) +
 Montilla, a town in Spain.]



 amoral  adj.  1. Not admitting of moral distinctions or judgments; neither
 moral nor immoral. 2. Lacking moral sensibility; not caring about right and
 wrong.   amorality amoralism  n.   amorally adv.



 amoretto  n. pl. -ti  or -tos  A cupid. [Ital., dim. of Amore, Cupid <
 Lat. Amor < amor, love < amare, to love.]



 amorist  n.  One dedicated to love. [Lat. amor, love + -ist.]



 Amorite  n.  A member of a people inhabiting Canaan before the Israelites,
 mentioned frequently in the Old Testament. [< Heb. Emori.]



 amorous  adj.  1. Strongly attracted to love, esp. sexual love. 2.
 Indicative of love or sexual desire: an amorous glance.  3. Of or
 associated with love: an amorous poem.  4. In love; enamored: amorous of
 her since the day they met.  [ME < OFr. amoureus < Med. Lat. amorosus <
 Lat. amor, love < amare, to love.]   amorously adv.   amorousness n.



 amorphism  n.  The state or quality of being amorphous.



 amorphous  adj.  1. Without definite form; shapeless. 2. Of no particular
 type; anomalous. 3. Lacking organization; formless. 4. Lacking distinct
 crystalline structure. [Gk. amorphos : a-, without + morphe, shape.]
 amorphously adv.   amorphousness n.



 amortization  n.  1. The act or process of amortizing. 2. The money set
 aside for the purpose of amortization. 3. In reckoning the yield of a bond
 bought at a premium, the periodic subtraction from its current yield of a
 proportionate share of the premium between the purchase date and the
 maturity date.



 amortize  tr.v. -tized -tizing -tizes   1. To liquidate (a debt) by
 installment payments or payment into a sinking fund. 2. To write off
 (expenditures) by prorating over a certain period. 3.  Law. To sell or
 transfer (property) in mortmain. [ME amortisen < OFr. amortir, amortiss- <
 VLat. *admortire : Lat. ad-, to + Lat. mors, death.]   amortizable adj.



 amortizement  n.  Amortization.



 Amos  n.  1. A Hebrew prophet of the eighth century  B.C.  2. See table at
 Bible. [Heb. "Amos.]



 amount  n.  1. The total of two or more quantities; aggregate. 2. A
 number; sum. 3. A principal plus its interest, as in a loan. 4. The
 aggregate effect or meaning; import. 5. Quantity: a great amount of
 intelligence.    -intr.v.amounted amounting amounts   1. To add up in
 number or quantity. 2. To be equivalent or tantamount: accusations
 amounting to an indictment.  [< ME amounten, to ascend < OFr. amonter <
 amont, upward < Lat. ad montem, to the hill < mons, hill.]



 amour  n.  A love affair, esp. an illicit one. [ME < OFr. < Lat. amor,
 love < amare, to love.]



 amour-propre  n.  Self-respect. [Fr.]



 Amoy  n.  The dialect of Chinese spoken in and around the city of Xiamen
 in Fujian Province in southeastern China. [After Amoy, former name for
 Xiamen.]



 amp  n.  An ampere.



 AMP  n.  A mononucleotide, C10H14N5O7P, found in animal cells, that is
 reversibly convertible to ADP and ATP. [A(denosine) m(ono)p(hosphate).]



 ampelopsis  n.  Any of several woody vines of the genus Ampelopsis, having
 small greenish or yellowish flowers. [NLat. Ampelopsis, genus name : Gk.
 ampelos, grapevine + Gk. opsis, appearance.]



 amperage  n.  The strength of an electric current expressed in amperes.



 ampere  n.  1. A unit of electric current in the meter-kilogram-second
 system. It is the steady current that when flowing in straight parallel
 wires of infinite length and negligible cross section, separated by a
 distance of one meter in free space, produces a force between the wires of
 2 * 10-7 newtons per meter of length. 2. A unit in the International System
 specified as one International coulomb per second and equal to 0.999835
 ampere. [After Andre Marie Ampere (1775-1836).]



 ampere-hour  n.  The electric charge transferred past a specified circuit
 point by a current of one ampere in one hour.



 ampere-turn  n.  A unit of magnetomotive force in the
 meter-kilogram-second system equal to the magnetomotive force around a path
 linking one turn of a conducting loop carrying a current of one ampere.



 ampersand  n.  The character or sign (&) representing and.  [Alteration of
 and per se and, "& (the sign) by itself (is the word) and."]



 amphetamine  n.  1. A colorless volatile liquid, C9H13N, used primarily as
 a central nervous system stimulant. 2. A phosphate or sulfate of
 amphetamine, used as a central nervous system stimulant. [a(lpha) +m(ethyl)
 + ph(enyl) + et(hyl) + amine.]



 amphi-   1.  a. Both: amphibiotic.  b. On both sides: amphistylar.  2.
 Around: amphithecium.  [Lat. < Gk. < amphi, on both sides.]



 amphiarthrosis  n. pl. -ses  A relatively immobile joint between bony
 surfaces connected by ligaments or elastic cartilage. [amphi- + arthrosis.]




 amphibian  n.  1. Any of various cold-blooded, smooth-skinned vertebrate
 organisms of the class Amphibia, such as a frog, that characteristically
 hatch as aquatic larvae that breathe by means of gills and that
 metamorphose to an adult form with air-breathing lungs. 2. An amphibious
 organism. 3. An aircraft that can take off and land either on land or on
 water. 4. A vehicle that can move over land and on water. [< NLat.
 Amphibia, class name < Gk. amphibion < amphibios, amphibious.]



 amphibiotic  adj.  Living in water during an early stage of development
 and on land during the adult stage.



 amphibious  adj.  1. Living or able to live both on land and in water. 2.
 Able to operate on both land and water: amphibious military vehicles.  3.
 Of a mixed or twofold nature. [Gk. amphibios : amphi-, on both sides +
 bios, life.]   amphibiously adv.   amphibiousness n.



 amphibole  n.  Any of a large group of structurally similar hydrated
 double silicate minerals, such as hornblende, containing various
 combinations of sodium, calcium, magnesium, iron, and aluminum. [Fr. <
 LLat. amphibolus, ambiguous < Gk. amphibolos, doubtful < amphiballein, to
 throw on either side : amphi-, on both sides + ballein, to throw.]
 amphibolic adj.



 amphibolite  n.  A chiefly amphibole rock with minor plagioclase and
 little quartz.



 amphibolous  adj.  Having two meanings; ambiguous; equivocal. [Gk.
 amphibolos. -see amphibole.]



 amphibrach  n.  A trisyllabic metrical foot having one accented or long
 syllable between two unaccented or short syllables, as in the word
 remember.  [Lat. amphibrachys < Gk. amphibrakhus : amphi-, on both sides +
 brakhus, short.]



 amphictyony  n. pl. -nies  In ancient Greece, a group of states sharing a
 common religious center or shrine, such as the one at Delphi. [Gk.
 Amphiktonia < amphiktuones, neighbors : amphi-, on the periphery + ktizein,
 to settle.]   amphictyonic adj.



 amphimacer  n.  A trisyllabic foot having an unaccented or short syllable
 between two accented or long syllables, as in pro domo.  [Lat. amphimacrus
 < Gk. amphimakros : amphi-, on both sides + makros, long.]



 amphimixis  n. pl. -mixes  True sexual reproduction, with fusion of sperm
 and egg nuclei. [NLat. : amphi- + Gk. mixis, a mingling < mignunai, to
 mingle.]   amphimictic adj.



 Amphion  n.  Greek Mythology.  The son of Zeus and the twin brother of
 Zethus, with whom he conquered and fortified Thebes, building a wall around
 the city by charming the stones into place with the music of his magic
 lyre. [Gk. Amphion.]



 amphioxus  n.  The lancelet. [NLat. : amphi- + Gk. oxus, sharp.]



 amphipod  n.  Any of numerous small crustaceans of the order Amphipoda,
 which includes the beach fleas. [< NLat. Amphipoda, order name : amphi- +
 Gk. pous, foot.]



 amphiprostyle  adj.  Architecture.  Having a prostyle or set of columns at
 each end, but none along the sides. [Lat. amphiprostylos < Gk.
 amphiprostulos : amphi-, on both sides + prostulos, with pillars in front.
 -see prostyle.]   amphiprostyle n.



 amphisbaena  n.  A mythological serpent having a head at each end of its
 body. [Lat. < Gk. amphisbaina : amphis, both ways (< amphi-, on both sides)
 + bainein, to go.]   amphisbaenic adj.



 amphistylar  adj.  Architecture.  Having columns at both front and back or
 on each side. [amphi- + Gk. stulos, pillar.]



 amphitheater  n.  1. An oval or round structure having tiers of seats
 rising gradually outward from an open space or arena at the center. 2. An
 arena where contests are held. 3. A level area surrounded by upward sloping
 ground. 4. An upper, sloping gallery in a theater. [Lat. amphitheatrum <
 Gk. amphitheatron : amphi-, around + theatron, theater. -see theater.]
 amphitheatric amphitheatrical  adj.   amphitheatrically adv.



 amphitheatre  n.  Chiefly British.  Amphitheater.



 amphithecium  n. pl. -cia  The outer layer of cells of the
 spore-containing capsule of a moss. [NLat. : amphi- + Gk. thekion, dim. of
 theke,  case.]



 Amphitrite  n.  Greek Mythology.  The wife of Poseidon, goddess of the
 sea, and one of the Nereids. [Gk. Amphitrite.]



 amphitropous  adj.  Botany.  Partly inverted so that the point of
 attachment is near the middle. Used of an ovule or seed.



 Amphitryon  n.  Greek Mythology.  A king of Thebes and the husband of
 Alcmene. [Gk. Amphitruon.]



 amphora  n. pl. -phorae  or -phoras  A two-handled jar with a narrow neck,
 used by the ancient Greeks and Romans to carry wine or oil. [Lat. < Gk.
 amphoreus, short for amphiphoreus : amphi-, on both sides + phoreus, bearer
 < pherein, to bear.]   amphoral adj.



 amphoteric  adj.  Capable of reacting either as an acid or a base. [< Gk.
 amphoterus, either of two < ampho, both.]



 ampicillin  n.  An antibiotic related to penicillin that is effective
 against gram-negative bacteria, used primarily to treat urinary,
 intestinal, and respiratory tract infections. [Blend of amino- and
 penicillin.]



 ample  adj. -pler -plest   1. Of large or great size, amount, extent, or
 capacity: an ample living room.  2.  a. Large in degree or kind; in
 abundant measure: an ample reward.  b. More than enough: ample evidence.
 3. Sufficient for a particular need: ample provisions for a week.  [ME <
 OFr. < Lat. amplus.]   ampleness n.   amply adv.



 amplexicaul  adj.  Having a base that clasps or encircles the stem, as
 some leaves do. [NLat. amplexicaulis, embracing stem : Lat. amplexus, an
 embracing < amplector, to embrace (ambi-, around + plectere, to twine) +
 Lat. caulis, stem.]



 amplification  n.  1. The act or result of amplifying. 2.  a. An addition
 to or expansion of a statement or idea. b. A statement with such an
 addition. 3.  Physics.  a. The process of increasing the magnitude of a
 variable quantity, esp. the magnitude of a voltage or current, without
 altering any other quality. b. The result of such a process. 4.
 Electronics. Gain (sense 3).



 amplifier  n.  1. One that amplifies, enlarges, or extends. 2.
 Electronics. A device to produce amplification, esp. one using transistors
 or electron tubes of an electrical signal.



 amplify  v. -fied -fying -fies   -tr. 1. To make larger or more powerful;
 increase. 2. To add to, as by illustrations; make complete. 3. To
 exaggerate. 4.  Electronics. To produce amplification of.   -intr.v. To
 write or discourse at length; expatiate. [ME amplifien < OFr. amplifier <
 Lat. amplificare : amplus, large + facere, to make.]



 amplitude  n.  1. Greatness of size; magnitude. 2. Fullness; copiousness.
 3. Breadth or range, as of intelligence. 4.  Astronomy. The angular
 distance along the horizon from true east or west to the intersection of
 the vertical circle of a celestial body with the horizon. 5.  Physics. The
 maximum value of a periodically varying quantity. 6.  Mathematics.  a. The
 maximum ordinate value of a periodic curve. b. The angle made with the
 positive horizontal axis by the vector representation of a complex number.
 7.  Electronics. The magnitude of a voltage or current waveform. [Lat.
 amplitudo < amplus, large.]



 amplitude modulation  n.  Electronics.  1. The encoding of a carrier wave
 by variation of its amplitude in accordance with an input signal. 2. A
 broadcast system that uses amplitude modulation.



 ampoule
 ampule or ampul    n.  A small glass vial, sealed after filling and used
 chiefly as a container for a hypodermic injection solution. [Fr. < OFr. <
 Lat. ampulla.]



 ampulla  n. pl. -pullae  1. A nearly round bottle with two handles used by
 the ancient Romans for wine, oil, or perfume. 2.  Ecclesiastical. A vessel
 for consecrated wine or holy oil. 3.  Anatomy. A small dilation in a canal
 or duct, esp. one in the semicircular canal of the ear. [Lat.]   ampullar
 adj.



 amputate  tr.v. -tated -tating -tates   To cut off (a part of the body),
 esp. by surgery. [Lat. amputare, amputat-, to cut around : ambi-, around +
 putare, to cut.]   amputation n.   amputator n.



 amputee  n.  A person who has had one or more limbs removed by amputation.
 -See Usage note at -ee1.



 amrita  n.  Hindu Myth..  1. The ambrosia, prepared by the gods, that
 bestows immortality. 2. The immortality achieved by drinking amrita. [Skt.
 am[z.angstund;]rtam : a-, without + m[z.angstund;]rtam, death.]



 amtrac or amtrack   n.  A small, armed, amphibious vehicle first used in
 World War II to carry troops from ship to shore. [am(phibious) +
 trac(tor).]



 amuck or amok   adv.  1. In a frenzy to do violence or kill: rioters
 running amuck in the sreets.  2. In a jumbled or faulty manner.   -adj.
 Crazed with murderous frenzy. [Malay amok.]



 amulet  n.  An object worn, esp. around the neck, as a charm against evil
 or injury. [Lat. amuletum.]



 amuse  tr.v. amused amusing amuses   1. To occupy in an agreeable,
 pleasing, or entertaining fashion. 2. To cause to laugh or smile by giving
 pleasure. 3.  Archaic. To delude or deceive; bemuse. [OFr. amuser, to
 stupefy : a, to (< Lat. ad )+ muser, to stare stupidly.]   amusable adj.
 amuser n.

      Synonyms: amuse entertain divert regale These verbs refer to actions
 that provide pleasure, especially as a means of passing time. Amuse  is the
 least specific. Entertain  suggests more formal, deliberate acts of
 bringing about pleasure. Divert  implies distraction from worrisome thought
 or care. Regale  means to entertain lavishly.




 amusement  n.  1. The state of being amused, entertained, or pleased. 2.
 Something that amuses.



 amusement park  n.  A commercially operated enterprise that offers rides,
 games, and other forms of entertainment.



 amusing  adj.  1. Entertaining or pleasing. 2. Arousing laughter.
 amusingly adv.



 amusive  adj.  Providing amusement.



 amygdala  n. pl. -lae  Anatomy.  An almond-shaped mass of gray matter in
 the anterior portion of the temporal lobe. [NLat. < Lat., almond < Gk.
 amugdale.]



 amygdale  n.  An amygdule. [Gk. amygdale, almond.]



 amygdalin  n.  A glycoside derived from the volatile essential oils of
 bitter almonds, peaches, and apricots, used to derive Laetrile. [Lat.
 amygdala, almond (< Gk. amugdale) + -in.]



 amygdaline  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or resembling an almond. [Lat.
 amygdalinus < Gk. amugdalinos < amugdale, almond.]



 amygdaloid  n.  A volcanic rock containing many amygdules.
 -adj.amygdaloidal   1. Almond-shaped. 2. Of or relating to the amygdala. 3.
  Geology. Resembling amygdaloid. [Lat. amygdala, almond (< Gk. amugdale) +
 -oid.]



 amygdule  n.  A small gas bubble in lava or other igneous rock filled with
 secondary minerals such as zeolite, calcite, or quartz. [Lat. amygdala,
 almond (from its shape) + nod)ule.]



 amyl  n.  1. The univalent organic radical C5H11, occurring in several
 isomeric forms in many organic compounds. 2.  Slang. Amyl nitrite. [Lat.
 amylum, starch. -see amylum.]



 amyl-   Variant of amylo-.



 amylaceous  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or resembling starch; starchy.



 amyl acetate  n.  An organic compound, CH3COOC5H11, used commercially in
 isomeric mixtures as a flavoring agent, as a paint and lacquer solvent, and
 in the preparation of penicillin.



 amyl alcohol  n.  Any of eight isomers of the composition C5H11OH, one of
 which is the principal constituent of fusel oil.



 amylase  n.  Any of various enzymes that convert starch to sugar.



 amyl nitrite  n.  The nitrous acid ester of isoamyl alcohol, used in
 medicine as a vasodilator.



 amylo- or amyl-    Starch: amylose.  [< Lat. amylum, starch.]



 amyloid  n.  1. A starchlike substance. 2.  Pathology. A hard protein
 deposit resulting from degeneration of tissue.   -adj. Starchlike.



 amylolysis  n.  The enzymatic conversion of starch to sugars.   amylolytic
 adj.



 amylopsin  n.  The starch-digesting amylase produced by the pancreas.
 [amylo- + (try)psin.]



 amylose  n.  The relatively soluble portion of starch.



 amylum  n.  Starch. [Lat. < Gk. amulon, starch < amulos, not ground at a
 mill : a-, not +mule, mill.]



 amyotonia  n.  Lack of muscle tone.



 an
 an(1)   A. Used before words beginning with a vowel or with an unpronounced
 h: an elephant; an hour. -See Usage note at a. [ME < OE an, one.]
 an(2)   conj.  Archaic.  And if; if:  An I may hide my face, let me play
 Thisby too (Shakespeare). [ME, short for and, and < OE.]



 an-   Variant of a-1.Used before vowels and frequently before h.



 -an
 -an(1)   1. Of, relating to, or resembling: brachyuran.  2. One relating
 to, belonging to, or resembling: librarian.  [ME < OFr. < Lat. -anus, adj.
 and n. suffix.]
 -an(2)   3.  a. Unsaturated hydrocarbon: urethan.  b. Heterocyclic
 compound: furan.  4. Anhydride of a carbohydrate: dextran.  [Alteration of
 -ane.]



 ana
 ana(1)  n. pl. ana  or -as  1. A collection of various materials that
 reflect the character of a person or place. 2. An item in such a
 collection. [< -ana.]
 ana(2)   adv.    Both in the same quantity; of each. Used to refer to
 ingredients in prescriptions. [ME < Med. Lat. < Gk., at the rate of.]



 ana-   1. Upward; up: anabolism.  2. Backward; back: anaplasia.  3. Again;
 anew: anaphylaxis.  [Gk. < ana, up.]



 -ana or -iana    A collection of items relating to a specified person or
 place: Americana.  [NLat. < Lat. -ana, neuter pl. of -anus, -an.]



 anabaena  n.  Any of various freshwater algae of the genus Anabaena,
 sometimes occurring in drinking water and causing a bad taste and odor.
 [NLat. Anabaena, genus name < Gk. anabainein, to go up : ana-, up +
 bainein, to go.]



 Anabaptist  n.  A member of one of the radical movements of the
 Reformation of the 16th century that insisted that only adult baptism was
 valid and held that true Christians should not bear arms, use force, or
 hold government office. [NLat. anabaptista : Gk. ana-, again + baptizein,
 to baptize < baptein, to dip.]   Anabaptism n.   Anabaptist adj.



 anabas  n.  A member of the genus Anabas, which includes freshwater fishes
 of Africa and Asia. [NLat. Anabas, genus name < Gk. anabas, climbing,
 pr.part. of anabainein, to go up. -see anabatic.]



 anabasis  n. pl. -ses  A large-scale military advance, specifically, the
 Greek expedition across Asia Minor (401  B.C. ) led by Cyrus the Younger of
 Persia, as described by Xenophon. [Gk. < anabainein, to go up. -see
 anabatic.]



 anabatic  adj.  Of or pertaining to rising wind currents. [Gk. anabatikos
 < anabainein, to rise: ana, up + bainein, to go.]



 anabiosis  n.  A restoring to life from a deathlike condition;
 resuscitation. [NLat. < Gk. anabiosis < anabioun, to return to life : ana-,
 back + bioun, to live < bios, life.]   anabiotic adj.



 anabolic steroid  n.  Any of several synthetic hormones often used to
 increase muscle size and strength.



 anabolism  n.  The metabolic process by which simple substances are
 synthesized into the complex materials of living tissue. [ana- +
 meta)bolism.]   anabolic adj.



 anachronism  n.  1. The representation of something as existing or
 happening at other than its proper or historical time. 2. Something out of
 its proper time. [Fr. anachronisme < Gk. anakhronismos < anakronizein, to
 be an anachronism : ana-, backward + khronizein, to belong in time <
 khronos, time.]   anachronistic  anachronous adj.   anachronistically
 anachronously adv.



 anaclisis  n.  Psychological dependence on others. [Gk. anaklisis, a
 leaning back < anaklinein, to lean on : ana-, on + klinein, to lean.]
 anaclitic adj.



 anacoluthon  n. pl. -thons  or -tha  An abrupt change within a sentence to
 a second grammatical construction inconsistent with the first, sometimes
 used for rhetorical effect, for example: I warned him that if he continues
 to drink, what will become of him?  [LLat. < Gk. anakolouthos, inconsistent
 : an-, not + akolouthos, following.]   anacoluthic adj.



 anaconda  n.  1. A large, nonvenomous, arboreal snake, Eunectes murinus,
 of tropical South America, that constricts its prey in its coils. 2. Any of
 several snakes similar or related to the anaconda. [Perh. alteration of
 Singhalese henakandaya, whip snake.]



 Anacreontic  adj.  In the manner of the poems of Anacreon, esp. in being
 convivial or amatory.   -n. An Anacreontic poem.



 anacrusis  n.  1. One or more unstressed syllables at the beginning of a
 line of verse, before the reckoning of the normal meter begins. 2.  Music.
 An upbeat. [NLat. < Gk. anakrousis, beginning of a tune < anakrouein, to
 begin : ana-, back + krouein, to push.]



 anadem  n.  Archaic.  A wreath or garland for the head. [Lat. anadema <
 Gk. anadema < anadein, to bind up : ana-, up + dein, to bind.]



 anadiplosis  n.  Rhetorical repetition of the word or phrase that ends one
 phrase at the beginning of the next phrase. [Lat. anadiplosis, < Gk.
 anadiplosis < anadiploun, to redouble: ana-, again + diploun, to double <
 diplous, double.]



 anadromous  adj.  Migrating up rivers from the sea to breed in fresh
 water. [Gk. anadromos, a running up : ana-, up + dromos, race.]



 anaemia  n.  Variant of anemia.



 anaemic  adj.  Variant of anemic.



 anaerobe  n.  A microorganism, as a bacterium, able to live in the absence
 of free oxygen.   anaerobic adj.   anaerobically adv.



 anaesthesia  n.  Variant of anesthesia.



 anaesthesiology  n.  Variant of anesthesiology.



 anaesthetic  adj.  -n. Variant of anesthetic.



 anaesthetist  n.  Variant of anesthetist.



 anaesthetize  v.  Variant of anesthetize.



 anaglyph  n.  1. An ornament carved in low relief. 2. A moving or still
 picture consisting of two slightly different perspectives of the same
 subject in contrasting colors that are superimposed on each other, and that
 produces a three-dimensional effect when viewed through two correspondingly
 colored filters. [Gk. anagluphos, carved in low relief : ana-, up +
 gluphein,  to carve.]   anaglyphic  anaglyptic adj.



 anagoge or anagogy   n.  A mystical interpretation of a word, passage, or
 text, esp. scriptural exegesis that detects allusions to heaven or the
 afterlife. [LLat. < LGk. anagoge : ana, up + agein, to lead.]   anagogic
 anagogical  adj.   anagogically adv.



 anagram  n.  1. A word or phrase formed by reordering the letters of
 another word or phrase. 2. anagrams  (used with a sing. verb). A game whose
 object is to form words from a group of randomly picked letters. [Fr.
 anagramme : Gk. ana-, from bottom to top + Gk. gramma, letter < graphein,
 to write.]   anagrammatic adj.   anagrammatically adv.



 anagrammatize  tr.v. -tized -tizing -tizes   To make an anagram of.



 anal  adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, or near the anus. 2.  Psychoanalysis.
 a. Of, pertaining to, or denoting the stage of psychosexual development of
 the infant in which gratification is derived from sensations associated
 with the anus. b. Of, pertaining to, or denoting personality traits
 originating during toilet training and distinguished as anal-expulsive or
 anal-retentive. [NLat. analis < Lat. anus, anus.]



 analcime or analcite   n.  A white or light-colored zeolite, found in
 diabase and certain basalts. [Fr. < Gk. analkimos, weak (from its weak
 electric power) : an-, not + alkimos, brave < alke, strength.]



 analects or analecta   pl.n.  Selections or parts of a literary work or
 group of works. [Lat. analecta < Gk. analekta < analegein, to gather :
 ana-, up + legein, to gather.]   analectic adj.



 analemma  n.  A graduated scale, in the shape of a figure eight,
 indicating the sun's declination and the equation of time for every day of
 the year, usually found on sundials and globes. [Lat., sundial < Gk.
 analemma, support < analambanein, to take up. -see analeptic.]



 analeptic  adj.  Restorative or stimulating.   -n. An analeptic
 medication. [Gk. analeptikos < analombanein, to take up : ana-, up +
 lambanein, to take.]



 anal-expulsive  adj.  Psychoanalysis.  Designating personality traits such
 as conceit, suspicion, ambition, and generosity, originating in habits,
 attitudes, or values associated with infantile pleasure in the expulsion of
 feces.



 analgesia  n.  Pathology.  Inability to feel pain while conscious. [NLat.
 < Gk. analgesia : an-, without + algos, pain.]   analgetic adj.



 analgesic  n.  A medication that reduces or eliminates pain.   -adj. Of or
 causing analgesia.



 analog  n.  Variant of analogue.



 analog computer or analogue computer   n.  A computer in which numerical
 data are represented by analogous physical magnitudes or electrical
 signals.



 analog data  pl.n.  (used with a sing. or pl. verb).Data presented or
 collected in continuous form, as temperature variation or voltage
 measurement.



 analogical  adj.  Of, pertaining to, composed of, or based upon an
 analogy.   analogically adv.



 analogist  n.  One who looks for or reasons from analogies.



 analogize  v. -gized -gizing -gizes   -tr. To make an analogy to. -intr.
 To think or reason by analogy.



 analogous  adj.  1. Similar or alike in a way that permits the drawing of
 an analogy. 2.  Biology. Similar in function but not in evolutionary
 origin. [Lat. analogus < Gk. analogos, proportionate :  ana-, according to
 + logos, proportion < legein, to speak.]   analogously adv.   analogousness
 n.



 analogue or analog   n.  1. Something that bears an analogy to something
 else. 2.  Biology. An organ or structure that is similar in function to one
 in another kind of organism, but is of dissimilar evolutionary origin. 3.
 Chemistry. A structural derivative of a parent compound. [Fr. < Gk.
 analogus, proportionate -see analogous.]



 analogy  n. pl. -gies  1. Correspondence in some respects between things
 otherwise dissimilar. 2.  Biology. Correspondence in function or position
 between organs of dissimilar evolutionary origin or structure. 3. A form of
 logical inference, or an instance of it, based on the assumption that if
 two things are known to be alike in some respects, then they must be alike
 in other respects. 4.  Linguistics. The creation of forms on the basis of a
 proportion a : b = c : x.  [Lat. analogia < Gk. < analogos, proportionate.
 -see analogous.]



 analphabetic  adj.  1. Not alphabetical. 2. Unable to read; illiterate.
 -n. An illiterate.



 anal-retentive  adj.  Psychoanalysis.  Designating personality traits such
 as meticulousness, avarice, and obstinacy, originating in habits,
 attitudes, or values associated with infantile pleasure in retention of
 feces.



 analysand  n.  A person who is being psychoanalyzed. [< analyze, by
 analogy with multiplicand.]



 analyse  v.  Chiefly British.  Variant of analyze.



 analysis  n. pl. -ses  1. The separation of an intellectual or substantial
 whole into its constituent parts for individual study. 2.  Chemistry.  a.
 Separation of a substance into its constituent elements to determine either
 their nature (qualitative analysis) or their proportions (quantitative
 analysis). b. The stated findings of such separation or determination. 3.
 Mathematics.  a. Methodology principally involving algebra and calculus as
 opposed to synthetic geometry, group theory, and number theory. b. The
 method of proof in which a known truth is sought as a consequence of
 reasoning from the thing to be proved. 4.  Linguistics. The use of two or
 more words instead of an inflected form to express a grammatical category.
 5. Psychoanalysis. 6. Systems analysis. [NLat. < Gk. analusis, a dissolving
 < analuein, to undo : ana, throughout + luein, to loosen.]



 analyst  n.  1. One who analyzes. 2. A licensed practitioner of
 psychoanalysis. 3. A systems analyst.



 analytic or analytical   adj.  1. Of or pertaining to analysis or
 analytics. 2. Dividing into elemental parts or basic principles. 3.
 Reasoning from a perception of the parts and interrelations of a subject.
 4. Expert in or using analysis, esp. in thinking: an analytic mind; an
 analytic approach.  5.  Logic. Following necessarily; tautologous: an
 analytic truth.  6.  Mathematics.  a. Using, subjected to, or capable of
 being subjected to a methodology involving algebra and calculus. b. Proving
 a known truth by reasoning from the thing to be proved. 7.  Linguistics.
 Expressing a grammatical category by using two or more words instead of an
 inflected form. 8. Psychoanalytic. [LLat. analyticus < Gk. analutikos <
 analuein, to resolve. -see analysis.]   analytically adv.



 analytical balance  n.  A balance for chemical analysis.



 analytic geometry  n.  The analysis of geometric structures and properties
 principally by algebraic operations on variables defined in terms of
 position coordinates.



 analytics  n.  The branch of logic dealing with analysis.



 analyze  tr.v. -lyzed -lyzing -lyzes   1. To separate into parts or basic
 principles so as to determine the nature of the whole; examine
 methodically. 2. To make a chemical analysis of. 3. To make a mathematical
 analysis of. 4. To psychoanalyze. [Prob. < Fr. analyser < analyse, analysis
 < Gk. analusis. -see analysis.]   analyzable adj.   analyzation n.
 analyzer n.



 anamnesis  n. pl. -ses  1.  Psychology. A recalling to memory;
 recollection. 2.  Medicine. The complete case history of a patient. [NLat.
 < Gk. anamnesis < anamimneskein, to remind : ana-, again, mimneskein, to
 recall.]   anamnestic adj.   anamnestically adv.



 anamorphic  adj.  Having, producing, or designating different optical
 magnification along mutually perpendicular radii: an anamorphic lens.



 anamorphosis  n. pl. -ses  An image distorted so that it can be viewed
 without distortion only from a special angle or with a special instrument.
 [Gk. anamorphosis, re-formation : ana-, again + morphe, shape.]



 anandrous  adj.  Botany.  Having no stamens.



 Ananias  n.  In the New Testament, a liar who dropped dead when Peter
 rebuked him.



 ananthous  adj.  Botany.  Lacking flowers.



 anapest or anapaest   n.  1. A metrical foot composed of two short
 syllables followed by one long one. 2. A line of verse in anapest. [Lat.
 anapestus < Gk. anapaistos : ana-, back + paiein, to strike (so called
 because an anapest is a reversed dactyl).]   anapestic adj.



 anaphase  n.  The stage of mitosis in which the daughter chromosomes move
 toward the poles of the nuclear spindle.



 anaphora  n.  The deliberate repetition of a word or phrase at the
 beginning of several successive verses, clauses, or paragraphs. [LLat. <
 Gk. < anapherein, to repeat : ana-, again + pherein, to carry.]



 anaphrodisia  n.  Absence or decline of sexual desire. [Gk. : an, without
 + aphrodisia, sexual desire. -see aphrodisiac.]   anaphrodisiac adj. n.



 anaphylactoid  adj.  Pathology.  1. Of or pertaining to an anaphylactic
 reaction that occurs without causing antibodies. 2. Of or pertaining to a
 toxic reaction caused in an unsensitized person by an excessive dose of a
 substance that causes anaphylaxis in a sensitized person.



 anaphylaxis  n.  Hypersensitivity to a foreign substance, esp. in animals,
 induced by a small preliminary or sensitizing injection of the substance.
 [ana- + (pro)phylaxis.]   anaphylactic adj.   anaphylactically adv.



 anaplasia  n.  Reversion of cells to a more primitive or less
 differentiated form.



 anaplastic  adj.  1.  Medicine. Pertaining to the surgical restoration of
 a lost or absent part. 2. Of or pertaining to anaplasia of cells.



 anarch  n.  A leader or adherent of anarchy. [Back-formation < anarchy.]



 anarchic or anarchical   adj.  1. Of, like, or promoting anarchy. 2.
 Lacking order or control; lawless.   anarchically adv.



 anarchism  n.  1. The theory that all forms of government are oppressive
 and undesirable and should be abolished. 2. Active resistance and terrorism
 against the state, as used by some anarchists. 3. Rejection of all forms of
 coercive control and authority.   anarchistic adj.



 anarchist  n.  A person who advocates or engages in anarchism.



 anarcho-syndicalism  n.  Syndicalism. [anarch(y) + syndicalism.]



 anarchy  n. pl. -chies  1. Absence of any form of political authority. 2.
 Political disorder and confusion. 3. Absence of any cohering principle, as
 a common standard or purpose. [Gk. anarkhia < anarkhos, without a ruler :
 an-, without + arkhos, ruler. -see -arch.]



 anarthria  n.  Loss of the ability to speak. [NLat. < Gk. anarthros, not
 articulated. -see anarthrous.]   anarthric adj.



 anarthrous  adj.  1.  Grammar. Used without an article. 2.  Zoology.
 Lacking joints; unjointed. [Gk. anarthros, not articulated : an-, without +
 arthron, joint.]



 anasarca  n.  A general accumulation of serum in various tissues and body
 cavities. [NLat. : Gk. ana, throughout + sarx, flesh.]   anasarcous adj.



 anastigmat  n.  An anastigmatic lens.



 anastigmatic  adj.  Not astigmatic. Used of a compound lens in which the
 separate components compensate for the astigmatism of each.



 anastomose  v. -mosed -mosing -moses   -tr. To join by anastomosis. -intr.
 To connect by anastomosis, as blood vessels. [Back-formation <
 anastomosis.]



 anastomosis  n. pl. -ses  1. The union or connection of branches, as of
 rivers, veins of leaves, or blood vessels. 2. A surgical connection of
 separate or severed hollow organs to form a continuous channel. [NLat. <
 Gk. anastomosis, outlet < anastomoun, to furnish with a mouth : ana-, up +
 stoma, mouth.]   anastomotic adj.



 anastrophe  n.  Inversion of the normal syntactic order of words, for
 example: To market went she.  [Gk. anastrophe < anastrephein, to turn
 upside down : ana-, back + strephein, to turn.]



 anatase  n.  A rare blue or light-yellow to brown mineral of titanium
 dioxide. [Fr. < Gk. anatasis, extension (from its long crystals) <
 anateinein, to extend : ana-, up + teinein, to stretch.]



 anathema  n. pl. -mas  1. A formal ecclesiastical ban, curse, or
 excommunication. 2. A vehement denunciation; curse. 3. One that is cursed
 or damned. 4. One that is greatly reviled or loathed. [LLat., a person
 cursed < Gk. anathema, an accursed thing < anatithenai, to dedicate : ana-,
 up + tithenai, to put.]



 anathematize  tr.v. -tized -tizing -tizes   To proclaim an anathema on;
 curse. [Lat. anathematizare < Gk. anathematizein < anathema, anathema.]



 Anatolian  adj.  1. Of or pertaining to Anatolia or its inhabitants. 2. Of
 or pertaining to a branch of the Indo-European language family that
 includes Hittite and other extinct languages of ancient Anatolia.   -n. The
 Anatolian languages.



 anatomical or anatomic   adj.  1. Of or pertaining to anatomy. 2. Of or
 pertaining to dissection. 3. Structural as opposed to functional.
 anatomically adv.



 anatomist  n.  An expert in or student of anatomy.



 anatomize  tr.v. -mized -mizing -mizes   1. To dissect. 2. To analyze in
 minute detail.   anatomization n.



 anatomy  n. pl. -mies  1. The structure of a plant or animal, or of any of
 its parts. 2. The science of the shape and structure of organisms and their
 parts. 3. A treatise on anatomic science. 4. The dissection of a plant or
 animal to disclose the various parts, their positions, structure, and
 interrelation. 5. A skeleton. 6. A detailed examination or analysis. 7. The
 human body. [ME anatomie < OFr. < LLat. anatomia < Gk. anatome, dissection
 : ana-, up + tome, a cutting < temnein, to cut.]



 anatropous  adj.  Inverted, so that the micropyle is next to the hilum,
 and the embryonic root is at the other end. Used of an ovule.



 anatto  n.  Variant of annatto.



 -ance   1. State or condition: absorptance.  2. Action: continuance.  [ME
 < OFr. < Lat. -antia, n. suffix < -ans, -ant.]



 ancestor  n.  1. A person from whom one is descended, esp. if more remote
 than a grandparent; forefather. 2. A forerunner or predecessor. 3.  Law.
 The person from whom an estate has been inherited. 4.  Biology. The actual
 or hypothetical organism or stock from which later kinds have evolved. [ME
 auncestre < OFr. < Lat. antecessor < antecedere, to precede : ante-, before
 + cedere, to go.]



 ancestral  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or evolved from an ancestor or
 ancestors.   ancestrally adv.



 ancestry  n. pl. -tries  1. Ancestral descent or lineage. 2. Ancestors
 collectively. [ME auncestrie < OFr. ancesserie < ancessour, ancestor < Lat.
 antecessor. -see ancestor.]



 Anchises  n.  Greek and Roman Mythology.  The father of Aeneas, rescued by
 his son from fallen Troy. [Lat. < Gk. Ankhises.]



 anchor  n.  1. A heavy object attached to a vessel by a cable and cast
 overboard to keep the vessel in place either by its weight or by its flukes
 gripping the bottom. 2. Something used to provide a rigid point of support,
 as for securing a rope. 3. Something that provides security or stability.
 4. An anchorman or anchorwoman.   -v.-chored -choring -chors   -tr. 1. To
 hold fast by or as if by an anchor. 2. To narrate or coordinate (a newscast
 in which several correspondents give reports). -intr. To drop anchor; lie
 at anchor, as a ship.

       Idiom Section:  at anchor. . Anchored. [ME anker < OE ancor < Lat.
 ancora < Gk. ankura.]



 anchorage  n.  1. A place for anchoring. 2. A fee charged for the
 privilege of anchoring. 3. A means of securing or stabilizing: Wall Street
 is the anchorage of the financial community.  4.  a. The act of anchoring.
 b. The condition of being at anchor.



 anchoress  n.  A woman who has retired into seclusion for religious
 reasons.



 anchorite or anchoret   n.  A person who has retired into seclusion for
 religious reasons. [ME < Med. Lat. anchorita < LLat. anachoreta < Gk.
 anakhoretes < anakorein, to retire : ana-, back + khorein, to withdraw.]
 anchoritic adj.



 anchorman  n.  1. One heavily depended upon. 2.  Sports. The runner,
 usually the strongest on a team, who performs the last stage of a relay
 race. 3. The narrator or coordinator of a newscast in which several
 correspondents give reports.



 anchorwoman  n.  A woman who narrates or coordinates a newscast in which
 several correspondents give reports.



 anchovy  n. pl. anchovy  or -vies  Any of various small, herringlike
 marine fishes of the family Engraulidae. Several species are widely used as
 food fish. [Sp. anchova.]



 anchylose  v.  Variant of ankylose.



 anchylosis  n.  Variant of ankylosis.



 ancien regime  n.  1. The political and social system existing in France
 before the Revolution of 1789. 2. Any former socio-political system. [Fr.,
 old regime.]



 ancient
 ancient(1)  adj.  1. Very old; aged. 2. Of, existing, or occurring in times
 long past, esp. belonging to the historical period prior to the fall of the
 Western Roman Empire ( A.D.  476). 3. Old-fashioned or antiquated. 4.
 Having the qualities associated with age, wisdom, or long use; venerable.
 -n. 1. A very old person. 2. A person who lived in ancient times. 3.
 ancients  The peoples of the classical nations of antiquity. 4. ancients
 The ancient Greek and Roman authors. [ME auncien < OFr. < VLat. *anteanus <
 Lat. ante, before.]   anciently adv.   ancientness n.
 ancient(2)  n.  Obsolete.  1. An ensign; flag. 2. A flag-bearer or
 lieutenant. [Var. of ensign.]



 Ancient Chinese  n.  The Chinese language as used until about the 13th
 century  A.D.



 ancient history  n.  1. The history of ancient times. 2.  Informal. Common
 knowledge, esp. of a recent event that has lost its original impact or
 importance.



 ancillary  adj.  1. Subordinate:  For Degas, sculpture was never more than
 ancillary to his painting (Herbert Read). 2. Helping; auxiliary.   -n.pl.
 -ies  A servant. [Lat. ancillaris, pertaining to a maidservant < ancilla,
 maidservant, dim. of ancula, fem. of anculus, servant.]



 ancipital  adj.  Flattened and two-edged, as are certain plant stems. [<
 Lat. anceps, ancipit-, two-headed : ambi-, two + caput, head.]



 ancon  n. pl. -cones  A projecting bracket used in classical architecture
 to carry the upper elements of a cornice; console. [Lat. ancon < Gk. ankon,
 elbow.]



 -ancy   -ance. [Lat. -antia. -see -ance.]



 ancylostomiasis  n.  A disease caused by hookworm infestation and marked
 by progressive anemia. [NLat. Ancylostoma, hookworm genus (Gk. ankulos,
 curved + Gk. stoma, mouth) + -iasis.]



 and  conj.  1. Together with or along with; also; in addition; as well as.
 Used to connect words, phrases, or clauses that have the same grammatical
 function in a construction. 2. Added to; plus: Two and two makes four.  3.
 As a result; in consequence: Seek, and ye shall find.  4.  Informal. To.
 Used between finite verbs, such as go, come, try, write, or see: try and
 find it; come and see.  5.  Archaic. Then. Used to begin a sentence: And he
 said unto her . . .  6.  Archaic. If: and it pleases you.  [ME < OE.]

      Usage: Although frowned upon by some, the use of and  to begin a
 sentence has a long and respectable history: "And it came to pass in those
 days"  (Luke 2:1).



 AND  n.  Computer Science.  A logic operator equivalent to the sentential
 connective "and." [< and.]



 andalusite  n.  A mineral aluminum silicate, Al2SiO5, usually found in
 prisms of various colors. [Fr. andalousite, after Andalusia, where it was
 discovered.]



 Andamanese  n. pl. Andamanese  1. Andaman  A member of a Negrito people
 native to the Andaman Islands. 2. The language of the Andamanese, of no
 known linguistic affiliation.   Andamanese adj.



 andante  Music.  adv.  Moderate in tempo; faster than adagio, but slower
 than allegretto. Used as a direction.   -adj. Moderately slow.   -n. An
 andante movement or passage. [Ital., pr.part. of andare, to walk, ult. <
 Lat. ambulare.]



 andantino  Music.  adv.  Slightly faster than andante in tempo. Used as a
 direction.   -adj. Slightly faster than andante.   -n.pl. -nos  An
 andantino movement or passage. [Ital. dim. of andante, andante.]



 andesite  n.  A gray, fine-grained volcanic rock, chiefly plagioclase and
 feldspar. [G. Andesit : Andes, Andes (where it was found) + -it, -ite.]



 AND gate  n.  Computer Science.  A signal circuit with two or more input
 wires that emits a signal only if all input wires receive coincident
 signals.



 andiron  n.  One of a pair of metal supports for holding up logs in a
 fireplace. [ME aundiren, alteration of OFr. andier.]



 and/or  conj.  Used to indicate that either and or or may be used to
 connect words, phrases, or clauses depending upon what meaning is intended.


      Usage: And/or  is widely used in legal and business writing. Its use
 in general writing to mean "one or the other or both" is acceptable but can
 appear stilted.



 andr-   Variant of andro-.



 andradite  n.  A green to brown or black calcium-iron garnet,
 Ca3Fe2(SiO4)3. [After Jose B. de Andrada e Silva (d. 1838).]



 Andrew  n.  In the New Testament, one of the Apostles, the brother of
 Simon called Peter.



 andro- or andr-    1. Male; masculine: androgen.  2. Stamen or anther:
 androecium.  [Gk. < aner, andr-, man.]



 Androcles  n.  A legendary Roman slave held to have been spared in the
 arena by a lion that remembered him as the man who had once removed a thorn
 from its paw. [Lat. < Gk. Androkles.]



 androecium  n. pl. -cia  The stamens of a flower considered collectively.
 [NLat. : andr(o)- + Gk. oikos, house.]   androecial adj.



 androgen  n.  Any of the steroid hormones that develop and maintain
 masculine characteristics.   androgenic adj.



 androgenize  tr.v. -nized -nizing -nizes   To treat with usually large
 doses of male hormones.   androgenization n.



 androgenous  adj.  Of or pertaining to production of male offspring.



 androgynous  adj.  1. Having female and male characteristics in one;
 hermaphroditic. 2.  Botany. Composed of staminate and pistillate flowers.
 Used of the flower spikes of certain sedges. 3. Being neither
 distinguishably masculine nor feminine, as in dress, appearance, or
 behavior; unisex. [Lat. androgynus, hermophrodite < Gk. androgunos : aner,
 man+ gune, woman.]   androgyny n.



 android  adj.  Possessing human features.   -n. A synthetic person created
 from biological materials.



 Andromache  n.  Greek Mythology.  The faithful wife of Hector, captured by
 the Greeks at the fall of Troy. [Lat. < Gk. Andromakhe.]



 Andromeda  n.  1.  Greek Mythology. The daughter of Cepheus and Cassiopeia
 and wife of Perseus, who had rescued her from a sea monster. 2. A
 constellation in the Northern Hemisphere near Lacerta and Perseus. 3.
 andromeda  Any of several shrubs of the genus Andromeda or of closely
 related genera. [Lat. < Gk. Andromede.]



 androsterone  n.  A male sex hormone, excreted in urine and synthetically
 produced from cholesterol. [andro- + ster(ol) + -one.]



 -androus   Having a specified number or kind of stamens: monandrous.
 [NLat. -andrus < Gk. -andros, having men < aner, andr-, man.]



 -andry   1. The condition of having a specified kind or number of
 husbands: monandry.  2. The condition of having a specified kind or number
 of stamens: polyandry.  [< Gk. aner, andr-, man.]



 -ane   A saturated hydrocarbon: hexane.  [Alteration of -ene.]



 anecdotage  n.  Anecdotes collectively.



 anecdotal  adj.  Pertaining to, characterized by, or full of anecdotes.



 anecdote  n.  1. A short account of some interesting or humorous incident.
 2. pl. -dotes  or -dota Secret or hitherto undivulged particulars of
 history or biography. [Fr. < Gk. anekdotos, unpublished : an-, not +
 ekdotos, published < ekdidonai, to publish (ek-, out + didonai, to give).]



 anecdotic or anecdotical   adj.  1. Anecdotal. 2. Full of or given to
 telling anecdotes.



 anecdotist  n.  A person who tells, collects, or publishes anecdotes.



 anechoic  adj.  Neither having nor producing echoes: an anechoic chamber.




 anele  tr.v. aneled aneling aneles   Archaic.  To anoint, esp. in
 administering extreme unction. [ME anelen : an, on (< OE) + elen, to anoint
 < ele, oil < OE < Lat. oleum. -see oil.]



 anemia or anaemia   n.  A pathological deficiency in the oxygen-carrying
 material of the blood, measured in unit volume concentrations of
 hemoglobin, red blood cell volume, and red blood cell number. [NLat. < Gk.
 anaimia : an-, without + haima, blood.]



 anemic or anaemic   adj.  1. Of, relating to, or suffering from anemia. 2.
 Listless and weak; pallid.   anemically adv.



 anemo-   Wind: anemometer.  [< Gk. anemos, wind.]



 anemograph  n.  A recording anemometer.



 anemography  n.  The science of recording anemometrical measurements.



 anemometer  n.  An instrument for indicating and measuring wind force and
 speed.



 anemometry  n.  The determination of wind force and velocity.



 anemone  n.  1. Any of various plants of the genus Anemone, of the North
 Temperate Zone, having white, purple, or red cup-shaped flowers. 2. The sea
 anemone. [Lat. < Gk. anemone.]



 anemone fish  n.  Any of various small, brightly colored marine fishes of
 the genus Amphiprion, that are found near sea anemones.



 anemophilous  adj.  Pollinated by wind-dispersed pollen.



 anencephaly  n. pl. -lies  Congenital absence of the brain and spinal
 cord.   anencephalic adj.



 anent  prep.  1. Regarding; concerning. 2.  Regional. Opposite; close to.
 3.  Obsolete.  Chiefly British.  Regional. On a level with; in a line with.
 [ME < OE onefn, near : on, on + efn, even.]



 aneroid  adj.  Not using fluid. [Fr. aneroide : Gk. a-, not + Gk. neron,
 water.]



 aneroid barometer  n.  A barometer in which variations of atmospheric
 pressure are indicated by the relative bulges of a thin elastic metal disk
 covering a partially evacuated chamber.



 anesthesia or anaesthesia   n.  1. Total or partial loss of sensation,
 esp. tactile sensibility, induced by disease or an anesthetic. 2.
 Artificially induced unconsciousness or local or general insensibility to
 pain. [NLat. < Gk. anaisthesia, insensibilty : an, without + aisthesis,
 feeling <aisthanesthai, to feel.]



 anesthesiology or anaesthesiology   n.  The medical study and application
 of anesthetics.   anesthesiologist n.



 anesthetic or anaesthetic   adj.  1. Relating to or resembling anesthesia.
 2. Causing anesthesia. 3. Insensitive.   -n. An agent that causes
 unconsciousness or insensitivity to pain. [< Gk. anaisthetos, without
 feeling : an-, without + aisthetos, perceptible < aisthanesthai, to feel.]



 anesthetist or anaesthetist   n.  A person, usually a physician, trained
 to administer anesthetics.



 anesthetize or anaesthetize   tr.v. -tized -tizing -tizes   To induce
 anesthesia in.   anesthetization n.



 anestrus  n.  An interval of sexual dormancy between two periods of
 estrus.



 aneurysm or aneurism   n.  1. A pathological blood-filled dilatation of a
 blood vessel. 2. A dilatation of a cylindrical body in the manner of blood
 vessel aneurysm. [Gk. aneurusma < aneurein, to dilate : ana-, throughout +
 eurus, wide.]



 anew  adv.  1. Once more; again. 2. In a new and different way, form, or
 manner. [ME a new : a, of + new, new.]



 anfractuosity  n. pl. -ties  1. The condition or quality of being
 anfractuous. 2. A winding channel, passage, or crevice. 3. A complicated or
 involved process.



 anfractuous  adj.  Full of twists and turns; winding; tortuous. [Fr.
 anfractueux < LLat. anfractuosus, < Lat. anfractus, winding < ambi-, around
 + fractus, broken, p.part, of frangere, to break.]



 angary or angaria   n.  The legal right of a belligerent state to seize,
 use, or destroy the property of a neutral, provided that full compensation
 is made. [Fr. angarie < LLat. angaria, service to a lord < Gk. angareia,
 impressment for public service < angaros,  courier.]



 angel  n.  1.  Theology.  a. An immortal, spiritual being attendant upon
 God. In medieval angelology, there are nine orders of spiritual beings
 (listed from the highest to lowest in rank): seraphim, cherubim, thrones,
 dominations or dominions, virtues, powers, principalities, archangels, and
 angels. b. The conventional representation of such a being in the image of
 a human figure with a halo and wings. 2. A guardian spirit or guiding
 influence. 3.  a. A kind and lovable person. b. A person manifesting
 goodness, purity, and selflessness. 4.  Christian Science. God's thoughts
 passing to man. 5.  Informal. A financial backer of an enterprise, esp. of
 a dramatic production. 6.  a. Enemy aircraft. b. A radar echo of unknown
 origin. [ME < OE engel < LLat. angelus < LGk. angelos, < Gk. messenger.]



 angel cake  n.  Angel food cake.



 angel dust  n.  Slang.  Phencyclidine.



 Angeleno  n.  A native or resident of Los Angeles. [Mex. Sp. Angeleno,
 after Los Angeles, California.]



 angelfish  n. pl. angelfish  or -fishes  1. Any of several brightly
 colored fishes of the family Chaetodontidae, of warm seas, having laterally
 compressed bodies. 2. A freshwater fish, Pterophyllum scalare, native to
 rivers of tropical South America, having a laterally compressed, usually
 striped body, and popular in aquariums.



 angel food cake  n.  A white, almond-flavored sponge cake made of egg
 whites, sugar, and flour.



 angelic or angelical   adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, consisting of, or
 belonging to angels: angelic hosts.  2.  a. Suggestive of or fit for an
 angel; pure and lovely. b.  Informal. Kind and lovable.   angelically adv.



 angelica  n.  1. Any of various plants of the genus Angelica, having
 compound leaves and clusters of small white or greenish flowers, esp. A.
 Archangelica, whose aromatic seeds, leaves, stems, and roots are used in
 medicine and as flavoring. 2. The candied stem of the angelica. 3. Angelica
  A sweet white wine or liqueur. [Med.Lat. (herba) angelica, angelic (herb)
 < LLat. < Gk. angelikos < angelos, messenger, angel.]



 angelica tree  n.  Any of several spiny trees or shrubs, such as the
 Hercules'-club.



 angelology  n.  The branch of theology having to do with angels.



 angel shark  n.  Any of several raylike sharks of the genus Squatina,
 having a broad, flat head and body.



 Angelus or angelus   n.  Roman Catholic Chruch.  1. A devotional prayer at
 morning, noon, and night to commemorate the Annunciation. 2. A bell rung as
 a call to recite the Angelus. [Med. Lat., angel, first word of the prayer.]




 anger  n.  1. A feeling of extreme displeasure, hostility, indignation, or
 exasperation toward someone or something; rage; wrath; ire. 2.  Obsolete.
 Trouble; pain; affliction. 3.  Chiefly British.  Regional. An inflammation
 or sore.   -v.-gered -gering -gers   -tr. 1. To make angry; enrage or
 provoke. 2.  Chiefly British.  Regional. To make painful or inflamed.
 -intr. To become angry: She angers too quickly.  [ME < ON angr, sorrow.]

      Synonyms: anger rage fury ire wrath
 resentment indignation These nouns denote varying degrees of marked
 displeasure. Anger , the most general, denotes strong, usually temporary
 displeasure without specifying manner of expression. Rage  and fury  are
 closely related in the sense of intense, uncontained, explosive emotion.
 Fury  can be more destructive, rage  more justified by circumstances. Ire
 is a poetic term for anger. Wrath  applies especially to fervid anger that
 seeks vengeance or punishment on an epic scale. Resentment  refers to ill
 will and suppressed anger generated by a sense of grievance. One feels
 indignation  at seeing the mistreatment of someone or something dear and
 worthy.




 angerly  adv.  Archaic.  Angrily:  Again thou blushest angerly (Tennyson).




 Angevin  adj.  1. Of or pertaining to the province of Anjou, France. 2. Of
 or pertaining to the House of Anjou, esp. as represented by the Plantagenet
 kings of England descended from Geoffrey, Count of Anjou. [Fr. < OFr. <
 Med. Lat. Andegavinus < Andegavia, Anjou.]



 angina  n.  1. A disease, such as croup or diphtheria, in which spasmodic
 and painful suffocation or spasms occur. 2. Angina pectoris. [Lat., quinsy
 < Gk. ankone, a strangling.]   anginal adj.   anginose adj.



 angina pectoris  n.  Severe paroxysmal pain in the chest associated with
 an insufficient supply of blood to the heart. [NLat. : Lat. angina, quinsy
 + pectus, chest.]



 angiography  n.  Roentgenography of the blood vessels following the
 injection of a radiopaque substance. [Gk. angeion, vessel + -graphy.]
 angiogram n.   angiographic adj.



 angiology  n.  The study of blood and lymph vessels. [Gk. angeion, vessel
 + -logy.]



 angioma  n. pl. -mas  or -mata  A tumor composed of lymph and blood
 vessels. [Gk. angeion, vessel + -oma.]



 angiopathy  n. pl. -thies  Any of several diseases of the blood or lymph
 vessels. [Gk. angeion, vessel + -pathy.]



 angiosperm  n.  A plant of the class Angiospermae, characterized by having
 seeds enclosed in an ovary; a flowering plant. [Gk. angeion, vessel +
 sperm1.]



 angiotensin  n.  Either of two polypeptide hormones that are powerful
 vasoconstrictors. [Gk. angeion, vessel + tens(ion) + -in.]



 angle
 angle(1)  intr.v. -gled -gling -gles   1. To fish with a hook and line. 2.
 To try to get something by using schemes, tricks, or other artful means:
 angle for a promotion.    -n. Obsolete.  A fishhook or fishing tackle. [ME
 anglen < angel, fishhook < OE.]
 angle(2)  n.  1.  Mathematics.  a. The figure formed by two lines diverging
 from a common point. b. The figure formed by two planes diverging from a
 common line. c. The rotation required to superimpose either of two such
 lines or planes on the other. d. The space between such lines or surfaces.
 e. A solid angle. 2. A sharp or projecting corner, as of a building. 3.  a.
 The place, position, or direction from which an object is presented to
 view: a handsome building from any angle.  b. An aspect, as of a problem,
 seen from a specific point of view. 4.  Slang. A scheme; devious method. an
 angle bracket.    -v.-gled -gling -gles   -tr. 1. To move or turn at an
 angle. 2. To hit (a ball or puck, for example) at an angle. 3.  Informal.
 To impart a biased aspect or point of view to. -intr. To continue along or
 turn at angles or by angles: The path angled through the woods.  [ME < OFr.
 < Lat. angulus.]



 Angle  n.  A member of a Germanic people that migrated to England from
 southern Denmark in the 5th century  A.D. , founded the kingdoms of
 Northumbria, East Anglia, and Mercia, and together with the Jutes and
 Saxons formed the Anglo-Saxon peoples. [< Lat. Angli, the Angles, of
 Germanic orig.]



 angle bracket  n.  A bracket (sense 4.b.).



 angledozer  n.  A machine resembling a tractor, used to level or scrape
 ground, and constructed so that the dirt is pushed off to one side. [Orig.
 a trademark.]



 angle iron  n.  A length of steel or iron bent at a right angle along its
 long dimension, used as a support or structural framework.



 angle of attack  n.  The acute angle between the chord of an airfoil and a
 line representing the undisturbed relative airflow.



 angle of incidence  n.  1.  Physics. The angle formed by the path of a
 body or of radiation incident on a surface and a perpendicular to the
 surface at the point of impact. 2. The angle of attack.



 angle of reflection  n.  The acute angle formed by the path of a reflected
 body or reflected radiation with a perpendicular to the surface at the
 point of reflection.



 angle of refraction  n.  The acute angle formed by the path of refracted
 radiation with a perpendicular to the refracting surface at the point of
 refraction.



 angle of yaw  n.  The angle between an aircraft's longitudinal axis and
 its line of travel, as seen from above.



 angle plate  n.  A right-angled metal bracket, used on the face plate of a
 lathe to hold pieces being worked.



 anglepod  n.  Any of several plants of the genus Gonolobus, of the
 southern and central United States, having greenish or purple flowers and
 angular pods.



 angler  n.  1. A fisherman who uses a hook. 2. A scheming person. 3. An
 anglerfish.



 anglerfish  n. pl. anglerfish  or -fishes  Any of various marine fishes of
 the order Lophiiformes (or Pediculati), having a long dorsal fin ray that
 is suspended over the mouth and that serves as a lure to attract prey.



 anglesite  n.  A lead sulfate mineral, occurring in colorless or tinted
 crystals. [After Anglesey, Wales.]



 angleworm  n.  A worm, such as an earthworm, used as bait in fishing.



 Anglian  adj.  Of or pertaining to the Angles.   -n. 1. An Angle. 2. The
 Old English dialects of Mercian and Northumbrian.



 Anglican  adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, or characteristic of the Church of
 England or any of the churches related to it in origin and communion, such
 as the Protestant Episcopal Church. 2. Of or pertaining to England or the
 English.   -n. A member of the Church of England or of any of the churches
 related to it. [Med. Lat. Anglicanus, English < Anglicus < Lat. Angli, the
 Angles. -see Angle.]



 Anglican Church  n.  The Church of England and the churches in other
 nations that are in complete agreement with it as to doctrine and
 discipline and are in communion with the Archbishop of Canterbury.



 Anglican Communion  n.  The Anglican Church.



 Anglicanism  n.  The doctrine, system, and practice of the Anglican
 Church.



 Anglice  adv.  In the English form: Firenze, Anglice Florence.  [Med. Lat.
 < Anglicus, English < Lat. Angli,  the Angles. -see Angle.]



 Anglicism or anglicism   n.  1. A word, phrase, or idiom peculiar to the
 English language, esp. as spoken in England; Briticism. 2. A typically
 English quality.



 Anglicist  n.  A specialist in English linguistics.



 Anglicize or anglicize   v. -cized -cizing -cizes   -tr. To make English
 or similar to English in form, idiom, style, or character. -intr. To become
 English in form or character.   Anglicization n.



 angling  n.  The act, process, or art of fishing with a hook and line and
 usually a rod.



 Anglo  n. pl. -glos  Informal.  An Anglo-American, esp. a white resident
 of the United States who is not of Latin descent. [Short for
 Anglo-American.]   Anglo adj.



 Anglo-   England; English: Anglo-Saxon.  [NLat. < Med. Lat. Angli, the
 English people < Lat., the Angles.]



 Anglo-American  adj.  1. Of, relating to, or between England and America,
 esp. the United States. 2. Of or relating to Anglo-Americans.   -n. An
 American, esp. a resident of the United States, whose language, ancestry,
 and culture are English.



 Anglo-Catholic  n.  A member of the Anglican Communion whose religious
 convictions emphasize sacramental worship.   Anglo-Catholic adj.



 Anglo-French  adj.  Of, relating to, or between England and France or
 their peoples; English and French.   -n. Anglo-Norman (sense 2).



 Anglo-Indian  n.  A person of English and Indian descent.   Anglo-Indian
 adj.



 Anglo-Irish  n.  1. A native of England living in Ireland. 2. A native of
 Ireland living in England. 3. A person of mixed Irish and English ancestry.
   Anglo-Irish adj.



 Anglo-Norman  n.  1. One of the Normans who lived in England after the
 Norman conquest of England in 1066, or a descendant of these settlers. 2.
 a. The dialect of Old French derived chiefly from Norman French that was
 used by the Anglo-Normans. b. The form of this dialect used in English law
 until the 17th century.   Anglo-Norman adj.



 Anglophile or Anglophil   n.  An admirer of England and English things.
 -adj. Of or resembling Anglophiles.   Anglophilia n.



 Anglophobe  n.  One who has an aversion to England or English things.
 -adj. Of or similar to Anglophobes.   Anglophobia n.



 Anglophone  n.  An English-speaking individual, esp. in a country where
 two or more languages are spoken.   Anglophonic adj.



 Anglo-Saxon  n.  1. A member of one of the Germanic peoples (Angles,
 Saxons, and Jutes) who settled in Britain in the 5th and 6th centuries. 2.
 Any of the descendants of the Anglo-Saxons who were dominant in England
 until the Norman Conquest of 1066. 3. Old English (sense 1). 4. A person of
 English ancestry.   -adj. Of, pertaining to, or characteristic of
 Anglo-Saxons or their descendants, or their language or culture; English.



 Angora  n.  1. angora   a. The long, silky hair of the Angora goat. b. The
 fine, light hair of the Angora rabbit, sometimes blended with wool in
 fabrics. c. A yarn or fabric made from either of these fibers. 2. An Angora
 cat. 3. An Angora goat. 4. An Angora rabbit. [After Angora (Ankara),
 Turkey.]



 Angora cat  n.  A long-haired domestic cat.



 Angora goat  n.  Any of a breed of domestic goats having long, silky hair.




 Angora rabbit  n.  One of a breed of domestic rabbits having long, soft,
 usually white hair.



 angostura bark  n.  The bitter, aromatic bark of either of two Brazilian
 trees, Galipea officinalis or Cusparia trifoliata, used as a tonic. [After
 Angostura, former name of Ciudad Bolivar.]



 angry  adj. -grier -griest   1. Feeling or showing anger; incensed or
 enraged: an angry customer.  2. Indicative of or resulting from anger: an
 angry silence.  3. Having a menacing aspect; seeming to threaten: angry
 clouds.  4. Inflamed: an angry sore.  [ME angri < anger, anger.]



 angry young man or Angry Young Man   n.  One of a group of English writers
 of the 1950's whose works are characterized by vigorous social protest.



 angst  n.  A feeling of anxiety. [G.]



 angstrom or angstrom unit   n.  A unit of length equal to one
 hundred-millionth (10-8) of a centimeter, used esp. to specify radiation
 wavelengths. [After Anders Jonas Angstrom (1814-1874).]



 anguilliform  adj.  Having the elongated shape of an eel. [Lat. anguilla,
 eel (dim. of anguis, snake) + -form.]



 anguine  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or resembling a snake; snakelike. [Lat.
 anguinus < anguis, snake.]



 anguish  n.  An agonizing physical or mental pain; torment.   -v.-guished
 -guishing -guishes   -tr. To cause to suffer or feel anguish. -intr. To
 suffer or feel anguish. [ME angwisshe, < OFr. anguisse < Lat. angustia,
 narrowness < angustus, narrow.]



 anguished  adj.  Feeling, expressing, or caused by anguish.



 angular  adj.  1. Having, forming, or consisting of an angle or angles. 2.
 Measured by an angle or degrees of an arc. 3. Bony and lean; gaunt. 4.
 Lacking grace or smoothness; awkward: an angular gait.  5. Crotchety in
 manner or disposition; unyielding. [Lat. angularis < angulus, angle.]
 angularly adv.   angularness n.



 angular acceleration  n.  The rate of change of angular velocity with
 respect to time.



 angularity  n. pl. -ties  1. The condition or quality of being angular. 2.
 angularities  Angular forms, outlines, or corners.



 angular momentum  n.  1. The vector product of the position vector and
 linear velocity of a particle in motion relative to an axis. 2. The sum of
 such products, one for each component particle of an extended body,
 expressible as the product of the angular velocity and the moment of
 inertia of the body.



 angular velocity  n.  A vector quantity describing rotational motion, the
 magnitude of which is the time rate of change of angle and the direction of
 which is along the axis of rotation.



 angulate  adj.  Having angles or an angular shape.   -tr. -intr.v. -lated
 -lating -lates   To make or become angular.   angulately adv.



 angulation  n.  1. The formation of angles. 2. An angular part, position,
 or formation.



 anhinga  n.  The water turkey. [Port. < Tupi.]



 anhydride  n.  A chemical compound formed from another by the removal of
 water. [anhydr(ous) + -ide.]



 anhydrite  n.  A white to grayish or reddish mineral of anhydrous calcium
 sulfate, CaSO4, occurring as layers in gypsum deposits. [anhydr(ous) +
 -ite1.]



 anhydrous  adj.  Without water, esp. water of crystallization. [Gk.
 anudros : an-, without + hudor, water.]



 ani  n.  Any of several chiefly tropical American birds of the genus
 Crotophaga, having black plumage and a long tail. [Sp. (South America) ani
 < Tupi ani.]



 anil  n.  The indigo plant or the blue dye obtained from it. [Fr. < Port.
 < Ar. an-nil, the indigo < Pers. nil, indigo.]



 anile  adj.  Of or like an old woman. [Lat. anilis < anus, old woman.]
 anility n.



 aniline or anilin   n.  A colorless, oily, poisonous benzene derivative,
 C6H5NH2, used in the manufacture of rubber, dyes, resins, pharmaceuticals,
 and varnishes.   -adj. Derived from aniline. [G. Anilin : Anil, anil + -in,
 -ine.]



 aniline dye  n.  Any of numerous synthetic dyes.



 anilingus or anilinctus   n.  Oral stimulation of the anus for sexual
 stimulation. [NLat. : Lat. anus, anus + Lat. lingere, to lick.]



 anima  n.  The inner self; soul. [Lat.]



 animadversion  n.  1. Hostile criticism. 2. A critical or censorious
 remark. [Lat. animadversio < animadvertere, to turn the mind toward -see
 animadvert.]



 animadvert  intr.v. -verted -verting -verts   To remark or comment
 critically, usually with strong disapproval or censure: felt impelled to
 animadvert on the wickedness of governments.  [Lat. animadvertere, to turn
 the mind toward : animus, mind + vertere, to turn.]



 animal  n.  1. An organism of the kingdom Animalia, distinguished from
 plants by certain typical characteristics such as the power of locomotion,
 fixed structure and limited growth, and nonphotosynthetic metabolism. 2. An
 animal organism other than a human being, esp. a mammal. 3. A person of
 inhuman character or bearing; someone who is bestial or brutish. 4.
 Animality: Drinking releases the animal in him.    -adj. 1. Of, relating
 to, or characteristic of animals. 2. Relating to the sensual or physical as
 distinct from the spiritual nature of people. [Lat. < animalis, living <
 anima, soul.]



 animal crackers  pl.n.  Small cookies baked in various animal shapes.



 animalcule or animalculum   n. pl. -cules  or -cula  1. A microscopic or
 minute organism, such as an amoeba or paramecium, usually thought of as an
 animal. 2.  Archaic. A tiny animal, such as a mosquito. [NLat. animalculum,
 dim. of Lat. animal, animal.]



 animal heat  n.  The heat generated in an animal's body.



 animal husbandry  n.  The care and breeding of domestic animals such as
 cattle, hogs, sheep, and horses.



 animalism  n.  1. A state of enjoying sound health and vigorous physical
 drives. 2. A state of indifference to all but the physical appetites. 3.
 The doctrine that man is purely animal with no spiritual nature.
 animalist n.   animalistic adj.



 animality  n.  1. The characteristics or nature of an animal. 2. Animals
 collectively; the animal kingdom. 3. The animal as distinct from the
 spiritual nature of man.



 animalize  tr.v. -ized -izing -izes   1. To make coarse and brutal;
 sensualize. 2. To endow (a deity) with the attributes of an animal.
 animalization n.



 animal kingdom  n.  The category of living organisms that includes all
 animals.



 animal magnetism  n.  1. Hypnotism or mesmerism. 2. Magnetic personal
 presence. 3. Sensualism. 4.  Christian Science. "The voluntary or
 involuntary action of error in all its forms" (Mary Baker Eddy).



 animal spirits  pl.n.  Vigorous buoyancy of good health.



 animal starch  n.  Glycogen.



 animate  tr.v. -mated -mating -mates   1. To give life to; fill with life.
 2. To impart interest or zest to; enliven:  The party was animated by all
 kinds of men and women (Rene) Dubos). 3. To fill with spirit, courage, or
 resolution; encourage. 4. To inspire to action; prompt. 5. To impart motion
 or activity to. 6. To make, design, or produce (a cartoon, for example) so
 as to create the illusion of motion.   -adj.  1. Possessing life; living.
 2. Of or relating to animal life as distinct from plant life. 3. Belonging
 to the class of nouns that stand for living things: The word "dog" is
 animate, the word "car" inanimate.  [Lat. animare, animat- < anima, soul.]



 animated  adj.  1. Filled with life, activity, vigor, or spirit: an
 animated discussion.  2. Made or designed so as to seem alive and moving:
 an animated doll.  3. Containing or consisting of figures or objects that
 seem to move in a lifelike manner.   animatedly adv.



 animated cartoon  n.  A motion picture consisting of a photographed series
 of drawings.



 animated oat  n.  A grass, Avena sterilis, of the Mediterranean region,
 having spikelets that move or twist in response to changes in moisture.



 animater  n.  Variant of animator.



 animation  n.  1. The act, process, or result of animating. 2. The
 condition or quality of being animate. 3.  a. The art and process of
 preparing animated cartoons. b. An animated cartoon.



 animato  adv.  Music.  In an animated or lively manner. Used as a
 direction. [Ital. < Lat. animatus, p.part. of animare, to animate.]
 animato adj.



 animator or animater   n.  1. One that animates. 2. An artist or
 technician who prepares or produces an animated cartoon.



 animism  n.  1. Any of various primitive beliefs whereby natural phenomena
 and things animate and inanimate are held to possess an innate soul. 2. A
 theory of psychic concepts or of spiritual beings generally. 3. The
 hypothesis, first advanced by Pythagoras and Plato, of an immaterial force
 animating the universe. 4. An 18th-century doctrine that viewed the soul as
 the vital principle and source of both the normal and the abnormal
 phenomena of life. [G. Animismus : Lat. anima, soul + -ismus, -ism.]



 animosity  n. pl. -ties  Bitter hostility or open enmity; active hatred.
 [ME animosite < OFr. < LLat. animositas, courage < Lat. animosus, bold <
 animus, soul.]



 animus  n.  1. An animating motive; intention or purpose. 2. A feeling of
 animosity; bitter hostility or hatred. [Lat., soul, mind.]



 anion  n.  A negatively charged ion that migrates to an anode, as in
 electrolysis. [Gk., (something) going up, pr.part. of anienai, to go up :
 ana-, up + ienai, to go.]



 anis-   Variant of aniso-.



 anise  n.  1. A plant, Pimpinella anisum, native to the Mediterranean
 region, having clusters of small yellowish-white flowers and
 licorice-flavored seeds. 2. Aniseed. [ME anis < OFr. < Lat. anisum < Gk.
 anison.]



 aniseed  n.  The licorice-flavored seed of the anise plant, used in
 medicine and as flavoring. [ME anis seed, anise seed.]



 aniseikonia  n.  An ocular defect in which image, shape, and size differ
 in each eye. [NLat. : anis(o)- + Gk. eikon, image.]



 anisette  n.  An anise-flavored liqueur. [Fr., dim. of anis, anise < OFr.]




 aniso- or anis-    Unequal; dissimilar: anisogamy.  [NLat. < Gk. anisos,
 unequal: an-, not + isos, equal.]



 anisogamy  n.  A union between markedly different gametes.   anisogamic
 adj.



 anisomerous  adj.  Having or designating floral whorls that have unequal
 numbers of parts.



 anisometric  adj.  Not isometric.



 anisometropia  n.  Difference in the refractive power of the eyes. [aniso-
 + Gk. metros, measure + -opia.]   anisometropic adj.



 anisotropic  adj.  1. Not isotropic. 2.  Physics. Having properties that
 differ according to the direction of measurement.   anisotropically adv.
 anisotropism anisotropy  n.



 ankerite  n.  A dolomitelike mineral in which iron partially replaces
 magnesium. [G. Ankerit, after M.J. Anker (d. 1843).]



 ankh  n.  An ansate cross. [Of Egypt. orig.]



 ankle  n.  1. The joint, consisting of the bones and related structure,
 that connects the foot with the leg. 2. The slender section of the leg
 immediately above the foot. [ME ancle, prob. of ON orig.]



 anklebone  n.  The talus.



 anklet  n.  1. An ornament worn around the ankle. 2. A sock that reaches
 just above the ankle.



 ankylose or anchylose   v. -losed -losing -loses   -tr. To join or
 consolidate by ankylosis. -intr. To become joined or consolidated by
 ankylosis. [Back-formation < ankylosis.]



 ankylosis or anchylosis   n.  1.  Anatomy. The consolidation of bones or
 their parts forming a single unit. 2.  Pathology. The stiffening of a joint
 as the result of abnormal bone fusion. [NLat. < Gk. ankulosis, stiffening
 of the joints < ankulos, bent.]



 anlace  n.  A two-edged medieval dagger. [ME anelas.]



 anlage or Anlage   n. pl. -ges  or -gen  1. The initial cell structure
 from which an embryonic part or organ develops; primordium. 2. A
 fundamental principle; foundation. [G., fundamental principle < MHG anlage,
 request : ane-, on + lage, act of laying.]



 anna  n.  A former copper coin of India and Pakistan. [Hindi ana < Skt.
 anu-, small.]



 annalist  n.  One who writes annals; chronicler.



 annals  pl.n.  1. A chronological record of the events of successive
 years. 2. A descriptive account or record; history:  The short and simple
 annals of the poor (Gray). 3. A periodical journal compiling the records
 and reports of a particular learned field. [Lat. (libri) annales, yearly
 (books) < annalis, yearly < annus, year.]



 Annamese or Annamite   adj.  Of or pertaining to Annam, its inhabitants,
 their language, or their culture.   -n. 1. pl. Annamese  or -mites A native
 or inhabitant of Annam. 2. Vietnamese (sense 2).



 annatto or arnatto   n. pl. -tos  1. A small tropical American tree, Bixa
 orellana, having red or pinkish flowers and seeds used in cooking. 2. A
 yellowish-red dyestuff obtained from the pulp of annatto seeds. [Of Cariban
 orig.]



 anneal  tr.v. -nealed -nealing -neals   1. To subject (glass or metal) to
 a process of heating and slow cooling in order to toughen and reduce
 brittleness. 2. To temper. [ME anelen < OE onaelan, to set fire to : on, on
 + aelan, to kindle < al, fire.]



 annelid or annelidan   adj.  Of or belonging to the phylum Annelida, which
 includes the earthworms, leeches, and other worms having cylindrical
 segmented bodies.   -n. An annelid worm. [NLat. Annelida, phylum name < Fr.
 annele, ringed < OFr. annel, ring < Lat. anellus, dim. of anulus, ring.]



 annex  tr.v. -nexed -nexing -nexes   1. To add or join to; append or
 attach, esp. to a larger or more significant thing. 2. To incorporate
 (territory) into an existing country or state. 3. To add or attach, as an
 attribute, condition, or consequence.   -n.  1. A building added on to a
 larger one, or an auxiliary building situated near the main one. 2. An
 addition to a record or document. [ME annexen < OFr. annexer < Lat.
 annexus, p.part. of annectere, to connect : ad-, to + nectere, to bind.]



 annexation  n.  1. The act or process of annexing. 2. Something that has
 been annexed.   annexational adj.   annexationism n.   annexationist n.



 annexe  n.  Chiefly British.  Variant of annex.



 Annie Oakley  n.  Slang.  A complimentary ticket of admittance; a free
 ticket or pass. [After Annie Oakley (1860-1926).]



 annihilate  v. -lated -lating -lates   -tr. 1. To destroy completely;
 reduce to nonexistence. 2. To nullify or render void; abolish. 3.
 Informal. To overwhelm completely; render helpless or ineffective. -intr.
 Physics.  To participate in annihilation, as do an electron and a positron.
 [LLat. annihilare, annihilat- : Lat. ad-, to + Lat. nihil, nothing.]
 annihilability n.   annihilable adj.   annihilator n.



 annihilation  n.  1. The act or process of annihilating. 2. The condition
 or result of having been annihilated; utter destruction. 3.  Physics. The
 phenomenon in which a particle and an antiparticle, such as an electron and
 a positron, disappear with a resultant release of energy approximately
 equivalent to the sum of their masses.



 anniversary  n. pl. -ries  1. The annual recurrence of an event that took
 place in some preceding year: a wedding anniversary.  2. A commemorative
 celebration on the date of an anniversary. an anniversary party.  [ME
 anniversarie < Med. Lat. anniversarium < Lat. anniversarius, returning
 yearly : annus, year + versus, p.part. of vertere, to turn.]



 anno Domini  adv.  In a specified year of the Christian era. Used chiefly
 in the abbreviated form:  A.D.  495.  [Lat., in the year of the Lord.]



 annotate  v. -tated -tating -tates   -tr. To furnish (a literary work)
 with critical commentary or explanatory notes; gloss. -intr. To gloss a
 text. [Lat. annotare, annotat-, to note down : ad-, to + notare, to write <
 nota, note.]



 annotation  n.  1. The act or process of annotating. 2. A critical or
 explanatory note; commentary.



 announce  tr.v. -nounced -nouncing -nounces   1. To bring to public
 notice; declare or proclaim officially or formally. 2. To proclaim the
 presence or arrival of: announce a caller.  3. To make aware or conscious
 of through the senses. 4. To serve as an announcer. [ME announcen < OFr.
 anoncier < Lat. annuntiare : ad-, to + nuntiare, to report < nuntius,
 messenger.]



 announcement  n.  1. The act of announcing. 2. Something that has been
 announced. 3. A printed or published statement or notice.



 announcer  n.  1. One that announces. 2. A radio or television performer
 who provides program continuity and delivers commercial and other
 announcements.



 annoy  v. -noyed -noying -noys   -tr. 1. To bother or irritate; disturb
 slightly. 2. To harass or disturb by repeated attacks. -intr. To behave in
 an annoying manner. [ME anoien < OFr. anoier < LLat. inodiare, to make
 odious < Lat. in odio, odious : in, in + odium, hatred.]

      Synonyms: annoy irritate bother irk vex
 provoke aggravate peeve rile These verbs mean to disturb or disquiet a
 person and, usually, to stir anger. Annoy  refers to mild disturbance
 caused by an act that tries one's patience. Irritate  is closely related
 but somewhat stronger. Bother  implies imposition that affects physical or
 mental composure. Irk  stresses the wearisome quality of repeated
 disturbance. Vex  applies to an act capable of bringing on anger or
 perplexity. Provoke  implies strong and usually deliberate imposition and
 angry response, and aggravate  is an approximate but informal equivalent.
 Peeve , also informal, suggests rather minor disturbance that produces a
 querulous, resentful response. Rile  implies strong anger, openly
 displayed.




 annoyance  n.  1. Something that annoys; a nuisance. 2. The act of
 annoying. 3. Vexation; irritation.



 annoying  adj.  Causing vexation or irritation; troublesome: an annoying
 cough.    annoyingly adv.



 annual  adj.  1. Recurring, done, or performed every year; yearly. 2. Of
 or pertaining to a year; determined by a year's time: an annual income.  3.
  Botany. Living and growing for only one year or season.   -n. 1. A
 periodical published yearly; yearbook. 2. A plant that lives and grows for
 only one year or season, during which the life cycle is completed. [ME
 annuel < OFr. < LLat. annualis < Lat. annus, year.]



 annual ring  n.  One of the concentric layers of wood, esp. in a tree
 trunk, indicating a year's growth in temperate climates and seasonal growth
 in regions of wet and dry seasons.



 annuitant  n.  A person who receives or is qualified to receive an
 annuity.



 annuity  n. pl. -ties  1. The annual payment of an allowance or income. 2.
 The right to receive this payment or the obligation to make this payment.
 3. An investment on which a person receives fixed payments for a lifetime
 or a specified number of years. [ME annuite < ANFr. < Med. Lat. annuitas <
 Lat. annuus, yearly < annus, year.]



 annul  tr.v. -nulled -nulling -nuls   1. To make or declare void or
 invalid, as a marriage or a law; nullify; cancel. 2. To obliterate the
 existence or effect of. [ME annullen < OFr. annuller < LLat. annullare :
 Lat. ad-, to + Lat. nullus, none.]



 annular  adj.  Forming or shaped like a ring. [OFr. annulaire < Lat.
 anularis < anulus, ring.]



 annular eclipse  n.  A solar eclipse in which the moon covers all but a
 bright ring around the circumference of the sun.



 annular ligament  n.  A ligament or fibrous band that rings the ankle
 joint or the wrist joint.



 annulate or annulated   adj.  Having or consisting of rings or ringlike
 segments. [Lat. anulatus < anulus, ring.]



 annulation  n.  1. The act or process of forming rings. 2. A ringlike
 structure or segment.



 annulet  n.  Architecture.  A ringlike molding around the capital of a
 pillar. [Lat. anulus, ring + -et.]



 annuli  n.  A plural of annulus.



 annulment  n.  1. The act of annulling. 2. The retrospective as well as
 prospective invalidation of a marriage, as for nonconsummation, effected by
 means of a declaration stating that the marriage was never valid.



 annulus  n. pl. -luses  or -li  1. A ringlike figure, part, structure, or
 marking. 2.  Mathematics. The figure bounded by and containing the area
 between two concentric circles. [Lat. anulus, ring.]



 annunciate  tr.v. -ated -ating -ates   To announce; proclaim:  They do not
 so properly affirm, as annunciate it (Lamb). [Lat. annuntiare. -see
 announce.]



 annunciation  n.  1. The act of announcing. 2. An announcement;
 proclamation. 3. Annunciation   a. The angel Gabriel's announcement of the
 Incarnation. b. The festival, on March 25, in celebration of this event.



 Annunciation lily  n.  The Madonna lily.



 annunciator  n.  1. One that announces. 2. An electrical signaling device
 used in hotels or offices to indicate the source of calls on a switchboard.




 annus mirabilis  n.  1. A year of wonders or disasters; fateful year:
 Hungarys blood bath was the saddest event in that annus mirabilis (C.L.
 Sulzberger). 2. The year 1666, memorable for the great fire of London and
 the English victory over the Dutch. [NLat., wondrous year.]



 anoa  n.  A small buffalo, Anoa depressicornis, of Celebes and the
 Philippines, having short, pointed horns. [Native word in Celebes.]



 anode  n.  1. Any positively charged electrode, as of an electrolytic
 cell, storage battery, or electron tube. 2. The negatively charged terminal
 of a primary cell or of a storage battery that is supplying current. [Gk.
 anodos, a way up : ana-, up + hodos, way.]



 anode mud  n.  The residue of electrolytic refining, esp. of copper, high
 in concentrations of inert metals such as platinum, silver, and gold.



 anodize  tr.v. -dized -dizing -dizes   To coat (a metallic surface)
 electrolytically with a protective oxide. [anod(e) + -ize.]   anodization
 n.



 anodyne  adj.  1. Able to soothe or relieve pain. 2. Relaxing: anodyne
 novels about country life.  3. Watered-down; insipid: anodyne references to
 progress and freedom.    -n. 1. A medicine that relieves pain. 2. Anything
 that soothes or comforts. [Lat. anodynus < Gk. anodunos, free from pain :
 an-, without + odune, pain.]



 anoint  tr.v. anointed anointing anoints   1. To apply oil, ointment, or a
 similar substance to. 2. To put oil on as a sign of sanctification or
 consecration in a religious ceremony. [ME enointen < OFr. enoindre < Lat.
 inunguere : in-, on + ungere, to smear.]



 anointing of the sick  n.  Rom.Cath.Ch. The sacrament of anointing a
 critically ill person, praying for recovery, and asking for the absolution
 of sin.



 anole  n.  Any of various chiefly tropical New World lizards of the genus
 Anolis, characterized by a distensible throat flap and the ability to
 change color. [Fr. anolis < Cariban.]



 anomalous  adj.  Deviating from the normal or common order, form, or rule;
 abnormal; deviant. [LLat. anomalos < Gk., uneven : an-, not + homalos, even
 < homos, same.]



 anomaly  n. pl. -lies  1. Deviation or departure from the normal or common
 order, form, or rule; abnormality. 2. Anything anomalous, irregular, or
 abnormal. 3.  Astronomy. The angular deviation, as observed from the sun,
 of a planet from its perihelion.   anomalistic anomalistical  adj.
 anomalistically adv.



 anomie or anomy   n.  1. A collapse of the social structures governing a
 given society. 2. The state of alienation experienced by an individual or
 class in such a situation. 3. Personal disorganization resulting in
 unsocial behavior. [Gk. anomia, lawlessness < anomos, lawless : a-, without
 + nomos, law.]



 anon  adv.  1. At another time; again. 2.  Archaic. In a short time; soon:
  Such good men as he which is anon to be interred (Cotton Mather). 3.
 Archaic. At once; immediately:  The same is he that heareth the word, and
 anon with joy receiveth it (Matthew 13:20).

       Idiom Section:  ever nowand anon.. Time after time; now and then.
 [ME, at once < OE onan : on, in + an, one.]



 anonym  n.  1. An anonymous person. 2. A pseudonym. [Fr. anonyme < LLat.
 anonymus, anonymous.]



 anonymity  n.  1. The quality or state of being anonymous. 2. One that is
 anonymous.



 anonymous  adj.  1. Having an unknown or unacknowledged name. 2. Having an
 unknown or withheld authorship or agency. [LLat. anonymus < Gk. anonumos,
 nameless : an-, without + onoma, name.]



 anopheles  n.  Any of various mosquitoes of the genus Anopheles, many of
 which carry the malaria parasite and transmit the disease to man. [NLat.
 Anopheles, genus name < Gk. anopheles, useless : an-, without + ophelos,
 advantage.]



 anorak  n.  A heavy jacket with a hood, worn in polar regions; parka.
 [Eskimo (Greenland) anoraq.]



 anorectic or anoretic
 anorexic   adj.  1. Marked by loss of appetite. 2. Suppressing or causing
 loss of appetite.   -n. 1. One that is anorectic. 2. An anorectic drug.
 [Gk. anorektos : an-, without + oregein, to reach out for.]



 anorexia  n.  Loss of appetite, esp. as a result of disease. [Gk. : an-,
 without + orexis, appetite < oregein, to reach out for.]



 anorexia nervosa  n.  The pathological loss of appetite occurring chiefly
 in young women that is thought to be psychological in origin. [NLat.,
 nervous anorexia.]



 anorexic  adj.  -n. Variant of anorectic.



 anorthite  n.  A rare plagioclase feldspar with high calcium oxide
 content, occurring in igneous rocks. [Fr. : Gk. an-, not + Gk. orthos,
 straight (from its oblique crystals).]



 anorthosite  n.  A plutonic rock, chiefly plagioclase. [Fr. anorthose, a
 kind of feldspar (Gk. an-, not + Gk. orthos, straight) + -ite.]



 anosmia  n.  Loss of the sense of smell. [NLat. : Gk. an-, without + Gk.
 osme, odor.]



 another  adj.  1. Additional; one more: had another cup of coffee.  2.
 Distinctly different from the first: took another route to town.  3. Some
 other: put it off to another day.    -pron. 1. An additional one. 2. A
 different one. 3. One of an undetermined number or group: for one reason or
 another.



 anovulant  n.  An anovulatory drug. [an- + ovul(ation) + -ant.]



 anovulation  n.  The absence of ovulation.



 anovulatory  adj.  Relating to the suppression of ovulation.



 anoxemia  n.  An abnormal decline in the oxygen content of the blood.



 anoxia  n.  1. Absence of oxygen. 2. A pathological deficiency of oxygen,
 esp. hypoxia.   anoxic adj.



 ansate or ansated   adj.  Having a handle or a part resembling a handle.
 [Lat. ansatus < ansa, handle.]



 ansate cross  n.  A cross shaped like a T with a loop at the top; ankh.



 ansated  adj.  Variant of ansate.



 Anschluss  n.  A union, esp. the political union of Nazi Germany and
 Austria in 1938. [G.]



 anserine  adj.  1. Of or belonging to the subfamily Anserinae, which
 includes the geese. 2. Of or resembling a goose; gooselike. 3. anserous
 Stupid; silly; foolish. [NLat. Anserinae, subfamily name < Lat. anserinus,
 pertaining to geese < anser, goose.]



 answer  n.  1. A spoken or written reply, as to a question. 2.  a. A
 solution or result, as to a problem. b. The correct response or solution.
 3. An act in response or retaliation. 4.  Law. A defendant's defense
 against charges filed against him.   -v.-swered -swering -swers   -intr. 1.
 To respond in words or action. 2. To be liable or accountable: answered for
 his actions.  3. To serve the purpose; suffice:  often I do use three words
 where one would answer (Mark Twain). 4. To correspond; match: answering to
 the description.  -tr. 1. To reply to. 2. To respond correctly to. 3. To
 fulfill the demands of; serve:  my fortune has answered my desires
 (Walton). 4. To conform or correspond to. 5. To be responsible for; meet.
 [ME answere < OE andswaru.]

      Synonyms: answer respond reply retort These verbs relate to action
 taken as the immediate result of a question or other stimulus. Answer , the
 most general, refers to any act that completes a process initiated by
 another. Respond  suggests a physical act or change that follows a specific
 stimulus, but is now also used as a loose equivalent of reply , which means
 to answer in speech or writing to a direct question. Retort  refers to a
 sharp, spoken remark of the same style or kind as that used by one's
 accuser or debating opponent.




 answerable  adj.  1. Required to render account; accountable. 2. Capable
 of being answered. 3.  Archaic. Corresponding; suitable.   answerability
 answerableness n.   answerably adv.



 ant  n.  Any of various social insects of the family Formicidae,
 characteristically having wings only in the males and fertile females and
 living in colonies that have a complex social organization. [ME amte < OE
 aemete.]



 ant-   Variant of anti-.



 -ant   1.  a. Performing, promoting, or causing a specified action:
 acceptant.  b. Being in a specified state or condition: flippant.  2.  a.
 One that performs, promotes, or causes a specified action: deodorant.  b.
 One that undergoes a specified action: inhalant.  [ME < OFr. < Lat. -ans,
 -ant-, pr.part. suffix.]



 anta  n. pl. -tae  Architecture.  1. A thickening of the projecting end of
 the lateral wall of a Greek temple. 2. A pier that constitutes one boundary
 of the porch. [Lat. antae, pilasters.]



 antacid  adj.  Correcting acidity; neutralizing acids.   -n. A substance,
 esp. a medicinal remedy, that neutralizes acid.



 antae  n.  Plural of anta.



 Antaeus  n.  Greek Mythology.  A giant, invincible while touching the
 ground, who was lifted into the air by Hercules and crushed to death. [Lat.
 < Gk. Antaios.]



 antagonism  n.  1. Mutual resistance; opposition; hostility. 2. The
 condition of being an opposing principle, force, or factor.



 antagonist  n.  1. One who opposes and actively competes with another;
 adversary. 2.  Anatomy. A muscle that opposes another muscle. 3. A drug
 that counteracts or neutralizes another drug.   antagonistic adj.
 antagonistically adv.



 antagonize  tr.v. -nized -nizing -nizes   1. To incur the dislike of. 2.
 To counteract. [Gk. antagonizesthai, to struggle against : anti-, against +
 agonizesthai, to struggle < agon, contest. -see agony.]



 Antarctic  adj.  Of or pertaining to the regions surrounding the South
 Pole. [ME Antartik < OFr. antartique < Med. Lat. antarcticus < Lat.,
 southern < Gk. antarktikos : anti-, opposite + arktikos, northern. -see
 arctic.]



 Antarctic Circle  n.  A parallel of latitude, 66 degrees, 33 minutes
 south, marking the limit of the South Frigid Zone.



 Antares  n.  A double and variable star, the brightest in the southern
 sky, about 424 light-years from earth in the constellation Scorpius. [Gk.
 antares : anti-, opposite + Ares, Mars.]



 ant cow  n.  An aphid that yields a honeylike substance on which ants
 feed.



 ante  n.  1. The stake that each poker player must put into the pool
 before receiving his hand or before receiving new cards. 2.  Slang. An
 amount to be paid, esp. as one's share: cost.   -tr.v.-ted  or -teed  or
 -teing  or -tes   1. To put (one's stake) into the pool in poker. 2.
 Slang. To pay. [< Lat., before.]



 ante-   1. Earlier; prior to: antenatal.  2. Before; in front of:
 anteroom.  [Lat. < ante, before.]



 anteater  n.  1. Any of several tropical American mammals of the family
 Myrmecophagidae, that lack teeth and feed on ants and termites, esp.
 Myrmecophaga tridactyla, having a long, narrow snout, a long, sticky
 tongue, and a long, shaggy-haired tail. 2. Any of several other animals,
 such as the echidna, that feed on ants.



 ante-bellum  adj.  Belonging to the period prior to the Civil War. [Lat.
 ante bellum, before the war.]



 antecede  tr.v. -ceded -ceding -cedes   To go before in rank, place, or
 time; precede. [Lat. antecedere : ante-, before + cedere, to go.]



 antecedence  n.  Precedence.



 antecedent  adj.  Going before; preceding; prior.   -n. 1. One that
 precedes. 2. Any occurrence or event prior to another. 3. antecedents
 One's ancestors or ancestry. 4.  Grammar. The word, phrase, or clause to
 which a relative pronoun refers. 5.  Mathematics. The first term of a
 ratio. 6.  Logic. The conditional member of a hypothetical proposition.
 antecedently adv.



 antechamber  n.  A smaller room serving as an entryway into a larger room.
 [Fr. antichambre : anti-, before (< Lat. ante-) + chambre, chamber.]



 antechoir  n.  A place in front of the choir reserved for the clergy and
 choir members.



 antedate  tr.v. -dated -dating -dates   1. To be of an earlier date than;
 precede in time. 2. To give a date earlier than the actual date; date back.
   -n. A date given to an event or a document that is earlier than the
 actual date.



 antediluvian  adj.  1. Occurring or belonging to the era before the Flood
 written about in the Bible. 2. Very old; antiquated: an antediluvian
 refrigerator.  [ante- + Lat. diluvium, flood. -see diluvial.]
 antediluvian n.



 antefix  n. pl. -fixes  or -fixa  Architecture.  An upright ornament along
 the eaves of a tiled roof designed to conceal the joints between the rows
 of tiles. [< Lat. antefixus, fastened in front : ante-, before + fixus,
 fastened, p.part. of figere, to fasten.]   antefixal adj.



 antelope  n. pl. antelope  or -lopes  1.  a. Any of various slender,
 swift-running, long-horned ruminants of the family Bovidae, of Africa and
 Asia. b. An animal that resembles a true antelope, as the pronghorn. 2.
 Leather made from the hide of an antelope. [ME < Med. Lat. anthalopus <
 LGk. antholops.]



 antemeridian  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or taking place in the morning.
 [Lat. antemeridianus : ante-, before + meridianus, of noon. -see meridian.]




 ante meridiem  adv.  -adj. Before noon. Used chiefly in the abbreviated
 form to specify the hour: 10:30 am; an am appointment.  [Lat. : ante,
 before + meridies, noon.]

      Usage: Strictly speaking, 12 am  denotes midnight, and 12 pm  denotes
 noon, but there is sufficient confusion over these uses to make it
 advisable to use 12 noon  and 12 midnight  where clarity is required.



 ante mortem  adj.  Before death. [Lat.]



 antenatal  adj.  Before birth; prenatal.



 antenna  n.  1. pl. -tennae One of the paired, flexible, jointed sensory
 appendages on the head of an insect, myriapod, or crustacean. 2. pl. -nas A
 metallic apparatus for sending and receiving electromagnetic waves; an
 aerial. [Med. Lat. < Lat., sail yard.]   antennal adj.



 antenna loop  n.  A flat coil or wire serving both as antenna and as part
 of the internal circuitry of a receiver.



 antennule  n.  Zoology.  A small antenna, esp. one of the first pair in
 crustaceans. [Fr., dim. of antenne, antenna < Lat. antenna, sail yard.]



 antependium  n. pl. -dia  1. A hanging for the front of an altar. 2. A
 pulpit cloth. [Med. Lat. : Lat. ante-, before + pendere, to hang.]



 antepenult  n.  The third syllable from the end in a word, as te in
 antepenult.  [Short for LLat. antepaenultima < antepaenultimus,
 antepenultimate.]



 antepenultimate  adj.  Second from the last; third from the end in a
 series.   -n. An antepenult. [LLat. antepaenultimus : Lat. ante-, before +
 Lat. paenultimus, next to last. -see penult.]



 anterior  adj.  1. Placed in front; located forward. 2. Prior in time;
 earlier. 3.  Zoology.  a. Located near the head in lower animals. b.
 Located on or near the front of the body in higher animals. c. Located on
 or near the front of an organ or on the ventral surface of the body in man.
 4.  Botany. In front of and facing away from the axis or stem. [Lat., comp.
 of ante, before.]   anteriorly adv.



 anteroom  n.  A waiting room.



 anthelion  n. pl. -lia  or -ons  A luminous white, halolike area
 occasionally seen in the sky opposite the sun on the parhelic circle. [Gk.
 anthelion < anthelios, opposite the sun : anti-, opposite + helios, sun.]



 anthelmintic or  anthelminthic   adj.  Acting to expel or destroy
 intestinal worms.   -n. An anthelmintic remedy; a vermifuge. [anti- + Gk.
 helmins, helminth-, worm.]



 anthem  n.  1. A hymn of praise or loyalty. 2. A sacred composition set to
 words from the Bible. [ME anteme < OE antefn < Med. Lat. antiphona < Gk. <
 antiphonos, sounding in answer : anti-, in return + phone, voice.]



 anthemion  n. pl. -mia  A pattern of honeysuckle or palm leaves in a
 radiating cluster, used as a motif in Greek art. [Gk. < anthos, flower.]



 anther  n.  Botany.  The organ that is borne at the upper end of a stamen
 and that secretes and discharges pollen. [NLat. anthera < Med. Lat.
 anthera, pollen < Lat., a medicine extracted from flowers < Gk. antheros,
 flowery < anthos, flower.]



 antheridium  n. pl. -ia  Botany.  An organ that produces male sex cells in
 the algae, fungi, mosses, and ferns. [NLat. : < anthera, anther.]



 antherozoid  n.  Botany.  A male sex cell produced by an antheridium.
 [anther + zo(o)id.]



 anthesis  n.  Botany.  The blooming or time of full bloom of a flower.
 [Gk. anthesis, flowering < anthos, flower.]



 anthill  n.  A mound formed by ants or termites in digging or building a
 nest.



 antho-   Flower: anthotaxy.  [< Gk. anthos, flower.]



 anthocyanin or anthocyan   n.  Any of a class of water-soluble pigments
 that impart to flowers and other plant parts any of the colors ranging from
 blue to most shades of red. [antho- + cyanin(e).]



 anthodium  n. pl. -dia  The flower head of composite plants, such as the
 aster, thistle, and goldenrod. [NLat. < Gk. anthodes, flowerlike : anthos,
 flower + -eides, -oid.]



 anthologize  tr.v. -gized -gizing -gizes   To compile or include in an
 anthology.   anthologist n.



 anthology  n. pl. -gies  A collection of literary pieces, such as poems,
 short stories, or plays. [NLat. anthologia < Gk., flower gathering :
 anthos, flower + logia, collection < legein, to gather.]   anthological
 adj.



 anthophore  n.  Botany.  A stalklike part in certain flowers, supporting
 the pistils and corolla.



 anthotaxy or anthotaxis   n.  Botany.  The arrangement of the parts of a
 flower.



 -anthous   Having flowers: ananthous.  [NLat. -anthus < Gk. anthos,
 flower.]



 anthozoan  n.  Any of various marine organisms of the class Anthozoa,
 growing singly or in colonies and including the corals and sea anemones.
 anthozoan  anthozoic adj.



 anthracene  n.  A crystalline hydrocarbon, C6H4(CH2)C6H4, extracted from
 coal tar and used in the manufacture of dyes and organic chemicals. [Gk.
 anthrax, anthrak-, charcoal + -ene.]



 anthracite  n.  A hard coal having a high carbon content and little
 volatile matter that burns with a clean flame. [Lat. anthracites, a kind of
 bloodstone < Gk. anthrakites, coal like < anthrax, charcoal.]



 anthracnose  n.  Any of several diseases of plants caused by fungi and
 characterized by dead spots on the leaves, twigs, or fruit. [Fr. : Gk.
 anthrax, carbuncle + Gk. nosos, disease.]



 anthrax  n.  Pathology.  1. An infectious, usually fatal disease of
 warm-blooded animals, esp. of cattle and sheep, caused by Bacillus
 anthracis and transmissible to man, capable of affecting various organs,
 and esp. characterized by malignant ulcers. 2. pl. -thraces A lesion caused
 by anthrax. [ME antrax, malignant boil < Lat. anthrax, carbuncle < Gk. ]



 anthropic or anthropical   adj.  Of or pertaining to man or the era of
 human life. [Gk. anthropikos < anthropos, human being.]



 anthropo-   Human being: anthropometry.  [Gk. < anthropos, human being.]



 anthropocentric  adj.  1. Regarding man as the central fact or final aim
 of the universe. 2. Interpreting reality exclusively in terms of human
 values and experience.   anthropocentrically adv.   anthropocentrism n.



 anthropogenesis  n.  The scientific study of the origin of man.
 anthropogenic adj.



 anthropoid  adj.  1. Resembling man, as the apes of the family Pongidae,
 which includes gorillas, chimpanzees, orang-utans, and gibbons. 2.
 Resembling or characteristic of an ape; apelike.   -n. Any member of the
 family Pongidae.   anthropoidal adj.



 anthropoid ape  n.  An anthropoid.



 anthropology  n.  The scientific study of the origin and of the physical,
 social, and cultural development and behavior of man.   anthropologic
 anthropological  adj.   anthropologically adv.   anthropologist n.



 anthropometry  n.  The study and technique of human body measurement for
 use in anthropological classification and comparison.   anthropometric
 anthropometrical  adj.   anthropometrically adv.   anthropometrist n.



 anthropomorphism  n.  The attribution of human motivation,
 characteristics, or behavior to inanimate objects, animals, or natural
 phenomena.   anthropomorphic adj.   anthropomorphically adv.



 anthropomorphize  tr.v. -phized -phizing -phizes   To ascribe human
 characteristics to.



 anthropomorphous  adj.  1. Having or suggesting human form and appearance.
 2. Ascribing human motivation, characteristics, or behavior to inanimate
 objects, animals, or natural phenomena. [Gk. anthropomorphos : anthropos,
 human being + morphe, shape.]



 anthropopathism  n.  The attribution of human feelings to nonhuman beings,
 objects, or natural phenomena. [Gk. anthropopathes, with human feelings
 (anthropos, human being + pathos, feeling) + ism.]



 anthropophagus  n. pl. -gi  An eater of human flesh; cannibal. [Lat.
 anthropophagus < Gk. anthropophagos, maneating : anthropos, human being +
 phagein, to eat.]   anthropophagic anthropophagous  adj.   anthropophagy n.




 anthurium  n.  Any of various tropical American plants of the genus
 Anthurium, many of which are cultivated for their showy flowers or foliage.
 [NLat. Anthurium, genus name : anth(o)- + Gk. oura, tail.]



 anti  n. pl. -tis  Informal.  A person who is opposed to a group, policy,
 proposal, or practice. [< anti-.]



 anti- or ant-    1.  a. Opposite: antimere.  b. Opposing; against:
 anticlerical.  c. Counteracting; neutralizing: antibody.  2. Reciprocal:
 antilogarithm.  [Gk. < anti, opposite.]



 antiabortion  adj.  Opposed to abortion: the antiabortion movement.
 antiabortionist n.



 antiaircraft  adj.  Designed for defense, esp. from a surface position,
 against aircraft or missile attack.   -n. An antiaircraft weapon.



 antiallergic or antiallergenic   adj.  Preventing or relieving allergies.
  antiallergenic n.



 antianxiety  adj.  Preventing or relieving anxiety: an antianxiety drug.



 anti-art  n.  Art that rejects traditional art forms and theories.



 antiatom  n.  An atom composed ofantiparticles.



 antiauthoritarian  adj.  Rejecting or hostile to authoritarians or
 authoritarianism.   antiauthoritarianism n.



 antibacterial  adj.  Effective against bacteria.



 antiballistic missile  n.  A defensive missile designed to intercept and
 destroy a ballistic missile in flight.



 antibaryon  n.  The antiparticle of the baryon.



 antibiosis  n.  An association between two or more organisms that is
 injurious to one of them.



 antibiotic  n.  Any of various substances, such as penicillin and
 streptomycin, produced by certain fungi, bacteria, and other organisms,
 that are effective in inhibiting the growth of or destroying microorganisms
 and are widely used in the prevention and treatment of diseases.   -adj. 1.
 Of or pertaining to antibiotics. 2. Of or pertaining to antibiosis.
 antibiotically adv.



 antibody  n.  1. Any of various proteins in the blood that are generated
 in reaction to foreign proteins or polysaccharides, neutralize them, and
 thus produce immunity against certain microorganisms or their toxins. 2. An
 object composed of antimatter.



 antibusing  adj.  Opposed to the busing of students as a means of
 achieving racial balance in the public schools.



 antic  n.  1. A ludicrous or extravagant act or gesture; caper; prank. 2.
 Archaic. A clown; merry-andrew.   -adj. Ludicrous; odd; fantastic. [Ital.
 antico, ancient < Lat. antiquus, old.]   antically adv.



 anticancer or anticancerous   adj.  Used against cancer: anticancer drugs.




 anticatalyst  n.  1. A substance that retards or arrests a chemical
 reaction. 2. A substance that reduces or destroys the effectiveness of a
 catalyst.



 anticathode  n.  An electrode that is the target in a cathode ray tube,
 esp. in an x-ray tube.



 antichlor  n.  A substance, such as sodium thiosulfate, used to neutralize
 the excess chlorine or hypochlorite left after bleaching textiles, fiber,
 or paper pulp. [anti- + chlor(ine).]   antichloristic adj.



 anticholinergic  adj.  Opposing or antagonistic to the physiological
 action of parasympathetic or other cholinergic nerve fibers.
 anticholinergic n.



 anticholinesterase  n.  Any substance that inhibits the activity of
 cholinesterase.



 antichrist  n.  1. An enemy of Christ. 2. Antichrist  The epithet of the
 great antagonist who was expected by the early Church to set himself up
 against Christ in the last days before the Second Coming. [ME Antecrist <
 OFr. < Med. Lat. Antichristus < LLat. < Gk. Antikristos : anti-, opposed to
 + khristos, anointed. -see Christ.]



 anticipant  adj.  1. Coming or acting in advance. 2. Expectant;
 anticipating.   -n. One who anticipates.



 anticipate  tr.v. -pated -pating -pates   1. To feel or realize
 beforehand; foresee. 2. To look forward to, esp. with pleasure; expect. 3.
 To act in advance so as to prevent; forestall. 4. To foresee and fulfill in
 advance. 5. To cause to happen in advance; accelerate. 6. To use in
 advance, as income not yet available. 7. To pay (a debt) before it is due.
 [Lat. anticipare, anticipat-, to take before : ante-, before + capere, to
 take.]   anticipatable adj.   anticipator n.   anticipatory adj.

      Usage: Some traditionalists hold that anticipate  should not be used
 simply as a synonym for expect.  They would restrict its use to senses in
 which it suggests some advance action, either to fulfill (anticipate my
 desires ) or to forestall (anticipate her opponent's next move ). Others,
 including a majority of the Usage Panel, accept its use in the senses of
 "to feel or realize beforehand" and "to look forward to" (often with the
 implication of foretasting pleasure): He is anticipating a visit with his
 son.



 anticipation  n.  1. The act of anticipating. 2. Something anticipated;
 expectation. 3. Foreknowledge; intuition; presentiment. 4. The use or
 assignment of funds, esp. from a trust fund, before legitimately available
 for use. 5.  Music. The introduction of one note of a new chord before the
 previous chord is resolved.



 anticipative  adj.  Inclined to or engaged in anticipation; expectant.
 anticipatively adv.



 anticlerical  adj.  Opposed to the influence of the church or the clergy
 in political affairs.   anticlericalism n.



 anticlimax  n.  1. A decline viewed in disappointing contrast with a
 previous rise: the anticlimax of a brilliant career.  2. Something trivial
 or commonplace that concludes a series of significant events. 3. A sudden
 descent in speaking or writing from the impressive or significant to the
 ludicrous or inconsequential.   anticlimactic adj.   anticlimactically adv.




 anticlinal  adj.  Sloping downward in opposite directions, as an
 anticline.



 anticline  n.  Geology.  A fold with strata sloping downward on both sides
 from a common crest.



 anticlockwise  adv.  -adj. Counterclockwise.



 anticoagulant  n.  A substance that suppresses or counteracts coagulation,
 esp. of the blood.   -adj. Acting as an anticoagulant.



 anticoincidence circuit  n.  A specific binary logic element designed to
 provide input signals to a device according to fixed rules.



 anticonvulsant  n.  A drug used to prevent convulsions.   anticonvulsive
 adj.



 anticyclone  n.  An extensive system of winds spiraling outward from a
 high-pressure center, circling clockwise in the Northern Hemisphere and
 counterclockwise in the Southern Hemisphere.   anticyclonic adj.



 antidepressant  n.  A drug used to prevent or treat depression.
 antidepressive adj.



 antideuteron  n.  The antimatter equivalent of deuteron.



 antidote  n.  1. A remedy or other agent to counteract the effects of a
 poison. 2. Anything that relieves or counteracts an injurious effect. [Lat.
 antidotum < Gk. antidoton < antididonai, to give as a remedy against :
 anti-, against + didonai, to give.]   antidotal adj.   antidotally adv.

      Usage: Antidote  may be followed by to, for,  or against: an antidote
 to boredom; an antidote for snakebite; an antidote against inflation.



 antielectron  n.  A positron.



 antienzyme  n.  A substance that neutralizes or counteracts an enzyme.
 antienzymatic antienzymic  adj.



 antiestablishment  adj.  Marked by opposition or hostility to conventional
 social, political, or economic values or principles.



 antifebrile  adj.  Capable of reducing fever; antipyretic.   -n. An
 antifebrile drug or agent.



 antifederalist or Antifederalist   n.  One who was opposed to the
 ratification of the U.S. Constitution.   antifederalism n.



 antifeminist  adj.  Opposed to feminism.   antifeminism n.   antifeminist
 n.



 antifertility  adj.  Capable of reducing or destroying fertility;
 contraceptive.



 antifreeze  n.  A substance, often a liquid such as ethylene glycol or
 alcohol, mixed with another liquid to lower its freezing point.



 antigalaxy  n.  A galaxy comprised of antimatter.



 antigen or antigene   n.  A substance that when introduced into the body
 stimulates the production of an antibody.   antigenic adj.   antigenically
 adv.   antigenicity n.



 Antigone  n.  Greek Mythology.  The daughter of Oedipus and Jocasta, who
 performed funeral rites over her brother's body in defiance of her uncle
 Creon. [Gk. Antigone.]



 antigravity  n.  The effect of reducing or canceling a gravitational
 field.   -adj. Canceling or reducing gravity or protecting against its
 effect.



 antihelium  n.  The antimatter equivalent of helium.



 antihero  n.  A protagonist, as in a play, characterized by a lack of
 traditional heroic qualities, as courage.



 antihistamine  n.  Any of various drugs used to reduce physiological
 effects associated with histamine production in allergies and colds.
 antihistaminic adj.



 antihydrogen  n.  The antimatter equivalent of hydrogen.



 anti-inflammatory  adj.  Acting against inflammation.



 antiknock  n.  A substance, such as tetraethyl lead, added to gasoline to
 reduce engine knock.



 antilepton  n.  The antiparticle of a lepton.



 antilog  n.  An antilogarithm.



 antilogarithm  n.  The number for which a given logarithm stands; for
 example, where log x equals y, the x is the antilogarithm of y.
 antilogarithmic adj.



 antimacassar  n.  A protective covering for the backs of chairs and sofas.
 [anti- + Macassar, a brand of hair oil.]



 antimagnetic  adj.  Impervious to the effect of a magnetic field;
 resistant to magnetization.



 antimalarial  adj.  Effective against malaria.   -n. An antimalarial drug.




 antimatter  n.  Matter consisting of antiparticles and having
 positron-surrounded nuclei composed of antiprotons and antineutrons.



 antimere  n.  Biology.  A part or division corresponding to an opposite or
 similar part in an organism characterized by bilateral or radial symmetry.
  antimeric adj.



 antimicrobial or antimicrobic   adj.  Capable of destroying or suppressing
 the growth of microorganisms.   antimicrobial n.



 antimissile missile  n.  A missile designed to intercept and destroy
 another missile in flight.



 antimonial  adj.  Of or containing antimony.   -n. A medicine with
 antimony as an ingredient.



 antimony  n.  Sb  A metallic element having four allotropic forms, the
 most common of which is a hard, extremely brittle, lustrous, silver-white,
 crystalline material. It is used in a wide variety of alloys, esp. with
 lead in battery plates, and in the manufacture of flame-proofing compounds,
 paints, semiconductor devices, and ceramic products. Atomic number 51;
 atomic weight 121.75; melting point 630.5 deg. C; boiling point 1,380 deg.
 C; specific gravity 6.691; valences 3, 5. [ME antimonie < Med. Lat.
 antimonium.]



 antimony glance  n.  Stibnite.



 antineoplastic  adj.  Inhibiting the growth or spread of neoplasms.



 antineutrino  n. pl. -nos  The antiparticle of the neutrino.



 antineutron  n.  The antiparticle of the neutron.



 antinode  n.  The region or point of maximum amplitude between adjacent
 nodes.



 antinomian  n.  Theology.  A member of a Christian sect holding that faith
 alone is necessary to salvation. [Med. Lat. antinomus : Gk. anti-, against
 + nomos, law.]   antinomian adj.   antinomianism n.



 antinomy  n. pl. -mies  1. An apparent contradiction between valid
 principles or conclusions that seem equally necessary and reasonable. 2. A
 conflict, opposition, or contradiction. [Lat. antinomia < Gk. : anti-,
 against + nomos, law.]



 antinovel  n.  A novel characterized by the absence of the traditional
 features of a work of fiction.   antinovelist n.



 antinucleon  n.  The antiparticle of a nucleon.



 antioxidant  n.  A chemical compound or substance that inhibits oxidation.




 antiparticle  n.  A subatomic particle, such as a positron, antiproton, or
 antineutron, having the same mass, average lifetime, spin, magnitude of
 magnetic moment, and magnitude of electric charge as the particle to which
 it corresponds but having the opposite sign of electric charge, opposite
 intrinsic parity, and opposite direction of magnetic moment.



 antipasto  n. pl. -tos  or -ti  An appetizer consisting of an assortment
 of smoked meats, fish, olives, tomatoes, hot peppers, cheese, and other
 ingredients, served with oil and vinegar. [Ital. : anti-, before (< Lat.
 ante) + pasto, food < Lat. pastus < pascere, to feed.]



 antipathetic or antipathetical   adj.  1. Having an inherent feeling of
 aversion, repugnance, or opposition: antipathetic to new ideas.  2. Causing
 a feeling of antipathy.   antipathetically adv.



 antipathy  n. pl. -thies  1. A strong feeling of aversion, repugnance, or
 opposition. 2. An object of aversion. [Lat. antipathia < Gk. antipatheia :
 anti-, against + pathos, feeling.]



 antiperiodic  adj.  Preventing regular recurrence of disease or fever.
 -n. An antiperiodic drug.



 antipersonnel  adj.  Designed to inflict casualties on the military
 personnel or civilian population of an enemy country.



 antiperspirant  n.  A preparation applied to the skin to decrease or
 prevent excessive perspiration.



 antiphlogistic  adj.  Reducing inflammation or fever.   antiphlogistic n.



 antiphon  n.  1. A devotional composition sung responsively as part of a
 liturgy. 2. A short liturgical text chanted responsively before a psalm or
 canticle. 3. A response; answer: a resounding antiphon of dissent.  [Fr.
 antiphone < Med. Lat. antiphona, sung responses. -see anthem.]



 antiphonal  adj.  1. Pertaining to or resembling an antiphon. 2. Answering
 responsively, as in antiphony.   antiphonally adv.



 antiphonary  n. pl. -ies  A bound collection of antiphons, esp. of the
 responsive choral parts of the divine office.



 antiphony  n. pl. -nies  1. Responsive or antiphonal singing or chanting.
 2. A composition that is sung responsively; antiphon. 3. A sound or other
 effect that answers or echoes another.



 antipodal  adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, or situated on the opposite side or
 sides of the earth. 2. Diametrically opposed; exactly opposite.



 antipode  n.  A direct or diametrical opposite. [Back-formation from
 antipodes.]



 antipodes  pl.n.  1. Any two places or regions that are on opposite sides
 of the earth. 2. Something that is the exact opposite or contrary of
 another. [ME < Lat. < Gk. < antipous, with the feet opposite : anti-,
 opposite + pous, foot.]



 antipollution  adj.  Intended to counteract or eliminate environmental
 pollution: antipollution filters; antipollution laws.    antipollutionist
 n.



 antipope  n.  A person claiming to be pope in opposition to the one chosen
 by church law. [ME < Med. Lat. antipapa : Lat. anti-, opposed to + papa,
 pope.]



 antipoverty  adj.  Created or intended to alleviate poverty: antipoverty
 programs.



 antiproton  n.  The antiparticle of the proton.



 antipyretic  adj.  Reducing or tending to reduce fever.   -n. A medication
 that reduces fever.   antipyresis n.



 antipyrine  n.  A white powder, C11H12N2O, used to reduce fever and
 relieve pain. [Orig. a trademark.]



 antiquarian  adj.  1. Of or pertaining to antiquaries or the study of
 antiquities. 2. Dealing in or having to do with old rare books.   -n. An
 antiquary.   antiquarianism n.



 antiquark  n.  The antiparticle of a quark.



 antiquary  n. pl. -ies  A student of or dealer in antiquities. [Lat.
 antiquarius < antiquus, old.]



 antiquate  tr.v. -quated -quating -quates   To make obsolete or
 old-fashioned. [Lat. antiquare, antiquat-, to leave in an old state <
 antiquus, old.]   antiquation n.



 antiquated  adj.  1. So old as to be no longer useful or suitable;
 obsolete: antiquated laws.  2. Very old; aged.   antiquatedness n.



 antique  adj.  1. Of or belonging to ancient times, esp. of, from, or
 characteristic of ancient Greece or Rome. 2. Belonging to, made in, or
 typical of an earlier period. 3. Old-fashioned.   -n. An object having
 special value because of its age, esp. a work of art or handicraft that is
 more than 100 years old.   -tr.v.-tiqued -tiquing -tiques   To give the
 appearance of an antique to. [Fr. < Lat. antiquus, old.]   antiquely adv.
 antiqueness n.



 antiquer  n.  One who treats or finishes new furniture so as to make it
 appear old or antique.



 antiquity  n. pl. -ties  1. Ancient times, esp. the times preceding the
 Middle Ages. 2. The people, esp. the writers, of ancient times. 3. The
 quality of being old or ancient; considerable age: a carving of great
 antiquity.  4. antiquities  Something, as an object or relic, belonging to
 or dating from ancient times.



 antirachitic  adj.  Curing or preventing rickets.   -n. An antirachitic
 drug or food.



 antirrhinum  n.  Any plant of the genus Antirrhinum, as a snapdragon.
 [NLat., genus name < Gk. antirrhinon : anti-, counterfeiting + rhis, nose.]




 antiscorbutic  adj.  Curing or preventing scurvy.   -n. An antiscorbutic
 food or drug.



 anti-Semite  n.  A person who is hostile toward or prejudiced against
 Jews.   anti-Semitic adj.   anti-Semitism n.



 antisepsis  n.  The destruction of microorganisms that cause disease,
 fermentation, or putrefaction.



 antiseptic  adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, or designating antisepsis. 2.
 Capable of producing antisepsis. 3. Thoroughly clean. 4. Devoid of
 enlivening or enriching qualities; austere.   -n. An antiseptic drug or
 agent.   antiseptically adj.



 antiserum  n. pl. -rums  or -ra  Human or animal serum containing
 antibodies for at least one antigen.



 antislavery  adj.  Opposed to or against slavery.   antislavery n.



 antismog  adj.  Intended to counteract or eliminate smog: antismog
 equipment for cars.



 antisocial  adj.  1. Shunning the society of others; not sociable. 2.
 Opposed or hostile to the established social order; marked by or engaging
 in behavior that violates accepted mores: drug abuse and other antisocial
 activity.    antisocially adv.



 antispasmodic  adj.  Easing or preventing spasms.   -n. An antispasmodic
 drug.



 antistatic or antistat   adj.  Preventing or inhibiting the buildup of
 static electricity.



 antistrophe  n.  1. In ancient Greek choral poetry or drama, the movement
 following and in the same meter as the strophe, sung while the chorus moves
 in the opposite direction from that of the strophe. 2. The second stanza,
 and those like it, in a poem consisting of alternating stanzas in
 contrasting metric form. [LLat. < Gk. antistrophe, a turning back <
 antistrephein, to turn back : anti-, back + strephein, to turn.]
 antistrophic adj.   antistrophically adv.



 antisubmarine  adj.  Designed to destroy enemy submarines.



 antitank  adj.  Designed or used for combat against tanks or other armored
 vehicles.



 antithesis  n. pl. -ses  1. Direct contrast; opposition. 2. The direct or
 exact opposite. 3.  a. The juxtaposition of sharply contrasting ideas in
 balanced or parallel words, phrases, or grammatical structures, as  He for
 God only, she for God in him (Milton). b. The second and contrasting part
 of such a juxtaposition. 4. The second stage of the dialectic process.
 [LLat. < Gk., opposition < antitithenai, to oppose : anti-, against +
 tithenai, to set.]



 antithetical or antithetic   adj.  1. Pertaining to, of the nature of, or
 marked by antithesis. 2. Directly opposed in every respect. [LLat.
 antitheticus, Gk. antithetikos < antitethenai, to oppose. -see antithesis.]
   antithetically adv.



 antitoxic  adj.  1. Counteracting a toxin or poison. 2. Of or pertaining
 to an antitoxin.



 antitoxin  n.  1. An antibody formed in response to and capable of
 neutralizing a poison of biological origin. 2. An animal serum containing
 antitoxins.



 antitrades  pl.n.  The westerly winds above the trade winds of the
 tropics, which become the westerly winds of the middle latitudes.



 antitrust  adj.  Opposing or concerned with the regulation of trusts,
 cartels, or similar business monopolies.



 antitumor or antitumoral   adj.  Anticancer.



 antitussive  adj.  Capable of relieving coughing.   -n. An antitussive
 drug.



 antitype  n.  1. One that is foreshadowed by or identified with an earlier
 symbol or type, as a figure in the New Testament who has a counterpart in
 the Old Testament. 2. An opposite type. [Med. Lat. antitypus < Gk.
 antitupos, corresponding : anti-, opposite + tupos, impression.]
 antitypical adj.



 antivenin  n.  1. An antitoxin active against venom. 2. An antiserum
 containing an antivenin. [anti- + ven(om) + -in.]



 antler  n.  One of a pair of hard, bony, deciduous growths, usually
 elongated and branched, that characteristically grow on the heads of male
 deer and related animals. [ME aunteler < OFr. antoillier.]   antlered adj.



 Antlia  n.  A constellation in the Southern Hemisphere near Hydra and
 Vela. [Lat. antlia, pump < Gk. antlos, bucket.]



 ant lion  n.  1. Any insect of the family Myrmeleontidae, of which the
 adults resemble dragon flies. 2. The larva of the ant lion, which digs
 holes to trap ants and other insects for food.



 antonomasia  n.  1. The substitution of a title or epithet for a proper
 name, as in calling a king "His Majesty." 2. The substitution of a personal
 name for a common noun to designate a member of a group or class, as in
 calling a libertine a "Don Juan." [Lat. < Gk. antonomazein, to name instead
 : anti-, instead of + onomazein, to name < onoma, name.]



 antonym  n.  A word having a meaning opposite to a meaning of another
 word: The word "light" is an antonym of "dark."  [ant(i)- + -onym.]
 antonymic adj.   antonymous adj.   antonymy n.



 antre  n.  A cavern or cave. [Fr. < Lat. antrum, cave.]



 antrorse  adj.  Biology.  Directed forward and upward. [NLat. antrorsus,
 perh. < Lat. anterior, before. -see anterior.]   antrorsely adv.



 antrum  n. pl. -tra  A cavity, usually in bone, esp. either of the sinuses
 in the upper jaw opening into the nose. [LLat., cavity < Lat., cave < Gk.
 antron.]   antral adj.



 Anubis  n.  Mythology.  A jackal-headed Egyptian god who conducted the
 dead to judgment. [Lat. < Gk. Anoubis, of Egypt. orig.]



 anuran  adj.  Of or pertaining to frogs and toads.   -n. A frog or toad.
 [NLat. Anura, order of frogs and toads : an- + Gk. oura, tail.]



 anuresis  n.  1. Inability to urinate. 2. Anuria. [an- + Gk. ouresis,
 urination < ourein, to urinate < ouron, urine.]   anuretic adj.



 anuria  n.  1. The pathological condition characterized by failure to
 urinate. 2. Anuresis.   anuric adj.



 anurous  adj.  Having no tail; tailless.



 anus  n. pl. anuses  The excretory opening of the alimentary canal. [Lat.]




 anvil  n.  1. A heavy block of iron or steel with a smooth, flat top on
 which metals are shaped by hammering. 2. The fixed jaw in a set of calipers
 against which the object to be measured is placed. 3.  Anatomy. The incus.
 [ME anvelt < OE anfilt.]



 anxiety  n. pl. -ties  1.  a. A state of uneasiness and distress about
 future uncertainties; apprehension; worry. b. A cause of such uneasiness;
 worry. 2.  Psychiatry. Intense fear or dread lacking an unambiguous cause
 or a specific threat. 3. Eagerness or earnestness, often marked by
 uneasiness. [Lat. anxietas < anxius, anxious.]

      Synonyms: anxiety worry care concern solicitude These nouns
 express troubled states of mind. Anxiety  suggests feelings of fear and
 concern detached from objective sources, feeding themselves, as it were.
 Worry  implies persistent doubt or fear that produces strong mental
 agitation. Care , often in the plural, implies mental oppression of varying
 degree arising from heavy responsibilities. Concern  has more to do with
 serious thought than with emotion, and stresses personal involvement in the
 source of mental unrest. Solicitude  is active concern for the well-being
 of another person or persons.




 anxious  adj.  1.  a. Worried and distressed about some uncertain event or
 matter; uneasy. b. Attended with, showing, or causing such worry. 2.
 Eagerly or earnestly desirous. [Lat. anxius < angere, to torment.]
 anxiously adv.   anxiousness n.

      Usage: Anxious  has a long history of use in America as a synonym for
 eager,  but many insist that the distinction between the two words should
 be maintained and that anxious  should be used only when its subject is
 apprehensive or concerned about the event anticipated. I was anxious to get
 home before it rained,  but I was eager  (not anxious ) to get home and
 have a nice dinner.



 any  adj.  1. One or some, regardless of kind, quantity, or number: Take
 any book you want. Are there any messages for me?  2.  a. One or another
 selected at random: Any child would do the same.  b. One or another without
 restriction or exception: will accept any suggestion offered.  3. The whole
 amount of; all: will turn over any profit to charity.  4. An indeterminate
 number or amount: Is there any soda?    -pron. 1. Any one or ones among
 three or more. 2. Any quantity or part.   -adv. To any degree or extent; at
 all: didn't feel any better. -See Usage note at everyone. [ME ani < OE
 aenig.]

      Usage: The phrase of any  is often used in informal contexts to mean
 "of all," as in He is the best of any living authority on the subject.  A
 majority of the Usage Panel finds this construction unacceptable. Any  is
 used to mean "at all" before a comparative adjective: Is she any better? He
 is not any friendlier than before.  This use is entirely proper, but the
 related use of any  all by itself to mean "at all" is considered informal.
 In writing, one should avoid sentences like it didn't hurt any  or if the
 child cries any, give her the bottle.



 anybody  pron.  Anyone.   -n. A person of some consequence: everybody who
 is anybody. -See Usage note at everyone.



 anyhow  adv.  1. In any way or by any means whatever; at all. 2. In any
 case. 3. Carelessly; neglectfully.



 anymore  adv.  1. At the present; from now on: mustn't talk anymore.  2.
 Regional. Nowadays.

      Usage: In many dialects of American English, anymore  is used to mean
 "nowadays," as in the downtown garages are crowded anymore  or, sometimes,
 anymore, she works a twelve-hour day.  This use is apt to confuse speakers
 who are not familiar with it and is not sufficiently well established to be
 acceptable in written prose.



 anyone  pron.  Anybody; any person.

      Usage: The one-word form anyone  is used to mean "whatsoever person or
 persons." The two-word form any one  is used to mean "whatever one (person
 or thing) of a group." Anyone may join  means admission is open to
 everybody. Any one may join  means admission is open to one person only.
 When followed by of,  only any one  can be used: Any one  (not anyone ) of
 the boys could carry it by himself. Anyone  is often used in place of
 everyone  in sentences like She is the most thrifty person of anyone I
 know.  Such usage is unacceptable in formal writing to a majority of the
 Usage Panel.



 anyplace  adv.  To, in, or at any place; anywhere.



 anything  pron.  Any object, occurrence, or matter whatever.   -adv. To
 any degree or extent; at all.

       Idiom Section:  anything but. By no means; not at all.



 anytime  adv.  At any time.



 anyway  adv.  Nevertheless; at any rate; anyhow.



 anyways  adv.  Nonstandard.  Anyway.



 anywhere  adv.  1. To, in, or at any place. 2. To any extent or degree; at
 all.



 anywise  adv.  In any way or manner.



 Anzac  n.  A soldier who is from New Zealand or Australia. [A(ustralian)
 and N(ew) Z(ealand) A(rmy) C(orps).]



 A-OK or A-Okay   adj.  -adv. Informal.  Perfectly OK.



 A-one or A-1   adj.  1.  Informal. First-class; excellent; splendid. 2.
 Having a hull and equipment in the best condition, as a ship.



 aorist  n.  Grammar.  A verb tense originally used in classical Greek that
 usually denotes past action without indicating completion, continuation, or
 repetition of this action.   -adj. Of or in the aorist. [< Gk. aoristos,
 indefinite : a-, not + horistos, definable < horizein, to define < horos,
 boundary.]   aoristic adj.   aoristically adv.



 aorta  n. pl. -tas  or -tae  Anatomy.  The main trunk of the systemic
 arteries, carrying blood from the left side of the heart to the arteries of
 all limbs and organs except the lungs. [NLat. < Gk. aorte < aeirein, to
 lift.]   aortal  aortic adj.



 aoudad  n.  A wild sheep, Ammotragus lervia, of northern Africa, having
 long, curved horns and a beardlike growth of hair on the neck and chest.
 [Fr. < Berber audad.]



 ap-
 ap-(1)   Variant of ad-. Used before p.
 ap-(2)   adv.  At a rapid pace; swiftly. [ME apas < OFr. a pas : a, to (<
 Lat. ad) + pas, step. -see pace.]



 apache  n. pl. apaches  A member of the Parisian underworld. [Fr. <
 Apache, Apache Indian.]



 Apache  n. pl. Apache  or -es  1. A formerly nomadic tribe of North
 American Indians inhabiting the southwestern United States and northern
 Mexico. 2. A member of the Apache. 3. Any of the Athapascan languages of
 the Apache. [Mex. Sp., prob. < Zuni Apachu, enemy.]



 apanage  n.  Variant of appanage.



 aparejo  n. pl. -jos  Southwestern U.S.  A packsaddle made of a stuffed
 leather pad. [Mex. Sp. < Sp., equipment < aparejar, to prepare.]



 apart  adv.  1.  a. In pieces. b. To pieces. 2.  a. Separately or at a
 distance in time, place, or position: trees ten feet apart.  b. To one
 side; aside. 3. One from another. 4. Separately or aside for a particular
 function or purpose. 5. Considered or viewed separately. 6. Excepted or
 excluded from consideration; aside.   -adj. Set apart; isolated. Used after
 a noun or in the predicate: a race apart.  [ME < OFr. a part, to the side :
 a, to (< Lat. ad) + part, side < Lat. pars.]



 apart from   With the exception of; besides.



 apartheid  n.  An official policy of racial segregation promulgated in the
 Republic of South Africa. [Afr. : Du. apart, separate < Fr. a part, apart +
 -heid, -hood.]



 apartment  n.  1. A room or suite of rooms designed for housekeeping and
 generally located in a building occupied by more than one household. 2. A
 room. [Fr. appartement < Ital. appartemento < appartare, to separate < a
 parte, apart : a, to (< Lat. ad) + parte, side < Lat. pars.]



 apartment house  n.  A building divided into apartments; apartment
 building.



 apatetic  adj.  Pertaining to or characteristic of coloration serving as
 natural camouflage. [Gk. apatetikos, deceptive < apateuein, to cheat <
 apate, deceit.]



 apathetic or apathetical   adj.  1. Feeling or showing little or no
 emotion. 2. Feeling or showing little or no interest; indifferent. [<
 apathy.]   apathetically adv.



 apathy  n.  1. Lack of emotion or feeling. 2. Lack of interest in things
 generally found exciting, interesting, or moving; indifference. [Gk.
 apatheia < apathes, without feeling : a-, without + pathos, feeling.]



 apatite  n.  A natural, variously colored calcium fluoride phosphate,
 Ca5F(PO4)3, with chlorine, hydroxyl, or carbonate sometimes replacing the
 fluoride. It is a source of phosphorus compounds and is used in the
 manufacture of fertilizers. [G. Apatit < Gk. apate, deceit (from its often
 being mistaken for other minerals).]



 ape  n.  1.  a. Any of various large, tailless Old World primates of the
 family Pongidae, including the chimpanzee, gorilla, gibbon, and orang-utan.
 b. Any monkey. 2. A mimic or imitator. 3.  Informal. A clumsy, ill-bred,
 coarse person.   -tr.v.aped aping apes   To imitate the actions of; mimic.
 [ME < OE apa.]   aper n.



 apeak  adv.  -adj. Nautical.  In a vertical or almost vertical position or
 direction. [Fr. a pic : a, to (< Lat. ad) + pic, peak.]



 ape-man  n.  Any of several extinct primates considered intermediate
 between apes and modern man.



 apercu  n. pl. -cus  A short outline or summary. [Fr.]



 aperient  adj.  Gently purgative; laxative.   -n. A mild laxative. [Lat.
 aperiens, pr.part. of aperire, to open.]



 aperiodic  adj.  Occurring without periodicity; irregular.   aperiodically
 adv.   aperiodicity n.



 aperitif  n.  A drink of alcoholic liquor or wine taken to stimulate the
 appetite before a meal. [Fr. < OFr. aperitif, purgative < Med. Lat.
 aperitivus < Lat. aperire, to open.]



 aperture  n.  1. A hole, gap, slit, or other opening; orifice. 2. A
 usually adjustable opening in an optical instrument that limits the amount
 of light passing through a lens. [Lat. apertura < apertus, open, p.part. of
 aperire, to open.]   apertural adj.



 aperture card  n.  A punched card upon which some portion of a microfilmed
 document is mounted.



 apetalous  adj.  Botany.  Having no petals.   apetaly n.



 apex  n. pl. apexes  or apices  1. The highest point of something; vertex:
 the apex of the hill.  2. The culmination, as of an activity or effort: the
 apex of his career.  3. The pointed end of something; tip. [Lat.]



 aphaeresis or apheresis   n. pl. -ses  The loss of one or more letters or
 sounds from the beginning of a word, as in most for almost.  [LLat. < Gk.
 aphairesis, removal < aphairein, to take away from : apo-, away from +
 hairein, to take.]   aphaeretic adj.



 aphagia  n.  Inability to swallow.



 aphanite  n.  Any dense, homogeneous rock with constituents so fine that
 they cannot be seen by the naked eye. [Fr. < Gk. aphanes, unseen : a-, not
 + phainesthai, to appear < phainein, to show.]   aphanitic adj.



 aphasia  n.  Partial or total loss of the ability to articulate ideas in
 any form, resulting from brain damage. [Gk. < aphatos, speechless : a-, not
 + phanai, to speak.]   aphasiac n.   aphasic adj. n.



 aphelion  n. pl. -lia  The orbital point on a planetary orbit farthest
 from the sun. [NLat. : Gk. apo-, away from + Gk. helios, sun.]



 apheliotropic  adj.  Turning away from the sun or source of light, as
 roots do.   apheliotropically adv.   apheliotropism n.



 apheresis  n.  Variant of aphaeresis.



 aphesis  n. pl. -ses  The loss of a short unstressed vowel from the
 beginning of a word, as in squire for esquire.  [Gk., a release < aphienai,
 to let go : apo-, away + hienai, to send.]   aphetic adj.   aphetically
 adv.



 aphid  n.  Any of various small, soft-bodied insects of the family
 Aphididae, which feed by sucking sap from plants. [< NLat. Aphis, Aphid-,
 type genus.]   aphidian adj. n.



 aphides  n.  Plural of aphis.



 aphid lion  n.  The larva of any of several insects of the family
 Chrysopidae, such as the lacewing, that feed on aphids.



 aphis  n. pl. aphides  An aphid, esp. one of the genus Aphis.  [NLat.
 Aphis, genus name.]



 aphonia  n.  Loss of speech or voicelessness caused by disease or injury
 to the organs of speech. [Gk. < aphonos, voiceless : a-, without + phone,
 voice.]   aphonic adj.



 aphorism  n.  1. A brief statement of a principle. 2. A tersely phrased
 statement of a truth or opinion; adage. [Fr. aphorisme < OFr. < Med. Lat.
 aphorismus < Gk. aphorismos < aphorizein, to distinguish : apo-, off +
 horos, boundary.]   aphoristic adj.   aphoristically adv.



 aphorize  intr.v. -rized -rizing -rizes   To express in or as if in
 aphorisms.



 aphotic  adj.  Without light.



 aphrodisiac  adj.  Stimulating or intensifying sexual desire.   -n. An
 aphrodisiac drug or food. [Gk. aphrodisiakos < aphrodisia, sexual pleasures
 < Aphrodite, Aphrodite.]   aphrodisiacal adj.



 Aphrodite  n.  1.  Greek Mythology. The goddess of love and beauty. 2.
 aphrodite  A brightly colored butterfly, Argynnis aphrodite, of North
 America. [Gk. Aphrodite.]



 aphyllous  adj.  Botany.  Bearing no leaves. [Gk. aphullos : a-, without +
 phullon, leaf.]   aphylly n.



 apian  adj.  Of or pertaining to bees. [Lat. apianus < apis, bee.]



 apiarian  adj.  Pertaining to bees or to the keeping and care of bees.
 -n. An apiarist.



 apiarist  n.  A beekeeper.



 apiary  n. pl. -ies  A place where bees and beehives are kept, esp. a
 place where bees are raised for their honey. [Lat. apiarium, beehive <
 apis, bee.]



 apical  adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, located at, or constituting an apex.
 2. Pertaining to consonants articulated with the tip of the tongue, as t,
 d, and s.  [NLat. apicalis < Lat. apex, top.]   apically adv.



 apices  n.  A plural of apex.



 apiculate  adj.  Ending with a sharp, abrupt tip: an apiculate leaf.  [<
 NLat. apiculus, sharp point, dim. of Lat. apex, point.]



 apiculture  n.  The raising and care of bees. [Lat. apis, bee + culture.]
  apicultural adj.   apiculturist n.



 apiece  adv.  To or for each one; each: an apple apiece.  [ME a pece : a,
 by + pece, piece.]



 Apis  n.  A sacred bull of the ancient Egyptians. [Lat. < Gk., of Egypt.
 orig.]



 apish  adj.  1. Resembling an ape. 2. Slavishly or foolishly imitative. 3.
 Silly; tricky; mischievous.   apishly adv.   apishness n.



 apivorous  adj.  Feeding on bees. [Lat. apis, bee + -vorous.]



 APL  n.  A computer programming language designed for use at remote
 terminals. [a + p(rogramming) + l(anguage).]



 aplacental  adj.  Having no placenta, as marsupials and monotremes.



 aplanatic  adj.  Of or pertaining to optical systems that correct for
 spherical aberration and coma. [< Gk. aplanetos, unable to go astray : a-,
 not + planetos, wandering < planasthai, to wander.]



 aplasia  n.  Defective development or congenital absence of tissue, of an
 organ, or of an organic part.



 aplastic  adj.  1. Lacking form. 2.  Pathology. Unable to form or
 regenerate tissue. 3.  Pathology. Of or relating to aplasia.



 aplenty  adj.  Being in abundance.   -adv. 1. In abundance. 2. To an
 extreme degree.



 aplite  n.  A fine-grained, light-colored granitic rock consisting
 primarily of orthoclase and quartz. [G. Aplit : Gk. haplous, single + -it,
 -ite.]   aplitic adj.



 aplomb  n.  Self-confidence; poise; assurance. [Fr., balance < OFr. a
 aplomb, perpendicularly : a, according to (< Lat. ad) + plomb, lead weight
 < Lat. plumbum, lead.]



 apnea or apnoea   n.  Transient suspension of respiration. [NLat. < Gk.
 apnoia : a-, without + pnoe, breathing < pnein, to breathe.]   apneic adj.



 apo- or ap-    1.  a. Away from; off: apheliotropic.  b. Separate:
 apocarpous.  2. Without; not: apogamy.  3. Related to; derived from:
 apomorphine.  4. Metasomatic: apophyllite.  [Gk. < apo, away from.]



 Apocalypse  n.  1. The last book of the New Testament, Revelation. See
 table at Bible. 2. apocalypse  A prophetic disclosure; revelation. [ME
 Apocalipse < LLat. Apocalipsis < Gk. apokalupsis, revelation <
 apokaluptein, to uncover : apo-, away + kaluptein, to cover.]



 apocalyptic or apocalyptical   adj.  Of or pertaining to a prophetic
 disclosure or revelation.   apocalyptically adv.



 apocarp  n.  An apocarpous fruit. [Back-formation < apocarpous.]



 apocarpous  adj.  Botany.  Having distinctly separated carpels.   apocarpy
 n.



 apochromatic  adj.  Corrected for both chromatic and spherical aberration,
 as a lens.



 apocope  n.  The loss of one or more letters or sounds from the end of a
 word, as in goin' for going.  [Lat. < Gk. apokope < apokoptein, to cut off
 : apo-, off + koptein, to cut.]



 apocrine  adj.  Of or pertaining to a gland that loses part of its
 cytoplasm in secretion. [< Gk. apokrinein, to set apart : apo-, away +
 krinein, to separate.]



 Apocrypha  n.  1. The 14 biblical books included in the Vulgate but
 considered uncanonical by Protestants because they are not part of the
 Hebrew Scriptures; 11 are accepted in the Roman Catholic canon. See table
 at Bible. 2. Various early Christian writings proposed as additions to the
 New Testament but rejected by the major canons. 3. apocrypha  Any writings
 of questionable authorship or authenticity. [ME Apocripha < LLat.
 apocryphus, spurious < Gk. apokruphos, hidden : apo-, away + kruptein, to
 hide.]



 apocryphal  adj.  1. Of questionable authorship or authenticity. 2. False;
 counterfeit. 3. Apocryphal  Of or having to do with the Apocrypha.
 apocryphally adv.



 apodal or apodus   adj.  Having no limbs, feet, or footlike appendages. [<
 Gk. apous, apod- : a-, without + pous, foot.]



 apodictic  adj.  Clearly proven or demonstrated; incontestable. [Lat.
 apodicticus < Gk. apodeiktikos < apodeiknunai, to demonstrate : apo, away
 from + deiknunai, to show.]   apodictically adv.



 apodosis  n. pl. -ses  The clause stating the conclusion or consequence of
 a conditional sentence. [Gk. < apodidonai, to give back : apo-, away +
 didonai, to give.]



 apodous  adj.  Apodal.



 apoenzyme  n.  A protein requiring a coenzyme to function as an enzyme.



 apogamy  n.  The production of a new plant from a prothallus by budding,
 without sexual reproduction, as in ferns.   apogamic apogamous  adj.



 apogee  n.  1. The point in the orbit of the moon or of an artificial
 satellite most distant from the earth. 2. The farthest or highest point;
 apex. [Fr. apogee < NLat. apogaeum < Gk. apogaion < apogaios, far from the
 earth : apo-, away from + gaia, earth.]   apogean adj.



 apolitical  adj.  1. Having no association with or interest in politics.
 2. Having no political importance.   apolitically adv.



 Apollo  n.  1.  Greek Mythology. The god of the sun, prophecy, music,
 medicine, and poetry. 2. apollo  Any young man of great physical beauty.
 [Lat. < Gk. Apollon.]



 Apollonian  adj.  1. Of or pertaining to Apollo. 2. apollonian  Of a
 theoretical or rational nature; clearly defined and well-ordered;
 harmonious. 3. apollonian  Noble; dignified; serene.



 apologetic  adj.  1. Making or expressing an apology. 2. Explaining or
 defending in speech or writing.   -n. A formal defense or apology.
 apologetically adv.



 apologetics  n.  The branch of theology that deals with the defense and
 proof of Christianity.



 apologia  n.  A formal defense or justification. [LLat., apology.]



 apologist  n.  A person who argues in defense or justification of another
 person or cause.



 apologize  intr.v. -gized -gizing -gizes   1. To make excuse for or
 regretful acknowledgment of a fault or offense. 2. To make a formal defense
 or justification in speech or writing.   apologizer n.



 apologue  n.  A moral fable. [Fr. < Lat. apologus < Gk. apologos : apo-,
 away + logos, speech.]



 apology  n. pl. -gies  1. A statement of acknowledgment expressing regret
 or asking pardon for a fault or offense. 2. A formal justification or
 defense. 3. An inferior substitute. [OFr. apologie < LLat. apologia < Gk. :
 apo-, away + logos, speech.]



 apolune  n.  The point of an orbit around the moon farthest from the
 moon's center. [apo- + Lat. luna, moon.]



 apomict  n.  An organism that is the result of apomixis. [Back-formation <
 E. apomictic, produced by apomixis.]   apomictic adj.



 apomixis  n.  A rare reproductive process in which a new individual is
 produced from a female cell or cells other than the egg cell, often in a
 manner that mimics sexual reproduction. [NLat. : apo- + Gk. mixis, sexual
 intercourse < meignunai, to have sexual intercourse.]



 apomorphine  n.  A poisonous white crystalline alkaloid, C17H17NO2,
 derived from morphine and used medicinally as an expectorant, emetic, and
 hypnotic.



 aponeurosis  n. pl. -ses  A sheetlike membrane, resembling a flattened
 tendon, that invests a muscle or connects it to its insertion. [Gk.
 aponeurosis < aponeurousthai, to become tendinous : apo-, away + neuron,
 sinew.]   aponeurotic adj.



 apophthegm  n.  Variant of apothegm.



 apophyge  n.  The curvature at the top and bottom of the shaft of a
 column. [Gk. apophuge : apo-, away + phuge, flight.]



 apophyllite  n.  A white, pale-pink, or pale-green crystalline mineral,
 essentially KCa4FSi4O108H2O.



 apophysis  n. pl. -ses  1.  Biology. A swelling, projection, or outgrowth
 of an organ or part. 2.  Geology. A branch from a dike or vein. [NLat. <
 Gk. apophusis : apo-, off from + phusis, growth < phuein, to grow.]
 apophysate apophyseal  adj.



 apoplectic  adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, or causing apoplexy. 2. Having or
 exhibiting symptoms of apoplexy. 3. Such as can cause apoplexy: an
 apoplectic fury.    apoplectically adv.



 apoplexy  n.  Sudden loss of muscular control, with diminution or loss of
 sensation and consciousness, resulting from rupture or blocking of a blood
 vessel in the brain. [ME apoplexie < OFr. < LLat. apoplexia < Gk. <
 apoplessein, to cripple by a stroke : apo- (intensive) + plessein, to
 strike.]



 aport  adv.  Nautical.  On or toward the port or left side.



 aposelene  n.  Apolune. [apo- + Gk. selene, moon.]



 aposiopesis  n. pl. -ses  A sudden breaking off of a thought in the middle
 of a sentence, as though the speaker were unwilling or unable to continue.
 [LLat. < Gk. aposiopesis < aposiopan, to become silent : apo- (intensive) +
 siopan, to be silent < siope, silence.]   aposiopetic adj.



 apostasy  n. pl. -sies  An abandonment of one's religious faith, political
 party, cause, or principles. [ME apostasie < LLat. apostasia, defection <
 Gk. aphistanai, to revolt : apo-, away from + histanai, to stand.]



 apostate  n.  One who is guilty of apostasy.   -adj. Guilty of apostasy.
 [ME apostata < LLat. < Gk. apostates < aphistanai, to revolt. -see
 apostasy.]



 apostatize  intr.v. -tized -tizing -tizes   To be guilty of apostasy.



 a posteriori  adj.  Logic.  Denoting reasoning from facts or particulars
 to general principles or from effects to causes; inductive; empirical.
 [Lat., from the subsequent.]



 apostle  n.  1. Apostle  One of a group made up esp. of the 12 disciples
 chosen by Christ to preach his gospel. 2. A missionary of the early
 Christian Church. 3. A leader of the first Christian mission to a country
 or region. 4. One of the 12 members of the Mormon administrative council.
 5. One who leads or advocates a cause or movement: an apostle of
 conservation.  [ME < OE apostol < LLat. apostolus < Gk. apostulos,
 messenger < apostellein, to send off : apo-, away from + stellein, to
 send.]



 Apostles' Creed  n.  A Christian creed traditionally ascribed to the 12
 Apostles.



 apostolate  n.  1. The office, duties, or mission of an apostle. 2. An
 association of individuals for the dissemination of a religion or a
 doctrine. [LLat. apostolatus < apostolus, apostle.]



 apostolic  adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, or contemporary with the 12
 Apostles. 2. Of or pertaining to the faith, teaching, or practice of the 12
 Apostles. 3. Of or pertaining to the pope as successor of Saint Peter.



 Apostolic Father  n.  A church father who received personal instruction
 from the 12 Apostles or from their disciples.



 apostrophe
 apostrophe(1)  n.  The superscript sign (') used to indicate the omission
 of a letter or letters from a word, the possessive case, and certain
 plurals, esp. those of numbers and letters. [Fr. < LLat. apostrophos < Gk.
 < apostrophein, to turn away : apo-, away + strephein, to turn.]
 apostrophic adj.
 apostrophe(2)  n.  A digression in discourse, esp. a turning away from an
 audience to address an absent or imaginary person. [Lat. < Gk. <
 apostrephein, to turn away. -see apostrophe1.]   apostrophic adj.



 apostrophize  tr.  -intr.v.-phized -phizing -phizes   To address by or
 speak or write in apostrophe.



 apothecaries' measure  n.  A system of liquid volume measure used in
 pharmacy.



 apothecaries' weight  n.  A system of weights used in pharmacy and based
 on an ounce equal to 480 grains and a pound equal to 12 ounces.



 apothecary  n. pl. -ries  One who prepares and sells drugs and medicines;
 pharmacist. [ME apotecarie < Med. Lat. apothecarius < LLat., clerk < Lat.
 apotheca, storehouse < Gk. apotheke < apotithenai, to store : apo-, away +
 tithenai, to put.]



 apothecium  n. pl. -cia  An open disk-shaped or cup-shaped fruiting body
 in certain fungi, lined with a spore-bearing layer. [NLat. < Lat. apotheca,
 storehouse. -see apothecary.]   apothecial adj.



 apothegm or apophthegm   n.  A terse and witty instructive saying; maxim.
 [Gk. apophegma < apophthengesthai, to speak plainly : apo-, away +
 phthengesthai, to speak.]   apothegmatic apothegmatical  adj.
 apothegmatically adv.



 apothem  n.  The perpendicular distance from the center of a regular
 polygon to any of the sides. [apo- + Gk. thema, something laid down <
 tithenai, to put.]



 apotheosis  n. pl. -ses  1. Exaltation to divine rank or stature;
 deification. 2. An exalted or glorified example: He was the apotheosis of
 courage.  [LLat. < Gk. apotheosis < apotheoun, to deify : apo-, from +
 theos, god.]



 apotheosize  tr.v. -sized -sizing -sizes   To glorify; exalt.



 apotropaic  adj.  Intended to ward off evil: an apotropaic symbol.  [Gk.
 apotropaios < apotrepein, to ward off : apo-, from + trepein, to turn.]
 apotropaically adv.



 Appalachian tea  n.  The withe rod. [After the Appalachian Mountains.]



 appall  tr.v. -palled -palling -palls   To fill with consternation or
 dismay. [ME apallen, to grow faint < OFr. apalir : a-, to (< Lat. ad) +
 palir, to grow pale < Lat. pallere.]



 appalling  adj.  Causing consternation or dismay; frightful: appalling
 working conditions.    appallingly adv.



 appaloosa  n.  A horse of a breed developed in northwestern North America,
 characteristically having a spotted rump. [Prob. after the Paloose Indians,
 who bred the horse.]



 appanage or apanage   n.  1. Land or another source of revenue given by a
 king for the maintenance of a member of the ruling family. 2. Something
 extra offered to or claimed by a person as his due; perquisite. 3. A
 natural accompaniment or adjunct. [Fr. apanage < OFr. < apaner, to make
 provisions for < Med. Lat. appanare : Lat. ad-, to + Lat. panis, bread.]



 apparat  n.  A political organization or an underground political
 movement. [R.]



 apparatchik  n.  A member of a Communist apparat. [R. < apparat, apparat.]




 apparatus  n. pl. apparatus  or -tuses  1. The totality of means by which
 a designated function is performed or a specific task executed. 2.  a. A
 machine. b. A group of machines used together or in succession to
 accomplish a task. 3.  Physiology. A group of organs having a collective
 function: the respiratory apparatus.  4. A political organization. [Lat.,
 preparation < apparare, to prepare : ad-, to + parare, to prepare.]



 apparel  n.  1. Clothing, esp. outer garments; attire. 2. Something that
 covers or adorns: trees with their apparel of foliage.    -tr.v.-eled
 -eling -els  or -elled  or -elling  or -els   1. To clothe; dress. 2. To
 adorn; embellish. [ME appareil < OFr. apareil, preparation < apareillier,
 to prepare < Lat. apparare. -see apparatus.]



 apparent  adj.  1. Readily seen; open to view; visible. 2. Readily
 understood or perceived; plain or obvious: His anger was apparent to all.
 3. Appearing as such but not necessarily so: an apparent advantage.  [ME
 apparaunt < OFr. aparant, pr.part. of aparoir, to appear.]   apparently
 adv.   apparentness n.

      Usage: Used before a noun, apparent  means "seeming": For all his
 apparent wealth, Pat had no money to pay the rent.  Used after a form of
 the verb be,  however, apparent  can mean either "seeming" (as in his
 virtues are only apparent ) or "obvious" (as in the effects of the drought
 are apparent to anyone who sees the parched fields ). Writers should take
 care that the intended meaning is clear from the context.



 apparent magnitude  n.  Magnitude (sense 2).



 apparition  n.  1. A ghostly figure; specter. 2. A sudden or unusual
 sight. 3. The act of appearing; appearance. [ME apparicioun < OFr.
 apparition < LLat. apparitio, an appearance < Lat. apparere, to appear.]
 apparitional adj.



 apparitor  n.  An official who was formerly sent to carry out the orders
 of a civil or ecclesiastical court. [Lat. < apparere, to appear.]



 appeal  n.  1. An earnest or urgent request, entreaty, or supplication. 2.
 A resort or application to a higher authority, as for sanction,
 corroboration, or a decision: an appeal to reason.  3. The power of
 attracting or of arousing interest: a city with appeal for tourists.  4.
 Law.  a. The transfer of a case from a lower to a higher court for a new
 hearing. b. A request for a new hearing. c. A case so transferred.
 -v.-pealed -pealing -peals   -intr. 1. To make an earnest or urgent
 request, as for help 2. To have recourse, as for corroboration; resort. 3.
 To be attractive or interesting. 4.  Law. To make or apply for an appeal.
 -tr. Law.  To transfer or apply to transfer (a case) to a higher court for
 rehearing. [ME apel < OFr. < apeler, to appeal < Lat. appellare, to
 entreat.]   appealable adj.   appealer n.   appealingly adv.



 appear  intr.v. -peared -pearing -pears   1. To come into view; become
 visible: a plane appearing in the sky.  2. To come into existence: New
 strains of viruses appear periodically.  3. To seem or look to be: appeared
 unhappy.  4. To seem likely: It appears they will be late.  5. To come
 before the public; be presented or published: has appeared in two plays.
 6.  Law. To present oneself formally before a court as defendant,
 plaintiff, or counsel. [ME aperen < OFr. aparoir < Lat. apparere : ad-, to
 + parere, to show.]



 appearance  n.  1. The act or an instance of coming into sight. 2. The act
 or an instance of coming into public view: a rare personal appearance.  3.
 The outward aspect of someone or something: a good appearance.  4.
 Something that appears; phenomenon. 5. A superficial aspect; semblance:
 keeping up an appearance of diligence.  6. appearances  Outward
 indications; circumstances: a cheerful woman, to all appearances.



 appease  tr.v. -peased -peasing -peases   1. To calm or pacify, esp. by
 giving what is demanded; placate. 2. To satisfy or relieve: appease thirst.
  [ME appesen < OFr. apaisier : a, to (< Lat. ad) + pais, peace < Lat. pax.]
   appeasable adj.   appeasably adv.   appeaser n.



 appeasement  n.  1.  a. The act of appeasing. b. The condition of being
 appeased. 2. The policy of granting concessions to potential enemies to
 maintain peace.



 appel  n.  A quick stamp of the foot used in fencing as a feint to produce
 an opening. [Fr., call < appeler, to call < OFr. apeler, to appeal.]



 appellant  adj.  Of or pertaining to an appeal; appellate.   -n. One who
 appeals a court decision.



 appellate  adj.  Having the power to hear appeals and to review court
 decisions: an appellate court.  [Lat. appellatus, p.part. of appellare, to
 entreat.]



 appellation  n.  1. A name or title. 2. The act of naming. [ME appelacion
 < Lat. appellatio < appellare, to entreat.]



 appellative  adj.  1. Of or relating to the assignment of names. 2.
 Grammar. Designating a class; common: an appellative noun.    -n. A name or
 descriptive epithet. [ME < LLat. appelativus < appellare,  to call upon,
 entreat.]   appellatively adv.



 appellee  n.  One against whom an appeal is taken. [OFr. apele < apeler,
 to appeal.]



 append  tr.v. -pended -pending -pends   1. To add as a supplement:
 appended a list of errors to the report.  2. To fix to; attach. [Lat.
 appendere, to hang upon : ad-, to + pendere, to hang.]



 appendage  n.  1. Something appended. 2.  Biology. A part or organ that is
 joined to an axis or trunk.

      Synonyms: appendage appurtenance adjunct accessory addition
 attachment These nouns denote something added to a principal object.
 Appendage  applies to what is likened to a limb in close but subordinate
 relation to the principal. An appurtenance  is something, such as a
 president's limousine, that belongs to or goes with the principal without
 being essential to it. An adjunct  is added to the principal but has its
 own function and is self-sustaining, like a tea room in the basement of a
 bookstore. Accessory  denotes that which adds to the usefulness or
 appearance of something already complete in itself. Addition  refers
 broadly to anything of the same nature or function added to the principal.
 An attachment  usually contributes another function to the principal, to
 which it is physically linked.




 appendant  adj.  1. Affixed as an appendage. 2. Accompanying; attendant:
 faith and its appendant hope.  3.  Law. Belonging to a land grant as a
 subsidiary right.   -n. 1. Something appended. 2.  Law. A subsidiary right.




 appendectomy  n. pl. -mies  The surgical removal of the vermiform
 appendix. [append(ix) + -ectomy.]



 appendicitis  n.  Inflammation of the vermiform appendix. [appendix +
 -itis.]



 appendicular  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or consisting of an appendage or
 appendages. [< Lat. appendicula, dim. of appendix, appendix.]



 appendix  n. pl. -dixes  or -dices  1.  a. An appendage. b. A collection
 of supplementary material, usually at the end of a book. 2. The vermiform
 appendix. [Lat. < appendere, to hang upon. -see append.]



 apperceive  tr.v. -ceived -ceiving -ceives   Psychology.  To perceive in
 terms of past perceptions. [ME apperceiven, to notice < OFr. apercevoir :
 a, toward (< Lat. ad) + perceivre,  to perceive. -see perceive.]



 apperception  n.  Psychology.  1. Conscious perception with full
 awareness. 2. The process of understanding by which newly observed
 qualities of an object are related to past experience. [Fr. aperception <
 apercevoir, to notice < OFr. -see apperceive.]   apperceptive adj.



 appertain  intr.v. -tained -taining -tains   To belong as a function or
 part; pertain properly: problems appertaining to social reform.  [ME
 appertenen < OFr. apartenir < LLat. appertinere : ad-,  to + pertinere,  to
 belong. -see pertain.]



 appestat  n.  The mechanism in the central nervous system that controls
 food intake. [appe(tite) + -stat.]



 appetence  n.  1. A strong craving or desire. 2. A tendency or proclivity;
 propensity. [Lat. appetentia < appetere, to strive after. -see appetite.]



 appetency  n. pl. -cies  Appetence.



 appetite  n.  1. A desire for food or drink. 2. A physical desire. 3. A
 strong wish or urge: an appetite for learning.  [ME appetit < OFr. < Lat.
 appetitus, strong desire < appetere,  to strive after : ad-,  toward +
 petere,  to seek.]   appetitive adj.



 appetizer  n.  A food or drink served usually before a meal to stimulate
 the appetite.



 appetizing  adj.  Stimulating or appealing to the appetite.   appetizingly
 adv.



 applaud  v. -plauded -plauding -plauds   -intr. To express approval, esp.
 by clapping the hands. -tr. 1. To express approval of, esp. by clapping the
 hands. 2. To praise; approve: applauded his decision to complete his
 degree.  [Lat. applaudere : ad-, to + plaudere, to clap.]   applauder n.



 applause  n.  1. Approval expressed esp. by the clapping of hands. 2.
 Praise; commendation: a scientific discovery that won critical applause.
 [Med. Lat. applausus < Lat., p.part. of applaudere, to applaud.]



 apple  n.  1.  a. A tree, Pyrus malus, of temperate regions, having
 fragrant pink or white flowers and edible fruit. b. The firm, rounded fruit
 of this tree or any of its varieties, having skin that is usually red but
 may be yellow or green. 2.  a. Any of several trees or plants having fruit
 resembling the apple, as the custard apple. b. The fruit of any of these
 trees or plants. 3. The hard wood of an apple tree. [ME appel < OE aeppel.]




 apple green  n.  A moderate or vivid yellow green to light or strong
 yellowish green.   apple-green adj.



 applejack  n.  Brandy distilled from hard cider.



 apple of Peru  n.  A plant, Nicandra physalodes, native to tropical
 America, having tubular blue or whitish flowers.



 apple-polish  intr.v. -ished -ishing -ishes   Informal.  To seek favor by
 toadying.   apple polisher n.



 applesauce  n.  1. Apples stewed to a pulp, sweetened, and sometimes
 spiced. 2.  Slang. Foolishness; nonsense.



 Appleton layer  n.  The F layer of the upper atmosphere. [After Sir Edward
 Appleton (1892-1965).]



 appliance  n.  A device or instrument, esp. one operated by electricity
 and designed for household use. [< apply.]



 applicable  adj.  Capable of being applied; appropriate.   applicability
 n.   applicably adv.



 applicant  n.  A person who applies, as for a job. [Lat. applicans,
 pr.part. of applicare,  to affix. -see apply.]



 application  n.  1. The act of applying. 2. Something that is applied, as
 a cosmetic or curative agent. 3.  a. The act of putting something to a
 special use or purpose: an application of a new method.  b. A specific use
 to which something is put: the application of science to industry.  4. The
 capacity of being usable; relevance: Geometry has practical application.
 5. Close attention; diligence: shows application to her work.  6.  a. A
 request, as for assistance, employment, or admission to a school. b. The
 form or document upon which such a request is made. [ME applicacioun < Med.
 Lat. applicatio < Lat. applicare, to affix. -see apply.]



 applicative  adj.  1. Characterized by actual application; applied. 2.
 Practical; applicatory.   applicatively adv.



 applicator  n.  An instrument for applying something, such as medicine or
 glue.



 applicatory  adj.  Practical.



 applied  adj.  Put into practice or a particular use: applied physics.



 applique  n.  A decoration or ornament, as in needlework, made by cutting
 pieces of one material and applying them to the surface of another.   -adj.
 Of or like applique.   -tr.v.-qued -queing -ques   To decorate with
 applique. [Fr., p.part. of appliquer, to apply < Lat. applicare, to affix.
 -see apply.]



 apply  v. -plied -plying -plies   -tr. 1. To bring into nearness or
 contact with something; put on, upon, or to: applied glue sparingly to the
 paper.  2. To put to or adapt for a special use: applies all her money to
 her mortgage.  3. To put into action: applied the brakes.  4. To devote
 (oneself or one's efforts) to something: applied himself to his studies.
 -intr. 1. To be pertinent or relevant: a rule that does not apply to me.
 2. To request or seek assistance, employment, or admission: will apply to
 college.  [ME applien < OFr. aplier < Lat. applicare, to affix : ad-, to +
 plicare, to fold together.]



 appoggiatura  n.  Music.  An embellishing note, usually one step above or
 below the note it precedes and indicated by a small note or special sign.
 [Ital. < appoggiare, to lean on < VLat. *appodiare : Lat. ad-, to + podium,
 support < Gk. podion, base < pous, foot.]



 appoint  tr.v. -pointed -pointing -points   1. To select or designate to
 fill an office or position: appointed her chief operating officer.  2. To
 fix or set by authority or by mutual agreement: will appoint a date for the
 examination.  3. To furnish; equip: a comfortably appointed house.  4.
 Law. To direct the disposition of (property) to a person or persons in
 exercise of a power granted for this purpose by a preceding deed. [ME
 appointen, to decide < OFr. apointier, to arrange < a point, to the point :
 a, to (< Lat. ad) + point, point < Lat. punctum < pungere, to prick.]



 appointee  n.  1. A person who is appointed to an office or position. 2.
 Law. One to whom a power of appointment of property is granted. -See Usage
 note at -ee1.



 appointive  adj.  Pertaining to or filled by appointment: an appointive
 office.



 appointment  n.  1. The act of appointing or designating for an office or
 position. 2. The office or position to which a person has been appointed.
 3. An arrangement to do something or meet someone at a particular time and
 place. 4. appointments  Furnishings, fittings, or equipment. 5.  Law. The
 act of directing the disposition of property by virtue of a power granted
 for this purpose.



 appointor  n.  Law.  One who executes a power of appointment of property.



 apportion  tr.v. -tioned -tioning -tions   To divide and assign according
 to a plan or proportion; allot. [OFr. apportioner : a- (< Lat. ad) +
 portionner, to divide into portions < portion, portion. -see portion.]



 apportionment  n.  1.  a. The act of apportioning. b. The condition of
 being apportioned. 2.  a. The proportional distribution of the number of
 members of the U.S. House of Representatives on the basis of the population
 of each state. b. The allotment of direct taxes on the basis of state
 population.



 appose  tr.v. -posed -posing -poses   To place (things) near to each other
 or side by side; juxtapose. [Back-formation < apposition.]



 apposite  adj.  Fitting; suitable; appropriate. [Lat. appositus, p.part.
 of apponere, to put near : ad-, to + ponere, to put.]   appositely adv.
 appositeness n.



 apposition  n.  1.  Grammar.  a. A construction in which a noun or noun
 phrase is placed with another as an explanatory equivalent, both having the
 same syntactic relation to the other elements in the sentence, as Copley
 and the painter in The painter Copley was born in Boston.  b. The
 relationship between such nouns or noun phrases. 2. A placing side by side
 or next to each other. 3.  Biology. The growth of successive layers of a
 cell wall. [ME apposicioun < Med. Lat. appositio < Lat. apponere, to put
 near. -see apposite.]   appositional adj.   appositionally adv.



 appositive  adj.  Of, concerning, or being in apposition.   -n. A word or
 phrase that is in apposition.   appositively adv.



 appraisal  n.  1. The act of appraising. 2. An expert or official
 valuation of something, as for taxation.



 appraise  tr.v. -praised -praising -praises   1. To evaluate, esp. in an
 official capacity. 2. To estimate the quality, amount, size, and other
 features of; judge. [ME appreisen, alteration of apprisen < OFr. aprisier <
 LLat. appretiare : Lat. ad-, to + Lat. pretium, price.]   appraisable adj.
  appraisement n.   appraiser n.



 appreciable  adj.  Capable of being noticed, estimated, or measured;
 noticeable.   appreciably adv.



 appreciate  v. -ated -ating -ates   -tr. 1. To recognize the quality,
 significance, or magnitude of; value: appreciated their freedom.  2. To be
 fully aware of or sensitive to; realize: I appreciate your problems.  3. To
 be thankful or show gratitude for: really appreciate your help.  4. To
 enjoy and understand critically or emotionally: appreciates literature and
 music.  5. To raise in value or price. -intr. To go up in value or price.
 [LLat. appretiare, appretiat-, to appraise.]   appreciator n.
 appreciatory adj.

      Synonyms: appreciate value prize esteem treasure
 cherish These verbs express having a favorable opinion of someone or
 something. Appreciate  applies especially to favor based on judgment and
 assessment. Value  implies high regard for the importance of the object,
 while prize  emphasizes its specialness. Esteem  suggests respect of a
 formal sort; treasure  and cherish  suggest affectionate regard mixed with
 pride of possession.




 appreciation  n.  1. Recognition of the quality, value, significance, or
 magnitude of people and things. 2. A judgment or opinion, esp. a favorable
 one. 3. An expression of gratitude. 4. Awareness or delicate perception,
 esp. of aesthetic qualities or values. 5. A rise in value or price.



 appreciative  adj.  Capable of or showing appreciation.   appreciatively
 adv.



 apprehend  v. -hended -hending -hends   -tr. 1. To take into custody;
 arrest: apprehended the murderer.  2. To grasp mentally; understand. 3. To
 look forward to fearfully; anticipate with anxiety. -intr. To understand.
 [ME apprehenden < Lat. apprehendere, to seize : ad-, to + prehendere, to
 grasp.]

      Synonyms: apprehend comprehend grasp understand These verbs refer to
 varying degrees of mental perception. Apprehend  is often limited to
 perception and does not imply full understanding. Comprehend  stresses
 attainment of full understanding. Grasp  suggests seizing an idea firmly.
 Understand , nearer in meaning to comprehend , can also suggest sympathy,
 compassion, or insight: My parents don't understand me.




 apprehensible  adj.  Capable of being apprehended or understood.
 apprehensibly adv.



 apprehension  n.  1. A fearful or uneasy anticipation of the future;
 dread. 2. The act of seizing or capturing; arrest. 3. The ability to
 apprehend or understand; understanding. [LLat. apprehensio, understanding <
 apprehendere, to seize. -see apprehend.]

      Synonyms: apprehension foreboding presentiment misgiving These nouns
 denote concern for something that impends. Apprehension  refers broadly to
 anxiety about the future. Foreboding  is a vague fear of the future,
 inferred irrationally from clues in the present. Presentiment  denotes a
 less certain prophetic sense that something, not necessarily unpleasant, is
 imminent. Misgiving , usually used in the plural, applies to a specific
 instance of apprehension and stresses mistrust.




 apprehensive  adj.  1. Anxious or fearful about the future; uneasy. 2.
 Capable of understanding; quick to apprehend.   apprehensively adv.
 apprehensiveness n.



 apprentice  n.  1. One bound by legal agreement to work for another for a
 specific amount of time in return for instruction in a trade, art, or
 business. 2. A person who is learning a trade or occupation, esp. as a
 member of a labor union. 3. A beginner; learner.   -tr.v.-ticed -ticing
 -tices   To place or take on as an apprentice. [ME apprentis < OFr. <
 aprendre, to learn < Lat. apprehendere, to seize. -see apprehend.]
 apprenticeship n.



 appressed  adj.  Lying flat or pressed closely against something, as
 leaves on a stem. [< Lat. appressus, p.part. of apprimere, to press down :
 ad-, to + premere, to press.]



 apprise  tr.v. -prised -prising -prises   To give notice to; inform:
 apprised him of his rights.  [Fr. apprendre, appris- < OFr. aprendre, to
 learn. -see apprentice.]



 apprize  v.  Chiefly British.  Variant of apprise.



 approach  v. -proached -proaching -proaches   -intr. To come near or
 nearer, as in space or time. -tr. 1. To come or go near or nearer to. 2. To
 come close to in appearance, quality, condition, or other characteristics;
 approximate: What approaches the joy of singing?  3. To make a proposal to;
 make overtures to: approached the president for a promotion.  4. To begin
 to deal with or work on: approaching a task.    -n. 1. The act of
 approaching: the approach of winter.  2. A fairly close resemblance;
 approximation. 3. A way or means of reaching something; access: an approach
 to the bridge.  4. The method used in dealing with or accomplishing
 something: a logical approach to the problem.  5. An advance or overture
 made by one person to another. 6. The golf stroke following the drive from
 the tee with which the player tries to get the ball onto the putting green.
 7. Works such as trenches or bulwarks for the protection of troops
 besieging a fortified position. [ME approchen < OFr. aprochier < LLat.
 appropiare : Lat. ad-, to + Lat. propius, nearer, comp. of prope, near.]



 approachable  adj.  1. Capable of being approached; accessible. 2. Easily
 approached; receptive to overtures; friendly.   approachability n.



 approbate  tr.v. -bated -bating -bates   To sanction; authorize. [ME
 approbaten < Lat. approbare, to approve.]   approbative  approbatory adj.



 approbation  n.  1. Praise; commendation. 2. Official approval.



 appropriable  adj.  Capable of being appropriated.



 appropriate  adj.  Suitable for a particular person, condition, occasion,
 or place; proper; fitting.   -tr.v. -ated -ating -ates   1. To set apart
 for a specific use: appropriating funds for education.  2. To take
 possession of or make use of exclusively for oneself, often without
 permission: appropriated my unread newspaper and never returned it.  [ME
 appropriat < Med. Lat. appropriatus, p.part. of appropriare, to make one's
 own : Lat. ad-, to + Lat. propius, own.]   appropriately adv.
 appropriateness n.   appropriative adj.   appropriator n.



 appropriation  n.  1. The act of appropriating. 2. Something appropriated,
 esp. public funds set aside for a specific purpose. 3. A legislative act
 authorizing the expenditure of a designated amount of public funds for a
 specific purpose.



 approval  n.  1. The act of approving. 2. An official approbation;
 sanction. 3. Favorable regard; commendation.

       Idiom Section:  on approval. For examination or trial by a potential
 customer without the obligation to buy.



 approve  v. -proved -proving -proves   -tr. 1. To regard favorably;
 consider right or good: approved his decision.  2. To confirm or consent to
 officially; sanction; ratify: a treaty approved by the Senate.  3.
 Obsolete. To prove or demonstrate. -intr. To feel, voice, or demonstrate
 approval: didn't approve of gambling.  [ME approven < OFr. aprover < Lat.
 approbare : ad-, to + probare, to test < probus, good.]   approvable adj.
 approvingly adv.

      Synonyms: approve endorse sanction certify accredit
 ratify These verbs all mean to express a favorable opinion of a person,
 thing, or action or to signify satisfaction or acceptance. Approve  may
 indicate varying degrees of admiration. Endorse  (or indorse ), stronger
 than approve , implies expression of support, often by public statement.
 Sanction  adds authorization, usually official, to approval. Certify  and
 accredit  imply official endorsement gained upon conforming to set
 standards. Ratify  refers to making legal by formal official approval: a
 treaty ratified by the legislatures of each of the countries involved.




 approved school  n.  Chiefly British.  A reform school.



 approximate  adj.  1. Almost exact, correct, complete, or perfect. 2. Very
 similar; closely resembling. 3. Close together; near.   -v. -mated -mating
 -mates   -tr. 1. To come close to; be nearly the same as. 2. To cause to
 approach; bring near. -intr. To come near or close in degree, nature,
 quality, or other characteristics. [LLat. approximatus, p.part. of
 approximare, to approach : Lat. ad-, to + proximare, to come near <
 proximus, nearest.]   approximately adv.



 approximation  n.  1. The act, process, or result of approximating. 2.
 Mathematics. An inexact result adequate for a given purpose.
 approximative adj.   approximatively adv.



 appurtenance  n.  1. Something added to another, more important thing;
 accessory. 2. appurtenances  Equipment, such as clothing, tools, or
 instruments, used for a specific purpose or task; gear. 3.  Law. A right,
 privilege, or property that is considered incident to the principal
 property for purposes such as passage of title, conveyance, or inheritance.
 [ME appurtenaunce < AN apurtenance < VLat. *appertinentia < LLat.
 appertinere, to appertain. ]   appurtenant adj.



 apraxia  n.  The inability to perform coordinated movements as a result of
 lesions in the cerebral cortex. [Gk., inaction : a-, without + praxis,
 action < prassein, to do.]   apractic apraxic  adj.



 apres-ski  n.  Social events or activities, as at a ski lodge, after
 skiing. [Fr. : apres, after + ski, skiing.]   apres-ski adj.



 apricot  n.  1. A tree, Prunus armeniaca, native to western Asia and
 Africa, widely cultivated for its edible fruit. 2. The juicy, yellow-orange
 peachlike fruit of the apricot. 3. A moderate, light, or strong orange to
 strong orange yellow. [Alteration of earlier abrecock < Port. albricoque <
 Ar. al-birquq, the apricot : al, the + LGk. praikokion < Lat. praecoqquus,
 ripe early (prae-, before + coquere, to ripen).]



 April  n.  The fourth month of the year according to the Gregorian
 calendar. See table at calendar. [ME < Lat. aprilis.]



 April fool  n.  The victim of a trick played on April Fools' Day.



 April Fools' Day  n.  April 1, marked as a day for playing practical
 jokes.



 a priori  adj.  1. Proceeding from a known or assumed cause to a
 necessarily related effect; deductive. 2. Based on a hypothesis or theory
 rather than on experiment or experience. 3. Made before or without
 examination; not supported by factual study. [Lat., from the former.]
 apriori  adv.   apriority n.



 apron  n.  1. A garment, usually fastened in the back, worn over all or
 part of the front of the body to protect clothing. 2. Something resembling
 an apron in appearance or function, as a protective shield for a machine.
 3. The paved strip in front of and around airport hangars and terminal
 buildings. 4. The part of a stage in a theater extending in front of the
 curtain. 5.  a. A platform of planking or other material at the entrance to
 a dock. b. A covering or structure along a shoreline for protection against
 erosion. c. A platform serving a similar purpose below a dam or in a
 sluiceway. 6. A continuous conveyor belt. 7. An area covered by sand and
 gravel deposited at the front of a glacial moraine.   -tr.v.aproned
 aproning aprons   To cover, protect, or provide with an apron. [ME < the
 phrase a napron, an apron < OFr. naperon, dim. of nape, tablecloth < Lat.
 mappa, napkin.]



 apron string  n.  1. The string of an apron. 2. apron strings  Complete
 control: tied to his mother's apron strings.



 apropos  adj.  Appropriate; pertinent.   -adv. 1. Appropriately;
 pertinently. 2. By the way; incidentally: Apropos, where were you
 yesterday?    -prep. Concerning; regarding: apropos our date for lunch.
 [Fr. a propos, to the purpose.]



 apropos of  prep.  With reference to; speaking of: a funny story apropos
 of politics.  [< apropos (adj.).]



 apse  n.  1.  Architecture. A semicircular or polygonal, usually domed
 projection of a building, esp. the altar or east end of a church. 2.
 Astronomy. Apsis (sense 2). [LLat. apsis. -see apsis.]   apsidal adj.



 apsis  n. pl. -sides  1.  Architecture. An apse. 2.  Astronomy. The point
 of greatest or least distance of a celestial body from a center of
 attraction. [LLat. apsis < Lat., arch, vault < Gk. hapsis < haptein, to
 fasten.]



 apt  adj.  1. Exactly suitable; appropriate: an apt reply.  2. Likely: apt
 to snow in January.  3. Having a tendency; inclined: apt to take offense
 easily.  4. Quick to learn or understand: an apt student.  [ME < Lat.
 aptus, p.part. of apere, to fasten.]   aptly adv.   aptness n.

      Usage: Apt  is more specific in meaning than likely  and should be
 used only to indicate that its subject has a natural tendency to err or to
 do something undesirable. He is apt to lose when he does not train hard,
 but He is likely  (not apt ) to win when he trains hard.



 APT  n.  A computer language designed for programming numerically
 controlled machine tools. [a(utomatically) + p(rogrammed) + t(ool).]



 apteral  adj.  Architecture.  Having no columns along the sides. [< Gk.
 apteros, wingless : a-, without + pteron, wing.]



 apterous  adj.  1.  Zoology. Having no wings: an apterous insect.  2.
 Botany. Having no winglike parts or extensions.



 apteryx  n.  The kiwi. [NLat. : a-1 + Gk. pterux, wing.]



 aptitude  n.  1. A natural or acquired talent or ability; inclination. 2.
 Quickness in learning and understanding; intelligence. 3. The condition or
 quality of being fitting; appropriateness. [ME, tendency < Med. Lat.
 aptitudo, aptitude < aptus, apt.]



 aptitude test  n.  A standardized test designed to measure the ability of
 an individual to develop skills or acquire knowledge.



 Apus  n.  A constellation in the Southern Hemisphere near Musca and Pavo.
 [Lat. apus, a kind of swallow < Gk. apous, sand martin < apous, without
 feet. -see apodal.]



 aqua  n. pl. aquae  or aquas  1. Water. 2. An aqueous solution. 3. A light
 bluish green to light greenish blue. [Lat.]   aqua adj.



 aquacade  n.  An entertainment spectacle of swimmers and divers, often
 performing in unison to the accompaniment of music. [aqua + (caval)cade.]



 aqua fortis or aquafortis   n.  Nitric acid. [NLat., strong water.]



 Aqua Lung   A trademark for an underwater breathing apparatus.



 aquamarine  n.  1. A transparent blue-green variety of beryl, used as a
 gemstone. 2. A pale blue to light greenish blue. [Lat. aqua marina, sea
 water.]



 aquanaut  n.  A person trained to live in underwater installations and
 conduct, assist in, or be a subject of scientific research. [aqua + Gk.
 nautes sailor < naus, ship.]



 aquaplane  n.  A board on which a person rides in a standing position
 while it is pulled over the water by a motorboat.   -intr.v.-planed
 -planing -planes   To ride on an aquaplane. [aqua + plane1.]



 aqua regia  n.  A corrosive, fuming, volatile mixture of hydrochloric and
 nitric acids, used for testing metals and dissolving platinum and gold.
 [Lat., royal water.]



 aquarelle  n.  A drawing done in transparent water colors. [Fr. < obs.
 Ital. acquarella, water color, dim. of acqua, water < Lat. aqua.]
 aquarellist n.



 aquaria  n.  A plural of aquarium.



 aquarist  n.  One who maintains an aquarium.



 aquarium  n. pl. i-ums  or -ia  1. A tank, bowl, or other water-filled
 enclosure in which fish or other aquatic animals and, often, plants are
 kept. 2. A place for the public exhibition of aquatic animals and plants.
 [< Lat. aquarius, of water < aqua, water.]



 Aquarius  n.  1. A constellation in the equatorial region of the Southern
 Hemisphere near Pisces and Aquila. 2. The 11th sign of the zodiac. [ME <
 Lat., water carrier < aqua, water.]



 aquatic  adj.  1. Of or in water: an aquatic environment.  2. Living or
 growing in or on the water. 3. Taking place in or on the water.   -n. 1. An
 aquatic organism. 2. aquatics  Sports performed in or on the water. [OFr.
 aquatique < Lat. aquaticus < aqua, water.]



 aquatint  n.  1. A process of etching capable of producing several tones
 by varying the etching time of different areas of a copper plate so that
 the resulting print resembles the flat tints of an ink or wash drawing. 2.
 An etching made by aquatint.   -tr.v.-tinted -tinting -tints   To etch in
 aquatint. [Fr. aquatinte < Ital. acqua tinta, dyed water : acqua, water (<
 Lat. aqua) + tinta, dyed < Lat. tincta, p.part. of tingere, to dye.]



 aquavit  n.  A strong, clear Scandinavian liquor distilled from potato or
 grain mash and flavored with caraway seed. [Swed., Dan., and Norw. akvavit
 < Med. Lat. aqua vitae, water of life.]



 aqua vitae  n.  1. Alcohol. 2. Whiskey, brandy, or other strong liquor.
 [ME aquavite < Med. Lat. aqua vitae, water of life.]



 aqueduct  n.  1. A pipe or channel designed to transport water from a
 remote source, usually by gravity. 2. A bridgelike structure supporting a
 conduit or canal passing over a river or low ground. 3.  Anatomy. A fluid
 channel or passage. [Lat. aquaeductus : aqua, water + ductus, p.part. of
 ducere, to lead.]



 aqueous  adj.  1. Pertaining to, similar to, containing, or dissolved in
 water; watery. 2.  Geology. Formed from matter deposited by water, as
 certain sedimentary rocks. [Med. Lat. aqueus < Lat. aqua, water.]



 aqueous humor  n.  A clear, lymphlike fluid in the chamber of the eye
 between the cornea and the lens.



 aqui-   Water: aquiculture.  [Lat. < aqua, water.]



 aquiculture  n.  Hydroponics.   aquicultural adj.



 aquifer  n.  A water-bearing rock, rock formation, or group of rock
 formations.   aquiferous adj.



 Aquila  n.  A constellation in the Northern Hemisphere and the Milky Way
 near Aquarius and Serpens Cauda. [Lat. aquila, eagle.]



 aquilegia  n.  A plant of the genus Aquilegia; columbine. [NLat.
 Aquilegia, genus name < Med. Lat. aquilegia, columbine.]



 aquiline  adj.  1. Of or similar to an eagle. 2. Curved or hooked like an
 eagle's beak: an aquiline nose.  [Lat. aquilinus < aquila, eagle.]



 aquiver  adj.  Marked by quivering: aquiver with anticipation.



 ar  n.  Variant of are2.



 Ar   The symbol for the element argon.



 -ar   Of, relating to, or resembling: polar.  [ME < OFr. -er < Lat. -aris,
 alteration of -alis, -al.]



 Ara  n.  A constellation in the Southern Hemisphere near the
 constellations Norma and Telescopium. [Lat. ara, altar.]



 Arab  n.  1. A native or inhabitant of Arabia. 2. Any of a Semitic people
 originally from Arabia but later widely scattered throughout the Near East,
 North Africa, and the Arabian Peninsula. 3. Any of a nomadic people living
 in North African and Near Eastern desert regions. 4. Any of a breed of
 swift, intelligent, graceful horses native to Arabia. 5. A street Arab;
 waif.   -adj. Arabian. [Fr. Arabe < Lat. Arabs < Gk. Araps < Ar. "Arab.]



 arabesque  n.  1. A complex and ornate design of intertwined floral,
 foliate, and geometrical figures. 2. A position in which a ballet dancer
 stands on one leg, the other leg extended backward with straight knee, and
 with the arms disposed in any of the various conventional positions.
 -adj. In the fashion of or formed as an arabesque. [Fr. < Ital. arabesco,
 in Arabian fashion < Arab, an Arab < Lat. Arabs.]



 Arabian  adj.  Of or concerning Arabia or the Arabs; Arab.   -n. 1. A
 native or inhabitant of Arabia. 2. A horse of a breed native to Arabia;
 Arab.



 Arabian camel  n.  The dromedary.



 Arabic  adj.  Of or pertaining to Arabia, the Arabs, their language, or
 their culture.   -n. A Semitic language consisting of numerous dialects
 that is the principal language of Arabia, Jordan, Syria, Iraq, Lebanon,
 Egypt, and parts of northern Africa.



 Arabic numeral  n.  One of the numerical symbols 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8,
 9, and 0.



 Arabist  n.  A specialist in the Arabic language or culture.



 arable  adj.  Fit for cultivation.   -n. Arable land. [ME < OFr. < Lat.
 arabilis < arare, to plow.]



 Arachne  n.  Greek Mythology.  A maiden who was transformed into a spider
 by Athena for challenging her to a weaving contest. [Lat. < Gk. Arakhne <
 arakhne, spider.]



 arachnid  n.  Any of various arthropods of the class Arachnida, such as a
 spider, scorpion, mite, or tick, characteristically having four pairs of
 legs. [NLat. Arachnida, class name < Gk. arakhne, spider.]   arachnidan
 adj. n.



 arachnoid  adj.  1. Resembling a spider's web. 2. Of or relating to the
 arachnids. 3. Covered with or consisting of thin, soft, entangled hairs
 like those of a cobweb.   -n. 1. An arachnid. 2. A delicate membrane of the
 spinal cord and brain, lying between the pia mater and dura mater. [NLat.
 arachnoides < Gk. arakhnoeides, cobweblike : arakhne, spider + -eides,
 -oid.]



 Aragonese  adj.  Of or pertaining to Aragon, its inhabitants, their
 language, or their culture.   -n.pl. Aragonese  A native or inhabitant of
 Aragon.



 aragonite  n.  An orthorhombic mineral form of crystalline calcium
 carbonate, dimorphous with calcite. [After Aragon, a region of Spain.]



 Aramaean  n.  Variant of Aramean.



 Aramaic  n.  The Semitic language originally of the ancient Arameans but
 widely used by non-Aramean peoples throughout southwest Asia from the 7th
 century  B.C.  to the 7th century  A.D.    Aramaic adj.



 Aramean or Aramaean   adj.  Of or pertaining to Aram, its inhabitants,
 their language, or their culture.   -n. 1. A native or inhabitant of Aram.
 2. Aramaic.



 Arapaho or Arapahoe   n. pl. Arapaho  or -hos  Arapahoe  or -hoes   1. A
 tribe of North American Indians formerly centered in the area of the Platte
 and Arkansas rivers, now settled in Oklahoma and Wyoming. 2. A member of
 the Arapaho. 3. The Algonquian language of the Arapaho. [Crow aa-raxpe-ahu,
 tattoo.]



 arapaima  n.  A large South American freshwater food fish, Arapaima gigas,
 sometimes attaining a length of 15 feet. [Sp. (South America), prob. <
 Tupi.]



 araroba  n.  1. A Brazilian tree, Andira araroba, having yellowish wood
 from which a medicinal powder is obtained. 2. The powder of the araroba.
 [Port., prob. of Tupian orig.]



 Araucanian or Araucan   n.  1. A member of a group of Indian peoples of
 south-central Chile and the western pampas of Argentina. 2. The language of
 the Araucanians, which constitutes an independent language family. [Sp.
 araucano, after Arauco, a province in Chile.]   Araucanian adj.



 araucaria  n.  Any of several evergreen trees of the genus Araucaria, as
 the monkey puzzle and Norfolk Island pine. [< Sp. Araucaria, (tree) of
 Arauco, a province in Chile.]



 Arawak  n. pl. Arawak  or -waks  1. An Indian people now living chiefly in
 certain regions of the Guianas. 2. A member of the Arawak. 3. The Arawakan
 language of the Arawak.



 Arawakan  n. pl. Arawakan  or -kans  1. A member of a group of Indian
 peoples living in a wide area of South America including Venezuela,
 Colombia, the Guianas, Peru, Bolivia, Paraguay, and the Amazon basin of
 Brazil. 2. A language family that consists of the languages spoken by the
 Arawakan peoples.   Arawakan adj.



 arbalest or arbelest   n.  A medieval missile launcher designed on the
 crossbow principle. [ME arblast < OFr. arbaleste < LLat. arcuballista :
 Lat. arcus, bow + Lat. ballista, ballista. -see ballista.]   arbalester n.



 arbiter  n.  1. One chosen or appointed to judge or decide a disputed
 issue; arbitrator. 2. One who has the power to judge or ordain at will: an
 arbiter of fashion.  [ME arbitour < Lat. arbiter.]



 arbitrable  adj.  1. Subject to arbitration. 2. Capable of being referred
 to an arbitrator.



 arbitrage  n.  The purchase of securities on one market for immediate
 resale on another in order to profit from a price discrepancy. [OFr.,
 arbitration < arbitrer, to arbitrate < Lat. arbitrari, to give judgment.
 -see arbitrate.]



 arbitrament  n.  1. The act of arbitrating. 2. The judgment or award of an
 arbitrator or arbiter. [ME arbitrement < OFr. < arbitrer, to judge < Lat.
 arbitrari, to give judgment. -see arbitrate.]



 arbitrary  adj.  1. Determined by whim or impulse, not by reason or law.
 2. Based on or subject to individual judgment or discretion. 3. Established
 by a court or judge rather than by a specific law or statute. 4. Not
 limited by law; despotic. [ME arbitrarie < Lat. arbitrarius < arbiter,
 arbiter.]   arbitrarily adv.   arbitrariness n.



 arbitrate  v. -trated -trating -trates   -tr. 1. To judge or decide as or
 in the manner of an arbitrator. 2. To submit to settlement or judgment by
 arbitration. -intr. 1. To serve as an arbitrator or arbiter. 2. To refer or
 submit a dispute to arbitration. [Lat. arbitrari, to give judgment <
 arbiter, arbiter.]



 arbitration  n.  The process by which the parties to a dispute submit
 their differences to the judgment of an impartial person or group appointed
 by mutual consent or statutory provision.



 arbitrator  n.  1. A person chosen to settle the issue between parties
 engaged in a dispute or controversy. 2. One having the ability or power to
 make authoritative decisions; arbiter.



 arbor
 arbor(1)  n.  1. A shady garden shelter or bower, often made of rustic work
 or latticework on which vines, roses, or other climbing plants are grown.
 2.  Obsolete. An orchard or garden. [ME herber < OFr. herbier, erbier,
 garden < erbe, herb. -see herb.]
 arbor(2)  n.  1. An axis or shaft supporting a rotating part on a lathe. 2.
 A bar for supporting cutting tools. 3. A spindle of a wheel, as in watches
 and clocks. 4.  Archaic. A tree. [Lat., tree.]



 Arbor Day  n.  A day, usually in the spring, observed by many states of
 the United States for the community planting of trees.



 arboreal  adj.  1. Pertaining to or resembling a tree. 2. Living in trees:
 arboreal animals.    arboreally adv.



 arboreous  adj.  1. Having many trees; wooded. 2. Resembling or
 characteristic of a tree; treelike.



 arborescent  adj.  Having the form or characteristics of a tree; treelike.
 [Lat. arborescens, arborescent-, pr.part. of arborescere, to grow to be a
 tree < arbor, tree.]   arborescence n.



 arboretum  n. pl. -tums  or -ta  A place for the scientific study and
 public exhibition of many species of trees and shrubs. [Lat., a place grown
 with trees < arbor, tree.]



 arboriculture  n.  The cultivation of trees for study or for the
 production of timber.



 arborization  n.  1. A treelike shape or arrangement, as that of certain
 minerals or fossils. 2. The formation of an arborization.



 arborize  intr.v. -rized -rizing -rizes   To have or form many branches.



 arborvitae or arbor vitae   n.  1.  a. Any of several evergreen shrubs and
 trees of the genus Thuja, having tiny, scalelike leaves and egg-shaped
 cones. b. A similar tree of the genus Thujopsis.  2.  Anatomy. The white
 matter of the cerebellum, in cross section having the appearance of a tree.
 [NLat. arbor vitae, tree of life.]



 arbour  n.  Chiefly British.  Variant of arbor1.



 arbovirus  n.  Any of various arthropod-borne viruses that include the
 causative agent of encephalitis. [ar(thropod) + bo(rne) + virus.]
 arboviral adj.   arbovirology n.



 arbutus  n.  1. Any of several broad-leaved evergreen trees of the genus
 Arbutus, having clusters of white or pinkish flowers. 2. The trailing
 arbutus. [NLat. Arbutus, genus name < Lat. arbutus, arbutus.]



 arc  n.  1. Something shaped like a bow, curve, or arch. 2.  Mathematics.
 A segment of a curve. 3.  Electricity. A luminous discharge of electric
 current crossing a gap between two electrodes.   -adj. Mathematics.
 Designating an inverse trigonometric function: the arc sine of a quantity.
   -intr.v.arced  or arcked  or arcing  or arcking  or arcs   To form an
 arc. [ME ark < OFr. arc < Lat. arcus.]



 arcade  n.  1.  Architecture.  a. A series of arches supported by columns,
 piers, or pillars. b. An arched, roofed building or part of a building. 2.
 A roofed passageway or lane, esp. one with shops on either side.
 -tr.v.-caded -cading -cades   To provide with or form into an arcade: an
 arcaded walk.  [Fr., archway < Ital. arcata < arco, arch < Lat. arcus.]



 Arcadia  n.  1. A region in ancient Greece regarded as an ideal of rural
 simplicity and contentment. 2. arcadia  A region offering rural simplicity
 and contentment.



 Arcadian  adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, or characteristic of Arcadia. 2.
 arcadian  Rustic, peaceful, and simple; pastoral.   -n. 1. A native of
 Arcadia. 2. arcadian  A person who leads or prefers a simple, rural life.
 3. The dialect of ancient Greek used in Arcadia.



 Arcady  n.  Arcadia.



 arcana  n.  A plural of arcanum.



 arcane  adj.  Known or understood only by a few; esoteric. [Lat. arcanus,
 secret < arcere, to shut up < arca, chest.]



 arcanum  n. pl. -na  or nums  1. A profound secret; mystery. 2. The
 reputed great secret of nature that alchemists sought to find. 3. An
 elixir. [Lat. < arcanus, secret. -see arcane.]



 arc-boutant  n. pl. arcs-boutants  A flying buttress. [Fr.]



 arch
 arch(1)  n.  1. A structural device, esp. of masonry, forming the curved,
 pointed, or flat upper edge of an opening or a support, as in a bridge or
 doorway. 2. A structure similar to an arch, as a monument. 3. Something
 curved like an arch: the arch of a rainbow.  4.  Anatomy. Any of various
 arch-shaped structures, esp. either of two such bony structures of the
 foot.   -v.arched arching arches   -tr. 1. To supply with an arch. 2. To
 cause to form an arch or similar curve: arch one's eyebrows.  3. To span:
 the rude bridge that arched the flood (Emerson). -intr. To form an arch or
 archlike curve. [ME < OFr. arche < Lat. arcus.]
 arch(2)  adj.  1. Chief; principal: an arch-thief.  2. Mischievous;
 roguish: an arch glance.  [< arch-.]   archly adv.   archness n.



 arch-   1. Variant of archi-. 2. The extreme or most characteristic
 example of its kind: archconservative.  [ME. -see archi-.]



 -arch   Ruler; leader: matriarch.  [ME -arche < OFr. < LLat. -archa < Lat.
 -arches < Gk. -arkhes < arkhos, ruler < arkhein, to rule.]



 Archaean  adj.  Variant of Archean.



 archaeo- or archeo-    Ancient; earlier; primitive: archaeopteryx.  [NLat.
 < Gk. arkhaio- < arkhaios, ancient < arkhe, beginning.]



 archaeology or archeology   n.  The systematic recovery and study of
 material evidence, such as graves, buildings, tools, and pottery, remaining
 from past human life and culture. [Fr. archeologie < Gk. arkhaiologia,
 antiquarian lore : arkhaios, old + -logia, -logy.]   archaeological
 archaeologic  adj.   archaeologist n.



 archaeopteryx  n.  An extinct primitive bird of the genus Archaeopteryx,
 of the Jurassic period, having lizardlike characteristics and representing
 a transitional form between reptiles and birds. [NLat. : archaeo- + Gk.
 pterux, bird < pteron, wing.]



 Archaeozoic  adj.  -n. Variant of Archeozoic.



 archaic or archaical   adj.  1. Belonging to a much earlier time; ancient:
 archaic sculpture.  2. No longer current or applicable; antiquated: archaic
 laws.  3. Designating or characteristic of words and language that were
 once common but are now used chiefly to suggest an earlier style or period.
 [Fr. archaique < Gk. arkhaikos, old-fashioned < arkhaios, old < arkhe,
 beginning < arkhein, to begin.]   archaically adv.



 archaic smile  n.  A representation of the human mouth with slightly
 upturned corners, characteristic of early Greek sculpture produced before
 the 5th century  B.C.



 archaism  n.  1. An archaic word, phrase, idiom, or expression. 2. An
 archaic style, quality, or usage. [NLat. archaeismus < Gk. arkhaismos <
 arkhaios, ancient. -see archaic.]   archaist n.   archaistic adj.



 archaize  v. -ized -izing -izes   -tr. To give an archaic quality or
 character to; make archaic. -intr. To use archaisms.   archaizer n.



 archangel  n.  Theology.  1. A celestial being next in rank above an
 angel. 2. archangels  The eighth of the nine orders of angels. [ME < OFr. <
 LLat. archangelus < LGk. arkhangelos : Gk. arkh-, archi- + angelos, angel.]
   archangelic adj.



 archbishop  n.  A bishop of the highest rank, heading an archdiocese or
 province. [ME arche-bishop < OE arce-bisceop < LLat. archiepiscopus < LGk.
 arkhiepiskopos : Gk. arkhi-, archi- + episkopos, bishop. -see bishop.]
 archbishopric n.



 archdeacon  n.  A church official, chiefly in the Anglican Church, in
 charge of temporal and other affairs in a diocese, with powers delegated
 from the bishop. [ME arche-deken < OE arcediakon < LLat. archidiaconus <
 LGk. arkhidiakonos : Gk. arkhi, archi- + diakonos, deacon. -see deacon.]
 archdeaconate n.   archdeaconship n.



 archdeaconry  n. pl. -ries  1. The rank, office, or jurisdiction of an
 archdeacon. 2. The residence or district of an archdeacon.



 archdiocese  n.  A diocese under an archbishop's jurisdiction.
 archdiocesan adj.



 archducal  adj.  Of or pertaining to an archduke or an archduchy.



 archduchess  n.  1. The wife or widow of an archduke. 2. A woman having a
 rank equivalent to that of an archduke, esp. an Austrian princess.



 archduchy  n. pl. -ies  The territory over which an archduke or an
 archduchess has authority.



 archduke  n.  In certain royal families, esp. that of imperial Austria, a
 nobleman having a rank equivalent to that of a sovereign prince.



 Archean or Archaean   adj.  Of or pertaining to the oldest rocks of the
 Precambrian era, predominantly igneous in composition. [< Gk. arkhaios,
 ancient. -see archaic.]



 arched  adj.  1. Forming an arch or a curve like that of an arch. 2.
 Provided, made, or covered with an arch.



 archegonium  n. pl. -nia  The multicellular female sex organ of mosses and
 related plants, producing a single egg. [NLat. < Gk. arkhegonos, original :
 arkhe-, archi- + gonos, race.]   archegonial adj.   archegoniate adj.



 archenemy  n.  1. A chief or principal enemy. 2. Archenemy  The devil;
 Satan.



 archenteron  n.  The embryonic digestive tract, essentially a cavity in
 the gastrula.   archenteric adj.



 archeo-   Variant of archaeo-.



 archeology  n.  Variant of archaeology.



 Archeozoic or Archaeozoic   adj.  Of, belonging to, or designating the
 earlier of two generally arbitrary divisions of the Precambrian era.   -n.
 The Archeozoic era.



 archer  n.  1. One who shoots with a bow and arrow. 2. Archer
 Sagittarius. [ME < OFr. archier < Med. Lat. arcarius < Lat. arcus, bow.]



 archerfish  n. pl. archerfish  or -fishes  Any of several small
 Indo-Australian fishes of the family Toxotidae, capable of capturing
 insects by squirting water at them.



 archery  n.  1. The art, sport, or skill of shooting with a bow and arrow.
 2. The equipment of an archer. 3. A troop or body of archers.



 archespore or archesporium   n. pl. -spores  or -sporia  Botany.  A
 spore-bearing cell or mass of cells. [NLat. archesporium : arche(gonium),
 archegonium + spora, spore.]   archesporial adj.



 archetype  n.  An original model or type after which other similar things
 are patterned; prototype. [Lat. archetypum < Gk. arkhetupon : arkhe-,
 archi- + tupos, model.]   archetypal archetypic archetypical  adj.
 archetypically adv.



 archfiend  n.  1. A chief or foremost fiend. 2. the Archfiend  The devil;
 Satan.



 archi- or arch-    1. Chief; highest; most important: archduke.  2.
 Earlier; primitive: archenteron.  [ME arche-, arch- < OE aerce- and OFr.
 arche-, both < Lat. archi- < Gk. arkhi- < arkhein, to begin, rule.]



 archidiaconal  adj.  Of or pertaining to an archdeacon, his duties, or his
 office. [< LLat. archidiaconus, archdeacon.]



 archidiaconate  n.  The office or status of an archdeacon. [Med. Lat.
 archidiaconatus < LLat. archidiaconus, archdeacon.]



 archiepiscopal  adj.  Of or pertaining to an archbishop or an
 archbishopric. [Med. Lat. archiepiscopalis < LLat. archiepiscopus,
 archbishop.]   archiepiscopality n.   archiepiscopally adv.
 archiepiscopate n.



 archiepiscopal cross  n.  A processional crucifix mounted on a tall shaft
 and borne before an archbishop.



 archil  n.  Variant of orchil.



 archimage  n.  A great magician or chief wizard. [LGk. arkhimagos : Gk.
 arkhe-, archi- + Gk. Magos, wizard < OPers. Maguus, one of a tribe of
 Medes.]



 archimandrite  n.  Gk. Orthodox Ch..  1. A cleric ranking below a bishop.
 2. The head of a monastery or group of monasteries. [LLat. archimandrita <
 LGk. arkhimandrites : Gk. arkhi-, archi- + mandra, monastery < Gk., cattle
 pen.]



 Archimedean  adj.  Of or pertaining to the Greek mathematician Archimedes
 or his inventions.



 Archimedean screw  n.  An ancient apparatus for raising water, consisting
 of either a spiral tube around an inclined axis or an inclined tube
 containing a tight-fitting, broad-threaded screw.



 Archimedes' screw  n.  An Archimedean screw.



 archine or arshin   n.  A Russian unit of linear measure equivalent to 28
 inches. [R. arshin, of Turkic orig.]



 archipelago  n. pl. -goes  or -gos  1. A large group of islands. 2. A sea,
 as the Aegean, containing a large group of islands. [Ital. Arcipelago, the
 Aegean Sea : < Gk. arkhi-, archi- + Gk. pelagos, sea.]   archipelagic adj.



 architect  n.  1. One who designs and supervises the construction of
 buildings or other large structures. 2. A planner or deviser: the chief
 architect of their success.  [OFr. architecte < Lat. architectus < Gk.
 arkhitekton, master builder : arkhi-, archi- + tekton, builder.]



 architectonic or architectonical   adj.  1. Of or pertaining to
 architecture or design. 2. Having qualities characteristic of architecture;
 designed and structured. 3.  Philosophy. Relating to the scientific
 systematization of knowledge. [Lat. architectonicus, architectural < Gk.
 arkhitektonikos < arkhitekton, architect.]   architectonically adv.



 architectonics  n.  1. The science of architecture. 2. Structural design,
 as in a musical work. 3.  Philosophy. The scientific systematization of
 knowledge.



 architecture  n.  1. The art and science of designing and erecting
 buildings. 2. Architectural structures collectively. 3. A style and method
 of design and construction: Byzantine architecture.  4. Design or orderly
 arrangement perceived by man: the architecture of nature.  [OFr. < Lat.
 architectura < architectus, architect.]   architectural adj.
 architecturally adv.



 architrave  n.  Architecture.  1. The lowermost part of an entablature,
 resting directly on top of a column in classical architecture. 2. The
 molding around a door or window. [OFr. < OItal. : archi, archi- (< Lat.) +
 trave, beam < Lat. trabs.]



 archival  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or kept in archives.



 archival standards  pl.n.  Standards set by the U.S. Bureau of Standards
 to assure permanence of microfilm images.



 archives  pl.n.  1.  a. An organized body of records pertaining to an
 organization or institution. b. A place in which such records are
 preserved. 2. A repository of evidence or information: the archives of the
 mind.  [Fr. < LLat. archium < Gk. arkheia < arkhe, beginning < arkhein, to
 begin.]



 archivist  n.  One who is in charge of archives.



 archivolt or archivault   n.  Architecture.  Decorative molding carried
 around an arched wall opening. [Ital. archivolto : arco, arch (< Lat.
 arcus) + volta, vault < Lat. voluta, fem. p.part. of volvere, to roll.]



 archon  n.  1. One of the nine principal magistrates of ancient Athens. 2.
 Any of various officials of the Byzantine Empire. 3. In certain Gnostic
 systems, one of several powers believed to be superior to the angels. [Gk.
 arkhon, ruler, pr.part. of arkhein, to rule.]   archonship n.



 archpriest  n.  1. Formerly, a priest holding first rank among the members
 of a cathedral chapter, acting as chief assistant to a bishop. 2. A rural
 dean. Now used only as a title of honor. [ME arche-prest < OFr.
 archeprestre < LLat. archipresbyter < LGk. arkhipresbuteros : Gk. arkhi-,
 archi- + presbuteros, priest.]



 archway  n.  1. A passageway under an arch. 2. An arch covering or
 enclosing an entrance or passageway.



 -archy   Rule; government: oligarchy.  [ME -archie < OFr. < Lat. -archia <
 Gk. -arkhia < -arkhes, ruler. -see -arch.]



 arciform  adj.  Formed like an arc.



 arc jet  n.  An arc-jet engine.



 arc-jet engine  n.  A rocket engine that operates by heating the
 propellant gas with an electric arc.



 arcked  v.  A past tense and past participle of arc.



 arcking  v.  A present participle of arc.



 arc lamp or arc light   n.  An electric lamp in which a current traverses
 a gas between two incandescent electrodes.



 arctic  adj.  1. Extremely cold; frigid. 2. Arctic  Of or relating to a
 geographic area extending from the North Pole to the northern timberline.
 -n. A warm, waterproof overshoe. [ME artik < Lat. arcticus < Gk. arktikos <
 arktos, bear, the northern constellation Ursa Major.]



 Arctic Circle  n.  The parallel of latitude 66 degrees, 33 minutes north;
 the boundary between the North Temperate and North Frigid zones.



 arctic fox  n.  A fox, Alopex lagopus, of arctic regions, having fur that
 is white or light-gray in winter and brown or blue-gray in summer.



 Arcturus  n.  Astronomy.  The brightest star in the constellation Bootes,
 approximately 36 light-years from earth. [ME Arctour < Lat. Arcturus < Gk.
 Arktouros : arktos, bear + ouros, guard.]



 arcuate or arcuated   adj.  Having the form of a bow; curved. [Lat.
 arcuatus, p.part. of arcuare, to bend like a bow < arcus, bow.]



 arcuation  n.  1. The process of curving or the state of being curved. 2.
 Architecture. The use of arches or vaults in building.



 -ard or -art    One that habitually or excessively is in a specified
 condition or performs a specified action: drunkard.  [ME < OFr., of
 Germanic orig.]



 ardeb  n.  A unit of dry measure of several countries of the Near East,
 usually equal to 5.6 U.S. bushels but with variations in different
 localities. [Ar. ardabb < Gk. artabe.]



 ardent  adj.  1.  a. Expressing or characterized by warmth of passion,
 emotion, or desire: an ardent lover.  b. Displaying or characterized by
 strong enthusiasm or devotion; fervent:  an impassioned age, so ardent and
 serious in its pursuit of art (Walter Pater). 2. Glowing; shining: ardent
 eyes.  3. Hot as fire; burning:  The temperate yet ardent climate (Winston
 Churchill). [ME ardaunt < OFr. < Lat. ardens, pr.part. of ardere, to burn.]
   ardency n.   ardently adv.   ardentness n.



 ardent spirits  pl.n.  Strong alcoholic liquors, such as whiskey or gin.



 ardor  n.  1.  a. Great warmth or intensity, as of emotion, passion, or
 desire. b. Strong enthusiasm or devotion; zeal:  the dazzling conquest of
 Mexico gave a new impulse to the ardor of discovery (William H. Prescott).
 2. Intense heat, as of fire. [ME ardour < OFr. < Lat. ardor < ardere, to
 burn.]



 ardour  n.  Chiefly British.  Variant of ardor.



 arduous  adj.  1. Demanding great care, effort, or labor; difficult:  the
 arduous work of preparing a Dictionary of the English Language (Macaulay).
 2. Testing severely the powers of endurance; full of hardships: a long,
 arduous, and exhausting war.  3. Hard to climb or surmount: an arduous
 path; an arduous assignment.  [Lat. arduus.]   arduously adv.   arduousness
 n.



 are
 are(1)  v.  Present tense indicative plural and second person singular of
 be. [ME aren < OE aron.]
 are(2)   n.  A metric unit of area equal to 100 square meters. [Fr. < Lat.
 area, open space.]



 area  n.  1. A section or region, as of land: a farming area; the New York
 area.  2. A surface, esp. part of the earth's surface: a landing area;
 mountainous areas.  3. A distinct part or section, as of a building, set
 aside for a specific function: an area for business and an area for
 exercise.  4. The range or scope of something: the area of finance.  5. The
 yard of a building; areaway. 6. The measure of a planar region or of the
 surface of a solid. 7.  Computer Science.  A section of computer storage
 set aside for a particular purpose. [Lat. area, open space.]

      Synonyms: area region belt zone district
 locality These nouns all mean a division of the space on a surface but
 differ in what is implied about the size and boundaries of the division.
 Area , the most inclusive term, means any particular portion of a surface
 and suggests a portion that spreads out in all directions from a center,
 with a vague periphery. If the area is a large geographical one, it is
 likely to be called a region If the area is long and narrow, with fairly
 specific upper and lower limits, it may be called a belt If the area has
 strictly defined boundaries, especially boundaries fixed arbitrarily so as
 to set the area apart from adjacent areas, it may be called a zone: the
 temperate zone; a demilitarized zone.  If the area is one of human
 habitation and is regarded as a subdivision for administrative or
 jurisdictional purposes, it is a district And if the area is simply a place
 where a thing in question is to be found, it is a locality




 Area Code or area code   n.  A number, often with three digits, assigned
 to a telephone area, as in the United States and Canada, used when placing
 a call to another area.



 area rug  n.  A rug that covers a limited area of floor space in a room.



 area search  n.  The systematic check of a large group of documents to
 select those belonging to a particular category.



 areaway  n.  1. A small sunken area allowing access or light and air to
 basement doors or windows. 2. A passageway, often in close quarters between
 buildings.



 areca  n.  Any of various tall palms of the genus Areca, of Southeast
 Asia, having white flowers and red or orange egg-shaped nuts. [Port. <
 Malayalam atekka.]



 arena  n.  1. The area in the center of an ancient Roman amphitheater
 where contests and other spectacles were held. 2. A modern auditorium for
 sports events. 3. A sphere or field of conflict, interest, or activity: the
 political arena.  [Lat. harena.]



 arenaceous  adj.  1. Sandlike in appearance or qualities: arenaceous
 limestone.  2. Growing in sandy areas. [Lat. harenaceus : harena, sand +
 -aceus, aceous.]



 arena stage  n.  The stage of an arena theater.



 arena theater  n.  A theater without a proscenium in which the stage is at
 the center of the auditorium, surrounded by seats.



 arenicolous  adj.  Growing or living in sand. [Lat. harena, sand +
 -colous.]



 aren't   Are not.



 areola or areole   n. pl. -lae  or -las  -oles   1.  Biology. A small
 space or interstice, such as an area bounded by small veins in a leaf or an
 insect's wing. 2.  Anatomy. A small, dark-colored area around a center
 portion, as about a nipple or part of the iris of the eye. [Lat., small
 open space, dim. of area, open place.]   areolar  areolate adj.
 areolation n.



 Areopagite  n.  A member of the council of the Areopagus in ancient
 Athens.   Areopagitic adj.



 Areopagus  n.  The highest council of ancient Athens.



 Ares  n.  Greek Mythology.  The god of war. [Gk. Ares.]



 arete  n.  A sharp, narrow mountain ridge or spur. [Fr., fishbone < OFr.
 areste < Lat. arista.]



 Arethusa  n.  1.  Greek Mythology. A wood nymph who was changed into a
 fountain by Artemis. 2. Any of several orchids of the genus Arethusa, esp.
 A. bulbosa, of eastern North America, having a solitary rose-purple flower
 fringed with yellow. [Lat. < Gk. Arethousa.]



 argal  n.  Variant of argol.



 argali  n. pl. argali  or -lis  A wild sheep, Ovis ammon, of the mountains
 of central and northern Asia, having large, spirally curved horns.
 [Mongolian.]



 argent  n.  1.  Archaic. Silver or something resembling it. 2.  Heraldry.
 The metal silver, represented by the color white. [ME < OFr. < Lat.
 argentum, silver.]



 argentic  adj.  Of or containing silver.



 argentiferous  adj.  Bearing or producing silver.



 argentine  adj.  Silvery.   -n. 1. Silver. 2. Any of various silvery
 metals. [Fr. argentin < Lat. argentinus < argentum, silver.]



 argentite  n.  A valuable silver ore, Ag2S, with a lustrous, lead-gray
 color.



 argil  n.  Clay, esp. a white clay used by potters. [ME argilla < Lat. <
 Gk. argillos.]



 argillaceous  adj.  Of, containing, made of, or resembling clay; clayey.



 argillite  n.  A metamorphic rock, intermediate between shale and slate,
 that does not possess true slaty cleavage.



 arginine  n.  An amino acid, C6H14N4O2, obtained from plant and animal
 protein or the digestive action of bacteria and necessary for nutrition.
 [G. Arginin, poss. < Gk. arginoeis, bright < argos, shining.]



 Argive  adj.  1. Of or designating Argos or Argolis. 2. Greek.   -n. A
 Greek, esp. an inhabitant of Argos or Argolis.



 Argo  n.  1.  Greek Mythology. The ship in which Jason sailed in search of
 the Golden Fleece. 2. A constellation in the Southern Hemisphere, now known
 by the names of its four smaller parts, Carina, Puppis, Pyxis, and Vela.



 argol or argal   n.  Crude potassium bitartrate, a by-product of
 winemaking. [ME argoil < AN.]



 argon  n.Symbol  Ar  A colorless, odorless, inert gaseous element
 constituting approximately one per cent of the earth's atmosphere, from
 which it is commercially obtained by fractionation for use in electric
 lamps, fluorescent tubes, and radio vacuum tubes and as an inert gas shield
 in arc welding. Atomic number 18; atomic weight 39.94; melting point -189.4
 deg. C; boiling point -185.9 deg. C. [< Gk. argos, inert : a-, no + ergon,
 work.]



 Argonaut  n.  1.  Greek Mythology. One who sailed with Jason on the Argo
 in search of the Golden Fleece. 2. One who went to California in 1849 in
 search of gold. 3. argonaut  The paper nautilus. [Lat. Argonauta < Gk.
 Argonautes : Argo, the ship Argo + nautes, sailor < naus, ship.]



 argosy  n. pl. -sies  1. A large merchant ship. 2. A fleet of ships.
 [Alteration of obs. ragusye < Ital. ragusea, vessel of Ragusa, former name
 of the port of Dubrovnik, Yugoslavia.]



 argot  n.  A specialized vocabulary or set of idioms used by a particular
 class or group. [Fr.]



 arguable  adj.  Open to argument.   arguably adv.



 argue  v. -gued -guing -gues   -tr. 1. To put forth reasons for or
 against; debate. 2. To prove or attempt to prove by reasoning; maintain. 3.
 To give evidence of; indicate:  similarities cannot always be used to argue
 descent (Isaac Asimov). 4. To persuade or influence, as by presenting
 reasons: He argued me into going.  -intr. 1. To put forth reasons for or
 against something. 2. To engage in a quarrel; dispute. [ME arguen < OFr.
 arguer < Lat. arguere, to make clear.]   arguer n.

      Synonyms: argue quarrel wrangle squabble haggle
 bicker These verbs are compared as they mean to dispute. Argue  implies
 intent to persuade an adversary in debate. Quarrel  stresses animosity and
 estrangement. Wrangle  refers to loud, contentious argument, and squabble
 to minor argument over a petty or trivial matter. Haggle  specifies verbal
 bargaining, usually over a price, in a petty way. Bicker  suggests sharp,
 recurrent exchange of remarks on a mean or petty level.




 argufy  v. -fied -fying -fies   Regional.   -tr. To argue over. -intr. To
 argue stubbornly; wrangle.   argufier n.



 argument  n.  1.  a. A discussion in which disagreement is expressed about
 some point; debate. b. A quarrel; contention. c.  Archaic. A reason or
 matter for dispute or contention. 2.  a. A course of reasoning aimed at
 demonstrating the truth or falsehood of something. b. A fact or statement
 offered as proof or evidence. 3.  a. A summary or short statement of the
 plot or subject of a literary work. b. A topic; subject:  You and love are
 still my argument (Shakespeare). 4.  Logic. The minor premise in a
 syllogism. 5.  Mathematics.  a. The independent variable of a function. b.
 The amplitude of a complex number. [ME < OFr. < Lat. argumentum < arguere,
 to make clear.]

      Synonyms: argument dispute controversy wrangling These nouns denote
 discussions involving conflicting points of view. Argument  is generally
 the least forceful. Dispute  stresses division of opinion by its
 implication of contradictory points of view. Usually it also strongly
 implies animosity. Controversy  is especially applicable to major
 differences over subjects involving many persons rather than two contending
 individuals. Wrangling  is noisy, angry discussion.




 argumenta  n.  Plural of argumentum.



 argumentation  n.  1. The presentation and elaboration of an argument. 2.
 Deductive reasoning in debate. 3. A debate.



 argumentative  adj.  1. Given to arguing; disputatious. 2. Of or
 characterized by argument: an argumentative discourse.    argumentatively
 adv.   argumentativeness n.



 argumentum  n. pl. -ta  Logic.  An argument, demonstration, or appeal to
 reason. [Lat. -see argument.]



 argumentum ad hominem  n.  An argument appealing to personal prejudices
 and emotions rather than to logic or reason. [Lat., argument to the man.]



 Argus  n.  1.  Greek Mythology. A giant with a hundred eyes who was made
 guardian of Io and later slain by Hermes. 2. An alert or watchful person;
 guardian. [Lat. < Gk. Argos.]



 Argus-eyed  adj.  Extremely observant; vigilant.



 argus pheasant  n.  A large bird, Argusianus argus, of southern Asia and
 the East Indies, having long tail feathers marked with brilliantly colored
 eyelike spots. [After Argus, whose hundred eyes were given to a peacock's
 tail.]



 argy-bargy  n.  Chiefly British.  A lively or disputatious discussion;
 wrangling. [Sc., prob. var. of E. argle-bargle, redup. of argle, to argue
 obstinately, prob. < argue. -see argue.]



 argyle or argyll   n.  1. A knitting pattern of varicolored,
 diamond-shaped areas on a solid color background. 2. A sock knit in an
 argyle pattern. [After Campbell of Argyle, orig. from the pattern of their
 tartan.]



 Argyrol   A trademark for a dark-brown silver-protein compound used as a
 local antiseptic.



 arhat  n.  A Buddhist who has attained enlightenment. [Skt. < pr.part. of
 arhati, he deserves.]   arhatship n.



 aria  n.  Music.  1. An air; melody. 2. A solo vocal piece with
 instrumental accompaniment, as in an opera. [Ital., melody < Lat. aer,
 air.]



 Ariadne  n.  Greek Mythology.  The daughter of Minos and Pasiphae who gave
 Theseus the thread with which to find his way out of the Minotaur's
 labyrinth. [Gk. Ariadne.]



 Arian  adj.  Pertaining to Arianism.   -n. A believer in Arianism.



 -arian   Believer in; advocate or promoter of: utilitarian.  [Lat. -arius,
 -ary + -an1.]



 Arianism  n.  Theology.  The doctrines of Arius, denying that Jesus was of
 the same substance as God and holding instead that he was only the highest
 of created beings.



 arid  adj.  1. Lacking moisture, esp. because of insufficient rainfall;
 dry. 2. Lacking interest or feeling; lifeless; dull. [Lat. aridus < arere,
 to be dry.]   aridity  aridness n.



 Aries  n.  1. A constellation in the Northern Hemisphere near Taurus and
 Pisces. 2. The first sign of the zodiac. [Lat. aries, ram.]



 arietta or ariette   n.  A short aria. [Ital., dim. of aria, aria.]



 aright  adv.  Properly; correctly. [ME < OE ariht : a-, on + riht, right.]




 aril  n.  An outer covering or appendage of some seeds, arising at or near
 the hilum. [Med. Lat. arillus, grape stone.]   ariled adj.



 arioso  Music.  adv.  In the style of an aria. Used as a direction to the
 performer.   -adj. Resembling an aria.   -n.pl. -sos  A passage or
 composition in arioso style. [Ital. < aria, aria.]



 arise  intr.v. arose arisen arising arises   1. To get up, as from a
 sitting or prone position. 2. To move upward; ascend. 3. To come into
 being; originate. 4. To result, issue, or proceed: new ideas arising from
 our discussion.  [ME arisen < OE arisan.]



 arista  n. pl. -tae  or -tas  A bristlelike part or process. [Lat., beard
 of grain.]   aristate adj.



 aristocracy  n. pl. -cies  1. A hereditary privileged ruling class or
 nobility. 2.  a. Government by the nobility or by a privileged minority or
 upper class. b. A state or country having this form of government. 3.  a.
 Government by the best citizens. b. A state having such government. 4. A
 group or class considered to be superior. [OFr. aristocratie, government by
 the best < LLat. aristocratia < Gk. aristokratia : aristos, best + kratos,
 power.]



 aristocrat  n.  1. A member of the nobility or aristocracy. 2. A person
 having the tastes, opinions, manners, and other characteristics of the
 aristocracy. 3. A person who advocates government by an aristocracy. [Fr.
 aristocrate < aristocratie, aristocracy < OFr.]   aristocratic
 aristocratical adj.   aristocratically adv.



 Aristotelian or Aristotelean   adj.  Of or pertaining to the Greek
 philosopher Aristotle or his philosophy.   -n. 1. A follower of Aristotle
 or his teachings. 2. A person who tends to be empirical or scientific in
 his methods or thought.   Aristotelianism n.



 Aristotelian logic  n.  1. Aristotle's deductive method of logic, esp. the
 theory of the syllogism. 2. The formal logic based on Aristotle's and
 dealing with the relations between propositions in terms of their form
 instead of their content.



 arithmetic  n.  1. The mathematics of integers under addition,
 subtraction, multiplication, division, involution, and evolution. 2.
 Computation or problem solving involving real numbers and the arithmetic
 operations. 3. A book on arithmetic.   -adj.arithmetic  or arithmetical
 Of or pertaining to arithmetic. [ME arsmetrik, alteration of OFr.
 arismetique < LLat. arismetica, alteration of Lat. arithmetica < Gk.
 arithmetike (tekhne), (the art) of counting < arithmein, to count <
 arithmos, number.]   arithmetically adv.   arithmetician n.



 arithmetic mean  n.  The number obtained by dividing the sum of a set of
 quantities by the number of quantities in the set.



 arithmetic progression  n.  A sequence, such as the odd integers 1, 3, 5,
 7, . . . , in which each term after the first is formed by adding a
 constant to each preceding term.



 -arium   A place or device containing or associated with: planetarium.
 [Lat., neuter of -arius, -ary.]



 ark  n.  1. In the Old Testament, the chest containing the Ten
 Commandments written on stone tablets, carried by the Hebrews during their
 desert wanderings. 2. The Holy ark. 3. In the Old Testament, the boat built
 by Noah for survival during the Flood. 4. A large, commodious boat. 5. A
 place of shelter or refuge. [ME < OE arc < Lat. arca, chest.]



 arm
 arm(1)  n.  1. An upper limb of the human body connecting the hand and
 wrist to the shoulder. 2. A part similar to an arm, such as the forelimb of
 an animal or a long part projecting from a central support in a machine. 3.
 Something designed to cover or support the human arm, as a sleeve on an
 article of clothing or a projecting support on a chair or sofa. 4.
 Something branching out from a large mass: an arm of the sea.  5. An
 administrative or functional branch, as of an organization. 6. Power or
 authority: the long arm of the law.

       Idiom Section:  an arm and a leg. An extravagant amount: a cruise
 that cost an arm and a leg.  with open arms. Cordially; hospitably. [ME <
 OE earm.]
 arm(2)  n.  1. A weapon, esp. a firearm. 2. A branch of a military force,
 such as the infantry. 3. arms  Warfare. 4. arms   a. Heraldic bearings. b.
 Insignia, as of a state, official, family, or organization.

       Idiom Section:  up in arms. Aroused and ready to fight; indignant.
 -v.armed arming arms   -intr. 1. To supply or equip oneself with arms. 2.
 To prepare oneself for or as if for warfare or conflict. -tr. 1. To equip
 with weapons. 2. To prepare for war; fortify. 3. To provide with something
 that strengthens or increases efficiency. 4. To prepare (a bomb, for
 example) for detonation, as by releasing a safety device. [ME armes < OFr.
 < Lat. arma.]   armer n.



 armada  n.  1. A fleet of warships. 2. A large group of moving things: an
 armada of ants crossing the lawn.  [Sp. < Med. Lat. armata < Lat. armatus,
 armed, p.part. of armare, to arm < arma, arms.]



 armadillo  n. pl. -los  Any of several omnivorous, burrowing mammals of
 the family Dasypodidae, of southern North America and South America, having
 a covering of armorlike, jointed, bony plates. [Sp., dim. of armado,
 armored, p.part. of armar, to arm < Lat. armare < arma, arms.]



 Armageddon  n.  1. The scene of a final battle between the forces of good
 and evil, prophesied in the Bible to occur at the end of the world. 2. A
 decisive conflict. [LLat. Armagedon < Gk. < Heb. har megiddon, mountain
 district of Megiddo, the site of several great battles mentioned in the
 Bible.]



 Armagnac  n.  A dry brandy. [Fr., after Armagnac, a region in southwest
 France.]



 armament  n.  1. The weapons and supplies of war with which a military
 unit is equipped. 2. armaments  All the military forces and war equipment
 of a country. 3. A military force equipped for war. 4. The process of
 arming for war. [Lat. armamenta, tools < arma, arms.]



 armamentarium  n. pl. -iums  or -ia  The complete equipment of a physician
 or medical institution, including books, supplies, and instruments. [Lat.,
 arsenal < armamenta, tools, armaments.]



 armature  n.  1.  Electricity.  a. The rotating part of a dynamo
 consisting essentially of copper wire wound around an iron core. b. The
 moving part of an electromagnetic device such as a relay, buzzer, or
 loud-speaker. c. A piece of soft iron connecting the poles of a magnet. 2.
 Biology. The protective covering or structure of an animal or plant. 3. A
 framework serving as a supporting core for clay sculpture. 4. Armor. [Lat.
 armatura, equipment < armare, to arm < arma, arms.]



 armchair  n.  A chair with side structures to support the arms or elbows.
  -adj. Remote from active involvement: an armchair warrior.



 armed  adj.  1. Equipped with weapons. 2. Having or characterized by an
 arm or arms of a stated kind or number: strong-armed.



 armed forces  pl.n.  The military forces of a country.



 Armenian  n.  1. A native or inhabitant of Armenia. 2. The Indo-European
 language of the Armenians.   Armenian adj.



 armet  n.  A medieval light helmet with a neck guard and movable visor.
 [OFr.]



 armful  n.  As much as an arm can hold.



 armhole  n.  An opening for the arm in a garment.



 armiger  n.  1. An armorbearer for a knight; squire. 2. A person entitled
 to heraldic arms. [Lat. : arma, arms + gerere, to carry.]



 armillary sphere  n.  An astronomical model with solid rings, all circles
 of a single sphere, used to display relationships among the principal
 celestial circles. [Fr. sphere armillaire < Lat. armilla, bracelet < armus,
 shoulder.]



 Arminianism  n.  The doctrines of Jacobus Arminius and his followers,
 opposing the Calvinist doctrine of absolute predestination.   Arminian adj.
 n.



 armistice  n.  A temporary cessation or suspension of hostilities by
 mutual consent; truce. [NLat. armistitium : Lat. arma, arms + Lat.
 -stitium, a stopping < sistere, to stop.]



 Armistice Day  n.  November 11, celebrated as the anniversary of the
 armistice of World War I in 1918. It has been called Veterans' Day since
 1954.



 armlet  n.  1. A band worn on the arm for ornament or identification. 2. A
 small arm, as of the sea.



 armoire  n.  A large ornate cabinet or wardrobe. [OFr., var. of armaire <
 Lat. armarium, closet < arma, tools.]



 armor  n.  1. A defensive covering, such as chain mail, worn to protect
 the body against weapons. 2. A tough protective covering, such as the bony
 scales covering certain animals or metallic plates on tanks or warships. 3.
 Something serving as a safeguard or protection. 4. The armored vehicles of
 an army.   -tr.v.-mored -moring -mors   To cover with armor. [ME armure <
 OFr. armeure < Lat. armaturea < armare, to arm < arma, arms.]



 armorbearer  n.  One who carries the armor of a warrior.



 armor-clad  adj.  Wearing or covered with armor.



 armored  adj.  1. Clad or covered with armor. 2. Equipped with armored
 vehicles, as a military unit.



 armorer  n.  1. One who makes or repairs armor. 2. A manufacturer of
 weapons. 3. An enlisted man in charge of maintenance and repair of the
 small arms of his unit.



 armorial  adj.  Of or pertaining to heraldry or heraldic arms.   -n. A
 book or treatise on heraldry.



 Armoric or Armorican   adj.  Of or pertaining to Armorica or the people or
 language of Armorica.   -n. 1. A native or inhabitant of Armorica. 2.
 Breton (sense 2).



 armor plate  n.  Specially formulated hard steel plate used to cover
 warships, vehicles, and fortifications.   armor-plated adj.



 armory  n. pl. -ies  1. A storehouse for arms; arsenal. 2. A building for
 storing arms and military equipment, esp. one serving as headquarters for
 military reserve personnel. 3. An arms factory.



 armour  n.  Chiefly British.  Variant of armor.



 armpit  n.  The hollow under the arm at the shoulder.



 armrest  n.  A support for the arm, as on a piece of furniture or the
 inner surface of the door of a vehicle.



 arm-twisting  n.  The use of esp. strong pressure to accomplish a goal:
 subjecting vulnerable congressmen to some political arm-twisting (James R.
 Gaines).



 arm wrestling  n.  A form of wrestling in which two opponents sit facing
 each other with usually right hands interlocked and elbows firmly planted,
 as on a table surface, and attempt to force each other's arm down.
 arm-wrestle v. -tled -tling -tles



 army  n. pl. -mies  1. A large body of men organized and trained for
 warfare on land. 2. The entire military land forces of a country. 3. A
 tactical and administrative military unit consisting of a headquarters, two
 or more army corps, and auxiliary forces. 4. A large group of people
 organized for a specific cause. 5. A large multitude, as of people or
 animals. [ME armee < OFr. < Med. Lat. armata. -see armada.]



 Army Air Forces  pl.n.  The aviation branch of the U.S. Army before the
 establishment of the U.S. Air Force.



 army ant  n.  Any of various chiefly tropical New World ants of the
 subfamily Dorylinae, forming large colonies that move from place to place.



 Army of the United States  n.  A temporary organization of all military
 forces during time of war, including the Army Reserves in the National
 Guard, and Selective Service personnel, as well as the regular U.S. Army.



 armyworm  n.  Any of various insect larvae that travel in large groups,
 destroying crops and other vegetation, esp. the caterpillar of a New World
 moth, Leucania (or Pseudaletia ) unipuncta.



 arnatto  n.  Variant of annatto.



 arnica  n.  1. Any of various plants of the genus Arnica, having
 bright-yellow, rayed flowers. 2. A tincture of the dried flower heads of A.
 montana, used for sprains and bruises. [NLat. Arnica, genus name.]



 aroid  n.  Any of various plants of the family Aracea, which includes the
 arums. [ar(um) + -oid.]   aroid adj.



 aroint  tr.v. arointed arointing aroints   Archaic.  Begone; avaunt:
 Aroint thee, witch! (Shakespeare). [Orig. unknown.]



 aroma  n.  1. A pleasant, characteristic odor, as of a plant, spice, or
 food. 2. A distinctive, intangible quality; aura. [Lat. < Gk., aroma,
 aromatic herb.]



 aromatic  adj.  1. Having an aroma; fragrant, sweet-smelling, or spicy. 2.
  Chemistry. Of, pertaining to, or containing the six-carbon ring
 characteristic of the benzene series and related organic groups.   -n. An
 aromatic plant or substance.   aromatically adv.   aromaticness n.



 aromaticity  n.  Aromatic quality or character, esp. the distinctive
 structure or properties of the aromatic chemical compounds.



 aromatize  tr.v. -tized -tizing -tizes   1. To make aromatic or fragrant.
 2.  Chemistry. To subject to a reaction that results in an aromatic
 compound.   aromatization n.



 arose  v.  Past tense of arise.



 around  adv.  1. On or to all sides or in all directions. 2. In a circle
 or circular motion. 3. To each member of a group: enough to go around.  4.
 In or toward the opposite direction, position, or attitude. 5. From one
 place to another; here and there: wander around.  6.  Informal. Close at
 hand; nearby: He waited around all day.  7.  Informal. To a specific place
 or area: when you come around again.  8.  Informal. To a normal or desired
 state. 9.  Informal. Approximately; about.   -prep. 1. On all sides of. 2.
 So as to enclose, surround, or envelop. 3. About the circumference or
 periphery of; encircling. 4. About the central point of: the earth's motion
 around the sun.  5. In or to various places within or near: driving around
 the countryside.  6. On or to the farther side of: the house around the
 corner.  7.  Informal. Approximately at; near.

       Idiom Section:  get around. Informal.  1. To deal or cope with
 successfully. 2. To succeed in evading or circumventing.get around
 to.Informal. To find time or occasion to give one's attention to. [ME, in
 the round, in circumference.]



 around-the-clock  adj.  Variant of round-the-clock.



 arouse  v. aroused arousing arouses   -tr. 1. To awaken from or as if from
 sleep. 2. To stir up; excite. -intr. To be or become aroused. [< rouse, on
 the model of such pairs as rise, arise.]   arousal n.   arouser n.



 arpeggio  n. pl. -os  Music.  1. The playing of the tones of a chord in
 rapid succession rather than simultaneously. 2. A chord played or sung in
 arpeggio. [Ital. < arpeggiare, to play the harp < arpa, harp, of Germanic
 orig.]   arpeggioed adj.



 arpent  n.  An old French unit of land measurement approximately
 equivalent to an acre. [Fr. < OFr. < Lat. arepennis, half acre, of Gaulish
 orig.]



 arquebus  n.  Variant of harquebus.



 arrack  n.  A strong alcoholic drink of the Middle East and nearby regions
 of the Orient, usually distilled from rice or molasses. [Ar. 'araq, fruit
 juice.]



 arraign  tr.v. -raigned -raigning -raigns   1.  Law. To call before a
 court to answer to an indictment. 2. To call to account; charge:  Johnson
 arraigned the modern politics of this country as entirely devoid of all
 principle (Boswell). [ME arreinen < OFr. araisnier < VLat. *adrationare :
 Lat. ad-, to + Lat. ratio, account. -see reason.]   arraigner n.
 arraignment n.



 arrange  v. -ranged -ranging -ranges   -tr. 1. To put into a specific
 order or relation; dispose. 2. To plan or prepare for: arrange a picnic.
 3. To agree about; settle:  It has been arranged for him by his family to
 marry a girl of his own class (Edmund Wilson). 4.  Music. To reset (music)
 for other instruments or voices or for another style of performance. -intr.
 1. To come to an agreement. 2. To make preparations; plan: arrange for a
 sabbatical.  [ME arengen < OFr. arengier : a-, to (< Lat. ad) + rengier, to
 put in a line < reng, line, of Germanic orig.]   arranger n.



 arrangement  n.  1. The act or process of arranging. 2. The condition,
 manner, or result of being arranged; disposal. 3. A collection or set of
 things that have been arranged. 4. arrangements  A provision or plan made
 in preparation for an undertaking. 5. An agreement or settlement;
 disposition. 6.  Music.  a. An adaptation of a composition for other
 instruments or voices or to another style or level of difficulty. b. A
 composition so arranged.



 arrant  adj.  Being completely such; thoroughgoing: an arrant knave.
 [Var. of errant.]   arrantly adv.



 arras  n.  1. A tapestry. 2. A wall hanging, esp. of tapestry. [ME, after
 Arras, France.]



 array  tr.v. -rayed -raying -rays   1. To arrange or draw up, as troops in
 battle order. 2. To deck in finery; adorn.   -n. 1. An orderly arrangement,
 esp. of troops. 2. An impressive display of numerous persons or objects:  a
 heathenish array of monstrous clubs and spears (Melville). 3. Splendid
 attire; finery. 4.  Mathematics.  a. A rectangular arrangement of
 quantities in rows and columns, as in a matrix. b. Numerical data linearly
 ordered by magnitude. 5. An arrangement of computer memory elements in one
 or several planes. [ME arraien < OFr. areer < VLat. *arredare, of Germanic
 orig.]



 arrayal  n.  1. The act or process of arraying. 2. Something arrayed;
 array.



 arrearage  n.  1. The state of being in arrears. 2. An amount owed in
 payment.



 arrears  pl.n.  1. An unpaid and overdue debt or an unfulfilled
 obligation. 2. The state of being behind in fulfilling contracted
 obligations or payments: in arrears.  [< ME arrere, behind < OFr. arere <
 LLat. ad retro, backward : Lat. ad, to + Lat. retro, behind.]



 arrest  tr.v. -rested -resting -rests   1. To stop or check the motion,
 progress, growth, or spread of. 2. To seize and hold under authority of the
 law. 3. To capture and hold briefly (the attention, for example); engage.
 -n. 1.  a. The act of arresting. b. The state of being arrested. 2. A
 device for arresting motion, esp. of a moving part.

       Idiom Section:  under arrest. Detained in legal custody. [ME aresten
 < OFr. arester < VLat. *arrestare : Lat. ad-, to + Lat. restare, to stand
 still (re-, back + stare, to stand).]   arrester n.   arrestment n.



 arresting  adj.  Attracting and holding the attention; striking.
 arrestingly adv.



 arrhythmia  n.  Any irregularity in the force or rhythm of the heartbeat.
 [Gk. arruthmia, lack of rhythm < arruthmos, unrhythmical : a-, without +
 rhuthmos, rhythm.]



 arrhythmic or arrhythmical   adj.  Lacking rhythm or regularity of rhythm.
   arrhythmically adv.



 arriere-ban  n.  1. In medieval France, a royal proclamation by which
 vassals were summoned to military service. 2. The vassals summoned by an
 arriere-ban. [Fr. < OFr. ariere-ban, alteration of herban, of Germanic
 orig.]



 arriere-pensee  n.  An ulterior motive. [Fr. : arriere, in back + pensee,
 thought.]



 arris  n. pl. arris  or -rises  Architecture.  The sharp edge or ridge
 formed by two surfaces meeting at an angle, as in a molding. [Alteration of
 OFr. areste, ridge. -see arete.]



 arrival  n.  1. The act of arriving. 2. A person or thing that arrives or
 has arrived. 3. The reaching of a goal or objective as a result of some
 process or effort.



 arrive  intr.v. -rived -riving -rives   1. To reach a destination. 2. To
 come at length; take place: The day of crisis has arrived.  3. To achieve
 success or recognition. Phrasal verb.  arrive at. To reach through some
 process or effort: arrive at a decision.  [ME ariven < OFr. ariver < VLat.
 *arripare : Lat. ad-, to + Lat. ripa, shore.]   arriver n.



 arriviste  n. pl. -vistes  A social climber or opportunist; upstart. [Fr.
 < arriver, to arrive < OFr. ariver.]



 arroba  n.  Archaic.  1. A unit of weight in Spanish-speaking countries
 equal to about 25 pounds. 2. A unit of weight in Portuguese-speaking
 countries equal to about 32 pounds. 3. A liquid measure used in
 Spanish-speaking countries, having varying value, but approximately equal
 to 17 quarts when used to measure wine. [Sp. and Port. < Ar. ar-rub", the
 quarter (of a quintal).]



 arrogance  n.  The state or quality of being arrogant.



 arrogant  adj.  1. Overly convinced of one's own importance; overbearingly
 proud; haughty. 2. Characterized by or arising from haughty
 self-importance. [ME arrogaunt < OFr. < Lat. arrogans, pr.part. of
 arrogare, to arrogate.]   arrogantly adv.



 arrogate  tr.v. -gated -gating -gates   1. To claim, take, or assume for
 oneself without right. 2. To attribute to another unwarrantably. [Lat.
 arrogare, arrogat- : ad-, to + rogare, to ask.]   arrogation n.
 arrogative adj.   arrogator n.



 arrondissement  n.  1. The chief administrative subdivision of a
 department in France. 2. A municipal subdivision of some large French
 cities. [Fr. < arrondir, to round out : a, to (< Lat. ad) + rondir, to make
 round.]



 arrow  n.  1. A straight, thin shaft that is shot from a bow and usually
 made of light wood with a pointed head at one end and flight-stabilizing
 feathers at the other. 2. Something similar to an arrow in form, function,
 or speed. 3. A sign or symbol shaped like an arrow and used to indicate
 direction. [ME arwe < OE arewe.]



 arrowhead  n.  1. The pointed, removable striking tip of an arrow. 2.
 Something shaped like an arrowhead, such as a mark indicating a limit on a
 drawing. 3. Any aquatic or marsh plant of the genus Sagittaria, having
 arrowhead-shaped leaves and white flowers.



 arrowroot  n.  1. A tropical American plant, Maranta arundinacea, having
 roots that yield an edible starch. 2. The starch from the arrowroot and
 from certain plants of the genera Manihot, Curcuma, and Tacca.  [So called
 because it was used to draw poison from arrow wounds.]



 arrow-wood  n.  Any of several small shrubs of the genus Viburnum, such as
 the dockmackie, having straight tough stems formerly used by the Indians to
 make arrows.



 arrow worm  n.  Any of various small, slender marine worms of the phylum
 Chaetognatha, having prehensile bristles on each side of the mouth.



 arroyo  n. pl. -os  1. A deep gully cut by an intermittent stream; dry
 gulch. 2. A brook or creek. [Sp., ult. < Lat. arrugia, mineshaft.]



 arse  n.  Chiefly British.  Variant of ass2.



 arsenal  n.  1. A governmental establishment for the storing,
 manufacturing, or repairing of arms, ammunition, and other war materiel. 2.
 A stock of weapons. 3. A store or supply: She arrived with an arsenal of
 assistants.  [Ital. arsenale < Ar. dar-as-sina"ah : dar, house + as-, the +
 sina"ah, manufacture < sana"a, he made.]



 arsenate  n.  A salt or ester of arsenic acid.



 arsenic  n.  1. A highly poisonous metallic element having three
 allotropic forms, yellow, black, or gray, of which the brittle, crystalline
 gray is the most common. Arsenic and its compounds are used in
 insecticides, weed killers, solid-state doping agents, and various alloys.
 Atomic number 33; atomic weight 74.922; valence 3 or 5. Gray arsenic melts
 at 817 deg. C (at 28 atm pressure), sublimes at 613 deg. C, and has a
 specific gravity of 5.73. 2. Arsenic trioxide.   -adj.arsenic   Of or
 containing arsenic, esp. with valence 5. [ME arsenik < OFr. < Lat.
 arrenicum < Gk. arsenikon, yellow orpiment < Pers. zarnik < zar, gold.]



 arsenic acid  n.  A poisonous white translucent crystalline compound,
 H3AsO4, used to manufacture arsenates.



 arsenical  adj.  Of or containing arsenic.   -n. A drug or preparation
 containing arsenic.



 arsenic trioxide  n.  A poisonous white amorphous powder, As2O3, used in
 insecticides, rat poison, and weed killers.



 arsenide  n.  A compound of arsenic with a more electropositive element.



 arsenious  adj.  Of or containing arsenic, esp. with valence 3.



 arsenopyrite  n.  A silver-white to gray arsenic ore, essentially
 FeS2FeAs2.



 arshin  n.  Variant of archine.



 arsine  n.  A colorless, flammable, very poisonous gas, AsH3, used as a
 military poison gas, as a solid-state doping agent, and in organic
 synthesis. [ars(enic) + -ine2.]



 arsis  n. pl. -ses  1. Originally, the unaccented or shorter part of a
 foot of verse. 2. In modern usage, the accented or longer part of a foot of
 verse. 3.  Music. The upbeat or unaccented part of a measure. [LLat.,
 raising of the voice < Gk., upward beat < aeirein, to lift.]



 arson  n.  The crime of maliciously setting fire to the buildings or
 property of another or of burning one's own property for some improper
 purpose, as to collect insurance. [AN < OFr. arcun < Med. Lat. arsio < Lat.
 ardere, to burn.]   arsonist n.



 arsphenamine  n.  A yellow hygroscopic powder, C12H12N2O2As2HCl2H2O,
 formerly used to treat syphilis. [ars(enic) + phen(yl) + amine.]



 art
 art(1)  n.  1. Human effort to imitate, supplement, alter, or counteract
 the work of nature. 2.  a. The conscious production or arrangement of
 sounds, colors, forms, movements, or other elements in a manner that
 affects the sense of beauty; specifically, the production of the beautiful
 in a graphic or plastic medium. b. The study of these activities. c. The
 product of these activities. 3. High quality of conception or execution, as
 found in works of beauty; aesthetic value. 4. Any field or category of art,
 such as music, ballet, or literature. 5. A nonscientific branch of
 learning; one of the liberal arts. 6.  a. A system of principles and
 methods employed in the performance of a set of activities: the art of
 building.  b. A trade or craft that applies such a system of principles and
 methods: pursuing the baker's art.  7. A specific skill in adept
 performance, conceived as requiring the exercise of intuitive faculties
 that cannot be learned solely by study: the art of writing letters.  8.  a.
 arts  Artful devices; stratagems; tricks. b. Artfulness; contrivance;
 cunning. 9.  Printing. Illustrative material as distinguished from text.
 [ME < OFr. < Lat. ars.]
 art(2)   v.  Archaic.  Second person singular, present indicative of be.
 [ME < OE eart.]



 -art   Variant of -ard.



 art deco  n.  An early 20th-century style of decorative art featuring
 geometrical designs and bold colors. [Fr. Art Deco, from Exposition
 Internationale des Arts Decoratifs et Industriels Moderns, a 1925
 exposition in Paris, France.]



 artefact  n.  Variant of artifact.



 artel  n.  A cooperative enterprise of industrial or agricultural workers
 in the Soviet Union. [R. artel' < Ital. artieri, artisans < arte, work <
 Lat. ars.]



 Artemis  n.  Greek Mythology.  The virgin goddess of the hunt and the
 moon, and twin sister of Apollo. [Gk.]



 artemisia  n.  Any of various plants of the genus Artemisia, which
 includes sagebrush and wormwood. [ME artemesie, mugwort < OFr. < Lat.
 artemisia < Gk., wormwood, after Artemis, to whom it was sacred.]



 arterial  adj.  1. Of, like, or in an artery or arteries. 2. Of or
 designating the blood in the arteries that has absorbed oxygen in the lungs
 and is bright red. 3. Of or designating a route of transportation carrying
 a main flow with many branches.   -n. A through road or street.
 arterially adv.



 arterialize  tr.v. -ized -izing -izes   To convert (venous blood) into
 arterial blood by absorption of oxygen in the lungs.   arterialization n.



 arterio-   Artery: arteriovenous.  [Gk. arterio- < arteria, artery.]



 arteriography  n.  Roentgenography of the arteries following injection of
 a radiopaque dye.   arteriogram n.   arteriographic adj.



 arteriole  n.  One of the small terminal branches of an artery, esp. one
 that connects with a capillary. [NLat. arteriola, dim. of Lat. arteria,
 windpipe < Gk.]   arteriolar adj.



 arteriosclerosis  n.  A chronic disease in which thickening and hardening
 of arterial walls interferes with blood circulation.   arteriosclerotic
 adj.



 arteriovenous  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or connecting both arteries and
 veins.



 arteritis  n.  Inflammation of an artery.



 artery  n. pl. -ies  1.  Anatomy. Any of a branching system of muscular
 tubes that carry blood away from the heart. 2. A major route of
 transportation, into which local routes flow. [ME arterie < Lat. arteria,
 windpipe < Gk.]



 artesian well  n.  A well drilled through impermeable strata to reach
 water capable of rising to the surface by internal hydrostatic pressure.
 [Fr. artesien, of Artois, where such wells were first drilled.]



 art film  n.  A motion picture intended to be a serious work of art, often
 experimental and not designed for mass appeal.



 artful  adj.  1. Exhibiting art or skill. 2. Skillful, esp. in finding the
 means to an end; clever. 3. Deceitful or tricky; crafty. 4. Artificial; not
 genuine.   artfully adv.   artfulness n.



 arthr-   Variant of arthro-.



 arthralgia  n.  Neuralgic pain in a joint.   arthralgic adj.



 arthritis  n.  Inflammation of a joint or joints.   arthritic adj. n.
 arthritically adv.



 arthro- or arthr-    Joint: arthropathy.  [< Gk. arthron, joint.]



 arthromere  n.  One of the typical body segments of an arthropod.
 arthromeric adj.



 arthropathy  n.  Any disease of a joint.



 arthropod  n.  Any of numerous invertebrate organisms of the phylum
 Arthropoda, which includes the insects, crustaceans, arachnids, and
 myriapods. Arthropods have a horny, segmented external covering and jointed
 limbs. [NLat. Arthropoda, phylum name : arthro- + Gk. pous, foot.]
 arthropodous arthropodal  adj.



 arthroscopy  n. pl. -pies  The endoscopic examination of a joint, as the
 knee.   arthroscope n.   arthroscopic adj.



 arthrosis  n. pl. -ses  1. A connection or joint between bones. 2. A
 degenerative process in a joint. [Gk. arthrosis < arthron, joint.]



 arthrospore  n.  A sporelike cell characteristic of segmented filamentous
 fungi or certain algae.   arthrosporic  arthrosporous adj.



 Arthur  n.  Legendary British hero, said to have been king of the Britons
 in the 6th century  A.D.  [ME Artur < Med. Lat. Artorius, prob. of Celtic
 orig.]



 Arthurian  adj.  Of or pertaining to King Arthur and his Knights of the
 Round Table.



 artichoke  n.  1. A thistlelike plant, Cynara scolymus, having a large
 flower head with numerous fleshy, scalelike bracts. 2. The unopened flower
 head of an artichoke, cooked and eaten as a vegetable. 3. The Jerusalem
 artichoke. [Dial. Ital. articiocco, alteration of arcicioffo < OSp.
 alcarchofa < Ar. al-kharshuf.]



 article  n.  1. An individual thing in a class; an item: an article of
 clothing.  2. A small thing. 3. A particular section or item of a series in
 a written document, such as a contract, constitution, or treaty. 4. A
 nonfictional literary composition that forms an independent part of a
 publication; report or essay. 5.  Grammar.  Any of a class of words used to
 signal nouns and to specify their application. In English, the articles are
 a and an (indefinite articles) and the (definite article). 6. A particular
 part or subject; a point or specific matter.   -tr.v.-cled -cling -cles
 1. To set forth or state in articles. 2. To make specific or formal charges
 against; accuse. 3. To bind by articles set forth in a contract. [ME < OFr.
 < Lat. articulus, part, dim. of artus, joint.]



 Articles of Confederation  pl.n.  The first constitution of the United
 States, adopted by the original 13 states in 1781 and lasting until 1788
 when the present Constitution was ratified.



 articulable  adj.  Capable of being articulated.



 articular  adj.  Of or pertaining to a joint or joints. [ME articuler <
 Lat. articularis < articulus, small joint. -see article.]   articularly
 adv.



 articulate  adj.  1. Endowed with the power of speech. 2. Spoken in or
 divided into clear and distinct words or syllables. 3. Capable of, speaking
 in, or characterized by clear, expressive language. 4.  Biology. Having
 joints or segments.   -v. -lated -lating -lates   -tr. 1. To utter (a
 speech sound or sounds) by moving the necessary organs of speech. 2. To
 pronounce distinctly and carefully; enunciate. 3. To express in coherent
 verbal form; give words to:couldn't articulate her fears.  4. To unite by
 forming a joint or joints. -intr. 1. To utter a speech sound or sounds. 2.
 To speak clearly and distinctly. 3. To form a joint; be jointed. [Lat.
 articulatus, jointed, p.part. of articulare, to divide into joints <
 articulus, small joint. -see article.]   articulately adv.   articulateness
 n.



 articulation  n.  1. The act or process of articulating; enunciation: an
 articulation of the group's sentiments.  2.  a. The movements of speech
 organs employed in producing a particular speech sound. b. A speech sound,
 esp. a consonant. 3.  a. A jointing together or being jointed together. b.
 The method or manner of jointing. 4.  Zoology. A joint between bones or
 between movable parts of an outside shell. 5.  Botany.  a. A joint between
 two separable parts, as a leaf and a stem. b. A node or a space on a stem
 between two nodes.   articulative articulatory  adj.   articulator n.



 artifact or artefact   n.  1. An object produced or shaped by human
 workmanship, esp., a tool, weapon, or ornament of archaeological or
 historical interest. 2.  Biology. A structure or substance not normally
 present but produced by some external agency or action. [Lat. ars, art- +
 factum, something made, p.part. of facere, to make.]   artifactual adj.



 artifice  n.  1. A crafty expedient; an artful device or stratagem. 2.
 Subtle but base deception; trickery. 3. Ingenuity; cleverness; skill. [Fr.
 < OFr., craftsmanship < Lat. artificium < artifex, craftsman : ars, art +
 -fex, maker < facere, to make.]

      Synonyms: artifice trick ruse wile feint
 stratagem maneuver dodge guile finesse
 subterfuge These nouns denote means for achieving an end by indirection.
 Artifice  refers to something especially contrived to create a desired
 effect but not necessarily with intent to deceive. Trick  often implies
 willful deception, but can also mean a playful, harmless act. Ruse
 stresses creation of a false impression with the intention of distracting.
 Wile  suggests deceiving and trapping a victim by playing on his weak
 points. Feint  denotes a deceptive act calculated to distract attention
 from a person's real end. Stratagem  implies carefully planned deception.
 Maneuver  usually applies more narrowly to a specific strategic move. Dodge
  stresses slyness and quickness in achieving deception. Guile  refers to
 treachery, deceit, and cunning in general rather than to a specific
 application of them. Finesse  is highly developed skill, often but not
 invariably associated with craftiness. Subterfuge  applies to deception
 practiced especially to evade difficulty or unpleasantness.




 artificer  n.  1. A skilled worker; craftsman. 2. A person adept at
 designing and constructing; inventor:  The labyrinth...was built by
 Daedalus, a most skilful artificer (Thomas Bulfinch).



 artificial  adj.  1. Made by man rather than occurring in nature: an
 artificial sweetener.  2. Made in imitation of something natural:
 artificial flowers.  3. Not genuine or natural; feigned; pretended: an
 artificial smile.  [ME < Lat. artificialis < artificium, craftsmanship.
 -see artifice.]   artificiality n.   artificially adv.

      Synonyms: artificial synthetic ersatz simulated spurious
 specious counterfeit supposititious These adjectives mean not genuine.
 Artificial , broad in meaning and connotation, refers to things resulting
 from human effort, as distinguished from preexisting nature or character.
 Synthetic  applies to a substance designed to appear or function like the
 original, often with certain advantages. An ersatz  product is a
 transparently inferior, often pretentious, imitation. The remaining terms
 invariably imply fraud. Simulated  refers to what is not real or true but
 is intentionally made to appear so. Spurious  roughly means fraudulent,
 while specious  adds the sense of attractiveness or seductiveness: a
 spurious document; specious arguments of the Devil. Counterfeit  strongly
 implies imitation with intent to defraud; supposititious  suggests the
 insertion of that which is fraudulent.




 artificial horizon  n.  An instrument displaying a line on a flight
 indicator that lies within the horizontal plane and about which the
 pitching and banking movements of an airplane are shown.



 artificial insemination  n.  The introduction of semen into the female
 reproductive organs without sexual contact.



 artificial intelligence  n.  1.  a. The characteristics of a machine
 programmed to imitate human intelligence functions. b. Research in methods
 of such programming. 2. Research in methods of programming designed to
 supplement human intellectual abilities.



 artificial language  n.  A language based on a set of prescribed rules
 established before the language is used.



 artificial respiration  n.  Any of various methods used to restore normal
 breathing in an asphyxiated but living person, usually by rhythmic forcing
 of air into and out of the lungs.



 artillerist  n.  An artilleryman; gunner.



 artillery  n.  1. Large-caliber firing weapons, such as howitzers and
 cannons, that are mounted and manned by crews. 2. Troops armed with
 artillery. 3. The branch of an armed force that specializes in the use of
 artillery. 4. The science of the use of guns; gunnery. 5. Catapults,
 crossbows, slings, and similar devices for discharging missiles. [ME
 artelrie < OFr. artillerie < artillier, to fortify.]



 artilleryman  n.  A soldier in the artillery; artillerist.



 artillery plant  n.  A tropical American plant, Pilea muscosa, that
 releases its pollen with an explosive discharge.



 artiodactyl  n.  Any of various hoofed mammals of the order Artiodactyla,
 which includes cattle, deer, camels, hippopotamuses, and others, with an
 even number of toes, either two or four, on each foot. [< NLat.
 Artiodactyla, order name : Gk. artios, even + dactulos, toe.]   artiodactyl
  artiodactylous adj.



 artisan  n.  A person manually skilled in making a particular product;
 craftsman. [OFr. < OItal. artigiano < VLat. *artitianus < Lat. artitus,
 skilled in the arts, p.part. of artire, to instruct in the arts < ars,
 art.]



 artist  n.  1. One who creates works of art, esp. a painter, sculptor, or
 musician. 2. Any person who performs his work as if it were an art. 3. An
 artiste. [OFr. artiste < Ital. artista < arte, art < Lat. ars.]



 artiste  n.  A public performer or entertainer, esp. a singer or dancer.
 [Fr. < OFr., artist.]



 artistic  adj.  1. Of or relating to art or artists: the artistic
 community.  2. Appreciative of or sensitive to art or beauty: an artistic
 temperament.  3. Showing skill and artistry: an artistic design.
 artistically adv.



 artistry  n.  1. Artistic ability, quality, or workmanship. 2. The
 practice or occupation of an artist.



 artless  adj.  1. Without guile, cunning, or deceit; ingenuous; naive: an
 artless child.  2. Free of artificiality; natural; simple: artless
 affection.  3. Lacking art or skill; crude. 4. Uncultured; ignorant.
 artlessly adv.   artlessness n.



 artmobile  n.  A trailer that serves as a traveling art exhibit.



 art nouveau  n.  A style of decoration and architecture of the late 19th
 and early 20th century, characterized by the use of flowing, sinuous lines.
 [Fr., new art.]



 art song  n.  A lyric song intended to be sung in recital and usually
 accompanied by a piano.



 artsy-craftsy  adj.  Informal.  Showily or superficially artistic.



 artwork  n.  1. Work in the graphic or plastic arts, esp. small, hand-made
 decorative or artistic objects. 2. The illustrative and decorative elements
 of printed materials as distinguished from text.



 arty  adj. -ier -iest   Informal.  Ostentatiously or affectedly artistic.
  artily adv.   artiness n.



 arum  n.  1. Any of various plants of the genus Arum, having arrow-shaped
 leaves and small flowers on a spadix surrounded by or enclosed within a
 spathe. 2. arum lily  Any of several plants related to the arum, such as
 the calla. [NLat. Arum, genus name < Lat., wake-robin < Gk. aron.]



 aruspex  n.  Variant of haruspex.



 -ary   1. Of or relating to: bacillary.  2. One that pertains to or is
 connected with: boundary.  [ME -arie < OFr. < Lat. -arius, adj. and n.
 suffix.]



 Aryan  n.  1. A member of an Indo-European-speaking people that invaded
 southwestern Asia and northwestern India in the second millennium  B.C.  2.
 A member of the people who spoke the parent language of the Indo-European
 languages. 3. A member of any people speaking an Indo-European language. 4.
 Indo-Iranian.   -adj. 1. Of or pertaining to the Indo-European languages or
 the hypothetical language from which they are derived. 2. Of or pertaining
 to a speaker of an Indo-European language. 3. Of or pertaining to
 Indo-Iranian. 4. Of or pertaining to a presumed ethnic type exemplified by
 or descended from early speakers of Indo-European languages. [Skt. arya-,
 noble.]



 arytenoid  adj.  Anatomy.  1. Of or pertaining to either of two small
 cartilages attached to the back of the larynx and to the vocal cords. 2. Of
 or pertaining to any of three small muscles of the larynx.   -n. An
 arytenoid cartilage or muscle. [NLat. arytaenoides < Gk. arutainoeides,
 shaped like a ladle : arutaina, ladle (< aruein, to draw water) + -eides,
 shaped.]   arytenoidal adj.



 as
 as(1)  adv.  1. To the same extent or degree; equally. 2. For instance:
 large carnivores, as the bear or lion.    -conj. 1. To the same degree or
 quantity that. Often used as a correlative after so or as: as sweet as
 sugar; not so bad as you suggest.  2. In the same manner or way that: Think
 as I think.  3. At the same time that; while. 4. For the reason that;
 because. 5. With the result that: He was so foolish as to lie.  6. Though:
 Great as Milton was, he proved a bad model.  7.  Informal. That: I don't
 know as I can.    -pron. 1. That; which; who. Used after same or such : I
 received the same grade as you.  2. A fact that: The sun is hot, as
 everyone knows.  3.  Regional. Who or which: Those as want to can come with
 me.    -prep. 1. In the role, capacity, or function of: acting as a
 mediator.  2. In a manner similar to: On this issue they thought as one.

       Idiom Section:  as is. Informal. Just the way it is; without making
 changes. [ME < OE ealswa.]

      Usage: Traditionally, a distinction has been drawn between comparisons
 using as. . .as  and comparisons using so. . .as.  Comparisons with as. .
 .as  may be used in any context, as in Kim is as tall as Sandy; Pat is not
 as well shod as Jean.  The so. . .as  construction is restricted to use in
 negative contexts (as in Hamlet's Tis not so deep as a well ), in questions
 (as in Is it so bad as all that? ), and in clauses introduced by if  or
 similar words (as in If it is so bad as all that, why don't you leave? ).
 The distinction between the two types of comparison is fast disappearing in
 American usage, however, as the so. . .as  construction becomes
 increasingly rare. The as. . .as  comparison may be considered correct in
 any context.  In a comparison involving both as. . .as  and than,  the
 second as  should be retained in written style. One writes he is as bright
 as, or brighter than, his brother,  not he is as bright or brighter than
 his brother,  which is unacceptable in formal style.  In many dialects, as
 is used instead of that  in sentences like we are not sure as we want to go
  or it's not certain as he left.  This construction is not sufficiently
 well established to be used in writing.  In comparisons, a pronoun
 following as  may be either nominative (I, he)  or objective (me, him).
 Traditionally, the nominative is used when the pronoun would be the subject
 of an "understood" verb that has been omitted; we should say Pat is as
 happy as I  because the sentence has an equivalent version Pat is as happy
 as I am.  By the same token,we should say it surprised her as much as me,
 using the objective pronoun, on the grounds that there is an equivalent
 sentence it surprised her as much as it surprised me.  In sentences like
 these, the use of me  where I  would be considered correct is regarded as
 careless by traditionalists. The use of I  where me  would be correct,
 however, is likely to be regarded as a pretentious overcorrection.  As
 should be preceded by a comma when it expresses a causal relation, as in He
 won't be coming, as we didn't invite him.  When used to express a time
 relation, as  is not preceded by a comma: He was finishing the painting as
 I walked into the room.  When a clause introduced by as  begins a sentence,
 care should be taken that it is clear whether as  is used to mean "because"
 or "at the same time as." The sentence as they were leaving, I walked to
 the door  may mean either that I walked to the door because they left or at
 the same time that they were leaving. The connectives since  and while  can
 be ambiguous in the same way, as in examples like since he has been living
 abroad, he has been speaking a lot of French  and while your income is low,
 you should buy insurance.  When these clauses are moved to the end of the
 sentence, the proper placement of commas will serve to distinguish the
 meanings. See also Usage notes at because and than.
 as(2)   n. pl. asses  1. An ancient Roman coin of copper or copper alloy.
 2. A unit of weight in ancient Rome equal to about one troy pound. [Lat.]



 As   The symbol for the element arsenic.



 as-   Variant of ad-. Used before s.



 asafetida or asafoetida   n.  A yellow-brown, bitter, offensive-smelling
 resinous material obtained from the roots of several plants of the genus
 Ferula and formerly used in medicine. [ME < Med. Lat. : asa, gum (< Pers.
 aza) + Lat. fetida, stinking. -see fetid.]



 asarum  n.  The dried, strong-scented roots of the wild ginger, Asarum
 canadense, formerly used in medicine and as a flavoring agent. [NLat.
 Asarum, genus name < Lat., wild spikenard < Gk. asaron.]



 asbestos or asbestus   n.  Either of two incombustible,
 chemical-resistant, fibrous mineral forms of impure magnesium silicate,
 used for fireproofing, electrical insulation, building materials, brake
 linings, and chemical filters.   -adj. Of, made of, or containing asbestos.
 [Lat. < Gk., unquenchable : a-, not + sbennunai, to quench.]   asbestine
 asbestic  adj.



 asbestosis  n.  Chronic lung inflammation caused by prolonged inhalation
 of asbestos particles. [asbest(os) + -osis.]   asbestotic adj.



 asbestus  n.  -adj. Variant of asbestos.



 ascariasis  n.  Infestation with nematode worms of the species Ascaris
 lumbricoides.  [ascar(id) + -iasis.]



 ascarid  n.  Any of various nematode worms of the family Ascaridae, such
 as the common intestinal parasite Ascaris lumbricoides.  [NLat. Ascaridae,
 family name < Gk. askaris, intestinal worm.]



 ascend  v. -cended -cending -cends   -intr. 1. To go or move upward; rise.
 2. To slope upward. -tr. 1. To move upward upon or along; climb: ascended
 the mountain.  2. To come to occupy: a queen who ascended the throne years
 ago.  [ME ascenden < Lat. ascendere : ad-, toward + scandere, to climb.]
 ascendable  ascendible adj.



 ascendance or ascendence   n.  Ascendancy.



 ascendancy or ascendency   n.  The state of being in the ascendant;
 domination:  Germany only awaits trade revival to gain an immense
 mercantile ascendancy (Winston Churchill).



 ascendant or ascendent   adj.  1. Inclining or moving upward; ascending;
 rising. 2. Dominant in position or influence; superior.   -n. 1. The
 position or state of being dominant or in power: a conservative policy in
 the ascendant.  2. The section of the zodiac that rises in the east at the
 time of a particular event, as a person's birth. 3. An ancestor.



 ascender  n.  1. One that ascends. 2.  a. The part of certain lower-case
 letters, as d, that extends above most other lower-case letters. b. A
 letter with such a part.



 ascending  adj.  Going, growing, or moving upward: a tree with ascending
 branches.    ascendingly adv.



 ascension  n.  1. The act or process of ascending; ascent. 2.  Astronomy.
 The rising of a star above the horizon. [ME ascensioun < Lat. ascensio <
 ascendere, to ascend.]   ascensional adj.



 Ascension Day  n.  The 40th day after Easter observed in commemoration of
 Christ's ascension into heaven.



 ascent  n.  1. The act or process of ascending. 2. An advancement, esp. in
 social status. 3. An upward slope or incline. 4. A going back in time or
 genealogical succession. [< ascend.]



 ascertain  tr.v. -tained -taining -tains   1. To discover through
 examination or experimentation. 2.  Archaic. To make certain and definite.
 [ME acertainen, to inform < OFr. ascertener : a-, to (< Lat. ad-) +
 certain, certain. -see certain.]   ascertainable adj.   ascertainableness
 n.   ascertainably adv.   ascertainment n.



 ascetic  n.  A person who renounces the comforts of society and leads a
 life of austere self-discipline, esp. as an act of religious devotion.
 -adj. Pertaining to or characteristic of an ascetic; self-denying; austere.
 [Gk. asketes, hermit < askein, to work.]



 asci  n.  Plural of ascus.



 ascidian  n.  Any of various saclike marine animals of the class
 Ascidiacea, which includes the sea squirts. [< NLat. Ascidia, genus name <
 Gk. askidion, dim. of askos, wineskin.]



 ascidium  n. pl. -ia  Botany.  A sac-shaped or bottle-shaped part or
 organ, such as a leaf of a pitcher plant. [NLat. < Gk. askidion, dim. of
 askos, wineskin.]



 ASCII  n.  Computer Science.  1. A proposed standard for defining codes
 for information exchange between equipment produced by different
 manufacturers. 2. A code that follows this proposed standard. [A(merican)
 S(tandard) C(ode for) I(nformation) I(nterchange).]



 ascites  n. pl. ascites  An abnormal accumulation of serous fluid in the
 abdominal cavity. [ME aschites < Med. Lat. ascites < Gk. askites < askos,
 belly.]   ascitic adj.



 Asclepius  n.  Greek Mythology.  Apollo's son, the god of medicine. [Gk.
 Asklepios.]



 asco-   Ascus: ascospore.  [NLat. < Gk. askos, bag.]



 ascocarp  n.  Botany.  A globular structure containing the spore sacs of
 ascomycetous fungi.



 ascogonium  n. pl. -nia  Botany.  A female reproductive structure of
 certain fungi.



 ascomycete  n.  Botany.  Any of numerous fungi that produce spores in an
 ascus.



 ascorbic acid  n.  Chemistry.  A white, crystalline vitamin, C6H8O6, found
 in citrus fruits, tomatoes, potatoes, and leafy green vegetables and used
 to prevent scurvy. [a-1 + scorb(ut)ic.]



 ascospore  n.  A sexual spore formed in an ascus.   ascosporous ascosporic
  adj.



 ascot  n.  A scarf or necktie knotted so that its broad ends are laid flat
 upon each other. [After Ascot, England.]



 ascribe  tr.v. -cribed -cribing -cribes   1. To attribute to a specified
 cause, source, or origin: ascribed the poor harvest to drought.  2. To
 assign as an attribute. [ME ascriben < Lat. ascribere : ad-, to + scribere,
 to write.]



 ascription  n.  1. The act of ascribing. 2. A statement that ascribes.
 [Lat. ascriptio < ascribere, to ascribe.]



 ascus  n. pl. asci  Botany.  A membranous sac in certain fungi, containing
 ascospores. [NLat. < Gk. askos, bag.]



 asdic  n.  A sonar device used in antisubmarine warfare.
 [A(nti)S(ubmarine) + D(etection) + I(nvestigation) + C(ommittee).]



 -ase   Enzyme: amylase.  [< diastase.]



 asea  adv.  Toward or on the sea; at sea.



 asepsis  n.  The state of being free of pathogenic organisms.



 aseptic  adj.  1. Of or pertaining to asepsis. 2. Lacking animation or
 emotion: an aseptic smile.    aseptically adv.



 asexual  adj.  1. Having no evident sex or sex organs; sexless. 2.
 Pertaining to or characterizing reproduction involving a single individual
 and without male or female gametes, as in binary fission or budding.
 asexuality n.   asexually adv.



 as for   With regard to.



 Asgard  n.Myth.  The heavenly residence of the Norse gods and slain heroes
 of war. [ON : ass, god + garor, court.]



 ash
 ash(1)  n.  1. The grayish-white to black soft solid residue of combustion.
 2.  Geology. Pulverized particulate matter ejected by volcanic eruption. 3.
 ashes  Ruins. 4. ashes  Human remains, esp. after cremation. [ME asshe < OE
 asce.]
 ash(2)  n.  1. Any of various trees of the genus Fraxinus, having compound
 leaves, clusters of small greenish flowers, and winged seeds. 2. The
 durable, close-grained, elastic wood of an ash. [ME asshe < OE aesc.]



 ashamed  adj.  1. Feeling shame or guilt. 2. Reluctant through fear of
 shame: ashamed to admit their error.  [ME < OE asceamod, p.part. of
 asceamian, to feel shame.]



 Ashanti  n. pl. Ashanti  or -tis  1. An inhabitant of Ashanti. 2. Twi.



 ash can  n.  1. A large receptacle, usually of metal, for ashes or trash.
 2.  Slang. A depth charge.



 ashen
 ashen(1)  adj.  1. Consisting of ashes. 2. Resembling ashes, as in color:
 an ashen complexion.
 ashen(2)  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or made from the wood of the ash tree.



 Asher  n.  1. In the Old Testament, a son of Jacob. 2. The tribe of Israel
 descended from Asher. [Heb. Asher.]



 Ashkenazi  n. pl. -nazim  A central or eastern European Jew, generally
 Yiddish-speaking. [Heb. Ashkenazi.]   Ashkenazic adj.



 ashlar  n.  1.  a. A squared block of building stone. b. Masonry of such
 stones. 2. A thin, dressed rectangle of stone for facing walls. [ME
 assheler < OFr. aisselier, beam < Lat. axilla, dim. of axis, plank.]



 ashore  adv.  1. Toward or on the shore. 2. On land; aground.



 ashplant  n.  A staff or walking stick made from an ash sapling.



 ashram  n.  1.  Hinduism. A usually secluded residence of a Hindu
 philosopher or religious teacher. 2. A religious retreat or commune. [Skt.
 asrama.]



 Ashtoreth  n.  The ancient Syrian and Phoenician goddess of sexual love
 and fertility. [Heb. "Ashtoreth.]



 ashtray  n.  A receptacle for tobacco ashes.



 Ashur  n.  The principal Assyrian deity and god of war and empire.
 [Assyrian Ashur.]



 Ash Wednesday  n.  The seventh Wednesday before Easter, and the first day
 of Lent.



 ashy  adj. -ier -iest   1. Pertaining to, resembling, or covered with
 ashes. 2. Having the color of ashes; pallid; pale.   ashiness n.



 Asian  adj.  Of or pertaining to Asia or its people.   -n. A native or
 inhabitant of Asia.



 Asiatic  adj.  Asian.   -n. An Asian.



 Asiatic cholera  n.  A form of cholera.



 aside  adv.  1. On or to one side: step aside.  2. Out of one's thoughts
 or mind: put his doubts aside.  3. Apart: a day set aside for rejoicing.
 4. In reserve: money put aside for gifts.  5. Dispensed with: all joking
 aside.    -n. 1. A line spoken by a character in a play that other actors
 on stage are supposed by dramatic convention not to hear. 2. A
 parenthetical departure; digression.



 aside from   Excluding; except for.



 as if   In the same way that it would be if: looked as if she were made of
 ice.



 asinine  adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, or like an ass. 2. Stupid or silly;
 doltish: asinine behavior.  [Lat. asininus, of an ass < asinus, ass.]



 ask  v. asked asking asks   -tr. 1. To put a question to. 2. To seek
 information about; inquire about: asked directions.  3. To request of or
 for; solicit: asking a favor.  4.  a. To require or call for. b. To expect
 or demand: ask too much of a child.  5. To invite. 6.  Archaic. To publish,
 as marriage banns. -intr. 1. To inquire: asked about his mother.  2. To
 make a request: asked for help.  [ME asken < OE ascian.]

      Synonyms: ask question inquire query interrogate
 examine quiz These verbs mean to seek information. Ask  is the most widely
 applicable. Question  implies continuous and careful asking during a given
 period. Inquire  may refer to a simple act of asking, but often implies a
 comprehensive search for information. Query  usually suggests questioning
 to settle a doubt. Interrogate , a more formal word, applies especially to
 official questioning. Examine  refers to close and detailed questioning,
 and quiz  to oral or written examination of students.




 askance or askant   adv.  1. With a side or oblique glance; sidewise. 2.
 With disapproval, suspicion, or distrust. [Orig. unknown.]



 askew  adj.  -adv. To one side; awry: rugs lying askew.  [Prob. a-2 +
 skew.]



 aslant  adj.  -adv. At a slant; obliquely.   -prep. Obliquely over or
 across; athwart.



 asleep  adj.  1. In a condition of sleep. 2. Inactive; dormant. 3. Numb:
 My leg is asleep.  4. Dead.   -adv. Into a condition of sleep.



 as long as   1. Since: As long as you've offered, I accept.  2. On the
 condition that: will cooperate as long as he's notified on time.



 aslope  adv.  -adj. At a slope or slant.



 asocial  adj.  1. Avoiding the society of others; not gregarious. 2.
 Marked by the incapacity to interact adequately with others.



 as of  prep.  On; at: terminated as of January 1.



 asp  n.  Any of several venomous Old World snakes, such as the small
 cobra, Naja haje, or the horned viper, Cerastes cornutus, both of Africa
 and Asia Minor. [ME aspide < Lat. aspis < Gk.]



 asparagus  n.  1. Any of several plants of the genus Asparagus, native to
 Eurasia, having small scales or needlelike branchlets rather than true
 leaves, esp. the widely cultivated species A. officinalis.  2. The
 succulent, edible young shoots of the asparagus. [Lat. < Gk. asparagos.]



 asparagus beetle  n.  A small, spotted beetle, Crioceris asparagi, that
 infests and damages asparagus plants.



 asparagus fern  n.  A vine, Asparagus plumosus, native to southern Africa,
 having stems with a fernlike appearance.



 aspartame  n.  An artificial sweetener, C14H18N2O5, formed from aspartic
 acid. [aspart(ic acid) + (phenyl)a(lanine) + m(ethyl) + e(ster).]



 aspartic acid  n.  A nonessential amino acid, C4H7NO4, found esp. in young
 sugar cane and sugar-beet molasses. [< asparagus (from its being obtained
 from an amino acid found in asparagus).]



 aspartokinase  n.  An enzyme that catalyzes aspartic acid phosphorylation
 by ATP. [aspart(ic acid) + kinase.]



 aspect  n.  1. A particular facial expression; air: a soldier of grim
 aspect.  2. Appearance to the eye, esp. when seen from a specific view. 3.
 The way in which an idea, problem, or situation is viewed by the mind: all
 aspects of the case.  4. A position facing or commanding a given direction;
 exposure. 5. A side or surface facing in a particular direction: the
 ventral aspect of the body.  6. The configuration of the stars or planets
 in relation to one another or to the subject, thought by astrologers to
 influence human affairs. 7.  Grammar. A category of the verb denoting
 primarily the relation of the action to the passage of time, esp. in
 reference to completion, duration, or repetition. 8.  Archaic. A gaze;
 look. [ME < Lat. aspectus, a view, p.part. of aspicere, to look at : ad-,
 toward + specere, to look.]



 aspect ratio  n.  The width-to-height ratio of a television image.



 aspen  n.  Any of several trees of the genus Populus, having leaves
 attached by flattened leafstalks so that they flutter readily in the wind.
  -adj. 1. Of or relating to an aspen. 2. Shivering or trembling like the
 leaves of an aspen. [ME aspe < OE aesp.]



 asperate  tr.v. -ated -ating -ates   To make uneven; roughen. [Lat.
 asperare, asperat- < asper, rough.]



 asperges  n.  Roman Catholic Chruch.  A short rite, preceding the High
 Mass on Sundays, that consists of sprinkling the altar, clergy, and
 congregation with holy water. [Lat., from the phrase asperges me, you will
 sprinkle me, the first words of the rite.]



 aspergill or aspergillum   n. pl. -gills  or -gilla  Roman Catholic
 Chruch.  A brush, perforated container, or other instrument used for
 sprinkling holy water. [NLat. aspergillum < Lat. aspergere, to sprinkle.
 -see asperse.]



 aspergillosis  n.  An infectious disease of the skin, lungs, and other
 parts of the body, caused by certain fungi of the genus Aspergillus.
 [aspergill(us) + -osis.]



 aspergillum  n.  Variant of aspergill.



 aspergillus  n. pl. -gilli  Any of various fungi of the genus Aspergillus,
 which includes many common molds. [NLat. < aspergillum, aspergill, from its
 resemblance to an aspergill brush.]



 asperity  n.  1. Roughness or harshness, as of surface, weather, or sound.
 2. Ill temper; irritability. [Lat. asperitas < asper, rough.]



 asperse  tr.v. -persed -persing -perses   1. To spread false charges or
 insinuations against; defame; slander. 2. To sprinkle, as with water. [Lat.
 aspergere, aspers-, to sprinkle : ad-, toward + spergere, to strew.]



 aspersion  n.  1. A calumnious report or remark; slander. 2. The act of
 defaming or slandering. 3. A sprinkling, esp. with holy water.



 asphalt
 asphaltum or asphaltus    n.  1. A brownish-black solid or semisolid
 mixture of bitumens obtained from native deposits or as a petroleum
 by-product, used in paving, roofing, and waterproofing. 2. Mixed asphalt
 and crushed stone gravel or sand, used for paving or roofing.
 -tr.v.-phalted -phalting -phalts   To pave or coat with asphalt. [ME aspalt
 < Med. Lat. asphaltus < Gk. asphaltos.]



 asphaltite  n.  A solid, dark-colored complex of hydrocarbons, found in
 natural veins and deposits.



 asphaltum or asphaltus   n.  Variant of asphalt.



 aspheric or aspherical   adj.  Varying slightly from sphericity and having
 only slight aberration, as a lens.



 asphodel  n.  Any of several plants of the genera Asphodeline and
 Asphodelus, of the Mediterranean region, having clusters of white or yellow
 flowers. [Lat. asphodelus < Gk. asphodelos.]



 asphyxia  n.  Unconsciousness or death caused by lack of oxygen. [Gk.
 asphuxia, stopping of the pulse : a-, without + sphuxis, heartbeat <
 sphuzein, to throb.]



 asphyxiant  adj.  Inducing or tending to induce asphyxia.   -n. An
 asphyxiant substance or condition.



 asphyxiate  v. -ated -ating -ates   -tr. To cause asphyxia in; smother.
 -intr. To undergo asphyxia; suffocate.   asphyxiation n.   asphyxiator n.



 aspic
 aspic(1)  n.  1. A cold dish of meat, fish, vegetables, or fruit combined
 and set in a gelatin mold. 2. A jellied garnish of meat or fish stock and
 gelatin. [Fr., asp (from the resemblance of the jelly's coloration to an
 asp's). -see aspic2.]
 aspic(2)  n.  Archaic.  An asp. [Fr. < OFr., alteration of aspe < Lat.
 aspis < Gk.]



 aspidistra  n.  Any of several Asian plants of the genus Aspidistra, esp.
 A. lurida, having long, tough, evergreen leaves and small brownish flowers,
 widely cultivated as a house plant. [NLat. Aspidistra, genus name < Gk.
 aspis, shield.]



 aspirant  n.  A person who aspires, esp. for advancement, honors, or a
 high position.   -adj. Aspiring for recognition or distinction.



 aspirate  tr.v. -rated -rating -rates   1.  a. To pronounce (a vowel or
 word) with the initial release of breath associated with English h, as in
 Hartford.  b. To follow (a consonant, esp. a stop consonant) with a puff of
 breath that is clearly audible before the next sound begins, as in English
 p, t, and k before vowels. 2.  Medicine. To remove (liquids or gases) by
 means of an aspirator.   -n.  1. The speech sound represented by English h.
  2. The puff of air accompanying the release of a stop consonant. 3. Any
 speech sound followed by a puff of breath. [Lat. aspirare, aspirat, to
 breathe on : ad- to + spirare, to breathe.]



 aspiration  n.  1. Expulsion of breath in speech. 2.  a. The pronunciation
 of a consonant with an aspirate. b. An aspirate. 3.  Medicine. Removal of
 liquids or gases with an aspirator. 4.  a. A strong desire for high
 achievement. b. An object of such desire; ambitious goal.



 aspirator  n.  1. A device that removes liquids or gases from a space by
 suction, esp. one used medicinally to evacuate a bodily cavity. 2. A
 suction pump used to create a partial vacuum.



 aspiratory  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or suited for breathing or suction.



 aspire  intr.v. -pired -piring -pires   1. To have a great ambition;
 desire strongly: aspired to be an actress.  2. To strive toward an end; aim
 at: aspiring to great knowledge.  3.  Archaic. To rise upward; soar. [ME
 aspiren < Lat. aspirare, to desire. -see aspirate.]   aspirer n.
 aspiringly adv.



 aspirin  n.  1. A white crystalline compound of acetylsalicylic acid,
 CH3COOC6H4COOH, commonly used in tablet form as an antipyretic and
 analgesic. 2. A tablet of aspirin. [Orig. a trademark.]



 asquint  adv.  -adj. With a sidelong glance. [ME.]



 ass
 ass(1)  n. pl. asses  1. Any of several hoofed mammals of the genus Equus,
 resembling and closely related to the horses and zebras, and including the
 domesticated donkey. 2. A vain, self-important, silly, or aggressively
 stupid person. [ME asse < OE assa.]
 ass(2)  n. pl. asses  1. Vulgar Slang. The buttocks. 2.  Vulgar. The anus.
 3.  Vulgar. Coitus. [ME ars < OE ears.]



 assagai or assegai   n.  1. A light spear or javelin, often with an iron
 tip, used by southern African tribesmen. 2. A tree, Curtisia faginea, of
 southern Africa, having wood used for making assagais. [OFr. azagaie, prob.
 < OSp. azagaya < Ar. az-zaghayah : al, the + Berber zaghayah, spear.]



 assai
 assai(1)  n.  1. Any of several palm trees of the genus Euterpe, of
 tropical South America, having edible, fleshy purple fruit. 2. A beverage
 made from the fruit of an assai. [Port. (Brazil) assai < Tupi assahi.]
 assai(2)  adv.  Music.  Very. Used in tempo directions: allegro assai.
 [Ital. < VLat. *ad satis, to sufficiency. -see asset.]



 assail  tr.v. -sailed -sailing -sails   1. To attack with or as if with
 violent blows; assault. 2. To attack verbally, as with ridicule or censure.
 [ME assailen < OFr. assaillier < VLat. *assalire, var. of Lat. assilire, to
 jump on : ad-, onto + salire, to jump.]   assailable adj.   assailableness
 n.   assailer n.   assailment n.



 assailant  n.  A person who assails another.



 Assamese  adj.  Of or pertaining to Assam, its people, or their language.
  -n.pl. Assamese  1. A native or inhabitant of Assam. 2. The Indic language
 of the Assamese.



 assassin  n.  1. A murderer, esp. one who carries out a plot to kill a
 public official or other prominent person. 2. Assassin  A member of a
 secret order of Moslem fanatics who terrorized and killed Christian
 Crusaders. [Fr. < Med. Lat. assassinus < Ar. hashshashin, user of hashish <
 hashish, hashish.]



 assassinate  tr.v. -nated -nating -nates   1. To murder (a prominent
 person). 2. To destroy or injure treacherously: assassinate a rival's
 character.    assassination n.   assassinative adj.   assassinator n.



 assassin bug  n.  Any of various predatory insects of the large family
 Reduviidae, having short, curved, powerful beaks adapted for sucking blood
 and capable of inflicting a painful bite.



 assault  n.  1. A violent attack, either physical or verbal. 2.  a. A
 military attack upon a fortified area or place. b. The concluding stage of
 an attack in which there is close combat with the enemy. 3.  Law. An
 unlawful attempt or threat to injure another physically. 4. Rape.
 -v.-saulted -saulting -saults   -tr. To attack or assail violently. -intr.
 To make an assault. [ME assaut < OFr. < VLat. *assaltus, var. of Lat.
 assultus, p.part. of assilire, to jump on. -see assail.]   assaulter n.



 assault and battery  n.  Law.  The threat to use force upon another and
 the carrying out of the threat.



 assay  n.  1.  a. The qualitative or quantitative analysis of a substance,
 esp. of an ore or drug. b. A substance to be so analyzed. c. The result of
 such an analysis. 2. Any analysis or examination. 3.  Obsolete. An attempt;
 essay.   -v. -sayed -saying -says   -tr. 1. To subject to chemical
 analysis; make an assay of. 2. To examine by trial or experiment; put to a
 test: assay one's ability.  3. To evaluate; assess. 4. To attempt; try.
 -intr. To be shown by analysis as having a certain proportion, usually of a
 precious metal. [ME assai < OFr. -see essay.]   assayable adj.   assayer n.




 assegai  n.  Variant of assagai.



 assemblage  n.  1.  a. The act of assembling. b. The state of being
 assembled. 2. A collection of people or things. 3. A fitting together of
 parts, as of a machine. 4. A sculpture consisting of an arrangement of
 miscellaneous objects, such as scraps of metal, cloth, and string.



 assemble  v. -bled -bling -bles   -tr. 1. To bring or gather together into
 a group or whole. 2. To fit or join together the parts of. -intr. To gather
 together; congregate. [ME assemblen < OFr. assembler < VLat. *assimulare :
 Lat. ad-, to + Lat. simul, together.]



 assembler  n.  1. One that assembles. 2.  Computer Science. A computer
 program operating on symbolic input data to produce the equivalent machine
 code.



 assembly  n. pl. -blies  1.  a. The act of assembling. b. The state of
 being assembled. 2. A group of persons gathered together for a common
 purpose. 3. Assembly  In certain U.S. states, the lower house of the
 legislature. 4.  a. The putting together of manufactured parts to make a
 completed product, esp. a machine. b. A set of parts so assembled. 5. The
 signal calling troops to form ranks.



 assembly language  n.  Computer Science.  A programming language that is a
 close approximation of machine code.



 assembly line  n.  A line of factory workers and equipment on which the
 product being assembled passes consecutively from operation to operation
 until completed.



 assemblyman  n.  A male member of a legislative assembly.



 Assembly of God  n.  A Pentecostal congregation founded in the United
 States in 1914.



 assembly time  n.  Computer Science.  The time required for an assembler
 to translate symbolic language into machine instructions.



 assemblywoman  n.  A female member of a legislative assembly.



 assent  intr.v. -sented -senting -sents   To express agreement; concur:
 assented to his plan.    -n. 1. Agreement, as to a proposal; compliance. 2.
 Acquiescence; consent. [ME assenten < OFr. assentir < Lat. assentari : ad-,
 toward + sentire, to feel.]   assenter  assentor n.   assentingly adv.
 assentive adj.   assentiveness n.

      Synonyms: assent agree accede acquiesce accept
 consent concur subscribe These verbs mean to go along with another's views
 proposals, or actions. Assent  implies saying "yes" in a formal, somewhat
 impersonal manner. Agree  and accede  are loosely related in the sense of
 assenting after discussion or persuasion. But agree  suggests mutual
 accommodation in a meeting of minds, whereas accede  implies yielding on
 the part of one person or group. Acquiesce  suggests agreeing, despite
 reservations, because of unwillingness to oppose. Accept  may indicate
 agreement with some reluctance. Consent  indicates complete and voluntary
 personal commitment to a proposal or desire. Concur  refers to agreement
 with another's position, and may suggest that one has reached the same
 conclusion independently. Subscribe  indicates hearty consent or approval.




 assentation  n.  Ill-considered or servile agreement with another's
 opinions.



 assert  tr.v. -serted -serting -serts   1. To state or express positively;
 affirm. 2. To defend or maintain (one's rights, for example). 3. assert
 oneself  To express oneself forcefully or boldly. [Lat. asserere, assert-,
 : ad-, to + serere, to join.]   assertable  assertible adj.   asserter
 assertor n.

      Synonyms: assert asseverate declare affirm aver
 avow allege These verbs all mean to state; they differ principally in
 emphasis. To assert  is to state one's position boldly, and to asseverate
 is to add even greater emphasis to the position taken. Declare  has the
 approximate force of assert , but may suggest formality of statement and
 authority in the speaker. Affirm  and aver  imply less forcefulness, but
 stress the speaker's confidence in the validity of his statement. Avow
 emphasizes moral commitment to the statement. Allege  refers to making a
 controversial charge or statement without presentation of proof.




 assertion  n.  1. The act of asserting. 2. Something asserted positively,
 often with no support or attempt at proof.   assertional adj.



 assertive  adj.  Inclined to bold assertion; confident.   assertively adv.
   assertiveness n.



 assertiveness training  n.  A method of training individuals to behave in
 a boldly self-confident manner.



 assertory  adj.  Asserting or affirming.



 asses
 asses(1)  n.  Plural of as2.
 asses(2)   n.  Plural of ass1 and ass2.



 assess  tr.v. -sessed -sessing -sesses   1. To estimate the value of
 (property) for taxation. 2. To set or determine the amount of (a tax, fine,
 or other payment). 3. To charge (a person or property) with a tax, fine, or
 other special payment. 4. To evaluate; appraise. [ME assessen < OFr.
 assesser < Lat. assidere, to sit by (as an assistant judge) : ad-, near to
 + sedere, to sit.]   assessable adj.



 assessment  n.  1. The act of assessing. 2. An amount assessed.



 assessor  n.  1. An official who makes assessments, as for taxation. 2. An
 assistant to a judge, selected for his special knowledge of a particular
 area.   assessorial adj.



 asset  n.  1. A useful or valuable quality or thing; advantage: An
 agreeable personality is a great asset.  2. A valuable item that is owned.
 3. assets  Accounting.  The entries on a balance sheet showing all
 properties and claims against others that may be applied, directly or
 indirectly, to cover liabilities. [Back-formation < E. assets < AN asetz,
 sufficient goods to settle a testator's debts and legacies < OFr. asez,
 enough < VLat. *ad satis, to sufficiency : Lat. ad-, to + satis, enough.]

      Synonyms: asset possession belongings effects property
 resource These nouns refer to things a person owns, considered as
 components of wealth. Asset  technically is used in the plural and refers
 to an item that can be turned into cash to cover liabilities. Less narrowly
 the term means any valuable thing or any personal quality or trait of
 practical value. Possession  usually applies to any tangible item of value
 ranging from small to great. Belongings  denotes the more personal items
 one owns, such as clothing and jewelry. Effects  includes belongings and,
 sometimes, all other movable possessions. Property  refers broadly to any
 real or tangible possession. Resource  denotes any possession on hand or in
 reserve and available for use; the term thus includes actual and potential
 wealth.




 asseverate  tr.v. -ated -ating -ates   To declare seriously or positively;
 affirm. [Lat. asseverare, asseverat- : ad-, to + severus, serious.]
 asseveration n.



 assibilate  tr.v. -lated -lating -lates   To pronounce with a hissing
 sound; make sibilant. [ad- + sibilate.]   assibilation n.



 assiduity  n. pl. -ties  1. The quality or condition of being assiduous;
 diligence. 2. assiduities  Constant personal attention; solicitude.



 assiduous  adj.  1. Constant in application or attention; diligent: an
 assiduous worker who strove for perfection.  2. Unceasing; persistent.
 [Lat. assiduus < assidere, to attend to : ad-, near to + sedere, to sit.]
 assiduously adv.   assiduousness n.



 assign  tr.v. -signed -signing -signs   1. To set apart for a particular
 purpose; designate. 2. To select for a duty or office; appoint. 3. To give
 out as a task; allot. 4. To ascribe; attribute. 5.  Law. To transfer
 (property, rights, or interests). 6. To place (a unit or personnel)
 integrally into a particular military organization.   -n. Law.  An
 assignee. [ME assignen < OFr. assignir < Lat. assignare : ad-, to +
 signare, to mark < signum, sign.]   assignability n.   assignable adj.
 assignably adv.   assigner n.

      Synonyms: assign allot apportion allocate These verbs refer to
 distributing something. Assign  applies to an authoritative act and makes
 no implication about equality of distribution: assign a task.  Allot  also
 refers to arbitrary distribution, as of money or time, usually for a
 specified purpose. Apportion  refers to division according to prescribed
 rules, and implies fair distribution. Allocate  usually means to set
 something aside from a larger quantity, particularly funds, for a specific
 purpose.




 assignat  n.  One of the notes of the paper currency issued in France
 (1789-96) by the revolutionary government and backed by the security of
 confiscated lands. [Fr. < Lat. assignatum, to assign.]



 assignation  n.  1. The act of assigning. 2. Something assigned;
 assignment. 3. An appointment for a meeting between lovers; tryst.
 assignational adj.



 assignee  n.  Law.  1. A person to whom a transfer of property, rights, or
 interest is made. 2. One appointed to act for another; deputy; agent.



 assignment  n.  1. The act of assigning. 2. Something assigned, as a task.
 3. A position or post of duty to which one is assigned. 4.  Law.  a. The
 transfer of a claim, right, interest, or property. b. The document or deed
 by which this transfer is made.



 assignor  n.  Law.  A person who makes an assignment.



 assimilable  adj.  Capable of being assimilated.   assimilability n.



 assimilate  v. -lated -lating -lates   -tr. 1.  Physiology.  a. To consume
 and incorporate into the body; digest. b. To transform (food) into living
 tissue; metabolize constructively. 2. To absorb and incorporate (knowledge,
 for example) into the mind. 3. To make similar; cause to assume a
 resemblance. 4.  Linguistics. To alter (a sound) by assimilation. 5. To
 absorb (an immigrant or culturally distinct group) into the prevailing
 culture. -intr. To become assimilated. [ME assimilaten < Lat. assimilare,
 to make similar to : ad-, to + similis, like.]   assimilator n.



 assimilation  n.  1. The act or process of assimilating. 2. The condition
 or process of being assimilated. 3.  Biology. The process by which
 nourishment is changed into living tissue; constructive metabolism. 4.
 Linguistics. The process by which a sound is modified to make it resemble
 an adjacent sound. For example, the prefix in- in intolerable becomes im-
 in impossible by assimilation. 5. The process whereby a group, as a
 minority or immigrant group, gradually adopts the characteristics of
 another culture.



 assimilative or assimilatory   adj.  Marked by or causing assimilation.



 Assiniboin  n. pl. Assiniboin  or -boins  1. A tribe of North American
 Indians of northeastern Montana and adjacent regions of Canada. 2. A member
 of the Assiniboin. 3. The Siouan language of the Assiniboin. [Fr.
 Assiniboine, of Ojibwa orig.]   Assiniboin adj.



 assist  v. -sisted -sisting -sists   -tr. 1. To aid; help. 2. To work with
 as an assistant. -intr. 1. To give aid or support. 2. To be present;
 attend.   -n. 1. An act of giving aid; help. 2.  Baseball.  a. A fielding
 and throwing of the ball that enables a teammate to put out a runner. b. A
 pass of the ball or puck to the teammate scoring a goal, as in basketball
 or ice hockey. 3. A machine or mechanical device providing aid. [ME
 assisten < OFr. assister < Lat. assistere : ad-, near to + sistere, to
 stand.]   assister n.



 assistance  n.  1. The act of assisting. 2. Aid; help: financial
 assistance.



 assistant  n.  One that assists; aide.   -adj. 1. Holding an auxiliary
 position; subordinate. 2. Giving aid; auxiliary.



 assistant professor  n.  A college teacher who ranks above an instructor
 and below an associate professor.



 assistantship  n.  An academic position that carries a stipend and usually
 involves part-time teaching or research, given to a qualified graduate
 student.



 assize  n.  1.  a. A session of a legislative body or court. b. A decree
 or edict rendered at such a session. 2.  a. An ordinance regulating weights
 and measures and the weights and prices of articles of consumption. b. The
 standards so set up. 3. A judicial inquest, the writ by which it is
 instituted, or the verdict of the jurors. 4. assizes   a. One of the
 periodic court sessions held in each of the counties of England and Wales
 for the trial of civil or criminal cases. b. The time or place of such
 sessions. [ME assise < OFr., act of sitting < p.part. of asseior, to seat <
 Lat. assidere, to sit beside : ad-, at + sedere, to sit.]



 associable  adj.  Capable of being associated.   associability
 associableness  n.



 associate  v. -ated -ating -ates   -tr. 1. To bring into company with
 another; join in a relationship. 2. To connect or join together; combine;
 link. 3. To connect in the mind or imagination:  I always somehow associate
 Chatterton with autumn (Keats). -intr. 1. To join in or form a league,
 union, or association. 2. To keep company.   -n.  1. A person united with
 another or others in some action, enterprise, or business; partner;
 colleague. 2. A companion; comrade. 3. Anything that habitually accompanies
 or is associated with another; an attendant circumstance. 4. A member of an
 institution or society who is granted only partial status or privileges.
 -adj.  1. Joined with another or others and having equal or nearly equal
 status: an associate editor.  2. Having partial status or privileges: an
 associate member of the club.  3. Following or accompanying; concomitant.
 [ME associaten < Lat. associare, to join to : ad-, to + socius, companion.]




 associate professor  n.  A college or university teacher who ranks below a
 full professor and above an assistant professor.



 association  n.  1. The act of associating or the state of being
 associated. 2. An organized body of people who have some interest,
 activity, or purpose in common; society; league. 3. A mental connection or
 relation between thoughts, feelings, ideas, or sensations. 4.  Chemistry.
 Any of various processes of chemical combination, such as hydration,
 solvation, or complex-ion formation, depending on relatively weak chemical
 bonding. 5.  Ecology. A large number of organisms in a specific area with
 one or two dominant species.   associational adj.



 association football  n.  Chiefly British.  Soccer.



 associative  adj.  1. Of, characterized by, resulting from, or causing
 association. 2.  Mathematics. Independent of the grouping of elements. Used
 of mathematical operations: If a + (b + c) = (a + b) + c, the operation
 indicated by + is associative.    associatively adv.



 assoil  tr.v. -soiled -soiling -soils   Archaic.  1. To absolve or pardon.
 2. To atone for. [ME assoilen < OFr. assoldre, assoil- < Lat. absolvere, to
 set free : ab-, away + solvere, to loosen.]



 assonance  n.  1. Resemblance in sound, esp. in the vowel sounds of words.
 2. A partial rhyme in which the accented vowel sounds correspond but the
 consonants differ, as in brave and vain.  [Fr., < Lat. assonans, pr.part.
 of assonare, to respond to : ad-, to + sonare, to sound.]   assonant adj.
 n.



 assort  v. -sorted -sorting -sorts   -tr. 1. To separate into groups
 according to kinds; classify. 2. To supply with a variety of goods. -intr.
 1. To fall into a class; match. 2. To associate; consort. [OFr. assorter :
 a-, to (< Lat. ad-) + sorte, kind < Lat. sors, chance, lot.]   assortative
 adj.   assorter n.



 assorted  adj.  1. Consisting of a number of different kinds; various. 2.
 Placed in classes; classified. 3. Suited or matched.



 assortment  n.  1. The act of assorting; separation into classes. 2. A
 collection of various things; variety.



 assuage  tr.v. -suaged -suaging -suages   1. To make less burdensome or
 painful; ease:  assuage the anguish of your bereavement (Lincoln). 2. To
 satisfy or appease, as thirst. 3. To pacify or calm. [ME asswagen < OFr.
 assuagier < VLat. *assuaviare : Lat. ad-, to + suavis, sweet.]
 assuagement n.



 assuasive  adj.  Soothing.



 assume  tr.v. -sumed -suming -sumes   1. To put on; don (a garment, for
 example). 2. To take upon oneself; undertake: assuming the responsibility.
 3. To invest oneself formally with: assume the presidency.  4. To take on;
 adopt:  The god assumes a human form (Ruskin). 5. To feign; affect: assumed
 an air of indifference.  6. To take for granted; suppose. 7.  Theology. To
 take up or receive, as into heaven. [ME assumen < Lat. assumere, to adopt :
 ad-, to + sumere, to take.]   assumable adj.   assumably adv.   assumer n.



 assumed  adj.  1. Pretended; adopted; fictitious: an assumed name.  2.
 Taken for granted.   assumedly adv.



 assuming  adj.  Presumptuous; pretentious; arrogant.   assumingly adv.



 assumpsit  n.  Law.  1. An agreement or promise not under seal; contract.
 2. A legal action to enforce or recover damages for a breach of such an
 agreement. [Lat., he undertook.]



 assumption  n.  1. The act of assuming. 2. A statement accepted or
 supposed true without proof or demonstration. 3. Presumption or arrogance.
 4.  Logic. A minor premise. 5. Assumption   Theology. The bodily taking up
 of the Virgin Mary into heaven after her death. a. A church feast on August
 15 celebrating this event. b.  [ME < Lat. assumptio, adoption < assumere,
 to adopt. -see assume.]



 assumptive  adj.  1. Of or characterized by assumption: assumptive facts.
 2. Taken for granted. 3. Presumptuous; assuming.   assumptively adv.



 assurance  n.  1. The act of assuring or the state of being assured. 2. A
 statement or indication that inspires confidence; guarantee. 3.  a. Freedom
 from doubt; certainty. b. Self-confidence. 4. Boldness; audacity. 5.
 Chiefly British. Insurance.



 assure  tr.v. -sured -suring -sures   1. To inform confidently, with a
 view to removing doubt. 2. To cause to feel sure; convince. 3. To give
 confidence to; reassure. 4. To make certain; ensure:  Nothing in history
 assures the success of our civilization (Herbert J. Muller). 5. To make
 safe or secure. 6.  Chiefly British. To insure, as against loss. [ME
 assuren < OFr. assurer < Med. Lat. assecurare, to make sure : Lat. ad-, to
 + securus, secure.]   assurable adj.   assurer n.

      Usage: Assure, ensure,  and insure  all mean "to make secure or
 certain." Only assure  is used with reference to a person in the sense of
 "to set the mind at rest": assured the leader of his loyalty.  Although
 ensure  and insure  are generally interchangeable, only insure  is now
 widely used in the commercial sense of "to guarantee persons or property
 against risk."



 assured  adj.  1. Made certain; guaranteed; undoubted. 2. Confident; bold.
 3. Insured.   assuredly adv.   assuredness n.



 assurgent  adj.  1. Rising or tending to rise. 2.  Botany. Slanting or
 curving upward; ascending. [Lat. assurgens, assurgent-, pr.part. of
 assurgere, to rise up to : ad-, to + surgere, to rise. -see surge.]
 assurgency n.



 Assyrian  adj.  Of or pertaining to Assyria, its people, language, or
 culture.   -n. 1. A native or inhabitant of Assyria. 2. The Semitic
 language of the Assyrians.



 Assyriology  n.  The study of the ancient civilization of Assyria.
 Assyriologist n.



 -ast   One associated with: ecdysiast.  [ME < Lat. astes < Gk. -astes,
 n.suffix.]



 astable circuit  n.  Computer Science.  A circuit that alternates
 continuously between two unstable states.



 Astarte  n.  Mythology.  The Phoenician goddess of love and fertility.
 [Lat. Astarte < Gk., of Semitic orig.]



 astasia  n.  Inability to stand because of muscular incoordination. [Gk.,
 unsteadiness < astatos, unsteady : a-, not + statos, standing.]



 astatic  adj.  1. Unsteady; unstable. 2.  Computer Science.  Having no
 particular directional characteristics.   astatically adv.   astaticism n.



 astatine  n.  At  A highly unstable radioactive element that resembles
 iodine in solution and accumulates in the thyroid gland. Its longest lived
 isotope is At 210, having a half-life of 8.3 hours, and is used in medicine
 as a radioactive tracer. Atomic number 85; valences probably 1, 3, 5, or 7.
 [Gk. astatos, unstable + -ine2.]



 aster  n.  1. Any of various plants of the genus Aster, having rayed,
 daisylike flowers ranging in color from white to bluish, purple, or pink.
 2. The China aster. 3.  Biology. A star-shaped structure appearing in the
 cytoplasm of the cell and associated with the centrosome during mitosis.
 [Lat., star < Gk. aster.]



 asteriated  adj.  Mineralogy.  Exhibiting asterism. [< Gk. asterios,
 starry < aster, star.]



 asterisk  n.  1. A star-shaped figure (*) used in printing to indicate an
 omission or a reference to a footnote. 2.  Linguistics. An asterisk used to
 indicate an unattested form or entity.   -tr.v.-isked -isking -isks   To
 mark with an asterisk. [LLat. asteriscus < Gk. asteriskos, dim. of aster,
 star.]



 asterism  n.  1.  Printing. Three asterisks in triangular form used to
 call attention to a following passage. 2.  Astronomy.  a. A cluster of
 stars. b. A constellation. 3.  Mineralogy. A six-rayed starlike figure
 optically produced in some crystal structures by reflected or transmitted
 light. [Gk. asterismos, constellation < aster, star.]   asterismal adj.



 astern  adv.  Nautical.  1. Behind a vessel. 2. Toward the rear of a
 vessel. 3. To the rear; backward.   astern adj.



 asternal  adj.  Anatomy.  1. Not connected to the sternum. 2. Lacking a
 sternum.



 asteroid  n.  1.  Astronomy. Any of numerous celestial bodies with
 characteristic diameters between one and several hundred miles and orbits
 lying chiefly between Mars and Jupiter. 2.  Zoology.  A starfish.   -adj.
 asteroidal  Star-shaped. [Gk. asteroeides, starlike : aster, star + -eides,
 like.]



 Asterope  n.  Variant of Sterope.



 asthenia  n.  Loss or lack of bodily strength; weakness. [NLat. < Gk.
 astheneia < asthenes, weak : a-, without + sthenos, strength.]



 asthenic  n.  A slender, lightly muscled human physique.   asthenic
 asthenical adj.



 asthenopia  n.  Eyestrain, esp. with headache and dimming of vision.
 [asthen(ia) + -opia.]   asthenopic adj.



 asthenosphere  n.  A zone of the earth's mantle that lies beneath the
 lithosphere and consists of several hundred kilometers of deformable rock.
 [Gk. asthenes, weak (a-, not + sthenos, strength) + sphere.]



 asthma  n.  A chronic respiratory disease, often arising from allergies,
 and accompanied by labored breathing, chest constriction, and coughing. [ME
 asma < Med. Lat. < Gk. asthma.]   asthmatic adj. n.   asthmatically adv.



 as though  conj.  As if: looked as though they had been quarreling.



 astigmatism  n.  1. A refractive defect of a lens that prevents focusing
 of sharp, distinct images. 2. Faulty vision caused by such defects in the
 lens of the eye. [a- (without) + Gk. stigma, point < stizein, to tattoo.]
 astigmatic adj.   astigmatically adv.



 astir  adj.  1. Moving about. 2. Out of bed; awake. [Sc. asteer : a, on +
 steer, stir.]



 as to  prep.  1. With regard to: puzzled as to how it happened.  2.
 According to: chosen as to ability.



 Astolat  n.  An English town in legends of King Arthur, possibly in modern
 Surrey.



 astomatous
 astomous or astomatal    adj.  Having no mouth or stomata.



 astonied  adj.  Archaic.  Bewildered; dazed. [ME astonied, p.part. of
 astonen, to amaze. -see astonish.]



 astonish  tr.v. -ished -ishing -ishes   To fill with sudden wonder or
 amazement; confound. [Prob. alteration of obs. astony, to amaze < ME
 astonen < AN < VLat. *extonare : Lat. ex-, out of + Lat. tonare, to
 thunder.]   astonisher n.   astonishingly adv.



 astonishment  n.  1. Great surprise or amazement. 2. A cause of amazement;
 marvel.



 astound  tr.v. astounded astounding astounds   To strike with sudden
 wonder. [< Obs. astoned, p.part. of obs. astony, to amaze. -see astonish.]
  astoundingly adv.



 astr-   Variant of astro-.



 Astrachan  n.  A tart red or yellow apple of Russian origin. [After
 Astrakhan, a city in the U.S.S.R.]



 astraddle  adv.  In a straddling position; astride.   -prep. So as to
 straddle; astride.



 Astraea  n.  Greek Mythology.  The goddess of justice. [NLat. < Gk.
 astraios, starry < astron, star.]



 astragal  n.  Architecture.  A narrow, convex molding, often having the
 form of beading. [Lat. astragalus < Gk. astragalos.]



 astragalus  n. pl. -li  The talus. [NLat. < Gk. astragalos, vertebra.]
 astragalar adj.



 astrakhan or astrachan   n.  1. The curly or wavy fur made from the skins
 of young lambs from the region of Astrakhan. 2. A fabric with a curly,
 looped pile, made to resemble astrakhan.



 astral  adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, emanating from, or resembling the
 stars. 2.  Biology. Pertaining to or shaped like an aster; star-shaped.
 [LLat. astralis < Lat. astrum, star < Gk. astron.]   astrally adv.



 astraphobia  n.  Abnormal fear of lightning and thunder. [Gk. astrape,
 lightning + -phobia.]



 astray  adv.  1. Away from the correct path or direction. 2. Away from the
 right or good; toward evil or wrong ways. [ME < OFr. estraie, p.part. of
 estraier, to stray. -see stray.]   astray adj.



 astrict  tr.v. -tricted -tricting -tricts   To bind, esp. by moral or
 legal obligations. [Lat. astrictus, p.part. of astringere, to bind fast.
 -see astringe.]   astriction n.



 astrictive  adj.  Astringent.   -n. An astringent.   astrictively adv.
 astrictiveness n.



 astride  adv.  1. With a leg on each side of: riding astride.  2. With the
 legs wide apart.   -prep. 1. Upon or over and with a leg on each side of.
 2. On both sides of; spanning or bridging.



 astride of   Astride.



 astringe  tr.v. -tringed -tringing -tringes   To draw together; constrict.
 [Lat. astringere, to bind fast : ad-, to + stringere, to bind.]



 astringent  adj.  1.  Medicine. Tending to draw together or constrict
 tissue; contracting; styptic. 2. Harsh; severe.   -n. An astringent
 substance or drug, such as alum.   astringency n.   astringently adv.



 astrionics  n.  Electronics used in astronautics. [astr(onautic) +
 (av)ionics.]



 astro- or astr-    1.  a. Star: astrophysics.  b. Celestial body:
 astrometry.  c. Outer space: astronaut.  2. The aster of a cell:
 astrosphere.  [ME < OFr. < Lat. < Gk. < astron, star.]



 astrobiology  n.  Exobiology.



 astrobleme  n.  A scar on the earth's surface left by meteorite impact.
 [astro- + Gk. blema, missile, wound < ballein, to throw.]



 astrochemistry  n.  The chemistry of stars and interstellar space.



 astrocyte  n.  A star-shaped cell, esp. a neuroglial cell.



 astrocytoma  n. pl. -mas  or -mata  A malignant tumor of astrocytes.



 astrodome  n.  A transparent dome on the top of an aircraft, through which
 celestial observations are made for navigation.



 astrodynamics  n.  The dynamics of celestial bodies.



 astrogate  intr.v. -gated -gating -gates   To navigate a spacecraft.
 [astro- + (navi)gate.]   astrogation n.   astrogator n.



 astrogeology  n.  The geology of celestial bodies.



 astrolabe  n.  A medieval instrument used to determine the altitude of the
 sun or other celestial bodies. [ME astrelabie < OFr. astrelabe < Med. Lat.
 astrolabium < Gk. astrolabon, planisphere : astron, star + lambanein, to
 take.]



 astrology  n.  The study of the positions and aspects of heavenly bodies
 in the belief that they have an influence on the course of human affairs.
 [ME astrologie < OFr. < Lat. astrologia, astronomy < Gk. < astrologos,
 astronomer : astron, star + logos, speech.]   astrologer n.   astrologic
 astrological  adj.   astrologically adv.



 astrometry  n.  The scientific measurement of the positions and motions of
 celestial bodies.   astrometric astrometrical  adj.



 astronaut  n.  A person trained to pilot, navigate, or otherwise
 participate in the flight of a spacecraft. [astro- + Gk. nautes, sailor <
 naus, ship.]



 astronautics  n.  The science and technology of space flight. [astro- +
 Lat. nautica, neuter pl. of nauticus, nautical. -see nautical.]
 astronautic  astronautical adj.   astronautically adv.



 astronavigation  n.  1. Navigation of spacecraft. 2. Celestial navigation.
   astronavigator n.



 astronomer  n.  A scientist specializing in astronomy.



 astronomical or  astronomic   adj.  1. Of or pertaining to astronomy. 2.
 Inconceivably large; immense.   astronomically adv.



 astronomical unit  n.  A unit of length used in measuring astronomical
 distances, equal to the mean distance of the earth from the sun,
 approximately 93 million miles.



 astronomy  n.  The scientific study of the universe beyond the earth, esp.
 the observation, calculation, and theoretical interpretation of the
 positions, dimensions, distribution, motion, composition, and evolution of
 celestial bodies and phenomena. [ME astronomie < OFr. < Lat. astronomia <
 Gk. : astron, star + -nomia, -nomy.]



 astrophotography  n.  Astronomical photography.   astrophotographic adj.



 astrophysics  n.  The physics of stellar phenomena.   astrophysical adj.
 astrophysicist n.



 astrosphere  n.  1. The central portion of a cell aster; the centrosphere.
 2. The entire cell aster with the exception of the centrosome.



 Astroturf   A trademark for an artificial grasslike ground covering.



 astute  adj.  Keen in judgment: shrewd; crafty. [Lat. astutus < astus,
 craft.]   astutely adv.   astuteness n.



 Astyanax  n.  Greek Mythology.  The young son of Hector and Andromache,
 killed by the conquering Greeks. [Gk. Astuanax.]



 astylar  adj.  Not having columns or pilasters. [a-1 + Gk. stulos, pillar
 + -ar.]



 asunder  adv.  1. Into separate parts or pieces. 2. Apart from each other
 either in position or direction. [ME asonder < OE onsundran : on, on +
 sundran, separately < sunder, apart.]   asunder adj.



 aswarm  adj.  Filled to overflowing; teeming: The playground was aswarm
 with children.



 aswirl  adj.  Moving with a swirling or whirling motion.



 asyllabic  adj.  Not syllabic.



 asylum  n.  1. An institution for the care of the mentally ill or aged. 2.
 A place offering protection or safety; refuge. 3. A temple or church
 affording sanctuary for criminals or debtors. 4. Protection and immunity
 from extradition granted by a government to a political refugee from
 another country. [ME asilum < Lat. asylum < Gk. asulon, sanctuary < asulos,
 inviolable : a-, without + sule, right of seizure.]



 asymmetric or asymmetrical   adj.  Not symmetrical.   asymmetrically adv.



 asymmetry  n.  Lack of symmetry or balance.



 asymptomatic  adj.  Neither causing nor exhibiting symptoms.
 asymptomatically adv.



 asymptote  n.  Mathematics.  A line considered a limit to a curve in the
 sense that the perpendicular distance from a moving point on the curve to
 the line approaches zero as the point moves an infinite distance from the
 origin. [NLat. asymptota < Gk. asumptotos, not touching : a-, not + sun-,
 together + ptotos, likely to fall.]   asymptotic asymp-totical  adj.
 asymptotically adv.



 asynchronism  n.  Lack of synchronism.   asynchronous adj.
 asynchronously adv.



 asyndeton  n.  The omission of conjunctions from constructions in which
 they would normally be used. [LLat. < Gk. asundeton < asundetos, without
 conjunctions : a-, not + sundetos, bound together < sundein, to bind
 together (sun-, together + dein, to bind).]   asyndetic adj.
 asyndetically adv.



 asyntactic  adj.  Not syntactic.



 at
 at(1)  prep.  1.  a. In the location of: at the market.  b. In the position
 of: at the center of the page.  2. To or toward the direction of: Look at
 him.  3. Present; attending: at the dance.  4. In the duration of; during:
 at night.  5. In the state or condition of: at peace with one's conscience.
  6. In the manner of: at a run.  7. To the extent or amount of: at thirty
 cents a pound.  8. On or near the time or age of: at three o'clock.  9.
 Because of: rejoice at a victory.  10. Through; by way of. 11. According
 to: at one's discretion.  12. Dependent upon: at the mercy of the court.
 13. Occupied with: at work.  [ME < OE aet.]
 at(2)   n. pl. at  See table at currency. [Thai.]



 At   The symbol for the element astatine.



 at-   Variant of ad-. Used before t.



 Atabrine   A trademark for an antimalarial preparation, quinacrine
 hydrochloride.



 ataghan  n.  Variant of yataghan.



 Atalanta  n.  Greek Mythology.  A maiden who agreed to marry any man who
 could outrun her and was defeated by Hippomenes when he dropped three
 golden apples that she paused to pick up. [Lat. < Gk. Atalante.]



 at all  adv.  In any way whatsoever: no good at all.



 ataman  n. pl. -mans  A Cossack chief. [R., prob. < Pol. hetman, captain.]




 atamasco lily  n.  A plant, Zephyranthes atamasco, of eastern North
 America, having funnel-shaped white or pinkish flowers. [Algonquian
 (Virginia) Attamusco.]



 ataractic or ataraxic   adj.  Pertaining to or conducive of calmness and
 peace of mind.   -n. A drug that reduces nervous tension; tranquilizer.
 [Gk. ataraktos, undisturbed : a-, not + taraktos, disturbed < tarassein, to
 disturb.]



 ataraxia  n.  Peace of mind; emotional tranquillity. [Gk. < ataraktos,
 undisturbed. -see ataractic.]



 atavism  n.  1. The reappearance of a characteristic in an organism after
 several generations of absence, caused by a recessive gene or complementary
 genes. 2. An individual or part displaying atavism. [Fr. atavisme < Lat.
 atavus, ancestor : atta, father + avus, grandfather.]   atavist n.
 atavistic adj.   atavistically adv.



 ataxia or ataxy   n.  Loss or lack of muscular coordination. [Gk.,
 disorder < ataktos, disorderly : a-, not + taktos, ordered < tassein, to
 arrange.]



 ataxic  adj.  Of or pertaining to ataxia.   -n. An individual exhibiting
 symptoms of ataxia.



 ate  v.  Past tense of eat.



 -ate
 -ate(1)   1.  a. Having: nervate.  b. Characterized by: Latinate.  c.
 Resembling: lyrate.  2.  a. One that is characterized by: laminate.  b.
 Rank; office: rabbinate.  3. To act upon in a specified manner: acidulate.
 [ME -at < OFr. < Lat. -atus, p.part. suffix of verbs in -are.]
 -ate(2)   4. A derivative of a specified chemical compound or element:
 aluminate.  5. A salt or ester of a specified acid: acetate.  [NLat. -atum
 < Lat., neuter of -atus, p.part. suffix.]



 at ease  n.  A position of silent rest with the right foot stationary,
 assumed by soldiers in ranks.



 atelier  n.  A workshop or studio, esp. an artist's studio. [Fr. < OFr.
 astelier, carpenter's shop < astele, splinter < LLat. astella, alteration
 of Lat. astula, dim. of assis, board.]



 a tempo  adv.  -adj. Music.  In normal time; resuming the original tempo.
 [Ital., in time.]



 atemporal  adj.  Independent of time; timeless.



 Athanasian  adj.  Of or pertaining to Athanasius.   -n. A follower of
 Athanasius and his doctrine of opposition to Arianism.



 Athapascan or Athabascan   n.  1. A group of related North American Indian
 languages including Navaho and Apache and languages of Alaska, northwestern
 Canada, and coastal Oregon and California. 2. A member of an
 Athapascan-speaking tribe. [After Lake Athabaska in Canada < Cree
 athapaskaaw, there is scattered grass.]   Athapascan adj.



 atheism  n.  1. Disbelief in or denial of the existence of God. 2.
 Godlessness. [OFr. atheisme < athee, atheist < Gk. atheos, godless : a-,
 without + theos, god.]



 atheist  n.  One who denies the existence of God.



 atheistic or atheistical   adj.  1. Pertaining to or characteristic of
 atheism or of atheists. 2. Inclined to atheism.   atheistically adv.
 atheisticness n.



 atheling  n.  An Anglo-Saxon nobleman or prince. [ME < OE aetheling,
 prince.]



 Athena or Athene   n.  Greek Mythology.  The goddess of wisdom and the
 arts. [Lat. < Gk. Athene.]



 athenaeum or atheneum   n.  1. An institution, such as a literary club or
 scientific academy, for the promotion of learning. 2. A library, reading
 room, or similar place. [LLat. Athenaeum, a Roman school, after Gk.
 Athenaion, the temple of Athena.]



 atherogenesis  n.  The production of atheroma. [athero(ma) + -genesis.]
 atherogenic adj.



 atheroma  n. pl. -mas  or -mata  1. A deposit or degenerative accumulation
 of pulpy, acellular, lipid-containing materials, esp. in arterial walls. 2.
 A form of arteriosclerosis induced and characterized by such deposits.
 [Lat. < Gk. atheroma, tumor full of gruel like pus < athera, gruel.]
 atheromatosis n.   atheromatous adj.



 atherosclerosis  n.  Atheromatous arteriosclerosis; atheroma. [athero(ma)
 + sclerosis.]   atherosclerotic adj.



 athirst  adj.  1. Strongly desirous; eager: athirst for freedom.  2.
 Archaic. Thirsty.



 athlete  n.  1. One who takes part in competitive sports. 2. A person
 possessing the natural aptitudes for physical exercises and sports, as
 strength, agility, and endurance. [ME < Lat. athleta < Gk. athletes,
 contestant < athlein, to contend < athlon, prize.]



 athlete's foot  n.  A contagious skin infection caused by parasitic fungi
 usually affecting the feet and sometimes the hands and causing itching,
 blisters, cracking, and scaling.



 athletic  adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, or befitting athletics or athletes.
 2. Physically strong; muscular.   athletically adv.   athleticism n.



 athletics  n.  1. Athletic activities, as competitive sports. 2. The
 principles or system of athletic exercises and training.



 athletic supporter  n.  An elastic support for the male genitals,
 sometimes employing a rigid metallic cup, worn esp. in athletic or other
 strenuous activity.



 athodyd  n.  A simple, essentially tubular jet engine, as a ramjet.
 [a(ero)- + th(erm)ody(namic) + d(uct).]



 at-home  n.  An informal reception at one's home.



 athwart  adv.  1. From side to side; crosswise; transversely. 2. So as to
 thwart or obstruct; perversely.   -prep. 1. From one side to the other of;
 across. 2. Contrary to; against. 3.  Nautical. Across the course, line, or
 length of. [ME : a-, on + thwart, across. -see thwart.]



 atilt  adj.  1. In a tilted position; inclined upward. 2. Tilting with or
 as with a lance.   atilt adv.



 -ation   1.  a. Action or process: strangulation.  b. The result of an
 action or process: acculturation.  2. State, condition, or quality of:
 eburnation.  [ME -acioun < OFr. -ation < Lat. -atio, n. suffix < -atus,
 -ate.]



 -ative   Of, relating to, or associated with: talkative.  [ME < OFr. -atif
 < Lat. -ativus < -atus, -ate.]



 Atka mackerel  n.  A food fish, Pleurogrammus monopterygius, of northern
 Pacific waters. [After Atka Island, Alaska.]



 Atlantean  adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, or like Atlas. 2. Of or pertaining
 to Atlantis. [< Gk. Atlas, Atlant-, Atlas.]



 atlantes  n.  Architecture.  Plural of atlas (sense 6).



 Atlantic  adj.  1. Of, in, near, upon, or pertaining to the Atlantic
 Ocean. 2. Of or pertaining to Atlas or to the Atlas Mountains. [Lat. (mare)
 Atlanticum, Atlantic (sea) < Gk. (pelagos) Atlantikos < Atlas, Atlas.]



 Atlantic salmon  n.  A food fish, Salmo salar, of northern Atlantic
 waters.



 Atlantic Standard Time  n.  Standard time as reckoned in the region
 between the meridians at 52.50 and 67.50 west of Greenwich, England. The
 eastern edge of Canada is in this region.



 Atlantis  n.  A legendary island in the Atlantic west of Gibraltar, said
 by Plato to have sunk beneath the sea during an earthquake. [Gk. < Atlas,
 Atlas.]



 Atlas  n.  1.  Greek Mythology. A Titan condemned to support the heavens
 upon his shoulders. 2. Any person supporting a great burden. 3. atlas. A
 book or bound collection of maps. 4. atlas  Any volume of tables, charts,
 or plates that systematically illustrates a particular subject: an
 anatomical atlas.  5. atlas  A large size of drawing paper, measuring 26 by
 33 or 34 inches. 6. atlas   pl. atlantes  Architecture. A figure of a man
 used as a masonry column on a building. 7. atlas   Anatomy. The top or
 first cervical vertebra of the neck, which supports the head. 8. A kind of
 intercontinental ballistic missile developed by the U.S. Air Force. [Gk.
 Atlas.]



 atman  n.  Hinduism.  1. The individual soul; the principle of life. 2.
 Atman  The supreme and universal soul, from which all individual souls
 arise. [Skt. atman, breath, spirit.]



 atmometer  n.  An instrument that measures the rate of water evaporation.
  atmometric adj.   atmometry n.



 atmosphere  n.  1. The gaseous mass or envelope surrounding a celestial
 body, esp. that surrounding the earth, and retained by the body's
 gravitational field. 2. The atmosphere or climate in a specific place. 3.
 Physics. A unit of pressure equal to 1.01325 * 105 newtons per square
 meter. 4. Environment or surroundings regarded as having a psychological,
 physical, or other influence: the quiet atmosphere of a hospital; an
 atmosphere of austerity.  5. The predominant tone or mood of a work of art.
 6.  Informal. A quality or effect considered to be exotic or romantic.
 [NLat. atmosphaera : Gk. atmos, vapor + Lat. sphaera, sphere.]



 atmospheric or atmospherical   adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, or existing in
 the atmosphere. 2. Produced by, dependent on, or coming from the
 atmosphere.   atmospherically adv.



 atmospheric pressure  n.  An exerted pressure of 1 atmosphere.



 atmospherics  n.  1. Electromagnetic radiation produced by natural
 phenomena such as lightning. 2. Radio interference produced by
 electromagnetic radiation.



 atmospherium  n.  1. An optical device designed to project atmospheric
 phenomena, such as clouds, on the inside of a dome. 2. A room containing an
 atmospherium. [atmospher(e) + (planetar)ium.]



 atoll  n.  A ringlike coral island and reef that nearly or entirely
 encloses a lagoon. [Malayalam atolu, reef.]



 atom  n.  1. Anything considered an irreducible constituent of a specified
 system. 2. The irreducible, indestructible material unit of ancient
 atomism. 3.  Physics.  Chemistry.  a. A unit of matter, the smallest unit
 of an element, consisting of a dense, central, positively charged nucleus
 surrounded by a system of electrons, equal in number to the number of
 nuclear protons, the entire structure having an approximate diameter of
 10-8 centimeter and characteristically remaining undivided in chemical
 reactions except for limited removal, transfer, or exchange of certain
 electrons. b. This unit regarded as a source of nuclear energy. [ME attome
 < Lat. atomus < Gk. atomos, indivisible : a-, not + temnein, to cut.]



 atom bomb  n.  An atomic bomb.



 atomic  adj.  1. Of or relating to an atom or atoms. 2. Of or employing
 atomic energy: an atomic submarine.  3. Very small; infinitesimal.
 atomically adv.



 atomic age or Atomic Age   n.  The current era as characterized by the
 discovery, technological applications, and sociopolitical consequences of
 atomic energy.



 atomic bomb  n.  1. An explosive weapon of great destructive power derived
 from the rapid release of energy in the fission of heavy atomic nuclei, as
 of uranium 235. 2. Any bomb deriving its destructive power from the release
 of nuclear energy.



 atomic clock  n.  An extremely precise timekeeping device regulated in
 correspondence with a characteristic invariant frequency of an atomic or
 molecular system.



 atomic energy  n.  1. The energy released from an atomic nucleus in
 fission or fusion. 2. Atomic energy regarded as a source of practical
 power.



 atomicity  n.  1. The state of being composed of atoms. 2.  Chemistry.  a.
 The number of atoms in a molecule. b. Valence.



 atomic mass  n.  The mass of an atomic system or constituent, usually
 expressed in atomic mass units.



 atomic mass unit  n.  A unit of mass equal to 1/12 the mass of the carbon
 isotope with mass number 12, approximately 1.6604 * 10-24 gram.



 atomic number  n.  The number of protons in an atomic nucleus.



 atomic pile  n.  A nuclear reactor.



 atomic theory  n.  1. The physical theory of the structure, properties,
 and behavior of the atom. 2. Atomism.



 atomic weight  n.  The average weight of an atom of an element, usually
 expressed relative to one atom of the carbon isotope taken to have a
 standard weight of 12.



 atomism  n.  1. The ancient theory of Democritus, Epicurus, and Lucretius,
 according to which simple, indivisible, and indestructible atoms are the
 basic components of the entire universe. 2. A theory according to which
 social institutions and processes arise solely from the acts of individual
 people. 3.  a. The division or tendency to divide into subclasses, groups,
 or units of a given society. b. The foregoing tendency accompanied by or
 arising from a strong subjective individualism.   atomist n.   atomistic
 atomistical  adj.   atomistically adv.



 atomize  tr.v. -ized -izing -izes   1. To reduce or separate into atoms.
 2.  a. To reduce (a liquid) to a spray. b. To spray (a liquid) in this
 form. 3. To subject to bombardment with atomic weapons.   atomization n.



 atomizer  n.  A device for producing a fine spray, esp. one of perfume or
 medicine.



 atom smasher  n.  An atomic particle accelerator.



 atomy
 atomy(1)  n. pl. -mies  Archaic.  1. A tiny particle. 2. A tiny being. [<
 Lat. atomi, pl. of atomus, atom.]
 atomy(2)  n. pl. -mies  Archaic.  A skeleton or a gaunt person. [< an
 atomy, respelling of anatomy.]



 atonal  adj.  Music.  Lacking a tonal center.   atonally adv.



 atonalism  n.  Music.  1. The lack of a tonal center or key as a principle
 of musical composition. 2. The theory of atonal composition.



 atonality  n.  A style of musical composition in which tonal center or key
 is disregarded.



 at once  adv.  1. At one time; simultaneously: everything happening at
 once.  2. Immediately; instantly: Leave the room at once.



 atone  v. atoned atoning atones   -intr. 1. To make amends, as for a sin
 or fault. 2.  Archaic. To agree. -tr. Archaic.  1. To expiate. 2. To
 reconcile or harmonize. 3. To conciliate; appease. [ME atonen, to be
 reconciled < at one, in agreement : at, at + one, one.]   atonable
 atoneable adj.   atoner n.



 atonement  n.  1. Amends or reparation made for an injury or wrong;
 expiation. 2. In the Hebrew Scriptures, man's reconciliation with God after
 having transgressed the covenant. 3. Atonement   Theology.  a. The
 redemptive life and death of Christ. b. The reconciliation of God and man
 thus brought about by Christ. 4. In Christian Science, the radical
 obedience and purification, exemplified in the life of Jesus, by which
 humanity finds oneness with God. 5.  Archaic. Reconciliation; concord.



 atonic  adj.  1. Not accented: atonic words and syllables.  2.  Pathology.
 Pertaining to, caused by, or characterized by atony.   -n. A word,
 syllable, or sound that is unaccented. [Fr. atonique < Gk. atonos. -see
 atony.]   atonicity n.



 atony  n.  1. Insufficient muscular tone. 2. In phonetics, lack of accent
 or stress. [LLat. atonia < Gk. < atonos, slack : a-, without + tonos,
 stretching, tone.]



 atop  adv.  On or at the top.   -prep. On top of.   atop adj.



 -ator   One that acts in a specified manner: radiator.  [ME -atour < OFr.
 < Lat. -ator : -atus, -ate + -or, -or.]



 -atory   1.  a. Of or relating to: perspiratory.  b. Tending to:
 amendatory.  2. One that is connected with: reformatory.  [ME < Lat.
 -atorius : -atus, -ate + -orius, -ory.]



 ATP  n.  An adenosine-derived nucleotide, C10H16N5O13P3, that supplies
 energy to cells through its conversion to ADP. [a(denosine)
 t(ri)pyhosphate).]



 ATPase  n.  An enzyme that hydrolyzes ATP.



 atrabilious or atrabiliar   adj.  1. Inclined to melancholy. 2. Having a
 peevish disposition; surly. [< Lat. atra bilis, black bile, transl. of Gk.
 melankholia. -see melancholy.]   atrabiliousness n.



 Atreus  n.  Greek Mythology.  A king of Mycenae, father of Agamemnon and
 Menelaus. [Gk.]



 atria  n.  A plural of atrium.



 atrioventricular  adj.  Pertaining to the atria and the ventricles of the
 heart.



 atrip  adj.  Just clear of the bottom, as an anchor.   atrip adv.



 atrium  n. pl. atria  or -ums  1. An open central court, esp. in ancient
 Roman houses. 2. A bodily cavity or chamber, as in the heart. [Lat.
 atrium.]   atrial adj.



 atrocious  adj.  1. Extremely evil or cruel; monstrous: an atrocious
 crime.  2. Exceptionally bad; abominable: atrocious decor; atrocious
 behavior.  [< Lat. atrox, atroc-, cruel.]   atrociously adv.
 atrociousness n.



 atrocity  n. pl. -ties  1. Atrocious condition, quality, or behavior;
 monstrousness. 2. An atrocious action, situation, or object.



 atrophy  n. pl. -phies  1.  Pathology. The emaciation or wasting of
 tissues, organs, or the entire body. 2. Any wasting away or diminution:
 intellectual atrophy.    -v.-phied -phying -phies   -tr. To cause to
 wither; affect with atrophy. -intr. To waste away; wither. [LLat. atrophia
 < Gk. < atrophos, ill-nourished : a-, without + trophe, food.]   atrophic
 atrophous  adj.



 atropine or atropin   n.  An extremely poisonous, bitter, crystalline
 alkaloid, C17H23NO3, obtained from belladonna and related plants. It is
 used to dilate the pupil of the eye and as an anesthetic and antispasmodic.
 [G. Atropin < NLat. Atropa, genus name of belladonna < Gk. atropos,
 unchangeable.]



 Atropos  n.  Greek Mythology.  One of the three Fates. [Gk. < atropos,
 inexorable.]



 attach  v. -tached -taching -taches   -tr. 1. To fasten on or affix to;
 connect or join. 2. To connect as an adjunct or associated part. 3. To
 affix or append; add, as a signature. 4. To ascribe or assign: attached no
 significance to the threat.  5. To bind by personal ties, as of affection
 or loyalty: He's very attached to his family.  6. To appoint officially. 7.
 To assign (personnel) to a military unit on a temporary basis. 8.  Law. To
 seize (persons or property) by legal writ. -intr. To adhere. [ME attachen <
 OFr. attachier, of Germanic orig.]   attachable adj.   attacher n.



 attache  n.  A person officially assigned to the staff of a diplomatic
 mission to serve in some particular capacity: a cultural attache.  [Fr. <
 p.part. of attacher, to attach.]



 attache case  n.  A briefcase resembling a small suitcase, with hinges and
 flat sides.



 attachment  n.  1. The act of attaching or the condition of being
 attached. 2. Something that attaches one thing to another, as a tie, band,
 or fastening. 3. A bond of affection or loyalty; fond regard. 4. A
 supplementary part; accessory: a food processor with attachments.  5.  Law.
  a. The legal seizure of a person or property. b. The writ ordering such a
 seizure.



 attack  v. -tacked -tacking -tacks   -tr. 1. To set upon with violent
 force; begin hostilities against or conflict with. 2. To bombard with
 hostile criticism. 3. To start work on with purpose and vigor: attack a
 problem.  4. To begin to affect harmfully. -intr. To make an attack; launch
 an assault.   -n. 1. The act of attacking; assault. 2. The occurrence or
 onset of a disease. 3. The initial movement in a task or undertaking: an
 attack on the work piled high on the desk.  4.  Music. The manner in which
 a passage or phrase is begun. [Fr. attaquer < OFr. < OItal. attaccare, of
 Germanic orig.]   attacker n.

      Synonyms: attack bombard assail storm assault
 beset These verbs mean to set upon physically or, in some cases,
 figuratively. Attack  applies to any offensive action, physical or verbal,
 and especially to the beginning of planned aggression. Bombard  suggests
 showering with bombs or shells or, figuratively, with words: bombarded with
 questions. Assail,  literally and figuratively, implies repeated and
 violent attacks. Storm  refers to a sudden, sweeping attempt for quick,
 total victory. Assault  almost always implies physical contact and sudden,
 intense violence. Beset  suggests encirclement by an enemy force or by
 adversity and attack from all sides.




 attain  v. -tained -taining -tains   -tr. 1. To gain, reach, or accomplish
 by mental or physical effort. 2. To arrive at, as in time. -intr. To
 succeed in gaining or reaching: He attained to the highest office in the
 land.  [ME atteignen < OFr. ataindre, to reach to < Lat. attingere : ad-,
 to + tangere, to touch.]   attainable adj.   attainability  attainableness
 n.



 attainder  n.  1. The loss of all civil rights legally consequent to a
 death sentence or to outlawry, esp. for treason. 2.  Archaic. Dishonor. [ME
 attendre, conviction < OFr. ataindre, to convict, affect. -see attain.]



 attainment  n.  1. The act of attaining or the condition of being
 attained. 2. Something that is attained; accomplishment.



 attaint  tr.v. -tainted -tainting -taints   1.  Law. To condemn by a
 sentence of attainder. 2.  Archaic. To impart stigma to; disgrace. 3.
 Obsolete. To accuse.   -n. 1. Attainder. 2.  Archaic. A disgrace; stigma.
 [ME attaynten < OFr. ataint, p.part. of ataindre, to affect. -see attain.]



 attar  n.  A fragrant essential oil or perfume obtained from the petals of
 flowers, such as roses. [Pers. "atir, perfumed < Ar. "utur, pl. of 'itr,
 perfume.]



 attempt  tr.v. -tempted -tempting -tempts   1. To try to do, make, or
 achieve. 2.  Archaic. To tempt. 3.  Archaic. To attack with the intention
 of subduing.   -n. 1. An effort or try. 2. An attack; assault: an attempt
 on one's life.  [ME attempten < OFr. attempter < Lat. attemptare : ad-, to
 + temptare, to test.]   attemptable adj.   attempter n.



 attend  v. -tended -tending -tends   -tr. 1. To be present at. 2. To
 accompany as a circumstance or follow as a result: The speech was attended
 by wild applause.  3.  a. To accompany or wait upon as an attendant or
 servant. b. To take care of (a sick person, for example). 4. To take charge
 of. 5. To listen to; heed. 6.  Archaic. To wait for; expect. -intr. 1. To
 be present. 2. To apply or direct oneself: attended to the problem.  3. To
 pay attention; heed. 4. To remain ready to serve; wait. 5.  Obsolete. To
 delay or wait. [ME attenden < OFr. atendre < Lat. attendere, to heed : ad-,
 to + tendere, to stretch.]   attender n.



 attendance  n.  1. The act of attending. 2. The persons or number of
 persons that attend a function.



 attendant  n.  1. One who attends or waits on another. 2. One who is
 present. 3. An accompanying thing or circumstance; concomitant.   -adj.
 Accompanying or following as a result: attendant circumstances.
 attendantly adv.



 attention  n.  1. Concentration of the mental powers upon an object; a
 close or careful observing or listening. 2. The ability or power to
 concentrate mentally. 3. Observant consideration; notice: Your suggestion
 has come to our attention.  4. Consideration or courtesy: attention to
 others' feelings.  5. attentions  Acts of courtesy, consideration, or
 gallantry, esp. by a suitor. 6. A military posture, with the body erect,
 eyes to the front, arms at the sides, and heels together. Used as a
 command. [ME attencioun < Lat. attentio < attendere, to heed. -see attend.]
   attentional adj.



 attention key  n.  Computer Science.  A function key on terminals that
 interrupts program execution by the central processing unit.



 attentive  adj.  1. Paying attention; observant. 2. Mindful of the
 well-being of others; considerate.   attentively adv.   attentiveness n.



 attenuate  v. -ated -ating -ates   -tr. 1. To make slender, fine, or
 small. 2. To reduce in force, value, or amount; weaken. 3. To lessen the
 density of; rarefy. 4.  Biology. To make less virulent. -intr. To become
 thin, weak, or fine.   -adj.  1. Reduced or weakened, as in strength or
 value. 2.  Botany. Gradually tapering to a slender point. [Lat. attenuare,
 to make thin : ad-, to + tenuis, thin.]   attenuable adj.   attenuation n.



 attenuator  n.  A device that reduces the amplitude of an electrical
 signal with little or no distortion.



 attest  v. -tested -testing -tests   -tr. 1. To affirm to be correct,
 true, or genuine. 2.  a. To certify by signature or oath. b. To certify in
 an official capacity. 3. To supply or be evidence of: a splendid tomb that
 attested his power.  4. To constitute documentary proof of. 5. To put under
 oath. -intr. To bear witness; give testimony: attested to his good faith.
  -n. Archaic.  Attestation. [Fr. attester < OFr. < Lat. attestari : ad-, to
 + testis, witness.]   attestant n.   attestation n.   attester  attestor n.




 attic  n.  1. A story or room directly below the roof of a house. 2.
 Architecture. A low wall or story above the cornice of a classical facade.
 [< Attic story, a decorative structure over an order in a classical style.]




 Attic  adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, or characteristic of ancient Attica,
 Athens, or the Athenians. 2. Characterized by purity and simplicity.   -n.
 The ancient Greek dialect used in Attica that became the literary language
 of ancient Greece.



 Atticism  n.  1. A characteristic feature of the Attic Greek language. 2.
 An expression characterized by conciseness and elegance.



 attire  tr.v. -tired -tiring -tires   To dress or clothe, esp. in
 elaborate or splendid garments.   -n. 1. Clothing; array. 2. In heraldry,
 the antlers of a deer. [ME attiren < OFr. atirier, to put in order : a-, to
 (< Lat. ad-) + tire, rank.]



 attitude  n.  1. A position of the body or manner of carrying oneself:
 stood in a graceful attitude.  2. A state of mind or feeling with regard to
 some matter; disposition: an attitude of open hostility.  3. The
 orientation of an aircraft's axes relative to some reference line or plane,
 such as the horizon. 4.  Aerospace. The orientation of a spacecraft
 relative to its direction of motion. 5. A position in which a ballet dancer
 stands on one leg with the other bent backward at the knee. [Fr. < Ital.
 attitudine, disposition < LLat. aptitudo, faculty < Lat. aptus, fit <
 apere, to fasten.]   attitudinal adj.



 attitudinize  intr.v. -nized -nizing -nizes   To assume an affected
 attitude; posture. [Ital. attitudine, attitude, posture + -ize.]



 atto-   One quintillionth (10-18): attotesla.  [< Dan. or Norw. atten,
 eighteen < ON attjan.]



 attorn  intr.v. -torned -torning -torns   Law.  To acknowledge a new owner
 as one's landlord. [ME attournen < OFr. atorner, to assign to : a-, to (<
 Lat. ad-) + torner, to turn. -see turn.]   attornment n.



 attorney  n. pl. -neys  A person legally appointed to act for another,
 esp. an attorney at law.

       Idiom Section:  by attorney. By proxy. [ME attourney < OFr. atorne,
 p.part. of atorner, to attorne.]   attorneyship n.



 attorney at law  n.  One who is qualified to represent clients in a court
 of law and to advise them on legal matters; a lawyer.



 attorney general  n. pl. attorneys general  The chief law officer and
 legal counsel of the government of a state or nation.



 attotesla  n.  One-quintillionth (10-18) of a tesla.



 attract  v. -tracted -tracting -tracts   -tr. 1. To cause to draw near or
 adhere. 2. To draw or direct to oneself by some quality or action: Sugar
 attracts insects.  3. To evoke by arousing interest or admiration; allure.
 -intr. To possess or use the power of attraction. [ME attracten < Lat.
 attrahere : ad-, to + trahere, to draw.]   attractable adj.   attractor
 attracter n.



 attraction  n.  1. The act or capability of attracting. 2. The quality of
 attracting; charm. 3.  a. A feature or characteristic that attracts. b.
 Something, such as a public spectacle or entertainment, that is intended to
 attract.



 attractive  adj.  1. Having the power to attract. 2. Pleasing to the eye
 or mind; charming.   attractively adv.   attractiveness n.



 attribute  tr.v. -uted -uting -utes   1. To assign to a particular cause
 or source; ascribe. 2. To consider or indicate as a creator or possessor:
 attributed the painting to Titian.    -n.  1. A quality or characteristic
 of a person or thing. 2. An object associated with and serving to identify
 a character, personage, or office: Lightning bolts were the attributes of
 Zeus.  3.  Grammar. A word, esp. an adjective, used to ascribe a quality.
 [Lat. attribuere, attribut- : ad-, to + tribuere, to allot < tribus,
 tribe.]   attributable adj.   attributer  attributor n.

      Synonyms: attribute ascribe impute credit assign
 refer These verbs mean to declare as belonging to an owner, time, class, or
 other source. Attribute  and ascribe , often interchangeable, have the
 widest application: a saying attributed  (or ascribed ) to Jefferson; a
 distrust of big business attributed  (or ascribed ) to his father's failure
 in Wall Street. Impute  is often used in laying guilt or fault to another:
 a prejudice imputed to rural courts of law. Credit  usually applies to an
 accomplishment or virtue: an invention credited to Franklin; frugality
 credited to a childhood spent in poverty. Assign  and refer  are often used
 to classify or categorize according to character or chronology: experiments
 now assigned  (or referred ) to fakery; works assigned  (or referred ) to
 the Romantic era.




 attribution  n.  1. The act of attributing. 2. Something that is ascribed.




 attributive  n.  Grammar.  A word or word group, such as an adjective,
 that is placed adjacent to the noun it modifies without a linking verb, as
 pale in the pale girl.    -adj. 1.  Grammar. Of or functioning as an
 attributive, as an adjective. 2. Of or having the nature of an attribution
 or attribute.   attributively adv.   attributiveness n.



 attrited  adj.  Worn down by attrition.



 attrition  n.  1. A rubbing away or wearing down by friction. 2. A gradual
 diminution in number or strength due to constant stress. 3. A gradual,
 natural reduction in membership or personnel, as through retirement,
 resignation, or death. 4.  Theology. Repentance for sin motivated by fear
 of punishment rather than by love of God. [ME attricioun < Lat. attritio,
 act of rubbing against < atterere, to rub against : ad-, to + terere, to
 rub.]



 attune  tr.v. -tuned -tuning -tunes   1. To tune. 2. To bring into
 harmony.



 atwitter  adj.  In a state of nervous excitement.



 atypical or atypic   adj.  Not conforming to type; unusual.   atypically
 adv.



 Au   The symbol for the element gold [Lat. aurum, gold.]



 aubade  n.  A musical composition, such as a love song, to be played or
 sung at dawn or early in the morning. [Fr. < OFr. < OSp. albada < alba,
 dawn.]



 aubergine  n.  The eggplant (sense 1.b.). [Fr. < Catalan alberginia < Ar.
 albadinjan < Pers. badin-gan.]



 auburn  n.  A moderate reddish brown to brown. [ME < OFr. aborne < Lat.
 alburnus, whitish < albus, white.]



 au courant  adj.  Informed on current affairs; up-to-date. [Fr.]



 auction  n.  1. A public sale in which property or items of merchandise
 are sold to the highest bidder. 2. The bidding in the game of bridge. 3.
 Auction bridge.   -tr.v.-tioned -tioning -tions   To sell at or by an
 auction: auctioned off the furniture.  [Lat. auctio < augere, to increase.]




 auction bridge  n.  A variety of the game of bridge in which tricks made
 in excess of the contract are scored toward game.



 auctioneer  n.  A person who conducts an auction.   -tr.v.-eered -eering
 -eers   To auction.



 auctioneering device  n.  Computer Science.  A device designed to
 automatically select either the highest or the lowest input signal from
 among two or more signals.



 auctorial  adj.  Of or pertaining to an author. [< Lat. auctor, author.]



 audacious  adj.  1. Fearlessly daring; bold. 2. Unrestrained by convention
 or propriety; insolent. [Lat. audax, audaci- < audere, to dare.]
 audaciously adv.   audaciousness n.



 audacity  n. pl. -ties  1. Boldness; daring. 2. Unrestrained impudence;
 brashness. 3. An act or instance of audacity.



 audible  adj.  Capable of being heard.   -n. Football.  A new or
 substitute offensive play called by the quarterback or defensive formation
 called by a linebacker at the line of scrimmage as an adjustment to the
 opposing side's formation. [Med. Lat. audibilis < Lat. audire, to hear.]
 audibility n.   audibleness n.   audibly adv.



 audience  n.  1. A group of spectators, listeners, or readers of a work or
 performance. 2. A formal hearing, as with a king or pope. 3. An opportunity
 to be heard or to express one's views. 4. The act of hearing or attending.
 [ME < OFr. < Lat. audientia < audiens, pr.part. of audire, to hear.]



 audient  adj.  Hearing; listening. [Lat. audiens, audient-, pr.part. of
 audire, to hear.]   audi-ent n.



 audile  adj.  Capable of learning chiefly from auditory, rather than
 tactile or visual, stimuli.   -n. An audile person. [< Lat. audire, to
 hear.]



 auding  n.  The process of hearing, acknowledging, and understanding a
 spoken language. [Lat. audire, to hear + -ing2.]



 audio  adj.  1. Of or pertaining to audible sound. 2.  a. Of or pertaining
 to the broadcasting of sound. b. Of or pertaining to the high-fidelity
 reproduction of sound.   -n. 1. The part of television or motion picture
 equipment that has to do with sound. 2. Audio broadcasting or reception. 3.
 Audible sound. [< audio-.]



 audio-   1. Hearing: audio-lingual.  2. Sound: audiophile.  [< Lat.
 audire, to hear.]



 audio frequency  n.  A range of frequencies, usually from 15 hertz to
 20,000 hertz, characteristic of signals audible to the normal human ear.



 audio-lingual  adj.  Relating to or involving listening and speaking in
 learning a language.



 audiology  n. pl. -gies  The science of hearing defects and their
 treatment.   audiological adj.   audiologist n.



 audiometer  n.  An instrument for measuring hearing thresholds for pure
 tones of normally audible frequencies.   audiometric adj.   audiometry n.



 audiophile  n.  One with an ardent interest in high-fidelity sound
 reproduction.



 audiotyping  n.  Typing done directly from a tape recording.   audiotypist
 n.



 audio-visual  adj.  1. Both audible and visible. 2. Of or pertaining to
 educational materials, such as sound filmstrips, that present information
 in audible and visible form.



 audiovisuals  pl.n.  Educational materials that use both sight and sound
 to present information.



 audit  n.  1. An examination of records or accounts to check their
 accuracy. 2. An adjustment or correction of accounts. 3. An examined and
 verified account.   -v.-dited -diting -dits   -tr. 1. To examine, verify,
 or correct (accounts, for example). 2. To attend (a course) without
 receiving academic credit. -intr. To examine accounts. [ME < Lat. auditus,
 a hearing < p.part. of audire, to hear.]



 audition  n.  1. The sense or power of hearing. 2. An act of hearing. 3. A
 performance, as by an actor or musician, to demonstrate ability or skill.
 -tr. -intr.v.-tioned -tioning -tions   To evaluate or present an audition.
 [Lat. auditio < audire, to hear.]



 auditive  adj.  Auditory.



 auditor  n.  1. One who hears; listener. 2. One who audits accounts. 3.
 One who audits a course. [ME < AN auditour < Lat. auditor < audire, to
 hear.]



 auditorium  n. pl. -riums  or -ria  1. A room to accommodate an audience
 in a building such as a school or theater. 2. A large building for public
 meetings or artistic performances. [Lat. < audire, to hear.]



 auditory  adj.  Of or pertaining to the sense, the organs, or the
 experience of hearing. [Lat. auditorius < audire, to hear.]



 auditory nerve  n.  Anatomy.  The acoustic nerve.



 au fait  adj.  Skilled or knowledgeable; expert. [Fr., to the point.]



 Aufklarung  n.  The Enlightenment. [G.]



 auf Wiedersehen  interj.  Used to express a farewell. [G.]



 Augean  adj.  Exceedingly filthy from long neglect. [After Augeas,
 legendary Greek king who did not clean his stable for thirty years.]



 augend  n.  A quantity to which the addend is added. [LLat. augendum <
 augendus, gerund. of augere, to increase.]



 auger  n.  1. A tool for boring holes in wood. 2. A large tool for boring
 into the earth. [ME < an auger, alteration of a nauger < OE nafogar,
 auger.]



 aught
 aught(1)  pron.  Archaic.  Anything whatever; any least part.   -adv.
 Archaic.  At all; in any respect. [ME < OE auht.]
 aught(2)  n.  1. A cipher; zero. 2.  Archaic. Nothing. [Alteration of a
 naught.]



 augite  n.  A dark-green to black pyroxene mineral that contains large
 amounts of aluminum, iron, and magnesium. [Lat. augites, a precious stone <
 Gk. augites < auge, brightness.]



 augment  v. -mented -menting -ments   -tr. 1. To make greater, as in size,
 extent, or quantity; increase. 2. To add an augment to. -intr. To become
 greater; enlarge.   -n.  1. An enlargement or increase. 2. The prefixation
 of a vowel or the lengthening of an initial vowel to indicate the past
 tense, esp. of Greek and Sanskrit verbs. [ME augmentem < OFr. augmenter <
 LLat. augmentare, to increase < augmentum, an increase < augere, to
 increase.]   augmentable adj.   augmenter n.



 augmentation  n.  1. The act or process of augmenting. 2. The condition of
 being augmented. 3. Something that augments. 4.  Music. The repetition of a
 theme in notes of usually double time value.



 augmentative  adj.  1. Having the tendency or ability to augment. 2.
 Grammar. Of, relating to, or designating esp. a word element that indicates
 an increase, as in size, force, or intensity, in the meaning of the
 original word.   augmentative n.



 augmented  adj.  Music.  Larger by a semitone than the corresponding major
 or perfect interval.



 au gratin  adj.  Covered with bread crumbs or bread crumbs, butter, and
 sometimes grated cheese, and browned in an oven. [Fr.]



 augur  n.  1. One of a group of religious officials of ancient Rome who
 foretold events by observing and interpreting signs and omens. 2. A seer or
 prophet; soothsayer.   -v.-gured -guring -gurs   -tr. 1. To predict or
 prognosticate, as from signs or omens. 2. To serve as an omen of; betoken.
 -intr. 1. To conjecture or foretell from signs or omens. 2. To be a sign or
 omen:  traits that augured well for success (Philip Horton). [Lat.]
 augural adj.



 augury  n. pl. -ries  1. The art, ability, or practice of auguring;
 divination. 2. A sign or omen; indication. [ME augurie < OFr. < Lat.
 augurium < augur, augur.]



 august  adj.  1. Inspiring awe or admiration; majestic. 2. Venerable for
 reasons of age or high rank. [Lat. augustus, venerable.]   augustly adv.
 augustness n.



 August  n.  The eighth month of the year according to the Gregorian
 calendar. See table at calendar. [ME < OE < Lat. (mensis) Augustus, (month)
 of Augustus, after Augustus Caesar.]



 Augustan  adj.  1. Pertaining to or characteristic of Augustus Caesar or
 his reign or times. 2. Pertaining to or characteristic of English
 literature during the reign of Queen Anne.   Augustan n.



 Augustinian  adj.  1. Pertaining to Saint Augustine or his doctrines. 2.
 Designating or belonging to any of several orders following or influenced
 by the rule of Saint Augustine.   -n. 1. A follower of the principles and
 doctrines of Saint Augustine. 2. A monk or friar belonging to any of the
 Augustinian orders.   Augustinianism  Augustinism n.



 au jus  adj.  Served with the natural juices or gravy: roast beef au jus.
 [Fr.]



 auk  n.  Any of several sea birds of the family Alcidae, of northern
 regions, having a chunky body and short wings, such as the razor-billed
 auk. [Norw. alk < ON alka.]



 auklet  n.  Any of various small auks of the genus Aethia and related
 genera, of northern Pacific coasts and waters.



 au lait  adj.  With milk. [Fr.]



 auld  adj.  Scots.  Old.



 auld lang syne  n.  The good old days long past. [Sc., old long since.]



 aulic  adj.  Pertaining to a royal court; courtly. [Fr. aulique, Lat.
 aulicus < Gk. aulikos < aule, court.]



 au naturel  adj.  1.  a. In a natural state. b. Nude. 2. Cooked simply.
 [Fr.]



 aunt  n.  1. The sister of one's father or mother. 2. The wife of one's
 uncle. [ME aunte < AN < OFr. ante < Lat. amita, paternal aunt.]



 auntie or aunty   n.  Informal.  Aunt.



 au pair or au pair girl   n.  A foreign girl or woman who works for a
 family in exchange for room and board and a chance to learn the family's
 language. [Fr.]



 aura  n. pl. auras  or aurae  1. An invisible breath or emanation. 2. A
 distinctive air or quality that characterizes a person or thing: an aura of
 nobility.  3.  Pathology. A sensation, as of a cold breeze, preceding the
 onset of certain nervous disorders. [ME, gentle breeze < Lat. < Gk.]



 aural
 aural(1)  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or perceived by the ear. [< Lat. auris,
 ear.]
 aural(2)  adj.  Characterized by or pertaining to an aura.



 aurar  n.  Plural of eyrir.



 aureate  adj.  1. Of a golden color; gilded. 2. Characterized by an
 inflated and pompous style. [ME aureat < Lat. aureatus < aureus, golden <
 aurum, gold.]   aureately adv.   aureateness n.



 aureole or aureola   n.  1. A circle of light or radiance surrounding the
 head or body of a representation of a deity or holy person; halo. 2. A
 bright band or region around a celestial body, such as the sun or moon,
 esp. when observed through a haze or fog. [ME < Med. Lat. aureola (corona),
 golden (crown) < Lat. aureolus, golden < aurum, gold.]



 Aureomycin   A trademark for chlortetracycline.



 au revoir  interj.  Good-by. [Fr.]



 auric  adj.  Of, pertaining to, derived from, or containing gold, esp.
 with valence 3. [< Lat. aurum, gold.]



 auricle or auricula   n.  1.  Anatomy.  a. The external part of the ear;
 pinna. b. An atrium of the heart. 2.  Biology. An earlike part, process, or
 appendage, esp. at the base of an organ. [Lat. auricula, dim. of auris,
 ear.]   auricled adj.



 auricula  n. pl. -las  or -lae  1. A species of primrose, Primula
 auricula, native to the Alps, having clusters of variously colored flowers.
 2. Variant of auricle. [NLat. < Lat., auricle.]



 auricular  adj.  1. Of or pertaining to the sense or organs of hearing. 2.
 Perceived by or spoken into the ear: an auricular confession.  3. Having
 the shape of an ear. 4. Of or pertaining to an auricle of the heart.
 -n.auriculars   The feathers covering the opening of a bird's ear. [Med.
 Lat. auricularis < auricula, auricle.]   auricularly adv.



 auriculate or auriculated   adj.  Having ears or earlike parts or
 extensions. [< Lat. auricula, auricle.]   auriculately adv.



 auriferous  adj.  Containing gold; gold-bearing. [Lat. aurifer : aurum,
 gold + ferre, to carry.]



 auriform  adj.  Ear-shaped. [Lat. auris, ear + + -form.]



 Auriga  n.  A constellation in the Northern Hemisphere near Lynx and
 Perseus. [Lat. auriga, charioteer.]



 Aurignacian  adj.  Archaeology.  Of or relating to the Old World Upper
 Paleolithic culture between Mousterian and Solutrean, associated with
 Cro-Magnon man, and characterized by artifacts such as figures of stone and
 bone, graphic art work, and the use of dress and adornment. [After
 Aurignac, a commune in France.]



 aurochs  n.  1. The urus. 2. The wisent. [G.]



 aurora  n.  1. Aurora   Roman Mythology. The goddess of the dawn. 2. The
 dawn. 3.  a. Aurora borealis. b. Aurora australis. [Lat.]   auroral
 aurorean adj.   aurorally adv.



 aurora australis  n.  A luminous phenomenon of the southern regions that
 corresponds to the aurora borealis of the northern regions. [NLat.,
 southern dawn.]



 aurora borealis  n.  Luminous bands or streamers of light that are
 sometimes visible in the night skies of the northern regions and are
 thought to be caused by the ejection of charged particles into the magnetic
 field of the earth. [NLat., northern dawn.]



 aurous  adj.  Of or pertaining to gold, esp. with valence 1. [Lat. aurum,
 gold + -ous.]



 auscultate  tr.v. -tated -tating -tates   Medicine.  To examine by
 auscultation. [Back-formation < auscultation.]   auscultative adj.
 auscultatory adj.



 auscultation  n.  1. The act of listening. 2.  Medicine. Diagnostic
 monitoring of the sounds made by internal organs or an internal bodily
 part. [Lat. auscultatio < auscultare, to listen to.]



 ausform  tr.v. -formed -forming -forms   To subject a metal, esp. steel,
 to deformation, quenching, and tempering to improve its wear properties.
 [aus(tenitic) + (de)form.]



 auslander  n.  A foreigner. [G. Auslander : aus, out + Land, land.]



 auspex  n. pl. auspices  An augur of ancient Rome, esp. one who
 interpreted omens taken from the actions of birds. [Lat. -see auspice.]



 auspicate  tr.v. -cated -cating -cates   To begin or inaugurate with a
 ceremony designed to bring good luck. [Lat. auspicari, aspicat- < auspex,
 bird augur. -see auspice.]



 auspice  n. pl. auspices  1. auspices  Protection or support; patronage.
 2. A portent, omen, or augury, esp. when observed in the actions of birds.
 3. Observation of and divination from the actions of birds. [Lat.
 auspicium, bird divination < auspex, bird augur : avis, bird + -spex,
 watcher < specere, to look.]



 auspicious  adj.  1. Attended by favorable circumstances; propitious. 2.
 Marked by success; prosperous.   auspiciously adv.   auspiciousness n.



 Aussie  n.  Informal.  A native or inhabitant of Australia. [aus(tralian)
 + -ie.]   Aussie adj.



 austenite  n.  A nonmagnetic solid solution of ferric carbide or carbon in
 iron, used in making corrosive-resistant steel. [Fr., after Sir William
 Roberts-Austen (1843-1902).]   austenitic adj.



 Auster  n.  The personification of the south wind. [Lat.]



 austere  adj.  1.  a. Severe or stern in disposition or appearance. b.
 Somber; grave. 2. Strict or severe in discipline; ascetic. 3. Without
 adornment or ornamentation; bare. [ME < OFr. < Lat. austerus < Gk.
 austeros, harsh.]   austerely adv.   austereness n.



 austerity  n. pl. -ties  1. The quality of being austere. 2. Severe and
 rigid economy: wartime austerity.  3. An austere habit or practice.



 austral  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or coming from the south. [< ME auster,
 south wind < Lat.]



 Australian  n.  1. A native or inhabitant of the Commonwealth of
 Australia. 2. An aborigine of Australia. 3. Any of the languages of the
 Australian aborigines.   -adj. 1. Of or pertaining to Australia or its
 inhabitants and their languages or cultures. 2.  Ecology. Of or designating
 the zoogeographic region that includes Australia and the islands adjacent
 to it, including New Guinea.



 Australian ballot  n.  A printed ballot that bears the names of all
 candidates and the texts of propositions and is distributed to the voter at
 the polls and marked in secret.



 Australian crawl  n.  A swimming stroke that is a variation of the crawl
 and executed with an flutter kick to each stroke.



 Australian terrier  n.  A small dog of a breed developed in Australia,
 having a coarse blackish coat with tan markings.



 Australoid  adj.  Of or relating to an ethnic group including the
 Australian aborigines. [Austral(ian) + -oid.]   Australoid n.



 australopithecine  n.  Any of several extinct manlike primates of the
 genera Australopithecus and Paranthropus or Zinjanthropus, known chiefly
 from Pleistocene fossil remains found in southern and eastern Africa.
 -adj. Of, pertaining to, or characteristic of the australopithecines. [<
 NLat. Australopithecus : Lat. australis, southern + pithecus, ape < Gk.
 pithekos.]   australopithecine adj.



 Austro-
 Austro-(1)   Southern: Austro-Asiatic.  [< Lat. auster, south.]
 Austro-(2)   Austria; Austrian: Austro-Hungarian.



 Austro-Asiatic  n.  A family of languages of southeastern Asia once
 dominant in northeastern India and Indochina.   Austro-Asiatic adj.



 Austronesian  adj.  Of or pertaining to Austronesia, its peoples, or their
 languages.   -n. A family of languages spoken in Austronesia, that includes
 the Indonesian, Melanesian, Micronesian, and Polynesian subfamilies.



 aut-   Variant of auto-.



 autacoid or autocoid   n.  An organic substance, such as a hormone, formed
 in an organ and secreted into the blood, lymph, or sap, from which it acts
 on other parts of the organism. [aut(o)- + Gk. akos, cure + -oid.]
 autocoidal adj.



 autarchy  n. pl. -chies  1.  a. Absolute rule or power; autocracy. b. A
 country under such rule. 2. Variant of autarky. [Gk. autarkhia < autarkhos,
 self-governing : autos, self + arkhos, ruler.]   autarchic  autarchical
 adj.



 autarky  n. pl. -kies  1. A policy of national self-sufficiency and
 nonreliance on imports or economic aid. 2. A self-sufficient region or
 country. [Gk. autarkeia, self-sufficiency < autarkes, self-sufficient :
 autos, self + arkein, to suffice.]   autarkic  autarkical adj.



 autecology  n.  The ecology of a species or of individual organisms in
 relation to the environment.   autecological adj.



 authentic  adj.  1.  a. Conforming to fact and therefore worthy of trust,
 reliance, or belief. b. Having an undisputed origin; genuine. 2.  Law.
 Executed with due process of law: an authentic deed.  3.  Music.  a.
 Designating a medieval mode having a range from its final tone to the
 octave above it. b. Designating a cadence with the dominant chord
 immediately preceding the tonic chord. 4.  Obsolete. Authoritative. [ME
 autentik < OFr. autentique < LLat. authenticus < Gk. authentikos <
 authentes, author.]   authentically adj.



 authenticate  tr.v. -cated -cating -cates   To establish or prove as
 authentic.   authentication n.   authenticator n.



 authenticity  n.  The condition or quality of being authentic,
 trustworthy, or genuine.



 author  n.  1.  a. The original writer of a literary work. b. One who
 practices writing as a profession. 2.  a. An originator or creator. b.
 Author  God.   -tr.v.-thored -thoring -thors   1. To be the author of;
 write. 2. To originate; create. [ME authour < OFr. autor < Lat. auctor,
 creator < augere,  to create.]



 authoritarian  adj.  Characterized by or favoring absolute obedience to
 authority, as against individual freedom.   authoritarian n.
 authoritarianism n.



 authoritative  adj.  1. Having or arising from proper authority; official:
 authoritative sources.  2. Wielding authority; commanding.
 authoritatively adv.   authoritativeness n.



 authority  n. pl. -ties  1.  a. The power to command, enforce laws, exact
 obedience, determine, or judge. b. A person or group invested with this
 power. c. The officials of a political unit holding such power; government.
 2. Freedom or right granted to another; authorization. 3. A public agency
 or corporation with administrative powers in a specified field: the Port
 Authority.  4.  a. An accepted source of expert information or advice. b. A
 quotation or citation from such a source. 5. An expert in a given field: an
 authority on plants.  6. Power to influence or persuade resulting from
 knowledge or experience: write with authority.  7. Grounds for a particular
 course of action. 8. An authoritative statement or decision that may be
 taken as a precedent. [ME autority < OFr. autorite < Lat. auctoritas <
 auctor, creator.]



 authorization  n.  1. The act of authorizing. 2. Something that
 authorizes; sanction.



 authorize  tr.v. -ized -izing -izes   1. To grant authority or power to.
 2. To approve or give permission for; sanction: authorize a highway
 project.  3. To be sufficient grounds for; justify. [ME autorisen < OFr.
 autoriser < Med. Lat. auctorizare < Lat. auctor, author.]   authorizer n.



 Authorized Version  n.  The King James Bible.



 authorship  n.  1. The profession or occupation of writing. 2. A source or
 origin, as of a book or idea.



 autism  n.  1. Abnormal subjectivity; acceptance of fantasy rather than
 reality. 2. A form of childhood schizophrenia characterized by acting out
 and withdrawal.   autistic adj. n.



 auto  n. pl. -tos  Informal.  An automobile.   -intr.v.-toed -toing -tos
 Informal.  To go by or ride in an automobile. [Short for automobile.]



 auto-   1. Self; same: autogamy.  2. Automatic: autopilot.  [Gk. < autos,
 self.]



 autoantibody  n.  An antibody thought to act against cells of the organism
 in which it is formed.



 autobahn  n.  A superhighway in Germany. [G. : auto, automobile + Bahn,
 road.]



 autobiography  n. pl. -phies  The biography of a person written by
 himself.   autobiographer n.   autobiographic autobiographical  adj.
 autobiographically adv.



 autobus  n. pl. -buses  or -busses  A bus.



 autocatalysis  n. pl. -ses  Catalysis of a chemical reaction by one of the
 products of the reaction.   autocatalytic adj.



 autochthon  n. pl. -thons  or -thones  1. The earliest known or aboriginal
 inhabitant of a particular place. 2.  Ecology. An indigenous plant or
 animal. [Gk. autokhthon : autos, self + khthon, earth.]



 autochthonous
 autochthonal or autochthonic    adj.  Native to a particular place;
 indigenous.   autochthonism  autochthony n.   autochthonously adv.



 autoclave  n.  A strong, pressurized, steam-heated vessel, as for
 sterilization and for cooking. [Fr. : auto-, auto- + Lat. clavis, key.]



 autocoid  n.  Variant of autacoid.



 autocracy  n. pl. -cies  1. Government by a single person having unlimited
 power; despotism. 2. A country or state that is governed by autocracy.



 autocrat  n.  1. A ruler having absolute or unrestricted power; despot. 2.
 A person with unlimited power or authority. [Fr. autocrate < Gk.
 autokrates, ruling by oneself : auto-, self + kratos, authority.]
 autocratic  autocratical adj.   autocratically adv.



 autocross  n.  A competition for automobiles that tests driving skill and
 speed.



 auto-da-fe  n. pl. autos-da-fe  1. The public announcement of the
 sentences imposed on persons tried by the Inquisition and the public
 execution of these sentences by the secular authorities. 2. The burning of
 heretics at the stake. [Port. auto da fe, act of the faith.]



 autodidact  n.  A person who is self-taught. [< Gk. autodidaktos,
 self-taught : autos, self + didaktos, taught. -see didactic.]
 autodidactic adj.



 autodyne  n.  A heterodyne in which one tube serves simultaneously as
 oscillator and detector.   autodyne adj.



 autoecious  adj.  Biology.  Having all stages of a life cycle occur on the
 same host. [auto- + Gk. oikos, house.]   autoecism n.



 autoerotism or autoeroticism   n.  1. Self-satisfaction of sexual desire,
 as by masturbation. 2. The arousal of sexual feeling without external
 stimulation.   autoerotic adj.



 autogamy  n.  1.  Botany. Fertilization of a flower by its own pollen;
 self-fertilization. 2.  Biology. The union of nuclei within and arising
 from a single cell, as in certain protozoans.



 autogenesis  n.  Abiogenesis.   autogenetic adj.   autogenetically adv.



 autogenous or autogenic   adj.  Self-generated; self-produced.
 autogenously adv.



 autogiro or autogyro   n. pl. -ros  An aircraft powered by a conventional
 propeller and supported in flight by a freewheeling, horizontal rotor that
 provides lift. [auto- + Gk. guros, circle.]



 autograph  n.  1. A person's own signature or handwriting. 2. A manuscript
 in the author's handwriting.   -tr.v.-graphed -graphing -graphs   1. To
 write one's name or signature on or in; sign. 2. To write in one's own
 handwriting. [Lat. autographus, written with one's own hand < Gk.
 autographos : autos, self + graphein, to write.]   autographic
 autographical adj.   autographically adv.



 autography  n.  1. The writing of something in one's own handwriting. 2.
 Autographs collectively.



 Autoharp   A trademark for a musical instrument similar to a zither, on
 which a desired chord can be selected by depressing a particular damper.



 autohypnosis  n.  1. The act or process of hypnotizing oneself. 2. A
 self-induced hypnotic state.   autohypnotic adj.



 autoimmune  adj.  Related to or caused by autoantibodies.   autoimmunity
 n.   autoimmunization n.   autoimmunize v. -ized -izing -izes



 autoindex  n.  1. The procedure for preparation of an index to a body of
 material by means of a computer program. 2. An index prepared by autoindex.




 autoinfection  n.  Infection, as with recurrent boils, caused by germs or
 viruses persisting on or in the body.



 autoinoculation  n.  1. Inoculation with a vaccine made from substances in
 the recipient's own body. 2. A secondary infection caused by a disease
 already in the body.



 autointoxication  n.  Self-poisoning caused by endogenous microorganisms,
 metabolic wastes, or other toxins in the body.



 autoloading  adj.  Semiautomatic.



 autolysate  n.  Biochemistry.  An end product of autolysis.



 autolysin  n.  A substance that causes autolysis.



 autolysis  n.  The destruction of tissues or cells of an organism by
 autogenous substances, such as enzymes.   autolytic adj.



 automaker  n.  An automobile manufacturer.



 Automat   A trademark for a restaurant in which the customers obtain food
 from closed compartments by depositing coins in the appropriate slots.



 automata  n.  A plural of automaton.



 automate  v. -mated -mating -mates   -tr. 1. To convert to automation. 2.
 To control or operate by automation. -intr. To convert to or make use of
 automation. [Back-formation from automatic.]



 automated teller  n.  An unattended data system and related equipment
 activated by a bank customer to obtain banking services.



 automatic  adj.  1.  a. Acting or operating in a manner essentially
 independent of external influence or control; self-moving. b.
 Self-regulating. 2.  a. Without volition or conscious control. b. Acting or
 performing in a mechanical fashion. 3. Capable of firing continuously until
 ammunition is exhausted.   -n. 1. An automatic firearm, esp. an automatic
 pistol. 2. An automatic machine or device. 3.  Football. An audible. [Gk.
 automatos, self-acting.]   automatically adv.   automaticity n.



 automatic pilot  n.  A mechanism, as on an aircraft, that automatically
 maintains a preset course.



 automation  n.  1. The automatic operation or control of a process,
 equipment, or a system. 2. The techniques and equipment used to achieve
 automatic operation or control. 3. The condition of being automatically
 controlled or operated.   automative adj.



 automatism  n.  1.  a. The state or quality of being automatic. b.
 Automatic mechanical action. 2.  Philosophy. The theory that the body is a
 machine whose functions are accompanied but not controlled by
 consciousness. 3.  Physiology.  a. The automatic operation of organs and
 cells, such as the beating of the heart. b. Performance of an act without
 conscious control, as in the operation of the reflexes. 4. The suspension
 of consciousness in order to express subconscious ideas and feelings.
 automatist n.



 automatization  n.  Automation.



 automatize  tr.v. -tized -tizing -tizes   To make automatic.



 automaton  n. pl. -tons  or -ta  1. A robot. 2. One that behaves in an
 automatic or mechanical fashion. [Lat., self-operating machine < Gk.
 automatos, self-acting.]   automatous adj.



 automobile  n.  A self-propelled passenger vehicle that usually has four
 wheels and an internal-combustion engine, used for land transport.   -adj.
 Automotive. [Fr. : Gk. autos, self + mobile, mobile < OFr. -see mobile.]
 automobilist n.



 automotive  adj.  1. Self-moving; self-propelling. 2. Of or pertaining to
 self-propelled vehicles.



 autonetics  n.(usedwithasing.verb).  The study of automatic guidance and
 control systems. [auto- + (cyber)netics.]



 autonomic  adj.  1. Independent; autonomous. 2.  Physiology. Of or
 pertaining to the autonomic nervous system. 3. Resulting from internal
 causes; spontaneous.   autonomically adv.



 autonomic nervous system  n.  The division of the vertebrate nervous
 system that regulates involuntary action, as of the intestines, heart, and
 glands, and comprises the sympathetic nervous system and the
 parasympathetic nervous system.



 autonomous  adj.  1.  a. Independent. b. Self-contained. 2.  a.
 Independent of the laws of another state or government; self-governing. b.
 Of or pertaining to an autonomy. 3. Autonomic. [Gk. autonomos, self-ruling
 : autos, self + nomos, law.]   autonomously adv.



 autonomy  n. pl. -mies  1. The condition or quality of being
 self-governing. 2. Self-government or the right of self-government;
 self-determination; independence. 3. A self-governing state, community, or
 group. [Gk. autonomia < autonomos, autonomous.]   autonomist n.



 autophyte  n.  An autotrophic plant.   autophytic adj.



 autopiler  n.  Computer Science.  A specific automatic compiler. [auto- +
 (com)piler.]



 autopilot  n.  An automatic pilot.



 autoplasty  n.  Surgical repair or replacement with tissue taken from the
 same body as that on which the surgery is performed.   autoplastic adj.
 autoplastically adv.



 autopsy  n. pl. -sies  The examination of a dead body to determine the
 cause of death. [Gk. autopsia, a seeing for oneself : auto-, self + opsis,
 sight.]   autopsic  autopsical adj.   autopsist n.



 autoroute  n.  An expressway in France and French-speaking countries. [Fr.
 : auto, automobile + route, road.]



 autosome  n.  A chromosome that is not a sex chromosome.   autosomal adj.



 autostrada  n.  An expressway in Italy. [Ital. : auto, automobile +
 strada, street < LLat. strata, paved road.]



 autosuggestion  n.  Psychology.  The process by which a person induces
 self-acceptance of an opinion, belief, or plan of action.
 autosuggestibility n.   autosuggestible adj.   autosuggestive adj.



 autotomize  tr.  -intr.v.-mized -mizing -mizes   To cause the autotomy of
 or to undergo autotomy.



 autotomy  n.  Zoology.  The spontaneous casting off of a body part, as the
 tail of certain lizards, for self-protection.   autotomic adj.



 autotoxemia or autotoxaemia   n.  Pathology.  Autointoxication.



 autotoxin  n.  A poison that acts on the organism in which it is
 generated.   autotoxic adj.



 autotransformer  n.  An electrical transformer in which the primary and
 secondary coils have some or all windings in common.



 autotroph  n.  An autotrophic organism, such as a green plant.
 [Back-formation < autotrophic.]



 autotrophic  adj.  Designating or characterizing plants or plantlike
 organisms capable of manufacturing their own food by synthesis of inorganic
 materials, as in photosynthesis.   autotrophically adv.   autotrophy n.



 autoworker  n.  A worker in the automobile industry.



 autumn  n.  1. The season of the year between summer and winter, lasting
 from the autumnal equinox to the winter solstice and from September to
 December in the Northern Hemisphere; fall. 2. A period of maturity verging
 on decline. [ME autumpne < OFr. < Lat. autumnus.]   autumnal adj.
 autumnally adv.



 autumn crocus  n.  A plant, Colchicum autumnale, native to Europe and
 northern Africa, having pink or purplish flowers that bloom in the fall.



 autunite  n.  A yellowish, fluorescent minor ore of uranium with
 composition Ca(UO2)2(PO4)210H2O. [After Autun, France.]



 auxesis  n.  An increase in the size of a cell without cell division. [Gk.
 auxesis, growth < auxanein, to grow.]   auxetic adj.   auxetically adv.



 auxiliary  adj.  1. Giving assistance or support; helping. 2. Acting as a
 subsidiary; supplementary. 3. Held in or used as a reserve: auxiliary
 troops.  4.  Nautical. Equipped with a motor as well as sails.   -n.pl.
 -ries  1. An individual or group that assists or functions in an auxiliary
 capacity. 2. A member of a foreign body of troops serving a country in war.
 3. An auxiliary verb. 4.  Nautical. A sailing vessel equipped with a motor.
 5. A vessel designed for and used in other than combat services, such as a
 tug or a supply ship. [Lat. auxiliarius < auxilium, help.]



 auxiliary verb  n.  Grammar.  A verb, such as have, can, or will, that
 accompanies particular forms of another verb of a clause to form a phrasal
 unit expressing person, number, tense, mood, voice, or aspect.



 auxin  n.  Any of several plant hormones, or similar substances produced
 synthetically, that affect growth by causing larger, elongated cells to
 develop. [< Gk. auxein, to grow.]   auxinic adj.   auxinically adv.



 Av or Ab   n.  The 11th month of the year on the Hebrew calendar. See
 table at calendar. [Heb. abh < Akkadian abu.]



 avail  v. availed availing avails   -tr. To be of use or advantage to;
 help: Nothing can avail him now.  -intr. To be of use, value, or advantage;
 serve.   -n. Use, benefit, or advantage: labored to no avail.

       Idiom Section:  avail (oneself) of. . To make use of. [ME availen :
 a- (intensive) + OFr. valoir, vail-, to be worth < Lat. valere.]
 availingly adv.



 available  adj.  1. Accessible for use; at hand. 2. Having the qualities
 and the willingness to take on a responsibility: a list of available
 candidates.  3.  Archaic.  a. Capable of bringing about a desired end. b.
 Beneficial.   availability  availableness n.   availably adv.



 avalanche  n.  1. A fall or slide of a large mass of snow, rock, or other
 material down a mountainside. 2. Something resembling an avalanche:
 received an avalanche of mail.    -v.-lanched -lanching -lanches   -intr.
 To fall, as an avalanche. -tr. To overwhelm. [Fr. < dial. Fr. avalantse.]



 avalanche lily  n.  A plant, Erythronium montanum, of western North
 America, having nodding white flowers. [So called because it grows near the
 snow line and blooms when the snow begins to melt.]



 Avalon  n.  A legendary island paradise in the western seas to which King
 Arthur went at his death.



 avant-garde  n.  A group active in the invention and application of new
 techniques in a given field, esp. in the arts. [Fr., vanguard.]
 avant-garde adj.



 avarice  n.  An extreme desire for wealth; cupidity. [ME < OFr. < Lat.
 avaritia < avarus, greedy < avere, to desire.]



 avaricious  adj.  Immoderately greedy for wealth.   avariciously adv.
 avariciousness n.



 avast  interj.  Nautical.  Used as a command to stop or desist.



 avatar  n.  1.  a. An incarnation or embodiment, as of a quality or
 concept. b. A varying manifestation or aspect of a particular entity. 2.
 The incarnation of esp. a Hindu deity in human form. [Skt. avatarah : ava,
 down + tarati, he crosses.]



 avaunt  interj.  Archaic.  A command to be gone. [ME < OFr. avant. -see
 vanguard.]



 ave  n.  1. An expression of greeting or farewell. 2. Ave  The Ave Maria.
 [Lat., hail!]



 Ave Maria  n.  Hail Mary. [ME < Med. Lat., hail, Mary.]



 avenge  v. avenged avenging avenges   -tr. 1. To take revenge or exact
 satisfaction for: avenge a murder.  2. To take vengeance on behalf of:
 avenge one's father.  [ME avengen < OFr. avengier : a-, to (< Lat. ad-) +
 vengier, to vindicate < Lat. vindicare.]   avenger n.   avengingly adv.



 avens  n. pl. avens  1. Any of various plants of the genus Geum, having
 irregularly shaped leaves, white, yellow, or reddish flowers, and plumed
 seed clusters. 2. Any of several plants of the genus Dryas, of mountainous
 and arctic regions, related to the avens. [ME avence < OFr.]



 aventurine or aventurin   n.  1. An opaque or semitranslucent brown glass
 flecked with small metallic particles, often of copper or chromic oxide. 2.
 Any of several varieties of quartz or feldspar flecked with particles of
 mica, hematite, or other materials. [Fr. < aventure, accident (so called
 because of its accidental discovery). -see adventure.]   aventurine adj.



 avenue  n.  1. A wide street or thoroughfare. 2.  a. A broad roadway lined
 with trees. b.  Chiefly British. The drive leading from the main road up to
 a country house. 3. A means of access or approach: new avenues of trade.
 [Fr. < OFr., p.part. of avenir, to approach < Lat. advenire, to come to.
 -see advent.]



 aver  tr.v. averred averring avers   1. To declare in a positive manner;
 affirm. 2.  Law.  a. To assert formally as a fact. b. To justify or prove.
 [ME averren < OFr. averer < VLat. *adverare : Lat. ad-, to + Lat. verus,
 true.]   averment n.   averrable adj.



 average  n.  1.  Mathematics.  a. A number that typifies a set of numbers
 of which it is a function. b. The arithmetic mean. 2. A typical or usual
 level, degree, or kind. 3.  Law.  a. The incurrence of and loss due to
 damage at sea to a ship or cargo. b. The equitable distribution of such a
 loss among concerned parties. c. Charges incurred through such a loss. 4.
 Small expenses or charges that are usually paid by the master of a ship.
 -adj. 1. Of, pertaining to, or constituting a mathematical average. 2.
 Typical; usual. 3. Assessed in compliance with the laws of average.
 -v.-aged -aging -ages   -tr. 1. To calculate the average of. 2. To
 accomplish or obtain an average of: average three hours work a day.  3. To
 distribute proportionately. -intr. 1. To be or amount to an average. 2. To
 buy or sell more goods or shares to obtain more than an average price.
 [Obs. averie, shipping charges < OFr. avarie, damage to shipping < OItal.
 avaria < Ar. "awariyah, damaged goods < "awar, blemish.]

      Synonyms: average medium mediocre fair middling
 indifferent run-of-the-mill so-so tolerable These adjectives indicate ran
 or position on a scale of evaluation. Average  and medium  apply to what is
 midway between extremes on such a scale; usually they imply both
 sufficiency and lack of distinction. Mediocre  stresses the undistinguished
 aspect of what is average. Fair  suggests rank above the average but
 substantially below the highest. Middling  refers to middle position, less
 favorably than average  but less unfavorably than mediocre is close to
 mediocre , and suggests inadequacy. Run-of-the-mill  suggests uniform
 mediocrity. So-so  suggests what is just passable. Tolerable  suggests more
 favorably what is acceptable.




 averse  adj.  1. Having a feeling of great distaste or aversion: was
 averse to sharing a table with them.  2.  Botany. Turned away from the
 central stem or axis. [Lat. aversus, backward, p.part. of avertere, to
 avert.]   aversely adv.   averseness n.

      Usage: Averse  and adverse  are often confused. Averse  indicates
 opposition or strong disinclination on the subject's part: He was averse to
 joining the party. Adverse  is used of something that opposes or hinders
 progress: an adverse wind; adverse circumstances.



 aversion  n.  1. Intense dislike. 2. A feeling of extreme repugnance. 3.
 Archaic. One that is an object of aversion. 4.  Obsolete. The act of
 averting or turning away.



 aversion therapy  n.  A therapy designed to modify antisocial habits or
 addictions by creating a strong association with a disagreeable stimulus.



 aversive  adj.  Causing avoidance of an unpleasant or punishing stimulus,
 as in techniques of behavior modification.   aversively adv.



 avert  tr.v. averted averting averts   1. To turn away: avert one's eyes.
 2. To ward off or prevent: avert disaster.  [ME averten < OFr. avertir <
 Lat. avertere : ab-, away from + vertere, to turn.]   avertible  avertable
 adj.



 Avesta  n.  The sacred writings of the ancient Persians. [Pers. apastak,
 text.]



 Avestan  n.  The eastern dialect of Old Iranian and the language of the
 Avesta.   -adj. Of or pertaining to the Avesta or Avestan.



 avian  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or characteristic of birds. [< Lat. avis,
 bird.]



 aviary  n. pl. -ies  A large enclosure for holding birds in confinement.
 [Lat. aviarium < avis, bird.]   aviarist n.



 aviation  n.  1. The operation of aircraft. 2. The production of aircraft.
 3. Military aircraft. [Fr. < Lat. avis, bird.]



 aviation medicine  n.  The branch of medicine comprising aeromedicine and
 space medicine.



 aviator  n.  A man who operates an aircraft; pilot. [Fr. aviateur <
 aviation, aviation.]



 aviator glasses  pl.n.  Tinted eyeglasses with a lightweight metal frame.



 aviatrix  n.  A woman who operates an aircraft; pilot.



 aviculture  n.  The raising or keeping of birds. [Lat. avis, bird +
 -culture.]   aviculturist n.



 avid  adj.  1. Ardently eager or greedy: avid for adventure.  2. Marked by
 great enthusiasm: an avid sportsman.  [Fr. avide < Lat. avidus < avere, to
 desire.]   avidly adv.



 avidin  n.  A protein in egg albumin, capable of inactivating biotin and
 consequently inhibiting the growth of certain bacteria. [avid + -in (from
 its affinity for biotin).]



 avidity  n.  1.  a. Eagerness. b. Greed. 2.  Chemistry.  a. The
 dissociation-dependent strength of an acid or base. b. Degree of affinity.



 avifauna  n.  All the birds of a specific region or time division. [Lat.
 avis, bird + fauna.]   avifaunal adj.



 avigation  n.  Navigation of aircraft. [avi(ation) + (navi)gation.]
 avigator n.



 avionics  n.  The science and technology of electronics applied to
 aeronautics and astronautics. [avi(ation) + (electr)onics.]   avionic adj.



 avirulent  adj.  Not infective or virulent.



 avitaminosis  n.  A disease caused by deficiency of vitamins.
 avitaminotic adj.



 avo  n. pl. avos  See table at currency. [Port.]



 avocado  n. pl. -dos  1. A tropical American tree, Persea americana,
 cultivated for its edible fruit. 2. The oval or pear-shaped fruit of the
 avocado, having leathery green or blackish skin, a large seed, and bland,
 greenish-yellow pulp. [Mex. Sp. aguacate < Nahuatl ahuactl.]



 avocation  n.  1. An activity taken up in addition to one's regular work
 or profession, usually for enjoyment; hobby. 2.  Archaic. One's regular
 work or profession. [Lat. avocatio, diversion < avocare, to call away :
 ab-, away + vocare, to call.]



 avocet  n.  Any of several long-legged shore birds of the genus
 Recurvirostra, having a long, slender, upturned beak. [Fr. avocette < Ital.
 avocetta.]



 Avogadro number  n.  The number of molecules in a mole of a substance,
 approximately 6.0225 * 1023. [After Amadeo Avogadro (1776-1856).]



 Avogadro's law  n.  The principle that equal volumes of different gases
 under identical conditions of pressure and temperature contain the same
 number of molecules.



 avoid  tr.v. avoided avoiding avoids   1. To keep away from; shun. 2. To
 keep from happening. 3.  Law. To annul or make void; invalidate. 4.
 Obsolete. To void. [ME avoiden < AN avoider, to empty out < OFr. esvuidier
 : es-, out (< Lat. ex-) + vuidier, to empty < voide, empty. -see void.]
 avoidable adj.   avoidably adv.   avoider n.



 avoidance  n.  1. The act of avoiding or shunning. 2.  Law. An annulment.



 avoirdupois  n.  1. Avoirdupois weight. 2.  Informal. Weight or heaviness,
 esp. of a person. [ME avoir de pois, commodities sold by weight, alteration
 of OFr. aveir de peis, goods of weight.]



 avoirdupois weight  n.  A system of weights and measures based on a pound
 containing 16 ounces or 7,000 grains and equal to 453.59 grams.



 avouch  tr.v. avouched avouching avouches   1. To take responsibility for;
 guarantee. 2.  a. To assert positively; affirm. b. To establish; prove. 3.
 a. To acknowledge one's responsibility for. b. To confess; avow. [ME
 avouchen, to cite as a warrant < OFr. avochier < Lat. advocare, to summon :
 ad-, to + vocare, to call.]



 avow  tr.v. avowed avowing avows   1. To acknowledge openly; confess: avow
 guilt.  2. To declare oneself to be. [ME avowen < OFr. avouer < Lat.
 advocare, to call upon. -see avouch.]   avowable adj.   avowably adv.
 avowedly adv.   avower n.



 avowal  n.  An admission or acknowledgment.



 avulse  tr.v. avulsed avulsing avulses   To tear off forcibly; rip away.
 [Lat. avellere, avuls-, to tear off : ab-, away + vellere, to pull.]



 avulsion  n.  1.  a. A forcible separation. b. A part removed in this way.
 2.  Law. The removal of a piece of land from one property onto another as a
 result of a shift in the course of a boundary stream.



 avuncular  adj.  1. Of or pertaining to an uncle. 2. Similar to an uncle,
 esp. in benevolence. [< Lat. avunculus, maternal uncle.]



 aw  interj.  Used to express sympathy, disgust, or disbelief.



 await  v. awaited awaiting awaits   -tr. 1. To wait for. 2. To be in store
 for. 3.  Obsolete. To lie in ambush for. -intr. To wait. [ME awaiten <
 ONFr. awaitier : a-, to (< Lat. ad-) + waitier, to watch, of Germanic
 orig.]



 awake  v. awoke awaked awaking awakes   -tr. 1. To rouse from sleep;
 waken. 2. To stir the interest of; excite. 3. To stir up (memories or
 fears, for example). -intr. 1. To wake up. 2. To become alert. 3. To become
 aware or cognizant: awoke to reality.    -adj. 1. Not asleep. 2. Alert;
 vigilant; watchful. [ME awaken < OE awacian.]



 awaken  v. -ened -ening -ens   -tr. To cause to wake up. -intr. To wake
 up. [ME awakenen < OE awaecnian : a-, on + waecnian, to waken.]   awakener
 n.



 award  tr.v. awarded awarding awards   1. To grant as merited or due. 2.
 To declare as legally due: awarded damages to the plaintiff.    -n. 1. A
 decision, such as one made by a judge or arbitrator. 2. Something awarded
 or granted, as for merit. [ME awarden < AN awarder, to decide (a legal
 question), of Germanic orig.]   awardable adj.   awarder n.



 awardee  n.  One that receives an award.



 aware  adj.  1. Having knowledge or cognizance: aware of their
 limitations.  2.  Obsolete. Vigilant; watchful. [ME < OE gewaer.]
 awareness n.

      Synonyms: aware cognizant conscious sensible alive
 awake alert watchful vigilant These adjectives mean to be mindful or
 heedful of something. Aware  implies knowing something either by perception
 or by means of information. Cognizant  is a rather formal equivalent of
 aware  stressing sure knowledge and the recognition of it. Conscious
 emphasizes recognition of something sensed or felt. Sensible  implies
 knowledge gained by sensing or perceiving, and suggests appreciation of it.
 Alive  stresses keenness of perception, and awake  suggests being aroused
 to the presence of something. Alert  stresses both knowledge and capability
 of swift, apt response. Watchful  and vigilant  imply acute perception of
 what is dangerous or potentially so.




 awash  adj.  1. Level with or washed by waves. 2. Flooded. 3. Floating on
 waves.   awash adv.



 away  adv.  1. From a particular place: run away from home.  2. At a
 distance. 3. In a different direction; aside: He glanced away.  4. Out of
 existence: The music faded away.  5. From one's possession: gave the
 tickets away.  6. Continuously: He worked away at his job.  7. Immediately:
 Fire away!    -adj. 1. Absent: He is away from home.  2. At a distance: He
 is miles away.  3. Played on an opponent's field or grounds: an away game.
 4.  Baseball. Out: bases loaded, two away.

       Idiom Section:  away with. 1. Take away. 2. Go away. Often used
 imperatively: Away with you!  do makeaway with.. 1. To get rid of. 2. To
 murder. [ME < OE aweg.]



 awe  n.  1.  a. An emotion of mingled reverence, dread, and wonder. b.
 Fearful veneration or respect. 2.  Archaic. The power to inspire reverence
 or fear. 3.  Obsolete. Dread.   -tr.v.awed awing awes   To inspire with
 awe. [ME < ON agi.]



 aweary  adj.  Tired; weary.



 aweather  adv.  Nautical.  To windward.



 aweigh  adj.  Nautical.  Hanging just clear of the bottom. Used of an
 anchor.



 awesome  adj.  1. Inspiring awe. 2. Expressing or marked by awe.
 awesomely adv.   awesomeness n.



 awestruck or awestrucken
 awestricken   adj.  Full of awe.



 awful  adj.  1. Extremely bad or unpleasant; terrible. 2. Commanding awe.
 3. Filled with awe. 4. Great: an awful burden.    -adv. Informal.
 Extremely; very: was awful sick.  [ME aweful, awe-inspiring < OE egefull.]
  awfully adv.   awfulness n.



 awhile  adv.  For a short time.

      Usage: Awhile,  an adverb, is never preceded by a preposition such as
 for,  but the two-word form a while  may be preceded by a preposition. In
 writing, each of the following is acceptable: stay awhile; stay for a
 while; stay a while  (but not stay for awhile ).



 awkward  adj.  1. Marked by a lack of dexterity and grace, esp. in
 physical movement. 2.  a. Clumsily lacking in the ability to do or perform;
 unskillful. b. Clumsily or unskillfully performed. 3. Difficult to handle
 or manage: an awkward bundle to carry.  4.  a. Causing embarrassment and
 distress: an awkward remark.  b. Marked by embarrassment or discomfort: an
 awkward silence.  5. Needing tact and discretion: an awkward situation.
 [ME awkeward, in the wrong way < awke, wrong < ON ofugr, backward.]
 awkwardly adv.   awkwardness n.

      Synonyms: awkward clumsy maladroit inept gauche
 bungling ungainly unwieldy These adjectives refer to lack of grace or skil
 in movement, manner, or performance. Awkward  and clumsy , the least
 specific, are often interchangeable. Clumsy  emphasizes lack of dexterity
 in physical movement. Awkward  applies both to physical movement and to
 embarrassing conditions and situations. Maladroit  implies lack of tact or
 skill in relationships with other persons. Inept  applies to inappropriate
 actions and speech. Gauche  (French for "left") usually suggests
 boorishness. Bungling  implies gross incompetence in performance. Ungainly
 suggests a visible lack of grace in form or movement. Unwieldy  describes
 objects whose size or shape make them difficult to handle.




 awl  n.  A pointed tool for making holes, as in wood or leather. [ME aul <
 OE ael.]



 awlwort  n.  A small aquatic plant, Subularia aquatica, of the Northern
 Hemisphere, having a tuft of narrow, pointed leaves and minute white
 flowers. [From its awl-shaped leaves.]



 awn  n.  A slender, bristlelike terminal process such as those found at
 the tips of the spikelets in many grasses. [ME awne < ON ogn.]   awned adj.
   awnless adj.



 awning  n.  A rooflike structure, as over a window or door, that serves as
 a shelter. [Orig. unknown.]



 awoke  v.  Past tense of awake.



 awoken  v.  Chiefly British.  Past participle of awake.



 AWOL or awol   adj.  Absent without leave, esp. from military service.
 -n. One that is AWOL.



 awry  adv.  1. Turned or twisted toward one side; askew. 2. Away from the
 correct course; amiss.   awry adj.



 ax or axe   n. pl. axes  1. A tool with a bladed head mounted on a handle,
 used for felling or splitting lumber. 2. A tool or weapon, such as a
 battle-ax, similar to an ax. 3.  Informal.  a. A sudden termination of
 employment: got the ax yesterday.  b. An abrupt or ruthless removal.
 -tr.v.axed axing axes   1. To use an ax. 2. To remove ruthlessly or
 suddenly.

       Idiom Section:  have an ax to grind. To pursue a selfish or
 subjective aim. [ME < OE aexa.]



 axel  n.  A jump in figure skating with 11/2 turns in the air. [After Axel
 Paulsen, 19th-cent. Norwegian figure skater.]



 axenic  adj.  Free of symbionts or parasites; uncontaminated.   axenically
 adv.



 axes  n.  1.  Plural of axis. 2.  Plural of ax.



 axial  adj.  1. Pertaining to or forming an axis. 2. Located on, around,
 or in the direction of an axis.   axiality n.   axially adv.



 axil  n.  The angle between the upper surface of a leafstalk, flower
 stalk, branch, or similar part, and the stem or axis from which it arises.
 [Lat. axilla, armpit.]



 axilla  n. pl. -illae  The armpit or an analogous part. [Lat.]



 axillar  adj.  Axillary.   -n. One of the feathers in the axilla of a
 bird's wing.



 axillary  adj.  1.  Anatomy. Of, relating to, or near the axilla. 2.
 Botany. Of, pertaining to, or located in an axil: axillary buds.    -n.pl.
 -ies  An axillar.



 axiology  n.  Philosophy.  The study of the nature of values and value
 judgments. [Gk. axios, worth + -logy.]   axiological adj.   axiologically
 adv.   axiologist n.



 axiom  n.  1. A self-evident or universally recognized truth; maxim. 2. An
 established rule, principle, or law. 3.  Mathematics.  Logic.  a. An
 undemonstrated proposition concerning an undefined set of elements,
 properties, functions, and relationships; postulate. b. A self-evident or
 accepted principle. [Lat. axioma < Gk. axioma < axios, worthy.]



 axiomatic or axiomatical   adj.  Of, pertaining to, or resembling an
 axiom; self-evident.   axiomatically adv.



 axis  n. pl. axes  1. A straight line about which a body or geometrical
 object rotates or may be conceived to rotate. 2.  Mathematics.  a. An
 unlimited line, half-line, or line segment serving to orient a space or a
 geometrical object, esp. a line about which the object is symmetrical. b. A
 reference line from which distances or angles are measured in a coordinate
 system. 3. A center line to which parts of a structure or body may be
 referred. 4. An imaginary line to which elements of a work of art, as a
 picture, are referred for measurement or symmetry. 5.  Anatomy.  a. The
 second cervical vertebra on which the head turns. b. Any of various central
 structures, as the spinal column, or standard abstract lines used as a
 positional referent. 6.  Botany. The main stem or central part about which
 organs or plant parts such as branches are arranged. 7. Axis  The alliance
 of Germany and Italy (1936), later including Japan and other nations, that
 opposed the Allies in World War II. [ME < Lat.]



 axis deer  n.  A deer, Axis axis, of central Asia, having a brown coat
 with white spots. [Lat. axis, a kind of animal.]



 axite  n.  Anatomy.  One of the terminal fibers of an axon. [ax(on) +
 -ite.]



 axle  n.  1. A supporting shaft or member upon which a wheel or wheels
 revolve. 2.  a. The spindle of an axletree. b. Either end of an axletree.
 [ME axel < OE eaxl.]



 axletree  n.  A crossbar or rod supporting a vehicle, as a cart, and
 having terminal spindles on which the wheels revolve.



 axman  n.  A man who wields an ax, esp. a worker who fells trees or chops
 logs.



 Axminster  n.  A kind of carpet with stiff jute backing and long, soft
 cut-wool pile. [After Axminster, England.]



 axolotl  n.  Any of several western North American and Mexican salamanders
 of the genus Ambystoma, which, unlike most amphibians, often retain their
 external gills and become sexually mature without undergoing metamorphosis.
 [Nahuatl : atl, water + xolotl, servant.]



 axon or axone   n.  The core of a nerve fiber that generally conducts
 impulses away from the nerve cell. [Gk. axon, axis.]



 axseed  n.  The crown vetch. [From its ax-shaped pods.]



 ay
 ay(1)  interj.  Archaic.  Used to express surprise or distress.
 ay(2)  n.  -adv. Variant of aye1.
 ay(3)   adv.  Variant of aye2.



 ayah  n.  A native maid or nurse in India. [Hindi aya < Port. aia,
 nursemaid < Lat. avia, grandmother.]



 ayatollah  n.  An Islamic religious leader of the Shiite sect. [Pers. :
 Ar. ayat, sign + allah, God.]



 aye or ay
 aye(1)  n.  An affirmative vote or voter.   -adv. Yes; yea. [Prob.
 alteration of I.]
 aye(2)   adv.  Always; ever. [ME ai < ON ei.]



 aye-aye  n.  A lemur, Daubentonia madagascariensis, of Madagascar, having
 large ears, a long, bushy tail, and rodentlike teeth. [Fr. < Malagasay
 aiay, prob. imit. of its cry.]



 ayin  n.  The 16th letter of the Hebrew alphabet. See table at alphabet.
 [Heb. "ayin.]



 Aymara  n. pl. Aymara  or -ras  1.  a. An Indian people inhabiting Bolivia
 and Peru. b. A member of the Aymara. 2.  a. The language of the Aymara. b.
 A language family consisting of Aymara.   Aymaran adj. n.



 Ayrshire  n.  One of a breed of brown and white dairy cattle originating
 in Ayr, Scotland.



 az-   Variant of azo-.



 azalea  n.  Any of a group of deciduous or evergreen shrubs, part of the
 genus Rhododendron, of the North Temperate Zone, many of which are
 cultivated for their showy, variously colored flowers. [NLat. < Gk.
 azaleos, dry (so called because it grows in dry soil).]



 azan  n.  The Moslem summons to prayer, called by the muezzin from a
 minaret of a mosque five times a day. [Ar. adhan < adhina, to proclaim.]



 Azazel  n.  In ancient Hebrew tradition, the rebel leader of the angels
 who seduced mankind. [Heb. "azazel.]



 Azerbaijani  n. pl. Azerbaijani  or -nis  1. A native or inhabitant of
 Azerbaijan. 2. The Turkic language of Azerbaijan.



 Azilian  adj.  Archaeology.  Of or denoting a western European culture
 following the Magdalenian era and preceding the Neolithic. [After le Mas
 d'Azil, a village in France.]



 azimuth  n.  1. The horizontal angular distance from a fixed reference
 direction to a position, object, or object referent, as to a great circle
 intersecting a celestial body, usually measured clockwise in degrees along
 the horizon from a point due south. 2. The lateral deviation of a
 projectile or bomb. [ME azimut < OFr. < Ar. as-sumut : as, the + sumut, pl.
 of samt, compass bearing.]   azimuthal adj.   azimuthally adv.



 azimuthal equidistant projection  n.  A map projection of the earth
 designed so that a straight line from a given point on the map to any other
 point gives the shortest distance between the two points.



 azine  n.  A six-membered heterocyclic compound containing one or more
 atoms of nitrogen, such as pyridine.



 azine dye  n.  Any of various dyes derived from phenazine.



 azo  adj.  Containing a nitrogen group. [< azo-.]



 azo- or az-    Containing a nitrogen group, esp. one attached at both ends
 in a covalent bond to other groups: azole.  [< Fr. azote, nitrogen : Gk.
 a-, not + Gk. zoe, life.]



 azo dye  n.  Any of various red, brown, or yellow acidic or basic dyes
 derived from azobenzene.



 azoic  adj.  Of or pertaining to geological periods that precede the
 appearance of life.



 azole  n.  An organic compound having a five-membered heterocyclic ring
 with two double bonds.



 azonic  adj.  Not restricted to a particular zone or region; not local.



 azotemia  n.  Uremia. [Fr. azote, nitrogen + -emia.]   azotemic adj.



 azoth  n.  Mercury considered in alchemy to be the primary source of all
 metals. [Ar. az-za'uq.]



 azotobacter  n.  Any of various nitrogen-fixing bacteria of the family
 Azotobacteraceae. [Fr. azote, nitrogen + bacter(ia).]



 azoturia  n.  Increase of nitrogenous substances in the urine. [Fr. azote,
 nitrogen + -uria.]



 Azrael  n.  The angel who separates the soul from the body at death in
 Moslem and Jewish legend. [Ar. Azra'il < Heb. "Azar'el, God has helped.]



 Aztec  n.  1. A member of an Indian people of Central Mexico noted for
 their advanced civilization before Cortes invaded Mexico in 1519. 2.
 Nahuatl.   -adj. Aztecan  Of the Aztecs, their language, culture, or
 empire. [Sp. Azteca < Nahuatl Aztecatl.]



 azure  n.  1. A light purplish blue. 2. An azure pigment. 3. The blue sky.
 [ME < OFr. azur < Med. Lat. azura < Ar. al-lazaward < Pers. lajward, lapis
 lazuli.]



 azurite  n.  An azure-blue vitreous mineral of basic copper carbonate,
 2CuCO3Cu(OH)2, used as a copper ore and as a gemstone.



 azygous  adj.  Occurring singly; unpaired.


 B
 b or B   n. pl. b's  or B's  1. The second letter of the modern English
 alphabet. 2. Any of the speech sounds represented by the letter b.  3. B  A
 human blood type of the ABO group. 4. The second in a series. 5. The
 second-best or second-highest in quality or rank: grade B meat; a mark of B
 on an English theme.  6.  Music.  a. The seventh tone in the scale of C
 major or the second tone in the relative minor scale. b. The key or a scale
 in which B is the tonic. c. A written or printed note representing this
 tone. d. A string, key, or pipe tuned to the pitch of this tone.



 B   The symbol for the element boron.



 Ba   The symbol for the element barium.



 baa  intr.v. baaed baaing baas   To make a bleating sound, as a sheep
 does.   -n. The bleat of a sheep. [Imit.]



 Baal  n. pl. -als  or -alim  1. Any of various local fertility and nature
 gods of the ancient Semitic peoples considered to be false idols by the
 Hebrews. 2. baal  A false god or idol. [Heb. ba'al, lord.]



 baba  n.  A leavened rum cake. [Fr. < Pol.]



 babassu  n.  A Brazilian palm tree, Orbignya martiana (or O. speciosa ),
 bearing hard nuts that yield an oil similar to coconut oil. [Port. babacu.]




 Babbitt
 Babbitt(1)  n.  A member of the American middle class whose attachment to
 its business and social ideals is such as to make him a model of
 narrow-mindedness and self-satisfaction. [After George F. Babbitt, the main
 character in the novel Babbitt by Sinclair Lewis.]   Babbittry n.
 Babbitt(2)   A trademark for a soft, silvery antifriction alloy composed of
 tin with small amounts of copper and antimony.



 babble  v. -bled -bling -bles   -intr. 1. To utter a meaningless confusion
 of words or sounds. 2. To talk foolishly or idly; chatter. 3. To make a
 continuous low, murmuring sound, as flowing water. -tr. 1. To utter rapidly
 and indistinctly. 2. To blurt out impulsively; disclose without careful
 consideration.   -n. 1. Inarticulate or meaningless talk or sounds. 2.
 Foolish or idle talk; prattle. 3. A continuous low, murmuring sound. [ME
 babelen.]   babbler n.



 babe  n.  1. A baby; infant. 2. An innocent or naive person. 3.  Slang.
 a. A young woman. b. A person. [ME.]



 Babel  n.  1. In the Old Testament, the site of a tower reaching to heaven
 whose construction was interrupted by the confusion of tongues. 2. babel
 a. A confusion of sounds or voices. b. A scene of noise and confusion.
 [Heb. Babhel < Akkadian Bab-ilu, gate of God.]



 babesia  n.  Any of the family Babesiidae of parasitic sporozoans that
 affect the blood of vertebrates, such as dogs and sheep. [NLat. Babesia,
 genus name, after Victor Babes (1854-1926).]



 babesiasis or babesiosis   n.  A disease or infection caused by babesia.



 babies'-breath  n.  Variant of baby's-breath.



 babirusa
 babirussa or babiroussa    n.  A wild pig, Babyrousa babyrussa, of the
 East Indies, having long, upward-curving tusks in the male. [Malay babirusa
 : babi, hog + rusa, deer.]



 babka  n.  A coffee cake flavored with orange rind, rum, almonds, and
 raisins. [Pol.]



 baboon  n.  1. Any of several chiefly African monkeys of the genus Papio
 (or Chaeropithecus ) and related genera, having an elongated, doglike
 muzzle. 2.  Slang. A brutish person; boor. [ME babewyne < OFr. babuin.]
 baboonish adj.



 baboonery  n.  Behavior characteristic of boors.



 babu  n.  1. A form of address in Hindi equivalent to Mr.  2.  a. A Hindu
 clerk who is literate in English. b. A native of India who has acquired
 some superficial education in English. [Hindi babu, father.]



 babul  n.  A tree, Acacia arabica, of northern Africa and India, that is a
 source of gum arabic, of a hardwood, and of tannin. [Pers. babul.]



 babushka  n.  A woman's head scarf, folded triangularly and worn tied
 under the chin. [R., grandmother, dim. of baba, old woman.]



 baby  n. pl. -bies  1.  a. A very young child; infant. b. The youngest
 member of a family or group. c. A very young animal. 2. An adult or young
 person who behaves in an infantile way. 3.  Slang. A girl or young woman.
 4.  Slang. An object of personal concern or interest. a baby girl; his baby
 sister.    -tr.v.-bied -bying -bies   To treat oversolicitously; coddle.
 [ME babi.]   babyhood n.   babyish adj.



 baby blue  n.  A very light to very pale greenish or purplish blue.



 baby-blue-eyes  n.  A low-growing plant,Nemophila menziesii,of California,
 having bell-shaped blue flowers.



 baby bond  n.  A bond issued in an amount less than one thousand dollars.



 baby grand  n.  A small grand piano approximately five feet long.



 Babylon  n.  A city or place of great luxury and often corruption. [After
 Babylon, an ancient city of Babylonia, noted for its luxury.]



 Babylonian  adj.  1. Of or pertaining to ancient Babylonia or Babylon or
 their people, culture, or language. 2. Characterized by a luxurious,
 pleasure-seeking, and often immoral way of life.   -n. 1. A native or
 inhabitant of ancient Babylon or Babylonia. 2. The form of Akkadian used in
 ancient Babylonia.



 baby's-breath or babies'-breath   n.  1. A plant of the genus Gypsophila,
 esp. G. paniculatum, having numerous small white flowers in branching
 clusters. 2. Any of several plants similar to the baby's breath, with small
 pleasantly scented flowers.



 baby-sit  v. -sat -sitting -sits   -intr. To act as a baby sitter. -tr. To
 take care of: babysit the children.



 baby sitter  n.  Someone engaged to care for one or more children when the
 parents are not at home.



 baby-tears or baby's-tears   n.  A creeping plant,Helxine
 soleirolii,native to Corsica, having numerous very small leaves and minute
 green flowers.



 baccalaureate  n.  1. The degree of bachelor, conferred upon graduates of
 most U.S. colleges and universities. 2. A farewell address in the form of a
 sermon delivered to a graduating class. [Med. Lat. baccalaureatus <
 baccalarius, bachelor.]



 baccarat  n.  A card game in which the winner is the player who holds two
 or three cards totaling closest to nine. [Fr. baccara.]



 baccate  adj.  1. Bearing berries. 2. Resembling a berry in texture or
 form. [< Lat. bacca, berry.]



 Bacchae  pl.n.  The priestesses and female followers of Bacchus. [Lat. <
 Gk. bakkhai.]



 bacchanal  n.  1. A participant in the Bacchanalia. 2. bacchanals  The
 Bacchanalia. 3. A drunken or riotous celebration. 4. A reveler.   -adj. Of,
 pertaining to, or typical of the worship of Bacchus. [Lat. bacchanalis, of
 Bacchus < Bacchus, Bacchus < Gk. Bakkhos.]



 bacchanalia  n. pl. bacchanalia  1. Bacchanalia  The ancient Roman
 festival in honor of Bacchus. 2. A riotous or drunken festivity; orgy.
 [Lat. < bacchanalis, of Bacchus < Bacchus, Bacchus < Gk. Bakkhos.]
 bacchanalian adj. n.



 bacchant  n. pl. bacchants  or bacchantes  1. A priest or votary of
 Bacchus. 2. A boisterous reveler. [Lat. bacchans, bacchant-, pr.part. of
 bacchari, to celebrate the festival of Bacchus < Bacchus, Bakkhos, Bacchus
 Gk.]   bacchantic adj.



 bacchante  n.  A priestess or female votary of Bacchus. [Fr. < Lat.
 bacchans, bacchant.]



 bacchantes  n.  A plural of bacchant.



 Bacchic  adj.  1. Of or pertaining to Bacchus. 2. bacchic  Drunken and
 carousing; bacchanalian.



 Bacchus  n.  Greek Mythology.  The god of grape-growing and of wine. [Lat.
 < Gk. Bakkhos.]



 bacciferous  adj.  Bearing berries. [Lat. baccifer : bacca, berry + ferre,
 to carry.]



 bacciform  adj.  Having the shape of a berry. [Lat. bacca, berry + -form.]




 bach or batch   intr.v. bached baching baches  or batched  or batching  or
 batches   Slang.  To live alone and keep house as a bachelor. [Short for
 bachelor.]   bach n.



 bachelor  n.  1. An unmarried man. 2. In feudal times, a young knight in
 the service of another knight. 3.  a. A college or university degree
 signifying completion of the undergraduate curriculum and graduation. b. A
 person holding such a degree. 4. A young male fur seal who is kept from the
 breeding territory by older males. [ME bacheler < OFr., squire < Med. Lat.
 baccalarius.]   bachelordom  bachelorhood  bachelorship n.



 bachelor's-button  n.  1. The cornflower. 2. The daisy (sense 2). 3.
  Any of several plants similar to the bachelor's-button, having buttonlike
 flowers or flower heads.



 bacillary or bacillar   adj.  1. Rod-shaped. 2. Of, pertaining to, or
 caused by bacilli. [< bacillus.]



 bacilli  n.  Plural of bacillus.



 bacillophobia  n.  A psychologically aberrant fear of bacilli. [bacill(us)
 +-phobia.]



 bacilluria  n.  The presence of bacilli in the urine. [bacill(us) +
 -uria.]



 bacillus  n. pl. -cilli  1. Any of various rod-shaped, aerobic bacteria of
 the genus Bacillus, often occurring in chainlike formations. 2. Any of
 various bacteria, esp. a rod-shaped bacterium. [NLat. Bacillus, genus name
 < LLat., little rod, dim. of baculum, rod.]



 bacitracin  n.  An antibiotic obtained from the bacterium Bacillus
 subtilis and used externally as a salve. [baci(llus) + Margaret Trac(y), an
 American child in whose blood it was first isolated + -in.]



 back
 back(1)  n.  1.  a. The region of the vertebrate body located nearest the
 spine, in man consisting of the rear area from the neck to the pelvis. b.
 The analogous dorsal region in other animals. 2. The backbone or spine. 3.
 The part or area farthest from the front. 4. The part opposite the front.
 5. The reverse side, as of a coin. 6. A part that supports or strengthens
 from the rear. 7.  a. The part of a book where the pages are stitched or
 glued together into the binding. b. The binding itself. 8.  Sports.  a. In
 certain games, such as football, a player taking a position behind the
 front line of players. b. This position.   -v.backed backing backs   -tr.
 1. To cause to move backward or in a reverse direction. 2. To furnish or
 strengthen with a back or backing. 3. To provide support, assistance, or
 encouragement for (a contending force). 4. To adduce evidence in support
 of; substantiate: backing up an argument with facts.  5. To bet on. 6. To
 form the back or background of. 7. To endorse by signing on the back of.
 -intr. 1. To move backward. 2. To shift to a counterclockwise direction.
 Used of the wind. Phrasal verb.  back down. To withdraw from a position,
 opinion, or commitment. back off. To retreat or draw away. back out. 1. To
 withdraw from (an enterprise or plan) before completion. 2. To fail to keep
 a commitment or promise. back up. To accumulate in a clogged state: Traffic
 was backed up for blocks.    -adj. 1. Located or placed in the rear. 2.
 Distant from a center of activity; remote. 3. Of a past date; not current.
 4. Owing or due from an earlier time; in arrears. 5. In a backward
 direction. 6. Articulated with the tongue positioned toward the rear of the
 mouth.   -adv. 1. At, to, or toward the rear or back; backward. 2. In, to,
 or toward a former location. 3. In, to, or toward a former condition. 4.
 In, to, or toward a past time. 5. In reserve or concealment. 6. In check or
 under restraint. 7. In reply or return.

       Idiom Section:  back and fill. 1. To maneuver a vessel in a narrow
 channel by adjusting the sails so as to let the wind in and out of them in
 alteration. 2. To vacillate in one's actions or decisions. go back on. 1.
 To fail to keep (a promise or commitment). 2. To betray or desert (a
 person). turn (one's) back on. 1. To reject, as in anger. 2. To forsake.
 [ME bak < OE baec.]   backed adj.   backless adj.

      Usage: The expression back of  is an informal variant of in back of
 and is best avoided in writing: There was a small stable in back of  (not
 simply back of ) the house.
 back(2)  n.  A shallow vat or tub used chiefly by brewers. [Du. bak < Fr.
 bac, ferry boat < OFr.]



 backache  n.  A pain or discomfort in the region of the spine or back.



 backbencher  n.  Chiefly British.  A junior member of Parliament who sits
 in the rear benches in the House of Commons behind government officeholders
 and their counterparts in the opposition party.



 backbite  v. -bit -bitten -biting -bites   -tr. To speak spitefully or
 slanderously about (a person). -intr. To speak spitefully or slanderously
 about a person.   backbiter n.



 backboard  n.  1. A board placed under or behind something to provide
 firmness or support. 2.  Basketball. The elevated vertical board from which
 the basket projects.



 backbone  n.  1. The vertebrate spine or spinal column. 2. Something, such
 as the keel of a ship, that resembles a backbone in appearance or position.
 3. A main support or major sustaining factor. 4. Strength of character;
 determination.   backboned adj.



 backbreaking  adj.  Demanding great exertion, esp. physical exertion;
 arduous.   backbreaker n.



 backcountry  n.  A sparsely inhabited rural region.



 backcourt  n.  1. In tennis and other net games, the part of a court
 between the service line and the base line. 2. In certain court games, such
 as handball, the part of the playing area farthest from the goal or target
 wall. 3.  Basketball.  a. The half of the court that a team defends. b. The
 part of a team that comprises the two guard positions. c. The players in
 these positions.



 backcross  tr.v. -crossed -crossing -crosses   To mate (a first-generation
 hybrid) with a parent or member of the parental stock.   backcross n.



 backdoor  adj.  Secret or surreptitious; clandestine.



 backdrop  n.  1. A painted curtain hung at the back of a stage set. 2. The
 setting, as of a historical event; background.



 backer  n.  One who supports or gives aid.



 backfield  n.  Football.  1.  a. The players stationed behind the line of
 scrimmage. b. The positions filled by these players. 2. The area in which
 the backfield lines up.



 backfire  n.  1. A fire started to extinguish an oncoming fire, as on a
 prairie, by clearing an area in its path. 2. An explosion of prematurely
 ignited fuel or of unburned exhaust gases in an internal-combustion engine.
   -intr.v.-fired -firing -fires   1. To explode in or make the sound of a
 backfire. 2. To produce an unexpected and undesired result.



 back-formation  n.  Linguistics.  1. A new word created by removing from
 an existing word what is mistakenly thought to be an affix, as laze from
 lazy or edit from editor.  2. The process of forming words by
 back-formation.



 backgammon  n.  A board game for two persons, played with pieces whose
 moves are determined by throws of dice. [back + gammon1.]



 background  n.  1. The ground located behind something. 2. The part of a
 pictorial representation that appears as if in the distance and provides
 relief for objects in the foreground. 3. A position of relative
 inconspicuousness or unimportance. 4. The circumstances and events
 surrounding or leading up to something. 5. A person's total experience,
 education, and knowledge. 6. Subdued music played esp. as an accompaniment
 to dialogue in a dramatic performance. 7. Sound or radiation present at a
 relatively constant low level at a specific location.



 backgrounder  n.  Slang.  An informal meeting at which an official
 provides background information, as to news reporters, about a governmental
 issue.



 backhand  n.  1.  Sports. A stroke or motion, as of a racket, made with
 the back of the hand facing outward and the arm moving forward. 2.
 Handwriting characterized by letters that slant to the left.   -adv. With a
 backhanded stroke or motion.   -tr.v.-handed -handing -hands   To perform,
 catch, or hit backhand.



 backhanded  adj.  1. Made with or using a backhand. 2. Oblique or
 roundabout: a backhanded compliment.    backhandedly adv.   backhandedness
 n.



 backing  n.  1. Something forming a back. 2.  a. Support or aid. b.
 Approval or endorsement.



 backlash  n.  1. A sudden or violent backward whipping motion. 2. An
 antagonistic reaction to a prior action. 3. A snarl in the part of a
 fishing line wound around the reel. 4. The play resulting from loose
 connections between gears or other mechanical elements.



 backlog  n.  1. A large log at the back of a fire in a fireplace. 2. A
 reserve supply or source. 3. An accumulation, esp. of unfinished work or
 unfilled orders.   -tr. -intr.v.-logged -logging -logs   To acquire as or
 become a backlog.



 back matter  n.  Material, such as an index or appendix, that follows the
 main body of a book.



 back mutation  n.  A reversal process whereby a gene that has undergone
 mutation returns to its previous state.   back-mutate v. -tated -tating
 -tates



 backpack  n.  1. A knapsack, often mounted on a lightweight frame, that is
 worn on the back to carry camping supplies. 2. A piece of equipment made
 for use while being carried on the back.   -v.-packed -packing -packs
 -intr. To hike while carrying a backpack. -tr. To carry in a backpack.
 backpacker n.   backpacking n.



 backpedal  intr.v. -aled -aling -als  or -alled  or -alling  or -als   To
 move backward or withdraw: He later backpedaled on the issue.



 backrest  n.  A rest for the back.



 backrush  n.  The seaward return of water after the landward motion of a
 wave.



 backsaw  n.  A saw that is reinforced by a metal band along its back edge.




 backscatter  n.  The deflection of waves or particles through angles
 greater than 90 degrees by electromagnetic or nuclear forces.   backscatter
 v. -tered -tering -ters



 back seat  n.  1. A seat in the back, esp. of a vehicle. 2.  Informal. A
 subordinate position.



 back-seat driver  n.  Informal.  1. An automobile passenger who constantly
 advises, corrects, or nags the driver. 2. A person who persists in giving
 unsolicited advice.



 backset  n.  A setback; reversal.



 backside  n.  Informal.  The buttocks; rump.



 backslap  v. -slapped -slapping -slaps   -tr. To demonstrate effusive good
 will for. -intr. To demonstrate effusive good will.   backslapper n.



 backslide  intr.v. -slid   , -slid or -slidden , -sliding, -slides. To
 revert to sin or wrongdoing, esp. in religious practice.   backslider n.



 backspin  n.  A spin that tends to retard, arrest, or reverse the linear
 motion of an object, esp. of a ball.



 backstage  adv.  1. In or toward the area, esp. the dressing rooms, behind
 the performing area in a theater. 2. Secretly; privately.   -adj.  1. Of,
 pertaining to, occurring in, or situated behind the performing area of a
 theater. 2. Not open or known to the public; private or concealed.



 backstairs or backstair   adj.  Furtively carried on; clandestine:
 backstairs gossip.



 backstay  n.  1.  Nautical. A rope or shroud extending from the top of a
 mast aft to the ship's side or stern to help support the mast. 2. A
 supporting device at or for the back of something.



 backstitch  n.  A stitch made by inserting the needle at the midpoint of a
 preceding stitch so that the stitches overlap by half lengths.   -tr.
 -intr.v.-stitched -stitching -stitches   To sew with backstitches.



 backstop  n.  1. A screen or fence used to prevent a ball from being
 thrown or hit far out of a playing area, as in baseball. 2.  Baseball. A
 catcher.   -tr.v.-stopped -stopping -stops   1. To serve as a backstop for.
 2.  a. To support. b. To substitute for (another) in an emergency.



 back-street  adj.  Clandestine: a back-street love affair.



 backstretch  n.  The part of an oval racecourse farthest from the
 spectators and opposite the homestretch.



 backstroke  n.  1. A backhanded stroke. 2. A swimming stroke executed with
 the swimmer on his back.



 backswept  adj.  Swept or angled backward.



 backswimmer  n.  Any of various insects of the family Notonectidae that
 swim or float on their backs.



 backsword  n.  1. A sword with only one cutting edge. 2. A singlestick
 (sense 1).



 back talk  n.  An insolent or impudent retort.



 backtrack  intr.v. -tracked -tracking -tracks   1. To go back over the
 course by which one has come. 2. To reverse one's position or policy.



 back-up  n.  1. A reserve or substitute. 2.  a. Support or backing. b. A
 background accompaniment, as for a musical performer.   -adj. Extra;
 standby: a back-up pilot.



 backward  adv.  1. To or toward the back. 2. With the back leading. 3. In
 a reverse manner or order. 4. To, toward, or into the past. 5. Toward a
 worse condition.   -adj. 1. Directed or facing toward the back. 2. Done or
 arranged in a reverse manner or order. 3. Behind others in progress or
 development.   backwardly adv.   backwardness n.   backwards adv.

      Usage: The adverb may be spelled backward  or backwards,  and the
 forms are interchangeable: stepped backward; a mirror facing backwards.
 Only backward  is an adjective: a backward view.



 backwash  n.  1. A backward flow of water, as from the action of oars. 2.
 A backward flow of air, as from the propeller of an airplane. 3. A result
 of an event; aftermath.



 backwater  n.  1.  a. Water held or pushed back by or as if by a dam or
 current. b. A body of water thus formed. 2. A place or situation regarded
 as stagnant or backward: a cultural backwater.



 backwoods  pl.n.  Heavily wooded, uncultivated, thinly settled areas.
 backwoodsman n.



 back yard or backyard   n.  A yard at the rear of a house.



 bacon  n.  The salted and smoked meat from the back and sides of a pig.
 [ME < OFr., of Germanic orig.]



 Baconian  adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, or characteristic of the works or
 thought of Francis Bacon. 2. Of or designating the theory that Francis
 Bacon was the author of the plays attributed to Shakespeare.



 bacter-   Variant of bacterio-.



 bacteremia  n.  The presence of viable bacteria in the blood.   bacteremic
 adj.   bacteremically adv.



 bacteri-   Variant of bacterio-.



 bacteria  n.  Plural of bacterium.



 bacterial capsule   A dense mucous protective layer that envelops some
 bacteria.



 bactericide  n.  A substance that destroys bacteria.   bactericidal adj.



 bacterin  n.  A vaccine prepared from dead bacteria.



 bacterio- or bacteri-  or bacter-    Bacteria; bacterial: bacterioscopy.
 [NLat. bacterium, bacterium.]



 bacteriocin  n.  A bacterially produced anti-bacterial agent. [bacterio- +
 (coli)cin.]



 bacteriogenic  adj.  Having bacteria as a cause.



 bacteriology  n.  The study of bacteria, esp. in relation to medicine and
 agriculture.   bacteriologic bacteriological  adj.   bacteriologically adv.
   bacteriologist n.



 bacteriolysis  n. pl. -ses  The dissolution of bacteria.   bacteriolytic
 adj.



 bacteriophage  n.  A submicroscopic, usually viral organism that destroys
 bacteria.   bacteriophagic bacteriophagous  adj.   bacteriophagically adv.



 bacterioscopy  n.  The study of bacteria with microscopes.
 bacterioscopic bacterioscopical  adj.   bacterioscopically adv.
 bacterioscopist n.



 bacteriostasis  n. pl. -ses  The arrestment or inhibition of bacterial
 growth without killing the bacteria.   bacteriostatic adj.
 bacteriostatically adv.



 bacteriostat  n.  An agent that produces bacteriostasis.



 bacterium  n. pl. -ria  Any of numerous unicellular microorganisms of the
 class Schizomycetes, occurring in a wide variety of forms, existing either
 as free-living organisms or as parasites, and having a wide range of
 biochemical, often pathogenic properties. [NLat. < Gk. bakterion, little
 rod, dim. of baktron, rod.]   bacterial adj.   bacterially adv.



 bacteriuria  n.  The presence of bacteria in the urine.



 bacterize  tr.v. -rized -rizing -rizes   To change or cause a change in by
 means of bacteria.   bacterization n.



 bacteroid  adj.  Resembling bacteria in appearance or action.   -n. Any of
 various structurally modified bacteria, such as those occurring on the
 roots of leguminous plants.



 Bactrian camel  n.  A two-humped camel, Camelus bactrianus, native to
 central and southwestern Asia.



 baculiform  adj.  Rod-shaped. [Lat. baculum, stick + -form.]



 bad
 bad(1)  adj. worse worst   1. Not achieving an adequate standard; poor. 2.
 Evil or wicked. 3. Disobedient or naughty. 4. Disagreeable, unpleasant, or
 disturbing: bad news.  5. Unfavorable: bad reviews.  6. Not fresh; rotten
 or spoiled. 7. Injurious in effect; detrimental: bad habits.  8. Not
 working properly; defective: a bad telephone connection.  9. Faulty or
 improper: bad grammar.  10. Not valid or genuine: a bad check.  11. Severe;
 intense: a bad cold.  12.  a. In poor health or in pain. b. In poor
 condition; diseased. 13. Sorry; regretful. 14. Comparative badder,
 superlative baddest. Slang. Very good; great.   -n. 1. Something that is
 bad: weighing the good against the bad.  2. An unhappy or wicked state.
 -adv. Informal.  Badly. [ME badde, prob. < OE baeddel, an effeminate
 person.]   badness n.

      Synonyms: bad evil wicked These terms are compared as they pertain to
 departure from moral or ethical standards. Bad  is most inclusive and
 generally weakest, although it can be applied with great stress. Evil
 emphasizes inherent capacity for harm or corruptive influence, and thereby
 more directly implies moral transgression. Wicked  pertains not only to
 potential for wrong but to premeditated practice of it.


      Usage: The adverb badly  is often used idiomatically as an adjective
 in sentences like I felt badly about the whole affair,  where grammar would
 seem to require bad.  This usage is parallel to the use of the adverb well
 in sentences like you're looking well,  however, and is accepted by a
 majority of the Usage Panel. The use of bad  and good  as adverbs, while
 common in informal speech, should be avoided in writing. Formal usage
 requires: My tooth hurts badly  (not bad ). He drives well  (not good ).
 bad(2)  v.  Archaic.  A past tense of bid.



 bad blood  n.  Bitterness between persons.



 badderlocks  n.  (used with a sing. or pl. verb).An edible seaweed, Alaria
 esculenta, having long, yellowish-green fronds. [Orig. unknown.]



 bade  v.  A past tense of bid.



 badge  n.  1.  a. A device or emblem worn as an insignia of rank, office,
 or membership in an organization. b. An emblem given as an award or honor.
 2. A characteristic mark or sign. [ME bagge.]   badge v. badged badging
 badges



 badger  n.  1.  a. Any of several carnivorous, burrowing animals of the
 family Mustelidae, such as Meles meles, of Eurasia, or Taxidea taxus, of
 North America, having short legs, long claws on the front feet, and a
 heavy, grizzled coat. b. The fur or hair of a badger. c. Any of several
 mammals related to or resembling the badger, such as the honey badger. 2.
 Badger   Slang. A native or inhabitant of Wisconsin.   -tr.v.-ered -ering
 -ers   To harry persistently; pester. [Orig. unknown.]



 badinage  n.  Light, playful banter. [Fr. < badin, joker < Prov. badar, to
 gape < LLat. badare.]



 badlands  pl.n.  An area of barren land characterized by roughly eroded
 ridges, peaks, and mesas.



 badly  adv.  1. In a bad manner. 2. Very much; greatly. -See Usage note at
 bad1.



 badminton  n.  A game played by volleying a shuttlecock back and forth
 over a high, narrow net by means of a light, long-handled racket. [After
 Badminton, the Duke of Beaufort's country seat in Gloucestershire,
 England.]



 badmouth or bad-mouth   tr.v. -mouthed -mouthing -mouths   Slang.  To
 criticize or disparage, often spitefully or unfairly; run down.



 Baedeker  n.  A guidebook. [After Karl Baedeker (1801-1859), publisher of
 guidebooks to Europe.]



 baffle  tr.v. -fled -fling -fles   1. To frustrate or check (a person) as
 by confusing or perplexing; stymie. 2. To impede the force or movement of.
  -n. 1. A usually static device that regulates the flow of a fluid or
 light. 2. A partition that prevents interference between sound waves in a
 loudspeaker. [Perh. < Fr. bafouer, to ridicule.]   bafflement n.   baffler
 n.



 bag  n.  1.  a. A container in the form of a sack or pouch usually made
 from a flexible material such as paper or leather. b. A handbag; purse. c.
 A suitcase, satchel, or other piece of hand luggage. d. An organic sac or
 pouch, such as the udder of a cow. 2. Something resembling a bag or pouch.
 3.  Nautical. The bulging part of a sail. 4. The amount held in a bag;
 bagful. 5. An amount of game taken or legally permitted to be taken. 6.
 Baseball. A base. 7.  Slang. An area of interest or skill: Cooking is not
 my bag.    -v.bagged bagging bags   -tr. 1. To put into a bag. 2. To cause
 to bulge like a bag. 3. To capture or kill as game. 4.  Informal. To gain
 possession of; capture. -intr. 1. To hang loosely. 2. To swell out; bulge.

       Idiom Section:  bag and baggage. 1. With all one's belongings. 2.
 Entirely; completely. in the bag. Slang.  Assured of a successful outcome;
 virtually accomplished or won. [ME bagge < ON baggi.]



 bagasse  n.  The dry pulp remaining from sugar cane after the juice has
 been extracted. [Fr. < Sp. bagazo, dregs < Lat. baca, berry.]



 bagatelle  n.  1. An unimportant or insignificant thing; trifle. 2. A game
 played on an oblong table with a cue and balls. [Fr. < Ital., bagatella,
 poss. < Lat. baca, berry.]



 bagel  n.  A glazed ring-shaped roll with a tough, chewy texture. [Yiddish
 beygel < MHG bouc, ring < OHG boug.]



 bagful  n.  The amount held by or contained in a bag.



 baggage  n.  1. The trunks, bags, parcels, and suitcases in which one
 carries one's belongings while traveling; luggage. 2. The movable equipment
 and supplies of an army. 3. Superfluous or burdensome practices,
 regulations, or ideas. 4.  a. A wanton or immoral woman. b. An impudent or
 saucy girl or woman. [ME bagage < OFr. bague, bundle.]



 bagging  n.  Material used for making bags.



 baggy  adj. -gier -giest   Bulging or hanging loosely.   baggily adv.
 bagginess n.



 bag lady  n.  A homeless woman esp. one in a big city, who carries all her
 possessions in a shopping bag.



 bagman  n.  1.  Slang. A person who collects money for racketeers. 2.
 Chiefly British. A traveling salesman.



 bagnio  n. pl. -gnios  1. A brothel. 2.  Obsolete. A prison for slaves in
 the Orient. [Ital. bagno, bath < Lat. balneum < Gk. balaneion.]



 bagpipe  n.  bagpipes  A musical instrument having a flexible bag inflated
 either by a tube with valves or by bellows, a double-reed melody pipe, and
 from one to four drone pipes.   bagpiper n.



 baguette  n.  1.  a. A gem cut in the form of a narrow rectangle. b. The
 form of such a gem. 2.  Architecture. A narrow, convex molding. [Fr., rod <
 Ital. bacchetta, dim. of bacchio, rod < Lat. baculum, stick.]



 bagwig  n.  A wig with the back hair encased in a small silk sack, worn in
 the 18th century.



 bagworm  n.  The larva of any of several moths of the family Psychidae
 that encloses itself in a characteristic fibrous case and feeds upon and
 destroys tree foliage.



 bah  interj.  Used to express impatient rejection or contempt.



 Bahai  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or designating a religion founded in 1863
 in Iran and emphasizing the spiritual unity of all mankind.   -n. A teacher
 of or believer in the Bahai faith. [Pers. baha'i, of glory < baha-, glory.]
   Bahaism n.   Bahaist n.



 Bahasa Indonesia  n.  A dialect of Malay that is the official language of
 the Republic of Indonesia. [Indonesian, Indonesian language.]



 baht  n. pl. bahts  or baht  See table at currency. [Thai, bat.]



 bail
 bail(1)  n.  1. Security, usually a sum of money, exchanged for the release
 of an arrested person as a guarantee of his appearance for trial. 2.
 Release from imprisonment provided by the payment of bail. 3. A person who
 provides bail.   -tr.v.bailed bailing bails   1. To secure the release of
 by providing bail. 2. To release (a person) for whom bail has been paid. 3.
  Informal. To extricate from a difficult situation: always bailing her out
 of trouble.  4. To transfer (property) to another for a special purpose but
 without permanent transference of ownership. [ME baile, custody < OFr. bail
 < baillier, to take charge of < Lat. bajulare, to carry a load < bajulus,
 carrier of a burden.]   bailer n.
 bail(2)  v. bailed bailing bails   -tr. 1. To remove (water) from a boat by
 repeatedly filling a container and emptying it over the side. 2. To empty
 (a boat) of water by bailing. -intr. To empty a boat of water by bailing.
 Phrasal verb.  bail out. 1. To parachute from an aircraft. 2.  Slang. To
 abandon a project or enterprise.   -n. A container used for bailing. [< ME
 baille, bucket < OFr., poss. < Lat. bajulus, porter.]   bailer n.
 bail(3)  n.  1. The arched, hooplike handle of a container, as a pail. 2.
 An arch or hoop, such as those used to support the top of a covered wagon.
 3. A hinged bar on a typewriter that holds the paper against the platen.
 [ME baill prob. < ON beygla.]
 bail(4)  n.  1.  Chiefly British. A pole or bar used to confine or separate
 animals. 2. In cricket, one of the two crossbars that form the top of a
 wicket. [ME, bailey.]



 bailable  adj.  1. Eligible for bail. 2. Allowing or admitting of bail: a
 bailable offense.



 bailee  n.  A person to whom property is bailed.



 bailey  n. pl. -leys  1. The outer wall of a castle. 2. The space enclosed
 by a bailey. [ME baille < OFr.]



 Bailey bridge  n.  A steel bridge designed to be shipped in parts and
 assembled rapidly. [After Sir Donald Bailey (b. 1901).]



 bailie  n.  1. A Scottish municipal officer corresponding to an English
 alderman. 2.  Obsolete. A bailiff. [ME baillie < OFr. baillif, bailiff.]



 bailiff  n.  1. A court attendant entrusted with such duties as the
 maintenance of order in a courtroom during a trial. 2. An official who
 assists a British sheriff and who has the power to execute writs,
 processes, and arrests. 3.  Chiefly British. An overseer of an estate;
 steward. [ME baillif < OFr. < Med. Lat. bajulivus < Lat. bajulus, carrier.]




 bailiwick  n.  1. The office or district of a bailiff. 2. A person's
 specific area of interest, skill, or authority. [ME bailliwik : baillif,
 bailiff + wik, town < OE wic < Lat. vicus.]



 bailment  n.  Law.  1. The process of providing bail for an accused
 person. 2. The act of delivering goods or personal property to another in
 trust.



 bailor  n.  Law.  A person who bails property to another.



 bailout  n.  A rescue from financial difficulties.



 bailsman  n.  Law.  One who provides bail or security for another.



 bain-marie  n. pl. bains-marie  A device consisting of a large pan
 containing hot water in which smaller pans may be set to cook slowly or
 keep warm. [Fr. < Med. Lat. balneum Mariae, bath of Mary.]



 bairn  n.  Scots.  A child. [ME barn < OE bearn.]



 bait
 bait(1)  n.  1.  a. Food or other lure placed on a hook or in a trap and
 used in the taking of fish, birds, or other animals. b. Something, as a
 worm, used for this purpose. 2. An enticement; temptation. 3.  Archaic. A
 stop for food or rest during a trip.   -v.baited baiting baits   -tr. 1. To
 place bait in (a trap) or on (a fishing hook). 2. To lure or entice, esp.
 by trickery or strategy. 3. To set dogs upon (a chained animal, for
 example) for sport. 4. To attack or torment, esp. with persistent insult,
 criticism, or ridicule. 5. To tease. 6. To feed (an animal) esp. on a
 journey. -intr. Archaic.  To stop for food or rest during a trip. [ME,
 partly < ON beita, to hunt with dogs, and partly < ON beita, food.]
 baiter n.

      Usage: The word bait  is sometimes used improperly for bate  in the
 phrase bated breath.
 bait(2)  v.  Variant of bate2.



 bait and switch  n.  A sales tactic in which a bargain-priced item is used
 to attract customers who are then encouraged to purchase a more expensive
 similar item.



 baiza  n.  See table at currency. [Ar. < Hindi paisa.]



 baize  n.  A cotton or woolen material napped to imitate felt. [Fr. baies
 < bai, bay-colored < Lat. badius.]



 bake  v. baked baking bakes   -tr. 1. To cook (food) with dry heat, esp.
 in an oven. 2. To harden or dry by subjecting to heat in or as if in an
 oven. -intr. 1. To cook food by baking. 2. To become baked.   -n. 1.  a.
 The act or process of baking. b. An amount baked. 2. A social gathering at
 which food is baked and served. [ME baken < OE bacan.]



 Bakelite   A trademark for any of a group of thermosetting plastics having
 high chemical and electrical resistance and used in a variety of
 manufactured articles.



 baker  n.  1. One who bakes. 2. A portable oven.



 baker's dozen  n.  A group of 13. [From the former custom of bakers to add
 an extra roll as a safeguard against the possibility of 12 weighing light.]




 bakery  n. pl. -ies  A place where products such as bread, cake, and
 pastries are baked or sold.



 bakeshop  n.  A bakery.



 baking  n.  1. The act or process of baking. 2. An amount baked.



 baking powder  n.  Any of various mixtures of baking soda, starch, and at
 least one slightly acidic compound such as cream of tartar, used as a
 leavening agent in baking.



 baking soda  n.  Sodium bicarbonate.



 baklava  n.  A dessert made of paper-thin layers of pastry, chopped nuts,
 and honey. [Turk.]



 baksheesh  n. pl. baksheesh  In some Near Eastern countries, a gratuity;
 tip. [Pers. bakhshish < bakhshidan, to give.]



 BAL
 BAL(1)  n.  A colorless, oily, viscous liquid, C3H5(SH)2(OH), used as an
 antidote for poisoning caused by lewisite, organic arsenic compounds, or
 heavy metals. [B(ritish) + a(nti-) + l(ewisite).]
 BAL(2)   n.  Computer Science.  A low-level assembly language. [b(asic)
 a(ssembly) l(anguage).]



 Balaam  n.  An Old Testament prophet who was commanded to curse the
 Israelites but blessed them instead after being rebuked by the ass he rode.
 [Gk. < Heb. Bil"am.]



 balalaika  n.  A Russian musical instrument with a triangular body and
 three strings. [R.]



 balance  n.  1. A weighing device consisting of a rigid beam horizontally
 suspended by a low-friction support at its center, with identical weighing
 pans hung at either end, one of which holds an unknown weight while the
 effective weight in the other is increased by known amounts until the beam
 is level and motionless. 2. A state of equilibrium or parity characterized
 by cancellation of all forces by equal opposing forces. 3. The power or
 means to decide. 4. A state of bodily equilibrium. 5. A stable mental or
 psychological state; emotional stability. 6. A harmonious or satisfying
 arrangement or proportion of parts or elements, as in a design. 7. An
 influence or force tending to produce equilibrium; counterpoise. 8. The
 difference in magnitude between opposing forces or influences. 9.
 Accounting.  a. Equality of totals in the debit and credit sides of an
 account. b. The difference between such totals, either on the credit or the
 debit side. 10. Something that is left over; remainder. 11.  Chemistry.
 Equality of the number, kinds, and net electric charge of reacting species
 on each side of a chemical equation. 12.  Mathematics. Equality with
 respect to the net number of reduced symbolic quantities on each side of an
 equation. 13. A balance wheel. 14. Balance  Libra.   -v.-anced -ancing
 -ances   -tr. 1. To weigh in or as if in a balance. 2. To compare by or as
 if by weighing in the mind. 3. To bring into or maintain in a state of
 equilibrium. 4. To act as an equalizing weight or force to; counterbalance.
 5.  Accounting.  a. To compute the difference between the debits and
 credits of (an account). b. To reconcile or equalize the sums of the debits
 and credits of (an account). c. To settle by paying what is owed. 6. To
 bring into or keep in equal or satisfying proportion or harmony. 7.
 Mathematics. To bring (an equation) into mathematical balance. 8.
 Chemistry. To bring (a chemical equation) into chemical balance. 9. To move
 toward and then away from (a dance partner). -intr. 1. To be in or come
 into equilibrium. 2. To be equal or equivalent. 3. To sway or waver as if
 losing or regaining equilibrium. 4. To move toward and then away from a
 dance partner.

       Idiom Section:  in the balance. . In an undetermined and often
 critical position. [ME balaunce < OFr. < VLat. *bilancia, having two scale
 pans < Lat. bilanx : bi-, two + lanx, scale.]



 balance beam  n.  1. A narrow horizontal wooden beam raised about four
 feet above the floor that is used in gymnastic competition for balancing
 exercises. 2. A competitive gymnastics event in which various balancing
 feats are performed on the balance beam.



 balance of payments  n.  A systematic record of a nation's total payments
 to foreign countries, including the price of imports, the outflow of
 capital and gold, and the total receipts from abroad, including the price
 of exports and the inflow of capital and gold.



 balance of power  n.  A distribution of power whereby no one nation is
 able to dominate or interfere with others.



 balance of trade  n.  The difference in value between the total exports
 and total imports of a nation.



 balancer  n.  1. One that balances. 2. A halter.



 balance sheet  n.  A statement of the assets and liabilities of a business
 or individual at a specified date.



 balance wheel  n.  A wheel that regulates rate of movement in machine
 parts, as in a watch.



 balas  n.  A rose-red to orange spinel. [ME < OF balais < Med. Lat.
 balascus < Ar. balakhsh < Pers. Badhakhshan, a region in Afghanistan.]



 balata  n.  1. A tropical American tree, Manilkara bidentata (or Mimusops
 balata ), that yields a latexlike sap. 2. A tough, nonelastic, rubberlike
 gum obtained from the sap of the balata and used for golf-ball covers,
 industrial belting, and gaskets. [Am. Sp. (West Indies), of Cariban orig.]



 balboa  n.  See table at currency. [After Vasco Nunez de Balboa
 (1475-1519).]



 balbriggan  n.  A knitted unbleached-cotton underwear fabric. [After
 Balbriggan, Ireland.]



 balcony  n. pl. -nies  1. A platform that projects from the wall of a
 building and is surrounded by a railing, balustrade, or parapet. 2. A
 gallery that projects over the main floor in a theater or auditorium.
 [Ital. balcone < OItal., scaffold, of Germanic orig.]



 bald  adj. -er -est   1. Lacking hair on the top of the head. 2. Lacking a
 natural or usual covering: a bald spot on the lawn.  3. Having white
 feathers or markings on the head. 4. Lacking ornament; unadorned. 5.
 Undisguised; blunt: a bald statement.  [ME balled.]   baldly adv.
 baldness n.



 baldachin or baldachino   n. pl. -chins  or -chinos  1. A rich fabric of
 silk and gold brocade. 2. A canopy of fabric carried in church processions
 or placed over an altar, throne, or dais. 3.  Architecture. A stone or
 marble structure built in the form of a canopy, esp. over the altar of a
 church. [Ital. baldacchino < OItal. < Baldacco, Baghdad.]



 bald cypress  n.  A cone-bearing but deciduous tree, Taxodium distichum,
 of the southeastern United States, growing in swamps and damp ground.



 bald eagle  n.  A North American eagle, Haliaeetus leucocephalus, having a
 dark body and a white head and tail.



 balderdash  n.  Nonsense. [Orig. unknown.]



 bald-faced  adj.  Brash; barefaced.



 baldhead  n.  1. A person whose head is bald. 2. Any of several birds
 having white markings on the head.



 balding  adj.  Informal.  Becoming bald.



 baldpate  n.  1. A baldheaded person. 2. The widgeon.



 baldric  n.  A belt, usually of ornamented leather, worn across the chest
 to support a sword or bugle. [ME baudrik, prob. < OFr. baudre.]



 Baldwin  n.  A red-skinned American variety of apple. [After Loammi
 Baldwin (1740-1807).]



 bale
 bale(1)  n.  A large bound and often wrapped package of raw or finished
 material.   -tr.v.baled baling bales   To wrap in bales. [ME, perh. < OFr.,
 of Germanic orig.]   baler n.
 bale(2)  n.  1. Evil. 2. Mental suffering; anguish. [ME < OE balu.]



 baleen  n.  Whalebone (sense 1). [ME balene < OFr. baleine < Lat.
 ba-laena, whale < Gk. phalaina.]



 baleful  adj.  1. Harmful or malignant in intent or effect. 2. Portending
 evil; ominous.   balefully adv.   balefulness n.

      Usage: Baleful  and baneful  overlap in meaning, but baleful  usually
 applies to that which menaces or foreshadows evil: a baleful look. Baneful
 is said most often of that which is actually harmful or destructive:
 baneful effects of his foreign policy.



 Balinese  n.  1. A native or inhabitant of Bali. 2. The Indonesian
 language of Bali.   Balinese adj.



 balk or baulk   v. balked balking balks  or baulked  or baulking  or
 baulks   -intr. 1. To stop short and refuse to go on. 2. To refuse
 obstinately or abruptly: balked at the very idea of compromise.  3.  a. To
 make an illegal motion before pitching a baseball. b. In other sports, to
 make an incomplete or misleading motion. -tr. 1. To put obstacles in the
 way of; check or thwart. 2.  Archaic. To let go by; miss. 3. To move one or
 more baseball runners ahead one base by balking.   -n. 1. A hindrance,
 check, or defeat. 2.  Sports. An incomplete or misleading motion, esp. an
 illegal move made by a baseball pitcher. 3.  a. An unplowed strip of land.
 b. A ridge between furrows. 4. A wooden beam or rafter. 5. One of the
 spaces between the cushion and the balk line on a billiard table. [ME
 balken, to plow up in ridges < balk, ridge < OE balc.]   balker n.



 Balkan  adj.  1. Of or pertaining to the Balkan Peninsula or the Balkan
 Mountains. 2. Of or pertaining to the Balkan States or their inhabitants.



 Balkanize or balkanize   tr.v. -ized -izing -izes   To divide (a region or
 territory) into small, often hostile units. [From the political division of
 the Balkans in the early 20th cent.]   Balkanization n.



 balk line or balkline   n.  A line parallel to one end of a billiard table
 from behind which opening shots with the cue ball are made.



 balky  adj. -ier -iest   Tending to balk; obstinate: a balky horse.
 balkiness n.



 ball
 ball(1)  n.  1.  a. A spherical or almost spherical body. b. A spherical
 entity: a ball of flame.  2.  a. Any of various rounded movable objects
 used in sports and games. b. A game, esp. baseball, played with such an
 object. c. A ball moving, thrown, hit, or kicked in a particular manner: a
 low ball; a fair ball.  d. A pitched baseball not swung at by the batter
 that does not pass through the strike zone. 3.  a. A solid projectile of
 spherical or pointed shape, as that shot from a cannon. b. Projectiles of
 this kind collectively. 4. A rounded part or protuberance, esp. of the
 body: the ball of the foot.  5. balls   Vulgar.  Slang. The testicles. a.
 Slang. Courage, esp. of a reckless or presumptuous nature. b.    -v.balled
 balling balls   -tr. 1. To form into a ball. 2.  Vulgar.  Slang. To have
 sexual intercourse with. -intr. 1. To become formed into a ball. 2.
 Vulgar.  Slang. To have sexual intercourse. Phrasal verb.  ball up. Slang.
 To confuse or bungle.

       Idiom Section:  on the ball. Slang.  1. Alert, competent, or
 efficient. 2. Having qualities, as competence, that might assure success:
 had a lot on the ball; had nothing on the ball.  [ME bal < ON bollr.]
 ball(2)  n.  1. A formal gathering for social dancing. 2.  Slang. A very
 enjoyable time or experience. [Fr. bal < OFr. < baller, to dance < LLat.
 ballare < Gk. ballizein.]



 ballad  n.  1. A narrative poem, often of folk origin and intended to be
 sung, consisting of simple stanzas and usually having a recurrent refrain.
 2. The music for a ballad. 3. A popular song esp. of a romantic or
 sentimental nature. [ME < OFr. ballade < OProv. balada, song sung while
 dancing < balar, to dance < LLat. ballare, to dance. -see ball2.]
 balladic adj.



 ballade  n.  1. A verse form usually consisting of three stanzas of eight
 or ten lines each, with the same concluding line in each stanza and an
 envoy, or brief final stanza, ending with the same last line as that of the
 preceding stanzas. 2. A musical composition, usually for the piano, having
 the romantic or dramatic quality of a ballad. [ME < OFr., ballad.]



 balladeer  n.  A ballad singer.



 balladist  n.  A singer or writer of ballads.



 balladry  n.  Ballads collectively.



 ballad stanza  n.  A four-line stanza often used in ballads, rhyming in
 the second and fourth lines and having four metrical feet in the first and
 third lines and three in the second and fourth.



 ball-and-socket joint  n.  A joint consisting of a spherical knob or
 knoblike part fitted into a socket so that some degree of motion is
 possible in nearly any direction.



 ballast  n.  1. Heavy material that is placed in the hold of a ship or the
 gondola of a balloon to enhance stability. 2. Coarse gravel or crushed rock
 laid to form a bed for roads or railroads. 3. Something that gives
 stability, esp. in character.   -tr.v.-lasted -lasting -lasts   1. To
 stabilize or provide with ballast. 2. To fill (a railroad bed) or as if
 with with ballast. [Perh. < OSwed. or ODan. barlast : bar, bare + last,
 load.]



 ball bearing  n.  1. A friction-reducing bearing consisting essentially of
 a ring-shaped track containing freely revolving hard metal balls against
 which a rotating shaft or other part turns. 2. A hard ball used in a ball
 bearing.



 ball carrier  n.  Football.  The player carrying the ball on an offensive
 play.



 ball cock  n.  A self-regulating device controlling the supply of water in
 a tank, cistern, or toilet by means of a float connected to a valve that
 opens or closes with a change in water level.



 ball control  n.  Sports.  An offensive strategy, esp. in football and
 basketball, in which a team attempts to keep possession of the ball for
 long periods of time or deliberately slows the pace of the game.



 ballerina  n.  A female ballet dancer. [Ital. < ballare, to dance < LLat.
 < Gk. ballizein.]



 ballet  n.  1. An artistic dance form characterized by grace and precision
 of movement and an elaborate formal technique. 2. A theatrical presentation
 of group or solo dancing to a musical accompaniment, usually using costume
 and scenic effects and conveying a story, theme, or atmosphere. 3. A
 musical composition written or used for ballet. 4. A company or group that
 performs ballet. [Fr. < Ital. balletto, dim. of ballo, dance < ballare, to
 dance. -see ballerina.]   balletic adj.



 balletomane  n.  An ardent admirer of the ballet. [Back-formation <
 balletomania.]   balletomania n.



 ballflower  n.  Architecture.  An ornament in the form of a ball cupped in
 the petals of a circular flower.



 ball game  n.  1. A game, esp. baseball, that is played with a ball. 2.
 Informal.  a. A competition, such as a political race. b. A particular
 condition or situation.



 ballista  n. pl. -tae  A military engine used in ancient and medieval
 warfare to hurl heavy projectiles. [Lat. < Gk. ballein, to throw.]



 ballistic  adj.  1. Of or pertaining to ballistics. 2. Of or pertaining to
 projectiles, their motion, or their effects. [< ballista.]   ballistically
 adv.



 ballistic missile  n.  A projectile that assumes a free-falling trajectory
 after an internally guided, self-powered ascent.



 ballistics  n.  1.  a. The study of the dynamics of projectiles. b. The
 study of the flight characteristics of projectiles. 2.  a. The study of the
 functioning of firearms. b. The study of the firing, flight, and effect of
 ammunition.   ballistician n.



 ballistocardiogram  n.  A recording made by a ballistocardiograph.
 [ballist(ic) + cardiogram.]



 ballistocardiograph  n.  A device used to measure the volume of blood
 passing through the heart in a specific period of time by measuring the
 body's recoil against the ejection movements of the heart's ventricular
 muscles. [ballist(ic) + cardiograph.]



 ballistophobia  n.  A psychologically aberrant fear of projectiles.
 [ballist(ic) + -phobia.]



 ball lightning  n.  A phenomenon associated with thunderstorms that is
 usually thought to consist of a moving luminous sphere of ionized gas.



 ball of fire  n.  A highly energetic or dynamic person.



 ball of wax  n.  Informal.  An unspecified set of items or circumstances:
 went shopping, had dinner, saw a play-the whole ball of wax.



 ballonet  n.  One of several small auxiliary gasbags placed inside a
 balloon or a nonrigid airship that can be inflated or deflated during
 flight to control and maintain shape and buoyancy. [Fr. ballonnet, dim.
 ballon, balloon.]



 balloon  n.  1.  a. A spherical, flexible, nonporous bag inflated with a
 gas lighter than air, such as helium, that causes it to rise and float in
 the atmosphere. b. Such a bag with sufficient capacity to lift a suspended
 gondola. 2. Any of variously shaped, brightly colored inflatable rubber
 bags used as toys. 3. A rounded or irregularly shaped outline containing
 the words a character in a cartoon is represented as saying.   -v.-looned
 -looning -loons   -intr. 1. To ascend or ride in a balloon. 2. To expand or
 swell out like a balloon. 3. To increase or rise quickly. -tr. To cause to
 expand by or as if by inflating.   -adj. Having periodic payments that are
 insufficient to pay back a note, thereby requiring a large final payment: a
 balloon mortgage.  [Fr. ballon < Ital. pallone, aug. of palla, ball, of
 Germanic orig.]   balloonist n.



 balloon sail  n.  A comparatively large foresail used when going before
 the wind to supplement or replace a jib.



 balloon tire  n.  A pneumatic tire with a wide tread, inflated to low
 pressure.



 ballot  n.  1. A sheet of paper used to cast or register a vote, esp. a
 secret vote. 2. The act, process, or method of voting, esp. by the use of
 secret ballots. 3. A list of candidates running for office; ticket. 4. The
 total of all votes cast in an election. 5. The right to vote; franchise. 6.
 A small ball used to register a vote.   -intr.v.-loted -loting -lots   1.
 To cast a ballot; vote. 2. To draw lots. [Ital. ballotta, dim. of balla,
 ball, of Germanic orig.]   balloter n.



 ballottement  n.  A technique for detecting or examining a floating object
 in the body, as: a. The use of a finger to push sharply against the uterus
 and detect the presence or position of a fetus by its return impact. b. A
 test for a floating kidney in which the kidney is moved by alternating
 external digital pressures. [Fr. < ballotter, to toss < ballotte, dim. of
 balle, ball, of Germanic orig.]



 ballpark or ball park   n.  A park or stadium in which ball games are
 played.

       Idiom Section:  in the ballpark. Informal.  Within the proper range;
 approximately right.



 ball-point pen  n.  A pen having as its writing point a small ball bearing
 that transfers ink stored in a cartridge onto a writing surface.



 ballroom  n.  A large room for dancing.



 ballsy  adj. -ier -iest   Slang.  Tough; gutsy.



 ball valve  n.  A valve regulated by the position of a free-floating ball
 that moves in response to fluid or mechanical pressure.



 ballyhoo  Informal.  n. pl. -hoos  1. Sensational or clamorous
 advertising. 2. Noisy shouting or uproar.   -tr.v.-hooed -hooing -hoos   To
 advertise by sensational methods. [Orig. unknown.]



 ballyrag  v.  Variant of bullyrag.



 balm  n.  1. An aromatic, oily resin exuded by various chiefly tropical
 trees and shrubs and used in medicine. 2. An aromatic ointment, oil, or
 unguent. 3.  a. An aromatic herb, Melissa officinalis, native to Eurasia,
 having clusters of small, fragrant white flowers. b. Any of several similar
 aromatic plants. 4. A pleasing aromatic fragrance. 5. Something that
 soothes, heals, or comforts. [ME baume < OFr. basme < Lat. balsamum,
 balsam.]



 balmacaan  n.  A loose, full overcoat with raglan sleeves, originally made
 of rough woolen cloth. [After Balmacaan, an estate near Inverness,
 Scotland.]



 balm of Gilead  n.  1. An aromatic evergreen tree of the genus Commiphora,
 esp. C. opobalsamum, of Africa and Asia Minor. 2. A fragrant resin obtained
 from the balm of Gilead. 3. A North American deciduous tree, Populus
 candicans, having broad, heart-shaped leaves. 4. A fragrant resin obtained
 from the balsam fir. [After Gilead, region of ancient Palestine known for
 its balm.]



 Balmoral  n.  1. A brimless Scottish cap with a flat, round top. 2.
 balmoral  A heavy, laced walking shoe. [After Balmoral Castle, Scotland.]



 balmy  adj. -ier -iest   1. Having the quality or fragrance of balm. 2.
 Mild and pleasant: a balmy breeze.  3.  Slang. Eccentric in behavior.
 balmily adv.   balminess n.



 balneology  n.  Medical therapy with mineral baths. [Lat. balneum, bath +
 -logy.]



 baloney or boloney   n. pl. -neys  1.  Informal. Variant of bologna. 2.
  Slang. Nonsense.



 balsa  n.  1. A tree, Ochroma lagopus, of tropical America, having wood
 that is unusually light in weight. 2. The wood of the balsa tree. 3. A raft
 consisting of a frame fastened to buoyant cylinders of wood or metal. [Sp.]




 balsam  n.  1.  a. An oily or gummy oleoresin, usually containing benzoic
 or cinnamic acids, obtained from the exudations of any of various trees and
 shrubs and used as a base for cough syrups, other medications, and
 perfumes. b. A similar substance, esp. a fragrant ointment used as
 medication. 2. Any of various trees yielding an aromatic, resinous
 substance, esp. the balsam fir. 3. Any of several plants of the genus
 Impatiens, esp. I. balsamina, cultivated for its double flowers of various
 colors. [Lat. balsamum < Gk. balsamon.]   balsamic adj.



 balsam fir  n.  An evergreen tree, Abies balsamea, of northeastern North
 America, having small needles and cones about 2[half ] inches long.



 balsam of Peru  n.  The aromatic resin of a tropical American tree,
 Myroxylon pereirae, used in the manufacture of perfumes and other products.




 balsam of Tolu  n.  The aromatic resin of a tropical American tree,
 Myroxylon toluiferum, used in cough remedies and in the manufacture of
 perfumes.



 balsam pear  n.  A tropical vine, Momordica charantia, native to the Old
 World, having yellow-orange fruit.



 balsam poplar  n.  A North American tree, Populis balsamifera, having
 large buds coated with a gummy, fragrant resin.



 Balt  n.  A member of the Baltic-speaking people inhabiting the
 southeastern shores of the Baltic Sea and formerly occupying a wide area
 bounded by Danzig (Gdansk), Riga, Moscow, and Kiev.



 Baltic  adj.  1. Of or pertaining to the Baltic Sea or to the Baltic
 States and their inhabitants or cultures. 2. Of or relating to the branch
 of the Indo-European language family that contains Latvian, Lithuanian, and
 Old Prussian.   -n. The Baltic language branch.



 Baltimore oriole  n.  An American songbird, Icterus galbula, of which the
 male has bright orange, black, and white plumage. [After George Calvert
 (1580?-1632), 1st Lord Baltimore.]



 Balto-Slavic  n.  A subfamily of the Indo-European language family that
 consists of the Baltic and Slavic branches.   Balto-Slavic adj.



 Baluchi  n. pl. Baluchi  or -chis  1. A native or inhabitant of
 Baluchistan. 2. The Iranian language of the Baluchi.



 baluster  n.  One of the posts or supports of a handrail. [Fr. balustre <
 Ital. balaustro < balaustra, pomegranate flower (from a resemblance to the
 post) < Lat. balaustium < Gk. balaustion.]



 balustrade  n.  A rail and the row of posts that support it, as along the
 edge of a staircase. [Fr. < Ital. balustrade < balaustro, baluster.]



 Bambara  n. pl. Bambara  or -ras  1. A Negroid people of the upper Niger
 River valley. 2. A member of the Bambara. 3. The Mande language of the
 Bambara.



 bambino  n. pl. -nos  or -ni  1. A child; baby. 2. A representation of the
 infant Jesus. [Ital., dim. of bambo, child.]



 bamboo  n. pl. -boos  1. Any of various mostly tropical grasses of the
 genus Bambusa, having hard-walled stems with ringed joints. 2. The hollow
 woody stems of the bamboo, used in a variety of constructions, crafts, and
 manufactures. 3. Any of various tall, bamboolike grasses of the genera
 Arundinaria, Phyllostachys, and Dendrocalamus.  [Orig. unknown.]



 Bamboo Curtain  n.  A political and esp. an ideological barrier in Asia,
 esp. China.



 bamboozle  tr.v. -zled -zling -zles   Informal.  To trick or deceive by
 elaborate misinformation; hoodwink. [Orig. unknown.]   bamboozlement n.



 ban
 ban(1)  tr.v. banned banning bans   1. To prohibit, esp. by official
 decree. 2.  Archaic. To curse; execrate.   -n. 1. In feudal times, a
 summons to arms. 2. An excommunication or condemnation by church officials.
 3. A prohibition imposed by law or official decree. 4. Censure, esp.
 through public opinion. 5. A curse; imprecation. [ME bannen, to summon,
 banish, curse, partly < OE bannan, to summon, and partly < ON banna, to
 prohibit, curse.]
 ban(2)   n. pl. bani  See table at currency. [Rum. < Serbo-Croatian ban,
 warlord.]



 banal  adj.  Lacking freshness or originality; hackneyed. [Fr. < OFr.,
 shared by tenants in a feudal jurisdiction < ban, summons to military
 service, of Germanic orig.]   banality n.   banally adv.



 banana  n.  1. Any of several treelike tropical or subtropical plants of
 the genus Musa, esp. M. sapientum, a widely cultivated species having long,
 broad leaves and hanging clusters of edible fruit. 2. The crescent-shaped
 fruit of a banana plant, having white, pulpy flesh and thick, easily
 removed yellow or reddish skin. [Port. and Sp., of African orig.]



 banana oil  n.  1. A liquid mixture of nitrocellulose and amyl acetate, or
 a similar solvent, having a bananalike odor. 2. Amyl acetate.



 bananas  adj.  Slang.  Crazy.



 banana seat  n.  An elongated bicycle seat that usually curves upward in
 the back. [From its shape.]



 banana split  n.  Several scoops of ice cream and usually flavored syrups
 or sauces, nuts, fruit, and whipped cream served on a banana split
 lengthwise.



 band
 band(1)  n.  1. A thin strip of flexible material used to encircle and bind
 one object or to hold a number of objects together. 2. A strip or stripe
 that contrasts with something else, as in color. 3.  a. bands   Archaic. A
 physical restraint; fetter. b. Something that constrains or binds morally
 or legally. 4. A simple ungrooved ring, esp. a wedding ring. 5. A narrow
 strip of fabric used to trim, finish, or reinforce articles of clothing. 6.
 A neckband or collar. 7.  Biology. A chromatically or functionally
 differentiated strip or stripe in or on an organism. 8.  Physics.  a. A
 range of some physical variable, as of radiation wavelength or frequency.
 b. A range of very closely spaced electron energy levels in solids, the
 distribution and nature of which determine the electrical properties of a
 material. 9. Any of the distinct grooves on a long-playing phonograph
 record that contains an individual selection or separate section of a
 whole. 10. The cords across the back of a book to which the quires or
 sheets are attached.   -tr.v.banded banding bands   1. To tie, bind, or
 encircle with or as if with a band. 2. To mark or identify with or as if
 with a band. [ME, partly < ON band, and partly < OFr. bande, both of
 Germanic orig.]
 band(2)  n.  1.  a. A group of people. b. A group of animals. 2. A group of
 musicians who play as an ensemble.   -v.banded banding bands   -tr. To
 assemble or unite in a group. -intr. To form a group; unite: banded
 together for protection.  [OFr., prob. of Germanic orig.]



 bandage  n.  A strip of fabric or other material used as a protective
 covering for a wound or other injury.   -tr.v.-aged -aging -ages   To apply
 a bandage to. [Fr. < bande, band, strip.]   bandager n.



 Band-Aid   A trademark for an adhesive bandage with a gauze pad in the
 center, used for protecting minor wounds.



 bandanna or bandana   n.  A large handkerchief usually figured and
 brightly colored. [Prob. < Port. < Hindi bandhnu, a dyeing process in which
 cloth is knotted < bandhna, to tie < Skt. badhnati, he ties.]



 bandbox  n.  A lightweight cylindrical box used to hold small articles of
 apparel.



 bandeau  n. pl. -deaux  or -deaus  1. A narrow band for the hair. 2. A
 brassiere. [Fr. < OFr. bandel, dim. of bande, band, strip.]



 banderilla  n.  A decorated barbed dart that is thrust into the bull's
 neck or shoulder muscles by a banderillero in a bullfight. [Sp., dim. of
 bandera, banner.]



 banderillero  n. pl. -ros  One who implants the banderillas in a
 bullfight. [Sp. < banderilla, banderilla.]



 banderole or banderol
 bannerol   n.  1. A narrow forked flag or streamer. 2. A long ribbon or
 scroll bearing an inscription. [Fr. < Ital. banderoula, dim. of bandiera,
 banner.]



 bandicoot  n.  1. Any of several ratlike marsupials of the family
 Peramelidae, of Australia and adjacent islands, having a long tapering
 snout and long hind legs. 2. Any of several large rats of the genera
 Bandicota and Nesokia, of southeastern Asia. [Telegu pandi-kokku : pandi,
 pig + kokku, rat.]



 bandit  n. pl. -dits  or banditti  1. A robber, esp. a highwayman. 2. An
 outlaw; gangster. 3. One who cheats or exploits others. [Ital. bandito <
 bandire, to band together, prob. of Germanic orig.]   banditry n.



 bandmaster  n.  One who conducts a musical band.



 bandog  n.  A dog kept chained as a watchdog or because of its ferocious
 nature. [ME band-dogge.]



 bandoleer or bandolier   n.  A belt fitted with small pockets or loops for
 carrying cartridges and worn across the chest by soldiers. [Fr. bandouliere
 < Sp. bandolera, dim. of banda, band, prob. of Germanic orig.]



 bandore or bandora   n.  An ancient musical instrument resembling a
 guitar. [Port. bandurra < LLat. pandura < Gk. pandoura.]



 band-pass filter  n.  An electric filter that blocks all signals but those
 within a selected frequency range.



 band saw  n.  A power saw consisting essentially of a toothed metal band
 coupled to and continuously driven around the circumferences of two wheels.




 band shell  n.  A bandstand with a concave, almost hemispheric wall at the
 rear that serves as a sounding board.



 bandsman  n.  A musician in a band.



 bandstand  n.  A platform or stand, often roofed, for a band or orchestra.




 bandwagon  n.  1. An elaborately decorated wagon used to transport
 musicians in a parade. 2. A cause or party that attracts increasing numbers
 of adherents.



 bandwidth  n.  The range of consecutive frequencies comprising a band.



 bandy  tr.v. -died -dying -dies   1.  a. To toss or throw back and forth.
 b. To hit (a ball, for example) back and forth. 2.  a. To give and take
 (words); exchange. b. To discuss in a casual or frivolous manner. 3. To use
 lightly or indiscriminately.   -adj. Bowed or bent in an outward curve:
 bandy legs.    -n.pl. -dies  1. A game similar to modern field hockey. 2. A
 stick, bent at one end, used in playing bandy. [Orig. unknown.]



 bandy-legged  adj.  Having legs that bend outward; bowlegged.



 bane  n.  1.  Archaic. Fatal injury or ruin. 2. A cause of death,
 destruction, or ruin. 3. A deadly poison. [ME, destroyer < OE bana.]



 baneberry  n.  1. A plant of the genus Actaea, having clusters of white
 flowers and red or white poisonous berries. 2. The berry of a baneberry
 plant.



 baneful  adj.  Causing death, destruction, or ruin; harmful. -See Usage
 note at baleful.   banefully adv.



 bang
 bang(1)  n.  1. A sudden loud noise, as of an explosion. 2. A sudden loud
 blow or bump. 3.  Informal. A sudden burst of action. 4.  Slang. A sense of
 excitement; thrill.   -v.banged banging bangs   -tr. 1. To strike heavily
 and often repeatedly; bump. 2. To close suddenly and loudly; slam. 3. To
 handle noisily or violently. 4.  Vulgar.  Slang. To have sexual intercourse
 with. -intr. 1. To make a sudden loud, explosive noise. 2. To crash noisily
 against or into something. Phrasal verb.  bang away. 1. To assail
 insistently, esp. with questions. 2. To work diligently and often at
 length. bang up. To damage extensively: banged up the car.    -adv.
 Exactly; precisely: The arrow hit bang on the target.  [Prob. of Scand.
 orig.]
 bang(2)  n.  bangs  A fringe of hair cut short and straight across the
 forehead.   -tr.v.banged banging bangs   To cut in a bang. [Perh. short for
 bangtail.]
 bang(3)  n.  Variant of bhang.



 bangalore torpedo  n.  A piece of metal pipe filled with an explosive,
 used primarily to clear a path through barbed wire or to detonate land
 mines. [After Bangalore, India.]



 banger  n.  Chiefly British.  1. A sausage. 2. A noisy old car.



 bangkok  n.  A hat made of a fine straw. [After Bangkok, Thailand.]



 bangle  n.  1. A rigid bracelet or anklet, esp. one with no clasp. 2. An
 ornament that hangs from a bracelet or necklace. [Hindi bangri, glass
 bracelet.]



 Bang's disease  n.  Brucellosis. [After Bernhard L. F. Bang (1848-1932).]



 bangtail  n.  Slang.  A racehorse. [bang- + tail.]



 bang-up  adj.  Slang.  Very good; excellent: a bang-up job.



 bani  n.  Plural of ban2.



 banian  n.  1. A Hindu merchant or trader belonging to a caste whose
 members eat no meat. 2. Variant of banyan. [Port. < Gujarati, vaniyo < Skt.
 vanoija, a merchant.]



 banish  tr.v. -ished -ishing -ishes   1. To force to leave a country or
 place by official decree; exile. 2. To drive away; expel: banish all doubts
 and fears.  [ME banishen < OFr. banir, baniss-, of Germanic orig.]
 banisher n.   banishment n.

      Synonyms: banish exile expatriate deport transport
 extradite These verbs mean to send away from a place of residence. Banish
 applies broadly to forced departure from a country by official decree.
 Exile  specifies departure from one's country, either through compulsion or
 voluntary action. Expatriate  pertains to departure from one's native
 country, forced or voluntary, and usually implies formal change of
 citizenship. Deport  denotes the act of sending an alien abroad by
 governmental order. Transport  pertains to the sending abroad (usually to a
 penal colony) of one convicted of a crime. Extradite  applies to the
 delivery of an accused or convicted person to the state or country having
 jurisdiction over him.




 banister or bannister   n.  1. A baluster. 2. The handrail or balustrade
 of a staircase. [Var. of baluster.]



 banjo  n. pl. -jos  or -joes  A fretted stringed instrument having a
 narrow neck and a hollow circular body with a stretched diaphragm of vellum
 upon which the bridge rests. [Prob. of African orig.]   banjoist n.



 bank
 bank(1)  n.  1. A piled-up mass, as of snow or clouds. 2. A steep natural
 incline. 3. An artificial embankment. 4. The slope of land adjoining a body
 of water. 5. A large elevated area of a sea floor. 6. The cushion of a
 billiard or pool table. 7. The lateral tilting of an aircraft executed in a
 turn.   -v.banked banking banks   -tr. 1. To border or protect with a ridge
 or embankment. 2. To pile up; amass: bank earth along a wall.  3. To cover
 (a fire), as with ashes or fresh fuel, to ensure continued low burning. 4.
 To construct with a slope rising to the outside edge. 5. To tilt (an
 aircraft) laterally in flight. 6. In billiards, to strike (a ball) so that
 it rebounds from the table's cushion. -intr. 1. To rise in or take the form
 of a bank. 2. To tilt an aircraft laterally when turning. [ME, of Scand.
 orig.]
 bank(2)  n.  1.  a. A business establishment in which money is kept for
 saving or commercial purposes or is invested, supplied for loans, or
 exchanged. b. The offices or building in which such an establishment is
 located. 2.  a. The funds of a gambling establishment. b. The funds held by
 a dealer or banker in some gambling games. c. The reserve pieces, cards,
 chips, or play money in some games, as poker, from which the players may
 draw. 3. A supply or stock for use in emergencies: a blood bank.  4. A
 place of safekeeping or storage: a computer's memory bank.  5.  Obsolete. A
 moneychanger's table or place of business.   -v.banked banking banks   -tr.
 To deposit in a bank. -intr. 1. To transact business with a bank or
 maintain a bank account. 2. To operate a bank. Phrasal verb.  bank on. .
 Informal.  To have confidence in; rely on. [Fr. banque < Ital. banca,
 moneychanger's table, of Germanic orig.]
 bank(3)  n.  1. A set of similar or matched things arranged in a row, esp.:
 a. A set of elevators. b. A row of keys on a typewriter. 2. A bench for
 rowers in a galley. 3. The lines of type under a headline.   -tr.v.banked
 banking banks   To arrange or set up in a row: streets banked with trees.
 [ME, bench < OFr. banc, of Germanic orig.]



 bankable  adj.  1. Acceptable to or at a bank. 2. Guaranteed to bring
 profit: a bankable movie star.



 bank acceptance  n.  A draft or bill of exchange drawn upon and accepted
 by a bank.



 bank account  n.  Funds deposited in a bank that are credited to and
 subject to withdrawal by the depositor.



 bank annuities  pl.n.  Chiefly British.  Consols.



 bankbook  n.  A book held by a depositor in which his deposits and
 withdrawals are recorded by the bank.



 bankcard  n.  A credit card issued by a bank.



 bank discount  n.  The interest on a loan computed in advance and deducted
 at the time the loan is made.



 banker
 banker(1)  n.  1. A person who owns or serves as an officer of a bank. 2.
 The player in charge of the bank in some gambling games.
 banker(2)  n.  A person or boat engaged in cod fishing on the Newfoundland
 banks.
 banker(3)  n.  A workbench used by masons and sculptors. [< bank3, bench
 (obs.).]



 banker's acceptance  n.  A bank acceptance.



 bank holiday  n.  1. A day on which banks are legally closed. 2.  Chiefly
 British. A legal holiday when banks are ordered to remain closed.



 banking  n.  1. The business of a bank. 2. The occupation of a banker.



 bank note  n.  A note issued by a bank representing its promise to pay a
 specific sum to the bearer on demand and acceptable as money.



 bank paper  n.  1. Bank notes. 2. Securities, drafts, bills of exchange,
 and other commercial paper acceptable by a bank.



 bank rate  n.  The rate of discount established by a country's central
 bank.



 bankroll  n.  1. A roll of paper money. 2.  Informal. A person's ready
 cash.   -tr.v.-rolled -rolling -rolls   To underwrite the expense of (a
 business venture, for example).   bankroller n.



 bankrupt  n.  1.  Law. A debtor who, upon voluntary petition or one
 invoked by his creditors, is judged legally insolvent and whose remaining
 property is administered for his creditors or distributed among them. 2. A
 person who is devoid of a specific resource or quality: an intellectual
 bankrupt.    -adj. 1. Legally declared a bankrupt; insolvent. 2.
 Financially ruined; impoverished. 3. Depleted or destitute: bankrupt of
 compassion.    -tr.v.-rupted -rupting -rupts   To cause to become bankrupt.
 [Fr. banqueroute < Ital. bancarotta : banca, moneychanger's table + rotta,
 p.part. of rompere, to break < Lat. rumpere.]



 bankruptcy  n.  1. The condition of being legally bankrupt. 2.
 Impoverishment; destitution.



 banner  n.  1.  a. A piece of cloth attached to a staff and used as a
 standard by a monarch, knight, or military commander. b. The flag of a
 nation, state, army, or sovereign. 2. A piece of cloth bearing a motto or
 legend, as of a club. 3. A headline spanning the width of a newspaper page.
 4. A standard (sense 8.a.).   -adj. Unusually good; outstanding: a banner
 year for the company.  [ME banere < OFr. baniere < VLat. *bandaria < LLat.
 bandum, of Germanic orig.]



 banneret or bannerette
 banneret(1)  n.  A small banner. [ME baneret < OFr. banerete, dim. of
 baniere, banner.]
 banneret(2)  n.  A feudal knight entitled to lead men into battle under his
 own standard and ranking between knight bachelor and baron. [ME baneret <
 OFr. < baniere, banner.]



 bannerette  n.  Variant of banneret1.



 bannerol  n.  Variant of banderole.



 bannister  n.  Variant of banister.



 bannock  n.  Chiefly British.  Regional.  A griddlecake, usually
 unleavened, made of oatmeal, barley, or wheat flour. [ME bannok < OE bannuc
 < Gael. bannach.]



 banns  pl.n.  An announcement, esp. in a church, of an intended marriage.
 [ME banes, pl. of ban, proclamation, partly < OE gebann, and partly < OFr.
 ban, of Germanic orig.]



 banquet  n.  1. An elaborate and sumptuous repast. 2. A ceremonial dinner
 honoring a particular guest or occasion.   -tr. -intr.v.-queted -queting
 -quets   To entertain at or partake of a banquet. [OFr., dim. of banc,
 bench, of Germanic orig.]   banqueter n.



 banquet room  n.  A large room, as in a restaurant, suitable for banquets.




 banquette  n.  1. A platform lining a trench or parapet wall on which
 soldiers may stand when firing. 2. Southern U.S. A sidewalk. 3. A long
 upholstered bench that is placed against or built into a wall. 4. A ledge
 or shelf, as on a buffet. [Fr. < Prov. banqueta, dim. of banca, bench, of
 Germanic orig.]



 banshee  n.  A female spirit in Gaelic folklore believed to presage a
 death in the family by wailing. [Ir. Gael. bean sidhe, woman of the
 fairies.]



 bantam  n.  1. Any of various breeds of diminutive domestic fowl. 2. A
 small but aggressive person.   -adj. 1. Diminutive; miniature. 2. Spirited
 or aggressive. [After Bantam, Indonesia.]



 bantamweight  n.  A boxer in the weight class of 112 to 118 pounds.



 banter  n.  Good-humored, playful conversation.   -v.-tered -tering -ters
  -tr. To speak to in a playful or teasing way. -intr. To exchange mildly
 teasing remarks. [Orig. unknown.]   banterer n.   banteringly adv.



 bantling  n.  A young child. [Prob. alteration of G. Bankling, bastard <
 Bank, bench < OHG.]



 Bantu  n. pl. Bantu  or -tus  1. A member of any of several Negro tribes
 of central and southern Africa. 2. A group of Niger-Congo languages spoken
 in central and southern Africa.   Bantu adj.



 banyan or banian   n.  A tree, Ficus benghalensis, of tropical India and
 the East Indies, having large, oval leaves, reddish fruit, and many aerial
 roots that develop into additional trunks. [Var. of banian.]



 banzai  n.  A Japanese battle cry or patriotic cheer. [J., (may you live)
 ten thousand years < Chin. (Mandarin) wan4 sui4 : wan4, ten thousand +
 sui4, year.]



 banzai attack  n.  A desperate attack by Japanese troops in World War II.



 baobab  n.  A tree, Adansonia digitata, of tropical Africa, having a trunk
 up to 30 feet in diameter, large, pendulous white flowers, and
 hard-shelled, fleshy fruit. [Prob. a native word in central Africa.]



 baptism  n.  1. A Christian sacrament marked by the symbolic use of water
 to cleanse the recipient of original sin and resulting in admission into
 Christianity. 2. A ceremony, trial, or experience by which one is
 initiated, purified, or given a name. 3. In Christian Science, a
 submergence in Spirit or purification by Spirit. [ME bapteme < OFr. < LLat.
 baptisma < Gk. baptismos < baptizein, to baptize.]   baptismal adj.
 baptismally adv.



 baptism of fire  n.  1. A soldier's first experience of actual combat
 conditions. 2. A severe ordeal experienced for the first time.



 Baptist  n.  1. A member of a Protestant denomination believing that the
 sacrament of baptism should be given only to adult members upon a
 profession of faith and usually by immersion. 2. baptist  One who baptizes.
   Baptist adj.



 baptistery or baptistry   n. pl. -ies  or -tries  1. A part of a church or
 a separate building used for baptizing. 2. A font used for baptism.



 baptize  v. -tized -tizing -tizes   -tr. 1. To admit into Christianity by
 means of baptism. 2.  a. To cleanse or purify. b. To initiate. 3. To give a
 first or Christian name to. -intr. To administer baptism. [ME baptizen <
 OFr. baptiser < LLat. baptizare < Gk. baptizein < baptein, to dip.]
 baptizer n.



 bar
 bar(1)  n.  1. A relatively long, straight, rigid piece of solid material
 used as a fastener, support, barrier, or structural or mechanical member.
 2.  a. A solid oblong block of a substance, such as soap. b. A rectangular
 block of a precious metal. 3. Something that impedes or prevents; obstacle.
 4. A ridge, as of sand or gravel, on a shore or stream bed that is formed
 by the action of tides or currents. 5. A narrow marking, as a stripe or
 band. 6. A pair of horizontal parallel lines across a heraldic shield. 7.
 Law.  a. The nullification, defeat, or prevention of a claim or action. b.
 The process by which this is accomplished. 8. The railing in a courtroom
 enclosing the part of the room where the judges and lawyers sit, witnesses
 are heard, and prisoners are tried. 9. A particular system of law courts.
 10. A tribunal or place of judgment. 11.  a. Lawyers collectively. b. The
 profession of law. 12.  Music.  a. A vertical line dividing a staff into
 equal measures. b. A measure. 13.  a. A counter at which drinks, esp.
 alcoholic drinks, and sometimes food are served. b. An establishment or
 room having such a counter.   -tr.v.barred barring bars   1. To fasten
 securely with a bar. 2. To shut in or out with or as if with bars. 3. To
 obstruct or impede; block. 4. To keep out; exclude. 5. To mark with bars or
 stripes. 6.  Law. To stop (a claim or action) by legal objection.   -prep.
 Excluding; except for: his best performance, bar none.  [ME barre < OFr.]
 bar(2)  n.  A unit of pressure equal to 105 newtons per square meter or
 0.98697 standard atmosphere. [G. < Gk. baros, weight.]



 bar-   Variant of baro-.



 barathea  n.  A soft fabric of silk and cotton or silk and wool. [Orig.
 unknown.]



 barb
 barb(1)  n.  1. A sharp point projecting in reverse direction to the main
 point of a weapon or tool, as on an arrow. 2. A cutting or biting remark.
 3.  Botany. A hooked bristle or hairlike projection. 4. One of the parallel
 filaments projecting from the main shaft of a feather. 5. Any of various
 Old World freshwater fishes of the genus Barbus (or Puntius ) and related
 genera. 6. A linen covering for a woman's head, throat, and chin worn in
 medieval times.   -tr.v.barbed barbing barbs   To provide or furnish with a
 barb. [ME barbe < OFr., beard < Lat. barba.]
 barb(2)  n.  1. A horse of a breed introduced into Spain from northern
 Africa by the Moors. 2. One of a breed of domestic pigeons having dark
 plumage. [Fr. barbe < Barbarie, Barbary States.]



 Barbados cherry  n.  A tropical and semitropical American shrub, Malpighia
 glabra, bearing edible, acid red fruit.



 barbarian  n.  1. A member of a people considered by those of another
 nation or group to have a primitive civilization. 2. A fierce, brutal, or
 cruel person. 3. An insensitive, uncultured person; boor. [Fr. barbarien <
 Lat. barbaria, foreign country < barbarus, barbarous.]   barbarianism n.
 barbarically adv.



 barbaric  adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, or characteristic of barbarians. 2.
 Marked by crudeness or lack of restraint in taste, style, or manner.



 barbarism  n.  1. An instance, act, trait, or custom characterized by
 brutality or coarseness. 2.  a. The use of words or forms considered
 incorrect or nonstandard in a language. b. A specific word or form so used.
 [OFr. barbarisme < Lat. barbarismus < Gk. barbarismos, foreign speech <
 barbaros, foreign.]



 barbarity  n. pl. -ties  1. Harsh or cruel conduct. 2. An inhuman, brutal
 act. 3. Crudity; coarseness.



 barbarize  tr.  -intr.v.-rized -rizing -rizes   To make or become crude,
 savage, or barbarous.   barbarization n.



 barbarous  adj.  1. Primitive in culture and customs; uncivilized. 2.
 Characterized by savagery; brutal. 3. Lacking refinement or culture;
 coarse. 4. Marked by the use or occurrence of barbarisms in language. [Lat.
 barbarus < Gk. barbaros.]   barbarously adv.   barbarousness n.



 Barbary ape  n.  A tailless monkey, Macaca sylvana, of Gibraltar and
 northern Africa.



 barbasco  n. pl. -cos  Any of several tropical American trees of the genus
 Lonchocarpus, used locally as the source of a poison for killing fish. [Am.
 Sp.]



 barbate  adj.  Having a beard or tufted hairs resembling a beard. [Lat.
 barbatus < barba, beard.]



 barbecue  n.  1. A grill, pit, or outdoor fireplace for roasting meat. 2.
 a. A whole animal carcass or section thereof roasted or broiled over an
 open fire or on a spit. b. A social gathering, usually held outdoors, at
 which food is prepared in this way.   -tr.v.-cued -cuing -cues   To roast,
 broil, or grill (meat) over live coals or an open fire, often basting it
 with a seasoned sauce. [Am. Sp. barbacoa < Haitian, framework of sticks <
 Taino.]



 barbed  adj.  1. Having barbs. 2. Cutting; stinging: barbed criticism.
 barbedness n.



 barbed wire  n.  Twisted strands of fence wire with barbs at regular
 intervals.



 barbel  n.  1. One of the slender, whiskerlike sensory organs on the head
 of certain fishes, such as catfish. 2. Any of several Old World freshwater
 fish of the genus Barbus.  [Obs. Fr. < OFr., dim. of barbe, beard < Lat.
 barba.]



 barbell  n.  A bar with adjustable weights at each end, lifted for sport
 or exercise.



 barbellate  adj.  Having minute, hooked bristles or hairs. [< NLat.
 barbella, dim. of Lat. barbula, little beard < barba, beard.]



 barber  n.  One whose business is to cut hair and to shave or trim beards.
   -v.-bered -bering -bers   -tr. 1. To cut the hair of. 2. To shave or trim
 the beard of. -intr. To work as a barber. [ME barbour < OFr. < Med. Lat.
 barbator < barba, beard < Lat.]



 barberry  n.  Any of various shrubs of the genus Berberis, having small
 leaves, clusters of yellow flowers, and small orange or red berries. [ME
 berberie < OFr. berberis < Ar. barbaris.]



 barbershop  n.  The place of business of a barber.   -adj. Of, consisting
 of, or relating to the performance of sentimental songs in four-part
 harmony: a barbershop quartet.



 barber's itch  n.  Any of various skin eruptions on the neck, esp.
 ringworm.



 barbet  n.  Any of various tropical birds of the family Capitonidae,
 having a broad bill bristled at the base and brightly colored plumage and
 related to the toucans. [Fr. barbu < Lat. barbatus, barbate < barba,
 beard.]



 barbette  n.  1. A platform or mound within a fort from which guns are
 fired over the parapet. 2. An armored protective cylinder around a
 revolving turret on a warship. [Fr., dim. of barbe, beard < Lat. barba.]



 barbican  n.  A tower or other fortification on the approach to a castle
 or town, esp. one at a gate or drawbridge. [ME < OFr. barbacane < Med. Lat.
 barbacana, perh. of Ar. or Pers. orig.]



 barbicel  n.  One of many minute projections that fringe the edges of the
 barbules of feathers and interlock with those on adjacent barbules. [NLat.
 barbicella, dim. of Lat. barba, beard.]



 barbital  n.  A white crystalline compound, C8H12N2O3, used as a sedative.
 [barbit(uric acid) + -al (as in Veronal).]



 barbiturate  n.  1. A salt or ester of barbituric acid. 2. Any of a group
 of barbituric acid derivatives used as sedatives or hypnotics. [barbitur(ic
 acid) + -ate.]



 barbituric acid  n.  An organic acid, C4H4N2O3, used in the manufacture of
 barbiturates and some plastics. [Partial transl. of G. Barbitursaure.]



 barbule  n.  A small barb or pointed projection, esp. one of the small
 projections fringing the edges of the barbs of feathers. [Lat. barbula,
 dim. of barba, beard.]



 barbwire  n.  Barbed wire.



 barcarole or barcarolle   n.  1. A Venetian gondolier's song with a rhythm
 suggestive of rowing. 2. A musical composition imitating a barcarole. [Fr.
 < Ital. barcaruola < barcaruolo, gondolier < barca, boat < LLat.]



 bar chart  n.  A bar graph.



 bard
 bard(1)  n.  1. One of an ancient Celtic order of singing poets who
 composed and recited verses on the legends and history of their tribes. 2.
 A poet, esp. an exalted national poet. [ME < Ir. Gael. bard and Welsh
 bardd.]   bardic adj.
 bard(2)  n.  A piece of armor used to protect or ornament a horse.
 -tr.v.barded barding bards   To equip with bards. [ME barde < OFr., prob. <
 OItal. barda < Ar. barda"ah, stuffed packsaddle.]



 bare
 bare(1)  adj. barer barest   1. Without the usual or appropriate covering
 or clothing; naked: a bare head.  2. Exposed to view; undisguised: laid
 bare the secret agreement.  3. Lacking the usual furnishings, equipment, or
 decoration: walls bare of pictures.  4. Without addition, adornment, or
 qualification; plain: the bare facts.  5. Just sufficient; mere: the bare
 necessities of life.  6.  Obsolete. Bareheaded.   -tr.v.bared baring bares
  To make bare; strip of covering. [ME bar < OE baer.]   bareness n.
 bare(2)  v.  Archaic.  Past tense of bear.



 bareback or barebacked   adj.  -adv. On a horse, pony, or other animal
 with no saddle: a bareback rider; rode bareback.



 bare bones  pl.n.  The barest elements or essentials: outlined the bare
 bones of the plot.    bare-bones adj.



 barefaced  adj.  1.  a. Having no covering over the face. b. Having no
 beard. 2. Unconcealed; without disguise. 3. Presumptuous and shameless: a
 barefaced lie.    barefacedly adv.   barefacedness n.



 barefoot or barefooted   adj.  -adv. Wearing nothing on the feet: a
 barefoot boy; walking barefoot in the grass.



 barege or barege   n.  A sheer fabric woven of silk or cotton and wool,
 used for women's apparel. [Fr. barege < Bareges, a town in France.]



 barehanded  adj.  -adv. 1. Having no covering on the hands. 2. Unaided by
 tools or weapons: fighting barehanded.    barehandedness n.



 bareheaded  adj.  -adv. Having no covering on the head: walking bareheaded
 in the rain.    bareheadedness n.



 barelegged  adj.  -adv. Having the legs uncovered.   bareleggedness n.



 barely  adv.  1. By a very little; almost not; hardly: could barely see
 the road in the fog.  2. In a scanty manner; sparsely: a barely furnished
 room.



 barf  intr.v. barfed barfing barfs   Slang.  To vomit. [Orig. unknown.]



 barfly  n.  Slang.  One who frequents bars.



 bargain  n.  1.  a. An agreement or contract, esp. one involving the
 purchase and sale of goods or services. b. The terms or conditions of such
 an agreement. c. The property acquired or services rendered as a result of
 such an agreement. 2. Something offered or acquired at a price advantageous
 to the buyer.   -v.-gained -gaining -gains   -intr. 1. To negotiate the
 terms of a sale, exchange, or other agreement. 2. To arrive at an
 agreement. -tr. To exchange; trade: bargained his watch for a meal.
 Phrasal verb.  bargain for. To expect; count on.

       Idiom Section:  into inthe bargain. . Over and above what is
 expected; in addition. [ME bargaine < OFr., of Germanic orig.]   bargainer
 n.



 barge  n.  1. A long, large, usually flat-bottomed boat that is unpowered
 and towed by other craft, used for transporting freight. 2. A large
 pleasure boat. 3. A powerboat reserved for the use of a flag officer.
 -v.barged barging barges   -tr. To carry by barge. -intr. 1. To move about
 clumsily. 2. To enter rudely and abruptly; intrude: barged into the
 meeting.  [ME, boat < OFr., poss. < Lat. barca.]



 bargeboard  n.  Architecture.  A board, often ornately carved, attached
 along the projecting edge of a gable roof. [Orig. unknown.]



 bargee  n.  Chiefly British.  A bargeman.



 bargello  n. pl. -los  A needlepoint stitch that produces zigzag lines.
 [After the Bargello, a museum in Florence, Italy, which contains chairs
 upholstered in fabric worked in this stitch.]



 bargeman  n.  The master or a crew member of a barge.



 bar graph  n.  A graph consisting of parallel, usually vertical, bars or
 rectangles with lengths proportional to specified quantities in a set of
 data.



 barhop  intr.v. -hopped -hopping -hops   To patronize a series of bars
 during an evening.



 bariatrics  n.(usedwithasing.verb).  A branch of medicine dealing with the
 treatment of obesity.   bariatric adj.   bariatrician n.



 barilla  n.  1. Either of two Old World plants, Salsola kali or S. soda,
 or a similar plant, Halogeton soda, burned to obtain a form of sodium
 carbonate. 2. The sodium carbonate obtained from a barilla. [Sp. barrilla.]




 barite  n.  A colorless crystalline mineral of barium sulfate that is the
 chief source of barium chemicals. [Gk. barus, heavy + -ite.]



 baritone or barytone   n.  1.  a. A male singer or voice with a range
 higher than a bass and lower than a tenor. b. A part written for a voice
 with such a range. 2. A brass wind instrument with a range similar to that
 of a baritone. [Ital. baritono < Gk. barutonos, deep sounding : barus,
 heavy + tonus, tone.]



 barium  n.  Symbol Ba  A soft, silvery-white alkaline-earth metal, used to
 deoxidize copper, in various alloys, and in rat poison. Atomic number 56;
 atomic weight 137.34; melting point 725 deg. C; boiling point 1,140 deg. C;
 specific gravity 3.50; valence 2. [bar(yta) + -ium.]   baric adj.



 barium sulfate  n.  A fine white powder, BaSO4, used as a pigment, as a
 filler for textiles, rubbers, and plastics, and as an indicator in x-ray
 photography of the digestive tract.



 barium yellow  n.  A pigment made of barium chromate, BaCrO4.



 bark
 bark(1)  n.  1. The harsh, abrupt sound uttered by a dog. 2. A sound, such
 as a cough, that is similar to a bark.   -v.barked barking barks   -intr.
 1. To utter a bark. 2. To make a sound similar to a bark. 3. To speak
 sharply; snap: barked at his assistant.  4.  Informal. To work as a barker.
 -tr. To utter in a loud, harsh voice. [< ME berken, to bark < OE beorcan.]

 bark(2)  n.  1. The outer covering of the woody stems, branches, roots, and
 main trunks of trees and other woody plants as distinguished from the
 cambium and inner wood. 2. A specific kind of bark used for a special
 purpose, as in tanning or medicine.   -tr.v.barked barking barks   1. To
 remove bark from (a tree or log). 2. To rub off the skin of; abrade. 3. To
 treat medically, tan, or dye using bark. [ME < ON borkr.]
 bark(3)  n.  1. A sailing ship with from three to five masts, all of them
 square-rigged except the after mast, which is fore-and-aft rigged. 2. A
 small sailing vessel. [ME barke, boat < OFr. barque < OItal. barca < LLat.]




 bark beetle  n.  Any of various small insects of the family Scolytidae
 that damage trees by boring along the surface of the wood.



 barkeeper or barkeep   n.  1. A person who owns or runs a bar for the sale
 of alcoholic beverages. 2. A bartender.



 barkentine or barquentine   n.  A sailing ship with from three to five
 masts of which only the foremast is square-rigged, the others being
 fore-and-aft rigged. [Prob. a blend of bark3 and brigantine.]



 barker
 barker(1)  n.  1. One that barks. 2.  Informal. An employee who stands
 before the entrance to a show and solicits customers with loud, colorful
 sales talk.
 barker(2)  n.  One that removes bark from trees or logs or prepares it for
 tanning.



 barky  adj. -ier -iest   Covered with, containing, or resembling bark.



 bar-le-duc or Bar-le-Duc   n.  A savory preserve made of white currants or
 gooseberries. [After Bar-le-Duc, France.]



 barley  n.  1. A cereal grass, Hordeum vulgare, bearing bearded flower
 spikes with edible seeds. 2. The grain of barley, used as food and in
 making beer, ale, and whiskey. [ME barli < OE baerlic.]



 barleycorn  n.  1. The seed or grain of barley. 2. A unit of measure equal
 to the width of a grain of barley, or approximately 1/3 inch.



 barley sugar  n.  A clear, hard candy made by boiling down sugar.



 barm  n.  The yeasty foam that rises to the surface of fermenting malt
 liquors. [ME berme < OE beorma.]



 barmaid  n.  A woman who serves drinks in a bar.



 barman  n.  A bartender.



 Barmecidal or Barmecide   adj.  Plentiful or abundant but only apparently:
 a Barmecidal feast.  [After Barmecide, a nobleman in The Arabian Nights,
 who served a beggar an imaginary feast.]



 bar mitzvah  n.  1. A thirteen-year-old Jewish male, considered an adult
 and responsible for his moral and religious duties. 2. The ceremony that
 initiates and recognizes a boy as a bar mitzvah.   -tr.v.-vahed -vahing
 -vahs   To confirm in the ceremony of bar mitzvah. [Heb. bar mitzvah : bar,
 son + mitzvah, commandment.]



 barmy  adj. -ier -iest   1. Full of barm; foamy. 2.  Chiefly British.
 Slang. Out of one's mind; crazy.



 barn  n.  1. A large farm building used for storing farm products and
 sheltering livestock. 2. A large shed for the housing of vehicles, such as
 railroad cars. 3.  Physics. A unit of area equal to 10-24 square
 centimeter, used to express nuclear cross sections. [ME bern < OE berern :
 bere, barley + ern, house.]



 barnacle  n.  1. Any of various marine crustaceans of the order Cirripedia
 that in the adult stage form a hard shell and remain attached to a
 submerged surface. 2. The barnacle goose. [ME bernak, a kind of goose (from
 the belief that the geese were produced from the shellfish) < Med. Lat.
 bernaca.]   barnacled adj.



 barnacle goose  n.  A waterfowl, Branta leucopsis, of northern Europe and
 Greenland, having black, white, and gray plumage.



 barn dance  n.  A social gathering, often held in a barn, with music and
 square dancing.



 barn owl  n.  A predatory nocturnal bird, Tyto alba, having light-brown
 and white plumage and often frequenting barns and other buildings.



 barnstorm  intr.v. -stormed -storming -storms   1. To travel around the
 countryside presenting plays, lecturing, or making political speeches. 2.
 To appear at county fairs and carnivals in exhibitions of stunt flying and
 parachute jumping.   barnstormer n.



 barn swallow  n.  A widely distributed bird, Hirundo rustica, having a
 deeply forked tail, a dark-blue back, and tan underparts.



 barnyard  n.  The area surrounding a barn, often enclosed by a fence.
 -adj. Smutty; earthy: barnyard humor.



 baro- or bar-    Weight; pressure: barometer.  [< Gk. baros, weight.]



 barogram  n.  A graphic record produced by a barograph.



 barograph  n.  A recording barometer.   barographic adj.



 barometer  n.  1. An instrument for measuring atmospheric pressure, used
 in weather forecasting and in determining elevation. 2. Something that
 gives notice of fluctuations; indicator: Interest rates are an economic
 barometer.    barometric barometrical  adj.   barometrically adv.
 barometry n.



 baron  n.  1.  a. A feudal tenant holding his rights and title directly
 from the king or another feudal superior. b. A lord or nobleman; peer. 2.
 a. A member of the lowest rank of nobility in Great Britain, certain
 European countries, and Japan. b. The rank or title of such a nobleman. 3.
 A man with great wealth, power, and influence in a specified sphere of
 activity: an oil baron.  [ME < OFr., prob. of Germanic orig.]



 baronage  n.  1. The rank, title, or dignity of a baron. 2. All of the
 peers of a kingdom.



 baroness  n.  1. The wife or widow of a baron. 2. A woman holding a barony
 in her own right.



 baronet  n.  1. A British hereditary title of honor, ranking next below a
 baron, held by commoners. 2. The bearer of a baronet. [ME, dim. of baron,
 baron.]



 baronetage  n.  1. The rank or dignity of a baronet; baronetcy. 2.
 Baronets collectively.



 baronetcy  n.  The rank or dignity of a baronet.



 barong  n.  A large, broad-bladed knife used by the Moros of the
 Philippines. [Native word in the Philippines.]



 baronial  adj.  1. Of or pertaining to a baron or barony. 2. Suited for or
 befitting a baron; stately: a baronial mansion.



 barony  n. pl. -nies  1. The domain of a baron. 2. The rank or dignity of
 a baron.



 baroque  adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, or characteristic of a style in art
 and architecture developed in Europe from about 1550 to 1700 and typified
 by elaborate and ornate scrolls, curves, and other symmetrical
 ornamentation. 2. Of, pertaining to, or characteristic of a style of
 musical composition that flourished in Europe from about 1600 to 1750,
 marked by chromaticism, strict forms, and elaborate ornamentation. 3.
 Ornate or flamboyant in style; richly ornamented:  his addiction to a
 baroque luxuriance of language (Orville Prescott). 4. Irregular in shape:
 baroque pearls.    -n. The baroque style or period in art, architecture, or
 music. [Fr. < Ital. barocco.]   baroquely adv.



 baroreceptor  n.  A sensory nerve ending, as in the carotid sinus, that is
 sensitive to pressure change.



 barouche  n.  A four-wheeled carriage with a collapsible top, two double
 seats inside opposite each other, and a box seat outside in front for the
 driver. [G. Barutsche < Ital. biroccio < LLat. birotus, two-wheeled : bi-,
 two + rota, wheel.]



 barque  n.  Variant of bark3.



 barquentine  n.  Variant of barkentine.



 barrack
 barrack(1)  tr.v. -racked -racking -racks   To house in barracks.
 barrack(2)  tr.v. -racked -racking -racks   Chiefly British.  To shout or
 jeer at. [Orig. unknown.]   barracker n.



 barracks  pl.n.  1. A building or group of buildings used to house
 soldiers. 2. A large unadorned building used for temporary occupancy. [Fr.
 baraques < Sp. barraca, soldier's tent < Catalan.]



 barracks bag  n.  A soldier's cloth bag, usually with a drawstring, for
 the storage of clothing or laundry.



 barracoon  n.  A barracks in which slaves or convicts were temporarily
 confined. [Sp. barracon, aug. of barraca, hut.]



 barracuda  n. pl. barracuda  or -das  Any of various voracious, mostly
 tropical marine fishes of the genus Sphyraena, having a long, narrow body
 and projecting jaws with fanglike teeth. [Mex. Sp.]



 barrage
 barrage(1)  n.  An artificial obstruction in a watercourse, esp. one built
 to promote irrigation; dam. [Fr. < barrer, to bar < barre, bar < OFr.]
 barrage(2)   n.  1. A heavy curtain of artillery fire directed in front of
 friendly troops to screen and protect them. 2. A rapid, concentrated
 discharge of missiles, as from small arms. 3. An overwhelming, concentrated
 outpouring, as of words or blows: a barrage of questions.    -tr.v.-raged
 -raging -rages   To direct a barrage at. [Fr. (tir de) barrage, barrier
 (fire).]



 barrage balloon  n.  A balloon anchored singly or in a series over a
 military objective to hinder the passage of enemy aircraft.



 barramunda or barramundi   n. pl. barramunda  or -das  barramundi  or -dis
   Any of several Australian food fishes, such as the river fish Scleropages
 leichhardtdii or the lungfish Neoceratodus forsteri.  [Native word in
 Australia.]



 barranca  n.  Southwestern U.S.  A deep ravine or gorge. [Sp., prob. <
 Iberian.]



 barrator or barrater   n.  Law.  A person who commits barratry. [ME
 baratour < OFr. barateor, swindler < barater, to cheat.]



 barratry  n. pl. -tries  1.  Law. The offense of inciting or stirring up
 quarrels or groundless lawsuits. 2. An unlawful breach of duty on the part
 of a ship's master or crew resulting in injury to the ship's owner. 3. The
 sale or purchase of positions in the church or state. [ME barratrie, the
 sale of church offices < OFr. baraterie, deception < barater, to cheat.]
 barratrous adj.   barratrously adv.



 barred owl  n.  A North American owl, Strix varia, having barred, brownish
 plumage, a streaked belly, and a strident, hooting cry.



 barrel  n.  1. A large, cylindrical container, usually made of wooden
 staves bound together with hoops, with a flat top and bottom of equal
 diameter. 2. The quantity that a barrel with a given or standard capacity
 will hold. 3. Any of various units of volume or capacity. In the U.S.
 Customary System it varies, as a liquid measure, from 31 to 42 gallons as
 established by law or usage. 4. The cylindrical part or hollow shaft of any
 of various mechanisms, as: a. The metal, cylindrical part of a firearm
 through which the bullet travels. b. A cylinder that contains a movable
 piston. c. The drum of a capstan. d. The cylinder within the mechanism of a
 timepiece that contains the mainspring. 5.  Informal. A large quantity: a
 barrel of fun.    -v.-reled -reling -rels  or -relled  or -relling  or
 -rels   -tr. To put or pack in a barrel. -intr. Slang.  To move at a high
 speed. [ME barel < OFr. baril.]



 barrel chair  n.  A large, upholstered chair having a high, rounded back
 resembling a half barrel.



 barrelhouse  n.  1. A disreputable saloon or bawdyhouse. 2. An early style
 of jazz characterized by free group improvisation and an accented two-beat
 rhythm.



 barrel organ  n.  A portable musical instrument operated by the action of
 a revolving barrel with pegs or pins that open air valves leading from a
 bellows to a series of pipes.



 barrel roll  n.  A flight maneuver in which an aircraft makes a complete
 rotation on its longitudinal axis while approximately maintaining its
 original direction.



 barren  adj.  1.  a. Not producing offspring; childless. b. Incapable of
 producing offspring; sterile. 2. Lacking vegetation, esp. useful
 vegetation; fruitless. 3. Unproductive of results or gains; unprofitable:
 barren efforts.  4. Devoid of something specified; lacking: writing barren
 of insight.  5. Lacking in liveliness or interest; dull.   -n. barrens  A
 tract of unproductive land, often with a scrubby growth of trees. [ME
 barreine < OFr. baraigne.]   barrenly adv.   barrenness n.



 barren strawberry  n.  A low-growing plant, Waldsteinia fragarioides, of
 eastern North America, having yellow flowers and small, dry, inedible
 fruit.



 barrette  n.  A small clasp used by women for holding the hair in place.
 [Fr. < dim. of barre, bar < OFr.]



 barricade  n.  1. A structure set up across a route of access for defense
 or the obstruction of passage. 2. Something acting to obstruct passage;
 barrier.   -tr.v.-caded -cading -cades   1. To close off or block with a
 barricade. 2. To keep in or out by means of a barricade. [Fr. < OFr.
 barrique, barrel < Sp. barrica.]   barricader n.



 barrier  n.  1. A fence, wall, or other structure built to bar passage. 2.
 Something that acts to hinder or restrict: spoke different languages, a
 real barrier to understanding.  3. A boundary or limit: the sound barrier.
 4. Something that separates or holds apart. 5. A movable gate that keeps
 racehorses in line before the start of a race. 6. barriers  The palisades
 or fences enclosing the lists of a medieval tournament. 7.  Geology. A
 section of the Antarctic ice shelf that extends beyond the coastline,
 resting partly on the ocean floor. [ME barrer < OFr. barriere < LLat.
 barraria < barra, bar.]



 barrier reef  n.  A long, narrow ridge of coral or rock parallel to and
 relatively near a coastline, separated from the coastline by a lagoon too
 deep for coral growth.



 barring  prep.  Apart from the occurrence of; excepting: Barring strong
 headwinds, the plane will arrive on schedule.



 barrio  n. pl. -os  1. An enclave, ward, or district in a Spanish-speaking
 country. 2. A chiefly Spanish-speaking community or neighborhood in a U.S.
 city. [Sp. < Ar. barri, of an open area < barr, open area.]



 barrister  n.  Chiefly British.  A lawyer admitted to plead at the bar in
 the superior courts. [Prob. < bar1 (railing).]



 barroom  n.  A room or building in which alcoholic beverages are sold at a
 counter or bar.



 barrow
 barrow(1)  n.  1. A flat, rectangular tray or cart with handles at each
 end. 2. A wheelbarrow. [ME barowe < OE bearwe.]
 barrow(2)  n.  Archaeology.  A large mound of earth or stones placed over a
 burial site. [ME borewe < OE beorg.]
 barrow(3)  n.  A pig that has been castrated before reaching sexual
 maturity. [ME barow < OE bearg.]



 bar sinister  n.  1. A heraldic bend or baton sinister held to signify
 bastardy. 2. A hint or proof of illegitimate birth.



 bartender  n.  One who mixes and serves alcoholic drinks at a bar.



 barter  v. -tered -tering -ters   -intr. To trade goods or services
 without the exchange of money. -tr. To trade (goods or services) without
 the exchange of money: bartered his watch for food.    -n. 1. The act or
 practice of bartering. 2. Something that is bartered. [ME barteren, prob. <
 OFr. berator.]   barterer n.



 Bartholin's gland  n.  Either of two small compound racemose glands
 located on either side of the lower vagina that secrete mucus during
 coitus. [After Kaspar Bartholin (1655-1738).]



 bartizan or bartisan   n.  A small, overhanging turret on a wall or tower.
 [Alteration of bratticing, timberwork < brattice.]   bartizaned adj.



 Bartlett  n.  A widely grown variety of pear with large, juicy yellow
 fruit. [After Enoch Bartlett (1779-1860).]



 barycenter  n.  Physics.  Center of mass. [Gk. barus, heavy + center.]



 baryon  n.  Any of a family of subatomic particles, including the nucleon
 and hyperon multiplets, that participate in strong interactions, have
 half-integral spins, and are generally more massive than mesons. [Gk.
 barus, heavy + -on.]   baryonic adj.



 baryon number  n.  A quantum number equal to the difference between the
 number of baryons and the number of antibaryons in a system of subatomic
 particles.



 barysphere  n.  The centrosphere (sense 2).



 baryta  n.  Any of several barium compounds, such as barium sulfate.
 [NLat. < Gk. barutes, weight < barus, heavy.]



 barytes  n.  Barite. [Gk. barutes, weight < barus, heavy.]



 barytone  n.  Variant of baritone.



 basal  adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, located at, or forming a base. 2. Of
 primary importance; basic.   basally adv.



 basal metabolic rate  n.  The rate at which energy is used by an organism
 at complete rest, measured in humans by the heat given off per unit time.



 basal metabolism  n.  The least amount of energy required to maintain
 vital functions in an organism at complete rest.



 basalt  n.  A hard, dense, dark volcanic rock composed chiefly of
 plagioclase, augite, and magnetite and often having a glassy appearance.
 [Lat. basaltes, alteration of basanites (lapis), touchstone < Gk. basanites
 < basanos, of Egypt. orig.]   basaltic adj.



 bascule  n.  A device, such as a drawbridge, counterbalanced so that when
 one end is lowered the other is raised. [Fr., seesaw : bas, low + cul,
 bottom.]



 base
 base(1)  n.  1. The lowest or bottom part: the base of a cliff.  2. A
 supporting part or layer; foundation: built on a base of solid rock.  3.
 The fundamental principle or underlying concept of a system or theory;
 basis. 4. A fundamental ingredient; chief constituent: a paint with an oil
 base.  5. The fact, observation, or premise from which a reasoning process
 is begun. 6.  Baseball. Any one of the four corners of an infield, marked
 by a bag or plate, that must be touched by a runner before he can score a
 run. 7. A center of organization, supply, or activity; headquarters. 8.  a.
 A fortified center of operations. b. A supply center for a large force. 9.
 Architecture. The lowest part of a structure, as a wall, considered as a
 separate architectural unit: the base of a column.  10. In heraldry, the
 lower part of a shield. 11.  Linguistics. A morpheme or morphemes regarded
 as a form to which affixes or other bases may be added. 12.  Mathematics.
 a. The side or face of a geometric figure to which an altitude is or is
 thought to be drawn. b. The number that is raised to various powers to
 generate the principal counting units of a number system. c. The number
 raised to the logarithm of a designated number in order to produce that
 designated number. 13. A line used as a reference for measurement or
 computations. 14.  Chemistry.  a. Any of a large class of compounds,
 including the hydroxides and oxides of metals, having a bitter taste, a
 slippery solution, the ability to turn litmus blue, and the ability to
 react with acids to form salts. b. A molecular or ionic substance capable
 of combining with a proton to form a new substance. c. A substance that
 provides a pair of electrons for a covalent bond with an acid.   -adj. 1.
 Forming or serving as a base. 2. Situated at or near the base or bottom.
 -tr.v.based basing bases   1. To form or make a base for. 2. To find a
 basis for; establish.

       Idiom Section:  off base. 1. Badly mistaken. 2. In a state of
 unpreparedness. [ME < OFr. < Lat. basis < Gk.]

      Synonyms: base basis foundation ground groundwork These nouns
 all pertain to what underlies and supports. Base  is applied chiefly to
 material things: the base of a fountain. Basis  is used in a nonphysical
 sense: the basis of a rumor. Foundation  applies physically and
 figuratively, and more comprehensively than either of the foregoing. It
 stresses firmness of support for something of relative  magnitude: a
 philosophy with a foundation in truth. Ground  may denote an actual working
 surface in arts and crafts; more often, in the plural, it is used
 figuratively in the sense of a justifiable reason: grounds for complaint.
 Groundwork  is most often applied figuratively, with the sense of
 foundation or a neccessary preliminary.

 base(2)  adj. baser basest   1. Having or proceeding from low moral
 standards; mean or contemptible: base instincts; a base act.  2. Inferior
 in quality or value. 3. Containing inferior substances: a base metal.  4.
 Valueless or greatly depreciated in value; debased. 5.  Archaic. Of low
 birth, rank, or position. 6.  Obsolete. Short in stature.   -n. Obsolete.
 Bass2. [ME bas < OFr., low < Med. Lat. bassus.]   basely adv.   baseness n.




 baseball  n.  1. A game played with a bat and ball by two opposing teams
 of nine players, each team playing alternately in the field and at bat, the
 players at bat having to run a course of four bases laid out in a diamond
 pattern in order to score. 2. The ball used in baseball.



 baseboard  n.  A molding that conceals the joint between an interior wall
 and a floor.



 baseborn  adj.  1. Of humble birth. 2. Born of unwed parents;
 illegitimate. 3. Ignoble; contemptible.



 baseburner  n.  A stove or furnace that automatically replenishes consumed
 coal or other fuel from above.



 Base Exchange   A trademark for a Post Exchange on a naval or air force
 base.



 base hit  n.  Baseball.  A hit by which the batter reaches base safely
 without an error or force play being made.



 baseless  adj.  Having no basis or foundation in fact; unfounded.



 base level  n.  The lowest level to which a land surface can be reduced by
 the action of running water.



 base line  n.  1. A line serving as a base, as for measurement. 2.
 Baseball. An area within which a base runner must stay when running between
 successive bases. 3. A line bounding each back end of a tennis court.



 baseman  n.  Baseball.  A player assigned to first, second, or third base.




 basement  n.  1. The substructure or foundation of a building. 2. The
 lowest habitable story of a building, usually below ground level.



 basement membrane or basement lamina   n.  A thin, primarily collagenous,
 delicate layer of connective tissue underlying the epithelium.



 basenji  n.  A dog of a breed originally from Africa, having a short,
 smooth coat, and characterized by the absence of a bark. [Bantu.]



 base pair  n.  One of the pairs of compounds, as adenine and thymine, that
 along with a hydrogen bond form the connections between the complementary
 strands of DNA.



 base runner  n.  Baseball.  A member of the team at bat who has safely
 reached or is trying to reach a base.



 bases  n.  Plural of basis.



 bash  tr.v. bashed bashing bashes   Informal.  To strike with a heavy,
 crushing blow.   -n. 1.  Informal. A heavy, crushing blow. 2.  Slang. A
 celebration; party. [Orig. unknown.]



 bashaw  n.  Obsolete.  A pasha.



 bashful  adj.  1. Timid with other people; shy. 2. Characterized by,
 showing, or resulting from social shyness or self-consciousness. [a)bash +
 -ful.]   bashfully adv.   bashfulness n.



 basi- or baso-    1. Base; lower part: basipetal.  2. Chemical base;
 chemically basic: basophil.  [ < Lat. basis, base < Gk.]



 basic  adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, or forming a base; fundamental. 2. Of,
 being, or serving as a starting point or basis. 3.  Chemistry.  a.
 Producing, resulting from, or pertaining to a base. b. Containing a base,
 esp. in excess of acid. 4.  Geology. Containing little silica, as igneous
 rocks.   -n. Something that is basic; fundamental.   basically adv.
 basicity n.



 BASIC  n.  Computer Science.  A common programming language often used
 with remote or time-sharing computer centers. [b(eginner's) + a(ll-purpose)
 + s(ymbolic) + i(nstruction) + c(ode).]



 basichromatic  adj.  Easily stained with basic dye.



 basic oxide  n.  A metallic oxide that is a base or that forms a hydroxide
 if combined with water.



 basic process  n.  A method of steel production that uses a furnace lined
 with a basic refractory material.



 basic training  n.  The initial period of training of a recruit in the
 armed forces.



 basidia  n.  Plural of basidium.



 basidiomycete  n.  A fungus of the class Basidiomycetes, which includes
 the mushrooms, puffballs, and other fungi that bear spores on a basidium.
 [NLat. Basidiomycetes, class name : basidium + Gk. mukes, fungus.]
 basidiomycetous adj.



 basidiospore  n.  A spore formed on a basidium.   basidiosporous adj.



 basidium  n. pl. -ia  A club-shaped cell characteristic of basidiomycetous
 fungi on which sexual spores, usually four, are borne at the tip. [NLat. <
 Lat. basis, base < Gk.]   basidial adj.



 basify  tr.v. -fied -fying -fies   Chemistry.  To make basic.
 basification n.   basifier n.



 basil  n.  1. An herb, Ocimum basilicum, native to the Old World, having
 spikes of small white flowers and aromatic leaves used as seasoning. 2. A
 plant related to basil, Satureja vulgaris, native to Europe and widely
 naturalized in North America, having dense clusters of small pink or
 purplish flowers. [ME basile < OFr. < Med. Lat. basilico < Gk. basilikon,
 royal.]



 basilar or basilary   adj.  Of, pertaining to, or located at or near the
 base, esp. the base of the skull. [NLat. basilaris < Lat. basis, base <
 Gk.]



 basilica  n.  1.  a. An oblong building of ancient Rome with a
 semicircular apse at one end, used as a court or place of assembly. b. A
 building of this design used as a Christian church. 2.  Roman Catholic
 Chruch. A church or cathedral accorded certain ceremonial rights by the
 pope. [Lat. < Gk. basilike (stoa), royal (portico) < basileus, king.]
 basilican adj.



 basilisk  n.  1. A legendary serpent or dragon with lethal breath and
 glance. 2. Any of various tropical American lizards of the genus
 Basiliscus, having an erectile crest at the back of the head. [ME < Lat.
 basiliscus < Gk. basiliskos, dim. of basileus, king.]



 basin  n.  1.  a. A round, open, shallow container used esp. for holding
 liquids. b. The amount contained in a basin. 2. A washbowl; sink. 3.  a. An
 artificially enclosed area of a river or harbor designed so that the water
 level remains unaffected by tidal changes. b. A small enclosed or partly
 enclosed body of water. 4. A region drained by a single river system. 5.
 Geology.  a. A tract of land in which the rock strata are tilted toward a
 common center. b. A bowl-shaped depression in the surface of the land or
 ocean floor. [ME bacin < OFr.]   basinal adj.



 basinet  n.  A light medieval helmet, often with a visor. [ME bacinet <
 OFr., dim. of bacin, basin.]



 basipetal  adj.  Botany.  Developing or growing from the top toward the
 base, as certain forms of inflorescence.   basipetally adv.



 basis  n. pl. -ses  1. A supporting element; foundation. 2. The chief
 component of something. 3. The essential principle. [Lat. < Gk.]



 bask  intr.v. basked basking basks   1. To expose oneself to pleasant
 warmth. 2. To thrive in the presence of a pleasant or advantageous
 influence or atmosphere. [ME basken.]



 basket  n.  1.  a. A container made of interwoven material, such as rushes
 or twigs. b. The amount a basket will hold. 2. Something resembling a
 basket in shape or function. 3.  Basketball.  a. Either of the two goals,
 each consisting of a metal hoop from which an open-bottomed circular net is
 suspended. b. The score, normally worth two points, made by throwing the
 ball through the basket. [ME.]   basketful n.



 basketball  n.  1. A game played between two teams of five players each,
 the object being to throw the ball through an elevated basket on the
 opponent's side of the rectangular court. 2. The ball used in basketball.



 basket case  n.  Informal.  One that is in a completely hopeless or
 useless condition:  Psychological basket cases desperately in search of
 love and identity (Village Voice).



 basket fern  n.  1. An American tropical sword fern, Nephrolepis
 pectinata.  2. A male fern.



 basket hilt  n.  A sword hilt with a basket-shaped guard serving to cover
 and protect the hand.



 basketry  n.  1. The craft or process of making baskets. 2. Baskets
 collectively.



 basket star  n.  Any of various marine organisms of the class Ophiuroidea,
 related to the starfishes and having slender, many-branched arms.



 basket weave  n.  A textile weave consisting of double threads interlaced
 to produce a checkered pattern similar to that of a woven basket.



 basking shark  n.  A very large shark, Cetorhinus maximus, that feeds on
 plankton and often floats near the surface of water.



 bas mitzvah or bas mizvah   n.  Variants of bat mitzvah.



 baso-   Variant of basi-.



 basophil  n.  A cell, esp. a white blood cell, having granules that
 exhibit an affinity for basic dyes.   basophilic  basophilous adj.



 basophobia  n.  An abnormal fear of standing erect or walking.



 basque  n.  A close-fitting bodice. [Fr. < Prov. basta, perh. of Germanic
 orig.]



 Basque  n.  1. One of a people of unknown origin inhabiting the western
 Pyrenees in France and Spain. 2. The language of the Basques, of no known
 linguistic affiliation. [Fr. < Lat. Vasco.]   Basque adj.



 bas-relief  n.  Low relief. [Fr. < Ital. bassorilievo : basso, low (< Med.
 Lat. bassus) + rilievo, relief < rilievare, to raise < Lat. relevare. -see
 relief.]



 bass
 bass(1)  n. pl. bass  or basses  1. Any of several North American
 freshwater fishes of the family Centrarchidae, related to but larger than
 the sunfishes. 2. Any of various marine fishes of the family Serranidae, as
 the sea bass and the striped bass. [ME bace, var. of dial. barse < OE
 baers.]
 bass(2)   n.  1. A low-pitched sound or tone. 2. The tones in the lowest
 register of a musical instrument. 3. The lowest part in vocal or
 instrumental part music. 4.  a. A male singing voice of the lowest range.
 b. A man who has such a singing voice. 5. A musical instrument, esp. a
 double bass that produces tones in a low register.   -adj. 1. Having a deep
 tone. 2. Low in pitch. [ME bas.]
 bass(3)  n.  Bast. [Var. of bast.]



 bass clef  n.  A musical clef that designates F below middle C as being on
 the fourth line above the bottom of the staff.



 bass drum  n.  A large drum having a cylindrical body and two heads and
 producing a low, resonant sound.



 basset  n.  The basset hound. [Fr. < OFr., dim of basse, fem. adj. of bas,
 low.]



 basset horn  n.  A tenor clarinet in F, having a range of 31/2 octaves
 pitched between the range of an alto clarinet and that of a bass clarinet.



 basset hound  n.  A short-haired dog of a breed originating in France and
 having a long body, short legs, and long, drooping ears.



 bass horn  n.  A tuba.



 bassinet  n.  An oblong basketlike bed for an infant. [Fr., small basin.]



 bassist  n.  A double bass player.



 basso  n. pl. bassos  or bassi  A bass singer, esp. an operatic bass.
 [Ital. < Med. Lat. bassus, low.]



 bassoon  n.  A low-pitched woodwind instrument with a double reed, having
 a long wooden body attached to a lateral tube that leads to the mouthpiece.
 [Fr. basson < Ital. bassone, augmentative of basso, basso.]   bassoonist n.




 basso profundo  n. pl. basso profundos  or bassi profundi  1. A bass voice
 of the lowest range. 2. A singer having a basso profundo. [Ital.]



 basso-relievo  n. pl. -vos  Low relief. [Ital. bassorilievo. -see
 bas-relief.]



 bass viol  n.  Music.  1. A double bass. 2. A viola da gamba.



 basswood  n.  1. Any of several linden trees of eastern North America,
 esp. Tilia americana, having clusters of fragrant yellowish flowers. 2. The
 soft, light-colored wood of a basswood.



 bast  n.  1. The fibrous or somewhat woody outer layer of the stems of
 such plants as flax, hemp, and ramie. 2. Fibrous material obtained
 primarily from plants or from certain trees and used to make cordage and
 textiles. [ME, inner bark of the linden tree < OE baest.]



 bastard  n.  1. An illegitimate child. 2. Something of irregular,
 inferior, or dubious origin. 3.  Slang. A mean or disagreeable person.
 -adj. 1. Born of unwed parents; illegitimate. 2. Not genuine; spurious. 3.
 Of inferior breed or kind. 4. Resembling a known kind or species but not
 truly such: bastard toadflax.  [ME < OFr., perh. < (fils de) bast, (child
 of) a pack saddle.]   bastardly adj.



 bastardize  tr.v. -ized -izing -izes   To debase; corrupt.
 bastardization n.



 bastard toadflax  n.  A plant of the genus Comandra, esp. C. umbellata, of
 eastern North America, having rounded clusters of small greenish flowers.



 bastard wing  n.  An alula.



 bastardy  n.  1. The condition of being of illegitimate birth;
 illegitimacy. 2. The begetting of a bastard.



 baste
 baste(1)  tr.v. basted basting bastes   To sew loosely with large running
 stitches so as to hold together temporarily. [ME basten < OFr. bastir.]
 baster n.
 baste(2)  tr.v. basted basting bastes   To moisten (meat, for example)
 periodically with a liquid, as butter or sauce, esp. while cooking. [Orig.
 unknown.]   baster n.
 baste(3)  tr.v. basted basting bastes   1. To beat vigorously; thrash. 2.
 To berate. [Orig. unknown.]



 bastille or bastile   n.  1. A prison; jail. 2. Bastille  A fortress in
 Paris used as a prison until its capture at the outset of the French
 Revolution. [ME bastel < OFr. bastille < Med. Lat. bastile < bastire, to
 build.]



 Bastille Day  n.  July 14 observed in France in commemoration of the
 destruction of the Bastille in 1789.



 bastinado or bastinade   n. pl. -does  or -nades  1. A beating with a
 stick or cudgel, esp. on the soles of the feet. 2. A stick or cudgel.
 -tr.v.-doed -doing -does  or -naded  or -nading  or -nades   To subject to
 a beating; thrash. [Sp. bastonada < baston, stick < LLat. bastum.]



 basting  n.  1. The act of sewing together loosely. 2. The thread used to
 baste. 3. The loose stitches used to baste.



 bastion  n.  1. A projecting part of a rampart or other fortification. 2.
 A well-fortified position or area. 3. Something regarded as a defensive
 stronghold. [Fr. < Ital. bastione < bastire, to build.]   bastioned adj.



 bastnaesite  n.  A yellowish to reddish-brown mineral fluorocarbonate,
 used as a rare-earth ore. [Swed. bastnasit, after Bastnas, a region of
 Sweden.]



 bat
 bat(1)  n.  1. A stout wooden stick or club; cudgel. 2. A blow, as with a
 stick. 3.  a. A rounded, usually wooden club, wider and heavier at the
 hitting end and tapering at the handle, used to strike a baseball. b. A
 wooden club of similar function in cricket, having a broad, flat-surfaced
 hitting end and a distinct, narrow handle. c. The racket used in various
 other games, such as squash. 4.  Slang. A binge; spree.   -v.batted batting
 bats   -tr. 1. To hit with or as if with a club or bat. 2.  Baseball. To
 have (a certain percentage) as a batting average. 3.  Informal. To produce
 in a hurried manner: bat out a speech.  4.  Informal. To discuss or
 consider at length: bat an idea around.  -intr. 1.  Baseball.  a. To use a
 bat. b. To have a turn at bat. 2.  Slang. To go from place to place
 aimlessly; wander.

       Idiom Section:  at bat. Taking one's turn to bat, as in baseball. go
 to bat for. Informal.  To give assistance to; support or defend. right off
 the bat. Informal.  Without hesitation; immediately. [ME < OE batt.]
 bat(2)  n.  Any of various nocturnal flying mammals of the order
 Chiroptera, having membranous wings that extend from the forelimbs to the
 hind limbs or tail. [Alteration of ME bakke, of Scand. orig.]
 bat(3)  tr.v. batted batting bats   To wink or flutter: bat one's
 eyelashes.  [Prob. a var. of bate2.]



 batch
 batch(1)  n.  1. An amount produced at one baking: a batch of cookies.  2.
 The quantity produced as the result of one operation: a batch of cement.
 3. The quantity of material needed for one operation: a batch of dough.  4.
 A group of persons or things: a batch of tourists.  5.  Computer Science. A
 set of data or jobs to be processed in a single program run. [ME bacche <
 OE *baecce < bacan, to bake.]
 batch(2)  v.  Variant of bach.



 bate
 bate(1)  tr.v. bated bating bates   1. To lessen the force of; moderate. 2.
 To take away; subtract. -See Usage note at bait. [ME baten, short for
 abaten. -see abate.]
 bate(2)  intr.v. bated bating bates   To flap the wings wildly in
 impatience. Used of a falcon. [ME baten < OFr. batre, to beat.]



 bateau  n. pl. -teaux  A light, flat-bottomed boat, used esp. in Louisiana
 and Canada. [Fr., boat < OFr. batel, prob. < OE bat.]



 bateau bridge  n.  A pontoon bridge.



 Batesian mimicry  n.  The resemblance of a harmless species to a species
 whose defense against predation is based on repellent traits. [After Henry
 W. Bates (1825-1892).]



 batfish  n. pl. batfish  or -fishes  Any of various marine anglerfishes of
 the family Ogcocephalidae, having a retractable appendage above the mouth.



 batfowl  intr.v. -fowled -fowling -fowls   To catch roosting birds at
 night by blinding them with a light.



 bath
 bath(1)  n. pl. baths  1. The act of washing or soaking the body, as in
 water or steam. 2. The water used for a bath. 3.  a. A bathtub. b. A
 bathroom. 4.  a. A building equipped for bathing. b. baths  A spa. 5. A
 liquid or a liquid and its container in which something is dipped or soaked
 in order to process it in some way: a bath of dye.  [ME < OE baeo.]
 bath(2)   n.  An ancient Hebrew unit of liquid measure, equal to
 approximately ten U.S. gallons. [Heb.]



 Bath chair  n.  A hooded wheelchair used esp. for invalids, as at a spa.
 [After Bath, England.]



 bathe  v. bathed bathing bathes   -intr. 1. To take a bath. 2. To go into
 the water for swimming or recreation. 3. To become immersed in or as if in
 liquid. -tr. 1. To immerse in liquid; wet. 2. To wash in a liquid. 3. To
 apply a liquid to for soothing or healing purposes. 4. To seem to wash or
 pour over; suffuse. [ME bathen < OE baoian.]   bather n.



 bathetic  adj.  Characterized by bathos. [Prob. a blend of bathos and
 pathetic.]



 bathhouse  n.  1. A building equipped with facilities for bathing. 2. A
 building with dressing rooms for swimmers.



 bathing suit  n.  A swimsuit.



 batho-   Variant of bathy-.



 batholith  n.  Igneous rock that has melted and intruded surrounding
 strata at great depths.   batholithic adj.



 bathometer  n.  An instrument used to measure the depth of water.



 bathophobia  n.  An abnormal fear of depths.



 bathos  n.  1.  a. A ludicrously abrupt transition from an elevated to a
 commonplace style. b. An anticlimax. 2.  a. Insincere or grossly
 sentimental pathos. b. Triteness or dullness. [Gk., depth.]



 bathrobe  n.  A loose-fitting robe worn before and after bathing and for
 lounging.



 bathroom  n.  A room equipped with facilities for taking a bath or shower
 and usually also containing a sink and toilet.



 bath salts  pl.n.  A perfumed crystalline substance for softening
 bathwater.



 bathtub  n.  A tub for bathing, esp. one permanently installed in a
 bathroom.



 bathy- or batho-    1. Deep; depth: batholith.  2. Deep-sea: bathysphere.
 [< Gk. bathus, deep.]



 bathymetry  n.  The measurement of the depth of large bodies of water.
 bathymetric bathymetrical  adj.   bathymetrically adv.



 bathypelagic  adj.  Of, relating to, or living in the depths of the ocean,
 esp. below 2,000 feet.



 bathyscaph or bathyscaphe   n.  A free-diving, self-contained deep-sea
 research vessel consisting essentially of a large flotation hull with a
 manned observation capsule fixed to its underside. [Fr. bathyscaphe : Gk.
 bathus, deep + Gk. scaphe, boat.]



 bathysphere  n.  A reinforced spherical deep-diving chamber.



 batik  n.  1.  a. A method of dyeing print into a fabric in which parts of
 the cloth not intended to be dyed are covered with removable wax. b. A
 design that is dyed into cloth by this method. 2. A cloth dyed by batik.
 [Malay < Javanese, painted.]



 batiste  n.  A fine, plain-woven fabric made from various fibers and used
 esp. for clothing. [Fr. < OFr.]



 batman  n.  An orderly of a British army officer. [Obs. bat, packsaddle <
 ME batt < OFr. bat.]



 bat mitzvah or bat mizvah
 bas mitzvah or bas mizvah    n.  1. A Jewish girl of 12 to 14 years of age
 who assumes her Jewish duties and responsibilities. 2. The ceremony that
 initiates and recognizes a girl as a bat mitzvah. [Heb. bat mitzvah : bat,
 daughter + mitzvah, commandment.]



 baton  n.  1. A short staff carried by some public officials as a symbol
 of office. 2. A slender wooden stick or rod used by a conductor to direct
 an orchestra or band. 3. A hollow metal rod with heavy rubber tips twirled
 by a drum major or majorette. [Fr. baton < OFr. baston.]



 batophobia  n.  An abnormal fear of being near an object of great height,
 such as a skyscraper or mountain. [Gk. batos, passable + -phobia.]



 batrachian  adj.  Of or pertaining to frogs and toads.   -n. A frog or
 toad. [< NLat. Batrachia, former order name < Gk. batrakhos, frog.]



 bats  adj.  Slang.  Crazy; insane.



 batsman  n.  A batter in baseball and cricket.



 batt  n.  A mass of cotton fibers; batting.



 battalion  n.  1. A tactical military unit typically consisting of a
 headquarters company and four infantry companies or a headquarters battery
 and four artillery batteries. 2. A large body of military troops. 3. A
 great number. [OFr. battaillon < OItal. battaglione < battaglia, a body of
 troops < VLat. *battalia. -see battle.]



 batten
 batten(1)  intr.v. -tened -tening -tens   1. To become fat. 2. To thrive
 and prosper, esp. at another's expense. [Ult. < ON batna, to improve.]
 batten(2)  n.  1. A narrow strip of wood used esp. for flooring. 2. One of
 several flexible strips of wood placed in pockets at the outer edge of a
 sail to keep it flat.   -tr.v.-tened -tening -tens   1. To furnish with
 battens. 2. To fasten or make secure with battens: batten down the hatches.
  [Alteration of baton.]



 batter
 batter(1)  v. -tered -tering -ters   -tr. 1. To beat heavily and repeatedly
 so as to hurt, bruise, or destroy. 2. To damage, as by heavy wear. -intr.
 To hit heavily and repeatedly.   -n. Printing.  A damaged area on the face
 of type or on a plate. [ME bateren < OFr. battre < Lat. battuere.]
 batter(2)  n.  The player at bat in baseball and cricket.
 batter(3)  n.  A thick, beaten liquid mixture, as of flour, milk, and eggs,
 used in cooking. [ME bater, prob. < bateren, to batter, beat.]
 batter(4)  n.  A slope, as of the outer side of a wall, that recedes from
 bottom to top.   -tr.v.-tered -tering -ters   To construct in a batter.
 [Orig. unknown.]



 battered child syndrome  n.  A combination of serious physical injuries,
 such as bruises, scratches, hematomas, burns, or malnutrition, inflicted on
 a child through gross abuse usually by parents or guardians.



 battering-ram or battering ram   n.  1. A heavy beam used in ancient
 warfare to batter down walls and gates. 2. A device resembling a
 battering-ram or used for similar purposes.



 battery  n. pl. -ies  1.  a. The act of beating or pounding. b.  Law. The
 unlawful beating of another person. 2.  a. An emplacement for one or more
 pieces of artillery. b. A set of guns or other heavy artillery, as on a
 warship. c. The basic tactical artillery unit, corresponding to the company
 in the infantry. 3. An array or grouping of like things to be used
 together. 4. The pitcher and catcher on a baseball team. 5. The percussion
 section of an orchestra. 6. A device for generating an electric current by
 chemical reaction. [Fr. batterie < battre, to batter < OFr.]



 batting  n.  1. The action of one who bats. 2. Cotton or wool fiber wadded
 into rolls or sheets; and used for stuffing furniture and mattresses and
 lining quilts.



 battle  n.  1.  a. A large-scale combat between two armed forces. b. Armed
 fighting; combat: wounded in battle.  2. An intense competition, esp.
 between two persons; struggle.   -v.-tled -tling -tles   -intr. To engage
 in or as if in battle. -tr. To fight against. [ME bataille < OFr. < VLat.
 *battalia < LLat. battualia, fighting and fencing exercises < Lat.
 battuere, to batter.]   battler n.



 battle-ax or battle-axe   n.  1. A broad-headed ax formerly used as a
 weapon. 2.  Informal. A quarrelsome, overbearing woman.



 battle cruiser  n.  A warship with less heavy armor than a battleship and
 with the speed of a cruiser.



 battle cry  n.  1. A shout uttered by troops in battle. 2. A slogan used
 by the proponents of a cause.



 battledore  n.  1. An early form of badminton played with a flat wooden
 paddle and a shuttlecock. 2. The paddle used in battledore. [ME batildore,
 perh. < OProv. batedor.]



 battle fatigue  n.  Combat fatigue.



 battlefield  n.  1. A field or area where a battle is fought. 2. A sphere
 of contention.



 battlefront  n.  The area where opponents meet or clash in battle: a
 contest fought on political and military battlefronts.



 battleground  n.  A battlefield.



 battlement  n.  A parapet built on top of a wall, with indentations for
 defense or decoration. [ME batelment < OFr. battillement.]   battlemented
 adj.



 battle royal  n. pl. battles royal  1. A battle or confused fight in which
 numerous combatants participate. 2. A fight to the finish. 3. An intense
 altercation.



 battleship  n.  Any of a class of modern warships of the largest size,
 carrying the greatest number of guns and batteries and clad with the
 heaviest armor.



 battleship gray  n.  A medium gray.   battleship-gray adj.



 battlewagon  n.  Slang.  A battleship.



 batty  adj. -tier -tiest   Slang.  Crazy; insane.   battiness n.



 baubee  n.  Variant of bawbee.



 bauble  n.  1. A small, showy ornament of little value; trinket. 2.
 Archaic. A baton carried by a court jester as a mock scepter of his office.
 [ME babel < OFr., plaything.]



 baud  n.  Computer Science.  A unit of speed in data transmission, as one
 bit per second for binary signals. [After J.M.E. Baudot (d. 1903).]



 Bauhaus  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or characteristic of a 20th-century
 school of design whose aesthetic was influenced by and derived from
 techniques and materials employed esp. in industrial fabrication and
 manufacture. [G., an architecture school founded by Walter Gropius
 (1883-1969).]



 baulk  v.  -n. Variant of balk.



 Baume scale  n.  A hydrometer scale that separately covers liquids with
 specific gravities greater and less than 1. [After Antoine Baume
 (1728-1804).]



 bauxite  n.  The principal ore of aluminum, 30 to 75 per cent Al2O3nH2O,
 with ferric oxide and silica as impurities. [Fr., after Les Baux, France.]



 Bavarian  n.  1. A native or inhabitant of Bavaria. 2. The High German
 dialect of Bavaria and Austria.   Bavarian adj.



 bawbee or baubee   n.  Scots.  A halfpenny. [After Alexander Orrok, Laird
 of Sillbawby, 16th-cent. Scottish master of the mint.]



 bawd  n.  1. A woman who keeps a brothel; madam. 2. A prostitute. [ME
 bawde, prob. < OFr. baude, bold < OHG bald.]



 bawdry  n.  Obscene, risque, or coarse language. [ME bawdery < bawde,
 bawd.]



 bawdy  adj. -ier -iest   1. Humorously coarse; risque. 2. Vulgar; lewd.
 bawdily adv.   bawdiness n.



 bawdyhouse  n.  A house of prostitution.



 bawl  v. bawled bawling bawls   -intr. 1. To cry or sob loudly; wail. 2.
 To cry out loudly and vehemently; shout. -tr. To utter in a loud, vehement
 voice. Phrasal verb.  bawl out. Informal.  To reprimand or scold loudly or
 harshly.   -n. A loud, bellowing cry; wail. [ME baulen, to bark, of Scand.
 orig.]   bawler n.



 bay
 bay(1)  n.  1. A body of water partly enclosed by land but with a wide
 outlet to the sea. 2.  a. A broad stretch of low land between hills. b. An
 arm of prairie partly enclosed by woodland. [ME baye < OFr. baie < LLat.
 baia, perh. < Iberian.]
 bay(2)  n.  1.  Architecture. A part of a building or other structure
 marked off by vertical elements. 2.  a. A bay window. b. An opening or
 recess in a wall. 3. An extension of a building; wing. 4. A compartment in
 a barn used for storing hay or grain. 5. A ship's sickbay. 6. A bomb bay in
 an aircraft. [ME < OFr. baee, an opening < baer, to gape.]
 bay(3)  adj.  Reddish-brown: a bay colt.    -n. 1. A reddish brown. 2. A
 reddish-brown animal, esp. a horse. [ME < OFr. bai < Lat. badius.]
 bay(4)  n.  1. A deep, prolonged bark, as of hounds. 2. The position of one
 cornered by pursuers and forced to turn and fight at close quarters. 3. The
 position of one checked or kept at a safe distance.   -v.bayed baying bays
  -intr. To utter a bay. -tr. 1. To pursue with barking. 2. To express by
 barking. 3. To bring to bay. [ME < baien, to bark < OFr. baiier.]
 bay(5)  n.  1. The laurel (sense 1). 2. A crown or wreath made esp. of the
 leaves and branches of the bay and given as a sign of honor. 3. bays
 Renown; honor. [ME bai, laurel berry < OFr. baie < Lat. baca, berry.]



 bayadere  n.  A fabric with contrasting horizontal stripes. [Fr. bayadere
 < Port. bailadeira, dancer < bailar, to dance < LLat. ballare < Gk.
 ballizein.]



 bayberry  n.  1. Any of several aromatic shrubs or small trees of the
 genus Myrica, esp. M. pensylvanica, of eastern North America, bearing gray,
 waxy berries. 2. A tropical American tree, Pimenta acris, yielding an oil
 used in making bay rum. 3. The fruit of a bayberry.



 bay leaf  n.  The dried aromatic leaf of the bay, Laurus nobilis, or of
 the bayberry, Pimenta acris, used as seasoning in cooking.



 bay lynx  n.  The bobcat.



 bayonet  n.  A knife adapted to fit the muzzle end of a rifle and used in
 close combat.   -tr.v.-neted -neting -nets  or -netted  or -netting  or
 -nets   To stab or prod with a bayonet. [Fr. baionnette < Bayonne, a city
 in France.]



 bayou  n.  A marshy, sluggish body of water tributary to a lake or river.
 [Louisiana Fr. < Choctaw bayuk.]



 bay rum  n.  An aromatic liquid obtained by distilling the leaves of the
 bayberry tree, Pimenta acris, with rum or synthesized from alcohol, water,
 and various oils.



 bay rum tree  n.  The bayberry.



 bay window  n.  1. A large window or series of windows projecting from the
 outer wall of a building and forming a recess within. 2.  Slang. A
 protruding belly; paunch.



 bazaar or bazar   n.  1. An Oriental market consisting of a street lined
 with shops and stalls. 2. A shop or part of a store for the sale of
 miscellaneous articles. 3. A fair or sale at which miscellaneous articles
 are sold, often for charitable purposes. [Prob. < Ital. bazarro < Pers.
 bazar.]



 bazooka  n.  A portable military weapon consisting of a long metal
 smoothbore tube for firing small, armor-piercing rockets at short range.
 [After the bazooka, a crude wind instrument made of pipes, invented and
 named by Bob Burns (1896-1956).]



 BB  n.  A standard size of lead shot that measures about .46 cm., or 0.18
 in., in diameter. [Perh. from the letter b.]



 BB gun  n.  A small air rifle for firing BB shot.



 B cell  n.  A lymphocyte derived from bone marrow that takes part in the
 immune responses. [b(one-marrow-derived + cell.]



 bdellium  n.  An aromatic gum resin similar to myrrh, produced by various
 trees of the genus Commiphora, of western Asia and Africa. [Lat. < Gk.
 bdellion, of Semitic orig.]



 be  intr.v.  1. To exist in actuality; have reality or life: I think,
 therefore I am.  2. To occupy a specified position: The food is on the
 table.  3. To take place; occur. 4. To go. Used chiefly in the past and
 perfect tenses: Have you ever been to Italy?  5.  Archaic. To belong;
 befall. 6. Used as a copula linking a subject and a predicate nominative,
 adjective, or pronoun, in such senses as: a. To equal in meaning or
 identity:  To be a Christian was to be a Roman (James Bryce). b. To
 signify; symbolize: A is excellent, C is passing.  c. To belong to a
 specified class or group: Man is a primate.  d. To have or show a specified
 quality or characteristic: She is lovely. All men are mortal.    -aux. 1.
 Used with the past participle of a transitive verb to form the passive
 voice: The mayoral election is held annually.  2. Used with the present
 participle of a verb to express a continuing action: We are working to
 improve housing conditions.  3. Used with the infinitive of a verb to
 express intention, obligation, or future action: She was to call before she
 left. He is to make the necessary changes.  4.  Archaic. Used with the past
 participle of certain intransitive verbs of motion to form the perfect
 tense:  Where be those roses gone which sweetened so our eyes? (Philip
 Sidney). [ME been < OE beon.]

      Usage: When pronouns follow a form of the verb to be,  the nominative
 is traditionally required, on the grounds that the pronoun denotes the same
 entity as the subject. Thus, the rules require it is I, that must be she,
 and so forth. The rules create problems, however, when the pronoun after to
 be  denotes an entity that is also understood to be the object of some
 other verb or preposition. Shall we say it is I she loves  or it is me she
 loves?  There is no strict rule, but given the natural tendency to use
 objective forms like me  rather than nominatives like I  in undecidable
 cases, the use of me  is entirely defensible here. It should also be noted
 that the use of the nominative following to be  sounds stilted when the
 verb has been contracted. Nevertheless, a purist would say it's I  rather
 than it's me,  or that's they  rather than that's them.



 Be   The symbol for the element beryllium.



 be-   1. Completely; thoroughly; excessively. Used as an intensive:
 bemoan.  2. On; around; over: besmear.  3. Used to form transitive verbs
 from nouns, adjectives, and intransitive verbs, as: a. Make; cause to
 become: besot.  b. Affect or provide with: bespangle.  [ME < OE bi-.]



 beach  n.  1. The shore of a body of water, esp. when sandy or pebbly. 2.
 The sand or pebbles on a shore.   -tr.v.beached beaching beaches   To haul
 or drive ashore. [Orig. unknown.]



 beach buggy  n.  A dune buggy.



 beachcomber  n.  1. One who lives on what can be found on beaches or in
 wharf areas. 2. A long wave rolling in toward a beach.



 beach flea  n.  Any of various small, jumping crustaceans of the family
 Orchestiidae, living on sandy beaches at or near the tide line.



 beach grass  n.  Any grass of the genus Ammophila, growing mostly on sandy
 shores and dunes and having spikelets in long, crowded clusters.



 beachhead  n.  1. A position on an enemy shoreline captured by troops in
 advance of an invading force. 2. A position that opens the way for further
 development; foothold.



 beach pea  n.  Either of two similar North American plants, Lathyrus
 maritimus, of the Atlantic coast, or L. littoralis, of the Pacific coast,
 having purplish flowers and sprawling stems.



 beach plum  n.  A seacoast shrub, Prunus maritima, of northeastern North
 America, having white flowers and edible, plumlike fruit.



 beach wormwood  n.  A seacoast plant, Artemisia stelleriana, native to
 Asia, covered with dense white down and having small yellow flowers.



 beacon  n.  1. A signal fire, esp. one used to warn of an enemy's
 approach. 2. A lighthouse or other signaling or guiding device on a coast.
 3. A radio transmitter that emits a characteristic signal as a warning or
 guide. 4. Something that warns or guides.   -tr. -intr.v.-coned -coning
 -cons   To provide with or serve as a beacon. [ME beken < OE beacen.]



 bead  n.  1.  a. A small, ball-shaped piece of material pierced for
 stringing or threading. b. beads  A necklace made of such pieces. c. beads
 A rosary. 2. A small, round object, esp.: a. A small drop of moisture. b. A
 bubble of gas in a liquid. c. A small knob of metal on the muzzle of a
 rifle or gun, used for sighting. 3. A strip of material, usually wood, with
 one molded edge placed flush against the inner part of a door or window
 frame.   -tr. -intr.v.beaded beading beads   To furnish with or collect
 into beads. [ME bede, rosary bead < OE gebed, prayer.]



 beading  n.  1. Beads or material used for beads. 2. Ornamentation with
 beads. 3. A narrow, half-rounded molding. 4. A narrow piece of openwork
 lace through which ribbon may be run.



 beadle  n.  A minor parish official in an English church whose duties
 include keeping order and ushering during services. [ME bedele, herald < OE
 bydel.]



 beadwork  n.  1. Decorative work in beads. 2.  Architecture. Beaded
 molding.



 beady  adj. -ier -iest   1. Small, round, and shiny: beady eyes.  2.
 Decorated or covered with beads.



 beagle  n.  One of a breed of small hounds having short legs, drooping
 ears, and a smooth coat with white, black, and tan markings. [ME begle.]



 beak  n.  1.  a. The horny, projecting structure forming the mandibles of
 a bird; bill. b. A part or organ resembling this, as in some turtles,
 insects, or fish. 2. A hard, cone-shaped, or pointed structure or part. 3.
 Informal. A person's nose. [ME bek < OFr. bec < Lat. beccus, of Celt.
 orig.]   beaked adj.



 beaker  n.  1. A large drinking cup with a wide mouth. 2. An open glass
 cylinder with a pouring lip, used as a laboratory container. [ME biker < ON
 bikarr, prob. < Med. Lat. bicarius < Gk. bikos, jug.]



 beam  n.  1. A squared-off log or large, oblong piece of timber, metal, or
 stone used esp. in construction. 2. The breadth of a ship at the widest
 point. 3.  Informal. The width across a person's hips. 4. A steel tube or
 wooden roller on which the warp is wound in a loom. 5. An oscillating lever
 connected to an engine piston rod and used to transmit power to the
 crankshaft. 6. The bar of a balance from which weighing pans are suspended.
 7. One of the main stems of a deer's antlers. 8. The main horizontal bar on
 a plow to which the share, colter, and handles are attached. 9.  a. A ray
 of light. b. A group of particles traveling together in close parallel
 trajectories. 10. A radio beam.   -v.beamed beaming beams   -intr. 1. To
 radiate light; shine. 2. To smile expansively. -tr. To emit or transmit.

       Idiom Section:  on the beam. 1. Following a radio beam, as an
 aircraft. 2.  Informal. On the right track; operating correctly. [ME < OE
 beam.]



 beam-ends  pl.n.  The ends of a ship's beams.



 beamish  adj.  Beaming; smiling.   beamishly adv.



 beamy  adj. -ier -iest   1. Broad in the beam. 2. Emitting beams, as of
 light; radiant.



 bean  n.  1.  a. Any of several plants of the genus Phaseolus, having
 compound leaves, white or yellow flowers, and seed-bearing pods. b. The
 edible seed or pod of any of these plants. c. Any of several related plants
 bearing similar pods and seeds. d. Any of various other seeds or pods
 resembling beans, as the coffee bean. 2.  Slang. The head. 3. beans
 Slang. A small amount: don't know beans about the market.  4.  Chiefly
 British.  Slang. A fellow; chap.   -tr.v.beaned beaning beans   Slang.  To
 hit on the head with a thrown object, esp. a pitched baseball.

       Idiom Section:  full of beans. Energetic. spill the beans. . To
 disclose something that was not meant to be disclosed. [ME bene < OE bean.]




 beanbag  n.  A small bag filled with dried beans and used for throwing in
 games.



 bean ball  n.  A baseball pitch aimed at the batter's head.



 bean blight  n.  A disease of the bean caused by the bacterium Xanthomonas
 phaseoli, which results in yellow-brown blotches on all parts of the plant.




 bean caper  n.  A plant of the genus Zygophyllum, esp. Z. fabago, a shrub
 of the Middle East, bearing edible buds used as capers.



 bean curd  n.  A soft, cheeselike food made from pureed soy beans.
 [Transl. of Chin. (Mandarin) dou4 fu3 : dou4, bean + fu3, curdled.]



 beanie  n.  A small brimless cap.



 beano  n. pl. -os  A form of bingo, esp. one using beans as markers.



 beanpole  n.  1. A thin pole used to support bean vines. 2.  Slang. A very
 tall, thin person.



 bean sprout  n.  A young, tender shoot of certain beans, such as the
 soybean, used in cooking.



 beanstalk  n.  The stem of a bean plant.



 bean tree  n.  Any of various trees, such as the catalpa, that bear
 beanlike fruit.



 bear
 bear(1)  v. bore borne  or born  or bearing  or bears   -tr. 1. To hold up;
 support. 2. To move while supporting; carry. 3. To carry in the mind;
 harbor: bore grudges.  4. To transmit; relate: bearing glad tidings.  5. To
 have as a visible characteristic: bore a scar on his arm.  6. To have as a
 quality; exhibit. 7. To carry (oneself) in a specified way; conduct: bore
 herself with grace.  8. To be accountable for; assume: bearing heavy
 responsibilities.  9. To have a tolerance for; endure: couldn't bear his
 lying.  10. To be susceptible to; admit of: The case will bear
 investigation.  11. To give birth to. 12. To produce; yield: plants bearing
 flowers.  13. To offer; render: bearing witness.  14. To move by steady
 pressure; push: boats borne by the tides.  -intr. 1. To yield a product;
 produce. 2. To have relevance; apply: how the relativity theory bears on
 the history of science.  3. To exert pressure. 4. To exert oneself
 determinedly; forge. 5. To proceed or extend in a specified direction: bore
 right at the corner.  Phrasal verb.  bear down. . 1. To overwhelm;
 vanquish: bore down all opposition.  2. To apply maximum effort and
 concentration: really bore down and finished the task.  bear down on. . To
 affect in a harmful or adverse way: Financial pressures are bearing down on
 him.  bear out. . To prove right or justified; confirm: results that bear
 out his claims.  bear up. . To withstand stress, difficulty, or attrition:
 bore up well during the long illness.  bear with. . To be patient or
 tolerant with: Please bear with me while I explain.

       Idiom Section:  bear in mind. . To remember. [ME beren < OE beran.]

      Synonyms: bear endure stand suffer abide
 tolerate These verbs are compared in the sense of withstanding, sustaining,
 or putting up with. Bear  pertains broadly to capacity for such an act.
 Endure  specifies a continuing capacity to face pain or harship. The
 remaining terms are more descriptive of the manner of withstanding or
 accepting. Stand  implies resoluteness of spirit. Suffer  and the less
 emphatic abide  suggest resignation and forebearance. Tolerate , in its
 principal application (to something other than pain), connotes reluctant
 acceptance despite mental reservations.


      Usage: In its literal sense the past participle born  is used only of
 mammals and only in construction with to be: The baby was born.  (It may
 also be used figuratively: A star is born.) Borne,  said of the act of
 birth, refers only to the mother's role, but it can be used actively or
 passively: She has borne three children. Three children were borne by her
 (but born to her ). In all other senses of bear  the past participle is
 borne: The soil has borne abundant crops. Such a burden cannot be borne by
 anyone.
 bear(2)  n.  1.  a. Any of various usually omnivorous mammals of the family
 Ursidae, having a shaggy coat and a short tail and walking with the entire
 lower surface of the foot touching the ground. b. Any of various animals,
 such as the koala, resembling a bear. 2. A person who is awkward, clumsy,
 or ill-mannered. 3. An investor or concern that sells securities or
 commodities in the expectation that prices will fall. [ME bere < OE bera.]




 bearable  adj.  Capable of being borne; endurable.   bearability n.
 bearably adv.



 bearbaiting  n.  The former sport of setting dogs to attack or torment a
 chained bear.



 bearberry  n.  A trailing shrub, Arctostaphylos uva-ursi, of northern
 regions, having small evergreen leaves, white or pink flowers, and red
 berries.



 beard  n.  1. The hair on the chin, cheeks, and throat of a man. 2. A
 hairy or hairlike growth such as that on or near the face of certain
 mammals. 3. A tuft or group of bristles on certain plants; awn. 4. The part
 of a piece of type between the face and the shoulder; neck.   -tr.v.bearded
 bearding beards   1. To furnish with a beard. 2. To grasp by the beard. 3.
 To confront boldly. [ME berd < OE beard.]   bearded adj.   beardedness n.
 beardless adj.   beardlessness n.



 bearded iris  n.  Any of many varieties of iris having beardlike growths
 at the bases of the three lower, recurved petals.



 bearded vulture  n.  The lammergeier.



 beard-tongue  n.  Any of various plants of the genus Penstemon, mostly of
 North America, having variously colored, tubular, two-lipped flowers.



 bearer  n.  1. One that carries or supports. 2. A porter. 3. A person who
 presents a check or other redeemable note for payment. 4. A fruit-bearing
 plant.



 bearer bond  n.  A bond payable to the holder.



 bear grass  n.  1. A tall plant, Xerophyllum tenax, of northwestern North
 America, having narrow, grasslike leaves and white flowers in a large
 terminal cluster. 2. Any of several plants similar or related to the bear
 grass, esp. any of several species of yucca.



 bear hug  n.  A rough hug.



 bearing  n.  1. The manner in which a person carries or conducts himself:
 the poise and bearing of a champion.  2.  a. A part that supports another
 machine part or structure. b. A device that supports, guides, and reduces
 the friction of motion between fixed and moving machine parts. 3. Something
 that bears weight or acts as a support. 4. The part of an arch or beam that
 rests on a support. 5.  a. The act, power, or period of producing fruit or
 offspring. b. The quantity produced; yield. 6. Direction, esp. angular
 direction measured from one position to another using geographical or
 celestial reference lines. 7. bearings  The awareness of one's position or
 situation relative to one's surroundings. 8. Relevancy, relationship, or
 connection between persons, objects, or concepts: facts with no bearing on
 our situation.  9. A charge or device on a heraldic field.

      Synonyms: bearing carriage manner demeanor air
 mien presence These nouns pertain to distinctive personal qualities.
 Bearing , the most inclusive, applies to both physical posture and conduct
 in general. Carriage  denotes physical bearing. Manner  denotes one's
 characteristic way of acting; the plural manners  applies especially to the
 social proprieties. Demeanor  is behavior considered as a mirror of
 personality. Air  pertains broadly to distinctive appearance, and mien  to
 bearing in general and to facial expression in particular. Presence
 denotes the quality of commanding respectful attention.




 bearing rein  n.  A rein for a horse; checkrein.



 bearish  adj.  1. Like a bear in clumsiness, boorishness, or surliness. 2.
  a. Causing, expecting, or characterized by falling stock-market prices. b.
 Pessimistic, negative, or skeptical.   bearishly adv.   bearishness n.



 bearnaise sauce  n.  A sauce similar to hollandaise but flavored with
 tarragon, shallots, and chervil.



 bearskin  n.  1. Something, as a rug, made from the skin of a bear. 2. A
 tall military headdress made of black fur.



 beast  n.  1.  a. An animal as distinguished from man. b. A large,
 four-footed animal. 2. The qualities of an animal; animal nature. 3. A
 brutal or vile person. [ME beste < OFr. < Lat. bestia.]



 beast epic  n.  A long verse narrative in which the characters are animals
 with human feelings and motives.



 beastings  n.  Variant of beestings.



 beastly  adj. -lier -liest   1. Of or like a beast; bestial. 2.
 Disagreeable; nasty: beastly behavior.    -adv. Chiefly British.  Informal.
  Used as an intensive: a beastly hot month.    beastliness n.



 beast of burden  n.  An animal, such as a donkey, used for transporting
 loads.



 beat  v. beat beaten  or beat  or beating  or beats   -tr. 1. To strike or
 hit repeatedly. 2. To punish by hitting or whipping; flog. 3. To pound or
 strike against repeatedly: waves beating the shore.  4. To shape or break
 by repeated blows; forge: beat the glowing metal into a dagger.  5. To make
 flat by pounding or trampling. 6. To mix rapidly with an instrument: beat
 two eggs in a bowl.  7. To flap, as wings. 8. To strike so as to produce a
 signal or music: beat the drum.  9. To mark or count (time or rhythm) with
 the hands or with a baton. 10. To defeat or subdue, as in a contest. 11.
 Informal. To be superior; surpass: Riding beats walking.  12.  Slang. To
 perplex or baffle. 13.  Informal. To avoid or counter the effects of;
 circumvent: beat the traffic.  -intr. 1. To inflict repeated blows. 2. To
 throb or pulsate rhythmically. 3.  Physics. To cause beating by superposing
 waves of different frequencies. 4. To emit sound when struck: The gong beat
 thunderously.  5. To sound a signal, as on a drum. 6. To flap repeatedly.
 7. To hunt through woods or underbrush in search of game. 8.  Nautical. To
 progress against the wind by tacking. Phrasal verb.  beat back. To force to
 retreat or withdraw. beat down. To force or persuade (a seller) to accept a
 lower price. beat off. To drive away. beat out. Baseball.  To make a hit on
 a ground ball by fast running to first base.   -n. 1. A stroke or blow,
 esp. one that produces a sound or acts as a signal. 2. A periodic pulsation
 or throb. 3.  Physics. An amplitude pulse produced by beating. 4.  Music.
 a. A regular and rhythmical unit of time. b. The gesture used by a
 conductor to indicate this unit of time. c. The symbol representing this
 unit of time. 5. The measured and rhythmical sound of verse; meter. 6. The
 area regularly covered by a policeman, sentry, or newspaper reporter. 7.
 Slang. The reporting of a news item obtained ahead of one's competitors. 8.
 A beatnik   -adj. 1.  Informal. Worn-out; fatigued. 2. Of, pertaining to,
 or being a beatnik: the beat generation.

       Idiom Section:  beat around aboutthe bush. . To approach a subject in
 a roundabout manner. beat it. . Slang.  To get going; leave hurriedly. [ME
 beten < OE beaten.]



 beaten  adj.  1. Made thin or formed by hammering: beaten gold.  2. Worn
 by continuous use; familiar and much traveled: a beaten path.  3. Tired and
 worn-out.

       Idiom Section:  off the beaten path track. Not well-known; unusual.



 beater  n.  1. One that beats, esp. an instrument for beating: a carpet
 beater.  2. A person who drives wild game from under cover for a hunter.



 beatific  adj.  Showing or producing exalted joy or blessedness: a
 beatific smile.  [LLat. beatificus : Lat.  beatus, p.part. of beare, to
 bless + facere, to make.]   beatifically adv.



 beatify  tr.v. -fied -fying -fies   1. To make blessedly happy. 2.  Roman
 Catholic Chruch. To proclaim (a deceased person) to be one of the blessed
 and thus worthy of public religious honor. 3. To exalt above all others.
 [Fr. beatifier < LLat. beatificare : Lat. beatus, p.part. of beare, to
 bless + Lat. facere, to make.]   beatification n.



 beating  n.  1. Punishment by whipping, flogging, or thrashing. 2. A
 defeat. 3. A throbbing or pulsation, as of the heart. 4.  Physics. The
 periodic alternation of amplitude maxima and minima produced by
 interference between two waves of different frequency.



 beatitude  n.  1. Supreme blessedness or happiness. 2. Beatitude  Any of
 nine declarations of blessedness made by Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount.
 [Fr. beatitude < Lat. beatitudo < beare, to bless.]



 beatnik  n.  A person who acts and dresses with pointed, often exaggerated
 disregard for what is thought proper and who is given to radical and
 extravagant social criticism or self-expression. [< beat generation, a
 group of unconventional young people of the 1950's + -nik.]



 beau  n. pl. beaus  or beaux  1. The sweetheart of a woman or girl. 2. A
 man who is excessively interested in fine clothes and social etiquette;
 dandy. [Fr., handsome < Lat. bellus.]



 Beau Brummell  n.  A dandy; fop. [After George Bryan ("Beau") Brummell
 (1778-1840).]



 Beaufort scale  n.  A scale on which successive ranges of wind velocities
 are assigned code numbers from 0 to 12 or from 0 to 17, corresponding to
 names from calm to hurricane.  [After Sir Francis Beaufort (1774-1857).]



 beau geste  n. pl. beaux gestes  or beau gestes  1. A gracious gesture. 2.
 A gesture noble in form but meaningless in substance. [Fr.]



 beau ideal  n. pl. beau ideals  1. The concept of perfect beauty. 2. An
 idealized type or model. [Fr. beau ideal, ideal beauty.]



 Beaujolais  n.  A red table wine of French origin. [After Beaujolais, a
 region of central France.]



 beau monde  n. pl. beaux mondes  or beau mondes  The world of fashionable
 society. [Fr., fine world.]



 beaut  n.  Slang.  Something outstanding of its kind:  When I make a
 mistake, its a beaut (Fiorello H. La Guardia). [Short for beauty.]



 beauteous  adj.  Beautiful, esp. to the sight.   beauteously adv.
 beauteousness n.



 beautician  n.  One skilled in cosmetic treatments, as in a beauty parlor.




 beautiful  adj.  Having beauty in any of its forms; pleasing to the senses
 or the mind.   beautifully adv.   beautifulness n.

      Synonyms: beautiful lovely pretty handsome comely
 fair All these adjectives apply to that which appeals to the senses or
 mind. Beautiful , the most comprehensive, applies to what stirs a
 heightened response of the senses and of the mind on its highest level.
 Lovely  pertains to that which inspires ardent emotion rather than
 intellectual appreciation. Pretty  suggests only sensory appeal of a
 limited and superficial nature. Handsome  stresses visual appeal by reason
 of conformity to ideals of form and proportion. Comely  is usually
 restricted to wholesome physical attractiveness. Fair , in this context,
 emphasizes visual appeal deriving from freshness and purity.




 beautiful people or Beautiful People   pl.n.  People who are prominent,
 esp. in international society.



 beautify  tr.  -intr.v.-fied -fying -fies   To make or become beautiful.
 beautification n.   beautifier n.



 beauty  n. pl. -ties  1. A pleasing quality associated with harmony of
 form or color, excellence of craftsmanship, truthfulness, originality, or
 another, often unspecifiable property. 2. A person or thing that is
 beautiful, esp. a beautiful woman. 3. A quality or feature that is most
 effective, gratifying, or telling: The beauty of the venture is that we
 stand to lose nothing.  4.  Informal. An outstanding or conspicuous
 example: a beauty of a faux pas.  [ME beaute < OFr. bealte < VLat.
 *bellitas < Lat. bellus, beautiful.]



 beautybush  n.  A shrub, Kolkwitzia amabilis, native to China, widely
 cultivated for its profusely blooming pink flowers.



 beauty parlor  n.  An establishment providing women with services that
 include hair treatment, manicures, and facials.



 beauty salon  n.  A beauty parlor.



 beauty shop  n.  A beauty parlor.



 beauty spot  n.  1. A small black mark penciled or glued on a woman's face
 or shoulders to accentuate the fairness of her skin or conceal an
 imperfection. 2. A mole or freckle.



 beaux  n.  A plural of beau.



 beaux-arts  pl.n.  The fine arts. [Fr.]



 beaux esprits  n.  Plural of bel esprit.



 beaux gestes  n.  A plural of beau geste.



 beaux mondes  n.  A plural of beau monde.



 beaver
 beaver(1)  n.  1.  a. A large aquatic rodent of the genus Castor, having
 thick brown fur, webbed hind feet, a paddlelike, hairless tail, and
 chisellike front teeth adapted for gnawing bark and felling trees used to
 build dams. b. The fur of a beaver. 2. A top hat originally made of the
 beaver's underfur. 3. A napped wool fabric, similar to felt, used for outer
 garments. [ME bever < OE beofor.]
 beaver(2)  n.  1. A piece of armor attached to a helmet or breastplate to
 protect the mouth and chin. 2. The visor on a helmet. [ME baviere < OFr.,
 child's bib < bave, saliva.]



 beaverboard  n.  A light, semirigid building material of compressed wood
 pulp, used for walls and partitions. [Orig. a trademark.]



 bebop  n.  Bop2. [Imit. of a two-beat phrase in this music.]



 becalm  tr.v. -calmed -calming -calms   1. To render motionless for lack
 of wind. 2. To make calm or still; soothe.



 became  v.  Past tense of become.



 because  conj.  For the reason that; since. [ME.]

      Usage: Because  is the most direct of the conjunctions used to express
 cause or reason. It is used to state an immediate and explicit cause: He
 stayed behind because he was ill. Since, as,  and for  are all less direct
 than because;  they often express the speaker's or writer's view of the
 causal relation between circumstances or events. The clause introduced by
 since  most frequently comes first in the sentence: Since he stayed behind,
 he must have been ill  (his staying behind leads the speaker to conclude
 that he must have been ill). As,  like since,  often indicates that what
 follows is the speaker's basis for coming to a certain conclusion: As I am
 ill, I would prefer to stay behind. For  is a coordinating conjunction,
 linking two independent statements. It expresses the speaker's reason for
 having said or concluded the previous statement: The man definitely stole
 the book, for I was watching and I saw him do it. As  and for  are now used
 primarily in formal levels of style.  Because  is sometimes used in
 informal speech to mean "just because," as in Because there's snow on the
 roof doesn't mean the fire is out in the basement.  This use of because
 should be avoided in writing. Traditional grammar holds that the expression
 the reason is because  is redundant and so should be avoided at all levels.
 This usage is well established, however, and has perfectly acceptable
 equivalents in expressions like the time was when.    When because  follows
 a negative verb or verb phrase, it should be preceded by a comma when the
 because  clause gives the subject's reason for not  doing something. He
 didn't leave, because he was hungry  means roughly "He stayed in order to
 eat." When no comma is used, the because  clause is understood as part of
 what is being negated. He didn't leave because he was hungry  means "His
 reason for staying was not hunger, but something else." The conjunctions
 since, as,  and for,  when used to express a causal relation, must be
 preceded by commas: He left, since he was hungry. I must go, as I have a
 great deal to do. There were no boats on the lake, for a strong wind had
 come up.



 because of  prep.  By reason of; on account of.



 beccafico  n. pl. -cos  A small songbird or warbler of various genera,
 eaten as a delicacy in Italy. [Ital. : beccare, to peck (< becco, beak <
 Lat. beccus) + fico, fig (< Lat. ficus).]



 bechamel sauce  n.  A white sauce of butter, flour, and milk or cream.
 [Fr. sauce bechamelle, after Louis de Bechamel (d. 1703), its inventor.]



 bechance  intr.  -tr.v.-chanced -chancing -chances   Archaic.  To happen
 or happen to.



 beche-de-mer  n. pl. beches-de-mer  1. The trepang. 2. A lingua franca
 that combines Malay and English, spoken in the southwest Pacific. [Fr. :
 beche, grub + de, of + mer, sea.]



 Bechuana  n. pl. Bechuana  or -nas  1. A member of a Bantu people
 inhabiting Botswana in south-central Africa. 2. The Bantu language of the
 Bechuana.



 beck
 beck(1)  n.  A gesture of beckoning or summons.

       Idiom Section:  at (someone's) beck and call. . Ready to comply with
 any wish or command. [ME bek, an order < bekken, to beckon.]
 beck(2)  n.  Chiefly British.  A small brook. [ME < ON bekkr.]



 becket  n.  Nautical.  A device, such as a looped rope, hook and eye,
 strap, or grommet, for holding or fastening loose ropes, spars, or oars in
 position. [Orig. unknown.]



 beckon  v. -oned -oning -ons   -tr. 1. To signal or summon, as by nodding
 or waving. 2. To attract as if with gestures:  a lovely, sunny country that
 seemed to beckon them on to the Emerald City (L. Frank Baum). -intr. 1. To
 make a signaling or summoning gesture. 2. To have a strong attraction; be
 enticing.   -n. A gesture or motion of summons. [ME beknen < OE becnan.]
 beckoner n.   beckoningly adv.



 becloud  tr.v. -clouded -clouding -clouds   To darken with or as if with
 clouds; obscure: a development that beclouds the real issues.



 become  v. -came   , -come, -coming, -comes. -intr. To grow or come to be:
  All women become like their mothers (Oscar Wilde). -tr. 1. To be
 appropriate or suitable to:  it would not become me . . . to interfere with
 parties (Jonathan Swift). 2. To show to advantage; look good with: a new
 dress that becomes you.  Phrasal verb.  become of. To be the fate or
 subsequent condition of. [ME becomen < OE becuman.]



 becoming  adj.  1. Appropriate or suitable. 2. Pleasing or attractive to
 the eye.   becomingly adv.   becomingness n.



 Becquerel ray  n.  Obsolete.  Radiation associated with radioactivity.
 [After Antoine Henri Becquerel (1852-1908).]



 becripple  tr.v. -pled -pling -ples   To cause to become crippled.



 bed  n.  1.  a. A piece of furniture for reclining and sleeping, typically
 consisting of a flat, rectangular frame and a mattress resting on springs.
 b. A bedstead. c. A mattress. 2. A place where one may sleep; lodging. 3. A
 time at which one goes to sleep: drank cocoa before bed.  4. A place for
 lovemaking. 5. A marital relationship with its rights and intimacies. 6. A
 small plot of cultivated or planted land: a flower bed.  7. The bottom of a
 watercourse or other body of water. 8. A supporting, underlying, or
 securing part, esp.: a. A layer of food surmounted by another kind of food.
 b. A foundation of crushed rock or a similar substance for a road or
 railroad; roadbed. c. A layer of mortar upon which stones or bricks are
 laid. 9.  Geology.  a. A rock mass of large horizontal extent bounded, esp.
 above, by physically different material. b. A deposit, as of ore, parallel
 to the local stratification.   -v.bedded bedding beds   -tr. 1. To furnish
 with a bed or sleeping quarters: bedded the guests down in the study.  2.
 To put to bed. 3. To plant in a prepared bed of soil. 4. To lay flat or
 arrange in layers. 5. To embed. -intr. 1. To go to bed. 2. To form layers
 or strata.

       Idiom Section:  go to bed with. To have sexual intercourse with. [ME
 < OE.]



 bedaub  tr.v. -daubed -daubing -daubs   1. To smear; soil. 2. To ornament
 in a vulgar and showy fashion.



 bedazzle  tr.v. -zled -zling -zles   To dazzle so completely as to confuse
 or blind.   bedazzlement n.



 bedbug or bed bug   n.  A wingless, bloodsucking insect, Cimex
 lectularius, that has a flat, reddish body and a disagreeable odor and that
 often infests human dwellings.



 bedchamber  n.  A bedroom.



 bedclothes  pl.n.  Coverings, such as sheets and blankets, ordinarily used
 on a bed.



 bedding  n.  1. Bedclothes. 2. Straw or similar material for animals to
 sleep on. 3. Something that forms a foundation or bottom layer. 4.
 Geology. Stratification of rocks into beds.



 bedeck  tr.v. -decked -decking -decks   To deck out or adorn in a showy
 fashion; cover with decorations.



 bedesman  n.  An almsman. [ME bedeman : bede, prayer (< OE gebed) + man,
 man (< OE mann).]



 bedevil  tr.v. -iled -iling -ils  or -illed  or -illing  or -ils   1. To
 torment devilishly; plague. 2. To worry, annoy, or frustrate. 3. To possess
 with or as if with a devil; bewitch. 4. To spoil; ruin.   bedevilment n.



 bedew  tr.v. -dewed -dewing -dews   To wet with or as if with dew.



 bedfast  adj.  Confined to bed; bedridden.



 bedfellow  n.  1. A person with whom one shares a bed; bedmate. 2. An
 associate, collaborator, or ally.



 Bedford cord  n.  A heavy cotton or woolen fabric in a ribbed weave with
 wide or narrow raised cords much like corduroy. [After Bedford, England.]



 bedight  tr.v. -dight  or -dighted  or -dighting  or -dights   Archaic.
 To dress or adorn. [ME bidighten.]



 bedim  tr.v. -dimmed -dimming -dims   To make dim.



 bedizen  tr.v. -zened -zening -zens   To dress or ornament in a vulgar or
 tasteless manner.   bedizenment n.



 bedlam  n.  1. A place or situation of noisy uproar and confusion. 2.
 Archaic. A lunatic asylum; madhouse. [ME Bedlem, Hospital of St. Mary of
 Bethlehem, London, an insane asylum.]



 bedlamite  n.  A madman; lunatic.



 Bedlington terrier  n.  A dog of a breed developed in England, having a
 woolly grayish or brownish coat. [After Bedlington, England.]



 bedmate  n.  One with whom a bed is shared.



 bed molding  n.  1. The molding between the corona and frieze of an
 entablature. 2. A molding below a projecting part.



 bed of roses  n.  A state of idyllic comfort or luxury.



 Bedouin or Beduin   n.  An Arab of any of the nomadic tribes of the
 deserts of North Africa, Arabia, and Syria. [ME Bedoin < OFr. beduin < Ar.
 badawin, pl. of badawi < badw, desert.]



 bedpan  n.  1. A metal, glass, or plastic receptacle for the excreta of
 bedridden persons. 2. A warming pan.



 bedplate  n.  A plate, frame, or platform serving as a base or support for
 a machine.



 bedpost  n.  A vertical post at the corner of a bed.



 bedraggle  tr.v. -gled -gling -gles   To make wet and limp.



 bedraggled  adj.  1.  a. Wet; limp. b. Soiled by or as if by dragging in
 the mud. 2. In a condition of deterioration; dilapidated.



 bedridden or bedrid   adj.  Confined to bed because of illness or
 infirmity. [ME bedreden < OE bedrida, bedridden person : bed, bed + rida,
 rider (< ridan, to ride).]



 bedrock  n.  1. The solid rock that underlies all soil, sand, clay,
 gravel, and loose material on the earth's surface. 2. The lowest or bottom
 level. 3. Fundamental principles.



 bedroll  n.  A portable roll of bedding used esp. by campers and others
 who sleep outdoors.



 bedroom  n.  A room for sleeping.   -adj. 1. Dealing with or suggestive of
 sexual relations: a bedroom comedy; bedroom eyes.  2. Relating to or
 inhabited by commuters: bedroom suburbs.



 bedside  n.  The space alongside a bed.   -adj. Near a bed: a bedside
 table.



 bedside manner  n.  The attitude and conduct of a doctor in the presence
 of a patient.



 bed-sit  n.  Chiefly British.  A bed-sitting-room.



 bed-sitting-room  n.  Chiefly British.  A one-room apartment that serves
 as a bedroom and a sitting room.



 bedsonia  n.  Any of a group of intracellular parasites, as of the genus
 Chlamydia, including the causative agents of trachoma and psittacosis.
 [NLat., after Sir Samuel P. Bedson (d. 1969).]



 bedsore  n.  A pressure-induced ulceration of the skin occurring during
 long confinement to bed.



 bedspread  n.  A usually decorative bed covering.



 bedspring  n.  The springs supporting the mattress of a bed.



 bedstead  n.  The frame supporting a bed.



 bedstraw  n.  Any of various plants of the genus Galium, having whorled
 leaves, small white or yellow flowers, and prickly burrs.



 bedtime  n.  The time when one goes to bed.



 bed-wetting  n.  Enuresis, esp. when occurring in bed at night.   bed
 wetter n.



 bee
 bee(1)  n.  1. Any of various winged, hairy-bodied, usually stinging
 insects of the order Hymenoptera, including many solitary species as well
 as the social members of the family Apidae, characterized by specialized
 structures for sucking nectar and gathering pollen from flowers. 2. A
 social gathering where people combine work, competition, and amusement: a
 quilting bee.  [ME < OE bea.]
 bee(2)  n.  A bee block. [ME bei, a metal ring < OE beag.]
 bee(3)  n.  The letter b.



 bee balm  n.  Oswego tea.



 bee block  n.  Nautical.  A piece of hardwood on either side of a bowsprit
 through which forestays are reeved.



 beebread  n.  A brownish substance consisting of a mixture of pollen and
 nectar, fed by bees to their larvae.



 beech  n.  1. A tree of the genus Fagus, characterized by smooth,
 light-colored bark and edible nuts partly enclosed in a prickly husk, esp.
 F. grandifolia, of eastern North America, and F. sylvatica, of Europe. 2.
 The wood of a beech. [ME beche < OE bece.]



 beechdrops  n. pl. beechdrops  A leafless plant, Epifagus virginiana, of
 eastern North America, that has brownish or purplish flowers and is
 parasitic on the roots of the beech tree.



 beechnut  n.  The small, edible nut of the beech tree.



 bee-eater  n.  Any of various chiefly tropical Old World birds of the
 family Meropidae, having brightly colored plumage and feeding chiefly on
 bees.



 beef  n. pl. beeves  1.  a. A full-grown steer, bull, ox, or cow, esp. one
 intended for use as meat. b. The flesh of a slaughtered full-grown steer,
 bull, ox, or cow. 2.  Informal. Human muscle; brawn. 3. pl.  beefs. Slang.
 A complaint.   -intr.v.beefed beefing beefs   Slang.  To complain. Phrasal
 verb.  beef up. Slang.  To reinforce; build up. [ME < OFr. boef < Lat.
 bos.]



 beefalo  n.  A hybrid resulting from a cross between the American buffalo
 and domestic cattle. [beef + (buff)alo.]



 beef bourguignon  n.  Braised beef cubes simmered in a seasoned red-wine
 sauce with mushrooms, carrots, and onions. [Fr. boeuf bourguignon <
 Bourgogne, Burgundy, a region of France.]



 beefburger  n.  A hamburger.



 beefcake  n.  Informal.  Photographs of minimally attired men with
 muscular physiques. [beef + (cheese)cake.]



 beefeater  n.  1. A yeoman of the royal guard in England. 2. A warder of
 the Tower of London.



 bee fly  n.  Any of various flies of the family Bombyliidae, resembling
 bees and having larvae that are parasitic on the young of bees, wasps, and
 other insects.



 beefsteak  n.  A slice of beef, as from the loin or the hindquarters,
 suitable for broiling or frying.



 beefsteak fungus  n.  An edible fungus, Fistularia hepatica, growing on
 decaying wood and having a large, irregularly shaped reddish cap.



 beef stroganoff  n.  Thinly sliced beef fillet sauteed and served with
 mushrooms and sour cream. [After Count Paul Stroganoff (1744?-1817).]



 beefwood  n.  Any of various trees of the genus Casuarina, mostly native
 to Australia, having small, scalelike leaves and flowers. [Perh. from its
 reddish color.]



 beefy  adj. -ier -iest   1. Resembling beef. 2. Muscular in build; brawny:
 a beefy wrestler.    beefiness n.



 bee gum  n.  1. A hollow gum tree in which bees hive. 2. A beehive, esp.
 one in a hollow gum tree.



 beehive  n.  1. A hive, either natural or manmade, for bees. 2. A place
 teeming with activity.



 beekeeper  n.  One who keeps bees; apiarist.



 beeline  n.  A direct, straight course. [From the belief that a
 pollen-laden bee flies straight to its hive.]



 Beelzebub  n.  The Devil. [LLat. Beelzebub < Gk. Beelzeboub < Heb. ba'al
 zbub, lord of the flies.]



 bee moth  n.  Either of two moths, Galleria mellonella or Achroia
 grisella, that lay their eggs in beehives, where the larvae feed on the
 honeycombs and the young bees.



 been  v.  Past participle of be.



 beep  n.  A signaling or warning sound, as from a horn or an electronic
 device. -intr. & tr.v. beeped, beeping, beeps.To make or cause to make a
 beep. [Imit.]



 beeper  n.  1. One that beeps. 2. A small portable electronic device that
 emits a beeping signal when the person carrying it is being paged.



 bee plant  n.  Any of various fragrant, nectar-bearing plants that attract
 bees.



 beer  n.  1. A fermented alcoholic beverage brewed from malt and flavored
 with hops. 2. Any of various drinks made from extracts of roots and plants:
 birch beer.  [ME bere < OE beor.]



 beery  adj. -ier -iest   1. Smelling or tasting of beer. 2. Affected or
 produced by beer: beery humor.



 beestings or beastings   n.  The first milk given by a cow or other mammal
 after parturition; colostrum. [ME besting < OE beost, beestings.]



 beeswax  n.  1. The yellowish to dark-brown wax secreted by the honeybee
 for making honeycombs. 2. Commercial wax obtained by processing and
 purifying the crude wax of the honeybee and used in making candles,
 crayons, and polishes.



 beet  n.  1. Any of several widely cultivated plants of the genus Beta,
 esp. B. vulgaris, having leaves sometimes eaten as greens and a thickened,
 fleshy root. 2. The bulbous root of the beet, characteristically dark red
 in color, eaten as a vegetable. [ME bete < OE bete < Lat. beta.]



 beet armyworm  n.  An armyworm, Spodoptera exigua, feeding primarily on
 the foliage of alfalfa, beets, and other vegetables.



 beetle
 beetle(1)  n.  1. Any of numerous insects of the order Coleoptera, having
 biting mouth parts and front wings modified to form horny wing covers that
 overlie the membranous rear wings when at rest. 2. An insect resembling a
 beetle. [ME bityl < OE bitela < bitan, to bite.]
 beetle(2)  adj.  Jutting; overhanging: beetle brows.    -intr.v.-tled
 -tling -tles   To overhang. [ME bitel-(brouwed), having shaggy or
 protruding (eyebrows).]
 beetle(3)  n.  1. A heavy mallet with a large wooden head. 2. A small
 wooden household mallet. 3. A heavy wooden club used in stamping and
 finishing handmade linen. 4. A cloth-finishing machine that stamps cloth
 with revolving wooden hammers. [ME betel < OE bietel.]



 beetlebung  n.  The sour gum.



 beetleweed  n.  The galax.



 bee tree  n.  1. A hollow tree in which bees live. 2. A tree, such as the
 basswood, having flowers rich in nectar.



 beetroot  n.  Chiefly British.  The root of the beet.



 beetroot purple  n.  A deep to very deep purplish red.



 beeves  n.  A plural of beef.



 befall  v. -fell   , -fallen , -falling, -falls. -intr. To come to pass,
 esp. by chance; happen. -tr. To happen to. [ME befallen < OE befeallen, to
 fall.]



 befit  tr.v. -fitted -fitting -fits   To be suitable to or appropriate
 for.



 befitting  adj.  1. Appropriate; suitable. 2. Proper.   befittingly adv.



 befog  tr.v. -fogged -fogging -fogs   1. To cover or obscure with or as if
 with fog. 2. To cause confusion in; muddle.



 befool  tr.v. -fooled -fooling -fools   1. To make a fool of. 2. To
 hoodwink; deceive.



 before  adv.  1. In the past; earlier. 2. In front; ahead.   -prep. 1.
 Previous to in time; earlier than. 2. In front of. 3. In prospect for;
 awaiting: Your happiness lies before you.  4. In the presence of: She
 ordered the man to be brought before her.  5. Under the consideration or
 jurisdiction of: the case before the court.  6. Superior to or in advance
 of, as in rank, condition, or development: The prince is before his brother
 in the line of succession.    -conj. 1. In advance of the time when: before
 he went.  2. Rather than; sooner than: He would die before he would betray
 his country.  [ME < OE beforan.]



 beforehand  adv.  -adj. 1. In anticipation. 2. In advance; early.



 beforetime  adv.  Archaic.  Formerly.



 befoul  tr.v. -fouled -fouling -fouls   1. To make dirty; soil. 2. To
 speak badly of; cast aspersions upon.



 befriend  tr.v. -friended -friending -friends   To act as a friend to.



 befuddle  tr.v. -dled -dling -dles   1. To confuse; perplex. 2. To stupefy
 with or as if with alcoholic drink.



 beg  v. begged begging begs   -tr. 1. To ask for as charity. 2. To ask
 earnestly for or of; entreat. -intr. 1. To solicit alms. 2. To make a
 humble or urgent plea. Phrasal verb.  beg off. To ask to be released from
 something, as an obligation.

       Idiom Section:  beg the question. 1. To assume the conclusion to
 one's argument to be true. 2. To equivocate or dodge an issue. [ME beggen,
 prob. < OFr. begart, beggar, ult. < MDu. beggaert.]

      Synonyms: beg crave beseech implore entreat
 importune Beg  and crave  apply to the act of asking for something one
 cannot claim as a right, in a way that is earnest, humble, and designed to
 stir pity. Beseech  emphasizes earnestness and implies great anxiety.
 Implore  intensifies the senses of earnestness, humility, and anxiety.
 Entreat  pertains to persuasive pleading calculated to overcome opposition.
 Importune  adds the sense of persistent and sometimes harassing pleading.




 began  v.  Past tense of begin.



 begat  v.  Archaic.  Past tense of beget.



 beget  tr.v. -got -gotten  or -got  or -getting  or -gets   1. To father;
 sire. 2. To cause to exist; produce. [ME begete < OE begietan, to obtain.]
  begetter n.



 beggar  n.  1. One who begs, esp. one who begs alms for a living. 2. An
 impoverished person; pauper. 3. A rascal; rogue.   -tr.v.-gared -garing
 -gars   1. To make a beggar of; impoverish. 2. To exhaust the resources of:
 beauty that beggars all description.  [ME < OFr. begart, ult. < MDu.
 beggaert.]



 beggarly  adj.  1. Of or pertaining to a beggar; very poor. 2. Mean;
 contemptible.   beggarliness n.



 beggar's-lice  n.  1. Any of several plants, such as the stickseed,
 bearing small, prickly fruit that cling readily to clothing or the fur of
 animals. 2. One of the seeds of a beggar's-lice.



 beggar-ticks  n.  1. Any of several plants having seeds that cling to
 clothing, often by means of barbed bristles, esp. the bur marigold and the
 tick trefoil. 2. The seeds of a beggar-ticks.



 beggarweed  n.  A West Indian plant, Desmodium purpureum, grown as forage
 in the southern United States.



 beggary  n.  1. Extreme poverty; penury. 2. The state or condition of
 being a beggar. 3. Beggars collectively.



 begin  v. -gan   , -gun (-gun), -ginning, -gins. -intr. 1. To start to do
 something; commence. 2. To come into being: when life began.  3. To do or
 be in the least degree: That doesn't even begin to address the problem.
 -tr. 1. To start to do; commence. 2. To cause to come into being;
 originate. [ME beginnen < OE bigannan.]

      Synonyms: begin commence start initiate inaugurate
 Begin  and commence  are equivalent in meaning, though commence  is
 sometimes felt to be stronger in suggesting initiative. Start  is often
 interchangeable with begin  and commence  but can specify a setting out
 from a specific point, following inaction, or (transitively) a setting in
 motion. Initiate  applies to the act of taking the first steps in a
 process, without reference to what follows. Inaugurate  pertains to a
 formal beginning.




 beginner  n.  1. One who begins something. 2. One who is just starting to
 learn or do something; novice.



 beginning  n.  1. The act or process of bringing or being brought into
 being; start. 2. The time when something begins or is begun. 3. The place
 where something begins or is begun. 4. A source; origin. 5. The first part.
 6. beginnings  An early or rudimentary phase.



 beginning rhyme  n.  1. Rhyme at the beginning of consecutive lines of
 verse. 2. Alliteration.



 begird  tr.v. -girt  or -girded  or -girt  or -girding  or -girds   To
 gird or encircle; surround.



 begone  interj.  Used as an order of dismissal. [ME begone : be, imper. of
 been, to be + gone, gone.]



 begonia  n.  Any of various plants of the genus Begonia, mostly native to
 the tropics but widely cultivated, having leaves that are often brightly
 colored or veined and irregular, waxy flowers of various colors. [NLat.
 Begonia, genus name, after Michel Begon (1638-1710).]



 begorra  interj.  Irish.  Used as a mild swearword. [Alteration of by
 God.]



 begot  v.  Past tense and a past participle of beget.



 begotten  v.  A past participle of beget.



 begrime  tr.v. -grimed -griming -grimes   To smear or soil with or as if
 with dirt or grime.



 begrudge  tr.v. -grudged -grudging -grudges   1.  a. To envy the
 possession or enjoyment of. b. To envy for a possession. 2. To give with
 reluctance.   begrudger n.   begrudgingly adv.



 beguile  tr.v. -guiled -guiling -guiles   1. To deceive by guile; delude.
 2. To take away from by guile; cheat. 3. To distract the attention of;
 divert. 4. To pass (time) pleasantly. 5. To amuse or charm; delight.
 beguilement n.   beguiler n.



 beguine  n.  1. A ballroom dance based on a native dance of Martinique and
 St. Lucia. 2. The music for the beguine. [Fr. (West Indies) beguine < Fr.
 beguin, flirtation.]



 Beguine  n.  A member of any of several Roman Catholic lay sisterhoods
 existing in the Netherlands since the 12th century. [OFr.]



 begum  n.  A Moslem lady of rank. [Urdu < Turk. begim, possessive of beg,
 bey.]



 begun  v.  Past participle of begin.



 behalf  n.  Interest, support, or benefit.

       Idiom Section:  in behalf of. In the interest of; for the benefit of.
 on behalf of. On the part of; speaking for. [ME bihalve : bi, by + half,
 side. -see half.]

      Usage: In behalf of  and on behalf of  have distinct senses and,
 according to a majority of the Usage Panel, should not be used
 interchangeably. In behalf of  means "in the interest of" or "for the
 benefit of": We raised money in behalf of the orphans. We acted in their
 behalf. On behalf of  means "as the agent of" or "on the part of": The
 guardian sued on behalf of the minor child. On whose behalf did he act?



 behave  v. -haved -having -haves   -intr. 1. To act, react, function, or
 perform in a particular way. 2.  a. To conduct oneself in a specified way.
 b. To conduct oneself in a proper way. -tr. 1. To conduct (oneself)
 properly. 2. To conduct (oneself) in a specified way. [ME behaven.]



 behavior  n.  1. The manner in which one behaves. 2. The actions or
 reactions of persons or things under specified circumstances.   behavioral
 adj.   behaviorally adv.

      Synonyms: behavior conduct deportment These all pertain to one's
 actions considered as a means of evaluation by others. Behavior  applies to
 actions on specific occasions involving essentially external and sometimes
 superficial relationships. Conduct  applies to actions in more significant
 relationships, considered from the standpoint of morals and ethics.
 Deportment  more narrowly pertains to actions measured by a prevailing
 social code of behavior.




 behavioral psychophysics  n.  A branch of psychology dealing primarily
 with the measurement of sensory capacities in nonaberrant animal specimens.




 behavioral science  n.  A science, such as sociology or anthropology, that
 seeks to discover general truths about human social behavior.   behavioral
 scientist n.



 behaviorism  n.  The psychological school holding that objectively
 observable organismic behavior constitutes the essential or exclusive
 scientific basis of psychological data and investigation and stressing the
 role of environment as a determinant of human and animal behavior.
 behaviorist n.   behavioristic adj.



 behavior modification  n.  The modification of behavioral traits through
 psychological means, as reinforcement and aversion therapy.   behavior
 modifier n.



 behaviour  n.  Chiefly British.  Variant of behavior.



 behead  tr.v. -headed -heading -heads   To separate the head from;
 decapitate. [ME biheveden < OE beheafdian : be-, away from + heafod, head.]




 beheld  v.  Past tense and past participle of behold.



 behemoth  n.  1. A huge animal, possibly the hippopotamus, described in
 the Old Testament. 2. Something enormous in size. [Heb. behemoth, pl. of
 behemah, beast.]



 behest  n.  1. An order or authoritative command. 2. An urgent request.
 [ME bihest, promise < OE behaes.]



 behind  adv.  1. In, to, or toward the rear: He walked behind.  2. In a
 place or condition that has been passed or left: He left his gloves behind.
  3. In arrears; late: behind in her payments.  4. Below the standard level;
 in or into an inferior position: fall behind in class.  5. Slow: His watch
 is running behind.  6.  Archaic. In reserve; yet to come.   -prep. 1. At
 the back of or in the rear of: She sat behind him.  2. On the farther side
 or other side of; beyond: behind the door.  3. In a place or time that has
 been passed or left by: Their worries are behind them.  4. Later than: The
 plane was behind schedule.  5. Less advanced than: behind us in technology.
  6.  a. Hidden or concealed by: behind the scenes.  b. In the background
 of; underlying: Behind his every action was greed.  7. Serving to support:
 He had the army behind him.  8. In pursuit of: the posse hard behind him.
  -n. Informal.  The buttocks. [ME bihinde < OE behindan.]



 behindhand  adv.  -adj. 1. In arrears. 2. Behind time; slow. 3. In a
 backward state.



 behind-the-scenes  adj.  Done, maintained, or held in secret.



 behold  tr.v. -held   , -holding, -holds. To gaze at; look upon. Often
 used as an interjection with exclamatory force. [ME biholden < OE
 behealdan.]   beholder n.



 beholden  adj.  Obliged, as for a favor; indebted. [ME biholden.]



 behoof  n.  Benefit; advantage. [ME bihove < OE behofe.]



 behoove  v. -hooved -hooving -hooves   -tr. To be necessary or proper for:
 It behooved him to try.  -intr. To be necessary or proper. [ME behoven < OE
 behofian.]



 beige  n.  1. A soft fabric of undyed and unbleached wool. 2. A light
 grayish brown or yellowish brown to grayish yellow.   -adj. Light grayish
 brown or yellowish brown to grayish yellow. [Fr.]



 being  n.  1. The state or quality of having existence. 2.  a. An object,
 idea, or symbol that exists, is thought to exist, or is represented as
 existing. b. A person:  The artist after all is a solitary being (Virginia
 Woolf). 3. One's basic or essential nature. 4.  Philosophy.  a. That which
 can be conceived as existing. b. Absolute existence in its perfect and
 unqualified state; the essence of existence.



 Beja  n. pl. Beja  1. A pastoral tribe of people living as nomads in the
 area between the Nile River and the Red Sea. 2. One of the Beja. 3. The
 Cushitic language of the Beja.



 bel  n.  The logarithm to the base 10 of the ratio of two levels of power,
 used to measure voltage or sound intensity and equal to 10 decibels. [After
 Alexander Graham Bell (1847-1922).]



 belabor  tr.v. -bored -boring -bors   1. To attack with blows. 2. To
 thrash or assail verbally. 3. To go over repeatedly or for a long time;
 harp on: belabor a point.



 belabour  v.  Chiefly British.  Variant of belabor.



 belated  adj.  Too late; tardy: a belated birthday card.    belatedly adv.
   belatedness n.



 belay  v. -layed -laying -lays   -tr. 1.  Nautical. To secure or make fast
 (a rope, for example) by winding on a cleat or pin. 2. To secure (a
 mountain climber) at the end of a length of rope. 3. To cause to stop.
 -intr. 1. To be made secure. 2. To stop: Belay there!    -n. In mountain
 climbing, the securing of a rope on a rock or other projection. [ME
 beleggen, to surround < OE belecgan.]



 belaying pin  n.  A short, removable wooden or metal pin fitted in a hole
 in the rail of a boat and used for securing running gear.



 bel canto  n.  A style of operatic singing characterized by rich tonal
 lyricism and brilliant display of vocal technique. [Ital., beautiful
 singing.]



 belch  v. belched belching belches   -intr. 1. To expel gas noisily from
 the stomach through the mouth. 2. To erupt or explode violently. 3. To gush
 forth. -tr. 1. To expel (gas) noisily from the stomach through the mouth;
 eruct. 2. To eject violently.   -n. An act or instance of belching, esp. an
 eructation. [ME belchen < OE bealcan.]



 beldam or beldame   n.  An old woman, esp. one who is loathsome or ugly.
 [ME, grandmother : OFr. bel, beautiful (< Lat. bellus) + OFr. dame, woman.
 -see dame.]



 beleaguer  tr.v. -guered -guering -guers   1. To besiege by surrounding
 with troops. 2. To harass; beset: beleaguered by problems.  [Du. belegeren:
 be-, around + leger, camp.]



 belemnite  n.  A cigar-shaped fossilized internal shell of any of various
 extinct cephalopods related to the cuttlefish. [NLat. belemnites < Gk.
 belemnon, dart.]



 bel esprit  n. pl. beaux esprits  A cultivated person with a fine
 intellect. [Fr., fine mind.]



 belfry  n. pl. -fries  1. A bell tower, esp. one attached to a building.
 2. The part of a tower or steeple in which bells are hung. [ME berfrei <
 OFr., portable siege tower, of Germanic orig.]   belfried adj.



 Belgae  pl.n.  An ancient Gallic people who formerly inhabited what is now
 Belgium and northern France. [Lat.]



 Belgian  n.  A native or inhabitant of Belgium.   Belgian adj.



 Belgian hare  n.  A large, reddish-brown rabbit of a domestic breed
 developed in England from Belgian stock.



 Belgic  adj.  1. Of or pertaining to Belgium or the Belgians. 2. Of or
 pertaining to the Netherlands. 3. Of or pertaining to the Belgae.



 Belial  n.  1. A satanic personification of wickedness and ungodliness
 alluded to in the New Testament. 2. In Milton's Paradise Lost, one of the
 fallen angels who rebelled against God. [Heb. bliyyaal, uselessness: bliy,
 without + yaal, use.]



 belie  tr.v. -lied -lying -lies   1. To picture falsely; misrepresent. 2.
 To show to be false. 3. To disappoint or leave unfulfilled. 4.  Archaic. To
 tell lies about; defame. [ME belien < OE beleogan.]   belier n.



 belief  n.  1. The mental act, condition, or habit of placing trust or
 confidence in a person or thing. 2. Mental acceptance of or conviction in
 the truth or actuality of something. 3. Something believed or accepted as
 true, esp. a particular tenet or a body of tenets accepted by a group of
 persons. [ME bileve, alteration of OE geleafa.]



 believe  v. -lieved -lieving -lieves   -tr. 1. To accept as true or real.
 2. To credit with veracity. 3. To expect or suppose; think: I believe he
 will come shortly.  -intr. 1. To have faith, esp. religious faith. 2. To
 have faith or confidence; trust: I believe in her ability.  3. To have
 confidence in the truth, value, or existence of something: believed in free
 will.  4. To think or judge. [ME bileven < OE belefan.]   believable adj.
 believer n.



 belike  adv.  Archaic.  Perhaps; probably.



 belittle  tr.v. -tled -tling -tles   1. To represent or speak of as small
 or unimportant; disparage. 2. To cause to seem less or little.
 belittlement n.   belittler n.



 bell
 bell(1)  n.  1. A hollow metal instrument, usually cup-shaped with a flared
 opening, that emits a metallic tone when struck. 2. Something shaped like a
 bell, as: a. The round, flared mouth of some musical wind instruments. b.
 The corolla of a flower. c. A hollow, usually inverted vessel, such as a
 diving bell. 3.  Nautical.  a. A stroke on a bell to mark the hour. b. The
 time indicated by the striking of a bell, divided into half hours. 4. bells
  Bell-bottoms.   -v.belled belling bells   -tr. 1. To put a bell on. 2. To
 shape or cause to flare like a bell. -intr. To assume the form of a bell.

       Idiom Section:  bell the cat. To perform a daring action. [ME belle <
 OE.]
 bell(2)  n.  The bellowing or baying cry of certain animals, such as a deer
 in rut or a beagle on the hunt.   -intr.v.belled belling bells   To bellow;
 bay. [< ME bellen, to bellow < OE bellan.]



 belladonna  n.  1. A poisonous Eurasian plant, Atropa belladonna, having
 purplish-red, bell-shaped flowers and small black poisonous berries. 2. An
 atropine powder or tincture derived from the leaves and roots of the
 belladonna and used to treat asthma, colic, and hyperacidity. [Ital. :
 bella, beautiful + donna, lady.]



 belladonna lily  n.  The amaryllis (sense 1).



 bellbird  n.  Any of various tropical American birds of the family
 Cotingidae, having a characteristic bell-like call.



 bell-bottom  adj.  Having legs that flare out at the bottom: bell-bottom
 trousers.



 bell-bottoms  pl.n.  Bell-bottom trousers.



 bellboy  n.  A boy or man employed by a hotel to assist guests, as by
 carrying luggage and running errands.



 bell buoy  n.  A buoy fitted with a warning bell that is activated by the
 movement of the waves.



 belle  n.  An attractive and much-admired girl or woman, esp. the most
 attractive at a given place: the belle of the ball.  [Fr., beautiful < OFr.
 bel < Lat. bella, fem. of bellus.]



 belle epoque  n.  An era of artistic and cultural refinement in a society,
 esp. in France at the turn of the century. [Fr., beautiful age.]



 Bellerophon  n.  Greek Mythology.  The Corinthian hero who, with the aid
 of the winged horse Pegasus, slew the Chimera. [Lat. < Gk. Bellerophon.]



 belles-lettres  n.  Literature regarded for its aesthetic value rather
 than for its didactic or informative content. [Fr. : belles, fine +
 lettres, letters.]



 belletrist  n.  A writer of belles-lettres.   belletrism n.   belletristic
 adj.



 bellflower  n.  Any of various plants of the genus Campanula,
 characteristically having blue, bell-shaped flowers.



 bellhop  n.  A bellboy.



 bellicose  adj.  Warlike in manner or temperament; pugnacious. [ME < Lat.
 bellicosus < bellicus, of war < bellum, war.]   bellicosely adv.
 bellicosity bellicoseness  n.



 belligerence  n.  A warlike or hostile attitude, nature, or inclination.



 belligerency  n.  1. The state of being at war or engaged in a warlike
 conflict. 2. Belligerence.



 belligerent  adj.  1. Inclined or eager to fight; hostile or aggressive.
 2. Of, pertaining to, or engaged in warfare.   -n. 1. One that is
 belligerent. 2. One that is engaged in war. [Lat. belligerans,
 belligerant-, pr.part. of belligerare, to wage war : bellum, war + gerere,
 to make.]   belligerently adv.

      Synonyms: belligerent bellicose pugnacious contentious quarrelsome
  Belligerent  may specify actual combat, or conduct or temper conducive to
 hostilities. In the latter sense it is closely related to bellicose  and
 pugnacious , although pugnacious  more often applies to a natural
 inclination to aggressiveness than to a specific instance of hostility.
 Contentious , which implies chronic argumentativeness, and quarrelsome ,
 which suggests perversity and bad temper, are weaker terms.




 bell jar  n.  A cylindrical glass vessel with a rounded top and an open
 base used to protect and display fragile objects or to establish a
 controlled atmosphere or environment in scientific experiments.



 bellman  n.  A town crier.



 bell metal  n.  An alloy of tin and copper used to make bells.



 Bellona  n.  The Roman goddess of war. [Lat. < bellum, war.]



 bellow  v. -lowed -lowing -lows   -intr. 1. To roar, as a bull. 2. To
 shout in a deep voice. -tr. To utter in a loud and powerful voice.   -n. 1.
 The roar of a large animal, as a bull. 2. A very loud utterance. [ME belwen
 < OE belgan, to be enraged.]   bellower n.



 bellows  n.  1. An apparatus for producing a strong current of air, as for
 sounding a pipe organ or increasing the draft to a fire, consisting of a
 flexible, valved air chamber that is contracted and expanded by pumping to
 force the air through a nozzle. 2. Something resembling a bellows, as the
 pleated windbag of an accordion. 3. The lungs. [ME belows, pl. of below, a
 bellows < OE belg, bag, belly.]



 bell pepper  n.  1. A pepper plant, Capsicum frutescens grossum,
 cultivated for its edible fruit. 2. The mild-flavored, bell-shaped fruit of
 the bell pepper, usually red when ripe but often eaten when green.



 Bell's Law  n.  Anatomy.  1. The law that in the spinal cord the dorsal
 roots are of sensory function and the ventral roots are of major function.
 2. The neurologic law that in any reflex arc nerve impulses are conducted
 in only one direction. [After Sir Charles Bell (1774-1842).]



 Bell's palsy  n.  A suddenly occurring unilateral facial paralysis of
 unknown etiology, presumed to be caused by virally induced swelling of the
 seventh (facial) nerve. [After Sir Charles Bell (1774-1842).]



 bellwether  n.  1. A male sheep, usually castrated, that wears a bell hung
 from its neck and is followed by a flock of sheep. 2. Someone or something
 that leads or initiates.



 bellwort  n.  A plant of the genus Uvularia, of eastern North America,
 having yellow, bell-shaped flowers.



 belly  n. pl. -lies  1. The part of the body of mammals between the rib
 cage and the pelvis that contains the intestines; abdomen. 2. The underside
 of the body of certain vertebrates, such as snakes and fish. 3.  a. The
 stomach. b. The appetite for food. 4. A part that bulges or protrudes: the
 belly of a sail.  5. The womb; uterus. 6. The deep, hollow interior of
 something: a ship's belly.  7. The bulging part of a muscle. 8. The front
 part of the body of a stringed musical instrument; table. -intr. & tr.v.
 -lied, -lying, -lies. To bulge or cause to bulge. [ME beli < OE belg.]



 bellyache  n.  1. An ache or pain in the stomach or abdomen. 2.  Slang. A
 complaint.   -intr.v.-ached -aching -aches   Slang.  To grumble or
 complain, esp. in a whining manner.   bellyacher n.



 bellyband  n.  1. A band passed around the belly of an animal to secure
 something, as a saddle. 2. An encircling cloth band for holding in the
 protruding navel of a baby.



 bellybutton  n.  Informal.  The navel.



 belly dance  n.  A dance in which the performer makes sinuous movements of
 the belly.   belly-dance v. -danced -dancing -dances    belly dancer n.



 belly flop  n.  A dive in which the front of the body hits flat against
 the surface of the water.   belly-flop v. -flopped -flopping -flops



 bellyful  n.  Informal.  An amount that exceeds what one desires or can
 endure.



 belly-land  intr.v. -landed -landing -lands   To land an airplane on its
 underside without the aid of landing gear.   belly landing n.



 belly laugh  n.  A deep, jovial laugh.



 belonephobia  n.  An abnormal fear of sharply pointed objects. [Gk.
 belone, needle + -phobia.]



 belong  intr.v. -longed -longing -longs   1. To have a proper,
 appropriate, or suitable place. 2.  a. To be naturally associated with
 something. b. To fit into a group naturally: No matter what she did, she
 just didn't belong.  Phrasal verb.  belong to. 1. To be the property or
 concern of:  the earth belongs to the living (Jefferson). 2. To be a member
 of (an organization): belonged to a fraternity.  [ME belongen.]



 belonging  n.  1. belongings  Personal possessions; effects. 2. Close and
 secure relationship: a sense of belonging.



 beloved  adj.  Dearly loved.   -n. One that is beloved. [ME, p.part. of
 beloven, to love.]



 below  adv.  1. In or to a lower place; beneath. 2.  a. On or to a lower
 floor; downstairs. b.  Nautical. On or to a lower deck. 3. Following or
 lower down on a page. 4. Farther down, as along a slope or valley. 5. In or
 to hell or Hades. 6. On earth. 7. In a lower rank or class.   -prep. 1.
 Underneath; beneath. 2. Lower than, as on a graduated scale. 3. Unworthy of
 or unsuitable to the rank or dignity of. [ME bilooghe : bi, by + loogh,
 low.]

      Synonyms: below under beneath underneath Below , in its
 principal physical sense, denotes only position lower than a given point of
 reference. Under  specifies position directly below, lower than the point
 of reference and in approximately vertical line with it. Below  is also
 used to indicate direction and distance in a horizontal plane: a town on
 the Hudson below Albany. Beneath  may have the basic sense of below  or,
 more often, of under combines the basic sense of under  with that of at
 least partial concealment. Figuratively, below  indicates deficiency or
 lesser status in a general way: below normal; below one's rank. Under
 indicates specific deficiency or explicitly subordinate relationship: under
 legal age; serve under a captain. Beneath  applies to deficiency in moral
 or social senses: beneath ordinary decency; beneath one's level.




 Belshazzar  n.  In the Old Testament, the son of Nebuchadnezzar II and the
 last king of Babylon, who was warned of his downfall and death by the
 handwriting on the wall. [Heb. Belshassar.]



 belt  n.  1. A band, as of leather or cloth, worn around the waist to
 support clothing, secure tools or weapons, or serve as decoration. 2.
 Something that resembles a belt: a belt of outbuildings.  3.  a. An
 encircling route or highway. b. A belt line. 4. A strap that holds a person
 securely in a seat; seat belt. 5. A continuous band or chain for
 transferring motion or power or conveying materials from one wheel or shaft
 to another. 6. A band of tough reinforcing material beneath the tread of a
 tire. 7. A geographic region that is distinctive in some specific way. 8.
 Slang. A powerful blow; punch. 9.  Slang. A strong emotional reaction. 10.
 Slang. A drink of hard liquor.   -tr.v.belted belting belts   1. To
 encircle; gird. 2. To attach with or as if with a belt. 3. To mark with or
 as if with a belt. 4. To strike with a belt. 5.  Slang. To strike
 forcefully; punch. 6.  Slang. To sing in a loud and forceful manner: belt
 out a song.

       Idiom Section:  below the belt. Not according to rule; unfairly.
 tighten (one's) belt. To become thrifty and frugal. under (one's) belt.
 Having become part of one's knowledge or experience. [ME < OE < Lat.
 balteus.]



 Beltane  n.  1. May Day in the old Scottish calendar. 2. The ancient
 Celtic May Day celebration. [ME < Sc. Gael. bealltainn.]



 belt highway  n.  A highway that skirts an urban area.



 belting  n.  1. Belts collectively. 2. The material used to make belts.



 belt line  n.  A transportation line, as of trains, that makes a complete
 circuit of an urban area.



 Beltsville Small White  n.  A small white domestic turkey developed by the
 U.S. Department of Agriculture. [After Beltsville, Maryland.]



 belt tightening  n.  A decrease in spending.



 beluga  n.  1. The white whale. 2. A sturgeon, Huso huso, of the Black and
 Caspian seas, whose roe is used for caviar. [R. byelukha < byelii, white.]



 belvedere  n.  A structure, such as an open, roofed gallery, situated so
 as to command a view. [Ital. : bel, beautiful (< Lat. bellus) + vedere,
 view (< Lat. videre, to see).]



 bema  n. pl. -mata  1.  Judaism. The platform from which services are
 conducted in a synagogue. 2. The enclosed area about the altar of an
 Eastern Orthodox church. [LLat. < Gk. bema, platform.]



 bemire  tr.v. -mired -miring -mires   1. To soil with mud. 2. To cause to
 bog down in mud.



 bemoan  v. -moaned -moaning -moans   -tr. 1. To mourn over; lament. 2. To
 express pity or grief for. -intr. To mourn; lament.



 bemuse  tr.v. -mused -musing -muses   1. To cause to be bewildered;
 confuse. 2. To cause to be engrossed in thought.   bemusedly adv.



 ben
 ben(1)  Scots.  n.  The inner room or parlor of a house.   -adv. Inside;
 within.   -prep. Within. [ME binne, within < OE binnan.]
 ben(2)  n.  Any of several Asiatic trees of the genus Moringa, bearing
 winged seeds that yield an oil used in perfumes and cosmetics. [Dial. Ar.
 ben < Ar. ban.]



 Bence-Jones protein  n.  An abnormal globulin group that can appear in
 serum and in urine in association with multiple myeloma. [After Henry
 Bence-Jones (1814-1873).]



 bench  n.  1. A long seat, often without a back, for two or more persons.
 2. A thwart in a boat. 3.  a. The seat for judges in a courtroom. b. The
 office or position of a judge. c. The judge or judges composing a court. 4.
  a. A seat occupied by a person in an official capacity. b. The office of
 such a person. 5. A strong worktable, as one used in carpentry. 6. A
 platform on which animals, esp. dogs, are exhibited. 7.  Sports.  a. The
 place where the players on a team sit while they are not participating in a
 game. b. The reserve players on a team. 8.  a. A level, narrow stretch of
 land interrupting a declivity. b. A level elevation of land along a shore
 or coast, esp. one marking a former shoreline.   -tr.v.benched benching
 benches   1. To furnish with benches. 2. To seat on a bench. 3. To show
 (dogs) in a bench show. 4.  Sports. To keep out of or remove from a game.
 [ME < OE benc.]



 bencher  n.  1. One who sits on a bench. 2.  Chiefly British. A member of
 the inner or higher bar who acts as a governor of one of the Inns of Court.
 3. One who occupies an official bench, as a magistrate.



 bench mark or benchmark   n.  1. A surveyor's mark made on a stationary
 object of previously determined position and elevation and used as a
 reference point in tidal observations and surveys. 2. benchmark  A standard
 by which something can be measured or judged.



 bench show  n.  An indoor exhibition of small animals, esp. a competitive
 dog show.



 bench warrant  n.  A warrant issued by a judge or court ordering the
 apprehension of an offender.



 bend
 bend(1)  v. bent bending bends   -tr. 1. To bring into tension: bend a bow.
  2.  a. To cause to assume a curved or angular shape. b. To force to assume
 a different shape or direction. 3. To cause to swerve from a straight line;
 deflect. 4. To turn or direct (one's attention, for example). 5. To
 influence coercively; subdue. 6. To apply (the mind) closely; concentrate.
 7.  Nautical. To fasten: bend a mainsail onto the boom.  -intr. 1.  a. To
 turn or be altered from straightness or from an initial shape or position:
 Wire bends easily.  b. To assume a curved, crooked, or angular form or
 direction: The saplings bent in the wind.  2. To take a new direction;
 swerve. 3. To incline the body; stoop. 4. To bow in submission; yield. 5.
 To apply oneself closely; concentrate: She bent to her task.    -n. 1. The
 act or fact of bending. 2. The state of being bent. 3. Something that is
 bent. 4.  Nautical.  a. bends  The thick planks in a ship's side; wales. b.
 A knot that joins a rope to a rope or another object. 5. bends  (used with
 a sing. or pl. verb). Caisson disease.

       Idiom Section:  bend over backward. To make an effort greater than is
 required. [ME benden < OE bendan.]
 bend(2)  n.  Heraldry.  A band passing from the upper dexter corner of an
 escutcheon to the lower sinister corner. [ME, prob. < OFr. bende, band.]



 Ben Davis  n.  A variety of large red winter apple grown in western North
 America and used for cooking.



 Ben Day
 benday or Benday    n.  A method of adding a tone to a printed image by
 imposing a transparent sheet of dots or other patterns on the image at some
 stage of a photographic reproduction process. [After Benjamin Day
 (1838-1916), its inventor.]



 bended  v.  Archaic.  Past tense and past participle of bend1.



 bender  n.  1. One that bends. 2.  Slang. A drinking spree.



 bend sinister  n.  Heraldry.  A band passing from the upper sinister
 corner of an escutcheon to the lower dexter corner.



 beneath  adv.  1. In a lower place; below. 2. Underneath.   -prep. 1.
 Lower than; below. 2. Covered or concealed by: The earth lay beneath a
 blanket of snow.  3. Under the force, control, or influence of. 4.  a.
 Lower than, as in rank or station. b. Unworthy of; unbefitting: was beneath
 him to beg.  [ME binethe < OE bineooan.]



 benedict  n.  A newly married man who has previously been considered a
 confirmed bachelor. [After Benedick, a character in Much Ado About Nothing
 by Shakespeare.]



 Benedictine  adj.  Of or pertaining to Saint Benedict of Nursia or the
 order he founded.   -n. A monk or nun belonging to the order founded by
 Saint Benedict.



 benediction  n.  1. A blessing. 2. An invocation of divine blessing,
 usually at the end of a church service. 3. Benediction   Roman Catholic
 Chruch. A short service consisting of prayers, the singing of a Eucharistic
 hymn, and the blessing of the congregation with the host. 4. The state of
 blessedness. [ME benediccioun < OFr. benediction < Lat. benedictio <
 benedicere, to bless : bene, well + dicere, to say.]   benedictive
 benedictory adj.



 Benedictus  n.  1. A canticle that begins Benedictus qui venit in nomine
 Domini ("Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord"). 2. A canticle
 that begins Benedictus Dominus Deus Israel ("Blessed be the Lord God of
 Israel"). [Lat., blessed.]



 benefaction  n.  1. The act of conferring a benefit. 2. A charitable gift
 or deed. [LLat. benefactio < Lat. bene facere, to do well.]



 benefactor  n.  One who gives financial or other aid.   benefactress n.



 benefic  adj.  Beneficent. [Lat. beneficus < bene facere, to do well.]



 benefice  n.  1.  Ecclesiastical.  a. A church office endowed with fixed
 capital assets that provide a living. b. The revenue from such assets. 2. A
 landed estate granted in feudal tenure.   -tr.v.-ficed -ficing -fices   To
 endow or provide with a benefice. [ME < OFr. < Med. Lat. beneficium < Lat.,
 benefit < beneficus, benefic.]



 beneficence  n.  1. The state or quality of being beneficent. 2. A
 charitable act or gift. [OFr. < Lat. beneficentia < beneficus, benefic.]



 beneficent  adj.  1. Characterized by or performing acts of kindness or
 charity. 2. Producing benefit; beneficial.   beneficently adv.



 beneficial  adj.  1. Promoting a favorable result; enhancing well-being;
 advantageous. 2.  Law. Receiving or having the right to receive proceeds or
 other advantages. [Fr. beneficial < LLat. beneficialis < Lat. beneficium,
 benefit < beneficus, benefic.]   beneficially adv.   beneficialness n.

      Synonyms: beneficial profitable advantageous These adjectives apply t
 that which promotes gain. Beneficial  is said of whatever enhances
 well-being; profitable , of what yields usually material gain; and
 advantageous , of that which affords improvement in relative position or in
 chances of success.




 beneficiary  n. pl. -ies  1. One that receives a benefit. 2.  Law. The
 recipient of funds, property, or other benefits, as from an insurance
 policy or will. 3.  Ecclesiastical. The holder of a benefice.   -adj.
 Pertaining to or holding a feudal benefice.



 benefit  n.  1. Something that promotes or enhances well-being; advantage.
 2.  Archaic. A kindly deed. 3. Payments made or entitlements available in
 accordance with a wage agreement, insurance contract, or public assistance
 program. 4. A public entertainment, performance, or social event held to
 raise funds for a person or cause.   -v.-fited -fiting -fits  or -fitted
 or -fitting  or -fits   -tr. To be helpful or useful to. -intr. To gain
 advantage; profit: benefit from her example.  [ME < OFr. bienfait < Lat.
 benefactum, good deed < bene facere, to do well.]



 benefit of clergy  n.  1. Exemption from trial or punishment in a civil
 court given to the clergy in the Middle Ages. 2. The authorized sanction of
 a religious rite: cohabiting without benefit of clergy.



 benefit of the doubt  n.  A favorable judgment granted in the absence of
 full evidence.



 benevolence  n.  1. An inclination or tendency to do kind or charitable
 acts. 2. A kindly act. 3. A compulsory tax or payment exacted by some
 English sovereigns without the consent of Parliament.



 benevolent  adj.  1. Characterized by or suggestive of benevolence;
 kindly. 2. Of, concerned with, or organized for the benefit of charity: a
 benevolent fund.  [ME < Lat. benevolens, well-wishing : bene, well +
 volens, pr.part. of velle, to wish.]   benevolently adv.



 Bengali  n.  1. An inhabitant of Bengal. 2. An inhabitant of Bangladesh.
 3. The modern Indic language of West Bengal and Bangladesh.   -adj. Of or
 characteristic of Bengal, its inhabitants, or its language.



 bengaline  n.  A fabric having a crosswise ribbed effect made of silk,
 wool, or synthetic fibers. [Fr. < Bengal, Bengal.]



 Bengal light  n.  A type of firework that burns with a brilliant,
 sustained blue light, formerly used for signaling.



 benighted  adj.  1. Overtaken by darkness or night. 2. In moral or
 intellectual darkness; unenlightened.   benightedly adv.   benightedness n.




 benign  adj.  1. Of a kind disposition. 2. Manifesting gentleness and
 mildness. 3. Tending to promote well-being; beneficial: the benign
 influence of pure air.  4.  Pathology. Not malignant: a benign tumor.  [ME
 benigne < OFr. < Lat. benignus : bene, well + genus, born.]   benignly adv.




 benignancy  n. pl. -cies  Benignity.



 benignant  adj.  1. Favorable; beneficial. 2. Kind and gracious.
 benignantly adv.



 benignity  n. pl. -ties  1. The quality or condition of being benign. 2. A
 kindly or gracious act.



 benison  n.  A blessing; benediction. [ME benisoun < OFr. beneisson < Lat.
 benedictio. -see benediction.]



 benjamin  n.  Benzoin. [Var. of benjoin, benzoin.]



 Benjamin  n.  1. In the Old Testament, the youngest son of Jacob and
 Rachel, favorite son of Jacob. 2. The tribe of Israel descended from
 Benjamin. [Heb. : ben, son + yamin, right hand.]   Benjamite n.



 benjamin bush  n.  The spicebush.



 benne or benni   n.  1. The sesame plant. 2. The seeds or oil of the
 sesame plant. [Of African orig.]



 bennet  n.  Herb bennet.



 benni  n.  Variant of benne.



 Bennington or Bennington ware   n.  Ceramic ware, as earthenware with a
 brown mottled glaze, made in Bennington, Vermont.



 benny  n. pl. -nies  Slang.  An amphetamine tablet taken as a stimulant.
 [< Benzedrine.]



 bent
 bent(1)  v.  Past tense and past participle of bend1.   -adj. 1. Not
 straight; crooked. 2. On a fixed course of action; determined: was bent on
 going to the theater.    -n. 1. An individual tendency, disposition, or
 inclination:  The natural bent of my mind was to science (Thomas Paine). 2.
 The limit of endurance. 3. A structural member or framework used for
 strengthening a bridge or trestle transversely.
 bent(2)  n.  1. Any of several grasses of the genus Agrostis, some species
 of which are used in lawn mixtures and for hay. 2. The stiff stalk of
 various grasses. 3. A moor; heath. [ME, grassy plain < OE beonet.]



 Benthamism  n.  The utilitarian philosophy of Jeremy Bentham, holding that
 pleasure is the chief end of life and that the greatest happiness for the
 greatest number should be the ultimate goal of man.   Benthamite n.



 benthos  n.  1. The bottom of a sea or a lake. 2. The organisms living on
 sea or lake bottoms. [Gk.]   benthic benthonic  adj.



 bentonite  n.  Either of two principally aluminum silicate clays,
 containing some magnesium and iron, distinguished by sodium or calcium
 content with corresponding high or low swelling capacity, and used in
 various adhesives, cements, and ceramic fillers. [After Fort Benton,
 Montana.]   bentonitic adj.



 bentwood  n.  Wood that has been steamed until pliable and then bent and
 shaped. a bentwood chair.



 benumb  tr.v. -numbed -numbing -numbs   1. To make numb, esp. by cold. 2.
 To make inactive; dull:  the anesthetic afternoon benumbs, sickens our
 senses (Karl Shapiro). [< ME binomen, p.part. of benimen, to take away < OE
 beniman.]   benumbment n.



 benz-   Variant of benzo-.



 benzaldehyde  n.  A colorless or yellowish, strongly reactive volatile
 oil, C6H5CHO, used as a solvent and flavoring and in perfumery.



 Benzedrine   A trademark for a brand of amphetamine.



 benzene  n.  A clear, colorless, highly refractive flammable liquid, C6H6,
 derived from petroleum and used in or to manufacture a wide variety of
 chemical products including DDT, detergents, insecticides, and motor fuels.




 benzene ring  n.  The hexagonal ring structure in the benzene molecule and
 its substitutional derivatives, each vertex of which is occupied and
 distinguished by a carbon atom.



 benzene series  n.  A series of chemically related aromatic hydrocarbons
 containing the benzene ring, the simplest member of which is benzene.



 benzidine  n.  A yellowish, white, or reddish-gray crystalline powder,
 C12H12N2, used in dyes and to detect blood stains. [Prob. benz(ene) +
 -id(e) + -ine.]



 benzine or benzin   n.  1. Ligroin. 2. Benzene.



 benzo- or benz-    Benzene; benzoic acid: benzophenone.  [< benzoin.]



 benzoate  n.  A salt or ester of benzoic acid.



 benzoate of soda  n.  Sodium benzoate.



 benzocaine  n.  A white, odorless, tasteless crystalline ester, C9H11NO2,
 used as a local anesthetic.



 benzodiazepine  n.  Any of several chemical compounds used as sedatives
 and muscle relaxants. [benzo- + diazep(am) + -ine.]



 benzoic acid  n.  A white crystalline acid, C6H5COOH, used to season
 tobacco and in perfumes, dentifrices, and germicides.



 benzoin  n.  1. Any of several resins containing benzoic acid, obtained as
 a gum from various trees of the genus Styrax and used in ointments,
 perfumes, and medicine. 2. Any of various aromatic shrubs and trees of the
 genus Lindera, which includes the spicebush. 3. A white or yellowish
 crystalline compound, C14H12O2, derived from benzaldehyde and used as an
 antiseptic. [Fr. benjoin < Ital. benzoino < Ar. luban jawi, frankincense of
 Java.]



 benzol  n.  Benzene.



 benzophenone  n.  A white crystalline compound, (C6H5)2CO, used in
 perfumery and in medicine.



 benzopyrine  n.  A yellow, crystalline, aromatic hydrocarbon, C20H12, that
 is a carcinogen found in coal tar and cigarette smoke.



 benzoyl  n.  The univalent radical C6H5CO, derived from benzoic acid.



 benzoyl peroxide  n.  A flammable white granular solid, (C6H5CO)2O2, used
 as a bleaching agent for flour, fats, waxes, and oils, as a polymerization
 catalyst, and in pharmaceuticals.



 benzyl  n.  The univalent radical C6H5CH2, derived from toluene.



 Beowulf  n.  The legendary hero of an anonymous Old English epic poem. [OE
 Beowulf.]



 bequeath  tr.v. -queathed -queathing -queaths   1.  Law. To leave or give
 by will. 2. To pass on; hand down. [ME bequethen < OE becweoan.]
 bequeathal n.   bequeather n.   bequeathment n.



 bequest  n.  1. The act of bequeathing. 2. Something that is bequeathed;
 legacy. [ME biqueste < bequethen, to bequeath.]



 berate  tr.v. -rated -rating -rates   To rebuke or scold harshly.



 Berber  n.  1. A member of one of several Moslem tribes of North Africa.
 2. Any of the Afro-Asiatic languages of the Berbers. [Ar. Barbar.]   Berber
 adj.



 berberine  n.  A bitter-tasting yellow alkaloid, C20H19NO5, obtained from
 the root of a North American plant, Hydrastis canadensis, from the
 barberry, and from other plants, and used in medicine. [NLat. Berberis,
 barberry genus < OFr. berberis, barberry + -ine.]



 berceuse  n. pl. -ceuses  1. A lullaby. 2. A musical composition of a
 soothing nature. [Fr. < bercer, to rock.]



 bereave  tr.v. -reaved  or -reft  or -reaving  or -reaves   Archaic.  1.
 To deprive of (something valued). 2. To deprive of (a loved one) by death.
 [ME bireven < OE bereafian.]   bereavement n.   bereaver n.



 bereft  adj.  1.  a. Deprived of something: bereft of his dignity.  b.
 Lacking something needed or expected: a dictionary bereft of pictures.  2.
 Suffering the death of a loved one; bereaved. [< p.part. of bereave.]



 Berenice's Hair  n.  Coma Berenices.



 beret  n.  A round, visorless cloth cap. [Fr. beret < OProv. birret. -see
 biretta.]



 berg  n.  An iceberg.



 bergamot  n.  1.  a. A small, spiny tree, Citrus aurantium bergamia,
 bearing sour, pear-shaped fruit whose rind yields an aromatic oil. b. The
 oil of the bergamot, used in perfumery. 2. Any of several plants of the
 genus Monarda, esp. the wild bergamot. [Fr. bergamote < Ital. bergamotta,
 prob. < Turk. beg-armudi, prince's pear.]



 Bergmann's rule  n.  An axiom stating that in any warm-blooded animal
 species that is polytypic and wide-ranging, the body size of each
 geographic group varies with the average environmental temperature. [After
 Karl Georg L.C. Bergmann (1814-1865).]



 Bergsonism  n.  The philosophy of Henri Bergson, which contends that all
 living forms arise from a persisting natural force, the elan vital.
 Bergsonian n.



 beriberi  n.  A thiamine deficiency disease of the peripheral nervous
 system, endemic in eastern and southern Asia and characterized by partial
 paralysis of the extremities, emaciation, and anemia. [Singhalese, redup.
 of beri, weakness.]



 Bering time  n.  The time in western Alaska and the Aleutian Islands,
 which lie in the 11th time zone west of Greenwich, England. [After the
 Bering Sea.]



 Berkeleianism  n.  The philosophy of George Berkeley, which holds that
 material objects have no independent being but exist only as concepts of a
 human or divine mind.   Berkeleian n.



 berkelium  n.  Bk  A synthetic transuranic element having 9 isotopes with
 mass numbers from 243 to 250 and half-lives from 3 hours to 1,380 years.
 Atomic number 97; valences 3, 4. [After Berkeley, California.]



 Berkshire  n.  One of a domestic breed of black swine with white feet and
 faces. [After Berkshire, a county in England.]



 berlin  n.  1. A light wool used in making clothing, esp. gloves. 2. A
 four-wheeled covered carriage. 3. Variant of berline. [After Berlin,
 Germany.]



 berline or berlin   n.  A limousine with a glass window between the front
 and rear seats. [Fr. < Berlin, Berlin, Germany.]



 berm or berme   n.  1.  a. A narrow ledge or shelf, as along a slope. b. A
 shoulder of a road. 2. A ledge between the parapet and the moat in a
 fortification. [Fr. berme < MDu.]



 Bermuda grass  n.  A grass, Cynodon dactylon, that has wiry, creeping
 rootstocks and is used for lawns and pasturage in warm regions.



 Bermuda lily  n.  A lily, Lilium longiflorum, cultivated extensively in
 Bermuda, having large, white, trumpet-shaped flowers.



 Bermuda mulberry  n.  A species of beautyberry.



 Bermuda onion  n.  A large, mild-flavored, yellow-skinned variety of
 onion.



 Bermuda rig  n.  A fore-and-aft rig distinguished by a tall triangular
 mainsail and widely used on cruising and racing vessels.



 Bermudas  pl.n.  Bermuda shorts.



 Bermuda shorts  pl.n.  Shorts that end slightly above the knees.



 Bernoulli distribution  n.  Statistics.  The binomial distribution. [After
 Jakob Bernoulli (1654-1705).]



 Bernoulli effect  n.  The phenomenon of internal pressure reduction with
 increased stream velocity in a fluid. [After Daniel Bernoulli (1700-1782).]




 Bernoulli's law  n.  1.  Statistics. The probability theorem stating that
 for a very large number of independent repeated Bernoulli trials the
 observed relative frequency of successes will approximate the probability
 of success on each trial. 2.  Physics. The relationship between internal
 fluid pressure and fluid velocity, essentially a statement of the
 conservation of energy, that has as a consequence the Bernoulli effect.
 [Statistics law after Jakob Bernoulli; physics law after Daniel Bernoulli.]




 Bernoulli trial  n.  Statistics.  An experiment having just two possible
 results, usually denoted success and failure, with the property that the
 occurrence of one excludes the occurrence of the other in any given trial.
 [After Jakob Bernoulli (1654-1705).]



 berry  n. pl. -ries  1. Any of various usually fleshy, edible fruits, such
 as the strawberry, blackberry, or raspberry. 2.  Botany. A fleshy fruit,
 such as the grape, blueberry, or tomato, developed from a single ovary and
 having few or many seeds but not a single stone. 3. Any of various seeds or
 dried kernels, such as that of the coffee plant. 4. The small, dark egg of
 certain crustaceans or fishes.   -intr.v.-ried -rying -ries   1. To hunt
 for or gather berries. 2. To produce or bear berries. [ME berye < OE
 berie.]



 berseem  n.  A clover, Trifolium alexandrinum, native to northern Africa
 and southwestern Asia, grown for soil improvement in dry regions of
 southwestern North America. [Ar. birsim < Coptic bersim.]



 berserk  adj.  1. Destructively or frenetically violent. 2. Deranged.
 -n. A berserker.   berserk adv.



 berserker  n.  An ancient Scandinavian warrior who fought in battle with
 frenzied violence and fury. [ON berserkr : bjorn, bear + serkr, shirt.]



 berth  n.  1. A built-in bed or bunk on a ship or train. 2. A space at a
 wharf for a ship to dock or anchor. 3. Sufficient space for a ship to
 maneuver. 4. A position of employment, esp. on a ship. 5. A place to sleep.
 6. A space where a vehicle can be parked.   -v.berthed berthing berths
 -tr. 1. To bring (a ship) to a berth. 2. To provide with a berth. -intr. To
 come to a berth; dock.

       Idiom Section:  give a wide berth to. To stay at a substantial
 distance from; avoid. [Prob. < bear1.]



 bertha  n.  A wide, deep collar, often of lace, that covers the shoulders.
 [Fr. berthe < Berthe, the name Bertha.]



 Bertillon system  n.  A system formerly used for identifying persons by
 means of a record of various body measurements, coloring, and markings.
 [After Alphonse Bertillon (1853-1914).]



 beryl  n.  A mineral, essentially aluminum beryllium silicate,
 Be3Al2Si6O18, occurring in hexagonal prisms and constituting the chief
 source of beryllium. [ME < OFr. < Lat. beryllus < Gk. berullos.]
 berylline adj.



 beryllium  n.  Be  A high-melting, lightweight, corrosion-resistant,
 rigid, steel-gray metallic element used as an aerospace structural
 material, as a moderator and reflector in nuclear reactors, and in a copper
 alloy used for springs, electrical contacts, and nonsparking tools. Atomic
 number 4; atomic weight 9.0122; melting point 1,278 deg. C; boiling point
 2,970 deg. C; specific gravity 1.848; valence 2. [< beryl.]



 beseech  tr.v. -sought  or -seeched  or -seeching  or -seeches   1. To
 address an earnest or urgent request to; implore. 2. To request earnestly;
 beg for. [ME besechen < OE besecan.]   beseecher n.



 beseem  tr.v. -seemed -seeming -seems   Archaic.  To be appropriate for;
 befit. [ME besemen.]



 beset  tr.v. -set -setting -sets   1. To attack from all sides; assail. 2.
 To trouble persistently; harass:  . . . beset by a ghostly band of doubts
 (Sherwood Anderson). 3. To hem in; surround. 4. To stud, as with jewels.
 [ME besetten < OE besettan.]   besetment n.



 besetting  adj.  Constantly troubling or attacking.



 beshrew  tr.v. -shrewed -shrewing -shrews   Archaic.  To invoke evil upon;
 curse. [ME beshrewen.]



 beside  prep.  1. At the side of; next to. 2. In comparison with. 3.
 Except for. 4. Apart from; wide of: a remark that was beside the point.
 -adv. Archaic.  1. In addition. 2. Nearby.

       Idiom Section:  beside (oneself). In a state of extreme agitation.
 [ME biside < OE be sidan : be, by + side, side.]



 besides  adv.  1. In addition; also. 2. Moreover; furthermore. 3.
 Otherwise; else.   -prep. 1. In addition to. 2. Other than; except. [ME
 bisides, genitive of biside, beside.]

      Usage: In modern usage the senses "in addition to" and "except for"
 are conveyed more often by besides  than beside.  Thus: He had few friends
 besides us.



 besiege  tr.v. -sieged -sieging -sieges   1. To surround with troops; lay
 siege to. 2. To crowd around; hem in. 3. To harass or importune, as with
 requests. 4. To cause to feel distressed or worried: was besieged by
 problems.  [ME besegen.]   besiegement n.   besieger n.



 besmear  tr.v. -smeared -smearing -smears   To smear.



 besmirch  tr.v. -smirched -smirching -smirches   To soil; sully.
 besmircher n.   besmirchment n.



 besom  n.  1. A bundle of twigs attached to a handle and used as a broom.
 2. A broom. 3. The broom plant. [ME besum < OE besema.]



 besot  tr.v. -sotted -sotting -sots   To muddle or stupefy, esp. with
 liquor.



 besought  v.  A past tense and past participle of beseech.



 bespake  v.  Archaic.  Past tense of bespeak.



 bespatter  tr.v. -tered -tering -ters   To spatter, as with mud.



 bespeak  tr.v. -spoke -spoken  or -spoke  or -speaking   1. To be or give
 a sign of; indicate; signify. 2.  Archaic. To speak to; address. 3. To
 engage or claim in advance; reserve. 4. To foretell; portend. [ME bespeken,
 to speak out < OE besprecan.]



 bespectacled  adj.  Wearing eyeglasses.



 bespoke  v.  The past tense and a past participle of bespeak.   -adj.
 Chiefly British.  1. Made-to-order. 2. Dealing in custom-made articles.



 bespoken  v.  A past participle of bespeak.   -adj.ChieflyBrit. Bespoke.



 besprent  adj.  Archaic.  Sprinkled over. [ME bespreynt, p.part. of
 besprengen, to besprinkle < OE besprengan.]



 besprinkle  tr.v. -kled -kling -kles   To sprinkle.



 Bessemer converter  n.  A large pear-shaped container in which molten iron
 is converted to steel by the Bessemer process.



 Bessemer process  n.  A method for making steel by blasting compressed air
 through molten iron, burning out excess carbon and other impurities. [After
 Henry Bessemer (1813-1898), its inventor.]



 best  adj.  Superlative of good>  1. Surpassing all others in excellence,
 achievement, or quality; most excellent: the best actor.  2. Most
 satisfactory, suitable, or useful; most desirable: the best solution.  3.
 Greatest; largest: the best part of a journey.    -adv. Superlative of
 well>  1. In the best way; most creditably or advantageously. 2. To the
 greatest degree or extent; most.   -n. 1. Something that is best. 2. The
 best condition or quality: look your best.  3. One's best clothing. 4. The
 best effort one can make: doing his best.  5. One's warmest wishes or
 regards: Give them my best.    -tr.v.bested besting bests   To get the
 better of; surpass.

       Idiom Section:  at best. Under the most favorable conditions. [ME <
 OE betst.]



 bestead  Archaic.  tr.v. -steaded  or -stead  or -steading  or -steads
 1. To be of service to; aid. 2. To be of use to; avail.   -adj. Placed;
 located.



 bestial  adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, or resembling an animal. 2. Having
 the qualities or manners of a brute; savage. 3. Lacking in intelligence.
 [ME < OFr. < LLat. bestialis < Lat. bestia, beast.]   bestially adv.



 bestiality  n. pl. -ties  1. The quality of being bestial; animal nature.
 2. Conduct or an action marked by carnality or brutality. 3. Sexual
 relations between a human being and an animal.



 bestialize  tr.v. -ized -izing -izes   To make bestial; brutalize.



 bestiary  n. pl. -ies  A medieval collection of allegorical fables about
 the habits and traits of animals, each fable followed by an interpretation
 of its moral significance. [Med. Lat. bestiarium < Lat. bestia, beast.]



 bestir  tr.v. -stirred -stirring -stirs   To cause to become active;
 rouse. [ME bestiren < OE bestyrian, to pile up.]



 best man  n.  The bridegroom's chief attendant at a wedding.



 bestow  tr.v. -stowed -stowing -stows   1. To present as a gift or honor;
 confer. 2. To apply; use. 3.  Archaic. To store or house. [ME bestowen.]
 bestowable adj.   bestowal  bestowment n.



 bestrew  tr.v. -strewed -strewed  or -strewn  or -strewing  or -strews
 1. To strew (a surface) with things so as to cover it. 2. To lie scattered
 over or about.



 bestride  tr.v. -strode -stridden -striding -strides   1. To sit or stand
 on with the legs astride; straddle. 2. To step over. 3. To stand high
 above; tower over. [ME bestriden < OE bestridan.]



 best seller  n.  A book or other product that is among those sold in the
 largest numbers.   best-selling adj.



 bet  n.  1. An agreement usually between two parties that the one who has
 made an incorrect prediction about an uncertain outcome will forfeit
 something stipulated to the other; wager. 2. A fact, event, or outcome on
 which a wager is made. 3. An amount or object risked in a wager; stake. 4.
 A person or thing on which a stake is placed.   -v.bet  or betted  or
 betting  or bets   -tr. 1. To stake (an amount, for example) in a bet. 2.
 To make a bet with. 3. To make a bet on (a contestant or an outcome). 4. To
 maintain confidently, as if making a bet. -intr. To make or place a bet.

       Idiom Section:  you bet. Informal.  Of course; surely. [Orig.
 unknown.]



 beta  n.  1. The 2nd letter of the Greek alphabet. See table at alphabet.
 2. The second item in a series or system of classification. 3.  Physics.
 a. A beta particle. b. A beta ray. [Gk. beta, of Phoenician orig.; akin to
 Heb. beth.]



 beta-adrenergic  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or being a beta-receptor.



 beta-blocker  n.  A drug that inhibits the absorption of adrenalin by
 interfering with beta-receptor action.



 beta cell  n.  1. Any of the cells in the islands of Langerhans that
 produce insulin. 2. Any of the basophilic chemophiles located in the
 anterior lobe of the adenohypophysis.



 beta-endorphin  n.  An endorphin that is a potent pain suppressant
 produced by the pituitary gland.



 beta globulin  n.  Any of several globulins intermediate in their
 particulate motility response to electrophoresis as compared to alpha and
 gamma globulins.



 betaine  n.  A sweet crystalline alkaloid, C5H11NO2, occurring in sugar
 beets and other plants and used in the treatment of muscular degeneration.
 [Lat. beta, beet + -ine.]



 betake  tr.v. -took -taken -taking -takes   1. To cause (oneself) to go or
 move. 2.  Archaic. To commit; apply.



 beta-oxidation  n.  The process of fatty-acid catabolism, in which
 two-carbon fragments are removed in succession from the carboxyl end of the
 chain.



 beta particle  n.  A high-speed electron or positron, esp. one emitted in
 radioactive decay.



 beta ray  n.  A stream of beta particles, esp. of electrons.



 beta-receptor  n.  A site in the autonomic nervous system that is
 activated by or strongly responds to adrenergic agents, such as
 epinephrine, by producing inhibitory action.



 beta rhythm or beta wave   n.  The second most common waveform occurring
 in electroencephalograms of the adult brain, characteristically having a
 frequency from 18 to 30 cycles per second and associated with an alert
 waking state.



 betatron  n.  A fixed-radius magnetic induction electron accelerator
 capable of accelerating electrons to energies of a few million to a few
 hundred million electron volts.



 betel  n.  A climbing Asiatic plant, Piper betle, whose leaves are chewed
 with the betel nut by people of southeastern Asia to induce both
 stimulating and narcotic effects. [Port. < Malayalam vettila.]



 Betelgeuse  n.  A bright-red intrinsic variable star, 527 light years from
 Earth, in the constellation Orion. [Fr. Betelgeuse, prob. < Ar. bit
 aljauza.]



 betel nut or betelnut   n.  The seed of the fruit of the betel palm,
 chewed, together with betel leaves and lime, by many people of southeastern
 Asia.



 betel palm  n.  A palm tree, Areca catechu, of tropical Asia, having
 featherlike leaves and orange or scarlet fruit.



 bete noire  n.  Someone or something that one particularly dislikes or
 avoids. [Fr. : bete, beast + noire, black.]



 beth  n.  The 2nd letter of the Hebrew alphabet. See table at alphabet.
 [Heb. beth.]



 bethel  n.  1. A hallowed or holy place. 2. A chapel for seamen. [Heb.
 beth 'El, house of God.]



 bethink  v. -thought   , -thinking, -thinks. -tr. 1.  Archaic. To reflect
 on; think about. 2. To remind (oneself); remember. -intr. Archaic.  To
 meditate; ponder. [ME bethinken < OE beoencan.]



 betide  v. -tided -tiding -tides   -tr. To happen to. -intr. To take
 place; befall. [ME betiden : be-, thoroughly + tiden, to happen < OE
 tidan.]



 betimes  adv.  1. In good time; early. 2.  Archaic. Quickly; soon. [ME.]



 betise  n. pl. betises  1. Stupidity; foolishness. 2. A stupid or foolish
 act. [Fr. < bete, foolish < bete, beast < OFr. beste < Lat. bestia.]



 betoken  tr.v. -kened -kening -kens   To be or give a sign or portent of.
 [ME betokenen : be-, thoroughly + toknen, to signify < OE tacnian.]
 betokener n.



 betony  n. pl. -nies  1. Any of several plants of the genus Stachys, esp.
 S. officinalis, native to Eurasia, having a spike of reddish-purple
 flowers. 2. The lousewort. [ME betone < OFr. betoine < Lat. betonica, prob.
 < Vettones, an ancient Iberian tribe.]



 betook  v.  Past tense of betake.



 betray  tr.v. -trayed -traying -trays   1. To commit treason against or be
 a traitor to. 2. To divulge in a breach of confidence. 3. To make known
 unintentionally: trembling hands betraying anxiety.  4. To reveal;
 indicate. 5. To lead astray; deceive. [ME betrayen : be- thoroughly +
 trayen, to betray < OFr. trair < Lat. tradee. -see tradition.]   betrayal
 n.   betrayer n.



 betroth  tr.v. -trothed -trothing -troths   1. To promise to give in
 marriage. 2. To promise to marry. [ME betrouthen : be-, in relation to +
 trouthe, troth.]



 betrothal  n.  1.  a. The act of betrothing. b. The fact of being
 betrothed. 2. A mutual promise to marry; engagement.



 betrothed  n.  A person to whom one is engaged to be married.



 betta  n.  Any of a genus, Betta, of small, long-finned freshwater fishes
 of striking coloration, found in southeastern Asia. [NLat. Betta, genus
 name.]



 better
 better(1)  adj.  Comparative of good.  1. Greater in excellence or higher
 in quality. 2. More useful, suitable, or desirable. 3. Larger; greater: the
 better part of a summer.  4. Healthier than before.   -adv. Comparative of
 well.  1. In a more excellent way. 2.  a. To a greater extent or degree. b.
 To greater use or advantage. 3. More: better than a year.    -n. 1.
 Something that is better. 2. A superior, as in rank or intelligence.
 -v.-tered -tering -ters   -tr. 1. To improve: bettered his position.  2. To
 surpass or exceed. -intr. To become better.

       Idiom Section:  better off. In a better or wealthier condition. for
 the better. So as to improve. [ME < OE betera.]

      Usage: Better  is normally used in a comparison of two: Which house of
 Congress has the better record?  However, best  is used idiomatically with
 reference to two in certain locutions: Put your best foot forward. May the
 best man win!  The phrase had better  is accepted, so long as the had  or
 its contraction is preserved: You had better do it  or you'd better do it,
 but not you better do it.  The use of better  for more,  as in the distance
 is better than a mile,  is considered unacceptable in writing by a majority
 of the Usage Panel.
 better(2)  n.  Variant of bettor.



 betterment  n.  1. An improvement. 2. An improvement that is not merely a
 repair but that also adds to the value of real property.



 better-off  adj.  Being in a better or more prosperous condition.



 bettor or better   n.  One who bets.



 between  prep.  1.  a. In the position or interval separating: between the
 trees; between 11 o'clock and 12 o'clock.  b. Intermediate to, as in
 quantity, amount, or degree: costs between fifteen and twenty dollars.  2.
 Connecting spatially: a road between the house and the village.  3.  a. By
 the combined effort or effect of: Between them they succeeded.  b. In the
 combined ownership of: They had three dollars between them.  4. As measured
 against. Used often to express a reciprocal relationship: choose between
 riding and walking.    -adv. In an intermediate space, position, or time;
 in the interim.

       Idiom Section:  between you and me. In strictest confidence. in
 between. In an intermediate situation. [ME betwene < OE betweonum.]

      Usage: Between  and among  are often confused. Between  is the only
 possible choice when only two entities are involved: between  (never among
 ) good and evil; the rivalry between  (never among ) England and France.
 When more than two entities are involved, the choice of between  or among
 depends on the intended meaning. Among  is used to indicate that an entity
 has been chosen from the members of a group: the first among  (not between
 ) equals; Among  (not between ) the four chairs, I like the red one best.
 Among  is also used to indicate a relation of inclusion in a group: He is
 among the best painters of our time; He took his place among the students
 waiting outside the door. Between,  on the other hand, is used to indicate
 the area bounded by several points: We have narrowed the search to the area
 between  (not among ) Philadelphia, New York, and Scranton.  In other
 cases, either between  or among  may be used; one may speak of an agreement
 between  or among several merchants,  and one may say either that the boy
 was lost among the trees  ("in the area of the trees") or between the trees
  (in which case we infer that the trees hid the boy from sight.)



 betweentimes  adv.  At or during pauses.



 betwixt  adv.  -prep. Archaic.  Between.

       Idiom Section:  betwixt and between. In an intermediate position;
 neither wholly one thing nor another. [ME < OE betwyx.]



 Beulah  n.  1. In the Old Testament, the land of Israel. 2. The land of
 peace described in Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress.



 bevatron  n.  Physics.  A proton synchrotron. [b(illion) + e(lectron) +
 v(olts) + -tron.]



 bevel  n.  1. The angle or inclination of a line or surface that meets
 another at any angle but 90 degrees. 2. A rule with an adjustable arm used
 to measure or draw angles or to fix a surface at an angle.   -v.-eled
 -eling -els  or -elled  or -elling  or -els   -tr. To cut at an inclination
 that forms an angle other than a right angle. -intr. To be inclined; slope.
 [OFr. *bevel < baif, open-mouthed < bayer, to gape.]



 bevel gear  n.  Either of a pair of gears with teeth surfaces cut so that
 the gear shafts are not parallel.



 beverage  n.  Any of various liquids for drinking, usually excluding
 water. [ME beverege < OFr. bevrage < beivre, to drink < Lat. biber.]



 bevy  n. pl. -ies  1. A group of animals or birds, esp. larks or quail;
 flock. 2. A group or assemblage. [ME.]



 bewail  tr.v. -wailed -wailing -wails   1. To express sorrow or regret
 over. 2. To cry about.   bewailer n.   bewailment n.



 beware  v. -wared -waring -wares   -tr. To be cautious of. -intr. To be
 cautious: Beware of the dog.  [ME be ware : be, imper. of been, to be +
 ware, on one's guard (< OE waer).]



 bewhiskered  adj.  Having whiskers.



 bewilder  tr.v. -dered -dering -ders   1. To confuse or befuddle, esp.
 with numerous conflicting situations, objects, or statements. 2. To cause
 to lose one's sense of where one is.   bewilderedly adv.   bewilderedness
 n.   bewilderingly adv.



 bewilderment  n.  1. The condition of being bewildered. 2. A situation of
 perplexity or confusion; tangle.



 bewitch  tr.v. -witched -witching -witches   1. To place under one's power
 by or as if by magic; cast a spell over. 2. To captivate completely;
 fascinate. [ME bewicchen : be-, thoroughly + wicchen, to enchant < OE
 wiccian < wicce, witch and wicca, wizard.]   bewitcher n.   bewitchery n.
 bewitching adj.



 bewitchment  n.  1.  a. The act of bewitching. b. The state of being
 bewitched. 2. A spell that bewitches.



 bewray  tr.v. -wrayed -wraying -wrays   Archaic.  To disclose, esp.
 inadvertently; betray. [ME bewreien : be-, thoroughly + wreien, to accuse <
 OE wregan.]



 bey  n.  1. A provincial governor in the Ottoman Empire. 2. A native ruler
 of the former kingdom of Tunis. 3. A Turkish title of honor and respect.
 [Turk.]



 beyond  prep.  1. On the far side of; past. 2. Later than. 3. Past the
 understanding, reach, or scope of: an evil beyond remedy.  4. To a degree
 or amount greater than: rich beyond his wildest dreams.  5. In addition to:
 asked for nothing beyond peace and quiet.    -adv. Farther along. [ME < OE
 begeondan.]



 bezant   1. A gold coin issued in Byzantium; solidus. 2.  Architecture. A
 flat disk used as an ornament. [ME besant < OFr. < Lat. Byzantius, of
 Byzantium.]



 bezel  n.  1. A slanting surface or bevel on the edge of a cutting tool.
 2. The upper, faceted portion of a cut gem, above the girdle. 3. A groove
 or flange designed to hold a beveled edge, as of a watch crystal or a gem.
 [Orig. unknown.]



 bezique  n.  A card game similar to pinochle that is played with a deck of
 64 cards. [Fr. besique.]



 bezoar  n.  A hard gastric or intestinal mass found chiefly in ruminants
 and once considered an antidote to poison. [ME bezear < OFr. bezar < Ar.
 bazahr < Pers. pad-zahr : pad, protecting against + zahr, poison.]



 B-girl  n.  A woman who encourages customers in a bar to spend money
 freely. [b(ar) + girl.]



 Bhagavad-Gita  n.  A sacred Hindu text in the form of a philosophical
 dialogue that is incorporated into the Mahabharata, an ancient Sanskrit
 epic. [Skt. bhagavad-gita, song of the blessed one (Krishna).]



 bhang or bang   n.  1. The hemp plant. 2. Any of several narcotics made
 from the dried leaves and flowers of hemp. [Hindi bhang < Skt. bhanga.]



 Bhutanese  n. pl. Bhutanese  1. A native or inhabitant of Bhutan. 2. The
 Sino-Tibetan language of Bhutan.   -adj. Of or characteristic of Bhutan,
 its people, or their language and culture.



 bi- or bin-
 bi-(1)   1.  a. Two: biform.  b. Both: binaural.  c. Both sides, parts, or
 directions: biconcave.  2.  a. Occurring at intervals of two: bicentennial.
  b. Occurring twice during: biweekly.  3.  a. Containing twice the
 proportion of a specified chemical element or group necessary for
 stability: bicarbonate.  b. Containing two chemical atoms, radicals, or
 groups: biphenyl.  [Lat. < bis, twice.]

      Usage: Bimonthly  and biweekly  mean "once every two months" and "once
 every two weeks." For "twice a month" and "twice a week," the words
 semimonthly  and semiweekly  should be used. But there is a great deal of
 confusion over the distinction, and a writer is well advised to substitute
 expressions like "every two months" or "twice a month" where possible.
 However, used as nouns to denote "a publication that appears every two
 months," the words with bi-  are unavoidable.
 bi-(2)   Variant of bio-.



 Bi   The symbol for the element bismuth.



 bialy  n. pl. -lys  A flat, round baked roll topped with onion flakes.
 [After Bialystok, Poland.]



 biannual  adj.  Happening twice each year; semiannual.   biannually adv.



 bias  n.  1. A line cutting diagonally across the grain of fabric. 2.  a.
 A preference or inclination, esp. one that inhibits impartial judgment;
 prejudice. b. A specified instance of this. 3.  a. A weight or irregularity
 in a ball that causes it to swerve, as in lawn bowling. b. The tendency of
 such a ball to swerve. 4. The fixed voltage applied to an electrode. a bias
 fold.    -tr.v.-ased -asing -ases  or -assed  or -assing  or -asses   1. To
 cause to have a prejudiced view. 2. To apply a small voltage to (a grid).
 [OFr. biais, oblique.]

      Usage: Bias  has generally been defined as "uninformed or
 unintentional inclination"; as such it may operate either for or against
 someone or something. Recently bias  has been used in the sense of "adverse
 action or discrimination": Congress included a provision in the Civil
 Rights Act of 1964 banning racial bias in employment.  Less than half the
 members of the Usage Panel accept this meaning.



 biathlon  n.  An athletic competition that combines events in
 cross-country skiing and rifle shooting. [bi- + Gk. athlon, contest.]



 biaxial  adj.  Having two axes.   biaxiality n.   biaxially adv.



 bib  n.  1. A kind of napkin tied under the chin and worn, esp. by small
 children, to protect the clothing during meals. 2. The part of an apron or
 pair of overalls worn over the chest.   -v.bibbed bibbing bibs   -tr. To
 drink; imbibe. -intr. To indulge in drinking; tipple. [Prob. < ME bibben,
 to drink, perh. < Lat. bibere.]



 bib and tucker  n.  Informal.  Clothing; outfit: put on her best bib and
 tucker.



 bibb  n.  1. A bracket on the mast of a ship to support the trestletrees.
 2. A bibcock. [Alteration of bib.]



 bibber  n.  A tippler; drinker. [< bib.]



 Bibb lettuce  n.  A kind of lettuce forming a small head and having
 tender, dark-green leaves. [After Jack Bibb, 19th-cent. American vegetable
 grower.]



 bibcock  n.  A faucet with a nozzle that is bent downward.



 bibelot  n.  A small decorative object or trinket. [Fr. < OFr. beubelet,
 from a redup. of bel, beautiful < Lat. bellus, handsome.]



 Bible  n.  1.  a. The sacred book of Christianity, a collection of ancient
 writings including the books of both the Old Testament and the New
 Testament. b. The Old Testament, the sacred book of Judaism. c. A
 particular copy of a Bible: the old family Bible.  d. A book or collection
 of writings constituting the sacred text of a religion. 2. bible  A book
 considered authoritative in its field: the bible of French cooking.  [ME <
 OFr. < Med. Lat. biblia < Gk., pl. of biblion,  book < biblos, papyrus <
 Bublos, a Phoenician port.]



 Bible Belt  n.  Those sections of the United States, esp. in the South and
 Middle West, where Protestant fundamentalism prevails.



 biblical or Biblical   adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, or contained in the
 Bible. 2. In keeping with the nature of the Bible, esp.: a. Suggestive of
 the personages or times depicted in the Bible. b. Suggestive of the prose
 or narrative style of the King James Bible. [Med. Lat. biblicus < biblia,
 Bible.]   Biblically adv.



 Biblicist  n.  1. An expert on the Bible. 2. A person who interprets the
 Bible literally.   Biblicism n.



 biblio-   Book: bibliophile.  [< Gk. biblion, book. -see Bible.]



 bibliofilm  n.  A type of microfilm used esp. to photograph the pages of
 books.



 bibliographer  n.  1. An expert in the description and cataloguing of
 printed matter. 2. One who compiles a bibliography.



 bibliography  n. pl. -phies  1.  a. A list of the works of a specific
 author or publisher. b. A list of writings relating to a single subject. 2.
  a. The description and identification of the editions, dates of issue,
 authorship, and typography of books or other written material. b. A
 compilation of such information.   bibliographical bibliographic  adj.
 bibliographically adv.



 bibliolatry  n.  1. Excessive adherence to a literal interpretation of the
 Bible. 2. Extreme devotion to or concern with books.   bibliolater n.
 bibliolatrous adj.



 bibliomancy  n. pl. -cies  Divination by interpretation of a passage
 chosen at random from a book, esp. the Bible.



 bibliomania  n.  An exaggerated liking for acquiring and owning books.
 bibliomaniac n.   bibliomaniacal adj.



 bibliophile
 bibliophil or bibliophilist    n.  1. One who loves books. 2. A book
 collector.   bibliophilism n.   bibliophilistic adj.



 bibliophobia  n.  An abnormal fear of books.   bibliophobe n.
 bibliophobic adj.



 bibliopole or bibliopolist   n.  A person who deals in rare books. [Lat.
 bibliopola < Gk. bibliopoles : biblion, book + polein, to sell.]
 bibliopolic bibliopolical  adj.



 bibliotheca  n.  1. A book collection; library. 2. A catalogue of books.
 [Lat. < Gk. bibliotheke : biblion, book + theke, case.]   bibliothecal adj.




 bibliotics  n.  The examination of written documents to determine
 authorship or authenticity.



 bibulous  adj.  1. Given to or marked by drinking. 2. Very absorbent.
 [Lat. bibulus < bibere, to drink.]   bibulously adv.   bibulousness n.



 bicameral  adj.  Composed of two legislative chambers or branches: a
 bicameral legislature.



 bicapsular  adj.  Botany.  1. Having two capsules. 2. Having a capsule
 with two cells.



 bicarbonate  n.  The radical group HCO3 or a compound, such as sodium
 bicarbonate, containing it.



 bicarbonate of soda  n.  Sodium bicarbonate.



 bicaudal  adj.  Having two tails.



 bicellular  adj.  Having two cells.



 bicentenary  n. pl. -ries  A bicentennial.   bicentenary adj.



 bicentennial  adj.  1. Happening once every 200 years. 2. Lasting for 200
 years. 3. Pertaining to a 200th anniversary.   -n. A 200th anniversary or
 its celebration.



 bicentric  adj.  Having two centers.   bicentricity n.



 bicephalous  adj.  Having two heads.



 biceps  n. pl. biceps  or -cepses  A muscle with two heads or points of
 origin, esp.: a. The large muscle at the front of the upper arm that flexes
 the elbow joint. b. The large muscle at the back of the thigh that flexes
 the knee joint. [NLat. < Lat., two-headed : bi-, two + caput, head.]



 bichloride  n.  Dichloride.



 bichromate  n.  Dichromate.



 biciliate  adj.  Having two cilia.



 bicipital  adj.  Of or pertaining to the biceps. [< NLat. biceps,
 bicipit-, biceps.]



 bicker  intr.v. -ered -ering -ers   1. To engage in a petty quarrel;
 squabble. 2. To flicker; quiver.   -n. A petty quarrel; squabble. [ME
 bikeren, to attack.]   bickerer n.



 bicolor or bicolored   adj.  Having two colors.



 biconcave  adj.  Concave on both sides or surfaces.   biconcavity n.



 biconvex  adj.  Convex on both sides or surfaces.   biconvexity n.



 bicorn or bicornuate   adj.  1. Having two horns or horn-shaped parts. 2.
 Shaped like a crescent. [Lat. bicornis : bi-, two + cornu, horn.]



 bicorporal or bicorporeal   adj.  Having two distinct bodies or main
 parts.



 bicostate  adj.  Botany.  Having two principal longitudinal ribs: a
 bicostate leaf.  [bi- + cost(a) + -ate.]



 bicultural  adj.  Of or relating to two discrete cultures in one nation or
 geographic region.   biculturalism n.



 bicuspid or bicuspidate   adj.  Having two points or cusps, as the
 crescent moon.   -n. bicuspid  A bicuspid tooth, esp. a premolar. [NLat.
 bicuspis, bicuspid- : bi- two + cuspis, cusp.]



 bicuspid valve  n.  The cardiac valve, composed of two triangular flaps,
 that is situated in the orifice connecting the left auricle and ventricle.



 bicycle  n.  A vehicle consisting of a metal frame mounted on two
 wire-spoked wheels one behind the other and having a seat, handlebars for
 steering, and two pedals or a small motor by which it is driven.
 -intr.v.-cled -cling -cles   To ride or travel on a bicycle. [Fr. : bi-,
 two + Gk. kuklos, wheel.]   bicyclist n.



 bicyclic or bicyclical   adj.  1. Consisting of or having two cycles. 2.
 Botany. Composed of or arranged in two distinct whorls, as the petals of a
 flower. 3.  Chemistry. Containing molecules consisting of two fused rings.



 bid  v.  bade  or bid  or bidden  or bid  or bidding  or bids   -tr. 1. To
 order; command. 2. To utter (a greeting or salutation). 3. To invite to
 attend; summon. 4. Past tense and past participle  bid. To state one's
 intention to take (tricks of a certain number or suit in cards): bid four
 hearts.  5. Past tense and past participle  bid. To offer or propose (an
 amount) as a price. -intr. 1. Past tense and past participle  bid. To make
 an offer to pay or accept a specified price. 2. Past tense and past
 participle  bid. To seek to win or attain something; strive.   -n. 1.  a.
 An offer or proposal of a price. b. The amount offered or proposed. 2. An
 invitation, esp. one offering membership in a group or club. 3.  a. The act
 of bidding in card games. b. The number of tricks or points declared. c.
 The trump or no-trump declared. d. The turn of a player to bid. 4. An
 earnest effort to win or attain something.

       Idiom Section:  bid fair. To appear likely. [Partly < ME bidden, to
 ask, command (< OE bidden), and partly < ME beden, to offer (< OE beodan).]
   bidder n.



 bidarka  n.  A hide-covered canoe used by Eskimos of Alaska. [R.
 baidarka.]



 biddable  adj.  1. Capable of being bid. 2. Docile; tractable.



 bidden  v.  A past participle of bid.



 bidding  n.  1. A demand that something be done; command. 2. A request to
 appear; summons. 3. Bids collectively, as at an auction.



 biddy
 biddy(1)  n. pl. -dies  A hen; fowl. [Orig. unknown.]
 biddy(2)  n. pl. -dies  Slang.  A woman, esp. a garrulous old one.
 [Nickname for Bridget.]



 Biddy Basketball  n.  Basketball for youngsters in which the baskets are
 at a height of 81/2 feet. [Alteration of dial. bitty, small (bit + -y) +
 basketball.]



 bide  v. bided  or bode  or bided  or biding  or bides   -intr. 1. To
 remain in a condition or state. 2.  a. To wait; tarry. b. To stay. c. To be
 left; remain. -tr. To await: bide one's time.  [ME biden < OE bidan.]



 bidentate  adj.  Having two teeth or toothlike processes.



 bidet  n.  A basinlike fixture designed to be straddled for bathing the
 genitals and the posterior parts. [Fr.]



 bidialectal  adj.  Using two dialects of the same language.
 bidialectalism n.   bidialectalist n.



 bidonville  n.  A shantytown on the outskirts of a city, as in France.
 [Fr. : bidon, tin can (< OFr., canteen, prob. of Scand. orig.) + ville,
 town. -see village.]



 Biedermeier  adj.  Of or pertaining to a type of furniture developed in
 Germany during the first half of the 19th century and modeled after French
 Empire styles. [After Gottlieb Biedermeier, the imaginary author of poems
 written by Ludwig Eichroth (1827-1892).]



 biennia  n.  A plural of biennium.



 biennial  adj.  1. Lasting or living for two years. 2. Happening every
 second year. 3. Having a normal life cycle of two years.   -n. 1. An event
 that occurs once every two years. 2. A plant that normally requires two
 years to reach maturity, producing leaves in the first year, blooming and
 producing fruit in the second year, and then dying.   biennially adv.



 biennium  n. pl. -niums  or -nia  A two-year period. [Lat : bi-, two +
 annus, year.]



 bier  n.  A stand on which a corpse or a coffin containing a corpse is
 placed prior to burial. [ME bere < OE ber.]



 bifacial  adj.  1. Having two faces, fronts, or facades. 2.  Botany.
 Having upper and lower surfaces that are distinct and dissimilar. 3. Having
 two opposing surfaces that are alike.



 biff  Slang.  tr.v. biffed biffing biffs   To strike or punch.   -n. A
 blow or punch. [Imit.]



 bifid  adj.  Divided into two equal parts or lobes by a median cleft.
 bifidity n.   bifidly adv.



 bifilar  adj.  Fitted with or involving the use of two threads or wires.
 bifilarly adv.



 biflagellate  adj.  Having two flagella: a biflagellate protozoan.



 bifocal  adj.  1. Having two different focal lengths. 2. Having one
 section that corrects for distant vision and another that corrects for near
 vision.



 bifocals  pl.n.  Eyeglasses with bifocal lenses.



 bifoliate  adj.  Having two leaves.



 bifoliolate  adj.  Having two leaflets.



 biforate  adj.  Biology.  Having two openings. [bi- + Lat. forare, forat-,
 to pierce.]



 biform  adj.  Having a combination of features or qualities of two
 distinct forms.



 bifurcate  v. -cated -cating -cates   -tr. To divide into two parts or
 branches. -intr. To separate into two parts or branches; fork.   -adj.
 Forked or divided into two parts or branches. [Med. Lat. bifurcare,
 bifurcat-, to divide < Lat. bifurcus, two-pronged : bi-, two + furcus,
 fork.]   bifurcately adv.   bifurcation n.



 big  adj. bigger biggest   1. Of considerable size, number, quantity,
 magnitude, or extent; large. 2.  Obsolete.  a. Of great force or violence.
 b. Of great intensity; strong. 3. Grown-up; adult. 4. Pregnant: big with
 child.  5. Filled up; brimming over. 6. Having or exercising considerable
 authority, control, or influence. 7. Conspicuous in position, wealth, or
 importance; prominent. 8. Of great significance; momentous. 9. Loud and
 firm; resounding. 10. Bountiful; generous. 11.  Informal. Self-important;
 boastful.   -adv. 1. In a pretentious or boastful way: talked big about the
 job.  2. With considerable success.

       Idiom Section:  big on. Enthusiastic about; partial to: big on meat
 and potatoes.  make it big. To become very successful. [ME, prob. of Scand.
 orig.]   biggish adj.   bigly adv.   bigness n.



 bigamous  adj.  1. Involving bigamy. 2. Guilty of bigamy.   bigamously
 adv.



 bigamy  n. pl. -mies  Law.  The criminal offense of marrying one person
 while still legally married to another. [ME bigamie < OFr. < bigame,
 bigamous < LLat. bigamus : Lat. bi-, two + Gk. gamos, marriage.]   bigamist
 n.



 bigarreau  n.  Any of several varieties of sweet cherry with firm, often
 light-colored flesh. [Fr. < bigarrer, to variegate.]



 big bang  n.  The cosmic explosion that marked the origin of the universe
 according to the big bang theory.



 big bang theory  n.  A cosmological theory holding that the universe
 originated billions of years ago from the violent eruption of a point
 source.



 Big Bertha  n.  A large cannon used by Germany in World War I. [After
 Bertha Krupp von Bohlen und Halbach (1886-1957).]



 big brother  n.  1. An older brother. 2. A man who befriends a
 disadvantaged boy. 3. Big Brother  A vague, threatening figure representing
 the all-seeing, omnipresent power of an authoritarian government. [After
 Big Brother, a character in the novel Nineteen Eighty-Four by George Orwell
 (1903-1950).]



 Big Brotherism  n.  Authoritarian efforts at total control, as of an
 individual or a nation.



 Big Dipper  n.  A cluster of seven stars in the constellation Ursa Major,
 four forming the bowl and three the handle of a dipper-shaped
 configuration.



 bigeminal  adj.  Occurring in pairs; twinned. [LLat. bigeminus, doubled :
 Lat. bi-, two + Lat. geminus, paired.]



 bigeminy  n.  A cardiovascular condition wherein the pulse occurs in
 groups of two rapid beats with a pause following each pair of beats. [LLat.
 bigeminus, doubled + -y.]



 bigeye  n.  Any of several marine fishes of the family Priacanthidae,
 having large eyes and reddish scales.



 Bigfoot  n.  The sasquatch. [From the size of the footprints believed to
 belong to it.]



 big game  n.  1. Large animals or fish hunted or caught for sport. 2.
 Slang. An important objective.   big-game adj.



 biggety  adj.  Variant of biggity.



 biggie  n.  Informal.  1. A bigwig; big wheel. 2. Something, as a
 corporation, that is considered big or important.



 biggity or biggety   adj.  Informal.  Self-important; conceited. [< big.]



 bighead  n.  1.  Informal. Conceit; egotism. 2. Any of various diseases of
 animals characterized by swelling of the head.   bigheaded adj.
 bigheadedness n.



 big-hearted  adj.  Generous; kind.   big-heartedly adv.   big-heartedness
 n.



 bighorn  n.  A wild sheep, Ovis canadensis, of the mountains of western
 North America, the male of which has massive, curved horns.



 big house  n.  Slang.  A penitentiary.



 bight  n.  1.  a. A loop in a rope. b. The middle or slack part of an
 extended rope. 2.  a. A bend or curve, esp. in a shoreline. b. A wide bay
 formed by such a bend or curve.   -tr.v.bighted bighting bights   To tie in
 or secure with a bight. [ME, bend < OE byht.]



 big league  n.  1. A major league. 2. Big time.   big leaguer n.



 big-league  adj.  1. Major-league. 2. Outstanding in one's field.



 bigmouth  n.  1. Any of various fishes having unusually large mouths. 2.
 Slang. A loud-mouthed or gossipy person.



 bigmouthed  adj.  1. Having a large mouth. 2. Speaking loudly or
 indiscreetly; loud-mouthed.



 big-name  adj.  1. Of superior status in popular acknowledgment. 2. Of or
 involving one that is big-name.



 bignonia  n.  A plant of the genus Bignonia, esp. B. capreolata, a woody
 vine. [NLat. Bignonia, genus name, after Jean-Paul Bignon (1662-1743).]



 bigot  n.  A person who is rigidly devoted to his own group, religion,
 race, or politics and is intolerant of those who differ. [Fr. < OFr.]



 bigoted  adj.  Being or characteristic of a bigot.   bigotedly adv.
 bigotedness n.



 bigotry  n.  The attitude, state of mind, or behavior characteristic of a
 bigot; intolerance.



 big shot  n.  Slang.  An important or influential person.



 big-ticket  adj.  Informal.  Having a high price.



 big time  n.  Slang.  The most prestigious level of attainment in a
 competitive field.   big-time adj.   big-timer n.



 big toe  n.  The largest and innermost toe of the human foot.



 big top  n.  Informal.  1. The main tent of a circus. 2. The circus.



 big tree  n.  The giant sequoia.



 big wheel  n.  Slang.  A person of importance or authority.



 bigwig  n.  Informal.  An important person; dignitary.



 Bihari  n. pl. -ris  1. A native or inhabitant of Bihar. 2. The Indic
 language of the Biharis.



 bijou  n. pl. -joux  A small, exquisitely wrought trinket. [Fr. < Breton
 bizou, ring with a stone < biz, finger.]



 bijouterie  n.  A collection of jewelry or trinkets. [Fr.]



 bike  n.  1. A bicycle. 2. A motorcycle. 3. A motorbike.   -intr.v.biked
 biking bikes   To ride a bike. [Short for bicycle.]



 biker  n.  A motorcyclist, esp. one who belongs to a motorcycle gang.



 bikeway  n.  A roadway for bicycles.



 bikini  n.  1. A very brief two-piece bathing suit worn by women. 2. Brief
 underpants that reach to the hips rather than to the waist. [Fr. < Bikini,
 an atoll in the Marshall Islands.]



 bilabial  adj.  1. Pronounced or articulated with both lips, as the
 consonants b, p, m, and w.  2. Pertaining to both lips.   -n. A bilabial
 sound or consonant.   bilabially adv.



 bilabiate  adj.  Botany.  Having two lips, as a flower or corolla.



 bilander  n.  A small two-masted sailing vessel, used esp. on canals in
 the Low Countries. [Du. bijlander: bij, by (< MDu. bie) + land, land (<
 MDu.).]



 bilateral  adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, or having two sides; two-sided. 2.
 Having two symmetrical sides. 3. Affecting or undertaken by two sides
 equally; binding on both parties.   bilateralism n.   bilaterally adv.
 bilateralness n.



 bilberry  n.  1. Any of several shrubby or woody plants of the genus
 Vaccinium, having edible blue or blackish berries. 2. The fruit of a
 bilberry plant. [Prob. of Scand. orig.]



 bilbo  n. pl. -boes  An iron bar with sliding fetters formerly used to
 shackle the feet of prisoners. [Poss. after Bilbao, Spain.]



 bile  n.  1. A bitter, alkaline, brownish-yellow or greenish-yellow liquid
 that is secreted by the liver, stored in the gallbladder, and discharged
 into the duodenum and that aids in digestion, chiefly by saponifying fats.
 2. Ill temper; irascibility. [Fr. < Lat. bilis.]



 bile acid  n.  Any of the liver-generated steroid acids that appear in the
 bile as sodium salts.



 bile duct  n.  Any of the passages in the liver that convey bile from the
 liver to the hepatic duct, joining with the cystic duct to form the common
 bile duct.



 bile salt  n.  1. Any of the sodium salts found in bile. 2. A mixture of
 ox-gall salts used medicinally as a hepatic stimulant or laxative.



 bilge  n.  1. The lowest inner part of a ship's hull. 2. Bilge water. 3.
 The bulging part of a barrel or cask. 4.  Slang. Stupid talk; nonsense.
 -v.bilged bilging bilges   -intr. 1. To spring a leak in the bilge. 2. To
 bulge or swell. -tr. To break open the bilge of. [Prob. alteration of
 bulge.]   bilgy adj.



 bilge keel  n.  Either of two beams or fins fastened lengthwise along the
 outside of a ship's bilge to inhibit heavy rolling.



 bilge water  n.  Water that collects in the bilge of a ship.



 bilharziasis  n.  Schistosomiasis. [< NLat. Bilharzia, genus name, after
 Theodor Bilharz (1825-1862).]



 biliary  adj.  Of or pertaining to bile.



 biliary cirrhosis  n.  Progressive inflammatory disease of the liver
 caused by bile-duct obstruction.



 bilinear  adj.  Mathematics.  Linear with respect to each of two variables
 or positions.



 bilingual  adj.  1. Able to speak two languages with equal skill. 2. Of,
 pertaining to, or expressed in two languages.   -n. A bilingual person.
 bilingually adv.



 bilingualism  n.  Habitual use of two languages, esp. in speaking.



 bilious  adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, or containing bile; biliary. 2.
 Pertaining to, characterized by, or experiencing gastric distress caused by
 sluggishness of the liver or gallbladder. 3. Reminiscent of bile, esp. in
 color: a bilious green.  4. Of a peevish disposition; irascible.
 biliously adv.   biliousness n.



 bilirubin  n.  A reddish-yellow organic compound, C33H36O6N4, derived from
 hemoglobin during normal and pathological destruction of erythrocytes.
 [Lat. bilis, bile + ruber, red + -in.]



 biliverdin  n.  A green compound, C33H34O6N4, occurring in bile, sometimes
 formed by oxidation of bilirubin. [Swed.: Lat. bilis + OFr. verd, green.
 -see verdant.]



 bilk  tr.v. bilked bilking bilks   1. To defraud, cheat, or swindle. 2. To
 evade payment of. 3. To thwart or frustrate. 4. To elude.   -n. 1. One who
 cheats. 2. A hoax or swindle. [Perh. an alteration of balk.]   bilker n.



 bill
 bill(1)  n.  1. An itemized list or statement of fees or charges. 2. A
 statement or list of particulars, such as a playbill or menu. 3. The
 entertainment offered by a theater. 4. An advertising poster or similar
 public notice. 5. A piece of legal paper money. 6. A bill of exchange or a
 similar commercial note. 7. A draft of a proposed law presented for
 approval to a legislative body. 8.  Law. A document presented to a court
 and containing a formal statement of a case, complaint, or petition.
 -tr.v.billed billing bills   1. To present a statement of costs or charges
 to. 2. To enter on a statement of costs or on a particularized list. 3. To
 advertise, announce, or schedule by public notice or as part of a program.

       Idiom Section:  fill the bill. Informal.  To meet all necessary
 requirements. foot the bill. Informal.  To pay the complete cost of. [ME
 bille < Norman Fr. < Med. Lat. billa, alteration of bulla, seal on a
 document < Lat., bubble.]
 bill(2)  n.  1. The beak of a bird. 2. A beaklike mouth part, as of a
 turtle. 3. The visor of a cap. 4. The tip of the fluke of an anchor.
 -intr.v.billed billing bills   To touch beaks together.

       Idiom Section:  bill and coo. To kiss and murmur amorously. [ME < OE
 bile.]
 bill(3)  n.  1. A billhook. 2. A halberd or similar weapon with a hooked
 blade and a long handle. [ME bil < OE.]



 billabong  n.  Australian.  1. A dead-end channel extending from the main
 stream of a river. 2. A streambed filled with water only in the rainy
 season. 3. A stagnant pool or backwater. [Native word in Australia.]



 billboard  n.  A structure for the display of advertisements in public
 places or alongside highways.



 biller  n.  1. A clerk who makes out bills. 2. A machine for making out
 bills.



 billet
 billet(1)  n.  1.  a. Board and lodging for troops, esp. in a nonmilitary
 building. b. A written order directing that a billet be provided. 2.
 Informal. A position of employment; job. 3.  Archaic. A short letter; note.
   -v.-leted -leting -lets   -tr. 1.  a. To quarter (soldiers), esp. in
 nonmilitary buildings. b. To serve (a person) with a written order to
 provide a billet. 2. To assign lodging to. -intr. To be quartered; lodge.
 [ME, official register < OFr. billette, dim. of bulle, document < Med. Lat.
 bulla, document, seal < Lat., bubble.]
 billet(2)  n.  1. A short, thick piece of wood, as firewood. 2. One of a
 series of square or log-shaped decorations forming part of a molding. 3.
 a. A bar of iron or steel in an intermediate stage of manufacture. b. A
 small ingot of nonferrous metal. 4.  a. The part of a harness strap that
 passes through a buckle. b. A loop or pocket for securing the tongue of a
 harness strap. [ME < OFr. billette, dim. of bille, log < Med. Lat. billus,
 poss. of Celt. orig.]



 billet-doux  n. pl. billets-doux  A love letter. [Fr.: billet, short note
 + doux, sweet.]



 billfish  n. pl. billfish  or -fishes  1. Any of various fishes of the
 family Istiophoridae, such as a marlin or sailfish, having an elongated,
 swordlike or spearlike snout and upper jaw. 2. Any of various other fishes
 having long, pointed jaws.



 billfold  n.  A folding pocket-sized case for carrying money and personal
 documents.



 billhead  n.  A sheet of paper with a business name and address printed at
 the top, used for billing costs or charges.



 billhook  n.  An implement with a curved blade attached to a handle, used
 esp. for clearing brush and for rough pruning.



 billiard  n.  A shot in billiards; carom.   -adj. Of, pertaining to, or
 used in billiards.



 billiards  n. (used with a sing. verb)   1. A game played on a
 rectangular, cloth-covered table with raised, cushioned edges, in which a
 long, tapering cue is used to hit three small, hard balls against one
 another or the side cushions of the table. 2. Any of several similar games,
 such as one played on a table with pockets. [Fr. billard.]



 billing  n.  1. The relative importance of performers as indicated by the
 position and type size in which their names are listed on programs, theater
 marquees, or advertisements. 2.  a. Advertising. b. billings  The total
 amount of business done in a specific period, as by a company.



 billingsgate  n.  Foul-mouthed, abusive language. [After Billingsgate, a
 fish market in London, England.]



 billion  n.  1. The cardinal number equal to 109. 2.  Chiefly British. The
 cardinal number equal to 1012. 3. An indefinitely large number. [Fr., a
 million million : bi-, second power + million, million.]   billion adj.
 pron.



 billionaire  n.  A person whose wealth amounts to at least a billion
 dollars, pounds, or other monetary units. [billion + (million)aire.]



 billionth  n.  1. The ordinal number that matches the number one billion
 in a series. 2. One of a billion equal parts.   billionth adj. adv.



 bill of attainder  n.  A former legislative act pronouncing a person
 guilty of a crime, usually treason, without trial and subjecting him to
 capital punishment and attainder.



 bill of exchange  n.  A written order directing that a specified sum of
 money be paid to a specified person.



 bill of fare  n.  A menu.



 bill of goods  n.  A consignment of goods.



 bill of health  n.  A certificate stating whether or not there is
 infectious disease aboard a ship or in a port of departure, given to the
 ship's master.

       Idiom Section:  clean bill of health. Informal.  A satisfactory
 attestation as to condition.



 bill of lading  n.  A document listing and acknowledging receipt of goods
 for shipment.



 bill of rights  n.  1. A formal summary of those rights and liberties
 considered essential to a people or group of people: a consumer bill of
 rights.  2. Bill of Rights  The first ten amendments to the Constitution of
 the United States. 3. Bill of Rights  A declaration of rights restricting
 the power of the crown, enacted by the English Parliament in 1689.



 bill of sale  n.  A document that attests a transfer of the ownership of
 personal property.



 billon  n.  1. An alloy of gold or silver with a greater proportion of
 another metal, such as copper, used in making coins. 2. An alloy of silver
 with a high percentage of copper, used in making medals and tokens. [Fr. <
 OFr., ingot, log. -see billet.]



 billow  n.  1. A large wave or ocean swell. 2. A great swell or surge, as
 of smoke.   -v.-lowed -lowing -lows   -intr. 1. To surge or roll in
 billows. 2. To swell out or bulge. -tr. To cause to billow. [Prob. < ON
 bylgja.]   billowiness n.   billowy adj.



 billposter  n.  One who posts notices, posters, or advertisements.
 billposting n.



 billy
 billy(1)  n. pl. -lies  A billy club. [Prob. < Billy, nickname for
 William.]
 billy(2)  n. pl. -lies  Australian.  A metal pot or kettle used in camp
 cooking. [Prob. short for billycan : billa, water (native word in
 Australia) + can2.]



 billy club  n.  A short wooden club, esp. a policeman's club.



 billycock  n.  Chiefly British.  A man's felt hat with a low crown,
 similar to a derby. [Orig. unknown.]



 billy goat  n.  Informal.  A male goat.



 bilobate
 bilobated or bilobed    adj.  Divided into or having two lobes.



 bilobular  adj.  Bilobate.



 bilocular or biloculate   adj.  Divided into or containing two chambers,
 cavities, or cells.



 Biloxi  n. pl. Biloxi  or -is  One of a tribe of North American Indians
 originally inhabiting the area of the lower Mississippi River.



 bilsted  n.  The sweet gum (sense 1). [Orig. unknown.]



 biltong  n.  South African.  Narrow strips of meat dried in the sun. [Afr.
 : bil, buttock (< MDu. bille) + tong, tongue (< MDu. tonghe).]



 bimanual  adj.  Using or requiring the use of both hands.   bimanually
 adv.



 bimaxillary  adj.  Pertaining to the two halves of the maxilla.



 bimestrial  adj.  Bimonthly. [Lat. bimestris : bi-, two + mensis, month.]



 bimetallic  adj.  1. Consisting of two metals. 2. Of, based on, or using
 the principles of bimetallism.



 bimetallism  n.  1. The use of gold and silver as the monetary standard of
 currency and value. 2. The doctrine advocating bimetallism.   bimetallist
 n.   bimetallistic adj.



 bimodal  adj.  Having two distinct statistical modes.   bimodality n.



 bimolecular  adj.  Pertaining to, consisting of, or affecting two
 molecules.   bimolecularly adv.



 bimonthly  adj.  1. Happening every two months. 2. Happening twice a
 month; semimonthly.   -adv. 1. Once every two months. 2. Twice a month;
 semimonthly.   -n.pl. -lies  A bimonthly publication.



 bimorphemic  adj.  Consisting of two morphemes.



 bin  n.  A container or enclosed space for storage.   -tr.v.binned binning
 bins   To place or store in a bin. [ME binne < OE.]



 bin-   Variant of bi-1.



 binal  adj.  Twofold; double. [NLat. binalis, twin < Lat. bini, two by
 two.]



 binary  adj.  1. Characterized by or composed of two different parts or
 components; twofold. 2. Of or based on the number 2 or the binary
 numeration system: a binary digit.  3.  Chemistry. Consisting of or
 containing only molecules consisting of two kinds of atoms. 4. Having two
 music sections or subjects.   -n.pl. -ries  Something that is binary, esp.
 a binary star. [LLat. binarius < Lat. bini, two by two.]



 binary digit  n.  Either of the digits 0 or 1, used in representing
 numbers in the binary numeration system.



 binary fission  n.  Fission, esp. of a cell or of an atomic nucleus, that
 results in two approximately equal products.



 binary numeration system  n.  A system of numeration, based on 2, in which
 the numerals are represented as sums of powers of 2 and in which all
 numerals can be written using the symbols 0 and 1.



 binary operation  n.  An operation, such as addition, that is applied to
 two elements of a set to produce a single element of the set.



 binary star  n.  A stellar system consisting of two stars orbiting about a
 common center of mass and often appearing as a single visual or telescopic
 object.



 binate  adj.  Consisting of two parts or divisions; growing in pairs: a
 binate leaf.    binately adv.



 binational  adj.  Of, relating to, or involving two nations.



 binaural  adj.  1.  a. Having or related to two ears. b. Hearing with both
 ears. 2. Of or pertaining to sound transmission from two sources, which may
 vary acoustically, as in tone or pitch, relative to a listener.
 binaurally adv.



 bind  v. bound   , binding, binds. -tr. 1. To tie or secure, as with a
 rope or cord. 2. To fasten or wrap by encircling, as with a belt. 3. To
 bandage. 4. To hold or restrain with or as if with bonds. 5. To compel,
 obligate, or unite, as with a sense of moral duty. 6.  Law. To place under
 legal obligation by contract or oath. 7. To make certain or irrevocable:
 bind a bargain.  8. To hold or employ as an apprentice; indenture. 9. To
 cause to cohere or stick together in a mass. 10. To enclose and fasten (a
 book) between covers. 11. To furnish with an edge or border for
 reinforcement or ornamentation. 12. To constipate. -intr. 1. To tie up or
 fasten something. 2. To be tight and uncomfortable. 3. To become compact or
 solid; cohere. 4. To be obligatory or compulsory. Phrasal verb.  bind off.
 . To cast off in knitting. bind over. Law.  To hold on bail or place under
 bond.   -n. 1.  a. Something that binds. b. The act of binding. c. The
 state of being bound. 2.  Informal. A difficult situation or dilemma. [ME
 binden < OE bindan.]



 binder  n.  1. One who binds books; bookbinder. 2. Something, such as a
 cord, used to bind. 3. A notebook cover with rings or clamps for holding
 sheets of paper. 4. Something that causes uniform consistency,
 solidification, or cohesion, as the eggs in batter. 5.  a. An attachment on
 a reaping machine that ties grain in bundles. b. A machine that reaps and
 ties grain. 6.  Law. A payment or written statement making an agreement
 legally binding until the completion of a formal contract, esp. an
 insurance contract.



 bindery  n. pl. -ies  A place where books are bound.



 binding  n.  1. The action of one that binds. 2. Something that binds or
 is used as a binder. 3. The cover that holds together the pages of a book.
 4. A strip sewn or attached over or along the edge of something for
 protection, reinforcement, or ornamentation.   -adj. 1. Serving to bind. 2.
 Uncomfortably tight and confining. 3. Having the power to impose an
 agreement or commitment; obligatory.   bindingly adv.   bindingness n.



 binding energy  n.  1. The energy released in binding a group of particles
 into a single system, esp. a group of nucleons into an atomic nucleus. 2.
 The work required to remove an atomic electron to an infinitely remote
 position from its orbit.



 binding force  n.  A strong interaction.



 bindlestiff  Slang.   A migrant worker or hobo who carries his own
 bedroll. [E. bindle, alteration of bundle + stiff.]



 bindweed  n.  1. Any of several trailing or twining plants of the genus
 Convolvulus, having pink or white trumpet-shaped flowers. 2. Any of various
 trailing or twining plants similar to a bindweed.



 bine  n.  1. The flexible stem of any of various climbing and twining
 plants, such as the hop, woodbine, or bindweed. 2. A plant whose stem is a
 bine. [Dial. of bind.]



 Binet age  n.  A person's mental age as determined by the Binet-Simon
 scale.



 Binet-Simon scale  n.  Any of a series of early psychological tests of
 childhood intelligence. [After Alfred Binet (1857-1911) and Theodore Simon
 (1873-1961).]



 binge  Slang.  n.  1. A drunken spree or revel. 2. A period of
 uncontrolled self-indulgence: an eating binge.    -intr.v. binged binging
 binges  To be uncontrolled and self-indulgent: binging on chocolate.
 [Dial. binge, to soak.]



 bingo  n. pl. -gos  A game of chance in which players place markers on a
 pattern of numbered squares according to numbers drawn and announced by a
 caller. [Orig. unknown.]



 binnacle  n.  The nonmagnetic stand on which a ship's compass case is
 supported. [Alteration of ME bitakil < OSp. bitacula or OPort. bitacola <
 Lat. habitaculum, habitation < habitare, to inhabit.]



 binocular  adj.  1. Pertaining to, used by, or involving both eyes at the
 same time. 2. Having two eyes arranged to produce stereoscopic vision.
 -n. binoculars  An optical device, esp. a pair of field glasses, designed
 for use by both eyes at once.   binocularity n.   binocularly adv.



 binomial  adj.  Consisting of or pertaining to two names or terms.   -n.
 1.  Mathematics. An expression consisting of two terms connected by a plus
 or minus sign. 2.  Biology. A taxonomic name in binomial nomenclature. [<
 NLat. binomius: bi- + Gk. nomos, part.]   binomially adv.



 binomial distribution  n.  The frequency distribution of the probability
 of a specified number of successes in an arbitrary number of repeated
 independent Bernoulli trials.



 binomial nomenclature  n.  A system of classifying plants and animals by a
 double name, the first of which is the name of the genus and the second
 that of the species within the genus.



 binomial theorem  n.  A mathematical theorem that specifies the expansion
 of a binomial to any power without requiring the explicit multiplication of
 the binomial terms.



 binucleate or binucleated   adj.  Having two nuclei.



 bio- or bi-    1.  a. Life: biolysis.  b. Living organism: biome.  2.
 Biology; biological: biophysics.  [Gk. < bios, life.]



 bioactivity  n.  The effect of a given agent, such as a vaccine, upon a
 living organism.



 bio-assay  n.  Evaluation of a drug by comparison of its effect with that
 of a standard on a test organism.



 bioastronautics  n.  The study of the biological and medical effects of
 space flight.



 bioavailability  n.  The degree to which an agent, as a drug or nutrient,
 becomes available at the physiological site of activity.



 biocatalyst  n.  A substance that initiates or modifies the rate of a
 biological process.   biocatalytic adj.



 biocenology  n.  Ecology.  The study of communities and member
 interactions in nature.



 biochemical oxygen demand  n.  The amount of dissolved oxygen required to
 meet the metabolic needs of microorganisms in a water environment rich in
 organic matter, such as sewage.



 biochemistry  n.  The chemistry of biological substances and processes.
 biochemical  biochemic adj.   biochemically adv.   biochemist n.



 biocide  n.  A substance, such as a pesticide or an antibiotic, that is
 capable of destroying living organisms.   biocidal adj.



 bioclimatology  n.  The study of the effects of climatic conditions on
 organic life.   bioclimatic adj.



 biodegradable  adj.  Capable of being decomposed by natural biological
 processes: a biodegradable detergent.



 bioethics  n. used with a sing. or pl. verb.   The study of the ethical
 and moral questions involved in the application of new biological and
 medical findings, as in the fields of genetic engineering, neurobiology,
 and drug research.   bioethic adj.   bioethicist n.



 biofeedback  n.  A technique in which an attempt is made to consciously
 regulate a bodily function thought to be involuntary, as heartbeat or blood
 pressure, by using an instrument to monitor the function and to signal
 changes in it.



 bioflavonoid  n.  Any of a group of biologically active substances found
 widely in plants and functioning in the maintenance of the walls of small
 blood vessels.



 biogas  n.  A mixture of methane and carbon dioxide produced through
 bacterial action.



 biogenesis or biogeny   n.  1. The doctrine that living organisms develop
 only from other living organisms and not from nonliving matter. 2. The
 generation of living organisms from other living organisms.   biogenetic
 biogenetical biogenous  adj.   biogenetically adv.



 biogeography  n.  The biological study of the geographic distribution of
 plants and animals.   biogeographic biogeographical  adj.



 biographer  n.  One who writes a biography.



 biographical or biographic   adj.  1. Containing, consisting of, or
 pertaining to the facts or events in a person's life. 2. Of or pertaining
 to biography as a literary form.   biographically adv.



 biography  n. pl. -phies  1. A written account of a person's life; life
 history. 2. Biographies collectively, esp. when considered as a literary
 form. [Med. Gk. biographia : bios, life + graphia, -graphy.]



 biohazard  n.  A material of biological composition, esp. if infective in
 nature, that constitutes a threat to man or his environment.



 bioinstrumentation  n.  1. The use of instruments for the recording or
 transmission of physiological information. 2. The instruments used in
 bioinstrumentation.



 biological or biologic   adj.  1. Of or pertaining to biology. 2. Of,
 pertaining to, caused by, or affecting life or living organisms.
 -n.biologic   A drug derived from a biological source.   biologically adv.



 biological clock  n.  An intrinsic biological mechanism responsible for
 the periodicity or other time-dependent aspects of certain classes of
 behavior in living organisms.



 biological half-life  n.  Half-life (sense 2.a.).



 biological warfare  n.  Warfare in which disease-producing microorganisms
 or organic biocides are used to destroy livestock, crops, or human life.



 biology  n.  1. The science of living organisms and life processes,
 including the study of structure, functioning, growth, origin, evolution,
 and distribution of living organisms. 2. The life processes or
 characteristic phenomena of a group or category of living organisms. 3. The
 plant and animal life of a specific region or place. [G. Biologie : Gk.
 bios, life + Gk. logos, reckoning.]   biologist n.



 bioluminescence  n.  The emission of visible light by living organisms
 such as the firefly and various fish, fungi, and bacteria.   bioluminescent
 adj.



 biolysis  n.  Death caused or accompanied by lysis.   biolytic adj.



 biomass  n.  The total mass of living matter within a given volume of
 environment.



 biome  n.  A community of living organisms of a single major ecological
 region.



 biomedicine  n.  1. The branch of medical science dealing with the ability
 of humans to survive in and functionally cope with abnormally stressful
 environments and with the medical concerns of protectively modifying those
 environments. 2. The study of medicine as it relates to all biological
 systems.   biomedical adj.



 biometrics  n.  The statistical study of biological data.   biometric
 biometrical adj.   biometrically adv.



 biometry  n.  Biometrics.



 bionic  adj.  1. Consisting of or enhanced by or as if by electronic or
 mechanical devices or components. 2. Of or relating to bionics. [bio- +
 (electr)onic.]



 bionics  n.  The application of biological principles to the study and
 design of engineering systems, esp. electronic systems. [bi(o)- +
 (electr)onics.]



 bionomics  n.  Ecology. [< Fr. bionomique, pertaining to ecology <
 bionomie, ecology : Gk. bios, life + Gk. nomos, law.]   bionomic
 bionomical adj.   bionomically adv.



 biont  n.  A living organism.   biontic adj.



 biophysics  n.  The physics of biological processes.   biophysical adj.
 biophysically adv.   biophysicist n.



 bioplasm  n.  Living protoplasm, esp. as distinguished from its nonliving
 content.



 biopsy  n. pl. -sies  The study of tissue taken from a living person or
 organism, esp. in examination for the presence of disease.   biopsic adj.



 biorhythm  n.  1. An intrinsically patterned cyclical biological process
 or function. 2. The determining factor in a biorhythm.



 bioscience  n.  Life science.



 bioscope  n.  An early motion-picture projector.



 bioscopy  n. pl. -pies  Medical examination of a body to determine whether
 it is dead.



 -biosis   A way of living: parabiosis.  [NLat. < Gk. biosis, way of life <
 bioun, to live < bios, life.]



 biosphere  n.  The part of the earth and its atmosphere in which living
 things exist.



 biosynthesis  n.  The production of complex substances from simple ones by
 or with living organisms.   biosynthetic adj.   biosynthetically adv.



 biota  n.  The animal and plant life of a particular region considered as
 a total ecological entity. [NLat. < Gk. biote, way of life.]



 biotechnology  n.  The engineering and biological study of relationships
 between man and machines.   biotechnological adj.



 biotic  adj.  Pertaining to life or specific life conditions. [Gk.
 biotikos < bios, life.]



 biotic potential  n.  1. The likelihood of survival of a specific organism
 in a specific environment, esp. in an unfavorable environment. 2. The
 growth rate of a population that maintains a stable age distribution.



 biotin  n.  A colorless crystalline vitamin, C10H16N2O3S, often considered
 in the vitamin B complex and found in large quantities in liver, egg yolk,
 milk, and yeast. [Gk. biotos, life + -in.]



 biotite  n.  A dark-brown to black mica, K(Mg, Fe)3AlSi3O10(OH)2, found in
 igneous and metamorphic rocks. [G. Biotit, after Jean Baptiste Biot
 (1774-1862).]   biotitic adj.



 biotope  n.  A limited ecological region or niche in which the environment
 is suitable for certain forms of life. [bio- + Gk. topos, place.]



 biotransformation  n.  A chemical transformation within a living system.



 biotron  n.  A climate-control chamber used for studying a living
 organism's response to specific environmental conditions.



 biotype  n.  A group of organisms having identical genetic but varying
 physical characteristics.   biotypic adj.



 biovular  adj.  Derived from two ova, as fraternal twins.



 biparous  adj.  1.  Biology. Producing two offspring in a single birth. 2.
  Botany. Having two axes or branches, as certain flower clusters.



 bipartisan  adj.  Consisting of or supported by members of two parties,
 esp. two major political parties.   bipartisanism n.   bipartisanship n.



 bipartite  adj.  1. Having or consisting of two parts. 2. Having two
 corresponding parts, one for each party: a bipartite treaty.  3.  Botany.
 Divided into two, almost to the base, as certain leaves. [< Lat. bipartire,
 bipartit-, to divide into two parts : bi-, two + partire, to part < pars,
 share.]   bipartitely adv.   bipartition n.



 biped  n.  An animal with two feet.   -adj. Having two feet; two-footed.
 [Lat. bipes, biped-, two-footed : bi-, two + pes, foot.]   bipedal adj.



 bipetalous  adj.  Having two petals; dipetalous.



 biphenyl  n.  A colorless crystalline compound, C12H10, used as a
 heat-transfer agent, in fungicides, and in organic synthesis.



 bipinnate  adj.  Having opposite leaflets that are subdivided into
 opposite leaflets, as compound leaves.   bipinnately adv.



 biplane  n.  An early aircraft with single or paired wings fixed at two
 different levels, esp. one above and one below the fuselage.



 bipod  n.  A supporting stand with two legs.



 bipolar  adj.  1. Pertaining to or having two poles. 2. Relating to or
 involving both of the earth's poles. 3. Having or expressing two opposite
 or contradictory ideas or qualities.   bipolarity n.



 bipotentiality  n.  The capacity to perform both the male and the female
 sexual functions.



 bipropellant  n.  A two-component rocket propellant, such as liquid
 hydrogen and liquid oxygen, combined as fuel and oxidizer.



 biquadratic  Mathematics.  adj.  Of or pertaining to the fourth degree.
 -n. An algebraic equation of the fourth degree.



 biquarterly  adj.  Happening or appearing two times during each
 three-month period of the year.   biquarterly adv.



 biracial  adj.  Of, for, or consisting of members of two races.
 biracialism n.



 biradial  adj.  Both bilaterally and radially symmetrical.



 biramous  adj.  Having two branches, as in an arthropod appendage.



 birch  n.  1. Any of several deciduous trees of the genus Betula, common
 in the Northern Hemisphere and having white, yellowish, or gray bark that
 can be separated from the wood in sheets. 2. The hard, close-grained wood
 of a birch tree. 3. A rod from a birch tree, used to administer a whipping.
   -tr.v.birched birching birches   To whip with or as if with a birch rod.
 [ME < OE birc.]



 Bircher
 Birchite or Birchist    n.  A member or supporter of the John Birch
 Society.   Birchism n.



 bird  n.  1. A member of the class Aves, which includes warm-blooded,
 egg-laying feathered vertebrates with forelimbs modified to form wings. 2.
 A bird hunted as game. 3.  Slang. A rocket or guided missile. 4. A clay
 pigeon. 5. A shuttlecock. 6.  Slang. One who is odd or remarkable. 7.
 Chiefly British.  Slang. A young woman. 8.  Slang. A raspberry (sense 4).
 -intr.v.birded birding birds   1. To observe and identify birds in their
 natural surroundings. 2. To trap, shoot, or catch birds.

       Idiom Section:  for the birds. . Objectionable or worthless. [ME <
 OE, young bird.]   birder n.



 birdbath  n.  A basin filled with water for birds to bathe in.



 birdbrain  n.  Slang.  A silly, light-minded person.



 birdcage  n.  A cage for birds.



 birdcall  n.  1. The song of a bird. 2.  a. An imitation of the song of a
 bird. b. A small device for producing this.



 bird cherry  n.  A cherry tree, Prunus padus, native to Eurasia, having
 clusters of white flowers and small black fruit.



 bird colonel  n.  Slang.  A full colonel. [From the eagle of the
 insignia.]



 bird dog  n.  1. A dog used to hunt game birds; gun dog. 2.  Slang. One
 who seeks out something for another.



 bird-dog  v. -dogged -dogging -dogs   -intr. To watch closely. -tr. To
 seek out; follow.



 birdfarm  n.Slang.  An aircraft carrier.



 birdhouse  n.  1. An aviary. 2. A box made as a nesting place for birds.



 birdie  n.  1.  Informal. A small bird. 2. One stroke under par for a hole
 in golf. 3. A shuttlecock.   -tr.v. -ied -ieing -ies  To shoot (a hole in
 golf) in one stroke under par.



 birdlime  n.  1. A sticky substance smeared on branches or twigs to
 capture small birds. 2. Something that captures and ensnares.
 -tr.v.-limed -liming -limes   1. To smear with birdlime. 2. To catch with
 birdlime.



 birdman  n.  1.  One who works with birds, as a fowler or ornithologist.
 2.  Slang. An aviator.



 bird of paradise  n.  Any of various birds of the family Paradisaeidae,
 native to New Guinea and adjacent areas, usually having brilliant plumage
 and long tail feathers in the male.



 bird-of-paradise flower  n.  A perennial plant, Strelitzia reginae, having
 purple bracts and large orange or yellow flowers with blue tongues.



 bird of passage  n.  1. A migratory bird. 2. A person who moves from place
 to place frequently.



 bird of prey  n.  Any of various predatory carnivorous birds such as the
 eagle or hawk.



 bird pepper  n.  1. A plant, Capsicum frutescens, that is the probable
 ancestor of the mild peppers and many of the pungent peppers. 2. The
 narrow, extremely pungent fruit of the bird pepper.



 birdseed  n.  A mixture of various kinds of seeds used for feeding birds,
 esp. caged birds.



 bird's-eye  n.  1. Any of various plants having small, brightly colored
 flowers. 2.  a. A fabric woven with a pattern of small diamonds, each
 having a dot in the center. b. The pattern of such a fabric.   -adj. 1.
 Dappled or patterned with spots thought to resemble birds' eyes: bird's-eye
 maple.  2. Seen from high above or from a distance: a bird's-eye view.



 bird's-foot  n. pl. bird's-foots  Any of various plants, such as the
 bird's-foot trefoil, that have flowers, leaves, or pods resembling a bird's
 foot or claw.



 bird's-foot fern  n.  A fern, Pellaea mucronata, native to California,
 having fronds with wiry leaves grouped to resemble a bird's foot.



 bird's-foot trefoil  n.  A sprawling plant, Lotus corniculatus, having
 yellow flowers and clusters of seed pods resembling the claws of a bird.



 bird's-nest fungus  n.  Any of various fungi of the family Nidulariaceae,
 having a cuplike fruiting body containing several round, egglike structures
 that enclose the spores.



 bird watcher  n.  A person who observes and identifies birds in their
 natural surroundings.   bird watching n.



 birdyback  n.  The transporting of loaded truck trailers by airplane.
 [bird + -y + (piggy)back.]



 birefringence  n.  The resolution or splitting of a light wave into two
 waves with mutually perpendicular vibration directions by an optically
 anisotropic medium such as calcite or quartz.   birefringent adj.



 bireme  n.  An ancient galley equipped with two tiers of oars on each
 side. [Lat. biremis : bi-,  two + remus, oar.]



 biretta  n.  A stiff square cap that is worn esp. by Roman Catholic clergy
 and is black for a priest, purple for a bishop, and red for a cardinal.
 [Ital. berretta < OProv. birret, cap < LLat. birrus, hooded cloak.]



 birl  v. birled birling birls   -tr. To cause (a floating log) to spin
 rapidly by rotating with the feet. -intr. 1. To participate in birling. 2.
 To whirr or hum.   -n. A whirring noise; hum. [Blend of birr and whirl.]
 birler n.



 birling  n.  A game of skill, esp. among lumberjacks, in which two
 competitors try to balance on a floating log while spinning it with their
 feet.



 birr
 birr(1)  n.  A whirring sound. [ME bir, strong wind < ON byrr, favorable
 wind.]
 birr(2)   n. pl. birr  or birrs  See table at currency. [Native word in
 Ethiopia.]



 birth  n.  1. The beginning of existence; fact of being born. 2. A
 beginning or origin. 3.  a. The act of bearing young; parturition. b. The
 passage of a child from the uterus. 4. Ancestry; parentage: a woman of
 noble birth.  5. Origin; lineage: a Southerner by birth.    -tr.v.birthed
 birthing births   Chiefly Regional..  1. To deliver (a baby). 2. To bear (a
 child).

       Idiom Section:  give birth to. . To bring into being. [ME, of ON
 orig.]



 birth canal  n.  The cavity of the uterus and the vagina traversed by the
 fetus in parturition.



 birth certificate  n.  An official record of a person's parentage and the
 date, place, and time of birth.



 birth control  n.  Voluntary limitation or control of the number of
 children conceived, esp. by planned use of contraceptive techniques.



 birthday  n.  1. The day of one's birth. 2. The anniversary of one's
 birth.



 birthday suit  n.  The state of being naked.



 birthmark  n.  A mole or blemish present on the body from birth; nevus.



 birth pang  n.  1. birth pangs  One of the repetitive pains occurring in
 childbirth. 2. birth pangs. Turmoil or tumult associated esp. with a major
 social change.



 birthplace  n.  The place where someone is born or where something
 originates.



 birthrate  n.  The number of births in a specified population per unit
 time, esp. per year.



 birthright  n.  1. A privilege granted a person by virtue of his birth. 2.
 A special privilege accorded a first-born.



 birthroot  n.  Any of several North American plants of the genus Trillium,
 esp. T. erectum, having purplish flowers with an unpleasant odor and
 tuberlike roots, formerly used as an aid in childbirth.



 birthstone  n.  A jewel associated with the specific month of a person's
 birth.



 birth trauma  n.  1. An injury sustained by an infant during birth. 2. An
 emotional shock sustained by an infant during birth.



 birthwort  n.  Any of several tropical woody vines of the genus
 Aristolochia, having reddish or brownish, usually unpleasantly scented
 flowers.



 bis  adv.  Again; encore. Used esp. as a direction in music. [Fr. < Lat.,
 twice.]



 biscuit  n. pl. -cuits  or biscuit  1. A small cake of shortened bread
 leavened with baking powder or soda. 2.  Chiefly British. A thin, crisp
 cracker. 3. A pale brown; beige. 4. Clay that has been fired once but not
 glazed. [ME biscute < OFr. biscuit < Med. Lat. biscoctus : Lat. bis, twice
 + Lat. coquere, to cook.]



 bise  n.  A cold north wind of the Swiss Alps, France, and Italy. [ME <
 OFr., of Germanic orig.]



 bisect  v. -sected -secting -sects   -tr. To cut or divide into two equal
 parts. -intr. To split; fork.   bisection n.   bisectional adj.
 bisectionally adv.



 bisector  n.  Something that bisects, esp. a straight line that bisects an
 angle.



 biserrate  adj.  Biology.  1. Having serrations that are themselves
 serrated; doubly serrate. 2. Serrated on both sides: biserrate antennae.



 bisexual  adj.  1. Of or pertaining to both sexes. 2. Having both male and
 female organs; hermaphroditic. 3. Sexually attracted to members of both
 sexes.   -n. 1. A bisexual organism; hermaphrodite. 2. A person who is
 sexually attracted to members of both sexes.   bisexuality n.   bisexually
 adv.



 bishop  n.  1. A high-ranking Christian clergyman, in modern churches
 usually in charge of a diocese and in some churches regarded as having
 received the highest ordination in unbroken succession from the apostles.
 2. A miter-shaped chessman that can move diagonally across any number of
 unoccupied spaces of the same color. 3. Mulled port spiced with oranges,
 sugar, and cloves. [ME < OE bisceop < LLat. episcopus < LGk. episkopos <
 Gk., overseer : epi, over + skopos, watcher.]



 bishopric  n.  1. The office or rank of a bishop. 2. The diocese of a
 bishop. [ME bishop-rik < OE bisceop-rice. the diocese of a bishop :
 bisceop, bishop + rice, dominion.]



 bishop's-cap  n.  The miterwort.



 bismuth  n.  Bi  A white, crystalline, brittle, highly diamagnetic
 metallic element used in alloys to form sharp castings for objects
 sensitive to high temperatures and in various low-melting alloys for
 fire-safety devices. Atomic number 83; atomic weight 208.980; melting point
 271.3 deg. C; boiling point 1,560 deg. C; specific gravity 9.747; valences
 3, 5. [Obs. G. Bismut, alteration ofWismut : Wise, meadow + Mut, claim to a
 mine.]   bismuthal adj.



 bisnaga  n.  Any of several spiny, globe-shaped or barrel-shaped cacti of
 the southwestern United States and Mexico. [Sp. biznaga, alteration of
 vitznauac (< Nahuatl huitznahuac : huitztli, spine + nahuac, around.]



 bison  n.  1. A hoofed mammal, Bison bison, of western North America,
 having a dark-brown coat, a shaggy mane, and short, curved horns; buffalo.
 2. An animal, B. bonasus, of Europe, that is similar to but somewhat
 smaller than the bison; wisent. [Fr. < Lat., of Germanic orig.]



 bisque
 bisque(1)  n.  1.  a. A thick, rich soup made from meat, fish, or
 shellfish. b. A thick cream soup made of vegetables that have been pureed.
 2. Ice cream mixed with crushed macaroons or nuts. [Fr.]
 bisque(2)  n.  1. Biscuit (sense 4). 2.  a. A pale orange yellow to
 yellowish gray. b. A color ranging in various industries from moderate
 yellowish pink to grayish yellow. [< biscuit.]
 bisque(3)  n.  An advantage allowed an inferior player in certain games,
 esp. a free point taken when desired in a tennis set. [Fr.]



 bissextile  adj.  1. Of or pertaining to a leap year. 2. Of or pertaining
 to the extra day falling in a leap year.   -n. A leap year. [LLat.
 bissextilis < Lat. bissextus, an intercalary day : bi-, twice + sextus,
 sixth.]



 bistate  adj.  Of, relating to, or involving two states.



 bister or bistre   n.  1. A water-soluble, yellowish-brown pigment made
 from soot obtained from beech or other wood. 2. A grayish to yellowish
 brown. [Fr. bistre.]   bistered adj.



 bistort  n.  Any of several plants of the genus Polygonum, esp.:  a. A
 Eurasian plant, P. bistorta, having pointed clusters of small, pinkish
 flowers. b. A similar plant, P. bistortoides, of the mountains of western
 North America, having oval clusters of pink or white flowers. [OFr.
 bistorte < Med. Lat. bistorta : Lat. bis, twice + Lat. torquere, to twist.]




 bistoury  n. pl. -ries  A surgical knife for minor incisions. [Fr.
 bistouri < OFr. bistoric, dagger.]



 bistre  n.  Variant of bister.



 bistro  n. pl. -tros  A small bar, tavern, or nightclub. [Fr.]



 bisulcate  adj.  Cleft or cloven, as a hoof.



 bisulfate  n.  The inorganic acid group HSO4 or a compound containing it.



 bisulfide  n.  A disulfide.



 bisulfite  n.  The inorganic acid group HSO3 or a compound containing it.



 bit
 bit(1)  n.  1. A small piece, portion, or amount. 2. A brief amount of
 time; moment. 3.  a. An entertainment routine given regularly by a
 performer; act. b. A short scene or episode in a theatrical performance. 4.
 A small and insignificant role, as in a play or movie, usually containing a
 few spoken lines. 5.  Informal.  a. A particular kind of action, situation,
 or behavior: She did the whole bit.  b. A matter being considered: What's
 this bit about inflation?  6.  Informal. An amount equal to ;frac18; of a
 dollar: two bits.  7.  Chiefly British. A small coin: a threepenny bit.

       Idiom Section:  bit by bit. . Little by little; gradually. [ME bite,
 morsel < OE bita.]
 bit(2)  n.  1. The sharp part of a tool, as the blade of a knife. 2. A
 pointed and threaded tool for drilling and boring that is secured in a
 brace, bitstock, or drill press. 3. The part of a key that enters the lock
 and engages the bolt or tumblers. 4. The metal mouthpiece of a bridle,
 serving to control, curb, and direct an animal. 5. Something that controls,
 guides, or curbs.   -tr.v.bitted bitting bits   1. To place a bit in the
 mouth of (a horse). 2. To check or control as if with a bit. 3. To make or
 grind a bit on (a key). [ME bite < OE, cut.]
 bit(3)  n.  Computer Science.  1. A single character of a language having
 just two characters, as either of the binary digits 0 or 1. 2. A unit of
 information equivalent to the choice of either of two equally likely
 alternatives. 3. A unit of information storage capacity, as of a computer
 memory. [b(inary) (dig)it.]
 bit(4)  v.  The past tense and a past participle of bite.



 bitartrate  n.  The tartrate of an acid.



 bitch  n.  1. A female dog or other canine animal. 2.  Slang.  a. A
 spiteful woman. b. A lewd woman. 3.  Slang. A complaint. 4.  Slang.
 Something very unpleasant or difficult.   -v.bitched bitching bitches
 Slang.   -intr. To complain; grumble. -tr. To botch; bungle. [ME bicche <
 OE bicce.]



 bitchery  n.  Malevolent or tyrannical behavior.



 bitch goddess  n.  Material success.



 bitchy  adj. -ier -iest   Slang.  Malicious, spiteful, or ill-tempered.
 bitchily adv.   bitchiness n.



 bite  v. bit bitten  or bit  or biting  or bites   -tr. 1. To cut, grip,
 or tear with or as if with the teeth. 2. To pierce the skin of esp. with
 the teeth or fangs. 3. To cut into with a sharp instrument. 4. To grip,
 grab, or seize. 5. To eat into; corrode. 6. To cause to sting or smart.
 -intr. 1. To cut, grip, or tear something with or as if with the teeth. 2.
 To have a stinging effect. 3. To have a sharp taste. 4. To take or swallow
 bait. 5. To be taken in by a ploy or deception.   -n. 1. The act of biting.
 2. A wound or injury resulting from biting. 3.  a. A stinging or smarting
 sensation. b. An incisive, penetrating quality. 4. An amount of food taken
 into the mouth at one time; mouthful. 5.  Informal. A light meal or snack.
 6. A secure grip or hold applied by a tool or machine upon a working
 surface. 7. The angle at which the upper and lower teeth meet. 8. The
 corrosive action of acid upon an etcher's metal plate.

       Idiom Section:  bite the bullet. . To face a painful situation
 bravely and stoically. bite the dust. 1. To fall dead, esp. in combat. 2.
 To be badly defeated. 3. To become useless. put the bite on. Slang.  To
 borrow money from. [ME biten < OE bitan.]   bitable  biteable adj.   biter
 n.



 bitewing  n.  A dental x-ray plate that has a central flap for the patient
 to bite, holding the plate in position.



 biting  adj.  1. Causing a stinging sensation. 2. Incisive; penetrating.
 bitingly adv.



 bitstock  n.  A brace or handle in which a drilling or boring bit is
 secured.



 bitt  n.  A vertical post set on the deck of a ship and used to secure
 cables.   -tr.v.bitted bitting bitts   To wind (a cable) around a bitt.
 [Orig. unknown.]



 bitten  v.  A past participle of bite.



 bitter  adj. -er -est   1. Having or being a taste that is sharp, acrid,
 and unpleasant. 2. Causing sharp pain to the body or discomfort to the
 mind; harsh: a bitter wind; bitter memories.  3. Difficult or distasteful
 to accept, admit, or bear: the bitter truth.  4. Exhibiting or proceeding
 from strong animosity: bitter foes.  5. Resulting from or expressive of
 severe grief, anguish, or disappointment: cried bitter tears.  6. Marked by
 anguished resentfulness or rancor:  He was already a bitter elderly man
 with a gray face (John Dos Passos).   -tr. -intr.v.-tered -tering -ters
 To make or become bitter.   -n.bitters   A bitter, usually alcoholic liquid
 made with herbs or roots and used in cocktails or as a tonic. [ME < OE.]
 bitterly adv.   bitterness n.



 bitter almond  n.  A variety of the common almond, Prunus amygdalus amara,
 having bitter kernels that yield a very poisonous oil.



 bitter apple  n.  1. The colocynth. 2. The fruit of the colocynth.



 bitter end  n.  1.  Nautical. The end of a rope or cable that is wound
 around a bitt. 2. A final, painful, or disastrous extremity.



 bittern
 bittern(1)  n.  Any of several wading birds of the genera Botaurus and
 Ixobrychus, having mottled, brownish plumage and a deep, resonant cry. [ME
 biture < OFr. butor.]
 bittern(2)  n.  The solution of bromides, magnesium, and calcium salts
 remaining after sodium chloride is crystallized out of sea water. [<
 bitter.]



 bitternut  n.  A hickory tree, Carya cordiformis, of eastern North
 America, having nuts with bitter kernels.



 bitter principle  n.  Any of a large number of bitter substances,
 frequently of vegetable origin.



 bitterroot  n.  A plant, Lewisia rediviva, of western North America,
 having showy pink or white flowers and a starchy, edible root.



 bitter rot  n.  A fungal disease of fruit caused by Glomerella cingulata.




 bittersweet  n.  1. A North American woody vine, Celastrus scandens,
 having orange or yellowish fruits that split open to expose seeds enclosed
 in fleshy scarlet arils. 2. A sprawling vine, Solanum dulcamara, native to
 Eurasia, having purple flowers and poisonous scarlet berries. 3. A dark to
 deep reddish orange color.   -adj. 1. Bitter and sweet at the same time. 2.
 Producing a mixture of pain and pleasure. 3. Dark to deep reddish orange.



 bitterweed  n.  Any of various plants that yield or contain a bitter
 principle, as the ragweed or plants of the genus Picris.



 bitumen  n.  Any of various mixtures of hydrocarbons and other substances,
 occurring naturally or obtained by distillation from coal or petroleum,
 found in asphalt and tar, and used for surfacing roads and for
 waterproofing. [ME bithumen, a mineral pitch from the Near East < Lat.
 bitumen.]   bituminoid adj.



 bituminize  tr.v. -nized -nizing -nizes   To treat with bitumen.
 bituminization n.



 bituminous  adj.  1. Like or containing bitumen. 2. Of or pertaining to
 bituminous coal.



 bituminous coal  n.  A mineral coal that burns with a smoky, yellow flame,
 yielding volatile bituminous constituents.



 bivalent  adj.  1.  Chemistry. Having valence 2. 2. Composed of two
 homologous chromosomes or two sets of such chromosomes.   bivalence
 bivalency n.



 bivalve  n.  A mollusk, such as an oyster or clam, that has a shell
 consisting of two hinged parts.   -adj. 1. Having a shell consisting of two
 hinged parts. 2. Consisting of two similar separable parts.   bivalved adj.




 bivariate  adj.  Having two variables.



 bivouac  n.  A temporary encampment often in the open air.
 -intr.v.-acked -acking -acks  or -acs   To camp in a bivouac. [Fr., prob. <
 dial. G. beiwacht, supplementary night watch.]



 biweekly  adj.  1. Happening every two weeks. 2. Happening twice a week;
 semiweekly.   -n.pl. -lies  A publication issued every two weeks.   -adv.
 1. Every two weeks. 2. Twice a week; semiweekly.



 biyearly  adj.  1. Happening every two years. 2. Happening twice a year;
 semiyearly.   -adv. 1. Every two years. 2. Twice a year; semiyearly.



 bizarre  adj.  Strikingly unconventional or far-fetched, as in style or
 appearance; odd. [Fr. < Sp. bizarro, brave, prob. < Basque bizar, beard.]
 bizarrely adv.   bizarreness n.



 bizonal  adj.  Of or relating to the affairs of a zone under the joint
 administration of two powers.



 Bk   The symbol for the element berkelium.



 blab  v. blabbed blabbing blabs   -tr. To reveal (secret matters) esp.
 through indiscreet or unreserved talk. -intr. 1. To reveal secret matters.
 2. To chatter indiscreetly.   -n. 1. A person who blabs. 2. Lengthy
 chatter. [ME blabben, to talk foolishly.]   blabby adj.



 blabber  intr.v. -bered -bering -bers   To chatter.   -n. 1. Idle chatter.
 2. One who blabs. [ME blaberen.]



 blabbermouth  n.  Slang.  One who chatters indiscreetly and at length.



 black  adj. -er -est   1. Being of the darkest achromatic visual value;
 producing or reflecting comparatively little light and having no
 predominant hue. 2. Having little or no light: a black, moonless night.  3.
 Black  Belonging to an ethnic group having dark skin, esp. Negroid. 4. Dark
 in color: a face black with anger.  5. Soiled, as from soot; dirty. 6.
 Evil; wicked: black deeds.  7. Cheerless and depressing; gloomy: black
 thoughts.  8. Marked by anger or sullenness: gave him a black look.  9.
 Black  Attended with disaster; calamitous: the stock-market crash on Black
 Friday.  10. Deserving of, indicating, or incurring censure or dishonor:
 man . . . has written one of his blackest records as a destroyer on the
 oceanic islands (Rachel Carson). 11. Wearing black clothing: the black
 knight.  12. Served without milk or cream: black coffee.    -n. 1. An
 achromatic color value of minimum lightness or maximum darkness; one
 extreme of the neutral gray series, the opposite being white. Although
 strictly a response to zero stimulation of the retina, the perception of
 black appears to depend on contrast with surrounding color stimuli. 2.
 Complete or almost complete absence of light; darkness. 3. Black clothing,
 esp. such clothing worn for mourning. 4. Black  A member of a Negroid
 people; Negro. 5. A black-colored chess or checker piece.   -tr.
 -intr.v.blacked blacking blacks   To make or become black. Phrasal verb.
 black out. 1. To extinguish or conceal all lights that might help enemy
 aircraft find a target during an air raid. 2. To lose consciousness or
 memory temporarily. 3. To prohibit the dissemination of, esp. by
 censorship: blacked out the news issuing from the rebel provinces.

       Idiom Section:  in the black. . On the credit side of a ledger;
 prosperous. [ME blak < OE blaec.]   blackish adj.   blackly adv.
 blackness n.

      Usage: The preferred term for a person today is black  rather than
 Negro.  Another acceptable term is Afro-American.  The noun and the
 adjective black  are usually but not invariably lower-cased: "Together,
 blacks and whites can move our country beyond racism"  (Whitney Young,
 Jr.).



 black alder  n.  1. A deciduous holly, Ilex verticillata, of eastern North
 America, bearing bright-scarlet berries. 2. A tree, Alnus glutinosa, native
 to Eurasia, having dark bark.



 blackamoor  n.  A dark-skinned person, esp. an African Negro. [black +
 Moor.]



 black-and-blue  adj.  Discolored from coagulation of blood below the
 surface of the skin.



 Black and Tan  n.  A member of the Royal Irish Constabulary, a force of
 British soldiers sent to Ireland to suppress the Sinn Fein rebellion of
 1919-21. [From the color of their uniform.]



 black-and-tan terrier  n.  A Manchester terrier.



 black and white  n.  1. Writing or print. 2. A picture or photograph in
 tones of black and white.



 black-and-white  adj.  1. Being in writing or print. 2. Partially black
 and partially white: a black-and-white cow.  3. Drawn or painted in dark
 pigment on a light background or vice versa. 4. Reproducing visual images
 in tones of gray rather than in color: black-and-white film.  5. Evaluating
 things as either totally good or totally bad: black-and-white moralists.



 black art  n.  Black magic.



 blackball  n.  1. A small black ball used as a negative ballot. 2. A
 negative vote that blocks the admission of an applicant to an organization.
   -tr.v.-balled -balling -balls   1. To vote against, esp. to veto the
 admission of. 2. To exclude from a social group.   blackballer n.



 black bass  n.  Any of several North American freshwater game fishes of
 the genus Micropterus.



 black bear  n.  Either of two black or dark-brown bears, Euarctos (or
 Ursus ) americanus, of North America, or Selenarctos thibetanus, of Asia.



 black belt  n.  1.  a. The rank of expert in a system of self-defense such
 as judo or karate. b. The black-colored sash that symbolizes the black
 belt. c. A person who holds a black belt. 2. A region of rich, black soil.
 3. A part of a state or city having a predominantly black population.



 blackberry  n.  1. Any of several woody plants of the genus Rubus, having
 canelike, usually thorny stems and black, glossy, edible berries. 2. The
 fruit of a blackberry.



 black bile  n.  One of the four humors of medieval physiology, supposed to
 cause melancholia.



 blackbird  n.  1. Any of various New World birds of the family Icteridae,
 as the grackle or redwing, of which the male has black or predominantly
 black plumage. 2. An Old World songbird, Turdus merula, of which the male
 is black with a yellow bill.



 blackboard  n.  A smooth, hard, often dark-colored panel for writing on
 with chalk.



 blackbody  n.  A theoretically perfect absorber of all incident radiation.




 blackbody radiation  n.  The characteristic thermal radiation emitted by a
 blackbody at a specific temperature.



 black book  n.  A record of people to blacklist or punish.



 black box  n.  A device or theoretical construct, esp. an electric
 circuit, with known or specified performance characteristics but unknown or
 unspecified constituents and means of operation.



 black bryony  n.  A climbing European plant, Tamus communis, having small,
 greenish flowers and poisonous red berries.



 blackbuck  n.  An antelope, Antilope cervicapra, of India, of which the
 male has a dark back and spiral horns.



 blackcap  n.  1. The black raspberry. 2.  a. A small European bird, Sylvia
 atricapilla, of which the male is gray with a black crown. b. Any of
 various other black-crowned birds.



 blackcock  n.  The male of the black grouse.



 black cohosh  n.  A tall plant, Cimicifuga racemosa, of eastern North
 America, having long clusters of small, whitish flowers.



 black comedy  n.  Comedy that uses black humor.



 black crappie  n.  An edible North American fish, Pomoxis nigromaculatus,
 having dark, mottled coloring.



 blackdamp  n.  A gas composed of a mixture of carbon dioxide and nitrogen,
 found in mines after fires and explosions of combustible gases.



 Black Death  n.  A form of plague, caused by the bacillus Yersina pestis,
 that was pandemic throughout Europe and much of Asia for several years
 following 1353. [From the dark splotches it causes on its victims.]



 black diamond  n.  1. Carbonado2. 2. black diamonds  Coal.



 blacken  v. -ened -ening -ens   -tr. 1. To make black. 2. To sully or
 defame. -intr. To become black or dark.   blackener n.



 Black English  n.  A distinctive nonstandard dialect of English spoken by
 many American blacks.



 black eye  n.  1. A bruised discoloration of the flesh surrounding the
 eye. 2. A bad name; dishonored reputation.



 black-eyed pea  n.  The cowpea (sense 2).



 black-eyed Susan  n.  1. Any of several North American plants of the genus
 Rudbeckia, esp. R. hirta, having hairy stems and leaves and flowers with
 orange-yellow rays and dark-brown centers. 2. A vine, Thunbergia alata,
 native to tropical Africa, having white or orange-yellow flowers with
 purple throats.



 blackface  n.  1. Make-up for a conventionalized comic travesty of blacks,
 as in a minstrel show. 2. An actor in a minstrel show. 3.  Printing.
 Boldface type.



 blackfish  n. pl. blackfish  or -fishes  1. Any of various dark-colored
 fishes, such as: a. A freshwater fish, Dallia pectoralis, of far northern
 regions. b. The tautog. 2. The pilot whale.



 black flag  n.  A Jolly Roger.



 black fly  n.  Any of various small, dark-colored biting flies of the
 family Simuliidae.



 Blackfoot  n. pl. Blackfoot  or -feet  1. Any of three tribes of Indians
 formerly inhabiting the regions of Montana, Alberta, and Saskatchewan. 2. A
 member of one of the Blackfoot tribes. 3. The Algonquian language of the
 Blackfoot.   Blackfoot adj.



 black gold  n.  Petroleum.



 black grouse  n.  A Eurasian game bird, Lyrurus tetrix, of which the male
 is black with white markings.



 blackguard  n.  1. An unprincipled person; scoundrel. 2. A foul-mouthed
 person.   -tr.v.-guarded -guarding -guards   To abuse verbally; revile.
 blackguardism n.   blackguardly adj. adv.



 black gum  n.  The sour gum.



 Black Hand  n.  A secret society organized for acts of terrorism and
 blackmail that was active in the United States in the early 20th century.



 black haw  n.  A shrub, Viburnum prunifolium, with white flower clusters
 and purple-black fruit.



 blackhead  n.  1. A plug of dried fatty matter capped with blackened dust
 and epithelial debris that clogs a pore of the skin. 2. An infectious,
 often fatal liver and intestinal disease of turkeys and some wildfowl. 3.
 Any of various birds with dark head markings.



 blackheart  n.  A disease of plants in which the inner tissues darken.



 black-hearted  adj.  Evil by nature; wicked.



 black hole  n.  A small celestial body with an intense gravitational field
 that is believed to be a collapsed star.



 black horehound  n.  A strong-smelling plant, Ballota nigra, native to
 Europe, having clusters of purple flowers.



 black humor  n.  Humor of the morbid and the absurd, esp. in its
 development as a literary genre.   black humorist n.



 blacking  n.  1. Lampblack. 2. A black paste or liquid used as shoe
 polish.



 blackjack
 blackjack(1)  n.  1. A leather-covered bludgeon with a short flexible shaft
 or strap, used as a hand weapon. 2. An oak tree, Quercus marilandica, of
 the southeastern United States, having blackish bark. 3. A card game in
 which the object is to accumulate cards with a total count nearer to 21
 than that of the dealer. 4. Sphalerite.   -tr.v.-jacked -jacking -jacks
 1. To hit with a blackjack. 2. To coerce by threats.
 blackjack(2)  n.  A tankard made of tarred or waxed leather. [black + ME
 jakke, leather container < OFr. jacque.]



 black knot  n.  A disease of plum and cherry trees caused by a fungus,
 Dibotryon morbosa, and resulting in black, knotlike swellings on the
 branches.



 black lead  n.  Graphite.



 blackleg  n.  1. An infectious, usually fatal gas gangrene affecting the
 heavily muscled upper parts of the legs of sheep and cattle. 2. A bacterial
 or fungous plant disease that causes the stems of plants to turn black. 3.
 One who cheats at cards, esp. a professional gambler; cardsharp. 4.
 Chiefly British. A strikebreaker; scab.



 black letter  n.  A heavy typeface with very broad counters and thick,
 ornamental serifs.



 black light  n.  Invisible ultraviolet or infrared radiation.



 blacklist  n.  A list of persons or organizations that are disapproved,
 boycotted, or suspected of disloyalty.   -tr.v.-listed -listing -lists   To
 place (a name) on a blacklist.   blacklister n.



 black lung  n.  Pneumoconiosis caused by the long-term inhalation of coal
 dust.



 black magic  n.  Magic in league with the Devil; witchcraft.



 blackmail  n.  1.  a. The extortion of money or something of value from a
 person by the threat of exposure of something criminal or discreditable. b.
 Something of value extorted in this manner. 2. Tribute formerly paid to
 freebooters along the Scottish border for protection from pillage. [black +
 mail3.]   blackmail v. -mailed -mailing -mails    blackmailer n.



 Black Maria  n.  A patrol wagon. [black + the name Maria.]



 black market  n.  1. The illegal business of buying or selling goods in
 violation of restrictions such as price controls or rationing. 2. A place
 where black market operations are carried on.



 black-market  tr.v. -keted -keting -kets   To trade in the black market.
 black marketer  black marketeer n.



 black mass  n.  A travesty of the Roman Catholic Mass as part of the
 reputed observances of Satanism.



 black measles  n.  A severe form of measles, characterized by a dark rash.




 black medic or black medick   n.  A cloverlike plant, Medicago lupulina,
 native to Europe, having compound leaves, small yellow flower heads, and
 black pods.



 black money  n.  Income, as from illegal activities, not reported to the
 government for tax purposes.



 Black Muslim  n.  A member of a black religious group, the Nation of
 Islam, that advocates segregation of blacks and whites and the
 establishment of a black nation.



 black mustard  n.  A plant, Brassica nigra, native to Eurasia, having
 clusters of yellow flowers and pungent seeds that are a source of the
 condiment mustard.



 Black Nationalist  n.  A member of a group of militant blacks who urge
 separatism from whites and the establishment of self-governing black
 communities.   Black Nationalism n.



 black nightshade  n.  The belladonna (sense 1).



 black oak  n.  A deciduous tree, Quercus velutina, of eastern North
 America, having hard, durable wood.



 blackout  n.  1. The extinguishing or concealing of lights that might be
 visible to enemy aircraft during an air raid. 2. Lack of illumination
 caused by an electrical power failure. 3.  a. The sudden extinguishing of
 all stage lights in a theater to indicate the passage of time or mark the
 end of an act or a scene. b. A short, comic vaudeville skit that ends with
 lights off. 4. A temporary loss of memory or consciousness. 5. A
 suppression or stoppage, as of news.



 Black Panther  n.  A member of an organization of militant black
 Americans.



 black pepper  n.  Pepper (sense 1.b.).



 Black Plague  n.  Black Death.



 blackpoll  n.  A North American warbler, Dendroica striata, of which the
 male has a black cap.



 black poplar  n.  A shade tree, Populus nigra, native to Eurasia, having
 spreading branches and pointed, triangular leaves.



 Black Power  n.  A movement among black Americans emphasizing racial pride
 and social equality through the creation of black political and cultural
 institutions.



 black raspberry  n.  1. A prickly shrub, Rubus occidentalis, of eastern
 North America, bearing black fruit. 2. The fruit of the black raspberry.



 Black Rod  n.  The chief usher of various British institutions, including
 the House of Lords.



 black rot  n.  Any of various plant diseases caused by fungi or bacteria
 and resulting in darkening of the leaves and decay.



 black sheep  n.  A person considered undesirable or disgraceful by a
 respectable group.



 Black Shirt  n.  A member of a fascist party organization having a black
 shirt as part of its uniform.



 blacksmith  n.  1. One who forges and shapes iron with an anvil and
 hammer. 2. One who makes, repairs, and fits horseshoes. [From the color of
 iron.]   blacksmithing n.



 blacksnake  n.  1. Any of various dark-colored, chiefly nonvenomous
 snakes, such as the black racer, Coluber constrictor, or the black rat
 snake, Elaphe obsoleta, of North America. 2. A long, tapering braided
 rawhide or leather whip with a snapper on the end.



 black spot  n.  Any of various plant diseases caused by fungi or bacteria
 and resulting in small black spots on the leaves.



 black spruce  n.  An evergreen tree, Picea mariana, of northern North
 America, growing mostly in bogs.



 blackstrap  n.  A dark, very thick molasses used in the manufacture of
 industrial alcohol and as an ingredient in cattle feed.



 black studies  pl.n.  Studies that deal with Afro-American culture.



 black-tailed deer or blacktail deer   n.  The mule deer.



 black tea  n.  A dark tea, the leaf of which is fully fermented or
 oxidized before drying.



 blackthorn  n.  A thorny Eurasian shrub, Prunus spinosa, having clusters
 of white flowers and bluish-black, plumlike fruit.



 black thorn  n.  The pear haw.



 black tie  n.  1. A black bow tie worn with a dinner jacket. 2. Semiformal
 evening wear for men, typically requiring a dinner jacket.   black-tie adj.




 black tip  n.  Any of several plant diseases characterized by the
 development of dark necrotic areas at the tip of the fruit or seed.



 blacktop  n.  A bituminous material, such as asphalt, used to pave roads.
  -tr.v.-topped -topping -tops   To pave with blacktop.



 black vomit  n.  1. Vomit consisting of bloody matter. 2. Severe yellow
 fever with symptomatic regurgitation of black vomit.



 black vulture  n.  A carrion-eating bird, Coragyps atratus, of central
 North America and South America, having black plumage and a bald, black
 head.



 black walnut  n.  1. A deciduous tree, Juglans nigra, of eastern North
 America, having dark, hard wood and edible nuts. 2. The wood of the black
 walnut. 3. The nut of the black walnut.



 blackwash  tr.v. -washed -washing -washes   To bring from concealment;
 disclose. [black + (white)wash.]



 blackwater fever  n.   A severe, frequently fatal malaria with symptomatic
 excretion of blood in the urine.



 black widow  n.  A New World spider, Latrodectus mactans, of which the
 extremely venomous female is black with red markings. [From the fact that
 the female eats its mate.]



 bladder  n.  1.  Anatomy. Any of various distensible membranous sacs found
 in most animals, esp. the urinary bladder. 2. Something resembling a
 bladder: the bladder of a football.  3.  Botany. An inflated, hollow
 structure, such as the air sac in certain seaweeds. 4.  Pathology. A
 blister, pustule, or cyst filled with fluid or air. [ME bladdre < OE
 blaedre.]



 bladdernose  n.  The hooded seal.



 bladder-nut  n.  Any of several shrubs or small trees of the genus
 Staphylea, of the North Temperate Zone, having small, whitish flowers and
 inflated seed pods.



 bladder worm  n.  The bladderlike, encysted larva of the tapeworm.



 bladderwort  n.  Any of various aquatic plants of the genus Utricularia,
 having violet or yellow flowers and in most species small bladders that
 trap minute aquatic animals.



 bladder wrack  n.  A rockweed, Fucus vesiculosus, having forked,
 brownish-green fronds with air-filled bladders.



 blade  n.  1. The flat-edged cutting part of a sharpened tool or weapon.
 2.  a. A sword. b. A swordsman. 3. A dashing young man. 4. A flat, thin
 part or section: the blade of an oar.  5. The metal part of an ice skate.
 6.  Anatomy. The scapula. 7.  Botany.  a. The leaf of a grass or similar
 plant. b. The expanded, usually green part of a leaf as distinguished from
 the leafstalk. 8. The upper surface of the tongue just behind the tip. [ME
 < OE blaed.]   bladed adj.



 blade-apple  n.  A spiny, vinelike, tropical American cactus, Pereskia
 aculeata, having true leaves, white flowers, and pulpy yellow fruit.



 blah  Slang.  n.  1. Worthless nonsense; drivel. 2. blahs  A general
 feeling of physical or psychological discomfort or dissatisfaction.   -adj.
 Dull and uninteresting. [Imit. of meaningless talk.]



 blain  n.  A skin swelling or sore. [ME < OE blegen.]



 blamable or blameable   adj.  Deserving of blame; culpable.   blamableness
 n.   blamably adv.



 blame  tr.v. blamed blaming blames   1. To hold (someone or something) at
 fault; think of as responsible or guilty. 2. To find fault with; censure.
 3. To place responsibility for (something) on a person.   -n. 1. The
 responsibility or guilt for a fault or error. 2. Censure; condemnation.

       Idiom Section:  to blame. Deserving of censure; at fault. [ME blamen
 < OFr. blasmer < alteration of LLat. blasphemare, to reproach. -see
 blaspheme.]   blamer n.

      Synonyms: blame fault guilt These nouns are compared in the sense of
 responsibility for an offense. Blame  stresses censure arising from
 something for which one is held liable. Fault  usually applies to a cause
 of failure ascribed specifically to a person or persons. Guilt  applies to
 serious, willful breaches of a standard of conduct and stresses the moral
 culpability, rather than practical shortcoming, of the offender.




 blameable  adj.  Variant of blamable.



 blamed   adj & adv.Damned.



 blameful  adj.  Deserving of blame; blameworthy.   blamefully adv.
 blamefulness n.



 blameless  adj.  Free from blame or guilt; innocent.   blamelessly adv.
 blamelessness n.



 blameworthy  adj. -thier -thiest   Deserving of blame; reprehensible.
 blameworthiness n.



 blanc fixe  n.  Powdered barium sulfate used as a base for water-color
 pigments. [Fr. : blanc, white + fixe, fixed.]



 blanch or blench   v. blanched blanching blanches  or blenched  or
 blenching  or blenches   -tr. 1. To take the color from; bleach. 2. To
 whiten (a growing food plant, such as celery) by covering to cut off direct
 light. 3. To whiten (a metal) by soaking in acid or by coating with tin. 4.
  a. To scald in order to loosen the skin of (almonds, for example). b. To
 scald (food) briefly, as before freezing. 5. To cause to turn white or
 become pale.   -intr.v. To turn white or become pale. [ME blaunchen, to
 make white < OFr. blanchir < blanche, fem. of blanc, white.]   blancher n.



 blancmange  n.  A flavored and sweetened milk pudding thickened with
 cornstarch. [ME blankmanger, white meat with rice < OFr. blanc manger,
 white food.]



 bland  adj. -er -est   1. Characterized by a moderate, undisturbing, or
 tranquil quality, esp.: a. Pleasant in manner; ingratiating. b. Not
 irritating or stimulating; soothing: a bland diet.  c. Mild; balmy. 2.
 Lacking distinctive character; dull. [Lat. blandus, caressing.]   blandly
 adv.   blandness n.



 blandish  tr.v. -dished -dishing -dishes   To coax by flattery or
 wheedling; cajole. [ME blandishen < OFr. blandir < Lat. blandiri < blandus,
 flattering.]   blandisher n.   blandishment n.



 blank  adj. -er -est   1. Bearing no writing, print, or marking of any
 kind. 2. Not completed or filled in: a blank questionnaire.  3. Without
 grooves or cuts: a blank key.  4. Expressing nothing; vacant:  Although his
 gestures were elaborate, his face was blank (Nathanael West). 5. Appearing
 confused or dazed; bewildered. 6. Devoid of activity or character; empty.
 7. Barren; fruitless: blank efforts.  8. Absolute; complete: a blank
 refusal.    -n. 1. An empty space or place; void. 2.  a. An empty space to
 be filled in on a document. b. A document with one or more such spaces. 3.
 An unfinished material, part, or article, such as a key form, that is
 prepared and stored for eventual finishing. 4. A gun cartridge with a
 charge of powder but no bullet. 5. A lottery ticket that wins no prize. 6.
 A mark, usually a dash (-), indicating the omission of a word or letter. 7.
 The center white circle of a target; bull's eye.   -tr.v.blanked blanking
 blanks   1. To remove, as from view; obliterate:  at times the strong glare
 of the sun blanked it from sight (Richard Wright). 2. To delete;
 invalidate. 3.  Sports. To prevent (an opponent) from scoring. 4. To punch
 or stamp from flat stock, esp. with a die.

       Idiom Section:  draw a blank. To fail, esp. to fail to come up with
 an idea, answer or solution. [ME < OFr. blanc, white.]   blankly adv.
 blankness n.



 blank cartridge  n.  A blank (sense 4).



 blank check  n.  1. A signed check with no amount filled in. 2. Total
 freedom of action; carte blanche.



 blank endorsement  n.  An endorsement on a check or negotiable note that
 names no payee, making it payable to the bearer.



 blanket  n.  1. A large piece of woven material used as a covering for
 warmth, esp. on a bed. 2. A thick layer that covers or encloses: a blanket
 of snow.    -adj. Applying to or covering all conditions or requirements: a
 blanket insurance policy.    -tr.v.-keted -keting -kets   1. To cover with
 or as if with a blanket. 2. To cover so as to inhibit or suppress. 3. To
 apply to generally and uniformly without exception. [ME < OFr. < blanc,
 white.]



 blanketflower  n.  The gaillardia.



 blanket stitch  n.  The buttonhole stitch as used for edging around a
 blanket or other heavy material.



 blanket-stitch  tr.v. -stitched -stitching -stitches   To sew with a
 blanket stitch.



 blank verse  n.  Verse consisting of unrhymed lines, usually of iambic
 pentameter.



 blare  v. blared blaring blares   -intr. To sound loudly and stridently.
 -tr. 1. To cause to blare. 2. To utter or exclaim loudly.   -n. 1. A loud,
 strident noise. 2. Flamboyance. [ME bleren.]



 blarney  n.  1. Smooth, flattering talk. 2. Nonsensical or deceptive talk.
 [After the Blarney Stone, in Blarney Castle, Blarney, Ireland, said to give
 skill in flattery to those who kiss it.]   blarney v. -neyed -neying -neys




 blase  adj.  1. Uninterested or unexcited because of frequent exposure or
 indulgence. 2. Very sophisticated. [Fr., p.part. of blaser, to cloy.]



 blaspheme  v. -phemed -pheming -phemes   -tr. 1. To speak of (God or
 something sacred) in an irreverent or impious manner. 2. To revile;
 execrate. -intr. To speak blasphemy. [ME blasfemen < OFr. blasfemer < LLat.
 blasphemare < Gk. blasphemien < blasphemos, blasphemous.]   blasphemer n.



 blasphemous  adj.  Impiously irreverent. [LLat. blasphemus < Gk.
 blasphemos.]   blasphemously adv.   blasphemousness n.



 blasphemy  n. pl. -mies  1.  a. A contemptuous or profane act, utterance,
 or writing concerning God. b. The act of claiming for oneself the
 attributes and rights of God. 2. An irreverent or impious act, attitude, or
 utterance in regard to something considered inviolable or sacrosanct.



 blast  n.  1.  a. A strong gust of wind. b. The effect of such a gust. 2.
 A forcible stream of air, gas, or steam from an opening, esp. one in a
 blast furnace to aid combustion. 3.  a. The act of blowing a whistle or
 wind instrument. b. The sound or noise produced by this. 4.  a. An
 explosion, as of dynamite. b. The effect of such an explosion. c. The
 charge of dynamite or other explosive used. 5. A disease of plants that
 results in failure of flowers to open or of fruit or seeds to mature. 6. A
 destructive or damaging influence. 7. A violent verbal assault or outburst.
 8.  Slang. A satisfyingly exciting experience or event, as a big party.
 -v.blasted blasting blasts   -tr. 1. To fragment by or as if by explosion;
 smash. 2. To ruin; frustrate:  Our hopes were all blasted at one blow
 (Frederick Douglass). 3. To cause to shrivel, wither, or mature imperfectly
 by or as if by blast or blight. 4. To make or open by or as if by
 explosion: blast a channel through the reefs.  5.  Informal. To attack or
 criticize vigorously. -intr. 1. To detonate explosives. 2. To emit a loud,
 strident noise. 3. To wither, shrivel, or mature imperfectly. 4.  Informal.
 To attack or criticize with vigor. 5.  Slang. To shoot. 6.  Electronics. To
 distort sound recording or transmission by overloading a microphone or
 loudspeaker. Phrasal verb.  blast off. To take off, as a rocket or space
 vehicle.

       Idiom Section:  (at) full blast. At full speed, volume, or capacity.
 [ME < OE blaest.]   blaster n.



 blast-   Variant of blasto-.



 -blast   Bud; germ; cell; cell layer: endoblast.  [< Gk. blastos, bud.]



 blasted  adj.  1. Blighted; withered; shriveled. 2.  Informal. Extremely
 annoying; obnoxious: these blasted flies.



 blastema  n. pl. -mas  or -mata  A segregated region of embryonic cells
 from which a specific organ develops. [Gk. blastema, offspring < blastos,
 bud.]   blastemal blastematic blastemic  adj.



 blast furnace  n.  A furnace in which combustion is intensified by a blast
 of air.



 -blastic   Having a specified number or kind of buds, germs, cells, or
 cell layers: meroblastic.  [< -blast.]



 blasting gelatin  n.  A dynamite containing nitrocellulose in addition to
 nitroglycerin.



 blasto- or blast-    Bud; germ: blastocyst.  [< Gk. blastos, bud.]



 blastocoel or blastocoele   n.  The cavity of a blastula. [blasto- +
 -coel.]   blastocoelic adj.



 blastocyst  n.  The germinal vesicle.   blastocystic adj.



 blastoderm  n.  The layer of cells surrounding the blastocoel and giving
 rise to the germinal disc from which the embryo develops in most placental
 vertebrates.   blastodermatic  blastodermic adj.



 blastodisc  n.  The germinal disc.



 blastoff or blast-off   n.  The launching of a rocket or space vehicle.



 blastogenesis  n.  1. The theory that inherited characteristics are
 transmitted from parent to offspring by germ plasm. 2. Reproduction by
 budding.   blastogenetic  blastogenic adj.



 blastoma  n. pl. -mas  or -mata  A neoplasm composed of immature and
 undifferentiated cells.



 blastomere  n.  A cell formed during the cleavage of a fertilized ovum.
 blastomeric adj.



 blastopore  n.  The mouthlike opening into the primitive intestinal cavity
 of the gastrula. [blasto- + pore2.]   blastoporal adj.



 blastula  n. pl. -las  or -lae  An early embryonic form consisting
 essentially of a hollow cellular sphere. [NLat. < Gk. blastos, bud.]
 blastular adj.   blastulation n.



 blat  v. blatted blatting blats   -tr. To utter without thinking; blurt.
 -intr. 1. To cry, esp. as a sheep; bleat. 2. To make a harsh or raucous
 noise. [Imit.]   blat n.



 blatant  adj.  1. Unpleasantly and often vulgarly loud and noisy. 2.
 Completely and often offensively conspicuous; obvious: a blatant lie.
 [Prob. < Lat. blatire, to blab.]   blatancy n.   blatantly adv.

      Usage: Blatant  and flagrant  are often confused. In the sense that
 causes the confusion, blatant  has the meaning of "outrageous" or
 "egregious." Flagrant  emphasizes wrong or evil that is glaring or
 notorious. Therefore, one who blunders may be guilty of a blatant  (but not
 a flagrant ) error; one who intentionally and ostentatiously violates a
 pledge commits a flagrant  act.



 blather or blether   intr.v. -ered -ering -ers   To talk nonsensically.
 -n. Absurd or foolish talk; nonsense. [ME < ON blaora < blaor, nonsense.]
 blatherer n.



 blatherskite  n.  1. A babbling, foolish person. 2. Blather. [blather +
 Sc. dial. skate, a contemptuous person.]



 blaze
 blaze(1)  n.  1. A brilliant burst of fire; flame. 2. A bright or steady
 light or glare: the blaze of day.  3. A destructive fire. 4. A brilliant or
 striking display: flowers that were a blaze of color.  5. A sudden
 outburst, as of emotion: a blaze of anger.  6. blazes   Slang. Hell.
 -v.blazed blazing blazes   -intr. 1. To burn with a bright flame. 2. To
 shine brightly. 3. To be resplendent: a garden blazing with flowers.  4. To
 flare up suddenly: His temper blazed.  5. To shoot rapidly and
 continuously: entered the hideout with guns blazing.  -tr. 1. To cause to
 blaze; burn. 2. To shine or be resplendent with: eyes that blazed fire.
 [ME blase < OE blaese.]   blazingly adv.

      Synonyms: blaze flame flare flash glare
 incandescence glow These nouns relate to the visible signs of combustion,
 especially to a brightly burning light. Blaze  primarily stresses intensity
 and magnitude of combustion and especially implies vivid illumination.
 Flame  more narrowly pertains to a jet or tongue of fire. Flare  applies to
 a sudden, brief, intensely brilliant but unsteady burst of light, and flash
  to an even shorter burst. Glare  emphasizes continuing intensity of
 blinding light. Incandescence  suggests the intense brilliance of something
 white-hot. Glow  primarily stresses light, often in the absence of visible
 flame; it particularly suggests steadiness of radiation and absence of
 intense brilliance.

 blaze(2)  n.  1. A white or light-colored spot on the face of a horse or
 other animal. 2. A mark cut or painted on a tree to indicate a trail.
 -tr.v.blazed blazing blazes   1. To mark (a tree) with or as if with
 blazes. 2. To indicate (a trail) by marking trees with blazes. [Of Germanic
 orig.]
 blaze(3)  tr.v. blazed blazing blazes   To make known publicly; proclaim:
 blazed the news.  [ME blasen < MDu. blasen, to blow.]



 blazer  n.  1. One that blazes. 2. A lightweight, informal sports jacket,
 often striped or brightly colored.



 blazing star  n.  1. A North American plant, Chamaelirium luteum, having a
 long cluster of small white flowers. 2. Any of various North American
 plants of the genus Liatris, having clusters of tuftlike purple or pinkish
 flowers. 3. A plant, Mentzelia laevicaulis, of western North America,
 having large, pale-yellow flowers.



 blazon  tr.v. -zoned -zoning -zons   1. To describe (a coat of arms) in
 proper heraldic terms. 2. To paint or depict (a coat of arms) with accurate
 heraldic detail. 3. To adorn or embellish with or as if with blazons:  the
 stars and moons and suns blazoned on that sacred wall (G.K. Chesterton). 4.
 To announce; proclaim.   -n. 1. A coat of arms. 2. The heraldic description
 or representation of a coat of arms. 3. An ostentatious or showy display.
 [ME blasoun, shield < OFr. blason.]   blazoner n.   blazonment n.



 blazonry  n. pl. -ries  1. The art of properly and accurately describing
 or representing armorial bearings. 2. A coat of arms. 3. A showy or
 brilliant display.



 bleach  v. bleached bleaching bleaches   -tr. 1. To remove the color from,
 as by means of chemical agents. 2. To make white or colorless. -intr. To
 become white or colorless.   -n. 1. A chemical agent used for bleaching. 2.
  a. The act of bleaching. b. The degree of bleaching obtained. [ME blechen
 < OE blaecan.]



 bleacher  n.  1. One that bleaches. 2. bleachers  An often unroofed
 outdoor grandstand for seating spectators.



 bleaching powder  n.  A powder, such as chlorinated lime or calcium
 hypochlorite, used in solution as a bleach.



 bleak
 bleak(1)  adj. -er -est   1. Exposed to the elements; unsheltered and
 barren. 2. Cold and cutting; raw. 3.  a. Gloomy and somber; dreary:  Life
 in the Aran Islands has always been bleak and difficult (John M. Synge). b.
 Not encouraging; depressing: a bleak prospect.  [ME bleik < ON bleikr.]
 bleakly adv.   bleakness n.
 bleak(2)  n.  A European freshwater fish of the genus Alburnus, having
 silvery scales used in the manufacture of artificial pearls. [ME bleke < OE
 blaec, bright.]



 blear  tr.v. bleared blearing blears   1. To blur (the eyes) with or as if
 with tears. 2. To blur; dim.   -adj. Bleary. [ME bleren.]



 blear-eyed  adj.  Variant of bleary-eyed.



 bleary  adj. -ier -iest   1. Blurred or dimmed by or as if by tears:
 bleary eyes.  2. Vaguely outlined; indistinct. 3. Exhausted; worn-out.
 blearily adv.   bleariness n.



 bleary-eyed or blear-eyed   adj.  1. With eyes blurred by or as if by
 tears. 2. Dull of mind or perception.



 bleat  n.  1. The characteristic cry of a goat or sheep. 2. A sound
 similar to a bleat, as a whining cry.   -v.bleated bleating bleats   -intr.
 1. To utter a bleat. 2. To utter a sound similar to a bleat, esp. a whine.
 -tr. To utter in a whining voice. [ME blet < bleten, to bleat < OE
 blaetan.]   bleater n.



 bleb  n.  1. A small blister or pustule. 2. An air bubble. [Prob. var. of
 blob.]   blebby adj.



 bleed  v. bled   , bleeding, bleeds. -intr. 1. To lose or emit blood. 2.
 To be wounded, esp. in battle. 3. To feel sympathetic grief or anguish: My
 heart bleeds for you.  4. To exude sap or a similar fluid, as a bruised
 plant does. 5.  Slang. To pay out money, esp. an exorbitant amount. 6. To
 become mixed or run, as dyes in wet cloth. 7. To show through a layer of
 paint, as a stain or resin in wood. 8. To be printed so as to go off the
 edge or edges of a page after trimming. -tr. 1.  a. To take or remove blood
 from. b. To extract sap or juice from. 2.  a. To draw liquid or gaseous
 contents from; drain. b. To draw off (liquid or gaseous matter) from a
 container. 3.  Slang. To obtain money from, esp. by improper means. 4.  a.
 To cause (an illustration, for example) to bleed. b. To trim (a page, for
 example) so closely as to mutilate the printed or illustrative matter.
 -n. 1. Illustrative matter that bleeds. 2.  a. A page trimmed so as to
 bleed. b. The part of the page that is trimmed off. [ME bleden < OE
 bledan.]



 bleeder  n.  1. A hemophiliac. 2. A bloodletter. 3.  Slang. A
 blood vessel severed by trauma or surgery that requires attention for the
 arrest of blood flow.



 bleeding-heart  n.  1. Any of several plants of the genus Dicentra, having
 nodding pink flowers, esp. the widely cultivated species D. spectabilis,
 native to Japan. 2. A person who is considered excessively sympathetic
 toward those who claim to be underprivileged or exploited.



 bleep  n.  A brief high-pitched sound, as from an electronic device.
 -tr.v.bleeped bleeping bleeps   To blip. [Imit.]



 blemish  tr.v. -ished -ishing -ishes   To impair or spoil by a flaw; mar.
  -n. A flaw or defect, esp. one that adversely affects appearance. [ME
 blemisshen < OFr. blemir, to make pale, of Germanic orig.]   blemisher n.

      Synonyms: blemish imperfection fault defect flaw All of these
 denote loss or absence of perfection. Blemish  applies to some manifest
 characteristic that is held to mar the appearance of character of a thing,
 whereas imperfection  and fault  apply more comprehensively to any
 deficiency or shortcoming in make-up. Defect  denotes serious functional or
 structural shortcoming; flaw  refers to a small but fundamental weakness or
 dislocation, such as a fissure in a gem.




 blench
 blench(1)  intr.v. blenched blenching blenches   To draw back or shy away
 out of fear; quail. [ME blenchen < OE blencan, to deceive.]   blencher n.
 blench(2)  v.  Variant of blanch.



 blend  v. blended  or blent   , blending, blends. -tr. 1. To combine or
 mix so as to render the constituent parts indistinguishable. 2. To mix
 (different varieties or grades) thoroughly so as to obtain a new mixture of
 a particular quality or consistency: blend whiskeys.  -intr. 1. To form a
 uniform mixture; intermingle:  The smoke blended easily into the odor of
 the other fumes (Norman Mailer). 2. To become merged into one; unite. 3. To
 go well together; harmonize: picked a tie that blended with his jacket.
 -n. 1. Something that is blended; mixture. 2. The act of blending. 3.
 Linguistics. A word produced by combining parts of other words, as smog
 from smoke and fog.  [ME blenden < OE blandan.]



 blende  n.  1. Any of various shiny minerals composed chiefly of metallic
 sulfides. 2. Sphalerite. [G. < blenden, to deceive < OHG blenten, to
 blind.]



 blended whiskey  n.  Whiskey that is either a blend of two or more
 straight whiskeys or a blend of whiskey and neutral spirits.



 blender  n.  1. One that blends. 2. An electrical appliance with whirling
 blades for chopping, mixing, or liquefying foods.



 blending inheritance  n.  Inheritance of characters intermediate between
 those of parents widely divergent in those characters.



 blenny  n. pl. -nies  Any of numerous small, elongated marine fishes,
 chiefly of the families Blenniidae and Clinidae. [Lat. blennius, a kind of
 sea fish < Gk. blennos.]



 blent  v.  A past tense and past participle of blend.



 blepharitis  n.  Inflammation of the eyelid. [Gk. blepharon, eyelid +
 -itis.]



 blepharospasm  n.  Uncontrollable winking caused by the involuntary
 contraction of an eyelid muscle. [NLat. blepharospasmus : Gk. blepharon,
 eyelid + Gk. spasmos, cramp.]



 blesbok  n. pl. blesbok  or -boks  An African antelope, Damaliscus
 albifrons, having curved horns and a face marked with white. [Afr. : bles,
 white mark on an animal's face (< MDu.) + bok, buck (< MDu. boc).]



 bless  tr.v. blessed  or blest  or blessing  or blesses   1. To make holy
 by religious rite; sanctify. 2. To make the sign of the cross over so as to
 sanctify. 3. To invoke divine favor upon. 4. To honor as holy; glorify:
 Bless the Lord.  5. To confer well-being or prosperity upon. 6. To endow,
 as with talent. [ME blessen < OE bletsian.]   blesser n.



 blessed or blest   adj.  1.  a. Worthy of worship; holy. b. Held in
 veneration; revered. 2.  Roman Catholic Chruch. Enjoying the eternal
 happiness of heaven. Used as a title for those who have been beatified. 3.
 Enjoying happiness; fortunate. 4. Bringing happiness; pleasurable. 5.
 Slang. Used as an intensive: not a blessed dime.    blessedly adv.
 blessedness n.



 Blessed Sacrament  n.  Roman Catholic Chruch.  The consecrated Host.



 Blessed Virgin  n.  The Virgin Mary.



 blessing  n.  1. The act of one who blesses. 2. Something promoting or
 contributing to happiness, well-being, or prosperity; boon. 3. Approbation;
 approval: This plan has my blessing.  4. A short prayer before or after a
 meal.



 blest  v.  A past tense and past participle of bless.   -adj. Variant of
 blessed.



 blether  v.  -n. Variant of blather.



 bleu cheese  n.  Blue cheese.



 blew  v.  Past tense of blow1.



 blight  n.  1. Any of several plant diseases that result in the death of
 leaves, growing tips, or an entire plant. 2. An adverse environmental
 condition, as air pollution. 3. One that withers hopes or ambitions,
 impairs growth, or halts prosperity. 4. The state or result of being
 blighted.   -v.blighted blighting blights   -tr. 1. To cause (a plant, for
 example) to be affected with blight. 2. To cause to decline or decay. 3. To
 ruin; destroy. -intr. To suffer blight. [Orig. unknown.]



 blighter  n.  1. One that blights. 2.  Chiefly British. A fellow, esp. one
 considered of little worth.



 blimp
 blimp(1)  n.  A nonrigid, buoyant aircraft. [Orig. unknown.]
 blimp(2)  n.  Chiefly British.  One whose views exhibit a blend of
 ultraconservative jingoism and misinformation. [After Colonel Blimp, a
 cartoon character invented by David Low (1891-1963).]



 blind  adj. -er -est   1. Being without sight; sightless. 2. Of,
 pertaining to, or for sightless persons. 3. Performed by instruments and
 without the use of sight: blind navigation.  4. Performed without
 preparation, forethought, or knowledge: a blind attempt.  5. Unable or
 unwilling to perceive or understand: blind to his faults.  6. Not based on
 reason or evidence: blind faith.  7.  Slang. Drunk. 8. Independent of human
 control: blind fate.  9.  a. Difficult to comprehend or see; illegible:
 blind writings.  b. Illegibly or incompletely addressed: blind mail.  10.
 a. Hidden from sight: a blind seam.  b. Screened from the view of an
 oncoming driver: a blind intersection.  11. Closed at one end: a blind
 socket.  12. Having no opening: a blind wall.  13.  Botany. Failing to
 flower.   -n. 1. Something that hinders vision or shuts out light, as a
 window shade or Venetian blind. 2. A shelter for concealing hunters, esp.
 duck hunters. 3. Something intended to conceal the true nature, esp. of an
 activity; subterfuge.   -adv. 1. Without seeing; blindly: fly blind.  2.
 Informal. Into a stupor: drank themselves blind.    -tr.v.blinded blinding
 blinds   1. To deprive of sight. 2. To dazzle. 3. To deprive of perception
 or judgment. 4. To deprive of light. [ME < OE.]   blindingly adv.   blindly
 adv.   blindness n.



 blind alley  n.  Informal.  An undertaking that is mistaken or fails to
 produce results.



 blind date  n.  Informal.  1. A social engagement between a man and a
 woman who have not previously met. 2. Either of the persons taking part in
 a blind date.



 blinder  n.  1. One that blinds. 2. blinders  A pair of leather flaps
 attached to a horse's bridle to curtail side vision.



 blindfish  n. pl. blindfish  or -fishes  Any of various fishes having
 rudimentary, nonfunctioning eyes, esp. the cavefish.



 blindfold  tr.v. -folded -folding -folds   1. To cover the eyes of with or
 as if with a bandage. 2. To prevent from seeing and esp. from
 comprehending.   -n. A bandage to cover the eyes.   -adj. 1. With eyes
 covered. 2. Reckless. [ME blindfellen, OE geblindfellian, to strike blind.]




 blind gut  n.  1. A digestive cavity having only one opening. 2. The cecum
 of the large intestine.



 blind hinge  n.  A hinge constructed to allow the hinged piece to swing
 shut by its own weight unless held open.



 blindman's buff  n.  A game in which a blindfolded player tries to catch
 and identify one of the other players. [Buff, short for buffet, a blow.]



 blind pig  n.  Slang.  A speakeasy.



 blind side  n.  The side away from which one is directing one's attention.




 blind spot  n.  1.  Anatomy. The small, optically insensitive region where
 the optic nerve enters the retina of the eye. 2. A part of an area that
 cannot be directly observed. 3. An area where radio reception is weak. 4. A
 subject about which one is markedly ignorant or prejudiced.



 blind staggers  n.  Staggers (sense 3.b.).



 blind tiger  n.  Slang.  A speakeasy.



 blindworm  n.  The slowworm. [From its small eyes.]



 blini  pl.n.  Small buckwheat pancakes served with caviar or sour cream.
 [R., pl. of blin, pancake.]



 blink  v. blinked blinking blinks   -intr. 1. To close and open the eyes
 rapidly. 2. To look through half-closed eyes, as in a bright glare; squint.
 3. To shine with intermittent gleams; flash on and off. 4. To be startled
 or dismayed. -tr. 1. To close and open (the eyes) rapidly. 2. To refuse to
 recognize or face; ignore or overlook: blink ugly facts.  3. To signal (a
 message) with a flashing light. Phrasal verb.  blink at. . To look with
 pretended ignorance; pretend not to see: blink at dishonest practices.
 -n. 1. The act or an instance of closing and opening the eyes rapidly. 2. A
 quick look or glimpse; glance. 3. The time it takes to blink. 4. A flash of
 light; twinkle. 5. An iceblink (sense 1).

       Idiom Section:  on the blink. Slang.  Not in proper working
 condition; out of order. [ME blinken.]



 blinker  n.  1. A light that blinks in order to convey a message or
 warning. 2.  Slang. An eye. 3. blinkers  Goggles. 4. blinkers  Blinders
 (sense 2).



 blintz or blintze   n.  A thin, rolled pancake usually filled with cottage
 cheese and often served with sour cream. [Yiddish blintse < R. blinyets,
 dim. of blin, pancake.]



 blip  tr.v. blipped blipping blips   To interrupt recorded sounds, as on a
 videotape: blipped the expletive from the TV show.    -n. 1. A spot of
 light on a radar screen. 2. A brief interruption of the sound received in a
 television program as a result of blipping. [Alteration of bleep.]



 bliss  n.  1. Extreme happiness; joy. 2. The ecstasy of salvation;
 spiritual joy. [ME blisse < OE bliss.]   blissful adj.   blissfully adv.
 blissfulness n.



 blister  n.  1. A thin, rounded swelling of the skin, containing watery
 matter, caused by burning or irritation. 2. A swelling similar to a blister
 on a plant. 3. An air bubble resembling a blister, as on a painted surface.
 4. A rounded, often transparent protuberance, as one used for observation
 on certain aircraft.   -v.-tered -tering -ters   -tr. 1. To cause a blister
 to form on. 2. To reprove harshly. -intr. To break out in blisters. [ME <
 OFr. blestre, boil, of Germanic orig.]   blistery adj.



 blister beetle  n.  Any of various beetles of the family Meloidae that
 secrete a substance capable of blistering the skin.



 blister copper  n.  An almost pure copper produced in an intermediate
 stage of copper refining. [From its blistered appearance.]



 blistering  adj.  1. Intensely hot: a blistering sun.  2. Harsh; severe:
 blistering criticism.  3. Very rapid: a blistering pace.



 blister rust  n.  Any of several diseases of pine trees, caused by various
 fungi of the genus Cronartium and resulting in cankers and blisters on the
 bark.



 blite  n.  Strawberry blite. [ME, an herb < Lat. blitum, spinach < Gk.
 bliton.]



 blithe  adj. blither blithest   1. Filled with gaiety; cheerful. 2.
 Casual; carefree: blithe optimism.  [ME < OE blioe]   blithely adv.
 blitheness n.



 blither  intr.v. -ered -ering -ers   To blather. [Alteration of blather.]



 blithesome  adj.  Cheerful; merry.   blithesomely adv.   blithsomeness n.



 blitz  n.  1. A blitzkrieg. 2. An intensive air raid or series of air
 raids. 3. An intense campaign.   -tr.v.blitzed blitzing blitzes   To
 subject to a blitz. [Short for blitzkrieg.]



 blitzkrieg  n.  1. A swift, sudden military offensive, usually by combined
 air and land forces. 2. A swift, concerted effort. [G. : Blitz, lightning +
 Krieg, war.]



 blizzard  n.  1. A violent windstorm accompanied by intense cold and
 driving snow. 2. A very heavy snowstorm with high winds. 3. A torrent or
 superabundance: a blizzard of phone calls.  [Orig. unknown.]



 bloat  v. bloated bloating bloats   -tr. 1. To cause to swell up or
 inflate, as with liquid or gas. 2. To puff up, as with vanity. 3. To cure
 (fish) by soaking in brine and half-drying in smoke. -intr. To become
 swollen or inflated.   -n. A swelling of the rumen or intestinal tract of a
 domestic animal, caused by the gases of fermentation of green forage. [< ME
 blout, soft, puffed < ON blautr.]



 bloater  n.  A mackerel or herring lightly smoked and salted.



 blob  n.  1. A soft, amorphous mass. 2. A shapeless splotch or daub, esp.
 of color.   -tr.v.blobbed blobbing blobs   To splash or mark with blobs;
 splotch. [ME blober, bubble.]



 bloc  n.  1. A group of persons, parties, or nations united for common
 action. 2. A coalition, often bipartisan, of U.S. legislators acting
 together for a common purpose or interest: the farm bloc.  [Fr. < OFr.,
 block.]



 block  n.  1.  a. A solid piece of wood or other hard substance having one
 or more flat sides. b. Such a piece used as a construction member or as a
 supporting or strengthening piece. c. Such a piece upon which chopping or
 cutting is done: a butcher's block.  d. Such a piece upon which persons are
 beheaded. 2. A stand from which articles are sold at an auction. 3. A mold
 or form on which something is shaped or displayed: a hat block.  4. A piece
 of wood, stone, or other substance prepared for engraving. 5.  a. A pulley
 or a system of pulleys set in a casing. b. An engine block. 6. A group
 acting or regarded as a unit; bloc. 7. A set of like items sold or handled
 as a unit, as shares of stock. 8. A group of four or more unseparated
 postage stamps forming a rectangle. 9. A group of townships in an
 unsurveyed area in Canada. 10.  a. A rectangular section of a city or town
 bounded on each side by consecutive streets. b. A segment of a street
 bounded by successive cross streets and including its buildings and
 inhabitants. 11. A large building divided into separate units, such as
 apartments. 12. A length of railroad track controlled by signals. 13. An
 act of obstructing or hindering. 14. An obstacle or hindrance. 15.  Sports.
 An act of bodily obstruction, esp. in football, legal interference with an
 opposing player to clear the path of the ballcarrier. 16.  Medicine.
 Interruption, esp. obstruction, of a neural, digestive, or other
 physiological process. 17.  Psychology. Sudden cessation of a thought
 process without an immediate observable cause, sometimes considered a
 consequence of repression. 18.  Slang. A person's head: threatened to knock
 his block off.  19. A blockhead.   -v.blocked blocking blocks   -tr. 1. To
 shape into a block. 2. To support, strengthen, or retain in place by means
 of a block. 3. To shape, mold, or form with or on a block: block a hat.  4.
 To stop or impede the passage of or movement through; hinder or obstruct:
 block traffic; block out the sun's rays.  5. To indicate broadly without
 great detail; sketch. 6.  Sports. To impede the movement of (an opponent or
 the ball) by physical interference. 7.  Medicine. To interrupt the proper
 functioning of (a physiological process). 8.  Psychology. To fail to
 remember. 9. To run (trains) on the block system. -intr. Sports.  To
 obstruct the movement of an opponent.

       Idiom Section:  on the block. . Up for sale, esp. at an auction. [ME
 blok < OFr. < MDu., of Germanic orig.]   blocker n.



 blockade  n.  1. The closing off of an area, as a city or harbor, by
 hostile ships or forces in order to prevent the entrance and exit of
 traffic and communication. 2. The forces used in a blockade.   -tr.v.-aded
 -ading -ades   To set up a blockade against.   blockader n.



 blockade-runner  n.  A ship or person that goes through or past a
 blockade.   blockade-running n.



 blockage  n.  1. The act of obstructing. 2. An obstruction.



 block and tackle  n.  An apparatus of pulley blocks and ropes or cables
 used for hauling and hoisting heavy objects.



 blockbuster  n.  Informal.  1. A bomb capable of destroying a city block.
 2. Something of devastating effect. 3. One that engages in blockbusting.



 blockbusting  n.  Informal.  The practice of persuading white homeowners
 to sell quickly and usually at a loss by appealing to the fear that
 minority groups and esp. blacks will move into the neighborhood, with a
 resulting decline in property values.



 blockhead  n.  A stupid person; dolt.



 blockhouse  n.  1. A military fortification constructed of concrete or
 other sturdy material, with loopholes for defensive firing or for
 observation. 2. A heavily reinforced building used for launch operations of
 missiles and space launch vehicles. 3. A fort made of squared timbers with
 a projecting upper story.



 blockish  adj.  1. Like or resembling a block. 2. Dull; stupid.
 blockishly adv.   blockishness n.



 block letter  n.  1. A letter printed or written sans serif. 2.  Printing.
 A sans-serif style of type.



 block plane  n.  A small plane used by carpenters for cutting across the
 grain of wood.



 block printing  n.  Printing from engraved or carved wooden or linoleum
 blocks.



 block signal  n.  A fixed signal at the entrance to a railroad block,
 indicating whether or not trains may enter.



 block system  n.  A system for controlling and safeguarding the flow of
 railway trains in which track is divided into blocks, each controlled by
 automatic signals.



 blocky  adj. -ier -iest   Resembling a block; stocky.



 bloke  n.  Chiefly British.  Slang.  A fellow; man. [Orig. unknown.]



 blond  adj. -er -est   1. Having fair hair and skin and usually light
 eyes: blond Scandinavians.  2. Of a flaxen or golden color or of any light
 shade of auburn or pale yellowish brown: blond hair.  3. Light-colored:
 blond furniture.    -n. 1. A blond person. 2. A light yellowish brown to
 dark grayish yellow. [OFr.]   blondish adj.   blondness n.

      Usage: Blond  as an adjective may be used of both sexes. Blonde  and
 brunette  as nouns are used only of females.



 blonde  adj. blonder blondest   Blond.   -n. A blonde woman or girl.
 [OFr., fem. of blond.]



 blood  n.  1.  a. The fluid circulated by the heart through the vertebrate
 vascular system, carrying oxygen and nutrients throughout the body and
 waste materials to excretory channels. b. A functionally similar fluid in
 an invertebrate. c. A fluid resembling blood, such as the juice of certain
 plants. 2. Life; lifeblood. 3. Bloodshed; murder. 4. Temperament or
 disposition. 5.  a. Descent from a common ancestor; parental lineage. b.
 Family relationship; kinship. c. Descent from noble or royal lineage: a
 princess of the blood.  d. Recorded descent from purebred stock. e. Racial
 or national ancestry. 6. Personnel: new blood in the organization.  7. A
 dashing young man; dandy. a blood transfusion.    -tr.v.blooded blooding
 bloods   1.  a. To give (a hunting dog) its first taste of blood. b. To
 initiate (a novice hunter) by marking his face with the blood of the prey.
 2. To subject (recruits) to the baptism of fire.   -adj. Purebred: a blood
 mare.

       Idiom Section:  in cold blood. Dispassionately; deliberately and
 coldly. [ME blod < OE blod, of Germanic orig.]



 blood agar  n.  A culture medium containing whole blood for cultivation of
 bacteria.



 blood bank  n.  1. A place where whole blood or plasma is typed,
 processed, and stored for future use in transfusion. 2. Blood or plasma
 stored in a blood bank.



 blood bath  n.  A savage and indiscriminate killing; massacre.



 blood-brain barrier  n.  1. A physiologic differentiation phenomenon that
 deaccelerates the penetration of certain substances into the brain while
 allowing more rapid perfusion into other tissues. 2. A membrane separating
 brain tissues from circulating blood.



 blood brother  n.  1. A brother by birth. 2. One of two individuals vowed
 to mutual fidelity and trust by a ceremony involving the mingling of each
 other's blood.   blood brotherhood n.



 blood clot  n.  A solidified mass of blood caused by polymerization of
 fibrin molecules and trapped cells.



 blood count  n.  1. The number of red and white corpuscles in a specific
 volume of blood. 2. The determination of a blood count.



 bloodcurdling  adj.  Causing great horror; terrifying.   bloodcurdlingly
 adv.



 blooded  adj.  1. Having blood or a temperament of a specified kind: a
 cold-blooded reptile; a hot-blooded person.  2. Thoroughbred.



 blood fluke  n.  A schistosome.



 blood group  n.  Any of several immunologically distinct, genetically
 determined classes of human blood, clinically identified by characteristic
 agglutination reactions.



 bloodguilt  n.  Guilt caused by murder or bloodshed.



 blood heat  n.  The usual temperature (98.6 deg. F) of human blood.



 bloodhound  n.  1. One of a breed of hounds with a smooth coat, drooping
 ears, sagging jowls, and a keen sense of smell. 2.  Informal. A relentless
 pursuer.



 bloodless  adj.  1. Lacking or deficient in blood. 2. Pale and anemic in
 color. 3. Achieved without bloodshed. 4. Lacking in vivacity or spirit.
 bloodlessly adv.   bloodlessness n.



 bloodletting  n.  1. The bleeding of a vein as a therapeutic measure. 2. A
 draining away, as of lifeblood. 3. Bloodshed.   bloodletter n.



 bloodline  n.  1. Direct line of descent. 2. Pedigree.



 bloodmobile  n.  A motor vehicle equipped for collecting blood from
 donors. [blood + (auto)mobile.]



 blood money  n.  1. Money paid as compensation to the next of kin of a
 murder victim. 2. Money gained at the cost of another's life or livelihood.




 blood plasma  n.  The pale-yellow or gray-yellow, protein-containing fluid
 portion of the blood in which the corpuscles are normally suspended.



 blood platelet  n.  A platelet.



 blood poisoning  n.  1. Toxemia. 2. Septicemia.



 blood pressure  n.  The pressure of the blood within the arteries,
 primarily maintained by contraction of the left ventricle.



 blood pudding  n.  A sausage prepared from cooked swine's blood and suet.



 blood red  n.  A moderate to vivid red.   blood-red adj.



 blood relation  n.  A person who is related by birth rather than by
 marriage.   blood relationship n.



 bloodroot  n.  A woodland plant, Sanguinaria canadensis, of eastern North
 America, having a fleshy rootstock, red juice, and a single pale flower.



 blood sausage  n.  Blood pudding.



 blood serum  n.  Blood plasma with the fibrin removed.



 bloodshed  n.  The shedding of blood, esp. the injury or killing of human
 beings.



 bloodshot  adj.  Red and irritated: bloodshot eyes.



 bloodstain  n.  A stain caused by blood.   -tr.v.-stained -staining
 -stains   To stain with blood.



 bloodstone  n.  A variety of deep-green chalcedony flecked with red
 jasper.



 blood stream or bloodstream   n.  The stream of blood flowing through the
 circulatory system of a living body.



 bloodsucker  n.  1. An animal, as a leech, that sucks blood. 2. One who
 clings to or preys upon another; parasite.   bloodsucking adj.



 blood test  n.  A usually diagnostic examination of a blood sample, esp.
 to detect syphilis.



 bloodthirsty  adj.  Thirsting for or characterized by bloodshed;
 murderous.   bloodthirstily adv.   bloodthirstiness n.



 blood type  n.  Blood group.



 blood vessel  n.  An elastic, tubular canal, such as an artery, vein, or
 capillary, through which blood circulates.



 bloodworm  n.  Any of various segmented worms of the genera Polycirrus and
 Enoplobranchus, having bright-red bodies and often used for bait.



 bloodwort  n.  Any of various chiefly South American plants of the family
 Haemodoraceae, having roots that contain a red juice.



 bloody  adj. -ier -iest   1. Stained with blood. 2. Of, characteristic of,
 or containing blood. 3. Accompanied by or giving rise to bloodshed: a
 bloody fight.  4. Bloodthirsty; cruel. 5. Suggesting the color of blood;
 blood-red. 6. Used as an intensive: a bloody fool.    -adv. Used as an
 intensive: bloody well right.    -tr.v.-ied -ying -ies   To stain, spot, or
 color with or as if with blood.   bloodily adv.   bloodiness n.



 bloody mary or Bloody Mary   n.  A cocktail usually made of vodka, tomato
 juice, and seasonings.



 bloom
 bloom(1)  n.  1. The flower or blossoms of a plant. 2.  a. The condition or
 a time of being in flower: a rose in bloom.  b. A condition or time of
 vigor, freshness, and beauty; prime:  the radiant bloom of Greek genius
 (Edith Hamilton). 3. A fresh, rosy complexion:  She was short, plump, and
 fair, with a fine bloom (Jane Austen). 4.  Botany.  a. A delicate, powdery
 coating, such as that on some fruits, as the plum, or on some leaves and
 stems. b. A similar coating, as on newly minted coins. 5. An excessive
 planktonic growth in a body of water.   -v.bloomed blooming blooms   -intr.
 1. To bear flowers. 2. To shine with health and vigor; glow. 3. To grow or
 flourish. -tr. 1.  Obsolete. To cause to flower. 2. To cause to flourish.
 [ME blom < ON blom.]   bloomy adj.
 bloom(2)  n.  1. A bar of steel, usually over 36 square inches in cross
 section, prepared for rolling. 2. A mass of wrought iron ready for further
 working. [ME blome, lump of metal < OE bloma.]



 bloomer
 bloomer(1)  n.  1.  a. A plant that blooms. b. One who attains full
 development of his abilities: a late bloomer.  2.  Slang. A blunder.
 bloomer(2)  n.  1. A costume formerly worn by women and girls that was
 composed of loose trousers gathered about the ankles and worn under a short
 skirt. 2. bloomers   a. Wide, loose trousers gathered at the knee and
 formerly worn by women and girls as an athletic costume. b. Women's
 underpants of similar design. [After Amelia Bloomer (1818-1894).]



 blooming  adj.  Chiefly British.  Slang.  Used as an intensive: a blooming
 idiot.  [Prob. a euphemism for bloody.]



 blooper  n.  1.  Baseball. A short, weakly hit fly ball that carries just
 beyond the infield. 2.  Informal. A clumsy mistake, esp. one made in
 public; faux pas. [< bloop, imit. of the sound of such a hit.]



 blossom  n.  1. A flower or mass of flowers, esp. of a plant that yields
 edible fruit. 2. The condition or time of flowering: peach trees in
 blossom.    -intr.v.-somed -soming -soms   1. To come into flower; bloom.
 2. To develop; flourish: She blossomed into a beauty.  [ME < OE blostm.]
 blossomy adj.



 blot
 blot(1)  n.  1. A spot; stain. 2. A moral stigma; disgrace:  Let not the
 name of George the Third be a blot on the page of history (Jefferson).
 -v.blotted blotting blots   -tr. 1. To spot or stain. 2.  Obsolete. To
 bring moral disgrace to. 3. To obliterate; cancel. 4. To make obscure;
 darken: clouds blotting out the moon.  5. To dry or soak up with absorbent
 material. -intr. 1. To spill or spread in a blot. 2. To become blotted.
 Phrasal verb.  blot out. To destroy utterly; annihilate. [ME.]
 blot(2)  n.  1. An exposed piece in backgammon. 2.  Archaic. A weak point.
 [Orig. unknown.]



 blotch  n.  1. A spot or blot; splotch. 2. A discoloration on the skin;
 blemish. 3. Any of various plant diseases caused by fungi and resulting in
 brown or black dead areas on leaves or fruit.   -tr. -intr.v.blotched
 blotching blotches   To mark or become marked with blotches. [Prob. a blend
 of blot and botch.]   blotchiness n.   blotchy adj.



 blotter  n.  1. A piece or pad of blotting paper. 2. A book containing
 daily records of occurrences or transactions: a police blotter.



 blotting paper  n.  Absorbent paper used to blot a surface by soaking up
 excess ink.



 blouse  n.  1. A woman's or child's loosely fitting shirt extending to the
 waist or slightly below. 2. A loosely fitting garment resembling a long
 shirt, worn esp. by European workmen. 3. The service coat or tunic worn by
 members of the U.S. Army. -intr. & tr.v. bloused, blousing, blouses.To hang
 or cause to hang loose and full. [Fr.]



 blouson  n.  A woman's garment, as a dress or blouse, with a fitted
 waistband over which material blouses. [Fr., dim. of blouse, blouse.]



 blow
 blow(1)  v. blew blown blowing blows   -intr. 1. To be in motion, as air.
 2. To move along or be carried by or as if by the wind. 3. To expel a
 current of air, as from the mouth or from a bellows. 4. To produce a sound
 by expelling a current of air, as in sounding a musical wind instrument. 5.
 To breathe hard; pant. 6. To burn out or melt, as a fuse. 7. To burst
 suddenly, as a tire. 8. To spout water and air, as a whale. 9.  Slang. To
 boast. 10.  Slang. To go away; depart. -tr. 1. To cause to move by means of
 a current of air. 2. To expel (air) from the mouth. 3. To cause air to be
 expelled from. 4. To drive a current of air on, in, or through. 5. To clear
 out or make free of obstruction by forcing air through. 6. To shape or form
 (glass, for example) by forcing air or gas through at the end of a pipe. 7.
  a. To cause (a wind instrument) to sound. b. To sound: a bugle blowing
 taps.  8. To cause (a horse) to be out of breath. 9. To cause to explode:
 An artillery shell blew apart our headquarters.  10. To lay or deposit eggs
 in. Used of a fly. 11. To melt or disable (a fuse). 12.  Slang. To spend
 (money) freely. 13.  Vulgar.  Slang. To perform fellatio upon. 14.  Slang.
 To handle ineptly. 15.  Slang. To depart in a great hurry: blew the city.
 Phrasal verb.  blow away. Slang.  1. To kill by shooting. 2. To affect
 intensely; overwhelm. blow in. Slang.  To arrive. blow off. 1. To release;
 let off: a boiler blowing off steam.  2.  Slang. To relieve through speech
 or action; give vent to. blow out. 1. To extinguish or be extinguished by
 blowing: blow out a candle.  2. To fail, as an electrical apparatus. blow
 over. 1. To subside: The storm blew over quickly.  2. To be forgotten: The
 scandal will soon blow over.  blow up. 1. To come into being: A storm blew
 up.  2. To fill with air; inflate. 3. To enlarge (a photographic image or
 print). 4.  Slang. To lose one's temper.   -n. 1.  a. A blast of air or
 wind. b. A storm. 2. The act or an instance of blowing. 3.  Slang. An act
 of bragging.

       Idiom Section:  blow hot and cold. To change one's opinion often on a
 given matter; vacillate. blow off steam. To give vent to one's anger or
 other pent-up emotion. blow (one's) mind. To affect with intense emotion,
 as amazement, excitement, or shock. [ME blowen < OE blawan.]
 blow(2)  n.  1. A sudden hard stroke or hit, as with the fist or an
 instrument. 2. A sudden unexpected shock or calamity. 3. A sudden
 unexpected attack.

       Idiom Section:  come to blows. To begin to fight. [ME blaw.]
 blow(3)  n.  A mass of blossoms: peach blow.  -intr. & tr.v. blew blown
 blowing blows  To bloom or cause to bloom. [ME blowen < OE blowan.]



 blowball  n.  A fluffy seed ball, such as that of a dandelion.



 blow-by-blow  adj.  Marked by close attention to details: a blow-by-blow
 description.



 blow-dry  tr.v. -dried -drying -dries   To dry and often style with a
 hand-held hair dryer: blow-dry damp hair.



 blower  n.  1. One that blows, esp. a mechanical device such as a fan. 2.
 Slang. A braggart. 3.  Chiefly British.  Slang. A telephone.



 blowfish  n. pl. blowfish  or -fishes  The puffer (sense 2).



 blowfly  n.  Any of several flies of the family Calliphoridae that deposit
 their eggs in carcasses or carrion or in open sores and wounds.



 blowgun  n.  A long narrow pipe through which darts or pellets may be
 blown.



 blowhard  n.  Slang.  A boaster; braggart.



 blowhole  n.  1. A nostril at the highest point on the head of whales and
 other cetaceans. 2. A hole in ice to which aquatic mammals, as dolphins,
 come to breathe. 3. A vent to permit the escape of air or other gas.



 blowjob  n.  Vulgar.  Slang.  An act or instance of fellatio.



 blown
 blown(1)  v.  Past participle of blow1.   -adj. 1. Swollen or inflated;
 distended. 2. Out-of-breath; panting. 3. Flyblown. 4. Formed by blowing:
 blown glass.
 blown(2)  v.  Past participle of blow3.   -adj. Completely expanded or
 opened: a full-blown flower.



 blowout  n.  1.  a. A sudden rupture or bursting, as of an automobile
 tire. b. The hole made by such a rupture. 2. A sudden escape of a confined
 gas. 3.  Slang. A large party or social affair.



 blowpipe  n.  1. A metal tube in which a flow of gas is mixed with a
 controlled flow of air to concentrate the heat of a flame. 2. A blowgun. 3.
 A long, narrow iron pipe used to gather, work, and blow molten glass.



 blowsy  adj.  Variant of blowzy.



 blowtorch  n.  A usually portable gas burner that produces a flame
 typically hot enough to melt soft metals.



 blowup  n.  1. An explosion. 2. A violent outburst of temper. 3. A
 photographic enlargement.



 blowy  adj. -ier -iest   Windy; breezy.



 blowzy or blowsy   adj. -zier -ziest  or -sier  or -siest   1. Having a
 coarsely ruddy and bloated appearance. 2. Disheveled and frowzy; unkempt.
 [< Obs. blowze, beggar wench.]



 BLT  n.  A bacon, lettuce, and tomato sandwich.



 blubber
 blubber(1)  v. -bered -bering -bers   -intr. To weep and sob noisily. -tr.
 1. To utter while crying and sobbing. 2. To make wet and swollen by
 weeping.   -n. A loud weeping and sobbing. [ME bluberen, to bubble <
 bluber, foam.]   blubberer n.   blubberingly adv.
 blubber(2)  n.  1. The thick layer of fat between the skin and the muscle
 layers of whales and other marine mammals. 2. Excessive body fat. 3. A
 large invertebrate sea nettle or medusa.   -adj. Swollen and protruding.
 [ME bluber, foam.]   blubbery adj.



 blucher  n.  1. A high shoe or half boot. 2. A shoe having the vamp and
 tongue made of one piece and the top lapping over the vamp. [After Gebhard
 L. von Blucher (1742-1819).]



 bludgeon  n.  A short, heavy club, usually of wood, that has one end
 loaded or thicker than the other.   -tr.v.-eoned -eoning -eons   1. To hit
 with or as if with a club or bludgeon. 2. To threaten or bully. [Orig.
 unknown.]   bludgeoner  bludgeoneer n.



 blue  n.  1. Any of a group of colors that may vary in lightness and
 saturation, whose hue is that of a clear sky; the hue of that portion of
 the spectrum lying between green and violet; one of the additive or light
 primaries; one of the psychological primary hues, evoked in the normal
 observer by radiant energy of wavelength approximately 475 nanometers. 2.
 a. A pigment or dye imparting the color blue. b. Bluing. 3.  a. An object
 of the color blue. b. Blue dress or clothing: the girls in blue.  4. A
 person who wears a blue uniform. 5. Blue   a. A member of the Union Army in
 the Civil War. b. The Union Army. 6. blues  The blue uniform of the U.S.
 Navy. 7. A small blue butterfly of the family Lycaenidae. 8.  a. The sky.
 b. The sea.   -adj.bluer bluest   1. Of the color blue. 2. Bluish or having
 parts that are blue or bluish: a blue spruce; the blue whale.  3. Having a
 gray or purplish color, as from cold or contusion. 4. Wearing blue. 5.  a.
 Gloomy; depressed. b. Dismal; dreary: a blue day.  6. Puritanical; strict.
 7. Aristocratic; patrician. 8. Indecent; risque: a blue joke.    -tr.
 -intr.v.blued bluing blues   To make or become blue.

       Idiom Section:  once in a blue moon. Very seldom; rarely. out of the
 blue. 1. From an unexpected or unforeseen source. 2. At a completely
 unexpected time. [ME < OFr. bleu, of Germanic orig.]   bluely adv.
 blueness n.



 blue baby  n.  An infant born with bluish skin caused by inadequate
 oxygenation of the blood, a symptom of a congenital cardiac or pulmonary
 defect.



 bluebeard  n.  A man who first marries and then murders one wife after
 another. [< Bluebeard, a character in a folk tale.]



 bluebell  n.  Any of various plants having blue, bell-shaped flowers,
 esp.: a. A European plant, Scilla nonscripta, having grasslike leaves and a
 one-sided cluster of fragrant, blue-violet flowers. b. The harebell. c. Any
 of various plants of the genus Mertensia.



 blueberry  n.  1. Any of several North American shrubs of the genus
 Vaccinium, having small, urn-shaped flowers and edible berries. 2. The
 juicy blue, purplish, or blackish berry of a blueberry shrub.



 bluebill  n.  The scaup.



 bluebird  n.  Any of several North American birds of the genus Sialia,
 having blue plumage and in the male of most species a rust-colored breast.



 blue-black  adj.  Being very dark blue in color.



 blue blood  n.  1. Noble or aristocratic descent. 2. A member of the
 aristocracy or other high social group. [Transl. of Sp. sangre azul; prob.
 from the visible veins of fair-complexioned aristocrats.]   blue-blooded
 adj.



 blueblossom  n.  A shrub, Ceanothus thyrsiflorus, of the west coast of the
 United States, having profuse clusters of small blue flowers.



 bluebonnet  n.  1.  a. A plant, Lupinus subcarnosus, of Texas and adjacent
 regions, having compound leaves and clusters of blue flowers. b. Any of
 several other plants similar to the bluebonnet and having blue flowers. 2.
 a. A broad, blue woolen cap worn in Scotland. b. A person wearing such a
 cap.



 blue book or bluebook   n.  1. An official list of persons in the employ
 of the U.S. government. 2.  Informal. A book listing the names of socially
 prominent people. 3. A blank notebook with blue covers in which to write
 college examinations.



 bluebottle  n.  1. Any of several flies of the genus Calliphora, having a
 bright metallic-blue body and breeding in decaying organic matter. 2. The
 cornflower.



 blue cheese  n.  A semisoft cheese made of cow's milk, having a
 greenish-blue mold and flavor similar to Roquefort cheese.



 blue chip  n.  1. A stock that sells at a high price because of public
 confidence in its long record of steady earnings. 2. An extremely valuable
 asset or property.



 bluecoat  n.  A person who wears a blue uniform, esp. a policeman.



 blue cohosh  n.  A plant, Caulophyllum thalictroides, of eastern North
 America, having compound leaves and a cluster of greenish or purplish
 flowers.



 blue-collar  adj.  Of or pertaining to wage earners, esp. as a class,
 whose jobs are performed in work clothes and often involve manual labor.



 bluecurls or blue curls   n.  Any of several North American plants of the
 genusTrichostema,having blue, two-lipped flowers with long, curved stamens.




 blue devils  pl.n.  Informal.  A feeling of depression or despondency.



 blue-eyed grass  n.  Any of various plants of the genus Sisyrinchium,
 mostly of North America, having grasslike leaves and small, starlike blue
 flowers.



 blue-eyed Mary  n.  A plant, Collinsia verna, of eastern North America,
 having two-lipped blue and white flowers.



 bluefish  n. pl. bluefish  or -fishes  1. A voracious food and game fish,
 Pomatomus saltatrix, of temperate and tropical waters of the Atlantic and
 Indian oceans. 2. Any of various fishes that are predominantly blue in
 color.



 blue flag  n.  Any of several wild irises having blue flowers, esp. Iris
 versicolor, of eastern North America.



 blue fox  n.  1. The arctic fox during its summer color phase, when its
 pelt is bluish gray. 2. The fur of a blue fox.



 bluegill  n.  A common, edible sunfish, Lepomis macrochirus, of North
 American lakes and streams.



 bluegrass  n.  1. Any of several grasses of the genus Poa, esp. P.
 pratensis, native to Eurasia but naturalized throughout North America. 2. A
 type of folk music that originated in the southern United States, typically
 played on banjos and guitars and characterized by rapid tempos and jazzlike
 improvisation.



 blue-green alga  n.  An alga of the division Cyanophyta (or Myxophyceae),
 considered to be among the simplest forms of plants.



 blue grouse  n.  A wildfowl, Dendragapus obscurus, of western North
 America, having predominantly gray plumage.



 blue gum  n.  A tall timber tree, Eucalyptus globulus, native to
 Australia, having aromatic leaves and outer bark that peels off in shreds.



 bluehead  n.  A marine fish, Thalassoma bifasciatum, of tropical Atlantic
 waters, of which the male has a blue head and a green body.



 bluehearts  n.  A hairy plant,Buchnera americana,of central North America,
 having a spike of deep-purple flowers.



 blue heron  n.  Any of several varieties of heron with blue or blue-gray
 plumage.



 blueing  n.  Variant of bluing.



 blueish  adj.  Variant of bluish.



 bluejack  n.  An oak tree, Quercus cinerea, of the southern United States,
 having narrow, unlobed leaves. [blue + (black)jack1]



 bluejacket  n.  An enlisted man in the U.S. or British Navy; sailor.



 blue jay  n.  A North American bird, Cyanocitta cristata, having a crested
 head and predominantly blue plumage.



 blue jeans  pl.n.  Jeans (sense 2).



 blue law  n.  1. One of a body of laws in colonial New England designed to
 enforce certain moral standards. 2. A law designed to regulate Sunday
 activities.



 blue mold  n.  Any of several fungi of the genus Penicillium, forming a
 bluish growth on food and other surfaces.



 bluenose  n.  A puritanical person.



 blue note  n.  Music.  A flatted note, esp. the third or seventh note of a
 chord, in place of an expected major interval. [From its use in blues
 music.]



 blue-pencil  tr.v. -ciled -ciling -cils  or -cilled  or -cilling  or -cils
   To edit, revise, or correct with or as if with a blue pencil.



 blue peter  n.  A blue flag with a white square in the center, flown to
 signal that a ship is ready to sail.



 blue-plate  adj.  Being a main course of a restaurant meal usually offered
 at a special price: a blue-plate luncheon.



 blue point  n.  A type of edible oyster found chiefly off Blue Point,
 Great South Bay, Long Island, New York.



 blueprint  n.  1. A photographic reproduction, as of architectural plans
 or technical drawings, rendered as white lines on a blue background. 2. A
 carefully designed plan.   -tr.v.-printed -printing -prints   1. To make a
 blueprint of. 2. To lay a plan for.



 blue ribbon  n.  1. A blue ribbon awarded as the first prize in a
 competition. 2. An award or honor given for excellence.   blue-ribbon adj.



 blue-ribbon jury  n.  A jury whose members have been selected as
 possessing special qualifications, as intelligence, that enable them to
 deal with complex legal issues.



 blues  pl.n.  1. A state of depression or melancholy. 2. A style of jazz
 evolved from southern American Negro secular songs and usually
 distinguished by slow tempo and flatted thirds and sevenths. [Short for
 blue devils.]



 blue shift  n.  An apparent decrease in the wavelength of radiation
 emitted by an approaching celestial body as a consequence of the Doppler
 effect.



 blue-sky law  n.  A law designed to protect the public from buying
 fraudulent securities.



 blue spruce  n.  An evergreen tree, Picea pungens, of the Rocky Mountain
 region, having bluish-green needles.



 blues-rock  n.  A style of music that combines the blues and rock "n'
 roll.



 bluestocking  n.  A pedantic or scholarly woman. [After the Blue Stocking
 Society, a nickname for a predominantly female literary club of 18th-cent.
 London.]   bluestocking adj.



 bluestone  n.  1. A bluish-gray sandstone used for paving and building. 2.
 A stone similar to the bluestone.



 blue streak  n.  Informal.  1. Something moving very fast. 2. A rapid and
 seemingly interminable stream of words.



 bluets  n.  A slender, low-growing plant,Houstonia caerulea,of eastern
 North America, having small, light-blue flowers with yellow centers. [< Fr.
 bluet, cornflower.]



 blue vitriol  n.  Copper sulfate.



 blueweed  n.  Viper's bugloss.



 blue whale  n.  A very large whale, Sibbaldus musculus, having a
 bluish-gray back and longitudinal grooves along the throat and belly.



 bluff
 bluff(1)  v. bluffed bluffing bluffs   -tr. 1. To mislead, deceive, or
 hoodwink. 2. To impress, deter, or intimidate by a display of confidence
 greater than the facts support. 3. To try to mislead (opponents) in poker
 by heavy betting on a poor hand or by little or no betting on a good one.
 -intr. To engage in a false display of strength or confidence.   -n. 1. The
 act or practice of bluffing. 2. One who bluffs.

       Idiom Section:  call (someone's) bluff. To challenge or expose a
 false display of strength or confidence. [Perh. < Du. bluffen, to boast.]
 bluffable adj.   bluffer n.
 bluff(2)  n.  A steep headland, promontory, river bank, or cliff.
 -adj.-er -est   1. Having a broad, steep front. 2. Having a rough and blunt
 but not unkind manner. [Orig. unknown.]   bluffly adv.   bluffness n.



 bluing or blueing   n.  1. Any of various coloring agents used to
 counteract the yellowing of laundered fabrics. 2. A rinsing agent used to
 give a silver tint to graying hair.



 bluish or blueish   adj.  Somewhat or slightly blue.   bluishness n.



 blunder  n.  A stupid and serious mistake usually caused by ignorance,
 stupidity, or confusion.   -v.-dered -dering -ders   -intr. 1. To move
 awkwardly or clumsily. 2. To make a blunder. -tr. 1. To botch or bungle. 2.
 To say stupidly or thoughtlessly. [ME blunderen, to go blindly, prob. < ON
 blunda, to doze.]   blunderer n.   blunderingly adv.



 blunderbuss  n.  1. A short musket of wide bore and flaring muzzle,
 formerly used to scatter shot at close range. 2. A stupid, clumsy person.
 [Alteration of Du. donderbus : donder,  thunder (< MDu. doner) + bus, gun
 (< MDu. busse, tube < Lat. buxis, box).]



 blunt  adj. -er -est   1. Having a dull edge or end; not sharp. 2. Abrupt
 and frank in manner; brusque. 3. Slow to understand or perceive; dull. 4.
 Lacking in feeling; insensitive.   -v.blunted blunting blunts   -tr. 1. To
 dull the edge of. 2. To make less effective; weaken:  Division of purpose
 blunted our offensive spirit (T.E. Lawrence). -intr. To become blunt. [ME.]
   bluntly adv.   bluntness n.



 blur  v. blurred blurring blurs   -tr. 1. To make indistinct and hazy in
 outline or appearance; obscure. 2. To smear or stain; smudge. 3. To lessen
 the perception of; dim. -intr. 1. To become indistinct. 2. To make blurs.
 -n. 1. A smear or blot; smudge. 2. Something that is hazy and indistinct.
 [Orig. unknown.]   blurriness n.   blurry adj.



 blurb  n.  A brief publicity notice, as on a book jacket. [Coined by
 Gelett Burgess (1866-1951).]



 blurt  tr.v. blurted blurting blurts   To utter suddenly and impulsively:
 blurt out a confession.  [Prob. imit.]



 blush  intr.v. blushed blushing blushes   1. To become red in the face
 esp. from modesty, embarrassment, or shame; flush. 2. To become red or
 rosy. 3. To feel embarrassed or ashamed: blushed at his own audacity.
 -n. 1. A reddening of the face esp. from modesty, embarrassment, or shame.
 2. A red or rosy color.

       Idiom Section:  at onfirst blush.. At first sight or glance. [ME
 blushen < OE blyscan.]   blushful adj.   blushingly adv.



 blusher  n.  1. One that blushes. 2. Make-up used on the face and esp. on
 the cheekbones to give a usually rosy tint.



 bluster  v. -tered -tering -ters   -intr. 1. To blow in loud, violent
 gusts, as wind in a storm. 2. To speak or act with noisy boasts or threats.
 -tr. To force or bully with swaggering threats.   -n. 1. A violent, gusty
 wind. 2. Turbulence or noisy confusion. 3. Noisily boastful or threatening
 talk. [ME blusteren < MLG blusteren.]   blusterer n.   blustery  blusterous
 adj.



 bo  n. pl. bos  Slang.  A fellow; pal. [Prob. short for boy.]



 boa  n.  1. Any of various large, nonvenomous, chiefly tropical snakes of
 the family Boidae, which includes the pythons, anaconda, boa constrictor,
 and other snakes that coil around and suffocate their prey. 2. A long,
 fluffy scarf made of soft material such as feathers. [NLat. Boa, genus name
 < Lat. boa, a large water snake.]



 boa constrictor  n.  A large, nonvenomous snake, Constrictor constrictor,
 of tropical America, having brown markings.



 boar  n.  1. An uncastrated male pig. 2. A wild pig, Sus scrofa, of
 Eurasia and northern Africa, that has dense, dark bristles and is the
 ancestor of the domestic hog. [ME bor < OE bar.]   boarish adj.
 boarishness n.



 board  n.  1. A long, flat slab of sawed lumber; plank. 2. A flat piece of
 wood or similarly rigid material adapted for a special use. 3. A flat
 surface on which a game is played. 4. The hard pasteboard cover of a book.
 5. boards  A theater stage. 6.  a. A table, esp. one set for serving food.
 b. Food or meals collectively: board and lodging.  7. A table at which
 official meetings are held; council table. 8. An organized body of
 administrators or investigators: a board of trustees.  9. An
 electrical-equipment panel. 10.  Obsolete. A border or edge. 11. boards
 The wooden structure enclosing an ice-hockey rink. 12.  Nautical.  a. The
 side of a ship. b. A leeboard. c. A centerboard.   -v.boarded boarding
 boards   -tr. 1. To cover or close with boards: board up a door.  2.  a. To
 furnish with meals in return for pay. b. To house where board is furnished.
 3. To enter or go aboard (a vehicle or ship). 4. To come alongside (a
 ship). 5.  Obsolete. To approach. -intr. To receive meals in return for
 pay.

       Idiom Section:  across the board. 1. Designating a bet that a horse
 or dog will win, place, or show. 2. Affecting all members, divisions, or
 categories equally. go by the board. 1. To be swept overboard. 2. To be
 ruined, unnoticed, or ignored. on board. Aboard. [ME bord < OE.]



 boarder  n.  One who boards, esp. one who pays a stipulated sum in return
 for regular meals or meals and lodging.



 board foot  n. pl. board feet  A unit of lumber measurement equal to one
 foot square by one inch thick.



 board game  n.  A game of strategy, as chess or backgammon, played by
 moving pieces on a board.



 boarding house or boardinghouse   n.  A house that provides meals and
 lodging.



 boarding school  n.  A school where pupils are provided with meals and
 lodging.



 board measure  n.  Measurement in board feet.



 board of education  n.  A school board.



 board of trade  n.  1. An association of bankers and businessmen to
 promote common commercial interests. 2. Board of Trade  A British
 governmental committee dealing with problems of trade and commerce.



 board rule  n.  A measuring stick for determining board feet.



 boardwalk  n.  1. A walk made of wooden planks. 2. A promenade, esp. of
 planks, along a beach or waterfront.



 boast
 boast(1)  v. boasted boasting boasts   -intr. To speak with excessive pride
 about one's own accomplishments, talents, or possessions; brag. -tr. 1. To
 speak about with excessive pride. 2. To take pride in or be enhanced by the
 possession of: The college boasts a fine new auditorium.  3. To possess;
 have.   -n. 1. The act or an instance of bragging. 2. A source of pride.
 [ME bosten < bost, brag.]   boaster n.   boastful adj.   boastfully adv.
 boastfulness n.

      Synonyms: boast brag crow vaunt boast  is the most general of
 the verbs for the expression of vanity, primarily by vocal means. Brag ,
 used in more informal contexts, implies exaggerated claims, blatancy, and
 often an air of insolence. Crow , also informal in tone, stresses
 exultation and noisy rejoicing over a victory or achievement. Vaunt  is
 distinctive in emphasizing ostentatious display as strongly as vocal
 extravagance; it is appropriate to formal usage and often appears as the
 participle vaunted , used as an attributive adjective.

 boast(2)  tr.v. boasted boasting boasts   To shape or form (stone) roughly
 with a broad chisel. [Orig. unknown.]



 boat  n.  1. A relatively small, usually open craft. 2. A ship. 3. A dish
 shaped like a boat: a gravy boat.    -v.boated boating boats   -intr. To
 travel by boat. -tr. 1. To transport by boat. 2. To place in a boat. 3. To
 ride a boat for pleasure.

       Idiom Section:  in the same boat. In the same situation. [ME boot <
 OE bat.]



 boatbill  n.  A tropical American wading bird, Cochlearius cochlearius,
 having a large bill shaped like an inverted boat.



 boater  n.  1. One who boats. 2. A stiff straw hat with a flat crown.



 boat hook  n.  A pole with a metal point and hook at one end used esp. to
 maneuver logs, rafts, and boats.



 boathouse  n.  A house in which boats are kept.



 boatload  n.  The number of passengers or quantity of cargo that a boat
 can safely carry.



 boatman  n.  One who works on, deals with, or operates boats.
 boatmanship n.



 boatswain
 bo's'n or bos'n  or bosun    n.  A warrant officer or petty officer in
 charge of a ship's deck crew, rigging, anchors, and cables. [ME botswein <
 OE batswan.]



 boat-tailed grackle  n.  A bird, Cassidix mexicanus, of the southern
 United States and Mexico, that has a long tail and the male of which has
 glossy black plumage.



 boat train  n.  A train that regularly carries passengers between a city
 and a port.



 bob
 bob(1)  v. bobbed bobbing bobs   -tr. 1. To hit lightly and quickly; tap.
 2. To cause to move up and down: bobbed his head.  -intr. 1. To move up and
 down: a cork bobbing on the water.  2. To grab at floating or hanging
 objects with the teeth: bobbed for apples.  3. To curtsy or bow. Phrasal
 verb.  bob up. To appear or arise unexpectedly or suddenly.   -n. 1. A tap
 or light blow. 2. A quick, jerky movement of the head or body. [ME bobben.]

 bob(2)  n.  1. A small knoblike pendent object, as a plumb bob. 2. A
 fishing float or cork. 3. A small lock or curl of hair. 4. A short haircut
 on a woman or child. 5. The docked tail of a horse. 6.  a. A bobsled. b. A
 bob skate.   -v.bobbed bobbing bobs   -intr. To fish with a bob. -tr. To
 cut short: bobbed her hair.  [ME bobbe.]   bobber n.
 bob(3)  n. pl. bob  Chiefly British.  Slang.  A shilling. [Orig. unknown.]




 bobbin  n.  1. A spool or reel that holds thread or yarn for spinning,
 weaving, knitting, sewing, or making lace. 2. Narrow braid used as
 trimming. [Fr. bobine.]



 bobbinet  n.  A machine-woven net fabric with hexagonal meshes. [Bobbi(n)
 + net.]



 bobbin lace  n.  An intricate handmade lace made by interlacing thread
 around small notched pins or bobbins stuck into a pillow.



 bobble  v. -bled -bling -bles   -intr. To bob up and down. -tr. To fumble
 (a ball, for example).   -n. A mistake; blunder. [Freq. of bob1.]



 bobby  n. pl. -bies  Chiefly British.  Slang.  A policeman. [After Sir
 Robert Peel (1788-1850).]



 bobby pin  n.  A small metal hair clip with the ends pressed tightly
 together. [< bob2.]



 bobby socks or bobby sox   pl.n.  Informal.  Ankle socks worn by girls or
 women.



 bobbysoxer or bobby soxer   n.  Informal.  A teen-age girl of the 1940's
 who followed current fads.



 bobcat  n.  A wild cat, Lynx rufus, of North America, having spotted
 reddish-brown fur, tufted ears, and a short tail. [From its short tail.]



 bobolink  n.  An American migratory songbird, Dolichonyx oryzivorus, of
 which the male has black, white, and yellowish plumage. [Imit. of its cry.]




 bob skate  n.  A skate with two parallel bearing edges.



 bobsled  n.  1. A long racing sled with a steering mechanism controlling
 the front runners. 2.  a. A long sled made of two shorter sleds joined in
 tandem. b. Either of these two smaller sleds.   -intr.v.-sledded -sledding
 -sleds   To ride or race in a bobsled.



 bobstay  n.  A rope or chain used to steady the bowsprit of a ship. [Prob.
 < bob1.]



 bobtail  n.  1. A short or shortened tail. 2. A horse or other animal
 having a bobtail. 3. Something that has been cut short or abbreviated.
 bobtailed adj.



 bobwhite  n.  A small North American quail, Colinus virginianus, having
 brown plumage with white markings. [Imit. of its cry.]



 bocaccio  n. pl. -cios  A rockfish, Sebastodes paucispinis, of American
 Pacific waters. [Mex. Sp., prob. < Sp. bocachon, big mouth, aug. of boca,
 mouth.]



 boccie or bocci  or bocce   n.  A game of Italian origin similar to
 bowling that is played with wooden balls on a long narrow dirt or clay
 court. [Ital. bocce, pl. of boccia, ball.]



 bock  n.  Bock beer.



 bock beer  n.  A strong dark beer, the first that is drawn from the vats
 in springtime. [G. Bockbier, alteration of Einbecker Bier, after Einbeck,
 West Germany.]



 bod  n.  Slang.  Body.



 bode
 bode(1)  tr.v. boded boding bodes   1. To be an omen of: a heavy sea that
 boded trouble for the small ship.  2.  Archaic. To predict; foretell. [ME
 boden < OE bodian, to announce < boda, messenger.]
 bode(2)  v.  A past tense of bide.



 bodega  n.  1. A small grocery store, sometimes combined with a wineshop.
 2. A warehouse for wine storage. [Sp. < Lat. apotheca, storehouse. -see
 apothecary.]



 bodhisattva  n.  Buddhism. One who, out of compassion, forgoes nirvana in
 order to save others. [Skt. : bodhih, perfect knowledge + sattvam,
 reality.]



 bodice  n.  1. The fitted part of a dress that extends from the waist to
 the shoulder. 2. A woman's laced outer garment, worn like a vest over a
 blouse. 3.  Obsolete. A corset. [Var. of bodies, pl. of body.]



 bodied  adj.  Having a body, esp. of a specified kind: strong-bodied.



 bodiless  adj.  Having no body, form, or substance; incorporeal.



 bodily  adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, within, or exhibited by the body:
 bodily organs.  2. Physical as opposed to mental or spiritual: bodily
 welfare.    -adv. 1. In the flesh; in person: bodily but not mentally
 present.  2. As a complete physical entity: carried her bodily from the
 room.



 boding  n.  An omen or foreboding, esp. of evil.



 bodkin  n.  1. A small, sharply pointed instrument for making holes in
 fabric or leather. 2. A blunt needle for pulling tape or ribbon through a
 series of loops or a hem. 3. A long hairpin, usually with an ornamental
 head. 4.  Printing. An awl or pick for extracting letters from set type. 5.
  Archaic. A dagger or stiletto. [ME boidekyn.]



 body  n. pl. -ies  1.  a. The entire material structure and substance of
 an organism, esp. of a human being or an animal. b. The soma or physical
 part of man as distinguished from the mind or spirit. c. A corpse or
 carcass. 2.  a. The trunk or torso of a human being or animal. b. The part
 of a garment covering the torso. 3.  Law.  a. A person. b. A group of
 individuals regarded as an entity; corporation. 4. A number of persons,
 concepts, or things regarded collectively; group: We walked out in a body.
 5. The main or central part of something, as: a. The nave of a church. b.
 The content of a book or document exclusive of prefatory matter, codicils,
 indexes, or appendices. c. The passenger- and cargo-carrying part of an
 aircraft, ship, or vehicle. d. The sound box of a musical instrument. 6. A
 bounded aggregate of matter: a body of water.  7. Consistency of substance,
 as in paint, textiles, or wine: a sauce with body.  8.  Printing. The part
 of a block of type underlying the impression surface.   -tr.v.-ied -ying
 -ies   1. To furnish with a body. 2. To give shape to. [ME < OE bodig.]

      Synonyms: body corpse remains carcass cadaver
 body  denotes the physical organism of a person or animal, alive or dead.
 Corpse  and remains  apply to the body of a dead person. Carcass  primaril
 denotes the body of a dead animal; it is applied to a person, alive or
 dead, only derogatorily or humorously. Cadaver  is a corpse used for
 dissection and study. Remains  is considered genteel by some; others find
 its literal connotations clinical and rather grisly.




 body bag  n.  A zippered usually rubber bag for transporting a human
 corpse.



 body building  n.  The practice of developing the body through physical
 exercise and diet, esp. for competitive exhibition.   body builder n.



 body cavity  n.  The coelom.



 body corporate  n.  Law.  A corporation (sense 1.a.).



 body count  n.  A count of individual bodies, as those killed by enemy
 soldiers.



 body English  n.  1. The natural or instinctive tendency of a person to
 try to influence the movement of a propelled object, such as a ball, by
 twisting his body toward the desired goal. 2. The usually irregular
 movement or spin of a propelled object as if it were influenced by body
 English.



 bodyguard  n.  A person or group of persons, usually armed, responsible
 for the physical safety of one or more specific persons.



 body language  n.  The bodily gestures, postures, and facial expressions
 by which an individual communicates nonverbally with others.



 body louse  n.  A parasitic louse, Pediculus humanus, afflicting humans.



 body politic  n.  The people collectively of a politically organized
 nation or state.



 body shirt  n.  1. A woman's top that is made with a sewn-in or snapped
 crotch. 2. A tight-fitting shirt or blouse.



 body shop  n.  A shop or garage where the bodies of automotive vehicles
 are repaired.



 body snatcher  n.  A person who steals corpses from graves.



 body stocking  n.  A tight-fitting usually one-piece garment that covers
 the torso and sometimes has sleeves and legs.



 body suit  n.  A tight-fitting one-piece garment for the torso.



 bodysurf  intr.v. -surfed -surfing -surfs   To ride on a wave without a
 surfboard.   bodysurfer n.



 body wall  n.  The external animal body surface made up of ectoderm and
 mesoderm, which encloses the body cavity.



 body work  n.  The act or process of repairing the bodies of automotive
 vehicles.



 boehmite  n.  A white to dark reddish brown orthorhombic mineral, ALO(OH),
 present in bauxite. [G. Bohmit, after J. Bohm, 20th-cent. German
 scientist.]



 Boer  n.  A Dutch colonist or descendant of a Dutch colonist in South
 Africa. [Du., farmer < MDu. gheboer.]



 boffo  adj.  Extremely successful; excellent; great. [Short for slang
 boffola, hit, success.]



 Bofors gun  n.  A double-barreled, automatic antiaircraft gun. [After
 Bofors, Sweden.]



 bog  n.  Soft, waterlogged ground; marsh.   -v.bogged bogging bogs   -tr.
 To cause to sink in or as if in a bog: were bogged down in a mass of
 detail.  -intr. To be hindered and slowed. [Ir. Gael. bogach < bog, soft.]
  boggy adj.



 bog asphodel  n.  Either of two related bog plants, Narthecium americanum,
 of the southeastern United States, or N. ossifragum, of Europe, having a
 cluster of yellow flowers.



 bogey  n. pl. -geys  1. Variant of bogy1. 2.  a. An estimated standard
 golf score. b. One golf stroke over par on a hole. 3.  Slang. An
 unidentified flying aircraft.



 bogeyman  n.  Variant of boogieman.



 boggle  v. -gled -gling -gles   -intr. 1. To hesitate or evade as if in
 fear or doubt. 2. To shy away with fright or astonishment; be overcome. 3.
 To botch; bungle. -tr. To cause to be overcome, as with fright or
 astonishment. [Prob. < boggle, dial. var. of bogle.]   boggler n.



 bogie or bogy
 bogie(1)  n. pl. -gies  1. A railroad car or locomotive undercarriage with
 two, four, or six wheels that swivels so that curves can be negotiated. 2.
 One of several wheels or supporting and aligning rollers inside the tread
 of a tractor or tank. [Orig. unknown.]
 bogie(2)   n.  Variant of bogy1.



 bogle  n.  A hobgoblin; bogy. [Sc. bogill.]



 bog rosemary  n.  A low-growing evergreen shrub, Andromeda glaucophylla,
 of northern regions, growing in wet ground, and having small pink flowers.



 bogtrotter  n.  1. A person who lives in or frequents bogs. 2.  Offensive.
 An Irishman.



 bogus  adj.  Counterfeit; fake. [< E. bogus, a device for making
 counterfeit money.]



 bogwood  n.  Wood that has been preserved in a peat bog.



 bogy
 bogey or bogie
 bogey(1)  n. pl. -gies  -geys  or -gies   1. An evil or mischievous spirit;
 hobgoblin. 2. Something that causes annoyance or harassment. [Orig.
 unknown.]
 bogey(2)   n.  Variant of bogie1.



 bohea  n.  A black Chinese tea. [Chin. (Fujian) bu-i, after Wu-i Shan, a
 range of hills on the border of Jiangxi and Fujan Provinces.]



 bohemia or Bohemia   n.  1. A community of persons with artistic or
 literary tastes who adopt manners and mores conspicuously different from
 those expected or approved of by the majority of society. 2. The district
 in which bohemians live. [Back-formation < Bohemian.]



 Bohemian  n.  1. A native or inhabitant of Bohemia. 2. A Gypsy. 3. The
 Czech dialects of Bohemia. 4. bohemian  A person with artistic or literary
 interests who disregards conventional standards of behavior.   Bohemian
 adj.



 Bohr theory  n.  A model of atomic structure in which electrons travel
 around the nucleus in orbits determined by quantum conditions. [After Niels
 Bohr (1885-1962).]



 boil
 boil(1)  v. boiled boiling boils   -intr. 1.  a. To vaporize a liquid by
 the application of heat. b. To reach the boiling point. c. To undergo the
 action of boiling, esp. in being cooked. 2. To be agitated like boiling
 water; churn: water boiling through the rapids.  3. To be stirred up or
 greatly excited: The mere idea made him boil.  -tr. 1. To heat to the
 boiling point. 2. To cook or clean by boiling. 3. To separate by
 evaporation by boiling: boil the maple sap.  Phrasal verb.  boil away. To
 evaporate by boiling. boil down. 1. To reduce in bulk or size by boiling.
 2. To condense or be condensed; reduce. boil over. 1. To overflow while
 boiling. 2. To explode in rage; lose one's temper.   -n. The condition or
 act of boiling. [ME boillen < OFr. boilir < Lat. bullire.]

      Synonyms: boil simmer seethe stew All of these verbs have physical
 senses and related figurative ones. Boil  refers to heating up to the
 vaporizing (boiling) point, with consequent bubbling up of gases;
 figuratively, it pertains to the act of being stirred by intense emotion,
 especially anger. Simmer  refers to the less agitated state of heating to
 or near the boiling point, and figuratively to being stirred by pent-up
 anger. Seethe , a strong term, emphasizes in both senses the turbulence of
 steady boiling at high temperature. Stew  refers to slow, gentle boiling
 and to emotional upset that is persistent but not violent in expression.

 boil(2)  n.  A painful, localized pus-filled swelling of the skin and
 subcutaneous tissue caused by bacterial infection. [ME bile < OE byl.]



 boiler  n.  1. An enclosed vessel in which water is heated and circulated,
 either as hot water or as steam, for heating or power. 2. A container, such
 as a kettle, for boiling liquids. 3. A storage tank for hot water.



 boilermaker  n.  1. One who makes or repairs boilers. 2.  Slang. A drink
 of whiskey with beer as a chaser.



 boilerplate  n.  1. A steel plate used in making the shells of steam
 boilers. 2. Journalistic material, such as syndicated features, available
 in plate or mat form.



 boiler-room  adj.  Informal.  Of, relating to, or involving usually
 illegal, high-pressure telephone sales tactics, as used in selling stock,
 commodities, or land.



 boiling point  n.  1. The temperature at which a liquid boils, esp. under
 standard atmospheric conditions. 2.  Informal. The point at which a person
 loses his temper.



 boiloff  n.  The vaporization of liquid, such as a rocket fuel.



 bois de rose  n.  A grayish red. [Fr. : bois, wood + de, of + rose, rose.]




 boisterous  adj.  1. Rough and stormy; violent. 2. Loud, noisy, and
 lacking in restraint or discipline. [ME boistres, var. of boistous, rude.]
  boisterously adv.   boisterousness n.



 bok choy  n.  Variant of pak choi.



 Bokmal  n.  Riksmal. [Norw. : bok, book + mal, language.]



 bola or bolas   n.  A rope with weights attached used esp. in South
 America to catch cattle or game by entangling the legs. [Sp. (South
 America) bolas, pl. of Sp. bola, ball.]



 bola tie  n.  Variant of bolo tie.



 bold  adj. -er -est   1. Fearless and daring; courageous. 2. Requiring or
 exhibiting courage and bravery. 3. Unduly forward and brazen in manner. 4.
 Clear and distinct to the eye; conspicuous: a bold handwriting.  5. Abrupt;
 steep, as a cliff. 6. Designating boldface type. [ME < OE bald.]   boldly
 adv.   boldness n.



 boldface  n.  Type with thick, heavy lines.   -tr.v.-faced -facing -faces
  1. To mark (copy) for printing in boldface. 2. To print or set in
 boldface.



 bold-faced  adj.  1. Impudent; brazen. 2.  a. Printed or set in boldface.
 b. Marked for printing in boldface.



 bole  n.  The trunk of a tree. [ME < ON bolr.]



 bolero  n. pl. -ros  1. A very short jacket worn open in the front. 2.  a.
 A Spanish dance in triple meter. b. The music for a bolero. [Sp.]



 boletus  n. pl. -tuses  or -ti  A fungus of the genus Boletus, with an
 umbrella-shaped cap with spore-bearing tubules on the underside, of which
 some species are poisonous and others edible. [NLat. Boletus, genus name <
 Lat. boletus, mushroom.]



 bolivar  n. pl. bolivars  or bolivares  See table at currency. [After
 Simon Bolivar (1783-1830).]



 boll  n.  The rounded seed pod or capsule of certain plants, such as flax
 or cotton. [ME.]



 bollard  n.  A thick post on a ship or wharf, used for securing ropes and
 hawsers. [ME, prob. < bole, tree trunk < ON bolr.]



 bollix  tr.v. -lixed -lixing -lixes   Slang.  To throw into confusion;
 botch or bungle: managed to bollix up the whole affair.  [Alteration of
 ballocks, testicles < ME balloks < OE beallucas.]



 boll weevil  n.  A small, grayish, long-snouted beetle, Anthonomus
 grandis, of Mexico and the southern United States, having destructive
 larvae that hatch in and damage cotton bolls.



 bollworm  n.  1. The larva of a moth, Pectinophora gossypiella, that is
 very destructive to growing cotton. 2. The corn earworm.



 bolo  n. pl. -los  A long, heavy, single-edged machete used in the
 Philippines. [Sp.]



 bologna
 baloney or boloney    n.  A seasoned smoked sausage made of mixed meats.
 [After Bologna, Italy.]



 bolometer  n.  An instrument that measures radiant heat by correlating the
 radiation-induced change in electrical resistance of a blackened metal foil
 with the amount of radiation absorbed. [Gk. bole, ray + -meter.]
 bolometric adj.



 boloney  n.  Variant of bologna.



 bolo tie or bola tie   n.  A necktie consisting of a piece of cord
 fastened with an ornamental bar or clasp. [Alteration of bola + tie.]



 Bolshevik  n. pl. -viks  or -viki  1.  a. A participant in the Russian
 Revolution belonging to the Communist Party of the Soviet Union. b. A
 member of the left-wing majority group of the Russian Social Democratic
 Party adopting Lenin's theses on party organization (1903). 2. bolshevik
 An extreme radical. [R. Bol'shevik < bol'shii, comp. of bol'shoi, large.]



 Bolshevism or bolshevism   n.  1. The strategy developed by the Bolsheviks
 between 1903 and 1917 with a view to seizing state power and establishing
 the dictatorship of the proletariat. 2. Soviet Communism.



 Bolshevist or bolshevist   n.  A Bolshevik.



 bolster  n.  A long, narrow pillow or cushion.   -tr.v.-stered -stering
 -sters   1. To support or prop up with or as if with a bolster. 2. To buoy
 up: visitors that bolstered his morale.  [ME < OE.]   bolsterer n.



 bolt
 bolt(1)  n.  1. A bar made of wood or metal that slides into a socket and
 is used to fasten doors and gates. 2. A metal bar or rod in the mechanism
 of a lock that is thrown or withdrawn by turning the key. 3. A fastener
 consisting of a threaded pin or rod with a head at one end, designed to be
 inserted through holes in assembled parts and secured by a mated nut that
 is tightened by application of torque. 4.  a. A sliding metal bar that
 positions the cartridge in breech-loading rifles, closes the breech, and
 ejects the spent cartridge. b. A similar device in any breech mechanism. 5.
 A short, heavy arrow with a thick head, used esp. with a crossbow. 6. A
 flash of lightning; thunderbolt. 7. A sudden or unexpected event. 8. A
 sudden movement toward or away from something. 9. A large roll of cloth of
 a definite length, esp. as it comes from the loom.   -v.bolted bolting
 bolts   -tr. 1. To secure or lock with or as if with a bolt. 2.  Archaic.
 To shoot or discharge (an arrow or other missile). 3. To arrange or roll
 (lengths of cloth, for example) on a bolt. 4. To eat hurriedly and with
 little chewing; gulp. 5. To desert or withdraw support from (a political
 party). 6. To utter impulsively; blurt out. -intr. 1. To move or spring
 suddenly. 2. To break from a rider's control and run away, as a horse. 3.
 To make off suddenly; run away: bolted from the room.  4. To break away
 from a political party or its policies. 5. To flower or produce seeds
 prematurely.

       Idiom Section:  bolt from the blue. A sudden, often shocking
 surprise. [ME < OE, heavy arrow.]
 bolt(2)  tr.v. bolted bolting bolts   To pass through a sieve; sift. [ME
 bulten < OFr. buleter, of Germanic orig.]



 bolter
 bolter(1)  n.  1. A horse given to bolting. 2. One who gives up membership
 in or withdraws support from a political party.
 bolter(2)  n.  1. A machine used for sifting, esp. for sifting flour. 2.
 One who operates a bolter.



 boltonia  n.  Any of several North American plants of the genus Boltonia,
 having daisylike flowers with white, violet, or pinkish rays. [NLat., genus
 name after James Bolton (d. 1799).]



 boltrope  n.  A rope sewn into the outer edge of a sail to prevent the
 sail from tearing.



 bolus  n. pl. -luses  1. A small round mass. 2. Pharm. A large pill or
 tablet. 3. A soft mass of chewed food in the mouth. [Med. Lat. bolus < Gk.
 bolos, lump of earth.]



 bomb  n.  1.  a. An explosive weapon detonated by impact, proximity to an
 object, a timing mechanism, or other predetermined means. b. An atomic
 bomb. 2. Any of various weapons detonated to release destructive material
 such as smoke or gas. 3.  Football. A very long forward pass designed to
 achieve great yardage in a single play. 4.  a. A container capable of
 withstanding high internal pressure. b. A vessel for storing compressed
 gas. c. A portable, manually operated container that ejects a spray, foam,
 or gas under pressure. 5.  Slang. A dismal failure or complete fiasco. 6.
 Chiefly British.  Slang. A large amount of money. 7.  Chiefly British. An
 old car.   -v.bombed bombing bombs   -tr. To attack, damage, or destroy
 with or as if with bombs. -intr. 1. To drop bombs. 2.  Slang. To fail
 miserably: The play bombed.  [Fr. bombe < Ital. bomba, prob. < Lat. bombus,
 a booming sound < Gk. bombos.]



 bombard  n.  An early form of cannon that fired stone balls.   -tr.v.
 -barded -barding -bards   1. To attack with bombs, shells, or missiles. 2.
 To attack persistently, as with questions. 3. To irradiate (an atom). 4. To
 attack with a bombard. [ME < OFr. bombarde < Med. Lat. bombarda prob. <
 Lat. bombus, a booming sound < Gk. bombos.]   bombarder n.   bombardment n.




 bombardier  n.  1. The member of an aircraft crew who operates the bombing
 equipment. 2. A noncommissioned British artillery officer. 3. A soldier who
 operated a bombard. [Fr. < OFr. bombarde, bombard.]



 bombardier beetle  n.  Any of various beetles of the genus Brachinus and
 related genera that expel an acrid secretion from the posterior end of the
 abdomen.



 bombardon  n.  1. A brass musical instrument resembling a tuba but with a
 lower pitch; a bass or contrabass tuba. 2. A 16-foot reed stop on the
 organ. [Fr. < Ital. bombardone, aug. of bombardo, alteration of bombarda,
 bombard < Med. Lat.]



 bombast  n.  Grandiloquent and pompous speech or writing. [OFr. bombace,
 cotton padding < LLat. bombax, cotton < Lat. bombyx, silk < Gk. bombux,
 silkworm.]   bombaster n.   bombastic adj.   bombastically adv.

      Synonyms: bombast declamation rant fustian claptrap
 rodomontade All these terms designate speech or writing that emphasizes
 extravagance of style or delivery, usually at the expense of content.
 Bombast , applicable to speech and writing, stresses inflation of style
 without ruling out the possibility of substantial content. Declamation
 applies principally to formal oratory and the speaking of verse drama but
 may imply clamorous, empty display. Rant , said chiefly of speech,
 emphasizes turgidity and style of writing or speech and absurd or
 commonplace content. Claptrap  is insincere, worthless speech or writing,
 calculated to win applause. Rodomontade  is boastful speech and bluster.




 Bombay duck  n.  1. A food fish, Harpodon nehereus, of India. 2. The dried
 flesh of the Bombay duck or a dish prepared from it.



 bombazine  n.  A fine twilled fabric of silk and worsted or cotton, often
 dyed black and used for mourning clothes. [Fr. bombasin < LLat. bombacinum,
 silken texture < Lat. bombycinum < bombyx, silk < Gk. bombux, silkworm.]



 bomb bay  n.  The compartment in the fuselage of a military aircraft from
 which bombs are dropped.



 bombe  n.  A dessert consisting of two or more layers of ice cream of
 different flavors frozen in a round or melon-shaped mold. [Fr.]



 bombed  adj.  Slang.  Drunk.



 bomber  n.  1. A military aircraft designed to carry and drop bombs. 2.
 One that bombs.



 bombproof  adj.  Designed and constructed to resist destruction by bombs.



 bombshell  n.  1. A bomb. 2. A shocking surprise.



 bombsight  n.  A device in aircraft for aiming bombs.



 bombycid  n.  A moth of the family Bombycidate, which includes the
 silkworms. [< NLat. Bombycidae, family name < Lat. bombyx, silkworm < Gk.
 bombux.]



 bona fide  adj.  1. Done or made in good faith; sincere: a bona fide
 offer.  2. Authentic; genuine: a bona fide Rembrandt.  [Lat., in good
 faith.]



 bonanza  n.  1. A rich mine, vein, or pocket of ore. 2. A source of great
 wealth or prosperity. [Sp., exaggerated good, aug. of bueno, good < Lat.
 bonus.]



 Bonapartist  n.  A follower or supporter of Napoleon Bonaparte and his
 policies and dynastic claims or of the Bonaparte family.   Bonapartism n.



 bonbon  n.  A candy that often has a center of fondant, fruit, or nuts and
 is coated with chocolate or fondant. [Fr., redup. of bon, good < Lat.
 bonus.]



 bonbonniere  n.  1. A small ornate box or dish for candy. 2. A
 confectioner's store. [Fr. < bonbon, bonbon.]



 bond  n.  1. Something that binds, ties, or fastens together, as a fetter,
 cord, or band. 2. bonds   Archaic. Captivity; confinement. 3. A uniting
 force or tie; link: bonds of friendship.  4. A binding agreement; covenant.
 5. A duty, promise, or obligation by which one is bound. 6.  a. A substance
 or an agent that causes two or more objects or parts to cohere. b. The
 union or cohesion brought about by such a substance or agent. 7. A chemical
 bond. 8.  Law.  a. A written and sealed obligation, esp. one requiring
 payment of a stipulated amount of money on or before a given day. b. A sum
 of money paid as bail or surety. c. One who acts as bail; bondsman. 9. A
 certificate of debt issued by a government or corporation guaranteeing
 payment of the original investment plus interest by a specified future
 date. 10. The condition of storing taxable goods in a warehouse until the
 taxes or duties due on them are paid. 11. An insurance contract in which an
 agency guarantees payment to an employer in the event of unforeseen
 financial loss through the actions of an employee. 12. An overlapping
 arrangement of bricks or other masonry components in a wall. 13. Bond
 paper.   -v.bonded bonding bonds   -tr. 1. To mortgage or place a
 guaranteed bond on. 2. To furnish bond or surety for. 3. To place (an
 employee, for example) under bond or guarantee. 4. To join securely, as
 with glue or cement. 5. To lay (bricks, for example) in an overlapping
 pattern for solidity. -intr. To secure or hold together with or as if with
 a bond. [ME < ON band.]   bondable adj.   bonder n.



 bondage  n.  1. The condition of a slave or serf; servitude. 2. A state of
 subjection to a force, power, or influence. 3. Villeinage. [ME < AN < ME
 bonde, serf < OE bonda, husbandman < ON bondi.]



 bondholder  n.  The owner of a bond or bonds.



 bonding  n.  Anthropology.  The formation of close, specialized human
 relationships, such as those that link parent and child.



 bondmaid  n.  A female bondservant.



 bondman  n.  A male bondservant.



 bond paper  n.  A superior grade of strong white paper made wholly or in
 part from rag pulp.



 bondservant  n.  1. A person obligated to service without wages. 2. A
 slave or serf.



 bondsman  n.  1. A male bondservant. 2. A person who provides bond or
 surety for another.



 bondwoman  n.  A female bondservant.



 bone  n.  1.  a. The dense, semirigid, porous, calcified connective tissue
 of the skeleton of most vertebrates. b. Any of numerous anatomically
 distinct skeletal structures made of bone. c. A piece of bone. 2. bones
 a. The skeleton. b. The body. c. Mortal remains. 3. An animal structure or
 material, such as ivory, resembling bone. 4. Something made of bone or of
 material resembling bone, esp.: a. A piece of whalebone or similar material
 used as a corset stay. b. bones   Informal. Dice. 5. bones  The fundamental
 plan or design, as of the plot of a book. 6.  a. bones  Flat clappers made
 of bone or wood used by the end man in a minstrel show. b. Bones  (used
 with a sing. verb). The end man in a minstrel show.   -v.boned boning bones
   -tr. 1. To remove the bones from. 2. To stiffen (a piece of clothing)
 with stays, as of whalebone. -intr. Slang.  To study intensely, usually at
 the last minute.

       Idiom Section:  bone of contention. The subject of a dispute. feel in
 (one's) bones. To have an intuition of. have a bone to pick. To have
 grounds for a complaint or dispute. make no bones about. To be frank and
 candid about. [ME bon < OE ban.]



 bone ash  n.  The white, powdery calcium phosphate ash of burned bones,
 used as a fertilizer, in making ceramics, and in cleaning and polishing
 compounds.



 boneblack or bone black   n.  A black pigment containing about 10 per cent
 charcoal, made by roasting bones in an airtight container and used in
 polishes, as a filtering medium, and in decolorizing sugar.



 bone charcoal  n.  Boneblack.



 bone china  n.  Porcelain made of clay mixed with bone ash.



 bone conduction  n.  The transmission of sound by bone, esp. to the inner
 ear by the bones of the skull.



 bone-dry  adj.  Without a trace of moisture; very dry.



 bonefish  n. pl. bonefish  or -fishes  A marine game fish, Albula vulpes,
 of warm waters, having silvery scales.



 bonehead  n.  Slang.  A stupid person; dunce.   boneheaded adj.
 boneheadedness n.



 bone meal  n.  Bones crushed and ground to a coarse powder and used as
 plant fertilizer and animal feed.



 boner  n.  Slang.  A blunder.



 boneset  n.  Any of various plants of the genus Eupatorium, esp. E.
 perfoliatum, of eastern North America, having broad clusters of small white
 flowers. [From its use as a folk medicine.]



 bonfire  n.  A large outdoor fire. [ME bonfir : bon, bone + fir, fire.]



 bong  n.  A deep ringing sound, as of a bell.   -tr. -intr.v.bonged
 bonging bongs   To sound with a bong; ring. [Imit.]



 bongo
 bongo(1)  n. pl. -gos  An antelope, Boocercus eurycerus, of central Africa,
 having a reddish-brown coat with white stripes and spirally twisted horns.
 [Of Bantu orig.]
 bongo(2)  n. pl. -gos  or -goes  One of a pair of connected tuned drums
 that are played by beating with the hands. [Am. Sp. (West Indies) bongo.]



 bonhomie  n.  A pleasant and affable disposition; geniality. [Fr. <
 bonhomme, good-natured man : bon, good (< Lat. bonus) + homme, man < Lat.
 homo.]



 boniface  n.  An innkeeper. [After Boniface, an innkeeper in The Beaux'
 Strategem by George Farquhar (1678-1707).]



 boning knife  n.  A knife with a narrow blade and a sharp point for boning
 poultry, meat, and fish.



 bonito  n. pl. bonito  or -tos  1. Any of several marine food and game
 fishes of the genus Sarda, related to and resembling the tuna. 2. Any of
 several fishes similar to the bonito. [Sp. < bonito, pretty < Lat. bonus,
 good.]



 bonkers  adj.  Slang.  Crazy. [Orig. unknown.]



 bon mot  n. pl. bons mots  A clever saying; witticism. [Fr. : bon, good +
 mot, word.]



 bonne  n.  A French female servant or maid. [Fr., fem. of bon, good < Lat.
 bonus.]



 bonnet  n.  1.  a. A hat that is held in place by ribbons tied under the
 chin, worn by women and girls. b.  Scots. A brimless cap worn by men. c. A
 feather headdress worn by some American Indians. 2. A removable metal plate
 over a valve or other machinery part. 3.  Chiefly British. The hood of an
 automobile. 4. A wind screen for a chimney. 5. A strip of canvas laced to a
 fore-and-aft sail to increase sail area.   -tr.v.-neted -neting -nets   To
 put a bonnet on. [ME bonet, cap < OFr.]



 bonny or bonnie   adj. -nier -niest   Chiefly Scot..  1. Pleasing or
 attractive to the eye; pretty. 2. Vigorous; spirited. [Orig. unknown.]
 bonnily adv.   bonniness n.



 bonnyclabber  n.  Chiefly British.  Regional.  Sour clotted milk. [Ir.
 Gael. bainne, milk + claba, thick.]



 bonsai  n. pl. bonsai  1. The art of growing dwarfed, ornamentally shaped
 trees or shrubs in small, shallow pots. 2. A tree or shrub grown by the
 methods of bonsai. [J., potted plant : bon, basin (< Chin. pen2) + sai, to
 plant (< Chin. zai1).]



 bonspiel  n.  Scots.  A curling tournament or match. [Prob. of Du. orig.]



 bontebok  n.  A nearly extinct South African antelope, Damaliscus
 pygargus, having a reddish coat, a white rump, and a white mark on the
 face. [Afr. : bont, spotted (< MDu.) + bok, buck < MDu. boc).]



 bon ton  n.  1. A sophisticated manner or style. 2. Stylish or fashionable
 society. [Fr. : bon, good + ton, tone.]



 bonus  n. pl. -nuses  1. Something given or paid in addition to what is
 usual or expected. 2. Money paid to a state by a company in return for a
 corporate charter. 3. A grant from a government to veterans of the armed
 forces. 4. An extra dividend paid to stockholders of a company from
 profits. 5. A premium paid for a loan. [< Lat., good.]

      Synonyms: bonus bounty subsidy dividend premium
 prize reward gratuity Each of these nouns designates some form of extra
 payment. Bonus  usually applies to money in excess of what is normally
 received or strictly due, given in consideration of superior achievement or
 as a share in profits. Bounty  generally pertains to a grant from a
 government, designed to encourage a specific desirable activity, such as
 the destruction of vermin. Subsidy  refers to a large grant, usually by a
 government, in support of an enterprise regarded as in the public interest
 but not self-sustaining. Dividend  usually refers to distribution of
 profits to shareholders or policyholders. Premium  is generally something
 given as an incentive to business or commercial activity, as a discount or
 special wage rate. Prize , in this context, usually implies competitive
 achievement. Reward  refers broadly to payment for a specific effort and
 emphasizes the merit of the accomplishment (or, less often, its evil).
 Gratuity  pertains to voluntary payment in appreciation of services
 rendered, such as a tip, and emphasizes generosity.




 bon vivant  n. pl. bons vivants  A person who has refined tastes and esp.
 one who enjoys good food and drink. [Fr. : bon, good + vivant, pr.part. of
 vivre, to live.]



 bon voyage  interj.  Used to wish a departing traveler a pleasant journey.
 [Fr. : bon, good + voyage, journey.]



 bony  adj. -ier -iest   1. Of, pertaining to, resembling, or consisting of
 bone. 2. Having an internal skeleton of bones. 3. Full of bones: a bony
 fish filet.  4. Having protruding or prominent bones; lean; gaunt.
 boniness n.



 bonze  n.  A Mahayana Buddhist monk, esp. of China, Japan, and adjacent
 countries. [Fr. < Port. bonzo < J. bonso, of Chin. orig.]



 bonzer  adj.  Australian.  Slang.  Excellent; very good. [Poss. alteration
 of bonanza.]



 boo
 boo(1)  n. pl. boos  A vocal sound uttered to show contempt, scorn, or
 disapproval.   -interj. Used to frighten or surprise or to express
 contempt, scorn, or disapproval.   -v.booed booing boos   -intr. To utter a
 boo. -tr. To express contempt, scorn, or disapproval of by booing. [Imit.]

 boo(2)  n.  Slang.  Marijuana. [Orig. unknown.]



 boob
 boob(1)  n.  Slang.  A stupid or foolish person; dolt. [Short for booby.]
 boob(2)  n.  Slang.  A woman's breast.



 booboisie  n.  A class of people composed of the stupid and gullible.
 [boob1 + (bourge)oisie.]



 boo-boo  n. pl. -boos  Slang.  1. A stupid or thoughtless mistake;
 blunder. 2. A slight physical injury. [Perh. alteration of boohoo, to weep
 noisily.]



 boob tube  n.  Slang.  Television.



 booby
 booby(1)  n. pl. -bies  1. A stupid person; dunce. 2. Any of several
 tropical sea birds of the genus Sula, resembling and related to the
 gannets. [Prob. Sp. bobo < Lat. balbus, stammering.]
 booby(2)  n. pl. -bies  Slang.  A woman's breast. [Orig. unknown]



 booby hatch  n.  1.  Nautical. A raised covering over a small hatchway. 2.
  Slang. An asylum or hospital for the insane.



 booby prize  n.  An insignificant or comical award given to the person who
 receives the lowest score in a game or contest.



 booby trap  n.  1. A concealed or camouflaged device designed to be
 triggered by an unsuspecting action of the intended victim. 2. A device or
 situation that catches a person off guard; trap.



 boodle  Slang.  n.  1.  a. Money, esp. counterfeit money. b. Money
 accepted as a bribe. 2. Stolen goods; swag. 3. A crowd of people; caboodle.
   -tr. -intr.v.-dled -dling -dles   To bribe or accept a bribe. [Du.
 boedel, estate < MDu. bodel.]   boodler n.



 boogieman
 boogyman or bogeyman    n.  A terrifying specter; hobgoblin. [Var. of bogy
 + man.]



 boogie-woogie  n.  A style of jazz piano characterized by a repeated
 rhythmic and melodic pattern in the bass. [Orig. unknown.]



 book  n.  1. A set of written or printed pages fastened along one side and
 encased between protective covers. 2. A written or printed literary work.
 3. A bound volume of blank or ruled pages. 4.  a. A volume in which
 financial transactions are recorded. b. books  Such records collectively.
 5. A main division of a larger written or printed work: a book of the Old
 Testament.  6. A libretto (sense 2). 7. The script of a play. 8. Book  The
 Bible. 9. A set of rigid, prescribed rules: runs the company by the book.
 10. Something regarded as a source of knowledge. 11. A small packet of
 similar items bound together: a book of matches.  12. A record of bets
 placed on a race. 13.  Games. The number of card tricks needed before any
 tricks can have scoring value, as the first six tricks taken by the
 declaring side in bridge. 14. A bundle of tobacco leaves sliced lengthwise.
 a book report.    -tr.v.booked booking books   1. To list or register in or
 as if in a book. 2. To record charges against (a person) on a police
 blotter. 3. To arrange for (tickets, for example) in advance; reserve. 4.
 To hire (entertainers, for example).

       Idiom Section:  bring to book. To compel to explain or account for.
 in (one's) book. In one's opinion. like a book. Thoroughly; completely:
 knows him like a book.  one for the books. Informal.  Something noteworthy.
 on the books. Recorded or registered. throw the book at. Slang.  1. To make
 all possible charges against (a lawbreaker, for example). 2. To reprimand
 or punish severely. [ME bok < OE boc.]   booker n.



 bookbindery  n. pl. -ies  A business establishment where bookbinding is
 carried on.



 bookbinding  n.  The art, trade, or profession of binding books.
 bookbinder n.



 bookcase  n.  A piece of furniture with shelves for holding books.



 bookend or book end   n.  A prop placed at the end of a row of books to
 keep them upright.



 bookie  n.  Slang.  A bookmaker.



 booking  n.  1. An engagement, as for a performance by an entertainer. 2.
 A reservation, as for accommodations at a hotel.



 bookish  adj.  1. Of, relating to, or resembling a book. 2. Fond of books;
 studious. 3. Relying on book learning. 4. Pedantic; dull.   bookishly adv.
  bookishness n.



 book jacket  n.  A dust jacket.



 bookkeeping  n.  The art or practice of recording the accounts and
 transactions of a business.   bookkeeper n.



 book learning  n.  Knowledge gained from books rather than from practical
 experience.



 booklet  n.  A small bound book or pamphlet, usually with paper covers.



 booklore  n.  Book learning. [ME boklore < OE boklar : bok, book + lar,
 learning.]



 booklouse  n.  Any of various small, often wingless insects of the order
 Psocoptera (or Corrodentia), some species of which damage books.



 book lung  n.  A saccular respiratory organ found in some arachnids,
 consisting of a group of membranous folds resembling pages in a book.



 bookmaker  n.  1. One who edits, prints, publishes, or binds books. 2.
 Someone who accepts and pays off bets, as on a horse race.   bookmaking n.



 bookman  n.  1. Someone who is fond of books and reading. 2. Someone whose
 occupation is selling books.



 bookmark  n.  A marker, such as a ribbon or a strip of leather, placed
 between the pages of a book.



 bookmobile  n.  A small truck or trailer equipped to serve as a mobile
 lending library. [book + (auto)mobile.]



 Book of Common Prayer  n.  The book of services and prayers used in the
 Anglican church.



 Book of Mormon  n.  The sacred text of the Mormon Church.



 bookplate  n.  A label usually pasted on the inside cover of a book that
 bears the owner's name or other identification.



 bookrack  n.  1. A small rack or shelf for books. 2. A frame or rack for
 supporting an open book.



 book review  n.  A critical appraisal of a book.



 bookseller  n.  A person who sells books.



 bookshelf  n.  A shelf or set of shelves for holding books.



 bookshop  n.  A bookstore.



 bookstall  n.  A stall or stand where books are sold.



 bookstand  n.  1. A small counter where books are sold. 2. A bookrack.



 bookstore  n.  A store where books are sold.



 bookworm  n.  1. The larva of any of various insects that infest books and
 feed on the paste in the bindings. 2. One who spends much time reading or
 studying.



 Boolean  adj.  Of or pertaining to an algebraic combinatorial system
 treating variables, such as propositions and computer logic elements,
 through the operators AND, OR, NOT, IF, THEN, and EXCEPT. [After George
 Boole (1815-1864).]



 boom
 boom(1)  v. boomed booming booms   -intr. 1. To make a deep, resonant
 sound. 2. To grow or develop rapidly; flourish: Business is booming.  -tr.
 1. To give forth or utter with a deep, resonant sound. 2. To cause to grow
 or flourish; boost.   -n. 1. A booming sound, as of an explosion. 2. A time
 of prosperity. 3. A sudden increase, as in wealth or popularity. [ME
 bummen.]
 boom(2)  n.  1.  Nautical. A long spar extending from a mast to hold or
 extend the foot of a sail. 2. A long pole extending upward at an angle from
 the mast of a derrick to support or guide objects lifted or suspended. 3.
 a. A barrier composed of a chain of floating logs enclosing other
 free-floating logs. b. The area enclosed by such a barrier. 4. A floating
 barrier serving to obstruct navigation. 5. A long, movable arm used to
 maneuver a microphone. [Du., pole < MDu.]



 boomerang  n.  1. A flat, curved usually wooden missile that can be hurled
 so that it returns to the thrower. 2. A statement or course of action that
 backfires against its originator.   -intr.v.-anged -anging -angs   To have
 the opposite effect from the one intended; backfire. [Native word in
 Australia.]



 boomlet  n.  A small boom, as in business or politics.



 boon
 boon(1)  n.  1. Something beneficial that is bestowed; blessing. 2.
 Archaic.  A favor or request. [ME bone < ON bon, prayer.]
 boon(2)  adj.  1. Jolly; convivial: a boon companion.  2.  Archaic. Kind;
 generous. [ME bon, good < OFr. < Lat. bonus.]



 boondocks  pl.n.  Slang.  1. Wild and dense brush; jungle. 2. Rural
 country; backwoods. [Tagalog bundok, mountain.]



 boondoggle  Informal.  n.  Pointless, unnecessary, and wasteful work.
 -intr.v.-gled -gling -gles   To waste time or money on pointless and
 unnecessary work. [< boondoggle, a plaited leather cord worn by Boy Scouts
 (coined by R.H. Link, 20th-cent. American scoutmaster).]   boondoggler n.



 boonies  pl.n.  Slang.  The boondocks (sense 2). [Shortening and
 alteration of boondocks.]



 boor  n.  1. A peasant. 2. A crude person with rude or clumsy manners.
 [Du. boer < MDu. gheboer.]



 boorish  adj.  Resembling a boor; crude, rude, and offensive.   boorishly
 adv.   boorishness n.



 boost  tr.v. boosted boosting boosts   1. To lift by or as if by pushing
 up from below. 2. To increase; raise. 3. To stir up enthusiasm for; promote
 vigorously.   -n. 1. A push upward or ahead. 2. An increase: a boost in
 salary.  [Orig. unknown.]



 booster  n.  1. A device for increasing power or effectiveness. 2. An
 enthusiastic promoter. 3.  Electronics. A radio-frequency amplifier. 4.  a.
 A rocket that assists the main propulsive system of an aircraft or
 spacecraft. b. A rocket used to launch a missile or space vehicle. 5. A
 supplementary dose of a vaccine injected to maintain immunity.



 booster cable  n.  An electric cable used to connect a discharged
 automobile battery to a power source for charging.



 boot
 boot(1)  n.  1. A protective piece of footgear, usually leather, covering
 the foot and part or all of the leg. 2. A protective sheath for a horse's
 leg. 3. An instrument of torture used to crush the foot and leg. 4. A
 protective covering or sheath, esp.: a. A protective flap for the driver of
 an open automobile or other vehicle. b. A patch for the inner casing of an
 automobile tire to protect a weak spot or break. 5.  Chiefly British. An
 automobile trunk. 6. A scabbard on a saddle or vehicle to hold a gun. 7.
 a. A kick. b.  Slang. A swift, pleasurable feeling; thrill. 8. A marine or
 navy recruit in basic training. 9.  Slang. A rude dismissal, as from work.
 10. boots   Chiefly British. A servant, esp. one in a hotel, who cleans and
 shines shoes.   -tr.v.booted booting boots   1. To put boots on. 2. To
 kick. 3.  Slang. To discharge; dismiss. [ME bote < OFr.]
 boot(2)  intr.v. booted booting boots   Archaic.  To be of help or
 advantage; avail.   -n. 1.  Regional. Something given in addition. 2.
 Archaic. Advantage; avail.

       Idiom Section:  to boot. In addition; besides. [ME boten < OE bot,
 help.]



 bootblack  n.  A person who cleans and polishes shoes for a living.



 boot camp  n.  A training camp for marine or navy recruits.



 booted  adj.  Wearing boots.



 bootee or bootie   n.  A soft, usually knitted shoe for a baby.



 Bootes  n.  A constellation in the Northern Hemisphere near Virgo and
 Canes Venatici. [Lat. Bootes < Gk. Bootes < bootes, plowman < bootein, to
 plow < bous, ox.]



 booth  n. pl. booths  1. A small enclosed compartment, usually
 accommodating only one person and providing privacy: a telephone booth.  2.
 A seating area in a restaurant that has a table and seats whose backs serve
 as partitions. 3. A small stall or stand for the display and sale of goods.
 [ME bothe, prob. of Scand. orig.]



 bootie  n.  Variant of bootee.



 bootjack  n.  A forked device for holding a boot secure while the foot is
 being withdrawn.



 bootleg  v. -legged -legging -legs   -tr. To make, sell, or transport
 (alcoholic liquor, for example) for sale illegally. -intr. 1. To engage in
 bootlegging. 2.  Football. To fake a handoff, conceal the ball on the hip,
 and roll out in order to pass or esp. to rush around the end. Used of a
 quarterback.   -n. 1. Goods smuggled or illicitly produced or sold. 2. The
 part of a boot above the instep. 3.  Football. A bootleg play.   -adj.
 Produced, sold, or transported illegally: bootleg gin.  [From a smuggler's
 practice of carrying liquor in the legs of boots.]   bootlegger n.



 bootless  adj.  Without advantage or benefit; useless.   bootlessly adv.
 bootlessness n.



 bootlick  v. -licked -licking -licks   -tr. To behave toward in a servile
 or obsequious manner. -intr. To behave in a servile or obsequious manner;
 fawn.   bootlicker n.



 bootstrap  n.  1. A leather or cloth loop sewn at the side or the top rear
 of a boot to help in pulling the boot on. 2.  Computer Science. A
 subroutine used to establish the full routine or another routine.
 -tr.v.strapped strapping straps   To establish (a program) with a
 bootstrap.   -adj. 1. Undertaken or accomplished with minimal resources or
 help. 2. Being or relating to a process that is self-initiating or
 self-sustaining, as in a computer.

       Idiom Section:  by one's (own) bootstraps. By one's own efforts.



 boot tree  n.  A shoetree.



 booty  n. pl. -ties  1. Plunder taken from an enemy in time of war. 2.
 Goods that have been stolen or seized. 3. A valuable prize, award, or gain.
 [ME bottyne < OFr. butin < MLG bute, exchange.]



 booze  Slang.  n.  1. Alcoholic beverages, esp. hard liquor. 2. A drinking
 spree.   -intr.v.boozed boozing boozes   To drink alcoholic beverages
 excessively or chronically. [ME bous < MDu. buse, drinking vessel.]
 boozer n.   boozy adj.



 bop
 bop(1)  Informal.  tr.v. bopped bopping bops   To hit or strike.   -n. A
 blow; punch. [Imit.]
 bop(2)  n.  A style of jazz characterized by rhythmic and harmonic
 complexity and a brilliant style of execution. [Short for bebop.]



 bora  n.  A violent cold wind from the northeast blowing on the Dalmatian
 coast of Yugoslavia in winter. [Dial. Ital. < Lat. Boreas, Boreas.]



 boracic  adj.  Variant of boric. [< Med. Lat. borax, borac-, borax.]



 borage  n.  A plant, Borago officinalis, native to southern Europe and
 northern Africa, having hairy leaves sometimes used as seasoning and
 star-shaped blue flowers. [ME < OFr. bourage < Med. Lat. borago, perh. <
 Ar. abu 'araq, father of sweat (from its use as a sudorific).]



 borane  n.  Any of a series of boron-hydrogen compounds. [bor(on) + -ane.]




 borate  n.  A salt of boric acid.



 borax  n.  1. A hydrated sodium borate. 2. An anhydrous sodium borate used
 in the manufacture of glass and various ceramics. [ME boras < OFr. boreis <
 Med. Lat. borax < Ar. buraq < Pers. burah.]



 Borazon   A trademark for an extremely hard boron nitride formed at very
 high pressures and temperatures.



 Bordeaux  n. pl. Bordeaux  A red or white wine produced in the region
 around Bordeaux.



 Bordeaux mixture  n.  A mixture of copper sulfate, lime, and water used as
 a fungicide. [Transl. of Fr. bouillie bordelaise.]



 bordello  n. pl. -los  A house of prostitution. [Ital. < OFr. bordel <
 borde, wooden hut.]



 border  n.  1. A margin, rim, or edge. 2. A design or a decorative strip
 around the edge or rim of something, as a fabric. 3. A strip of ground in
 which ornamental plants or shrubbery is planted. 4. The line or frontier
 area separating political divisions or geographic regions; boundary.
 -tr.v.-dered -dering -ders   1. To put a border on. 2. To lie along or
 adjacent to the border of. Phrasal verb.   border on upon. 1. To adjoin. 2.
 To be almost like; approach in character: an act that borders on heroism.
 [ME bordure < OFr. bordeure < border, to border < bort, border, of Germanic
 orig.]   borderer n.

      Synonyms: border margin edge verge brink
 brow rim brim All these words refer to the line or narrow area that marks
 the outmost bound of a surface. Border  refers either to the boundary
 (limiting line) of a surface or, more often, to the area that immediately
 adjoins the boundary. Margin  is an area, adjacent to the boundary, that is
 more or less precisely definable as to width and often distinguishable in
 other respects from the rest of the surface. Edge  may refer specifically
 to the precise bounding line formed by the continuous convergence of two
 surfaces of a solid. Verge  is an extreme terminating line or edge;
 figuratively it indicates extreme closeness to, or the imminence of, a
 thing or condition. Brink  denotes the edge of a steep incline or slope;
 figuratively it indicates the imminence of an extreme condition, such as
 disaster or war. Brow  is the upper edge of a steep incline. Rim  denotes
 the edge of a surface that is circular or curved, such as a wheel or
 cymbal. Brim  applies to the upper edge or inner side of the rim of a
 vessel or container, such as a cup.




 borderland  n.  1. Land located on or near a border or frontier. 2. An
 uncertain or indeterminate area, situation, or condition.



 borderline or border line   n.  1. A line that establishes or marks a
 border. 2. An indefinite area between two qualities or conditions.   -adj.
 Verging on a given quality or condition; dubious: a borderline case of
 paranoia.



 bordetella pertussis  n.  The coccobacillus that causes whooping cough.
 [NLat. : Bordetella, genus name (after Jules Bordet, 1870-1961) +
 pertussis, whooping cough.]



 bordure  n.  A border around a heraldic shield. [ME. -see border.]



 bore
 bore(1)  v. bored boring bores   -tr. 1. To make a hole in or through, as
 with a drill. 2. To form (a tunnel, for example) by drilling, digging, or
 burrowing. -intr. 1. To make a hole in or through something by or as if by
 boring. 2. To proceed or advance steadily or laboriously.   -n. 1. A hole
 or passage made by or as if by boring. 2. The interior diameter of a hole,
 tube, or cylinder. 3. The caliber of a firearm. 4. A drilling tool. [ME
 boren < OE borian.]
 bore(2)  tr.v. bored boring bores   To make weary with dullness,
 repetition, or tediousness.   -n. One that arouses boredom. [Orig.
 unknown.]
 bore(3)  n.  A high and often dangerous wave caused by the surge of a flood
 tide upstream in a narrowing estuary or by colliding tidal currents. [ME
 bare, wave < ON bara.]
 bore(4)  v.  Past tense of bear1.



 boreal  adj.  1. Of or pertaining to the north; northern. 2. Of or
 concerning the north wind. 3. Boreal  Of or pertaining to the forest areas
 and tundras of the North Temperate Zone and Arctic region. [ME < LLat.
 Borealis < Lat. Boreas, Boreas.]



 Boreas  n.  1. The north wind. 2.  Greek Mythology.  The god personifying
 the north wind. [ME < Lat. Boreas < Gk.]



 borecole  n.  Kale. [Du. boerenkool : boer, peasant + kool, cabbage.]



 boredom  n.  The condition of being bored; ennui.



 borer  n.  1.  a. A tool used for boring or drilling. b. One who works
 with such a tool. 2. An insect or insect larva, such as the corn borer,
 that bores into plants. 3. Any of various mollusks that bore into soft rock
 or wood.



 boric or boracic   adj.  Of, pertaining to, derived from, or containing
 boron.



 boric acid  n.  A white or colorless crystalline compound, H3BO3, used as
 an antiseptic and preservative and in fireproofing compounds, cosmetics,
 cements, and enamels.



 boride  n.  A binary compound of boron with a more electropositive element
 or radical. [bor(on) + -ide.]



 boring  adj.  Uninteresting and tiresome; dull.   boringly adv.

      Synonyms: boring monotonous tedious irksome tiresome
 humdrum dismal dreary These adjectives all mean to be burdensome in the
 sense of inducing discontent and mental weariness. Boring  implies dullness
 that causes listlessness and lack of interest. Monotonous  stresses
 unchanging lack of variety. Tedious  suggests slowness, longwindedness, and
 dullness. Irksome  describes what is demanding of time and effort and yet
 is dull, distasteful, or otherwise unrewarding. Tiresome  intensifies the
 sense of irksome , and humdrum  refers to what is commonplace, trivial, or
 characterized by unexciting routine. In this comparison dismal  and dreary
 apply to what is depressingly dull.




 born  v.  A past participle of bear1.   -adj. 1. Brought into life or
 being. 2. Having from birth a particular quality or talent: a born artist.
 3. Resulting or arising: wisdom born of experience. -See Usage note at
 bear1.



 born-again  adj.  1.  a. Of, relating to, or being an individual who has
 made a conversion or renewed a commitment to Jesus Christ as personal
 savior: a born-again Christian.  b. Of or relating to evangelical
 Christianity: a born-again religious experience.  2. Characterized by
 renewal, resurgence, or return: born-again enthusiasm.



 borne  v.  A past participle of bear1. -See Usage note at bear1.



 bornite  n.  A brownish-bronze copper ore with composition Cu5FeS4. [After
 Ignaz von Born (1742-1791).]



 boron  n.  B  A soft, brown, amorphous or crystalline nonmetallic element,
 extracted chiefly from kernite and borax, and used in flares, propellant
 mixtures, nuclear reactor control elements, abrasives, and hard metallic
 alloys. Atomic number 5; atomic weight 10.811; melting point 2,300 deg. C;
 sublimation 2,550 deg. C; specific gravity (crystal) 2.34; valence 3.
 [bor(ax) + (carb)on.]



 boron carbide  n.  An extremely hard, black crystalline compound or solid
 solution, B4C, used as an abrasive, in control rods for nuclear reactors,
 and as a reinforcing filament in composite structural materials.



 borosilicate glass  n.  A strong heat-resistant glass that contains a
 minimum of five per cent boric oxide.



 borough  n.  1. A self-governing incorporated town in certain U.S. states.
 2. One of the five administrative units of New York City. 3.  Chiefly
 British.  a. A town having a municipal corporation and certain rights, such
 as self-government. b. A town that sends one or more representatives to
 Parliament. [ME burgh, city < OE burg.]



 borough-English  n.  A former custom in certain boroughs of England
 whereby the right to inherit an estate went to the youngest son or, in
 default of issue, to the youngest brother.



 Borrelia  n.  A genus of locomotive helical bacteria of the family
 Spirochaetaceae, some of which cause relapsing fever in humans. [NLat.,
 after Amedee Borrel (1867-1936).]



 borrow  v. -rowed -rowing -rows   -tr. 1. To obtain or receive (something)
 on loan with the promise or understanding of returning it or its
 equivalent. 2. To adopt or use as one's own: borrowed his ideas.  3. In
 subtraction, to take (a unit of ten) from the next larger denomination in
 the minuend so as to make a number larger than the number to be subtracted.
 -intr. To obtain or receive something. [ME borwen < OE borgian.]   borrower
 n.

      Usage: In many dialects of American English, the expression borrow off
  is used in place of borrow from.  This usage is not sufficiently well
 established to be used in writing, however; one writes Ken borrowed twenty
 dollars from  (not off ) his brother.



 borrowing  n.  Something that is borrowed, esp. a word borrowed from one
 language for use in another.



 borscht
 borsht or borsch    n.  A beet soup served hot or cold, often with sour
 cream. [R. borshch.]



 borscht circuit  n.  Slang.  The predominantly Jewish resort hotels of the
 Catskill Mountains that employ entertainers. [From the popularity of
 borscht in their cuisine.]



 bort  n.  1. Poorly crystallized diamonds used for industrial cutting and
 abrasion. 2. A carbonado. [Prob. < Du. boort.]   borty adj.



 borzoi  n.  A rather large, slenderly built dog of a breed originating in
 Russia, having a narrow, pointed head and a silky, predominantly white
 coat. [R. borzaya.]



 boscage or boskage   n.  A mass of trees or shrubs; thicket. [ME boskage <
 OFr. boscage < bosc, forest, of Germanic orig.]



 bosh  n.  Informal.  Meaningless talk or opinions; nonsense. [Turk. bos,
 useless.]



 bosk  n.  A small wooded area or thicket. [Back-formation < bosky.]



 boskage  n.  Variant of boscage.



 Boskop man  n.  A Stone Age man of southern Africa held to be ancestral to
 the Bushmen and Hottentots. [After Boskop, a region in the Transvaal where
 the remains were first found.]



 bosky  adj. -ier -iest   1. Covered with bushes, shrubs, or trees; wooded.
 2. Shaded by trees or bushes. [< ME bosk, bush < Med. Lat. bosca, of
 Germanic orig.]   boskiness n.



 bo's'n or bos'n   n.  Variants of boatswain.



 Bosnian or Bosniac   adj.  Of or pertaining to Bosnia.   -n. 1. A native
 of Bosnia. 2. The Serbo-Croatian language of the Bosnians.



 bosom  n.  1. The chest of a human being, esp. the female breasts. 2. The
 part of a garment covering the chest. 3. The center; heart: in the bosom of
 the family.  4. The chest considered as the source of emotion. bosom
 friends.  [ME < OE bosm.]



 boson  n.  A particle, such as a photon, pion, or alpha particle, having
 zero or integral spin and obeying statistical rules that permit any number
 of identical particles to occupy the same quantum state. [After Jagadis
 Chandra Bose (1858-1937).]



 boss
 boss(1)  n.  1.  a. An employer or supervisor of workers. b. Someone who
 makes decisions or exercises authority. 2. A professional politician who
 controls a party or political machine.   -v.bossed bossing bosses   -tr. 1.
 To supervise or control. 2. To give orders to, esp. in an arrogant or
 domineering manner: bossing us around.  -intr. To be or act as a boss.
 -adj.  Slang. First-rate; topnotch. [Du. baas, master.]
 boss(2)  n.  1. A circular protuberance or knoblike swelling. 2. A raised
 area used as ornamentation. 3.  Architecture. A raised ornament, as at the
 intersection of the ribs in vaulted roofs. 4.  a. An enlarged part of a
 shaft to which another shaft is coupled or to which a wheel or gear is
 keyed. b. A hub, esp. of a propeller. 5. A metal ornament used for
 protecting the corners or centers of books.   -tr.v.bossed bossing bosses
 1. To decorate with bosses. 2. To emboss. [ME boce < OFr.]
 boss(3)  n.  A cow or calf. [Orig. unknown.]



 bossa nova  n.  1. A lively Brazilian dance that is similar to the samba.
 2. Music that is a blend of jazz and samba. [Port. : bossa, trend + nova,
 new.]



 bossism  n.  The domination of a political organization by a political
 boss.



 bossy
 bossy(1)  adj. -ier -iest   Given to ordering others around; domineering.
 bossily adv.   bossiness n.
 bossy(2)  adj.  Decorated with studs or similar raised ornaments.
 bossy(3)  n. pl. -ies  Informal.  A cow or calf.



 Boston bag  n.  A handbag or satchel with handles on both sides of the top
 opening.



 Boston bull  n.  A Boston terrier.



 Boston cream pie  n.  A cake with a custard filling.



 Boston fern  n.  A fern, Nephrolepis exaltata bostoniensis, having arching
 or drooping fronds with opposite leaflets.



 Boston ivy  n.  A widely cultivated climbing woody vine, Parthenocissus
 tricuspidata, native to Asia, that has three-lobed leaves and that
 frequently covers the outer walls of buildings.



 Boston lettuce  n.  A type of cultivated lettuce forming a rounded head
 and having soft-textured, yellow-green leaves.



 Boston terrier  n.  A small dog of a breed that originated in New England
 as a cross between a bull terrier and a bulldog.



 bosun  n.  Variant of boatswain.



 Boswell  n.  An assiduous and devoted admirer, student, and recorder of
 another's words and deeds. [After James Boswell (1740-1795).]



 bot or bott   n.  The parasitic larva of a botfly. [ME.]



 botanical or botanic   adj.  1. Of or pertaining to plants or plant life.
 2. Of or pertaining to the science of botany.   -n. A drug, medicinal
 preparation, or similar substance obtained from a plant or plants. [Fr.
 botanique < LLat. botanicus < Gk. botanikos < botane, plant.]   botanically
 adv.



 botanist  n.  One who specializes in the study of plants.



 botanize  v. -nized -nizing -nizes   -intr. 1. To secure plants for
 botanical study. 2. To examine plants scientifically. -tr. To investigate
 (an area) for botanical study.   botanizer n.



 botany  n. pl. -nies  1. The biological science of plants. 2. The plant
 life of a particular area or district. 3. The characteristics and phenomena
 of a plant group or category. 4.  a. A book or scholarly work on botany. b.
 A particular system of botany.



 botch  tr.v. botched botching botches   1. To ruin through carelessness or
 clumsiness. 2. To make or perform clumsily; bungle. 3. To repair or mend
 clumsily.   -n. 1. A ruined or defective piece of work. 2. A badly repaired
 part or flaw. [ME bocchen, to mend.]   botcher n.   botchy adj.



 botfly or bot fly   n.  Any of various winged insects, chiefly of the
 genera Gasterophilus and Oestrus, having larvae that are parasitic on man
 and various animals.



 both  adj.  One and the other; relating to or being two in conjunction:
 Both men arrived.    -pron. The one and the other: Both of those men are
 patriots.    -conj. Used with and to indicate that each of two things in a
 coordinated phrase or clause is included: both men and women.  [ME bothe <
 ON baoir.]

      Usage: Both  is used to underscore that the activity or state denoted
 by a verb applies equally to two entities, where it might have been
 expected that it would apply only to one. Both the cooks have exasperated
 me,  for example, emphasizes that neither cook escapes my impatience. As
 such, both  is improperly used with a verb that can apply only to two or
 more entities. It is illogical to say they are both alike,  since neither
 could be "alike" if the other were not. Similarly, both  is unnecessary in
 a sentence like they both appeared together,  since neither one can "appear
 together" by himself. And we cannot say both of them accused each other,
 since neither one of them can "accuse each other" by himself.  The
 expression the both,  as in he gave it to the both of them,  is best
 avoided in formal writing and speech.  In possessive constructions, of both
  is usually preferred: the mothers of both  (rather than both their mothers
 ); the fault of both  (rather than both their fault  or both's fault ).
 When both  is used with and  to link parallel elements in a sentence, the
 words or phrases that follow them should correspond grammatically: in both
 India and China  or both in India and in China  (not both in India and
 China ).



 bother  v. -ered -ering -ers   -tr. 1. To irritate, esp. by small
 annoyances. 2.  a. To make agitated or nervous; fluster. b. To make
 confused or perplexed; puzzle. 3. To intrude without invitation or warrant;
 disturb. 4. To give trouble to: a back condition that bothers him
 constantly.  -intr. 1. To take the trouble; concern oneself. 2. To cause
 trouble.   -n. A cause or state of disturbance.   -interj. Chiefly British.
  Used to express annoyance or mild irritation. [Orig. unknown.]



 botheration  n.  Something that bothers; vexation.



 bothersome  adj.  Causing bother; troublesome.



 bothrium  n.  A suction groove on the scolex of the pseudophyllidean
 tapeworm. [NLat. < Gk. bothrion, dim. of bothros, pit.]



 bo tree  n.  The peepul. [Singhalese bo < Pali bodi(taru), (tree of)
 wisdom < Skt. bodhi, enlightenment < bodhati, he awakes.]



 botryoidal or botryoid   adj.  Shaped like a bunch of grapes. [Gk.
 botruoeides < botrus, bunch of grapes.]   botryoidally adv.



 bots  n.  An ailment in mammals, as cattle and horses, caused by
 alimentary infestations of parasitic botfly larvae. [Perh. < Sc. Gael.
 boiteag, maggot.]



 bott  n.  Variant of bot.



 bottle  n.  1. A receptacle, usually glass, having a narrow neck and a
 mouth that can be plugged, corked, or capped. 2. The quantity a bottle
 contains. 3. A bottle filled with milk or formula and fed, as to babies, in
 place of mothers' milk.   -tr.v.-tled -tling -tles   To place in a bottle.
 Phrasal verb.   bottle up. 1. To hold in; restrain: bottled up her
 emotions.  2. To seal up; block.

       Idiom Section:  hit the bottle. . Slang.  To drink alcoholic liquor
 to excess. [ME botel < OFr. botele < Med. Lat. buticula, dim. of LLat.
 butis, cask.]   bottler n.



 bottlebrush  n.  Any of various shrubs or trees of the genera Callistemon
 and Melaleuca, native to Australia, that have dense spikes of flowers with
 protruding stamens that suggest a brush used to clean bottles.



 bottle club  n.  A private establishment where patrons may purchase
 bottles of liquor and keep them for consumption after legal closing hours.



 bottled gas  n.  Gas, such as butane or propane, stored under pressure in
 portable tanks.



 bottle-feed  tr.v. -fed -feeding -feeds   To feed, as a baby, with a
 bottle.



 bottle gentian  n.  A plant, Gentiana andrewsii, of eastern and central
 North America, having deep-blue flowers that remain closed.



 bottle gourd  n.  1. The calabash vine. 2. The fruit of the calabash vine.




 bottle green  n.  A dark to moderate or grayish green.   bottle-green adj.




 bottleneck  n.  1. The narrow part of a bottle near the top. 2. A narrow
 or obstructed section of a highway or pipeline. 3. A hindrance to
 production or progress. 4.  Music. A style of guitar playing in which an
 object, as a piece of glass or metal, is pressed against the strings to
 achieve a gliding effect.   -tr.v.-necked -necking -necks   To impede or
 slow down by creating a bottleneck.



 bottlenose  n.  A bottle-nosed dolphin.



 bottle-nosed dolphin  n.  Any of several marine mammals of the genus
 Tursiops, having a short, protruding beak.



 bottle tree  n.  Any of several trees of the genus Stercula (or
 Brachychiton ), native to Australia, characterized by a bottlelike swelling
 of the trunk.



 bottom  n.  1. The lowest or deepest part of something. 2. The underside.
 3. The supporting part of something; foundation. 4. The basic quality
 underlying something; essence. 5. The solid surface under a body of water.
 6. bottoms  Low-lying alluvial land adjacent to a river; bottomland. 7. The
 part of a ship's hull below the water line. 8. A ship. 9. bottoms  The
 trousers of pajamas. 10.  Informal. The buttocks. 11. The seat of a chair.
 12. Staying power, as of a horse; stamina. the bottom drawer.    -v.-tomed
 -toming -toms   -tr. 1. To provide with an underside or foundation. 2. To
 establish; found. 3. To grasp the meaning of; fathom. -intr. 1. To be or
 become based or grounded. 2. To rest on or touch the bottom. Phrasal verb.
 bottom out. To descend, as securities, to the lowest point possible, after
 which only a rise may occur.

       Idiom Section:  at bottom. . Basically. [ME botme < OE botm.]
 bottomer n.



 bottom break  n.  A branch arising from the stem base of a plant.



 bottom fauna  n.  Marine vegetation growing in the benthic region of the
 ocean depths.



 bottomland  n.  Low-lying land along a river.



 bottomless  adj.  1. Having no bottom. 2. Too deep to be measured. 3.
 Difficult or impossible to understand; unfathomable. 4. Limitless.
 bottomlessly adv.



 bottom line  n.  1. The lowest line in a financial statement, showing net
 income or loss. 2. The final result or statement; upshot. 3. The main or
 essential point.



 bottom-line  adj.  Concerned exclusively with costs and profits.



 bottom round  n.  A cut of meat, as a steak or roast, taken from the outer
 section of a round of beef.



 bottomry  n.  A contract by which a shipowner borrows money to finance a
 voyage, pledging the ship as security. [Alteration of Du. bodemerij <
 bodem, ship.]



 botulin  n.  Any of several nerve toxins produced by botulinum and found
 in improperly canned or improperly smoked foods. [Lat. botulus, sausage +
 -in.]



 botulinum  n.  A bacterium, Clostridium botulinum, that secretes botulin.
 [NLat. < Lat. botulus, sausage.]



 botulism  n.  An extremely virulent, dangerous food poisoning caused by
 botulin and characterized by vomiting, abdominal pain, coughing, muscular
 weakness, and visual disturbance. [G. Botulismus < Lat. botulus, sausage.]



 boucle or boucle   n.  1. A type of yarn, usually three-ply and having one
 thread looser than the others, that produces a rough-textured cloth. 2.
 Fabric woven or knitted from boucle. [Fr., p.part. of boucler, to curl <
 OFr. boucle, curl of hair.]



 boudoir  n.  A woman's private sitting room, dressing room, or bedroom.
 [Fr. < OFr. bouder, to sulk.]



 bouffant  adj.  Puffed-out; full: a bouffant hair style.  [Fr., pr.part.
 of bouffer, to puff up < OFr.]



 bouffe  n.  Comic opera.



 bougainvillea or bougainvillaea   n.  Any of several woody tropical
 American vines of the genus Bougainvillea, having inconspicuous flowers
 surrounded by showy red, purple, or orange bracts. [NLat. Bougainvillea,
 genus name after Louis Antoine de Bougainville (1729-1811).]



 bough  n.  A large branch of a tree. [ME < OE boh.]



 bought  v.  Past tense and past participle of buy.



 boughten  v.  Regional.  A past participle of buy.



 bougie  n.  1. A wax candle. 2.  Medicine.  a. A slender, pliable
 implement inserted into a bodily canal, as the urethra or rectum. b. A
 suppository. [Fr. < OFr., a fine wax < Bougie, Bejaia, Algeria.]



 bouillabaisse  n.  A highly seasoned fish stew made of several kinds of
 fish and shellfish. [Fr. < Prov. bouiabaisso : boui, imper. of bouie, to
 boil (< Lat. bullire) + abaisso, imper. of abeissa, to lower.]



 bouillon  n.  A clear, thin broth made typically by simmering beef or
 chicken in water with seasonings. [Fr. < OFr. < boulir, to boil < Lat.
 bullire.]



 bouillon cube  n.  A small cube of evaporated seasoned meat, poultry, or
 vegetable stock.



 boulder or bowlder   n.  A large rounded mass of rock lying on the surface
 of the ground or imbedded in the soil. [ME bulder, prob. of Scand. orig.]



 boule
 boule(1)  n.  1.  a. The senate of 400 founded in ancient Athens by Solon.
 b. A legislative assembly in any of the states of ancient Greece. 2. The
 lower house of the modern Greek legislature. [Gk. boule.]
 boule(2)   n.  A pear-shaped synthetic sapphire, ruby, or other
 alumina-based gem, produced by fusing and tinting alumina. [Fr., ball <
 Lat. bulla.]
 boule(3)   n.  Variant of buhl.



 boulevard  n.  A broad city street, often tree-lined and landscaped. [Fr.
 < OFr. boloart, rampart converted to a promenade < MDu. bolwerc, bulwark <
 MHG.]



 boulevardier  n.  A man about town. [Obs. Fr. < boulevard, boulevard.]



 bouleversement  n.  1. A reversal. 2. A violent uproar; tumult. [Fr. <
 OFr. bouleverser, to overturn : boule, ball + verser, to overturn < Lat.
 versare, to turn.]



 boulle  n.  Variant of buhl.



 bounce  v. bounced bouncing bounces   -intr. 1.  a. To rebound elastically
 from a collision. b. To collide and rebound elastically several times in
 succession. 2. To bound thumpingly: a child bouncing into the room.  3.
 Informal. To be sent back by a bank as valueless: a check that bounced.
 -tr. 1. To cause to collide and rebound. 2.  Slang.  a. To expel by force.
 b. To dismiss from employment. 3. To write on an overdrawn bank account:
 bounce a check.    -n. 1. A bound or rebound. 2. A sudden spring or leap.
 3. Capacity to bounce; spring: a ball with bounce.  4. Spirit; liveliness.
 5.  Slang. Expulsion; dismissal. 6.  Chiefly British. Impudent bluster. [ME
 bounsen, to beat.]



 bouncer  n.  1. One that bounces. 2.  Slang. A person employed to expel
 disorderly persons from a public place.



 bouncing  adj.  1. Vigorous; healthy: a bouncing baby.  2. Spirited;
 lively.   bouncingly adv.



 bouncing Bet  n.  A plant, Saponaria officinalis, native to the Old World,
 having rounded clusters of fragrant pink or white flowers. [< Bet, nickname
 for Elizabeth.]



 bouncy  adj. -ier -iest   1. Tending to bounce. 2. Springy; elastic. 3.
 Lively; energetic: bouncy tunes.    bouncily adv.



 bound
 bound(1)  intr.v. bounded bounding bounds   1. To leap forward or upward;
 spring. 2. To progress by bounds.   -n. 1. A leap; jump. 2. A bounce. [Fr.
 bondir, to bounce < OFr., to resound, perh. < Lat. bombitare, to hum <
 bombus, a humming sound < Gk. bombos.]
 bound(2)  n.  1. bounds  A boundary; limit: His joy knew no bounds.  2.
 bounds  The territory on, within, or near limiting lines: the bounds of the
 kingdom.    -v.bounded bounding bounds   -tr. 1. To provide a limit to. 2.
 To constitute the boundary or limit of. 3. To identify and set the
 boundaries of; demarcate. -intr. To border on another country, state, or
 place; adjoin.

       Idiom Section:  out of bounds. Beyond boundaries or limits. [ME <
 OFr. bunde < Med. Lat. bodina, of Celtic orig.]
 bound(3)  v.  Past tense and past participle of bind.   -adj. 1. Confined
 by bonds; tied: bound and gagged.  2. Under legal or moral obligation;
 under contract: bound by his promise.  3. Indentured: a bound apprentice.
 4. Equipped with a cover or binding: bound volumes.  5. Predetermined;
 certain: bound to be late.  6. Determined; resolved: He's bound to be
 mayor.  7. Constipated.
 bound(4)  adj.  Headed; on the way: bound for home.  [ME boun, ready < ON
 buinn, p.part. of bua, to get ready.]



 boundary  n. pl. -ries  1. Something that indicates a border or limit. 2.
 The border or limit indicated by a boundary.

      Synonyms: boundary border frontier limit bound
 end confine boundary  is usually applied geographically to a precisely
 defined terminating line of a country, city, or the like. Border  may be
 used in this exact sense or more broadly to denote the territory
 immediately adjoining a boundary. Frontier  denotes either the part of a
 country that faces toward or fronts an adjoining country or (within a
 country) the remote, imprecisely defined area that marks the farthest
 settlement. Figuratively the term applies to any newly explored branch of
 knowledge. Limit  (often in the plural) is interchangeable with boundary
 in a physical sense; figuratively it indicates an extent beyond which an
 activity or function cannot or should not take place. Bound  (usually
 plural) is interchangeable with boundary , physically: The ball went out of
 bounds;  figuratively it has the sense of limit: the bounds of good taste.
 End  (often plural) in this comparison emphasizes remoteness or extreme
 limit in all senses: the ends of the earth; the end of his rope. Confine
 (usually plural) is used physically and figuratively to denote enclosure or
 limitation.




 boundary layer  n.  The nearly motionless fluid layer found immediately
 adjacent to a boundary, such as the surface of a solid, past which the
 fluid flows.



 bounden  adj.  1.  Archaic. Under obligation; obliged. 2. Obligatory: his
 bounden duty.  [ME, p.part. of binden, to bind < OE bindan.]



 bounder  n.  1. One that bounds. 2.  Chiefly British. A vulgar, cocksure
 fellow.



 bound form  n.  A linguistic element that always occurs as part of another
 word, as -ly in lovely.



 boundless  adj.  Without limit; infinite.   boundlessly adv.
 boundlessness n.



 bounteous  adj.  1. Giving generously and kindly. 2. Copious; plentiful.
 [ME bountevous < OFr. bontive, benevolent < bonte, bounty.]   bounteously
 adv.   bounteousness n.



 bountiful  adj.  1. Generous. 2. Abundant; plentiful.   bountifully adv.
 bountifulness n.



 bounty  n. pl. -ties  1. Liberality in giving. 2. Something that is given
 liberally. 3. A reward, inducement, or payment, esp. one given by a
 government for acts beneficial to the state, such as killing predatory
 animals or enlisting for military service. [ME bounte < OFr. bonte < Lat.
 bonitas, goodness < bonus, good.]



 bounty hunter  n.  One who hunts predatory animals or criminals and
 outlaws for a bounty.



 bouquet  n.  1. A cluster of flowers; nosegay. 2. The fragrance typical of
 a wine or a liqueur. [Fr. < OFr. bosquet, thicket, dim. of bosc, forest, of
 Germanic orig.]



 bouquet garni  n. pl. bouquets garnis  A bunch of herbs tied together or
 wrapped in cheesecloth and immersed in a soup or stew as seasoning. [Fr. :
 bouquet, bunch + garni, p.part. of garnir, to garnish.]



 bourbon  n.  A whiskey distilled from a fermented mash containing not less
 than 51 per cent corn. [After Bourbon County, Kentucky.]



 bourdon  n.  1. The monotonic drone bass of a bagpipe. 2. An organ stop,
 commonly of the 16-foot pipes. [ME burdoun < OFr. bourdon.]



 bourg  n.  1. A medieval village, esp. one situated near a castle. 2. A
 French market town. [ME < OFr. < Lat. burgus, fortress, of Germanic orig.]



 bourgeois  n. pl. bourgeois  1. A person belonging to the bourgeoisie. 2.
 A person whose attitudes and behavior are marked by conformity to the
 standards and conventions of the middle class. 3. In Marxist theory, a
 member of the property-owning class; a capitalist as opposed to a member of
 the proletariat.   -adj. 1. Of or typical of the middle class. 2.
 Characterized by a preoccupation with respectability and material values.
 [Fr. < OFr. burgeis < bourg, bourg.]



 bourgeoise  n. pl. -geoises  A woman belonging to the bourgeoisie. [Fr.,
 fem. of bourgeois, bourgeois.]   bourgeoise adj.



 bourgeoisie  n.  1. The middle class. 2. In Marxist theory, the social
 group opposed to the proletariat in the class struggle; the capitalist
 class. [Fr. < bourgeois, bourgeois.]



 bourgeon  v.  Variant of burgeon.



 bourn or bourne
 bourn(1)  n.  A stream or small brook. [ME < OE burna.]
 bourn(2)   n.  Archaic.  1. The terminal point of a trip or course of
 action; goal. 2. A boundary, as between properties. [Fr. bourne < OFr.
 bodne, limit < Med. Lat. bodina, of Celtic orig.]



 bourree  n.  1. An old French dance resembling the gavotte, usually in
 quick duple time beginning with an upbeat. 2. The music for a bourree.
 [Fr.]



 bourse  n.  The stock exchange of a city of continental Europe, esp.
 Paris. [Fr. < LLat. bursa, bag. -see purse.]



 bouse or bowse   v. boused bousing bouses  or bowsed  or bowsing  or
 bowses   Nautical.   -tr. To hoist or pull up with a tackle. -intr. To
 hoist. [Orig. unknown.]



 boustrophedon  n.  An ancient method of writing in which the lines are
 inscribed alternately from right to left and from left to right. [< Gk.
 boustrophedon, turning like an ox while plowing:  bous, ox + strephein, to
 turn.]   boustrophedonic adj.



 bout  n.  1. A contest between antagonists; match: a wrestling bout.  2. A
 period of time spent in a particular way; spell:  His tremendous bouts of
 drinking had wrecked his health (Thomas Wolfe). [ME, bend.]



 boutique  n.  A small retail shop that specializes in gifts, fashionable
 clothes, and accessories. [Fr. < OProv. botica < Lat. apotheca, storehouse.
 -see apothecary.]



 bouton  n.  A club-shaped enlargement at the end of a nerve fiber. [Fr.,
 button.]



 boutonniere or boutonniere   n.  A flower or small bunch of flowers worn
 in a buttonhole. [Fr. boutonniere, buttonhole < OFr. < bouton, button.]



 bouvardia  n.  Any of several tropical American shrubs of the genus
 Bouvardia, having clusters of white or red, often fragrant flowers. [NLat.
 Bouvardia, genus name, after Charles Bouvard (1572-1658).]



 Bouvier des Flandres  n.  A rough-coated dog of a breed originally used in
 Belgium for herding and guarding cattle. [Fr. : bouvier, cowherd + des, of
 + Flandres, Flanders.]



 bouzouki  n.  Music.  A Greek stringed instrument resembling a mandolin.
 [Modern Gk. mpouzouki.]



 bovid  adj.  Of or belonging to the family Bovidae, which includes hoofed,
 hollow-horned ruminants such as cattle, sheep, goats, and buffaloes.   -n.
 A member of the Bovidae. [< NLat. Bovidae, family name < Lat. bos, cow.]



 bovine  adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, or resembling an ox, cow, or other
 animal of the genus Bos.  2. Sluggish; dull; stolid.   -n. A bovine animal.
 [LLat. bovinus < Lat. bos, cow.]



 bow
 bow(1)  n.  1. The front section of a ship or boat. 2. The oar or oarsman
 closest to the bow of a boat. [ME boue, of Germanic orig.]
 bow(2)  v. bowed bowing bows   -intr. 1. To bend or curve downward; stoop.
 2. To incline the body or head or bend the knee in greeting, consent,
 courtesy, acknowledgment, submission, or veneration. 3. To yield or comply;
 submit. -tr. 1. To bend (the head, knee, or body) in order to express
 greeting, consent, courtesy, submission, or veneration. 2. To convey
 (greeting, for example) by bowing. 3. To escort deferentially and with
 bows: bowed us into the restaurant.  4. To cause to acquiesce; submit. 5.
 To cause to bend downward; overburden: Grief bowed him down.  Phrasal verb.
  bow out. To remove oneself; withdraw or resign.   -n. An inclination of
 the head or body, as in greeting, consent, courtesy, acknowledgment,
 submission, or veneration. [ME bowen < OE bugan.]
 bow(3)   n.  1. Something that is bent, curved, or arched. 2. A weapon
 consisting of a curved, flexible strip of material, esp. wood, strung taut
 from end to end and used to launch arrows. 3.  a. An archer. b. Archers
 collectively. 4. A rod having horsehair drawn tightly between its two
 raised ends, used in playing instruments of the violin and viol families.
 5. A knot usually having two loops and two ends; bowknot. 6.  a. A frame
 for the lenses of a pair of eyeglasses. b. The part of such a frame passing
 over the ear. 7. A rainbow. 8. An oxbow.   -v.bowed bowing bows   -tr. 1.
 To bend (something) into the shape of a bow. 2. To play (a stringed
 instrument) with a bow. -intr. 1. To bend into a curve or bow. 2. To play a
 stringed instrument with a bow. [ME bowe < OE boga.]



 bow compass  n.  A drawing compass with legs that are connected by an
 adjustable metal spring band.



 bowdlerize  tr.v. -ized -izing -izes   To expurgate (a book, for example)
 prudishly. [After Thomas Bowdler (1754-1825).]   bowdlerism n.
 bowdlerization n.   bowdlerizer n.



 bowel  n.  1.  a. An intestine, esp. of a human being. b. bowels  The part
 of the digestive tract below the stomach. 2. bowels  The interior of
 something: in the bowels of the ship.  3. bowels   Archaic. The seat of
 pity or the gentler emotions.   -tr.v.-eled -eling -els  or -elled  or
 -elling  or -els   To remove the bowels or entrails from; disembowel. [ME <
 OFr. bouele < LLat. botellus, small intestine, dim. of botulus, sausage.]



 bower
 bower(1)  n.  1. A shaded, leafy recess; arbor. 2. A woman's private
 chamber in a medieval castle; boudoir. 3. A rustic cottage; country
 retreat.   -tr.v.-ered -ering -ers   To enclose in or as if in a bower;
 embower. [ME bour, a dwelling < OE bur.]   bowery adj.
 bower(2)  n.  The heaviest of a ship's anchors, carried at the bow.



 bowerbird  n.  Any of various birds of the family Ptilonorhynchidae, of
 Australia and New Guinea, of which the males of many species build bowers
 of grasses, twigs, and colored materials to attract females.



 bowery  n. pl. -ies  A farm or plantation owned by one of the early Dutch
 settlers of New York. [Du. bouwerij < bouwen, to cultivate < MDu.]



 bowfin  n.  A freshwater fish, Amia calva, of central and eastern North
 America, that is the only known living species of the family Amidae.



 bowfront  adj.  Having an outward-curving front: a bowfront bureau.



 bowhead  n.  A whale, Balaena mysticetus, of Arctic seas, having a large
 head.



 bowie knife  n.  A single-edged steel hunting knife, about 15 inches in
 length, having a hilt and a crosspiece. [After James Bowie (1790?-1836).]



 bowknot  n.  A knot with large, decorative loops.



 bowl
 bowl(1)  n.  1.  a. A hemispherical vessel, wider than it is deep, for food
 or fluids. b. The contents of such a vessel. 2. A drinking goblet. 3. A
 bowl-shaped part, as of a spoon. 4.  a. A bowl-shaped stadium or outdoor
 theater. b. Any of various football games played between specially selected
 teams after the regular season. 5. A bowl-shaped topographic depression.
 [ME bowle < OE bolla.]
 bowl(2)  n.  1. A large, wooden ball weighted or slightly flattened so as
 to roll with a bias. 2. A roll or throw of the ball, as in bowling. 3. A
 revolving cylinder or drum in a machine. 4. bowls  (used with a sing.
 verb). The game of lawn bowling.   -v.bowled bowling bowls   -intr. 1. To
 participate in a game of bowling. 2. To throw or roll a ball in bowling. 3.
 To move smoothly and rapidly: a bus that was bowling along.  4. To hurl a
 cricket ball from one end of the pitch toward the batsman at the other in a
 manner distinguished from throwing. -tr. 1. To throw or roll (a ball) in
 bowling. 2. To make or achieve by bowling. Phrasal verb.  bowl out. To
 retire (a batsman in cricket) with a bowled ball that knocks the bails off
 the wicket. bowl over. . To take by surprise; astound. [ME boule < OFr. <
 Lat. bulla, bubble.]



 bowlder  n.  Variant of boulder.



 bowleg  n.  A leg having an outward curvature in the region of the knee.



 bowlegged  adj.  Having bowlegs.



 bowler
 bowler(1)  n.  One that bowls.
 bowler(2)  n.  Chiefly British.  A derby hat. [After John Bowler, a
 19th-cent. London hatmaker.]



 bowline  n.  1. A rope leading forward from the leech of a square sail to
 hold the leech forward when sailing close-hauled. 2. A knot forming a loop
 that does not slip. [ME bouline, of Germanic orig.]



 bowling  n.  1. A game played by rolling a ball down a wooden alley in
 order to knock down a triangular group of ten pins. 2. Any of various games
 similar to bowling, such as skittles or ninepins.



 bowling alley  n.  1. A smooth, level wooden alley used in bowling. 2. A
 building or room containing bowling alleys.



 bowman
 bowman(1)  n.  An archer.
 bowman(2)   n.  An oarsman stationed at the bow of a boat.



 Bowman's capsule  n.  The renal or malpighian corpuscle, which acts as a
 filter in urine formation in the kidney. [After Sir William Bowman
 (1816-1892).]



 Bowman's glands  n.  The olfactory glands, which keep the olfactory
 surface moist. [After Sir William Bowman (1816-1892).]



 bowman's root  n.  A plant, Gillenia trifoliata, of eastern North America,
 having compound leaves and small white or pinkish flowers.



 bow pen  n.  A bow compass with a pen at the end of one leg.



 bowse  v.  Variant of bouse.



 bowshot  n.  The distance an arrow can be shot.



 bowsprit  n.  A spar extending forward from the stem of a ship. [ME
 bouspret.]



 bowstring  n.  The string of a bow.



 bowstring hemp  n.  1. Any of various plants of the genus Sansevieria,
 having thick, erect leaves. 2. The fiber from the leaves of bowstring hemp,
 used for cordage and in packing.



 bow tie  n.  A man's small necktie tied in the shape of a bow.



 bow window  n.  A bay window built in a curve.



 bow-wow  n.  The bark of a dog. [Imit.]



 bowyer  n.  1. An archer. 2. One who makes bows.



 box
 box(1)  n.  1.  a. A rectangular container typically having a lid or cover.
 b. The amount or quantity such a container can hold. 2. A separated
 compartment in a public place, as a theater, for the accommodation of a
 small group. 3. A small structure serving as a shelter: a sentry box.  4.
 Chiefly British. A small country house in hunting country: a shooting box.
 5. A box stall. 6. The raised seat for the driver of a coach or carriage.
 7.  Baseball.  a. An area on a diamond marked by lines where the batter
 stands. b. Any of various designated areas for other team members, such as
 the pitcher, catcher, and coaches. 8. Featured printed matter enclosed by
 hairlines, a border, or white space and placed within or between text
 columns. 9. A cut in the side of a tree through which sap is collected. 10.
 An insulating, enclosing, or protective casing or part in a machine. 11. An
 awkward or perplexing situation; predicament.   -tr.v.boxed boxing boxes
 1. To pack in a box. 2. To confine in or as if in a box. 3.  Nautical. To
 boxhaul.

       Idiom Section:  box the compass. 1. To name the points of the compass
 in proper order. 2. To make a complete revolution or reversal. [ME < OE <
 LLat. buxis < Gk. puxis < puxos, box tree.]
 box(2)  n.  A blow or slap with the hand.   -v.boxed boxing boxes   -tr. 1.
 To hit with the hand or fist. 2. To take part in a boxing match with.
 -intr. To fight with the fists; spar. [ME.]
 box(3)  n. pl. box  or boxes  1.  a. An evergreen tree or shrub of the
 genus Buxus, esp. B. sempervirens, used for hedges, borders, and garden
 mazes. b. The wood of this tree. 2. Any of several trees whose timber or
 foliage resembles that of box. [ME < OE < Lat. buxus < Gk. puxos.]



 box calf  n.  Calfskin treated with chromium salts and having square
 markings on the grain. [After Joseph Box, a 19th-cent. London bootmaker.]



 boxcar  n.  An enclosed and covered railway car for the transportation of
 freight.



 box coat  n.  1. A heavy overcoat formerly worn by coachmen. 2. A coat
 designed to hang loose from the shoulders. [box1 + coat.]



 box-elder  n.  A maple tree, Acer negundo, of North America, having
 compound leaves with lobed leaflets.



 boxer
 boxer(1)  n.  One that engages in fighting with the fists.
 boxer(2)  n.  A short-haired dog of a breed developed in Germany, having a
 brownish coat and a short, square-jawed muzzle. [G. < boxer1.]



 Boxer  n.  A member of a secret society in China that attempted in 1900 to
 drive foreigners from the country by violence and to force Chinese
 Christians to renounce their religion. [Approximate transl. of Chin.
 (Mandarin) yi4 he2 quan2, righteous harmonious fists, alteration of yi4 he2
 tuan2, righteous harmonious society.]



 boxer shorts  pl.n.  Men's full-cut undershorts.



 boxfish  n. pl. boxfish  or -fishes  The trunkfish.



 boxhaul  tr.v. -hauled -hauling -hauls   To turn (a square-rigged ship)
 about on the heel by bracing the sails aback.



 boxing
 boxing(1)  n.  Material used for boxes.
 boxing(2)  n.  The sport of fighting with the fists.



 Boxing Day  n.  The first weekday after Christmas, observed in parts of
 the British Commonwealth as a holiday, when Christmas gifts or boxes are
 traditionally given to service workers.



 boxing glove  n.  A heavily padded leather glove worn in boxing.



 box kite  n.  A tailless kite consisting of a rectangular, box-shaped
 frame encircled with cloth or paper bands.



 box lunch  n.  A lunch packed in a container, as a box, esp. for
 traveling.



 box office  n.  1. A ticket office, as of a theater or stadium. 2. The
 drawing power of a theatrical entertainment or of a performer; popular
 appeal.



 box pleat  n.  A double pleat formed by two facing folds.



 box score  n.  A printed summary, as of a baseball game, in the form of a
 table listing each player and the statistics for his performance.



 box seat  n.  A seat in a box at a theater, concert hall, or stadium.



 box set  n.  A stage set with a ceiling and three walls.



 box spring  n.  A bedspring consisting of a frame enclosed with cloth and
 containing rows of coil springs.



 box stall  n.  An enclosed stall for a single animal.



 boxthorn  n.  The matrimony vine.



 box turtle  n.  Any of several North American turtles of the genus
 Terrapene, having a high-domed shell.



 boxwood  n.  1. A box shrub or tree. 2. The hard, light-yellow wood of the
 boxwood, used to make musical instruments, rulers, inlays, and engraving
 blocks.



 boxy  adj. -ier -iest   Like a box.   boxiness n.



 boy  n.  1. A male child or youth. 2.  Informal. A grown man; fellow: a
 night out with the boys.  3. A manservant.   -interj. Used to express mild
 astonishment, elation, or disgust: Oh boy, some car!  [ME boi, poss. < OFr.
 embuie, p.part. of embuier, to fetter.]   boyhood n.



 boyar or boyard   n.  A member of a former Russian aristocratic order
 abolished by Peter I. [R. boyarin < Old R., of Turkish orig.]



 boycott  tr.v. -cotted -cotting -cotts   To abstain from using, buying, or
 dealing with to express protest or to coerce.   -n. The act or an instance
 of boycotting. [After Charles C. Boycott (1832-1897).]   boycotter n.



 boyfriend or boy friend   n.  1. A male friend. 2.  Informal. A favored
 male companion or sweetheart.



 boyish  adj.  Characteristic of or befitting a boy: a boyish prank.
 boyishly adv.   boyishness n.



 Boyle's law  n.  The principle that at a fixed temperature the pressure of
 a confined ideal gas varies inversely with its volume. [After Robert Boyle
 (1627-1691), its formulator.]



 Boy Scout  n.  A member of a worldwide organization of young men and boys,
 founded in England in 1908, for character development and citizenship
 training.



 boysenberry  n.  1. A prickly bramble hybridized from the loganberry and
 various blackberries and raspberries. 2. The large, wine-red, edible berry
 of the boysenberry. [After Rudolph Boysen (d. 1950).]



 bozo  n. pl. -zos  Slang.  1. A fellow; guy. 2. A dunce; fool. [Orig.
 unknown.]



 Br   The symbol for the element bromine.



 bra  n.  A brassiere.



 brabble  intr.v. -bled -bling -bles   To quarrel noisily; wrangle.   -n. A
 petty dispute; squabble. [Poss. < M. Du. brabbelen, to jabber.]   brabbler
 n.



 brace  n.  1. A device that holds or fastens two or more parts together or
 in place; clamp. 2. A device that steadies or holds something erect, as a
 supporting beam in a building. 3. braces   Chiefly British. A pair of
 suspenders. 4. An appliance used to support a bodily part. 5. braces  An
 arrangement of bands and wires fixed to the teeth to correct irregular
 alignment. 6. A rope by which a yard is swung and secured on a
 square-rigged ship. 7. A protective pad strapped to the bow arm of an
 archer. 8. A leather loop that slides to change the tension on the cords of
 a drum. 9. A set of connected musical staves. 10. A cranklike handle with
 an adjustable aperture at one end for securing and turning a bit. 11. One
 of two symbols, { }, used to connect written or printed lines. 12.
 Mathematics. Either of a pair of symbols, { }, used to indicate aggregation
 or to clarify the grouping of quantities when parentheses and square
 brackets have already been used. 13. pl. brace. A pair of like things: a
 brace of partridges.  14. An extremely stiff and erect position or bearing.
   -v.braced bracing braces   -tr. 1. To furnish with a brace. 2. To support
 or hold steady with or as if with a brace. 3. To prepare or position so as
 to be ready for an impact or danger. 4. To invigorate; stimulate: cold,
 clear air that braced the skiers.  5. To turn (the yards of a ship) by the
 braces. -intr. To get ready; make preparations. Phrasal verb.  brace up. To
 summon one's strength or endurance. [ME < OFr., two arms < Lat. bracchia,
 pl. of bracchium, arm < Gk. brakhion.]



 bracelet  n.  1. An ornamental band or chain encircling the wrist. 2.
 Something, such as handcuffs, that resembles a bracelet. [ME < OFr., dim.
 of bracel, armlet < Lat. bracchiale <  bracchium, arm < Gk. brakhion.]



 bracer
 bracer(1)  n.  1. One that braces. 2.  Informal. A stimulating drink;
 tonic.
 bracer(2)  n.  An arm or wrist guard worn by archers and fencers. [ME <
 OFr. braceure < bras, arm < Lat. bracchium < Gk. brakhion.]



 bracero  n. pl. -ros  A Mexican laborer permitted to enter the United
 States and work for a limited period of time. [Sp., laborer < brazo, arm <
 Lat. bracchium < Gk. brakhion.]



 brach  n.  Obsolete.  A bitch hound. [ME brache, backformation < OFr.
 brachez, pl. of brachet, hunting dog < OHG bracco.]



 brachia  n.  Plural of brachium.



 brachial  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or resembling the arm or a similar or
 homologous part. [Lat. bracchialis < bracchium, arm < Gk. brakhion.]



 brachiate  adj.  Having widely spreading branches arranged in pairs.
 -intr.v. -ated -ating -ates   To swing by the arms from branch to branch,
 as certain apes do. [Lat. bracchiatus < bracchium, arm < Gk. brakhion.]
 brachiation n.



 brachiopod  n.  Any of various marine invertebrates of the phylum
 Brachiopoda, having bivalve dorsal and ventral shells and a pair of
 tentacled, armlike structures on either side of the mouth. [brachi(um) +
 -pod.]   brachiopod adj.



 brachium  n. pl. brachia  An arm or a homologous anatomical structure,
 such as a flipper or wing. [Lat. bracchium, arm < Gk. brakhion.]



 brachy-   Short: brachydactylic.  [< Gk. brakhus, short.]



 brachycephalic or brachycephalous   adj.  Having a short, almost round
 head, the width of which is at least 80 per cent as great as the length.
 brachycephaly brachycephalism  n.



 brachydactylic or brachydactylous   adj.  Having abnormally short fingers
 or toes.   brachydactyly n.



 brachylogy  n. pl. -gies  1. Brief, concise speech. 2. A shortened or
 condensed phrase or expression. [Med. Lat. brachylogia < Gk. brakhulogia :
 brakhus, short + logos, speech.]



 brachypterous  adj.  Having short wings, as certain insects. [Gk.
 brakhupteros : brakhus, short + pteron, wing.]   brachypterism n.



 brachyuran
 brachyural or brachyurous    adj.  Of or belonging to the Brachyura, a
 group of crustaceans characterized by a short abdomen concealed under the
 cephalothorax and including the true crabs.   -n. A member of the
 Brachyura. [< NLat. Brachyura, name suborder : Gk. brakhus, short + Gk.
 oura, tail.]



 bracing  adj.  Invigorating.   bracingly adv.



 bracken  n.  1. A fern, Pteridium aquilinum, having tough stems and
 branching, finely divided fronds. 2. An area overgrown with bracken. 3. A
 large, coarse fern. [ME braken, prob. of Scand. orig.]



 bracket  n.  1. A simple rigid structure in the shape of an L, one arm of
 which is fixed to a vertical surface, the other projecting horizontally to
 support a shelf or other weight. 2. A wall-anchored fixture adapted to
 support a load. 3. A small shelf or shelves supported by brackets. 4.  a.
 Either of a pair of symbols, { }, used to enclose written or printed
 material or to indicate a mathematical expression considered in some sense
 a single quantity. b. Either of a pair of symbols, < >, similarly used and
 in mathematics used esp. together to indicate the average of a contained
 quantity. c.  Mathematics. A brace (sense 12). 5. A classification or
 grouping, esp. of taxpayers according to income. 6. The space between two
 rounds of artillery, the first aimed beyond a target and the second aimed
 short of it, used to determine range.   -tr.v.-eted -eting -ets   1. To
 support with a bracket or brackets. 2. To place within or as if within
 brackets. 3. To classify or group together. 4. To fire beyond and short of
 (a target) in order to determine range. [OFr. braguette, codpiece, dim. of
 brague, breeches < OProv. braga < Lat. bracae.]



 bracket fungus  n.  Any of various fungi that form shelflike growths on
 tree trunks and wood structures.



 brackish  adj.  1. Containing some salt; briny: brackish water.  2.
 Distasteful; unpalatable. [Du. brak.]   brackishness n.



 bract  n.  A leaflike plant part, usually small but sometimes showy and
 sometimes brightly colored, located either below a flower or on the stalk
 of a flower cluster. [NLat. bractea < Lat. gold leaf.]   bracteal adj.



 bracteate  adj.  Bearing bracts. [NLat. bracteatus < bractea, gold leaf.]



 bracteolate  adj.  Bearing bracteoles.



 bracteole  n.  A small or secondary bract. [NLat. bracteola < Lat., dim.
 of bractea, gold leaf.]



 brad  n.  A tapered nail with a small head or a slight side projection
 instead of a head. [ME < ON broddr, spike.]



 bradawl  n.  A small awl with a chisel edge, used to make holes in wood
 for brads or screws.



 brady-   Slow: bradycardia.  [NLat. < Gk. bradus, slow.]



 bradycardia  n.  Abnormally slow heartbeat, as less than 60 beats per
 minute. [brady- + Gk. kardia, heart.]   bradycardic adj.



 bradylexia  n.  A slowness of reading not attributable to lack of
 intelligence. [brady- + Gk. lexis, speech < legein, to speak.]



 bradylogia  n.  Abnormally slow speech. [NLat. : brady- + Gk. -logia,
 -logy.]



 brae  n.  Scots.  A hillside; slope. [ME bra < ON bra, eyelid.]



 brag  v. bragged bragging brags   -intr. To talk boastfully. -tr. To
 assert boastfully.   -n. 1. Arrogant or boastful speech or manner. 2.
 Something boasted of. 3. A braggart; boaster. 4. A card game similar to
 poker.   -adj.bragger braggest   Exceptionally fine. [ME braggen < brag,
 ostentatious.]   bragger n.



 braggadocio  n. pl. -os  1. A braggart. 2.  a. Empty or pretentious
 bragging. b. Swaggering manner; cockiness. [Alteration of Braggadocchio,
 the personification of vainglory in The Fairie Queene by Sir Edmund Spenser
 (1552-1599).]



 Bragg angle  n.  The angle between an incident x-ray beam and a set of
 crystal planes for which the secondary radiation displays maximum intensity
 as a result of constructive interference. [After William Henry Bragg
 (1862-1942) and William Lawrence Bragg (1890-1971).]



 braggart  n.  One given to loud, empty boasting; bragger.   -adj.
 Boastful. [Fr. bragard < braguer, to brag, perh. < ME braggen.]



 Bragg's law  n.  The fundamental law of x-ray crystallography, n [lgr ] =
 2d sin[Ugr ], where n is an integer, [lgr ] is the wavelength of a beam of
 x rays incident on a crystal with lattice planes separated by distance d,
 and [Ugr ] is the Bragg angle. [After William Henry Bragg (1862-1942) and
 William Lawrence Bragg (1890-1971).]



 Brahma
 Brahma(1)  n.  Hinduism.  1. The personification of divine reality in its
 creative aspect as a member of the Hindu triad. 2. Variant of Brahman
 (senses 1, 3). [Skt. brahman.]
 Brahma(2)   n.  A large domestic fowl of a breed originating in Asia and
 having feathered legs. [After the Brahmaputra River in southern Asia.]



 Brahman  n.  1. Brahma   Hinduism. The essential divine reality of the
 universe; the eternal spirit from which all being originates and to which
 all returns. 2. Brahmin   Hinduism. A member of the highest caste,
 originally composed of priests but now occupationally diversified. 3.
 Brahma  or Brahmin  One of a breed of domestic cattle developed in the
 southern United States from stock originating in India and having a hump
 between the shoulders and a pendulous dewlap. [Skt.]   Brahmanic
 Brahmanical  adj.



 Brahmanism or Brahminism   n.  1. The religious practices and beliefs of
 ancient India as reflected in the Vedas, the earliest religious texts. 2.
 The social caste system of the Brahmans of India.   Brahmanist n.



 Brahmin  n.  1. A highly cultured and socially exclusive person, esp. a
 member of one of the old New England families. 2. Variant of Brahman
 (senses 2, 3).   Brahminic Brahminical  adj.



 Brahminism  n.  1. The attitude or conduct typical of a social or cultural
 elite. 2. Variant of Brahmanism.



 braid  tr.v. braided braiding braids   1. To interweave three or more
 strands of; plait. 2. To decorate or edge with an ornamental trim. 3. To
 produce by interweaving: braid a rug.  4. To fasten or decorate (hair) with
 a band or ribbon.   -n. 1. A narrow length of fabric, hair, or other
 material that has been braided or plaited. 2. A thin, flat woven strip of
 cloth used for binding or decorating fabrics. 3. A ribbon or band used to
 fasten the hair. [ME braiden < OE bregdan, to weave.]   braider n.



 braided  adj.  Flowing in an interconnected network of channels: a braided
 stream.



 braiding  n.  Braided embroidery.



 brail  n.  A line used to furl loose-footed sails.   -tr.v.brailed
 brailing brails   To gather in (a sail) with brails. [ME brayle < OFr.
 brail, belt < Med. Lat. bracale < Lat. bracae, breeches.]



 Braille or braille   n.  A system of writing and printing for the blind,
 in which varied arrangements of raised dots representing letters and
 numerals can be identified by touch. [After Louis Braille (1809-1852).]



 brain  n.  1.  a. The portion of the central nervous system in the
 vertebrate cranium that is responsible for the interpretation of sensory
 impulses, the coordination and control of bodily activities, and the
 exercise of emotion and thought. b. A functionally similar portion of the
 invertebrate nervous system. 2. brains  Intellectual capacity. 3.
 Informal. A highly intelligent person. 4. brains  The supreme planner, as
 of a movement. 5. An automatic device, as a computer, that is central to a
 computation or control process.   -tr.v.brained braining brains   1. To
 smash in the skull of. 2.  Slang. To hit on the head.

       Idiom Section:  on the brain. Obsessively in mind. rack beat(one's)
 brains. To think as hard as one can. [ME < OE braegen.]



 brain case  n.  The brainpan.



 brain child  n.  Informal.  An original idea or plan attributed to a
 specific person or group.



 brain coral  n.  Any of several corals of the genus Meandrina, forming
 rounded colonies that resemble the human brain.



 brain death  n.  Death as evidenced by absence of central-nervous-system
 activity.   brain-dead adj.



 brain drain  n.  The emigration of professionals, as scientists or
 scholars, to countries that offer higher-paid positions and better living
 conditions.



 brain-drain  v. -drained -draining -drains   -intr. To emigrate to another
 country usually for a more highly paid position or better living
 conditions. -tr. To persuade (a scientist, for example) to brain-drain.



 brain fever  n.  Encephalitis.



 brainless  adj.  Devoid of intelligence; stupid.   brainlessly adv.
 brainlessness n.



 brainpan  n.  The part of the skull that contains the brain; cranium.



 brain-picking  n.  The act of probing another's mind for information.
 brain-picker n.



 brainpower  n.  1. Intellectual power or ability. 2. People with
 well-developed mental ability.



 brain scanner  n.  A CAT scanner used to x-ray the brain.   brain scan n.



 brainsick  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or induced by insanity; mad.
 brainsickly adv.   brainsickness n.



 brainstem  n.  The part of the brain consisting of the medulla oblongata,
 pons, and mesencephalon and connecting the spinal cord to the forebrain and
 cerebrum.



 brainstorm  n.  1. A sudden and violent disturbance in the brain. 2.  a. A
 sudden clever idea. b. A foolish idea.



 brainstorming  n.  A method of shared problem-solving in which all members
 of a group spontaneously contribute ideas.   brainstorm v. -stormed
 -storming -storms    brainstormer n.



 brains trust  n.  Chiefly British.  A brain trust.



 brain trust  n.  A group of experts who serve as unofficial advisers and
 policy planners, esp. in a government.   brain truster n.



 brainwash  tr.v. -washed -washing -washes   To subject to brainwashing.
 [Back-formation < brainwashing.]



 brainwashing  n.  Intensive indoctrination, usually political, aimed at
 changing a person's basic convictions and attitudes and replacing them with
 a fixed and unquestioned set of beliefs. [Transl. of Chin. (Mandarin) xi3
 nao3 : xi3, to wash + nao3, brain.]



 brain wave  n.  1. A rhythmic fluctuation of electric potential between
 parts of the brain. 2. A sudden inspiration.



 brainy  adj. -ier -iest   Informal.  Intelligent; smart.   brainily adv.
 braininess n.



 braise  tr.v. braised braising braises   To cook (meat or vegetables) by
 browning in fat, then simmering in a small quantity of liquid in a covered
 container. [Fr. braiser < braise, hot charcoal < OFr. brese, of Germanic
 orig.]



 brake
 brake(1)  n.  1. A device for separating the fibers of flax or hemp by
 crushing or beating. 2. A heavy harrow for breaking clods of earth. 3. A
 handle on a pump or other machine. 4. A machine for bending and folding
 sheet metal.   -tr.v.braked braking brakes   1. To crush (flax or hemp) in
 a brake. 2. To break up (clods of earth) with a harrow. [ME.]
 brake(2)  n.  1. A device for slowing or stopping motion, as of a vehicle,
 esp. by contact friction. 2. Something that slows or stops action.
 -v.braked braking brakes   -tr. To reduce the speed of with or as if with a
 brake. -intr. To operate or apply a brake. [Perh. ME breake, bridle, curb.]

 brake(3)  n.  Any of several ferns, esp. bracken. [ME.]
 brake(4)  n.  An area overgrown with dense brushwood, briers, and
 undergrowth; thicket. [ME.]
 brake(5)  n.  Variant of break (sense 19).
 brake(6)  v.  Archaic.  Past tense of break.



 brakeage  n.  The action or capacity of a brake.



 brake band  n.  A flexible belt that is tightened around a brake drum to
 arrest the motion of a wheel or shaft.



 brake drum  n.  A metal cylinder to which pressure is applied by a braking
 mechanism in order to arrest rotation of the wheel or shaft to which the
 cylinder is attached.



 brake fluid  n.  The liquid used in a hydraulic brake cylinder.



 brake horsepower  n.  The actual or useful horsepower of an engine,
 usually determined from the force exerted on a dynamometer connected to the
 drive shaft.



 brakeman  n.  A railroad employee who assists the conductor and checks on
 the operation of the train's brakes.



 brake pad  n.  A flat block that presses against the disc of a disc brake.




 brake shoe  n.  A curved metal block that presses against and arrests the
 rotation of a wheel or brake drum.



 brakesman  n.  Chiefly British.  Variant of brakeman.



 braking rocket  n.  A retrorocket.



 braless  adj.  -adv. Wearing no brassiere.



 bramble  n.  1. A prickly plant or shrub of the genus Rubus, esp. the
 blackberry or the raspberry. 2. A prickly shrub or bush. [ME brembel < OE
 braembel.]   brambly adj.



 brambling  n.  A finch, Fringilla montifringilla, of northern Eurasia,
 having black, white, and rust-brown plumage. [bramb(le) + -ling1.]



 bran  n.  1. The seed husk or outer coating of cereals such as wheat, rye,
 and oats, separated from the flour by sifting or bolting. 2. Cereal
 by-products used as a food. [ME < OFr., of Celtic orig.]



 branch  n.  1. A secondary woody stem or limb growing from the trunk or
 main stem of a tree, bush, or shrub or from another secondary limb. 2. A
 part resembling or structurally analogous to a branch. 3. A limited part of
 a larger or more complex body, esp.: a. An academic or vocational field of
 specialization. b. A local unit of a business. c. A division of a family,
 tribe, or other group believed to stem from a common ancestor. 4.
 Linguistics. A subdivision of a family of languages. 5.  a. A tributary of
 a river. b. A small stream, creek, or brook. 6.  Mathematics. A part of a
 curve that is separated, as by discontinuities or extreme points. 7.
 Computer Science.  a. A program instruction that causes a departure from
 the normal sequence of instructions. b. The instructions executed as the
 result of such a departure.   -v.branched branching branches   -intr. 1. To
 put forth or spread out in branches. 2. To separate into subdivisions;
 diverge. 3.  Computer Science. To depart from a sequence of instructions as
 a result of a branch. -tr. 1. To separate into or as if into branches. 2.
 To embroider with a design of flowers or foliage. Phrasal verb.  branch
 off. To separate from the main part or course; diverge. branch out. To
 enlarge the scope of one's interests, business, or activities. [ME < OFr.
 branche < LLat. branca, paw.]   branched adj.   branchless adj.   branchy
 adj.



 branchia  n. pl. -chiae  A gill or similar breathing organ. [Lat. < Gk.
 brankhia, gills.]   branchial adj.



 branchiate  adj.  Having branchiae or gills.



 branchiopod  n.  Any of various crustaceans of the subclass Branchiopoda,
 characteristically having a segmented body and flattened, limblike
 appendages. [NLat. Branchiopoda, subclass name : Lat. branchia, gill + Gk.
 pous, foot.]   branchiopod  branchiopodan  branchiopadous adj.



 branch water  n.  Plain water, esp. when mixed with liquor. [< branch
 water, water from a stream.]



 brand  n.  1.  a. A trademark or distinctive name identifying a product or
 a manufacturer. b. The make of a product thus marked: a popular brand of
 soap.  2. A mark indicating identity or ownership, burned on the hide of an
 animal with a hot iron. 3. A mark formerly burned into the flesh of
 criminals. 4. A mark of disgrace or notoriety; stigma. 5. An iron that is
 heated and used for branding. 6. A piece of burning or charred wood. 7.
 Archaic. A sword.   -tr.v.branded branding brands   1. To mark with or as
 if with a brand. 2. To mark with disgrace or infamy; stigmatize. [ME, torch
 < OE.]   brander n.



 branding iron  n.  A metal rod heated and used for branding.



 brandish  tr.v. -dished -dishing -dishes   1. To wave or flourish
 menacingly, as a weapon. 2. To display ostentatiously.   -n. A menacing or
 defiant wave or flourish. [ME brandissen < OFr. brandir, bandiss- < brand,
 sword, of Germanic orig.]   brandisher n.



 brandling  n.  A common reddish-brown earthworm, Eisenia foetida, often
 used as bait. [brand (from its markings) + -ling.]



 brand name  n.  A trade name (sense 1).



 brand-new  adj.  In fresh and unused condition; completely new.



 brandy  n. pl. -dies  An alcoholic liquor distilled from wine or fermented
 fruit juice.   -tr.v.-died -dying -dies   To mix, flavor, or preserve with
 brandy. [Short for brandy-wine < Du. brandewijn : branden, to distill +
 wijn, wine.]



 branks  n.  A metal bridle with a bit to restrain the tongue, formerly
 used to punish scolds. [Orig. unknown.]



 brannigan  n.  Slang.  1. A noisy or confused quarrel. 2. A spree; binge.
 [Prob. from the name Brannigan.]



 brant or brent   n. pl. brant  or brants  brent  or brents   Any of
 several wild geese of the genus Branta that breed in arctic regions, esp.
 B. bernicla, having a black neck and head. [Orig. unknown.]



 brash
 brash(1)  adj. -er -est   1. Hasty and unthinking; rash. 2. Impudent;
 saucy. 3. Brittle: brash timbers.  [Orig. unknown.]   brashly adv.
 brashness n.
 brash(2)  n.  A mass or pile of rubble or fragments, as of floating ice.
 [Perh. an alteration of Fr. breche, breach.]



 brass  n.  1. An alloy of copper and zinc with other metals in varying
 lesser amounts. 2. Ornaments, objects, or utensils made of brass. 3.
 brasses   Music. Wind instruments, such as the French horn and trombone,
 made of brass. 4. A memorial plaque or tablet made of brass. 5. A bushing
 sleeve or similar lining for a bearing, made from a copper alloy. 6.
 Informal. Blatant self-assurance; effrontery. 7.  Slang. High-ranking
 military officers or other high officials. 8.  Chiefly British.  Slang.
 Money. brass buttons; the brass players.  [ME bras < OE braes.]



 brassage  n.  A charge issued by a government to cover the cost of
 converting bullion to coins. [Fr., act of stirring, coining money, brassage
 < brasser, to brew, mix < OFr. bracier < Lat. braces, a kind of grain, of
 Celtic orig.]



 brassard  n.  1. A cloth badge worn around the upper arm. 2. A piece of
 armor for the arm. [Fr. < Prov. brassal < bras, arm < Lat. bracchium < Gk.
 brakhion.]



 brassbound  adj.  Firmly and inflexibly established; rigid: a brassbound
 tradition.



 brass-collar  adj.  Voting the straight party ticket with no variation.



 brasserie  n.  A restaurant serving alcoholic beverages, esp. beer, as
 well as food. [Fr. < brasser, to brew. -see brassage.]



 brass hat  n.  Slang.  1. A high-ranking military officer. 2. A
 high-ranking civilian official. [From the gold braid on his hat.]



 brassie or brassy   n.  pl.-ies.A wooden golf club with a brass-plated
 sole, used for long low shots.



 brassiere or brassiere   n.  A woman's undergarment worn to support and
 give contour to the breasts. [Fr. < OFr. braciere, armguard < bras, arm <
 Lat. bracchium < Gk. brakhion.]



 brass knuckles  pl.n.  A weapon consisting of a metal strip or chain with
 holes or links into which the fingers fit.



 brass tacks  pl.n.  Informal.  Essential facts; basics: getting down to
 brass tacks.



 brassy
 brassy(1)  adj. -ier -iest   1. Of or decorated with brass. 2. Resembling
 brass in color. 3. Like or characterized by the sound of brass instruments.
 4. Cheap and showy; flashy. 5.  Informal. Brazen; insolent.   brassily adv.
   brassiness n.
 brassy(2)  n.  Variant of brassie.



 brat  n.  A child, esp. a nasty, spoiled, or ill-mannered one. [Poss. <
 brat, coarse garment < ME < OE bratt, of Celtic orig.]   bratty adj.



 brattice  n.  A partition, esp. one erected in a mine for ventilation.
 -tr.v.-ticed -ticing -tices   To equip with a brattice. [ME bretice,
 defensive structure < OFr. breteche < Med. Lat. brittisca.]



 brattle  n.  A rattling or clattering sound.   -intr.v.-tled -tling -tles
  To make a brattle. [Imit.]



 bratwurst  n.  A sausage made with finely chopped, seasoned fresh pork.
 [G. < OHG bratwurst : brato, meat + wurst, sausage.]



 Braunschweiger  n.  A smoked liver sausage. [G. < Braunschweig, Brunswick,
 West Germany.]



 brava  interj.  Used to express approval in applauding a woman.   -n. A
 shout or cry of "brava." [Ital., fem. of bravo, bravo.]



 bravado  n. pl. -does  or -dos  1. Defiant or swaggering behavior. 2. A
 pretense of courage; false bravery. [Sp. bravada < bravo, brave.]



 brave  adj. braver bravest   1. Possessing or displaying courage; valiant.
 2. Making a fine display; splendid. 3.  Archaic. Excellent.   -n. 1. A
 North American Indian warrior. 2. A courageous person. 3.  Obsolete. A
 bully. 4.  Obsolete. A boast or challenge.   -v.braved braving braves
 -tr. 1. To undergo or face courageously. 2. To defy; challenge:  Together
 they would brave Satan and all his legions (Emily Bronte)). 3.  Obsolete.
 To make splendid. -intr. Obsolete.  To boast. [OFr. < OItal. bravo.]
 bravely adv.   braveness n.

      Synonyms: brave courageous fearless intrepid bold
 daring audacious gallant valiant valorous
 doughty game gritty mettlesome plucky
 dauntless undaunted These adjectives all apply to admirable human action in
 difficult conditions. Brave , the least specific, is frequently associated
 with an innate quality, and courageous  with the act of consciously rising
 to a specific test by drawing on a reserve of moral strength and
 righteousness. Fearless  emphasizes, besides absence of fear, resolute
 self-possession; intrepid  adds to this the sense of invulnerability to
 fear in any situation. Bold  and daring  stress not only readiness to meet
 danger but a desire to seize initiative; audacious  intensifies those
 qualities, often to the point of recklessness. Gallant  also implies
 indifference to danger, together with a noble display of courage, often in
 a losing cause. Valiant , said principally of persons, pertains to the
 bravery or courage of heroes, and valorous  to their deeds. On a lower and
 perhaps more contemporary plane, doughty  suggests formidableness (now
 usually humorously), and game  and gritty  imply dogged persistence and
 capacity for resisting pain. Mettlesome  stresses spirit and love of
 challenge; plucky  stresses spirit and heart in the face of unfavorable
 odds. Dauntless  refers to courage that resists subjection or intimidation;
 undaunted  more strongly suggests such courage that has been put to actual
 test.




 bravery  n. pl. -ies  1. The state or quality of being brave; courage. 2.
 Splendor, as of attire; show.



 bravissimo  interj.  Used to express great approval. [Ital., superl. of
 bravo, fine.]



 bravo
 bravo(1)  interj.  Used to express approval.   -n.pl. -vos  A shout or cry
 of "bravo." [Ital., fine.]
 bravo(2)   n. pl. -voes  or -vos  A hired assassin; killer. [Ital.,
 brigand.]



 bravura  n.  1.  Music. Brilliant technique or style in performance. 2. A
 showy manner or display. [Ital. < bravo, fine.]   bravura adj.



 braw  adj. -er -est   Scots.  Fine or splendid. [Sc., alteration of
 brave.]



 brawl  n.  1. A noisy quarrel or fight. 2.  Slang. A loud party.
 -intr.v.brawled brawling brawls   1. To quarrel noisily. 2. To flow
 noisily, as water. [ME brall < brallen, to quarrel.]   brawler n.
 brawlingly adv.



 brawn  n.  1. Solid and well-developed muscles. 2. Muscular strength and
 power. 3.  Chiefly British.  a. A pig. b. A pickled or preserved
 preparation made from meat of the head or feet of a pig. [ME, muscle < OFr.
 braon, meat, of Germanic orig.]



 brawny  adj. -ier -iest   Strong and muscular.   brawnily adv.
 brawniness n.



 bray
 bray(1)  v. brayed braying brays   -intr. 1. To utter the loud, harsh cry
 of a donkey. 2. To sound loudly and harshly: The foghorn brayed all night.
 -tr. To utter loudly and harshly.   -n. 1. The loud, harsh cry of a donkey.
 2. A sound resembling a bray. [ME brayen < OFr. braire, prob. of Celtic
 orig.]   brayer n.
 bray(2)  tr.v. brayed braying brays   1. To crush and pound in or as if in
 a mortar. 2. To spread (ink) thinly over a surface. [ME brayen < OFr.
 breier, of Germanic orig.]



 brayer  n.  Printing.  A small hand roller used to spread ink thinly and
 evenly over type.



 braze
 braze(1)  tr.v. brazed brazing brazes   1. To make of or decorate with
 brass. 2. To make hard like brass. [ME brasen < OE brasian < braes, brass.]

 braze(2)  tr.v. brazed brazing brazes   To solder (two pieces of metal)
 together using a hard solder with a high melting point. [Prob. < Fr. braser
 < OFr. < brese, hot coals.]   brazer n.



 brazen  adj.  1. Made of brass. 2. Resembling brass in color, quality, or
 hardness. 3. Having a loud, resonant sound like that of a brass trumpet. 4.
 Impudent; bold.   -tr.v.-zened -zening -zens   To face or undergo with bold
 self-assurance: brazened out the crisis.  [ME brasen < OE braesen < braes,
 brass.]   brazenly adv.   brazenness n.



 brazenfaced  adj.  Impudent and shameless.



 brazier
 brazier(1)  n.  One that works in brass. [ME brasier < bras, brass.]
 brazier(2)  n.  A metal pan for holding burning coals or charcoal. [Fr.
 brasier < braise, hot coals.]



 brazilin  n.  A crystalline compound, C16H14O5, obtained from brazilwood
 and used as a dye. [Fr. bresiline < bresil, brazilwood < OFr. bresil.]



 Brazil nut  n.  1. A tree, Bertholletia excelsa, of tropical South
 America, bearing hard, round, woody pods that contain about 20 to 30 nuts.
 2. The edible nut of the Brazil nut. [After Brazil.]



 brazilwood  n.  The red wood of any of several tropical trees of the genus
 Caesalpinia, used for cabinetwork and as the source of a red or purple dye.
 [Obs. brazil, brazilwood (< ME brasil < OFr. bresil) + wood.]



 breach  n.  1. A violation or infraction, as of a law, legal obligation,
 or promise. 2. A gap or rift, esp. in a solid structure such as a dike or
 fortification. 3. A breaking up or disruption of friendly relations;
 estrangement. 4. A leap of a whale from the water. 5. The breaking of waves
 or surf. 6.  Obsolete. A wound; injury.   -v.breached breaching breaches
 -tr. To make a hole or gap in; break through. -intr. To leap from the
 water: waiting for the whale to breach.  [ME breche < OE brec.]

      Synonyms: breach infraction violation transgression trespass
 encroachment infringement These nouns apply to the act of one who commits a
 legal or moral offense. Breach  and infraction  are applied to any failure
 to keep the law or to fulfill one's duties, obligations, word, or the like,
 whether intentional or otherwise. Violation  is broadly applicable to such
 an act committed willfully, and more strongly suggests injury.
 Transgression  refers to violation, generally of divine or moral law, in
 which sense it denotes sin. Trespass  refers either to violation of moral
 or statutory law; in the latter sense it denotes forceful violation of
 another's rights, possessions, or person. In all senses it implies willful
 intrusion. Encroachment  is the act of gradual intrusion on another's
 rights, territory, or other possessions, generally by stealth. Infringement
  is used broadly in the sense of infraction or violation and specifically
 to denote encroachment on another's rights, such as the rights granted by a
 copyright.




 breach of promise  n.  The failure to fulfill a promise, esp. a promise to
 marry.



 bread  n.  1. A staple food made from flour or meal mixed with a liquid,
 usually combined with a leavening agent, and kneaded, shaped into loaves,
 and baked. 2. Food in general, regarded as necessary for sustaining life.
 3.  a. The necessities of life; livelihood: earn one's bread.  b. Something
 that nourishes; sustenance. c.  Slang. Money.   -tr.v.breaded breading
 breads   To coat with bread crumbs, as before cooking. [ME < OE bread.]



 bread and butter  n.  Informal.  A means of support; livelihood.



 bread-and-butter  adj.  1. Influenced by or undertaken out of necessity: a
 bread-and-butter job.  2. Expressive of gratitude for hospitality: a
 bread-and-butter note.



 breadbasket  n.  1. A basket for serving bread. 2. A geographic region
 serving as a principal source of grain supply. 3.  Slang. The stomach.



 breadboard  n.  1. A board on which bread is sliced. 2. An experimental
 model, esp. of an electric circuit; prototype.   -tr.v.-boarded -boarding
 -boards   To construct an experimental model of (an electric circuit, for
 example).   breadboarding n.



 breadfruit  n.  1. A tree, Artocarpus communis (or A. incisa ), of
 Polynesia, having deeply lobed leaves and round, usually seedless fruit. 2.
 The edible fruit of the breadfruit, having a texture like that of bread
 when baked or roasted.



 bread mold  n.  A fungus, Rhizopus nigricans, that forms a dense, cottony
 growth on bread and other foods.



 breadnut  n.  1. A tree, Brosimum alicastrum, of Central America and the
 West Indies, bearing round, nutlike fruit. 2. The fruit of the breadnut,
 ground to produce a substitute for wheat flour.



 breadroot  n.  A plant, Psoralea esculenta, of the central North American
 plains, having an edible, starchy root.



 breadstuff  n.  1. Bread. 2. Flour, meal, or grain used in the baking of
 bread.



 breadth  n.  1. The measure or dimension from side to side as
 distinguished from length or thickness; width. 2. A piece of something
 usually produced in a standard width: a breadth of canvas.  3. Wide extent
 or scope. 4. Freedom from narrowness, as of views or interests. [ME brede <
 OE braed.]



 breadthwise or breadthways   adv.  -adj. In the direction of the breadth.



 breadwinner  n.  One who supports a family or household by his or her
 earnings.



 break  v. broke broken breaking breaks.   -tr. 1. To crack or split into
 two or more pieces with sudden or violent force; smash. 2. To crack without
 actually separating into pieces. 3. To render unusable or inoperative. 4.
 To part or pierce the surface of: break ground for a new hospital.  5. To
 cause to burst. 6. To fracture a bone of. 7. To force or make a way
 through; penetrate: break the sound barrier.  8. To force one's way out of;
 escape from: break jail.  9. To put an end to by force or strong
 opposition: break a strike.  10. To fail to conform to; violate. 11. To
 disrupt abruptly; interrupt: A cry broke the silence.  12. To cause to give
 up a habit. 13. To train to obey; tame. 14. To disrupt or destroy the order
 or regularity of: break ranks.  15. To destroy the completeness of: break a
 set of books.  16. To lessen in force or effect: break a fall.  17. To
 weaken or destroy, as in spirit or health:  For a hero loves the world till
 it breaks him (Yeats). 18. To overwhelm with grief or sorrow: broke her
 heart.  19. To cause to be without money or go into bankruptcy. 20. To
 reduce in rank; demote. 21. To reduce to or exchange for smaller monetary
 units: break a dollar.  22. To surpass or outdo: break a record.  23. To
 make known, as news. 24. To find the solution or key to. 25.  Law. To
 invalidate (a will) by judicial action. 26.  Electricity. To open: break a
 circuit.  -intr. 1. To become separated into pieces or fragments; come
 apart. 2. To become unusable or inoperative. 3. To give way; collapse: The
 dam broke.  4. To diminish or discontinue abruptly: His fever broke.  5. To
 scatter or disperse. 6. To move away or escape suddenly. 7. To change
 direction suddenly. 8. To come into being or notice, esp. suddenly. 9. To
 emerge above the surface of water. 10. To be overwhelmed with sorrow: His
 heart broke when the last child died.  11. To begin abruptly to produce or
 utter something: flowers breaking into bloom.  12. To come to an end;
 finish: The game will break up in ten minutes.  13. To drop rapidly and
 considerably: Stock prices broke at the news.  14. To collapse or crash
 into surf or spray, as waves. 15. To change from one tone quality or
 musical register to another. 16. To curve near or over a baseball plate:
 The pitch broke sharply.  17.  Informal. To occur in a particular way:
 Things are breaking well for her.  Phrasal verb.  break down. 1. To fail to
 function; cease to be useful or operable. 2. To have a physical or mental
 collapse. 3. To become or cause to become distressed or upset. 4. To
 consider in parts; analyze. 5. To decompose chemically. 6. To undergo
 electrical breakdown. break in. 1. To train or adapt for some purpose. 2.
 To loosen or soften with use: break in new shoes.  3. To enter forcibly or
 suddenly. 4. To interrupt. break in on upon. To interrupt or intrude on.
 break into. 1. To enter forcibly, suddenly, or illegally. 2. To interrupt:
 No one would have dared to break into his abstraction (Alan Paton). 3. To
 begin suddenly: The horse broke into a wild gallop.  break off. 1. To stop
 suddenly, as in speaking. 2. To discontinue (a relationship). break out. 1.
 To become affected with a skin eruption, as pimples. 2. To develop suddenly
 and forcefully: Fighting broke out in the prison cells.  3.  a. To ready
 for action or use: break out the rifles.  b. To produce for consumption:
 break out the champagne.  break up. 1. To bring or come to an end: break up
 a fight. The marriage broke up.  2.  Informal. To burst or cause to burst
 into laughter.   -n. 1. The act of breaking; a separating into parts. 2.
 The result of breaking; fracture or crack. 3. A beginning or opening: the
 break of day.  4. A dash, esp. to escape. 5. An interruption or disruption
 of continuity or regularity. 6. A pause or interval, as from work. 7. A
 sudden or marked change. 8.  Informal. A chance occurrence, esp. an
 unexpected opportunity. 9. A severing of ties. 10. A sudden decline in
 prices. 11. A caesura. 12.  Printing.  a. The space between two paragraphs.
 b. A series of three dots ( . . . ) used to indicate an omission in a text.
 13.  Electricity. Interruption of a flow of current. 14.  Music.  a. The
 point at which a register or a tonal quality changes to another register or
 tonal quality. b. The change itself. c. A solo jazz cadenza played during
 the pause between the regular phrases or choruses of a melody. 15. The
 swerving of a ball from a straight path of flight when thrown, as in
 baseball. 16. The opening shot in billiards. 17. A run or unbroken series
 of successful shots, as in billiards or croquet. 18. Failure to score a
 strike or a spare in a given bowling frame. 19. brake  A high, open
 horse-drawn carriage with four wheels.

       Idiom Section:  break camp. . To pack up equipment and leave a
 campsite. [ME breken < OE brecan.]

      Synonyms: break crack fracture rupture burst
 split splinter shatter shiver smash crush
  These verbs describe the effect of sudden application of force. Break ,
 the least specific, usually involves separation of a rigid object into
 parts; sometimes, however, it is used in the sense of crack , which
 specifies adherence of parts. Fracture  applies to breaking or cracking of
 a rigid body. Rupture  refers to breaking apart or tearing of a soft or
 pliable substance; sometimes rupturing (as in the case of a blood vessel)
 results from internal force and thus has the basic sense of burst refers to
 the breaking of a rigid substance lengthwise or in the direction of the
 grain. Splinter  involves splitting into thin and sharp separate pieces.
 Shatter  pertains to the breaking of a rigid object into many small,
 scattered pieces. Shiver  indicates fragmentation by sudden force but
 especially suggests fine splinters. Smash  stresses force of impact and
 complete change of form of a rigid body but is otherwise not specific.
 Crush  refers to the effect of great external force, to change of form, or
 to reduction into fine particles.




 breakable  adj.  Capable of being broken.   -n. breakables  Articles
 capable of being broken easily.   breakableness n.



 breakage  n.  1. The act or process of breaking. 2. A quantity broken. 3.
 a. Loss or damage as a result of breaking. b. An allowance for such loss or
 damage.



 breakaway  adj.  1. Designating a theatrical prop designed to fall apart
 easily. 2. Capable of or favoring independent action: a breakaway political
 group.    -n. 1. One that breaks away. 2. A breakaway object.



 breakbone fever  n.  Dengue.



 breakdown  n.  1.  a. The act or process of breaking down and failing to
 function. b. The condition resulting from this. 2.  Electricity. The
 failure of an insulator or insulating medium to prevent discharge or
 current flow. 3. A collapse in physical or mental health. 4. An analysis,
 outline, or summary consisting of itemized data or essentials. 5.
 Disintegration or decomposition into parts or elements.



 breaker
 breaker(1)  n.  1. One that breaks. 2. A machine or plant for breaking up a
 substance, as rock. 3.  Electricity. A circuit breaker. 4. A wave that
 crests or breaks into foam, esp. against a shoreline.
 breaker(2)  n.  A small water cask for use on a ship's lifeboat.
 [Alteration of Sp. barrica.]



 breakfast  n.  The first meal of the day. a breakfast tray.
 -intr.v.-fasted -fasting -fasts   To eat breakfast. [ME brekfast : breken,
 to break + faste, a fast < ON fasta.]   breakfaster n.



 breakfront  n.  A high, wide cabinet or bookcase having a central section
 projecting beyond the end sections.



 break-in  n.  1. Forcible entry, as into a dwelling, for an illegal
 purpose such as theft. 2. A training or testing period intended to improve
 the performance of someone or something new.



 breaking  n.  Linguistics.  The change of a simple vowel to a diphthong,
 often caused by the influence of neighboring consonants. [Transl. of G.
 Brechung.]



 breaking and entering  n.  Law.  The gaining of an unauthorized access, as
 by forcing a lock, to another's premises for the purpose of committing a
 crime.



 breaking point  n.  1. The point at which a person breaks down under
 stress. 2. The point at which a condition or situation becomes critical.



 breakneck  adj.  1. Dangerous: breakneck speed.  2. Rapid.



 breakout  n.  A forceful break from a restrictive condition or situation.



 breakthrough  n.  1. An act of breaking through an obstacle or
 restriction. 2. A military offensive that penetrates an enemy's lines of
 defense. 3. A major achievement or success that permits further progress,
 as in technology.



 breakup  n.  1. The act of breaking up; a separation or dispersal. 2.
 Informal. A loss of control or composure.



 breakwater  n.  A barrier that protects a harbor or shore from the full
 impact of waves.



 bream
 bream(1)  n. pl. bream  or breams  1. Any of several European freshwater
 fishes of the genus Abramis, having a flattened body and silvery scales. 2.
 Any of several fishes similar or related to the bream. [ME breme < OFr., of
 Germanic orig.]
 bream(2)  tr.v. breamed breaming breams   To clean (a wooden ship's hull)
 by applying heat to soften the pitch and then scraping. [Orig. unknown.]



 breast  n.  1.  a. The human mammary gland. b. A homologous organ in other
 mammals. 2. The superior ventral surface of the body, extending from the
 neck to the abdomen. 3. The seat of affection and emotion: caused no pity
 in his breast.  4. Something likened to the breast: the breast of a hill.
  -tr.v.breasted breasting breasts   To encounter or advance against
 resolutely; confront boldly. [ME brest < OE breost.]



 breast-beating  n.  A noisy demonstration, esp. of self-accusation.



 breastbone  n.  The sternum.



 breast-feed  tr.v. -fed  or feeding, feeds.   To feed (a baby) mother's
 milk from the breast; suckle.



 breastplate  n.  1. A piece of armor plate that covers the breast. 2. A
 square cloth set with 12 precious stones representing the 12 tribes of
 Israel, worn by a Jewish high priest. 3. The plastron of a turtle's or
 tortoise's shell.



 breast stroke  n.  A swimming stroke in which one lies face down in the
 water and extends the arms in front of the head, then sweeps them both back
 laterally under the surface of the water while performing a frog kick.
 breaststroker n.



 breastwork  n.  A temporary, quickly constructed fortification, usually
 breast-high.



 breath  n.  1. The air inhaled and exhaled in respiration. 2. The act or
 process of breathing; respiration. 3. The capacity to breathe. 4. A single
 respiration. 5. Exhaled air, as evidenced by vapor, odor, or heat. 6. A
 momentary pause or rest. 7.  a. A momentary stirring of air. b. A slight
 gust of fragrant air. 8. A trace or suggestion. 9. A soft-spoken sound;
 whisper. 10. Exhalation of air without vibration of the vocal cords, as in
 the articulation of p and s.

       Idiom Section:  hold (one's) breath. . To wait anxiously or
 excitedly. in the same breath. At or almost at the same time. out of
 breath. Breathless, as from exertion. take (one's) breath away. To leave
 one as if breathless from awe or surprise. under (one's) breath. In a
 whisper or muted voice. [ME breth < OE braeo.]



 breathe  v. breathed breathing breathes   -intr. 1. To inhale and exhale
 air. 2. To be alive; live. 3. To move or blow gently, as air. 4. To be
 exhaled or emanated, as a fragrance. 5. To pause to rest or regain breath:
 Give me a moment to breathe.  -tr. 1. To inhale and exhale during
 respiration. 2. To impart as if by breathing; instill: breathe life into a
 portrait.  3. To exhale; emit. 4. To utter, esp. quietly; whisper: Don't
 breathe a word of this.  5. To make apparent; manifest. 6. To allow (a
 person or animal) to rest or regain breath.

       Idiom Section:  breathe (one's) last. . To die. [ME brethen < breth,
 breath.]   breathable adj.



 breather  n.  1. One that breathes, esp. in a specified manner. 2.
 Informal. A short rest period.



 breathing  n.  1. The act or process of respiration. 2. Either of two
 marks used in Greek to indicate aspiration of an initial sound ( " ) or the
 absence of such aspiration ( ' ).



 breathing space  n.  1. Sufficient space to permit ease of breathing or
 movement. 2. An opportunity to rest or give thought to a situation.



 breathing spell  n.  A breathing space (sense 2).



 breathless  adj.  1.  a. Without breath; not breathing. b. Dead. 2. Having
 no air or breeze; still: a breathless day.  3. Out-of-breath. 4. Holding
 the breath from excitement or suspense: a breathless audience.  5.
 Inspiring or marked by sudden excitement that takes the breath away: a
 breathless flight.    breathlessly adv.   breathlessness n.



 breathtaking  adj.  Inspiring awe; exciting.   breathtakingly adv.



 breathy  adj. -ier -iest   Marked by audible or noisy breathing: a breathy
 voice.    breathily adv.   breathiness n.



 breccia  n.  Rock composed of sharp-angled fragments cemented in a fine
 matrix. [Ital., of Germanic orig.]



 brecciate  tr.v. -ciated -ciating -ciates   To form (rock) into breccia.
 brecciation n.



 bred  v.  Past tense and past participle of breed.



 brede  n.  Archaic.  An ornamental embroidered edging. [Alteration of
 braid.]



 bred-in-the-bone  adj.  1. Deeply instilled: bred-in-the-bone loyalty.  2.
 Firmly established; inveterate: a bred-in-the-bone liberal.



 breech  n.  1. The lower rear portion of the human trunk; buttocks. 2. The
 lower part of a pulley. 3. The part of a firearm to the rear of the bore.
 4. breeches   a. Trousers extending to or just below the knee. b.
 Informal. Trousers.   -tr.v.breeched breeching breeches   Archaic.
 Regional.  To clothe with breeches. [ME brech < OE brec, pl. of broc, leg
 covering.]



 breechblock  n.  The metal part that closes the breech end of the barrel
 of a breechloading gun and that is removed to insert a cartridge and
 replaced before firing.



 breechcloth or breechclout   n.  A cloth worn to cover the loins;
 loincloth.



 breech delivery  n.  Delivery of a fetus with the buttocks or feet
 appearing first.



 breeches buoy  n.  An apparatus used for rescues and transfers at sea,
 consisting of sturdy canvas breeches attached at the waist to a ring buoy
 that is suspended from a pulley running along a rope from ship to shore or
 from ship to ship.



 breeching  n.  1. The strap of a harness that passes behind a draft
 animal's haunches. 2. The parts of a gun that make up the breech. 3. A rope
 formerly used to secure the breech of a cannon to the side of a ship to
 control the recoil.



 breechloader  n.  A gun or firearm loaded at the breech.   breechloading
 adj.



 breech presentation  n.  The position of a fetus during labor in which the
 buttocks or feet appear first.



 breed  v. bred  or breeding  or breeds   -tr. 1. To produce (offspring);
 give birth to or hatch. 2. To bring about; engender. 3.  a. To cause to
 reproduce; raise. b. To develop new or improved strains in (animals or
 plants). 4. To rear or train; bring up. -intr. 1. To produce offspring. 2.
 To originate and thrive: Fads breed in empty heads and full purses.    -n.
 1. A genetic strain or type of organism, usually a domestic animal, having
 consistent and recognizable inherited characteristics, esp. such a strain
 developed and maintained by man. 2. A kind; sort: a new breed of
 politicians.  [ME breden < OE bredan.]



 breeder  n.  1. A person who breeds animals or plants. 2. An animal kept
 to produce offspring. 3. A cause or source. 4.  Physics. A breeder reactor.




 breeder reactor  n.  A nuclear reactor that produces as well as consumes
 fissionable material, esp. one that produces more fissionable material than
 it consumes.



 breeding  n.  1. One's line of descent; ancestry: a woman of noble
 breeding.  2. Training in the proper forms of social and personal conduct.
 3. The producing of offspring or young. 4. The propagation of animals or
 plants.



 breeding ground  n.  1. A place to which animals go to breed. 2. A place
 or set of circumstances that encourages certain ideas or conditions.



 breeks  pl.n.  Scots.  Breeches. [ME, var. of breeches.]



 breeze
 breeze(1)  n.  1. A light air current; gentle wind. 2.  Meteorology. A wind
 of from 6.4 to 49.6 kilometers or 4 to 31 miles per hour. 3.  Chiefly
 British.  Informal. A commotion or disturbance; argument. 4.  Informal. An
 easily accomplished task.   -intr.v.breezed breezing breezes   1. To blow
 lightly. 2.  Informal. To progress swiftly and effortlessly: breezed
 through the test.  [Perh. < OSp. briza, northeast wind.]
 breeze(2)  n.  The refuse left when coal, coke, or charcoal is burned, used
 in brickmaking and as a concrete filler. [Prob. < Fr. braise, hot coals <
 OFr. brese.]



 breezeway  n.  A roofed, open-sided passageway connecting two structures,
 such as a house and a garage.



 breezy  adj. -ier -iest   1. Exposed to breezes; windy. 2. Fresh and
 animated; lively: a breezy prose style.    breezily adv.   breeziness n.



 bregma  n. pl. -mata  The junction of the sagittal and coronal sutures at
 the top of the skull. [NLat. < LLat., top of head < Gk.]   bregmatic adj.



 bremsstrahlung  n.  The electromagnetic radiation produced by an
 electrically charged subatomic particle, such as an electron, subjected to
 sudden deceleration in the electric field of an atomic nucleus. [G. :
 Bremse, brake + Strahlung, radiation < Strahl, ray.]



 Bren gun  n.  A .303 caliber gas-operated, air-cooled submachine gun
 adopted by the British Army in World War II. [Blend of Brno,
 Czechoslovakia, and Enfield, England.]



 brent  n.  Variant of brant.



 br'er  n.  Southern U.S. Brother.



 brethren  n.  Archaic.  Plural of brother.



 Breton  n.  1. A native or inhabitant of Brittany. 2. The Celtic language
 of Brittany. [ME < OFr. < Lat. Briton.]   Breton adj.



 breve  n.  1. A symbol placed over a vowel to show that it has a short
 sound, as the a in bat.  2. A symbol similar to a breve used to indicate
 that a syllable of verse is short or unstressed. 3.  Music. A single note
 equivalent to two whole notes. [ME, short, var. of bref < OFr. < Lat.
 brevis.]



 brevet  n.  A commission, often granted as an honor, promoting a military
 officer in rank without an increase in pay or authority.   -tr.v.-vetted
 -vetting -vets  or -veted  or -veting  or -vets   To promote by brevet.
 [ME, official letter < AN, dim. of bref, letter < OFr. brief < Lat. breve,
 dispatch < brevis, short.]   brevetcy n.



 breviary  n. pl. -ies  Ecclesiastical.  A book containing the hymns,
 offices, and prayers for the canonical hours. [ME breviarie < Med. Lat.
 breviarium, abridgment, ult. < Lat. brevis, short.]



 brevity  n.  1. Briefness of duration. 2. Concise expression; terseness.
 [Lat. brevitas < brevis, short.]



 brew  v. brewed brewing brews   -tr. 1. To make (ale or beer) from malt
 and hops by infusion, boiling, and fermentation. 2. To make (a beverage) by
 boiling, steeping, or mixing various ingredients. 3. To concoct; devise.
 -intr. 1. To make ale or beer as an occupation. 2. To be imminent; impend:
 In spite of storms brewing on every frontier (John Dos Passos).   -n. 1. A
 beverage made by brewing. 2. The quantity of beverage brewed at one time.
 [ME brewen < OE breowan.]   brewer n.



 brewage  n.  1. Something prepared by brewing. 2. The process of brewing.



 brewer's yeast  n.  A yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, used in brewing and
 as a source of B-complex vitamins.



 brewery  n. pl. -ies  An establishment for the manufacture of malt
 liquors.



 brewhouse  n.  A brewery.



 brewis  n.  Regional.  1. A broth. 2. Bread soaked in liquid, as broth or
 milk. [ME < OFr. brouetz, dim. of brouet, broth, of Germanic orig.]



 briar or brier
 briar(1)  n.  1. A shrub or small tree, Erica arborea, of southern Europe,
 having a hard, woody root used to make tobacco pipes. 2. A pipe made from
 briarroot or from a similar wood. [Fr. bruyere, heath.]
 briar(2)   n.  Variant of brier1.



 briard  n.  A sturdily built, rough-coated dog of an ancient French breed.
 [Fr. < Brie, a region of France.]



 Briareus  n.  Greek Mythology.  A giant who aided Zeus and the Olympians
 against the Titans. [Lat. < Gk. Briareos < briaros, strong.]



 briarroot  n.  The hard, woody root of the briar.



 briarwood  n.  Wood from the root of the briar.



 bribe  n.  1. Something, such as money or a favor, offered or given to
 someone in a position of trust to induce him to act dishonestly. 2.
 Something offered or serving to influence or persuade.   -v.bribed bribing
 bribes   -tr. 1. To give, offer, or promise a bribe to. 2. To gain
 influence over or corrupt by bribery. -intr. To give, offer, or promise
 bribes. [ME < OFr., alms.]   bribable adj.   briber n.



 bribery  n. pl. -ies  The act or practice of giving, offering, or taking a
 bribe.



 bric-a-brac  n.  Small usually ornamental objects valued for their
 antiquity, rarity, or curiosity value. [Fr. bric-a-brac.]



 brick  n.  1. A molded, rectangular block of clay baked by the sun or in a
 kiln until hard and used as a building and paving material. 2. An object
 shaped like a brick: a brick of cheese.  3.  Informal. A splendid fellow. a
 brick wall.    -tr.v.bricked bricking bricks   1. To construct, line, or
 pave with brick. 2. To close or wall with brick: bricked up the windows of
 the old house.  [ME brike < MDu. bricke.]   bricky adj.



 brickbat  n.  1. A piece of brick, esp. one used as a weapon or missile.
 2. An unfavorable remark or criticism.



 brickkiln  n.  A kiln in which bricks are baked.



 bricklayer  n.  A person skilled in building with bricks.   bricklaying n.




 brick red  n.  1. A moderate reddish brown. 2. A moderate to strong brown.
   brick-red adj.



 brickwork  n.  1. A structure made of bricks. 2. Construction with bricks.




 brickyard  n.  A place where bricks are made.



 bridal  n.  A marriage ceremony; wedding.   -adj. Of or pertaining to a
 bride or a marriage ceremony; nuptial. [ME bridale, wedding feast < OE
 brydeala : bryd, bride + ealu, ale.]



 bridal wreath  n.  Either of two related shrubs, Spiraea prunifolia or S.
 vanhouttei, cultivated for their profuse white flowers.



 bride
 bride(1)  n.  A woman who has recently been married or is about to be
 married. [ME < OE bryd.]
 bride(2)  n.  A loop, bar, or tie connecting pattern segments in lacework
 or needlework. [Fr. < OFr., rein < MHG bridel < OHG brittil.]



 bridegroom  n.  A man who has recently been married or is about to be
 married. [Alteration of ME bridegome < OE brydguma : bryd, bride + guma,
 man.]



 bridesmaid  n.  A woman who attends the bride at a wedding.



 bridge
 bridge(1)  n.  1. A structure spanning and providing passage over a
 waterway, railroad, or other obstacle. 2. Something resembling or analogous
 to a bridge in form or function. 3.  a. The upper bony ridge of the human
 nose. b. The part of a pair of eyeglasses that rests against this ridge. 4.
  Music.  a. A thin, upright piece of wood in some stringed instruments that
 supports the strings above the soundboard. b. A transitional passage
 connecting two subjects or movements. 5. A fixed or removable replacement
 for one or several but not all of the natural teeth, usually anchored at
 each end to a natural tooth. 6. A crosswise platform above the main deck of
 a ship from which the ship is controlled. 7.  a. A piece of wood used to
 steady the cue in billiards. b. The hand used as a support to steady the
 cue in billiards. 8.  Electricity. Any of various circuits containing a
 branch that connects two points of equal potential and consequently carries
 no current when the circuit is suitably adjusted.   -tr.v.bridged bridging
 bridges   1. To build a bridge over. 2. To cross by or as if by a bridge.
 [ME brigge < OE brycge.]   bridgeable adj.
 bridge(2)  n.  Any of several card games derived from whist and played with
 one deck of cards divided equally among four people. [Orig. unknown.]



 bridgeboard  n.  A notched board at either side of a staircase that
 supports the treads and risers.



 bridgehead  n.  A military position established by advance troops on the
 enemy's side of a river or pass to afford protection for the main attacking
 force. [Transl. of Fr. tete de pont.]



 bridgework  n.  1. A dental bridge. 2. Dental prosthetics involving a
 bridge or bridges.



 bridging  n.  Wooden braces between beams, as of a roof, that provide
 reinforcement and distribution of stress.



 bridle  n.  1. The harness, consisting of a headstall, bit, and reins,
 fitted about a horse's head and used to restrain or guide the animal. 2. A
 curb or check. 3.  Nautical. A span of chain, wire, or rope that can be
 secured at both ends to an object and slung from its center point.
 -v.-dled -dling -dles   -tr. 1. To put a bridle on. 2. To control or
 restrain with or as if with a bridle: Bridle your curiosity.  -intr. 1. To
 lift the head and draw in the chin as an expression of scorn or resentment.
 2. To show anger or resentment; take offense: bridled at the criticism.
 [ME bridel < OE bridel.]   bridler n.



 bridle path  n.  A trail for saddle horses or pack horses.



 bridle-wise  adj.  Trained to respond to pressure of the rein on the neck
 rather than a pull on the bit, as a horse.



 bridoon  n.  A cavalry bit resembling a snaffle that can be reined
 independently of the curb bit. [Fr. bridon < bride, rein. -see bride2.]



 Brie  n.  A mold-ripened, whole-milk cheese whose center is soft. [After
 Brie, a region of France.]



 brief  adj. -er -est   1. Short in time or duration. 2. Short in length or
 extent. 3. Condensed in expression; succinct. 4. Curt; abrupt.   -n. 1. A
 short or condensed statement. 2. A condensation or abstract of a large
 document or series of documents. 3.  Law.  a. An abstract of all of the
 documents affecting the title of real property. b. A document containing
 all facts and points of law pertinent to a specific case, filed by an
 attorney before arguing the case in court. 4.  Roman Catholic Chruch. A
 papal letter pertaining to matters of discipline. 5. A briefing. 6. briefs
 Short, tight-fitting underpants.   -tr.v.briefed briefing briefs   1. To
 summarize. 2. To give concise preparatory instructions or advice to. 3.
 Chiefly British. To send a legal brief to. 4.  Chiefly British. To hire (an
 attorney) as counsel.

       Idiom Section:  in brief. In short; in a few words. [ME bref < OFr.
 bref < Lat. brevis, short.]   briefly adv.   briefness n.



 briefcase  n.  A portable rectangular case used for carrying books or
 papers. [< brief (document).]



 briefing  n.  1. The act or procedure of giving or receiving concise
 preparatory instructions, information, or advice. 2. The information
 conveyed during a briefing.



 briefless  adj.  Having no brief, thus no clients: a briefless lawyer.



 brier or briar
 brier(1)  n.  Any of various thorny plants or bushes, esp. a
 prickly-stemmed rosebush. [ME breir < OE braer.]   briery adj.
 brier(2)   n.  Variant of briar1.



 brig  n.  1. A two-masted sailing ship, square-rigged on both masts,
 carrying two or more headsails and a quadrilateral gaff sail or spanker aft
 of the mizzenmast. 2. A ship's prison. 3. A guardhouse. [Short for
 brigantine.]



 brigade  n.  1.  a. A military unit consisting of a variable number of
 combat battalions. b. A former unit of the U.S. Army composed of two or
 more regiments commanded by a brigadier general. 2. A group of persons
 organized for a specific purpose: a fire brigade.    -tr.v.-gaded -gading
 -gades   To form into a brigade. [Fr. < OFr., company < OItal. brigata <
 brigare, to fight < LLat. briga, strife.]



 brigadier  n.  A brigadier general. [Fr. < brigade, brigade.]



 brigadier general  n. pl. brigadier generals  An officer ranking between a
 colonel and a major general in the U.S. Army, Air Force, and Marine Corps.



 brigand  n.  A robber or freebooter, esp. one of a band of bandits. [ME
 brigaunt < OFr., prob. < OItal. brigante, skirmisher < brigare, to fight.
 -see brigade.]   brigandage brigandism  n.



 brigantine  n.  A two-masted sailing ship, square-rigged on the foremast
 and having a fore-and-aft mainsail with square maintopsails. [Fr. brigantin
 < OFr. brigandin < OItal. brigantino, skirmishing ship < brigante,
 skirmisher. -see brigand.]



 bright  adj. -er -est   1.  a. Emitting or reflecting light readily or in
 large amounts; shining. b. Comparatively high on the scale of brightness.
 2. Characterizing a dyestuff that produces a highly saturated color;
 brilliant in color; vivid. 3. Glorious; splendid. 4. Full of promise and
 hope; auspicious. 5. Happy; cheerful. 6. Smart; intelligent.   -n. 1. A
 thin, flat paintbrush used for highlighting. 2. brights  High-beam
 headlights.   -adv. In a bright manner. [ME < OE beorht.]   brightly adv.

      Synonyms: bright brilliant radiant lustrous lambent
 luminous incandescent effulgent bright  can be applied to anything that
 emits or reflects light. The terms that follow are more specific. A
 brilliant  object is intensely bright and striking by reason of the
 sparkle, glitter, or gleam that it emits or reflects; figuratively the term
 applies to outstanding personal qualities. A radiant  object radiates
 light; figuratively the term applies to that which, like a smile, reveals
 inner light and warmth. A lustrous  object originates no light but reflects
 an agreeable sheen. Lambent  is said of that which, like a flame, casts
 soft, flickering light; figuratively it suggests a subtle playfulness, as
 of style or wit. Physically, luminous  is broadly applicable to anything
 bright, but is said especially of that which shines in the dark or
 figuratively of that which is remarkably clear or enlightened. Incandescent
  stresses burning brilliance, as of something white-hot. Effulgent ,
 physically and figuratively, means intensely radiant.




 brighten  tr.  -intr.v.-ened -ening -ens   1. To make or become bright or
 brighter. 2. To make or become more cheerful.   brightener n.



 brightness  n.  1. The state or quality of being bright. 2. The effect or
 sensation by means of which an observer is able to distinguish differences
 in luminance. 3. The dimension of a color that represents its similarity to
 one of a series of achromatic colors ranging from very dim (dark) to very
 bright (dazzling).



 Bright's disease  n.  Chronic nephritis. [After Richard Bright
 (1789-1858).]



 brightwork  n.  Metal parts or fixtures, esp. on a ship, made bright by
 polishing.



 brill  n. pl. brill  or brills  An edible flatfish, Scophthalmus rhombus,
 of European waters. [Orig. unknown.]



 brilliance or brilliancy   n.  1. Extreme brightness. 2. Sharpness and
 clarity of musical tone. 3. Splendor; magnificence. 4. Exceptional clarity
 and agility of intellect or invention.



 brilliant  adj.  1. Full of light; shining. 2.  a. Brightly vivid in
 color. b. Designating a color that has a combination of high lightness and
 strong saturation. 3.  Music. Sharp and clear in tone. 4. Glorious;
 magnificent: the brilliant court life of Versailles.  5. Superb; wonderful:
 a brilliant performance.  6. Marked by extraordinary powers of intellect or
 invention.   -n. A precious gem, esp. a diamond, finely cut in any of
 various forms with numerous facets. [Fr. brillant, pr.part. of briller, to
 shine < Ital. brillare, perh. < brillo, beryl < Lat. beryllus.]
 brilliantly adv.   brilliantness n.



 brilliantine  n.  1. An oily, perfumed hairdressing. 2. A glossy fabric
 made from cotton and worsted or cotton and mohair. [Fr. brillantine <
 brillant, brilliant.]



 Brill's disease  n.  A form of epidemic typhus that is believed to be a
 recurrence of an earlier infection. [After Nathan E. Brill (1860-1925).]



 brim  n.  1. The rim or uppermost edge of a cup or other vessel. 2. A
 projecting rim or edge: the brim of a hat.  3. A border or edge, esp. one
 surrounding a body of water.   -tr. -intr.v.brimmed brimming brims   To
 fill or be full to the brim. Phrasal verb.  brim over. To overflow. [ME
 brimme, of Germanic orig.]



 brimful  adj.  Full to the brim.



 brimstone  n.  Obsolete.  Sulfur. [ME brimston < OE brynstan.]



 brin  n.  One of the ribs of a fan. [Fr.]



 brindle  n.  1. A brindled color. 2. A brindled animal. [Back-formation <
 brindled.]



 brindled  adj.  Tawny or grayish with streaks or spots of a darker color.
 [Alteration of ME brended, perh. < brende, p.part. of brennen, to burn < ON
 brenna.]



 brine  n.  1. Water saturated with or containing large amounts of a salt,
 esp. of sodium chloride. 2.  a. The water of a sea or an ocean. b. A large
 body of salt water. 3. Salt water used for preserving and pickling foods.
 -tr.v.brined brining brines   To immerse, preserve, or pickle in brine. [ME
 < OE brine.]   briner n.



 Brinell hardness  n.  The relative hardness of metals and alloys,
 determined by forcing a steel ball into a test piece under standard
 conditions and measuring the surface area of the resulting indentation.
 [After Johann A. Brinell (1849-1925).]



 Brinell number  n.  The numerical value assigned to the Brinell hardness
 of metals and alloys.



 brine shrimp  n.  Any of various small crustaceans of the genus Artemia.



 bring  tr.v. brought bringing brings   1. To take with oneself to a place;
 convey or carry along: brought enough money with him.  2. To carry as an
 attribute or contribution: brought years of experience to his new post.  3.
 To lead or force into a specified state, situation, or location: brought
 the water to a boil; was brought to grief.  4. To succeed in persuading;
 induce: His confession brought others to confess.  5. To cause to occur as
 a consequence or concomitant: Floods brought death to the valley.  6. To
 cause to become apparent to the mind; recall: bring back memories.  7.
 Law. To advance or set forth (charges, for example) in a court. 8. To sell
 for; fetch. Phrasal verb.  bring about. To cause to happen. bring around
 round. 1. To cause to adopt an opinion or course of action. 2. To cause to
 recover consciousness. bring down. 1. To cause to fall or collapse. 2. To
 kill. bring forth. 1. To give rise to; effect; produce. 2. To bear (fruit
 or young). bring forward. 1. To present; produce: bring forward proof.  2.
 Accounting. To carry (a sum) from one page or column to another. bring in.
 1. To give or submit (a verdict). 2. To produce or yield (profits or
 income). bring off. To accomplish successfully. bring on. 1. To result in;
 cause. 2. To cause to appear: bring on the dessert.  bring out. 1. To
 reveal or expose. 2. To produce or publish. bring over. To win over. bring
 to. 1. To cause to recover consciousness. 2. To cause (a ship) to turn into
 the wind and lose way. bring up. 1. To take care of and educate (a child);
 rear. 2. To introduce into discussion; mention. 3. To vomit or cough up.
 [ME bringen < OE bringan.]   bringer n.

      Usage: In most dialects of American English, bring  is used to denote
 movement toward the place of speaking or the point from which the action is
 regarded: Bring it to me now. He brought his children a present from his
 travels. Take  denotes movement away from such a place. Thus, one normally
 takes  checks to the bank and brings  home cash, though from the banker's
 point of view, one has brought  him checks in order to take  away cash.



 bringdown  n.  Something that disturbs or disappoints.



 bringing-up  n.  The care, training, and education of a child; upbringing.




 brink  n.  1.  a. The upper edge of a steep or vertical slope: the brink
 of a cliff.  b. The margin of land bordering a body of water. 2. The verge
 of something: on the brink of discovery.  [ME, prob. of Scand. orig.]



 brinkmanship  n.  The practice, esp. in international politics, of seeking
 advantage by creating the impression that one is willing and able to pass
 the brink of nuclear war rather than concede.



 briny  adj. -ier -iest   Of, pertaining to, or resembling brine; salty.
 -n. Slang.  The sea.   brininess n.



 brio  n.  Vigor; vivacity. [Ital., of Celt. orig.]



 brioche  n.  A soft, light-textured roll or bun made from eggs, butter,
 flour, and yeast. [Fr. < OFr. < dial. brier, var. of broyer, to knead, of
 Germanic orig.]



 briolette  n.  A pear-shaped gem, esp. a diamond, cut with long triangular
 facets. [Fr.]



 briquette or briquet   n.  A block of compressed coal dust or charcoal,
 used for fuel and kindling. [Fr. briquette, dim. of brique, brick < MDu.
 bricke.]



 brisance  n.  The shattering effect of a sudden release of energy, as in
 an explosion. [Fr. < brisant, pr.part. of briser, to break, of Celt. orig.]
   brisant adj.



 brisk  adj. -er -est   1. Lively; energetic: a brisk walk.  2. Keen or
 sharp in speech or manner: a brisk greeting.  3. Stimulating and
 invigorating: a brisk wind.  4. Pleasantly zestful: a brisk tea.  [Orig.
 unknown.]   briskly adv.   briskness n.



 brisket  n.  1. The chest of an animal. 2. The ribs and meat from the
 brisket. [ME brusket, poss. of Scand. orig.]



 brisling  n.  The sprat (sense 1). [Norw. < LG bretling < bret, broad.]



 bristle  n.  A short, coarse, stiff hair or hairlike part.   -v.-tled
 -tling -tles   -intr. 1. To erect the bristles, as an angry, excited, or
 frightened animal: The porcupine stood its ground and bristled.  2. To
 react with agitation to anger, excitement, or fear. 3. To stand erectly on
 end like bristles. 4. To be covered or thick with or as if with bristles:
 The path bristled with thorns.  -tr. 1. To cause to stand erect like
 bristles; stiffen. 2. To furnish or supply with bristles. 3. To ruffle;
 disturb. [ME bristel.]   bristly adj.



 bristlecone pine  n.  A small pine, Pinus aristata, of the western United
 States, that is the longest-living conifer known.



 bristletail  n.  Any of various wingless insects of the order Thysanura,
 such as the silverfish, having bristlelike posterior appendages.



 Bristol board  n.  A smooth, heavy pasteboard of fine quality. [After
 Bristol, England.]



 brit or britt   n.  1. The young of herring and similar fish. 2. Minute
 marine organisms, such as crustaceans of the genus Calanus, that are a
 major source of food for many fish and whales. [Perh. < Cornish brythel,
 mackerel.]



 Britannia  n.  1. A poetic term for Great Britain. 2. A female
 personification of Great Britain or the British Empire. 3. britannia
 Britannia metal. [Lat. < Brittanni, the Britons.]



 britannia metal  n.  A white alloy of tin with copper, antimony, and
 sometimes bismuth and zinc. [After Britannia.]



 Britannic  adj.  British.



 britches  pl.n.  Informal.  Breeches.

       Idiom Section:  too big for (one's) britches. Informal.
 Overconfident; cocky. [Alteration of breeches.]



 Briticism or Britishism   n.  A word, phrase, or idiom characteristic of
 or peculiar to English as it is spoken in Great Britain.



 British  adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, or characteristic of Great Britain,
 the United Kingdom, or the British Empire. 2. Of, pertaining to, or
 characteristic of the ancient Britons.   -n. 1. The people of Great
 Britain. 2. British English. 3. The Celtic language of the ancient Britons.
 [ME Brittish < OE Bryttisc, pertaining to ancient Britons.]



 British English  n.  The English language as used in England as
 distinguished from that used elsewhere.



 Britisher  n.  Informal.  A native or inhabitant of Great Britain.



 Britishism  n.  Briticism.



 British thermal unit  n.  The quantity of heat required to raise the
 temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit.



 Briton  n.  1. A native or inhabitant of Britain. 2. One of a Celtic
 people who inhabited ancient Britain before the Roman invasion. [ME Breton
 < OFr. < Lat. Britto, Celt, of Celtic orig.]



 britt  n.  Variant of brit.



 Brittany spaniel  n.  A large spaniel of a breed originating in France.
 [After Brittany, a region of northwestern France.]



 brittle  adj. -tler -tlest   1. Likely to break; fragile: brittle
 porcelain.  2. Difficult to deal with; snappish: a brittle disposition.
 -n. A confection of caramelized sugar to which nuts are added: peanut
 brittle.  [ME britel.]   brittlely adv.   brittleness n.



 brittle star  n.  Any of various marine organisms of the class
 Ophiuroidea, related to and resembling the starfish but having long,
 slender, whiplike arms.



 Brix scale  n.  A hydrometer scale for measuring the sugar content of a
 solution at a given temperature. [After Adolf F. Brix (d. 1870), its
 inventor.]



 broach
 broach(1)  n.  1.  a. A tapered and serrated tool used to shape or enlarge
 a hole. b. The hole made by such a tool. 2. A spit for roasting meat. 3. A
 narrow mason's chisel. 4. A gimlet for tapping or broaching casks. 5.
 Variant of brooch.   -tr.v.broached broaching broaches   1.  a. To begin to
 talk about; bring up: broach a subject.  b. To announce: broached his plans
 for the next year.  2. To pierce in order to draw off liquid: broach a keg
 of beer.  3. To draw off (a liquid) by piercing a hole in a cask or other
 container. 4. To shape or enlarge (a hole) with a broach. [ME broche <
 OFr., spit.]   broacher n.
 broach(2)  intr.  -tr.v.broached broaching broaches   Nautical.  To veer or
 cause to veer broadside to the wind and waves: tried to keep the boat from
 broaching to.  [Poss. < broach1.]



 broad  adj. -er -est   1. Wide from side to side: broad hips.  2. Large in
 expanse; spacious: a broad lawn.  3. Widely diffused; clear and bright:
 broad daylight.  4. Covering a wide scope; general: a broad rule.  5.
 Liberal or tolerant: a broad point of view.  6. Main; essential: the broad
 facts of the matter.  7. Plain and clear; obvious: a broad hint.  8.
 Outspoken; unrestrained: a broad hint.  9. Vulgar; ribald: a broad joke.
 10. Heavily regional: a broad accent.  11.  Linguistics. Indicating a vowel
 that is pronounced with the tongue placed low and flat and with the oral
 cavity wide open, esp. as when the a in bath is pronounced like the a in
 bard.    -n. 1. The broad part of something. 2.  Slang. A woman or girl.
 -adv. Fully; completely. [ME brod < OE brad.]   broadly adv.   broadness n.




 broad arrow  n.  1. An arrow with a wide, barbed head. 2. A wide arrowhead
 mark identifying British government property.



 broadax or broadaxe   n.  An ax with a wide, flat head and a short handle;
 battle-ax.



 broadband  adj.  Of, having, or pertaining to a wide band of
 electromagnetic frequencies: broadband communications.    broadband n.



 broad bean  n.  1. A plant, Vicia faba, native to the Old World,
 cultivated for its edible pods and seeds. 2. The somewhat flattened seed of
 the broad bean.



 broadbill  n.  1.  a. Any of various birds of the family Eurylaimidae, of
 Africa and tropical Asia, having a short, wide bill and brightly colored
 plumage. b. Any of several other broad-billed birds, as the shoveler. 2.
 The swordfish.



 broadbrim  n.  1. A hat with a broad, flat brim, as those worn by Quakers.
 2. Broadbrim   Informal. A member of the Society of Friends; Quaker.



 broadcast  v. -cast  or -casted  or -casting  or -casts   -tr. 1. To
 transmit (a program) by radio or television. 2. To make known over a wide
 area: broadcast rumors.  3. To sow (seed) over a wide area, esp. by hand.
 -intr. 1. To transmit a radio or television program. 2. To participate in a
 radio or television program.   -n. 1. Transmission of a radio or television
 program or signal. 2.  a. A radio or television program. b. The duration of
 such a program. 3. The act of scattering seed.   -adj. Scattered over a
 wide area.   -adv. In a scattered manner; far and wide.   broadcaster n.



 Broad-Church  adj.  Of or pertaining to members of the Anglican Communion
 favoring liberalism of doctrine and ritual.   BroadChurchman n.



 broadcloth  n.  1. A densely textured woolen cloth with a plain or twill
 weave and a lustrous finish. 2. A closely woven silk, cotton, or synthetic
 fabric with a narrow crosswise rib.



 broaden  tr.  -intr.v.-ened -ening -ens   To make or become broad or
 broader.   broadener n.



 broad gauge  n.  A railroad track with a width between the rails greater
 than the standard gauge of 561/2 inches.



 broad-gauge  adj.  1. Having a broad gauge. 2.  Informal. Having a wide
 scope; liberal.



 broadhead  n.  1. A flat steel arrowhead with two sharp edges. 2. An arrow
 with a broadhead.



 broad jump  n.  A long jump.



 broadleaf  n.  Any of various tobacco plants having broad leaves.   -adj.
 Broad-leaved.



 broad-leaved or broad-leafed   adj.  Having relatively broad leaves, as
 evergreens such as the rhododendron and holly, rather than needles, as
 evergreens such as the pines and spruces.



 broadloom  adj.  Designating carpet from 41/2 to 18 feet in width that is
 woven on a wide loom.   -n. A broadloom carpet.



 broad-minded  adj.  Having or characterized by liberal or tolerant views.
  broad-mindedly adv.   broad-mindedness n.



 broad seal  n.  The official public seal of a state or nation.



 broadsheet  n.  A broadside (sense 4).



 broadside  n.  1. The side of a ship above the water line. 2.  a. All the
 guns on one side of a warship. b. Their simultaneous discharge. 3. An
 explosive verbal attack or denunciation. 4. A large sheet of paper printed
 on one side. 5. A broad, unbroken surface.   -adv. With the side turned to
 a given object: The wave caught them broadside and filled the canoe.



 broad-spectrum  adj.  Widely applicable or effective: a broad-spectrum
 drug.



 broadsword  n.  A cutting sword with a wide blade.



 broadtail  n.  1. The karakul. 2. The black pelt of a prematurely born
 karakul sheep, having a flat surface with wavy markings.



 Broadway  n.  1. The principal theater district of New York City, located
 on or near Broadway, a thoroughfare extending the length of Manhattan
 Island. 2. The American legitimate stage: a career in motion pictures and
 on Broadway.  a Broadway musical.



 brocade  n.  A heavy fabric interwoven with a rich, raised design.
 -tr.v.-caded -cading -cades   To weave brocade. [Sp. or Port. brocado <
 Ital. brocato < brocco, twisted thread < VLat. *brocca, spike < Lat.
 brocchus, of Celt. orig.]



 brocatel or brocatelle   n.  A very heavy fabric resembling brocade but
 with a more highly raised design. [Fr. brocatelle < Ital. broccatello, dim.
 of broccato, brocade.]



 broccoli or brocoli   n.  1. A plant, Brassica oleracea italica, closely
 related to the cabbage and cauliflower, having a branched, greenish flower
 head. 2. The flower head of the broccoli, eaten as a vegetable before the
 green, tightly clustered buds have opened. [Ital., pl. of broccolo, cabbage
 top, dim. of brocco, shoot. -see brocade.]



 brochette  n.  A small spit or skewer upon which meat, fish, or vegetables
 are roasted or broiled. [Fr. < OFr., dim. of broche, spit.]



 brochure  n.  A small pamphlet or booklet. [Fr. < brocher, to stitch <
 broche, knitting needle < OFr., spit.]



 brock  n.  Chiefly British.  A badger. [ME < OE broc, of Celt. orig.]



 brocket  n.  1. A two-year-old stag with its first horns. 2. Any of
 several small deer of the genus Mazama, of South America, having short,
 unbranched horns. [ME broket < OFr. brocard < broque, animal's horn, var.
 of broche, spit.]



 brocoli  n.  Variant of broccoli.



 brogan  n.  A heavy, ankle-high work shoe. [Ir. Gael. brogan, dim. of
 brog, brogue.]



 brogue  n.  1.  a. A heavy shoe of untanned leather, formerly worn in
 Scotland and Ireland. b. A strong oxford shoe, usually with ornamental
 perforations. 2. A strong dialectal accent, esp. a strong Irish accent.
 [Ir.and Sc. Gael. brog, OIr. broc, shoe.]



 broider  tr.v. -dered -dering -ders   Obsolete.  To ornament with
 needlework; embroider.   broidery n.



 broil
 broil(1)  v. broiled broiling broils   -tr. 1. To cook by direct radiant
 heat, as over a grill or under an electric coil. 2. To expose to great
 heat. -intr. To be exposed to great heat.   -n. 1. The act or condition of
 broiling. 2. Something broiled. [ME broilen < OFr. bruler.]
 broil(2)  n.  A rowdy argument; brawl.   -intr.v.broiled broiling broils
 To engage in a broil. [< obs. broil, to brawl < ME broilen < OFr.
 brouiller.]



 broiler  n.  1. One that broils. 2.  a. A small electric oven used for
 broiling. b. The part of a stove used for broiling. 3. A tender young
 chicken suitable for broiling.



 broke  v.  Past tense and nonstandard past participle of break.   -adj.
 Informal.  1. Lacking funds. 2. Bankrupt.



 broken  v.  Past participle of break.   -adj. 1. Forcibly fractured into
 two or more pieces; shattered. 2. Violated: broken promises.  3.
 Fragmentary; incomplete: a broken set of books.  4. Disorganized; routed:
 broken troops.  5. Intermittently stopping and starting; discontinuous. 6.
 Varying abruptly, as in pitch: broken sobs.  7. Spoken with gaps and crude
 errors: broken English.  8. Topographically rough; uneven. 9. Subdued;
 humbled: a broken spirit.  10. Tamed and trained: a broken stallion.  11.
 Weakened; exhausted: broken health.  12. Crushed by grief: a broken heart.
 13. Financially ruined; bankrupt. 14. Not functioning.   brokenly adv.
 brokenness n.



 broken-down  adj.  1. Out of working order. 2. In poor condition, as from
 old age; infirm.



 brokenhearted  adj.  Grievously sad.



 broken home  n.  A family in which the parents are separated or divorced.



 broken wind  n.  Heaves (sense 5).



 broker  n.  1. One who acts as an agent for others in negotiating
 contracts, purchases, or sales in return for a fee or commission. 2. A
 stockbroker.   -tr.v.-kered -kering -kers   To arrange or manage as a
 broker. [ME < AN brocour.]



 brokerage  n.  1. The business of a broker. 2. A fee or commission paid to
 a broker.



 brom-   Variant of bromo-.



 bromate  n.  A salt of bromic acid.   -tr.v.-mated -mating -mates   1. To
 treat (a substance) chemically with a bromate. 2. To combine (a substance)
 chemically with bromine.



 brome  n.  A grass of the genus Bromus, having spikelets in loose, often
 drooping clusters. [NLat. Bromus, genus name < Lat. bromos, oats < Gk.]



 brome grass  n.  Brome.



 bromeliad  n.  Any of various mostly epiphytic plants of the family
 Bromeliaceae, which includes the pineapple, Spanish moss, and many species
 grown as house plants. [< NLat. Bromelia, type genus, after Olaf Bromelius
 (1639-1705).]



 bromic acid  n.  A corrosive, colorless liquid, HBrO3, used in making dyes
 and pharmaceuticals.



 bromide  n.  1. A binary compound of bromine. 2. Potassium bromide. 3.  a.
 A commonplace remark or notion; platitude. b. A tiresome person; bore. 4. A
 photographic print on paper that has been treated with bromine and silver.
  bromidic adj.



 brominate  tr.v. -nated -nating -nates   To combine (a substance) with
 bromine or a bromine compound.   bromination n.



 bromine  n.  Br  A heavy, volatile, corrosive, reddish-brown, nonmetallic
 liquid element, having a highly irritating vapor. It is used in producing
 gasoline antiknock mixtures, fumigants, dyes, and photographic chemicals.
 Atomic weight 79.909; atomic number 35; melting point -7.2 deg. C; boiling
 point 58.78 deg. C; valences 1, 3, 5, 7. [Fr. brome < Gk. bromos, stench +
 -ine.]



 bromism or brominism   n.  Poisoning from overuse of bromides.



 bromo- or brom-    Bromine: bromide.  [Prob. < Fr. brome < Gk. bromos,
 stench.]



 bronch-   Variant of broncho-.



 bronchi  n.  Plural of bronchus.



 bronchia  n.  Plural of bronchium.



 bronchial  adj.  Of or pertaining to the bronchi, the bronchia, or the
 bronchioles.   bronchially adv.



 bronchial asthma  n.  A usually allergic asthma of the bronchi.



 bronchial tube  n.  A bronchus or any of its branches.



 bronchiectasis  n.  Chronic dilation of the bronchial tubes, with cough
 and formation of mucopurulent matter. [Gk. bronkhia, bronchial tubes <
 bronkhos, windpipe + Gk. ektasis, extension (ek-, out + teinein, to
 stretch).]



 bronchiole  n.  Any of the fine, thin-walled, tubular extensions of a
 bronchus.   bronchiolar adj.



 bronchitis  n.  Chronic or acute inflammation of the mucous membrane of
 the bronchial tubes.   bronchitic adj.



 bronchium  n. pl. -chia  A bronchial tube that is smaller than a bronchus
 and larger than a bronchiole. [NLat., sing. of LLat. bronchia, bronchial
 tubes < Gk. bronkhia < bronkhos, windpipe.]



 broncho- or bronch-    Bronchus; bronchial: bronchoscope.  [LLat. < Gk.
 bronkho- < bronkhos, windpipe.]



 bronchoconstriction  n.  Constriction of the bronchial tubes.
 bronchoconstrictor adj.



 bronchopneumonia  n.  Inflammation of the lungs spreading from and
 following infection of the bronchi.



 bronchoscope  n.  A slender tubular instrument with a small light on the
 end for inspection of the interior of the bronchi.   bronchoscopic adj.
 bronchoscopically adv.   bronchoscopist n.   bronchoscopy n.



 bronchus  n. pl. -chi  Either of two main branches of the trachea, leading
 directly to the lungs. [NLat. < Gk. bronkhos, windpipe.]



 bronco  n. pl. -cos  A wild or semiwild horse or pony of western North
 America. [Mex. Sp. < Sp., wild.]



 broncobuster  n.  A cowboy who breaks wild horses to the saddle.



 brontosaur or brontosaurus   n.  A very large, herbivorous dinosaur of the
 genus Apatosaurus (or Brontosaurus ), of the Jurassic period. [NLat.
 Brontosaurus, genus name : Gk. bronte, thunder + Gk. sauras, lizard.]



 Bronx cheer  n.  Slang.  A raspberry (sense 4). [After the Bronx, a
 borough of the City of New York.]



 bronze  n.  1.  a. Any of various alloys of copper and tin, sometimes with
 traces of other metals. b. Any of various alloys of copper, with or without
 tin, and antimony, phosphorus, or other components. 2. A work of art made
 of bronze. 3.  a. A moderate yellowish to olive brown. b. A pigment of this
 color. a bronze statue.    -adj. Of the color bronze.   -tr.v.bronzed
 bronzing bronzes   To give the appearance of bronze to. [Fr. < Ital.
 bronzo.]   bronzy adj.



 Bronze Age  n.  A period of human culture between the Stone Age and the
 Iron Age, characterized by weapons and implements made of bronze.



 bronzer  n.  A cosmetic esp. for men that gives the skin a tanned
 appearance.



 Bronze Star  n.  A U.S. Army decoration awarded for heroism or meritorious
 achievement in ground combat.



 brooch or broach   n.  A large decorative pin or clasp. [ME broche,
 pointed tool. -see broach1.]



 brood  n.  1. The young of certain animals, esp. a group of young birds or
 fowl hatched at one time and cared for by the same mother. 2. The children
 in one family.   -v.brooded brooding broods   -tr. 1. To sit on or hatch
 (eggs). 2. To protect (young) by or as if by covering with the wings.
 -intr. 1. To sit on or hatch eggs. 2. To hover envelopingly. 3. To think at
 length and unhappily; ponder.   -adj. Kept for breeding: a brood hen.  [ME
 < OE brod.]   broodingly adv.



 brooder  n.  1. One that broods. 2. A heated enclosure in which young
 chickens or other fowl are raised.



 broodmare  n.  A mare kept for breeding.



 broody  adj. -ier -iest   1. Moody; meditative. 2. Inclined to sit on eggs
 to hatch them: a broody hen.    broodiness n.



 brook
 brook(1)  n.  A small, natural freshwater stream. [ME < OE broc.]
 brook(2)  tr.v. brooked brooking brooks   To put up with; tolerate: will
 brook no delay.  [ME brouken < OE brucan, to use, enjoy.]



 brookite  n.  A red-brown to black titanium dioxide mineral with
 characteristic orthorhombic crystals. [After Henry J. Brooke (1771-1857).]



 brook lamprey  n.  Any of several usually small lampreys that live mostly
 in brooks.



 brooklet  n.  A small brook.



 brooklime  n.  Either of two closely related trailing plants, Veronica
 americana, of North America, and V. beccabunga, native to Eurasia, growing
 in moist places and having small blue flowers. [ME broke-lemok : broke,
 brook + lemok, a kind of brooklime < OE hleomoce.]



 brook trout  n.  A freshwater game fish, Salvelinus fontinalis, of eastern
 North America.



 brookweed  n.  Either of two related plants, Samolus valerandi, of Europe,
 and S. floribundus, of North America, having small white flowers and
 growing in moist areas.



 broom  n.  1. A brush of twigs, straw, or bristles bound together,
 attached to a stick or handle, and used for sweeping. 2.  a. A shrub of the
 genus Cytisus, native to Eurasia, having compound leaves and yellow or
 white flowers. b. Any of several similar or related shrubs, esp. of the
 genus Genista.    -tr.v.broomed brooming brooms   To sweep with or as if
 with a broom. [ME < OE brom.]   broomy adj.



 broomcorn  n.  A grass, Sorghum vulgare technicum, having flower clusters
 with stiff, branching stalks that are used to make brooms and brushes.



 broom moss  n.  A moss of the genus Dicranum, esp. D. scoparium, having
 leaves turned to one side along the stem.



 broomrape  n.  Any of several leafless, parasitic plants of the genus
 Orobanche, having yellow, purple, or reddish-brown flowers and living on
 the roots of other plants. [Transl. of Lat. rapum genistae, broom tuber,
 from the resemblance of the parasitic growths to tubers on the roots of
 broom.]



 broomstick  n.  The long handle of a broom.



 broth  n. pl. broths  1. The water in which meat, fish, or vegetables have
 been boiled; stock. 2. A thin, clear soup based on stock, to which rice,
 barley, meat, or vegetables may be added. [ME < OE broo.]



 brothel  n.  A house of prostitution. [Short for brothel-house < ME
 brothel, prostitute < brother, p.part. of brethen, to go to ruin < OE
 breooan, to decay.]



 brother  n.  1. A male having the same parents as another or one parent in
 common with another. 2. One who shares a common ancestry, allegiance,
 character, or purpose with another or others, esp.: a. A kinsman. b. A
 fellow man. c. A fellow member, as of a fraternity. d. A close male friend;
 comrade. 3.  Ecclesiastical.  a. A member of a men's religious order who is
 not in holy orders but engages in the work of the order. b. A lay member of
 a religious order of men. [ME < OE brooor.]



 brotherhood  n.  1. The state or relationship of being brothers. 2. The
 quality of being brotherly; fellowship. 3. An association of men united for
 common purposes, as a fraternity or union. 4. All the members of a specific
 profession or trade.



 brother-in-law  n. pl. brothers-in-law  1. The brother of one's husband or
 wife. 2. The husband of one's sister. 3. The husband of the sister of one's
 husband or wife.



 brotherly  adj.  Characteristic of or befitting brothers; fraternal.
 brotherliness n.   brotherly adv.



 brougham  n.  1. A closed four-wheeled carriage with an open driver's seat
 in front. 2. An automobile with an open driver's seat. 3. An electrically
 powered automobile resembling a coupe. [After Henry P. Brougham
 (1778-1868).]



 brought  v.  Past tense and past participle of bring.



 brouhaha  n.  An uproar; hubbub. [Fr.]



 brow  n.  1.  a. The superciliary ridge over the eyes. b. The eyebrow. c.
 The forehead. 2. A facial expression; countenance:  Speak you this with a
 sad brow? (Shakespeare). 3. The edge of a steep place. [ME < OE bru.]



 browbeat  tr.v. -beat -beaten -beating -beats   To intimidate with an
 overbearing or imperative manner; domineer.   browbeater n.



 brown  n.  Any of a group of colors between red and yellow in hue that are
 medium to low in lightness and low to moderate in saturation.   -adj.-er
 -est   1. Of the color brown. 2. Deeply sun-tanned.   -tr. -intr.v.browned
 browning browns   To make or become brown. [ME < OE brun.]   brownish adj.
  brownness n.



 brown alga  n.  A brownish, chiefly marine alga of the division
 Phaeophyta, which includes the rockweeds and the kelps.



 brown bagging  n.  1. The practice of taking one's own liquor into a
 public establishment, as a restaurant, where setups are available. 2. The
 practice of taking one's lunch to work, usually in a brown paper bag.
 brown bagger n.



 brown bear  n.  A very large bear, Ursus arctos, of Alaska and northern
 Eurasia, having brown to yellowish fur.



 brown Betty  n.  A baked pudding of chopped or sliced apples, bread
 crumbs, raisins, sugar, butter, and spices. [Betty, nickname for
 Elizabeth.]



 brown bread  n.  1. A bread made of a dark flour, such as graham or
 whole-wheat. 2. A steamed bread usually made of cornmeal, flour, and
 molasses.



 brown coal  n.  Lignite.



 brown fat  n.  Adipose tissue whose oxidation is a major source of heat in
 mammals.



 Brownian motion  n.  The random motion of microscopic particles suspended
 in a liquid or gas, caused by collision with molecules of the surrounding
 medium. [After Robert Brown (1773-1858).]



 Brownian movement  n.  Brownian motion.



 brownie  n.  1. A small sprite supposed to do helpful work at night. 2.
 Brownie  A member of the Girl Scouts from 7 to 9 years of age. 3. A square
 or bar of moist usually chocolate cake with nuts.



 Brownie point  n.  Credit considered as earned, esp. by favorably
 impressing a superior. [From the practice of awarding points for
 achievement by Brownies in the Girl Scouts.]



 Browning automatic rifle  n.  A .30 caliber air-cooled, automatic or
 semiautomatic, gas-operated, magazine-fed rifle used in World Wars I and
 II. [After John M. Browning (1855-1926).]



 Browning machine gun  n.  A .30 or .50 caliber automatic belt-fed,
 water-cooled machine gun capable of firing ammunition at a rate of more
 than 500 rounds per minute. [After John M. Browning (1855-1926).]



 brown lung disease  n.  Byssinosis.



 brownout  n.  A cutback or reduction in electric power, esp. as a result
 of a shortage. [brown + (black)out.]



 brown patch  n.  A disease of grasses caused by a fungus, Pellicularia
 filamentosa, and resulting in circular dying areas.



 brown rat  n.  The Norway rat.



 brown rice  n.  Unpolished rice, retaining the germ and the yellowish
 outer layer containing the bran.



 brown rot  n.  1. A disease of peaches and similar fruits, caused by fungi
 of the genus Monolinia.  2. A disease of citrus trees, caused by fungi of
 the genus Phytophthora.



 Brown Shirt  n.  A storm trooper. [Transl. of G. Braunhemd.]



 brownstone  n.  1. A brownish-red sandstone used as a building material.
 2. A house built or faced with brownstone. 3. A grayish brown.



 brown study  n.  A state of deep thought or reverie.



 brown sugar  n.  Sugar whose crystals retain a thin coating of dark syrup.




 Brown Swiss  n.  One of a hardy breed of dairy cattle that originated in
 Switzerland.



 brown-tail moth  n.  A small white and brown moth, Euproctis phaeorrhoea,
 whose larvae damage shade-tree foliage and cause an irritating skin rash.



 brown thrasher  n.  A North American bird, Toxostoma rufum, having a
 reddish-brown back and a dark-streaked breast.



 brown trout  n.  A widely naturalized European freshwater fish, Salmo
 trutta, having yellow-brown sides with reddish spots.



 browse  v. browsed browsing browses   -intr. 1.  a. To inspect in a
 leisurely and casual way. b. To read a book superficially by selecting
 passages at random. 2. To feed on leaves, young shoots, and other
 vegetation. -tr. 1. To look through or over casually. 2.  a. To nibble;
 crop. b. To graze on.   -n. 1. Young twigs, leaves, and tender shoots of
 plants or shrubs that are fit for animals to eat. 2. An act of browsing.
 [Perh. < Fr. broust, young shoot < OFr. brost, of Germanic orig.]   browser
 n.



 brucellosis  n.  1. Undulant fever. 2. A disease of cattle caused by the
 bacillus Brucella abortus and resulting in abortions in newly infected
 animals. [NLat. Brucella, genus name (after Sir David Bruce, 1855-1931) +
 -osis.]



 brucine  n.  A poisonous white crystalline alkaloid, C23H26O4N22H2O,
 derived from nux vomica seeds. [After James Bruce (1730-1794).]



 bruin  n.  A bear. [Du., brown.]



 bruise  v. bruised bruising bruises   -tr. 1. To injure without breaking
 or rupturing. 2. To dent or mar. 3. To pound into fragments; crush. 4. To
 hurt, esp. psychologically. -intr. To experience or undergo bruising.   -n.
 1. An injury in which the skin is not broken; contusion. 2. An injury, esp.
 to one's feelings. [ME bruisen < OE brysan, to crush, and OFr. bruisier, to
 crush.]



 bruiser  n.  Slang.  A large, powerfully built man.



 bruit  tr.v. bruited bruiting bruits   To spread news of; repeat.   -n. 1.
  Archaic.  a. A rumor. b. A din; clamor. 2.  Medicine. An abnormal sound
 heard in auscultation. [< ME, noise < OFr., p.part. of bruire, to roar.]



 brumal  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or characteristic of winter. [Lat.
 brumalis < bruma, winter.]



 brume  n.  Heavy fog or mist. [Fr., ult. < Lat. bruma, winter.]   brumous
 adj.



 brummagem  adj.  Cheap and showy; meretricious.   -n. Something cheap and
 gaudy. [Alteration of Birmingham, England (from the counterfeit coins made
 there in the 17th century).]



 brunch  n.  A meal eaten as a combination of breakfast and lunch.
 [br(eakfast) + (l)unch.]



 brunet  adj.  1. Of a dark complexion or coloring. 2. Having dark brown or
 black hair or eyes.   -n. A person with brown hair. [Fr. < OFr. < brun,
 brown, of Germanic orig.]



 brunette  adj.  Having dark or brown hair.   -n. A girl or woman with dark
 or brown hair.



 Brunhild  n.  A queen of Iceland in Germanic legend who is won as a bride
 by Gunther. [G.]



 Brunswick stew  n.  A stew that usually contains chicken and rabbit or
 squirrel meat cooked with vegetables. [After Brunswick County, Virginia.]



 brunt  n.  1. The main impact, force, or burden, as of a blow. 2.
 Obsolete. A violent attack. [ME.]



 brush
 brush(1)  n.  1. Any of various devices consisting of bristles fastened
 into a handle, for such uses as scrubbing, polishing, or painting. 2. The
 act of using a brush. 3. A light touch in passing; graze. 4. A brief
 contact or encounter. 5. A bushy tail. 6. A sliding connection completing a
 circuit between a fixed and a moving conductor.   -v.brushed brushing
 brushes   -tr. 1. To use a brush on so as to clean, polish, or groom. 2. To
 apply with or as if with motions of a brush. 3. To remove with or as if
 with motions of a brush. 4. To dismiss abruptly or curtly: brushed the
 matter aside; brushed his friend off.  5. To touch lightly in passing;
 graze against. -intr. 1. To use or apply a brush. 2. To move past something
 so as to touch it lightly.

       Idiom Section:  brush up. To refresh one's memory. [ME brusshe < OFr.
 brosse, perh. < brosse, brushwood.]   brusher n.   brushy adj.
 brush(2)  n.  1.  a. A dense growth of bushes or shrubs. b. Land covered by
 such a growth. 2. Cut or broken branches. [ME brusshe < OFr. brosse,
 brushwood.]   brushy adj.



 brush discharge  n.  A faintly visible, relatively slow crackling
 discharge of electricity without sparking.



 brushed  adj.  Of or designating fabrics that have a nap produced by
 brushing.



 brush fire  n.  A fire in low-growing, scrubby trees and brush.



 brush-off  n.  Slang.  An abrupt dismissal.



 brushwood  n.  1. Cut or broken-off branches. 2.  a. Dense undergrowth. b.
 An area covered by such growth.



 brushwork  n.  1. Work done with a brush. 2. The manner in which an artist
 applies paint with his brush.



 brusque or brusk   adj.  Abrupt and curt in manner or speech, often to the
 point of rudeness; blunt. [Fr. < Ital. brusco.]   brusquely adv.
 brusqueness n.



 brusquerie  n.  Brusqueness; curtness. [Fr. < brusque, brusque.]



 Brussels carpet  n.  A machine-made carpet consisting of small, colored
 woolen loops that form a heavy, patterned pile. [After Brussels, Belgium.]



 Brussels lace  n.  Net lace with an applique design, formerly made by hand
 but now usually made by machine.



 Brussels sprout  n.  1. A variety of cabbage, Brassica oleracea gemmifera,
 having a stout stem studded with budlike heads. 2. Brussels sprouts  The
 small edible heads of the Brussels sprout.



 brut  adj.  Very dry, as a wine, esp. champagne. [Fr. < OFr., rough < Lat.
 brutus, heavy.]



 brutal  adj.  1. Characteristic of or befitting a brute; cruel: a brutal
 assault.  2. Disagreeably precise and trenchant: told her the brutal facts.
  3. Harsh; unrelenting: a brutal winter.    brutally adv.



 brutalism  n.  A style of architecture that achieves an effect of
 massiveness or power through the use of exaggeration.   brutalist n.



 brutality  n. pl. -ties  1. The state or quality of being brutal. 2. A
 brutal act.



 brutalize  tr.v. -ized -izing -izes   1. To make brutal or unfeeling. 2.
 To treat brutally.   brutalization n.



 brute  n.  1. An animal other than man; beast. 2. A brutal person.   -adj.
 1. Of or relating to beasts; animal:  None of the brute creation requires
 more than food and shelter (Thoreau). 2. Characteristic of a brute, esp.:
 a. Entirely physical or instinctive: brute force.  b. Lacking or showing a
 lack of reason or intelligence: a brute impulse.  c. Savage; cruel: brute
 coercion.  3. Gross; coarse. [< ME, nonhuman < OFr. brut < Lat. brutus,
 stupid.]   brutism n.

      Synonyms: brute animal brutish brutal beastly
 bestial These adjectives apply to behavior characteristic of lower animals.
 Brute , the least derogatory, stresses the fundamental powers possessed by
 all creatures: brute instinct. Animal  emphasizes physical nature
 distinguished from intellect or spirit: animal vitality. Brutish,  said
 principally of manners, stresses marked lack of human refinement and
 sensibility. Brutal , said of physical acts, stresses unfeeling cruelty.
 Beastly  is applied to what is considered beneath man and is often used as
 a counter word meaning merely very disagreeable. Bestial  usually implies
 the vileness of moral degradation.




 brutify  tr.  -intr.v.-fied -fying -fies   To brutalize or become
 brutalized.



 brutish  adj.  1. Of or characteristic of a brute. 2. Showing a lack of
 reason or intelligence. 3. Crude in feeling or manner. 4. Sensual; carnal.
  brutishly adv.   brutishness n.



 Brynhild  n.  A Valkyrie who is revived from an enchanted sleep by Sigurd.
 [ON Brynhildr.]



 bryo-   Moss: bryology.  [NLat. < Gk. bruon, moss.]



 bryology  n.  The botany of bryophytes.   bryological adj.



 bryony  n. pl. -nies  1. The black bryony. 2. The white bryony.
 [Lat. bryonia < Gk. bruonia.]



 bryophyte  n.  A plant of the major botanical division Bryophyta, which
 includes the true mosses, peat mosses, and liverworts.   bryophytic adj.



 bryozoan  n.  Any of various small aquatic animals of the phylum Bryozoa
 that reproduce by budding and form mosslike or branching colonies.   -adj.
 Of or belonging to the Bryozoa. [< NLat. Bryozoa, phylum name : Gk. bruon,
 moss + Gk. zoa, pl. of zoon, animal.]



 Brython  n.  1. An ancient Celtic Briton of Cornwall, Wales, or Cumbria.
 2. One who speaks a Brythonic language. [Welsh.]



 Brythonic  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or characteristic of the Brythons or
 their language.   -n. The branch of the Celtic languages that includes
 Welsh, Breton, and Cornish.



 bubble  n.  1. A rounded, generally spherical, thin-walled, and typically
 hollow object, often occurring naturally in an otherwise homogeneous medium
 as a result of the local accumulation of gas: a soap bubble.  2. A small
 globule of gas trapped in a liquid or solid, as in a carbonated beverage.
 3. A sound made by or as if by the forming and bursting of bubbles. 4.
 Something insubstantial, groundless, or ephemeral, as a scheme that comes
 to nothing. 5. A glass or plastic dome, usually transparent.   -v.-bled
 -bling -bles   -intr. 1. To form or give off bubbles. 2. To move or flow
 with a gurgling sound: a brook bubbling along its course.  3. To display
 irrepressible activity or emotion: bubbling over with fun.  -tr. To cause
 to form bubbles. [< ME bubelen, to bubble.]   bubbly adj.



 bubble and squeak  n.  Chiefly British.  Cabbage and potatoes fried
 together. [Imit. of the sounds made as it cooks.]



 bubble chamber  n.  An apparatus for detecting the paths of charged
 particles or inferring the paths of electrically neutral particles by
 examination of trails of bubbles that form on ions produced in a
 superheated liquid.



 bubble gum  n.  Chewing gum that can be blown into bubbles.



 bubble memory  n.  A computer memory in which binary digits are
 represented by the presence or absence of magnetic bubbles.



 bubbler  n.  A drinking fountain in which the water flows upward through a
 small nozzle.



 bubbly  n. pl. -blies  Informal.  Champagne.



 bubby  n. pl. -bies  Slang.  A breast of a woman. [Orig. unknown.]



 bubo  n. pl. -boes  An inflamed swelling of a lymphatic gland, esp. in the
 area of the armpit or groin. [ME < Med. Lat. < Gk. boubon.]   bubonic adj.



 bubonic plague  n.  A contagious, usually fatal epidemic disease caused by
 bacteria of the genus Pasteurella, transmitted by fleas from infected rats
 and characterized by chills, fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and buboes.



 buccal  adj.  Of or pertaining to the cheeks or mouth cavity. [< Lat.
 bucca, cheek.]



 buccaneer  n.  A pirate, esp. one of the freebooters who preyed on Spanish
 shipping in the West Indies during the 17th century. [Fr. boucanier <
 boucaner, to cure meat < boucan, barbecue frame < Tupi mocaen.]   buccaneer
 v. -neered -neering -neers



 Bucephalus  n.  The war horse of Alexander the Great. [Lat. Bucephalus <
 Gk. Boukephalos : bous, bull + kephale, head.]



 buck
 buck(1)  n.  1. The adult male of some animals, such as the deer or rabbit.
 2.  Informal.  a. A robust or high-spirited young man. b. A fop.
 -v.bucked bucking bucks   -intr. 1. To leap forward and upward suddenly;
 rear up, as a horse. 2. To move rapidly forward with the head lowered;
 butt. 3. To move with sudden forward jerks; jolt. 4. To resist stubbornly
 and obstinately; balk. 5.  Informal. To strive determinedly: bucking for a
 promotion.  -tr. 1. To throw (a rider or burden) by bucking. 2. To butt
 against with the head. 3.  Football. To charge into (an opponent's line)
 carrying the ball. 4. To oppose directly and stubbornly; turn against.
 Phrasal verb.  buck up. Informal.  To summon one's courage or spirits.
 -adj. Of the lowest rank in a specified military category: a buck private.
 [ME bukke < OE buc.]   bucker n.
 buck(2)  n.  1. A sawhorse. 2. A leather-covered frame used for gymnastic
 vaulting. [Short for sawbuck.]
 buck(3)  n.  Slang.  A dollar. [Short for buckskin.]
 buck(4)  n.  A counter or marker formerly placed before a poker player to
 mark him as the next dealer.

       Idiom Section:  pass the buck. To shift responsibility or blame to
 someone else. [Short for buckhorn knife.]



 buck and wing  n.  A fast solo tap dance with much springing of the legs
 and heel clicking.



 buckaroo or buckeroo   n. pl. -roos  or -oos  A cowboy. [Sp. vaquero <
 vaca, cow < Lat. vacca.]



 buckbean  n.  A marsh plant, Menyanthes trifoliata, having a creeping
 rootstock and white or reddish flowers. [Transl. of Flem. bocks boonen.]



 buckboard  n.  A four-wheeled open carriage with the seat attached to a
 flexible board extending from the front to the rear axle. [Obs. buck, body
 of a wagon (< ME buke, belly < OE buc) vo+ board.]



 buckeroo  n.  Variant of buckaroo.



 bucket  n.  1.  a. A cylindrical vessel used for holding or carrying
 liquids or solids; pail. b. The amount that a bucket will hold. 2. Any of
 various machine compartments that receive and convey material, as the scoop
 of a steam shovel.   -v.-eted -eting -ets   -tr. 1. To hold, carry, or put
 in a bucket. 2. To ride (a horse) long and hard. -intr. 1. To move or
 proceed rapidly and jerkily: bucketing over the unpaved lane.  2. To make
 haste; hustle. [ME < OFr. buket.]



 bucket seat  n.  A seat with a rounded or molded back for one person, as
 in sports cars.



 bucket shop  n.  A fraudulent brokerage operation that accepts orders to
 buy or sell securities or commodities but delays executing the orders on
 the gamble that prices will change adversely to the interests of the
 customer so that the broker can pocket what the customer thinks he has
 lost. [< bucket shop, a saloon selling small amounts of liquor in buckets,
 from its resemblance to the forerunner of such brokerage operations, which
 dealt in small units of stocks and commodities.]



 buckeye  n.  1. Any of several North American trees of the genus Aesculus,
 having compound leaves and erect clusters of white or reddish flowers. 2.
 The glossy brown nut of a buckeye. [From the seed's appearance.]



 buck fever  n.  Informal.  Nervous excitement felt by a novice hunter at
 the first sight of game.



 buckhound  n.  A hound used for hunting deer.



 buckle
 buckle(1)  n.  1. A metal frame with one or more movable tongues used esp.
 for fastening two strap or belt ends. 2. An ornament that resembles a
 buckle.   -tr. -intr.v.-led -ling -les   To fasten or become fastened with
 a buckle. Phrasal verb.  buckle down. To apply oneself with determination.
 [ME bocle < OFr. boucle < Lat. buccula, cheek strap of a helmet, dim. of
 bucca, cheek.]
 buckle(2)  v. -led -ling -les   -intr. 1. To bend, warp, or crumple, as
 under pressure or heat. 2. To give way; collapse: struts buckling under the
 stress.  3. To surrender, as to another's authority; yield: buckled from
 the excessive demands made on him.  -tr. To cause to bend, warp, or
 crumple.   -n. A bend, bulge, or other distortion. [ME boclen < OFr.
 boucler, to fasten with a buckle < boucle, buckle.]



 buckler  n.  1. A small round shield either carried or worn on the arm. 2.
 A means of protection; defense.   -tr.v.-lered -lering -lers   To shield
 with or as if with a buckler; protect. [ME bokler < OFr. bocler < boucle,
 boss on a shield < Lat. buccula.]



 bucko  n. pl. -oes  1. A bully. 2. Chiefly Ir. A young man; lad.



 buck passer  n.  One who regularly tries to shift responsibility to
 another.



 buckra  n.  Offensive.  Slang.  A white man. [Efik mbakara, white man.]



 buckram  n.  1. A coarse cotton fabric heavily sized with glue, used for
 stiffening garments and in bookbinding. 2.  Obsolete. Stiffness; formality.
   -adj. Resembling buckram in stiffness.   -tr.v.-ramed -raming -rams   To
 stiffen with or as if with buckram. [ME bokeram, fine linen < OFr.
 boquerant, poss. after Bukhara, U.S.S.R.]



 bucksaw  n.  A wood-cutting saw, usually set in an H-shaped frame. [<
 buck2.]



 buckshee  n.  Chiefly British.  Slang.  1. A windfall or gratuity. 2. An
 extra ration. [Var. of baksheesh.]



 buckshot  n.  A large lead shot for shotgun shells.



 buckskin  n.  1.  a. The skin of a male deer. b. A strong, grayish-yellow
 leather once made from deerskins but now usually made from sheepskins. 2.
 buckskins  A pair of breeches or shoes made from buckskin. 3. A person
 wearing clothes of buckskin, esp. an American soldier of the Revolutionary
 War. 4. A horse of the grayish-yellow color of buckskin. buckskin shoes.



 buckthorn  n.  A shrub or tree of the genus Rhamnus, esp. R. cathartica,
 native to Eurasia, having spine-tipped branches and small greenish flowers.
 [Transl. of NLat. cervi spina.]



 bucktooth  n.  A prominent, projecting front tooth.   bucktoothed adj.



 buckwheat  n.  1. A plant of the genus Fagopyrum, esp. F. esculentum,
 native to Asia, having fragrant white flowers and small triangular seeds.
 2. The edible seeds of buckwheat, often ground into flour. [Partial transl.
 of MDu. boecweite : boek, beech + weite, wheat.]



 bucolic  adj.  1. Of or characteristic of shepherds or flocks; pastoral.
 2. Of or characteristic of the countryside or its people; rustic.   -n. A
 pastoral poem. [Lat. bucolicus < Gk. boukolikos < boukolos, cowherd < bous,
 cow.]   bucolically adv.



 bud  n.  1.  Botany.  a. A small protuberance on a stem or branch, often
 enclosed in protective scales, containing an undeveloped shoot, leaves, or
 flowers. b. The stage or condition of having buds. 2.  Biology.  a. An
 asexually produced protuberance, as on a polyp, that develops into a
 mature, complete organism. b. A small, rounded organic part resembling a
 plant bud. 3. A person or thing that is not yet fully developed.
 -v.budded budding buds   -intr. 1. To put forth or produce buds. 2. To
 begin to develop or grow from or as if from a bud. 3. To be in an
 undeveloped stage or condition. -tr. 1. To cause to put forth buds. 2. To
 graft a bud onto (a plant).

       Idiom Section:  in the bud. In an incipient or undeveloped state. nip
 in the bud. To stop (something) in its initial stage. [ME budde.]   budder
 n.



 Buddha  n.  1. A Buddhist sage who has achieved a state of perfect
 illumination in accordance with the teachings of Gautama Buddha. 2. A
 representation of Gautama Buddha. [Skt., enlightened < bodhati, he awakes.]




 Buddhism  n.  1. The doctrine, attributed to Gautama Buddha, that
 suffering is inseparable from existence but that inward extinction of the
 self and of the senses culminates in a state of illumination beyond both
 suffering and existence. 2. The religion of eastern and central Asia
 represented by the many differing sects that profess Buddhism and venerate
 Gautama Buddha.   Buddhist n.   Buddhistic adj.



 buddle  n.  An inclined trough in which ore is separated from waste by
 washing with running water. [Orig. unknown.]



 buddleia  n.  The butterfly bush. [After Adam Buddle (d. 1715).]



 buddy  n. pl. -dies  Informal.  1. A good friend; comrade. 2. Brother;
 friend: Watch it, buddy.  [Prob. alteration of brother.]



 buddy system  n.  An informal arrangement in which persons are paired, as
 for mutual safety or assistance.



 budge
 budge(1)  v. budged budging budges   -intr. 1. To move or stir slightly:
 was asleep and didn't budge.  2. To alter a position or attitude: had made
 the decision and wouldn't budge.  -tr. 1. To cause to move slightly. 2. To
 cause to alter a position or attitude: an adamant woman who couldn't be
 budged.  [OFr. bouger < VLat. *bullicare, to bubble < Lat. bullire, to
 boil.]
 budge(2)  n.  Fur, usually lambskin, formerly used to trim academic robes.
  -adj. Archaic.  Extremely formal; solemn. [ME buge.]



 budgerigar  n.  A parakeet, Melopsittacus undulatus, native to Australia,
 having green, yellow, or blue plumage. [Native word in Australia.]



 budget  n.  1.  a. An itemized summary of probable expenditures and income
 for a given period. b. A systematic plan for meeting expenses in a given
 period. c. The total sum of money allocated for a particular purpose or
 time period. 2. A stock or collection with definite limits.   -tr.v.-eted
 -eting -ets   1. To plan in advance the expenditure of (money, for
 example). 2. To enter or plan for in a budget. [ME bouget, wallet < OFr.
 bougette, dim. of bouge, leather bag < Lat. bulga, of Celt. orig.]
 budgetary adj.   budgeter n.



 budgie  n.  Informal.  A budgerigar.



 buff
 buff(1)  n.  1.  a. A soft, thick, undyed leather made chiefly from the
 skins of buffalo, elk, or oxen. b. The color of buff; pale, light, or
 moderate yellowish pink to yellow, including moderate orange yellow to
 light yellowish brown. c. A military coat made of buff. 2.  Informal. The
 bare skin: went swimming in the buff.  3. A polishing implement covered
 with a soft material, such as velvet. a buff jacket.    -adj. Of the color
 of buff.   -tr.v.buffed buffing buffs   1. To polish or shine with a buff.
 2. To make the color of buff. [OFr. buffle, buffalo.]
 buff(2)  tr.v. buffed buffing buffs   To deaden the shock of. [Prob. imit.]

 buff(3)  n.  Informal.  One who is enthusiastic and knowledgeable about a
 given subject: a Civil War buff.  [From the buff-colored uniform worn by
 New York volunteer firemen at one time.]



 buffalo  n. pl. -loes  or -los  or buffalo  1.  a. Any of several oxlike
 Old World mammals of the family Bovidae, such as Syncerus caffer, of
 Africa, having massive, downward-curving horns. b. The bison. 2. The
 buffalo fish.   -tr.v.-loed -loing -loes   Slang.  1. To intimidate. 2. To
 confuse; bewilder. [Ital. or Port. bufalo < VLat. *bufalus < Lat. bubalus <
 Gk. boubalos.]



 buffalo berry  n.  1. Either of two North American shrubs, Shepherdia
 argentea or S. canadensis, having small yellowish flowers and red or
 yellowish berries. 2. The berry of a buffalo berry.



 buffalo bug  n.  The carpet beetle.



 buffalo fish  n.  Any of several North American freshwater fishes of the
 genus Ictiobus, having a humped back.



 buffalo grass  n.  A short grass, Buchloe dactyloides, of the plains east
 of the Rocky Mountains.



 buffalo robe  n.  The dressed skin of the North American bison, used as a
 lap robe, cape, or blanket.



 buffer
 buffer(1)  n.  An implement used to shine or polish, as a soft cloth.
 buffer(2)  n.  1. Something that lessens or absorbs the shock of an impact.
 2. One that protects by intercepting or moderating adverse pressures or
 influences. 3. Something that separates the entities, as an area between
 two rival powers that serves to lessen the danger of conflict. 4.
 Chemistry.  a. A substance capable of maintaining the relative
 concentrations of hydrogen and hydroxyl ions in a solution by neutralizing,
 within limits, added acids or bases. b.  Computer Science. A device or area
 used to store data temporarily and deliver at a rate different from that at
 which it was received.   -tr.v.-ered -ering -ers   Chemistry.  To treat (a
 solution) with a buffer. [Prob. < buff2.]



 buffet
 buffet(1)  n.  1. A large sideboard with drawers and cupboards. 2.  a. A
 counter from which meals or refreshments are served. b. A restaurant having
 such a counter. 3. A meal at which guests serve themselves from various
 dishes displayed on a table or sideboard. [Fr.]
 buffet(2)   n.  A blow or cuff with or as if with the hand.   -v.-feted
 -feting -fets   -tr. 1. To hit or club, esp. with the hand. 2. To strike
 against forcefully; batter: winds buffeting the tent.  3. To force (one's
 way) with or as if with crude blows. -intr. To force one's way, esp. with
 difficulty. [ME < OFr. bufet, dim. of buffe, blow.]   buffeter n.



 buffi  n.  A plural of buffo.



 buffing wheel  n.  A wheel covered with a soft material, such as velvet or
 leather, for shining and polishing metal.



 bufflehead  n.  A small North American duck, Bucephala albeola, having
 black and white plumage and a densely feathered, rounded head. [Obs.
 buffle, buffalo (< OFr. < VLat. *bufalus) + head.]



 buffo  n. pl. -fi  or -fos  A male singer of comic opera roles. [Ital. <
 buffare, to puff.]



 buffoon  n.  1. A clown; jester. 2. A person given to making coarse jokes.
 [Fr. bouffon < OItal. buffone < buffa, jest < buffare, to puff.]
 buffoonery n.



 bug  n.  1. Any of various wingless or four-winged insects of the order
 Hemiptera, and esp. the suborder Heteroptera, having mouth parts adapted
 for piercing and sucking. 2. An insect or similar organism. 3.  Informal. A
 disease-producing microorganism. 4. A mechanical, electrical, or other
 systemic defect or difficulty. 5.  Slang. An enthusiast or devotee; buff: a
 hi-fi bug.  6. A small hidden microphone or other device used for
 eavesdropping.   -v.bugged bugging bugs   -intr. To protrude: His eyes
 bugged when he saw the mess.  -tr. 1.  Slang. To annoy; pester. 2. To equip
 (a telephone circuit, for example) with a concealed electronic listening
 device. [Orig. unknown.]   bugger n.



 bugaboo  n. pl. -boos  1. A bugbear. 2. A steady source of concern. [Perh.
 of Celt. orig.]



 bugbane  n.  Any of several plants of the genus Cimicifuga, esp. C.
 americana, of eastern North America, having clusters of small white flowers
 supposed to repel insects.



 bugbear  n.  1. An object of obsessive dread. 2.  Archaic. A hobgoblin or
 bogie. [Obs. bug, hobgoblin (< ME bugge, poss. < MWelsh bwga, ghost) +
 bear.]



 bug-eyed  adj.  Slang.  Agog, as with amazement.



 bugger  n.  1.  Vulgar. A sodomite. 2. A contemptible or disreputable
 person. 3.  Slang. A fellow; chap.   -v.-gered -gering -gers   Vulgar.
 -intr. To practice buggery. -tr. To practice buggery with. [ME bougre,
 heretic < OFr. < Med. Lat. Bulgarus, Bulgarian.]



 buggery  n.  Vulgar.  Sodomy.



 buggy
 buggy(1)  n. pl. -gies  1. A small, light, four-wheeled horse-drawn
 carriage. 2. A baby carriage. [Orig. unknown.]
 buggy(2)  adj. -gier -giest   1. Infested with bugs. 2.  Slang. Crazy.
 bugginess n.



 bughouse  Slang.  n.  An insane asylum.   -adj. Mentally unsound; insane.
 [< buggy2.]



 bugle
 bugle(1)  n.  A brass wind instrument somewhat shorter than a trumpet and
 lacking keys or valves.   -intr.v.-gled -gling -gles   1. To play a bugle.
 2. To give forth a deep, prolonged sound similar to the bay of a hound. [ME
 < OFr. < Lat. buculus, steer, dim. of bos, ox.]   bugler n.
 bugle(2)  n.  A tubular glass or plastic bead used to trim clothing. [Orig.
 unknown.]
 bugle(3)  n.  Any of several plants of the genus Ajuga, native to Eurasia,
 having spikes or dense clusters of small blue or white flowers. [ME < OFr.
 < LLat. bugula < Lat. bugillo.]



 bugleweed  n.  1. A plant of the genus Lycopus, esp. L. virginicus, having
 small, whitish flowers and an aromatic odor. 2. A bugle3. [Perh. from its
 tubular flowers.]



 bugloss  n.  Any of several plants of the genera Lycopsis, Echium, and
 Anchusa, having hairy stems and leaves and clusters of blue flowers. [ME
 buglosse < OFr. < Lat. buglossa < Gk. bouglossos : bous, ox + glossa,
 tongue.]



 bug moss  n.  A moss of the genus Buxbaumia, characterized by a flattened,
 asymmetric capsule borne on a rough stalk.



 bugseed  n.  Any of several low-growing plants of the genus Corispermum,
 having narrow leaves and flat seeds.



 bugsha  n.  See table at currency. [Ar.]



 buhl
 boule or boulle    n.  Inlaid furniture decoration of elaborate designs in
 tortoiseshell, ivory, and metals of various colors. [After Andre C. Boule
 (1642-1732).]



 buhrstone or burrstone   n.  A tough limestone impregnated with silica,
 from which millstones were formerly made. [Var. of burr1 + stone.]



 build  v. built building builds   -tr. 1. To form by combining materials
 or parts; construct. 2. To give form to according to a definite plan or
 process; create. 3. To establish and strengthen; create and add to: build a
 savings account.  4. To establish a basis for; found or ground: build an
 argument on fact.  -intr. 1. To engage in construction. 2. To be a builder.
 3. To develop in magnitude or extent: The snow began to build and the wind
 to howl.  4. To progress toward a maximum, as of intensity: suspense
 building from the opening scene to the climax.  Phrasal verb.  build in. To
 construct as an integral or permanent part of. build up. 1. To develop in
 stages or by degrees: built up the business; building up the record
 collection.  2. To increase, as in value or reputation: building up the
 product.    -n. The physical make-up of a person or thing: an athletic
 build.  [ME bilden < OE *byldan < bold, dwelling.]



 builder  n.  1. One that builds, esp. a person who contracts for and
 supervises the construction of a building. 2. An abrasive or filler used in
 a soap or detergent.



 building  n.  1. Something that is built; structure. 2. The act, process,
 art, or occupation of constructing.

      Synonyms: building structure edifice pile All these nouns apply to
 something built. Building  is the basic, broadly applicable term of this
 group. Structure  usually implies considerable size and emphasizes physical
 make-up with respect to material and design. Edifice  invariably implies
 something large or otherwise imposing; it may be applied figuratively to a
 receptacle of knowledge or ideals. Pile  suggests the massiveness of stone
 and frequently indicates a cluster of buildings.




 build-up or buildup   n.  1. The act or process of amassing or increasing.
 2.  Informal. Widely favorable publicity, esp. by a systematic campaign.



 built  v.  Past tense and past participle of build.



 built-in  adj.  1. Constructed as part of a larger unit; not detachable: a
 built-in cabinet.  2. Forming a permanent or essential element or quality:
 a built-in escape clause.    built-in n.



 built-up  adj.  1. Made by fastening several layers or sections one on top
 of the other: a built-up roof.  2. Filled with buildings.



 bulb  n.  1.  Botany.  a. A modified underground stem, such as that of the
 onion or tulip, usually surrounded by scalelike modified leaves and
 containing stored food for the undeveloped shoots of the new plant enclosed
 within it. b. An underground stem or root resembling this, as a corm,
 rhizome, or tuber. c. A plant that grows from a bulb. 2. A rounded
 projection or part: the bulb of a syringe.  3. An incandescent lamp or its
 glass housing. 4.  Anatomy. Any of various rounded, enlarged, or
 bulb-shaped structures, esp. the medulla oblongata. [Lat. bulbus < Gk.
 bolbos, bulbous plant.]



 bulbar  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or characteristic of a bulb, esp. of the
 medulla oblongata: bulbar poliomyelitis.



 bulbil  n.  A small bulblike part growing above ground on a flower stalk
 or in a leaf axil. [Fr. bulbille, dim. of bulbe, bulb < Lat. bulbus.]



 bulbous  adj.  1. Resembling a bulb in shape; rounded or swollen. 2.
 Botany. Bearing bulbs or growing from a bulb.   bulbously adv.



 bulbul  n.  1. Any of various chiefly tropical Old World songbirds of the
 family Pycnonotidae, having grayish or brownish plumage. 2. A songbird
 thought to be a nightingale, often mentioned in Persian poetry. [Pers. <
 Ar.]



 Bulgar  n.  A Bulgarian (sense 1).



 Bulgarian  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or characteristic of Bulgaria, its
 inhabitants, or their language.   -n. 1. A native or inhabitant of
 Bulgaria. 2. The Slavic language of the Bulgarians.



 bulge  n.  1. A protruding part; outward curve or swelling. 2. The rounded
 lower section of a ship's hull. 3.  Slang. An advantage.   -v.bulged
 bulging bulges   -tr. To cause to curve outward. -intr. To swell up; grow
 larger or rounder. [ME, pouch < OFr. bouge < Lat. bulga, bag, of Celt.
 orig.]   bulginess n.   bulgy adj.



 bulgur  n.  Dried cracked wheat prepared for food. [Turk.]



 bulimia  n.  Insatiable appetite. [NLat. < Gk. boulima : bous, ox + limos,
 hunger.]



 bulk
 bulk(1)  n.  1. Great size, mass, or volume. 2.  a. A distinct mass or
 portion of matter, esp. a large one. b. The body of a human being, esp.
 when large and corpulent. 3. The major portion or greater part of
 something:  the great bulk of necessary work can never be anything but
 painful (Bertrand Russell). 4. Thickness of paper or cardboard in relation
 to weight. 5. A ship's hold or the cargo stowed there.   -v.bulked bulking
 bulks   -intr. 1. To be or appear to be massive in size, volume,
 importance, or consequence; loom: Sightseeing bulks large in our vacation
 plans.  2. To grow or increase in size or importance. -tr. 1. To cause to
 swell or expand. 2. To cause to cohere or form a mass.

       Idiom Section:  in bulk. 1. Unpackaged; loose. 2. In large numbers,
 amounts, or volume. [ME < ON bulki, cargo.]
 bulk(2)  n.  A frame structure, such as a stall or booth, projecting from
 the front of a building. [Orig. unknown.]



 bulkage  n.  A substance that stimulates peristalsis by increasing the
 bulk of material in the intestine.



 bulkhead  n.  1. One of the upright partitions dividing a ship into
 compartments and serving to prevent the spread of leakage or fire. 2. A
 wall or embankment constructed in a mine or tunnel to protect against earth
 slides, fire, water, or gas. 3. A horizontal or sloping structure providing
 access to a cellar stairway or to an elevator shaft. [bulk2 + head.]



 bulky  adj. -ier -iest   1. Extremely large; massive. 2. Clumsy; unwieldy.
   bulkily adv.   bulkiness n.



 bull
 bull(1)  n.  1.  a. An adult male bovine mammal. b. The uncastrated adult
 male of domestic cattle. c. The male of certain other mammals, such as the
 elephant and moose. 2. An exceptionally large, strong, and aggressive man.
 3. A person who buys commodities or securities in anticipation of a rise in
 prices or who tries by speculative purchases to effect such a rise. 4. Bull
  Taurus. 5.  Slang. A policeman or detective. 6.  Slang. Empty, foolish
 talk; nonsense.   -v.bulled bulling bulls   -tr. 1. To engage in
 speculative buying so as to raise the price of (stocks) or prices in (a
 market). 2. To push; force: bulled his way through a crowded bus.  -intr.
 1. To rise in price. 2. To push ahead or through forcefully.   -adj. 1.
 Male. 2. Resembling a bull; large and strong. 3. Characterized by rising
 prices: a bull market.  [ME bule < OE *bulla < ON boli.]
 bull(2)  n.  1. An official document issued by the pope and sealed with a
 bulla. 2. The bulla with which a bull is sealed. [ME bulle < OFr. < Med.
 Lat. bulla.]
 bull(3)  n.  Informal.  A blunder. [Orig. unknown.]



 bulla  n. pl. bullae  1. A round seal affixed to a papal bull. 2.
 Pathology. A large blister or vesicle. [Med. Lat. < Lat., bubble, seal.]



 bullace  n.  The damson (sense 1. a.). [ME bolas < OFr. buloce.]



 bullae  n.  Plural of bulla.



 bullate  adj.  Having a puckered or blistered appearance: bullate leaves.
 [< Lat. bulla, bubble.]



 bullbaiting  n.  The formerly popular sport of baiting bulls with dogs.



 bullbat  n.  The nighthawk (sense 1). [From its roaring sound in flight.]



 bulldog  n.  1. A short-haired dog of a breed characterized by a large
 head, strong, square jaws with dewlaps, and a stocky body. 2. A
 short-barreled revolver or pistol of a large caliber. 3. A heat-resistant
 material used to line puddling furnaces. 4.  Chiefly British. A proctor's
 assistant at Oxford or Cambridge.   -adj. Having the qualities of a
 bulldog; stubborn.   -tr.v.-dogged -dogging -dogs   Western U.S.  To throw
 (a steer) by seizing its horns and twisting its neck until the animal
 falls.   bulldogger n.



 bulldog edition  n.  The early morning edition of a daily newspaper.



 bulldoze  tr.v. -dozed -dozing -dozes   1.  Slang. To coerce by
 intimidation; bully. 2. To clear, dig up, or move with a bulldozer. [Poss.
 < obs. bulldose, severe beating : bull1 + dose.]



 bulldozer  n.  1. A tractor with a vertical metal scoop in front for
 moving earth and rocks, used esp. to clear or grade land. 2.  Slang. An
 overbearing person; bully.



 bullet  n.  1.  a. A spherical or pointed cylindrical metallic projectile
 that is fired from a pistol, rifle, or other relatively small firearm. b.
 Such a projectile in a metal casing; cartridge. 2. An object resembling a
 bullet in shape, action, or effect. 3.  Printing. A heavy dot ([bull ])
 used to call attention to a particular passage. [Fr. boulette, dim. of
 boule, ball < OFr. < Lat. bulla.]



 bulletin  n.  1. A printed or broadcast statement on a matter of public
 interest. 2. A periodical, esp. one published by an organization or
 society.   -tr.v.-tined -tining -tins   To inform by bulletin. [Fr., prob.
 < OFr. bullette < bulle, bull. -see bull2,]



 bulletin board  n.  A board on which notices are posted.



 bulletproof  adj.  Impenetrable by bullets.   -tr.v.-proofed -proofing
 -proofs   To make bulletproof.



 bull fiddle  n.  A double bass.



 bullfight  n.  A public spectacle, esp. in Spain and Mexico, in which a
 fighting bull is engaged in a series of traditional maneuvers culminating
 usually with the matador's ceremonial execution of the bull by sword.
 bullfighter n.   bullfighting n.



 bullfinch  n.  1. A European bird, Pyrrhula pyrrhula, having a short,
 thick bill and, in the male, a red breast. 2. Any of several similar
 finches.



 bullfrog  n.  Any of several large frogs, chiefly of the genus Rana, esp.
 R. catesbeiana, of North America, having a characteristic deep, resonant
 croak.



 bullhead  n.  1. Any of several North American freshwater catfishes of the
 genus Ictalurus.  2. Any of several fishes of the family Cottidae, such as
 the sculpin and the miller's thumb.



 bullheaded  adj.  Very stubborn; obstinate.   bullheadedly adv.
 bullheadedness n.



 bullhorn  n.  An electric megaphone that amplifies the volume of a voice
 or other sounds.



 bullion  n.  1.  a. Gold or silver considered with respect to quantity
 rather than value. b. Gold or silver in the form of bars, ingots, or
 plates. 2. A heavy lace trimming made of twisted gold or silver threads.
 [ME, an ingot of precious metal, partly < OFr. billon < bille, stick,
 bubble < boilir, to boil, and partly < OFr. boillon, molten metal.]



 bullish  adj.  1. Like a bull; brawny or bullheaded. 2.  a. Causing,
 expecting, or characterized by rising stock-market prices. b. Optimistic or
 confident.   bullishly adv.   bullishness n.



 bullmastiff  n.  A heavy-set dog of a breed developed from the bulldog and
 the mastiff.



 Bull Moose  n.  A member or supporter of the Bull Moose Party. [From the
 party's emblem.]



 Bull Moose Party  n.  The Progressive Party (sense 1).



 bullnecked  adj.  Having a short, thick neck.



 bullnose  n.  A contagious disease of swine caused by the bacillus
 Actinomyces necrophorus and characterized by an infection and swelling of
 the snout.



 bullock  n.  1. A castrated bull; steer. 2. A young bull. [ME bullok < OE
 bulluc.]



 bullpen  n.  1. A pen for confining bulls. 2.  Informal. A place for the
 temporary detention of prisoners. 3.  Baseball.  a. An area where relief
 pitchers warm up during a game. b. The relief pitchers of a team
 collectively.



 bullring  n.  A circular arena for bullfights.



 bullroarer  n.  A small wooden slat, attached to a string, that makes a
 roaring noise when whirled.



 bull session  n.  Informal.  A random, informal group discussion.



 bull's eye or bull's-eye   n.  1.  a. The small central circle on a
 target. b. A shot that hits this circle. 2. Something that precisely
 achieves a desired goal. 3. A thick, circular piece of glass set, as in a
 roof, to admit light. 4. A circular opening or window. 5.  a. A
 plano-convex lens used to concentrate light. b. A lantern or lamp having
 such a lens. 6. A piece of round, hard candy.



 bull snake  n.  Any of several nonvenomous North American snakes of the
 genus Pituophis, having yellow and brown or black markings.



 bull terrier  n.  A dog of a breed developed by crossing a bulldog and a
 terrier, having a short, usually white coat.



 bull thistle  n.  A coarse weed, Cirsium vulgare, native to Eurasia,
 having spiny stems and leaves and purple flowers. [From its large head.]



 bull tongue  n.  A heavy plow with a single shovel, used chiefly in cotton
 fields.



 bullwhip  n.  A long, plaited rawhide whip with a knotted end.
 -tr.v.-whipped -whipping -whips   To whip with a bullwhip.



 bully
 bully(1)  n. pl. -lies  1. A person who is habitually cruel, esp. to
 smaller or weaker people. 2.  Archaic. A hired ruffian. 3.  Obsolete. A
 pimp. 4.  Obsolete. A fine fellow. 5.  Obsolete. A sweetheart.   -v.-lied
 -lying -lies   -tr. To intimidate with superior size or strength. -intr. To
 behave like a bully.   -adj. Informal.  Excellent; splendid.   -interj.
 Used to express approval: Bully for him!  [Poss. < MDu. boele, sweetheart.]

 bully(2)  n.  Canned or pickled beef. [Perh. Fr. bouilli, boiled meat <
 bouiller, to boil.]



 bullyrag or ballyrag   tr.v. -ragged -ragging -rags   To mistreat or
 intimidate by bullying.



 bulrush  n.  1. Any of various grasslike sedges of the genus Scirpus,
 growing in wet places. 2. Any of various marsh plants, such as the cattail.
 [ME bulrish.]



 bulwark  n.  1. A wall or similar structure raised as a defensive
 fortification; rampart. 2. Something serving as a principal defense against
 attack or encroachment:  We have seen the necessity of the Union, as our
 bulwark against foreign danger (James Madison). 3. A breakwater. 4.
 bulwarks  The part of a ship's side that is above the upper deck.
 -tr.v.-warked -warking -warks   1. To fortify with a bulwark. 2. To provide
 defense or protection for. [ME bulwerk < MDu. bolwerk < MHG bolwerc : bole,
 plank + werc, work < OHG.]

      Synonyms: bulwark barricade breastwork earthwork rampart
 bastion parapet All of these nouns refer to structures used or regarded as
 a defense against attack. Bulwark  applies to any wall-like fortification,
 and figuratively to anything relied upon heavily for protection. Barricade
 pertains broadly to any barrier but implies hasty construction to meet an
 imminent threat. Breastwork  denotes a low defensive wall, especially a
 temporary one built in haste. Earthwork  specifies a defensive embankment
 of earth, usually in the field. A rampart , the main defensive structure
 around a guarded place, is permanent, high, and broad. The projecting
 sections of a rampart  are called bastions , from which defenders have a
 wide range of view and fire. Both terms are used figuratively, bastion
 implying great defensive strength. Parapet  applies to any low
 fortification, typically a wall atop a rampart




 bum
 bum(1)  n.  1. A tramp; hobo. 2. A person who avoids work and seeks to live
 off others. 3. A person who performs poorly; incompetent: called the
 pitcher a bum.    -v.bummed bumming bums   Informal.   -intr. 1. To live by
 begging or sponging, often while moving from place to place. 2. To loaf.
 -tr. To acquire by begging or sponging.   -adj. Slang.  1. Invalid;
 worthless: gave me bum information.  2. Disabled; malfunctioning: a bum
 shoulder.

       Idiom Section:  on the bum. Slang.  1. Living as a hobo or tramp. 2.
 Out of order; broken. [Short for bummer, lazy person, prob. < G. Bummler <
 bummeln, to loaf.]   bummer n.
 bum(2)  intr.v. bummed bumming bums   Chiefly British.  To make a humming
 sound; drone. [ME bummen.]
 bum(3)  n.  Chiefly British.  Slang.  The buttocks. [ME bom.]



 bumble
 bumble(1)  v. -bled -bling -bles   -intr. To speak or behave in a clumsy or
 faltering manner. -tr. To bungle; botch. [Prob. alteration of bungle.]
 bumble(2)  intr.v. -bled -bling -bles   To make a humming or droning sound;
 buzz.   -n. A humming or droning sound; buzz. [ME bomblen.]



 bumblebee  n.  Any of various large, hairy bees of the genus Bombus.
 [bumble2 + bee.]



 bumboat  n.  A small boat used to peddle provisions and small wares to
 ships anchored offshore. [Perh. bum3 + boat.]



 bummer  n.  Slang.  1.  a. A bad reaction to a hallucinogenic drug. b. A
 disagreeable person, event, or situation. 2. A failure.



 bump  v. bumped bumping bumps   -tr. 1. To strike or collide with
 forcefully. 2. To cause to knock against an obstacle. 3. To knock to a new
 position; displace. 4.  Informal. To displace by right of seniority or
 authority. -intr. 1. To hit or knock against something forcefully. 2. To
 proceed with jerks and jolts. Phrasal verb.  bump into. To meet by chance.
 bump off. Slang.  To murder.   -n. 1. A forceful blow, collision, or jolt.
 2. A slight swelling or lump. 3. One of the natural protuberances on the
 human skull. 4. A forward thrust of the pelvis as or as if in a burlesque
 striptease. [Imit.]



 bumper
 bumper(1)  n.  1. One that bumps. 2.  a. Either of two metal structures,
 typically horizontal bars, attached to the front and rear of an automobile
 to absorb the impact of a collision. b. A protective device used to absorb
 shocks.
 bumper(2)  n.  1. A drinking vessel filled to the brim. 2. Something
 unusually or extraordinarily large.   -adj. Unusually full or abundant: a
 bumper crop.  [Perh. < bump.]



 bumper sticker  n.  A sticker bearing a printed message for display on a
 vehicle's bumper.



 bumpkin  n.  1. An awkward, unsophisticated rustic; yokel. 2. A short spar
 projecting from the deck of a ship, used to extend a sail or secure a block
 or stay. [Orig. unknown.]



 bumptious  adj.  Crudely forward and assertive in behavior; pushy. [Perh.
 a blend of bump and fractious.]   bumptiously adv.   bumptiousness n.



 bumpy  adj. -ier -iest   1. Covered with or full of bumps or
 protuberances: a bumpy head.  2. Marked by bumps and jolts: a bumpy road.
  bumpily adv.   bumpiness n.



 bun
 bun(1)  n.  1. A small bread roll, often sweetened or spiced. 2. A tight
 roll of hair worn at the back of a woman's head. [ME bunne, prob. < OFr.
 bugne, boil, of Celt. orig.]
 bun(2)  n.  A drunken spree or revel. [Orig. unknown.]



 Buna   A trademark for synthetic rubber made by polymerization of
 butadiene and sodium.



 bunch  n.  1. A group of like items growing, fastened, or placed together;
 cluster. 2.  Informal. A group of people. 3. A lump or swelling.
 -v.bunched bunching bunches   -tr. To gather or form into a bunch. -intr.
 1. To form a cluster or group. 2. To swell; protrude. [ME bunche, prob. <
 OFr. bonge, bundle.]   bunchy adj.



 bunchberry  n.  The dwarf cornel.



 bunchflower  n.  A bog plant, Melanthium virginicum, of the eastern United
 States, having narrow leaves and a branching cluster of greenish flowers.



 bunco or bunko   Informal.  n. pl. -cos  or -kos  A swindle in which an
 unsuspecting person is cheated; confidence game.   -tr.v.-coed -coing -cos
 or -koed  or -koing  or -kos   To swindle, as by a confidence game. [Sp.
 banca, card game < Ital. banca, bank.]



 buncombe  n.  Variant of bunkum.



 bund
 bund(1)  n.  1. An embankment or dike, esp. in India. 2. A street running
 along a harbor or waterway, esp. in the Orient. [Hindi band < Pers.]
 bund(2)   n.  1. An association, esp. a political association. 2. Bund  A
 pro-Nazi German-American organization of the 1930's. [G. < MHG bunt.]
 bundist n.



 Bundesrat or Bundesrath   n.  1. The upper house of the federal
 legislature of West Germany. 2. The federal council of certain countries,
 as of Switzerland and Austria. [G. : Bundes, genitive of Bund,
 confederation + Rat, council.]



 Bundestag  n.  The lower house of the federal legislature of West Germany.
 [G. : Bund, confederation + -tag, meeting < MHG tagen, to meet < tag, day <
 OHG tac.]



 bundle  n.  1. A group of objects tied, fastened, wrapped, or otherwise
 held together. 2. Something wrapped or tied up for carrying; package. 3.
 Biology. A cluster or strand of specialized cells. 4.  Botany. A vascular
 bundle. 5.  Slang. A large sum of money.   -v.-dled -dling -dles   -tr. 1.
 To tie, wrap, or fasten together. 2. To dispatch quickly and with little
 fuss; hustle: bundled her off to school.  3. To dress warmly: bundled them
 up in winter clothes.  -intr. 1. To leave hastily and unceremoniously. 2.
 To sleep in the same bed while fully clothed, a custom practiced by engaged
 couples in early New England. [ME bundel, prob. < MDu. bondel.]   bundler
 n.



 bung  n.  1. A stopper for the hole through which a cask, keg, or barrel
 is filled or emptied. 2. A bunghole.   -tr.v.bunged bunging bungs   To
 close with or as if with a cork or stopper. [ME bunge < MDu. bonge, perh. <
 LLat. puncta, hole < Lat. pungere, to prick.]



 bungalow  n.  A small cottage, usually of one story. [Hindi bangla <
 Bengal, a region in eastern India and Bangladesh.]



 bunghole  n.  The hole in a cask, keg, or barrel through which liquid is
 poured in or drained out.



 bungle  v. -gled -gling -gles   -intr. To work or act ineptly or
 inefficiently. -tr. To manage (a task) badly; mishandle. [Perh. of Scand.
 orig.]   bungler n.   bunglingly adv.



 bunion  n.  A painful, inflamed swelling at the bursa of the big toe.
 [Poss. alteration of obs. bunny, swelling.]



 bunk
 bunk(1)  n.  1. A narrow bed built like a shelf against a wall. 2. A
 double-decker bed. 3.  Informal. A place for sleeping.   -v.bunked bunking
 bunks   -intr. 1. To sleep in a bunk. 2. To sleep, esp. in makeshift
 quarters. -tr. To provide with sleeping quarters. [Orig. unknown.]
 bunk(2)  n.  Slang.  Empty talk; twaddle. [Short for bunkum.]



 bunk bed  n.  A bunk1 (sense 2).



 bunker  n.  1. A bin or tank for fuel storage, as on a ship. 2. A sand
 trap serving as an obstacle on a golf course. 3. A fortified earthwork, as
 for the protection of a gun emplacement.   -tr.v.-kered -kering -kers   To
 store or place in a bunker. [Sc. bonker, chest.]



 bunkhouse  n.  Sleeping quarters on a ranch or in a camp.



 bunkmate  n.  A person with whom one shares rough sleeping quarters.



 bunko  n.  Variant of bunco.



 bunkum or buncombe   n.  Empty or meaningless talk; claptrap. [After
 Buncombe County, North Carolina.]



 bunny  n. pl. -nies  Informal.  A rabbit. [Dial. bun, rabbit.]



 Bunraku  n.  A traditional Japanese puppet theater featuring large wooden
 puppets. [J. : bun, literary composition + raku, easy.]



 buns  pl.n.  Slang.  The buttocks. [< dial. bun, hind part of a rabbit or
 squirrel < Sc. Gael., stump, bottom.]



 Bunsen burner  n.  A small laboratory burner consisting of a vertical
 metal tube connected to a gas source and producing a very hot flame from a
 mixture of gas and air let in through adjustable holes at the base. [After
 Robert W. Bunsen (1811-1899).]



 bunt
 bunt(1)  v. bunted bunting bunts   -tr. 1. To push or strike with or as if
 with the horns or head; butt. 2.  Baseball. To bat (a pitched ball) with a
 half swing so that the ball rolls slowly in front of the infielders. -intr.
 Baseball.  To bunt a pitch.   -n. 1. A butt with or as if with the horns or
 head. 2.  Baseball.  a. The act of bunting. b. A bunted ball. [Orig.
 unknown.]
 bunt(2)  n.  1. The middle section of a square sail. 2. The sagging middle
 part of a fishnet. [Orig. unknown.]
 bunt(3)  n.  A disease of wheat, rye, and other cereal grasses, caused by
 fungi of the genus Tilletia and resulting in sooty black spores in place of
 normal seeds. [Orig. unknown.]



 bunting
 bunting(1)  n.  1. A light cotton or woolen cloth used for making flags. 2.
 Flags collectively. 3. Long, colored strips of cloth used for festive
 decoration. [Orig. unknown.]
 bunting(2)  n.  Any of various birds of the family Fringillidae, having
 short, cone-shaped bills. [ME.]
 bunting(3)  n.  A snug-fitting, hooded sleeping bag for infants. [Orig.
 unknown.]



 buntline  n.  A rope that keeps a square sail from bellying when it is
 being hauled up for furling.



 bunya or bunyabunya   n.  An evergreen tree, Araucaria bidwilli, native to
 Australia, having sharp-pointed, close-set leaves and large cones. [Native
 word in Australia.]



 Bunyanesque  adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, or suggestive of the allegorical
 writings of John Bunyan. 2.  a. Of, pertaining to, or suggestive of the
 stories about Paul Bunyan. b. Of astonishingly large size.



 buoy  n.  1. A float, often having a bell or light, moored in water as a
 warning of danger or as a marker for a channel. 2. A device made of cork or
 other buoyant material for keeping a person afloat.   -tr.v.buoyed buoying
 buoys   1. To mark with or as if with a buoy. 2. To keep afloat. 3. To
 uplift the spirits of; hearten: good news that buoyed her up.  [ME boie <
 OFr.]



 buoyance  n.  Buoyancy.



 buoyancy  n.  1. The tendency or capacity to remain afloat in a liquid or
 to rise in air or gas. 2. The upward force that a fluid exerts on an object
 less dense than itself. 3. The ability to recover quickly from setbacks. 4.
 Lightness of spirit; cheerfulness.



 buoyant  adj.  1. Capable of floating or keeping things afloat. 2.
 Animated; sprightly. [Sp. boyante, pr.part. of boyar, to refloat a boat <
 boya, buoy < OFr. boie.]   buoyantly adv.



 buprestid  n.  Any of various often brightly colored beetles of the family
 Buprestidae, many of which are destructive wood borers as larvae. [NLat.
 Buprestidae, family name < Buprestis, type genus < Lat. buprestis, beetle
 harmful to cattle < Gk. bouprestis : bous, ox + prethein, to swell up.]



 bur
 bur(1)  n.  1.  a. The rough, prickly, or spiny fruit husk, seed pod, or
 flower of various plants, such as the chestnut or the burdock. b. A plant
 producing burs. 2. A persistently clinging or nettlesome person or thing.
 3. A rough protuberance, esp. a burl on a tree. 4. Variant of burr1. [ME
 burre, of Scand. orig.]
 bur(2)  n.  -v. Variant of burr2.
 bur(3)  n.  Variant of burr3.



 burble  n.  1. A rushing or bubbling sound. 2. A rapid, excited flow of
 speech. 3. A separation in the boundary layer of air about a moving
 streamlined body, such as the wing of an airplane, causing a breakdown in
 the smooth airflow and resulting in turbulence.   -intr.v.-bled -bling
 -bles   1. To bubble; gurgle. 2. To speak quickly and excitedly. [ME
 burblen, to bubble.]



 burbot  n. pl. burbot  or -bots  A freshwater fish, Lota lota, of the
 Northern Hemisphere, related to and resembling the cod. [ME < OFr.
 borbote.]



 bur cucumber  n.  1. A climbing vine, Sicyos angulatus, of eastern North
 America, having lobed leaves, small greenish flowers, and bristly,
 egg-shaped fruit. 2. The fruit of the bur cucumber.



 burden
 burden(1)  n.  1.  a. Something that is carried. b. Something that is
 difficult to bear physically or emotionally. 2. A responsibility or duty.
 3.  a. The amount of cargo that a vessel can carry. b. The weight of the
 cargo carried by a vessel at one time. 4. The carrying of heavy loads.
 -tr.v.-dened -dening -dens   1. To load or overload. 2. To weigh down;
 oppress. [ME < OE byroen.]
 burden(2)  n.  1. The bass accompaniment to a song. 2. The chorus or
 refrain of a musical composition. 3. The drone of a bagpipe. 4. A recurring
 idea or theme. [Var. of bourdon.]



 burden of proof  n.  The responsibility of proving a disputed charge or
 allegation.



 burdensome  adj.  Being or imposing a burden.   burdensomely adv.
 burdensomeness n.

      Synonyms: burdensome onerous oppressive harsh arduous
 demanding rigorous exacting These adjectives all apply to what taxes the
 body or mind. Burdensome  is generally associated with actual hardship of
 body, and onerous  with the figuratively heavy load imposed by something
 irksome, annoying, or otherwise unwelcome. Oppressive  and harsh  pertain
 to severe trial of body or spirit. The remaining adjectives imply active
 efforts to overcome hardship. Arduous  emphasizes the expenditure of
 sustained, exhausting labor. Demanding  and rigorous  apply to that which
 imposes severe conditions, and exacting  further intensifies the sense of
 uncompromising demands, as for high standards of performance or for strict
 observance of rules.




 burdock  n.  Any of several coarse, weedy plants of the genus Arctium,
 native to Eurasia, having large, heart-shaped leaves and purplish flowers
 surrounded by hooked bristles. [bur + dock4.]



 bureau  n. pl. -reaus  or -reaux  1. A chest of drawers, esp. one with a
 mirror. 2.  Chiefly British. A writing desk or writing table with drawers.
 3.  a. A government department or subdivision of a department. b. An
 office, usually of a large organization, that performs a specific duty: a
 news bureau.  c. A business that offers information of a specified kind: a
 travel bureau.  [Fr., desk, cloth cover for desks < OFr. burel, woolen
 cloth, ult. < LLat. burra, shaggy garment.]



 bureaucracy  n. pl. -cies  1.  a. Administration of a government chiefly
 through bureaus staffed with nonelective officials. b. The departments and
 their officials as a group. 2. Government marked by diffusion of authority
 among numerous offices and adherence to inflexible rules of operation. 3.
 An administrative system in which the need to follow complex procedures
 impedes effective action. [Fr. bureaucratie : bureau, office (see bureau) +
 Gk. -kratia, rule < kratos, strength.]



 bureaucrat  n.  1. An official who insists on rigid adherence to rules,
 forms, and routines. 2. An official of a bureaucracy.   bureaucratic adj.
 bureaucratically adv.



 bureaucratese  n.  A style of language used esp. by bureaucrats that is
 characterized by jargon and euphemism.



 bureaucratize  tr.v. -tized -tizing -tizes   To bring under bureaucratic
 influence or control.



 burette or buret   n.  A uniform-bore glass tube with fine gradations and
 a stopcock at the bottom, used esp. in laboratory procedures for accurate
 fluid dispensing and measurement. [Fr., dim. of buire, vase for liquors.]



 burg  n.  1. A fortified or walled town. 2.  Informal. A city or town. [ME
 burgh < OE burg.]



 burgage  n.  A tenure in England and Scotland under which property of the
 king or a lord in a town was held for a yearly rent. [ME < Med. Lat.
 burgagium < burgus, fortified town, of Germanic orig.]



 burgee  n.  A small distinguishing flag displayed by a yacht. [Perh. <
 dial. Fr. bourgeais, shipowner < OFr. burgeis, citizen < bourg, bourg.]



 burgeon or bourgeon   intr.v. -geoned -geoning -geons   1.  a. To put
 forth new buds, leaves, or greenery; sprout. b. To begin to grow or
 blossom. 2. To develop rapidly; flourish. [ME burgeonen < OFr. borjoner.]

      Usage: The verb burgeon  and its participle burgeoning,  used as an
 adjective, are properly restricted to the actual or figurative sense of "to
 bud or sprout," or "to newly emerge": the burgeoning talent of the young
 Mozart.  They are not mere substitutes for the more general expand, grow,
 or thrive.  A slight majority of the Usage Panel rejects the following
 example: the burgeoning population of Queens.



 burger  n.  Informal.  1. A hamburger. 2. A sandwich similar to a
 hamburger but with a nonbeef filling: a crab burger.



 burgess  n.  1. A freeman or citizen of an English borough. 2. Formerly, a
 member of the English Parliament representing a town, borough, or
 university. 3. A member of the lower house of the legislature of colonial
 Virginia or Maryland. [ME burgeis < OFr. < LLat. burgensis.]



 burgh  n.  A chartered town or borough in Scotland. [Sc., var. of
 borough.]



 burgher  n.  1. A member of the mercantile class of a medieval city. 2. A
 citizen of a town or borough. [Ult. < MHG burgaere < OHG burgari < burg,
 city.]



 burglar  n.  One who commits burglary. [AN burgler < Med. Lat. burgulator,
 var. of burgator < LLat. burgus, fortified town, of Germanic orig.]



 burglarious  adj.  Of or pertaining to burglary.



 burglarize  tr.v. -ized -izing -izes   To break into, enter, and steal
 from.



 burglarproof  adj.  Secure against burglary.



 burglary  n. pl. -ries  The crime of breaking into and entering a building
 with the intention of stealing.



 burgle  tr.v. -gled -gling -gles   Informal.  To burglarize.
 [Back-formation < burglar.]



 burgomaster  n.  In the Netherlands, Flanders, Austria, and Germany, the
 principal magistrate of a city or town, comparable to a mayor. [Partial
 transl. of Du. burgemeester : burg, town (< MDu. burch) + meester, master.]




 burgonet  n.  A 16th-century helmet. [OFr. bourguignotte, prob. <
 Bourgogne, Burgundy, a region of southeastern France.]



 burgoo  n. pl. -goos  1. Thick oatmeal gruel. 2.  a. A thick, spicy soup
 or stew of meat and vegetables. b. A picnic or gathering where burgoo is
 served. [Orig. unknown.]



 Burgundy  n. pl. -dies  1.  a. Any of various red or white wines produced
 in Burgundy, France. b. Any of various similar wines produced elsewhere. 2.
 burgundy  A dark grayish or blackish purple to dark purplish red or reddish
 brown.



 burial  n.  The act or process of burying a dead body. burial rites.  [ME
 buriel < OE byrgels.]



 burin  n.  A pointed steel cutting tool used in engraving or in carving
 stone. [Fr.]



 burke  tr.v. burked burking burkes   1. To kill by suffocation or
 strangulation so as to leave the body intact and suitable for dissection.
 2. To suppress quietly. [After William Burke (1792-1829).]



 burl  n.  1. A knot, lump, or slub in yarn or cloth. 2.  a. A large,
 rounded outgrowth on the trunk or branch of a tree. b. The strongly marked
 wood from such an outgrowth used as veneer.   -tr.v.burled burling burls
 To dress or finish (cloth) by removing burls or loose threads. [ME burle <
 OFr. bourle, tuft of wool, dim. of bourre, coarse wool < LLat. burra,
 shaggy garment.]   burler n.



 burlap  n.  A coarsely woven cloth made of fibers of jute, flax, or hemp
 and used to make bags, to reinforce linoleum, and in interior decoration.
 [Orig. unknown.]



 burlesque  n.  1. A literary or dramatic work that makes a subject appear
 ridiculous by treating it in an incongruous way, as by presenting a lofty
 subject with vulgarity or an inconsequential one with mock dignity. 2. A
 ludicrous or mocking imitation; travesty. 3. Vaudeville entertainment
 characterized by ribald comedy, dancing, and nudity.   -v.-lesqued
 -lesquing -lesques   -tr. To imitate mockingly or humorously:  always
 bringing junk . . . home, as if he were burlesquing his role as provider
 (John Updike). -intr. To use the methods or techniques of burlesque. [<
 Fr., comical < Ital. burlesco < burla, joke < VLat. *burrula, dim. of LLat.
 burrae, nonsense.]   burlesquely adv.   burlesquer n.



 burley  n. pl. -leys  A light-colored tobacco grown chiefly in Kentucky.
 [Prob. < the name Burley.]



 burly  adj. -lier -liest   Heavy, strong, and muscular; husky. [ME
 burlich.]   burlily adv.   burliness n.



 bur marigold  n.  Any of various plants of the genus Bidens, having yellow
 flowers and pointed seeds that cling to fur and clothing.



 Burmese  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or characteristic of Burma, its natives
 and inhabitants, their language, or their culture.   -n.pl. Burmese  1. A
 native or inhabitant of Burma. 2. The Sino-Tibetan language of Burma.



 burn
 burn(1)  v. burned  or burnt  or burning  or burns   -tr. 1.  a. To cause
 to undergo combustion. b. To destroy with fire: burned the rubbish.  2.
 Physics. To cause to undergo nuclear fission or fusion. 3. To damage or
 injure by fire, heat, or a heat-producing agent: burned his finger.  4.  a.
 To kill with fire. b.  Slang. To execute, esp. to electrocute. 5. To
 produce by fire or heat: burn a clearing in the brush.  6. To use as a
 fuel: a furnace that burns coal.  7. To impart a sensation of intense heat
 to: The chili burned his mouth.  8. To brand (an animal). 9. To harden or
 impart a finish to by subjecting to intense heat; fire: burn clay pots in a
 kiln.  10. To make angry: remarks that burned me up.  11.  Slang.  a. To
 defeat in a contest, esp. by a narrow margin. b. To swindle or deceive;
 cheat. -intr. 1. To undergo combustion. 2. To be on fire; flame. 3. To emit
 heat or light by or as if by fire: the sun burning bright in the sky.  4.
 To be destroyed, injured, damaged, or changed by or as if by fire: a house
 that burned to the ground.  5. To feel or look hot: burning with fever.  6.
 To be consumed with strong emotion, esp.: a. To be or become angry: always
 burns at every little remark.  b. To be very eager: was burning to know
 what happened.  7. To be imprinted by or as if by burning: criticism that
 burned in my mind.  8.  Slang. To be electrocuted. 9. To impart a sensation
 of heat. 10. To become sunburned. Phrasal verb.  burn out. 1. To stop
 burning from lack of fuel. 2. To wear out or become inoperative as a result
 of heat or friction. 3. To become exhausted, esp. as a result of long-term
 stress.   -n. 1. An injury produced by fire, heat, or a heat-producing
 agent. 2. A burned place or area: a cigarette burn in the tablecloth.  3.
 The process or result of burning, as in the manufacture of bricks. 4. A
 stinging sensation: the burn of alcohol on an open wound.  5. A sunburn. 6.
  Aerospace. One firing of a rocket. 7.  Slang. A swindle.

       Idiom Section:  burn (one's) bridges (behind one). To eliminate the
 possibility of retreat. to burn. In great amounts: had money to burn.  [ME
 burnen < OE beornan and baernan.]

      Synonyms: burn scorch singe sear char
 parch These verbs mean to injure or alter by heat. Burn  can apply to the
 effect of exposure to any source of heat. Scorch  usually refers to contact
 with flame or heated metal, and involves superficial (surface) burning that
 discolors, damages texture, or makes brittle. Singe  specifies superficial
 and momentary burning of edges through nearness to the heat source. Sear
 applies to surface burning of organic tissue, as by branding, cauterizing,
 or application of intense flame, as to meat. Char  pertains to the
 reduction of a burning substance to carbon, or to any blackening or
 disintegration due to fire. Parch  emphasizes surface drying and, often,
 fissuring by long exposure to flame or sun.

 burn(2)  n.  Chiefly Scot. A small stream; brook. [ME < OE.]



 burner  n.  1. One that burns. 2. The part of a stove, furnace, or lamp
 that is lighted to produce a flame. 3. A device, as a furnace, in which
 something is burned.



 burnet  n.  Any of several plants of the genus Sanguisorba, having
 cucumber-flavored leaves and clusters of small white, brownish-red, or dark
 brown flowers. [ME < OFr. burnette, dark brown, dim. of brun, brown, of
 Germanic orig.]



 burning  adj.  1. Marked by intense heat: a burning sun.  2. Characterized
 by intense emotion; passionate: a burning desire for justice.  3. Of
 immediate import; urgent:  the issues that seem so burning in Washington
 (John F. Kennedy).   burningly adv.



 burning bush  n.  1. Any of several plants or shrubs having foliage that
 turns bright red, as the wahoo and the summer cypress. 2. The gas plant.



 burning glass  n.  A convex lens used to focus the sun's rays and produce
 heat, esp. for ignition.



 burnish  tr.v. -nished -nishing -nishes   1. To make smooth or glossy by
 or as if by rubbing; polish. 2. To rub with a tool that serves esp. to
 smooth or polish.   -n. A smooth, glossy finish or appearance; luster. [ME
 burnishen < OFr. burnir, burniss-, var. of brunir < brun, shining, of
 Germanic orig.]   burnisher n.



 burnoose or burnous   n.  A hooded cloak worn esp. by Arabs. [Fr. burnous
 < Ar. bournous < Gk. birros, cloak < LLat. birrus.]



 burnout  n.  1. A failure in a device attributable to burning, excessive
 heat, or friction. 2.  Aerospace.  a. The termination of rocket or
 jet-engine operation because of fuel exhaustion or shutoff. b. The point at
 which this termination occurs. 3.  a. Physical or emotional exhaustion,
 esp. as a result of long-term stress. b. One who is burned out, as from
 long-term stress.



 burnsides  pl.n.  Heavy side whiskers and a moustache, worn with the chin
 clean-shaven. [After Ambrose E. Burnside (1824-1881).]



 burnt  v.  A past tense and past participle of burn.



 burnt sienna  n.  1. A reddish-brown pigment prepared by calcining raw
 sienna. 2. A dark reddish orange; sienna.



 bur oak  n.  A timber tree, Quercus macrocarpa, of eastern North America,
 having acorns enclosed within a deep, fringed cup.



 burp  n.  A belch.   -v.burped burping burps   -intr. To belch. -tr. To
 cause (a baby) to belch, esp. after feeding. [Imit.]



 burp gun  n.  A portable, lightweight machine gun.



 burr
 burr(1)  n.  1. A rough edge or area remaining on metal or other material
 after it has been cast, cut, or drilled. 2. A rotary cutting tool designed
 to be attached to a drill. 3. Variant of bur1.   -tr.v.burred burring burrs
   1. To form a burr on. 2. To remove burrs from. [ME burre, of Scand.
 orig.]
 burr(2)  n.  1. A rough trilling of the letter r, as in Scottish
 pronunciation. 2. A buzzing or whirring sound.   -v.burred burring burrs
 or burs   -tr. To pronounce with a burr. -intr. 1. To speak with a burr. 2.
 To make a buzzing or whirring sound. [Imit.]
 burr(3)  n.  1. A washer that fits around the smaller end of a rivet. 2. A
 blank punched from a sheet of metal. [Var. of obs. burrow < ME burwhe.]



 bur reed  n.  Any of various marsh plants of the genus Sparganium, having
 narrow leaves and round, prickly fruit.



 burrito  n.  A flour tortilla wrapped around a filling, as beef, beans, or
 cheese. [Am. Sp. < Sp., little donkey, dim. of burro, burro.]



 burro  n. pl. -ros  A small donkey, esp. one used as a pack animal. [Sp. <
 borrico, donkey < LLat. burricus, small horse.]



 burrow  n.  A hole or tunnel dug in the ground by a small animal, such as
 a rabbit or a mole, for habitation or refuge.   -v.-rowed -rowing -rows
 -intr. 1. To dig a burrow. 2. To live or hide in a burrow. 3. To move or
 progress by or as if by digging or tunneling:  Suddenly the train is
 burrowing through the pinewoods (William Styron). -tr. 1. To make by or as
 if by tunneling. 2. To dig a burrow in or through. 3.  Archaic. To hide in
 a burrow. [ME borow.]   burrower n.



 burrstone  n.  Variant of buhrstone.



 burry  adj. -rier -riest   1. Like a bur; prickly. 2. Full of or covered
 with burs.



 bursa  n. pl. -sae  or -sas  A saclike bodily cavity, esp. one located
 between joints or at points of friction between moving structures. [NLat. <
 Med. Lat., purse < Gk.]   bursal adj.



 bursar  n.  An official in charge of funds, as at a college or university;
 treasurer. [Med. Lat. bursarius < bursa, purse.]



 bursary  n. pl. -ries  1. A treasury, esp. of a public institution or
 religious order. 2. A scholarship granted to a student, esp. at a Scottish
 university. [Med. Lat. bursaria < bursa, purse.]   bursarial adj.



 burse  n.  1. A purse. 2.  Ecclesiastical. A flat cloth case for carrying
 the corporal that is used in celebrating the Eucharist. [Med. Lat. bursa <
 Gk., purse.]



 burseed  n.  The stickseed.



 bursiform  adj.  Anatomy.  Shaped like a pouch or sac.



 bursitis  n.  Inflammation of a bursa, esp. in the shoulder, elbow, or
 knee joint.



 burst  v. burst bursting bursts   -intr. 1.  a. To come open or fly apart
 suddenly or violently, esp. from internal pressure. b. To explode. 2. To be
 or seem to be full to the point of breaking open. 3. To come forth, emerge,
 or arrive suddenly: burst into the room.  4. To come apart from
 overwhelming emotion: thought his heart would burst with happiness.  5. To
 give sudden utterance or expression: burst out laughing; burst into tears.
 -tr. 1. To cause to burst. 2.  Computer Science. To separate (a continuous
 roll of print-out) into individual sheets.   -n. 1. A sudden outbreak or
 outburst; explosion. 2. The result of bursting. 3. A sudden, vehement
 occurrence: wind blowing in fitful bursts.  4. An abrupt, intense increase;
 rush: a burst of speed.  5. The explosion of a projectile or bomb on impact
 or in the air. 6. The number of bullets fired from an automatic weapon by
 one pull of the trigger. [ME bursten < OE berstan.]



 burster  n.  Computer Science.  An offline device used to burst computer
 print-out.



 burthen  n.  Archaic.  Variant of burden1.



 burton  n.  Nautical.  A light tackle having double or single blocks, used
 to hoist or tighten rigging. [Orig. unknown.]



 burweed  n.  Any of various plants, such as the burdock, that bear burs.



 bury  tr.v. -ied -ying -ies   1. To conceal by or as if by covering with
 earth: bury a bone; buried the secret deep within himself.  2. To place (a
 dead body) in a grave, a tomb, or the sea; inter. 3. To cover from view;
 hide: buried her face in the pillow.  4. To occupy (oneself) with deep
 concentration; absorb: buried himself in his studies.  5. To put an end to;
 abandon: buried their quarrel and shook hands.  [ME burien < OE byrgan, to
 inter.]   burier n.



 burying beetle  n.  Any of various black or black and orange beetles of
 the genus Necrophorus that bury dead mice and other small animals on which
 they feed and lay their eggs.



 bus  n. pl. buses  or busses  1. A long motor vehicle for carrying
 passengers. 2.  Informal. A large or clumsy automobile. 3. A four-wheeled
 cart for carrying dishes in a restaurant. 4.  Electricity. A bus bar.
 -v.bused busing buses  or bussed  or bussing  or busses   -tr. To transport
 in a bus. -intr. 1. To travel in a bus. 2. To work as a bus boy. [Short for
 omnibus.]

      Usage: Bus  is now well established as a transitive verb. It has the
 general meaning of "to transport (passengers)" and the specialized meaning
 of "to transport (schoolchildren) to achieve racial integration."



 bus bar  n.  Electricity.  A conducting bar that carries heavy currents to
 supply several electric circuits.



 bus boy  n.  A restaurant employee who clears away dirty dishes and serves
 as a waiter's assistant.



 busby  n. pl. -bies  A tall, full-dress fur hat worn in certain regiments
 of the British army. [Poss. < the name Busby.]



 bush
 bush(1)  n.  1. A low, branching woody plant, usually smaller than a tree;
 shrub. 2. A thick growth of shrubs; thicket. 3.  a. Land covered with a
 dense growth of shrubs. b. Land remote from settlement; backland. 4. A
 shaggy mass, as of hair. 5. A fox's tail. 6.  Archaic. A clump of ivy used
 as the sign of a tavern. a.  Obsolete. A tavern. b.    -v.bushed bushing
 bushes   -intr. 1. To grow or branch out like a bush. 2. To extend in a
 bushy growth. -tr. To decorate, protect, or support with bushes. [ME.]
 bush(2)  tr.v. bushed bushing bushes   To furnish or line with a bushing.
 [< E. bush, bushing.]



 bush baby  n.  The galago.



 bush bean  n.  A shrubby plant, Phaseolus vulgaris humilis, a variety of
 the string bean.



 bushbuck  n.  An African antelope, Tragelaphus scriptus, having white
 markings and twisted horns. [Transl. of Afr. bosbok.]



 bush clover  n.  Any of various plants or shrubs of the genus Lespedeza,
 having compound leaves with three leaflets and clusters of purple or
 yellowish flowers.



 bushed  adj.  Informal.  Extremely tired; exhausted. [Orig. unknown.]



 bushel
 bushel(1)  n.  1.  a. A unit of volume or capacity in the U.S. Customary
 System, used in dry measure and equal to 4 pecks, 35.24 liters, or 2,150.42
 cubic inches. b. A unit of volume or capacity in the British Imperial
 System, used in dry and liquid measure and equal to 2,219.36 cubic inches.
 2. A container with the capacity of a bushel. 3.  Informal. A large amount;
 great deal. [ME < OFr. boissel < boisse, one sixth of a bushel, of Celt.
 orig.]
 bushel(2)  tr.v. -eled -eling -els  or -elled  or -elling  or -els   To
 alter or mend (clothing). [Prob. < G. bosseln, to do odd jobs.]   bushelman
 n.



 bush honeysuckle  n.  Any of several North American shrubs of the genus
 Diervilla, having yellow flowers that turn reddish.



 Bushido or bushido   n.  The traditional code of the Japanese samurai,
 stressing self-discipline, bravery, and simple living. [J. bushido : bushi,
 warrior (< Chin. wu3shi4) + do, way (< Chin. dao4).]



 bushing  n.  1. A fixed or removable metal lining used to constrain,
 guide, or reduce friction. 2. An insulating lining for an aperture through
 which a conductor passes. 3. An adapter threaded to permit joining of pipes
 with different diameters. [MDu. busse.]



 bush jacket  n.  A long cotton shirtlike jacket usually with four flat
 pockets and a belt.



 bush league  n.  Slang.  A minor baseball league.   bush leaguer n.



 bush-league  adj.  Slang.  1. Of or belonging to a bush league. 2.
 Mediocre; second-rate.



 Bushman  n.  1. A member of a nomadic Negroid people of southwestern
 Africa, characteristically of short stature. 2. Any of the Khoisan
 languages spoken by the Bushmen. 3. bushman   Australian. A backwoodsman.
 [Transl. of Afr. boschjeman.]



 bushmaster  n.  A large, venomous snake, Lachesis muta, of tropical
 America, having brown and grayish markings.



 bush pig  n.  A hog, Potamochoerus porcus, of southern Africa, having long
 tufts of hair on the face and ears. [Transl. of Afr. bosvark.]



 bush pilot  n.  A pilot who flies a small airplane to and from areas
 inaccessible to larger aircraft or other means of transportation.



 bushranger  n.  1. A backwoodsman. 2.  Australian. An outlaw living in the
 bush.



 bushtit  n.  Either of two small, long-tailed birds, Psaltriparus minimus
 or P. melanotis, of western North America, having predominantly gray
 plumage.



 bushwhack  v. -whacked -whacking -whacks   -intr. 1. To make one's way
 through thick woods by cutting away bushes and branches. 2. To travel
 through or live in the woods. 3. To fight as a guerrilla in the bush. -tr.
 To attack suddenly from a place of concealment; ambush.   bushwhacker n.



 bushy  adj. -ier -iest   1. Overgrown with bushes. 2. Thick and shaggy.
 bushily adv.   bushiness n.



 business  n.  1.  a. The occupation, work, or trade in which a person is
 engaged: in the wholesale food business.  b. A specific occupation or
 pursuit: really knew her business.  2. Commercial, industrial, or
 professional dealings: new systems now being used in business.  3. A
 commercial enterprise or establishment: bought his uncle's business.  4.
 Volume or amount of commercial trade: Business had fallen off.  5.
 Commercial dealings; patronage: kept his business by giving individual
 service.  6. One's rightful or proper concern or interest:  The business of
 America is business (Calvin Coolidge). 7. Serious work or endeavor: got
 right down to business.  8. An affair or matter: a peculiar business.  9.
 An incidental action performed by an actor on the stage to fill a pause
 between lines or to provide interesting detail. 10.  Informal. Verbal
 abuse; scolding: got the business for being late.  11.  Obsolete. The
 condition of being busy. a business suit.  [ME businesse < bisi, busy.]

      Synonyms: business industry commerce trade traffic These nouns
 apply to forms of activity that have the objective of supplying
 commodities. Business  pertains broadly to all gainful activity, though it
 usually excludes the professions and farming. Industry  is the production
 and manufacture of goods and commodities, especially on a large scale, and
 commerce  and trade , the exchange and distribution of commodities. Often
 commerce  is applied to exchange of commodities for money, as within a
 country, while trade  refers to exchange of commodities for commodities, as
 between countries. Traffic  may suggest illegal trade or commerce, as in
 narcotics.




 business administration  n.  A college or university course of studies
 that offers instruction in general business principles and practices.



 business card  n.  A small card that conveys information about a business
 or a business representative.



 businesslike  adj.  1. Showing or having characteristics advantageous to
 or of use in business; methodical and systematic. 2. Purposeful; earnest.



 businessman  n.  A man engaged in business.



 businesswoman  n.  A woman engaged in business.



 busing or bussing   n.  The transportation of children by bus to schools
 outside their neighborhoods, esp. as a means of achieving racial
 integration.



 busk
 busk(1)  n.  1. A thin, flexible strip, as of whalebone, sewn into a
 woman's undergarment as stiffening. 2.  Regional. A corset. [Fr. busc.]
 busk(2)  intr.v. busked busking busks   Chiefly British.  To entertain by
 singing and dancing, esp. in streets and public places. [Orig. unknown.]
 busker n.
 busk(3)  tr.v. busked busking busks   Chiefly Scot. To make ready; prepare.
 [ME busken < ON buask, reflexive of bua, to prepare.]



 buskin  n.  1. A foot and leg covering reaching halfway to the knee,
 resembling a laced half boot. 2.  a. A thick-soled laced half boot worn by
 actors of Greek and Roman tragedies. b. Tragedy. [OFr. bouzequin.]



 busman  n.  One who runs a bus.



 busman's holiday  n.  Informal.  A vacation on which a person engages in
 activity that is similar to his usual work.



 buss  tr.  -intr.v.bussed bussing busses   To kiss.   -n. A kiss. [Prob.
 imit.]



 bust
 bust(1)  n.  1.  a. A woman's bosom. b.  Archaic. The human chest. 2. A
 piece of sculpture representing a person's head, shoulders, and upper
 chest. [Fr. buste < Ital. busto, poss. < Lat. bustum, sepulchral monument.]

 bust(2)  v. busted busting busts   -tr. 1. To smash or break, esp.
 forcefully. 2. To cause to come to an end; break up: busted the steel
 trust; wasn't going to bust up their friendship.  3. To break or tame (a
 horse). 4. To cause to become bankrupt or short of money. 5. To reduce the
 rank of; demote. 6. To hit or punch. 7.  a. To place under arrest. b. To
 make a raid on. -intr. 1. To burst or break. 2. To become bankrupt or short
 of money.   -n. 1. A failure; flop. 2. A state of bankruptcy. 3. A time or
 period of widespread financial depression. 4. A punch or blow. 5. A spree.
 6.  a. An arrest. b. A raid. [Var. of burst.]



 bustard  n.  Any of various large Old World birds of the family Otididae,
 frequenting open, grassy regions. [ME < blend of OFr. bistarde and
 oustarde, both < Lat. avis tarda.]



 buster  n.  1. One who bursts or breaks up: a crime buster.  2. One who
 breaks horses; broncobuster. 3.  a. Something very large or remarkable. b.
 A particularly large or robust child. 4. A spree. 5. Fellow. Used as a term
 of familiar address: Say, buster, where are you going?



 bustle
 bustle(1)  intr.  -tr.v.-tled -tling -tles   To hurry or cause to hurry
 energetically and busily.   -n. Excited and often noisy activity; stir.
 [Prob. var. of obs. buskle, freq. of busk3.]
 bustle(2)  n.  1. A frame or pad to support and expand the fullness of the
 back of a woman's skirt. 2. A bow, peplum, or gathering of material at the
 back of a skirt below the waist. [Orig. unknown.]



 busty  adj. -ier -iest   Informal.  Full-bosomed.   bustiness n.



 busulfan  n.  An antineoplastic drug, C6H14O6S2. [Blend of butane and
 sulfonyl.]



 busy  adj. -ier -iest   1. Actively engaged in some form of work;
 occupied. 2. Crowded with activity: a busy morning.  3. Meddlesome; prying.
 4. In use, as a telephone line. 5. Cluttered with detail to the point of
 being distracting: a busy design.    -tr.v.-ied -ying -ies   To make busy;
 occupy: busied himself preparing his tax return.  [ME < OE bisig.]   busily
 adv.   busyness n.

      Synonyms: busy industrious diligent assiduous sedulous All
 these words suggest active or sustained effort to accomplish something.
 Busy  primarily applies to one engaged in present activity, without
 definite implication of kind, continuity, or duration of activity.
 Industrious  implies continuing activity and a natural inclination to be so
 engaged. Diligent  suggests intense activity in the accomplishment of a
 specific goal; often it implies keen interest in work of one's choosing.
 Assiduous  emphasizes sustained devotion to work. Sedulous  adds to
 assiduity the sense of earnest, persistent, painstaking labor.




 busybody  n.  A person who meddles or pries into the affairs of others.



 busy signal  n.  A series of sharp buzzing tones heard over a telephone
 when the number dialed is in use.



 busywork  n.  Activity that takes up time but does not necessarily yield
 productive results.



 but  conj.  1. On the contrary: caused not prosperity but ruin.  2.
 Contrary to expectation; yet: organized her work but accomplished very
 little.  3. Except; save: No one but she saw the prowler.  4. With the
 exception that; except that. Used to introduce a dependent clause: would
 have resisted but that they lacked courage.  5. Without the result that: It
 never rains but it pours.  6. Other than: I have no goal but to end war.
 7. That. Often used after a negative: no doubt but right will prevail.  8.
 That . . . not. Used after a negative or question: There never is a tax law
 presented but someone will oppose it.  9.  Archaic. Unless; if not:
 Beshrew me but I love her heartily (Shakespeare). 10.  a. Before; when. b.
 Archaic.  Nonstandard. Than.   -prep. 1. With the exception of; barring. 2.
 Other than: the whole truth and nothing but the truth.    -adv. Merely;
 just: hopes that lasted but a moment.    -n. An objection, restriction, or
 exception: no ifs, ands, or buts.

       Idiom Section:  but what. Informal.  That not: don't know but what
 I'll go.  [ME < OE butan.]

      Synonyms: but however still yet nevertheless Each of these
 words introduces a statement in opposition to what precedes it. But , which
 notes but does not stress the opposition, is the most widely applicable: He
 was ill, but he kept the appointment.  In the same example, however  would
 soften the contrast between the two elements. Still ,Still, yet,  and
 nevertheless , in the same example, emphasize contrast.


      Usage: But  is used to mean "except" in sentences like No one but John
 can read it.  Some traditionalists have suggested that but  is a
 conjunction in this use and so should be followed by nominative pronouns
 like I  and he  when the phrase in which it occurs is the subject of the
 sentence. But this use of but  is perhaps better thought of as a
 preposition, since the verb always agrees with the subject preceding but;
 we say no one but the boys has left,  (not have left ), and traditionalists
 themselves do not say everyone but I am leaving,  which is clearly
 ungrammatical. Accordingly, this use of but  should properly be accompanied
 by pronouns in the objective case, like me  and him: Everyone but me has
 received an answer. But  is redundant when used in combination with
 however,  as in But the army, however, went on with its own plans
 (eliminate either but  or however ). But  is often used in informal speech
 together with a negative in sentences like It won't take but an hour.  The
 construction should be avoided in formal style; write It won't take an
 hour. But what  is informal in sentences like I don't know but what we'll
 get there before the boys do.  In writing, substitute whether  or that  for
 but. But  is also informal when used in place of than  in sentences like It
 no sooner started but it stopped  (in writing, use than ). But  is usually
 not followed by a comma. Write Kim wanted to go, but we didn't want to,
 not Kim wanted to go, but, we didn't want to,  which is incorrect. But  may
 be used to begin a sentence, even in formal style. But it should not be
 followed by a comma here, either. See also Usage notes at doubt and than.



 but-   Containing a group of four carbon atoms: butyl.  [< butyric.]



 butadiene  n.  A colorless, highly flammable hydrocarbon, C4H6, obtained
 from petroleum and used in the manufacture of synthetic rubber. [buta(ne) +
 di- + -ene.]



 butane  n.  Either of two isomers of a gaseous hydrocarbon, C4H10,
 produced synthetically from petroleum and used as a household fuel,
 refrigerant, and aerosol propellant, and in the manufacture of synthetic
 rubber.



 butanoic acid  n.  Butyric acid.



 butanol  n.  Either of two butyl alcohols derived from butane and used as
 solvents and in organic synthesis.



 butanone  n.  A colorless, flammable ketone, C4H8O, used in lacquers,
 paint removers, cements and adhesives, celluloid, and cleaning fluids.



 butch  Slang.  n.  A female homosexual with mannish or aggressive traits.
  -adj. Very masculine in appearance or behavior. [Orig. unknown.]



 butcher  n.  1.  a. One who slaughters and dresses animals for food or
 market. b. One who sells meats. 2. One who takes a sadistic pleasure in
 killing. 3. A vender, as of candy and magazines, on a train. 4. One who
 bungles; botcher.   -tr.v.-ered -ering -ers   1. To slaughter or prepare
 (animals) for market. 2. To kill cruelly or pointlessly. 3. To spoil by
 botching; bungle. [ME bucher < OFr. bouchier < boc, he-goat.]   butcherer
 n.



 butcherbird  n.  Any of various birds, esp. the shrike, that impale their
 prey on thorns.



 butcher knife  n.  A heavy-duty knife about 8 inches long with a broad
 blade.



 butcher's broom  n.  A shrub, Ruscus aculeatus, native to Europe, having
 stiff, prickle-tipped, flattened stems resembling true leaves.



 butchery  n. pl. -ies  1. The trade of a butcher. 2.  Chiefly British. A
 slaughterhouse. 3. Wanton or cruel killing; carnage. 4. Something that is
 botched; bungle.



 buteo  n. pl. -os  Any of various hawks of the genus Buteo, characterized
 by broad wings and broad, rounded tails. [NLat., genus name < Lat. buteo, a
 kind of hawk or falcon.]



 butler  n.  The head male servant in a household. [ME < OFr. bouteillier,
 bottle bearer < bouteille, botele, bottle.]



 butler's pantry  n.  A serving and storage room between a kitchen and
 dining room.



 butt
 butt(1)  v. butted butting butts   -tr. To hit or push against with the
 head or horns; ram. -intr. 1. To hit or push something with the head or
 horns. 2. To project forward or out. Phrasal verb.  butt in. Informal.  To
 interfere or meddle in other people's affairs.   -n. A push or blow with
 the head or horns. [ME butten < OFr. bouter, to strike, of Germanic orig.]
  butter n.
 butt(2)  tr.  -intr.v.butted butting butts   To join or be joined end to
 end; abut.   -n. 1. A butt joint. 2. A butt hinge. [ME butten < OFr.
 bouter, to adjoin.]
 butt(3)  n.  1. One that serves as an object of ridicule or contempt: was
 the butt of their jokes.  2.  a. A target. b. butts  A target range. c. An
 obstacle behind a target for stopping the shot. 3.  Obsolete. A limit;
 goal. [ME butte < OFr.]
 butt(4)  n.  1. The larger or thicker end of something: the butt of a
 rifle.  2.  a. An unburned end, as of a cigarette. b.  Informal. A
 cigarette. 3. A short or broken remnant; stub. 4.  Informal. The buttocks;
 rear end. [ME butte.]
 butt(5)  n.  1. A large cask. 2. A unit of volume equal to 126 U.S.
 gallons, or about 477 liters. [ME < OFr. boute < LLat. buttis.]



 butte  n.  A hill that rises abruptly from the surrounding area and has
 sloping sides and a flat top. [Fr. < OFr. butt, mound behind targets.]



 butter  n.  1. A soft yellowish or whitish emulsion of butterfat, water,
 air, and sometimes salt, churned from milk or cream and processed for use
 as a food. 2. Any of various substances similar to butter, esp.: a. A
 spread made from fruit, nuts, or other foods: peanut butter.  b. A
 vegetable fat having a nearly solid consistency at ordinary temperatures:
 cocoa butter.  3.  Informal. Flattery.   -tr.v.-tered -tering -ters   To
 put butter on or in. Phrasal verb.  butter up. . To praise or flatter
 excessively: always buttering up the boss.  [ME butere < OE < Lat. butyrum
 < Gk. bouturon, cow cheese : bous, cow + turos, cheese.]



 butter-and-eggs  n.  A North American plant,Linaria vulgaris,having
 numerous narrow leaves and a spike of spurred pale-yellow and orange
 flowers.



 butterball  n.  1. A ball of butter. 2.  Informal. A fat or chubby person.
 3. The bufflehead.



 butter bean  n.  1. The wax bean. 2.  Regional. The lima bean.



 butterbur  n.  Any of several plants of the genus Petasites, having woolly
 leaves and stems and fragrant whitish or purple flowers.



 buttercup  n.  Any of various plants of the genus Ranunculus,
 characteristically having glossy yellow flowers.



 butterfat  n.  The oily content of milk from which butter is made,
 consisting largely of the glycerides of oleic, stearic, and palmitic acids.




 butterfingers  n.  A clumsy or awkward person who is apt to drop things.
 butterfingered adj.



 butterfish  n. pl. butterfish  or -fishes  1. A marine food fish,
 Poronotus triacanthus, of the North American Atlantic coast, having a
 flattened body. 2. Any of various fishes similar or related to the
 butterfish. [From its slippery mucous coating.]



 butterfly  n.  1. Any of various insects of the order Lepidoptera,
 characteristically having slender bodies, knobbed antennae, and four broad,
 usually colorful wings. 2. A person interested principally in frivolous
 pleasure. 3. The butterfly stroke. 4. butterflies  A feeling of unease or
 mild nausea caused esp. by fearful anticipation.   -tr.v. -flied -flying
 -flies  To cut and spread open and flat, as shrimp. [ME butterflye < OE
 butorfleoge.]



 butterfly bush  n.  Any of several shrubs of the genus Buddleia,
 cultivated for their clusters of purplish or white flowers.



 butterfly fish  n.  Any of various tropical marine fishes of the family
 Chaetodontidae, most of which are brightly colored.



 butterfly pea  n.  A twining vine, Clitoria mariana, of the eastern United
 States, having compound leaves and pale-blue flowers.



 butterfly stroke  n.  A swimming stroke in which both arms are drawn
 upward out of the water and forward with a simultaneous up-and-down kick of
 the feet.



 butterfly valve  n.  1. A disk turning on a diametrical axis inside a
 pipe, used as a throttle valve or damper. 2. A valve composed of two
 semicircular plates hinged on a common spindle, used to permit flow in one
 direction only.



 butterfly weed  n.  A North American plant, Asclepias tuberosa, having
 flat-topped clusters of bright-orange flowers.



 buttermilk  n.  1. The sour liquid that remains after the butterfat has
 been removed from whole milk or cream by churning. 2. A cultured sour milk
 made by adding certain microorganisms to sweet milk.



 butternut  n.  1.  a. A tree, Juglans cinerea, of eastern North America,
 having compound leaves and egg-shaped nuts. b. The edible, oily nut of the
 butternut. c. The bark of the butternut. d. A brownish color or dye
 obtained from butternut bark. e. butternuts  Clothing dyed with butternut
 extract. 2.  Informal. A Confederate soldier or partisan in the Civil War.
 3. The souari nut. [From the nut's oiliness.]



 butterscotch  n.  A syrup, sauce, candy, or flavoring made by melting
 butter, brown sugar, and sometimes artificial flavorings.



 butterweed  n.  1. A plant, Senecio glabellus, of the southern and central
 United States, having yellow flowers. 2. The horseweed.



 butterwort  n.  A plant of the genus Pinguicula, esp. P. vulgaris, of wet
 places, having spurred violet-blue flowers and fleshy, greasy leaves. [From
 the leaves' oiliness.]



 buttery
 buttery(1)  adj.  1. Resembling, containing, or spread with butter. 2.
 Informal. Marked by effusive and insincere flattery.   butteriness n.
 buttery(2)   n. pl. -ies  Chiefly British.  1. A pantry or wine cellar. 2.
 A place in colleges and universities where students may buy provisions. [ME
 buttrie < OFr. boterie < LLat. botaria < bota, var. of butta, cask.]



 butt hinge  n.  A hinge composed of two plates attached to abutting
 surfaces of a door and door jamb and joined by a pin. [< butt2.]



 buttinsky  n. pl. -skies  Slang.  One prone to butting in; meddler. [butt
 + in + -sky, last syllable in many Slavic surnames.]



 butt joint  n.  A joint formed by two abutting surfaces placed squarely
 together. [< butt2.]



 buttock  n.  1. Either of the two rounded, fleshy parts of the rump. 2.
 buttocks  The rump. [ME < OE buttuc, end.]



 button  n.  1.  a. A generally disk-shaped fastener used to join two parts
 of a garment by fitting through a buttonhole or loop. b. Such an object
 used for decoration. 2. Any of various objects resembling a button, esp.:
 a. A push-button switch. b. The tip of a fencing foil. c. A fused metal or
 glass globule. 3. Any of various knoblike organic structures, esp.: a. The
 head of a small mushroom. b. The tip of a rattlesnake's tail. 4. A round
 flat badge bearing a design or printed information: a campaign button.  5.
 Slang. The end of the chin.   -v.-toned -toning -tons   -tr. 1. To fasten
 with buttons. 2. To decorate or furnish with buttons. -intr. To admit of
 being fastened with buttons.

       Idiom Section:  on the button. . Informal.  Exactly; precisely. [ME <
 OFr. bouton < bouter, to thrust, of Germanic orig.]   buttoner n.   buttony
 adj.



 buttonball  n.  The sycamore (sense 1). [From its button-shaped fruit.]



 buttonbush  n.  A North American shrub, Cephalanthus occidentalis, having
 spherical clusters of small white flowers.



 button-down  adj.  1. Having the ends of the collar fastened down by
 buttons: a button-down shirt.  2. buttoned-down  Conservative,
 conventional, or unimaginative: buttoned-down diplomacy.



 buttonhole  n.  1. A slit in a garment or piece of fabric for fastening a
 button. 2.  Chiefly British. A boutonniere.   -tr.v.-holed -holing -holes
 1. To make a buttonhole in. 2. To sew with a buttonhole stitch. 3. To
 accost and detain (a person) in conversation.   buttonholer n.



 buttonhole stitch  n.  A loop stitch that forms a reinforced edge, as
 around a buttonhole.



 buttonhook  n.  A small hook for buttoning shoes or gloves.



 buttonmold  n.  A piece of wood, plastic, or metal that is covered with
 fabric to form a button.



 buttonquail  n.  Any of various small, quaillike Old World birds of the
 family Turnicidae.



 button snakeroot  n.  1. The blazing star (sense 2). 2. The rattlesnake
 master.



 buttonwood  n.  The sycamore (sense 1). [From its button-shaped fruit.]



 buttress  n.  1. A structure, usually brick or stone, built against a wall
 for support or reinforcement. 2. Something resembling a buttress. 3. A
 horny growth on the heel of a horse's hoof. 4. Something that serves to
 support, prop, or reinforce.   -tr.v.-tressed -tressing -tresses   1. To
 support or reinforce with a buttress. 2. To sustain, prop, or bolster:
 buttress an argument with evidence.  [ME buteras < OFr. bouteret < bouter,
 to strike against, of Germanic orig.]



 butt shaft  n.  A blunt, unbarbed arrow.



 butt weld  n.  A welded butt joint.



 butt-weld  tr.v. -welded -welding -welds   To join by a butt weld.



 butut  n. pl. butut  or -tuts  See table at currency. [Native word in
 Gambia.]



 butyl  n.  A hydrocarbon radical, C4H9, with the structure of butane and
 valence 1.



 butyl alcohol  n.  Any of four isomeric alcohols, C4H9OH, widely used as
 solvents and in organic synthesis.



 butylate  tr.v. -ated -ating -ates   To bring a butyl group into (a
 compound).   butylation n.



 butylene  n.  Any of three gaseous isomeric ethylene hydrocarbons, C4H8,
 used principally in making synthetic rubbers.



 butyl rubber  n.  A synthetic rubber produced by copolymerization of a
 butylene with isoprene, outstanding in gaseous impermeability and used in
 tires, inner tubes, and insulation.



 butyraceous  adj.  Resembling butter in appearance, consistency, or
 chemical properties. [Lat. butyrum, butter + -aceous.]



 butyraldehyde  n.  A transparent, extremely flammable liquid, C4H8O, used
 in synthesizing resins. [butyr(ic) + aldehyde.]



 butyrate  n.  A salt or ester of butyric acid. [butyr(ic) + -ate.]



 butyric  adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, containing, or derived from butter.
 2. Of, pertaining to, or derived from butyric acid. [< Lat. butyrum,
 butter.]



 butyric acid  n.  Either of two colorless isomeric acids, C3H7COOH,
 occurring in animal milk fats and used in disinfectants, emulsifying
 agents, and pharmaceuticals.



 butyrin  n.  One of three isomeric glyceryl esters of butyric acid,
 naturally present in butter. [Fr. butyrine < Lat. butyrum, butter.]



 buxom  adj.  1. Healthily plump and ample of figure: a buxom woman.  2.
 Archaic. Lively; vivacious. 3.  Obsolete. Obedient; yielding. [ME, obedient
 < OE *buhsum < bugan, to bow, submit.]   buxomly adv.   buxomness n.



 buy  v. bought buying buys   -tr. 1. To acquire in exchange for money or
 its equivalent; purchase. 2. To be capable of purchasing: money and what
 money buys.  3. To acquire by sacrifice, exchange, or trade: tried to buy
 love with gifts.  4. To bribe. 5.  Slang. To accept the truth or
 feasibility of: couldn't buy that story.  -intr. To purchase goods; act as
 a purchaser. Phrasal verb.  buy in. 1. To purchase stock or interest, as in
 a company. 2. To purchase back for the original owner, as at an auction
 when the bidding is low. buy off. To bribe in order to proceed without
 interference or be exempted from an obligation or from prosecution. buy
 out. To purchase the controlling stock, business rights, or interests of.
 buy up. To purchase all that is available of.   -n. 1. Something bought or
 capable of being bought; purchase. 2.  Informal. Something that is
 underpriced; bargain. [ME < OE bycgan.]   buyable adj.

      Usage: Buy  as a noun denoting a purchase at a low price is
 appropriate chiefly to commercial usage. Its use in a more general context
 (as in luxury gained at the expense of liberty is never a good buy ) is
 considered to be unacceptable in written usage to a majority of the Usage
 Panel.



 buyer  n.  1. One that buys. 2. A purchasing agent, esp. one who buys for
 a retail store.



 buyers' market  n.  A market condition characterized by low prices
 occurring when a supply of commodities exceeds market demand.



 buzz  v. buzzed buzzing buzzes   -intr. 1. To make a low droning or
 vibrating sound like that of a bee. 2. To talk, often excitedly, in low
 tones. 3. To move quickly and busily; bustle. 4. To make a signal with a
 buzzer. -tr. 1. To cause to buzz. 2. To utter in a rapid, low voice. 3.
 Informal. To fly low over: The plane buzzed the control tower.  4. To
 signal with a buzzer. 5.  Informal. To make a telephone call to. 6.
 Chiefly British.  Regional. To drink (a bottle or cup) to the last drop.
 Phrasal verb.  buzz off. Informal.  To leave quickly; go away: told him in
 no uncertain terms to buzz off.    -n. 1. A vibrating, humming, or droning
 sound. 2. A low murmur: a buzz of talk.  3.  Informal. A telephone call. 4.
  Slang. A pleasant intoxication, as from alcohol. [ME bussen.]



 buzzard  n.  1. Any of various North American vultures, such as the turkey
 buzzard. 2.  Chiefly British. A hawk of the genus Buteo.  3. An avaricious
 or unpleasant person. [ME busard < OFr. < Lat. buteo.]



 buzz bomb  n.  A robot bomb (sense 1).



 buzzer  n.  Any of various electric signaling devices, such as a doorbell,
 that make a buzzing sound.



 buzz saw  n.  A circular saw.



 buzz session  n.  An informal group discussion, as in a workshop or
 classroom.



 buzz word  n.  A usually important-sounding word or phrase connected with
 a specialized field that is used primarily to impress laymen.



 bwana  n.  Sir; boss. Used chiefly in eastern Africa as a term of address.
 [Swahili < Ar. abuna, our father.]



 BX   Base Exchange.



 by
 by(1)  prep.  1. Next to; close to: the window by the door.  2. With the
 help or use of; through: He came by the back road.  3. Up to and beyond;
 past: He drove by the house.  4. In the period of; during: sleeping by day.
  5. Not later than: by 5:00 pm  6.  a. In the amount of: letters by the
 thousands.  b. To the extent of: shorter by two inches.  7.  a. According
 to. b. With respect to: played by the rules.  8. In the name of: swore by
 his honor as a gentleman.  9. Through the agency or action of: killed by a
 bullet.  10. Used to indicate a succession of specified units of measure:
 One by one they left. They were persuaded little by little.  11.  a. Used
 in multiplication and division: 4 by 6.  b. Used with measurements: a room
 12 by 18 feet.    -adv. 1. On hand; nearby: stand by.  2. Aside; away: He
 put it by for later.  3. Up to, alongside, and past: The car raced by.  4.
 Into the past: as years go by.

       Idiom Section:  by and by. . A little later.  by and large. On the
 whole; for the most part. [ME < OE bi.]

      Synonyms: by through with These prepositions indicate the agency or
 means by which something is accomplished. By  usually introduces directly
 the agent (person) or agency (power): named by him; struck by lightning.
 Through,  the least direct, is often followed by a person, in the sense of
 intermediary (apply through a friend ), or by a word naming a condition as
 cause or means (fail through indecision ). With  is usually followed by an
 inanimate object denoting physical instrument (fight with a sword ) or
 instrumentality (soothe with kind words ).

 by(2)  n.  Variant of bye.



 by- or bye-    1. By: bygone.  2. Secondary, incidental: byway.



 by-and-by  n.  1. Some future time or occasion. 2. The hereafter.



 by-bidder  n.  A person who bids at an auction to raise prices for the
 owner.



 by-blow  n.  1. An indirect or chance blow. 2. An illegitimate child;
 bastard.



 bye or by   n.  1. A secondary matter; side issue. 2.  Sports. The
 position of one who draws no opponent for a round in a tournament and so
 advances to the next round.

       Idiom Section:  by the bye. Incidentally; by the way. [< by.]



 bye-   Variant of by-.



 bye-bye  interj.  Informal.  Used to express farewell. [Redup. of
 (good-)bye.]



 by-election or bye-election   n.  A special election, esp. in the United
 Kingdom, held between general elections to fill a vacancy in a legislature.




 Byelorussian or Belorussian   adj.  Of or pertaining to the Byelorussian
 S.S.R., its people, or their language.   -n. 1. A native or inhabitant of
 the Byelorussian S.S.R. 2. The Slavic language of the Byelorussians.



 bygone  adj.  Gone by; past: bygone days.    -n. A past occurrence.

       Idiom Section:  let bygones be bygones. To let past differences be
 forgotten.



 by-lane  n.  A side road; byway.



 bylaw  n.  1. A secondary law. 2. A law or rule governing the internal
 affairs of an organization. [ME bilawe, local regulations, poss. of Scand.
 orig.]



 by-line or byline   n.  A line at the head of a newspaper or magazine
 article with the author's name.   -tr.v.-lined -lining -lines   To write (a
 newspaper or magazine article) under a by-line.   by-liner n.



 by-name  n.  1. A surname. 2. A nickname.



 by-pass or bypass   n.  1. A road or highway that passes around or to one
 side of an obstructed or congested area. 2. A pipe or channel to conduct
 gas or liquid around another pipe or a fixture. 3. A means of
 circumvention. 4.  Electricity. A shunt (sense 3). 5.  Medicine.  a. An
 alternative passage created surgically between two blood vessels, esp. to
 avoid an obstruction. b. An operation to create a by-pass.   -tr.v.-passed
 -passing -passes   1. To avoid (an obstacle) by using a by-pass. 2. To
 proceed heedless of; ignore: by-passing office procedures.  3. To cause
 (piped liquid, for example) to follow a by-pass.



 bypast  adj.  Past; bygone.



 by-path  n.  An indirect or little-used path.



 by-play  n.  Secondary action or speech taking place while the main action
 proceeds, esp. on a theater stage.



 by-product  n.  1. Something produced in the making of something else. 2.
 A secondary result; side effect.



 byre  n.  Chiefly Brit.A cowshed or barn. [ME < OE byre.]



 byroad  n.  A side road; back road.



 Byronic  adj.  Of or characteristic of the poet Byron or his works.
 Byronically adv.



 byssinosis  n.  Pneumoconiosis caused by the long-term inhalation of
 cotton dust and characterized by chronic bronchitis. [LLat. byssinum, linen
 garment (< Lat. byssus, a kind of cloth < Gk. bussos, flax, of Semitic
 orig.) + -osis.]



 byssus  n. pl. byssuses  or byssi  1.  Zoology. A mass of filaments by
 means of which certain bivalve mollusks, such as mussels, attach themselves
 to fixed surfaces. 2. A fine-textured linen of ancient times, used by the
 Egyptians as wrapping for mummies. [Lat., linen cloth < Gk. bussos, linen,
 of Semitic orig.]



 bystander  n.  A person who is present at an event without participating
 in it.



 bystreet  n.  A side street or road.



 byte  n.  A sequence of adjacent binary digits operated on as a unit by a
 computer. [Alteration and blend of bit1 and bite.]



 byway  n.  1. A side road; byroad. 2. A secondary or overlooked field of
 study.



 byword  n.  1. A well-known saying; proverb. 2. One that proverbially
 represents a type, class, or quality. 3. An object of notoriety or note. 4.
 A nickname or epithet. [ME byworde < OE biword < transl. of Lat.
 proverbium.]



 Byzantine  adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, or characteristic of the ancient
 city of Byzantium, its inhabitants, or their culture. 2. Of or designating
 the style of architecture developed from the 5th century  A.D.  in
 Byzantium, characterized by round arches, massive domes, intricate spires
 and minarets, and extensive use of mosaic. 3. Of or designating the style
 of painting and design developed in Byzantium, characterized by formality
 of design, frontal, stylized presentation of figures, rich use of color,
 esp. gold, and generally religious subject matter. 4. Of the Eastern
 Orthodox Church or the rites performed in it. 5.  a. Of, relating to, or
 characterized by intrigue; scheming or devious:  A fine hand for Byzantine
 deals and cozy arrangements (New York). b. Highly complicated; intricate
 and involved:  A financial empire of Byzantine complexity (Newsweek).   -n.
 A native or inhabitant of Byzantium.


 C
 c or C   n. pl. c's  or C's  1. The third letter of the modern English
 alphabet. 2. Any of the speech sounds represented by the letter c.  3. C
 The Roman numeral for 100 (Latin centum ). 4. The third in a series. 5. C
 The third highest in quality or rank: a mark of C on a term paper.  6. C
 Music.  a. The first tone in the scale of C major. b. The third tone in the
 relative minor scale. c. The key or a scale in which C is the tonic. d. A
 written or printed note representing this tone.



 C   The symbol for the element carbon.



 Ca   The symbol for the element calcium.



 cab
 cab(1)  n.  1. A taxicab. 2. A one-horse vehicle for public hire. 3. The
 covered compartment of a heavy vehicle or machine, such as a truck or
 locomotive, in which the operator or driver sits. [Short for taxicab.]
 cab(2)  n.  A Hebrew measure equal to about two quarts. [Heb. qabh.]



 cabal  n.  1. A conspiratorial group of plotters or intriguers: a cabal of
 political manipulators.  2. A secret scheme or plot.   -intr.v.-balled
 -balling -bals   To form a cabal. [Fr. cabale < Med. Lat. cabala. -see
 cabala.]



 cabala or cabbala   n.  1. Cabala  An occult theosophy of rabbinical
 origin, widely transmitted in medieval Europe, based on an esoteric
 interpretation of the Hebrew Scriptures. 2. A secret doctrine resembling
 the Cabala. [Med. Lat. < Heb. qabbalah, received doctrine < qabal, he
 received.]   cabalism n.   cabalist n.



 cabalistic  adj.  1. Of or relating to the Cabala. 2. Having secret or
 hidden meaning; occult: cabalistic symbols engraved in stone.
 cabalistically adv.



 caballero  n. pl. -ros  1. A Spanish gentleman; cavalier. 2.  Southwestern
 U.S. One who is skilled in riding and managing horses. [Sp. < LLat.
 caballarius, horse groom < Lat. caballus, horse.]



 cabana or cabana   n.  A shelter on a beach or at a swimming pool used as
 a bathhouse. [Sp. cabana < LLat. capanna, hut.]



 cabaret  n.  1. A restaurant or nightclub providing short programs of live
 entertainment. 2. The floor show billed by a cabaret. [Fr. < ONFr., liquor
 store, perh. < LLat. camera, room. -see chamber.]



 cabbage  n.  1. An edible plant, Brassica oleracea capitata, grown in
 temperate climates throughout the world and having a short, thick stalk and
 a large head formed by tightly overlapping green or reddish leaves. 2. An
 edible leaf bud of the cabbage palm. 3.  Slang. Money, esp. in the form of
 bills.   -intr.v.-baged -baging -bages   To form or grow in a head, as
 cabbage does. [ME caboche < OFr. caboce, head.]



 cabbage butterfly  n.  Any of several white butterflies of the genus
 Pieris, having larvae that feed on cabbage.



 cabbage palm  n.  A tropical American palm tree, Roystonea oleracea,
 having leaf buds that are edible when young.



 cabbage palmetto  n.  A palmetto.



 cabbage rose  n.  A prickly shrub, Rosa centifolia, native to the
 Caucasus, having large, fragrant, many-petaled pink flowers.



 cabbageworm  n.  Any of several caterpillars that feed on and are
 destructive to cabbage, esp. the bright-green larva of the cabbage
 butterfly.



 cabbage yellow  n.  A disease of cabbage marked by the yellowing of leaves
 and caused by the fungus Fusarium conglutinans.



 cabbala  n.  Variant of cabala.



 cabby  n. pl. -bies  Informal.  A cab driver.



 caber  n.  A heavy wooden pole heaved as a demonstration of strength in a
 Scottish sporting contest. [Sc. Gael. cabar.]



 cabernet  n.  A dry red wine made from the grape variety Cabernet
 sauvignon.  [Fr.]



 cabezon  n.  A large, edible fish, Scorpaenichthys marmoratus, of North
 American Pacific coastal waters. [Sp. cabezon, aug. of cabeza, head < VLat.
 *capitia < Lat. caput, head.]



 cabin  n.  1. A small, roughly built house; cottage. 2.  a. A room in a
 ship used as living quarters by an officer or passenger. b. An enclosed
 compartment in a boat serving as a shelter or as living quarters. c. The
 enclosed space in an airplane for the crew, passengers, or cargo.   -tr.
 -intr.v.-ined -ining -ins   To confine or live in a cabin or a small area.
 [ME caban < OFr. cabane < LLat. capanna.]



 cabin boy  n.  A male servant aboard a ship.



 cabin class  n.  A class of accommodations on some passenger ships, lower
 than first class and higher than tourist class.



 cabin cruiser  n.  A powerboat with a cabin.



 cabinet  n.  1. An upright, cupboardlike repository with shelves, drawers,
 or compartments for the safekeeping or display of a collection of objects
 or materials. 2.  Archaic. A small or private room set aside for some
 specific activity. 3. Cabinet  A body of persons appointed by a chief of
 state or a prime minister to head the executive departments of the
 government and to act as his official advisers. a cabinet minister; teak
 and other heavy cabinet woods.  [OFr., small room, dim. of ONFr. cabine,
 gambling house.]



 cabinetmaker  n.  A craftsman specializing in making fine articles of
 wooden furniture.   cabinetmaking n.



 cabinetry  n.  Cabinetwork: finely detailed cabinetry.



 cabinetwork  n.  Finished woodwork made by a cabinetmaker.



 cabin fever  n.  Uneasiness or distress resulting from a lack of
 environmental stimulation, as when living in a remote, sparsely populated
 region or a small enclosed space.



 cable  n.  1.  a. A strong, large-diameter heavy steel or fiber rope. b.
 Something that resembles a cable. 2.  Electricity. A bound or sheathed
 group of mutually insulated conductors. 3.  Nautical.  a. A heavy rope or
 chain for mooring or anchoring a ship. b. A unit of nautical length equal
 to 720 feet in the United States and 608 feet in England. 4. A cablegram.
 5. Cable television.   -v.-bled -bling -bles   -tr. 1.  a. To send a
 cablegram to. b. To transmit (a message) by telegraph. 2. To supply or
 fasten with a cable or cables. -intr. To send a cablegram. [ME < Norman Fr.
 < LLat. capulum, lasso < Lat. capere, to seize.]



 cable car  n.  A car designed to operate on a cableway or cable railway.



 cablecast  n.  A telecast by cable television.   cablecast v. -casted
 -casting -casts    cablecaster n.



 cablegram  n.  A telegram sent by submarine cable.



 cable-laid  adj.  Made of three ropes of three strands each, twisted
 together counterclockwise.



 cable railway  n.  A railroad on which the cars are moved by an endless
 cable driven by a stationary engine.



 cable stitch  n.  A stitch in knitting that produces a twisted rope
 design.



 cablet  n.  A cable-laid rope with a circumference of less than ten
 inches.



 cable television or cable TV   n.  A television distribution system in
 which station signals, picked up by elevated antennas, are delivered by
 cable to receivers of subscribers.



 cablevision  n.  Cable television.



 cableway  n.  A suspended cable used as a track for a cable car or similar
 vehicle.



 cabman  n.  The driver of a cab.



 cabochon  n.  1. A highly polished, convex-cut, unfaceted gem. 2. The
 cabochon style of cutting.   -adv. In the style of cabochon: a sapphire cut
 cabochon.  [OFr., aug. of caboche, head.]



 caboodle  n.  Informal.  The lot, group, or bunch: donated the whole
 caboodle.  [Perh. alteration of kit and boodle.]



 caboose  n.  1. The last car on a freight train, having kitchen and
 sleeping facilities for the train crew. 2.  Obsolete.  a. A ship's galley.
 b. Any of various cast-iron cooking ranges used in such galleys during the
 early 19th century. c. An outdoor oven or fireplace. [Perh. < Du. kabuis.]



 cabotage  n.  Trade or navigation in coastal waters. [Fr. < caboter, to
 coast.]



 Cabot's ring  n.  Ringlike inclusions in the red blood cells sometimes
 found in cases of severe anemia. [After Richard C. Cabot (1868-1939).]



 cabretta  n.  A soft, kidlike leather made from sheepskin having coarse,
 hairlike wool. [Sp. and Port. cabra, goat (< Lat. capra, she-goat) + Sp.
 -etta, -ette.]



 cabrilla  n.  Any of various sea basses, esp. Epinephelus guttatus, of
 tropical waters. [Sp., dim. of cabra, goat < Lat. capra, she-goat.]



 cabriole  n.  A form of furniture leg, characteristic of Queen Anne and
 Chippendale furniture, that curves outward and then narrows downward into
 an ornamental foot. [Fr., caper (from its resemblance to the foreleg of a
 capering animal). -see cabriolet.]



 cabriolet  n.  1. A two-wheeled, one-horse carriage with two seats and a
 folding top. 2. An automobile with a folding top; a convertible coupe.
 [Fr., dim. of cabriole, caper < OFr. < OItal. capriola < capriolo, roebuck
 < Lat. capreolus, wild goat < caper, he-goat.]



 cabstand  n.  A place designated for taxicabs waiting for hire.



 cacao  n. pl. -os  1. An evergreen tropical American tree, Theobroma
 cacao, having yellowish flowers and reddish-brown seed pods. 2. The seed of
 the cacao tree, used in making chocolate, cocoa, and cocoa butter. [Sp. <
 Nahuatl cacahuatl, cacao beans.]



 cacao bean  n.  The seed of the cacao tree.



 cacao butter  n.  Cocoa butter.



 cachalot  n.  The sperm whale. [Fr.]



 cache  n.  1. A hole or similar hiding place used for storing provisions
 and other necessities. 2. A place for concealment and safekeeping, as of
 valuables. 3. A store of goods hidden in a cache. 4.  Computer Science. A
 fast storage buffer in the central processing unit of a computer.
 -tr.v.cached caching caches   To store or hide in a cache. [Fr. < cacher,
 to hide < OFr. < VLat. *coactiare < Lat. coactare, to constrain, freq. of
 cogere, to drive together. -see cogent.]



 cachectic  adj.  Pertaining to or characterized by cachexia. [Fr.
 cachectique < Lat. cachecticus < Gk. kakhektikos < kakhexia, bad condition
 of the body. -see cachexia.]



 cachepot  n.  An ornamental container for a flowerpot. [Fr. : cacher, to
 hide + pot, pot.]



 cachet  n.  1. A seal on a letter or document. 2. A mark or quality, as of
 distinction, individuality, or authenticity: a profession with a cachet of
 glamour and prestige.  3.  a. A commemorative design stamped on an envelope
 to mark some postal or philatelic event. b. A motto forming part of a
 postal cancellation. 4. A kind of wafer capsule formerly used by
 pharmacists for presenting an unpleasant-tasting drug. [OFr. < cacher, to
 hide. -see cache.]



 cachexia  n.  A general wasting of the body during a chronic disease.
 [LLat. < Gk. kakhexia : kakos, bad + hexis, condition < ekhein, to have.]



 cachinnate  intr.v. -nated -nating -nates   To laugh loud, hard, or
 convulsively; guffaw. [Lat. cachinnare, cachinnat-.]   cachinnation n.



 cachou  n.  1. Catechu. 2. A pastille used to sweeten the breath. [Fr. <
 Port. cachu < Malayalam kaccu.]



 cachucha  n.  An Andalusian solo dance in 3/4 time. [Sp.]



 cacique  n.  1. An Indian chief, esp. in the Spanish West Indies and other
 parts of Latin America during colonial and postcolonial times. 2. A local
 political boss in Spain or Latin America. 3. Any of various tropical
 orioles. [Sp., of Arawakan orig.]



 cackle  v. -led -ling -les   -intr. 1. To make the shrill cry
 characteristic of a hen after laying an egg. 2. To laugh or talk in a
 manner similar to a hen's cackle. -tr. To utter in cackles.   -n. 1. The
 act or sound of cackling. 2. Shrill, brittle laughter. 3. Foolish chatter.
 [ME cakelen.]   cackler n.



 caco-   Bad: cacography.  [Gk. kako- < kakos, bad.]



 cacodyl  n.  1. The arsenic group As(CH3)2. 2. A poisonous oil, As2(CH3)
 , with an obnoxious garlicky odor. [Gk. kakodes, bad-smelling (kakos, bad +
 ozein, to smell) + -yl.]   cacodylic adj.



 cacoethes  n.  A mania or irresistible compulsion; a pernicious habit.
 [Lat. cacoethus < Gk. kakoethes : kakos, bad + ethos, disposition.]



 cacogenics  n.(usedwithasing.verb).  Dysgenics.   cacogenic adj.



 cacography  n.  1. Bad handwriting as opposed to calligraphy. 2. Bad
 spelling as opposed to orthography.



 cacomistle  n.  Either of two small, carnivorous mammals, Bassariscus
 astutus of the southwestern United States or Jentinkia sumichrasti of
 Central America, having grayish or brownish fur and a black-banded tail.
 [Mex. Sp. < Nahuatl tlacomiztli : tlaco, half + miztli, mountain lion.]



 cacophonous  adj.  Having a harsh, unpleasant sound; discordant. [Gk.
 kakophonos : kakos, bad + phone, sound.]   cacophonously adv.



 cacophony  n. pl. -nies  1. Jarring, discordant sound; dissonance. 2.
 Harsh or unharmonious use of language as opposed to euphony. [Fr.
 cacophonie < Gk. kakophonia < kakophonos, cacaphonous.]



 cactus  n. pl. -ti  or -tuses  Any of a large group of plants of the
 family Cactaceae, mostly native to arid regions of the New World and
 characterized by thick, fleshy, often prickly stems that function as leaves
 and in some species having showy flowers and edible fruit. [NLat. Cactus,
 type genus < Lat., cardoon < Gk. kaktos.]



 cacuminal  adj.  Articulated with the tip of the tongue turned back and up
 toward the roof of the mouth; retroflex. [< Lat. cacumen, summit.]



 cad  n.  An ungentlemanly man. [Short for caddie.]   caddish adj.
 caddishly adv.   caddishness n.



 cadaster or cadastre   n.  A public record, survey, or map of the value,
 extent, and ownership of land as a basis of taxation. [Fr. < Ital.
 cadastro, var. of OItal. catastico < LGk. katastikhon, register : kata-, by
 + stikhos, line.]   cadastral adj.



 cadaver  n.  A dead body, esp. one intended for dissection. [Lat. <
 cadere, to die.]   cadaveric adj.



 cadaverine  n.  A syrupy, colorless fuming ptomaine, NH2(CH2)5NH2, formed
 by the carboxylation of lysine in decaying animal flesh.



 cadaverous  adj.  1. Suggestive of death; corpselike. 2.  a. Of corpselike
 pallor; pallid:  I saw a cadaverous face appear at a small window
 (Dickens). b. Emaciated; gaunt: a cadaverous dog picking through the trash.
    cadaverously adv.   cadaverousness n.



 caddice  n.  Variant of caddis.



 caddice fly  n.  Variant of caddis fly.



 caddice worm  n.  Variant of caddis worm.



 caddie or caddy   n. pl. -dies  1. One hired to serve as an attendant to a
 golfer, esp. by carrying his clubs. 2.  Scots. A boy who does odd jobs.
 -intr.v.-died -dying -dies   To serve as a caddie. [French cadet, caddie,
 cadet.]



 caddis or caddice   n.  A coarse woolen fabric, yarn, or ribbon binding.
 [ME cadace < AN cadaz < OProv. cadarz.]



 caddis fly or caddice fly   n.  Any of various four-winged insects of the
 order Trichoptera, found near lakes and streams. [< obs. cad, var. of cod2
 (from the tube in which the larva lives).]



 caddis worm or caddice worm   n.  The aquatic, wormlike larva of the
 caddis fly, enclosed in a cylindrical case covered with grains of sand,
 fragments of shell, and other debris.



 Caddo  n. pl. Caddo  or -dos  A member of a North American Indian
 confederacy of Caddoan linguistic stock, formerly living in Arkansas,
 Louisiana, and eastern Texas. [Prob. < Caddoan Kadohadacho.]



 Caddoan  n.  A family of North American Indian languages formerly spoken
 in the Dakotas, Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Texas, and Louisiana.




 caddy
 caddy(1)  n. pl. -dies  A small box or other container, esp. one for
 holding tea. [Malay kati, catty.]
 caddy(2)   n.  -v. Variant of caddie.



 cade
 cade(1)  adj.  Left by its mother and reared by hand: a cade calf.  [ME.]
 cade(2)  n.  A shrub, Juniperus oxycedrus, of the Mediterranean region,
 whose wood yields an oily brown liquid used to treat skin ailments. [Fr. <
 OProv. < Med. Lat. catanus.]



 -cade   Procession: motorcade.  [< cavalcade.]



 cadelle  n.  A small blackish beetle, Tenebroides mauritanicus, both the
 larval and adult forms of which damage stored grain and packaged foods.
 [Fr. < Prov. cadello < Lat. catella, fem. of catellus, puppy < catulus, the
 young of animals.]



 cadence or cadency   n. pl. -dences  or -dencies  1. Balanced, rhythmic
 flow, as of poetry or oratory. 2. The measure or beat of movement, as in
 dancing or marching. 3.  a. A falling inflection of the voice, as at the
 end of a sentence. b. The general inflection or modulation of the voice. 4.
  Music. A progression of chords moving to a harmonic close or point of
 rest. [ME < OFr. < OItal. cadenza < cadere, to fall < Lat.]   cadenced adj.




 cadent  adj.  1. Having cadence or rhythm. 2.  Archaic. Falling: cadent
 tears.  [Lat. cadens, cadent-, pr. part. of cadere, to fall.]



 cadenza  n.  1. An elaborate ornamental melodic flourish interpolated into
 an aria or other vocal piece. 2. An extended virtuosic section for the
 soloist near the end of a movement of a concerto. [Ital. < OItal.,
 cadence.]



 cadet  n.  1. A student training to be an officer at a military school. 2.
 A younger son or brother. 3.  Slang. A pimp. [Fr. < dial. capdet, captain <
 LLat. capitellum, dim. of Lat. caput, head.]   cadetship n.



 cadge   intr & tr.v.cadged, cadging, cadges.Informal. To beg or get by
 begging. [Perh. back-formation < obs. cadger, peddler < ME cadgear.]
 cadger n.



 cadmium  n.  Symbol Cd A soft, bluish-white metallic element, occurring
 primarily in zinc, copper, and lead ores. It is easily cut with a knife and
 is used in low-friction, fatigue-resistant alloys, solders, dental
 amalgams, nickel-cadmium storage batteries, and in rustproof
 electroplating. Atomic number 48; atomic weight 112.40; melting point 320.9
 deg. C; boiling point 765 deg. C; specific gravity 8.65; valence 2. [NLat.
 < Lat. cadmia, calamine (from its being found with calamine in zinc ore).]
  cadmic adj.



 cadmium sulfate  n.  A compound, CdS04, that forms colorless crystals and
 is used as an antiseptic.



 Cadmus  n.  Greek Mythology.  A Phoenician prince who killed a dragon and
 sowed its teeth, from which sprang up an army of men who fought one another
 until only five survived and with these five Cadmus founded the city of
 Thebes. [Lat. < Gk. Kadmos.]



 cadre  n.  1. A framework. 2. A nucleus of trained personnel around which
 a larger organization can be built and trained: a basic training cadre of
 sergeants and corporals.  [Fr. < Ital. quadra < Lat. quadrum, a square.]



 caduceus  n. pl. -cei  1.  a. A herald's wand or staff, esp. in ancient
 times. b.  Mythology. A winged staff with two serpents twined around it,
 carried by Hermes. 2. An insignia modeled on a caduceus and used as the
 symbol of the medical profession. [Lat. caduceus, alteration of Gk.
 karukeion < karux, herald.]   caducean adj.



 caducicorn  adj.  Having horns that are shed annually, as certain deer.
 [Lat. caducus, falling (< cadere, to fall) + cornu, horn.]



 caducity  n.  1. The frailty of old age; senility. 2. The quality or state
 of being perishable; impermanence. [Fr. caducite < caduc, frail < Lat.
 caducus. -see caducous.]



 caducous  adj.  Biology.  Dropping off or shedding at an early stage of
 development, as the gills of amphibians or the leaves of certain plants.
 [Lat. caducus, falling < cadere, to fall.]



 caecilian  n.  Any of various legless, burrowing, wormlike amphibians of
 the order Gymnophiona, of tropical regions. [< Lat. caecilia, a kind of
 lizard < caecus, blind (from its small eyes).]



 caecum  n.  Variant of cecum.



 Caelum  n.  A constellation in the Southern Hemisphere near Columba and
 Eridanus. [Lat. caelum, sculptor's chisel < caedere, to cut.]



 caerphilly  n.  A mild white cheese originating in Wales. [After
 Caerphilly, a district in Wales.]



 Caesar  n.  1. A surname of the early Roman emperors that after Hadrian
 became the title of the junior imperial colleague of the Augustus. 2.
 caesar  A dictator or autocrat. [Lat., after Gaius Julius Caesar (100-44
 b.c.).]



 Caesarean
 Caesarian or Cesarean  or Cesarian    n.  A Caesarean section.



 Caesarean section or caesarean section   n.  A surgical incision through
 the abdominal wall and uterus, performed to extract a fetus. [From the
 belief that Julius Caesar (100-44 b.c.) was delivered by this operation.]



 Caesarism  n.  Military or imperial dictatorship; political
 authoritarianism.   Caesarist n.   Caesaristic adj.



 caesar salad  n.  A tossed green salad of anchovies, croutons, and grated
 cheese with a dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, and a raw or coddled egg.
 [After Caesar's, a restaurant in Tijuana, Mexico.]



 caesium  n.  Variant of cesium.



 caespitose  adj.  Variant of cespitose.



 caestus  n.  Variant of cestus2.



 caesura or cesura   n. pl. -suras  or -surae  1. A pause in a line of
 verse dictated by sense or natural speech rhythm rather than by metrics. 2.
 In Latin and Greek prosody, a break in a line caused by the ending of a
 word within a foot, esp. when this coincides with a sense division. 3.
 Music. A pause or breathing at a point of rhythmic division in a melody.
 [Lat. < caedere, to cut off.]   caesural  caesuric adj.



 cafe or cafe   n.  A coffee house, restaurant, or bar. [Fr., cafe, coffee
 < Turk. kahve. -see coffee.]



 cafe au lait  n.  1. Coffee served with hot milk. 2. A light coffee color.
 [Fr., coffee with milk.]



 cafe filtre  n.  Coffee made by passing hot water through ground coffee
 and a filtering device underneath. [Fr., filter coffee.]



 cafe noir  n.  Coffee served without cream or milk. [Fr., black coffee.]



 cafeteria  n.  A restaurant in which the customers are served at a counter
 and carry their meals on trays to tables. [Sp. cafeteria, coffee shop <
 cafe, coffee < Turk. kahve. -see coffee.]



 caffeine or caffein   n.  A bitter white alkaloid, C8H10N4O2H2O, found in
 coffee, tea, and kola nuts and used as a stimulant and diuretic. [G.
 Kaffein < Kaffee, coffee < Fr. cafe. -see cafe.]



 caftan  n.  A full-length tunic with long sleeves and a sash at the waist
 that is a characteristic garment of the Near East. [R. kaftan < Turk.]



 cage  n.  1. A structure for confining birds or animals, enclosed on at
 least one side by a grating of wires or bars in order to let in air and
 light. 2.  a. An enclosure that serves as a means of confining prisoners.
 b. Something resembling a cage in purpose or design. 3. A framework having
 a cagelike appearance or construction. 4. An elevator car. 5.  Baseball.
 a. A backstop used for batting practices. b. A catcher's mask. 6.  Sports.
 a. The basket in basketball. b. In hockey, the goal, made of a network
 frame.   -tr.v.caged caging cages   To put in a cage; lock up or confine.
 [ME < OFr. < Lat. cavea < cavus,  hollow.]



 cageling  n.  A bird kept in a cage as a pet.



 cagey or cagy   adj. -ier -iest   1. Wary; careful. 2. Crafty; shrewd.
 [Orig. unknown.]   cagily adv.   caginess n.



 cahier  n.  1. A number of pages gathered together, as in a loose-leaf
 binder; notebook. 2. A report, as of the proceedings at a meeting. [Fr. <
 OFr. caier < Lat. quaterni, group of four < quattuor, four.]



 cahoots  pl.n.  Informal.  Collaboration of a questionable nature: in
 cahoots with a dishonest lawyer.  [Perh. < Fr. cahute, cabin < OFr.]



 Cahuilla  n. pl. Cahuilla  or -llas  A Shoshonean language of Southeastern
 California. [Sp., of Am. Indian orig.]



 caiman or cayman   n. pl. -mans  Any of various tropical American
 crocodilians of the genus Caiman and related genera, resembling and closely
 related to the alligators. [Sp. caiman < Carib acayuman.]



 Cain  n.  1. In the Old Testament, the eldest son of Adam and Eve, who
 killed his brother Abel out of jealousy. 2. A murderer.

       Idiom Section:  raise Cain. Slang.  To create a great disturbance or
 uproar; make trouble. [Lat. < Gk. Kain < Heb. Qayin.]



 -caine   A synthetic alkaloid anesthetic: eucaine.  [< cocaine.]



 cainotophobia  n.  An abnormal fear of newness. [Gk. kainotes, newness +
 phobia.]



 caique  n.  1. A long, narrow rowboat used in the Middle East. 2. A small
 sailing vessel used in the eastern Mediterranean. [Fr. < Ital. caicco <
 Turk. kayiuk.]



 caird  n.  Scots.  An itinerant tinker or handyman. [Sc. Gael. ceard,
 craftsman < OIr. cerd, artist.]



 cairn  n.  A mound of stones erected as a landmark or memorial. [ME carne
 < Sc. Gael. carn.]   cairned adj.



 cairngorm  n.  A smoky-brown or yellow variety of quartz, used as a
 semiprecious gem. [After the Cairngorm Mountains, Scotland.]



 Cairn terrier  n.  A small dog of a breed developed in Scotland, having a
 broad head and a rough, shaggy coat. [So called because it hunts among
 cairns.]



 caisson  n.  1. A watertight structure within which construction work is
 carried on under water. 2. A camel (sense 2). 3. A floating structure used
 to close off the entrance to a dock or canal lock. 4. A large box open at
 the top and one side, designed to fit against the side of a ship and used
 to repair damaged hulls under water. 5.  a. A large box used to hold
 ammunition. b. A horse-drawn vehicle, usually two-wheeled, formerly used to
 carry ammunition. [Fr., aug. of caisse, box < OProv. caisa < Lat. capsa <
 capere, to hold.]



 caisson disease  n.  A disorder, esp. in divers and caisson and tunnel
 workers, caused by the release of nitrogen bubbles in the tissues and blood
 upon too rapid a return from high pressure to atmospheric pressure,
 characterized by pains in the joints, cramps, paralysis, and eventual death
 unless treated by gradual decompression.



 caitiff  n.  A despicable coward; wretch.   -adj. Despicable and cowardly.
 [ME caitif < Norman Fr. < Lat. captivus, prisoner. -see captive.]



 Cajan  n.  Variant of Cajun.



 cajole  tr.v. -joled -joling -joles   To coax gently and persistently;
 wheedle. [Fr. cajoler.]   cajoler n.   cajolery n.   cajolingly adv.



 Cajun or Cajan   n.  A native of Louisiana believed to be descended from
 the French exiles from Acadia. [Alteration of Acadian.]



 cake  n.  1. A sweet baked mixture of flour, liquid, eggs, and other
 ingredients in loaf or rounded layer form. 2. A flat, thin mass of dough or
 batter that is baked or fried, such as a pancake. 3. A patty of fried food,
 such as a fishcake. 4. A shaped or molded piece, as of soap or ice.   -tr.
 -intr.v.caked caking cakes   To form into a cake or compact mass.

       Idiom Section:  take the cake. Informal.  To win the prize; be
 outstanding. [ME < ON kaka.]



 cakewalk  n.  1. A promenade or walk, formerly executed as an
 entertainment by American blacks in which those performing the most complex
 and unusual steps won cakes as prizes. 2.  a. A strutting dance based on
 the cakewalk. b. The music for this dance.   -intr.v.-walked -walking
 -walks   To perform a cakewalk.   cakewalker n.



 Calabar bean  n.  The dark-brown, poisonous seed of a woody vine,
 Physostigma venenosum, of tropical Africa that is the source of the drug
 physostigmine [After Calabar, Nigeria.]



 calabash  n.  1. A vine, Lagenaria siceraria, native to the Old World,
 bearing large, hard-shelled gourds. 2. A tropical American tree, Crescentia
 cujete, bearing large, rounded fruit. 3. The fruit of a calabash. 4. A
 utensil, such as a dish or ladle, made from the fruit of a calabash. [Fr.
 calabasse, gourd < Sp. calabaza.]



 calaboose  n.  Regional.  A jail. [Louisiana Fr. calabouse < Sp. calabozo,
 dungeon.]



 caladium  n.  Any of various tropical plants of the genus Caladium, widely
 cultivated as potted plants for their showy, variegated foliage. [NLat.
 Caladium, genus name < Malay keladi, an aroid.]



 calamanco  n. pl. -coes  A glossy woolen fabric with a checked pattern on
 one side. [Sp. calamaco, perh. < Lat. calamancus, felt cap.]



 calamander  n.  The hard, black-and-brown-striped wood of certain tropical
 Asiatic trees of the genus Diospyros, used for making furniture. [Prob. <
 Du. kalamander.]



 calami  n.  Plural of calamus.



 calamine  n.  1. A white or sometimes iron- or copper-stained mineral,
 essentially Zn4Si2O7(OH)2H2O. 2. A pink, odorless, tasteless powder of zinc
 oxide with a small amount of ferric oxide, dissolved in mineral oils and
 used in skin lotions. [Fr. < Med. Lat. calamina, alteration of Lat. cadmia
 < Gk. kadmeia < kadmeios, Theban < Kadmos, Cadmus.]



 calamint  n.  Any of several aromatic plants of the genus Satureja, esp.
 S. calamintha, native to Eurasia, having clusters of purplish or pink
 flowers. [ME calaminte < OFr. calamente < Med. Lat. calamentum < Lat.
 calaminthe < Gk. kalaminthe.]



 calamite  n.  Any of various extinct treelike plants of the genus
 Calamites, resembling but much larger than the horsetails and known only as
 fossils. [NLat. Calamites, genus name < Lat. calamus, reed < Gk. kalamos.]



 calamitous  adj.  Causing or involving calamity.   calamitously adv.
 calamitousness n.



 calamity  n. pl. -ties  1. An extraordinarily serious event marked by
 terrible loss, lasting distress, and affliction. 2. A state of dire
 distress or misfortune. [ME calamite < OFr. < Lat. calamitas.]



 calamondin  n.  1. A citrus tree, Citrus mitis, of the Philippine Islands.
 2. The acid, globular fruit of the calamondin, resembling a small orange.
 [Tagalog kalamunding.]



 calamus  n. pl. -mi  1.  a. The sweet flag. b. The aromatic root of the
 sweet flag. 2. Any of various tropical Asiatic palms of the genus Calamus,
 from some of which rattan is obtained. 3. Quill (sense 1). [Lat., reed <
 Gk. kalamos.]



 calando  Music.  adj.  Gradually diminishing in tempo and volume.   -adv.
 In a calando manner. [Ital. < calare, to let down < Lat. chalare < Gk.
 khalan.]



 calash or caleche   n.  1.  a. A carriage with low wheels and a
 collapsible top. b. The top of such a carriage. 2. A woman's folding bonnet
 of the late 18th century. [Fr. caleche < G. Kalesche, of Slavic orig.]



 calathus  n. pl. -thi  A vase-shaped basket represented in Greek painting
 and sculpture. [Lat. < Gk. kalathos.]



 calc-   Variant of calci-.



 calcaneocuboid ligament  n.  The ligament that connects the calcaneus and
 the cuboid bones.



 calcaneus or calcaneum   n. pl. -nei  or -nea  The quadrangular bone at
 the back of the tarsus. [LLat., heel < Lat. calcaneum < calx.]   calcaneal
 adj.



 calcar
 calcar(1)  n. pl. calcaria  An anatomical spur or spurlike projection.
 [Lat., spur < calx, heel.]
 calcar(2)  n.  A furnace formerly used in glassmaking for preparing frit.
 [Ital. calcara < Lat. calcaria < calx, lime. -see calx.]



 calcareous  adj.  Composed of, containing, or characteristic of calcium
 carbonate, calcium, or limestone; chalky. [Lat. calcarius < calx, lime.
 -see calx.]



 calcarine fissure  n.  A calcarine sulcus.



 calcarine sulcus  n.  A sulcus on the occipital lobe of the brain.
 [calcar1 + -ine.]



 calceiform  adj.  Botany.  Slipper-shaped; calceolate. [Lat. calceus, shoe
 + -form.]



 calceolaria  n.  Any of various plants of the genus Calceolaria, native to
 tropical America and widely cultivated for their yellow, speckled,
 slipper-shaped flowers. [NLat. Calceolaria, genus name < Lat. caleolus,
 small shoe. -see calceolate.]



 calceolate  adj.  Shaped like a slipper, as the blossoms of some orchids.
 [< Lat. calceolus, dim. of calceus, shoe.]



 calces  n.  A plural of calx.



 calci- or calc-    Calcium; calcium salt: calciferous.  [< Lat. calx,
 calc-, lime < Gk. khalix, pebble.]



 calcic  adj.  Composed of, containing, derived from, or pertaining to
 calcium or lime.



 calcicole  n.  A plant that thrives in soil rich in lime. [calci- + Lat.
 colere, to inhabit.]   calcicolous adj.



 calcicosis  n.  A pneumoconiosis resulting from the inhalation of calcium
 carbonate dust. [calci- + -cosis (as in silicosis).]



 calciferol  n.  Vitamin D2. [calcif(erous) + (ergost)erol.]



 calciferous  adj.  Of, forming, or containing calcium or calcium
 carbonate.



 calcific  adj.  Producing salts of lime, as in the formation of eggshells
 in birds and reptiles.



 calcification  n.  1.  a. Impregnation with calcium or calcium salts, as
 with calcium carbonate. b. Hardening, as of tissue, by such impregnation.
 2. A calcified substance or part.



 calcifuge  n.  A plant that does not thrive in lime-rich soil.
 calcifugal calcifugous  adj.



 calcify  tr.  -intr.v.-fied -fying -fies   To make or become stony or
 chalky by deposition of calcium salts.



 calcimine  n.  A white or tinted liquid containing zinc oxide, water,
 glue, and coloring matter, used as a wash for walls and ceilings.
 -tr.v.-mined -mining -mines   To cover or wash with calcimine. [Orig.
 unknown.]



 calcination  n.  1. The act or process of calcining. 2. The state of being
 calcined.



 calcine  v. -cined -cining -cines   -tr. To heat (a substance) to a high
 temperature but below the melting or fusing point, causing loss of
 moisture, reduction, or oxidation. -intr. To undergo calcination. [ME
 calcinen < OFr. calciner < Med. Lat. calcinare < Lat. calx, lime. -see
 calx.]



 calcinosis  n.  An abnormal condition in which calcium salts are deposited
 in a tissue of the body, as the skin. [calci- + -osis.]



 calcite  n.  A common crystalline form of natural calcium carbonate, the
 basic constituent of limestone, marble, and chalk.   calcitic adj.



 calcitonin  n.  A hormone that functions in calcium metabolism, produced
 by the thyroid gland. [calci- + ton(ic) + -in.]



 calcium  n.  Ca  A silvery, moderately hard metallic element, constituting
 approximately three per cent of the earth's crust, a basic component of
 bone, shells, and leaves. It occurs naturally in limestone, gypsum, and
 fluorite, and its compounds are used to make plaster, quicklime, Portland
 cement, and metallurgic and electronic materials. Atomic number 20; atomic
 weight 40.08; melting point 842 to 848 deg. C; boiling point 1,487 deg. C;
 specific gravity 1.55; valence 2. [NLat. < Lat. calx, lime. -see calx.]



 calcium carbide  n.  A grayish-black crystalline compound, CaC2, obtained
 by heating pulverized limestone or quicklime with carbon and used to
 generate acetylene gas, as a dehydrating agent, and in the manufacture of
 graphite and hydrogen.



 calcium carbonate  n.  A colorless or white crystalline compound, CaCO3,
 occurring naturally as chalk, limestone, marble, and other forms and used
 in a wide variety of manufactured products including commercial chalk,
 medicines, and dentifrices.



 calcium chloride  n.  A white deliquescent compound, CaCl2, used chiefly
 as a drying agent, refrigerant, and preservative and for controlling dust
 and ice on roads.



 calcium cyanamide  n.  A gray-black compound, Ca(CN)2, used as a
 fertilizer and weed killer.



 calcium fluoride  n.  A white powder, CaF2, used in emery wheels, carbon
 electrodes, and cements.



 calcium hydroxide  n.  A soft white powder, Ca(OH)2, used in making
 mortar, cements, calcium salts, paints, hard rubber products, and
 petrochemicals.



 calcium hypochlorite  n.  A white crystalline solid, Ca(OCl)2, used as a
 bactericide, fungicide, and bleaching agent.



 calcium light  n.  Limelight (sense 1.b.).



 calcium oxide  n.  A white caustic lumpy powder, CaO, used as a
 refractory, as a flux, in manufacturing steel, glassmaking, waste
 treatment, insecticides, and as an industrial alkali.



 calcium phosphate  n.  Any of several phosphate compounds, esp.: a. A
 white crystalline powder, CaHPO4 or CaHPO42H2O, used as a food, as a
 plastic stabilizer, and in glass. b. A colorless deliquescent powder,
 CaH4(PO4)2H2O, used in baking powders, as a plant food, plastic stabilizer,
 and in glass. c. A white amorphous powder, Ca3(PO4)2, used in ceramics,
 rubber, fertilizers, plastic stabilizers, and as a food supplement.



 calcspar or calc-spar   n.  Calcite. [Partial transl. of Swed. kalkspat :
 kalk, lime < OSwed. < MLG < Lat. calx, lime. + spat, spar (mineral).]



 calc-tufa or calc-tuff   n.  A porous or spongy deposit of calcium
 carbonate found in calcareous mineral springs. [calc(areous) + tufa.]



 calculable  adj.  1. Capable of being calculated or estimated. 2. Readily
 relied upon; dependable.   calculability n.



 calculate  v. -lated -lating -lates   -tr. 1. To ascertain by computation;
 reckon: calculate the odds on winning.  2. To make an estimate of;
 evaluate. 3. To fit for a purpose; make suitable for: a car that is
 calculated to go 100 miles an hour.  4.  Regional.  a. To purpose; intend.
 b. To think; suppose. -intr. 1. To execute a mathematical process. 2.
 Regional.  a. To suppose; guess. b. To count, depend, or rely on: We're
 calculating on your help.  [Lat. calculare, calculat- < calculus, small
 stone used in reckoning, dim. of calx, small stone for gaming. -see calx.]

      Synonyms: calculate compute reckon estimate These verbs describe way
 of getting more or less abstract results by mathematics. Calculate , the
 most comprehensive, can apply to all mathematical operations, simple or
 complex, but usually implies a relatively high level of abstraction or
 procedural complexity. Compute  applies, in general, to essentially
 straightforward, though possibly lengthy, arithmetic operations. Reckon
 suggests simple arithmetic. Estimate  implies rough approximation of a
 result without immediate need for exactness.




 calculated  adj.  1. Undertaken after careful estimation of the likely
 outcome: a calculated risk.  2. Likely; apt: a stratagem calculated to
 succeed.  3. Determined by mathematical calculation.   calculatedly adv.



 calculating  adj.  1. Performing calculations: a calculating machine.  2.
 a. Shrewd; crafty. b. Coldly scheming or conniving.



 calculation  n.  1. The act, process, or result of calculating. 2. An
 estimate based on probabilities. 3. Deliberation; foresight.   calculative
 adj.



 calculator  n.  1. A person who performs calculations. 2. A keyboard
 machine for the automatic performance of mathematical operations. 3. A set
 of mathematical tables used to aid in calculating.



 calculous  adj.  Pertaining to, caused by, or having a calculus or
 calculi.



 calculus  n. pl. -li  or -luses  1.  Pathology. An abnormal concretion in
 the body, usually formed of mineral salts; a stone, as in the gall bladder,
 kidney, or urinary bladder. 2.  Mathematics.  a. A method of analysis or
 calculation using a special symbolic notation. b. The combined mathematics
 of differential and integral calculus. [Lat., small stone used in
 reckoning. -see calculate.]



 calculus of variations  n.  The mathematical analysis of the maxima and
 minima of definite integrals, the integrands of which are functions of
 independent variables, dependent variables, and the derivatives of one or
 more dependent variables.



 caldera  n.  A large crater formed by volcanic explosion or by collapse of
 a volcanic cone. [Sp., caldron < LLat. caldaria.]



 caldron or cauldron   n.  A large kettle or vat for boiling. [ME caudroun
 < Norman Fr. < LLat. caldaria < Lat. caldarius, suitable for warming <
 calidus, warm.]



 caleche  n.  Variant of calash.



 calendar  n.  1. Any of various systems of reckoning time in which the
 beginning, length, and divisions of a year are arbitrarily defined or
 otherwise established. 2. A table showing the months, weeks, and days in at
 least one specific year. 3. A list or schedule, esp. one arranged in
 chronological order, as of cases on a court docket or bills to be
 considered by a legislature. 4.  Obsolete. A guide; example.   -tr.v.-dared
 -daring -dars   To enter on a calendar; schedule. [ME calender < OFr.
 calendier < Med. Lat. calendra < Lat., account book < kalendae, calends
 (from the fact that monthly interest was due on the calends).]



 calendar month  n.  Month (sense 1).



 calendar year  n.  Year (sense 1).



 calender  n.  A machine in which paper or cloth is made smooth and glossy
 by being pressed through rollers.   -tr.v.-dered -dering -ders   To press
 in a calender. [Fr. calendre < Med. Lat. calendra < Lat. cylindrus, roller
 < Gk. kulindros < kulindein, to roll.]   calenderer n.



 calendrical or calendric   adj.  Of, pertaining to, or used in a calendar.




 calends  n. pl. calends  The day of the new moon and the first day of the
 month in the ancient Roman calendar. [ME kalendes < Lat. kalendae.]
 calendal adj.



 calendula  n.  A plant of the genus Calendula, having orange-yellow
 flowers. [NLat. Calendule, genus name < Med. Lat., marigold < Lat.
 kalendae, calends.]



 calenture  n.  A mild tropical fever that is sometimes persistent. [Sp.
 calentura < calentar, to heat < Lat. calens, pr.part. of calere, to be
 warm.]



 calf
 calf(1)  n. pl. calves  1.  a. A young cow or bull. b. The young of certain
 other mammals, such as the elephant or whale. 2. Calfskin leather. 3. A
 large, floating chunk of ice split from a glacier, iceberg, or floe. 4. An
 awkward, callow youth. [ME < OE cealf.]
 calf(2)  n. pl. calves  The fleshy, muscular back part of the human leg
 between the knee and ankle. [ME < ON kalfi.]



 calf's-foot jelly or calves'-foot jelly   n.  A gelatinous food made by
 boiling calves' feet.



 calfskin  n.  1. The hide of a calf. 2. Fine leather made from the hide of
 a calf.



 Caliban  n.  The grotesque, brutish slave in Shakespeare'sThe Tempest.



 caliber  n.  1.  a. The diameter of the inside of a tube. b. The diameter
 of the bore of a gun. c. The diameter of a bullet or shell. 2. Degree of
 worth or distinction: a school of high caliber.  [OFr. calibre < OItal.
 calibro < Ar. qalib, mold.]



 calibrate  tr.v. -brated -brating -brates   1. To check, adjust, or
 systematically standardize the graduations of a quantitative measuring
 instrument. 2. To determine the caliber of (a tube).   calibration n.
 calibrator n.



 calibre  n.  Chiefly British.  Variant of caliber.



 calices  n.  Plural of calix.



 caliche  n.  1.  a. A crude sodium nitrate occurring naturally in Chile,
 Peru, and the southwestern United States, used as fertilizer. b. Sodium
 nitrate. 2. A hard soil layer cemented by calcium carbonate and found in
 deserts and other arid or semiarid regions. [Sp., pebble in a brick < Lat.
 calx, pebble. -see calx.]



 calico  n. pl. -coes  or -cos  1. A coarse cloth, usually printed with
 bright designs. 2.  Chiefly British. White cotton cloth. 3. An animal with
 a mottled or blotched coat. [After Calicut (Kozhikode), India.]



 calico bass  n.  The black crappie. [From the colored spots on its body.]



 calico bush  n.  The mountain laurel.



 calif  n.  Variant of caliph.



 California laurel  n.  An aromatic evergreen tree, Umbellularia
 californica, of the North American Pacific Coast, having clusters of
 yellowish-green flowers and yellowish-green fleshy fruit.



 California nutmeg  n.  An evergreen tree, Torreya californica, having
 spiny, pointed leaves and purple-streaked, greenish fruit.



 California poppy  n.  A plant, Eschscholtzia californica, of the Pacific
 Coast of North America, having finely divided bluish-green leaves and
 orange-yellow flowers.



 California quail  n.  A plump, chunky bird, Lophortyx californicus, of
 western North America, having gray and brown plumage and a curving black
 plume on the crown of the head.



 californium  n.  Symbol Cf A synthetic element produced in trace
 quantities by helium isotope bombardment of curium. All isotopes are
 radioactive, chiefly by emission of alpha particles. Atomic number 98; mass
 numbers 244 to 254; half-lives varying from 25 minutes to 800 years. [After
 California.]



 caliginous  adj.  Archaic.  Dark; gloomy; shadowy. [< Lat. caliginosus <
 caligo, darkness.]



 calipash  n.  An edible, gelatinous, greenish substance lying beneath a
 turtle's upper shell. [Prob. alteration of Sp. carapacho, carapace.]



 calipee  n.  An edible, gelatinous, yellowish substance lying beneath a
 turtle's lower shell. [Prob. alteration of calipash.]



 caliper or calliper   n.  1. calipers  An instrument consisting
 essentially of two curved hinged legs and used to measure internal and
 external dimensions. 2. A large instrument having a fixed and a movable arm
 on a graduated stock, used for measuring the diameters of logs and similar
 objects. 3. A vernier caliper.   -tr. -intr.v.-pered -pering -pers   To
 measure or determine dimensions with calipers. [Alteration of caliber.]



 caliph or calif   n.  The secular and religious head of a Moslem state.
 [ME calife < OFr. < Ar. khalifa < khalafa, he succeeded.]



 caliphate  n.  The office, jurisdiction, or reign of a caliph.



 calisaya  n.  The bark of a tree of the genus Cinchona, from which quinine
 is obtained, esp. C. calisaya.  [Sp., prob. < Calisaya, an area of Bolivia
 where a species of quinine bark was first discovered.]



 calisthenics  n.  1. Gymnastic exercises designed to develop muscular tone
 and promote physical well-being. 2. The practice of calisthenics. [Gk.
 kalli- beautiful (< kallos, beauty) + sthenos, strength.]   calisthenic
 adj.



 calix  n. pl. calices  Ecclesiastical.  A chalice. [Lat. calix, calic-,
 cup.]



 calk
 calk(1)  n.  1. A pointed extension on the toe or heels of a horseshoe,
 designed to prevent slipping. 2. A spiked plate fixed on the bottom of a
 shoe to prevent slipping and preserve the sole.   -tr.v.calked calking
 calks   1. To supply with or fasten on calks. 2. To cut or injure with a
 calk. [Short for obs. calkin < ME kakun < MDu. kalkoen, hoof < OFr.
 calcain, heel < Lat. calcaneum < calx.]
 calk(2)  v.  Variant of caulk.



 call  v. called calling calls   -tr. 1. To cry out in a loud tone;
 announce; proclaim: called her name.  2. To summon: call to dinner.  3. To
 convoke or convene (a meeting). 4. To summon to a particular career or
 pursuit. 5. To awaken. 6. To telephone (someone). 7.  a. To make a
 characteristic cry, as a bird. b. To lure by imitating such a cry. 8. To
 name: What will you call the baby?  9. To estimate as being; consider: I
 call that fair.  10. To designate; label: Nobody calls me a liar.  11. To
 bring to action or under consideration: call a case to court.  12. To
 demand payment of (a loan or bond issue). 13.  Sports.  a. To stop or
 postpone (a game) because of bad weather, darkness, or other adverse
 conditions. b. To indicate a decision in regard to (a foul or play, for
 example). c. In baseball, to indicate a decision in regard to (a pitch). d.
 To choose or select (plays to be run): cited the poor game called by the
 quarterback.  14.  a. To predict (the outcome of a billiard shot) before
 playing. b. To ask (another player) to do so. 15. To forecast or predict
 accurately: He's called the game's outcome every time.  16. To demand to
 see the hand of (a poker opponent) by equaling his bet. 17. To demand that
 a person make good a boast or support a statement with facts: call a bluff.
  18. To shout (directions) in rhythm for square dances. -intr. 1. To
 telephone. 2. To pay a short visit. 3. To attract attention by shouting.
 Phrasal verb.   call back. To telephone repeatedly or in return. call down.
 1. To invoke, as from heaven. 2. To find fault with or berate. call for. 1.
 To go and get or stop for. 2. To be appropriate for; warrant: This calls
 for a celebration.  3. To require; demand: work that calls for patience.
 call forth. To evoke. call in. 1. To take out of circulation: calling in
 silver dollars.  2. To summon for assistance or consultation: call in a
 specialist.  call off. 1. To cancel or postpone. 2. To restrain or recall:
 Call off your dogs.  call on upon. To request or order (someone) to do
 something. call out. To cause to assemble; summon: call out the guard.
 call up. 1. To summon into military service: called up for active duty.  2.
 To remember or cause to remember: calling up old times.  3. To bring forth
 for action or discussion.   -n. 1. A shout or loud cry. 2.  a. The
 characteristic cry of an animal, esp. a bird. b. An instrument or sound
 made to imitate such a cry, used as a lure: a moose call.  3. Need or
 occasion: There was no call for that remark.  4. Demand: There isn't much
 call for buggy whips today.  5. A claim on a person's time or life: the
 call of duty.  6. A short visit, esp. one made as a formality or for
 business or professional purposes. 7. A summons or invitation. 8.  a. A
 signal, as made by a horn or bell. b. The sounding of a horn to encourage
 hounds during a hunt. 9. A vocation, as to the ministry. 10. A roll call.
 11. A notice of rehearsal times posted in a theater. 12.  Sports. The
 decision of an umpire or referee. 13. An instruction in square dancing to
 begin a different step or set. 14. A demand or request for payment of a
 debt, as by redeeming bonds. 15.  a. An agreement in which a trader may,
 for a fee, buy a certain quantity of a stock or commodity for a specified
 price within a limited period of time. b. A demand for payment due on stock
 bought on margin when the value has shrunk.

       Idiom Section:  call into question. To raise doubt about. call to
 mind. To remind of. close call. A narrow escape. on call. 1. Payable on
 demand. 2. Available whenever summoned. within call. Close enough to come
 if summoned; accessible. [ME callen < ON kalla.]



 calla  n.  1. Any of several tropical or semitropical plants of the genus
 Zantedeschia, esp. Z. aethiopica, widely cultivated for its large, showy
 white spathe that encloses a yellow spadix. 2. A marsh plant, Calla
 palustris, of the North Temperate Zone, having small, densely clustered
 greenish flowers partly enclosed in a spreading white spathe. [NLat. Calla,
 genus name < Gk. kallaia, wattle of a cock.]



 callback  n.  A recall of a recently sold product by the manufacturer to
 correct a defect.



 callboard  n.  A bulletin board backstage in a theater for posting
 instructions and notices.



 callboy  n.  1. One who tells actors when it is time for them to go on
 stage. 2. A bellboy.



 caller
 caller(1)  n.  One that calls.
 caller(2)   adj.  Scots.  1. Fresh. Used of food, esp. fish. 2. Cool and
 refreshing, as a breeze. [ME calour.]



 call girl  n.  A female prostitute hired by telephone.



 call house  n.  A house of prostitution.



 calligraphy  n.  1. The art of fine handwriting. 2. Penmanship;
 handwriting. [Fr. calligraphic < Gk. kalligraphia, beautiful writing :
 kalli-, beautiful (< kallos, beauty) + graphein, to write.]   calligrapher
 calligraphist n.   calligraphic adj.



 call-in  adj.  Inviting listeners to make broadcasted telephone calls: a
 call-in radio show.



 calling  n.  1. An inner urge; a strong impulse. 2. An occupation,
 profession, or career.



 calling card  n.  A card bearing one's name and often one's address and
 telephone number, used for social or business purposes.



 Calliope  n.  1.  Greek Mythology. The Muse of epic poetry. 2. calliope  A
 musical instrument fitted with steam whistles, played from a keyboard.
 [Lat. < Gk. Kalliope : kalli-, beautiful (< kallos, beauty) + ops, voice.]



 calliopsis  n.  The coreopsis.



 calliper  n.  Variant of caliper.



 callipygian or callipygous   adj.  Having beautifully proportioned
 buttocks. [Gk. kallipugos : kalli-, beautiful (< kallos, beauty) + puge,
 buttocks.]



 Callisto  n.  1.  Greek Mythology. A nymph, beloved of Zeus and hated by
 Hera. Hera changed her into a bear, and Zeus then placed her in the sky as
 the constellation Ursa Major. 2. One of the moons of Jupiter, the largest
 known moon of any planet. [Lat. < Gk. Kallisto < kallistos, superl. of
 kalos, beautiful.]



 call letters  pl.n.  The identifying code letters or numbers of a radio or
 television transmitting station.



 call loan  n.  A loan repayable on demand at any time.



 call market  n.  The market for call money.



 call money  n.  Money lent by banks, usually to stockbrokers, subject to
 repayment on demand at any time.



 call number  n.  A number used in libraries to classify a book and
 indicate its placement on the shelves.



 callose  n.  A complex branched carbohydrate component of plant cell
 walls. [< Lat. callosus, callous.]



 callosity  n. pl. -ties  1. The condition of being calloused. 2.
 Hardheartedness; insensitivity. 3. A callus. [ME callosite < OFr. callosite
 < Lat. callositas < callosus, callous.]



 callous  adj.  1. Having calluses; toughened. 2. Emotionally hardened;
 unfeeling.   -tr. -intr.v.-loused -lousing -louses   To make or become
 callous. [ME < OFr. cailleuse < Lat. callosus < callum, hard skin.]
 callously adv.   callousness n.

      Usage: The noun form of this word is spelled callus,  but the verb and
 adjective forms are spelled callous.



 callow  adj.  1. Immature; inexperienced: a callow youth.  2. Not yet
 having feathers; unfledged, as a bird. [ME calwe, bald < OE calu.]
 callowness n.



 call rate  n.  The rate of interest charged on call loans.



 callus  n. pl. -luses  1.  a. A localized thickening and enlargement of
 the horny layer of the skin. b. The hard bony tissue that surrounds the
 ends of a fractured bone. 2.  Botany. Hardened tissue that develops over a
 wound or cut end of a woody stem.   -intr.v.-lused -lusing -luses   To form
 or develop a callus. -See Usage note at callous. [Lat.]



 calm  adj. -er -est   1. Nearly or completely motionless; undisturbed: the
 calm surface of the lake.  2. Not excited or agitated; composed: remained
 calm throughout the trial.    -n. 1. An absence or cessation of motion;
 stillness. 2. Serenity; tranquillity; peace. 3. A meteorological condition
 of little or no wind.   -tr. -intr.v.calmed calming calms   To make or
 become calm or quiet. [ME calme < OFr. < OItal. calma < LLat. cauma, heat
 of the day < Gk. kauma < kaiein, to burn.]   calmly adv.   calmness n.

      Synonyms: calm tranquil placid serene still
 quiet halcyon peaceful These adjectives describe absence of movement,
 noise, or emotion. Calm , in both its physical and figurative senses,
 implies freedom from agitation. Tranquil  adds to calm  the idea of a more
 enduring state: tranquil life.  A placid  person is not easily shaken by
 emotion, and placid  waters are unruffled. Serene  suggests a lofty, even
 spiritual calm. Still  and quiet  are related in emphasizing absence of all
 noise. Still  has the additional sense of absence of motion. Halcyon  has
 the meaning of both calm  and tranquil  and suggests happiness: halcyon
 days of youth. Peaceful  implies aversion to conflict.




 calmative  adj.  Having relaxing or pacifying properties; sedative.   -n.
 A sedative or tranquilizer.



 calomel  n.  A white, tasteless compound, Hg2Cl2, used as a purgative.
 [Fr. : Gk. kalos, beautiful + melas, black.]



 caloreceptor  n.  A sensory receptor that detects warmth. [Lat. calor,
 heat + receptor.]



 caloric  adj.  Of or pertaining to heat or calories.   -n. A
 hypothetically indestructible, uncreatable, highly elastic, self-repellent,
 all-pervading fluid formerly thought responsible for the production,
 possession, and transfer of heat. [Fr. calorique < Lat. calor, heat.]
 calorically adv.



 calorie  n.  1. Any of several approximately equal units of heat, each
 measured as the quantity of heat required to raise the temperature of 1
 gram of water by 1 deg. C from a standard initial temperature, esp. from
 3.98 deg. C, 14.5 deg. C, or 19.5 deg. C, at 1 atmosphere pressure. 2. The
 unit of heat equal to 1/100 the quantity of heat required to raise the
 temperature of 1 gram of water from 0 to 100 deg. C at 1 atmosphere
 pressure. 3. The unit of heat equal to the amount of heat required to raise
 the temperature of 1 kilogram of water by 1 deg. C at 1 atmosphere
 pressure. 4. The unit of heat equal to 4.184 joules. [Fr. < Lat. calor,
 heat.]



 calorific  adj.  Pertaining to or generating heat or calories. [Fr.
 calorifique < Lat. calorificus : calor, heat + facere, to make.]



 calorimeter  n.  1. An apparatus for measuring heat. 2. The part of a
 calorimeter, usually a container for holding a sample, in which the heat
 measured causes a change of state. [Lat. calor, heat + -meter.]
 calorimetric adj.   calorimetrically adv.



 calorimetry  n.  The measurement of the amount of heat evolved or absorbed
 in a chemical reaction, change of state, or formation of a solution. [Lat.
 calor, heat + -metry.]



 calotte  n.  1. A skullcap, esp. one worn by Roman Catholic clergymen. 2.
 Biology.  A caplike structure. [Fr. dim. of OFr. cale, cap, of Germanic
 orig.]



 caloyer  n.  A monk of the Eastern Orthodox Church. [Fr. < obs. Ital.
 caloiero < LGk. kalogeros, venerable : Gk. kalos, beautiful + geros, old
 age.]



 calpac or calpack   n.  A large black cap, usually of sheepskin or felt,
 worn in Turkey, Armenia, and other Near Eastern regions. [Turk. kalpak.]



 calque  n.  Linguistics.  1. A form of semantic borrowing in which a word
 is given a special extended meaning by analogy with that of a word having
 the same basic meaning in another language. 2. A loan translation.
 -tr.v.calqued calquing calques   To model (the meaning of a word) upon that
 of an analogous word in another language. [Fr. < calquer, to copy < Ital.
 calcare, to press < Lat., to tread on < calx, heel.]



 caltrop or caltrap   n.  1. An iron ball with four projecting spikes so
 arranged that when three of the spikes are on the ground, the fourth points
 upward, formerly used to delay the advance of mounted and unmounted troops.
 2. Any of several plants having spiny burs or bracts, such as members of
 the genera Tribulus and Kallstroemia.  [ME calketrappe, partly < Norman
 Fr., and partly OE < calcatrippe, thistle, both < Med. Lat. calcatrippa,
 thistle.]



 calumet  n.  A long-stemmed, ornamented pipe used by North American
 Indians for ceremonial purposes. [Canadian Fr. < dial. Fr., straw < LLat.
 calamellus, dim. of Lat. calamus, reed < Gk. kalamos straw.]



 calumniate  tr.v. -ated -ating -ates   To make maliciously false
 statements about; slander. [Lat. calumniari, calumniat- < calumnia,
 calummy.]   calumniation n.   calumniator n.



 calumnious  adj.  Containing or implying calumny; slanderous; defamatory.
  calumniously adv.



 calumny  n. pl. -nies  1. A false statement maliciously made to injure
 someone. 2. The utterance of calumny; slander. [ME calumnie < OFr. calomnie
 < Lat. calumnia. < calvi, to deceive.]



 calvados  n.  A French brandy made from apples. [Fr., after Calvados, a
 department of France.]



 calvarium  n. pl. -iums  or -ia  The superior portion of the skull that
 lacks the lower jaw and facial parts. [NLat. < Lat. calvaria, skull <
 calvus, bald.]



 calvary  n. pl. -ries  1. A sculptured depiction of the Crucifixion. 2. An
 experience or ordeal marked by intense suffering or difficulty. [Fr.
 calvaire < Calvaire, Calvary, the hill outside Jerusalem where Jesus Christ
 was crucified.]



 Calvary cross  n.  In heraldry, a Latin cross set on three steps.



 calve  v. calved calving calves   -intr. 1. To give birth to a calf. 2. To
 break up and lose a portion of itself. Used of a glacier or an iceberg.
 -tr. 1. To give birth to (a calf). 2. To set loose (a mass of ice). [ME
 calven < OE calfian.]



 calves  n.  Plural of calf.



 calves'-foot jelly  n.  calf's-foot jelly.



 Calvinism  n.  The religious doctrines of John Calvin, emphasizing the
 omnipotence of God and the salvation of the elect by God's grace alone.
 Calvinist n.   Calvinistic adj.   Calvinistically adv.



 calx  n. pl. calxes  or calces  1. The crumbly residue left after a
 mineral or metal has been calcined or roasted. 2. Lime; chalk. 3. Calcium
 oxide. [Lat., lime < Gk. khalix, pebble.]



 calycine  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or resembling a calyx.



 calycle  n.  Botany.  An epicalyx. [Fr. calicule < Lat. calyculus, dim. of
 calyx, calyx.]   calyculate adj.



 calyculus  n. pl. -li  Biology.  A small cup-shaped structure. [Lat. -see
 calycle.]   calycular adj.



 Calypso  n.  1.  Greek Mythology. A sea nymph who delayed Odysseus on her
 island, Ogygia, for seven years. 2. An orchid,Calypso bulbosa,  of the
 North Temperate Zone, having a pinkish flower with a slippershaped lip. 3.
 A type of music that originated in the West Indies, notably in Trinidad,
 and is characterized by improvised lyrics on topical or broadly humorous
 subjects. [Lat. < Gk. Kalupso < kaluptein, to conceal.]



 calyptra  n.  1. The protective cap covering the spore case of a moss or
 related plant. 2. A similar hoodlike or caplike structure. [Gk. kaluptra,
 vein < kaluptein, to cover.]   calyptrate adj.



 calyx  n. pl. calyxes  or calyces  1. The outer protective covering of a
 flower, consisting of a series of leaflike, usually green segments called
 sepals. 2. A cuplike or funnel-shaped animal structure. 3. A collecting
 structure in the kidney. [Lat. calyx, calic- < Gk. kalux.]



 cam  n.  An eccentric or multiply curved wheel mounted on a rotating shaft
 and used to produce variable or reciprocating motion in another engaged or
 contacted part. [Du. cam, comb, of Germanic orig.]



 camaraderie  n.  Good will and lighthearted rapport between or among
 friends; comradeship. [Fr. < camarade, comrade < OFr., roommate. -see
 comrade.]



 camarilla  n.  1. Any of various secret and unofficial advisers to the
 Spanish kings. 2. A group of confidential advisers; cabal. [Sp. < camara,
 room < LLat. camera < Lat., arched roof < Gk. kamara, vault.]



 camas or camass   n.  1. Any of several North American plants of the genus
 Camassia, esp. C. quamash, of western North America, having a showy cluster
 of blue or white flowers and an edible bulb. 2. The death camas. [Chinook
 Jargon kamass.]



 camber  n.  1.  a. A slightly arched surface, as of a road, a ship's deck,
 or an airfoil. b. The condition of having an arched surface. 2. A setting
 of automobile wheels closer together at the bottom than at the top. -intr.
 & tr.v. -bered, -bering, -bers.To arch or cause to arch slightly. [ME
 caumber, curved < OFr. cambre < cambrer, to arch < caerare, to vault <
 camera, vault < Lat. -see chamber.]



 cambist  n.  1. A manual giving exchange rates of different currencies and
 equivalents of different weights and measures. 2. A dealer in or expert on
 international exchange. [Fr. cambiste, exchange broker < Ital. cambista <
 cambio, exchange < LLat. cambire, to exchange.]   cambism  cambistry n.



 cambium  n.  A layer of cells in the stems and roots of vascular plants
 that gives rise to phloem and xylem. [Med. Lat., change < LLat. cambire, to
 exchange.]   cambial adj.



 Cambrian  adj.  1. Of or pertaining to Wales; Welsh. 2. Of, belonging to,
 or designating the geologic time, system of rocks, and sedimentary deposits
 of the first period of the Paleozoic era, characterized by warm seas and
 desert land areas.   -n. 1. A Welshman. 2. The Cambrian period. [< Med.
 Lat. Cambria, Wales < Welsh Cymry.]



 cambric  n.  A finely woven white linen or cotton fabric. [Obs. cameryk <
 obs. Flem. kameryk < Kameryk, Cambrai, a city in France.]



 cambric tea  n.  A drink for children, made of hot water, milk, sugar, and
 usually a small amount of tea. [So called because it is thin and white like
 cambric.]



 came
 came(1)  n.  A slender, grooved lead bar used to hold together the panes in
 stained glass or latticework windows. [Orig. unknown.]
 came(2)  v.  Past tense of come.



 camel  n.  1. A humped, long-necked ruminant mammal of the genus Camelus,
 domesticated in Old World desert regions as a beast of burden and as a
 source of wool, milk, and meat. 2. A device used to raise a sunken vessel.
 [ME < Lat. camelus < Gk. kamelos, of Semitic orig.]



 camelback  adj.  Having a shape characterized by a hump or arching curve.



 cameleer  n.  A person who drives or rides a camel.



 camellia  n.  1. Any of several shrubs or trees of the genus Camellia,
 native to Asia, esp. C. japonica, having shiny evergreen leaves and showy,
 variously colored flowers. 2. The flower of a camellia. [NLat. Camellia,
 genus name, after Georg Josef Kamel (1661-1706).]



 camelopard  n.  1.  Archaic. A giraffe. 2. In heraldry, a bearing
 resembling a giraffe but represented with long curved horns. [Med. Lat.
 camelopardus < Lat. camelopardalis < Gk. kamelopardalis : kamelos, camel +
 pardalis, var. of pardos, pard (so called because the giraffe has a head
 like a camel's and the spots of a leopard).]



 Camelopardalis  n.  A constellation in the Northern Hemisphere near Ursa
 Major and Cassiopeia. [Lat. camelopardalis, camelopard.]



 Camelot  n.  1. The legendary town where King Arthur had his court. 2. A
 place, time, or circumstance marked by idealized beauty, peacefulness, and
 enlightenment.



 camel's hair  n.  1. The soft, fine hair of a camel or a substitute for
 it. 2. A soft, heavy cloth, usually light tan, made chiefly of camel's
 hair.



 Camembert  n.  A creamy, mold-ripened cheese that softens on the inside as
 it matures. [Fr., after Camembert, France.]



 cameo  n. pl. -os  1.  a. A technique of engraving in relief on a gem or
 other stone, esp. with layers of different hues, cut so the raised design
 is of one color and the background of another. b. A gem so cut. c. A
 medallion with a profile cut in raised relief. 2. A brief but dramatic
 appearance of a prominent actor or actress in a single scene on a
 television show or in a motion picture.   -tr.v.-oed -oing -os   1. To make
 into or like cameo. 2. To portray in sharp, delicate relief, as in a
 literary composition. [ME cameu < OFr. camaieu < OSp. camafeo.]



 camera  n.  1. An apparatus for taking photographs, generally consisting
 of a lightproof enclosure having an aperture with a shuttered lens through
 which the image of an object is focused and recorded on a photosensitive
 film or plate. 2. The part of a television transmitting apparatus that
 receives the primary image on a light-sensitive cathode tube and transforms
 it into electrical impulses. 3. A camera obscura. 4. pl. -erae A judge's
 private chamber. [LLat., room. -see chamber.]



 cameral  adj.  1. Pertaining to a judge's chamber and to the judicial
 affairs that take place there. 2. Pertaining to public finance and state
 business or to a council that manages such matters. [Med. Lat. cameralis <
 camera, office < LLat., room. -see chamber.]



 camera lucida  n.  An optical device that projects a virtual image of an
 object onto a plane surface, esp. for tracing. [NLat., light chamber.]



 cameraman  n.  A person who operates a motion picture or television
 camera.



 camera obscura  n.  A darkened chamber in which the real image of an
 object is received through a small opening or lens and focused in natural
 color onto a facing surface. [NLat., dark chamber.]



 camerlingo or camerlengo   n. pl. -gos  Roman Catholic Chruch.  The
 cardinal who manages the pope's secular affairs. [Ital. camarlingo.]



 camion  n.  1. A low, sturdy wagon. 2.  a. A truck. b. A bus. [Fr. < OFr.
 chamion.]



 camisa  n.  Southwestern U.S.  A shirt or chemise. [Sp. < LLat. camisia,
 shirt.]



 camisado  n. pl. -dos  Archaic.  A surprise attack by night. [Prob. < Sp.
 encamisado, shirted (so called because the attackers wore white shirts over
 their armor for identification) < camisa, shirt. -see camisa.]



 camise  n.  A loose shirt, shift, or tunic. [Ar. qamis < LLat. camisia,
 shirt.]



 camisole  n.  1. A woman's sleeveless undergarment. 2. A short negligee.
 [Fr. < OProv. camisolla, dim. of camisa, shirt < LLat. camisia.]



 Camlan  n.  The legendary battlefield where King Arthur was mortally
 wounded.



 camlet  n.  1. A rich cloth of Oriental origin, supposed originally to
 have been made of camel's hair and silk and later made of goat's hair and
 silk or other combinations. 2. A garment made from camlet. [ME chamelet <
 OFr. chamelot < Ar. hamlat.]



 camomile  n.  Variant of chamomile.



 Camorra  n.  1. A Neapolitan secret society organized about 1820,
 notorious for practicing violence and blackmail. 2. An unscrupulous,
 clandestine group. [Ital., perh. < camorra, a kind of smock, said to have
 been worn by members of the society.]



 camouflage  n.  1. The method or result of concealing personnel or
 materiel from an enemy by making them appear to be part of the natural
 surroundings. 2. A means of concealment; dissimulation.   -tr.
 -intr.v.-flaged -flaging -flages   To conceal by or use camouflage. [Fr. <
 camoufler, to disguise < Ital. camuffare.]   camouflager n.



 camp
 camp(1)  n.  1.  a. A place where a group of people, such as soldiers, are
 temporarily lodged in tents, huts, or other makeshift shelters. b. The
 shelters in such a place. c. The persons using such shelters. 2. A place
 consisting of more or less permanent cabins or other shelters, used for
 vacationing or other recreational purposes. 3. Military service; army life:
 recruits getting used to the routine in camp.  4. A group of persons,
 parties, or states favorable to a common cause, doctrine, or political
 system: the socialist camp.    -v.camped camping camps   -tr. To shelter or
 lodge in a camp; encamp. -intr. 1. To make or set up a camp. 2. To live in
 or as if in a camp; settle: camped in the apartment until the furniture
 arrived.  [OFr. < Lat. campus, field.]
 camp(2)  n.  1.  a. An affectation or appreciation of manners and tastes
 commonly thought to be outlandish, vulgar, or banal. b. Behavior exhibiting
 such affectation or appreciation. 2. Banality or artificiality when
 appreciated for its humor.   -adj. Having the qualities or style of camp.
 -intr.v.camped camping camps   To act in an outlandish, vulgar, or banal
 manner. [Orig. unknown.]   campy adj.



 campaign  n.  1. A series of military operations undertaken to achieve a
 specific objective within a given area. 2. An operation undertaken, as by
 means of propaganda, to attain some political, social, or commercial goal.
  -intr.v.-paigned -paigning -paigns   To engage in a campaign. [Fr.
 campagne < OFr., battlefield < OItal. campagna < LLat. campania, open
 country < campus, field.]   campaigner n.



 campanile  n. pl. -les  or -li  A bell tower, esp. one near but not
 attached to a church. [Ital. < campana, bell < LLat.]



 campanology  n.  The art or study of bell casting and ringing. [LLat.
 campana, bell + -logy.]   campanologist n.



 campanula  n.  Any of various plants of the genus Campanula, which
 includes the bellflowers. [NLat. Campanula, genus name, dim. of LLat.
 campana, bell.]



 campanulate  adj.  Botany.  Bell-shaped. [NLat. campanula, dim. of LLat.
 campana, bell + -ate1.]



 camper  n.  1. One that camps. 2.  a. A compact, vanlike vehicle
 resembling an automobile-and-trailer combination, designed to serve as a
 dwelling and used for camping or on long motor trips. b. A portable shelter
 resembling the top part of a trailer, made to be mounted on a pickup truck
 to form such a vehicle.



 campestral  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or growing in uncultivated land or
 open fields. [Lat. campester, of a field < campus, field.]



 campestrian  adj.  Pertaining to the northern Great Plains. [< Lat.
 campestria, a plain < campus, field.]



 campfire  n.  1. An outdoor fire in a camp, used for warmth or cooking. 2.
 A meeting held around a campfire.



 camp fire girl  n.  A member of the Camp Fire Girls, an organization for
 girls from 7 through 18 that strives to instill good values and character
 and develop practical skills.



 camp follower  n.  1. A civilian who follows an army from place to place
 to sell goods or services. 2. One who follows but does not belong to a main
 body or group.



 campground  n.  An area used for setting up a camp or holding a camp
 meeting.



 camphene  n.  A colorless crystalline compound, C10H16, used in the
 manufacture of synthetic camphor and insecticides. [camph(or) + -ene.]



 camphor  n.  A volatile crystalline compound, C10H16O, obtained from
 camphor tree wood or synthesized and used as an insect repellent, in the
 manufacture of film, plastics, lacquers, and explosives, and medicinally as
 a stimulant, expectorant, and diaphoretic. [ME caumfre < OFr. camphre <
 Med. Lat. camphora < Ar. kafur.]   camphoric adj.



 camphorate  tr.v. -ated -ating -ates   To treat or impregnate with
 camphor.



 camphor ice  n.  A skin ointment consisting of camphor, white wax,
 spermaceti, and castor oil.



 camphor oil  n.  The oil obtained from the wood of the camphor tree.



 camphor tree  n.  An evergreen tree, Cinnamomum camphora, native to
 eastern Asia, having aromatic wood that is a source of camphor.



 campion  n.  Any of various plants of the genus Lychnis or related genera,
 having red, pink, or white flowers. [Orig. unknown.]



 camp meeting  n.  An evangelistic gathering held in a tent or outdoors and
 often lasting a number of days.



 campo  n. pl. -pos  A large, grassy plain in South America, with
 occasional bushes and small trees. [Am. Sp. < Sp., field < Lat. campus.]



 camporee  n.  An assembly or gathering of Boy Scouts on a local or
 district level. [camp + (jamb)oree.]



 camp robber  n.  The Canada jay.



 campsite  n.  An area suitable or used for camping.



 campstool  n.  A light folding stool.



 campus  n. pl. -puses  1. The grounds of a school, college, or university.
 2. A field in ancient Rome used for various events, such as military
 exercises. [Lat., field.]



 campylotropous  adj.  Botany.  Having the ovule partially inverted and
 curved. [Gk. kampulos, curved + -tropous.]



 camshaft  n.  An engine shaft fitted with a cam or cams.



 can
 can(1)  aux.v.  Past tense could  1. Used to indicate: a. Physical or
 mental ability: I can meet you today.  b. Possession of a specified power,
 right, or privilege: The President can veto congressional bills.  c.
 Possession of a specified capacity or skill: He can tune the harpsichord as
 well as play it.  2. Used to indicate possibility or probability: I wonder
 if she can still be alive.  3. Used to request or grant permission: Can I
 be excused? No, you cannot.  [ME < OE, first and third person pr.
 indicative of cunnan, to know how.]

      Usage: Generations of grammarians and schoolteachers have insisted
 that can  should be used only to express the capacity to do something,
 while may  must be used to indicate permission. Technically, correct usage
 therefore requires: The boss said that anyone who wants an extra day off
 may  (not can ) have one. May  (not can ) I have an extra blanket?  In
 speech, however, can  is used to express permission by most speakers, and
 the "permission" use of can  is even more frequent in British English. The
 negative contraction can't  is frequently used in coaxing and wheedling
 questions like Can't I have the car tonight?  Many members of the Usage
 Panel feel also that the alternative contraction mayn't  is awkward and
 unnatural.
 can(2)   n.  1. A usually cylindrical metal container. 2.  a. An airtight
 container, usually made of tin-coated iron, in which foods or beverages are
 preserved. b. The contents of such a container. 3.  Slang. A jail or
 prison. 4.  Slang.  A toilet or rest room. 5.  Slang.  The buttocks.
 -tr.v.canned canning cans   1. To seal in a can or jar for future use;
 preserve. 2.  Slang. To make a recording of: can the audience's applause.
 3.  Slang.  a. To dismiss from employment or school. b. To quit or dispense
 with: can the chatter.  [ME canne, a water container < OE.]   canner n.



 Canada balsam  n.  1. The balsam fir. 2. A viscous, yellowish, transparent
 resin obtained from the balsam fir and used as a mounting cement for
 microscopic specimens.



 Canada goose  n.  A common wild goose, Branta canadensis, of North
 America, having grayish plumage, a black neck and head, and a white face
 patch.



 Canada jay  n.  A bird, Perisoreus canadensis, of North American conifer
 forests, having gray plumage and a black-capped head.



 Canada thistle  n.  A weedy plant, Cirsium arvense, native to Eurasia,
 having prickly leaves and clusters of purplish flowers.



 Canadian bacon  n.  Cured rolled bacon from the loin of a pig.



 Canadian French  n.  The language of the French-Canadians.



 canaille  n.  The masses of common people; rabble; riffraff. [Fr. < Ital.
 canaglia < cane, dog < Lat. canis.]



 canal  n.  1. A man-made waterway or artificially improved river used for
 irrigation, shipping, or travel. 2.  Anatomy. A tube or duct. 3.
 Astronomy. One of the faint, hazy markings resembling straight lines on the
 surface of Mars.   -tr.v.-nalled -nalling -nals  or -naled  or -naling  or
 -nals   1. To dig an artificial waterway through. 2. To provide with a
 canal or canals. [Partly < Fr., channel, and partly < ME, tube, both < Lat.
 canalis, tube, channel.]



 canaliculate  adj.  Having grooves or channels. [Lat. canaliculatus <
 canaliculus, dim. of canalis, channel.]



 canaliculus  n. pl. -li  A small bodily channel, as a tear duct. [Lat.,
 dim. of canalis, conduit.]   canalicular adj.



 canalization  n.  1. The act or an instance of canalizing. 2. A system of
 canals.



 canalize  tr.v. -lized -lizing -lizes   1. To furnish with, build, or
 convert into a canal or canals. 2. To channel into a particular direction;
 provide an outlet for.



 canal rays  pl.n.  Positively charged ions formed in a gas by electrical
 discharge and attracted to the cathode of the discharge tube. Not in
 current technical use. [Transl. of G. Kanalstrahl (from the fissures in the
 cathode, through which the ions pass).]



 canape  n.  A cracker or small, thin piece of bread or toast spread with
 cheese, meat, or relish and served as an appetizer. [Fr. < canape, couch <
 Med. Lat. canapeum, mosquito net. -see canopy.]



 canard  n.  An unfounded or false, deliberately misleading story. [Fr.,
 prob. < the phrase vendre un canard a moitie, to half-sell a duck, to
 swindle.]



 canary  n. pl. -ies  1. A songbird, Serinus canaria, native to the Canary
 Islands, that is greenish to yellow and has long been bred as a cage bird.
 2.  Slang. An informer; stool pigeon. 3. A sweet white wine, similar to
 Madeira, from the Canary Islands. 4. A lively 16th-century court dance. 5.
 A light to moderate or vivid yellow. [Fr. canari < OSp. canario < (Islas)
 Canarias, Canary (Islands) < LLat. Canariae (Insulae), (islands) of dogs <
 Lat. canis, dog.]



 canary grass  n.  A grass, Phalaris canariensis, native to Europe, having
 straw-colored seeds used to feed birds.



 canasta  n.  A card game for two to six players, related to rummy and
 requiring two decks of cards. [Sp. < canasto, basket < Lat. canistrum. -see
 canister.]



 cancan  n.  An exuberant dance, originating in France, performed by women
 and marked by high kicking. [Fr.]



 cancel  v. -celed -celing -cels  or -celled  or -celling  or -cels   -tr.
 1. To cross out with lines or other markings. 2. To annul or invalidate:
 cancel an invitation.  3. To mark or perforate (a postage stamp, for
 example) to indicate that it may not be used again. 4. To equalize or make
 up for; offset. 5.  Mathematics.  a. To remove a common factor from the
 numerator and denominator of a fractional expression. b. To remove a common
 factor or term from both members of an equation or inequality. 6.
 Printing. To omit or delete. -intr. To balance or neutralize one another:
 two forces that canceled out.    -n. 1.  a. The omission or deletion of
 typed or printed matter. b. The matter omitted or deleted or its
 replacement. 2. A part of a book used as a substitute for an original part
 of the book. [ME < Norman Fr. canceler < Lat. cancellare, to cross out <
 cancelli, lattice, dim. of cancer, lattice.]   cancelable adj.   canceler
 n.



 cancelation  n.  Variant of cancellation.



 cancellate or cancellated   adj.  Anatomy.  Cancellous. [Lat. cancellatus,
 p.part. of cancellare, to make like a lattice. -see cancel.]



 cancellation or cancelation   n.  1. The act of canceling. 2. Marks or
 perforations indicating canceling. 3. Something that has been canceled.



 cancellous  adj.  Anatomy.  Having a coarse netlike or spongy structure.
 Used of bone.



 cancer  n.  1.  a. Any of various malignant neoplasms that manifest
 invasiveness and a tendency to metastasize to new sites. b. The
 pathological condition characterized by such growths. 2. A pernicious,
 spreading evil: A cancer of bigotry spread through the community.  3.
 Cancer  A constellation in the Northern Hemisphere near Leo and Gemini. 4.
 Cancer   a. The fourth sign of the zodiac. b. One born under the
 astrological sign of Cancer. [Lat. cancer, cancr-.]   cancerous adj.



 cancroid  adj.  1. Resembling a cancer. 2. Similar to a crab.   -n. A skin
 cancer.



 candela  n.  A unit of luminous intensity equal to 1/60 of the luminous
 intensity per square centimeter of a blackbody radiating at the temperature
 of solidification of platinum (2,046 deg. K). [Lat. candela, candle.]



 candelabra  n.  A candelabrum.



 candelabrum  n. pl. -bra  or -brums  A large decorative candlestick having
 several arms or branches. [Lat. < candela, candle.]



 candent  adj.  Having a white-hot glow; incandescent. [Lat. candens,
 candent-, pr.part. of candere, to shine.]



 candescence  n.  The state of being white hot; incandescence. [< Lat.
 candescens, pr.part. of candescere, inceptive of candere, to shine.]
 candescent adj.   candescently adv.



 candid  adj.  1. Free from prejudice; impartial. 2. Without pretense or
 reserve; straightforward: candid opinions.  3. Not posed or rehearsed: a
 candid picture.    -n. An unposed informal photograph. [Fr. candide < Lat.
 candidus < candere, to shine.]   candidly adv.   candidness n.



 candida  n.  Any of the pathogenic yeastlike imperfect fungi of the genus
 Candida.  [NLat. Candida, genus name < Lat., fem. of candidus, white.]



 candidate  n.  1. A person who seeks or is nominated for an office, prize
 or honor. 2. A person who seems likely to gain a certain position or come
 to a certain fate. [Lat. candidatus, clothed in white (from the white togas
 worn by Romans seeking office) < candidus, white. -see candid.]   candidacy
 candidature  n.



 candid camera  n.  A small, easily operated camera with a fast lens for
 taking unposed or informal photographs.



 candidiasis  n.  A fungous infection caused by a member of the genus
 Candida.



 candied  adj.  Permeated, covered, encrusted, or cooked with sugar:
 candied sweet potatoes.



 candle  n.  1. A solid, usually cylindrical mass of tallow, wax, or other
 fatty substance with an axially embedded wick that is burned to provide
 light. 2. Something resembling a candle in shape or use. 3.  Physics.  a.
 An obsolete unit of luminous intensity, originally defined in terms of a
 wax candle with standard composition and equal to 1.02 candelas. b. A
 candela.   -tr.v.-dled -dling -dles   To examine (an egg) for freshness in
 front of a light.

       Idiom Section:  burn (one's) candle at both ends. To expend too much
 of one's energy in too many directions. not hold a candle to. To be not
 nearly as good as. [ME candel < OE < Lat. candela < candere, to shine.]
 candler n.



 candleberry  n.  The wax myrtle or its fruit.



 candlefish  n. pl. candlefish  or -fishes  An oily, edible fish,
 Thaleichthys pacificus, of northern Pacific waters, formerly dried and used
 as a torch by Indians.



 candle-foot  n.  A foot-candle.



 candleholder  n.  A candlestick.



 candlelight  n.  1. Illumination from a candle or candles. 2. Dusk;
 twilight.



 Candlemas  n.  A church festival celebrated on February 2 as the feast of
 the purification of the Virgin Mary and the presentation of the infant
 Christ in the temple. [ME candelmasse < OE candelmaesse : candel, candle +
 maesse, mass (from the blessing of candles at the feast).]



 candlenut  n.  1. A tree, Aleurites moluccana, of tropical Asia and
 Polynesia, bearing nuts that yield an oil used in paints and varnishes. 2.
 The nut of the candlenut.



 candlepin  n.  1. A slender bowling pin used in a variation of the game of
 tenpins. 2. candlepins  (used with a sing. verb). A bowling game using a
 ball smaller than that used in tenpins.



 candlepower  n.  Luminous intensity expressed in standard candles.



 candlestick  n.  A holder, often ornamental, with cups or spikes for a
 candle or candles. [ME candelstikke < OE candelsticca.]



 candlewick  n.  The wick of a candle.



 candlewicking  n.  1. Soft, heavy cotton thread similar to that used to
 make wicks for candles. 2. Embroidery made of tufts of candlewicking.



 candlewood  n.  1. The ocotillo. 2. The resinous wood of the ocotillo or
 similar plants.



 candor  n.  1. Frankness of expression; straightforwardness. 2. Freedom
 from prejudice; impartiality. [Lat. < candere, to shine.]



 candour  n.  Chiefly British.  Variant of candor.



 candy  n. pl. -dies  1. Any of numerous kinds of rich, sweet confections
 made with sugar, corn syrup, or similar substances, often combined with
 chocolate, dairy products, fruits, or nuts. 2. A single piece of such a
 confection.   -v.-died -dying -dies   -tr. 1. To reduce to sugar crystals.
 2. To cook, preserve, saturate, or coat with sugar or syrup. 3. To make
 pleasant or agreeable; sweeten. -intr. 1. To crystallize, as sugar. 2. To
 become coated with sugar or syrup. [Short for sugar candy < ME sugre candie
 < OFr. sucre candi < Ital. zucchero candi < Ar. sukkar qandi : sukkar,
 sugar + qandi, candied < qand, cane sugar, of Dravidian orig.]



 candy striper  n.  A usually teen-age volunteer nurse's aid in a hospital.
 [From the resemblance of the volunteer's red and white striped uniform to a
 candy cane.]



 candytuft  n.  Any of various plants of the genus Iberis, having clusters
 of white, red, or purplish flowers. [Obs. Candy, var. of Candia, Crete +
 tuft.]



 cane  n.  1.  a. A slender, jointed stem, woody but usually flexible, as
 of bamboo, rattan, or certain palm trees. b. A plant having such a stem. c.
 Such stems or strips of such stems used for wickerwork. 2. A grass,
 Arundinaria gigantea, of the southeastern United States, having long stiff
 stems and often forming canebrakes. 3. The long, woody stem of a raspberry,
 blackberry, certain roses, or similar plants. 4. Sugar cane. 5. A stick
 used as an aid in walking. 6. A rod used for flogging.   -tr.v.caned caning
 canes   1. To make, supply, or repair with cane. 2. To hit or beat with a
 cane. [ME < Norman Fr. < Med. Lat. canna < Gk. kanna, reed.]   caner n.



 canebrake  n.  A dense thicket of cane.



 canescent  adj.  1.  Biology. Covered with whitish or grayish down; hoary.
 2. Turning white or grayish. [Lat. canescens, canescent-, p.part. of
 canescere, inchoative of canere, to be white < canus, white.]   canescence
 n.



 cane sugar  n.  Sucrose.



 Canes Venatici  n.  A constellation in the Northern Hemisphere near Ursa
 Major and Bootes, under the Big Dipper's handle. [Lat., hunting dogs.]



 Canicula  n.  Sirius. [Lat. < dim. of canis, dog.]



 canicular  adj.  1. Of or pertaining to the Dog Star. 2. Pertaining to the
 dog days of July and August.



 canine  adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, or characteristic of a member of the
 family Canidae, which includes dogs, wolves, and foxes. 2. Of or
 designating one of the conical teeth located between the incisors and the
 first bicuspids.   -n. 1. A canine animal. 2. A canine tooth. [Lat. caninus
 < canis, dog.]



 Canis Major  n.  A constellation in the Southern Hemisphere near Puppis
 and Lepus containing the star Sirius. [Lat., the larger dog.]



 Canis Minor  n.  A constellation in the equatorial region of the Southern
 Hemisphere near Hydra and Monoceros containing the star Procyon. [Lat., the
 smaller dog.]



 canister  n.  1. A container, usually of thin metal, for holding dry
 foods. 2. A metallic cylinder that when fired from a gun bursts and
 scatters the shot packed inside it. 3. The part of a gas mask containing a
 filter for removing poison gas from the surrounding air. [Lat. canistrum,
 basket < Gk. kanastron < kanna, reed.]



 canker  n.  1. An ulcerous sore of the mouth and lips. 2. A necrotic area
 in a plant surrounded by healthy wood or bark. 3. Any of several animal
 diseases characterized by chronic inflammatory processes. 4. A source of
 spreading corruption or debilitation.   -v.-kered -kering -kers   -tr. 1.
 To attack or infect with canker. 2. To cause to decay or become corrupt.
 -intr. To become infected with or as if with canker. [ME < OE cancer,
 cancer and < OFr. cancre, cancer, both < Lat. cancer.]



 cankerous  adj.  1. Of the nature of or infected with a canker; ulcerous.
 2. Causing canker; ulcerating.



 canker sore  n.  A small, painful ulcer usually of the mouth.



 cankerworm  n.  The larva of either of two moths, Paleacrita vernata or
 Alsophila pometaria, that are destructive to fruit and shade trees.



 canna  n.  Any of various tropical plants of the genus Canna, having broad
 leaves and showy red or yellow flowers. [NLat. Canna, genus name < Lat.
 canna, cane.]



 cannabidiol  n.  A chemical constituent of cannabis, C21H28(OH)2.
 [cannabi(s) + di-1 + -ol.]



 cannabin  n.  A resinous material extracted from cannabis. [cannab(is) +
 -in.]



 cannabis  n.  1. The hemp plant. 2. The dried flowering tops of the hemp
 plant. [Lat. < Gk. kannabis.]   cannabic adj.



 canned  adj.  1. Preserved and sealed in a can or jar. 2.  Informal.
 Recorded or taped:  So if television is to have canned laughter, how about
 canned tears? (Jack Paar).



 canned heat  n.  Alcohol or paraffin fuel packed in small cans and used to
 heat food.



 cannel or cannel coal   n.  A bituminous coal that burns brightly with
 much smoke. [Perh. short for cannel coal, var. of candle coal (from its
 bright flame).]



 cannelloni  n.  An Italian pasta dish of large-sized macaroni that is
 stuffed, baked, and served with tomato sauce or cream sauce. [Ital., pl. of
 cannellone, tubular soup noodle < cannello, small tube, dim. of canna, reed
 < Lat. < Gk. kanna.]



 cannery  n. pl. -ies  An establishment where meat, vegetables, or other
 foods are canned.



 cannibal  n.  1. A person who eats the flesh of human beings. 2. A animal
 that feeds on others of its own kind. [< Sp. Canibalis, name (as recorded
 by Christopher Columbus 1451-1506), of the man-eating Caribs of Cuba and
 Haiti, of Arawakan orig.]   cannibalism n.   cannibalistic adj.



 cannibalize  tr.v. -ized -izing -izes   1. To remove serviceable parts
 from (damaged airplanes, tanks, or other machinery) for use in the repair
 of other equipment. 2. To deprive (an organization) of personnel or
 equipment for use in another organization.   cannibalization n.



 cannikin  n.  1. A little can or cup. 2. A wooden bucket. [Prob. < Du.
 kanneken < MDu. canneken, dim. of canne, can, of Germanic orig.]



 canning  n.  The act, process, or business of preserving foods in airtight
 containers.



 cannoli  n.  A fried pastry roll with a usually sweet, creamy filling.
 [Ital., pl. of cannolo, tube, dim. of canna < Lat., reed. -see cane.]



 cannon  n. pl. cannon  or -nons  1. A weapon for firing projectiles,
 consisting of a heavy metal tube mounted on a carriage. 2. A heavy firearm
 larger than 0.60 caliber. 3. The loop at the top of a bell by which the
 bell is suspended. 4. A round bit for a horse. 5. The section of leg
 containing the cannon bone. 6.  Chiefly British. A carom made in billiards.
   -tr. -intr.v.-noned -noning -nons   1. To bombard with or fire cannon. 2.
  Chiefly British. To carom or cause to carom, as in billiards. [ME canon <
 OFr. < OItal. cannone < canna, tube < Lat., reed. -see cane.]



 cannonade  tr.  -intr.v.-aded -ading -ades   To assault with or deliver
 heavy artillery fire.   -n. An extended, usually heavy discharge of
 artillery. [Prob. < Fr. canonade, discharge of artillery < Ital. cannonata
 < cannone, cannon. < OItal.]



 cannonball or cannon ball   n.  1. A round projectile fired from a cannon.
 2. A jump into water made with the arms grasping the upraised knees. 3.
 Something, such as a fast train, moving with great speed.   -intr.v.-balled
 -balling -balls   1. To travel rapidly in the manner of a cannonball. 2. To
 make a cannonball jump into water.



 cannon bone  n.  A supporting bone of the leg in some hoofed mammals.



 cannoneer  n.  A gunner or artilleryman. [OFr. canonier < canon, cannon.]



 cannon fodder  n.  Soldiers considered as expendable materials of warfare.
 [Transl. of G. Kanonenfutter.]



 cannonry  n. pl. -ries  1. Artillery; cannons collectively. 2. Artillery
 fire.



 cannon shot  n.  1. Ammunition for a cannon. 2. A shot or shots fired by
 cannon. 3. The firing distance of a cannon.



 cannot  v.  The negative form of can.

      Usage: In the phrase cannot but,  which is sometimes criticized as a
 double negative, but  is used in the sense of "except": One cannot but
 admire his courage  (that is, "one cannot do otherwise than admire his
 courage".) Thus, the expression is not to be classed with the double
 negative that occurs when but  in the sense of "only" is coupled with a
 negative. Cannot but  is accepted in the preceding example by a majority of
 the Usage Panel. Alternative phrasings are: can but admire, can only
 admire, cannot help admiring.  See also Usage notes at help, seem.



 cannula or canula   n. pl. -las  or -lae  A tube inserted into a bodily
 cavity to drain fluid or insert medication. [Lat., dim. of canna, reed.
 -see cane.]



 cannular  adj.  Cannulate.



 cannulate or canulate   tr.v. -lated -lating -lates   To insert a cannula
 in.   -adj. Tubular; hollow.   cannulation n.



 canny  adj. -nier -niest   1. Careful and shrewd, esp. where one's own
 interests are concerned. 2. Chiefly Scot.  a. Pleasant; attractive. b.
 Gentle; mild. [< can1.]   cannily adv.   canniness n.



 canoe  n.  A light, slender boat with pointed ends, propelled by paddles.
  -v.-noed -noeing -noes   -tr. To carry or send by canoe. -intr. 1. To
 travel in a canoe. 2. To propel a canoe. [Obs. canoa < Sp., of Cariban
 orig.]   canoeist n.



 can of worms  n.  Informal.  A complicated, often troublesome condition or
 situation.



 canon
 canon(1)  n.  1. An ecclesiastical law or code of laws established by a
 church council. 2. A secular law, rule, or code of law. 3. A basis for
 judgment; standard; criterion. 4. The books of the Bible officially
 recognized as the Holy Scripture. 5. The part of the Mass beginning after
 the Sanctus and ending just before the Lord's Prayer. 6. The calendar of
 saints accepted by the Roman Catholic Church. 7. An authoritative list, as
 of the works of an author. 8.  Music. A composition or passage in which the
 same melody is repeated by one or more voices, overlapping in time in the
 same or a related key. [ME canoun, partly < OE, and partly < OFr. canon,
 both < Lat. canon, rule < Gk. kanon.]
 canon(2)  n.  1. One of a chapter of priests serving in a cathedral or
 collegiate church. 2. A member of a religious community living under common
 rules and bound by vows. [ME canoun < Norman Fr. canun < LLat. canonicus <
 canon, rule.]



 canon  n.  Variant of canyon.



 canoness  n.  A member of a religious community of women living under a
 common rule but not bound by vows.



 canonical or canonic   adj.  1. Pertaining to, required by, or abiding by
 canon law. 2. Of or appearing in the Biblical canon. 3. Officially
 approved; authoritative; orthodox.   canonically adv.   canonicity n.



 canonical hours  pl.n.  1.  Ecclesiastical.  a. A special form of prayer,
 prescribed by canon law, normally to be recited at specified times of the
 day, either in common or individually. They are matins (with lauds), prime,
 tierce, sext, nones, vespers, and complin. b. The times of day set aside
 for these prayers. 2.  Chiefly British. The hours between 8:00 am and 3:00
 pm, during which marriages may legally take place in parish churches.



 canonicals  pl.n.  The dress prescribed by canon for officiating clergy.



 canonicate  n.  The office or dignity of a canon; canonry. [Med. Lat.
 canonicatus < LLat. canonicus, canon.]



 canonist  n.  A person skilled in canon law.   canonistic  canonistical
 adj.



 canonize  tr.v. -ized -izing -izes   1. To declare (a deceased person) to
 be a saint and entitled to be fully honored as such by the Roman Catholic
 Church. 2. To include in the Biblical canon. 3. To approve as being within
 canon law.   canonization n.   canonizer n.



 canon law  n.  The body of officially established rules governing the
 faith and practice of the members of a Christian church.



 canonry  n. pl. -ries  1. The position or benefice of a canon. 2. Canons
 collectively.



 Canopic  adj.  Designating an ancient Egyptian vase, urn, or jar used to
 hold the remains of the dead. [After Canopus, a city of ancient Egypt.]



 Canopus  n.  A star in the constellation Carina, 650 light-years from
 Earth, the second-brightest star in the sky. [Lat. < Gk. kanopos.]



 canopy  n. pl. -pies  1. A cloth covering fastened or held horizontally
 above a person or an object for protection or ornamentation. 2.
 Architecture. An ornamental, rooflike structure. 3. Any high, overarching
 covering:  spreads out into a vast canopy of foliage (Thomas Huxley). 4.
 a. The transparent, movable enclosure over an aircraft's cockpit. b. The
 hemispherical surface of a parachute.   -tr.v.-pied -pying -pies   To cover
 with or as if with a canopy. [ME canape < Med. Lat. canapeum, mosquito net
 < Lat. conopeum < Gk. konopion < Kanopos, Canopus, a city of ancient
 Egypt.]



 canorous  adj.  Agreeable to the ears; melodious. [Lat. canorus < canor,
 tune < canere, to sing.]   canorously adv.   canorousness n.



 canst  v.  Archaic.  Second person singular present tense of can1.



 cant
 cant(1)  n.  1. Angular deviation from a vertical or horizontal plane or
 surface; inclination; slant; slope. 2.  a. A thrust or motion that tilts
 something. b. The tilt caused by such a thrust or motion. 3. An outer
 corner, as of a building. 4. A slanted edge or surface.   -v.canted canting
 cants   -tr. 1. To set at an oblique angle; cause to slant or tilt. 2. To
 give a slanting edge to; bevel. 3. To change the direction of suddenly.
 -intr. 1. To tilt to one side; slant. 2. To take an oblique direction or
 course; swing around, as a ship. [ME, side < Norman Fr.]
 cant(2)  n.  1. Whining, affected speech. 2. Discourse recited monotonously
 or mechanically. 3. Hypocritically pious language. 4. The special
 vocabulary peculiar to the members of an underworld group; argot. 5. The
 special terminology understood among the members of a profession,
 discipline, or class but obscure to the general population; jargon.
 -intr.v.canted canting cants   1. To speak in a whining, pleading tone. 2.
 To speak tediously or sententiously; moralize. 3. To use special jargon or
 argot. [Prob. < Norman Fr., singing < canter, to sing < Lat. cantare, freq.
 of canere, to sing.]   cantingly adv.   cantingness n.



 can't   Cannot.



 cantabile  Music.  adj.  Marked by a smooth, lyrical, flowing style. Used
 as a direction to the performer.   -n. A cantabile passage or movement.
 [Ital. < LLat. cantabilis, worthy to be sung < Lat. cantare, freq. of
 canere, to sing.]   cantabile adv.



 Cantabrigian  adj.  Of or pertaining to Cambridge University.   -n. A
 student or graduate of Cambridge University. [< Med. Lat. Cantabrigia,
 Cambridge.]



 cantala  n.  1. A century plant, Agave cantula, native to tropical
 America, cultivated for its coarse, tough fiber. 2. The fiber of the
 cantala. [Orig. unknown.]



 cantaloupe or cantaloup   n.  1. A variety of melon, Cucumis melo
 cantalupensis, having fruit with a ribbed, rough rind and aromatic orange
 flesh. 2. Any of several similar melons. 3. The fruit of a cantaloupe. [Fr.
 cantaloup < Ital. cantalupo < Cantalupo, a former papal villa near Rome.]



 cantankerous  adj.  Ill-tempered and quarrelsome; disagreeable. [Perh.
 ult. < ME contek, contentious.]   cantankerously adv.   cantankerousness n.




 cantata  n.  A vocal and instrumental composition comprising choruses,
 solos, and recitatives. [Ital. (aria) cantata, sung (aria) < cantare, to
 sing < Lat., freq. of canere.]



 canteen  n.  1.  a. A store for on-base military personnel. b.  Chiefly
 British. A club for soldiers. 2. An institutional recreation hall or
 cafeteria. 3. A temporary or mobile eating place, esp. one set up in an
 emergency. 4.  a. A mess kit. b. A box divided into compartments containing
 a set of cooking gear. 5. A flask for drinking water of the kind carried by
 soldiers. [Fr. cantine < Ital. cantina, wine cellar < canto, corner.]



 canter  n.  A gait slower than a gallop but faster than a trot.
 -v.-tered -tering -ters   -intr. To move or ride at a canter. -tr. To cause
 (a horse) to go at a canter. [Short for Canterbury gallop, after
 Canterbury, England, toward which pilgrims rode at an easy pace.]



 Canterbury bells  n.  A plant,Campanula medium,native to Europe, widely
 cultivated for its showy, bell-shaped violet-blue flowers. [From the
 association of the flowers with the bells on the horses of Canterbury
 pilgrims.]



 cantharis  n. pl. cantharides  A toxic preparation of the crushed, dried
 bodies of the beetle Lytta vesicatoria (or Cantharis vesicatoria ),
 formerly used as a counterirritant for skin blisters and as an aphrodisiac.
 [Lat., a kind of beetle < Gk. kantharis.]



 cant hook  n.  A peavey. [< cant1.]



 canthitis  n.  Inflammation of the canthus.



 canthus  n. pl. -thi  The corner at either side of the eye, formed by the
 meeting of the upper and lower eyelids. [LLat. < Gk. kanthos.]



 canticle  n.  A song or chant, esp. a nonmetrical hymn with words taken
 directly from a Biblical text. [ME < Lat. canticulum, dim. of cantus, song
 < canere, to sing.]



 cantilever  n.  1. A projecting beam or other structure supported only at
 one end. 2. A beam or other member projecting beyond a fulcrum and
 supported by a balancing member or a downward force behind the fulcrum. 3.
 A bracket or block supporting a balcony or cornice.   -tr.v.-vered -vering
 -vers   To extend outward or build as a cantilever. [Perh. cant1 + lever.]



 cantilever bridge  n.  A bridge formed by two projecting beams or trusses
 that are joined in the center by a connecting member and are supported on
 piers and anchored by counterbalancing members.



 cantillate  tr.  -intr.v.-lated -lating -lates   To chant or recite in a
 musical monotone, as in Jewish or other rituals. [Lat. cantillare,
 cantillat-, to hum < cantare, to sing, freq. of canere.]   cantillation n.



 cantina  n.  Southwestern U.S.  An establishment that serves liquor; a bar
 or saloon. [Sp., canteen < Ital., wine cellar < canto, corner.]



 cantle  n.  1. The rear part of a saddle. 2. A corner or portion, esp.
 when cut off from something. [ME cantel, corner < Norman Fr., dim. of cant,
 corner.]



 canto  n. pl. -tos  One of the principal divisions of a long poem. [Ital.
 < Lat. cantus, song. -see canticle.]



 canton  n.  1.  a. A small territorial division of a country, esp. one of
 the states of Switzerland. b. A subdivision of an arrondissement in France.
 2. A small, square division of a heraldic shield, usually in the upper
 right corner. 3. A division of a flag, usually rectangular, occupying the
 upper corner next to the staff.   -tr.v.-toned -toning -tons   1. To divide
 into parts, esp. into cantons or territorial districts. 2.  To assign
 quarters to (troops); billet. [Fr. < OFr. < Ital. cantone, aug. of canto,
 corner.]   cantonal adj.



 Canton crepe  n.  A soft fabric of silk or similar material with a finely
 crinkled texture, similar to crepe de Chine but heavier. [After Canton
 (Guangzhou), China.]



 Cantonese  n.  The dialect of Chinese spoken in and around Guangzhou
 (formerly Canton), China.   Cantonese adj.



 Canton flannel  n.  Flannelette. [After Canton (Guangzhou), China.]



 cantonment  n.  1. A group of more or less temporary buildings for housing
 troops. 2. The assignment of troops to temporary quarters.



 Canton ware  n.  Ceramic ware including blue-and-white enameled porcelain
 exported from China, esp. during the 18th and 19th centuries. [After Canton
 (Guangzhou), China.]



 cantor  n.  1. The official soloist or chief singer of the liturgy in a
 synagogue. 2. The person who leads a church choir or congregation in
 singing. [Lat., singer < canere, to sing.]



 cantrip  n.  Scots.  1. A magic spell; a witch's trick. 2. A mischievous
 trick; prank. [Orig. unknown.]



 cantus firmus  n.  A plainsong serving as the basis of a polyphonic
 composition by the addition of contrapuntal voices, as in 15th-century
 polyphony. [Med. Lat., fixed melody.]



 Canuck  n.  Offensive.  Slang.  A Canadian, esp. a French Canadian. [Prob.
 alteration of Canadian.]



 canula  n.  Variant of cannula.



 canulate  v.  -adj. Variant of cannulate.



 canvas  n.  1. A heavy, coarse, closely woven fabric of cotton, hemp, or
 flax, used for making tents and sails. 2.  a. A piece of canvas on which a
 painting is made, esp. an oil painting. b. A painting of this kind. 3.
 Sailcloth. 4. A sail or sails collectively. 5.  a. A tent or tents
 collectively. b. A circus tent. 6. A fabric of coarse open weave, used as a
 foundation for needlework. 7. The floor of a ring in which boxing or
 wrestling takes place. [ME canevas < Norman Fr. canevaz < Lat. cannabis,
 hemp. -see cannabis.]



 canvasback  n.  A North American duck, Aythya valisneria, having a
 reddish-brown head and neck and a whitish back.



 canvas duck  n.  A fabric made of lightweight cotton or linen.



 canvass  v. -vassed -vassing -vasses   -tr. 1. To examine carefully or
 discuss thoroughly; scrutinize. 2.  a. To go through (a region) or go to
 (persons) to solicit votes, orders, or subscriptions. b. To conduct a
 survey of (public opinion) on a given subject; poll. -intr. 1. To make a
 thorough examination or conduct a detailed discussion. 2. To solicit
 political support, sales orders, or opinions.   -n. 1. An examination or
 discussion. 2.  a. A solicitation of votes, sales orders, or opinions. b. A
 survey of public opinion. [< obs. canvass, to toss in a canvas sheet as
 punishment < canvas.]   canvasser n.



 canyon or canon   n.  A narrow chasm with steep cliff walls, formed by
 running water; gorge. [Sp. canon, aug. of cana, tube < Lat. canna, reed <
 Gk. kanna.]



 canzone  n. pl. -nes  or -ni  1. A lyric 13th-century Italian or Provencal
 poetic form. 2. A polyphonic song form evolving from the canzone and
 resembling the madrigal in style. [Ital. < Lat. cantio, song < canere, to
 sing.]



 canzonet  n.  A short, lighthearted song or air. [Ital. canzonetta, dim.
 of canzone. -see canzone.]



 caoutchouc  n.  Rubber1 (sense 1). [Fr. < obs. Sp. cauchuc < Quechua.]



 cap  n.  1. A usually soft and close-fitting head covering, either
 brimless or with a visor. 2.  a. A special head covering worn to indicate
 rank, occupation, or membership in a particular group: a cardinal's cap.
 b. A mortarboard (sense 2). 3.  a. An object similar to a cap in form, use,
 or position: a bottle cap.  b. Something that limits or restrains: a cap on
 government spending.  4.  Architecture. The capital of a column. 5. The top
 part, or pileus, of a fungus such as a mushroom. 6.  a. A percussion cap.
 b. A small explosive charge enclosed in paper for use in a toy gun. 7. Any
 of several sizes of writing paper, as foolscap.   -tr.v.capped capping caps
   1. To put a cap on. 2. To lie over or on top of; cover: Snow capped the
 hills.  3. To apply the finishing touch to; complete: cap a meal with
 dessert.  4. To surpass; outdo. [ME cappe < OE caeppe < LLat. cappa.]



 capability  n. pl. -ties  1. The quality or condition of being capable;
 ability. 2. Potential ability: lived up to her capabilities.  3. The
 capacity to be used, treated, or developed for a specific purpose.



 capable  adj.  1. Having capacity or ability; efficient; able. 2. Having
 the mental or physical capacity for; qualified for. 3. Open to; susceptible
 to: an error capable of remedy.  [Fr. < OFr. < LLat. capabilis, spacious <
 capere, to take.]   capableness n.   capably adv.



 capacious  adj.  Capable of containing a large quantity; spacious. [< Lat.
 capax, capac- < capere, to take.]   capaciously adv.   capaciousness n.



 capacitance  n.  1. The ratio of charge to potential on an electrically
 charged, isolated conductor. 2. The ratio of the electric charge
 transferred from one to the other of a pair of conductors to the resulting
 potential difference between them. 3.  a. The property of a circuit element
 that permits it to store charge. b. The part of the circuit exhibiting
 capacitance. [capacit(y) + -ance.]   capacitive adj.   capacitively adv.



 capacitate  tr.v. -tated -tating -tates   To render fit; make qualified;
 enable. [capacit(y) + -ate1.]   capacitation n.



 capacitor  n.  An electric circuit element used to store charge
 temporarily, consisting in general of two metallic plates separated by a
 dielectric.



 capacity  n. pl. -ties  1.  a. The ability to receive, hold, or absorb. b.
 A measure of this ability; volume. 2. The maximum amount that can be
 contained: a trunk filled to capacity.  3. The maximum or optimum amount of
 production. 4. The ability to learn or retain knowledge. 5. The ability to
 do something; faculty: a capacity for self-expression.  6. The quality of
 being suitable for or receptive to specified treatment: the capacity of
 elastic to be stretched.  7. The position in which one functions; role: his
 capacity as host.  8. Legal qualification or authority: the capacity to
 make an arrest.  9.  Obsolete. Capacitance. a capacity crowd.  [ME capacite
 < OFr. < Lat. capacitas < capax, spacious. -see capacious.]



 cap-a-pie or cap-a-pie   adv.  From head to foot. [OFr. (de) cap a pie,
 (from) head to foot < OProv. (de) cap a pe.]



 caparison  n.  1. A usually ornamental covering for a horse's saddle or
 harness; trappings. 2. Richly ornamented clothing; finery.   -tr.v.-soned
 -soning -sons   To outfit with a caparison. [Obs. Fr. caparasson < Sp.
 caparazon.]



 cape
 cape(1)  n.  A sleeveless garment fastened at the throat and worn hanging
 over the shoulders. [Fr., partly < OProv. cape, and partly < Sp. capa, both
 < Med. Lat. cappa, cloak.]
 cape(2)  n.  A point or head of land projecting into a sea or other body of
 water; promontory. [ME cap < OFr. < OProv. < Lat. caput, head.]



 Cape Cod cottage  n.  A compact one- or one-and-a-half-story house with a
 gabled roof and a central chimney. [After Cape Cod, Massachusetts.]



 Cape cowslip  n.  Any of various bulbous South African plants of the genus
 Lachenalia, having clusters of drooping red or yellow flowers and widely
 cultivated as a potted plant. [After Cape of Good Hope, a province of the
 Republic of South Africa.]



 Cape gooseberry  n.  A plant, Physalis peruviana, native to tropical
 America, having yellow flowers and edible yellow berries.



 Cape jasmine  n.  The gardenia.



 capelin or caplin   n.  A small, edible marine fish, Mallotus villosus, of
 northern Atlantic and Pacific waters, related to and resembling the smelts.
 [Canadian Fr. capelan < Fr., codfish < OProv.]



 Capella  n.  A double star in Auriga, the brightest star in the
 constellation, approximately 46 light-years from Earth. [Lat., dim. of
 caper, goat.]



 caper
 caper(1)  n.  1. A playful leap or hop. 2. A wild escapade or prank. 3. A
 criminal plot or enterprise.   -intr.v.-pered -pering -pers   To leap or
 frisk about; frolic. [Alteration of capriole.]
 caper(2)  n.  1. A spiny, trailing shrub, Capparis spinosa, of the
 Mediterranean region. 2.  a. A pickled flower bud of the caper, used as a
 condiment. b. A similar pickled bud or pod. [ME caperis < Lat. capparis <
 Gk. kapparis.]



 capercaillie or capercailzie   n.  A large grouse, Tetrao urogallus, of
 northern Europe, having dark plumage and a fanlike tail. [Sc. Gael. capull
 coille : capull, horse (prob. < Lat. caballus) + coille, forest.]



 capeskin  n.  Soft leather made from sheepskin, used esp. for gloves.
 [After Cape of Good Hope, a province of the Republic of South Africa.]



 Capetian  adj.  Pertaining or belonging to the French dynasty (987-1328)
 founded by Hugh Capet.   -n. A member of the Capetian dynasty.



 capful  n. pl. fuls  The amount a cap will hold.



 cap gun  n.  A cap pistol.



 capias  n.  Law.  A writ authorizing an officer to arrest the person
 specified therein. [ME < Med. Lat. < Lat., you may arrest (the first word
 of the writ) < capere, to seize.]



 capillarity  n. pl. -ties  The interaction between contacting surfaces of
 a liquid and a solid that distorts the liquid surface from a planar shape.



 capillaroscope  n.  A microscope used in capillaroscopy. [capillar(y) +
 -scope.]



 capillaroscopy  n.  The diagnostic examination of the capillaries.
 [capillar(y) + -scopy.]



 capillary  adj.  1. Pertaining to or resembling a hair; fine and slender.
 2. Having a very small internal diameter, as a tube. 3.  Anatomy. In, of,
 or pertaining to the capillaries. 4.  Physics. Of or pertaining to
 capillarity.   -n.pl. -ies  1.  Anatomy. One of the minute blood vessels
 that connect the arteries and veins. 2. A tube with a small internal
 diameter. [Lat. capillaris < capillus, hair.]



 capillary attraction  n.  The force that results from greater adhesion of
 a liquid to a solid surface than internal cohesion of the liquid itself and
 that causes the liquid to be raised against a vertical surface, as water is
 in a clean glass tube.



 capillary bed  n.  The capillary network in a particular area or organ of
 the body.



 capital
 capital(1)  n.  1.  a. A town or city that is the official seat of
 government in a state, nation, or other political entity. b. A city or
 region that is the center of a specific activity. 2.  a. Wealth in the form
 of money or property, owned, used, or accumulated in business by an
 individual, partnership, or corporation. b. Any form of material wealth
 used or available for use in the production of more wealth. 3.  Accounting.
  a. The remaining assets of a business after all liabilities have been
 deducted; net worth. b. The funds contributed to a business by the owners
 or stockholders. 4. Capitalists considered as a group or class. 5. An asset
 or advantage. 6. A capital letter.   -adj. 1. First and foremost;
 principal: a decision of capital importance.  2. Of or pertaining to a
 political capital. 3. First-rate; excellent: a capital fellow.  4.
 Extremely serious: a capital blunder.  5. Involving death or calling for
 the death penalty: capital punishment; a capital offense.  6. Of or
 pertaining to monetary capital. 7. Designating an upper-case letter. [< ME,
 principal < OFr. < Lat. capitalis < caput, head.]

      Usage: The term for a town or city that serves as a seat of government
 is spelled capital.  The term for the building in which a legislative
 assembly meets is spelled capitol .
 capital(2)  n.  The top part, or head, of a pillar or column. [ME < Norman
 Fr. < LLat. capitellum, dim. of caput, head.]



 capital account  n.  1. An account stating the amount of funds and assets
 invested in a business by the owners or stockholders, including retained
 earnings; the owner's interest in the firm. 2.  Accounting. A statement of
 the net worth of a business enterprise at a given time.



 capital assets  pl.n.  Long-term assets, as land or buildings.



 capital expenditure  n.  Funds spent for additions or improvements to
 plant or equipment.



 capital gain  n.  Profit from the sale of capital assets.



 capital gains distribution  n.  A payment to shareholders realized from
 the sale of capital assets, as securities.



 capital goods  pl.n.  Goods used in the production of commodities.



 capital-intensive  adj.  Requiring or having a large expenditure of
 capital in comparison to labor: a capital-intensive industry.



 capitalism  n.  1. An economic system, characterized by open competition
 in a free market, in which the means of production and distribution are
 privately or corporately owned and development is proportionate to
 increasing accumulation and reinvestment of profits. 2. A political or
 social system regarded as being based on capitalism.



 capitalist  n.  1. An investor of capital in business, esp. one having a
 major interest in an important enterprise. 2. A person of great wealth. 3.
 A person who supports capitalism.



 capitalistic  adj.  Of or pertaining to capitalism or capitalists.
 capitalistically adv.



 capitalization  n.  1. The act, practice, or result of capitalizing. 2.
 a. The total value of owners' shares in a business firm. b. The authorized
 or outstanding stock or bonds in a corporation. 3. The process of
 converting anticipated future income into present value. 4. The use of
 upper-case letters in printing or writing.



 capitalize  v. -ized -izing -izes   -tr. 1. To utilize as or convert into
 capital. 2. To supply with capital or investment funds. 3. To authorize a
 certain amount of capital stock of (a business). 4. To convert (debt) into
 capital stock or shares. 5. To estimate the present value of (an asset). 6.
  Accounting. To include (expenditures) in business accounts as assets
 instead of expenses. 7.  a. To write or print in upper-case letters. b. To
 begin a word with an upper-case letter. -intr. To turn to advantage; profit
 by: capitalize on an opponent's error.    capitalizable adj.



 capital letter  n.  A letter written or printed in a size larger than and
 often in a form differing from its corresponding lower-case letter; an
 upper-case letter.



 capital levy  n.  A tax on capital assets or real property.



 capitally  adv.  In an excellent manner; admirably.



 capital punishment  n.  The infliction of the death penalty for the
 commission of certain crimes.



 capital ship  n.  A warship, such as a battleship, of the largest class.



 capital stock  n.  1. The total amount of stock authorized for issue by a
 corporation. 2. The total stated or par value of the permanently invested
 capital of a corporation.



 capitate  adj.  1.  Zoology. Enlarged or globular at an end, as some
 tentacles are. 2.  Botany. Forming a headlike mass or dense cluster, as the
 inflorescence of certain flowers. [Lat. capitatus, having a head < caput,
 head.]



 capitation  n.  A tax fixed at an equal sum per person; a per capita or
 poll tax. [Lat. capitatio, poll tax < caput, head.]   capitative adj.



 capitellum  n.  The rounded process of the humerus that articulates with
 the radius. [NLat. < LLat., dim. of Lat. caput, head.]



 capitol  n.  1. The building in which a state legislature assembles. 2.
 Capitol  The building in Washington, D.C., occupied by the Congress of the
 United States. -See Usage note at capital. [ME Capitol, Jupiter's temple in
 Rome < Lat. Capitolium.]



 Capitol Hill  n.  The U.S. Congress.



 capitular  adj.  Of or pertaining to a chapter, esp. an ecclesiastical
 chapter. [Med. Lat. capitularis < capitulum, chapter. -see chapter.]
 capitularly adv.



 capitulary  n. pl. -ies  1. A member of an ecclesiastical chapter. 2.  a.
 An ecclesiastical or civil ordinance. b. A set of such ordinances, esp.
 those promulgated by Charlemagne and his successors.



 capitulate  intr.v. -lated -lating -lates   1. To surrender under
 specified conditions; come to terms. 2. To give up all resistance;
 acquiesce. [Med. Lat. capitulare, capitulat-, to draw up in chapters <
 capitulum, chapter. -see chapter.]   capitulant n.   capitulator n.



 capitulation  n.  1. The act of capitulating. 2. A document or other
 instrument containing the terms of surrender. 3. An enumeration of the main
 parts of a subject; summary.   capitulatory adj.



 capitulum  n. pl. -la  1.  Botany. A dense, headlike cluster of stalkless
 flowers. 2.  Anatomy. A small knob or head-shaped part, as the end of a
 bone or the knoblike tip of an insect's antenna. [NLat. < Lat., dim. of
 caput, head.]



 caplin  n.  Variant of capelin.



 capo
 capo(1)  n. pl. -pos  A small movable bar placed across the fingerboard of
 a guitar or other similar instrument for altering the pitch of all the
 strings simultaneously. [Short for capo tasto < Ital. capotasto : capo,
 head + tasto, fret.]
 capo(2)   n. pl. -pos  The head of an organized crime syndicate or one of
 its branches. [Ital., head < Lat. caput.]



 capon  n.  A rooster castrated to improve the quality of its flesh for
 food. [ME capoun, partly < OE capun, and partly < OFr. chapon, both < Lat.
 capo.]



 caporal  n.  A strong, dark tobacco. [Fr., short for tabac de caporal,
 corporal's tobacco.]



 capote  n.  A long cloak or coat, usually hooded. [Fr., dim. of cape,
 cloak. -see cape1.]



 capper  n.  1. One that caps or makes caps. 2.  Informal.  a. A climactic
 or unexpected point or resolution. b. A highlight. 3.  Slang. One who acts
 as a decoy, as in a confidence game; shill. 4. A climax or ending.



 cap pistol  n.  A toy pistol with a hammer action that detonates a mildly
 explosive cap.



 cappuccino  n. pl. -nos  Espresso coffee mixed or topped with steamed milk
 or cream. [Ital., Capuchin (from the resemblance of its color to the color
 of the monk's habit).]



 capreolate  adj.  Biology.  Having or like tendrils. [< Lat. capreolus,
 tendril, wild goat. -see capriole.]



 capric acid  n.  A white crystalline compound, CH3(CH2)8COOH, obtained by
 distilling coconut oil and used in the manufacture of perfumes and fruit
 flavors. [< Lat. caper, capr-, goat (from the acid's nasty smell).]



 capriccio  n. pl. -cios  1.  Music. An instrumental work with an
 improvisatory style and a free form. 2. A prank or caper. 3. A fanciful
 whim. [Ital. -see caprice.]



 capriccioso  adj.  Music.  Lively and free. Used as a direction. [Ital. <
 capriccio. -see caprice.]



 caprice  n.  1. An impulsive change of mind. 2. An inclination to change
 one's mind impulsively. 3.  Music. A capriccio. [Fr. < Ital. capriccio :
 capo, head (< Lat. caput) + riccio, curly (< Lat. ericius, hedgehog).]

      Synonyms: caprice whim whimsy vagary freak These nouns denote
 an erratic or unexpected notion, act, or quality. Caprice  strongly
 suggests lack of apparent motivation and can imply wanton or willful
 behavior. Whim  and whimsy  can both mean a quaint or fanciful idea, but
 whim  reserves the suggestion of sudden inspiration, and whimsy  more often
 refers to the literary quality or humor of being playful and fanciful.
 Vagary  emphasizes the erratic and unpredictable, even irresponsible,
 nature of a notion or act. Freak , synonymous with whim  and vagary  in an
 old sense, now more commonly means a rare and highly improbable occurrence
 or a grotesque variation from a type.




 capricious  adj.  Characterized by or subject to whim; impulsive and
 unpredictable; fickle.   capriciously adv.   capriciousness n.



 Capricorn  n.  1. A constellation in the equatorial region of the Southern
 Hemisphere, near Aquarius and Sagittarius. 2. The tenth sign of the zodiac.
 [ME Capricorne < Lat. Capricornus : Caper, goat + cornu, horn.]



 caprification  n.  A method of assuring pollination of the edible fig by
 having certain wasps carry pollen from the flowers of the caprifig to those
 of the edible variety. [Lat. caprificatio < caprificare, to ripen figs by
 caprification < caprificus, caprifig.]



 caprifig  n.  A wild variety of fig, Ficus carica sylvestris, of the
 eastern Mediterranean region, used in the caprification of the edible fig.
 [ME < Lat. caprificus : caper, goat + ficus, fig.]



 capriole  n.  1. An upward leap made by a trained horse without going
 forward and with all feet off the ground. 2. A leap or jump.
 -intr.v.-oled -oling -oles   To perform a capriole. [Fr. < Ital. capriola,
 somersault < capriolo, wild goat < Lat. capreolus, dim. of caper, goat.]



 capri pants or capris   pl.n.  Tight-fitting nearly ankle-length pants
 with a slit on the outside of the leg bottoms. [After Capri, Italy.]



 caproic acid  n.  A liquid fatty acid, C6H1202, found in animal fats and
 oils and used in the manufacture of pharmaceuticals and flavors. [< Lat.
 caper, capr-, goat.]



 caprylic acid  n.  A liquid fatty acid, C8H1602, having a rancid taste and
 used in the manufacture of dyes and perfumes. [< E. capryl, a radical found
 in caprylic acid.]



 capsaicin  n.  Variant of capsicin.



 cap screw  n.  A long-threaded bolt, usually with a square head, used in
 fastening machine parts.



 Capsian  adj.  Of or designating a Paleolithic culture of northern Africa
 and southern Europe. [Fr. capsien < Lat. Capsa, Gafsa, a town in Tunisia,
 near where remains of this culture were found.]



 capsicin or capsaicin   n.  A peppery, reddish-brown liquid, C18H27O3N,
 obtained from plants of the genus Capsicum and used in flavoring vinegar
 and pickles and medicinally as an irritant. [capsic(um) + -in.]



 capsicum  n.  1. Any of various tropical plants of the genus Capsicum.  2.
 The dried fruit of pungent varieties of C. frutescens, used medicinally as
 a gastric stimulant and counterirritant. [NLat. Capsicum, genus name, perh.
 < Lat. capsa, box (from its podlike fruit).]



 capsid  n.  The proteinaceous covering of a virus particle. [< Lat. capsa,
 box.]



 capsize  intr.  -tr.v.-sized -sizing -sizes   To overturn or cause to
 overturn. [Orig. unknown.]



 capsomere  n.  An individual subunit that comprises a capsid. [caps(id) +
 -mere.]



 capstan  n.  1.  Nautical. An apparatus consisting of a vertical cylinder
 rotated manually or by motor, used for hoisting weights by winding in a
 cable. 2. A small cylindrical pulley used to regulate the speed of magnetic
 tape in a tape recorder. [ME < Norman Fr. < OProv. cabestan < Lat.
 capistrum, halter < capere, to seize.]



 capstone or copestone   n.  1. The top stone of a structure or wall. 2.
 The crowning or final stroke; culmination; acme.



 capsular  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or resembling a capsule.



 capsulate or capsulated   adj.  In or formed into a capsule.   capsulation
 n.



 capsule  n.  1. A soluble container, usually of gelatin, enclosing a dose
 of an oral medicine. 2.  Anatomy. A fibrous, membranous, or fatty envelope
 that encloses an organ or part, such as the sac surrounding the kidney. 3.
 Microbiology. A mucopolysaccharide layer enveloping certain bacteria. 4.
 Botany.  a. A fruit that contains two or more seeds and that dries and
 splits open. b. The spore case of a moss or other bryophyte. 5. A
 pressurized modular compartment of an aircraft or spacecraft, esp. one
 designed to accommodate a crew or to be ejected if required. 6. A brief
 summary or condensation. a capsule description.    -tr.v.-suled -suling
 -sules   1. To enclose in or furnish with a capsule. 2. To condense or
 summarize: capsuled the news.  [Fr.< Lat. capsula, dim. of capsa, box.]



 captain  n.  1. One who commands, leads, or guides others, esp.: a. The
 officer in command of a ship. b. A precinct chief in a police or fire
 department. c. The designated leader of a team or crew in sports. 2.  a. A
 commissioned officer in the Army, Air Force, or Marine Corps who ranks
 below a major and above a first lieutenant. b. A commissioned officer in
 the Navy who ranks below a commodore or rear admiral and above a commander.
 3. A figure in the forefront; leader: a captain of industry.
 -tr.v.-tained -taining -tains   To command or direct. [ME capitain < OFr. <
 LLat. capitaneus < Lat. caput, head.]   captaincy n.   captainship n.



 captan  n.  An agricultural fungicide, C9H8Cl3NO2S. [Short for mercaptan.]




 caption  n.  1. A title, short explanation, or description accompanying an
 illustration or photograph. 2. A subtitle in a motion picture. 3. A title
 or heading, as of a document. 4.  Law. The part of a legal document that
 states the time, place, and authority of its execution.   -tr.v.-tioned
 -tioning -tions   To furnish a caption for. [caption, an arrest (obs.) <
 Lat. captio < capere, to seize.]



 captious  adj.  1. Inclined to find fault and make petty criticisms;
 carping. 2. Intended to entrap or confuse; deceptive: a captious question.
 [ME capcious < Lat. captiosus < captio, sophism < capere, to take.]
 captiously adv.   captiousness n.



 captivate  tr.v. -vated -vating -vates   1.  Archaic. To capture. 2. To
 fascinate by special charm or beauty; enrapture. [LLat. captivare,
 captivat-, to capture < Lat. captivus, prisoner < capere, to seize.]
 captivation n.   captivator n.



 captive  n.  1. One who is forcibly confined, restrained, or subjugated,
 as a prisoner. 2. One who is enslaved by a strong emotion or passion.
 -adj. 1. Held as prisoner. 2. Under restraint or control. 3. Captivated;
 enraptured. 4. Obliged to be present: a captive audience.  [ME catif < OFr.
 < Lat. captivus < capere, to seize.]



 captivity  n. pl. -ties  The state or a period of being captive.



 captor  n.  One who takes or keeps a person or thing as a captive. [LLat.,
 hunter < Lat. capere, to seize.]



 capture  tr.v. -tured -turing -tures   1. To take captive; seize or catch
 by force or craft. 2. To win possession or control of, as in a contest. 3.
 To succeed in preserving in a permanent form: capture a likeness in a
 painting.    -n. 1. The act of capturing; seizure. 2. One that is seized,
 caught, or won; a catch or prize. 3.  Physics. The phenomenon in which an
 atomic nucleus absorbs a subatomic particle, often with the subsequent
 emission of radiation. [Fr. < OFr. < Lat. captura, a catching of animals <
 capere, to seize.]



 capuche  n.  A hood on a cloak, esp. the long, pointed cowl worn by a
 Capuchin monk. [Ital. capuccio < cappa, hood.]



 capuchin  n.  1. Capuchin  A monk belonging to the Order of Friars Minor
 Capuchins, a branch that broke away from the Franciscans in 1525. 2. A
 hooded cloak worn by women. 3. Any of several long-tailed monkeys of the
 genus Cebus, of Central and South America, many of which have hoodlike
 tufts of hair on the head. [Fr. < Ital. cappuccino < cappuccio, hood. -see
 capuche.]



 capybara  n.  A large, short-tailed semiaquatic rodent, Hydrochoerus
 hydrochaeris, of tropical South America, often attaining a length of four
 feet. [Port. capibara < Tupi.]



 car  n.  1. An automobile. 2. A conveyance, such as a streetcar, with
 wheels that runs along tracks. 3.  Archaic. A chariot. 4. A boxlike
 enclosure for passengers on a conveyance, such as an elevator car. [ME
 carre, cart < Norman Fr., ult. < Lat. carrus, cart.]



 carabao  n. pl. -baos  The water buffalo. [Sp. < Visayan karabaw.]



 carabid  n.  Any of various black carnivorous beetles of the family
 Carabidae. [NLat. Carabidae, family name < Gk. karabos, horned beetle.]



 carabineer or carabinier   n.  Variants of carbineer.



 caracal  n.  A wild cat, Lynx caracal, of Africa and southern Asia, having
 short, fawn-colored fur and long, tufted ears. [Fr. < Turk. kara kulak :
 kara, black + kulak, ear.]



 caracara  n.  Any of several large, carrion-eating or predatory birds of
 the subfamily Caracarinae, of South and Central America and the southern
 United States, related to the hawks and falcons. [Sp., and Port. caracara,
 both < Tupi caracara.]



 carack  n.  Variant of carrack.



 caracole or caracol   n.  A half turn to either side performed by a
 horseman.   -intr.v.-coled -coling -coles   To perform a caracole. [Fr. <
 Sp. caracol, snail.]



 caracul  n.  1. The loosely curled fur of a karakul lamb. 2. Variant of
 karakul.



 carafe  n.  A glass bottle, often with a flared lip, for serving water or
 wine. [Fr. < Ital. caraffa < Sp. garaffa < Ar. gharraf < gharafa, he
 dipped.]



 carageen  n.  Variant of carrageen.



 caramel  n.  1. A smooth, chewy candy made with sugar, butter, cream or
 milk, and flavoring. 2. Burnt sugar, used for coloring and sweetening
 foods. [Fr. < Sp. caramelo.]



 caramelize  tr.  -intr.v.-ized -izing -izes   To convert into or change to
 caramel.   caramelization n.



 carangid  n.  Any of various fishes of the family Carangidae, which
 includes the jacks and pompanos.   -adj. Of or belonging to the Carangidae.
 [NLat. Carangidae, family name < Fr. carangue, mackerel < Sp. caranga.]



 carapace  n.  1.  Zoology. A hard bony or chitinous outer covering, such
 as the fused dorsal plates of a turtle or the portion of the exoskeleton
 covering the head and thorax of a crustacean. 2. A protective covering
 similar to a carapace. [Fr. < Sp. carapacho.]



 carat  n.  1. A unit of weight for precious stones, equal to 200
 milligrams. 2. Variant of karat. [Fr. < OFr. < Med. Lat. carratus < Ar.
 qirat, weight of four grains < Gk. keration, a weight, dim. of keras,
 horn.]



 caravan  n.  1. A company of travelers journeying together, esp. across a
 desert. 2. A single file of vehicles or pack animals. 3. A large covered
 vehicle; van. 4.  Chiefly British. A trailer or home on wheels. [Fr.
 caravane < Pers. karwan.]



 caravansary or caravanserai   n. pl. -ries  or -rais  1. In the Near or
 Far East, an inn built around a large court for accommodating caravans. 2.
 A large inn or hostelry. [Pers. karwansarai : karwan, caravan + sarai,
 palace.]



 caravel
 caravelle or carvel    n.  A small, light sailing ship of the kind used by
 the Spanish and Portuguese in the 15th and 16th centuries. [OFr. caravelle
 < OPort. caravela.]



 caraway  n.  1. A plant, Carum carvi, native to Eurasia, having finely
 divided leaves and clusters of small, whitish flowers. 2. The pungent,
 aromatic seeds of the caraway, used in baking and cooking. [ME carewei,
 prob. < Med. Lat. carvi < Ar. karawya < Gk. karon.]



 carb-   Variant of carbo-.



 carbamate  n.  A salt or ester of carbamic acid, esp. one used as an
 insecticide. [carbam(ic acid) + -ate.]



 carbamic acid  n.  An acid, CH3NO2, used in the form of its derivatives
 and salts, such as urea. [carb(o)- + am(ide) + -ic.]



 carbamide  n.  Urea. [carb(o)- + amide.]



 carbanion  n.  A negatively charged ion located at a carbon position.



 carbaryl  n.  A carbamate, C11H11NO2, used as a general purpose
 insecticide. [carb(amate) + ar(omatic) + -yl.]



 carbenicillin  n.  A broad-spectrum antibiotic of the penicillin group.
 [car(boxyl) + ben(zyl) + (pen)icillin.]



 carbide  n.  A binary carbon compound, esp. calcium carbide, consisting of
 carbon and a more electropositive element.



 carbine  n.  A light shoulder rifle with a short barrel, originally used
 by cavalry. [Fr. carabine < OFr. carabin, soldier armed with a musket.]



 carbineer
 carabineer or carabinier    n.  A soldier armed with a carbine.



 carbinol  n.  1. Methanol. 2. An alcohol derived from methanol.



 carbo- or carb-    Carbon: carbohydrate.  [Fr. < carbone, carbon.]



 carbocyclic  adj.  Chemistry.  Having a ring composed of carbon atoms, as
 benzene.



 carbohydrase  n.  Any of various enzymes that catalyze the hydrolysis of a
 carbohydrate.



 carbohydrate  n.  Any of a group of chemical compounds, including sugars,
 starches, and cellulose, containing carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen only, with
 the ratio of hydrogen to oxygen atoms usually 2:1.



 carbolated  adj.  Containing or treated with carbolic acid.



 carbolic acid  n.  Phenol (sense 1). [carb- + Lat. oleum, oil + -ic.]



 carbon  n.  C  1. A naturally abundant nonmetallic element that occurs in
 many inorganic and in all organic compounds, exists in amorphous,
 graphitic, and diamond allotropes, and is capable of chemical self-bonding
 to form an enormous number of chemically, biologically, and commercially
 important long-chain molecules. Atomic number 6; atomic weight 12.01115;
 sublimes above 3,500 deg. C; boiling point 4,827 deg. C; specific gravity
 of amorphous carbon 1.8 to 2.1, of diamond 3.15 to 3.53, of graphite 1.9 to
 2.3; valences 2, 3, 4. 2.  a. A sheet of carbon paper. b. A copy made by
 using carbon paper. 3.  Electricity.  a. Either of two rods through which
 current flows to form an arc in lighting or in welding. b. A carbonaceous
 electrode in an electric cell. [Fr. carbone < Lat. carbo, charcoal.]
 carbonous adj.



 carbon 14  n.  A naturally radioactive carbon isotope with atomic mass 14
 and half-life 5,700 years, used in dating ancient carbon-containing
 objects.



 carbon-14 dating  n.  Carbon dating.



 carbonaceous  adj.  Consisting of, containing, pertaining to, or yielding
 carbon.



 carbonado
 carbonado(1)  n. pl. -does  or -dos  A piece of scored and broiled fish,
 fowl, or meat.   -tr.v.-doed -doing -dos   1. To score and broil (fish,
 fowl, or meat). 2.  Archaic. To slice or cut. [Sp. carbonada < carbon,
 charcoal < Lat. carbo.]
 carbonado(2)  n. pl. -does  A form of opaque or dark-colored diamond,
 chiefly Brazilian, used for drills. [Port. < carbone, carbon < Fr. -see
 carbon.]



 carbonate  tr.v. -ated -ating -ates   1. To charge with carbon dioxide
 gas, as a beverage. 2. To burn to carbon; carbonize. 3. To change into a
 carbonate.   -n.  A salt or ester of carbonic acid.   carbonation n.
 carbonator n.



 carbonated water  n.  Soda water (sense 1).



 carbon bisulfide  n.  Carbon disulfide.



 carbon black  n.  Any of various finely divided forms of carbon derived
 from the incomplete combustion of natural gas or petroleum oil and used
 principally in rubber and ink.



 carbon copy  n.  1. A replica, as of a letter, made by using carbon paper.
 2.  Informal. A close copy or reproduction; duplicate.



 carbon cycle  n.  1. The carbon-nitrogen cycle. 2.  Biology. The cycle of
 natural processes in which atmospheric carbon in the form of carbon dioxide
 is converted to carbohydrates by photosynthesis, metabolized by animals,
 and ultimately returned to the atmosphere as a carbon dioxide waste or
 decomposition product.



 carbon dating  n.  The determination of the approximate age of
 carbon-containing objects by use of the radiation rate of carbon 14.



 carbon dioxide  n.  A colorless, odorless, incombustible gas, CO2, formed
 during respiration, combustion, and organic decomposition and used in food
 refrigeration, carbonated beverages, inert atmospheres, fire extinguishers,
 and aerosols.



 carbon disulfide  n.  A clear, flammable liquid, CS2, used to manufacture
 viscose rayon and cellophane, as a solvent for fats, rubber, resins, waxes,
 and sulfur, and in matches, fumigants, and pesticides.



 carbon fiber  n.  An extremely strong light fiber made by pyrolyzing
 synthetic fibers, as rayon, and used in high-strength composites.



 carbonic acid  n.  A weak, unstable acid, H2CO3, present in solutions of
 carbon dioxide in water.



 carbonic acid gas  n.  Carbon dioxide.



 carboniferous  adj.  1. Producing, containing, or pertaining to carbon or
 coal. 2. Carboniferous  Of, belonging to, or designating a geologic
 division of the Paleozoic era following the Devonian and preceding the
 Permian, including the Mississippian and Pennsylvanian periods. It was
 characterized, esp. in the Pennsylvanian, by swamp formation and deposition
 of plant remains later hardened into coal.   -n. Carboniferous  The
 Carboniferous period.



 carbonium  n.  A positively charged organic ion, such as H3C, having one
 less electron than a corresponding free radical and behaving chemically as
 if the positive charge were localized on the carbon atom.



 carbonization  n.  1. The process of carbonizing. 2. The destructive
 distillation of bituminous coal to obtain coke and other fractions.



 carbonize  tr.v. -ized -izing -izes   1. To reduce or convert to carbon,
 as by partial burning. 2. To coat or combine with carbon.   carbonizer n.



 carbon monoxide  n.  A colorless, odorless, highly poisonous gas, CO,
 formed by the incomplete combustion of carbon or a carbonaceous material,
 including gasoline.



 carbon-nitrogen cycle  n.  A chain of thermonuclear reactions in which
 nitrogen isotopes are formed in intermediate stages and carbon acts
 essentially as a catalyst to convert four protons into one helium nucleus,
 the entire sequence thought to generate significant amounts of energy in
 certain classes of stars.



 carbon paper  n.  A lightweight paper faced on one side with a dark waxy
 pigment that is transferred by the impact of typewriter keys or by writing
 pressure to a copying surface, as paper.



 carbon process  n.  A photographic printing process using permanent
 pigments, such as carbon, contained in a sensitized tissue or film of
 gelatin.



 carbon star  n.  Any of a class of carbon-rich stars with primarily low
 temperatures.



 carbon tetrachloride  n.  A poisonous, nonflammable, colorless liquid,
 CCl4, used in fire extinguishers and as a solvent.



 carbonyl  n.  1. The bivalent radical CO. 2. A metal compound, such as
 Ni(CO)4, containing the CO group.   carbonylic adj.



 carbonyl chloride  n.  Phosgene.



 carborane  n.  Any of a class of stable compounds containing carbon,
 hydrogen, and boron. [Blend of carbon and borane.]



 Carborundum   A trademark for a silicon carbide abrasive.



 carboxyl  n.  A univalent radical, COOH, characteristic of all organic
 acids. [carb(o)- + ox(y)- + -yl.]   carboxylic adj.



 carboxylase  n.  A plant enzyme that produces acetaldehyde and carbon
 dioxide from pyruvic acid.



 carboxylation  n.  The introduction of a carboxyl group into a compound or
 molecule.



 carboxylic acid  n.  An organic acid that contains one or more carboxyl
 groups.



 carboy  n.  A large glass or plastic bottle, usually encased in a
 protective basket or crate and often used to hold corrosive liquids. [Pers.
 qaraba.]



 carbuncle  n.  1. A painful, localized pus-producing infection of the skin
 and subcutaneous tissue. 2.  Obsolete. A deep-red garnet, unfaceted and
 convex. [ME < OFr. < Lat. carbunculus, dim. of carbo, coal.]   carbuncled
 adj.   carbuncular adj.



 carburet  tr.v. -reted -reting -rets  or -retted  or -retting  or -rets
 To combine or mix with carbon or hydrocarbons, so as to increase available
 fuel energy. [< obs. carburet, carbide < Fr. carbure < Lat. carbo, carbon.]




 carburetor  n.  A device used in gasoline engines to produce an efficient
 explosive vapor of fuel and air. [< carburet.]



 carburettor  n.  Chiefly British.  Variant of carburetor.



 carburize  tr.v. -rized -rizing -rizes   1. To treat with carbon. 2. To
 treat with hydrocarbons. [carbur(et) + -ize.]   carburization n.



 carcajou  n.  The wolverine. [Canadian Fr. < Algonquian karkajou.]



 carcanet  n.  A jeweled necklace, collar, or headband. [OFr. carcan,
 collar.]



 carcase  n.  Archaic.  Variant of carcass.



 carcass  n.  1. The dead body of an animal, esp. one slaughtered for food.
 2. The living body of a human being. 3. Something from which the substance
 or character is gone: the carcass of a once-glorious empire.  4. A
 framework or basic structure, as of a ruined building. [Fr. carcasse < OFr.
 carcois.]



 carcino-   Cancer; cancerous: carcinogen.  [Gk. karkino- < karkinos, crab,
 cancer.]



 carcinogen  n.  A cancer-causing substance.   carcinogenesis n.
 carcinogenic adj.   carcinogenicity n.



 carcinoma  n. pl. -mas  or -mata  A malignant tumor derived from
 epithelial tissue. [Lat., cancerous ulcer < Gk. karkinoma < karkinos.]
 carcinomatous adj.   carcinomatoid adj.



 carcinomatosis  n.  The existence of carcinomas at many bodily sites.



 car coat  n.  A three-quarter-length coat.



 card
 card(1)  n.  1. A small, flat, usually rectangular piece of stiff paper or
 thin pasteboard, esp.:  a. A playing card. b. A greeting card. c. A post
 card. d. One bearing a person's name and other information, used for
 purposes of identification or classification. 2. cards  (used with a sing.
 or pl. verb).  a. A game played with cards. b. The playing of games with
 cards. 3. A program, esp. for a sports event. 4. A compass card. 5.
 Informal. An amusing or eccentric person.   -tr.v.carded carding cards   1.
 To furnish with or attach to a card. 2. To list on a card; catalogue. 3.
 Informal. To check the identification of, esp. in order to verify legal
 age.

       Idiom Section:  have a card up (one's) sleeve. To have a secret
 resource or plan held in reserve. in the cards. Likely or destined to
 occur. put >lay(one's) cards on the table.. To make frank and clear
 revelation, as of one's motives or intentions. [ME carde < OFr. carte <
 Lat. charta, leaf of papyrus < Gk. khartes.]
 card(2)  n.  1. A wire-toothed brush or a machine fitted with rows of wire
 teeth used to disentangle fibers, as of wool, prior to spinning. 2. A
 device used to raise the nap on a fabric.   -tr.v.carded carding cards   To
 comb out or brush with a card. [ME carde < Med. Lat. cardus < Lat. carduus,
 thistle.]   carder n.



 cardamom or cardamum
 cardamon   n.  1. A tropical Asiatic perennial plant, Elettaria
 cardamomum, having large, hairy leaves and capsular fruit whose seeds are
 used as a condiment and in medicine. 2. An East Indian plant, Amomum
 cardamomum, whose seeds are used as an inferior substitute for true
 cardamom seed. [Lat. cardamomum < Gk. kardamomon : kardamon, cress +
 amomon, an Indian spice.]



 cardboard  n.  A thin, stiff pasteboard made of paper pulp, used for
 making cartons and signs.



 card-carrying  adj.  1. Being an enrolled member of a particular
 organization, esp. a member of the Communist party. 2. Being strongly
 identified with or devoted to, as a particular cause or ideal: a
 card-carrying liberal.  [From the assumption that such a person carries a
 membership card.]



 card catalog  n.  An alphabetical listing, esp. of books in a library,
 made with a separate card for each item.



 cardi-   Variant of cardio-.



 cardia  n.  The opening of the esophagus into the stomach. [Gk. kardia,
 heart, cardiac orifice of the stomach.]



 cardiac  adj.  1. Of, near, or pertaining to the heart. 2. Of or
 pertaining to the cardia.   -n. A person with a heart disorder. [Lat.
 cardiacus < Gk. kardiakos < kardia, heart.]



 cardiac massage  n.  A resuscitative procedure marked by the rhythmic
 compression of the chest by an individual in an effort to restore proper
 circulation and respiration.



 cardiac muscle  n.  The striated muscle of the heart.



 cardialgia  n.  Heartburn. [Gk. kardialgia : kardia, heart + algos, pain.]




 cardigan  n.  A sweater or knitted jacket opening down the front. [After
 the Seventh Earl of Cardigan; James Thomas Brudenell (1797-1868).]



 cardinal  adj.  1. Of foremost importance; pivotal. 2. Of a dark to deep
 or vivid red color.   -n. 1.  Roman Catholic Chruch. A member of the Sacred
 College or College of Cardinals who is appointed by and ranks just below
 the pope. 2. A dark to deep or vivid red. 3. A North American bird,
 Richmondena cardinalis,  having a crested head, a short, thick bill, and
 bright-red plumage in the male. 4. A short, hooded cloak, originally of
 scarlet cloth, worn by women in the 18th century. 5. A cardinal number. [ME
 < Lat. cardinalis, principal, pertaining to a hinge < cardo, hinge.]
 cardinalship n.



 cardinalate  n.  Roman Catholic Chruch.  1. The College of Cardinals. 2.
 The position, rank, dignity, or term of a cardinal.



 cardinal flower  n.  A plant, Lobelia cardinalis, of eastern North
 America, having a terminal cluster of brilliant scarlet flowers.



 cardinal number  n.  A number, such as 3 or 11 or 412, used to indicate
 quantity but not order.



 cardinal point  n.  One of the four principal directions on a compass:
 north, south, east, or west.



 cardinal virtues  pl.n.  The four qualities of justice, prudence,
 fortitude, and temperance.



 cardio- or cardi-    Heart: cardiovascular.  [Gk. kardio- < kardia,
 heart.]



 cardioaccelerator  n.  An agent that increases the heart rate.
 cardioacceleration n.



 cardiogenic  adj.  Having origin in a cardiac condition.



 cardiogram  n.  The curve traced by a cardiograph, used in the diagnosis
 of heart defects.



 cardiograph  n.  An instrument used to record the mechanical movements of
 the heart.   cardiography n.



 cardioid  n.  A heart-shaped plane curve, the locus of a fixed point on a
 circle that rolls on the circumference of another circle with the same
 radius.



 cardiology  n.  The medical study of the diseases and functioning of the
 heart.   cardiologist n.



 cardiomegaly  n.  Megalocardia.



 cardiopulmonary  adj.  Of or pertaining to the heart and the lungs.



 cardiopulmonary resuscitation  n.  A procedure employed after cardiac
 arrest in which cardiac massage, drugs, and mouth-to-mouth resuscitation
 are used to restore breathing.



 cardiorespiratory  adj.  Of or pertaining to the heart and the respiratory
 system.



 cardiovascular  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or involving the heart and the
 blood vessels.



 carditis  n.  Inflammation of the heart.



 cardoon  n.  A plant, Cynara cardunculus, of southern Europe, closely
 related to the artichoke and having spiny leaves, purple flowers, and an
 edible leafstalk. [Fr. cardon < Prov. < Lat. carduus, wild thistle.]



 cardsharp or cardsharper   n.  A person expert in cheating at cards.
 cardsharping n.



 care  n.  1. Mental distress and uncertainty; worry. 2. Mental suffering;
 grief. 3. An object or source of worry, attention, or solicitude. 4.
 Caution in avoiding harm or danger; heedfulness: handling with care.  5.
 Protection; supervision; charge: in the care of a nurse.  6. Attentiveness
 to detail; painstaking application.   -v.cared caring cares   -intr. 1. To
 be concerned or interested. 2. To object or mind: I won't care if you
 borrow my car.  3. To have a liking or attachment. -tr. 1. To wish; be
 inclined: We don't care to attend.  2. To be concerned to the degree of: I
 don't care a bit what he thinks.  [ME < OE cearu.]



 careen  v. -reened -reening -reens   -intr. 1. To lurch or swerve while in
 motion. 2. To lean to one side, as a ship sailing in the wind. 3.
 Nautical. To turn a ship on its side for cleaning, caulking, or repairing.
 -tr. Nautical.  1. To cause (a ship) to lean to one side; tilt. 2.  a. To
 lean (a ship) on one side for cleaning, caulking, or repairing. b. To
 clean, caulk, or repair (a ship in this position).   -n. 1. The act or
 process of careening a ship. 2. The position of a careened ship. [< Fr.
 (en) carene, (on) the keel < OFr. carene < OItal. carena < Lat. carina.]
 careener n.



 career  n.  1.  a. A chosen pursuit; a profession or occupation. b. The
 general course or progression of one's life, esp. in one's profession: an
 officer with a distinguished career.  2.  Archaic.  a. A path or course. b.
 A rapid course or swift progression, as of the sun through the heavens. 3.
 a. Speed:  My hasting days fly on with full career (Milton). b. The moment
 of highest pitch or peak activity: The Republic was now in the full career
 of its triumphs.    -intr.v.-reered -reering -reers   To move or run at
 full speed; go headlong; rush:  Thus the night fled away . . . and he
 careering on it (Hawthorne). [Fr. carriere < OFr., racecourse < OProv.
 carriera, street < Med. Lat. (via) carraria, (road) for carts < LLat.
 carra, cart. -see car.]



 careerism  n.  The practice of seeking one's professional advancement by
 all possible means.   careerist n.



 carefree  adj.  Free of worries and responsibilities.



 careful  adj.  1. Cautious in thought, speech, or action; circumspect. 2.
 Thorough and painstaking in execution; conscientious. 3. Showing care;
 solicitous: Be careful of her feelings.  4.  Archaic. Full of cares or
 anxiety.   carefully adv.   carefulness n.



 careless  adj.  1. Not taking sufficient care; negligent. 2. Marked by or
 resulting from lack of forethought or thoroughness: a careless mistake.  3.
 Showing a lack of consideration: a careless remark.  4. Unconcerned or
 indifferent: careless about her health.  5. Unstudied or effortless:
 careless grandeur.  6. Free from cares; cheerful.   carelessly adv.
 carelessness n.

      Synonyms: careless heedless thoughtless inadvertent
 indifferent These adjectives apply to actions or attitudes demonstrating
 little or no concern for what results. Careless  pertains to lack of care
 or attentiveness and can imply negligence. Heedless  implies
 inattentiveness to the point of recklessness. Thoughtless  suggests action
 without consideration for others. Inadvertent  applies only to actions that
 are unintentional. Indifferent  emphasizes not caring one way or the other
 about consequences.




 caress  n.  A gentle touch or gesture of fondness, tenderness, or love.
 -tr.v.-ressed -ressing -resses   1.  a. To touch or stroke in an
 affectionate or loving manner. b. To touch or move as if with a caress:
 soft music that caressed her ears.  2. To treat fondly, kindly, or
 favorably. [Fr. caresse < Ital. carezza < caro, dear < Lat. carus.]
 caresser n.   caressingly adv.   caressive adj.



 caret  n.  A proofreading symbol used to indicate where something is to be
 inserted in a line of printed or written matter. [Lat., there is lacking <
 carere, to lack.]



 caretaker  n.  One that is employed to look after or take charge of goods,
 property, or a person; custodian.



 careworn  adj.  Showing the effects of care; weary from worry.



 carfare  n.  Fare charged a passenger.



 cargo  n. pl. -goes  or -gos  The freight carried by a ship, airplane, or
 other vehicle. [Sp. < cargar, to load < LLat. carricare < Lat. carrus,
 cart, of Celtic orig.]



 carhop  n.  One who waits on customers at a drive-in restaurant.



 Carib  n. pl. Carib  or -ibs  1. Cariban   a. A group of peoples of
 American Indians of northern South America and the Lesser Antilles. b. A
 member of one of these peoples. 2. Any of the languages of the Carib. [Sp.
 Caribe, of Cariban orig.]   Carib adj.



 Cariban  n. pl. Cariban  or -bans  1. Variant of Carib(sense 1). 2. A
 language family comprising the Carib languages.   Cariban adj.



 Caribbean  n.  A Carib Indian.   -adj. 1. Of or pertaining to the
 Caribbean Sea and its islands. 2. Of or pertaining to the Carib or their
 language.



 caribe  n.  The piranha. [Am. Sp. < Sp. Caribe, Carib.]



 caribou  n. pl. caribou  or -bous  A deer, Rangifer tarandus, of arctic
 regions of the New World, having antlers in both sexes. [Canadian Fr., of
 Algonquian orig.]



 caricature  n.  1. A representation, esp. pictorial, in which the
 subject's distinctive features or peculiarities are deliberately
 exaggerated or distorted to produce a comic or grotesque effect. 2. The
 process or art of creating caricatures. 3. An imitation so inferior as to
 be absurd.   -tr.v.-tured -turing -tures   To represent or imitate in or as
 if in a caricature. [Fr. < Ital. caricatura < caricare,  to exaggerate, to
 load < Lat. carrus, cart, of Celtic orig.]   caricaturist n.

      Synonyms: caricature burlesque parody travesty satire
 lampoon takeoff spoof These nouns denote artistic forms in which a person
 or thing is imitated or otherwise depicted in an amusing and generally
 critical manner. A caricature , usually pictorial, grossly exaggerates a
 peculiar feature of a person, group, or thing with intent to ridicule.
 Burlesque , usually a stage work, suggests outlandish mimicry and broad
 comedy to provoke laughter. Parody ,Parody, travesty, satire,  and lampoon
 generally apply to written works or to their dramatizations. Parody
 implies ludicrous treatment of a generally trivial theme, employing the
 manner and style of a well-known composition or writer. A travesty  keeps
 to the theme or subject of the original but treats it with a heavy hand and
 an ironic and absurd manner. Satire  usually involves holding up to
 ridicule the follies and vices of a people or a time, and is often
 associated with social reform. Lampoon  refers to an abusive attack in a
 broadly humorous vein. Takeoff , an informal term, suggests good-humored
 imitation in written or dramatic form. Spoof  is often interchangeable with
 parody  but stresses lightheartedness.




 caries  n. pl. caries  Decay of a bone or tooth. [Lat.]



 carillon  n.  1. A stationary set of chromatically tuned bells in a tower,
 usually played from a keyboard. 2. A composition written or arranged for
 the carillon.   -intr.v.-lonned -lonning -lons   To play a carillon. [Fr.,
 alteration of OFr. quarregnon < LLat. quaternio, set of four. -see
 quaternion.]



 carillonneur  n.  A person who plays a carillon.



 carina  n. pl. -nae  A keel-shaped ridge, such as that on the breastbone
 of a bird or in the petals of certain flowers. [NLat. < Lat., keel.]



 Carina  n.  A constellation in the Southern Hemisphere near Volans and
 Vela and containing the star Canopus. [Lat. < carina, keel.]



 carinate or carinated   adj.  Biology.  Having or shaped like a keel;
 ridged.



 Carioca  n.  A native or resident of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. [Port. <
 Tupi.]   cariocan adj.



 cariole or carriole   n.  1. A small, open one-horse carriage with two
 wheels. 2. A light, covered cart. [Fr. carriole < OProv. carriola, dim. of
 carri, chariot < Lat. carrus, cart, of Celtic orig.]



 carious  adj.  Having caries; decayed.   cariosity cariousness  n.



 carl or carle   n.  1.  Archaic. A peasant or farmer. 2.  Obsolete. A
 bondman; serf. 3.  Regional. A rude person; churl. [ME < ON karl, man.]



 carline or carlin   n.  Scots.  A woman, esp. an old woman. [ME kerling <
 ON < karl, man.]



 carling  n.  One of the short timbers running fore and aft that connect
 the transverse beams supporting the deck of a ship. [Fr. carlingue < OFr.
 calingue, prob. < ON kerling, old woman < karl, man.]



 Carlist  n.  A supporter of Don Carlos, the pretender to the Spanish
 throne, or his heirs.   Carlism n.



 carload  n.  1. The amount a car carries or is able to carry. 2. The
 official minimum weight necessary to ship freight at the carload rate.



 Carlovingian  adj.  -n. Variant of Carolingian.



 carman  n.  1. A motorman or conductor, as of a streetcar. 2. A person who
 drives a car or cart.



 Carmelite  n.  1. A monk or mendicant friar belonging to the order of Our
 Lady of Mount Carmel, founded in 1155. 2. A member of a community of nuns
 of the Carmelite order, founded in 1452.   Carmelite adj.



 carminative  adj.  Inducing expulsion of gas from the stomach and
 intestines.   -n. A carminative drug. [ME carminatif < Lat. carminare, to
 card wool < carmen, card for wool.]



 carmine  n.  1. A strong to vivid red color. 2. A crimson pigment derived
 from cochineal.   -adj. Vivid-red or purplish-red. [Fr. carmin < Med. Lat.
 carminium, prob. a blend of Ar. qirmiz, kermes and Lat. minium, cinnabar.]



 carnage  n.  1. Massive slaughter, as in war; massacre. 2.  Obsolete.
 Corpses, esp. of men killed in battle. [OFr. < OItal. carnaggio < LLat.
 carnactium, meat < Lat. caro.]



 carnal  adj.  1. Relating to the desires and appetites of the flesh or
 body; sensual. 2. Worldly or earthly; temporal. [ME < Lat. carnalis < Lat.
 caro, flesh.]   carnality n.   carnally adv.



 carnal knowledge  n.  Sexual intercourse.



 carnallite  n.  A white, brownish, or reddish mineral, KClMgCl26H2O, used
 to manufacture potash salts. [G. Carnallit, after Rudolf von Carnall
 (1804-1874).]



 carnassial  adj.  Adapted for tearing apart flesh. Used of teeth.   -n.
 The last upper premolar and the first lower molar teeth in carnivorous
 mammals. [Fr. carnassier, carnivorous < Lat. caro, flesh.]



 carnation  n.  1.  a. A plant, Dianthus caryophyllus, native to Eurasia,
 widely cultivated for its fragrant white, pink, or red flowers with fringed
 petals. b. The flower of this plant. 2. A flesh-colored tint once used in
 painting. [Prob. < OFr., flesh-colored < OItal. carnagione < carne, flesh <
 Lat. caro.]



 carnauba  n.  1. A palm tree, Copernica cerifera, of tropical South
 America. 2. carnauba wax  A hard wax obtained from the leaves of the
 carnauba, used as a polish and in candles. [Port., prob. of Tupi origin.]



 carnelian or cornelian   n.  A pale to deep red or reddish-brown variety
 of clear chalcedony, used in jewelry. [ME corneline < OFr.]



 carnet  n.  1. An official, esp. international, pass or permit. 2. A book
 of postage stamps. [Fr., notebook < OFr. quernet < Lat. quaterni, group of
 four < quattuor, four.]



 carney  n.  Variant of carny.



 carnitine  n.  A betaine that commonly occurs in the liver and in skeletal
 muscle. [G. Karnitin < Karnin, a basic substance derived from meat.]



 carnival  n.  1. The season just before Lent, marked by merrymaking and
 feasting. 2. A time of revelry; festival. 3. A traveling amusement show.
 [Ital. carnevale < OItal. carnelevare, Shrovetide : carne, meat (< Lat.
 caro) + levare, to remove < Lat.]



 carnivore  n.  1. An animal belonging to the order Carnivora, including
 predominantly flesh-eating mammals. 2. A flesh-eating or predatory
 organism, such as a bird of prey or an insectivorous plant. [Fr. < Lat.
 carnivorus, carnivorous.]



 carnivorous  adj.  1. Belonging or pertaining to the order Carnivora. 2.
 Flesh-eating or predatory. 3.  Botany. Capable of trapping and absorbing
 insects or other small organisms; insectivorous. Used of plants such as the
 pitcher plant and the Venus's-flytrap. [Lat. carnivorus : caro, flesh +
 vorare, to swallow up.]   carnivorously adv.   carnivorousness n.



 carnotite  n.  A yellow uranium ore with composition K2(UO2)2(VO4)23H2O.
 [Fr., after M.A. Carnot (d. 1920), French inspector general of mines.]



 carny or carney   n. pl. -nies  or -neys  Slang.  1. A carnival. 2. A
 person who works with a carnival.



 carob  n.  An evergreen tree, Ceratonia siliqua, of the Mediterranean
 region, having compound leaves and edible pods. [OFr. carobe < Med. Lat.
 carrubium < Ar. kharrubah.]



 caroche  n.  A stately carriage of the 16th and 17th centuries. [OFr.
 carroche < OItal. carroccio, aug. of carro, cart < Lat. carrus, of Celtic
 orig.]



 carol  v. -oled -oling -ols  or -olled  or -olling  or -ols   -tr. 1. To
 celebrate in song. 2. To sing joyously. -intr. 1. To sing in a joyous
 manner; warble. 2. To go from house to house singing Christmas songs.   -n.
 1. A song of praise or joy, esp. for Christmas. 2. An old round dance often
 accompanied by singing. [ME carolen < OFr. caroler < carole, a carol <
 LLat. choraula, choral song < Lat. choraules, accompanist < Gk. khoraules :
 khoros, choral dance + aulos, reed instrument.]   caroler n.



 Carolean  adj.  Of or relating to Charles I or Charles II of England. [<
 Med. Lat. Carolus, Charles.]



 Caroline  adj.  Relating to the life and times of Charles I or Charles II
 of England. [NLat. Carolinius < Med. Lat. Carolus, Charles.]



 Carolingian or Carlovingian   adj.  Related to or belonging to the
 Frankish dynasty that was founded by Pepin the Short in  A.D.  751 and that
 lasted until  A.D.  987 in France and  A.D.  911 in Germany.   -n. A member
 of the Carolingian dynasty. [Fr. Carolingien, alt. of Carlovingian, ult. <
 OHG Karl, Charles.]



 Carolinian  adj.  1. Caroline. 2. Of or relating to Charlemagne and his
 times.



 carom  n.  1.  a. A shot in billiards which the cue ball successively
 strikes two other balls; billiard. b. A similar shot in related games, such
 as pool. 2. A collision followed by a rebound.   -v.-omed -oming -oms
 -intr. 1. To collide with and rebound: The boat caromed off the dock.  2.
 To make a carom, as in billiards. -tr. To cause to carom. [Obs. carambole <
 Sp. carambola < Fr. carambole.]



 carotenase  n.  An enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of a carotenoid.



 carotene or carotin   n.  An orange-yellow to red hydrocarbon, C40H56,
 existing in three isomeric forms, occurring in many plants as a pigment,
 and converted to vitamin A in the animal liver. [G. Karotin < Lat. carota,
 carrot.]



 carotenemia  n.  A condition in which there is carotene in the blood,
 sometimes characterized by yellowing of the skin.



 carotenoid  n.  Any of a class of yellow- to deep-red pigments, such as
 the carotenes, occurring in many vegetable oils and some animal fats.



 carotid  n.  Either of the two major arteries in the neck that carry blood
 to the head.   -adj. Of or pertaining to either of the two carotids. [Fr.
 carotide < Gk. karotides < karoun, to stupefy.]



 carotid body  n.  A chemoreceptor located bilaterally in the bifurcations
 of the carotid arteries that contains cells that are responsive to changes
 in oxygen in the blood and help control respiratory activity.



 carotid sinus  n.  An arterial enlargement located at the bifurcations of
 the carotid arteries that contains numerous baroreceptors that function in
 arterial pressure control.



 carotin  n.  Variant of carotene.



 carousal  n.  A jovial, riotous drinking party; boisterous merrymaking;
 revelry.



 carouse  n.  Boisterous, drunken merrymaking; carousal.   -intr.v.-roused
 -rousing -rouses   1. To drink excessively. 2. To go on a drinking spree.
 [G. garaus (trinken), (to drink) all out.]   carouser n.



 carousel or carrousel   n.  1. A merry-go-round. 2. A tournament in which
 knights or horsemen engaged in various exercises and races. [Fr. carrousel
 < Ital. carosello, a kind of tournament.]



 carp
 carp(1)  intr.v. carped carping carps   To find fault and complain
 constantly. [ME carpen < ON karpa, to boast.]   carper n.
 carp(2)  n. pl. carp  or carps  1. An edible freshwater fish, Cyprinus
 carpio, frequently bred in ponds and lakes. 2. Any of various fishes of the
 family Cyprinidae. [ME carpe, partly < OFr. carpe, and partly < Med. Lat.
 carpa, both of Germanic orig.]



 -carp   Fruit; fruitlike structure: cystocarp.  [NLat. -carpium < Gk.
 -karpion < karpos, fruit.]



 carpal  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or near the carpus.   -n. A bone of the
 carpus. [NLat. carpalis < Gk. karpos, wrist.]



 carpe diem  n.  The admonition to seize the pleasures of the moment
 without thought for the future. [Lat., seize the day.]



 carpel  n.  The central, ovule-bearing female organ of a flower,
 consisting of a modified leaf forming one or more sections of the pistil.
 [NLat. carpellum < Gk. karpos, fruit.]   carpellary adj.



 carpellate  adj.  Botany.  Having carpels.



 carpenter  n.  One whose occupation is constructing, finishing, and
 repairing wooden objects and structures.   -v.-tered -tering -ters   -tr.
 To make, build, or repair (wooden structures). -intr. To work as a
 carpenter. [ME < Norman Fr. carpentier < LLat. carpentarius (artifex),
 (maker) of a carriage < carpentum, a two-wheeled carriage, of Celtic orig.]
   carpentry n.



 carpenter ant  n.  Any of various ants of the genus Camponotus that nest
 in and are destructive to wood.



 carpenter bee  n.  Any of various bees of the families Xylocopidae and
 Ceratinidae that do not live in colonies and that bore tunnels into wood to
 lay their eggs.



 carpet  n.  1.  a. A thick, heavy covering for a floor, usually made of
 wool or synthetic fibers; rug. b. The fabric used for this. 2. A surface
 similar to a carpet in function or appearance: a carpet of leaves and pine
 needles.    -tr.v.-peted -peting -pets   To cover with or as if with a
 carpet.

       Idiom Section:  on the carpet. 1. Under discussion or consideration.
 2. In the position of being reprimanded by one in authority. [ME < OFr.
 carpite < OItal. carpita < carpire, to pluck < Lat. carpere.]



 carpetbag  n.  An old-fashioned kind of traveling bag made of carpet
 fabric.



 carpetbagger  n.  1. A Northerner who went to the South after the Civil
 War for political or financial advantage. 2. A nonresident politician who
 represents or seeks to represent a locality for political self-interest.
 [So called because they carried their belongings in a carpetbag.]
 carpetbaggery n.



 carpet beetle  n.  Any of various small beetles of the genera Anthrenus
 and Attagenus, having larvae injurious to fabrics and furs.



 carpeting  n.  1. Material or fabric used for carpets. 2. A carpet or
 carpets.



 carpet knight  n.  A soldier, originally a knight, who has spent his life
 in ease away from battle.



 carpetweed  n.  A low-growing, weedy plant, Mollugo verticillata, forming
 dense mats and having whorled leaves and small, greenish-white flowers.



 carpi  n.  Plural of carpus.



 -carpic   -carpous. [Prob. < NLat. -carpicus < Gk. karpos, fruit.]



 carping  adj.  Naggingly critical or complaining.   carpingly adv.



 carpo-   Fruit: carpophore.  [< Gk. karpos, fruit.]



 carpogonium  n. pl. -nia  Botany.  The female structure producing sex
 cells in certain red algae.   carpogonial adj.



 carpology  n.  The area of botany concerned with fruit and seeds.
 carpologist n.



 car-pool  n.  1. An arrangement whereby several commuters travel together
 in one car, sharing the costs and often taking turns providing the car
 used. 2. A group, as of commuters, participating in a car-pool.
 -intr.v.-pooled -pooling -pools   To travel in a car-pool. -tr. To take
 turns driving, as in a car-pool: car-pool the kids to school.    car-pooler
 n.



 carpophagous  adj.  Feeding on fruit; fruit-eating. [Gk. karpophagos :
 karpos, fruit + phagein, to eat.]



 carpophore  n.  1. The elongated part of the axis of certain flowers to
 which the carpels are attached. 2. A fruiting body or the stalk of a
 fruiting body in a fungus.



 carport  n.  A roof projecting from the side of a building, used as a
 shelter for an automobile.



 carposporangium  n. pl. -gia  A specialized sporangium in red algae in
 which carpospores are formed.



 carpospore  n.  A nonmotile haploid or diploid spore formed within the
 carpogonium of red algae.



 -carpous   A specified number or kind of fruit: polycarpous.  [NLat.
 -carpus < Gk. karpos, fruit.]



 carpus  n. pl. -pi  1.  a. The wrist. b. The bones of the wrist. 2. A
 joint corresponding to the wrist in quadrupeds. [NLat. < Gk. karpos,
 wrist.]



 carrack or carack   n.  A large galleon used in the 14th, 15th, and 16th
 centuries. [ME carik < OFr. caraque < OSp. carraca < Ar. qaraqir, pl. of
 qurqur, merchant ship.]



 carrageen
 carragheen or carageen    n.  Irish moss. [After Carragheen, near
 Waterford, Ireland.]



 carrageenin or carrageenan
 carragheenin   n.  A colloid derived from carrageen that is used as a
 clarifying and stabilizing agent in foods.



 carrefour  n.  1. A crossroads. 2. A public square; plaza. [Fr. < OFr.
 carrefor < Lat. quadrifurcus, four forked : quadri-, four + furca, fork.]



 carrel or carrell   n.  A nook near the stacks in a library, used for
 private study. [OFr. carole and Med. Lat. carola.]



 carriage  n.  1. A four-wheeled, usually horse-drawn passenger vehicle,
 often of an elegant design. 2.  Chiefly British. A railroad car for
 passengers. 3. A perambulator; baby carriage. 4. A wheeled support or frame
 for moving a heavy object, such as a cannon. 5. A moving part of a machine
 for holding or shifting another part. 6.  a. The act or process of
 transporting or carrying. b.  The cost of or charge for transporting. 7.
 The manner of holding and moving one's head and body; posture or bearing.
 8.  Archaic. Management; administration. [ME cariage < Norman Fr. < carier,
 to carry. -see carry.]



 carriage dog  n.  A Dalmatian (sense 1).



 carriage trade  n.  Wealthy patrons, as of a restaurant.



 carrick bend  n.  Nautical.  A type of knot used to fasten two cables or
 hawsers together. [< Obs. carrick, carrack < ME carik.]



 carrick bitt  n.  Nautical.  Either of the two posts that support the
 windlass on a ship's deck. [Prob. < obs. carrick, carrack. -see carrick
 bend.]



 carrier  n.  1. One that transports or conveys. 2. A person, business or
 organization that deals in transporting passengers or goods. 3. A mechanism
 or device by which something is conveyed or conducted. 4.  Medicine. A
 person or animal at least temporarily immune to a pathogen that it
 transmits directly or indirectly to others. 5.  Electronics.  a. A carrier
 wave. b. A charge-carrying entity, esp. an electron or a hole in a
 semiconductor. 6. An aircraft carrier.



 carrier pigeon  n.  A homing pigeon, esp. one trained to carry messages.



 carrier wave  n.  An electromagnetic wave that can be modulated in
 frequency, amplitude, phase, or otherwise to transmit speech, music,
 images, or other signals.



 carriole  n.  Variant of cariole.



 carrion  n.  Dead and decaying flesh. [ME careine < AN < VLat. *caronia <
 Lat. caro, flesh.]



 carrion crow  n.  A European crow, Corvus corone.



 carrion flower  n.  1. A climbing vine, Smilax herbacea, of eastern North
 America, having clusters of small, greenish flowers with an odor of
 decaying flesh. 2. Any of several plants similar to the carrion flower
 having flowers with an unpleasant odor.



 carrot  n.  1. A widely cultivated plant, Daucus carota sativa, having
 finely divided leaves, flat clusters of small white flowers, and an edible,
 yellow-orange root. 2. The long, tapering root of the carrot, eaten as a
 vegetable. 3. Something held out as an attractive but often illusory
 inducement. [OFr. carotte < Lat. carota < Gk. karoton.]



 carrot-and-stick  adj.  Combining a promised reward with a threat or
 punishment: a carrot-and-stick approach to getting things done.



 carroty  adj.  1. Similar to a carrot in color. 2. Having carrot-colored
 hair.



 carrousel  n.  Variant of carousel.



 carry  v. -ried -rying -ries   -tr. 1. To bear or convey from one place to
 another; transport: carry mail.  2. To make known, take, bring, or
 communicate (a message, for example). 3. To serve as a means for the
 conveyance or transmission of; transmit. 4. To hold or bear while moving:
 carried the groceries.  5. To hold or be capable of holding. 6. To support
 or sustain the responsibility of. 7. To keep or have on one's person. 8. To
 be pregnant with. 9.  a. To hold and move (the body or a part of it) in a
 particular way. b. To behave or conduct (oneself) in a specified manner.
 10. To extend or continue in a certain direction or to a given point or
 degree. 11. To cause to move; drive; impel. 12. To take or seize, esp. by
 force; capture. 13. To gain victory, support, or acceptance for, esp. to
 secure the adoption of. 14. To win most of the votes of: Their candidate
 carried New England.  15. To be successful in; win. 16. To win over; gain
 the interest of: His enthusiasm carried the audience.  17. To support or
 corroborate (a claim, for example). 18.  a. To have as a customary or
 necessary attribute or accompaniment: an appliance carrying a full-year
 guarantee.  b. To involve necessarily as a condition, consequence, or
 effect: The crime carried a five-year sentence.  19. To transfer from one
 place, as a column, page, or book, to another. 20. To keep in stock; offer
 for sale: carry a line of dresses.  21. To keep in one's accounts as a
 debtor: carried the customer while he was out of work.  22. To place before
 the public, as through a mass medium: The press conference was carried by
 all networks.  23. To produce as a crop. 24. To support or sustain
 (livestock). 25. To sing (a melody, for example) on key: carry a tune.  26.
 To cover (a distance) or advance beyond (a point or object) in one golf
 stroke. -intr. 1. To act as a bearer: teach a dog to fetch and carry.  2.
 a. To be transmitted or conveyed; cover a range: a voice that carries well.
  b. To have or exert propulsive force: equipped with guns that carry well.
 3. To admit of being transported in a certain manner: Heavy loads do not
 carry easily.  4. To hold the neck and head in a certain way. Used of a
 horse. 5. To be accepted or approved: The proposal carried by a wide
 margin.  Phrasal verb.  carry away. To move or excite greatly: carried away
 by desire.  carry forward. 1. To progress with: carry forward the program.
 2.  Accounting. To transfer (an entry) to the next column, page, book or to
 another account. carry off. 1. To cause the death of: carried off by a
 fever.  2. To seize and detain (a person) unlawfully. 3. To handle (a
 situation, for example) successfully. 4. To win, as a prize, award, or
 honor. carry on. 1. To conduct; administer. 2. To engage in: carry on a
 love affair.  3. To continue without halting: carry on in the face of
 disaster.  4. To behave in an excited, improper, or silly manner; act
 hysterically or childishly. carry out. 1. To put into practice or effect.
 2. To follow or obey: carry out instructions.  3. To bring to a conclusion;
 accomplish. carry over. 1.  Accounting. To transfer (an entry) to another
 column, page, book. or account. 2. To continue at another time; put off.
 carry through. 1. To accomplish; complete. 2. To enable to endure; sustain.
   -n.pl. -ries  1. The act or process of carrying. 2. A portage, as between
 two navigable rivers or other bodies of water. 3.  a. The range of a gun or
 projectile. b. The distance traveled by a golf ball. 4.  Football. The act
 or an instance of rushing with the ball. [ME carien < Norman Fr. carier <
 carre, cart. -see car.]



 carryall  n.  1.  a. A covered one-horse carriage with two seats. b. A
 closed automobile with two lengthwise seats facing each other. 2. A large
 bag, basket, or pocketbook.



 carrying capacity  n.  The maximum number of individuals or inhabitants
 that an environment can support without detrimental effects.



 carrying charge  n.  The interest charged on the balance owed when paying
 in installments.



 carryon  n.  An item, such as luggage, small or compact enough to be
 carried aboard an airplane by a passenger.



 carryout  adj.  Take-out.   carryout n.



 carry-over  n.  1. A part or quantity, as of goods or commodities, left
 over or held for future use. 2.  Accounting. A sum transferred to a new
 column, page, book, or account.



 carsick  adj.  Nauseated by vehicular motion.   carsickness n.



 cart  n.  1. A two-wheeled vehicle drawn by a horse or other animal and
 used for transporting goods. 2. An open two-wheeled business or pleasure
 carriage. 3. A small, light vehicle moved by hand, as a grocery cart.
 -tr.v.carted carting carts   1.  a. To convey in a cart. b. To convey
 laboriously, as in a cart; lug. 2. To remove or transport (a person or
 thing) unceremoniously or forcibly: carted him off to jail.  [ME, prob. <
 ON kartr.]   cartable adj.   carter n.



 cartage  n.  1. The act or process of transporting by cart. 2. The cost of
 transporting by cart.



 carte blanche  n. pl. cartes blanches  Unrestricted power to act at one's
 own discretion; unconditional authority. [Fr. : carte, document + blanche,
 blank.]



 cartel  n.  1. A combination of independent business organizations formed
 to regulate production, pricing, and marketing of goods by the members. 2.
 An official agreement between governments at war, esp. one concerning the
 exchange of prisoners. 3. In some European countries, a political group
 united in a common cause; bloc. [G. Kartell < Fr. cartel < Ital. cartello,
 placard, dim. of carta, card < Lat. charta, leaf of papyrus. -see card.]



 Cartesian  adj.  Of or pertaining to the philosophy or methods of
 Descartes. [NLat. Cartesianus < Cartesius, Rene Descartes (1596-1650).]
 Cartesianism n.



 Cartesian coordinate  n.  A coordinate in a Cartesian coordinate system.



 Cartesian coordinate system  n.  1. A two-dimensional coordinate system in
 which the coordinates of a point are its distances from two intersecting,
 often perpendicular straight lines, the distance from each being measured
 along a straight line parallel to the other. 2. A three-dimensional
 coordinate system in which the coordinates of a point are its distances
 from each of three intersecting, often mutually perpendicular planes along
 lines parallel to the intersection of the other two.



 Cartesian plane  n.  A plane having all points described by Cartesian
 coordinates.



 Cartesian product  n.  A set of element pairs (x, y) constructed from
 given sets such that x belongs to X and y to Y.



 Carthusian  n.  Roman Catholic Chruch.  A member of a contemplative order
 founded during the 11th century by St. Bruno.   -adj. Of or pertaining to
 the Carthusian order. [Med. Lat. Cartusiensis < Chartreuse, the place in
 France where the order's first monastery was built.]



 cartilage  n.  A tough white fibrous connective tissue attached to the
 articular surfaces of bones, a major constituent of the fetal and young
 vertebrate skeleton that is largely converted to bone with maturation.
 [Lat. cartilago.]



 cartilage bone  n.  A bone developed from cartilage.



 cartilaginous  adj.  1. Of or pertaining to cartilage. 2. Having a
 skeleton consisting mainly of cartilage.



 cartilaginous fish  n.  A fish whose skeleton is composed mainly of
 cartilage.



 cartload  n.  The amount a cart carries or is able to carry.



 cartogram  n.  A presentation of statistical data in geographical
 distribution on a map. [Fr. cartogramme : carte, map (< OFr., card) +
 -gramme, -gram.]



 cartography  n.  The art or technique of making maps or charts. [Fr.
 cartographie : carte, map (< OFr., card) + -graphie, -graphy.]
 cartographer n.   cartographic cartographical  adj.



 carton  n.  1.  a. A cardboard box. b. Any of various containers made from
 paper products: a carton of milk.  2. The contents of a carton: a carton of
 cigarettes.    -tr.v.-toned -toning -tons   To place or pack in a carton.
 [Fr. < Ital. cartone, pasteboard, aug. of carta, card < Lat. charta, leaf
 of papyrus. -see card.]



 cartoon  n.  1. A drawing depicting a humorous situation, often
 accompanied by a caption. 2. A pictorial satire or comment on a subject of
 current public interest, usually accompanied by words; caricature. 3. A
 preliminary sketch similar in size to the work, as a fresco, that is to be
 copied from it. 4. An animated cartoon. 5. A comic strip.   -v.-tooned
 -tooning -toons   -tr. To sketch a humorous or satirical representation of;
 caricature. -intr. To draw satirical or humorous sketches. [Fr. carton <
 Ital. cartone, pasteboard. -see carton.]   cartoonist n.



 cartouche or cartouch   n.  1.  Architecture. A scroll-like tablet used
 either to provide space for an inscription or for ornamental purposes. 2.
 In ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics, an oval or oblong figure that encloses
 characters expressing the names or epithets of royal or divine personages.
 3.  Obsolete. A heavy paper cartridge case. [Fr. < Ital. cartoccio < carta,
 card. -see carton.]



 cartridge  n.  1.  a. A tubular metal or cardboard and metal case
 containing the propellant powder and primer of small arms ammunition or
 shotgun shells. b. Such a case fitted with a projectile, such as a bullet.
 2. A small modular unit of equipment designed to be inserted into a larger
 piece of equipment. 3. A removable case containing the stylus and electric
 conversion circuitry in a phonograph pickup. 4. A case containing reeled
 magnetic tape, a pickup reel, and guide and feed mechanisms, used instead
 of separate reels in certain tape recorders and players. 5. A case with
 photographic film that can be loaded directly into a camera. [Earlier
 cartage, var. of Fr. cartouche. -see cartouche.]



 cartridge belt  n.  A belt with loops or pockets for carrying ammunition
 or other kinds of equipment.



 cartridge clip  n.  A metal container or frame for holding cartridges to
 be loaded into an automatic rifle or pistol.



 cartulary or chartulary   n. pl. -ies  A collection of deeds or charters,
 esp. a register of titles to all the property of an estate or monastery.
 [Med. Lat. cartularium < Lat. cartula, dim. of carta, leaf of papyrus. -see
 card.]



 cartwheel  n.  1. A somersault or handspring in which the body turns over
 sideways with the arms and legs spread like the spokes of a wheel. 2.
 Slang. A silver dollar or other large coin.



 caruncle  n.  1. A fleshy, naked outgrowth, such as a fowl's wattles. 2.
 Botany. An excrescence on a seed at or near the hilum. [Obs. Fr. caruncule
 < Lat. caruncula, dim. of caro, flesh.]   caruncular adj.   carunculate
 carunculated adj.



 carvacrol  n.  A liquid phenol, C10H14O, used in flavorings and
 fungicides. [NLat. carvi, specific epithet of Carum carvi, caraway + Lat.
 acer, acr-, sharp + -ol.]



 carve  v. carved carving carves   -tr. 1.  a. To divide into pieces by
 cutting; slice: carve a turkey.  b. To divide by parceling out: carve up an
 estate.  2. To cut into a desired shape; fashion by cutting: carve the wood
 into a figure.  3. To make or form by or as if by cutting: carve initials
 in the bark; carved out an empire.  4. To decorate by carving. -intr. 1. To
 engrave or cut figures as a hobby or trade. 2. To disjoint, slice, and
 serve meat or poultry. [ME kerven < OE ceorfan.]   carver n.



 carvel  n.  Variant of caravel.



 carvel-built  adj.  Built with the hull planks lying flush or edge to edge
 rather than overlapping: a carvel-built ship.



 carven  v.  Archaic.  Past tense and past participle of carve.



 carving  n.  1. The cutting of wood, stone, or other material to form a
 figure or design. 2. The figure or design formed by carving.



 car wash  n.  An area or a building equipped for washing cars.



 caryatid  n. pl. -ids  or -ides  Architecture.  A supporting column
 sculptured in the form of a woman. [< Lat. Caryatides, caryatids, maidens
 of Caryae < Gk. Karuatides < Karuai, Caryae, a village in Greece.]
 caryatidal caryatidean caryatidic  adj.



 caryo-   Variant of karyo-.



 caryopsis  n. pl. -opses  or -opsides  A one-celled, one-seeded dry fruit
 having its outer coat fused to its surface, as a grain of barley or wheat.
 [cary(o)- + -opsis.]



 casaba or cassaba   n.  A variety of winter melon having a yellow rind and
 sweet, whitish flesh. [After Kasaba, former name for Turgutlu, Turkey.]



 Casanova  n.  A promiscuous and unscrupulous man; libertine. [After G.J.
 Casanova de Seingalt (1725-1798).]



 casava  n.  Variant of cassava.



 Casbah  n.  1. In northern Africa, the citadel and palace of a sovereign.
 2. The native quarter in any of several cities in northern Africa. [Fr. <
 dial. Ar. qasbah < Ar. qasabah, fortress.]



 cascade  n.  1. A waterfall or a series of small waterfalls over steep
 rocks. 2. Something resembling a cascade, esp. an arrangement or fall of
 material, as lace. 3. A succession or series of processes, operations, or
 units. 4.  Electricity. A series of components or networks the output of
 each of which serves as the input for the next. -intr. & tr.v. -caded,
 -cading, -cades.To fall or cause to fall from one level to another in a
 continuous series. [Fr. < Ital. cascata < cascare, to fall < VLat.
 *casicare < Lat. cadere.]



 cascara  n.  1. The cascara buckthorn. 2. Cascara sagrada. [Sp. cascara,
 bark < cascar, to break < VLat. *quassicare < Lat. quassare < quatere, to
 shake.]



 cascara buckthorn  n.  A shrub or tree, Rhamnus purshiana, of northwestern
 North America, whose bark is the source of cascara sagrada.



 cascara sagrada  n.  The dried bark of the cascara buckthorn, used as a
 stimulant, cathartic, and laxative. [Am. Sp. cascara sagrada : Sp. cascara,
 bark + Sp. sagrada, sacred.]



 cascarilla  n.  1. A shrub, Croton eluteria, of the West Indies, having
 bitter, aromatic bark. 2. cascarilla bark  The bark of the cascarilla, used
 as a tonic. [Sp., dim. of cascara, bark. -see cascara.]



 cascarilla oil  n.  An oil obtained from cascarilla bark that is used as a
 flavoring.



 case
 case(1)  n.  1. An instance or example of the existence or occurrence of
 something. 2.  a. An occurrence of disease or disorder. b. A client, as of
 a physician or attorney. 3. A set of circumstances or state of affairs;
 situation. 4. A set of reasons, arguments, or supporting facts offered in
 justification of a statement, action, situation, or thing. 5. A question or
 problem; matter: a case of honor.  6. A situation that requires
 investigation, esp. by a formal or official body. 7.  Law.  a. An action or
 suit or just grounds for an action. b. The facts or evidence offered in
 support of a claim. 8.  Informal. A peculiar or eccentric person. 9.
 Linguistics.  a. The syntactic relationship of a noun, pronoun, or
 adjective to the other words of a sentence, indicated in inflected
 languages by the assumption of declensional endings and in noninflected
 languages by the position of the words within the sentence. b. The form or
 position of a word that indicates this relationship. c. Such forms,
 positions, or relationships collectively. 10.  Linguistics.  a. A pattern
 of inflection of nouns, pronouns, and adjectives to express different
 syntactic functions in a sentence. b. The form of such an inflected word.
 -tr.v.cased casing cases   Slang.  To examine carefully, as in planning a
 crime: case the bank before robbing it.

       Idiom Section:  in any case. . Regardless of what occurred or will
 occur. in case. . If it happens that; if. [ME cas < OFr. < Lat. casus <
 p.part. of cadere, to fall.]
 case(2)  n.  1. A container or receptacle. 2. A decorative or protective
 covering or cover. 3. A box with its contents. 4. A set or pair, as of
 pistols. 5. The frame or framework of a window, door, or stairway. 6.
 Printing. A shallow, compartmented tray for storing type or type matrices.
  -tr.v.cased casing cases   To put into, cover, or protect with a case. [ME
 < Norman Fr. casse < Lat. capsa.]



 caseate  intr.v. -ated -ating -ates   To undergo caseation. [< Lat.
 caseus, cheese.]



 caseation  n.  The necrotic degeneration of bodily tissue into a
 cheeselike substance. [< caseate.]



 casebook  n.  A book containing source materials in a specific area, used
 as a reference and in teaching.



 caseharden  tr.v. -ened -ening -ens   1. To harden the surface of (iron or
 steel) by high-temperature shallow infusion of carbon followed by
 quenching. 2. To make callous or insensitive.



 case history  n.  An organized set of facts relevant to the development of
 an individual or group condition under study or treatment, esp. in
 sociology, psychiatry, or medicine.



 casein  n.  A white, tasteless, odorless milk and cheese protein, used to
 make plastics, adhesives, paints, and foods. [Ult. < Lat. caseus, cheese.]



 case knife  n.  1. A knife kept in a sheath or case. 2. A table knife.



 case law  n.  Law based on judicial decision and precedent rather than
 statute.



 case load  n.  The number of cases handled in a given period, as by a
 clinic or social services agency.



 casemate  n.  1. A fortified enclosure for artillery on a warship. 2. An
 armored compartment for artillery on a rampart. [OFr. < OItal. casamatta.]
  casemated adj.



 casement  n.  1.  a. A window sash that opens outward by means of hinges.
 b. A window with such sashes. 2. A case or covering. [ME < Med. Lat.
 casamentum < casa, dwelling < Lat.]   casemented adj.



 caseous  adj.  Resembling cheese. [< Lat. caseus, cheese.]



 casern or caserne   n.  A military barracks. [Fr. caserne.]



 case shot  n.  1.  a. A canister (sense 2). b. The shot in a canister. 2.
 A shrapnel shell.



 case study  n.  A detailed analysis of an individual or group, esp. as an
 exemplary model of medical, psychological, or social phenomena.



 case system  n.  A method of teaching law that emphasizes the study of
 selected cases rather than the systematic study of legal textbooks.



 casework  n.  The part of a social worker's duties dealing with the
 problems of a particular case.   caseworker n.



 cash
 cash(1)  n.  1. Ready money; currency or coins. 2. Payment for goods or
 services in money or by check.   -tr.v.cashed cashing cashes   To exchange
 for or convert into ready money: cash a check.  Phrasal verb.  cash in. 1.
 To withdraw from a venture by or as if by settling one's account. 2.
 Slang. To die.

       Idiom Section:  cash in on. To take advantage of. [OFr. casse, money
 box < Lat. capsa, case.]
 cash(2)  n. pl. cash  Any of various Oriental coins of small denomination,
 esp. a copper and lead coin with a square hole in its center. [Port. caixa
 < Tamil kacu, a small coin < Skt. karsa, a weight.]



 cashbook  n.  A book in which a record of cash receipts and expenditures
 is kept.



 cash crop  n.  A crop grown esp. for sale and usually providing an
 important source of income.



 cash discount  n.  A reduction in the price of an item for sale allowed if
 payment is made within a stipulated period.



 cashew  n.  1. A tropical American evergreen tree, Anacardium occidentale,
 bearing kidney-shaped nuts that protrude from a fleshy receptacle. 2.
 cashew nut  The nut of the cashew, edible only when roasted. [Port. acaju <
 Tupi.]



 cash flow  n.  The cash receipts or net income after taxes and other
 disbursements from one or more assets for a given period, often used as a
 measure of corporate worth.



 cashier
 cashier(1)  n.  1. The officer of a bank or business concern in charge of
 paying and receiving money. 2. An employee who handles cash transactions
 for any of various business operations, such as a supermarket. [Du. cassier
 < Fr. caissier < caisse, money box < OFr. casse. -see cash1]
 cashier(2)  tr.v. -shiered -shiering -shiers   To dismiss from a position
 of command or responsibility, esp. for disciplinary reasons. [Du. casseren
 < OFr. casser, to dismiss. -see quash.]



 cashier's check  n.  A check drawn by a bank on its own funds and signed
 by the bank's cashier.



 cashmere  n.  1. Fine, downy wool growing beneath the outer hair of the
 Cashmere goat. 2. A soft fabric made of wool from the Cashmere goat or of
 similar fibers. [After Kashmir, a region in India.]



 Cashmere goat  n.  A goat native to the Himalayan regions of India and
 Tibet, and prized for its wool.



 cash register  n.  A machine that tabulates the amount of sales
 transactions, makes a permanent and cumulative record of them, and has a
 drawer in which cash may be kept.



 casimere  n.  Variant of cassimere.



 casing  n.  1. The act of encasing. 2. An outer cover. 3. The cleaned
 intestines of cattle, sheep, or hogs, used to contain processed meat. 4.
 The frame or framework for a window or door. 5. A metal pipe or tube used
 as a lining for water, oil, or gas wells.



 casino  n. pl. -nos  1. A summer or country house in Italy. 2. A public
 room or house for entertainment, esp. for gambling. 3.   cassino.A card
 game for two to four players in which cards on the table are matched by
 cards in the hand. [Ital. < casa, house < Lat., hut.]



 cask  n.  1. A barrel of any size. 2. The quantity contained in a cask.
 [Sp. casco, helmet < cascar, to break. -see cascara.]



 casket  n.  1. A small case or chest, as for jewels or other valuables. 2.
 A coffin.   -tr.v.-keted -keting -kets   To enclose in a casket. [ME, poss.
 alteration of OFr. cassette. -see cassette.]



 casque  n.  1. A helmet or other armor for the head. 2.  Zoology. A
 helmetlike structure or protuberance. [Fr. < Sp. casco. -see cask.]
 casqued adj.



 cassaba  n.  Variant of casaba.



 Cassandra  n.  1.  Greek Mythology. A daughter of Priam, King of Troy,
 endowed with the gift of prophecy but fated by Apollo never to be believed.
 2. A person who utters unheeded prophecies. [Lat. < Gk. Kassandra.]



 cassation  n.  Abrogation or annulment by a higher authority. [OFr. <
 casser, to annul. -see quash.]



 cassava or casava   n.  1. Any of various tropical American plants of the
 genus Manihot, having a large, starchy root. 2. A starch derived from the
 root of the cassava, used as an ingredient in tapioca and as a staple food
 in the tropics. [Sp. cazabe, cassava bread < Taino cacabi.]



 casserole  n.  1.  a. A dish, usually of earthenware, glass, or cast iron,
 in which food is both baked and served. b. Food prepared and served in such
 a dish. 2.  Chemistry. A small-handled, deep porcelain crucible used for
 heating and evaporating. [Fr., saucepan, dim. of OFr.  casse, roasting pan
 < OHG chezi.]



 cassette  n.  1. A light-proof camera cartridge for daylight loading of
 photographic film. 2.  Electronics.  a. A small cartridge containing
 unlooped magnetic tape for use in certain recorders and players. b. A tape
 recorder or player designed to use cassettes. [Fr., small box < OFr., dim.
 of casse, case < Lat. capsa.]



 cassia  n.  1. Any of various chiefly tropical trees, shrubs, and plants
 of the genus Cassia, having compound leaves, usually yellow flowers, and
 long pods. 2.  a. A tree, Cinnamomum cassia, of tropical Asia, having bark
 similar to cinnamon but of inferior quality. b. The bark of this tree, used
 as a spice. [ME < Lat., a kind of plant < Gk., of Semitic orig.]



 cassia oil  n.  An oil derived from the bark of the tree Cinnamomum
 cassia.



 cassimere or casimere   n.  A plain or twilled woolen cloth for men's
 apparel. [Obs. Cassimere, var. of Kashmir, a region in India.]



 cassino  n.  Variant of casino (sense 3).



 Cassiopeia  n.  A W-shaped constellation in the Northern Hemisphere near
 Camelopardalis and Cepheus. [Lat. < Gk. Kassiopeia.]



 cassis  n.  1. A European bush, Ribes nigrum, that bears black currants.
 2. A cordial made from the berries of the cassis. [Fr. < Lat. cassia, a
 kind of plant. -see cassia.]



 cassiterite  n.  A light-yellow, red-brown, or black mineral, SnO2, an
 important tin ore. [Fr. casiterite < Gk. kasseritos, tin.]



 cassock  n.  A long garment reaching to the feet and worn by clergymen and
 others assisting in church services. [OFr. casaque, long coat, perh. <
 Pers. kazagand, padded jacket.]



 cassowary  n. pl. -ies  Any of several large, flightless birds of the
 genus Casuarius, of New Guinea and adjacent areas, having a large, bony
 projection on the top of the head and brightly colored wattles. [Malay
 kesuari.]



 cast  v. cast casting casts   -tr. 1. To throw with violence or force;
 hurl; fling. 2. To shed; molt. 3. To throw forth; drop: cast anchor.  4. To
 throw on the ground, as in wrestling. 5. To deposit or give (a ballot). 6.
 To turn or direct: cast her eyes on the speaker.  7. To cause to fall upon
 or over something or in a certain direction, as if by throwing: candles
 casting light; cast aspersions on her character.  8.  Archaic. To bestow;
 confer:  The government I cast upon my brother (Shakespeare). 9. To throw
 (dice). 10. To give birth to prematurely: The cow cast a calf.  11. In
 hunting, to cause (hounds) to scatter and circle in search of a lost scent.
 12.  a. To choose actors for (a play, for example). b. To assign a certain
 role to (an actor). c. To assign an actor to (a part). 13. To form (liquid
 metal, for example) into a particular shape by pouring into a mold. 14. To
 arrange in some system; formulate. 15. To contrive; devise. 16. To
 calculate or compute; add up (a column of figures). 17. To calculate
 astrologically; forecast. 18. To warp; twist. 19.  Obsolete. To consider;
 ponder. 20.  Printing. To stereotype or electroplate. 21.  Nautical. To
 turn (a ship); change to the opposite tack. -intr. 1. To throw, esp. to
 throw out a lure or bait at the end of a fishing line. 2.  a. To add a
 column of figures; make calculations. b. To conjecture or forecast. 3. To
 receive form or shape in a mold. 4. To search for a lost scent in hunting
 with hounds. 5.  Nautical.  a. To veer to leeward from a former course;
 fall off. b. To put about; tack. 6. To choose the actors for a play, movie,
 or other theatrical presentation. 7.  Obsolete. To turn or revolve
 something in the mind; ponder; scheme. Phrasal verb.  cast about. 1. To
 search or look for. 2. To devise means; contrive. cast aside away. 1. To
 discard or reject as useless. 2. To squander or waste. cast off. 1. To
 discard or reject. 2. To let go; set loose. 3. To make the last row of
 stitches in knitting. 4. To estimate the space a manuscript will occupy
 when set into type. cast on. To make the first row of stitches in knitting.
 cast out. To drive out by force; expel. cast up. 1. To vomit. 2. To add up;
 calculate.   -n. 1.  a. The act of casting or throwing. b. The distance
 thrown. 2.  a. The throwing of a fishing line or net into the water. b. The
 line or net thrown. c.  Chiefly British. The leader with flies or baited
 hooks attached. 3.  a. A throw of dice. b. The number thrown. c. A stroke
 of fortune or fate; lot. 4.  a. A turning of the eye in a certain
 direction. b. A slight squint. 5. Something thrown off, out, or away, as
 the skin shed by an insect. 6.  a. The addition of a column of figures;
 calculation. b. A conjecture or forecast. 7.  a. The act of casting or
 founding. b. The amount of molten material poured into a mold at a single
 operation. c. Something formed by this means. 8. An impression formed in a
 mold or matrix; a mold: a cast of his face made in plaster.  9. The form in
 which something is made or constructed; arrangement; disposition. 10. The
 actors in a theatrical presentation. 11. A rigid dressing, usually made of
 gauze and plaster of Paris, as for a broken bone. 12. A slight trace of
 color. 13. Outward form or look; appearance. 14. Sort or type: fancies
 himself to be of a macho cast.  15. An inclination or tendency. 16. A
 distortion of shape. 17. The circling of hounds to pick up a scent in
 hunting.

       Idiom Section:  cast lots. . To draw lots in order to determine
 something by chance. cast (one's) lot (in) with. . To join or side with for
 better or worse. [ME casten < ON kasta.]



 castanets  pl.n.  A rhythm instrument consisting of a pair of slightly
 concave shells of ivory or hardwood, held in the palm of the hand by a
 connecting cord over the thumb and clapped together with the fingers. [Sp.
 castaneta < castana, chestnut < Lat. castanea. -see chestnut.]



 castaway  adj.  1. Cast adrift or ashore; shipwrecked. 2. Discarded;
 thrown away.   -n. 1. A shipwrecked person. 2. A discarded or rejected
 person or thing.



 caste  n.  1. One of the four major hereditary classes into which Hindu
 society is divided, each caste distinctly separated from the others by
 restrictions placed upon occupation and marriage. 2.  a. A social class
 separated from others by distinctions of hereditary rank, profession, or
 wealth. b. A social system or the principle of grading society based on
 caste. c. The social position or status conferred by a system based on
 caste: lose caste.  3. A specialized level in a colony of social insects,
 such as ants, in which its members, such as workers or soldiers, carry out
 a specific function. [Port. casta, race < casto, pure < Lat. castus.]



 castellan  n.  The governor or keeper of a castle. [ME castelain < Norman
 Fr. < Lat. castellanus, of a castle < castellum, castle.]



 castellany  n. pl. -nies  1. The jurisdiction of a castellan. 2. The lands
 appertaining to a castle.



 castellated  adj.  1. Furnished with turrets and battlements in the style
 of a castle. 2. Having a castle. [Med. Lat. castellatus, p.part of
 castellare, to fortify as a castle < Lat. castellum, castle.]
 castellation n.



 caster  n.  1. One that casts. 2. castor  A small wheel on a swivel,
 attached under a piece of furniture or other heavy object to make it easier
 to move. 3. castor   a. A small bottle or cruet for condiments. b. A stand
 for holding a set of these bottles.



 castigate  tr.v. -gated -gating -gates   1. To punish or chastise. 2. To
 criticize severely. [Lat. castigare, castigat- < castus, pure.]
 castigation n.   castigator n.



 Castile soap or castile soap   n.  A fine, hard, white, odorless soap made
 with olive oil and sodium hydroxide. [After Castile, a province of Spain,
 where the soap was first made.]



 Castilian  n.  1.  a. The Spanish dialect of Castile. b. The standard
 literary and official form of Spanish, which is based on this dialect. 2. A
 native or inhabitant of Castile.   -adj. Of or pertaining to Castile, its
 people, or their language and culture.



 casting  n.  1. The act or process of making casts or molds. 2. The
 throwing of a fishing line. 3. The selection of actors or performers. 4.
 Something that is cast in a mold. 5. Something that is cast off or out.



 casting vote  n.  The vote of a presiding officer in an assembly or
 council, given to break a tie.



 cast iron  n.  A hard, brittle, nonmalleable iron-carbon alloy containing
 2.0 to 4.5 per cent carbon, 0.5 to 3 per cent silicon, and lesser amounts
 of sulfur, manganese, and phosphorus.



 cast-iron  adj.  1. Made of cast iron. 2. Rigid or inflexible: a cast-iron
 rule.



 castle  n.  1.  a. A fort or fortified group of buildings usually
 dominating the surrounding country and held by a vassal of a ruler in
 feudal societies. b. A fortified stronghold of this kind converted to
 residential use. 2. A building similar to or resembling a castle. 3. A
 place of privacy, security, or refuge. 4. A rook in the game of chess.
 -v.-tled -tling -tles   -tr. 1. To place in or as if in a castle. 2. To
 move (the chess king) from his own square two squares to one side and then,
 in the same move, bring the rook from that side to the square immediately
 past the new position of the king. -intr. To move the chess king and rook
 by castling. [ME castel, partly < OE and partly < Norman Fr., both < Lat.
 castellum, dim. of castrum, fort.]



 castled  adj.  Castellated.



 castoff  n.  1. One that has been discarded. 2.  Printing. A calculation
 of the amount of space a manuscript will occupy when set into type.



 cast-off  adj.  Discarded; rejected.



 castor
 castor(1)  n.  1. An oily, brown, odorous substance obtained from glands in
 the groin of the beaver and used as a perfume fixative. 2. A beaver hat. 3.
 A heavy wool fabric used esp. for overcoats. [ME, beaver < Lat. < Gk.
 kastor < Kastor, Castor.]
 castor(2)  n.  Varient of caster (senses 2 and 3).



 Castor  n.  1.  Greek Mythology. One of the Dioscuri. 2. A double star in
 the constellation Gemini, the brightest star in the group, approximately 46
 light-years from Earth. [Lat. < Gk. Kastor.]



 castor bean  n.  1. The castor-oil plant. 2. The very poisonous seed of
 the castor bean. [castor (oil) + bean.]



 castor oil  n.  A colorless or yellowish oil extracted from castor-oil
 plant seeds and used as a cathartic and a fine lubricant. [Poss. from a
 former use as a substitute for castor in medicine.]



 castor-oil plant  n.  A large plant, Ricinus communis, native to tropical
 Africa and Asia, grown for ornament and for the commercial extraction of
 castor oil from its poisonous seeds.



 castrate  tr.v. -trated -trating -trates   1. To remove the testicles of;
 geld. 2. To remove the ovaries of; spay. 3. To remove the vitality or force
 of, esp. by expurgating. [Lat. castrare, castrat-.]   castration n.



 Castroism  n.  The governmental and socioeconomic principles and policies
 of the Cuban leader Fidel Castro.   Castroite n.



 casual  adj.  1. Occurring by chance; accidental. 2. Occurring at
 irregular intervals; not planned; occasional. 3. Showing little interest;
 nonchalant: a casual manner.  4.  a. Without ceremony or formality. b.
 Suited for everyday wear or use; informal. 5. Not serious or thorough;
 superficial: a casual inspection.  6. Not close or intimate: a casual
 friendship.    -n. 1.  Chiefly British. A person who receives temporary
 welfare relief. 2. A person who works at irregular intervals. 3. A soldier
 temporarily attached to a unit while awaiting permanent assignment. [ME
 casuel < OFr. < LLat. casualis < Lat. casus, event. -see case1.]   casually
 adv.   casualness n.



 casualty  n. pl. -ties  1. An unfortunate accident, esp. one involving
 loss of life. 2. One who is injured or killed in an accident. 3. One
 injured, killed, captured, or missing in action against an enemy. [ME
 casuelte < OFr. < Lat. casualis, casual.]



 casuarina  n.  Any of various trees of the genus Casuarina, which includes
 the beefwoods. [NLat. Casuarina, genus name < Malay kesuari, cassowary
 (from the resemblance of its twigs to the drooping feathers of the
 cassowary).]



 casuist  n.  A person who is expert in or given to casuistry. [Fr.
 casuiste < Sp. casuista < Lat. casus, case. -see case1.]



 casuistic or casuistical   adj.  Of or pertaining to casuists or
 casuistry.   casuistically adv.



 casuistry  n.  1. The determination of right and wrong in questions of
 conduct or conscience by the application of general principles of ethics.
 2. A subtle but misleading or false application of ethical principles. [<
 casuist.]



 casus belli  n.  An act or event that justifies a declaration of war.
 [NLat., occasion of war.]



 cat  n.  1.  a. A carnivorous mammal, Felis catus (or F. domesticus ),
 domesticated since early times as a catcher of rats and mice and as a pet
 and existing in several distinctive breeds and varieties. b. Any of the
 other animals of the family Felidae, which includes the lion, tiger,
 leopard, and lynx. c. The fur of a domestic cat. 2. A spiteful woman. 3. A
 cat-o'-nine-tails. 4. A catfish. 5.  Nautical.  a. A cathead. b. A device
 for raising an anchor to the cathead. c. A catboat. 6.  Slang. A man.
 -tr.v.catted catting cats   To hoist an anchor to the cathead.

       Idiom Section:  let the cat out of the bag. . To let a secret be
 known. [ME < OE catt, perh. < Lat. cattus.]



 CAT  n.  Computerized axial tomography.



 cata-   1. Down: catadromous.  2. Reverse; backwards; degenerative:
 cataplasia.  [Gk. kata- < kata, down.]



 catabolism  n.  The metabolic change of complex into simple molecules. [<
 Gk. katabole, a throwing down < kataballein, to throw down : kata-, down +
 ballein, to throw.]   catabolic adj.   catabolically adv.



 catabolite  n.  A substance produced in the process of catabolism.
 [catabol(ism) + -ite.]



 catabolize   intr & tr.v.-lized, -lizing, -lizes.To undergo or cause to
 undergo catabolism.



 catachresis  n. pl. -ses  1.  a. Strained use of a word or phrase, as for
 rhetorical effect. b. A deliberately paradoxical figure of speech. 2. The
 use of a wrong word in a context. [Lat. catachresis < Gk. katakhresis,
 excessive use < katakhresthai, to use up : kata-, completely + khresthai,
 to use.]   catachrestic adj.



 cataclysm  n.  1. A violent and sudden change in the earth's crust. 2. A
 violent upheaval or disaster. 3. A devastating flood. [Fr. cataclysme <
 Lat. cataclysmos, deluge < Gk. kataklusmos < katakluzein, to inundate :
 kata-, down + kluzein, to wash.]   cataclysmic cataclysmal  adj.



 catacomb  n.  catacombs  An underground chamber or tunnel with recesses
 for graves. [OFr. catacombe < LLat. catacumbae (pl.).]



 catadromous  adj.  Migrating down river to breed in marine waters:
 catadromous fish.



 catafalque  n.  The raised structure upon which a coffin rests during a
 state funeral. [Fr. < Ital. catafalco.]



 Catalan  adj.  Of or pertaining to Catalonia or its people, language, or
 culture.   -n. 1. A native or inhabitant of Catalonia. 2. The Romance
 language of Catalonia.



 catalase  n.  An enzyme in the blood and tissues that catalyzes the
 decomposition of hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen. [catal(ysis) +
 -ase.]



 catalectic  adj.  Designating a verse that lacks part of the last foot.
 [LLat. catalecticus < Gk. katalektikos, incomplete < katalegein, to leave
 off : kata-, off + legein, to stop.]



 catalepsy  n. pl. -sies  Muscular rigidity, lack of awareness of
 environment, and lack of response to external stimuli, often associated
 with epilepsy, schizophrenia, and hysteria. [ME catalempsi < Med. Lat.
 catalempsia < Gk. katalepsis <  katalambanein, to seize upon : kata-,
 (intensive) + lambanein, to seize.]   cataleptic adj.



 catalogue or catalog   n.  1.  a. A systematized list, usually in
 alphabetical order, often with descriptions of the listed items. b. A
 publication, such as a book, containing such a list. 2. A card catalog.
 -tr. -intr.v.-logued -loguing -logues  or -loged  or -loging  or -logs   To
 list in or make a catalogue. [ME cathaloge < OFr. catalogue < LLat.
 catalogus, enumeration < Gk. catalogos < katalegein, to list : kata-
 (intensive) + legein, to count.]   cataloguer  cataloger n.



 catalpa  n.  Any of several chiefly North American trees of the genus
 Catalpa, having large leaves, showy clusters of whitish flowers, and long,
 slender pods. [Creek kutuhlpa.]



 catalysis  n. pl. -ses  The action of a catalyst, esp. modification of the
 rate of a chemical reaction by a catalyst. [Gk. katalusis, dissolution <
 kataluein, to dissolve : kata-, intensive + luein, to loosen.]   catalytic
 adj.   catalytically adv.



 catalyst  n.  1.  Chemistry. A substance, usually present in small amounts
 relative to the reactants, that modifies and esp. increases the rate of a
 chemical reaction without being consumed in the process. 2. One that
 precipitates a process or event, esp. without being involved in or changed
 by the consequences. [< catalysis.]



 catalytic converter  n.  A reaction chamber typically containing a finely
 divided platinum-iridium catalyst into which exhaust gases from an
 automotive engine are passed together with excess air so that carbon
 monoxide and hydrocarbon pollutants are oxidized to carbon dioxide and
 water.



 catalytic cracker  n.  An oil refinery unit in which the cracking of
 petroleum takes place in the presence of a catalyst.



 catalyze  tr.v. -lyzed -lyzing -lyzes   To modify the rate of (a chemical
 reaction) as a catalyst. [< catalysis.]   catalyzer n.



 catamaran  n.  1. A boat with two parallel hulls. 2. A raft of logs or
 floats lashed together. [Tamil kattumaram : kattu-, to tie + maram, tree.]



 catamenia  n.  Physiology.  Menses. [Gk. katamenia : kata-, according to +
 men, month.]   catamenial adj.



 catamite  n.  A boy kept by a pederast. [Lat. catamitus < Catamitus,
 Ganymede < Etruscan Catmite < Gk. Ganumedes.]



 catamount or catamountain   n.  Mountain lion. [Short for catamountain,
 var. of cat of the mountain.]



 cat-and-mouse  adj.  Of or using continual torment and teasing while
 probing the vulnerabilities of an opponent and waiting for an opportunity
 to attack.



 cataphoresis  n.  Chemistry.  Electrophoresis.   cataphoretic adj.
 cataphoretically adv.



 cataphyll  n.  Botany.  A modified or rudimentary leaf, such as a bud
 scale.



 cataplasia  n.  Degenerative reversion of cells or tissue to a less
 differentiated form.   cataplastic adj.



 cataplasm  n.Med.  A poultice. [OFr. cataplasme < LLat. cataplasma < Gk.
 kataplasma < kataplassein, to plaster over : kata- (intensive) + plassein,
 to mold.]



 cataplexy  n.  A sudden state of immobility with loss of muscle tone
 usually caused by an extreme emotional stimulus. [Gk. kataplexis, fixation
 (of the eyes in paralysis) < kataplessein, to amaze, terrify: kata-, down +
 plessein, to strike.]



 catapult  n.  1. An ancient military machine for hurling large stones,
 arrows, or other missiles. 2. A mechanism for launching aircraft without a
 runway, as from the deck of a ship. 3. A slingshot.   -v.-pulted -pulting
 -pults   -tr. To hurl or launch from or as if from a catapult. -intr. To
 become catapulted; spring up abruptly. [OFr. catapulte < Lat. catapulta <
 Gk. katapaltes : kata-, down + pallein, to hurl.]



 cataract  n.  1. A very large waterfall. 2. A great downpour. 3.
 Pathology. Opacity of the lens or capsule of the eye, causing partial or
 total blindness. [Lat. cataracta < Gk. katauraktes < katarassein, to dash
 down : kata-, down + rassein, to strike.]



 catarrh  n.  Inflammation of mucous membranes, esp. of the nose and
 throat. [OFr. catarrhe < LLat. catarrhus < Gk. katarrous < katarrein, to
 flow down : kata-, down + rhein, to flow.]   catarrhal  catarrhous adj.



 catastasis  n. pl. -ses  1. In classical tragedy, the intensified part of
 the action directly preceding the catastrophe. 2. The climax of a play.
 [Gk. katastasis, settlement < kathistanai, to settle : kata-, down +
 histanai, to set.]



 catastrophe  n.  1. A great and sudden calamity; disaster. 2. A complete
 failure; fiasco 3. A sudden violent change in the earth's surface;
 cataclysm. 4. The denouement of a play, esp. a classical tragedy. [Gk.
 katastrophe, an overturning < katastrephein, to overturn : kata-, down +
 strephein, to turn.]   catastrophic adj.   catastrophically adv.



 catatonia  n.  A schizophrenic disorder characterized by plastic
 immobility of the limbs, stupor, negativism, and mutism. [NLat. < G.
 Katatonie < Gk. katatonos, stretching down : kata-, down + teinein, to
 stretch.]   catatonic adj. n.



 Catawba  n. pl. Catawba  or -bas  1.  a. A tribe of North American Indians
 formerly living along the Catawba River in the Carolinas. b. A member of
 this tribe. c. The Siouan language of the Catawba. 2.  a. pl. -bas A
 light-red North American grape developed from the fox grape, Vitis
 labrusca.  b. Wine made from these grapes.



 catbird  n.  A North American songbird, Dumetella carolinensis, having
 predominantly slate-gray plumage. [From the resemblance of one of its calls
 to the mewing of a cat.]



 catbird seat  n.  A position of power or prominence.



 catboat  n.  A broad-beamed sailboat carrying a single sail on a mast
 stepped well forward.



 catbrier  n.  Any of several thorny vines of the genus Smilax, esp. S.
 rotundifolia, having heart-shaped leaves, small green flowers, and blackish
 berries.



 catcall  n.  A harsh or shrill call or whistle expressing disapproval or
 derision.   catcall v. -called -calling -calls



 catch  v. caught catching catches     -tr. 1. To capture or seize, esp.
 after a chase. 2. To take by trapping or snaring. 3. To discover or come
 upon suddenly, unexpectedly, or accidentally. 4.  a. To lay hold of
 forcibly or suddenly; grasp: caught me by the arm.  b. To grab so as to
 stop the motion of: catch a ball.  5.  a. To overtake: caught me on the
 straightaway.  b. To reach in time to board: caught the bus.  6.  a. To
 entangle; grip. b. To cause to become suddenly or accidentally hooked,
 entangled, or fastened. 7. To hit; strike: a punch that caught him in the
 stomach.  8. To check (oneself) during an action. 9. To become subject to
 or contract, as by exposure or contagion: catch a cold.  10. To become
 affected by or imbued with: caught the joyous mood of the festival.  11. To
 take or get suddenly, momentarily, or quickly: caught a glimpse of the
 queen.  12. To grasp mentally; apprehend. 13. To apprehend and reproduce
 accurately by or as if by artistic means. 14. To attract and fix; arrest:
 couldn't catch her attention.  15. To charm or captivate. 16.  Informal. To
 see (a theatrical performance, for example). -intr. 1. To become held,
 entangled, or fastened. 2. To act or move so as to hold someone or
 something. 3. To be communicable or infectious; spread. 4. To take fire;
 kindle; burn. 5.  Baseball. To act as catcher. Phrasal verb.  catch on.
 Informal.  1. To understand or perceive. 2. To become popular. catch up. 1.
 To detect (someone) in a mistake. 2. To come up from behind; overtake. 3.
 To become involved with, often unwillingly: caught up in the scandal.  4.
 To bring up to date: catch up on my correspondence.  5. To absorb
 completely; engross: caught up in his work.    -n. 1. The act of catching;
 a taking and holding. 2. Something that catches, esp. a device for
 fastening or for checking motion. 3. Something that is caught. 4. An amount
 that is caught. 5. A choking or stoppage of the breath or voice. 6. A stop
 or break in a mechanism. 7.  Informal. A person or thing worth catching. 8.
  Informal. A tricky or unsuspected condition or drawback. 9. A snatch or
 fragment. 10.  Music. A canonical, often rhythmically intricate composition
 for three or more voices, popular esp. in the 17th and 18th centuries. 11.
 Sports.  a. The grabbing and holding of a thrown, kicked, or batted ball
 before it hits the ground. b. A game of throwing and catching a ball.

       Idiom Section:  catch it. . Informal.  To receive some form of
 punishment or scolding. catch (one's) breath. To rest so as to be able to
 continue. [ME cacchen < AN cachier, to chase < Lat. captare, freq. of
 capere, to seize.]



 catchall  n.  1. A receptacle for a variety of odds and ends. 2. Something
 that covers a variety of situations.



 catch-as-catch-can  adj.  Seizing any opportunity or using any available
 means; not planned.



 catcher  n.  1. One that catches. 2.  Baseball. The player whose position
 is behind home plate and who signals for and receives pitches.



 catchfly  n.  Any of several plants of the genus Silene and related
 genera, having white, pink, or red flowers with characteristically sticky
 stems and calyxes.



 catching  adj.  1. Infectious. 2. Attractive; alluring.



 catchment  n.  1. A catching or collecting of water. 2.  a. A structure,
 such as a basin, for collecting or draining water. b. The amount of water
 collected.



 catchpenny  adj.  Designed and made to sell without concern for quality;
 cheap.   -n.pl. -nies  A catchpenny item.



 catch phrase  n.  An often repeated word or slogan.



 catchpole or catchpoll   n.  A sheriff's officer, esp. one who arrests
 debtors. [ME cacchepol < Norman Fr. cachepol, prob. < OFr. chacepol :
 chacier, to hunt (< Lat. captare, freq. of capere, to seize.) + poul,
 rooster < Lat. pullus, chicken.]



 Catch-22  n.  A difficult situation or problem whose seemingly alternative
 solutions are logically invalid. [After Catch-22, a novel by Joseph Heller
 (b. 1923).]



 catchup  n.  Variant of ketchup.



 catch-up  adj.  Designed or intended to catch up to a standard:  catch-up
 increases in prices to restore profit margins (Newsweek)).



 catchword  n.  1. A catch phrase. 2.  Printing.  a. A word placed at the
 head of a column or page, as in a dictionary, to indicate the first or last
 entry on the page. b. The first word of a page printed at the bottom of the
 preceding page.



 catchy  adj. -ier -iest   1. Attractive or alluring. 2. Easily remembered.
 3. Tricky; deceptive. 4. Fitful or spasmodic.



 cate  n.  Archaic.  A choice or dainty food; delicacy. [Short for acate,
 purchased food < ME < Norman Fr. acat < acater, to buy. -see cater.]



 catechesis  n. pl. -ses  Instruction of catechumens. [Gk. katakhesis <
 katekhein, to teach by word of mouth. -see catechize.]   catechetical adj.



 catechin  n.  A crystalline substance, C15H14O6, derived from catechu and
 used in tanning and dyeing. [catech(u) + -in.]



 catechism  n.  1. A short book giving, in question-and-answer form, a
 brief summary of the basic principles of a religion. 2. A book in
 question-and-answer form giving basic instruction in a subject. 3. A
 question-and-answer examination, as of a political figure. [LLat.
 catechismus < LGk. katekhismos < katekhizein, to teach by word of mouth.
 -see catechize.]



 catechist  n.  A person who catechizes, esp. one who instructs catechumens
 in preparation for baptism. [LLat. catechista < LGk. katechistes <
 katekhizein, to teach by word of mouth. -see catechize.]   catechistic
 catechistical  adj.



 catechize  tr.v. -chized -chizing -chizes   1. To teach esp. the
 principles of a religious creed by means of questions and answers. 2. To
 question searchingly or persistently:  Boswell was eternally catechizing
 him on all kinds of subjects (Macaulay). [ME catecizen < Med. Lat.
 catechizare < LGk. katekhizein < Gk. katekhein, to teach by word of mouth :
 kata-, according to + ekhein, to sound < ekhe, sound.]   catechization n.
 catechizer n.



 catechol  n.  1. Catechin. 2. Pyrocatechol. [catech(u) + -ol.]



 catecholamine  n.  Any of a group of amines, which include epinephrine,
 norepinephrine, and dopamine, that are derived from tyrosine and have a
 hormonal function.



 catechu  n.  Any of several water-soluble, resinous, astringent substances
 used in tanning and dyeing, as that obtained from a tree, Acacia catechu,
 of southern Asia, or from a woody vine, Uncaria gambier, of Malaya. [Prob.
 < Malay kachu, of Dravidian orig.]



 catechumen  n.  1. One who is being taught the principles of Christianity.
 2. One who is being instructed in any subject at an elementary level. [ME
 cathecumine < LLat. catechumenus < Gk. katekhoumenos, pr. passive part. of
 katekhein, to instruct. -see catechize.]



 categorical or categoric   adj.  1. Without exception or qualification;
 absolute. 2. Of, concerning, or included in a category.   categorically
 adv.   categoricalness n.



 categorical imperative  n.  In Kant's ethical system, an absolute and
 universally binding moral law.



 categorize  tr.v. -rized -rizing -rizes   To put into a category;
 classify.   categorization n.



 category  n. pl. -ries  1. A specifically defined division in a system of
 classification; class. 2.  Logic. Any of the basic classifications into
 which all knowledge can be placed. [LLat. categoria, class of predicables <
 Gk. kategoria < kategorein, to predicate : kata-, against + agora,
 assembly.]



 catena  n. pl. -nae  or -nas  A closely linked series. [Med. Lat., chain <
 Lat.]



 catenary  n. pl. -ies  1. The curve theoretically formed by a perfectly
 flexible, uniformly dense and thick, inextensible cable suspended from two
 points. 2. Something having the shape of a catenary.   -adj. Of or
 resembling a catenary. [< Lat. catenarius, of a chain < catena, chain.]



 catenate  tr.v. -nated -nating -nates   To connect in a series of ties or
 links; form into a chain. [Lat. catenare, catenat- < catena, chain.]
 catenation n.



 catenulate  adj.  Consisting or formed of chainlike links. [< Lat.
 catenula, dim. of catena, chain.]



 cater  v. -tered -tering -ters   -intr. 1. To provide food or
 entertainment. 2. To provide anything wished for or needed: catered to his
 smallest desires.  -tr. To provide food service for: catering a banquet.
 [< obs. cater, a buyer of provisions < ME catour, short for acatour <
 Norman Fr. < acater, to buy < VLat.* accaptare : Lat. ad-, to + Lat.
 captare, to catch < capere, to take.]   caterer n.



 cateran  n.  A former robber of the Scottish highlands. [ME ketharan,
 prob. < Sc. Gael. ceathairneach.]



 cater-cornered
 cater-corner or catty-cornered    adj.  Diagonal.   -adv. Diagonally. [<
 obs. cater, four at dice < ME < OFr. catre, four < Lat. quattuor.]



 catercousin  n.  A very close friend. [Orig. unknown.]



 caterpillar  n.  1. The wormlike, often brightly colored, hairy, or spiny
 larva of a butterfly or moth. 2. Any of various insect larvae similar to
 those of the caterpillar. [ME catirpel, prob. < OFr. chatepelose : chate,
 cat + pelose, hairy < Lat. pilosus < pilus, hair.]



 caterwaul  intr.v. -wauled -wauling -wauls   1. To cry or screech like a
 cat in heat. 2. To make a discordant sound or shriek. 3. To have a noisy
 argument.   -n. A shrill, discordant cry. [ME caterwawen.]



 catfish  n. pl. catfish  or -fishes  Any of numerous scaleless, chiefly
 freshwater fishes of the order Siluriformes, characteristically having
 whiskerlike barbels extending from the upper jaw.



 catgut  n.  A tough, thin cord or thread made from the dried intestines of
 certain animals, used for stringing musical instruments and tennis rackets
 and for surgical ligatures.



 catharsis  n. pl. -ses  1.  Medicine. Purgation, esp. for the digestive
 system. 2. A purifying or figurative cleansing or release of the emotions
 or of tension, esp. through art. 3.  Psychoanalysis.  a. A technique used
 to relieve tension and anxiety by bringing repressed material to
 consciousness. b. The result of this process; abreaction. [Gk. katharsis <
 katharirein, to purge < katharos, pure.]



 cathartic  adj.  Inducing catharsis; purgative.   -n. A cathartic agent,
 esp. a laxative. [LLat. catharticus < Gk. kathartikos < kathairein, to
 purge. -see catharsis.]



 cathead  n.  A beam projecting outward from the bow of a ship and used as
 a support to lift the anchor.



 cathedra  n. pl. -drae  1. The official chair or throne of a bishop. 2.
 The office or see of a bishop. 3. The official chair of an office or
 position, as of a professor. [Lat., chair < Gk. kathedra : kata-, down +
 hedra, seat.]



 cathedral  n.  1. The principal church of a bishop's see and one that
 contains his official throne. 2. A large or important church.   -adj. 1.
 Of, pertaining to, or containing a bishop's official throne. 2. Relating to
 or issuing from a chair of office or authority; authoritative. 3. Of or
 pertaining to a cathedral. [Obs. cathedral church < ME cathedral, of a
 diocese < OFr. < Med.Lat. cathedralis < Lat. cathedra, chair. -see
 cathedra.]



 cathepsin  n.  Any of various proteolytic enzymes that catalyze the
 hydrolysis of proteins into polypeptides. [G. Kathepsin < Gk. kathepsein,
 to digest : kata-, down + hepsein, to boil.]



 catherine wheel  n.  Pinwheel (sense 2). [After St. Catherine of
 Alexandria (d. 307 a.d.).]



 catheter  n.  A slender, flexible tube inserted into a bodily channel,
 such as a vein, to distend or maintain an opening to an internal cavity.
 [LLat. < Gk. katheter, surgical instrument for emptying the bladder <
 kathienai, to drop : kata-, down + hienai, to send.]



 catheterize  tr.v. -ized -izing -izes   To introduce a catheter into.
 catheterization n.



 cathexis  n. pl. -thexes  The concentration of emotional energy upon some
 object or idea. [Gk. kathexis, a holding < katekhein, to hold fast : kata-,
 down + ekhein, to hold.]   cathectic adj.



 cathode  n.  1. A negatively charged electrode, as of an electrolytic
 cell, storage battery, or electron tube. 2. The positively charged terminal
 of a primary cell or of a storage battery that is supplying current. [Gk.
 kathodos, descent : kata-, down + hodos, way.]   cathodic adj.
 cathodically adv.



 cathode ray  n.  1. A stream of electrons emitted by the cathode in
 electrical discharge tubes. 2. One of the electrons that is emitted in a
 stream from a cathode-ray tube.



 cathode-ray tube  n.  A vacuum tube in which a hot cathode emits electrons
 that are accelerated as a beam through a relatively high voltage anode,
 further focused or deflected electrostatically or electromagnetically, and
 allowed to fall on a fluorescent screen.



 catholic  adj.  1. Of broad or general scope; universal; all-inclusive 2.
 Broad and comprehensive in interests, sympathies, or the like; liberal. 3.
 Catholic   a. Of or pertaining to the universal Christian church. b. Of or
 pertaining to the ancient undivided Christian church. c. Of or designating
 those churches that have claimed to be representatives of the ancient
 undivided church. d. Of or concerning the Roman Catholic Church.   -n.
 Catholic  A member of a Catholic church, esp. a Roman Catholic. [OFr.
 catholique < LLat. catholicus < Gk. katholikos < katholou, in general :
 kata-, according to + holos, whole.]   catholically adv.



 Catholic Church  n.  The Roman Catholic Church.



 Catholicism  n.  The faith, doctrine, system, and practice of a Catholic
 church, esp. the Roman Catholic Church.



 catholicity  n.  1. The condition or quality of being catholic;
 broad-mindedness. 2. General acceptance; universality. 3. Catholicity
 Roman Catholicism.



 catholicize  tr.  -intr.v.-cized -cizing -cizes   1. To make or become
 catholic. 2. To convert or be converted to Catholicism.



 catholicon  n.  A universal remedy; panacea. [Fr. < Med. Lat. < Gk.
 katholikon, neuter of katholikos, universal. -see catholic.]



 cathouse  n.  Slang.  A house of prostitution; brothel.



 cation  n.  An ion having a positive charge and, in electrolytes,
 characteristically moving toward a negative electrode. [Gk. kation, (a
 thing) going down : kata-, down+ ienai, to go.]   cationic adj.



 cation exchange  n.  A chemical process used in water softening in which
 cations of like charge are exchanged equally between a solid, as zeolite,
 and a solution, as water.



 catkin  n.  Botany.  A dense, often drooping flower cluster, such as that
 of a birch, consisting of small, scalelike flowers. [< obs. Du. katteken,
 dim. of katte, cat (from its resemblance to a cat's tail).]



 catlike  adj.  Like a cat; stealthy.



 catnap  n.  A short nap; light sleep.   catnap v. -napped -napping -naps



 catnip  n.  A hairy, aromatic plant, Nepeta cataria, native to Eurasia, to
 which cats are strongly attracted.



 cat-o'-nine-tails  n.  A whip consisting of nine knotted cords fastened to
 a handle. [So called because it leaves marks like the scratches of a cat.]



 catoptric or catoptrical   adj.  Of or pertaining to mirrors and reflected
 images. [Gk. katoptrikos < katoptron, mirror.]   catoptrics n.



 cat rig  n.  The rig of a catboat.



 CAT scan  n.  A cross-sectional picture produced by a CAT scanner.



 CAT scanner  n.  A device that produces cross-sectional x-rays of the body
 using computerized axial tomography. [c(omputerized) a(xial) t(omography).]




 CAT scanning  n.  The act or process of using a CAT scanner.



 cat's cradle  n.  A child's game in which an intricately looped string is
 transferred from the hands of one player to the next, resulting in a
 succession of different loop patterns.



 cat scratch disease or cat scratch fever   n.  A disease in humans
 characterized by fever and lymphadenitis and thought to be transmitted by
 cats.



 cat's-eye  n.  1. Any of various semiprecious gems displaying a band of
 reflected light that shifts position as the gem is turned. 2. A colored
 reflector attached to the back of a vehicle to indicate its presence on the
 road at night. 3. A marble marked with eyelike circles.



 cat's-paw or catspaw   n.  1. A person used by another as a dupe or tool.
 2. A light breeze that ruffles small areas of a water surface. 3.
 Nautical. A hitch in the bight of a rope, on which a tackle is hooked.
 [From a fable about a monkey that used a cat's paw to pull chestnuts out of
 a fire.]



 catsup  n.  Variant of ketchup.



 cattail  n.  Any of several marsh plants of the genus Typha, esp. T.
 latifolia, having long, straplike leaves and a dense, cylindrical head of
 minute brown flowers.



 cattle  pl.n.  1. Various animals of the genus Bos, esp. those of the
 domesticated species B. taurus, raised in many breeds for meat and dairy
 products. 2. Human beings, esp. when viewed as a mob. [ME catel, livestock,
 property < Norman Fr. < Med. Lat. capitale, property < Lat. capitalis,
 principal. -see capital.]



 cattleman  n.  A person who tends or raises cattle.



 cattle prod  n.  An electrified prod designed for driving cattle.



 cattleya  n.  An orchid of the genus Cattleya, having showy rose-purple or
 white flowers. [NLat.Cattleya, genus name, after William Cattley (d.
 1832).]



 catty or cattie
 catty(1)  n. pl. -ties  An Asian unit of weight generally equivalent to
 11/3 pounds avoirdupois. [Malay kati.]
 catty(2)   adj. -tier -tiest   1. Catlike; stealthy. 2. Subtly cruel or
 malicious; spiteful: a catty remark.    cattily adv.   cattiness n.



 catty-cornered  adj.  -adv. Variant of cater-cornered.



 catwalk  n.  A narrow platform or pathway, as on the sides of a bridge.



 Caucasian  n.  1. A native or inhabitant of the Caucasus. 2. A member of
 the Caucasoid ethnic division.   -adj. 1. Of or pertaining to the Caucasus
 region, its people, or their culture. 2. Caucasoid. [After the Caucasus, a
 mountain range in the Soviet Union.]



 Caucasoid  adj.  1.  Anthropology. Of, pertaining to, or designating a
 major ethnic division of the human species having certain distinctive
 physical characteristics such as skin color varying from very light to
 brown and fine hair ranging from straight to wavy or curly. This division
 is considered to include groups of peoples indigenous to or inhabiting
 Europe, northern Africa, southwestern Asia, and the Indian subcontinent,
 and persons of this ancestry in other parts of the world. 2. Of, pertaining
 to, or characteristic of Caucasoids.   -n. A member of the Caucasoid ethnic
 division.



 caucus  n. pl. -cuses  or -cusses  1. A closed meeting of the members of a
 political party to decide upon questions of policy and the selection of
 candidates for office. 2.  Chiefly British. A committee within a political
 party charged with determining policy.   -intr.v.-cused -cusing -cuses  or
 -cussed  or -cussing  or -cusses   To assemble in or hold a caucus. [Poss.
 of Algonquian orig.]



 caudad  adv.  Anatomy.  Toward the tail or posterior part of the body.
 [Lat. cauda, tail + -ad.]



 caudal  adj.  1.  Anatomy. Of, at, or near the tail or hind parts;
 posterior. 2.  Zoology. Taillike. [NLat. caudalis < Lat. cauda, tail.]
 caudally adv.



 caudal fin  n.  The tail fin of a fish.



 caudate or caudated   adj.  Having a tail. [NLat. caudatus < Lat. cauda,
 tail.]   caudation n.



 caudate nucleus  n.  A large ganglion in the lateral ventricle of the
 brain that functions in motor control.



 caudex  n. pl. -dices  or -dexes  1. The thickened base of the stem of
 some perennial plants. 2. A woody, trunklike stem, such as that of a tree
 fern. [Lat. caudex, caudice, tree trunk.]



 caudillo  n. pl. -llos  In Spanish-speaking countries, a military leader
 who sets himself up as a dictator. [Sp., leader < LLat. capitellum, small
 head, dim. of Lat. caput, head.]



 caudle  n.  A warm beverage, consisting of wine or ale mixed with sugar,
 eggs, bread, and various spices, given to ailing persons. [ME caudel <
 Norman Fr. < chaud, warm < Lat. calidus.]



 caught  v.  Past tense and past participle of catch.



 caul  n.  1. A portion of the membrane that surrounds a fetus and that
 sometimes covers its head at birth. 2. The large omentum covering the
 intestines. [ME calle < OE cawl, basket.]



 cauldron  n.  Variant of caldron.



 caulescent  adj.  Botany.  Having a stem showing above the ground. [Lat.
 caulis, stem + -escent.]



 caulicle  n.  Botany.  A small stem. [Lat. cauliculus, dim. of caulis,
 stem.]



 cauliflower  n.  1. A plant, Brassica oleracea botrytis, related to the
 cabbage and broccoli and having an enlarged, edible flower head. 2. The
 compact, whitish flower head of the cauliflower. [Prob. < Ital. cavolofiore
 : cavolo, cabbage (< LLat. caulus < Lat. caulis) + fiore, flower < Lat.
 flos.]



 cauliflower ear  n.  An ear deformed by repeated blows.



 cauline  adj.  Botany.  Of, having, or growing on a stem. [NLat. caulinus
 < Lat. caulis, stem.]



 caulk or calk   tr.v. caulked caulking caulks  or calked  or calking  or
 calks   1. To make (a boat) watertight by packing seams with oakum or tar.
 2. To make (pipes, for example) watertight or airtight by filling in
 cracks. [OFr. cauquer, to press < Lat. calcare, to tread < calx, heel.]
 caulker n.



 causal  adj.  1. Pertaining to, involving, or constituting a cause: the
 causal factor of the riot.  2. Indicating or expressing a cause. 3.
 Originating from a cause.   -n. A word or grammatical element expressing a
 cause or reason.   causally adv.



 causality  n. pl. -ties  1. The relationship between cause and effect. 2.
 A causal agency, force, or quality.



 causation  n.  1. The act or process of causing. 2. A cause. 3. Causality.




 causative  adj.  1. Functioning as an agent or cause. 2. Designating a
 verb or verbal affix that expresses causation.   causative n.   causatively
 adv.



 cause  n.  1.  a. Something that produces an effect, result, or
 consequence. b. The person, event, or condition responsible for an action
 or result. 2. A basis for an action or decision; ground; reason. 3. A goal
 or principle served with dedication and zeal. 4. The interests of a person
 or group engaged in a struggle:  The cause of America is in great measure
 the cause of all mankind (Thomas Paine). 5.  Law.  a. A ground for legal
 action. b. A lawsuit. 6. A subject under debate or discussion.
 -tr.v.caused causing causes   To be the cause of; make happen; bring about;
 effect. [ME < OFr. < Lat. causa, reason.]   causable adj.   causeless adj.
  causer n.

      Synonyms: cause reason occasion antecedent These nouns denote things
 or prior conditions that bring about, or are associated with, certain
 effects. A cause , singly or as one of a series, must exist for an effect
 logically to occur; Deficiency in vitamin C is the cause of scurvy. Reason
 refers to what explains the occurrence or nature of an effect and suggests
 an effort of human thought: There was no reason for the accident.  An
 occasion  is the situation or time that permits existing causes to come in
 to play: The occasion for the robbery was the absence of the regular night
 watchman. Antecedent  refers to that which has gone before. It implies a
 relationship, not necessarily causal, with the thing or effect in question.




 cause celebre  n. pl. causes celebres  1. A celebrated legal case. 2. An
 issue arousing heated public debate and partisanship. [Fr. : cause, case +
 celebre, celebrated.]



 causerie  n.  1. A chat. 2. A short, conversational piece of writing. [Fr.
 < causer, to talk < Lat. causari, to discuss < causa, case.]



 causeway  n.  1. A raised roadway, as across water or marshland. 2. A
 paved highway. [ME caucewei : cauce, raised road < Norman Fr. caucie <
 VLat. *calciata < Lat. calx, limestone. -see calx.]



 caustic  adj.  1. Capable of burning, corroding, dissolving, or otherwise
 eating away by chemical action. 2. Marked by sharp and bitter wit; cutting:
  Her new clothes were the subject of caustic comment (Willa Cather). 3. Of
 or pertaining to light emitted from a point source and reflected or
 refracted from a curved surface.   -n. A caustic material or substance.
 [Lat. causticus < Gk. kaustikos < kaiein, to burn.]   caustically adv.
 causticity n.



 caustic potash  n.  Potassium hydroxide.



 caustic soda  n.  Sodium hydroxide.



 cauterize  tr.v. -ized -izing -izes   To burn or sear with a cautery.
 [OFr. cauteriser < LLat. cauterizare, to brand < Gk. kauteriazein <
 kauterion, branding iron. -see cautery.]   cauterization n.



 cautery  n. pl. -ies  1. A caustic agent or a very hot or very cold
 instrument used to destroy aberrant tissue. 2. Cauterization. [Lat.
 cauterium, branding iron < Gk. kauterion < kaiein, to burn.]



 caution  n.  1. Forethought to avoid danger or harm. 2. A warning;
 admonishment. 3.  Informal. Someone or something that is striking or
 alarming.   -tr.v.-tioned -tioning -tions   To warn against danger; put on
 guard. [ME caucioun < OFr. caution < Lat. cautio < cavere, to take care.]
 cautionary adj.



 cautious  adj.  Showing or practicing caution; careful.   cautiously adv.
  cautiousness n.



 cavalcade  n.  1. A ceremonial procession, esp. of horsemen or horse-drawn
 carriages. 2. A colorful procession or display. [Fr. < OFr. < OItal.
 cavalcata < cavalcare, to ride on horseback < VLat. *caballicare < Lat.
 caballus, horse.]



 cavalier  n.  1. An armed horseman; knight. 2. A gallant or chivalrous
 gentleman. 3. Cavalier  A supporter of Charles I of England in his
 struggles against Parliament; Royalist.   -adj. 1. Marked by or given to
 nonchalant disregard of what is important; disdainful; haughty. 2. Carefree
 and gay; offhand. [OFr. < OItal. cavaliere < LLat. caballarius, horseman <
 Lat. caballus, horse.]



 cavalla  n. pl. -las  or cavalla  1. Any of various tropical marine food
 fishes of the family Carangidae. 2. The king mackerel. [Sp. caballa, horse
 mackerel < LLat. caballus, horse.]



 cavalry  n. pl. -ries  Troops trained to fight on horseback or in armored
 vehicles. [OFr. cavallerie < OItal. cavalleria < cavaliere, cavalier.]
 cavalryman n.



 cave  n.  A hollow beneath the earth's surface, often having an opening in
 the side of a hill or cliff.   -v.caved caving caves   -tr. To hollow out.
 -intr. Informal.  1. To fall in; collapse, as from being undermined. 2. To
 give up all opposition; yield: caved in to our demands.  [ME < OFr. < Lat.
 cava < cavus, hollow.]



 caveat  n.  1.  Law. A formal notice filed by an interested party with a
 court or officer, requesting the postponement of a proceeding until he is
 heard. 2. A warning or caution.   -v.-ated -ating -ats   -intr. Law.  To
 enter a caveat. -tr. Slang.  To do or say (something) with an accompanying
 warning. [Lat., let him beware < cavere, to beware.]



 caveat emptor  n.  The axiom that a person who buys something does so at
 his own peril. [Lat., let the buyer beware.]



 cavefish  n. pl. cavefish  or -fishes  Any of various freshwater fishes of
 the family Amblyopsidae, of subterranean waters, having rudimentary eyes.



 cave-in  n.  1. An action of caving in. 2. A place where the ground has
 caved in.



 cave man  n.  1. A prehistoric man who lived in caves. 2.  Informal. One
 who is crude or brutal, esp. toward women.   cave-man adj.



 cavern  n.  A large cave.   -tr.v.-erned -erning -erns   1. To enclose in
 or as if in a cavern. 2. To hollow out. [ME caverne < OFr. < Lat. caverna <
 cavus, hollow.]



 cavernicolous  adj.  Inhabiting caverns or caves.



 cavernous  adj.  1. Filled with caverns. 2. Like a cavern in depth or
 vastness. 3. Filled with cavities; porous.   cavernously adv.



 cavetto  n. pl. -vetti  or -vettos  A concave molding shaped like a
 circular quadrant. [Ital. < cavo, hollow < Lat. cavus.]



 caviar or caviare   n.  The roe of a sturgeon or other large fish, salted,
 seasoned, and eaten as a relish or delicacy. [Prob. < OItal. caviaro <
 Turk. havyar.]



 cavil  v. -iled -iling -ils  or -illed  or -illing  or -ils   -intr. To
 find fault unnecessarily; raise trivial objections. -tr. To quibble about;
 detect petty flaws in.   -n. A captious or trivial objection. [OFr.
 caviller < Lat. cavillari, to criticize < cavilla, a jeering.]   caviler n.




 cavitation  n.  1. The sudden formation and collapse of low-pressure
 bubbles in liquids by means of mechanical forces, as those resulting from
 rotation of a marine propeller. 2. The formation of cavities in tissue or
 an organ, esp. as a result of disease. [< cavity.]



 cavity  n. pl. -ties  1. A hollow or hole. 2. A hollow area within the
 body: a sinus cavity.  3. A pitted area in a tooth caused by caries. [Fr.
 cavite < OFr. cavete < LLat. cavitas < Lat. cavus, hollow.]



 cavort  intr.v. -vorted -vorting -vorts   1. To bound or prance about in a
 sprightly manner; caper. 2. To make merry; frolic. [Perh. var. of curvet.]



 cavy  n. pl. -vies  Any of various short-tailed or apparently tailless
 South American rodents of the family Caviidae, which includes the guinea
 pig and the capybara. [Prob. < Galibi cabiai.]



 caw  n.  The hoarse, raucous sound characteristic of a crow or similar
 bird.   -intr.v.cawed cawing caws   To utter a caw. [Imit.]



 cay  n.  A small, low islet composed largely of coral or sand. [Sp. cayo,
 prob. < OFr. quai, quay.]



 cayenne pepper  n.  A condiment made from the very pungent fruit of a
 variety of the plant Capsicum frutescens.  [Obs. kian < Tupi kyinha.]



 cayman  n.  Variant of caiman.



 Cayuga  n. pl. Cayuga  or -gas  1. A tribe of Indians formerly living
 around Cayuga and Seneca lakes in central New York. 2. A member of the
 Cayuga. 3. The Iroquoian language spoken by the Cayuga.   Cayuga adj.



 Cayuse  n. pl. Cayuse  or -uses  1. A tribe of Indians of Oregon. 2. A
 member of the Cayuse. 3. The Sahaptin language of the Cayuse. 4.  Western
 U.S. A horse, esp. an Indian pony.   Cayuse adj.



 Cb   The symbol for the element columbium.



 CB  n. pl. CB's  Citizens band.



 CBer  n.  One who uses a CB radio.



 C clef  n.  A clef sign used to form any of three clefs, soprano, alto, or
 tenor, by locating the tone C (261.7 cycles per second) on, respectively,
 the lowest line of the staff, the middle line, or the fourth (next to the
 highest) line.



 Cd   The symbol for the element cadmium.



 Ce   The symbol for the element cerium.



 cease  v. ceased ceasing ceases   -tr. To put an end to; discontinue: The
 factory ceased production.  -intr. To come to an end; stop: noise that at
 last ceased.    -n. Cessation: experiencing pressure without cease.  [ME
 cesen < OFr. cesser < Lat. cessare, to stop, freq. of cedere, to yield.]



 cease-fire  n.  1. An order to cease firing. 2. A suspension of active
 hostilities; truce.



 ceaseless  adj.  Without stop; endless.   ceaselessly adv.   ceaselessness
 n.



 cecectomy  n. pl. mies  Surgical excision of the cecum. [cec(um) +
 -ectomy.]



 cecropia moth  n.  A large North American moth, Hyalophora cecropia,
 having wings with red, white, and black markings. [NLat. cecropia, specific
 name < Lat., fem of Cecropius, Athenian < Gk. Kekropios < Kekrops, Cecrops,
 a legendary Athenian king.]



 cecum or caecum   n. pl. -ca  1. A cavity with only one opening. 2.
 Anatomy. The large blind pouch forming the beginning of the large
 intestine. [NLat. < Lat. (intestinum) caecum, blind (intestine) < caecus,
 blind.]   cecal adj.



 cedar  n.  1.  a. Any of several coniferous evergreen trees of the genus
 Cedrus, native to the Old World, such as the cedar of Lebanon. b. Any of
 various similar evergreen trees, mostly of the genera Thuja, Chamaecyparis,
 and Juniperus.  2. The durable, aromatic, often reddish wood of a cedar.
 [ME cedre < OFr. < Lat. cedrus < Gk. kedros.]



 cedarbird  n.  A cedar waxwing.



 cedar of Lebanon  n.  A tall evergreen tree, Cedrus libani, of Asia Minor,
 having short dark needles and fragrant hard wood.



 cedar waxwing  n.  A North American bird, Bombycilla cedrorum, having a
 crested head and predominantly brown plumage. [Prob. so called because it
 eats the berries of the red cedar.]



 cede  tr.v. ceded ceding cedes   1. To surrender possession of officially
 or formally. 2. To yield; grant. [OFr. ceder < Lat. cedere.]



 cedi  n. pl. cedi  or -dis  See table at currency.



 cedilla  n.  A mark (c) placed beneath the letter c, as in the spelling of
 the French word garcon,  to indicate that the letter is to be pronounced
 (s). [Obs. Sp., dim. of ceda, the letter z < LLat. zeta, zeta (so called
 because a small z was formerly used to make a hard c sibilant.]



 cee  n.  The letter c.



 ceiba  n.  Any of various large tropical trees of the genus Ceiba, which
 includes the silk-cotton tree, the source of the silky fiber kapok. [Sp.,
 prob. < Arawakan.]



 ceil  tr.v. ceiled ceiling ceils   1. To make a ceiling for. 2. To provide
 (a ship) with interior planking. [ME celen < OFr. celer < Lat. caelare, to
 carve < caelum, chisel. -see Caelum.]



 ceiling  n.  1.  a. The interior upper surface of a room. b. Material used
 to cover this surface. 2. Something likened to a ceiling: a ceiling of
 leaves over the arbor.  3. The planking applied to the interior framework
 of a ship. 4. A maximum limit, esp. as prescribed by law: wage and price
 ceilings.  5. Any of various vertical boundaries, esp. of atmospheric
 visibility, cloud cover altitude, or operable aircraft altitude. [ME celing
 < celen, to ceil.]   ceilinged adj.



 ceilometer  n.  A photoelectric instrument for ascertaining cloud heights.
 [ceil(ing) + -meter.]



 celadon  n.  1. A pale to very pale green. 2. A pale to very pale blue.
 [Fr., after Celadon, a character in Astree, a romance by Honore d' d'Urfe
 (1568-1625).]   celadon adj.



 celadonite  n.  A soft mica having a green hue and a high iron content.



 Celaeno  n.  1.  Greek Mythology. One of the Pleiades. 2. One of the six
 stars in the Pleiades cluster visible to the naked eye. [Lat. < Gk.
 Kelaino.]



 celandine  n.  1. A plant, Chelidonium majus, native to Eurasia, having
 deeply divided leaves, yellow flowers, and yellow-orange juice. 2. The
 lesser celandine. [ME celidoine < OFr. < Med. Lat. celidonia < Lat.
 chelidonia < Gk. khelidonion < khelidon, swallow (from the association by
 ancient writers of the plant with the habits of the swallow).]



 -cele
 -cele(1)   Tumor; hernia: cystocele.
 -cele(2)   Variant of -coel.



 celebrant  n.  1. The priest officiating at the celebration of the
 Eucharist. 2. A participant in a celebration.

      Usage: Strictly speaking, celebrant  should be reserved for an
 official participant in a religious ceremony or rite: celebrant of a mass.
 In the general sense of "participant in a celebration" (New Year's Eve
 celebrant)  it is acceptable to a bare majority of the Usage Panel.
 Celebrator  is an undisputed alternative.



 celebrate  v. -brated -brating -brates   -tr. 1. To observe (a day or
 event) with ceremonies of respect, festivity, or rejoicing: celebrated
 their anniversary.  2. To perform (a religious ceremony): celebrate Mass.
 3. To extol or praise publicly; honor: a sonnet that celebrates love.
 -intr. 1. To observe an occasion with appropriate ceremony or festivity. 2.
 To perform a religious ceremony. 3. To engage in festivities: went out and
 celebrated after the concert.  [Lat. celebrare, celebrat- < celeber,
 famous.]   celebration n.   celebrator n.



 celebrated  adj.  Well and usually favorably known; famous.



 celebrity  n. pl. -ties  1. A famous person. 2. Renown; fame. [Lat.
 celebritas, fame < celeber, famous.]



 celeriac  n.  A variety of celery, Apium graveolens rapaceum, cultivated
 for its edible, turniplike root. [Alteration of celery.]



 celerity  n.  Swiftness of action or motion; speed. [ME celerite < OFr. <
 Lat. celeritas < celer, swift.]



 celery  n. pl. -ies  A plant, Apium graveolens dulce, native to Eurasia
 and widely cultivated for its edible stalks. [Fr. celeri < dial. Ital.
 seleri, pl. of selero, alteration of Lat. selinon, parsley < Gk.]



 celery cabbage  n.  Chinese cabbage.



 celesta or celeste   n.  A musical instrument with a keyboard and metal
 plates struck by hammers that produce bell-like tones. [Fr. celesta <
 celeste, celestial < Lat. caelestis.]



 celestial  adj.  1. Of or pertaining to the sky or the heavens: Planets
 are celestial bodies.  2. Of, from, or suggestive of heaven; spiritual;
 divine: celestial beings.  3. Supreme in nature or kind; heavenly:
 celestial happiness.  4. Celestial  Of or pertaining to the Chinese people
 or to the former Chinese Empire.   -n. 1. A heavenly being; a god or an
 angel. 2. Celestial  A Chinese person. [ME < OFr. < Lat. caelestis <
 caelum, sky.]   celestially adv.



 celestial equator  n.  A great circle on the celestial sphere in the same
 plane as the earth's equator.



 celestial globe  n.  A model of the celestial sphere showing the stars and
 other celestial bodies.



 celestial horizon  n.  Horizon (sense 2.c.).



 celestial mechanics  n.(usedwithasing.verb).  The science of the motion of
 celestial bodies under the influence of gravitational forces.



 celestial navigation  n.  Ship or aircraft navigation based on the
 positions of celestial bodies.



 celestial pole  n.  Either of two diametrically opposite points at which
 the extensions of the earth's axis intersect the celestial sphere.



 celestial sphere  n.  An imaginary sphere of infinite extent with the
 earth at its center on which the stars, planets, and other heavenly bodies
 appear to be located.



 celestite  n.  An important white, red-brown, or light-blue strontium ore,
 essentially strontium sulfate, SrSO4. [G. Zolestin < Lat. caelestis,
 celestial.]



 celiac or coeliac   adj.  Of or relating to the abdomen.   -n. One who has
 celiac disease. [Lat. coeliacus < Gk. koiliakos < koilia, abdomen < koilos,
 hollow.]



 celiac disease  n.  A chronic nutritional disturbance of infants and young
 children, caused by improper absorption of fats and resulting in
 malnutrition, distended abdomen, and diarrhea.



 celibacy  n.  1. The condition of being unmarried, esp. by reason of
 religious vows. 2. Abstinence from sexual intercourse. [Lat. caelibatus <
 caelebs, unmarried.]



 celibate  n.  1. One who remains unmarried, esp. by reason of religious
 vows. 2. One who abstains from sexual intercourse. [< Lat. caelebs,
 caelib-, unmarried.]   celibate adj.



 cell  n.  1. A narrow, confining room, as in a prison or convent. 2. A
 small, one-room abode, such as a hut. 3. A small religious house dependent
 on a larger one, as a priory within an abbey. 4. The primary organizational
 unit of a movement, esp. of a political party of Leninist structure. 5.
 Biology. The smallest structural unit of an organism that is capable of
 independent functioning, consisting of one or more nuclei, cytoplasm,
 various organelles, and inanimate matter, all surrounded by a semipermeable
 plasma membrane. 6.  Biology. A small, enclosed cavity or space, such as a
 compartment in a honeycomb or within a plant ovary or an area bordered by
 veins in an insect's wing. 7.  Electricity.  a. A single unit for
 electrolysis or for conversion of chemical into electric energy, usually
 consisting of a container with electrodes and an electrolyte. b. A single
 unit that converts radiant energy into electric energy: a solar cell.  8.
 Computer Science.  A basic unit of storage in a computer memory that can
 hold one unit of information, as a character or word.   -v.celled celling
 cells   -tr. To store in a honeycomb. -intr. To live in a cell. [ME celle,
 partly < OE cell, and partly < OFr., both < Lat. cella, chamber.]



 cella  n. pl. cellae  The inner room of an ancient Greek or Roman temple.
 [Lat.]



 cellar  n.  1. A room used for storage, usually beneath the ground or
 under a building. 2.  a. A dark, cool room for storing wines. b. A stock of
 wines. 3.  Informal.  The lowest level, esp. in the standing of an athletic
 team.   -tr.v.-lared -laring -lars   To store in a cellar. [ME celer < OFr.
 < LLat. cellarium, pantry < Lat. cella, storeroom.]



 cellarage  n.  1. A fee charged for storage in a cellar. 2. A cellar or
 cellars collectively.



 cellarer  n.  A person, as in a monastic community, who is responsible for
 the maintenance of adequate supplies of food and drink. [ME celerer < OFr.
 < Lat. cellarius, steward < cella, storeroom.]



 cellarette or cellaret   n.  A cabinet used for storing bottles of wine.



 cell membrane  n.  Plasma membrane.



 cello  n. pl. -los  A four-stringed instrument of the violin family,
 pitched lower than the viola but higher than the double bass. [Short for
 violoncello.]   cellist n.



 cellobiose  n.  A disaccharide that is produced from the partial
 hydrolysis of cellulose. [cell(ulose) + bi- + -ose.]



 celloidin  n.  A pure pyroxylin in which specimen sections are embedded
 for microscopic examination. [cell(ulose) + -oid + -in.]



 cellophane  n.  A thin, flexible, transparent cellulose material made from
 wood pulp and used as a moistureproof wrapping. [Orig. a trademark.]



 cellular  adj.  1. Pertaining to or resembling a cell. 2. Consisting of or
 containing a cell or cells.   cellularity n.   cellularly adv.



 cellulase  n.  Any of several enzymes, found in fungi, bacteria, and lower
 animals, that hydrolyze cellulose. [cellul(ose) + -ase.]



 cellule  n.  A small cell. [Fr. < Lat. cellula, dim. of cella, chamber.]



 cellulite  n.  A fatty deposit, as around the thighs and buttocks.
 [cellul(ose) + -ite.]



 cellulitis  n.  Inflammation of subcutaneous tissue. [Lat. cellula,
 cellule + -itis.]



 celluloid  n.  A colorless, flammable material made from nitrocellulose
 and camphor. [Orig. a trademark.]



 cellulolytic  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or causing the hydrolysis of
 cellulose. [cellulo(se) + -lytic.]



 cellulose  n.  An amorphous carbohydrate polymer, (C6H10O5)x , the main
 constituent of all plant tissues and fibers, used in the manufacture of
 many fibrous products, including paper, textiles, and explosives. [Fr. <
 cellule, biological cell, cellule.]   cellulosic adj.



 cellulose acetate  n.  A cellulose resin used in lacquers, photographic
 film, transparent sheeting, and cigarette filters.



 cellulose nitrate  n.  Nitrocellulose.



 cell wall  n.  The permeable, rigid outermost layer of a plant cell
 composed mainly of cellulose.



 celom  n.  Variant of coelom.



 Celotex   A trademark for a building board made of compressed bagasse,
 used for insulation.



 Celsius  adj.  Of or pertaining to a temperature scale that registers the
 freezing point of water as 0 deg. C and the boiling point as 100 deg. C
 under normal atmospheric pressure. [After Anders Celsius (1701-1744), its
 inventor.]



 celt  n.  A prehistoric axlike tool. [LLat. celtis, chisel.]



 Celt  n.  1. One of an ancient people of western and central Europe,
 including the Britons and the Gauls. 2. A speaker or a descendant of a
 speaker of a Celtic language. [Fr. Celte < Lat. Celta, sing. of Celtae.]



 Celtic  n.  A subfamily of the Indo-European language family comprising
 the Brythonic and the Goidelic branches.   -adj. Of or pertaining to the
 Celtic people and languages.



 Celtic cross  n.  An upright cross superimposed on a circle.



 Celticism  n.  1. A Celtic custom. 2. A fondness for Celtic customs. 3. A
 Celtic idiom.



 Celticist  n.  A specialist in Celtic culture or Celtic languages.



 cembalo  n. pl. -los  A harpsichord. [Ital., short for clavicembalo < Med.
 Lat. clavicymbalum : Lat. clavis, key + Lat. cymbalum, cymbal. -see
 cymbal.]   cembalist n.



 cement  n.  1. Any of various construction adhesives, consisting
 essentially of powdered, calcined rock and clay materials, that form a
 paste with water and can be molded or poured to set as a solid mass. 2. A
 substance that hardens to act as an adhesive; glue. 3. Something, such as a
 concern or feeling, that serves to unite: Children were the cement that
 saved the marriage.  4.  Geology. A chemically precipitated substance that
 binds particles of clastic rocks. 5. Cementum.   -v.-mented -menting -ments
   -tr. 1. To bind with or as if with cement. 2. To cover or coat with
 cement. -intr. To become cemented. [ME ciment < OFr. < Lat. caementum,
 rough stone < caedere, to cut.]   cementer n.



 cementation  n.  1. The act, process, or result of cementing. 2. A
 metallurgical coating process in which iron or steel is immersed in a
 powder of another metal, such as zinc, chromium, or aluminum, and heated to
 a temperature below the melting point of either.



 cementite  n.  A hard, brittle iron carbide, Fe3C, found in steel with
 more than 0.85 per cent carbon. [< cement.]



 cementitious  adj.  Of, relating to, or having the characteristics of
 cement.



 cement mixer  n.  A concrete mixer.



 cementum  n.  A bony substance covering the root of a tooth. [NLat. <Lat.
 caementum, rough stone < caedere, to cut.]



 cemetery  n. pl. -ies  A place for burying the dead; graveyard. [ME
 cimiterie < Med. Lat. cimiterium < LLat. coemeterium < Gk. koimeterion <
 koiman, to put to sleep.]



 cenacle  n.  A small dining room, usually on an upper floor. [ME < OFr. <
 LLat. cenaculum < Lat. cena, dinner.]



 -cene   Recent. Used in names of geological periods: Oligocene.  [< Gk.
 kainos, new.]



 ceno-   Variant of coeno-.



 cenobite or coenobite   n.  A member of a religious convent or community.
 [LLat. coenobita < coenobium, convent < Gk. koinobion < koinobios, living
 in community : koinos, common + bios, life.]   cenobitic cenobitical  adj.



 cenogenesis or coenogenesis   n.  The environmentally determined
 development of characteristics or structures in an organism. [Gk. kainos,
 new + genesis.]   cenogenetic adj.   cenogenetically adv.



 cenospecies  n.  A group of species capable of interbreeding.



 cenotaph  n.  A monument erected in honor of a dead person whose remains
 lie elsewhere. [OFr. cenotaphe < Lat. cenotaphium < Gk. kenotaphion :
 kenos, empty + taphos, tomb.]   cenotaphic adj.



 Cenozoic  adj.  Of, belonging to, or designating the latest era of
 geologic time, which includes the Tertiary and Quaternary periods and is
 characterized by the evolution of mammals, birds, plants, modern
 continents, and glaciation.   -n. The Cenozoic era. [Gk. kainos, new +
 -zoic.]



 cense  tr.v. censed censing censes   1. To perfume with incense. 2. To
 offer incense to. [ME censen, short for encensen < encens, incense. -see
 incense2.]



 censer  n.  An incense vessel. [ME, short for encenser < Norman Fr.
 encensier < encens, incense < OFr. -see incense2.]



 censor  n.  1. A person authorized to examine literature, plays, or other
 material and who may remove or suppress what he considers morally or
 otherwise objectionable. 2. An official, as in the military, who examines
 personal mail and official dispatches to remove information considered
 secret or improper. 3. A person who condemns or censures. 4. One of two
 officials in ancient Rome responsible for supervising the public census and
 public behavior and morals. 5.  Psychoanalysis. The agent responsible for
 censorship.   -tr.v.-sored -soring -sors   To examine and expurgate. [Lat.,
 Roman censor < censere, to assess.]   censorial adj.



 censorious  adj.  1. Tending to censure. 2. Expressing censure. [Lat.
 censorius, of a censor < censor, Roman censor.]   censoriously adv.
 censoriousness n.



 censorship  n.  1. The act, process, or policy of censoring. 2. The office
 or authority of a Roman censor. 3.  Psychoanalysis. The inhibition by
 either ego or superego of conscious awareness of painful feelings or ideas.




 censurable  adj.  Deserving of or liable to censure.   censurableness
 censurability n.   censurably adv.



 censure  n.  1. An expression of blame or disapproval. 2. An official
 rebuke.   -tr.v.-sured -suring -sures   To criticize severely; blame. [Lat.
 censura, severe judgment < censor, Roman censor.]   censurer n.



 census  n.  An official, usually periodic enumeration of population.
 [Lat., registration of citizens < censere, to assess.]



 cent  n.  See table at currency. [OFr., hundred < Lat. centum.]



 cental  n.  A hundredweight. [< Lat. centum, hundred.]



 centaur  n.  Greek Mythology.  One of a race of monsters having the head,
 arms, and trunk of a man and the body and legs of a horse. [ME < Lat.
 Centaurus < Gk. Kentauros.]



 Centaurus  n.  A constellation in the Southern Hemisphere near Vela and
 Lupus. [Lat. Centaurus, centaur.]



 centaury  n. pl. -ries  1. Any of several plants of the genus Centaurium,
 native to Eurasia, esp. C. umbellatum, having clusters of rose-purple
 flowers. 2. A plant of the genus Centaurea, which includes the cornflower.
 [ME centorie < Lat. centaureum < Gk. kentaureion < Kentauros, centaur (from
 the legend that the plant's medicinal properties were discovered by a
 centaur).]



 centavo  n. pl. -vos  See table at currency. [Sp. < Lat. centum, hundred.]




 centenarian  n.  A person one hundred years old or older. [< Lat.
 centenarius, of a hundred. -see centenary.]   centenarian adj.



 centenary  adj.  1. Of or pertaining to a 100-year period. 2. Occurring
 once every 100 years.   -n.pl. -ries  1. A 100-year period. 2. A
 centennial. [Lat. centenarius, of a hundred < centum, hundred.]



 centennial  adj.  1. Of or pertaining to an age or period of 100 years. 2.
 Occurring once every 100 years. 3. Of or pertaining to a 100th anniversary.
   -n. A 100th anniversary or a celebration of this. [Lat. centum, hundred +
 (bi)ennial.]   centennially adv.



 center  n.  1. A point equidistant or at the average distance from all
 points on the sides or outer boundaries of something; middle. 2.  a. A
 point equidistant from the vertexes of a regular polygon. b. A point
 equidistant from all points on the circumference of a circle or on the
 surface of a sphere. 3. A point around which something revolves; axis. 4. A
 part of an object that is surrounded by the rest; core. 5.  a. A place of
 concentrated activity or influence: a financial center.  b. A place of
 dense population: a metropolitan center.  6. A person or thing that is the
 chief object of attention, interest, activity, or emotion. 7. A person,
 object, or group occupying a middle position. 8. A political policy or
 group representing a compromise between the right and the left. 9. In some
 team sports, a player who holds a middle position on the field, court, or
 forward line.   -v.-tered -tering -ters   -tr. 1. To place in or on a
 center: centered the vase on the table.  2. To concentrate at a center:
 centering the discussion on the important issues.  3.  Football. To pass
 (the ball) from the line to a back. -intr. 1. To be concentrated; cluster.
 2. To have a central theme or concern; be focused. [ME centre < OFr. < Lat.
 centrum < Gk. kentron.]

      Usage: Center  as an intransitive verb may be used with on, upon, in,
 or at.  Logically, it should not be used with around,  since the word
 center  refers to a point or focus. Thus: The discussion centered on  (not
 around ) the meaning of the law  (a possible alternative, revolved around
 ).



 center bit  n.  A bit having a sharp center point, used in carpentry for
 boring holes.



 centerboard  n.  A flat board or metal plate that can be lowered through
 the bottom of a sailboat to prevent drifting and provide stability.



 center field  n.  Baseball.  1. The middle part of the outfield, behind
 second base. 2. The position of center field.   center fielder n.



 center of gravity  n.  The point in or near a body at which the
 gravitational potential energy of the body is equal to that of a single
 particle of the same mass located at that point and through which the
 resultant of the gravitational forces on the component particles of the
 body acts.



 center of mass  n.  The point about which the sum of all the linear
 moments of mass of the particles in a body is zero.



 centerpiece  n.  A decorative object or arrangement placed at the center
 of a table.



 center punch  n.  A tool with a sharp point used in metalworking to mark
 centers or center lines on pieces to be drilled.



 centesimal  adj.  1. Hundredth. 2. Pertaining to or divided into
 hundredths. [< Lat. centesimus < centum, hundred.]   centesimally adv.



 centesimo
 centesimo(1)  n. pl. -mos  or -mi  See table at currency. [Ital. < Lat.
 centesimus, centesimal.]
 centesimo(2)  n. pl. -mos  See table at currency. [Sp. < Lat. centesimus,
 centesimal.]



 centesis  pl. -ses  The surgical puncture of a membrane or body cavity
 usually for diagnostic purposes. [Gk. kentesis, act of pricking < kentein,
 to prick.]



 centi-   One hundredth (10-2): centiliter.  [Fr. < Lat. centum, hundred.]



 centigrade  adj.  Celsius. [Fr. : Lat. centum-, hundred+ Lat. gradus,
 degree.]



 centigram  n.  One hundredth (10-2) of a gram.



 centiliter  n.  One hundredth (10-2) of a liter.



 centime  n.  See table at currency. [Fr. < cent, hundred < Lat. centum.]



 centimeter or centimetre   n.  A unit of length equal to 1/100 of a meter
 or 0.3937 inch.



 centimeter-gram-second system  n.  A coherent system of units for
 mechanics, electricity, and magnetism, in which the basic units of length,
 mass, and time are the centimeter, gram, and second.



 centimo  n. pl. -mos  See table at currency. [Sp. centimo < Fr. centime,
 centime.]



 centipede  n.  Any of various wormlike arthropods of the class Chilopoda,
 having numerous body segments, each with a pair of legs, the front pair
 modified into venomous biting organs. [Lat. centipeda : centum, hundred +
 pes, foot.]



 centipoise  n.  One hundredth (10-2) of a poise.



 centner  n.  1. A unit of weight corresponding to the hundredweight, equal
 to 110.23 pounds, used in several European countries. 2. An assaying unit
 equal to one dram. [G. Zentner < Lat. centenarius, of a hundred. -see
 centenary.]



 cento  n. pl. -tos  A literary work pieced together from the works of
 several authors. [LLat. < Lat., patchwork.]



 centr-   Variant of centro-.



 central  adj.  1. At, in, near, or being the center. 2. Having dominant or
 controlling power or influence: the central office of the corporation.  3.
 Of great importance; essential: the central theme of the novel.  4. Easily
 reached from various points: a central location for the new store.  5. Of
 or constituting a single source controlling all components of a system:
 central air conditioning.  6.  Anatomy.  Physiology.  a. Denoting that part
 of the nervous system constituted by the brain and spinal cord. b.
 Pertaining to a centrum. 7. Pronounced with the tongue in a neutral
 position, as e in mister.    -n. 1. A telephone exchange. 2. A
 telephone-exchange operator. [Lat. centralis < centrum, center.]
 centrally adv.



 central angle  n.  An angle having radii as sides and the center of a
 circle as its vertex.



 centralism  n.  The assignment of power and authority to a central
 leadership in an organization, as a political system.   centralist n.
 centralistic adj.



 centrality  n.  1. The state or quality of being central. 2. The tendency
 to be or remain at the center.



 centralize  v. -ized -izing -izes   -tr. 1. To draw into or toward a
 center; consolidate. 2. To bring under a single, central authority. -intr.
 To come together at a center; concentrate.   centralization n.
 centralizer n.



 central nervous system  n.  The portion of the vertebrate nervous system
 consisting of the brain and spinal cord.



 central processing unit  n.  The part of a computer that interprets and
 executes instructions.



 Central Standard Time  n.  The local civil time of the 90th meridian west
 of Greenwich, England, six hours earlier than Greenwich time, observed in
 the central United States.



 Central Time  n.  Central Standard Time.



 centre  n.  -v. Chiefly British.  Variant of center.



 centri-   Variant of centro-.



 centric or centrical   adj.  1. At, of, or having a center. 2.
 Physiology. Of or originating at a nerve center. [Gk. kentrikos < kentron,
 center.]   centrically adv.   centricity n.



 -centric   1. Having a specified kind or number of centers: polycentric.
 2. Having a specified object as the center: geocentric.  [< Lat. centrum,
 center.]



 centrifugal  adj.  1. Moving or directed away from a center or axis. 2.
 Operated by means of centrifugal force. 3.  Physiology. Pertaining to
 impulses transmitted away from a nerve center; efferent. 4.  Botany.
 Developing outward from a center or axis. 5. Tending away from
 centralization: centrifugal trends in urban society.  [< NLat. centrifugus
 : Lat. centrum, center + fugere, to flee.]   centrifugally adv.



 centrifugal force  n.  The component of apparent force on a body in
 curvilinear motion, as observed from that body, that is directed away from
 the center of curvature or axis of rotation; the equilibrant of centripetal
 force.



 centrifuge  n.  An apparatus consisting essentially of a compartment spun
 about a central axis to separate contained materials of different density
 or to simulate gravity with centrifugal force.   -tr.v.-fuged -fuging
 -fuges   To separate, dehydrate, or test by means of a centrifuge. [Fr. <
 NLat. centrifugus, centrifugal.]   centrifugation n.



 centriole  n.  A tiny cylindrical organelle, considered a pole of the
 mitotic figure and located at the center of a centrosome. [G. Zentriol <
 NLat. centriolum, dim. of Lat. centrum, center.]



 centripetal  adj.  1. Directed or moving toward a center or axis. 2.
 Operated by centripetal force. 3.  Physiology. Pertaining to nerve impulses
 transmitted toward the central nervous system; afferent. 4.  Botany.
 Developing inward toward the center or axis, as some forms of inflorescence
 do. 5. Tending to centralize: the centripetal effects of a homogeneous
 population.  [Lat. centrum, center + -petal.]   centripetally adv.



 centripetal force  n.  The component of force acting on a body in
 curvilinear motion that is directed toward the center of curvature or axis
 of rotation.



 centrism  n.  A political philosophy of avoiding extremes by taking a
 position in the center.   centrist n.



 centro- or centr-  or centri-    Center: centroid.  [< Gk. kentron,
 center.]



 centrobaric  adj.  Of or relating to the center of gravity. [Gk.
 kentrobarike, theory of the center of gravity : kentron, center + baros,
 weight.]



 centroid  n.  1. The center of mass of an object having constant density.
 2. The point in a system of masses each of whose coordinates is a weighted
 mean of coordinates of the same dimension of points within the system, the
 weights being determined by the density function of the system.



 centrolecithal  adj.  Having the yolk concentrated in the center of the
 egg cell. [centro- + lecith(in) + -al.]



 centromere  n.  The region of a chromosome to which the spindle fiber is
 attached during mitosis.



 centrosome  n.  A small mass of differentiated cytoplasm containing the
 centriole.   centrosomic adj.



 centrosphere  n.  1. The mass of cytoplasm surrounding the centriole in a
 centrosome. 2. The central core of the earth.



 centrum  n. pl. -trums  or -tra  The major part of a vertebra, exclusive
 of the bases of the neural arch. [Lat., center.]



 centum  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or comprising the group of Indo-European
 languages that retained the velar k and the labiovelar kw of primitive
 Indo-European. [Lat., hundred (a word whose initial sound illustrates the
 preservation of Indo-European velar k.]



 centurion  n.  An officer commanding a century in the Roman army. [ME
 centurioun < OFr. centurion < Lat. centurio < centuria, century.]
 centurial adj.



 century  n. pl. -ries  1.  a. A period of 100 years. b. Each of the
 successive periods of 100 years before or since the advent of the Christian
 era. 2.  a. A unit of the Roman army originally consisting of 100 men. b.
 One of the 193 electoral divisions of the Roman people. 3. A group of 100
 things. [Lat. centuria, a group of a hundred < centum, hundred.]



 century plant  n.  Any of several fleshy plants of the genus Agave, some
 species of which bloom only once in 10 to 20 years and then die, esp. A.
 americana, having large grayish leaves and greenish flowers.



 ceorl  n.  A freeman of the lowest class in Anglo-Saxon England. [OE.]



 cephal-   Variant of cephalo-.



 cephalad  adv.  Toward the head or anterior section.



 cephalalgia  n.  Pain concentrated in the head region.



 cephalic  adj.  1. Of or relating to the head or skull. 2. Located on, in,
 or near the head. [OFr. cephalique < Lat. cephalicus < Gk. kephalikos <
 kephale, head.]   cephalically adv.



 -cephalic   -cephalous. [-cephal(ous) + -ic.]



 cephalic index  n.  The ratio of the maximum width of the head to its
 maximum length, multiplied by 100.



 cephalin  n.  A phosphatide derived from the brain and spinal cord,
 usually of cattle, and used as a hemostatic agent.



 cephalization  n.  The gradually increasing concentration of the brain and
 sensory organs in the head during animal evolution.



 cephalo- or cephal-    Head: cephalothorax.  [Lat. < Gk. kephalo- <
 kephale, head.]



 cephalochordate  adj.  Of or belonging to the subphylum Cephalochordata,
 which includes primitive forerunners of the vertebrates such as the
 lancelet.   -n. A member of the Cephalochordata. [NLat. Cephalochordata,
 subphylum name : cephalo- + Chordata, chordate phylum name.]



 cephalopod  n.  Any of various mollusks of the class Cephalopoda, such as
 an octopus or nautilus, having a beaked head, an internal shell in some
 species, and prehensile tentacles.   -adj. Of, pertaining to, or belonging
 to the Cephalopoda. [NLat. Cephalapoda, class name : cephalo- + Gk. pous,
 foot.]   cephalopodan n. adj.



 cephalosporin  n.  Any of various antibiotics produced by an imperfect
 fungus of the genus Cephalosporium.  [< NLat. Cephalosporium, genus name :
 cephalo- + spora, spore.]



 cephalothorax  n.  The anterior section of arachnids and many crustaceans,
 consisting of the fused head and thorax.



 -cephalous   Having a specified kind of head or number of heads:
 dicephalous.  [Gk. -kephalos < kephale, head.]



 -cephaly   A specified condition of the head: microcephaly.  [< Gk.
 kephale, head.]



 Cepheid  n.  Any of a class of intrinsically variable stars with
 exceptionally regular periods of light pulsation. [< Cepheus.]



 Cepheus  n.  A constellation in the Northern Hemisphere near Cassiopeia
 and Draco. [Lat. Cepheus < Gk. Kepheus.]



 ceraceous  adj.  Waxy or waxlike. [Lat. cera, wax + -aceous.]



 ceramal  n.  Cermet. [ceram(ic) + al(loy).]



 ceramic  n.  1. Any of various hard, brittle, heat-resistant and
 corrosion-resistant materials made by shaping and then firing a nonmetallic
 mineral, such as clay, at a high temperature. 2.  a. An object made of
 ceramic. b. ceramics  (used with a sing. verb). The art or technique of
 making objects of ceramic, esp. from fired clay or porcelain. [< Gk.
 keramikos, of pottery < keramos, potter's clay.]   ceramic adj.   ceramist
 n.



 cerastes  n. pl. cerastes  Any of several venomous snakes of the genus
 Cerastes, such as the horned viper. [ME < Lat. < Gk. kerastes, horned
 serpent < keras, horn.]



 cerate  n.  A hard, unctuous, fat- or wax-based solid, sometimes
 medicated, formerly applied to the skin directly or on dressings. [Lat.
 ceratum < cera, wax.]



 cerated  adj.  1. Coated with wax; waxed. 2. Possessing a cere. [< Lat.
 ceratus, p. part. of cerare, to wax < cera, wax.]



 cerato- or cerat-    Variants of kerato-.



 ceratodus  n. pl. -duses  Any of various extinct lungfishes of the genus
 Ceratodus, of the Triassic and Cretaceous periods. [NLat. Ceratodus, genus
 name : Gk. keras, horn + Gk. odous, tooth.]



 ceratoid  adj.  Hornlike.



 Cerberus  n.  Greek and Roman Mythology.  A three-headed dog guarding the
 entrance of Hades. [Lat. < Gk. Kerberos.]   Cerberean adj.



 cercaria  n. pl. -iae  or -ias  The parasitic larva of a trematode worm,
 having a tail that disappears in the adult stage. [NLat. < Gk. kerkos,
 tail.]   cercarial adj.



 cercopithecoid  adj.  Of or belonging to the family Cercopithecidae, which
 includes monkeys such as the baboons, mandrills, macaques, and langurs.
 -n. A member of the Cercopithecidae. [< NLat. Ceropithecidae, family name <
 Lat. cercopithecus, long-tailed ape < Gk. kerkopithekos : kerkos, tail +
 pithekos, ape.]



 cere
 cere(1)  tr.v. cered cering ceres   To wrap in or as if in cerecloth. [ME
 seren < OFr. cirer, to cover with wax < Lat. cerare < cera, wax.]
 cere(2)  n.  A fleshy or waxlike swelling at the base of the upper part of
 the beak in certain birds, such as parrots. [ME sere < OFr. cire < Med.
 Lat. cera < Lat., wax.]   cered adj.



 cereal  n.  1. An edible grain, such as wheat, oats, or corn. 2. A grass
 producing grain. 3. A food prepared from grain.   -adj. Of or pertaining to
 cereals. [Lat. cerealis, of grain < Ceres, Ceres.]



 cerebellum  n. pl. -bellums  or -bella  The structure of the brain
 responsible for regulation and coordination of complex voluntary muscular
 movement, lying posterior to the pons and medulla oblongata and inferior to
 the occipital lobes of the cerebral hemispheres. [Med. Lat. < Lat., dim. of
 cerebrum, brain.]   cerebellar adj.



 cerebr-   Variant of cerebro-.



 cerebral  adj.  1. Of or pertaining to the brain or cerebrum. 2. Appealing
 to or marked by the workings of the intellect; intellectually refined.
 cerebrally adv.



 cerebral cortex  n.  The extensive outer layer of gray tissue of the
 cerebral hemispheres, largely responsible for higher nervous functions.



 cerebral hemisphere  n.  Either hemisphere of the cerebrum of the brain,
 divided by the longitudinal cerebral fissure.



 cerebral palsy  n.  Impaired muscular power and coordination from brain
 damage usually occurring at or before birth.   cerebral-palsied adj.



 cerebrate  intr.v. -brated -brating -brates   To use the power of reason;
 think. [< Lat. cerebrum, brain.]   cerebration n.



 cerebro- or cerebr-    Brain; cerebrum: cerebroside.  [< cerebrum.]



 cerebroside  n.  Any of various compounds found in the brain and other
 nerve tissue, yielding on decomposition a fatty acid, an unsaturated
 amino-alcohol, and a sugar. [cerebr(o)- + -os(e) + -ide.]



 cerebrospinal  adj.  Of or pertaining to the brain and spinal cord.



 cerebrospinal fluid  n.  The serumlike fluid that bathes the lateral
 ventricles of the brain and the cavity of the spinal cord.



 cerebrospinal meningitis  n.  An acute infectious epidemic meningitis that
 is often fatal.



 cerebrovascular  adj.  Of or pertaining to the blood vessels supplying the
 brain.



 cerebrum  n. pl. -brums  or -bra  The large rounded structure of the brain
 occupying most of the cranial cavity, divided into two cerebral hemispheres
 by a deep median sagittal groove and joined at the bottom by the corpus
 callosum. [Lat., brain.]



 cerecloth  n.  Cloth coated with wax, formerly used for wrapping the dead.




 cerement  n.  Cerecloth.



 ceremonial  adj.  Of, characterized by, or involved in ceremony.   -n. 1.
 A set of ceremonies prescribed for an occasion; rite. 2. A ceremony.
 ceremonialism n.   ceremonialist n.   ceremonially adv.

      Usage: Ceremonial  (adjective) is applicable chiefly to things;
 ceremonious,  to persons and things. Ceremonial  means simply "having to do
 with ceremony": ceremonial occasions; ceremonial garb. Ceremonious,  when
 applied to a person, means "devoted to forms and ritual" or "standing on
 ceremony": ceremonious courtiers.



 ceremonious  adj.  1. Of or pertaining to a ceremony. 2. Fond of ceremony;
 elaborately polite. 3. Characterized by ceremony; rigidly formal. -See
 Usage note at ceremonial.   ceremoniously adv.   ceremoniousness n.



 ceremony  n. pl. -nies  1. A formal act or set of acts performed as
 prescribed by ritual, custom, or etiquette: a wedding ceremony.  2. A
 conventional social gesture or act without intrinsic purpose: ignored the
 ceremony of asking for comments.  3. Strict observance of formalities or
 etiquette: was welcomed with ceremony.  [ME cerimonie < Lat. caerimonia,
 religious rite.]



 Cerenkov effect  n.  The emission of light by a particle passing through a
 transparent nonconducting solid at a speed greater than the speed of light
 in that solid. [After P. A. Cerenkov (1904-1958), its discoverer.]



 Cerenkov radiation  n.  Light emitted in the Cerenkov effect.



 Ceres  n.  1.  Roman Mythology. The goddess of agriculture. 2. The first
 asteroid to be discovered, having an orbit between Mars and Saturn. [Lat.]



 cereus  n.  Any of several tall tropical American cacti esp. of the genus
 Cereus, such as the night-blooming cereus. [NLat. Cereus, genus name < Lat.
 cereus, taper (from the cacti's shape) < cera, wax.]



 ceric  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or containing cerium, esp. with valence 4.
 [cer(ium) + -ic.]



 ceric oxide  n.  A pale yellow-white powder, CeO2, used in ceramics, to
 polish glass, and to sensitize photosensitive glass.



 ceriph  n.  Chiefly British.  Variant of serif.



 cerise  n.  A deep to vivid purplish red. [Fr. < OFr., cherry. -see
 cherry.]   cerise adj.



 cerium  n.  Ce  A lustrous, iron-gray, malleable metallic rare-earth
 element that occurs chiefly in the minerals monazite and bastnaesite,
 exists in four allotropic states, is a constituent of lighter flint alloys,
 and is used in various metallurgical and nuclear applications. Atomic
 number 58; atomic weight 140.12; melting point 795 deg. C; boiling point
 3,468 deg. C; specific gravity 6.67 to 8.23; valences 3, 4. [After Ceres.]



 cermet  n.  A material consisting of processed ceramic particles bonded
 with metal and used in high-strength and high-temperature applications.
 [cer(amic) + met(al).]



 cernuous  adj.  Botany.  Hanging downward; drooping. [Lat. cernuus, bowing
 forward.]



 cero  n. pl. -ros  or cero  1. An edible fish, Scomberomorus regalis, of
 western Atlantic waters, having silvery sides and a dark-blue back. 2. The
 king mackerel. [< Sp. sierra, sawfish. -see sierra.]



 cerotic acid  n.  An acid, C25H51COOH, occurring in waxes, such as
 beeswax. [< Lat. ceratum, cerate.]



 cerotype  n.  The process of preparing a printing surface for
 electrotyping by first engraving on a wax-coated metal plate. [Gk. keros,
 wax + -type.]



 cerous  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or containing cerium, esp. with valence
 3. [cer(ium) + -ous.]



 certain  adj.  1. Definite; fixed: set aside a certain sum each week.  2.
 Sure to come or happen; inevitable: certain success.  3. Established beyond
 doubt or question; indisputable: What is certain is that every effect must
 have a cause.  4. Unfailing; dependable: a certain cure.  5. Confident;
 assured; positive. 6.  a. Not specified or identified but assumed to be
 known: a certain woman.  b. Named but not familiar or well-known: a certain
 Mr. Smith.  7. Appreciable but unspecified: a certain degree; a certain
 charm.    -pron. An indefinite but limited number; some.

       Idiom Section:  for certain. Surely; without doubt. [ME < OFr. <
 VLat. *certanus < Lat. certus, p. part. of cernere, to determine.]
 certainly adv.

      Usage: Although certain  appears to be an absolute term, it is
 frequently qualified by adverbs, as in fairly certain.  A great majority of
 the Usage Panel accepts this sentence: Nothing is more certain than an
 extremist's hatred of compromise.



 certainty  n. pl. -ties  1. The fact, quality, or state of being certain.
 2. A clearly established fact.

      Synonyms: certainty certitude assurance conviction These nouns mean
 freedom from any doubt. Certainty , the strongest, means a sure thing,
 belief in which is based on thorough examination of all evidence. Certitude
  implies a firm belief based more often on faith than on objective
 reasoning. Assurance  relates closely to certitude  and stresses as its
 foundation self-confidence, again resulting more from subjective experience
 than from objective examination. Conviction  generally implies that a prior
 doubt existed and now has been removed because one has been convinced or
 assured of the truth.




 certes  adv.  Archaic.  Certainly; truly. [ME < OFr. < cert < Lat. certus,
 certain.]



 certificate  n.  1. A document testifying to the factuality or truth of
 something: a birth certificate.  2. A document issued to a person
 completing a course of study not leading to a diploma. 3. A document
 certifying that a person may officially practice in certain professions. 4.
 A document certifying ownership.   -tr.v. -cated -cating -cates   To
 furnish with, testify to, or authorize by a certificate. [ME certificat <
 Med. Lat. certificatum < LLat. certificare, to certify.]   certificatory
 adj.



 certificate of deposit  n.  A certificate from a bank stating that the
 named person has a specified sum on deposit.



 certification  n.  1. The act of certifying. 2. The state of being
 certified. 3. A certified statement.



 certified check  n.  A check guaranteed by a bank to be covered by
 sufficient funds on deposit.



 certified mail  n.  Uninsured first-class mail whose delivery is recorded
 by having the addressee sign for it.



 certified public accountant  n.  A public accountant who has received a
 certificate stating that he has met a state's legal requirements.



 certify  v. -fied -fying -fies   -tr. 1.  a. To confirm formally as true,
 accurate, or genuine, esp. in writing. b. To guarantee as meeting a
 standard. 2. To acknowledge in writing on the face of (a check) that the
 signature of the maker is genuine and that the depositor has sufficient
 funds on deposit for its payment. 3. To declare legally insane. 4. To
 assure or make certain; tell positively. 5. To issue a license or
 certificate to. -intr. To testify: certify to the facts.  [ME certifien <
 OFr. certifier < LLat. certificare : Lat. certus, certain + Lat. facere, to
 make.]   certifiable adj.   certifiably adv.   certifier n.



 certiorari  n.  Law.  A writ from a higher court to a lower one requesting
 a transcript of the proceedings of a case for review. [ME < Lat., to be
 certified (from the word's occurrence in the writ) < certiorare, to certify
 < certion, comp. of certus, certain.]



 certitude  n.  1. The condition of being certain; complete assurance. 2.
 Inevitability. [ME < LLat. certitudo < Lat. certus, certain.]



 cerulean  adj.  Sky-blue; azure. [Lat. caeruleus, dark blue.]



 ceruloplasmin  n.  A blood glycoprotein that functions in the storage of
 copper. [cerul(ean) + plasm(a) + -in.]



 cerumen  n.  A yellowish waxy secretion of the external ear; earwax.
 [NLat. < Lat. cera, wax.]



 ceruminous gland  n.  Any of the specialized sweat glands located in the
 external auditory canal that produce cerumen. [< NLat. cerumen, cerumin-,
 cerumen.]



 ceruse  n.  White lead. [ME < OFr. < Lat. cerussa.]



 cerussite  n.  Natural lead carbonate, PbCO3, a lead ore. [G. Zerussit <
 Lat. cerussa, ceruse.]



 cervical  adj.  Of or pertaining to a neck or a cervix. [NLat. cervicalis
 < Lat. cervix, cervic-, neck.]



 cervicitis  n.  Inflammation of the cervix of the uterus.



 cervine  adj.  Pertaining to, resembling, or characteristic of a deer.
 [Lat. cervinus < cervus, deer.]



 cervix  n. pl. cervixes  or cervices  1. The neck. 2. A neck-shaped
 anatomical structure, such as the narrow outer end of the uterus. [Lat.
 cervix, cervic- neck.]



 Cesarean or Cesarian   adj.  -n. Variants of Caesarean.



 cesium or caesium   n.  Cs  A soft, silvery-white ductile metal, liquid at
 room temperature, the most electropositive and alkaline of the elements,
 used in photoelectric cells and to catalyze hydrogenation of some organic
 compounds. Atomic number 55; atomic weight 132.905; melting point 28.5 deg.
 C; boiling point 690 deg. C; specific gravity 1.87; valence 1. [NLat. <
 Lat. caesius, bluish gray (from its blue spectral lines).]



 cespitose or caespitose   adj.  Growing in dense tufts or turflike clumps;
 matted. [NLat. caespitosus < Lat. caespes, turf.]   cespitosely adv.



 cess
 cess(1)  n.  A tax; levy. [Alteration of obs. assess, assessment < assess.]

 cess(2)  n.  Irish.  Luck: Bad cess to you!  [Poss. short for success.]



 cessation  n.  The act or fact of ceasing; halt. [ME cessacioun < OFr. <
 Lat. cessatio < cessare, to stop. -see cease.]



 cession  n.  1. An act of ceding or surrendering, as of territory to
 another country by treaty. 2. A ceded territory. [ME < OFr. < Lat. cessio <
 cedere, to yield.]



 cessionary  n. pl. -ies  One to whom a cession is made; assignee.



 cesspit  n.  A cesspool. [cess(pool) + pit.]



 cesspool  n.  A covered hole or pit for receiving waste or sewage. [Perh.
 alteration of obs. cesperalle, drainpipe < ME suspiral < OFr. souspiral,
 breathing hole < souspirer, to breathe < Lat. suspirare, to sigh. -see
 suspire.]



 cestode  n.  A flatworm of the class Cestoda, which includes the
 tapeworms. [NLat. Cestoda, class name < Lat. cestus, belt < Gk. kestos.]



 cestus
 cestus(1)  n. pl. -ti  A belt or girdle. [Lat., belt < Gk. kestos.]
 cestus(2)  n. pl. -tuses  A covering for the hand, made of leather straps
 weighted with iron or lead, worn by ancient Roman boxers. [Lat. caestus <
 caedere, to strike.]



 cesura  n.  Variant of caesura.



 cetacean  adj.  Of or belonging to the order Cetacea, which includes
 fishlike aquatic mammals such as the whale and porpoise.   -n. An aquatic
 mammal of the order Cetacea. [< NLat. Cetacea, order name < Lat. cetus,
 whale < Gk. ketos.]



 cetaceous  adj.  Cetacean. [Lat. cetus, whale (< Gk. ketos) + -aceous.]



 cetane  n.  A colorless liquid, C16H34, used as a solvent and in
 standardized hydrocarbons. [Lat. cetus, whale (so called because it is
 found in sperm whale oil) + -ane.]



 cetane number or cetane rating   n.  The performance rating of a diesel
 fuel, expressed as the percentage of cetane that must be mixed with liquid
 methylnaphthalene to produce the same ignition performance as the diesel
 fuel being rated.



 ceteris paribus  adv.  With all other factors or things being the same.
 [NLat, with other things equal.]



 cetology  n.  The zoology of whales and related aquatic mammals. [Lat.
 cetus, whale (< Gk. ketos) + -logy.]   cetological adj.   cetologist n.



 Cetus  n.  A constellation in the equatorial region of the Southern
 Hemisphere near Aquarius and Eridanus. [Lat. cetus, whale < Gk. ketos.]



 cetyl alcohol  n.  A waxy alcohol, C15H34O, used in cosmetics and
 pharmaceuticals. [Lat. cetus, whale + -yl.]



 Ceylon moss  n.  A red seaweed, Gracilaria lichenoides, of the East
 Indies, used for making agar. [After Ceylon, former name of Sri Lanka.]



 Cf   The symbol for the element californium.



 Chablis  n.  A very dry white Burgundy wine. [After Chablis, France.]



 cha-cha  n.  A rhythmic ballroom dance that originated in Latin America.
 -intr.v.-chaed -chaing -chas   To dance the cha-cha. [Sp. (Carribean)
 chachacha.]



 chacma  n.  A grayish-black baboon, Chaeropithecus ursinus (or Papio
 ursinus ), of southern and eastern Africa. [Hottentot.]



 chaconne  n.  1. A slow and stately dance of the 18th century. 2. The
 music for the chaconne. 3. A musical form consisting of variations based on
 a reiterated harmonic pattern. [Fr. < chacona, a kind of dance.]



 chad  n.  The small pieces of paper that result from the formation of
 holes in a punched tape or data card. [Orig. unknown.]   chadless adj.



 chaeta  n. pl. -tae  Zoology.  A bristle or seta of certain worms. [NLat.
 < Gk. khaite, long hair.]



 chaetognath  n.  Any of various marine worms of the phylum Chaetognatha,
 which includes the arrow worms. [NLat. Chaetognatha, phylum name : chaeta +
 Gk. gnathos, jaw.]



 chafe  v. chafed chafing chafes   -tr. 1. To wear away or irritate by
 rubbing. 2. To annoy; vex. 3. To heat or warm by rubbing. -intr. 1. To
 cause friction; rub. 2. To become worn or sore from rubbing. 3. To be or
 become annoyed: chafe at the delay.    -n. 1. Warmth, wear, or soreness
 produced by friction. 2. Annoyance; irritation; vexation. [ME chafen < OFr.
 chaufer, to warm < VLat. *calefare, alteration of Lat. calefacere : calere,
 to be warm + facere, to make.]



 chafer  n.  Any of various beetles of the family Scarabaeidae, such as a
 cockchafer. [ME, a kind of beetle < OE ceafer.]



 chaff
 chaff(1)  n.  1. The husks of grain after separation from the seed. 2.
 Finely cut straw or hay used as fodder. 3. Trivial or worthless matter. 4.
 Strips of metal foil released in the atmosphere to inhibit radar. [ME chaf
 < OE ceaf.]
 chaff(2)   tr.& intr.v.chaffed, chaffing, chaffs.To subject to or engage in
 good-natured teasing.  n.  Good-natured teasing; banter. [Perh. var. of
 chafe.]   chaffer n.



 chaffer  v. -fered -fering -fers   -intr. 1. To bandy words. 2.  Obsolete.
 To bargain or haggle. -tr. 1. To bargain or haggle for. 2.  Obsolete. To
 barter.   -n. Obsolete.  1. A bargaining or haggling. 2. A buying and
 selling; trade. [ME chaffaren < chaffare, bargaining : chep, trade (< OE
 ceap) + fare, business < OE faru.]   chafferer n.



 chaffinch  n.  A small European songbird, Fringilla coelebs, having
 predominantly reddish-brown plumage. [ME chaffinche : chaf, chaff, husk +
 finch, finch.]



 chafing dish  n.  A dish set above a heating device, used to cook or
 maintain the warmth of food at the table.



 Chagas disease  n.  A South American form of trypanosomiasis caused by the
 protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi.  [After Carlos Chagas (1879-1934).]



 chagrin  n.  A feeling of embarrassment or humiliation caused by failure
 or disappointment.   -tr.v.-grined -grining -grins   To cause to feel
 chagrin; humiliate. [Fr. < chagrin, distressed.]



 chain  n.  1. A connected, flexible series of links, usually of metal,
 used for binding, connecting, transmitting motion, or other purposes. 2.
 Something that restrains or confines. 3. chains  Bonds, fetters, or
 shackles. 4. chains  Captivity or oppression; bondage. 5. A series of
 connected or related things: a chain of coincidences.  6. A number of
 establishments, such as stores or theaters, under common ownership or
 management. 7. A mountain range. 8.  Chemistry. A group of atoms bonded in
 a spatial configuration resembling a chain. 9.  a. A measuring instrument
 for surveying, consisting of 100 linked pieces of iron or steel. b. A unit
 of length, equal to 100 links or 66 feet. 10.  a. A measuring instrument
 used in engineering. b. A unit of length, equal to 100 feet.
 -tr.v.chained chaining chains   1. To bind or make fast with a chain or
 chains. 2. To bind or fetter; confine. [ME chaine < OFr. < Lat. catena.]



 Chain-A-Matic   A trademark for a balance with an adjustable calibrated
 chain suspended from the beam.



 chain gang  n.  A group of convicts chained together.



 chain letter  n.  A letter instructing the recipient to send out multiple
 copies so that its circulation increases in a geometrical progression as
 long as the instructions are followed.



 chain mail  n.  Flexible armor of joined metal links or scales.



 chainman  n.  Either of the two persons who hold a surveyor's measuring
 chain.



 chain pump  n.  A pump that lifts water by means of containers, attached
 to an endless chain, that pass under water and up over a wheel.



 chain-react  intr.v. -acted -acting -acts   To undergo a chain reaction.



 chain-reacting pile  n.  A nuclear reactor.



 chain reaction  n.  1. A series of events each of which induces or
 influences its successor. 2.  Physics. A multistage nuclear reaction, esp.
 a self-sustaining series of fissions in which the average number of
 neutrons produced per unit of time exceeds the number absorbed or lost. 3.
 Chemistry. A series of reactions in which one product of a reacting set is
 a reactant in the following set.



 chain saw  n.  A power saw with teeth linked in an endless chain.



 chain-smoke  v. -smoked -smoking -smokes   -intr. To smoke cigarettes or
 cigars in continuing succession. -tr. To smoke (cigarettes or cigars) in
 continuing succession.   chain smoker n.



 chain stitch  n.  A decorative stitch in which loops are connected like
 the links of a chain.



 chain store  n.  One of a number of retail stores under the same
 ownership.



 chair  n.  1. A piece of furniture consisting of a seat, legs, back, and
 often arms, designed to accommodate one person. 2. A seat of office,
 authority, or dignity, as that of a bishop. 3.  a. The office or position
 of a person having authority. b. A person who holds such an office or
 position, esp. one who presides over a meeting. 4.  Slang. The electric
 chair. 5. A seat carried about on poles; sedan chair. 6. A metal block for
 supporting and holding railroad track in position.   -tr.v.chaired chairing
 chairs   1. To put or seat in a chair. 2. To install in a position of
 authority, esp. as a presiding officer. 3. To preside over (a meeting). 4.
 Chiefly British. To carry (a person) aloft in triumph, usually in a chair.
 [ME chaiere < OFr. < Lat. cathedra. -see cathedra.]



 chair car  n.  A parlor car.



 chair lift  n.  A cable-suspended, power-driven chair assembly used to
 transport people up or down mountains.



 chairman  n.  1. One who presides over an assembly, meeting, committee, or
 board. 2. One who carries or wheels others in a chair.   -tr.v.-manned
 -manning -mans   To act as chairman of.



 chairmanship  n.  The office or term of a chairman.



 chairperson  n.  A person who presides over an assembly, meeting,
 committee, or board.



 chairwoman  n.  A woman who presides over an assembly, meeting, committee,
 or board.



 chaise  n.  1. Any of various light, open carriages, often with a
 collapsible hood, esp. a two-wheeled carriage drawn by one horse. 2. A post
 chaise. [Fr., chair, alteration of OFr. chaiere. -see chair.]



 chaise longue  n. pl. chaise longues  or chaises longues  A reclining
 chair with a seat long enough to support the outstretched legs of the
 sitter. [Fr. : chaise, chair + longue, long.]



 chakra  n.  One of the seven centers of spiritual energy in the human body
 according to yoga philosophy. [Skt. cakram, wheel.]



 chalah  n.  Variant of challah.



 chalaza  n. pl. -zae  or -zas  1.  Zoology. One of two spiral bands of
 tissue in an egg, connecting the yolk to the lining membrane. 2.  Botany.
 The part of an ovule that is opposite the micropyle and that serves as a
 point of attachment for the integuments and the nucellus. [Gk. khalaza,
 hailstone.]



 chalazion  n.  A small hard tumor of the eyelid. [NLat. < Gk. khalazion,
 dim. of khalaza, hard lump.]



 chalcedony or calcedony   n. pl. -nies  A translucent to transparent milky
 or grayish quartz with distinctive microscopic crystals arranged in slender
 fibers in parallel bands. [ME calcedoine < LLat. chalcedonius < Gk.
 khalkedon, a mystical stone, perh. < Khalkedon, an ancient town in Asia
 Minor.]   chalcedonic adj.



 chalcid  n.  Any of various minute wasps of the superfamily Chalcidoidea,
 of which the larvae of many species are parasitic on the larval stages of
 other insects. [< NLat. Chalcis, genus name < Gk. khalkos, copper (from the
 wasp's metallic color).]



 chalcocite  n.  An important copper ore, essentially CuS2. [Alteration of
 obs. chalcosine : Gk. khalkos, copper.]



 chalcopyrite  n.  An important copper ore, essentially CuFeS2. [Gk.
 khalkos, copper + pyrites.]



 chalcosis  n.  Copper poisoning, sometimes with the formation of copper
 deposits in the tissues. [Gk. khalkos, copper + -osis.]



 Chaldean
 Chaldaean or Chaldee    n.  1. A member of an ancient Semitic people who
 ruled in Babylonia. 2. The Semitic language of the Chaldeans. 3. A person
 versed in occult learning. [< Lat. Chaldaeus < Gk. Khaldaios < Khaldaia,
 Chaldea, a region of ancient Babylonia.]   Chaldaic n. adj.   Chaldean adj.




 Chaldee  n.  Variant of Chaldean.



 chaldron  n.  A unit of dry measure, as for coal, equal to 32 to 36
 bushels, formerly used in England. [OFr. chauderon < chaudiere, kettle <
 LLat. caldaria. -see caldron.]



 chalet  n.  1. A dwelling with a gently sloping overhanging roof, common
 in Switzerland and other Alpine regions. 2. The hut of a herdsman in the
 Alps. [Fr.]



 chalice  n.  1. A cup or goblet. 2. A cup for the consecrated wine of the
 Eucharist. 3. A cup-shaped blossom. [ME < OFr. < Lat. calix.]



 chalicosis  n.  Pneumoconiosis caused by the inhalation of stone dust.
 [Gk. khalix, khalik-, pebble + -osis.]



 chalicothere  n.  Any of various extinct ungulate mammals of the Eocene to
 Pleistocene epochs, having distinctive three-clawed, three-toed feet.
 [NLat. Chalicotherium, genus name : Gk. khalix, stone + Gk. therion, dim.
 of ther, beast.]



 chalk  n.  1. A soft, compact calcium carbonate, CaCO3, with varying
 amounts of silica, quartz, feldspar, or other mineral impurities, generally
 gray-white or yellow-white and derived chiefly from fossil seashells. 2. A
 piece of chalk or chalklike substance, frequently colored, used for marking
 on a blackboard or other surface. 3. A mark or picture made with chalk. 4.
 A reckoning, as of credit given; tally.   -tr.v.chalked chalking chalks
 1. To mark, draw, or write with chalk. 2. To smear or cover with chalk. 3.
 To make pale; whiten. 4. To treat (soil, for example) with chalk. Phrasal
 verb.  chalk up. 1. To earn or score: chalk up points.  2. To credit: Chalk
 that up to experience.  [ME < OE cealk < Lat. calx, lime. -see calx.]
 chalkiness n.   chalky adj.



 chalkboard  n.  A panel, usually green or black, for writing on with
 chalk; blackboard.



 chalkstone  n.  Pathology.  A tophus.



 chalk talk  n.  A lecture, often informal, illustrated with diagrams
 chalked on a blackboard.



 challah or chalah   n.  A loaf of yeast-leavened, white egg bread, usually
 braided, traditionally eaten by Jews on the Sabbath, holidays, and
 ceremonial occasions. [Heb. hallah.]



 challenge  n.  1. A call to engage in a contest or fight. 2. A demand for
 an explanation; a calling into question. 3. A sentry's call for
 identification. 4. The quality of requiring full use of one's abilities,
 energy, or resources: a career that offers a challenge.  5. A claim that a
 vote is invalid or that a voter is unqualified. 6.  Law. A formal
 objection, esp. to the qualifications of a juror or jury.   -v.-lenged
 -lenging -lenges   -tr. 1. To call to engage in a contest or fight. 2. To
 take exception to; dispute: challenged the statements.  3. To order to halt
 and be identified. 4.  Law. To take formal objection to (a juror, for
 example). 5. To question the qualifications or validity of. 6. To have due
 claim to; call for. 7. To summon to action, effort, or use; stimulate: a
 problem that challenges the imagination.  -intr. 1. To make or give voice
 to a challenge. 2. To begin barking upon picking up the scent, as hunting
 dogs. [ME chalenge < OFr. < chalanger, to accuse < Lat. calumniari, to
 accuse falsely < calumnia, calumny < calvi, to deceive.]   challengeable
 adj.   challenger n.



 challis  n.  A light clothing fabric made of wool, cotton, or rayon.
 [Poss. < the surname Challis.]



 chalone  n.  A hormone that inhibits a metabolic process. [< Gk. khalon,
 pr.part. of khalan, to slacken.]



 chalybeate  adj.  1. Impregnated with or containing salts of iron. 2.
 Tasting like iron, as mineral-spring water.   -n. Water or medicine
 containing iron in solution. [NLat. chalybeatus < Lat. chalybs, steel < Gk.
 khalups < Khalups, Chalybes, a people of Asia Minor famous for their
 steel.]



 cham  n.  Archaic.  A Tatar or Mogul khan. [Fr. < Turk khan.]



 Chamaeleon or Chameleon   n.  A constellation in the southern polar region
 near Apus and Mensa. [Lat. chamaeleon, chameleon.]



 chamaephyte  n.  A perennial plant that has its winter buds placed very
 close to the soil surface. [Gk. khamai, on the ground + -phyte.]



 chamber  n.  1.  a. A room in a house, esp. a bedroom. b. chambers
 Chiefly British. A suite of rooms; apartment. 2. chambers  A judge's
 office. 3. A room in a palace or official residence where an important
 personage receives visitors. 4. A hall for the meeting of an assembly, esp.
 a legislative assembly. 5. A legislative, judicial, or deliberative
 assembly. 6. A board or council. 7. A place where governmental funds are
 received and held; treasury. 8. An enclosed space or compartment; cavity.
 9.  a. An enclosed space at the bore of a gun that holds the charge. b. The
 part of a cylinder of a revolver that receives the cartridge.
 -tr.v.-bered -bering -bers   1. To put in or as if in a chamber; enclose;
 confine. 2. To furnish with a chamber. [ME chaumbre < OFr. < LLat. camera,
 chamber < Lat., vault < Gk. kamara.]



 chambered nautilus  n.  A cephalopod mollusk, Nautilus pompilius, of the
 Pacific and Indian oceans, having a coiled and partitioned shell lined with
 a pearly layer.



 chamberlain  n.  1. An official who manages the household of a sovereign
 or nobleman; chief steward. 2. A high-ranking officer in various royal
 courts. 3. An official who receives the rents and fees of a municipality;
 treasurer. 4.  Roman Catholic Chruch.  An often honorary papal attendant.
 [ME chaumberlein < OFr. chamberlene < LLat. camera, chamber.]



 chambermaid  n.  A maid who cleans and cares for bedrooms, as in hotels.



 chamber music  n.  Music appropriate for performance in a private room or
 small concert hall and composed for a group of instruments such as a trio
 or quartet.



 chamber of commerce  n.  An association of businessmen and merchants for
 the promotion of business interests in the community.



 chamber pot  n.  A portable vessel used as a toilet.



 chambray  n.  A fine, lightweight type of gingham woven with white threads
 across a colored warp. [After Cambrai, France.]



 chameleon  n.  1. Any of various tropical Old World lizards of the family
 Chamaeleonidae, characterized by their ability to change color. 2. The
 anole. 3. A changeable or inconstant person. 4. Chameleon  Variant of
 Chamaeleon. [ME camelioun < Lat. chamaeleon < Gk. khamaileon : khamai, on
 the ground + leon, lion.]   chameleonic adj.



 chamfer  tr.v. -fered -fering -fers   1. To cut off the edge or corner of;
 bevel. 2. To cut a groove in; flute.   -n. 1. A flat surface made by
 cutting off the edge or corner of something. 2. A furrow or groove, as in a
 column. [Prob. ult. < OFr. chanfreindre : chant, edge + fraindre, to break
 < Lat. frangere.]



 chamfron  n.  Medieval armor for the front of a horse's head. [ME shamfron
 < OFr. chanfrein.]



 chamiso  n. pl. -sos  A shrub, Adenostoma fasciculatum, of California,
 having clusters of small white flowers and forming dense thickets. [Sp.
 chamiza, wild brush < chamizo, dry brush gathered for firewood.]



 chamois  n. pl. chamois  or -mies  1. A hoofed mammal, Rupricapra
 rupricapra, of mountainous regions of Europe, having upright horns with
 backward-hooked tips. 2. chammy -mies  The soft leather made from the hide
 of the chamois or other animals such as deer or sheep. 3. Moderate to
 grayish yellow.   -tr.v.-oised -oising -oises   1. To dress or prepare like
 chamois. 2. To polish or dry with chamois leather. [OFr.]



 chamomile or camomile   n.  1. Any of various plants of the genus
 Anthemis, esp. A. nobilis, an aromatic plant native to Eurasia, having
 finely dissected leaves and white flowers. 2. Any of several similar plants
 of the genus Matricaria, esp. M. chamomilla.  [ME camomille < LLat.
 chamomilla < Lat. chamaemelon < Gk. khamaimelon : khamai, on the ground +
 melon, apple.]



 champ or chomp
 champ(1)  v. champed champing champs  or chomped  or chomping  or chomps
 -tr. 1. To bite upon with restlessness or impatience. 2. To chew upon
 noisily. 3.  Scots. To crush or trample. -intr. To work the jaws and teeth
 vigorously.   -n. The act of chewing or biting vigorously.

       Idiom Section:  champ at the bit. . To be impatient. [Perh. imit.]
 champ(2)  n.  Informal.  A champion.



 champagne  n.  1.  a. A sparkling white wine produced in Champagne, a
 region of France. b. A similar wine made elsewhere. 2. Pale orange yellow
 to grayish yellow or yellowish gray.



 champaign  n.  Level and open country; a plain.   -adj. Pertaining to or
 like champaign; level and open. [ME champain < OFr. champaigne < LLat.
 campania, open country. -see campaign.]



 champak or champac   n.  A tree, Michelia champaca, of India and the East
 Indies, that has yellow flowers and yields a camphorlike substance and an
 oil used in perfumes. [Hindi campak < Skt. campakah.]



 champerty  n. pl. -ties  Law.  An illegal sharing in the proceeds of a
 lawsuit by an outside party who has promoted the litigation. [ME champartie
 < OFr. champart, the lord's share of the tenant's crop : champ, field (<
 Lat. campus) + part, share (< Lat. pars).]   champertous adj.



 champignon  n.  An edible mushroom, esp. the common species Agaricus
 campestris.  [Fr. < OFr. champigneul, prob. ult. < Lat. campus, field.]



 champion  n.  1. One that holds first place or wins first prize in a
 contest, esp. in sports. 2. One that defends, fights for, or supports a
 cause or another person. 3. One who fights; warrior.   -tr.v.-oned -oning
 -ons   1. To fight as champion of; defend; support:  championed the
 government and defended the system of taxation (Samuel Chew). 2.  Obsolete.
 To defy or challenge.   -adj. Holding first place or prize; superior to all
 others. [ME champioun < OFr. champion < Med. Lat. campio.]



 championship  n.  1. The position or title of a champion. 2. Defense or
 support; advocacy. 3. A competition or series of competitions held to
 determine a winner.



 chance  n.  1.  a. The abstract nature or quality shared by unexpected,
 random, or unpredictable events; contingency. b. This quality regarded as
 causing or deciding such events; luck. 2. The likelihood of occurrence of
 an event; probability. 3.  a. An unexpected, random, or unpredicted event.
 b. A fortuitous event. 4.  a. An opportunity. b. A risk or hazard; gamble.
 c. A raffle or lottery ticket. 5.  Baseball. An opportunity to make a
 putout or an assist that counts as an error if unsuccessful.   -adj. 1.
 Happening unexpectedly: a chance meeting with an old friend.  2. Determined
 or marked by whim or caprice; arbitrary.   -v.chanced chancing chances
 -intr. To happen by chance; occur by accident. -tr. To take the risk or
 hazard of. Phrasal verb.  chance on upon. To find or meet accidentally;
 happen upon. [ME, unexpected event < OFr. < VLat. *cadentia < Lat. cadere,
 to happen.]

      Synonyms: chance random casual haphazard desultory These
 adjectives apply to what lacks purposefulness or method. Chance  implies
 total absence of design or predictability: my chance meeting with a friend.
 Random  applies to things that happen to occur or be selected without the
 aid of a governing mind or design. Casual  suggests lack of deliberation or
 formality; haphazard , a carelessness or a willful leaving to chance; and
 desultory , an absence of relation among things in a series.




 chanceful  adj.  1. Full of chance; eventful. 2.  Archaic. Dependent upon
 chance. 3.  Obsolete. Risky; dangerous.



 chancel  n.  The often enclosed space around the altar of a church for the
 clergy and choir. [ME chauncel < OFr. chancel < Lat. Cancelli, lattice <
 cancer.]



 chancellery  n. pl. -ies  1. The rank or position of a chancellor. 2.  a.
 The office or department of a chancellor. b. The building in which it is
 located. 3. The official place of business of an embassy or consulate. [ME
 chancelrie < OFr. chancelerie < chancelier, chancellor.]



 chancellor  n.  1. Any of various officials of high rank, esp.: a. A
 secretary to a king or nobleman. b.  Chiefly British. The chief secretary
 of an embassy. c. The chief minister of state in some European countries.
 2.  Chiefly British.  a. The honorary or titular head of a university. b.
 The president of certain American universities. 3. The presiding judge of a
 court of chancery or equity in some states of the United States. [ME
 chaunceler < OFr. chancelier < LLat. cancellarius, doorkeeper < Lat.
 cancelli, lattice. -see cancel.]   chancellorship n.



 Chancellor of the Exchequer  n.  The highest minister of finance in the
 British government and a member of the cabinet.



 chance-medley  n.  1.  Law. A sudden quarrel resulting in an
 unpremeditated homicide. 2. A random or haphazard action. [ME chaunce
 medley < Norman Fr. chance medlee, mixed chance.]



 chancery  n. pl. -ies  1.  a. A court with jurisdiction in equity as
 distinguished from one with jurisdiction in common law. b. The proceedings
 and practice of a court of chancery; equity. 2. A court of public record;
 an office of archives. 3. One of the five divisions of the High Court of
 Justice of Great Britain, presided over by the Lord High Chancellor. 4. A
 chancellery.

       Idiom Section:  in chancery. 1.  Law. In litigation or pending in a
 court of chancery. 2. With the head locked firmly in a wrestling opponent's
 arm and held against his chest. 3.  Informal. In an embarrassing or
 hopeless predicament. [ME chauncerie < OFr. chancelerie, chancellery <
 chancelier, chancellery.]



 chancre  n.  1. A dull-red, hard, insensitive lesion that is the first
 manifestation of syphilis. 2. An ulcer located at the initial point of
 entry of a pathogen. [Fr. < Lat. cancer, ulcer.]



 chancroid  n.  A soft, nonsyphilitic, usually venereal lesion of the
 genital region. [Fr. chancroide: chancre, chancre + -oide, -oid.]
 chancrous adj.   chancroidal adj.



 chancy  adj. -ier -iest   1. Uncertain, as to outcome; risky; hazardous.
 2.  Scots. Lucky; propitious.



 chandelier  n.  A branched fixture that holds a number of light bulbs or
 candles and is usually suspended from a ceiling. [Fr. < OFr., prob < VLat.
 *candelarum < Lat. candelabrum, candelabrum. -see candelabrum.]



 chandelle  n.  A sudden, steep climbing turn of an aircraft, executed to
 alter flight direction and gain altitude simultaneously. [Fr. < chandelle,
 candle < OFr. -see chandler.]



 chandler  n.  1. A person who makes or sells candles. 2. A dealer in
 specified goods or equipment: a ship chandler.  [ME chaundeler < OFr.
 chandelier < chandelle, candle < Lat. candela. -see candle.]



 Chandler Wobble or Chandler's Wobble   n.  An oscillation in the
 rotational axis of the earth having a period of approximately 14 months.
 [After Seth C. Chandler (1846-1913).]



 chandlery  n. pl. -ies  1. The stock or business of a chandler. 2. A place
 where candles are stored.



 change  v. changed changing changes   -tr. 1.  a. To cause to be
 different; alter: changed the spelling of a word.  b. To give a completely
 different form or appearance to; transform: irrigation that changed the
 desert to fertile land.  2. To give and receive reciprocally; interchange:
 Will you change places with me?  3. To exchange for or replace by another,
 usually of the same kind or category: change one's name.  4. To lay aside,
 abandon, or leave for another; switch: change methods; change planes.  5.
 To give or receive the equivalent of (money) in lower denominations or in
 foreign currency. 6. To put fresh clothes or coverings on: change a bed.
 -intr. 1. To become different or altered: changed as he matured.  2. To go
 from one phase to another, as the moon. 3. To make an exchange. 4. To
 transfer from one vehicle to another: changed in Chicago on his way to the
 coast.  5. To put on other clothing: changed for dinner.  6. To become
 deeper in tone. Used of the voice. Phrasal verb.  change off. 1. To
 alternate with another person in performing a task. 2. To perform two tasks
 at once by alternating or a single task by alternate means.   -n. 1.  a.
 The act, process or result of changing; alteration or modification: a face
 that had undergone change with age.  b. The replacing of one thing for
 another; substitution: went to Arizona for a change of atmosphere.  2. A
 transition from one state, condition, or phase to another: the change of
 seasons.  3. Something different; variety: ate early for a change.  4. A
 different or fresh set of clothing. 5.  a. Money of smaller denomination
 given or received in exchange for money of higher denomination. b. The
 balance of money returned when an amount given is more than what is due. c.
 Coins: change jingling in his pocket.  6.  Music. A pattern or order in
 which bells are rung. 7. A market or exchange where business is transacted.

       Idiom Section:  change hands. . To pass from one owner to another.
 change (one's) mind. . To reverse an opinion or a decision. [ME chaungen <
 Norman Fr. chaunger < OFr. changier < LLat. cambiare, prob. of Celtic
 orig.]   changer n.   changeless adj.

      Synonyms: change alter vary modify transform
 convert transmute These verbs mean to make or become different. Change
 implies a fundamental difference or a substitution of one thing for
 another: change his mind; change trains. Alter  usually means to make less
 of a difference or adjustment. Vary  implies shifting circumstances or
 conditions that cause differences with some regularity. Modify  can mean to
 restrict, limit, or qualify, and sometimes to make less extreme. Transform
 refers to complete change in outer form or appearance and often also in
 character and function. Convert  can refer to moderate change designed to
 adapt something to new use or different conditions, to chemical change, to
 change in belief or doctrine, or to the exchange of something for
 equivalent value, either in the same form (convert dollars into pounds)  or
 a different form (convert real estate into cash). Transmute  suggests
 almost magical basic change that elevates something in value.




 changeable  adj.  1. Liable to change; capricious: changeable moods.  2.
 Capable of being altered: changeable behavior.  3. Changing color or
 appearance when seen from different angles: changeable taffeta.
 changeability  changeableness n.   changeably adv.



 changeful  adj.  Having the tendency or ability to change; variable.
 changefully adv.   changefulness n.



 changeling  n.  1. A child secretly exchanged for another. 2.  Archaic. A
 changeable, fickle person. 3.  Archaic. A simple-minded person; idiot.



 change of life  n.  The menopause.



 changeover  n.  A conversion to a different purpose or from one system to
 another, esp. in equipment or production techniques.



 change ringing  n.  The ringing of a set of chimes or bells with every
 possible unrepeated variation.



 channel
 channel(1)  n.  1. The bed of a stream or river. 2. The deeper part of a
 river or harbor, esp. a deep navigable passage. 3. A broad strait: the
 English Channel.  4. A tubular passage for liquids. 5. A course or passage
 through which something may be moved or directed: a channel of thought.  6.
 channels  Official routes of communication. 7.  Electronics. A specified
 frequency band for the transmission and reception of electromagnetic
 signals, as for television signals. 8. A trench, furrow, or groove. 9. A
 rolled metal bar with a bracket-shaped section.   -tr.v.-neled -neling
 -nels  or -nelled  or -nelling  or -nels   1. To make or cut channels in.
 2. To form a channel or flute in. 3. To direct or guide along some desired
 course: channels her curiosity into research.  [ME chanel < OFr. < Lat.
 canalis.]
 channel(2)  n.  Nautical.  A wood or steel ledge projecting from a sailing
 ship's sides to spread the shrouds and keep them clear of the gunwales.
 [Alteration of obs. chainwale : chain + wale.]



 channel bass  n.  The red drum.



 channel black  n.  A finely divided carbon black, formed on iron plate by
 direct exposure to a natural gas flame and used in inks, paints, typewriter
 ribbons, crayons, and polishes. [< channel1.]



 channel-lag deposit  n.  The residue that is deposited in a channel as a
 stream runs its natural course.



 chanson  n. pl. -sons  A song, esp. a French cabaret song. [Fr. < OFr. <
 Lat. cantio < cantare, to sing. -see chantage.]



 chanson de geste  n. pl. chansons de geste  A genre of Old French epic
 poem falling into cycles of poems celebrating the deeds of heroic or
 historical figures. [Fr.: chanson, song + de, of + geste, heroic exploit.]



 chant  n.  1.  a. A short, simple melody in which a number of syllables or
 words are sung on the same note. b. A psalm or canticle sung in this
 manner. 2. A song or melody. 3. A monotonous rhythmic call or shout: the
 chant of the crowd at the rally.    -v.chanted chanting chants   -tr. 1. To
 sing or intone to a chant. 2. To celebrate in song. 3. To say in the manner
 of a chant. -intr. 1. To sing, esp. in the manner of a chant. 2. To speak
 monotonously. [Prob. < Fr., song < OFr. < Lat. cantus < canere, to sing.]
 chantingly adv.



 chantage  n.  Blackmail. [Fr. < chanter, to sing < OFr. < Lat. cantare,
 freq. of canere.]



 chanter  n.  1. A person who chants, as a chorister. 2. A priest who sings
 in a chantry. 3. The pipe of a bagpipe on which the melody is played.



 chanterelle  n.  An edible yellow mushroom, Cantharellus cibarius, having
 a pleasant fruity odor. [Fr. < NLat. cantharellus, dim. of Lat. cantharus,
 cup (from the mushroom's shape) < Gk. kantharos.]



 chanteuse  n.  A woman singer, esp. a nightclub singer. [Fr., fem. of
 chanteur, singer < chanter, to sing. -see chantage.]



 chantey or chanty   n. pl. -teys  or -ties  A song sung by sailors to the
 rhythm of their movements while working. [Prob. < Fr. chantez, imper. of
 chanter, to sing. -see chantage.]



 chanticleer  n.  A rooster. [ME chauntecler < OFr. chantecler : chanter,
 to sing + cler, clear < Lat. clarus.]



 chantry  n. pl. -tries  Ecclesiastical.  1. An endowment to cover expenses
 for the saying of masses and prayers, usually for the soul of the founder
 of the endowment. 2. An altar or chapel endowed for the saying of masses
 and prayers. [ME chaunterie < OFr. < chanter, to sing. -see chantage.]



 chanty  n.  Variant of chantey.



 Chanukah  n.  An eight-day Jewish festival beginning on the 25th day of
 the month of Kislev and commemorating the victory of the Maccabees over the
 Syrians in 165  B.C.  and the rededication of the Temple at Jerusalem.
 [Heb. hanukkah, consecration.]



 chao  n. pl. chao  See table at currency.



 chaos  n.  1. A condition or place of total disorder or confusion:
 emotions in complete chaos.  2. Chaos  The disordered state of unformed
 matter and infinite space supposed by some religious cosmological views to
 have existed prior to the ordered universe. 3.  Obsolete. A vast abyss or
 chasm. [Lat., formless matter < Gk. khaos.]   chaotic adj.   chaotically
 adv.



 chap
 chap(1)  v. chapped chapping chaps   -tr. To cause (the skin) to split or
 roughen, esp. as a result of cold or exposure: The north wind chapped her
 lips.  -intr. To split or become rough and sore: He has skin that chaps
 easily.    -n. A sore roughening or splitting of the skin, caused esp. by
 cold or exposure. [ME chappen.]
 chap(2)  n.  1.  Informal. A man or boy; fellow. 2.  Chiefly British.
 Regional. A customer; purchaser. [Short for chapman.]



 chaparejos or chaparajos   pl.n.  Southwestern U.S.  Chaps. [Mex. Sp.
 chaparreras, chaps.]



 chaparral  n.  A dense thicket of shrubs and small trees, esp. in the
 southwestern United States and Mexico. [Sp. < chaparro, evergreen oak <
 Basque txapar, dim. of saphar, thicket.]



 chaparral cock  n.  The roadrunner.



 chaparral pea  n.  A thorny shrub, Pickeringia montana, of California,
 having showy reddish-purple flowers and forming dense thickets.



 chapbook  n.  A small book or pamphlet containing poems, ballads, stories,
 or religious tracts. [chap(man) + book, so called because it was originally
 sold by chapmen.]



 chape  n.  A metal tip or mounting on a scabbard or sheath. [ME < OFr.,
 covering < LLat. cappa.]



 chapeau  n. pl. -peaux  or -peaus  A hat. [Fr. < OFr. chapel < Med. Lat.
 cappellus < LLat. cappa.]



 chapel  n.  1. A place of worship that is smaller than and subordinate to
 a church. 2. A place of worship in a college, hospital, or other
 institution. 3. The services held at a chapel. 4. A recess or room in a
 church set apart for special or small services. 5. A place of worship for
 those not connected with or not members of an established church. 6. A
 choir or orchestra connected with a chapel or royal court. 7.  a. An
 association of workers in a print shop. b.  Obsolete. A printing house or
 print shop. [ME chapele < OFr. < Med. Lat. capella, chapel, cape (from a
 shrine containing the cape of St. Martin of Tours), dim. of cappa, cloak.]



 chaperon or chaperone   n.  1. A person, esp. an older or married woman,
 who accompanies a young unmarried woman in public. 2. An older person who
 attends and supervises a social gathering for young people.   -tr.v.-oned
 -oning -ons   To act as chaperon to or for. [Fr. < chaperon, hood < OFr. <
 chape, covering. -see chape.]   chaperonage n.



 chapfallen or chopfallen   adj.  In low spirits; dejected; disheartened.
 [< obs. chaps, alteration of chops.]



 chapiter  n.  Architecture.  The capital of a column. [ME chapitre,
 chapter, chapiter < OFr. < chapitle < Lat. capitulum, dim. of caput, head.]




 chaplain  n.  1. A clergyman attached to a chapel. 2. A clergyman or
 layman who conducts religious services for a legislative assembly or other
 organization. 3. A clergyman attached to a military unit. [ME chapelein <
 OFr. chapelain < Med. Lat. cappellanus < capella, chapel. -see chapel.]
 chaplaincy  chaplainship n.



 chaplet  n.  1. A wreath or garland for the head. 2.  Roman Catholic
 Chruch.  a. A string of prayer beads with one third the number of a
 rosary's beads. b. The prayers counted on such beads. 3. A string of beads.
 4.  Architecture. A small molding carved so that it resembles a string of
 beads. [ME chapelet < OFr., dim. of chapel, hat. -see chapeau.]   chapleted
 adj.



 chapman  n.  1.  Chiefly British. A peddler. 2.  Archaic. A dealer or
 merchant. [ME < OE ceapman : ceap, trade (ult. < Lat. caupo, tradesman) +
 man < OE mann.]



 chaps  pl.n.  Heavy leather trousers without a seat, worn over ordinary
 trousers by cowboys to protect their legs. [Short for Mex. Sp.
 chaparreras.]



 chapter  n.  1. One of the main divisions of a book or other writing,
 usually numbered or titled. 2. A period or sequence of events, as in
 history or a person's life, that marks a distinct change of pattern. 3. A
 local branch of a club, fraternity, or other organization. 4.
 Ecclesiastical.  a. An assembly of the canons of a church. b. The canons
 collectively. 5.  Ecclesiastical. An assembly of the members or
 representatives of a religious house, community, or order. 6. A meeting of
 society or order. 7. A short Scriptural passage read after the psalms in
 certain church services. [ME chapitre, chapter, chapiter. -see chapiter.]



 chapter house  n.  1. A building in which the chapter of a cathedral or
 monastery assembles. 2. A house in which a chapter of a fraternity or
 sorority lives and holds its meetings.



 char
 char(1)  tr.  -intr.v.charred charring chars   1. To scorch or become
 scorched. 2. To reduce or become reduced to charcoal by incomplete
 combustion.   -n. A substance that has been charred. [Back-formation <
 charcoal.]
 char(2)  n. pl. char  or chars  charr  or charrs   Any of several fishes of
 the genus Salvelinus, related to the trout, esp. the widely distributed
 species S. alpinus.  [Orig. unknown.]
 char(3)  n.  1. A chore or odd job, esp. a household task. 2. A charwoman.
  -intr.v.charred charring chars   1. To do small jobs, tasks, or chores. 2.
 To work as a charwoman. [ME, a piece of work < OE cierr, a turning.]



 charabanc  n.  Chiefly British.  A large bus, often used for sightseeing.
 [Fr. char a bancs : char, carriage + a, with + bancs, benches.]



 characin or characid   n.  Any of numerous chiefly tropical freshwater
 fishes of the family Characidae, many of which are popular aquarium fishes.
 [NLat. Characinidae, former family name < Gk. kharax, a kind of fish.]



 character  n.  1. The combination of qualities or features that
 distinguishes one person, group, or thing from another. 2. A distinguishing
 feature or attribute; characteristic. 3. The combined moral or ethical
 structure of a person or group. 4. Moral or ethical strength; integrity;
 fortitude. 5. Public estimation of someone; reputation. 6. Status,
 capacity, or role: in his character as a father.  7.  Informal. A person
 who is peculiar or eccentric. 8. An important, influential person;
 personage. 9. A person portrayed in a drama, novel, or other artistic
 piece. 10. A description of a person's attributes, traits, or abilities.
 11. A formal written statement as to competency and dependability, given by
 an employer to a former employee; recommendation. 12. A symbol or mark used
 in a writing system. 13.  Computer Science.  a. One of a set of symbols, as
 letters or numbers, arranged to express information. b. The multi-bit code
 representing such a character. 14. A style of printing or writing. 15. A
 symbol used in secret writing; a cipher or code. 16.  Genetics. A
 structure, function, or attribute determined by a gene or group of genes.
 -adj. 1. Capable of acting in roles that emphasize traits markedly
 different from those of the performer himself: a character actor.  2. Of or
 calling for the abilities of a character actor: a character part.
 -tr.v.-tered -tering -ters   1. To write, print, engrave, or inscribe. 2.
 Archaic. To portray, describe, or represent.

       Idiom Section:  in out ofcharacter. . Consistent (or not consistent)
 with someone's general character or behavior. [ME carecter < Lat. character
 < Gk. kharakter < kharassein, to inscribe.]



 characteristic  adj.  Pertaining to, indicating, or constituting a
 distinctive character, quality, or disposition; typical: the characteristic
 quiet of the countryside.    -n. 1. A distinguishing feature or attribute.
 2.  Mathematics. The integral part of a logarithm as distinguished from the
 mantissa: 6 is the characteristic of the logarithm 6.3214.
 characteristically adv.



 characterization  n.  1. The act of characterizing. 2. A description or
 representation of a person's qualities or peculiarities. 3. The creation or
 delineation of a character or characters on the stage or in writing, esp.
 by imitating or describing actions, gestures, or speeches.



 characterize  tr.v. -ized -izing -izes   1. To describe the qualities or
 peculiarities of: characterized him as ruthless.  2. To be a distinguishing
 trait or mark of: a novel characterized by its humor.    characterizer n.



 charactery  n. pl. -ies  A system of characters or symbols used to express
 or convey thought and meaning.



 charade  n.  1.  a. charades  A game in which words or phrases are
 represented in pantomime, sometimes syllable by syllable, until they are
 guessed by the other players. b. An episode in this game or the word so
 represented. 2. A pretense that is readily perceived; travesty. [Fr.]



 charbroil  tr.v. -broiled -broiling -broils   To broil over charcoal:
 charbroil a steak.  [char1 + broil.]



 charcoal  n.  1. A black, porous carbonaceous material produced by the
 destructive distillation of wood and used as a fuel, filter, and absorbent.
 2. A drawing pencil or crayon made from charcoal. 3. A drawing executed
 with a charcoal pencil or crayon. 4. A dark grayish brown to black or dark
 purplish gray.   -tr.v.-coaled -coaling -coals   To draw, write, or blacken
 with charcoal. [ME charcol.]



 charcoal rot  n.  A disease of plants that is caused by a fungus,
 Macrophomina phaseoli, and results in black, decayed tissue.



 Charcot's disease  n.  Multiple sclerosis.



 chard  n.  A variety of beet, Beta vulgaris cicla, that has large,
 succulent leaves used as a vegetable. [Fr. carde < OProv. cardon, cardoon.
 -see cardoon.]



 charge  v. charged charging charges   -tr. 1. To entrust with a duty,
 responsibility, or obligation: charged her with the task of supervising the
 beginners.  2. To instruct, command, or urge authoritatively: charged him
 not to reveal the source of information.  3. To blame, accuse, or impute
 something to: charged him with the crime.  4. To set or ask (a given
 amount) as a price: charges ten dollars for a haircut.  5. To hold
 financially liable; demand payment from: charged her for the balance due.
 6. To postpone payment on (a service or purchase) by recording as a debt:
 charging a new coat.  7. To attack violently. 8.  a. To direct or put (a
 weapon) into position for use. b. To load (a gun or other firearm). 9. To
 instruct (a jury) about legal parts and the weight of evidence. Used of a
 judge. 10.  Electricity.  a. To cause formation of a net electric charge on
 or in (a conductor, for example). b. To energize (a storage battery). 11.
 a. To furnish or fill to capacity: an argument charged with emotion.  b. To
 cause to be saturated; impregnate: The air was charged with perfume.  12.
 To place a heraldic bearing on. -intr. 1. To rush forward in or as if in a
 violent attack. 2. To demand or ask payment: charged for the x-rays.  3. To
 make an entry to one's debit. Phrasal verb.  charge off. To consider as a
 loss.   -n. 1. Care, custody, or supervision: the scientist in charge of
 the experiment.  2. An obligation or responsibility. 3. Someone or
 something entrusted to one's care or management. 4. An order, command, or
 injunction. 5. Instruction given by a judge to a jury about such matters as
 legal points and the weight of evidence. 6. An accusation or indictment: a
 charge of conspiracy to defraud.  7.  a. Expense; cost. b. The price set or
 asked for something: no charge for window-shopping.  8. A financial burden,
 as a tax or lien. 9. A debt or an entry in an account recording a debt:
 paying cash or is this a charge?  10.  a. A rushing, forceful attack. b.
 The command to attack. 11.  Informal.  A feeling of pleasant excitement;
 thrill: got a real charge out of the movie.  12. The maximum quantity that
 an apparatus or container can hold at one time. 13. A quantity of explosive
 to be set off at one time. 14.  a. The intrinsic property of matter
 responsible for all electric phenomena, in particular for the force of the
 electromagnetic interaction, occurring in two forms arbitrarily designated
 negative and positive.  b. A measure of this property. c. By extension, the
 net measure of this property possessed by a body or contained in a bounded
 region of space. 15. A heraldic bearing or figure. [ME < OFr. chargier, to
 load < LLat. carricare < Lat. carrus, cart, of Celtic orig.]



 chargeable  adj.  1. Suitable to be charged, as to an account. 2. Liable
 to be accused or indicted.   chargeableness n.



 charge account  n.  A business arrangement of credit in which the customer
 receives purchases or services prior to payment.



 charge conjugation  n.  1. A mathematical operator that changes the sign
 of the charge and of the magnetic moment of every particle in the system to
 which it is applied. 2. The theoretical conversion of matter to antimatter
 or of antimatter to matter.



 charge d'affaires  n. pl. charges d'affaires  1. A governmental official
 temporarily placed in charge of diplomatic affairs while the ambassador or
 minister is absent. 2. A diplomatic representative of the lowest rank,
 accredited by his government to the minister of foreign affairs of another.
 [Fr. : charge, charged + d'affaires, with affairs.]



 charge density  n.  The electric charge per unit area or per unit volume
 of a body or of a region of space.



 charger
 charger(1)  n.  1. One that charges. 2. A horse trained for battle; cavalry
 horse. 3. An instrument that charges or replenishes storage batteries.
 charger(2)  n.  Archaic.  A large, shallow dish; platter. [ME chargeour <
 OFr. < chargier, to load. -see charge.]



 chariness  n.  1. The quality of being chary; carefulness; frugality. 2.
 Obsolete. Strict integrity.



 chariot  n.  1. An ancient horse-drawn two-wheeled vehicle used in war,
 races, and processions. 2. A light four-wheeled carriage used for occasions
 of ceremony or for pleasure.   -tr. -intr.v.-oted -oting -ots   To convey
 or ride in a chariot. [ME < OFr. charriote < char, cart < Lat. carrus, of
 Celtic orig.]



 charioteer  n.  1. A person who drives a chariot. 2. Charioteer  Auriga.



 charisma or charism   n. pl. -mata  or -isms  1.  a. A rare quality or
 power attributed to those persons who have demonstrated an exceptional
 ability for winning the devotion of large numbers of people. b. A special
 quality of personal magnetism or charm. 2.  Theology. A divinely inspired
 gift or power, such as the ability to perform miracles. [Gk. kharisma,
 divine gift < kharizesthai, to favor < kharis, favor.]



 charismatic  adj.  1. Of, relating to, or characterized by charisma. 2.
 Of, relating to, or being a Christian religious movement that emphasizes
 divinely inspired powers or gifts, as of healing or prophecy.   -n. A
 member of a charismatic group or movement.



 charitable  adj.  1. Generous in giving money or other help to the needy.
 2. Mild or tolerant in judging others; lenient. 3. Of, for, or concerned
 with charity: a charitable organization.    charitableness n.   charitably
 adv.



 charity  n. pl. -ties  1. The provision of help or relief to the poor;
 almsgiving. 2. Something that is given to help the needy; alms. 3. An
 institution, organization, or fund established to help the needy. 4. An act
 or feeling of benevolence, good will, or affection. 5. Indulgence or
 forbearance in judging others; leniency. 6.  Theology.  a. The benevolence
 of God toward man. b. The love of man for his fellow men; brotherly love.
 [ME charite < OFr., Christian love < Lat. caritas, affection < carus,
 dear.]



 charivari or chivaree   n. pl. -ris  or -rees  A noisy mock serenade to
 newlyweds. [Fr. < LLat. caribaria, headache < Gk. karebaria : kare, head +
 barus, heavy.]



 charkha or charka   n.  In India, a spinning wheel, esp. one used for
 cotton. [Hindi carkha.]



 charlatan  n.  A person who claims to possess knowledge or skill that he
 does not have; quack. [Fr. < Ital. ciarlatano, perh. < ciarlare, to
 prattle.]   charlatanic charlatanical  adj.   charlatanism  charlatanry n.



 Charles's law  n.  The physical law that the volume of a fixed mass of gas
 held at a constant pressure varies directly with the absolute temperature.
 [After Jacques Charles (1746-1823), its formulator.]



 Charles's Wain  n.  The Big Dipper. [After Charlemagne (742-814).]



 Charleston  n.  A fast dance in 4/4 time, popular during the 1920's.
 [After Charleston, South Carolina.]



 charley horse  n.  Informal.  A cramp or stiffness of various muscles in
 the body, esp. in the arm or leg, caused by injury or excessive exertion.
 [Orig. unknown.]



 charlock  n.  A weedy plant, Brassica kaber, native to Eurasia, having
 hairy stems, foliage, and yellow flowers. [ME cherlok < OE cerlic.]



 charlotte  n.  A dessert consisting of a mold of sponge cake or bread with
 a filling, as of fruits, whipped cream, or custard. [Fr.< Charlotte,
 Charlotte.]



 charlotte russe  n.  A cold dessert of Bavarian cream set in a mold lined
 with ladyfingers. [Fr. : charlotte, charlotte + russe, Russian.]



 charm  n.  1. The power or quality of pleasing, attracting, or
 fascinating. 2. A particular quality or feature that fascinates or
 attracts:  The charm of friendship is liberty (Gibbon). 3. A trinket or
 small ornament worn on a bracelet or other jewelry. 4. Something worn for
 its supposed magical effect, as in warding off evil; amulet. 5. An action
 or formula thought to have magical power. 6. The chanting of a magic word
 or verse; incantation. 7.  Physics.  A quantum property of one of the
 quarks whose conservation explains the absence of certain strange-particle
 decay modes and that accounts for the longevity of the J particle.
 -v.charmed charming charms   -tr. 1. To attract or delight greatly or
 irresistibly; fascinate. 2. To act upon with or as if with magic; bewitch.
 -intr. 1. To be alluring or pleasing. 2. To act as an amulet or charm. 3.
 To employ spells. [ME charme, magic spell < OFr. < Lat. carmen,
 incantation.]   charmingly adv.



 charmer  n.  1. A person, esp. an attractive woman, who charms or has the
 power to charm. 2. A sorcerer.



 charmonium  n.  Any of various elementary particles consisting of a charm
 quark and antiquark. [< charm.]



 charnel  n.  A charnel house.   -adj. Resembling, suggesting, or suitable
 for receiving the dead. [ME < OFr. < LLat. carnale < Lat. caro, flesh.]



 charnel house  n.  A building, room, or vault in which the bones or bodies
 of the dead are placed.



 Charon  n.  Greek Mythology.  The ferryman who conveyed the dead to Hades
 over the river Styx. [Lat. < Gk. Kharon.]



 charqui  n.  Jerky2. [Sp. < Quechua ch'arki.]



 charr  n.  Variant of char2.



 chart  n.  1. A map showing coastlines, water depths, or other information
 of use to navigators. 2. An outline map on which special information, as
 weather data, can be plotted. 3. A sheet presenting information in the form
 of graphs or tables. 4. A graph (sense 2).   -tr.v.charted charting charts
  1. To make a chart of. 2. To plan in detail. [OFr. charte < Lat. charta,
 papyrus leaf. -see card1.]



 chartaceous  adj.  Resembling paper; papery. [LLat. chartaceus < Lat.
 charta, papyrus leaf. -see card1.]



 charter  n.  1. A document issued by a sovereign, legislature, or other
 authority, creating a public or private corporation, as a city, college, or
 bank, and defining its privileges and purposes. 2. A written grant from the
 sovereign power of a country conferring certain rights and privileges upon
 a person, a corporation, or the people. 3. A document outlining the
 principles, functions, and organization of a corporate body; constitution.
 4. An authorization from a central organization to establish a local branch
 or chapter. 5. A special privilege or immunity. 6. A contract for the
 commercial leasing of a vessel or space on a vessel. 7. The hiring or
 leasing of an aircraft, vessel, or other vehicle. 8. A written instrument
 given as evidence of agreement, transfer, or contract; deed.   -tr.v.-tered
 -tering -ters   1. To grant a charter to; establish by charter. 2. To hire
 or lease by charter. 3. To hire (a vehicle). [ME chartre < OFr. < Lat.
 chartula, dim. of charta, papyrus leaf. -see card1.]   charterer n.



 chartered accountant  n.  Chiefly British.  A member of one of the
 institutes of accountants granted a royal charter.



 charterhouse  n.  A Carthusian monastery. [By folk ety. < OFr. chartrouse.
 -see chartreuse.]



 charter member  n.  An original member or founder of an organization.



 Chartism  n.  The principles and practices of a party of social and
 political reformers, chiefly workingmen, active in England from 1838 to
 1848.



 chartist  n.  1. A stock-market specialist who uses charts and graphic
 records to interpret market action, predict trends, or forecast price
 movements of individual stocks. 2. Chartist  An advocate of Chartism.



 chartreuse  n.  A strong to brilliant greenish yellow to moderate or
 strong yellow green. [< Chartreuse.]   chartreuse adj.



 Chartreuse   A trademark for a green or yellow liqueur.



 chartreusin  n.  An antibiotic, C18H18O18, effective against some
 Gram-positive microorganisms and derived from a strain of Streptomyces
 chartreusis.  [NLat. chartreusis, specific epithet of Streptomyces
 chartreusis + -in.]



 chartulary  n.  Variant of cartulary.



 charwoman  n.  Chiefly British.  A woman hired to do cleaning or similar
 work, usually in a large building.



 chary  adj. -ier -iest   1. Very cautious; wary: chary of the risks
 involved.  2. Shy: chary of meeting people.  3. Not giving or expending
 freely; sparing: chary of compliments.  [ME chari, diligent < OE cearig,
 sorrowful.]   charily adv.



 Charybdis  n.  Greek Mythology.  A whirlpool off the Sicilian coast,
 opposite the cave of Scylla. [Lat. < Gk. Kharubdis.]



 chase
 chase(1)  v. chased chasing chases   -tr. 1. To pursue in order to catch or
 overtake. 2. To follow (game) in order to capture or kill; hunt. 3. To
 follow earnestly or regularly: chasing one foolish scheme after another.
 4. To put to flight; drive: chased the dog away.  -intr. 1. To go or follow
 in pursuit. 2.  Informal. To go hurriedly; rush: chased all over looking
 for us.    -n. 1. The act of chasing; pursuit. 2.  a. the chase  The sport
 of hunting. b. Something that is hunted or pursued; quarry. 3.  Chiefly
 British.  a. A privately owned, unenclosed game preserve. b. The right to
 hunt or keep game on the land of others. [ME chacen, to hunt < OFr. chacier
 < Lat. captare. -see catch.]
 chase(2)  n.  Printing.  A rectangular steel or iron frame into which pages
 or columns of type are locked for printing or plate making. [Perh. < Fr.
 chasse, case < Lat. capsa.]
 chase(3)  n.  1.  a. A groove cut in an object; slot: the chase for the
 quarrel on a crossbow.  b. A trench or channel for drainpipes or wiring. c.
 A longitudinal groove for a tenon or tongue. 2. The part of a gun in front
 of the trunnions.   -tr.v.chased chasing chases   1. To decorate (metal) by
 engraving or embossing. 2.  a. To groove; indent. b. To cut (the thread of
 a screw). [Perh. < OFr. chas, enclosure < Lat. capsa, box.]



 chaser
 chaser(1)  n.  1. One that chases or pursues. 2.  Informal. A drink, as of
 beer, taken after hard liquor.
 chaser(2)  n.  1. One who decorates metal by engraving or embossing. 2. A
 steel tool for cutting or finishing screw threads.



 chasm  n.  1. A deep cleft or crack in the earth's surface. 2. A sudden
 interruption of continuity; gap. 3. A pronounced difference of opinion,
 interests, or loyalty. [Lat. chasma < Gk. khasma.]   chasmal adj.



 chasse  n.  A dance movement consisting of one or more quick, gliding
 steps with the same foot always leading.   -intr.v.-sed -seing -ses   To
 make or perform a chasse. [Fr. < chasser, to chase < OFr. chacier. -see
 chase1.]



 chassepot  n.  A type of breech-loading rifle introduced into the French
 army in 1866. [Fr., after Antoine Chassepot (1833-1905), its inventor.]



 chasseur  n.  1. A soldier, esp. one of certain light cavalry or infantry
 troops trained for rapid maneuvers. 2. A huntsman. 3. A uniformed footman.
 [Fr. < OFr. chaceor < chacier, to pursue. -see chase1.]



 Chassid  n. pl. Chassidim  A member of a sect of Jewish mystics founded in
 Poland about 1750 in opposition to the formalistic Judaism of the period
 and to ritual laxity. [Heb. hasidh, pious.]   Chassidic adj.   Chassidism
 n.



 chassis  n. pl. chassis  1. The rectangular steel frame, supported on
 springs and attached to the axles, that holds the body and motor of an
 automotive vehicle. 2. The landing gear of an aircraft, including the
 wheels, floats, and other structures that support the aircraft on land or
 water. 3. The frame on which a casement gun carriage moves forward and
 backward. 4. The framework to which the functioning parts of a radio,
 television, phonograph, or other electronic equipment are attached. [Fr.
 chassis < OFr. < VLat. *capsicium < Lat. capsa, box.]



 chaste  adj. chaster chastest   1. Morally pure in thought and conduct;
 decent; modest. 2.  a. Not having experienced sexual intercourse; virginal.
 b. Abstaining from unlawful sexual intercourse. c. Abstaining from sexual
 intercourse; celibate. 3. Pure or simple design or style; not ornate or
 extreme. [ME < OFr. < Lat. castus.]   chastely adv.   chasteness n.



 chasten  tr.v. -tened -tening -tens   1. To punish, either physically or
 morally; chastise. 2. To restrain; moderate. 3. To refine; purify: chasten
 one's writing style.  [Alteration of obs. chaste < ME chasten < OFr.
 chastiier, chastiss- < Lat. castigare < castus, pure.]   chastener n.



 chastise  tr.v. -tised -tising -tises   1. To punish, usually by beating.
 2. To criticize severely. 3.  Archaic. To purify. [ME chastisen < OFr.
 chastiier, chastiss-, to chasten.]   chastisable adj.   chastisement n.
 chastiser n.



 chastity  n.  1. The state or quality of being chaste or pure. 2.  a.
 Virginity. b. Virtuousness. c. Celibacy. [ME chastite < OFr. chastete <
 Lat. castitas < castus, pure.]



 chastity belt  n.  A device worn by medieval women to prevent sexual
 intercourse.



 chasuble  n.  A long, sleeveless vestment worn over the alb by a priest at
 Mass. [Fr. < OFr. < LLat. casubla, hooded garment.]



 chat  intr.v. chatted chatting chats   To converse in an easy, informal,
 or familiar manner.   -n. 1. An informal or familiar conversation. 2. Any
 of several birds known for their chattering call, as of the genera Saxicola
 or Icteria.  [ME chatten, to jabber, short for chateren.]



 chateau or chateau   n. pl. -teaux  1. A French castle or manor house. 2.
 A large country house. [Fr. chateau < OFr. chastel < Lat. castellum,
 castle. -see castle.]



 Chateaubriand or chateaubriand   n.  1. A double-thick tender center cut
 of beef tenderloin. 2. A cut of Chateaubriand in which a pocket is cut and
 filled with various seasonings before grilling. [After Vicomte de
 Chateaubriand, Francois Rene (1768-1848).]



 chatelain  n.  The keeper of a castle; castellan. [ME chatelein < OFr.
 chastelain < Lat. castellanus < castellum, castle. -see castle.]



 chatelaine  n.  1.  a. The mistress of a castle or chateau. b. The
 mistress of a large, fashionable household. 2. A clasp or chain worn at the
 waist for holding keys, a purse, or a watch. [Fr. chatelaine, fem. of
 chatelain, chatelain < OFr. chastelain.]



 chatoyancy  n.  The state or quality of being chatoyant.



 chatoyant  adj.  Having a changeable luster.   -n. A chatoyant stone or
 gemstone, such as the cat's-eye. [Fr., pr.part. of chatoyer, to shimmer <
 chat, cat.]



 chattel  n.  1. An article of personal, movable property. 2. A slave. [ME
 chatel, property < OFr. < Med. Lat. capitale. -see cattle.]



 chattel mortgage  n.  A mortgage on personal property as security for an
 obligation or debt.



 chatter  v. -tered -tering -ters   -intr. 1. To utter a rapid series of
 short, inarticulate, speechlike sounds: birds chattering in the trees.  2.
 To talk rapidly, incessantly, and on a trivial subject; jabber. 3. To click
 quickly and repeatedly: teeth chattering from the cold; machine guns
 chattering in the distance.  4. To vibrate or rattle while in operation, as
 a power tool. -tr. To utter in a rapid and aimless way.   -n. 1. Idle or
 trivial talk. 2. The sharp, rapid sounds made by some birds and animals. 3.
 A series of quick rattling or clicking sounds. [ME chateren.]   chatterer
 n.



 chatterbox  n.  An extremely talkative person.



 chatter mark or chattermark   n.  1. A riblike marking on wood or metal,
 caused by vibration of a cutting tool. 2.  Geology. One of a series of
 short scars on a glaciated rock surface.



 chatty  adj. -tier -tiest   1. Given to informal conversation. 2.
 Informal; familiar: a chatty letter-writing style.    chattily adv.
 chattiness n.



 chaudfroid  n.  1. A jellied white or brown sauce used as an aspic for
 cold meats or fish. 2. Molded cold meat or fish dishes garnished with a
 chaudfroid sauce. [Fr. : chaud, hot + froid, cold.]



 chauffeur  n.  One employed to drive a private automobile.   -v.-feured
 -feuring -feurs   -tr. 1. To serve as a driver for (someone). 2. To convey
 as a chauffeur does: chauffeured the guests around town.  -intr. To serve
 as a chauffeur. [Fr., stoker < chauffer, to heat < OFr. chaufer. -see
 chafe.]



 chaulmoogra  n.  Any of several trees of tropical Asia, esp. Taraktogenos
 kurzii and those of the genus Hydnocarpus, having seeds that yield an oil
 used in treating leprosy. [Bengali caulmugra : caul, rice + mugra, hemp.]



 chaunt  n.  -v. Archaic.  Variant of chant.



 chausses  pl.n.  Medieval armor of mail for the legs and feet. [ME chauces
 < OFr. < Lat. calceus, shoe.]



 chauvinism  n.  1. Militant devotion to and glorification of one's
 country; fanatical patriotism. 2. Prejudiced belief in the superiority of
 one's own group: male chauvinism.  [Fr. chauvinisme, after Nicholas
 Chauvin, a legendary French soldier.]   chauvinist n.   chauvinistic adj.
 chauvinistically adv.



 chaw  Regional.  intr.  -tr.v.chawed chawing chaws   To chew.   -n. A
 chew. [Var. of chew.]



 chayote  n.  1. A tropical American vine, Sechium edule, bearing edible
 squashlike fruit. 2. The fruit of the chayote. [Sp. < Nahuatl chayotli.]



 chazan or chazzen   n.  A cantor in a synagogue. [Heb. hazzan.]



 cheap  adj. -er -est   1. Relatively low in cost; inexpensive or
 comparatively inexpensive. 2. Charging low prices: a cheap restaurant.  3.
 Requiring little effort: a cheap victory.  4. Of or considered of small
 value: Life was very cheap.  5. Of poor quality; inferior. 6. Not worthy of
 respect; vulgar: cheap jokes.  7. Stingy; miserly. 8. Econ.  a. Obtainable
 at a low rate of interest. b. Devalued, as in buying power: cheap dollars.
   -adv. Inexpensively. [< ME chep, price, purchase < OE ceap, trade < Lat.
 caupo, tradesman.]   cheaply adv.   cheapness n.



 cheapen  v. -ened -ening -ens   -tr. 1. To make cheap or cheaper. 2. To
 deprecate, disparage, or belittle. -intr. To become cheap or cheaper.
 cheapener n.



 cheap shot  n.  An unjust action or statement directed esp. at a
 vulnerable target, as a public figure.



 cheapskate or cheap skate   n.  Slang.  A stingy person; miser.



 cheat  v. cheated cheating cheats   -tr. 1. To deceive by trickery;
 swindle. 2. To mislead; fool. 3. To deprive by trickery; defraud: cheated
 the Indians of their land.  4. To elude; escape: cheat death.  -intr. 1. To
 act dishonestly; practice fraud. 2.  Informal. To be sexually unfaithful:
 cheating on his wife.    -n. 1. A fraud or swindle. 2. A swindler. 3.  Law.
 The fraudulent acquisition of another's property. 4. A grass, Bromus
 secalinus, having rough blades and wheatlike ears. [ME cheten, to
 confiscate, short for acheten, var. of escheten < eschete, escheat. -see
 escheat.]   cheater n.   cheatingly adv.



 check  n.  1. An abrupt halt or stop. 2. A restraint or control: kept a
 check on his impulses.  3. One that restrains or controls. 4. Supervised
 control, as of accuracy or efficiency. 5. A standard of comparison to
 verify accuracy; test. 6. A mark to show verification or approval. 7. A
 ticket or slip of identification: a baggage check.  8. A bill at a
 restaurant or bar. 9. A chip or counter used in gambling games. 10. A
 written order to a bank to pay the amount specified from funds on deposit;
 draft. 11.  a. A pattern of small squares, as on a chessboard. b. One of
 the squares of such a pattern. c. A fabric patterned with such squares. 12.
 A small crack or chink. 13.  a. A move in chess that directly attacks an
 opponent's king but does not constitute a checkmate. b. The position or
 tactical condition of a king so attacked. 14. The act of impeding an
 opponent in control of the puck in ice hockey, either by blocking his
 progress with the body or by jabbing at the puck with the stick.   -interj.
 1. Used to declare to a chess opponent that his king is in check. 2.
 Informal. Used to express agreement or understanding.   -v.checked checking
 checks   -tr. 1. To arrest the motion of abruptly; halt. 2. To hold in
 restraint; curb: check an impulse.  3. To slow the growth of; retard. 4. To
 rebuke; rebuff. 5. To test or examine, as for accuracy or efficiency;
 verify; investigate. 6. To put a check mark on or next to: checked off each
 item on the list.  7. To deposit for temporary safekeeping: check your hat.
  8. To make cracks or chinks in. 9. To move in chess so as to put (an
 opponent's king) under direct attack. 10. To impede an opponent in control
 of the puck in ice hockey, either by using the body to block the opponent
 or by jabbing at the puck with the hockey stick. -intr. 1. To come to an
 abrupt halt; stop. 2. To have item-for-item correspondence; agree. 3. To
 make an examination or investigation to determine accuracy or verification:
 phoned to check on his departure time.  4. To write a check on a bank
 account. 5. To undergo cracking in a pattern of checks, as paint. 6. To
 pause to relocate a scent. Used of hunting dogs. 7. To place a chess
 opponent's king in check. 8. In falconry, to abandon the proper game and
 follow baser prey. Phrasal verb.  check in. To register, as at a hotel.
 check out. 1. To leave after going through a required procedure, as after
 paying a hotel bill. 2. To take after a recording procedure: check out
 books from the library.

       Idiom Section:  in check. . Under restraint; in control. [ME chek,
 check in chess < OFr. eschec < Ar. shah < Pers., king, king in chess.]
 checkable adj.



 checkbook  n.  A book containing blank checks issued by a bank.



 checked  adj.  1. Having a pattern of checks or squares. 2. Held in check;
 restrained. 3. Situated in a stopped or closed syllable: a checked vowel.



 checker  n.  1.  a. checkers  (used with a sing. verb). A game played on a
 checkerboard by two players, each using 12 pieces. b. One of the round,
 flat pieces used in this game. 2.  a. A pattern of checks or squares. b.
 One of the squares in such a pattern. 3. One who checks, examines, or
 supervises. 4. One who receives items for temporary storage or safekeeping:
 a baggage checker.  5. A cashier.   -tr.v.-ered -ering -ers   1. To mark
 with a checked or squared pattern. 2. To diversify in color, shading, or
 character; variegate. [ME cheker, chessboard < OFr. eschequier < eschec,
 check in chess. -see check.]



 checkerberry  n.  1. The wintergreen. 2. The red, edible, spicy berry of
 the wintergreen. [checker, the wild service tree (dial.) + berry.]



 checkerbloom  n.  A plant, Sidalcea malvaeflora, of California, with long
 clusters of rose-pink flowers. [checker, the wild service tree (dial.) +
 bloom.]



 checkerboard  n.  A game board divided into 64 squares of two alternating
 colors on which chess and checkers are played.



 checkered  adj.  1. Divided into squares. 2. Marked by light and dark
 patches; diversified in color. 3. Marked by great changes or shifts in
 fortune: a checkered career.



 checking account  n.  A bank account in which checks may be written
 against amounts on deposit.



 check list  n.  A list in which items can be compared, scheduled,
 verified, or identified.



 checkmate  tr.v. -mated -mating -mates   1. To attack (a chess opponent's
 king) in such manner that no escape or defense is possible, thus ending the
 game. 2. To defeat completely.   -n. 1.  a. A move that constitutes an
 inescapable and indefensible attack on a chess opponent's king. b. The
 position or strategic condition of a king so attacked. 2. Utter defeat.
 -interj. Used to declare the checkmate of an opponent's king in chess. [ME
 chekmat < OFr. eschec mat < Ar. shah mat, the king is dead < Pers.]



 checkoff  n.  The collection of dues from members of a union by authorized
 deduction from their wages.



 check-out  n.  1. The act, time, or place of checking out, as at a
 supermarket, library, or hotel. 2. A test, as of a machine, for proper
 functioning. 3. An investigation or inspection.



 checkpoint  n.  A place where surface traffic is stopped for inspection.



 checkrein  n.  1. A short rein connected from a horse's bit to the saddle
 to keep a horse from lowering its head. 2. A rein joining the bit of one of
 a span of horses to the driving rein of the other horse.



 checkroom  n.  A place where hats, coats, packages, or other items can be
 stored temporarily.



 checkrow  n.  A row, as of corn, in which the distance between plants is
 the same as the distance between adjacent rows to permit cross cultivation.
   -tr.v.-rowed -rowing -rows   To plant in checkrows.



 checks and balances  pl.n.  The system of maintaining a balance of power
 between various branches of a government.



 checkup  n.  1. A thorough examination, as for verification or accuracy.
 2. A physical examination.



 Cheddar or cheddar   n.  Any of several types of smooth, hard cheese
 varying in flavor from mild to extra sharp. [After Cheddar, England.]



 cheek  n.  1. The fleshy part of either side of the face below the eye and
 between the nose and ear. 2. Something resembling the cheek in shape or
 position, as either of two sides of something. 3. Either of the buttocks.
 4. Excessive, arrogant self-confidence.   -tr.v.cheeked cheeking cheeks
 Informal.  To speak impudently to.

       Idiom Section:  cheek by jowl. . Side by side; in close contact. [ME
 cheke < OE ceace.]



 cheekbone  n.  The zygomatic bone.



 cheek pouch  n.  An enlargement in the cheeks of some rodents that
 functions as a means of carrying food.



 cheeky  adj. -ier -iest   Saucy, impudent, or brazen.   cheekily adv.
 cheekiness n.



 cheep  n.  A faint, shrill sound like that of a young bird; chirp.   -tr.
 -intr.v.cheeped cheeping cheeps   To chirp; peep. [Imit.]   cheeper n.



 cheer  n.  1. Gaiety; animation; happiness. 2. Something that gives joy or
 happiness; comfort. 3. A shout of approval, encouragement, or
 congratulation. 4. Food or drink; refreshment.   -interj.cheers   Used as a
 toast.   -v.cheered cheering cheers   -tr. 1. To make happier or more
 cheerful: a warm fire that cheered us up.  2. To encourage with or as if
 with cheers; urge: The fans cheered the runners on.  3. To salute or
 acclaim with cheers; applaud. -intr. 1. To shout cheers; applaud. 2. To
 become cheerful: had lunch and soon cheered up.  [ME chere, mood < OFr.
 chiere, face < LLat. cara < Gk. kara, head.]   cheerer n.   cheeringly adv.




 cheerful  adj.  1. Being in good spirits; happy. 2. Producing a feeling of
 cheer; pleasant: a cozy, cheerful room.  3. Willing; good-humored: cheerful
 labor.    cheerfully adv.   cheerfulness n.



 cheerio  interj.  Chiefly British.  Informal.  Used in greeting or
 parting. [< cheer.]



 cheerleader  n.  One who leads the cheering of spectators, as at a
 football game.



 cheerless  adj.  Lacking cheer; depressing.   cheerlessly adv.
 cheerlessness n.



 cheery  adj. -ier -iest   In good spirits; cheerful.   cheerily adv.
 cheeriness n.



 cheese
 cheese(1)  n.  1.  a. A solid food prepared from the pressed curd of milk,
 often seasoned and aged. b. A molded mass of this substance. 2. Something
 like cheese in shape or consistency. 3. cheeses   a. The common mallow,
 Malva rotundifolia, a creeping plant with pale-lavender or white flowers
 and flat, round, ridged fruits. b. The fruit of this plant. [ME chese < OE
 cyse < Lat. caseus.]
 cheese(2)  tr.v. cheesed cheesing cheeses   Slang.  To stop.

       Idiom Section:  cheese it. Slang.  1. Look out. 2. Get away fast;
 vamoose. [Orig. unknown.]
 cheese(3)  n.  Slang.  An important person: a big cheese.  [Perh. < Urdu
 chiz, thing < Pers.]



 cheeseburger  n.  A hamburger topped with melted cheese.



 cheesecake  n.  1. cheese cake  A cake made of sweetened cottage cheese or
 cream cheese, eggs, milk, sugar, and flavorings. 2.  Slang.  a. A
 photograph of a pretty girl scantily clothed. b. Such photographs
 collectively.



 cheesecloth  n.  A coarse, loosely woven cotton gauze, originally used for
 wrapping cheese.



 cheese-paring  n.  1. Something of little or no value. 2. Stinginess;
 parsimony.   -adj. Miserly; stingy.



 cheesy  adj. -ier -iest   1.  a. Resembling cheese. b. Containing cheese.
 2.  Slang. Of poor quality; shoddy.   cheesiness n.



 cheetah or chetah   n.  A long-legged, swift-running wild cat, Acinonyx
 jubatus, of Africa and southwestern Asia, that has black-spotted, tawny fur
 and nonretractile claws and is sometimes trained to pursue game. [Hindi
 cita < Skt. citrakaya, tiger : citra, variegated + kayah, body.]



 chef  n.  A cook, esp. the chief cook of a large kitchen staff. [Fr.,
 short for chef de cuisine, head of the kitchen.]



 chef-d'oeuvre  n. pl. chefs-d'oeuvre  A masterpiece, esp. in literature or
 art. [Fr. : chef, head + d'oeuvre, of work.]



 chef's salad  n.  A tossed green salad that usually includes raw
 vegetables, hard-boiled eggs, and julienne strips of cheese and meat.



 cheilosis  n.  Inflammation and fissuring of the lips with cracking at the
 angles of the mouth due to a deficiency of riboflavin. [Gk. kheilos, lip +
 -osis.]



 cheiro-   Variant of chiro-.



 cheiroplasty or chiroplasty   n.  Plastic surgery of the hand. [chiro- +
 -plasty.]



 chela  n. pl. -lae  A pincerlike claw of a crustacean, as of a lobster or
 crab. [NLat. < Gk. khele, claw.]



 chelate  adj.  1.  Zoology. Having or characteristic of a chela. 2.
 Chemistry. Of or pertaining to a heterocyclic ring containing a metal ion
 attached by coordinate bonds to at least two nonmetal ions in the same
 molecule.   -tr.v.-lated -lating -lates   To form a ring compound by
 joining a chelating agent to a metal ion.   chelate n.   chelation n.
 chelator n.



 chelicera  n. pl. -erae  Either of the first pair of appendages near the
 mouth of an arachnid, as a spider, often modified for grasping. [NLat. :
 chela + Gk. keras, horn.]



 cheliform  adj.  Having the shape of a chela; pincerlike.



 Chellian or Chellean   adj.  Archaeology.  Abbevillian. [After Chelles, a
 commune in France.]



 chelonian  adj.  Zoology.  Of or belonging to the order Chelonia, which
 includes the turtles and tortoises.   -n. A member of the Chelonia. [<
 NLat. Chelonia, order name < Gk. khelone, tortoise.]



 chem- or chemi-    Variants of chemo-.



 chemic  adj.  Archaic.  1. Chemical. 2. Alchemic.   -n. Obsolete.  An
 alchemist.



 chemical  adj.  1. Of or pertaining to chemistry. 2. Of or pertaining to
 the properties or actions of chemicals.   -n. A substance that is produced
 by or used in a chemical process. [Obs. chimical < chimic, alchemist <
 NLat. chimicus < Med. Lat. alchimicus < alchymia, alchemy. -see alchemy.]
 chemically adv.



 chemical bond  n.  Any of several forces or mechanisms, esp. the ionic
 bond, covalent bond, and metallic bond, by which atoms or ions are bound i
 a molecule or crystal.



 chemical engineering  n.  The technology of large-scale chemical and
 chemical materials production.   chemical engineer n.



 Chemical Mace   A trademark for a mixture of organic chemicals used in
 aerosol form as a weapon to disable with intense burning eye pain,
 blepharospasm, acute bronchitis, and respiratory irritation.



 chemical warfare  n.  Warfare using as direct weapons chemicals other than
 explosives, esp. irritants, asphyxiants, contaminants, poisons, and
 incendiaries.



 chemiluminescence  n.  The emission of light as a result of a chemical
 reaction at environmental temperatures.   chemiluminescent adj.



 chemin de fer  n.  A gambling game that is a variation of baccarat. [Fr. :
 chemin, road + de, of + fer, iron.]



 chemise  n.  1. A woman's loose, shirtlike undergarment. 2. A shift (sense
 7.a.). [ME < OFr., shirt < LLat. camisia.]



 chemisette  n.  1. A short, sleeveless bodice, formerly worn by women. 2.
 A blouse front formerly worn by women; a dickey. [Fr., dim. of chemise,
 shirt < OFr. -see chemise.]



 chemisorb or chemosorb   tr.v. -sorbed -sorbing -sorbs   To take up and
 chemically bind (a substance) on the surface of another substance. [chemi-
 + (ab)sorb.]   chemisorption n.



 chemist  n.  1. A scientist specializing in chemistry. 2.  Chiefly
 British. A pharmacist. 3.  Obsolete. An alchemist. [Obs. chimist < NLat.
 chimista < Med. Lat. alchymista, alchemist < alchymia, alchemy. -see
 alchemy.]



 chemistry  n. pl. -tries  1. The science of the composition, structure,
 properties, and reactions of matter, esp. of atomic and molecular systems.
 2. The composition, structure, properties, and reactions of a substance.



 chemo- or chemi-  or chem-    Chemicals; chemical: chemotherapy.  [NLat. <
 LGk. khemeia, alchemy. -see alchemy.]



 chemoautotroph  n.  An organism that obtains its nutritive substances
 through inorganic chemical oxidation as opposed to photosynthesis. [chemo-
 + auto- + Gk. trophos, feeder < trephein, to cause to grow.]
 chemoautotrophic adj.   chemoautotrophically adv.   chemoautotrophy n.



 chemoprophylaxis  n.  The use of chemicals to prevent infectious disease.
  chemoprophylactic adj.



 chemoreception  n.  The reaction of a sense organ to a chemical stimulus.
  chemoreceptive adj.   chemoreceptivity n.



 chemoreceptor  n.  A nerve ending or sense organ, as of smell or taste,
 sensitive to chemical stimuli.



 chemosensory  adj.  Of or pertaining to the sensory reception of a
 chemical stimulus.



 chemosmosis  n.  The phenomenon of ionic or molecular transport across a
 membrane.   chemosmotic adj.



 chemosorb  v.  Variant of chemisorb.



 chemosphere  n.  The region of the atmosphere between 20 and 120 miles
 altitude in which photochemical reactions initiated by solar radiation
 occur.



 chemosurgery  n.  The selective destruction of tissue by use of chemicals.




 chemosynthesis  n.  The synthesis of organic substances such as food
 nutrients, using the energy of chemical reactions.   chemosynthetic adj.
 chemosynthetically adv.



 chemotaxis  n.  Characteristic orientation or motion of a freely moving
 living organism relative to a chemical substance.   chemotactic adj.
 chemotactically adv.



 chemotaxonomy  n.  The classification of organisms by use of biochemical
 criteria.   chemotaxonomic adj.   chemotaxonomically adv.   chemotaxonomist
 n.



 chemotherapy  n.  The treatment of disease with chemicals.
 chemotherapeutic adj.



 chemotropism  n.  Movement or growth of an organism, esp. a plant, in
 response to chemical stimuli.   chemotropic adj.



 chemurgy  n.  The development of new industrial chemical products from
 organic raw materials, esp. from those of agricultural origin.   chemurgic
 chemurgical  adj.



 chenille  n.  1. A soft, tufted cord of silk, cotton, or worsted used in
 embroidery or for fringing. 2. Fabric made of chenille, commonly used for
 bedspreads or rugs. [Fr. chenille, caterpillar < Lat. canicula, dim. of
 canis, dog.]



 chenopod  n.  A plant of the goosefoot family, Chenopodiaceae, which
 includes spinach and beets as well as many common weeds. [NLat.
 Chenopodiaceae, family name < Chenopodium, type genus : Gk. khen, goose +
 Gk. podion, dim. of pous, foot.]



 cheque  n.  Chiefly British.  Variant of check (sense 10).



 chequer  n.  Chiefly British.  Variant of checker.



 cherimoya  n.  1. A tropical American tree, Annona cherimola, having
 yellow flowers and edible fruit with white, soft, aromatic pulp. 2. The
 fruit of the cherimoya. [Am. Sp. chirimoya < Quechua chirimuya.]



 cherish  tr.v. -ished -ishing -ishes   1. To hold dear; treat with
 affection and tenderness. 2. To keep fondly in mind; entertain: cherish a
 memory.  [ME cherishen < OFr. cherir, cheriss- < cher, dear < Lat. carus.]
  cherisher n.   cherishingly adv.



 chernozem  n.  A very black topsoil, rich in humus, typical of cool to
 temperate semiarid regions, such as the grasslands of European Russia. [R.,
 short for chernaya zemlya, black earth.]



 Cherokee  n. pl. Cherokee  or -kees  1.  a. A tribe of North American
 Indians, formerly inhabiting North Carolina and northern Georgia and now
 settled in Oklahoma. b. A member of this tribe. 2. The Iroquoian language
 of the Cherokee. [< Cherokee tsalaki.]   Cherokee adj.



 Cherokee rose  n.  A climbing rose, Rosa laevigata, of Chinese origin,
 having large, white, fragrant flowers.



 cheroot  n.  A cigar with square-cut ends. [Tamil surruttu < surul, curl.]




 cherry  n. pl. -ries  1.  a. Any of several trees of the genus Prunus,
 having small, fleshy, globe-shaped or heart-shaped fruit with a small, hard
 stone, esp. P. avium, the common sweet cherry, and P. cerasus, the sour
 cherry. b. The fruit or wood of any of these trees. 2. A moderate or strong
 red to purplish red. 3.  Vulgar.  Slang. The hymen considered as a symbol
 of virginity.   -adj. Of a moderate or strong red to purplish red. [ME
 cheri < Norman Fr. cherise, var. of OFr. cerise < Med. Lat. ceresia < Lat.
 cerasus < Gk. kerasos.]   cherry adj.



 cherry birch  n.  Blackberry.



 cherry laurel  n.  A frequently cultivated European shrub, Prunus
 laurocerasus, having evergreen foliage and white flowers.



 cherry leaf spot  n.  A disease of the cherry caused by the fungus
 Coccomyces hiemalis that hinders the growth of the tree and causes spotting
 of the leaves.



 cherry pepper  n.  The very pungent red, yellow, or purplish fruit of a
 tropical plant, Capsicum frutescens cerasiforme.



 cherry picker  n.  Any of various large, usually mobile cranes with a
 long, maneuverable vertical boom often supporting a work platform.



 cherry plum  n.  The myrobalan (sense 1).



 cherrystone  n.  The quahog clam when half-grown and of comparatively
 small size.



 cherry tomato  n.  A variety of the common tomato, Lycospermum esculentum
 cerasiforme, having small red or yellow fruit.



 chersonese  n.  A peninsula. [Lat. chersonesus < Gk. khersonesos :
 khersos, dry land + nesos, island.]



 chert  n.  1. Any of various microscopically crystalline mineral varieties
 of silica. 2. A siliceous rock of chalcedonic or opaline silica occurring
 in limestone. [Orig. unknown.]



 cherub  n. pl. cherubim  1.  a. A winged celestial being. b.  Theology.
 One of the second order of angels. 2. A representation of an angelic
 cherub, portrayed as a winged child with a chubby, rosy face. 3. A person,
 esp. a child, with an innocent or chubby face. [Heb. karubh.]   cherubic
 adj.   cherubically adv.



 chervil  n.  1. An aromatic plant, Anthriscus cerefolium, native to
 Eurasia, having leaves used in soups and salads. 2. Any of several related
 plants, esp. Chaerophyllum bulbosum, having an edible root. [ME chervel <
 OE cerfille < Lat. chaerephylla < Gk. khairephullon.]



 Chesapeake Bay retriever  n.  A hunting dog of a breed developed in the
 United States, having a thick, short, brownish coat.



 cheshire cheese  n.  A hard, yellow English cheese made from cow's milk.
 [After Cheshire, England.]



 chess
 chess(1)  n.  A board game for two players, each possessing an initial
 force of a king, a queen, two bishops, two knights, two rooks, and eight
 pawns, all maneuvered following individual rules of movement with the
 objective of checkmating the opposing king. [ME ches, short for OFr.
 esches, pl. of eschec, check in chess. -see check.]
 chess(2)  n.  Any of several weedy grasses, esp. cheat. [Orig. unknown.]
 chess(3)  n. pl. chess  or chesses  One of the floor boards of a pontoon
 bridge. [ME ches, tier < OFr. chasse, frame < Lat. capsa, box.]



 chessboard  n.  A board used in playing chess, marked with 64 squares.



 chessman  n.  Any of the pieces used in playing the game of chess.



 chest  n.  1. The part of the body between the neck and the abdomen,
 enclosed by the ribs and the breastbone. 2.  a. A sturdy box with a lid and
 often a lock, used esp. for storage. b. A small closet or cabinet with
 shelves for storing supplies. 3.  a. The treasury of a public institution.
 b. The funds kept there. 4.  a. A box for the shipping of certain goods,
 such as tea. b. The quantity packed in such a box. 5. A sealed receptacle
 for liquid, gas, or steam. 6. A bureau or dresser. [ME < OE cest.]
 chested adj.



 chesterfield  n.  1. A single-breasted or double-breasted overcoat,
 usually with concealed buttons and a velvet collar. 2. A large, overstuffed
 sofa with upright armrests. [After a 19th-cent. Earl of Chesterfield.]



 Chester White  n.  A white hog of a breed that originated in Chester
 County, Pennsylvania.



 chestnut  n.  1.  a. Any of several trees of the genus Castanea, of the
 Northern Hemisphere, bearing nuts enclosed in a prickly bur. b. The nut of
 any of these trees, edible when cooked. c. The hard wood of these trees,
 used in furniture and as a building material. 2. The horse chestnut. 3. A
 grayish brown to moderate reddish brown. 4. A reddish-brown horse. 5. A
 small, hard callus on the inner surface of a horse's foreleg. 6.  a. An old
 and stale joke. b. Anything lacking freshness or originality, as a song or
 story.   -adj. Of a grayish brown to moderate reddish brown. [ME chesteine
 < OFr. chastaigne < Lat. castanea < Gk. kastenea.]



 chestnut blight  n.  A disease of the native American chestnut tree,
 caused by a fungus, Endothia parasitica, and resulting in cankers on the
 trunk and branches and eventual death.



 chestnut oak  n.  A tree, Quercus prinus, of eastern and central North
 America, having leaves with wavy edges like those of the chestnut.



 chesty  adj. -ier -iest   Informal.  1. Having a large or well-developed
 chest. 2. Arrogant; proud; conceited.   chestiness n.



 chetah  n.  Variant of cheetah.



 chetrum  n.  See table at currency. [Native word in Bhutan.]



 cheval-de-frise  n. pl. chevaux-de-frise  1. An obstacle composed of
 barbed wire or spikes attached to a wooden frame, used to block enemy
 advancement and, formerly, to hinder enemy cavalry. 2. An obstacle in the
 form of jagged glass or spikes set in the masonry on the top of a wall.
 [Fr., Frisian horse, from its use by Frisians to compensate for a lack of
 cavalry.]



 chevalet  n.  The bridge of a stringed musical instrument. [Fr. < dim. of
 cheval, horse < Lat. caballus.]



 cheval glass  n.  A long mirror mounted on swivels in a frame. [< Fr.
 cheval, support, horse. -see chevalet.]



 chevalier  n.  1. A member of certain orders of knighthood or merit, as
 the Legion of Honor in France. 2. A French nobleman of the lowest rank. 3.
 A knight. 4. A chivalrous, gallant man. [ME chevaler < OFr. chevalier <
 LLat. caballarius, horseman < caballus, horse.]



 chevelure  n.  A head of hair. [ME cheveler < OFr. cheveleure < Lat.
 capillatura < capillus, hair.]



 Cheviot  n.  1. One of a breed of sheep with short, thick wool, originally
 raised in a range of hills along the border between England and Scotland.
 2. cheviot  A woolen fabric with a coarse twill weave, used chiefly for
 suits and overcoats and originally made from the wool of the Cheviot sheep.
 [After the Cheviot Hills, a range of hills between England and Scotland.]



 chevron  n.  1. A badge or insignia consisting of stripes meeting at an
 angle, worn on the sleeve of a military, naval, or police uniform to
 indicate rank, merit, or length of service. 2. A heraldic device shaped
 like an inverted V. 3. A V-shaped pattern, esp. a kind of fret used in
 architecture. [ME cheveroun < OFr., rafter (from the meeting of rafters at
 an angle) < Lat. capra, goat.]



 chevrotain  n.  Any of several small, hornless ruminants of the genera
 Hyemoschus and Tragulus of central Africa and southeastern Asia. [Fr.
 chevrotin < OFr., dim. of chevrot, kid, dim. of chevre, goat < Lat. capra,
 she-goat.]



 chew  v. chewed chewing chews   -tr. 1. To bite and grind with the teeth;
 masticate. 2. To meditate upon; ponder: chew the problem over.  -intr. 1.
 To make a crushing and grinding motion with the teeth. 2. To cogitate;
 meditate. 3.  Informal. To use chewing tobacco. Phrasal verb.  chew out.
 Slang.  To scold or reprimand.   -n. 1. The act of chewing. 2. Something
 held in the mouth and chewed: a chew of tobacco.

       Idiom Section:  chew the fat rag. To talk casually or idly; chat. [ME
 cheuen < OE ceowan.]   chewer n.



 chewing gum  n.  A sweetened, flavored preparation for chewing, usually
 made of chicle.



 chewink  n.  The towhee. [Imit. of its song.]



 Cheyenne  n. pl. Cheyenne  or -ennes  1.  a. A tribe of North American
 Indians, formerly inhabiting central Minnesota and North and South Dakota,
 now settled in Montana and Oklahoma. b. A member of this tribe. 2. The
 Algonquian language of the Cheyenne. [Canadian Fr. < Dakota sahiyena.]
 Cheyenne adj.



 Cheyne-Stokes respiration  n.  An abnormal type of breathing characterized
 by slow rhythmic waxing and waning of respiratory depth. [After John Cheyne
 (1777-1836) and William Stokes (1804-1878).]



 chi  n.  The 22nd letter of the Greek alphabet. See table at alphabet.
 [Gk. khi.]



 Chianti  n.  A dry table wine, usually red. [After the Chianti Mountains,
 Italy.]



 chiao  n. pl. chiao  See table at currency. [Chin. (Mandarin) jiao3.]



 chiaroscuro  n. pl. -ros  1. The technique of using light and shade in
 pictorial representation. 2. The arrangement of light and dark elements in
 a pictorial work of art. [Ital. : chiaro, light (< Lat. clarus, clear) +
 oscuro, dark < Lat. obscurus.]   chiaroscurist n.



 chiasma or chiasm   n. pl. -mata  or -mas or -asms  1.  Anatomy. A
 crossing or intersection of two tracts, as of nerves or ligaments. 2. A
 point of contact between homologous chromosomes, considered the cytological
 manifestation of crossing over. [Gk. khiasma, khiasmat-, cross-piece <
 khiazein, to mark with an X < khi, chi, from the letter's shape.]
 chiasmal  chiasmic  chiasmatic adj.



 chiasmatypy  n.  The meiotic twisting between pairs of homologous
 chromosomes that produces chiasmata. [chiasma + -typ(e) + -y2.]



 chiasmus  n. pl. -mi  A rhetorical inversion of the second of two parallel
 structures, as He went to the theater, but home went she.  [NLat. < Gk.
 khiasmos < khiazein, to mark with an X. -see chiasma.]



 chiastolite  n.  A mineral variety of andalusite with carbonaceous
 impurities regularly arranged along the longer axis of the crystal. [< Gk.
 chiastos, crossed, p.part. of khiazein, to mark with an X. -see chiasma.]



 chiaus  n.  An official Turkish messenger, emissary, or sergeant. [Turk.
 cavus < cav, news.]



 Chibcha  n. pl. Chibcha  or -chas  1.  a. An extinct tribe of Indians once
 inhabiting Colombia. b. A member of this tribe. 2. The extinct language of
 the Chibcha.



 Chibchan  n.  1. A South American or Central American Indian ethnic stock
 including the Chibcha. 2. A language stock of Central and South America
 that includes Chibcha.



 chibouk or chibouque   n.  A Turkish tobacco pipe with a long stem and a
 red clay bowl. [Fr. chibouque < Turk. cibuk.]



 chic  adj. -er -est   1. Sophisticated; stylish. 2. Dressed smartly and
 fashionably; modish.   -n. 1. Sophistication in dress and manner; elegance.
 2. Stylishness; fashionableness. [Fr.]   chicly adv.   chicness n.



 chicalote  n.  A prickly poppy, Argemone platyceras, of the southwestern
 United States and tropical America, having grayish foliage and large white
 flowers. [Sp. < Nahuatl chicalotl.]



 Chicana  n.  A female Mexican-American. [Alteration of Sp. Mejicana, fem.
 of Mejicano, Mexican.]   Chicana adj.



 chicane  v. -caned -caning -canes   -tr. 1. To trick; deceive. 2. To
 quibble over; cavil. -intr. To use tricks or chicanery.   -n. 1. Chicanery.
 2. A bridge or whist hand without trumps. [Fr. chicaner < OFr., to
 quibble.]   chicaner n.



 chicanery  n. pl. -ies  1. Deception by trickery or sophistry. 2. A trick;
 subterfuge.



 Chicano  n. pl. -nos  A Mexican-American.   -adj. Of or pertaining to
 Chicanos. [Mex. Sp., var. of Sp. Mejicano, a Mexican < Mejico, Mexico.]



 chichi  adj.  Ostentatiously stylish; showy. [Fr.]



 chick  n.  1.  a. A young chicken. b. The young of any bird. 2. A child.
 3.  Slang. A girl or young woman. [ME chike, short for chiken, chicken < OE
 cicen.]



 chickadee  n.  Any of several small, plump North American birds of the
 genus Parus, having predominantly gray plumage and a dark-crowned head.
 [Imit. of its song.]



 chickaree  n.  A squirrel, Tamiascurus douglasi, of northwestern North
 America, resembling and closely related to the red squirrel. [Imit. of its
 song.]



 Chickasaw  n. pl. Chickasaw  or -saws  1.  a. A tribe of North American
 Indians, originally of Mississippi, later removed to Oklahoma. b. A member
 of this tribe. 2. The Muskhogean language of the Chickasaw.   Chickasaw
 adj.



 chicken  n.  1.  a. The common domestic fowl or its young. b. Any of
 various similar or related birds. c. The flesh of the common domestic fowl.
 2.  Slang. A young woman.   -adj. Slang.  Afraid; timid.   -intr.v.-ened
 -ening -ens   Slang.  To act in a cowardly manner; lose one's nerve:
 chickened out at the last moment.  [ME chiken < OE cicen.]



 chicken breast  n.  A chest deformity marked by a projecting sternum,
 occurring as the result of rickets.   chicken-breasted adj.



 chicken feed  n.  Slang.  A trifling amount of money.



 chicken hawk  n.  Any of various hawks that prey on or have the reputation
 of preying on chickens.



 chicken-hearted  adj.  Lacking courage; cowardly; timid.
 chickenheartedness n.



 chicken-livered  adj.  Cowardly; timid.



 chicken pox  n.  An acute contagious viral disease, usually of young
 children, characterized by skin eruption, slight fever, and mild
 constitutional symptoms.



 chicken wire  n.  A light-gauge galvanized wire fencing, usually made with
 hexagonal mesh.



 chickpea  n.  1. A bushy plant, Cicer arietenum, grown in the
 Mediterranean region and central Asia and bearing edible seeds. 2. One of
 the pealike seeds of the chickpea, widely used as food. [Obs. chichpease :
 ME chiche, chickpea (< OFr. < Lat. cicer) + pease, pea.]



 chickweed  n.  Any of various plants of the genera Cerastium and
 Stellaria, esp. S. media, a weedy plant with white flowers. [So called
 because it is eaten by chickens.]



 chicle  n.  The coagulated milky juice of the sapodilla, used as the
 principal ingredient of chewing gum. [Sp. < Nahuatl chictli.]



 chico  n. pl. -cos  A species of greasewood, Sarcobatus vermiculatus.
 [Short for chicalote.]



 chicory  n. pl. -ries  1. A plant, Cichorium intybus, having usually blue
 flowers and leaves that are used in salads. 2. The root of the chicory,
 dried, roasted, and ground for mixing with coffee or as a coffee
 substitute. [ME cicoree < OFr. < Lat. cichorium < Gk. kikhora.]



 chide  v. chided  or chid  or chided  or chid  or chidden  or chiding  or
 chides   -tr. 1. To state one's disapproval to so as to correct or improve;
 scold; reprimand: chided the boy for his sloppiness.  2. To goad; impel.
 -intr.  To express disapproval. [ME chiden < OE cidan.]   chider n.
 chidingly adv.



 chief  n.  1. One who is highest in rank or authority; leader. 2. Chief
 Nautical. A chief petty officer; the chief engineer of a ship. 3.  Slang. A
 boss. 4. The upper section of a heraldic shield. 5. The highest or most
 important part of something.   -adj. 1. Highest in rank, authority, or
 office. 2. Principal; most important.   -adv. Archaic.  Chiefly. [ME chef <
 OFr. < Lat. caput, head.]

      Synonyms: chief principal main leading foremost
 primary prime These adjectives, often interchangeable, refer to being
 first, either in rank or in importance. Chief  most commonly applies to a
 person who is highest in rank and authority: chief magistrate.  Used
 figuratively, chief  implies maximum importance: the country's chief crop.
 Principal  usually stresses importance of persons or things rather than
 personal authority, but can be applied to persons in the sense of rank or
 standing. Main  usually applies to things with reference to importance:
 main building on a campus; main event of a boxing program. Leading,
 applicable to persons and things, often suggests in the former a record of
 achievement, personal magnetism, or capacity for influencing others.
 Foremost  is closely related to leading , but more strongly emphasizes
 first position and the sense of forging ahead of others in a given field.
 Primary , applicable to things, stresses first in the sense of origin,
 sequence, or development: primary school.  It can also mean first in the
 sense of basic or fundamental. Prime  emphasizes first in authority, power,
 or quality: prime minister; prime ribs of beef.




 chief cell  n.  Any of the secretory cells of the gastric glands that
 produce pepsin.



 chief justice or Chief Justice   n.  The presiding judge of a high court
 having several judges, esp. the U.S. Supreme Court.



 chiefly  adv.  1. Above all; especially. 2. Mostly; mainly.   -adj. Of or
 similar to a chief.



 chief of staff  n.  1. Chief of Staff  The ranking officer of the U.S.
 Army, Navy, or Air Force, responsible to the secretary of his branch and to
 the President. 2. The senior military staff officer at the division level
 or higher.



 chief of state  n.  One who serves as the formal head of a nation.



 chieftain  n.  The leader or head of a group, esp. a clan or tribe. [ME
 chevetain < OFr. < LLat. capitaneus < Lat. caput, head.]



 chiffchaff  n.  A small European warbler, Phylloscopus collybita, with
 yellowish plumage. [Imit. of its song.]



 chiffon  n.  1. A fabric of sheer silk or rayon. 2. Ribbons, laces, or
 other ornamental accessories for women's clothing.   -adj. 1. Of, relating
 to, or resembling chiffon. 2. Having a light and fluffy consistency: a
 lemon chiffon pie.  [Fr., chiffon, rag < chiffe, old rag.]



 chiffonier  n.  A narrow, high chest of drawers or bureau, often with a
 mirror attached. [Fr. < chiffon, rag. -see chiffon.]



 chigger  n.  1. Any of various small six-legged larvae of mites of the
 family Trombidiidae, causing intensely irritating itching when lodged on
 the skin. 2. The chigoe (sense 1). [Var. of chigoe.]



 chignon  n.  A roll or knot of hair worn at the back of the head or nape
 of the neck. [Fr. < OFr. chaignon, chain < Lat. catena.]



 chigoe  n.  1. A small tropical flea, Tunga penetrans, of which the
 fertile female burrows under the skin, causing intense irritation and sores
 that may become severely infected. 2. The chigger (sense 1). [Of Cariban
 orig.]



 Chihuahua  n.  A very small dog of a breed originating in Mexico, having
 pointed ears and a smooth coat. [After Chihuahua, Mexico.]



 chilblain  n.  An inflammation followed by itchy irritation on the hands,
 feet, or ears, resulting from exposure to moist cold. [chil(l) + blain.]
 chilblained adj.



 child  n. pl. children  1. A person between birth and puberty. 2.  a. An
 unborn infant; fetus. b. An infant; baby. 3. One who is childish or
 immature. 4. A son or daughter; an offspring. 5. children  Members of a
 tribe; descendants: children of Abraham.  6. The figurative offspring of
 anything: a child of nature.

       Idiom Section:  with child. Pregnant. [ME < OE cild.]   childless
 adj.   childlessness n.



 childbearing  n.  The process of parturition.



 childbed  n.  The state of a woman in childbirth.



 childbed fever  n.  Puerperal fever.



 childbirth  n.  Parturition.



 childe  n.  Archaic.  A child of noble birth. [ME child, child.]



 childhood  n.  The time or state of being a child.



 childish  adj.  1. Of, similar to, or suitable for a child: a high,
 childish voice.  2. Marked by or indicating a lack of maturity; puerile:
 childish remarks.    childishly adv.   childishness n.



 child labor  n.  The full-time employment of children under a minimum
 legal age.



 childlike  adj.  Like or befitting a child, as in innocence.
 childlikeness n.



 childproof  adj.  Designed to resist tampering by children: a childproof
 aspirin bottle.



 children  n.  Plural of child.



 child's play  n.  1. Something very easy to do. 2. A trivial matter.



 chile  n.  Variant of chili.



 chile con carne or chili con carne   n.  A highly spiced dish made of red
 peppers, meat, and sometimes beans. [Sp.: chile, chili + con, with + carne,
 meat.]



 Chile saltpeter  n.  Sodium nitrate.



 chili
 chile or chilli    n. pl. -ies  -es  or -lies   1.  a. The very pungent
 fruit of several varieties of a woody plant, Capsicum frutescens.  b. A
 condiment made from the dried fruits of the chili. 2. Chile con carne. [Sp.
 chile < Nahuatl chilli.]



 chiliad  n.  1. A group that contains one thousand elements. 2. One
 thousand years. [LLat. chilias, chiliad- < Gk. khilias < khilioi,
 thousand.]



 chiliasm  n.  Theology.  The doctrine stating that Christ will reign on
 earth for 1,000 years. [NLat. chiliasmus < LLat. chiliastes, a chiliast <
 chilias, chiliad.]   chiliast n.   chiliastic adj.



 chiliburger  n.  A hamburger covered with chili.



 chilidog  n.  A hot dog covered with chili.



 chili sauce  n.  A spiced sauce made with chilies and tomatoes.



 chill  n.  1. A moderate but penetrating coldness. 2. A sensation of
 coldness, as with a fever. 3. A checking or dampening of enthusiasm,
 spirit, or joy: bad news that put a chill on the celebration.  4. A sudden
 numbing fear or dread.   -adj. 1. Chilly: a chill wind.  2. Dispiriting;
 discouraging: a chill response.    -v.chilled chilling chills   -tr. 1. To
 affect with cold. 2. To discourage; dispirit. 3. To lower in temperature.
 4.  Metallurgy. To harden (a metallic surface) by rapid cooling. -intr. 1.
 To be seized with cold. 2. To become cold: jelly that chills quickly.  3.
 Metallurgy. To become hard by rapid cooling. [ME chele < OE cele.]
 chillingly adv.   chillness n.



 chiller  n.  One that chills or frightens; a thriller.



 chilli  n.  Variant of chili.



 chilly  adj. -ier -iest   1. Cool or cold enough to cause shivering. 2.
 Seized with cold; shivering. 3. Distant and cool; unfriendly.   chillily
 adv.   chilliness n.



 chilopod  n.  Any of various arthropods of the class Chilopoda, which
 includes the centipedes. [NLat. Chilopoda, class name : Gk. kheilos, lip +
 Gk. pous, foot (so called because the foremost pair of legs are jawlike
 appendages).]



 chimaera  n.  1. Any of the noncommercial fish of the family Chimaeridae.
 2. Variant of chimera. [NLat. Chimaera, type genus < Lat., chimera.]



 chime
 chime(1)  n.  1. An apparatus for striking a bell or bells to produce a
 musical sound. 2. chimes  A set of bells tuned to the musical scale and
 used as an orchestral instrument. 3. A single bell. 4. The musical sound
 produced by a bell or bells. 5. Agreement; accord.   -v.chimed chiming
 chimes   -intr. 1. To sound with a harmonious ring when struck. 2. To make
 a musical sound by striking a chime. 3. To agree; harmonize: Their views
 chimed with ours.  -tr. 1. To produce (music) by striking bells. 2. To
 strike (a bell) to produce music. 3. To make known (the hour) by ringing
 bells. 4. To call, send, or welcome by ringing bells. Phrasal verb.  chime
 in. 1. To break into, as a conversation; interrupt. 2. To join in
 harmoniously. [ME chimbe < OFr., var. of cimble, cymbal < Lat. cymbalum.
 -see cymbal.]   chimer n.
 chime(2)  n.  The rim of a cask. [ME chimb.]



 chimera or chimaera   n.  1. Chimera   Greek Mythology. A fire-breathing
 she-monster usually represented as a composite of a lion, a goat, and a
 serpent. 2. A creation of the imagination; an impossible and foolish fancy.
 3.  Biology. An organism, esp. a plant, containing tissues from at least
 two genetically distinct parents. [ME chimere < OFr. < Lat. chimaera < Gk.
 khimaira.]



 chimerical or chimeric   adj.  1. Like a chimera; imaginary; unreal. 2.
 Given to unrealistic fantasies; fanciful.   chimerically adv.



 chimerism  n.  The condition of being a genetic chimera.



 chimney  n. pl. -neys  1.  a. A passage through which smoke and gases
 escape from a fire or furnace; flue. b. The usually vertical structure
 containing a chimney. c. The part of such a structure that rises above a
 roof. 2.  Chiefly British. A smokestack, as of a ship or locomotive. 3. A
 glass tube for enclosing the flame of a lamp. 4. Something, as a narrow
 cleft in a cliff, resembling a chimney. [ME chimene < OFr. cheminee < LLat.
 caminata, fireplace < Lat. caminus, furnace < Gk. kaminos.]



 chimneypiece  n.  1. The mantel of a fireplace. 2. A decoration over a
 fireplace.



 chimney pot  n.  A pipe placed on the top of a chimney to improve the
 draft.



 chimney sweep  n.  A worker employed to clean soot from chimneys.



 chimney swift  n.  A small, dark, swallowlike New World bird, Chaetura
 pelagica, that frequently nests in chimneys.



 chimp  n.  Informal.  A chimpanzee.



 chimpanzee  n.  An anthropoid ape, Pan troglodytes, of tropical Africa,
 having gregarious, somewhat arboreal habits and a high degree of
 intelligence. [Of Bantu orig.]



 chin  n.  The central forward portion of the lower jaw.   -v.chinned
 chinning chins   -tr. 1. To pull (oneself) up with the arms while grasping
 an overhead horizontal bar until one's chin is level with the bar. 2. To
 place (a violin) under the chin. -intr. 1.  Informal. To chatter. 2. To
 chin oneself. [ME < OE cin.]



 china  n.  1. High-quality porcelain or ceramic ware, originally made in
 China. 2. Any porcelain ware.



 China aster  n.  A plant, Callistephus chinensis, native to China, widely
 cultivated for its showy, variously colored flowers.



 chinaberry  n.  1. A spreading tree, Melia azedarach, native to Asia,
 widely grown for its white or purple flower clusters. 2. A soapberry tree,
 Sapindus marginatus (or S. saponaria ), of the West Indies, Mexico, and the
 southwestern United States. 3. The fruit of a chinaberry.



 Chinaman  n.  Offensive.  A Chinese man.



 China rose  n.  A shrub, Rosa chinensis, that has fragrant red or pink
 flowers and is the original ancestor of many cultivated hybrid roses.



 Chinatown  n.  A neighborhood inhabited by Chinese people.



 China tree  n.  The chinaberry (sense 1).



 chinaware  n.  Tableware that is made of china.



 chinch  n.  Regional.  A bedbug. [Sp. chinche < Lat. cimex, bug.]



 chinch bug  n.  A small black-and-white insect, Blissus leucopterus, that
 is very destructive to grains and grasses.



 chincherinchee  n.  A bulbous plant, Ornithogalum thyrsoides, of southern
 Africa, with long clusters or spikes of white or yellow flowers. [Orig.
 unknown.]



 chinchilla  n.  1.  a. A squirrellike rodent, Chinchilla laniger, native
 to the mountains of South America and widely raised in captivity for its
 soft pale-gray fur. b. The fur of this animal. 2. A thick, twilled cloth of
 wool and cotton, used for overcoats. [Sp., prob. < Aymara.]



 Chincoteague pony  n.  A type of small, inbred North American horse that
 runs wild on certain islands off the Virginia coast. [After Chincoteague
 Island, Virginia.]



 chine  n.  1.  a. The backbone; spine. b. A cut of meat containing part of
 the backbone. 2. A ridge or crest. 3. The line of intersection between the
 side and bottom of a flatbottom or V-bottom boat. [ME < OFr. eschine, of
 Germanic orig.]



 Chinese  adj.  Of or pertaining to China, its culture, people, or
 languages.   -n.pl. Chinese  1.  a. A native or inhabitant of China. b. A
 person of Chinese ancestry. 2.  a. A branch of the Sino-Tibetan language
 family that consists of the various dialects spoken by the Chinese people.
 b. Any of the dialects spoken by the Chinese people.



 Chinese anise  n.  Star anise (sense 2).



 Chinese cabbage  n.  A Chinese plant, Brassica pekinensis, related to the
 common cabbage, having a cylindrical head of crisp, edible leaves.



 Chinese calendar  n.  The lunar calendar of the Chinese people.



 Chinese Chippendale  n.  Chippendale furniture characterized by certain
 Oriental influences.



 Chinese date  n.  1. The jujube. 2. The fruit of the jujube.



 Chinese evergreen  n.  A plant, Aglaonema simplex, of tropical Asia, that
 has glossy, pointed green leaves and is widely grown as a house plant.



 Chinese houses  n.  A plant,Collinsia bicolor,of California, having showy
 white and rose-purple flowers.



 Chinese ink  n.  India ink.



 Chinese lantern  n.  1. A decorative, collapsible lantern of thin,
 brightly colored paper. 2. One of the papery, inflated seed cases of the
 winter cherry.



 Chinese lantern plant  n.  The winter cherry.



 Chinese puzzle  n.  1. A very intricate puzzle. 2. Any very difficult
 problem.



 Chinese red  n.  Vermilion.



 Chinese restaurant syndrome  n.  A complex of symptoms, including facial
 pressure, dizziness, perspiration, and headache, that may occur after
 ingesting food prepared with large amounts of monosodium glutamate.



 Chinese sacred lily  n.  A variety of the polyanthus narcissus, Narcissus
 tazetta orientalis, that has fragrant yellow and white flowers and is
 frequently grown as a house plant.



 Chinese white  n.  Zinc oxide.



 Chinese wood oil  n.  Tung oil.



 chink
 chink(1)  n.  A crack or fissure; narrow opening.   -tr.v.chinked chinking
 chinks   1. To make chinks in. 2. To fill chinks in. [Perh. alteration of
 obs. chine < ME, crack < OE cine.]   chinky adj.
 chink(2)  n.  A short, metallic sound. -intr. & tr.v. chinked, chinking,
 chinks.To make or cause to make a chink. [Imit.]



 Chink  n.  Offensive Slang. A Chinese. [Perh. alteration of Chinese.]



 chino  n. pl. -nos  1. A coarse, twilled cotton fabric used for uniforms
 and sports clothes. 2. chinos  Boys' and men's trousers made of chino. [Am.
 Sp., toasted (from its original tan color).]



 chinoiserie  n.  1. A style in art reflecting Chinese influence through
 use of elaborate decoration and intricate patterns. 2. An object reflecting
 Chinese artistic influence. [Fr. < chinois, Chinese < Chine, China.]



 Chinook  n. pl. Chinook  or -nooks  1.  a. A tribe of North American
 Indians formerly inhabiting the Columbia River basin in Oregon. b. A member
 of this tribe. c. The Chinookan language of the Chinook. 2. chinook  A
 moist, warm wind blowing from the sea on the Oregon and Washington coasts.
 3. chinook  A warm, dry wind that descends from the eastern slopes of the
 Rocky Mountains, causing a rapid rise in temperature. [Salish c"inuk.]



 Chinookan  n.  A North American Indian language family of Washington and
 Oregon.   -adj. Of or pertaining to the Chinook Indians, their language, or
 their culture.



 Chinook Jargon  n.  A pidgin language combining English, French, Chinook,
 and other Indian dialects that was formerly used by Indians and fur traders
 of the Pacific Northwest.



 Chinook salmon  n.  A salmon, Oncorhynchus tshawytscha, of northern
 Pacific waters, valued as a food fish.



 chinquapin  n.  1. A small, shrubby tree, Castanea pumila, of the eastern
 United States. 2. A large evergreen tree, Castanopsis chrysophella, of the
 Pacific Coast of North America. 3. The nut of a chinquapin. [Of Algonquian
 orig.]



 chintz  n.  A printed and glazed cotton fabric, usually of bright colors.
 [Obs. chints, pl. of chint, calico cloth < Hindi chint < Skt. citra-,
 variegated.]



 chintzy  adj. -ier -iest   1. Of, relating to, or decorated with chintz.
 2. Gaudy; trashy; cheap.



 chip
 chip(1)  n.  1. A small piece broken or cut off. 2. A crack or other mark
 caused by chipping. 3.  a. A small disk or counter used in poker and other
 games to represent money. b. chips  Slang. Money. 4.  Electronics. A minute
 square of a thin semiconducting material, such as silicon or germanium,
 doped and otherwise processed to have specified electrical characteristics,
 esp. such a square before attachment of electrical leads and packaging as
 an electronic component or integrated circuit. 5. A thin, brittle slice of
 a food: a potato chip.  6. chips   Chiefly British. French-fried potatoes.
 7. Wood, palm leaves, straw, or similar material cut and dried for weaving.
 8. A fragment of dried animal dung, used as fuel. 9. Something that is
 worthless. 10. A chip shot in golf.   -v.chipped chipping chips   -tr. 1.
 To break a small piece from: chip a tooth.  2. To chop or cut with an ax or
 other implement. 3. To shape or carve by cutting or chopping: chipped her
 name in the stone.  -intr. To become broken off. Phrasal verb.  chip in.
 Informal.  1. To contribute money or labor. 2. To interject; interrupt. 3.
 To put up chips or money as one's bet in poker and other games.

       Idiom Section:  chip off the old block. A child who resembles either
 of his parents. chip on (one's) shoulder. A persistent feeling of
 resentment or bitterness. in the chips. . Slang.  Rich. [ME < OE cyp,
 beam.]
 chip(2)  intr.v. chipped chipping chips   To cheep, as a bird. [Imit.]
 chip n.
 chip(3)  n.  A trick method of throwing one's opponent in wrestling. [Orig.
 unknown.]



 Chipewyan  n. pl. Chipewyan  or -ans  1.  a. A tribe of North American
 Indians living in Canada in the area between Great Slave Lake and Lake
 Athabasca on the west and Hudson Bay on the east. b. A member of this
 tribe. 2. The Athapascan language of the Chipewyan. [Cree cipwayan, parka
 wearer : cipw-, pointed + -ayan, skin.]



 chipmunk  n.  A small rodent, Tamias striatus, of eastern North America,
 or any of several similar rodents of the genus Eutamias, of western North
 America and northern Asia, resembling a squirrel but smaller and having a
 striped back. [Alteration of obs. chitmunk, of Algonquian orig.]



 chipped beef  n.  Dried beef smoked and sliced very thin.



 Chippendale  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or designating a type of furniture
 characterized by flowing lines and rococo ornamentation. [After Thomas
 Chippendale (1718-1779).]



 chipper
 chipper(1)  n.  One that chips or cuts.
 chipper(2)  intr.v. -pered -pering -pers   1. To chirp or twitter, as a
 bird. 2. To babble. [< chip2.]
 chipper(3)  adj.  Informal.  Cheerful; pert. [Poss. alteration of Brit.
 dial. kipper, lively.]



 Chippewa  n. pl. Chippewa  or -was  Ojibwa.



 chipping sparrow  n.  A small North American sparrow, Spizella passerina,
 having a reddish-brown crown.



 chippy  n. pl. -pies  1. The chipping sparrow. 2.  Slang. A prostitute. [<
 chip2.]



 chip shot  n.  A short, lofted golf stroke, used in approaching the green.




 chiral  adj.  Of or pertaining to the handedness of an asymmetric
 molecule. [chiro- + -al.]   chirality n.



 chi-rho  n.  A monogram and symbol for Christ, consisting of the
 superimposed Greek letters chi ([KHgr ]) and rho ([Rgr ]), often
 embroidered on altar cloths and clerical vestments. [chi + rho, first two
 letters of Greek Khristos, Christ.]



 chiro- or cheiro-    Hand: chiropractic.  [Lat. < Gk. kheir, hand.]



 chirography  n.  Penmanship.   chirographer n.   chirographic
 chirographical  adj.



 chiromancy  n.  The art or practice of foretelling a person's future by
 studying the palm of his hand; palmistry. [ME ciromancie < Med. Lat.
 chiromantia < Gk. kheiromantis, palmist : kheir, hand + mantis, diviner.]
 chiromancer n.



 Chiron  n.  Greek Mythology.  The wise centaur who tutored Achilles,
 Hercules, and Asclepius. [Lat. < Gk. Kheiron.]



 chiroplasty  n.  Variant of cheiroplasty.



 chiropody  n.  Podiatry. [chir(o)- + -pod + -y.]   chiropodist n.



 chiropractic  n.  A system of therapy in which disease is considered the
 result of neural malfunction, and manipulation of the spinal column and
 other structures is the preferred method of treatment. [chiro- + Gk.
 praktikos, effective. -see practical.]   chiropractor n.



 chiropteran  n.  A flying mammal of the order Chiroptera, which includes
 the bats. [NLat. Chiroptera, order name : chiro- + -pter.]   chiropteran
 adj.



 chirp  n.  A short, high-pitched sound like that made by a small bird.
 [Imit.]   chirp v. chirped chirping chirps



 chirr  n.  A harsh, trilling sound, such as that made by crickets. [Imit.]
   chirr v. chirred chirring chirs



 chirrup  v. -ruped -ruping -rups   -intr. 1. To utter a series of chirps.
 2. To make clicking, clucking sounds with the lips, as in urging on a
 horse. -tr. 1. To sound with chirps. 2. To make clucking sounds to.   -n.
 1. A series of chirps. 2. A series of clucks or clicking sounds, such as
 those made to urge on a horse. [Var. of chirp.]



 chirurgeon  n.  Archaic.  A surgeon. [ME cirurgien < OFr. cirurgiien <
 Lat. chirurgia, surgery. -see surgery.]



 chisel  n.  A metal tool with a sharp, beveled edge, used to cut and shape
 stone, wood, or metal.   -v.-eled -eling -els  or -elled  or -elling  or
 -els   -tr. 1. To shape or cut with a chisel. 2.  Slang.  a. To cheat or
 swindle. b. To obtain by deception. -intr. 1. To use a chisel. 2.  Slang.
 To use unethical methods; cheat. [ME < OFr., prob. ult. < Lat. caedere, to
 cut.]   chiseler n.



 chi-square  n.  A statistic used in testing a hypothesis concerning the
 discrepancy between observed and expected results, that is calculated as
 the sum of the squares of observed values minus expected values divided by
 the expected values.



 chit
 chit(1)  n.  1. A statement of an amount owed for food and drink; check. 2.
  Chiefly British. A short letter; note. [Obs. chitty < Hindi citthi, note,
 letter < Skt. *cista, message.]
 chit(2)  n.  A child, esp. a pert girl. [ME, young animal.]



 chitchat  n.  1. Casual conversation; small talk. 2. Gossip.
 -intr.v.-chatted -chatting -chats   To indulge in chitchat. [Redup. of
 chat.]



 chitin  n.  A semitransparent horny substance, primarily a
 mucopolysaccharide, forming the principal component of crustacean shells,
 insect exoskeletons, and the cell walls of certain fungi. [Fr. chitine <
 NLat. chiton, mollusk < Gk. khiton, chiton.]   chitinous adj.



 chitlins or chitlings   n.  Variants of chitterlings.



 chiton  n.  1. A tunic worn by men and women in ancient Greece. 2. Any of
 various marine mollusks of the class Amphineyra, living on rocks and having
 shells consisting of eight overlapping transverse plates. [Gk. khiton,
 tunic, of Semitic orig.]



 chittamwood  n.  Any of various North American trees, esp. a smoke tree.
 [Prob. of Muskhogean orig.]



 chitter  intr.v. -tered -tering -ters   To twitter or chatter, as a bird
 does. [ME chiteren.]



 chitterlings
 chitlins or chitlings    pl.n.  The small intestines of pigs, cooked and
 eaten as food. [ME chiterling.]



 chivalric  adj.  Chivalrous.



 chivalrous  adj.  1. Having the qualities of gallantry and honor
 attributed to an ideal knight. 2. Of or pertaining to chivalry. 3.
 Characterized by consideration and courtesy, esp. toward women.
 chivalrously adv.   chivalrousness n.



 chivalry  n. pl. -ries  1.  a. The medieval institution of knighthood. b.
 The principles and customs of this institution. 2.  a. The qualities
 idealized by knighthood, such as bravery, courtesy, honor, and devotion to
 the weak. b. The manifestation of any of these qualities. 3. A group of
 knights or gallant gentlemen. [ME chevalrie < OFr. chevalerie < chevalier,
 knight. -see chevalier.]



 chivaree  n.  Variant of charivari.



 chive  n.  1. A plant, Allium schoenoprasum, native to Eurasia, with
 purplish flowers and hollow, grasslike leaves. 2. chives  The leaves of the
 chive, used as a seasoning. [ME cive < OFr. < Lat. cepa, onion.]



 chivvy or chivy   Chiefly British.  v. -vied -vying -vies  or -ied  or
 -ying  or -ies   -tr. To chase or harass. -intr. To scurry.   -n.pl. -vies
 or -ies  1. A hunt or chase. 2. A hunting cry. [< chevy, a hunting cry,
 prob. short for chevy chase, pursuit < Chevy Chase, title of a ballad about
 a border skirmish.]



 chlamydate  adj.  Zoology.  Having a mantle. Used of mollusks. [Lat.
 chlamydatus, cloaked < chlamys, cloak < Gk. khlamus.]



 chlamydeous  adj.  Botany.  Having or pertaining to a floral envelope.
 [Lat. chlamys, chlamyd-, cloak + -eous.]



 chlamydospore  n.  A thick-walled fungus spore derived from a hyphal cell;
 resting spore. [Lat. chlamys, chlamyd-, cloak + spore.]



 chlamys  n. pl. chlamyses  or chlamydes  A short mantle fastened at the
 shoulder, worn by men in ancient Greece. [Lat. < Gk. khlamus.]



 chloasma  n. pl. -mata  Skin discoloration of a patchy brown or black
 nature that usually occurs on the face. [NLat. < Gk. khloasma, greenness <
 khloazein, to be green < khloos, green color.]



 chlor-   Variant of chloro-.



 chloracne  n.  A skin condition resembling acne caused by the exposure to
 chlorinated hydrocarbons.



 chloral  n.  A colorless, mobile oily liquid, CCl3CHO, a penetrating lung
 irritant, used to manufacture DDT and chloral hydrate.



 chloral hydrate  n.  A colorless crystalline compound, CCl3CH(OH)2, used
 medicinally as a sedative and hypnotic.



 chloramine  n.  Any of several compounds containing nitrogen and chlorine,
 esp. an unstable colorless liquid, NH2Cl, used to make hydrazine.



 chloramphenicol  n.  An antibiotic, C11H12Cl2N2O5, derived from the soil
 bacterium Streptomyces venezuelae or synthesized. [chlor(o)- + am(ide) +
 phe(no)- + ni(tro)- + (gly)col.]



 chlorate  n.  The inorganic group ClO3 or a compound containing it.



 chlordane or chlordan   n.  A colorless, odorless viscous liquid,
 C10H6Cl8, used as an insecticide. [chlor(o)- + (in)d(ene) + -ane.]



 chlordiazepoxide  n.  A compound, C16H14ClN3O, whose hydrochloride is used
 as a tranquilizer. [calor(o)- + di- + az(o) + ep(i)- + oxide.]



 chlorella  n.  Any of various green algae of the genus Chlorella, widely
 used in studies of photosynthesis. [NLat. Chlorella, genus name < Gk.
 khloros, green.]



 chlorenchyma  n.  Plant tissue, esp. stem tissue, containing chlorophyll.
 [chlor(ophyll) + -enchyma.]



 chloric  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or containing chlorine.



 chloric acid  n.  A strongly oxidizing, unstable acid, HClO37H2O.



 chloride  n.  A binary compound of chlorine.   chloridic adj.



 chloride of lime  n.  Chlorinated lime.



 chlorinate  tr.v. -nated -nating -nates   To treat or combine with
 chlorine or with a chlorine compound.   chlorination n.   chlorinator n.



 chlorinated lime  n.  A white powder of varying composition, as
 CaCl(ClO)4H2O, produced by chlorinating slaked lime and used as a bleach.



 chlorine  n.  Cl  A highly irritating, greenish-yellow gaseous halogen,
 capable of combining with nearly all other elements, produced principally
 by electrolysis of sodium chloride and used widely to purify water, as a
 disinfectant, a bleaching agent, and in the manufacture of many important
 compounds including chloroform and carbon tetrachloride. Atomic number 17;
 atomic weight 35.45; freezing point -100.98 deg. C; boiling point -34.6
 deg. C; specific gravity 1.56 (-33.6 deg. C); valences 1, 3, 5, 7.



 chlorite
 chlorite(1)  n.  A generally green or black secondary mineral, (Mg, Fe,
 Al)6(Si, Al)4O10(OH)8, often formed by metamorphic alteration of primary
 dark rock minerals. [Lat. chloritis, a green precious stone < Gk. khloritis
 < khloros, green.]
 chlorite(2)  n.  The inorganic group ClO2 or a compound containing it.



 chloro- or chlor-    1. Green: chlorosis.  2. Chlorine: chloroform.  [<
 Gk. khloros, green.]



 chlorobenzene  n.  A colorless, volatile flammable liquid, C6H5Cl, used to
 prepare phenol, DDT, and aniline, and used as a general solvent.



 chlorocarbon  n.  A compound that consists of chlorine and carbon.



 chlorofluorocarbon  n.  Any of various compounds consisting of carbon,
 hydrogen, chlorine, and fluorine, once used widely as aerosol propellants
 and refrigerants.



 chloroform  n.  A clear, colorless, heavy liquid, CHCl3, used in
 refrigerants, propellants, and resins, and as an anesthetic.
 -tr.v.-formed -forming -forms   1. To anesthetize or kill with chloroform.
 2. To apply chloroform to. [chloro- + form(yl).]



 chlorohydrin  n.  An aliphatic organic chemical compound that is both an
 alkyl chloride and an alcohol, frequently containing a single chlorine atom
 and a single hydroxyl group on adjacent carbon atoms.



 Chloromycetin   A trademark for chloramphenicol.



 chlorophyll or chlorophyl   n.  Any of a group of related green pigments
 found in photosynthetic organisms, esp.: a. Chlorophyll a, a waxy
 blue-black microcrystalline green-plant pigment, C55H72MgN4O5, with a
 characteristic blue-green alcohol solution. b. Chlorophyll b, a similar
 green-plant pigment, C55H70MgN4O6, having a brilliant green alcohol
 solution.



 chloropicrin  n.  An oily colorless liquid, CCl3NO2, used to make poison
 gas and in dyestuffs, disinfectants, insecticides, and fumigants. [chloro-
 + picr(o)- + -in.]



 chloroplast or chloroplastid   n.  Botany.  A plastid containing
 chlorophyll in photosynthetic plants.



 chloroprene  n.  A colorless liquid, C4H5Cl, used as the monomer of
 neoprene rubber. [chloro- + (iso)prene.]



 chloroquine  n.  A compound, C18H26ClN3, used in the treatment of malaria
 and sometimes in the treatment of lupus erythematosus. [Blend of chloro-
 and quinoline.]



 chlorosis  n.  1.  Botany. An abnormal condition of plants, characterized
 by absence of or deficiency in green pigment and caused by lack of light,
 mineral deficiency, or genetic disorders. 2.  Pathology. An iron-deficiency
 anemia chiefly affecting girls at puberty and characterized by greenish
 skin color.   chlorotic adj.   chlorotically adv.



 chlorpromazine  n.  An oily liquid, C17H19ClN2S, derived from
 phenothiazine and used as a sedative, tranquilizer, and antiemetic.
 [chlor(o)- + pro(pyl) + meth(yl) + azine.]



 chlortetracycline  n.  An antibiotic, C22H23ClN2O8, obtained from the soil
 bacterium Streptomyces aureofaciens.



 choana  n. pl. -nae  An opening with a funnel shape, esp. one of the
 internal nares. [Gk. khoane, funnel < khein, to pour.]



 choanocyte  n.  Biology.  One of the flagellated cells that line the body
 cavity of a sponge. [Gk. khoane, funnel (< khein, to pour) + -cyte.]



 chock  n.  1. A block or wedge placed under something, such as a wheel, to
 keep it from moving. 2.  Nautical. A heavy fitting of metal or wood with
 two jaws curving inward, through which a rope or cable may be run.
 -tr.v.chocked chocking chocks   1. To fit with or secure by a chock. 2. To
 place (a boat) on chocks.   -adv. 1. As completely as possible. 2. As close
 as possible: chock up against the railing.  [Orig. unknown.]



 chock-a-block  adj.  1. Drawn so close as to have the blocks touching.
 Used of a ship's hoisting tackle. 2. Squeezed together; jammed: The
 cheering fans were chock-a-block in the stands.    chock-a-block adv.



 chock-full  adj.  Completely filled; stuffed: chock-full of candy.  [ME
 chokkeful.]



 chocolate  n.  1. Husked, roasted, and ground cacao seeds, often combined
 with a sweetener or flavoring agent. 2. A candy or beverage made from
 chocolate. 3. A grayish to deep reddish brown to deep grayish brown.
 -adj. 1. Flavored with chocolate. 2. Of a grayish to deep reddish brown to
 deep grayish brown. [Sp. < Aztec xocolatl : xococ, bitter + atl, water.]



 chocolate tree  n.  The cacao (sense 1).



 Choctaw  n. pl. Choctaw  or -taws  1.  a. A tribe of Indians, formerly
 living in southern Mississippi and Alabama, now settled in Oklahoma. b. A
 member of this tribe. 2. The Muskhogean language of the Choctaw. [Choctaw
 Chahta.]



 choice  n.  1. The act of choosing; selection. 2. The power, right, or
 liberty to choose; option. 3. A person or thing that is chosen. 4. A number
 or variety from which to choose: a wide choice of styles and colors.  5.
 Something that is best or preferable above others; the best part. 6. An
 alternative.   -adj.choicer choicest   1.  a. Of fine quality; select;
 excellent. b. Appealing to refined taste. 2. Selected with care. 3. Of the
 U.S. Government grade of meat higher than good and lower than prime. [ME
 chois < OFr. < choisir, to choose, of Gothic orig.]   choicely adv.
 choiceness n.

      Synonyms: choice alternative option preference selection
 election Each of these terms involves the privilege of choosing. Choice
 implies broadly the freedom of choosing from a set of persons or things.
 Alternative  emphasizes choice between only two possibilities or courses of
 action. Option  stresses the power to choose and is widely used in the
 sense of granting exclusive rights to make a choice. Preference  indicates
 choice based on one's values, bias, or predilections. Selection  suggests a
 wide variety of things or persons to choose from. Election  emphasizes use
 of judgment and wisdom in making a choice with an important end in view.




 choir  n.  1.  a. An organized company of singers, esp. one performing
 church music or singing in a church. b. The part of a church used by such
 singers. 2.  Architecture. The part of a cruciform church between the nave
 and the main altar; chancel. 3.  a. A musical group or band. b. A section
 of a musical group or band.   -intr.v.choired choiring choirs   To sing in
 chorus. [ME quer < OFr. cuer < Lat. chorus. -see chorus.]



 choirboy  n.  A boy member of a choir.



 choir loft  n.  A gallery for a church choir.



 choirmaster  n.  The director of a choir.



 choke  v. choked choking chokes   -tr. 1. To interfere with or terminate
 the normal breathing of, esp. by constricting or breaking the windpipe or
 by polluting the air. 2. To stop by or as if by strangling; suppress: choke
 back tears; choked off debate.  3. To reduce the air intake of (a
 carburetor), thereby enriching the fuel mixture. 4. To check or slow down
 the movement, growth, or action of. 5. To block up or obstruct by filling
 or crowding; clog. 6. To fill completely; jam. 7. To grip (a bat, racket,
 or club) at a point nearer the hitting surface; shorten one's grip on.
 -intr. 1. To become suffocated; have difficulty in breathing, swallowing,
 or speaking. 2. To be blocked up or obstructed. Phrasal verb.  choke up. .
 Informal.  1. To be unable to speak because of strong emotion. 2. To fail
 to perform effectively because of nervous agitation or tension.   -n. 1.
 The act or sound of choking. 2.  a. Something that constricts or chokes. b.
 A narrow part, such as the chokebore of a gun. 3. A device used in an
 internal-combustion engine to enrich the fuel mixture by reducing the flow
 of air to the carburetor. [ME choken < OE aceocian.]



 chokeberry  n.  1. Any of various North American shrubs of the genus
 Aronia, having bitter-tasting red, black, or purple fruit. 2. The fruit of
 the chokeberry. [From its bitter fruit.]



 chokebore  n.  1. A shotgun bore that narrows toward the muzzle to prevent
 wide scattering of the shot. 2. A gun with a chokebore.



 chokecherry  n.  1. A North American shrub or tree, Prunus virginiana,
 with long clusters of white flowers and very astringent dark-red or
 blackish fruit. 2. The fruit of the chokecherry. [From its bitter fruit.]



 chokedamp  n.  Blackdamp. [So called because it causes suffocation in
 mines.]



 choker  n.  1. One that chokes. 2. A necklace that fits closely around the
 throat. a. A high, tight collar. b. A narrow fur neckpiece. c.



 chol-   Variant of chole-.



 cholangiography  n.  Roentgenographic examination of the bile ducts.
 [chol(e)- + Gk. angeion, vessel + -graphy.]



 chole- or chol-    Bile: cholesterol.  [< Gk. khole, bile.]
 cholangiographic adj.



 cholecyst  n.  The gallbladder.



 cholecystectomy  n. pl. -mies  Surgical removal of the gallbladder.



 cholelithiasis  n.  The presence of gallstones in the gallbladder.



 choler  n.  1. Anger; irritability. 2.  Archaic.  a. One of the four
 humors of the body thought in the Middle Ages to cause anger and bad temper
 when present in excess; bile. b. Biliousness. [ME colre < OFr. < Lat.
 cholera, jaundice < Gk. kholera.]



 cholera  n.  An acute, often fatal, infectious epidemic disease caused by
 the microorganism Vibrio comma, that is characterized by watery diarrhea,
 vomiting, cramps, suppression of urine, and collapse. [Lat., jaundice. -see
 choler.]   choleraic adj.   choleroid adj.



 cholera morbus  n.  Acute gastroenteritis occurring in summer and autumn
 and marked by severe cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting. [NLat. : Lat. cholera,
 jaundice + Lat. morbus, disease.]



 cholera nostras  n.  Cholera morbus.



 choleric  adj.  1. Easily angered; bad-tempered 2. Showing or expressing
 anger.   cholerically  cholericly adv.



 cholestasis  n.  The suppression of bilary flow.



 cholesterin  n.  Cholesterol.



 cholesterol  n.  A glistening white soapy crystalline substance, C27H45OH,
 the most common animal sterol, a precursor of a form of vitamin D and a
 universal tissue constituent, occurring notably in bile, gallstones, the
 brain, blood cells, plasma, egg yolk, and seeds. [Gk. khole, bile + Gk.
 stereos, solid + -ol (so called because it was first found in gallstones).]




 cholic acid  n.  An abundant crystalline bile acid, C24H40O5. [Gk.
 kholikos, bilious < khole, bile.]



 choline  n.  A natural amine, C5H15NO2, often classed in the vitamin B
 complex and a precursor of acetylcholine.



 cholinergic  adj.  1. Activated by or capable of liberating the
 acetylcholine. 2. Having physiological effects similar to acetylcholine.
 [(acetyl)cholin(e) + Gk. ergon, work.]



 cholinesterase  n.  An enzyme that hydrolyzes acetylcholine to form acetic
 acid and choline. [cholin(e) + esterase.]



 cholla  n.  Any of several very spiny cacti of the genus Opuntia,
 characterized by cylindrical rather than flattened stem segments. [Mex. Sp.
 < obs. Sp. cholla, upper part of the head, poss. < OFr. cholle, head, of
 Germanic orig.]



 chomp  v.  -n. Variant of champ1.



 chon  n. pl. chon  See table at currency. [Korean.]



 chondr- or chondri-    Variants of chondro-.



 chondrify  tr.  -intr.v.-fied -fying -fies   To change into cartilage.
 chondrification n.



 chondriosome  n.  A mitochondrion.



 chondrite  n.  A stone of meteoric origin characterized by chondrules.
 chondritic adj.



 chondritis  n.  Inflammation of cartilage.



 chondro- or chondri-  or chondr-    1. Cartilage: chondrocranium.  2.
 Granule: chondrite.  [< Gk. khondros, granule, cartilage.]



 chondrocranium  n. pl. -niums  or -nia  The embryonic cranium, esp. as
 distinguished from the osteocranium.



 chondroitin  n.  A mucopolysaccharide that is found in cartilage in its
 sulfated form. [< chondroitic acid, an acid occurring in cartilage.]



 chondroma  n. pl. -mas  or -mata  A cartilaginous growth.



 chondromalacia  n.  The abnormal softening of cartilage. [chondro- + Gk.
 malakia, softness < malakos, soft.]



 chondrule  n.  Geology.  A small round granule of extraterrestrial origin
 found embedded in some meteorites.



 choose  v. chose chosen choosing chooses   -tr. 1. To select from a number
 of possible alternatives; decide upon and pick out. 2. To prefer above
 others. 3. To want; desire: choose to go.  -intr. To make a choice; select:
 did as he chose.  [ME chesen < OE ceosan.]   chooser n.

      Synonyms: choose select elect pick These verbs apply to making a
 choice. Choose  implies the use of judgment in taking one of several
 persons, things, or courses. Select  stresses care and comparison in
 choosing from a large variety. Elect  strongly suggests deliberation in
 making a selection, usually between alternatives: He elected to stay home.
 Pick,  like select  indicates some care in choosing but implies less
 deliberation than elect




 choosy or choosey   adj. -ier -iest   Willing to settle for only the best;
 hard to please.   choosiness n.



 chop
 chop(1)  v. chopped chopping chops   -tr. 1. To cut by striking with a
 heavy, sharp tool, such as an axe: chop wood.  2. To shape or form by
 chopping. 3. To cut into bits; mince: chop onions.  4. To cut short:
 chopped off his sentence midway.  5.  Sports. To hit or hit at with a
 short, swift downward stroke. -intr. 1. To make heavy, cutting strokes. 2.
 To move roughly or suddenly.   -n. 1. The act of chopping. 2. A swift,
 short, cutting blow or stroke. 3. A chopped-off piece, esp. a cut of meat,
 usually taken from the rib, shoulder, or loin and containing a bone. 4. A
 short, irregular motion of waves. [ME choppen.]
 chop(2)  intr.v. chopped chopping chops   To change direction suddenly;
 swerve, as a ship in the wind. [chop, to exchange (obs.) < ME choppen.]
 chop(3)  n.  1. An official stamp or permit in the Far East. 2. Quality:
 first chop.  [Hindi chhap, seal.]



 chopfallen  adj.  Variant of chapfallen.



 chophouse  n.  A restaurant that specializes in serving chops and steaks.



 chopper  n.  1. One that chops. 2. A device that interrupts an electric
 current or beam of radiation. 3.  Slang. A helicopter. 4. choppers   Slang.
 Teeth, esp. a set of false teeth. 5. A motorcycle, esp. one that is
 customized.



 chopping block  n.  A wooden block on which food is prepared, as by
 chopping.



 choppy
 choppy(1)  adj. -pier -piest   1. Rough with many small waves: choppy seas.
  2. Marked by abrupt transitions; jerky: choppy prose.    choppiness n.
 choppy(2)  adj. -pier -piest   Abruptly shifting; variable. Used of the
 wind.



 chops  pl.n.  The jaws, cheeks, or jowls of animals or human beings.
 [Orig. unknown.]



 chopsticks  pl.n.  A pair of slender sticks made of wood or ivory, used as
 eating utensils chiefly in Oriental countries. [Pidgin E. chop, fast (prob.
 < Cantonese kap) + sticks.]



 chop suey  n.  A Chinese-American dish consisting of small pieces of meat
 or chicken cooked with bean sprouts and other vegetables and served with
 rice. [Chin. (Cantonese) tsap2 sui4, mixed pieces : tsap2, mixed + sui4, to
 break up.]



 choragus  n. pl. -gi  The leader of a chorus in Greek drama. [Lat. < Gk.
 khoragos : khoros, chorus + agein, to lead.]   choragic adj.



 choral  adj.  1. Of or pertaining to a chorus or choir. 2. Written for
 performance by a chorus.   -n. Variant of chorale. [Med. Lat. choralis <
 chorus, choral dance < Lat. -see chorus.]   chorally adv.



 chorale or choral   n.  1. A Protestant hymn tune. 2. A harmonized hymn,
 esp. one for organ. 3. A chorus or choir. [G. Choral(gesang), choral (song)
 < Med. Lat. choralis, choral.]



 chorale prelude  n.  A musical composition for organ, chiefly in baroque
 style, characterized by an elaborate contrapuntal structure based on the
 melody of a hymn or chorale.



 choral speaking  n.  The recitation of poetry or prose by a chorus.



 chord
 chord(1)  n.  1. A combination of three or more usually concordant tones
 sounded simultaneously. 2. Harmony, as of color. 3. An emotional feeling or
 response: Her words struck a sympathetic chord.    -tr. -intr.v.chorded
 chording chords   To furnish with or form a chord; harmonize. [ME cord <
 accord, agreement < OFr. acorde < acorder, to agree. -see accord.]
 chord(2)  n.  1. A line segment that joins two points on a curve. 2. A
 straight line connecting the leading and trailing edges of an airfoil. 3.
 Archaic. The string of a musical instrument. 4. Variant of cord(sense 5).
 [Alteration of cord.]



 chordal  adj.  1.  Music.  a. Of or pertaining to the strings of a musical
 instrument. b. Relating to or consisting of a harmonic chord. c. Giving
 prominence to harmonic rather than contrapuntal structure: chordal music.
 2. Of or pertaining to combinations of colors.



 chordate  n.  Any of numerous animals belonging to the phylum Chordata,
 which includes all vertebrates and certain marine animals, such as the
 lancelets, having a notochord. [NLat. Chordata, phylum name < Lat. chorda,
 cord. -see cord.]



 chord organ  n.  An electronic or reed organ equipped with buttons for
 producing chords.



 chore  n.  1. A routine or minor duty. 2. chores   a. Daily or routine
 domestic tasks. b. The routine morning and evening tasks of a farmer, as
 the feeding of livestock. 3. An unpleasant or burdensome task.
 -intr.v.chored choring chores   To work at chores. [Var. of char3.]



 -chore   A plant distributed by a specified agency: zoochore.  [< Gk.
 khorein, to move.]



 chorea  n.  A nervous disorder, esp. of children, marked by uncontrollable
 and irregular movements of the muscles of the arms, legs, and face. [Lat.,
 dance < Gk. khoreia, choral dance < khoros.]



 choreograph  intr.  -tr.v.-graphed -graphing -graphs   To specialize in
 choreography or create the choreography of.   choreographer n.



 choreography  n.  1. The art of creating and arranging ballets or dances.
 2. The art and technique of dance notation. 3. The art of dancing. [Fr.
 choregraphie : Gk. khoreia, choral dance (< khoros) + -graphie, -graphy.]
 choreographic adj.   choreographically adv.



 choriamb  n.  1. A metrical foot consisting of a trochee followed by an
 iamb, much employed in Greek and Latin poetry. 2. A foot of verse used in
 lyric poetry having two unstressed syllables flanked by the two rhythmic
 stresses marking the first and last syllables of the foot. [LLat.
 choriambus < Gk. khoriambos : khoreios, of a chorus (< khoros) + iambos,
 iamb.]   choriambic adj.



 choric  adj.  Of or pertaining to a chorus, esp. a Greek chorus. [Gk.
 khorikos < khoros, choral dance.]



 chorine  n.  Slang.  A chorus girl. [chor(us) + -ine1.]



 chorioallantois  n.  The highly vascular fetal membrane that consists of
 the fused chorion and allantois. [chorio(n) + allantois.]   chorioallantoic
 adj.



 chorioid  adj.  Choroid. [Gk. khorioeides, like an afterbirth : khorion,
 afterbirth + -eides, -oid.]



 chorion  n.  The outer membrane enclosing the embryo in reptiles, birds,
 and mammals. [Gk. khorion.]   chorionic adj.



 chorister  n.  1. A choir singer, esp. a choirboy. 2. A choir leader. [ME
 queristre < Norman Fr. *cueristre < Med. Lat. chorista < chorus, chorus <
 Lat., choral dance. -see chorus.]



 chorizo  n.  A spicy pork sausage. [Sp.]



 chorography  n.  1. The technique of mapping a region or district. 2.
 Archaic. A description or map of a region. [Lat. chorographia < Gk.
 khorographia : khoros, place + -graphia, writing < graphein, to write.]
 chorographer n.   chorographic chorographical  adj.   chorographically adv.




 choroid or choroidea   n.  The dark-brown vascular coat of the eye between
 the sclera and the retina.   -adj. Anatomy.  1. Resembling the chorion. 2.
 Resembling the corium. 3. Of or pertaining to the choroid. [< Gk.
 khoroeides, like an afterbirth, alteration of khorioeides. -see chorioid.]



 chortle  n.  A snorting, joyful chuckle. -intr. & tr.v. -tled, -tling,
 -tles.To utter or express with a chortle. [Blend of chuckle and snort.]
 chortler n.



 chorus  n. pl. -ruses  1.  Music.  a. A composition in four or more parts
 written for a large number of singers. b. A song refrain in which the
 audience joins the soloist. c. A repeat of the opening statement of a
 popular song played by the whole group. d. A solo section based on the main
 melody of a popular song and played by a member of the group. e. A body of
 singers who perform choral compositions. f. A body of vocalists and dancers
 who support the soloists and leading actors in operas, musical comedies,
 and revues. 2.  a. In drama or poetry recitation, a group of persons who
 speak or sing a given part or composition in unison. b. In Elizabethan
 drama, an actor who recites the prologue and epilogue to a play and
 sometimes comments on the action. 3. In Greek poetry and drama: a. A
 ceremonial dance performed to the singing of odes. b. The portion of a
 drama consisting of choric dance and ode. c. The body of actors whose
 choric performance comments upon and accompanies the action of the play. 4.
  a. A speech, song, or other utterance made in concert by many people. b. A
 simultaneous utterance by a number of individuals.   -tr. -intr.v.-rused
 -rusing -ruses  or -russed  or -russing  or -russes   To sing or utter in
 chorus.

       Idiom Section:  in chorus. With simultaneous utterance; all together.
 [Lat., choral dance < Gk. khoros.]



 chorus girl  n.  A young woman who dances in a theatrical chorus.



 chose
 chose(1)  v.  Past tense of choose.
 chose(2)   n.  Law.  An item of personal property; chattel. [Fr. < Lat.
 causa, thing.]



 chosen  v.  Past participle of choose.   -adj. 1. Selected from or
 preferred above others. 2.  Theology. Elect.   -n.pl. chosen  1. One of the
 elect. 2. The elect collectively.



 chott  n.  1. The depression surrounding a salt marsh, esp. in North
 Africa. 2. The bed of a dried salt marsh. [Fr. < Ar. shatt.]



 chough  n.  A crowlike Old World bird of the genus Pyrrhocorax, having
 black plumage and red legs. [ME.]



 chow or chow chow
 chow(1)  n.  A heavy-set dog of a breed originating in China, having a
 long, dense, reddish-brown or black coat and a blackish tongue. [Pidgin E.,
 prob. < Chin. (Mandarin) kou3, dog.]
 chow(2)  n.  Food; victuals.   -intr.v.chowed chowing chows   To eat.
 [Pidgin E., prob < Chin. (Mandarin) chao3, to stir-fry.]



 chow-chow  n.  A relish consisting of chopped vegetables pickled in
 mustard. [Pidgin E., prob. < Chin. (Mandarin) chao3, to stir-fry.]



 chow chow  n.  Variant of chow1.



 chowder  n.  A thick soup or stew containing fish or shellfish, esp.
 clams, and vegetables, often in a milk base. [Fr. chaudiere, stew pot <
 OFr. < LLat. caldaria. -see caldron.]



 chow mein  n.  A Chinese-American dish consisting of a combination of
 stewed vegetables and meat, served over fried noodles. [Chin. (Mandarin)
 chao3 mian4 : chao3, to stir-fry + mian4, noodles.]



 chresard  n.  Water present in the soil and available for plant
 absorption. [Gk. khresis, use (< khresthai, to use) + Gk. ardein, to
 water.]



 chrestomathy  n. pl. -thies  A selection of literary passages, used in
 studying literature or a language. [Gk. khrestomatheia : khrestos, useful
 (< khresthai, to use) + -matheia, learning < manthanein, to learn.]
 chrestomathic adj.



 chrism  n.  Ecclesiastical.  1. A mixture of oil and balsam consecrated by
 a bishop and used for anointing in various church sacraments, such as
 baptism. 2. A sacramental anointing, esp. upon confirmation into the
 Eastern Orthodox Church. [ME crisme, crism, chrisom < OE crisma < LLat.
 chrisma < Gk. khrisma, ointment < khriein, to anoint.]   chrismal adj.



 chrisom  n.  Ecclesiastical.  1. A white cloth or robe worn by an infant
 at baptism. 2.  Archaic. An infant wearing a baptismal robe; baby. [ME
 crisom, var. of crisme, chrisom, chrism.]



 Christ  n.  1. The Anointed; the Messiah, as foretold by the prophets of
 the Old Testament. 2. Jesus. 3.  Christian Science. "The divine
 manifestation of God, which comes to the flesh to destroy incarnate error."
 (Mary Baker Eddy). [ME Crist < OE Crist < Lat. Christus < Gk. Khristos <
 khristos, anointed < khriein, to anoint.]   Christliness n.   Christly adj.




 christen  tr.v. -tened -tening -tens   1. To baptize into a Christian
 church. 2. To give a name to at baptism. 3. To name and dedicate
 ceremonially: christen a ship.  4.  Informal. To use for the first time.
 [ME cristnen < OE cristnian < Cristen, Christian.]



 Christendom  n.  1. Christians collectively. 2. The Christian world. 3.
 Christianity. [ME Cristendom < OE Cristendom : Cristen, Christian + -dom,
 -dom.]



 christening  n.  The Christian sacrament of baptism, including the
 bestowal of a name upon an infant.



 Christian  adj.  1. Professing belief in Jesus as Christ or following the
 religion based on his teachings. 2. Pertaining to or derived from Jesus or
 his teachings. 3. Manifesting the qualities or spirit of Christ;
 Christlike. 4. Pertaining to or characteristic of Christianity or its
 adherents. 5.  Informal. Neighborly; decent.   -n. 1. One who professes
 belief in Jesus as Christ or follows the religion based on his teachings.
 2. One who lives according to the teachings of Jesus. [ME Cristen < OE <
 Lat. Christianus < Gk. Khristianos < Khristos, Christ.]   Christianly adv.



 Christian era  n.  The period beginning with the birth of Jesus
 (conventionally in  A.D.  1).



 christiania  n.  A ski turn in which the body is swung from a crouching
 position to change direction or to make a stop. [Norw. < Christiania, the
 former name for Oslo, Norway.]



 Christianity  n. pl. -ties  1. The Christian religion, founded on the
 teachings of Jesus. 2. Christians as a group; Christendom. 3. The state or
 fact of being a Christian.



 Christianize  tr.  -intr.v.-ized -izing -izes   To convert to or adopt
 Christianity.   Christianization n.   Christianizer n.



 Christian Science  n.  The church and the religious system founded by Mary
 Baker Eddy, emphasizing healing through spiritual means as an important
 element of Christianity and teaching pure divine goodness as underlying the
 scientific reality of existence.   Christian Scientist n.



 Christlike  adj.  Having the spiritual qualities or attributes of Christ.
  Christlikeness n.



 Christmas  n.  1. December 25, a holiday celebrated by Christians as the
 anniversary of the birth of Jesus. 2. Christmastide. [ME Cristemas < OE
 Cristes maesse : Crist, Christ + maesse, mass. -see Mass.]



 Christmas berry  n.  Toyon.



 Christmas cactus  n.  A spineless, epiphytic cactus, Zygocactus truncatus,
 of South America, cultivated as a house plant for its showy red flowers.



 Christmas disease  n.  A type of hemophilia that is caused by a deficiency
 of the plasma thromboplastin component. [After Stephen Christmas, the first
 patient in whom the disease was diagnosed and studied.]



 Christmas Eve  n.  The evening before Christmas.



 Christmas fern  n.  Dagger fern.



 Christmas rose  n.  An evergreen plant, Helleborus niger, native to
 Europe, having a poisonous root and white or pinkish-green flowers that
 bloom in late fall or winter.



 Christmastide  n.  The Christian church festival extending from December
 24 through January 6.



 Christmas tree  n.  An evergreen or artificial tree decorated with lights
 and ornaments during the Christmas season.



 Christology  n. pl. -gies  1. The study of Christ's person and qualities.
 2. A doctrine or theory based on Christ or his teachings.   Christological
 adj.



 Christ's-thorn  n.  Any of several plants of the Near East having spiny
 thorns and popularly believed to have been used for Christ's crown of
 thorns, as the jujube.



 christy  n. pl. -ties  A christiania.



 chrom-   Variant of chromo-.



 chroma  n.  That aspect of color in the Munsell color system by which a
 sample appears to differ from a gray of the same lightness or brightness.
 Chroma corresponds to saturation of the perceived color. [Gk. khroma,
 color.]



 chromaffin  adj.  Capable of being stained readily with chromium salts.
 [chromo- + Lat. affinis, related.]



 chromat-   Variant of chromato-.



 chromate  n.  A salt or ester of chromic acid.



 chromatic  adj.  1.  a. Pertaining to colors or color. b. Pertaining to
 color perceived to have a saturation greater than zero. 2.  Music.  a. Of,
 pertaining to, or based on the chromatic scale. b. Pertaining to chords or
 harmonies based on nonharmonic tones. [Gk. khromatikos < khroma, color.]
 chromatically adv.   chromaticism n.



 chromatic aberration  n.  Color distortion in an image produced by a lens
 because of the dependence of lens refractivity on the wavelength of light
 and marked by a variation in the focusing of colors.



 chromaticity  n.  The aspect of color that includes consideration of its
 dominant wavelength and purity.



 chromatics  n.  The scientific study of color.   chromatist n.



 chromatic scale  n.  Music.  A scale consisting of 12 semitones.



 chromatid  n.  Either of two daughter strands of a duplicated chromosome
 while still joined by a single centromere.



 chromatin  n.  A complex of nucleic acids and proteins characterized by
 intense staining with basic dyes.   chromatinic adj.



 chromato- or chromat-    1. Color: chromatophore.  2. Chromatin:
 chromatolysis.  [< Gk. khroma, khromat-, color.]



 chromatogram  n.  The absorbent column or strip of material containing the
 stratographically differentiated constituents separated from a solution or
 mixture by chromatography.



 chromatography  n.  Separation of complex mixtures by percolation through
 a selectively adsorbing medium, as through a column of magnesia, gelatin,
 or starch, yielding stratified, sometimes chromatically distinct
 constituent layers.   chromatograph n.   chromatographer n.
 chromatographic adj.   chromatographically adv.



 chromatolysis  n.  The solution and disintegration of stainable material,
 as of chromatin, within a cell.   chromatolytic adj.



 chromatophore  n.  Biology.  A pigment-containing or pigment-producing
 cell, esp. a pigment-containing animal cell, as in certain lizards, that by
 expansion or contraction can change the overall color of the skin.
 chromatophoric adj.



 chrome  n.  1.  a. Chromium. b. Something plated with a chromium alloy. 2.
 A pigment containing chromium.   -tr.v.chromed chroming chromes   1. To
 plate with chromium. 2. To tan or dye with a chromium compound. [Fr. < Gk.
 khroma, color (from the brilliant colors of chromium compounds).]



 -chrome   1. Colored: autochrome.  2. Color; pigment: urochrome.  [< Gk.
 khroma, color.]



 chrome alum  n.  A violet-red crystalline compound, CrK(SO4)212H2O, used
 in tanning, as a mordant, and in photography.



 chrome green  n.  1. Any of a class of green pigments consisting of chrome
 yellow and iron blue in various proportions. 2. A very dark yellowish green
 to moderate or strong green.



 chrome red  n.  A light orange to red pigment consisting of basic lead
 chromate with varying proportions of PbCrO4 and PbO.



 chrome yellow  n.  Lead chromate, PbCrO4, a yellow pigment often combined
 with lead sulfate, PbSO4, for lighter hues.



 chromic  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or containing chromium, esp. with
 valence 3.



 chromic acid  n.  1. A corrosive, oxidizing acid, H2CrO4, known only in
 solution. 2. The anhydride of chromic acid, CrO3, a purplish crystalline
 material that reacts explosively with reducing agents and is used in
 chromium plating, as an oxidizing agent, and to color glass and rubber.



 chromic oxide  n.  A bright-green crystalline powder, Cr2O3, used in
 metallurgy and as a paint pigment.



 chromite  n.  A widely distributed black to brownish-black chromium ore,
 FeCr2O4.



 chromium  n.  Cr  A lustrous, hard, steel-gray metallic element, resistant
 to tarnish and corrosion, and found primarily in chromite. It is used as a
 catalyst, to harden steel alloys, to produce stainless steels, in
 corrosion-resistant decorative platings, and as pigment in glass. Atomic
 number 24; atomic weight 51.996; melting point 1,890 deg. C; boiling point
 2,482 deg. C; specific gravity 7.18; valences 2, 3, 6. [NLat. < Fr. chrome.
 -see chrome.]



 chromo- or chrom-    1. Color: chromoplast.  2. Chromium: chromous.  [<
 Gk. khroma, color.]



 chromodynamics  n.  The physics of the relationship between quarks and
 esp. the nature of the strong interaction, color, and the exchange of
 gluons.



 chromogen  n.  1.  Chemistry. A substance capable of chemical conversion
 into a pigment or dye. 2.  Biology. A strongly pigmented or
 pigment-generating organ or organelle.   chromogenic adj.



 chromolithograph  n.  A colored print produced by chromolithography.



 chromolithography  n.  The art or process of printing color pictures from
 a series of stone or zinc plates by lithography.   chromolithographer n.
 chromolithographic adj.



 chromomere  n.  One of the serially aligned chromatin granules forming a
 chromosome.



 chromonema  n. pl. -mata  The coiled filamentous core of a chromosome.
 [chromo- + Gk. nema, thread.]   chromonemal chromonematal chromonematic
 chromonemic  adj.



 chromophil  adj.  Capable of being stained readily with dyes.



 chromophore  n.  A molecular group capable of selective light absorption
 resulting in coloration of aromatic compounds.   chromophoric adj.



 chromoplast  n.  A colored plastid containing a pigment other than or in
 addition to chlorophyll.



 chromoprotein  n.  A substance consisting of a protein and a chromophore
 or pigment.



 chromosome  n.  A DNA-containing linear body of the cell nuclei of plants
 and animals, responsible for the determination and transmission of
 hereditary characteristics.   chromosomal chromosomic  adj.   chromosomally
 adv.



 chromosphere  n.  1. An incandescent, transparent layer of gas, primarily
 hydrogen, several thousand miles in depth, that lies above and surrounds
 the photosphere of the sun but is distinctly separate from the corona. 2. A
 gaseous layer similar to a chromosphere around a star.   chromospheric adj.




 chromous  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or containing chromium, esp. with
 valence 2.



 chron-   Variant of chrono-.



 chronaxy or chronaxie   n. pl. -ies  The time interval necessary to
 stimulate a muscle or nerve fiber electrically with twice the minimum
 current needed to elicit a threshold response. [Fr. chronaxie : Gk.
 khronos, time + Gk. axia, value < axios, worthy.]



 chronic  adj.  1. Of long duration; continuing; constant: chronic money
 problems.  2. Prolonged; lingering, as certain diseases: chronic colitis.
 3. Subject to a disease or habit for a long time; inveterate: a chronic
 liar.  [Fr. chronique < Lat. chronicus < Gk. < khronos, time.]
 chronically adv.   chronicity n.



 chronicle  n.  A chronological record of historical events.   -tr.v.-cled
 -cling -cles   To record in or in the form of a chronicle. [ME cronicle <
 Norman Fr., var. of OFr. cronique < Lat. chronica < Gk. khronika, annals <
 khronikos,  of time < khronos, time.]   chronicler n.



 Chronicles  pl.n.  See table at Bible.



 chrono- or chron-    Time: chronometer.  [< Gk. khronos, time.]



 chronobiology  n.  The study of biological rhythms.



 chronogram  n.  1. The record produced by a chronograph. 2. An inscribed
 phrase in which certain letters can be read as Roman numerals indicating a
 specific date.   chronogrammatic adj.   chronogrammatically adv.



 chronograph  n.  An instrument that registers or graphically records time
 intervals such as the duration of an event.   chronographic adj.
 chronographically adv.



 chronological or chronologic   adj.  1. Arranged in order of time of
 occurrence. 2. In accordance with or relating to chronology.
 chronologically adv.



 chronological age  n.  The number of years a person has lived, used in
 psychometrics as a comparison standard for various performance measures.



 chronology  n. pl. -gies  1. The determination of dates and the sequence
 of events. 2. The arrangement of events in time. 3. A chronological list or
 table.   chronologist n.



 chronometer  n.  An exceptionally precise clock, watch, or other
 timepiece.   chronometric chronometrical  adj.   chronometrically adv.



 chronometry  n.  The scientific measurement of time.



 chronoscope  n.  An optical instrument for measuring minute time
 intervals.   chronoscopic adj.



 chrys-   Variant of chryso-.



 chrysalid  n.  A chrysalis.   -adj. Pertaining to or resembling a
 chrysalis.



 chrysalis  n. pl. chrysalises  or chrysalides  The third stage in the
 development of an insect, esp. a moth or butterfly, enclosed in a firm case
 or cocoon; pupa. [Lat. chrysallis < Gk. khrusallis < gold-colored pupa of a
 butterfly < khrusos, gold.]



 chrysanthemum  n.  1. Any of several plants of the genus Chrysanthemum,
 the cultivated forms esp. having showy flowers of various colors and sizes.
 2. The flower of a chrysanthemum. [Lat. chrysanthemum < Gk. khrusanthemon,
 a kind of flower : khrusos, gold + anthemon, flower < anthos.]



 chrysarobin  n.  A medicine obtained from a deposit found in the wood of
 the araroba tree and used to treat certain chronic skin conditions.
 [chrys(o)- (from its golden color) + (ar)arob(a) + -in.]



 chryselephantine  adj.  Made of gold and ivory. [Gk. khruselephantinos :
 khrusos, gold + elephas, ivory.]



 chryso- or chrys-    Gold; golden: chrysotherapy.  [< Gk. khrusos, gold.]



 chrysoberyl  n.  A green to yellow vitreous mineral, BeAl2O4, used as a
 gemstone. [Lat. chrysoberyllus < Gk. khrusoberullos : khrusos, gold +
 berullos, beryl.]



 chrysolite  n.  Olivine (sense 1). [ME crisolite < OFr. < Lat.
 chrysolithus < Gk. khrusolithos : khrusos, gold + lithos, stone.]



 chrysoprase  n.  An apple-green chalcedony used as a gemstone. [ME
 crisopase < OFr. < Lat. chrysoprasus < Gk. khrusoprasos : khrusos, gold +
 prason, leek.]



 chrysotherapy  n.  The treatment of disease with gold compounds.



 chrysotile  n.  A fibrous mineral variety of serpentine forming part of
 commercial asbestos. [G. Chrysotil : Gk. khrusos, gold + Gk. tilos,
 something plucked < tillein, to pluck.]



 chthonic or chthonian   adj.  Pertaining to the gods and spirits of the
 underworld. [Gk. khthonios, under the earth < khthon, earth.]



 chub  n. pl. chub  or chubs  1. Any of various freshwater fishes of the
 family Cyprinidae, related to the carps and minnows, esp. a Eurasian
 species, Leuciscus cephalus.  2. Any of various fishes, such as a whitefish
 of the genus Coregonus or a marine fish of the genus Kyphosus.  [ME
 chubbe.]



 chubby  adj. -bier -biest   Rounded and plump. [Prob. < chub (from the
 plumpness of the fish).]   chubbiness n.



 chuck
 chuck(1)  tr.v. chucked chucking chucks   1. To pat or squeeze fondly or
 playfully, esp. under the chin. 2. To throw; toss. 3.  Informal. To throw
 out; discard: chucked her old sweater.  4.  Informal. To force out; eject:
 chucking out the troublemakers.    -n. 1. An affectionate pat or squeeze
 under the chin. 2. A throw, toss, or pitch. [Orig. unknown.]
 chuck(2)  n.  1. A cut of beef extending from the neck to the ribs and
 including the shoulder blade. 2.  Western U.S. Food. 3. A clamp that holds
 a tool or the material being worked in a machine such as a lathe. [Dial.
 chuck, lump.]
 chuck(3)  intr.v. chucked chucking chucks   To make a clucking sound.   -n.
 A clucking sound. [Imit.]



 chuck-a-luck  n.  A gambling game in which players bet on the possible
 combinations of three thrown dice. [Prob. chuck1 + luck.]



 chuckhole  n.  Regional.  A rut or mudhole in a road. [Prob. < chuck1.]



 chuckle  intr.v. -led -ling -les   1. To laugh quietly or to oneself. 2.
 To cluck or chuck, as a hen.   -n. A quiet laugh of mild amusement or
 satisfaction. [Prob. freq. of chuck3.]   chuckler n.



 chucklehead  n.  Informal.  A stupid and gauche person; blockhead.
 chuckleheaded adj.



 chuck wagon  n.  A wagon equipped with food and cooking utensils, as in a
 lumber camp.



 chuckwalla  n.  A lizard, Sauromalus obesus, of the southwestern United
 States and Mexico, related to the iguana. [Mex. Sp. chacahuala < Cahuilla
 tcaxxwal.]



 chuck-will's-widow  n.  A bird, Caprimulgus carolinensis, of the southern
 and central United States, related to and resembling the whippoorwill.
 [Imit. of its song.]



 chufa  n.  A sedge, Cyperus esculentus, native to the Old World, having
 edible, nutlike tubers. [Sp. chufar, to make fun of < VLat. *sufilare, var.
 of Lat. sibilare, to whistle at.]



 chuff  n.  A rude, insensitive person. [ME chuffe.]



 chug  n.  A dull explosive sound, usually short and repeated, made by or
 as if by a laboring engine.   -intr.v.chugged chugging chugs   1. To make
 chugs. 2. To travel or move while making chugs. [Imit.]



 chugalug  v. -lugged -lugging -lugs   Slang.   -tr. To swallow the
 contents of (a container, as of beer) without pausing. -intr.  To swallow
 liquid, as beer, without pausing. [Imit.]



 chukar  n.  An Old World partridge, Alectoris graeca, introduced into
 western North America. [Hindi cakor < Skt. cakorah.]



 Chukchi or Chukchee   n. pl. Chukchi  or -chis  Chukchee  or -chees   1. A
 Mongoloid people of northeastern Siberia. 2. A member of the Chukchi. 3.
 The language of the Chukchi, noted for being pronounced differently by men
 and women.



 chukka  n.  A short, ankle-length boot, usually made of suede, having two
 pairs of eyelets. [Alteration of chukker (so called because polo players
 wear a similar boot).]



 chukker or chukkar   n.  One of the periods of play, lasting 71/2 minutes,
 in a polo match. [Hindi cakkar, circle < Skt. cakram.]



 chum
 chum(1)  n.  An intimate friend or companion.   -intr.v.chummed chumming
 chums   1. To be an intimate friend. 2. To share the same room. [Perh.
 short for chamber fellow, roommate.]
 chum(2)  n.  Bait usually consisting of oily fish ground up and scattered
 on the water.   -intr.v.chummed chumming chums   To fish with chum. [Orig.
 unknown.]



 chummy  adj. -mier -miest   Informal.  Intimate; friendly.   chummily adv.
   chumminess n.



 chump
 chump(1)  n.  A blockhead; dolt. [Perh. a blend of chunk and lump or
 stump.]
 chump(2)  tr.  -intr.v.chumped chumping chumps   To chew or make a chewing
 movement with the jaws. [Var. of champ1.]



 chunk  n.  1. A thick mass or piece: a chunk of ice.  2. A substantial
 amount: a chunk of money.  [Perh. var. of chuck2.]



 chunky  adj. -ier -iest   1. Short and thick; stocky. 2. In chunks.
 chunkiness n.



 church  n.  1. Church  The company of all Christians regarded as a mystic
 spiritual body. 2. A building for public, esp. Christian, worship. 3. A
 congregation. 4. Public divine worship in a church; a religious service. 5.
 Church  A specified Christian denomination: the Presbyterian Church.  6.
 Ecclesiastical power as distinguished from the secular: the separation of
 church and state.  7. The clerical profession; clergy. 8.  Christian
 Science. "The structure of Truth and Love." (Mary Baker Eddy).
 -tr.v.churched churching churches   To conduct a church service for, esp.
 to perform a religious service for (a woman after childbirth).   -adj. Of
 or pertaining to the church; ecclesiastical. [ME chirche < OE cirice < LGk.
 kuriakon < Gk. kuriakos, of the lord < kurios, lord.]



 churchgoer  n.  One who attends church regularly.   churchgoing adj. n.



 church key  n.  Informal.  A can or bottle opener with a triangular
 pointed head.



 churchly  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or fit for a church.   churchliness n.



 churchman  n.  1. A clergyman; priest. 2. A member of a church.
 churchmanly adj.   churchmanship n.



 Church of Christ Scientist  n.  The official name of the Christian Science
 Church.



 Church of England  n.  The episcopal and liturgical national church of
 England, which withdrew its recognition of papal authority in the 16th
 century.



 Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints  n.  The official name of the
 Mormon Church.



 Church of Rome  n.  The Roman Catholic Church.



 Church Slavonic  n.  The literary language of Slavic manuscripts written
 after the early 11th century and still used as a liturgical language by
 several churches of the Eastern Orthodoxy in Slavic countries.



 churchwarden  n.  1. A lay officer in the Anglican Church chosen annually
 by the vicar or the congregation to handle the secular and legal affairs of
 the parish. 2. One of two elected chief lay officers of the vestry in the
 Episcopal Church.



 churchwoman  n.  A woman who is a member of a church.



 churchyard  n.  A yard adjacent to a church, often used as a burial
 ground.



 churl  n.  1. A rude, boorish person. 2. A miser; niggard. 3.  a. A ceorl.
 b. A medieval English peasant. [ME < OE ceorl, peasant.]



 churlish  adj.  1.  a. Of or like a churl; boorish. b. Befitting a churl;
 vulgar. 2. Difficult to work with; intractable.   churlishly adv.
 churlishness n.



 churn  n.  A vessel or device in which cream or milk is agitated to
 separate the oily globules from the caseous and serous parts, used to make
 butter.   -v.churned churning churns   -tr. 1.  a. To stir or agitate (milk
 or cream) in a churn in order to make butter. b. To make by the agitation
 of milk or cream: churn butter.  2. To shake or agitate vigorously: Wind
 churned up the piles of leaves.  -intr. 1. To make butter by operating a
 churn. 2. To move with or produce great agitation: waves churning in the
 storm.  Phrasal verb.  churn out. To produce in an automatic manner and
 esp. abundantly: churn out four novels a year.  [ME chirne < OE cyrn.]
 churner n.



 churr  n.  The sharp, whirring or trilling sound made by some insects and
 birds.   -intr.v.churred churring churrs   To make a churr. [Imit.]



 Churrigueresque  adj.  Of or relating to a style of baroque architecture
 of Spain and its Latin-American colonies, characterized by elaborate and
 extravagant decoration. [Sp. churrigueresco, after Jose Churriguera
 (1650-1723).]



 chute  n.  1. An inclined trough, passage, or channel through or down
 which things may pass. 2. A waterfall or rapid. 3.  Informal. A parachute.
 [Fr., a fall < OFr. cheoite, p.part. of cheoir, to fall < Lat. cadere.]



 chutney  n.  A pungent relish made of fruits, spices, and herbs. [Hindi
 catni.]



 chutzpah  n.  Slang.  Brazenness; gall. [Yiddish.]



 Chuvash  n. pl. Chuvash  or -vashes  1. One of a Turkic-speaking Tatar
 people living chiefly in the Chuvash A.S.S.R. 2. The Turkic language of the
 Chuvash. [R. < Chuvash cavas.]



 chyle  n.  A thick white or pale-yellow fluid, consisting of lymph and
 finely emulsified fat, that is taken up by the lacteals from the intestine
 in digestion. [Lat. chylus < Gk. khulos, juice < khein, to pour.]
 chylaceous chylous  adj.



 chylomicron  n.  One of the microscopic fat particles found in the blood
 that are formed during the digestion of fat. [chyl(e) + Gk. mikron, small
 thing < neuter of mikros, small.]



 chyme  n.  The thick semifluid mass of partly digested food that is passed
 from the stomach to the duodenum. [LLat. chymus < Gk. khumos, juice <
 khein, to pour.]   chymous adj.



 chymosin  n.  Rennin. [chym(e) + -os(e) + -in.]



 chymotrypsin  n.  A pancreatic digestive enzyme. [chym(e) + trypsin.]



 ciao  interj.  Used to express greeting or farewell. [Ital. < dial.
 schiavo, (I am your) slave.]



 ciborium  n. pl. -boria  1. A vaulted canopy permanently placed over an
 altar. 2. A covered receptacle for holding the consecrated wafers of the
 Eucharist. [Med. Lat. ciborium < Lat., a drinking cup < Gk. kiborion.]



 cicada  n. pl. -das  or -dae  Any of various insects of the family
 Cicadidae, having a broad head, membranous wings, and, in the male, a pair
 of resonating organs that produce a characteristic high-pitched, droning
 sound. [NLat. Cicada, type genus < Lat cicada, cicada.]



 cicada killer  n.  A large wasp, Sphecius speciosus, that preys upon
 cicadas.



 cicatrix  n. pl. cicatrices  1. Recently formed connective tissue on a
 healing wound; scar tissue. 2.  Botany. A scar left where a leaf or a
 branch has been detached. [ME cicatrice < Lat. cicatrix.]   cicatricial
 cicatricose  adj.



 cicely  n. pl. -lies  Sweet cicely. [ME seseli < Lat. seselis < Gk.]



 cicerone  n. pl. -nes  or -ni  A guide who conducts sightseers. [Ital.,
 after Cicerone, Marcus Tullius Cicero (106-43 b.c.).]



 cichlid  n.  Any of various tropical freshwater fishes of the family
 Cichlidae, many of which are popular as aquarium fish. [NLat. Cichlidae,
 family name < Gk. kikhle, a kind of fish.]   cichlid adj.



 -cide   1. Killer: bactericide.  2. Act of killing: ecocide.  [Fr., partly
 < Lat. -cida, killer, and partly < Lat. -cidium, killing, both < caedere,
 to kill.]



 cider  n.  The juice pressed from fruits, esp. apples, used to produce
 vinegar or as a beverage. [ME sidre < OFr. < LLat. sicera, intoxicating
 drink < Gk. sikera < Heb. shekar < shakar, he drank deeply.]



 cigar  n.  A small, compact roll of tobacco leaves prepared for smoking.
 [Sp. cigarro, poss. < Yucatec sik, to shred.]



 cigarette or cigaret   n.  A small roll of finely cut tobacco for smoking,
 enclosed in a wrapper of thin paper. [Fr., dim. of cigare, cigar < Sp.
 cigarro.]



 cigarillo  n. pl. -los  A small, narrow cigar. [Sp., dim. of cigarro,
 cigar.]



 cigar-store Indian  n.  A wooden effigy of an American Indian brave
 holding a cluster of cigars and used formerly as the emblem of a
 tobacconist.



 cilantro  n.  The parsleylike leaves of fresh coriander used in cooking.
 [Sp., alteration of LLat. coliandrum < Lat. coriandrum. -see coriander.]



 cilia  n.  Plural of cilium.



 ciliary  adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, or resembling cilia. 2. Of or
 pertaining to the ciliary body.



 ciliary body  n.  The thickened part of the vascular tunic of the eye that
 connects the choroid with the iris.



 ciliary movement  n.  A form of cellular motion characterized by rhythmic
 beating of cilia along the cell surface.



 ciliate  adj.  Having cilia.   -n. Any of various protozoans of the class
 Ciliata, having numerous cilia.   ciliately adv.



 ciliated  adj.  Ciliate.



 cilice  n.  A coarse cloth; haircloth. [Fr. < Lat. cilicium, a covering
 made of Cilician goat's hair < Cilicia, a province in Asia Minor.]



 ciliolate  adj.  Having minute cilia. [< NLat. ciliolum, dim. of cilium,
 cilium.]



 cilium  n. pl. -ia  1. A microscopic hairlike process extending from a
 cell surface and often capable of rhythmical motion. 2. An eyelash. [NLat.
 < Lat., eyelid.]



 cimetidine  n.  A drug that acts as a histamine receptor antagonist and
 that is used to treat gastrointestinal diseases, as peptic ulcers. [E. ci-
 (alteration of cyano-) + met(hyl) + -idine.]



 cimex  n. pl. cimices  An insect of the genus Cimex, which includes the
 bedbugs. [NLat. Cimex, genus name < Lat. cimex, bug.]



 cimices  n.  Plural of cimex.



 Cimmerian  adj.  Very gloomy; dark.   -n. One of a mythical people
 described by Homer as inhabiting a land of perpetual darkness. [< Lat.
 Cimmerii, the Cimmerians < Gk. Kimmerioi.]



 cinch  n.  1. A girth for a pack or saddle. 2.  Informal. A firm grip. 3.
 Slang.  a. Something easy to accomplish. b. A sure thing.   -v.cinched
 cinching cinches   -tr. 1. To put a saddle girth on. 2.  Informal. To get a
 tight grip on. 3.  Slang. To make certain of: cinch a victory.  -intr. To
 tighten a saddle girth. [Sp. cincha < Lat. cingula < cingere, to gird.]



 cinchona  n.  1. Any of various trees and shrubs of the genus Cinchona,
 native to South America, whose bark yields quinine and other medicinal
 alkaloids. 2. The dried bark of a cinchona tree. [NLat. Cinchona, genus
 name, after Francisca Henriquez de Ribera (1576-1639), Countess of
 Chinchon.]   cinchonic adj.



 cinchonine  n.  An alkaloid, C19H22N2O, derived from the bark of various
 cinchona trees and used as an antimalarial agent. [cinchon(a) + -ine.]



 cinchonism  n.  A pathological condition resulting from an overdose of
 cinchona, marked by deafness, headache, giddiness, and dimming eyesight.



 cincture  n.  1. A belt; girdle. 2. Something that encompasses or
 surrounds.   -tr.v.-tured -turing -tures   To gird or encompass. [Lat.
 cinctura < cingere, to gird.]



 cinder  n.  1. A burned or partly burned substance, such as coal, that is
 not reduced to ashes but is incapable of further combustion. 2. A partly
 charred substance that can burn further but without flame. 3. cinders
 Ashes. 4. Scoria (sense 1). 5. Slag (sense 1).   -tr.v.-dered -dering -ders
   To burn or reduce to cinders. [ME sinder < OE, dross.]   cindery adj.



 Cinderella  n.  1. The fairy-tale heroine who escapes from a life of
 drudgery through the intervention of a fairy godmother and marries a
 handsome prince. 2. A person who achieves recognition or affluence after a
 period of obscurity and neglect. [< cinder.]



 cineast or cineaste   n.  A motion-picture enthusiast. [Fr. cineaste  <
 cine, cinema.]



 cinema  n.  1. A motion picture. 2. A motion-picture theater. 3.  a.
 Motion pictures collectively. b. The motion-picture industry. 4. The art of
 making motion pictures. [Short for cinematograph.]   cinematic adj.
 cinematically adv.



 cinematograph  n.  Chiefly British.  A motion-picture camera or projector.
 [Fr. cinematographe : Gk. kinema, motion (< kinein, to move) + -graphe,
 -graph.]   cinematographic adj.   cinematographically adv.



 cinematography  n.  The technique of making motion pictures.
 cinematographer n.



 cinematoradiography  n.  The radiography of a part or organ in motion.
 [Gk. kinema, kinemat-, movement (< kinein, to move) + radiography.]
 cinematoradiographic adj.   cinematoradiographically adv.



 cinema verite  n.  A type of film-making that stresses unbiased realism.
 [Fr. cinema-verite : cinema, cinema + verite, truth.]



 cineol or cineole   n.  Eucalyptol. [NLat. cina, wormseed + Lat. oleum,
 oil.]



 Cinerama   A trademark for a motion-picture process designed to produce a
 realistic effect.



 cineraria  n.  A plant, Senecio cruentis, native to the Canary Islands but
 widely cultivated as a house plant, having flat clusters of variously
 colored daisylike flowers. [NLat. Cineraria, genus name < Lat. cinerarius,
 of ashes (from the ash-colored down on its leaves) < cinis, ashes.]



 cinerarium  n. pl. -ia  A place for keeping the ashes of a cremated body.
 [Lat. < cinerarius, of ashes < cinis, ashes.]   cinerary adj.



 cinereous  adj.  1. Consisting of or like ashes. 2. Of the color of ashes;
 gray tinged with black. [Lat. cinereus < cinis, ashes.]



 cinerin  n.  Either of two compounds, C20H28O3 or C21H28O5, used in
 insecticides. [Lat. cinis, ciner-, ashes + -in.]



 cingulum  n. pl. -la  Biology.  A girdlelike structure, band, or marking.
 [NLat. < Lat., girdle < cingere, to gird.]   cingulate cingulated  adj.



 cinnabar  n.  1. A heavy reddish mercuric sulfide, HgS, that is the
 principal ore of mercury. 2. Red mercuric sulfide used as a pigment. 3.
 Vermilion (sense 2). [ME cinabare < Lat. cinnabaris < Gk. kinnabari.]



 cinnamon  n.  1. Either of two trees, Cinnamomum zeylanicum or C.
 lourerii, of tropical Asia, having very aromatic bark. 2. The
 yellowish-brown bark of a cinnamon tree, dried and often ground, used as a
 spice. 3. Any of several trees yielding a spice similar to cinnamon. 4. A
 light yellowish brown.   -adj. Of a light yellowish brown. [ME cinamome <
 OFr. < Lat. cinnamomum < Gk. kinnamomon.]   cinnamic adj.



 cinnamon bear  n.  The American black bear during the phase when its color
 is reddish-brown.



 cinnamon stone  n.  Essonite.



 cinquain  n.  A five-line stanza. [Fr. : cinq, five (< Lat. quinque) +
 quatrain, quatrain.]



 cinque  n.  The number five in cards or dice. [ME cink < OFr. < Lat.
 quinque, five.]



 cinquecento  n.  The 16th century, esp. in Italian art. [Ital., short for
 millecinquecento, one thousand five hundred.]



 cinquefoil  n.  1. Any of various plants of the genus Potentilla, having
 compound leaves, often with five lobes. 2.  Architecture. A design having
 five sides composed of converging arcs, usually used as a frame for glass
 or a panel. [ME cinkfoil < OFr. < Lat. quinquefolium : quinque, five +
 folium, leaf.]



 cion  n.  Variant of scion (sense 2).



 cipher or cypher   n.  1. The mathematical symbol (0) denoting absence of
 quantity; zero. 2. An Arabic numeral or figure; number. 3. The Arabic
 system of numerical notation. 4. A person or thing without influence or
 value; nonentity. 5.  a. A cryptographic system in which units of plain
 text of regular length, usually letters, are arbitrarily transposed or
 substituted according to a predetermined key. b. The key to such a system.
 c. A message in cipher. 6. A design combining or interweaving letters or
 initials; monogram.   -v.-phered -phering -phers   -intr. To solve problems
 in arithmetic; calculate. -tr. 1. To put in secret writing; encipher. 2. To
 solve by means of arithmetic. [ME cifre < OFr. < Med. Lat. cifra < Ar.
 sifr.]



 circa  prep.  In approximately: born circa 1900.  [Lat. < circum, around <
 circus, circle.]



 circadian  adj.  Biology.  Exhibiting approximately 24-hour periodicity.
 [Lat. circa, about + Lat. dies, day.]



 circadian rhythm  n.  A daily rhythmic activity cycle, based on 24-hour
 intervals, that is exhibited by many organisms.



 Circassian  n.  1. An inhabitant of Circassia, esp. a member of a
 Caucasian people inhabiting Circassia. 2. The non-Indo-European language of
 the Circassians.   -adj. Of or pertaining to the people, language, or
 region of Circassia.



 Circassian walnut  n.  The mottled or veined light-brown wood of the
 English walnut used esp. in decorative cabinetwork.



 Circe  n.  An enchantress described in the Odyssey who detained Odysseus
 for a year and turned his men into swine. [Lat. < Gk. Kirke.]   Circean
 adj.



 circinate  adj.  1. Ring-shaped. 2. Rolled up from the tip, as a young
 fern frond. [Lat. circinatus, p.part. of circinare, to make circular <
 circinus, pair of compasses < circus, circle.]   circinately adv.



 Circinus  n.  A constellation in the Southern Hemisphere near Musca and
 Triangulum Australe. [Lat. circinus, pair of compasses < circus, circle.]



 circle  n.  1. A plane curve everywhere equidistant from a given fixed
 point, the center. 2. A planar region bounded by a circle. 3. Something,
 such as a ring, shaped like a circle. 4. A circular course, circuit, or
 orbit. 5. A curved section or tier of seats in a theater. 6. A series or
 process that finishes at its starting point or continuously repeats itself;
 cycle. 7. A group of people sharing an interest, activity, or achievement:
 a circle of friends; a sewing circle.  8. In some European countries, a
 territorial or administrative division, esp. of a province. 9. A sphere of
 influence or interest; domain: well-known in scientific circles.  10.
 Logic. A fallacy in reasoning in which the premise is used to prove the
 conclusion, and the conclusion used to prove the premise.   -v.-cled -cling
 -cles   -tr. 1. To make or form a circle around; enclose. 2. To move in a
 circle around. -intr. To move in circles; revolve: Crows circled overhead.
 [ME cercle < OFr. < Lat. circulus, dim. of circus, circle.]   circler n.

      Synonyms: circle coterie set clique club
 fraternity society These nouns denote a group of associates. Circle  can
 describe almost any group having common interests or activities on a scale
 large or small: sewing circle; financial circles.  It can also designate
 the extent of personal relationships: circle of friends. Coterie  applies
 to a small, intimate group of congenial persons. Set  suggests a large,
 loosely bound group defined either by condition (younger set ) or
 preoccupation with fashionable activity (smart set; jet set ). Clique
 pertains to an exclusive group, usually social, with activities in which
 outsiders are denied participation. Club  can imply exclusiveness but often
 means only a group devoted to a common interest best pursued in company:
 Rotary Club; bridge club. Fraternity  most commonly denotes a Greek letter
 society of male students. It can also mean a professional group not
 actually organized: medical fraternity. Society,  as compared here, is
 usually a rather large, formally organized group with common interests,
 often cultural.




 circlet  n.  A small circle, esp. a circular ornament. [ME cerclet < OFr.,
 dim. of cercle, circle.]



 circuit  n.  1.  a. A closed, usually circular curve. b. The region
 enclosed by such a curve. 2.  a. A path or route the complete traversal of
 which without local change of direction requires returning to the starting
 point. b. The act of following such a path or route. c. A journey made on
 such a path or route. 3.  Electricity.  a. A closed path followed or
 capable of being followed by an electric current. b. A configuration of
 electrically or electromagnetically connected components or devices. 4.  a.
 A regular or accustomed course from place to place, as that of a salesman;
 round. b. The area or district thus covered, esp. a territory under the
 jurisdiction of a judge, in which he holds periodic court sessions. 5. An
 association of theaters in which plays, acts, or films move from theater to
 theater for presentation. 6. An association of teams, clubs, or arenas of
 competition. -intr. & tr.v. -cuited, -cuiting, -cuits.To make a circuit or
 circuit of. [ME, circumference < OFr. < Lat. circuitus, a going around <
 circumire, to go around : circum, around + ire, to go.]



 circuit breaker  n.  An automatic switch that stops the flow of electric
 current in a suddenly overloaded or otherwise abnormally stressed electric
 circuit.



 circuit court  n.  In some states, the lowest court of record, in some
 instances holding sessions in different places.



 circuitous  adj.  Being or taking a roundabout, lengthy course. [Med. Lat.
 circuitosus < Lat. circuitus, a going round. -see circuit.]   circuitously
 adv.   circuity  circuitousness n.



 circuit rider  n.  A clergyman who travels from church to church in a
 district, esp. a rural district.



 circuitry  n.  1. The design of or detailed plan for an electric circuit.
 2. Electric circuits collectively.



 circular  adj.  1. Of or pertaining to a circle. 2. Shaped like or nearly
 like a circle; round. 3. Moving in or forming a circle. 4. Circuitous;
 indirect; roundabout. 5. Marked by reasoning in a circle: a circular
 theory.  6. Addressed or distributed to a large number of persons.   -n. A
 printed advertisement, directive, or notice intended for mass distribution.
   circularity n.   circularly adv.



 circular file  n.  Slang.  A wastebasket.



 circular function  n.  Trigonometric function.



 circularize  tr.v. -ized -izing -izes   To publicize with circulars.
 circularization n.   circularizer n.



 circular measure  n.  The measure of an angle in radians.



 circular saw  n.  An electric saw consisting of a toothed disk rotated at
 high speed.



 circulate  v. -lated -lating -lates   -intr. 1. To move in or flow through
 a circle or circuit: blood circulating through the body.  2. To move
 around, as from person to person or place to place: a guest circulating at
 a party.  3. To move about or flow freely; be diffused, as air. 4. To
 spread widely among persons or places; disseminate: Rumors tend to
 circulate quickly.  -tr. To cause to move about or be distributed. [Lat.
 circulare, circulat-, to make round < circulus, dim. of circus, circle.]
 circulative adj.   circulator n.   circulatory adj.



 circulating decimal  n.  A repeating decimal.



 circulating library  n.  A lending library.



 circulating medium  n.  Currency or coin that can be exchanged for goods
 without endorsement.



 circulation  n.  1. Movement in a circle or circuit. 2. The movement of
 blood through bodily vessels as a result of the heart's pumping action. 3.
 Movement or passage through a system of vessels, as of water through pipes;
 flow. 4. Free movement or passage. 5. The passing of something, such as
 money or news, from place to place or from person to person. 6. The
 condition of being passed about and widely known; distribution. 7.  a. The
 distribution of printed material, esp. copies of newspapers or magazines,
 among readers. b. The number of copies of a publication sold or
 distributed.



 circulatory system  n.  The system of structures by which blood and lymph
 are circulated throughout the body.



 circum-   Around; about: circumlunar.  [Lat. < circum, around < circus,
 circle.]



 circumambient  adj.  Surrounding; enclosing.   circumambience
 circumambiency n.   circumambiently adv.



 circumcise  tr.v. -cised -cising -cises   To remove the prepuce of (a
 male) or clitoris of (a female). [ME circumcisen < Lat. circumcidere, to
 cut around : circum-, around (< circus, circle) + caedere, to cut.]
 circumciser n.



 circumcision  n.  1. The act of circumcising. 2. A religious ceremony in
 which someone is circumcised. 3. Circumcision  A church festival celebrated
 on January 1 commemorating the circumcision of Jesus.



 circumduction  n.  The movement of a limb such that the distal end of the
 limb delineates an arc. [Lat. circumductio, act of leading around <
 circumducere, to lead around: circum- around (< circus, circle) + ducere,
 to lead.]



 circumference  n.  1. The boundary line of a circle. 2.  a. The boundary
 line of a closed curvilinear figure; perimeter. b. The length of such a
 boundary. [ME < OFr. < Lat. circumferentia < circumferre, to carry around :
 circum-, around (< circus, circle) + ferre, to carry.]   circumferential
 adj.



 circumflex  n.  A mark ([circ ]) used over a vowel in certain languages or
 in phonetic keys to indicate quality of pronunciation.   -adj. 1. Marked
 with a circumflex. 2. Curving around: a circumflex blood vessel.  [Lat.
 circumflexus, a bending around < p.part. of circumflectere, to bend around
 : circum-, around (< circus, circle) + flectere, to bend.]



 circumfuse  tr.v. -fused -fusing -fuses   1. To pour or diffuse around;
 spread. 2. To surround, as with liquid; suffuse. [Lat. circumfundere,
 circumfus- : circum-, around (< circus, circle) + fundere, to pour.]
 circumfusion n.



 circumlocution  n.  1. The use of prolix and indirect language. 2. Evasion
 in speech or writing. 3. A roundabout expression. [ME circumlocucioun <
 Lat. circumlocutio : circum- around (< circus, circle) + loqui, to speak.]
  circumlocutorily adv.   circumlocutory adj.



 circumlunar  adj.  Revolving about or surrounding the moon.



 circumnavigate  tr.v. -gated -gating -gates   To sail completely around.
 circumnavigation n.   circumnavigator n.



 circumnutate  intr.v. -tated -tating -tates   Botany.  To grow or move
 with an irregular elliptical or spiral motion. [circum- + Lat. nutare,
 nutat-, to sway.]   circumnutation n.



 circumpolar  adj.  1. Located or found in one of the polar regions. 2.
 Astronomy. Designating a star that from a given observer's latitude does
 not go below the horizon.



 circumrotate  intr.v. -tated -tating -tates   To turn like a wheel;
 revolve.   circumrotation n.   circumrotatory adj.



 circumscissile  adj.  Botany.  Splitting or opening along a transverse
 circular line: a circumscissile seed capsule.  [circum- + Lat. scissilis,
 able to be split < scindere, to split.]



 circumscribe  tr.v. -scribed -scribing -scribes   1. To draw a line
 around; encircle. 2. To confine within bounds; restrict. 3. To determine
 the limits of; define. 4.  a. To enclose (a polygon or polyhedron) within a
 configuration of lines, curves, or surfaces so that every vertex of the
 enclosed object is incident on the enclosing configuration. b. To be
 erected as such an enclosing configuration. [ME circumscriben < Lat.
 circumscribere : circum-, around (< circus, circle) + scribere, to write.]
  circumscribable adj.   circumscriber n.



 circumscription  n.  1.  a. The act of circumscribing. b. The state of
 being circumscribed. 2. Something that circumscribes. 3. A circumscribed
 space; a limited area. 4. A circular inscription, as on a medallion.
 circumscriptive adj.   circumscriptively adv.



 circumsolar  adj.  Revolving about or surrounding the sun.



 circumspect  adj.  Heedful of circumstances or consequences; prudent. [ME
 < Lat. circumspectus, p.part. of circumspicere, to take heed : circum-,
 around (< circus, circle) + specere, to look.]   circumspection n.
 circumspectly adv.



 circumstance  n.  1. A condition or fact attending an event and having
 some bearing upon it; a determining or modifying factor. 2. A condition or
 fact that determines or must be considered in the determining of a course
 of action. 3. The sum of determining factors beyond willful control: a
 victim of circumstance.  4. circumstances  Financial status or means: a man
 in comfortable circumstances.  5. Additional or accessory information;
 detail. 6. Formal display; ceremony: pomp and circumstance.
 -tr.v.-stanced -stancing -stances   To place in particular circumstances or
 conditions; situate.

       Idiom Section:  under no circumstances. In no case; never. under
 inthe circumstances.. Given these conditions; such being the case. [ME <
 OFr. < Lat. circumstantia < circumstare, to stand around : circum-, around
 (< Lat. circus, circle) + stare, to stand.]



 circumstantial  adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, or dependent upon
 circumstances. 2. Of no primary significance; incidental. 3. Complete and
 particular; full of detail: a circumstantial report about the debate.
 circumstantially adv.



 circumstantial evidence  n.  Law.  Evidence not bearing directly on the
 fact in dispute but on various attendant circumstances from which the judge
 or jury might infer the occurrence of the fact in dispute.



 circumstantiality  n. pl. -ties  1. The quality of being fully or minutely
 detailed. 2. A particular detail or circumstance.



 circumstantiate  tr.v. -ated -ating -ates   To set forth or verify with
 circumstances; give detailed proof or description of. [Lat. circumstantia,
 circumstance + -ate1.]   circumstantiation n.



 circumterrestrial  adj.  Revolving about or surrounding the earth.



 circumvallate  tr.v. -lated -lating -lates   To surround with or as if
 with a rampart or other defensive barrier.   -adj.  Surrounded with or as
 if with a rampart or other defensive barrier. [Lat. circumvallare,
 circumvallat- : circum-, around (< circus, circle) + vallum, rampart with
 palisades.]   circumvallation n.



 circumvent  tr.v. -vented -venting -vents   1. To surround and entrap by
 craft. 2. To overcome by artful maneuvering. 3. To avoid by or as if by
 passing around. [Lat. circumvenire, circumvent- : circum-, around (<
 circus, circle) + venire, to come.]   circumventer  circumventor n.
 circumvention n.   circumventive adj.



 circumvolution  n.  1. An act of turning, coiling, or folding about a
 center, core, or axis. 2. A single turn, coil, or fold; convolution. [ME
 circumvolucioun < Med. Lat. circumvolutio < Lat. circumvolvere, to roll
 around. -see circumvolve.]



 circumvolve  intr.  -tr.v.-volved -volving -volves   To revolve or cause
 to revolve. [Lat. circumvolvere : circum-, around (< circus, circle) +
 volvere, to roll.]



 circus  n.  1.  a. A public entertainment consisting typically of a
 variety of performances by acrobats, clowns, and trained animals. b. A
 traveling company that performs such entertainments. c. A circular arena,
 surrounded by tiers of seats and often covered by a tent, in which such
 shows are performed. 2. A roofless, oval enclosure surrounded by tiers of
 seats and used in antiquity for public spectacles. 3.  Chiefly British. An
 open circular place where several streets intersect. 4.  Informal. A place
 or activity marked by rowdy or noisy disorder. [Lat., circle.]



 cirque  n.  A steep hollow, often containing a small lake, occurring at
 the upper end of a mountain valley. [Fr. < Lat. circus, circle.]



 cirrate  adj.  Biology.  Having or of the nature of a cirrus or cirri.
 [Lat. cirratus, curled < cirrus, curl.]



 cirrhosis  n.  A chronic disease of the liver marked by progressive
 destruction and regeneration of liver cells and increased connective tissue
 formation that ultimately results in blockage of portal circulation, portal
 hypertension, liver failure, and death. [Gk. kirros, tawny (from the color
 of the diseased liver) + -osis.]   cirrhotic adj.



 cirri-   Variant of cirro-.



 cirriped or cirripede   n.  Any of various crustaceans of the order
 Cirripedia, which includes the barnacles and similar organisms that attach
 themselves to objects or become parasitic in the adult stage. [NLat.
 Cirripedia, order name : cirrus + Lat. pes, foot.]   cirriped adj.



 cirro- or cirri-    Cirrus cloud: cirrostratus.  [< cirrus.]



 cirrocumulus  n.  A high-altitude cloud composed of a series of small,
 regularly arranged cloudlets in the form of ripples or grains.



 cirrostratus  n.  A high-altitude, thin hazy cloud, usually covering the
 sky and often producing a halo effect.



 cirrus  n. pl. cirri  1. A high-altitude cloud composed of narrow bands or
 patches of thin, generally white, fleecy parts. 2.  Botany. A tendril or
 similar part. 3.  Zoology. A slender, flexible appendage, such as a
 tentacle. [Lat., curl of hair.]



 cis-   On this side: cisatlantic.  [Lat. < cis, on this side of.]



 cisatlantic  adj.  On this side of the Atlantic.



 cisco  n. pl. -coes  or -cos  Any of several North American freshwater
 fishes of the genus Coregonus (or Leucichthys ), related to and resembling
 the whitefish. [Canadian Fr. ciscoette < Ojibwa pemitewiskawet,
 oily-skinned fish.]



 cislunar  adj.  Between the earth and the moon.



 cismontane  adj.  On this side of the mountains. [Fr. cismontain < Lat.
 cismontanus : cis-, cis- + montanus, of the mountains < mons, mountain.]



 cist
 cist(1)  n.  A wicker receptacle used in ancient Rome for carrying sacred
 utensils in procession. [Lat. cista < Gk. kiste.]
 cist(2)   n.  A Neolithic stone coffin. [Welsh, chest < Lat. cista < Gk.
 kiste.]



 Cistercian  n.  A member of a contemplative monastic order founded by
 reformist Benedictines in France in 1098. [Fr. Cistertien < Med. Lat.
 Cistercium, Citeaux, France, site of an abbey.]   Cistercian adj.



 cistern  n.  1. A receptacle for holding water or other liquid, esp. a
 tank for catching and storing rainwater. 2.  Anatomy. A cisterna. [ME
 cisterne < Lat. cisterna < cista, box < Gk. kiste.]   cisternal adj.



 cisterna  n. pl. -nae  1. A fluid-containing sac or space in the body of
 an organism. 2. One of the saclike vesicles that comprise the endoplasmic
 reticulum. [NLat. < Lat., cistern.]



 cistron  n.  A subunit of a gene that is complementary to another subunit
 on the same gene such that they form a single functional unit. [cis- +
 tr(ans)- + -on1.]   cistronic adj.



 citadel  n.  1. A fortress in a commanding position in or near a city. 2.
 A stronghold or fortified place; bulwark. [OFr. citadelle < OItal.
 citadella, dim. of cittade, city < Lat. civitas.]



 citation  n.  1. The act of citing. 2.  a. A quoting of an authoritative
 source for substantiation. b. A source so cited; quotation. 3.  Law. A
 reference to previous court decisions or authoritative writings. 4. An
 official commendation for meritorious action, esp. in military service. 5.
 Enumeration or mention, as of facts. 6. An official summons, esp. one
 calling for appearance in court.   citational adj.   citatory adj.



 cite  tr.v. cited citing cites   1. To quote as an authority or example.
 2. To mention or bring forward as support, illustration, or proof. 3. To
 commend for meritorious action. 4. To call to someone's attention; mention.
 5. To summon before a court of law. [ME citen, to summon < OFr. citer <
 Lat. citare, freq. of ciere, to call.]   citable adj.



 cithara  n.  An ancient musical instrument resembling the lyre. [Lat. <
 Gk. kithara.]



 cither or cithern   n.  A cittern. [Fr. cithare < Lat. cithara, cithara <
 Gk. kithara.]



 citied  adj.  Having a city or cities.



 citified  adj.  Marked by or having customs, manners, fashions, or other
 characteristics attributed to city people.



 citify  tr.v. -fied -fying -fies   1. To cause to become urban. 2. To
 impart the styles and manners of a city to.   citification n.



 citizen  n.  1. A person owing loyalty to and entitled by birth or
 naturalization to the protection of a given state. 2. A resident of a city
 or town, esp. one entitled to vote and enjoy other privileges there. 3. A
 civilian as distinguished from a person employed by a state. [ME citisein <
 AN citesein, prob. alteration of OFr. citeain < cite, city.]   citizenly
 adj.



 citizenry  n. pl. -ries  Citizens collectively.



 citizen's arrest  n.  An arrest made by a citizen who is authorized to do
 so by his status as a citizen.



 citizens band  n.  A radio-frequency band allocated for private use.



 citizenship  n.  The status of a citizen with its attendant duties,
 rights, and privileges.



 citral  n.  A mobile pale-yellow liquid, C10H16O, derived from lemon-grass
 oil and used in perfume and as a flavoring. [citr(us) + -al.]



 citrate  n.  A salt or ester of citric acid.



 citric  adj.  Of or obtained from citrus fruits.



 citric acid  n.  A colorless translucent crystalline acid, C6H8O7H2O,
 principally derived by fermentation of carbohydrates or from lemon, lime,
 and pineapple juices and used to prepare citrates, in flavorings, and in
 metal polishes.



 citric acid cycle  n.  Krebs cycle.



 citriculture  n.  The cultivation of citrus fruits. [citr(us) + culture.]
  citriculturist n.



 citrine  n.  1. A pale-yellow variety of quartz resembling topaz. 2. A
 light to moderate olive. [ME, yellow < OFr. citrin < Med. Lat. citrinus <
 Lat. citrus, citrus tree.]   citrine adj.



 citron  n.  1.  a. A tree, Citrus medica, native to Asia, having lemonlike
 fruit with a thick, aromatic rind. b. The fruit of this tree. 2. A variety
 of watermelon, Citrullus vulgaris citroides, having fruit generally
 considered inedible and a hard rind used as flavoring. 3. The preserved or
 candied rind of the fruit of a citron, used esp. in baking. 4. A grayish
 green yellow. [Fr. < OFr. < Lat. citrus.]   citron adj.



 citronella  n.  1. A tropical Eurasian grass, Cymbopogon nardus, having
 bluish-green, lemon-scented leaves. 2. A light-yellow, aromatic oil
 obtained from citronella and used in insect repellents and perfumery.
 [NLat. < Fr. citronnelle, lemon oil, dim. of citron, citron.]



 citronellal  n.  A colorless mixture of isomeric liquids, C9H17CHO, the
 chief constituent of citronella oil. [citronell(a) + -al.]



 citrulline  n.  An amino acid, C6H13N3O3, that is produced as an
 intermediate during urea formation in the liver. [NLat. Citrullus, plant
 genus + -ine.]



 citrus  adj.  1. Of or pertaining to trees or shrubs of the genus Citrus,
 many of which bear edible fruit such as the orange, lemon, lime, and
 grapefruit. 2. Of or characteristic of the fruits of citrus trees or
 shrubs.   -n.pl. -ruses  or citrus  A citrus tree or shrub. [NLat., Citrus,
 genus name < Lat. citrus, citrus tree.]



 cittern  n.  A 16th-century guitar with a pear-shaped body. [Ult. < Lat.
 cithara, cithara < Gk. kithara.]



 city  n. pl. -ies  1. A center of population, commerce, and culture; a
 large and important town. 2.  a. In the United States, an incorporated
 municipality with definite boundaries and legal powers set forth in a
 charter granted by the state. b. In Canada, a municipality of high rank,
 usually determined by population but varying by province. c. In Great
 Britain, a large incorporated town, usually the seat of a bishop, with its
 title conferred by the Crown. 3. The inhabitants of a city as a group. 4.
 An ancient Greek city-state. [ME cite < OFr. < Lat. civitas < civis,
 citizen.]



 city council  n.  The governing body of a city.



 city desk  n.  The newspaper department handling local news.



 city editor  n.  1. A newspaper editor responsible for handling local news
 and reporters' assignments. 2.  Chiefly British. The editor who handles
 commercial and financial news.



 city father  n.  A municipal official, as a councilman.



 city hall  n.  1. The building housing the administrative offices of a
 municipal government. 2. The municipal government, esp. its officials
 considered as a group.



 city manager  n.  An administrator appointed by a city council to manage
 the affairs of the municipality.



 cityscape  n.  1. An artistic representation, as a painting or photograph,
 of a city. 2. A city regarded as a scene:  the vast cityscape of lower
 Manhattan (The New Yorker)).



 city slicker  n.  Informal.  A person exhibiting the smart and
 sophisticated style traditionally associated by rural people with the
 manners and mores of the city.



 city-state  n.  A sovereign state consisting of an independent city and
 its surrounding territory.



 civet  n.  1. Any of various catlike mammals of the family Viverridae, of
 Africa and Asia, having anal scent glands that secrete a fluid with a musky
 odor. 2. The fluid secreted by a civet, used in the manufacture of
 perfumes. 3. The fur of a civet. [Fr. civette < OFr. < OItal. zibetto < Ar.
 zabad.]



 civic  adj.  Of, pertaining to, or belonging to a city, a citizen, or
 citizenship; municipal or civil. [Lat. civicus < civis, citizen.]



 civics  n.  The branch of political science that deals with civic affairs.




 civies  pl.n.  Variant of civvies.



 civil  adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, or befitting a citizen or citizens. 2.
 Of or pertaining to citizens and their relations with the state. 3. Of
 ordinary citizens or ordinary community life as distinguished from the
 military or the ecclesiastical: civil authorities.  4. Of or in accordance
 with organized society; civilized. 5. Observing or befitting accepted
 social usages; polite: gave a civil reply.  6. Designating or according to
 legally recognized divisions of time: a civil year.  7.  Law. Pertaining to
 the rights of private individuals and to legal proceedings concerning these
 rights as distinguished from criminal, military, or international courts,
 proceedings, or rules. [ME < Lat. civilis < civis, citizen.]   civilly adv.




 civil death  n.  Law.  The total deprivation of civil rights resulting
 from conviction for treason or another serious offense.



 civil defense  n.  The ensemble of emergency measures to be taken by an
 organized body of civilian volunteers for the protection of life and
 property in the case of a natural disaster or an attack or invasion by an
 enemy.



 civil disobedience  n.  The refusal to obey civil laws regarded as unjust,
 usually by employing methods of passive resistance.



 civil engineer  n.  An engineer trained in the design and construction of
 public works.   civil engineering n.



 civilian  n.  1. A person following the pursuits of civil life as
 distinguished from one serving in a police, firefighting, or military
 force. 2. A student of or specialist in Roman or civil law.   -adj. Of or
 pertaining to civilians or civil life; nonmilitary.



 civility  n. pl. -ties  1. Politeness; courtesy. 2. A courteous act or
 utterance.



 civilization  n.  1. An advanced stage of development in the arts and
 sciences accompanied by corresponding social, political, and cultural
 complexity. 2. The type of culture and society developed by a particular
 nation or region or in a particular epoch: the civilization of ancient
 Rome.  3. The act or process of civilizing or of reaching a civilized
 state. 4.  Informal. Modern society with its conveniences: returned to
 civilization after camping.



 civilize  tr.v. -lized -lizing -lizes   1. To bring out of a primitive or
 savage state. 2. To educate or enlighten; refine.   civilizable adj.
 civilizer n.



 civilized  adj.  1.  a. Having a highly developed society and culture. b.
 Of, pertaining to, or characteristic of a people or nation so developed. 2.
 Polite or cultured; refined.



 civil law  n.  1. The body of law dealing with the rights of private
 citizens in a particular state or nation as distinguished from criminal
 law, military law, or international law. 2. The law of ancient Rome, esp.
 that which applied to private citizens. 3. A system of law having its
 origin in Roman law as distinguished from common law or canon law.



 civil liberty  n.  Liberty legally guaranteeing to the individual the
 rights of free speech, thought, and action, limited only insofar as their
 use does not interfere with the rights of others.   civil libertarian n.



 civil marriage  n.  A marriage ceremony performed by a civil official.



 civil rights  pl.n.  Rights belonging to a person by virtue of his status
 as a citizen or as a member of civil society.   civil-rights adj.



 civil servant  n.  A person employed in the civil service.



 civil service  n.  1. All branches of public service that are not
 legislative, judicial, military, or naval. 2. Collectively, the persons
 employed by the civil branches of the government.



 civil war  n.  A war between factions or regions of one country.



 civvies or civies   pl.n.  Slang.  Civilian clothes as distinguished from
 military dress. [Shortening and alteration of civilian.]



 Cl   The symbol for the element chlorine.



 clabber  n.  Sour, curdled milk.   -tr. -intr.v.-bered -bering -bers   To
 curdle. [Short for obs. bonnyclabber < Ir. Gael. bainne clabair : bainne,
 milk + clabar, thick sour milk.]



 clack  v. clacked clacking clacks   -intr. 1. To make an abrupt, dry
 sound, as of the collision of two hard surfaces. 2. To chatter
 thoughtlessly or at length. 3. To cackle or cluck, as a hen does. -tr. To
 cause to make an abrupt, dry sound.   -n. 1. A clacking sound: the clack of
 a computer.  2. Something that makes a clacking sound. 3. Thoughtless,
 prolonged talk; chatter. [ME clakken < ON klaka.]   clacker n.



 clack valve  n.  A hinged valve that permits fluids to flow in only one
 direction and clacks when the valve closes.



 Clactonian  adj.  Archaeology.  Of or pertaining to a lower Paleolithic
 culture of northwestern Europe. [After Clacton-on-Sea, England.]



 clad
 clad(1)  tr.v. clad cladding clads   To sheathe or cover (a metal) with a
 metal. [< clad2.]
 clad(2)  v.  A past tense and past participle of clothe.



 cladding  n.  A metal coating bonded onto another metal.



 cladoceran  n.  Any of various small aquatic crustaceans of the order
 Cladocera, which includes the water fleas.   -adj. Of or belonging to the
 Cladocera. [NLat. Cladocera, order name : Gk. klados, branch + Gk. keras,
 horn.]



 cladode  n.  A cladophyll. [NLat. cladodium < Gk. klados, branch.]
 cladodial adj.



 cladogenesis  n.  A pattern of evolution in which the differentiation of
 two or more groups within a population give rise to additional taxa. [Gk.
 klados, branch + -genesis.]   cladogenetic adj.   cladogenetically adv.



 cladophyll  n.  A branch or portion of a stem that resembles and functions
 as a leaf. [Gk. klados, twig + -phyll.]



 clag  tr.  -intr.v.clagged clagging clags   To clog.   -n. A clog or clot.
 [Perh. < dial. clag, to cover with mud, of Scand. orig.]



 claim  tr.v. claimed claiming claims   1. To demand or ask for as one's
 own or one's due; assert one's right to: claim a reward.  2. To state to be
 true; assert or maintain: claimed he could read while watching television.
 3. To deserve or call for; require: problems that claim her attention.
 -n. 1. A demand for something as one's rightful due: filed a claim for
 losses.  2. A basis for demanding something; title or right. 3. Something
 claimed, esp.: a. A tract of land staked out by a miner or homesteader. b.
 A sum of money demanded in accordance with an insurance policy or other
 formal arrangement. 4. A statement of something as a fact; an assertion of
 truth: advertising with false claims.

       Idiom Section:  lay claim to. To assert one's right to or ownership
 of. [ME claimen < OFr. clamer < Lat. clamare, to call.]   claimable adj.
 claimer n.



 claimant  n.  A person making a claim.



 claiming race  n.  A horse race in which each entry is available for
 purchase at a previously fixed price, the right to buy often being limited
 to those persons entering horses in that race.



 clair de lune  n.  1. A pale, grayish-blue glaze applied to various kinds
 of Chinese porcelain. 2. The color of clair de lune. [Fr. : clair, light +
 de, of + lune, moon.]



 clairvoyance  n.  1. The power to perceive things that are out of the
 natural range of human senses. 2. Acute intuitive insight or
 perceptiveness. [Fr. : clair, clear (< Lat. clarus) + voyant, pr.part. of
 voir, to see < Lat. videre.]   clairvoyant n.



 clam
 clam(1)  n.  1. Any of various usually burrowing marine and freshwater
 bivalve mollusks of the class Pelecypoda, including members of the genera
 Venus and Mya, many of which are edible. 2.  Informal. An uncommunicative
 person.   -intr.v.clammed clamming clams   To hunt for clams. Phrasal verb.
  clam up. To cease talking or remain silent. [Obs. clam-shell, clam <
 clam2.]
 clam(2)  n.  A clamp or vise. [ME < OE, bond.]



 clamant  adj.  1. Clamorous; loud. 2. Urgent; compelling. [Lat. clamans,
 clamant-, pr.part. of clamare, to cry out.]   clamantly adv.



 clambake  n.  1. A seashore picnic where clams, fish, corn, and other
 foods are baked in layers on buried hot stones. 2.  Informal. A party, esp.
 a noisy and lively one.



 clamber  tr.  -intr.v.-bered -bering -bers   To climb with difficulty,
 esp. on all fours.   -n. The act of clambering. [ME clambren.]   clamberer
 n.



 clam chowder  n.  Any of various soups made of shucked clams, salt pork,
 potatoes, and onions.



 clammy  adj. -mier -miest   Disagreeably moist, sticky, and usually cold:
 gave me a clammy handshake.  [ME clammi, sticky < clam, of MLG orig.]
 clammily adv.   clamminess n.



 clamor  n.  1. A loud outcry; hubbub. 2. A vehement expression of
 discontent or protest; public outcry: a clamor for pollution control.  3. A
 loud and sustained noise; din.   -v.-ored -oring -ors   -intr. 1. To make a
 clamor. 2. To make insistent demands or complaints: clamored for tax
 reforms.  -tr. 1. To exclaim insistently and noisily. 2. To drive or
 influence by clamor. [ME clamour < OFr. < Lat. clamor, shout < clamare, to
 cry out.]   clamorer n.



 clamorous  adj.  Making, full of, or characterized by clamor.
 clamorously adv.   clamorousness n.



 clamour  n.  -v. Chiefly British.  Variant of clamor.



 clamourous  adj.  Chiefly British.  Variant of clamorous.



 clamp  n.  A device used to join, grip, support, or compress mechanical or
 structural parts.   -tr.v.clamped clamping clamps   To fasten, grip, or
 support with or as if with a clamp. Phrasal verb.  clamp down. Informal.
 To become more strict or repressive. [ME < MDu. klampe.]



 clamper  n.  A spiked plate attached to the sole of a shoe to prevent
 slipping on ice.



 clamshell  n.  1. The shell of a clam. 2. A dredging bucket made of two
 hinged jaws.



 clamworm  n.  Any of various segmented marine worms of the genus Nereis.



 clan  n.  1. A traditional social unit in the Scottish Highlands,
 consisting of a number of families claiming a common ancestor and following
 the same hereditary chieftain. 2. A division of a tribe tracing descent
 from a common ancestor. 3. A large group of relatives, friends, or
 associates. [Sc. Gael. clann, family < OIr. cland, offspring < Lat. planta,
 sprout.]



 clandestine  adj.  Concealed or kept secret, often for an illicit purpose.
 [Lat. clandestinus < clam, secretly.]   clandestinely adv.
 clandestineness n.



 clang  intr.  -tr.v.clanged clanging clangs   To make or cause to make a
 loud, metallic, resonant sound.   -n. 1. A clanging sound. 2. The strident
 call of a crane or goose. [Lat. clangere.]



 clanger  n.  Chiefly British.  Slang.  A blunder; faux pas: drop a
 clanger.



 clangor  n.  A clang or repeated clanging; din.   -intr.v.-gored -goring
 -gors   To make a clangor. [Lat. < clangere, to clang.]   clangorous adj.
 clangorously adv.



 clangour  n.  -v. Chiefly British.  Variant of clangor.



 clank  n.  A metallic sound, sharp and hard but not as resonant as a
 clang.   -intr.v.clanked clanking clanks   To make a clanking sound.
 [Imit.]



 clannish  adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, or characteristic of a clan. 2.
 Inclined to cling together and to exclude outsiders.   clannishly adv.
 clannishness n.



 clansman  n.  A person belonging to a clan.



 clap
 clap(1)  v. clapped clapping claps   -intr. 1. To strike the palms of the
 hands together with a sudden explosive sound, as in applauding. 2. To make
 a sudden sharp noise. -tr. 1.  a. To strike (the hands) together repeatedly
 with an abrupt, loud sound. b. To applaud in this manner. 2. To tap with
 the open hand, as in greeting: clapped him on the shoulder.  3. To put,
 move, or send promptly or suddenly: clapped me in jail.  4.  Informal. To
 put together hastily: clap together a plan.    -n. 1.  a. The act or sound
 of clapping the hands. b. A loud, sharp, or explosive noise. 2. A sharp
 blow with the open hand; slap. 3.  Obsolete. A sudden stroke, esp. of bad
 luck. [ME clappen < OE clappan.]
 clap(2)  n.  Slang.  Gonorrhea. [Prob. < OFr. clapoir, bubo.]



 clapboard  n.  A long, narrow board with one edge thicker than the other,
 overlapped to cover the outer walls of frame houses.   -tr.v.-boarded
 -boarding -boards   To cover with clapboards. [Partial transl. of MDu.
 clapholt : clappen, to split + holt, board.]



 clapper  n.  1. One that claps, esp. the tongue of a bell. 2. clappers
 Two flat pieces of wood held between the fingers and struck together
 rhythmically. 3.  Slang. The tongue of a garrulous person.



 clapperclaw  tr.v. -clawed -clawing -claws   Archaic.  1. To claw or
 scratch. 2. To berate or revile.



 clapper rail  n.  A North American marsh bird, Rallus longirostris, having
 brownish plumage, a long bill, and a clattering cry.



 claptrap  n.  Pretentious, insincere, or empty language. [Obs. claptrap, a
 theatrical trick to win applause : clap1 + trap1.]



 claque  n.  1. A group of persons hired to applaud at a performance. 2. A
 group of adulating or fawning admirers. [Fr. < claquer, to clap.]



 clarence  n.  A four-wheeled closed carriage with seats for four
 passengers. [After the Duke of Clarence (1765-1837), later William IV of
 England.]



 claret  n.  1.  a. The dry red table wine of Bordeaux, France. b. A
 similar wine made elsewhere. 2. A dark or grayish purplish red to dark
 purplish pink. [Short for ME claret win, light-colored wine < OFr. vin
 claret : vin, wine (< Lat. vinum) + claret, light-colored < clair, clear <
 Lat. clarus.]



 claret cup  n.  A chilled mixed drink of red wine variously combined with
 soda and fruit juices.



 Claretian  n.  A member of the Congregation of the Missionary Sons of the
 Immaculate Heart of Mary, founded in Spain in 1849. [After St. Anthony
 Claret (1807-1870).]   Claretian adj.



 clarify  v. -fied -fying -fies   -tr. 1. To make clear or easier to
 understand; elucidate. 2. To make clear by removing impurities, often by
 heating gently: clarify butter.  -intr. To become clear. [ME clarifien <
 OFr. clarifier < LLat. clarificare : Lat. clarus, clear + Lat. facere, to
 make.]   clarification n.   clarifier n.



 clarinet or clarionet   n.  A woodwind instrument having a straight,
 cylindrical tube with a flaring bell and a single-reed mouthpiece, played
 by means of finger holes and keys. [Fr. clarinette, dim. of clarine, cattle
 bell < clair, clear < Lat. clarus.]   clarinetist  clarinettist n.



 clarion  n.  1. A medieval trumpet with a shrill, clear tone. 2. The sound
 made by the clarion or a sound resembling it.   -adj. Shrill and clear. [ME
 clarioun < OFr. clarion < Med. Lat. clario < Lat. clarus, clear.]



 clarionet  n.  Variant of clarinet.



 clarity  n.  The state or quality of being clear; lucidity. [ME clerte,
 brightness < OFr. clarte < Lat. claritas, clearness < clarus, clear.]



 clarkia  n.  Any of several plants of the genus Clarkia, of western North
 America, having red, purple, or pink flowers. [NLat. Clarkia, genus name,
 after William Clark (1770-1838).]



 clary  n. pl. -ies  Any of several European plants of the genus Salvia,
 esp. S. sclarea, an aromatic herb with bluish-white flowers. [ME clare,
 partly < Med. Lat. sclarea, and partly < OE slaria.]



 clary sage  n.  The clary.



 clash  v. clashed clashing clashes   -intr. 1. To collide with a loud,
 harsh noise: cymbals clashing.  2. To conflict; be in opposition: political
 opponents who clashed on busing.  -tr. To strike together with a harsh,
 metallic noise.   -n. 1. A loud, resounding metallic noise, such as that
 made by two objects colliding. 2. A state of disagreement or disharmony. 3.
 An often heated discussion in which differences of opinion are expressed.
 [Imit.]



 clasmatocyte  n.  Histiocyte. [Gk. klasma, klasmat-, fragment (< klan, to
 break) + -cyte.]   clasmatocytic adj.



 clasp  n.  1. A fastening, such as a hook, used to hold two objects or
 parts together. 2.  a. An embrace; hug. b. A grip or grasp of the hand. 3.
 A small metal bar attached to a military decoration indicating the action
 for which it was awarded.   -tr.v.clasped clasping clasps   1. To fasten
 with or as if with a clasp. 2. To hold in a tight grasp; embrace. 3. To
 grip firmly in or with the hand. [ME claspe, prob. of OE orig.]   clasper
 n.



 clasper  n.  A modified part of the pelvic fin of male elasmobranch fishes
 that aids in the transmission of sperm during copulation.



 clasp knife  n.  A pocketknife with a folding blade.



 class  n.  1.  a. A set, collection, group, or configuration containing
 members having or thought to have at least one attribute in common; kind;
 sort. b.  Statistics. An interval in a frequency distribution. 2. A
 division by quality, rank, or grade. 3.  a. A social stratum whose members
 share similar economic, political, and cultural characteristics: the middle
 class.  b. Social rank or caste, esp. high rank. 4.  a. A group of students
 or alumni graduated in the same year. b. A group of students meeting to
 study the same subject. c. The period during which such a group meets. 5.
 Biology. A taxonomic category ranking below a phylum and above an order. 6.
  a. A grade of mail: sent the letter by first class.  b. The quality of
 accommodation on a public vehicle: travel third class.  7.  Slang. Great
 style or quality: a girl with class.    -tr.v.classed classing classes   To
 arrange, group, or rate according to qualities or characteristics;
 classify. [Fr. classe < Lat. classis, class of citizens.]



 class action  n.  A lawsuit in which the plaintiff or plaintiffs bring
 suit both on their own behalf and on behalf of many others who have the
 same claim against the defendant.



 class-conscious  adj.  Aware of belonging to a particular socioeconomic
 class.   class-consciousness.



 classic  adj.  1. Of the highest rank or class. 2.  a. Serving as an
 outstanding representative of its kind; model. b. Well-known and typical:
 the classic situation-boy meets girl.  3. Having lasting significance or
 recognized worth. 4. Of or pertaining to ancient Greek or Roman literature
 or art; classical. 5. Of or in accordance with established principles and
 methods in the arts and sciences. 6. Of lasting historical or literary
 significance.   -n. 1. An artist, author, or work generally considered to
 be of the highest rank or excellence. 2. A literary work of ancient Greece
 or Rome. 3. Something considered to be typical or traditional.



 classical  adj.  1.  a. Of or pertaining to the culture of ancient Greece
 and Rome, esp. the art, architecture, and literature. b. Pertaining to or
 versed in studies of antiquity. 2.  a. Pertaining to or designating the
 European music of the latter half of the 18th century. b. Designating music
 in the educated European tradition as distinguished from popular or folk
 music. 3. Standard and authoritative rather than new or experimental:
 classical methods of navigation.  4. Of or pertaining to nonrelativistic or
 nonquantum physics: classical mechanics.    classicality classicalness  n.
  classically adv.



 classicism  n.  1. Aesthetic attitudes and principles based on the
 culture, art, and literature of ancient Greece and Rome and characterized
 by emphasis on form, simplicity, proportion, and restrained emotion. 2.
 Classical scholarship. 3. A Greek or Latin expression or idiom.



 classicist  n.  A student of or specialist in the classics.



 classification  n.  1. The act or result of classifying. 2.  Biology. The
 systematic grouping of organisms into categories based on shared
 characteristics or traits; taxonomy.   classificatory adj.



 classified advertisement  n.  An advertisement, usually brief and in small
 type, printed in a newspaper or magazine along with others of the same
 category.



 classify  tr.v. -fied -fying -fies   1. To arrange or organize according
 to class or category. 2. To designate (a document, for example) as secret
 and available only to authorized persons.   classifiable adj.   classifier
 n.



 classis  n. pl. -ses  Ecclesiastical.  1. A governing body of pastors and
 elders in certain Reformed churches having jurisdiction over local
 churches. 2. The district or churches governed by a classis. [Lat., class
 of citizens.]



 class mark  n.  Statistics.  A mark1 (sense 22).



 classmate  n.  A member of the same academic class.



 classroom  n.  A room in which classes are conducted in a school or
 college.



 classy  adj. -ier -iest   Slang.  Stylish; elegant.   classiness n.



 clast  n.  A rock fragment. [< Gk. klastos, broken < klan, to break.]



 clastic  adj.  1. Separable into parts or having removable sections: a
 clastic anatomical model.  2.  Geology. Made up of fragments; fragmental.
 [< Gk. klastos, broken < klan, to break.]   clastic n.



 clathrate  adj.  1.  Biology. Having a latticelike structure or
 appearance. 2.  Chemistry. Of or pertaining to inclusion complexes in which
 molecules of one substance are completely enclosed within the crystal
 structure of another.   -n. A clathrate compound. [Lat. clathratus, p.part.
 of clathrare, to furnish with a lattice < Gk. kleithron, door bar <
 kleiein, to close.]



 clatter  v. -tered -tering -ters   -intr. 1. To make a rattling sound. 2.
 To move with a rattling sound: clattering along on roller skates.  3. To
 talk rapidly and noisily; chatter. -tr. To cause to make a rattling sound.
  -n. 1. A rattling sound: the clatter of dishes in the kitchen.  2. A loud
 disturbance; commotion. 3. Noisy talk; chatter. [ME clateren.]   clatterer
 n.



 claudication  n.  A halt in a person's walk; limp. [ME claudicacioun <
 Lat. claudicatio < claudicare, to limp < claudus, lame.]



 clause  n.  1. A group of words containing a subject and a predicate and
 forming part of a compound or complex sentence. 2. A distinct article,
 stipulation, or provision in a document. [ME < OFr. < Med. Lat. clausa,
 close of a rhetorical period < Lat. claudere, to close.]   clausal adj.



 claustral  adj.  Variant of cloistral.



 claustrophobia  n.  A pathological fear of confined spaces. [Lat.
 claustrum, enclosed place (< claudere, to close) + -phobia.]
 claustrophobic adj.



 clavate  adj.  Having one end thickened; club-shaped; claviform. [NLat.
 clavatus < Lat. clava, club.]   clavately adv.



 clave
 clave(1)  v.  Archaic.  Past tense of cleave1.
 clave(2)  v.  Archaic.  Past tense of cleave2.



 claver  Scots.  intr.v. -vered -vering -vers   To gossip or talk idly.
 -n. Gossip; idle talk. [Perh. of Celt. orig.]



 clavichord  n.  An early musical keyboard instrument with a soft sound
 produced by tangents striking horizontal strings. [Med. Lat. clavichordium
 : Lat. clavis, key + Lat. chorda, string < Gk. khorde.]



 clavicle  n.  A bone that links the sternum and the scapula. [NLat.
 clavicula < Lat., dim. of clavis, key (from its shape).]   clavicular adj.
  claviculate adj.



 clavicorn  adj.  Belonging to or designating a group of beetles of the
 suborder Polyphaga, having club-shaped antennae. [NLat. Clavicornia, family
 name : Lat. clava, club + Lat. cornu, horn.]



 clavier  n.  1. A keyboard. 2. A stringed keyboard instrument such as a
 harpsichord. [Fr. < OFr., key-bearer < Lat. clavis, key.]



 claviform  adj.  Club-shaped; clavate. [Lat. clava, club + -form.]



 clavus  n.  Corn2. [Lat., nail.]



 claw  n.  1. A sharp, often curved nail on the toe of a mammal, reptile,
 or bird. 2.  a. A chela or similar pincerlike structure on the limb of a
 crustacean or other arthropod. b. A limb terminating in such a structure.
 3. Something resembling a claw, as the cleft end of a hammerhead. 4.
 Botany. The narrowed basal part of certain petals or sepals.   -tr.
 -intr.v.clawed clawing claws   To scratch or dig or make scratching or
 digging motions with or as if with claws. [ME clave < OE clawu.]



 claw hammer  n.  1. A hammer having a head with one end forked for
 removing nails. 2. A swallow-tailed coat.



 claw hatchet  n.  A hatchet having one end of the head forked.



 clay  n.  1. A fine-grained, firm natural material, plastic when wet, that
 consists primarily of hydrated silicates of aluminum and is widely used in
 making bricks, tiles, and pottery. 2. An earth that forms a paste with
 water and hardens when heated, esp. one with grains smaller than 0.002
 millimeters in diameter. 3. Moist earth; mud. 4. The human body as
 distinguished from the spirit. [ME clei < OE claeg.]   clayey clayish  adj.




 clay mineral  n.  Any of various hydrous silicates that have a crystalline
 structure and are components of clay.



 claymore  n.  1. A large, double-edged broadsword formerly used by
 Scottish Highlanders. 2. A claymore mine. [Gael. claidheamh mor :
 claidheamh, sword + mor, great.]



 claymore mine  n.  A lens-shaped, ground-emplaced anti-personnel mine
 whose blast is focused only in the direction of the oncoming enemy.



 clay pigeon  n.  A clay disk thrown as a flying target for skeet and
 trapshooting.



 claytonia  n.  The spring beauty. [NLat. Claytonia, herb genus, after John
 Clayton (1693-1773).]



 clean  adj. -er -est   1. Free from dirt, stain, or impurities; unsoiled.
 2. Free from foreign matter; unadulterated: clean drinking water.  3.
 Producing little radioactive fallout or contamination: a clean nuclear
 bomb.  4. Without imperfections or blemishes; regular: a clean line.  5.
 Free from clumsiness; deft; adroit: a clean throw.  6. Without restrictions
 or encumbrances. 7. Entire; complete: a clean escape.  8. Having few
 alterations or corrections; legible: clean manuscript.  9. Blank: a clean
 page.  10. Morally pure; sinless: led a clean life.  11. Not ribald or
 obscene: a clean joke.  12. Honest; fair, as in sports: a clean fighter.
 13.  Slang.  a. Not carrying concealed weapons. b. Free from narcotics
 addiction, use, or possession. c. Innocent of a suspected crime.   -adv. 1.
  a. So as to be clean: wash dishes clean.  b. In a clean manner: played the
 game clean.  2.  Informal. Entirely; wholly:clean forgot the appointment.
  -v.cleaned cleaning cleans   -tr. 1. To rid of dirt or other impurities:
 clean a room.  2. To remove (dirt or impurities) from: clean a suit.  3. To
 prepare (fowl or other food) for cooking. 4. To remove the contents from;
 empty: cleaned his plate.  -intr. To undergo or perform the act of ridding
 of dirt and impurities. Phrasal verb.   clean out. 1. To drive or force
 out: cleaned out subversives from the government.  2. To deprive
 completely, as of money; remove everything from: The alimony payments had
 cleaned him out.  clean up. 1. To dispose of; settle: cleaned up the unpaid
 bills.  2.  Informal.  To make a large profit, often in a short period of
 time.

       Idiom Section:  clean house. To eliminate or discard what is
 undesirable: The scandal forced the company to clean house.  come clean.
 Slang. To admit the truth; confess. [ME clene < OE claene.]   cleanable
 adj.   cleanness n.



 clean-cut  adj.  1. Clearly and sharply defined or outlined. 2. Neat and
 trim in appearance; wholesome.



 cleaner  n.  1. One whose work or business is cleaning. 2. A machine or
 substance used in cleaning.



 clean-handed  adj.  Innocent; guiltless.



 clean-limbed  adj.  Having well-formed limbs.



 cleanly  adj. -lier -liest   Habitually and carefully neat and clean.
 -adv.  In a clean manner.   cleanliness n.



 clean room  n.  A room that is kept contaminant-free, esp. for the
 handling of precision parts.



 cleanse  tr.v. cleansed cleansing cleanses   To free from dirt,
 defilement, or guilt; clean. [ME clensen < OE claensian.]



 cleanser  n.  1. One that cleans. 2. A soap, detergent, or other
 preparation used for cleaning.



 clean-shaven  adj.  1. Having the beard or hair shaved off. 2. Having
 recently shaved.



 cleanup  n.  1. A thorough cleaning or ordering. 2.  Informal. A very
 large profit.



 clear  adj. -er -est   1. Free from clouds, mist, or haze: a clear day.
 2. Free from anything that dims, obscures, or darkens; transparent: clear
 water.  3. Free from flaw, blemish, or impurity: a clear, perfect diamond.
 4. Free from impediment, obstruction, or hindrance; open: a clear view.  5.
 Plain or evident to the mind; unmistakable: a clear case of cheating.  6.
 Easily perceptible to the eye or ear; distinct. 7. Discerning or perceiving
 easily; keen: a clear mind.  8. Free from doubt or confusion; certain. 9.
 Free from qualification or limitation; absolute. 10. Free from guilt;
 untroubled: a clear conscience.  11. Freed from contact or connection;
 disengaged: clear of danger.  12. Without charges or deductions; net: earns
 a clear $15,000.  13. Containing nothing.   -adv. 1. Distinctly; clearly:
 spoke loud and clear.  2.  Informal. All the way; completely; entirely:
 cried clear through the night.    -v.cleared clearing clears   -tr. 1. To
 make clear, light, or bright. 2. To rid of impurities, blemishes,
 muddiness, or foreign matter. 3. To free from confusion, doubt, or
 ambiguity; make plain or intelligible: cleared up the question of
 responsibility.  4.  a. To rid of obstructions or entanglements: clear the
 road of snow.  b. To remove or get rid of (obstructions or entanglements):
 clear snow from the road.  5. To free from a legal charge or imputation of
 guilt; acquit: was cleared of murder charges.  6. To pass by, under, or
 over without contact: a runner clearing the hurdle.  7. To settle (a debt)
 by paying it. 8. To gain (a given amount) as net profit or earnings. 9. To
 pass (a check or other bill of exchange) through a clearing-house. 10. To
 free (a ship or cargo) from legal detention at a harbor by fulfilling
 customs and harbor requirements. 11. To give (an aircraft) clearance or
 authorization: cleared the plane for cruising at 30,000 feet.  12. To free
 (the throat) of phlegm by coughing. -intr. 1. To become clear: The sky
 cleared.  2. To pass through a clearing-house. 3. To comply with customs
 and harbor requirements in discharging a cargo or in leaving or entering a
 port. Phrasal verb.  clear out. Informal.  To leave a place, often quickly.
   -n. 1. A clear or open space. 2. Clearance.

       Idiom Section:  clear the air. To dispel emotional tensions or
 differences. in the clear. 1. Free from burdens or dangers. 2. Not subject
 to suspicion or accusations of guilt: The evidence showed him to be in the
 clear.  [ME cler < OFr. < Lat. clarus.]   clearable adj.   clearer n.
 clearly adv.   clearness n.



 clear-air turbulence  n.  A severe atmospheric turbulence that occurs
 under otherwise tranquil conditions and subjects aircraft to strong
 updrafts and downdrafts.



 clearance  n.  1. The act or process of clearing. 2. A space cleared; a
 clearing. 3. The amount by which a moving object clears something. 4. An
 intervening distance or space allowing free play, as between machine parts.
 5. Permission for a vehicle to proceed, as after an inspection of equipment
 or cargo. 6. Official certification of blamelessness, trustworthiness, or
 suitability. 7. A sale, generally at reduced prices, to dispose of old
 merchandise. 8. The passage of checks and other bills of exchange through a
 clearing-house.



 clear-cut  adj.  1.  a. Distinctly and sharply defined or outlined. b.
 Marked by or possessing keen intellect. 2. Plain; evident: a clear-cut
 victory.



 clear-eyed  adj.  1. Having sharp, bright eyes; keen-sighted. 2. Mentally
 acute or perceptive.



 clear-headed  adj.  Having a clear, orderly mind.   clear-headedly adv.
 clear-headedness n.



 clearing  n.  1. A tract of land from which the trees and other
 obstructions have been removed. 2.  a. The exchange among banks of checks,
 drafts, and notes and the settlement of differences arising from it. b.
 clearings  The total of claims presented daily at a clearing-house.



 clearing-house or clearinghouse   n.  An office where banks exchange
 checks and drafts and settle accounts.



 clear-sighted  adj.  1. Having sharp, clear vision. 2. Perceptive;
 discerning.   clear-sightedly adv.   clear-sightedness n.



 clearstory  n.  Variant of clerestory.



 clearweed  n.  A plant, Pilea pumila, of eastern North America, having
 small green flowers and translucent stems and leaves.



 clearwing  n.  Any of various moths of the family Aegeriidae, having
 scaleless, transparent wings.



 cleat  n.  1. A strip of wood or iron used to strengthen or support the
 surface to which it is attached. 2. A piece of iron, rubber, or leather
 attached to the underside of a shoe to preserve the sole or prevent
 slipping. 3. A piece of metal or wood having projecting arms or ends on
 which a rope can be wound or secured. 4. A wedge-shaped piece of wood or
 other material fastened onto something, such as a spar, to act as a support
 or to prevent slipping. 5. A spurlike device used in gripping a tree or
 pole in climbing.   -tr.v.cleated cleating cleats   To supply, support,
 secure, or strengthen with a cleat. [ME clete, of OE orig.]



 cleavage  n.  1. The act of splitting or cleaving. 2. The state of being
 split or cleft; a fissure or division. 3.  Mineralogy. The splitting or
 tendency to split of a crystallized substance along definite crystalline
 planes, yielding smooth surfaces. 4.  Biology. The process of or any of
 various stages in cell division that produce a blastula from a fertilized
 ovum. 5.  Informal. The separation between a woman's breasts.



 cleave
 cleave(1)  v. cleft  or cleaved  or clove   , cleftor cleaved or cloven,
 cleaving, cleaves. -tr. 1. To split or separate, as with an ax. 2. To make
 or accomplish by or as if by cutting: cleave a path through the forest.  3.
 To pierce or penetrate. -intr. 1. To split or separate, esp. along a
 natural line of division. 2. To make one's way; penetrate; pass. [ME cleven
 < OE cleofan.]   cleavable adj.
 cleave(2)  intr.v. cleaved  or clove  or cleaved  or cleaving  or cleaves
 1. To adhere, cling, or stick fast. 2. To be faithful. [ME cleven < OE
 cleofian.]



 cleaver  n.  A heavy, axlike knife or hatchet used by butchers.



 cleavers  n.  Any of several plants of the genusGalium,esp.G.
 aparine,having small white flowers and prickly stems and seeds. [ME cliver
 < OE clife.]



 cleek  n.  1. In golf, a number-one iron, having very little loft to the
 club face. 2.  Scots. A large hook. [ME cleike, large hook.]



 clef  n.  A symbol on a musical staff indicating the pitch of the notes.
 [Fr. < Lat. clavis, key.]



 cleft  v.  A past tense and past participle of cleave1.   -adj. 1.
 Divided; split. 2.  Botany. Having deeply divided lobes or divisions: a
 cleft leaf.    -n. 1. A crack, crevice, or split. 2. A split or indentation
 between two parts, as of the chin.



 cleft palate  n.  A congenital fissure in the roof of the mouth.



 cleistogamous or cleistogamic   adj.  Botany.  Characterized by
 self-fertilization in an unopened, budlike state. [Gk. kleistos, closed (<
 kleiein, to close) + -gamous.]   cleistogamously adv.   cleistogamy n.



 cleistothecium  n. pl. -cia  A closed, spherical ascocarp. [NLat. : Gk.
 kleistos, closed + Gk. thekion, small case, dim. of theke, chest.]



 clematis  n.  Any of various plants or vines of the genus Clematis, of
 eastern Asia and North America, having white or variously colored flowers
 and plumelike seeds. [NLat. Clematis, genus name < Lat. clematis, a
 creeping plant < Gk. klematis < klema, twig.]



 clemency  n. pl. -cies  1. Mercy, esp. toward an offender or enemy;
 leniency. 2. A merciful, kind, or lenient act. 3. Mildness, esp. of
 weather.



 clement  adj.  1. Inclined to be lenient or merciful. 2. Mild: clement
 weather.  [ME < Lat. clemens.]   clemently adv.



 clench  tr.v. clenched clenching clenches   1. To bring together (hands or
 teeth) tightly; close. 2. To grasp or grip tightly. 3. To clinch (a bolt,
 for example). 4.  Nautical. To fasten with a clinch.   -n. 1. A tight grip
 or grasp. 2. Something that clenches or holds fast, as a mechanical device.
 3.  Nautical. A clinch (sense 4). [ME clenchen < OE (be)clencan.]



 cleome  n.  Any of various mostly tropical plants of the genus Cleome,
 esp. C. spinosa, cultivated for its clusters of white or purplish flowers
 with long, conspicuous stamens. [NLat. Cleome, genus name.]



 clepe  tr.v. cleped cleped  or clept  or ycleped  or yclept  or cleping
 or clepes   Archaic.  To call by the name of; name. [ME clepen < OE
 cleopian, to cry out.]



 clepsydra  n. pl. -dras  or -drae  An ancient device that measured time by
 marking the regulated flow of water through a small opening. [Lat. < Gk.
 klepsudra : kleps-, secretly (< kleptein, to steal) + hudor, water.]



 clerestory or clearstory   n. pl. -ries  1. The upper part of the nave,
 transepts, and choir of a church, containing windows. 2. A windowed wall or
 construction similar to a clerestory, used for light and ventilation. [ME
 clerestorie, perh. : cler, giving light, clear + storie, tier. -see story.]




 clergy  n. pl. -gies  The body of people ordained for religious service.
 -See Usage note at collective noun. [ME clergie < OFr. < clerc, cleric.
 -see clerk.]



 clergyman  n.  A member of the clergy.



 cleric  n.  A clergyman. [LLat. clericus. -see clerk.]



 clerical  adj.  1. Of or pertaining to clerks or office workers. 2. Of,
 relating to, or characteristic of the clergy or a clergyman.   -n. 1. A
 clergyman. 2. A person or party advocating clericalism.   clerically adv.



 clericalism  n.  A policy of supporting the power or influence of the
 clergy in political or secular matters.   clericalist n.



 clerihew  n.  A humorous quatrain about a person who is generally named in
 the first line. [After Edmund Clerihew Bentley (1875-1956), its inventor.]



 clerisy  n.  Educated people as a class; the literati. [G. klerisei,
 clergy < Med. Lat. clericia < LLat. clericus, priest. -see clerk.]



 clerk  n.  1. A person who works in an office performing such tasks as
 keeping records, attending to correspondence, or filing. 2. A person who
 keeps the records and performs the regular business of a court or
 legislative body. 3. A salesperson in a store. 4.  Archaic. A clergyman. 5.
  Archaic.  a. A literate person. b. A scholar.   -intr.v.clerked clerking
 clerks   To work or serve as a clerk. [ME, clergyman, secretary < OE and
 OFr. clerc, clergyman, both < LLat. clericus < Gk. klerikos, belonging to
 the clergy < kleros, inheritance.]   clerkdom n.   clerkship n.



 clerkly  adj. -lier -liest   1. Of or pertaining to a clerk or clerks. 2.
 Archaic. Scholarly.   clerkliness n.



 clever  adj. -er -est   1. Mentally quick and original; bright. 2. Nimble
 with the hands; dexterous. 3. Showing quick-wittedness: a clever story.  4.
  Regional. Handy; suitable. [Perh. < ME cliver, expert in seizing, perh. of
 ON orig.]   cleverly adv.   cleverness n.

      Synonyms: clever cunning ingenious shrewd These adjectives describe
 quick-witted action or speech. Clever , the most comprehensive, stresses
 mental quickness or adeptness in handling a situation. Cunning  adds to
 clever  the idea of slyness or craftiness. Ingenious  implies great
 originality and invention. Shrewd  emphasizes mental cleverness and
 practical understanding.




 clevis  n.  A U-shaped metal piece with holes in each end through which a
 pin or bolt is run, used for attaching a drawbar to a plow. [Obs. clevi,
 prob. of Scand. orig.]



 clew
 clew(1)  n.  1. A ball of yarn or thread. 2. clews  The cords by which a
 hammock is suspended. 3.  a. One of the two lower corners of a square sail.
 b. The lower aft corner of a fore-and-aft sail.   -tr.v.clewed clewing
 clews   1. To roll or coil into a ball. 2. To raise the lower corners of (a
 square sail) by means of clew lines. [ME cleve < OE clewe.]
 clew(2)  n.  -v. Variant of clue.



 clew line  n.  Nautical.  A rope used to raise the clew of a sail up to
 the yard or mast.



 cliche  n.  1. A trite or overused expression or idea. 2.  Printing. A
 stereotype or electrotype plate. [Fr. < clicher, to stereotype.]



 click  n.  1. A brief, sharp, nonresonant sound: the click of a door
 latch.  2. A mechanical device, such as a detent, that snaps into position.
 3. An implosive speech sound, common in some African languages, produced by
 drawing air into the mouth and clicking the tongue.   -v.clicked clicking
 clicks   -intr. 1. To produce a click or series of clicks. 2.  Slang.  a.
 To become a success. b. To function well together. -tr. To cause to click.
 [Imit.]   clicker n.



 click beetle  n.  A beetle of the family Elateridae, characterized by the
 ability to right itself from an overturned position by flipping into the
 air with a clicking sound.



 client  n.  1. One for whom professional services are rendered, as by a
 lawyer. 2. A customer or patron. 3. One dependent on the patronage or
 protection of another: Cuba-a client of the Soviet Union.  [ME < OFr. <
 Lat. cliens.]   clientage n.   cliental adj.



 clientele  n.  1. The clients of a professional person taken collectively.
 2. A body of customers or patrons. [Fr. clientele < Lat. clientela,
 clientship < cliens, client.]



 cliff  n.  A high, steep, or overhanging face of rock. [ME clif < OE.]
 cliffy adj.



 cliff dweller  n.  1. A member of certain prehistoric Indian tribes of the
 southwestern United States who lived in caves in the sides of cliffs. 2. A
 person who lives in an apartment house, esp. in a city.   cliff dwelling n.




 cliffhanger  n.  1. A melodramatic serial in which each episode ends in
 suspense. 2. A contest so closely matched that the outcome is uncertain
 until the end.   cliffhanging adj.



 cliff swallow  n.  A North American swallow, Petrochelidon pyrrhonota,
 that builds a bottle-shaped mud nest on the face of a cliff or bluff or
 under the eaves of a roof.



 climacteric  n.  1. A period or year of life when physiological changes
 take place in the body. 2. The menopause. 3. A critical stage, period, or
 year.   -adj. Pertaining to a critical stage, period, or year. [Lat.
 climactericus, of a dangerous period in life < Gk. klimaterikos <
 klimakter, dangerous point, rung of a ladder < klimax, ladder.]
 climacterical adj.



 climactic or climactical   adj.  Pertaining to or constituting a climax.
 climactically adv.



 climate  n.  1. The meteorological conditions, including temperature,
 precipitation, and wind, that characteristically prevail in a particular
 region. 2. A region manifesting particular meteorological conditions. 3. A
 prevailing condition or atmosphere: a climate of hope.  [ME climat < OFr. <
 LLat. clima < Gk. klima, region of the earth.]   climatic climatical  adj.
  climatically adv.



 climatology  n.  The meteorological study of climate.   climatologic
 climatological adj.   climatologist n.



 climax  n.  1. The point of greatest intensity in a series or progression
 of events; culmination. 2. Orgasm. 3.  a. A series of statements or ideas
 in an ascending order of rhetorical force or intensity. b. The final
 statement in such a series. 4. The stage in ecological development or
 evolution in which a community of organisms becomes stable and begins to
 perpetuate itself. -intr. & tr.v. -maxed, -maxing, -maxes.To reach or bring
 to a climax. [Lat., rhetorical climax < Gk. klimax, ladder.]



 climb  v. climbed climbing climbs   -tr. To move up or mount, esp. by
 using the hands and feet; ascend: climbed a mountain.  -intr. 1. To rise or
 move up, esp. by using the hands and feet: climbed up the ladder.  2. To
 reach a higher status, rank, or condition. 3. To slant or slope upward: a
 hill climbing steeply to the summit.  4. To grow in an upward direction, as
 some plants do, by twining around another object for support. Phrasal verb.
  climb down. To go down; descend, esp. by means of the hands and feet:
 climbed down the tree.    -n. 1. The act of climbing; ascent. 2. A place to
 be climbed. [ME climben < OE climban.]   climbable adj.



 climber  n.  1. One that climbs. 2. A person who seeks to gain a higher
 social or professional position. 3. A plant that grows upward by twining
 around another object. 4. A climbing iron.



 climbing fumitory  n.  A weak-stemmed climbing vine, Adlumia fungosa, of
 eastern North America, having spurred pinkish or white flowers.



 climbing hempweed  n.  A twining vine, Mikania scandens, of eastern and
 central North America, having clusters of small white flowers.



 climbing iron  n.  An iron bar with spikes or spurs attached, which can be
 strapped to a shoe or boot used in climbing.



 climbing perch  n.  A freshwater fish, Anabas testudineus, of tropical
 Asia, capable of moving along the ground with the aid of its gill covers
 and pectoral fins.



 clime  n.  Climate. [ME, region of the earth < LLat. clima < Gk. klima.]



 climograph or climagraph   n.  A representation of climatic data in which
 one climatic factor, such as temperature, is plotted against another, such
 as moisture. [clim(ate) + graph.]



 clin-   Variant of clino-.



 -clinal   Sloping: synclinal.  [< Gk. klinein, to lean.]



 clinandrium  n. pl. -dria  Botany.  A hollow containing the anther in the
 upper part of the column of an orchid. [NLat. : Gk. kline, couch (<
 klinein, to recline) + NLat. -andrium, stamen < Gk. aner, man.]



 clinch  v. clinched clinching clinches   -tr. 1.  a. To fix or secure (a
 nail, for example) by bending down or flattening the end that protrudes. b.
 To fasten together in this way. 2. To settle definitely and conclusively;
 make final: clinched the deal.  3.  Nautical. To fasten with a clinch.
 -intr. 1. To be held together securely. 2. To hold a boxing opponent's body
 with one or both arms to prevent or hinder his punches. 3.  Slang. To
 embrace.   -n. 1. Something, such as a clamp, that clinches. 2. The
 clinched part of a nail, bolt, or rivet. 3. The act or an instance of
 clinching in boxing. 4.  Nautical. A knot in a rope made by a half hitch
 with the end of the rope fastened back by seizing. 5.  Slang. An amorous
 embrace. [Alteration of clench.]



 clincher  n.  1. A person who clinches. 2. A nail or bolt for clinching.
 3. A tool for clinching nails or bolts. 4.  Informal. A decisive point,
 fact, or remark, esp. one held in reserve.



 cline  n.  Ecology.  A series of differing characteristics within members
 of a species or population, resulting from gradual changes or transitions
 in the environment. [< Gk. klinein, to lean.]   clinal adj.



 -cline   Slope: anticline.  [< Gk. klinein, to lean.]



 cling  intr.v.   clungclinging clings   1. To hold fast or adhere to
 something, as by grasping, sticking, or entwining. 2.  a. To stay near;
 remain close. b. To fit closely, as to the body: fabrics that cling.  c. To
 resist separation. 3. To hold on; remain attached: cling to old-fashioned
 ideas.    -n. A clingstone. [ME clingen < clingan.]   clinger n.



 clingfish  n. pl. clingfish  or -fishes  Any of various small marine
 fishes of the family Gobiesocidae, having an adhesive disk under the front
 part of the body by which it fastens itself to rocks and seaweed.



 clingstone  n.  A fruit, esp. a peach, having pulp that adheres partially
 to the stone.   clingstone adj.



 clinic  n.  1.  a. A training session for medical students in which they
 observe while patients are examined and treated. b. A class receiving such
 instruction. 2. An institution associated with a hospital or medical school
 that deals chiefly with outpatients. 3. A medical establishment run by
 several specialists working in cooperation. 4. A center that offers counsel
 or instruction: a vocational clinic; a tennis clinic.  [Fr. clinique < Lat.
 clinicus, physician < Gk. klinikos < kline, bed < klinein, to recline.]



 -clinic   1. Sloping: isoclinic.  2. Having a specified number of oblique
 axial intersections: triclinic.  [< Gk. klinein, to lean.]



 clinical  adj.  1. Of, pertaining to, or connected with a clinic. 2. Of or
 pertaining to direct observation and treatment of patients. 3. Very
 objective and devoid of emotion; analytical: gave a clinical description of
 his financial predicament.    clinically adv.



 clinical pathology  n.  The scientific study of the diagnosis and
 treatment of disease through laboratory analysis of clinical specimens, as
 tissue.



 clinical thermometer  n.  A small self-registering glass thermometer used
 to measure body temperature.



 clinician  n.  A physician, psychologist, or psychiatrist specializing in
 clinical studies or practice. [Fr. clincien < clinique, clinic. -see
 clinic.]



 clink
 clink(1)  intr.  -tr.v.clinked clinking clinks   To make or cause to make a
 soft, sharp, ringing sound.   -n. 1. A clinking sound. 2.  Chiefly British.
 The shrill cry of some birds, such as the stonechat. [ME clinken < MDu.]
 clink(2)  n.  Slang.  A prison; jail. [After Clink, a prison in London,
 England.]



 clinker  n.  1. The incombustible residue, fused into an irregular lump,
 that remains after the combustion of coal. 2. A partially vitrified brick
 or a mass of bricks fused together. 3. An extremely hard burned brick. 4.
 Vitrified matter expelled by a volcano. 5.  Slang. A mistake or fault, esp.
 in a musical performance.   -intr.v.-ered -ering -ers   To create clinkers
 in burning, as coal does. [Obs. Du. klinckaerd < MDu. klinken, to clink.]



 clinker-built  adj.  Built with overlapping planks or boards, as a ship.
 [< obs. clinker, clinch-nail < ME clinken, prob. var. of clenchen, to
 clench < OE (be)clencan.]



 clinkstone  n.  Phonolite.



 clino- or clin-    Slope; slant: clinometer.  [NLat. < Gk. klinein, to
 slope.]



 clinometer  n.  An instrument for measuring the angle of an incline, as of
 an embankment.   clinometric clinometrical  adj.   clinometry n.



 clinquant  adj.  Adorned with gold or silver; tinseled.   -n. Imitation
 gold leaf; tinsel. [Fr., glistening, tinkling < obs. clinquer, to clink,
 perh. < MDu. klinken.]



 clintonia  n.  A plant of the genus Clintonia, having broad leaves, white,
 greenish-yellow, or purplish flowers, and usually blue berries. [NLat.
 Clintonia, genus name, after DeWitt Clinton (1769-1828).]



 Clio  n.  1.  Greek Mythology. The Muse of history. 2. A statuette awarded
 annually for outstanding achievement in radio and television advertising.
 [Lat. < Gk. Kleio < kleiein, to tell.]



 cliometrics  n.  The study of history using advanced mathematical methods
 of data processing and analysis. [clio + -metrics.]   cliometric adj.
 cliometrician n.



 clip
 clip(1)  v. clipped clipping clips   -tr. 1. To cut, cut off, or cut out
 with shears or scissors. 2. To make shorter by cutting; trim. 3. To cut off
 the edge of: clip a coin.  4. To cut short; curtail. 5. To fail to
 pronounce or write fully: clipped his words.  6.  Informal. To hit with a
 sharp blow. 7.  Slang. To cheat or overcharge. -intr. 1. To cut something.
 2.  Informal. To move rapidly.   -n. 1. The act of clipping. 2. Something
 clipped off, as a sequence from a movie film. 3.  a. The wool shorn at one
 shearing. b. A season's shearing. 4.  Informal. A quick, sharp blow. 5.
 Informal. A brisk pace. 6. clips  A pair of shears. [ME clippen < ON
 klippa.]
 clip(2)  n.  1. A device for gripping; clasp; fastener. 2. A piece of
 jewelry that fastens with a clasp or clip. 3. A flange on the top of a
 horseshoe. 4. A cartridge clip.   -tr.v.clipped clipping clips   1. To grip
 securely; fasten. 2. To join (one thing) to another. 3.  Football. To block
 (an opponent who is not carrying the ball) illegally from the rear. [ME,
 hook < clippen, to embrace < OE clyppan.]



 clipboard  n.  A small writing board with a spring clip at the top for
 holding papers or a writing pad.



 clip joint  n.  Slang.  A restaurant or place of public entertainment
 where customers are overcharged or otherwise defrauded.



 clipper  n.  1. One who cuts, shears, or clips. 2. clippers  An instrument
 or tool for cutting, clipping, or shearing: a barber's clippers.  3. A
 sharp-bowed sailing vessel of the mid-19th century, having tall masts and
 sharp lines and built for great speed. 4. A fast-moving vehicle.



 clipping  n.  Something, esp. an item from a newspaper, that is cut off or
 out.



 clipsheet  n.  A sheet of paper containing news items and other newspaper
 material, usually printed on only one side for convenience in clipping and
 reprinting.



 clique  n.  An exclusive group of friends or associates tending to remain
 aloof from others.   -intr.v.cliqued cliquing cliques   Informal.  To form,
 associate in, or act as a clique. [Fr.]   cliquey  cliquy  cliquish adj.
 cliquishly adv.   cliquishness n.



 clitellum  n. pl. -tella  A swollen, glandular, saddlelike region in the
 epidermis of certain annelid worms, such as the earthworm. [NLat.,
 alteration of Lat. clitellae, packsaddle.]



 clitoris  n.  A small, erectile organ at the upper end of the vulva,
 homologous with the penis. [Gk. kleitoris, poss. < kleiein, to shut.]
 clitoral adj.



 cloaca  n. pl. -cae  1. A sewer. 2. A latrine. 3.  Zoology.  a. The cavity
 into which the intestinal, genital, and urinary tracts open in vertebrates
 such as fish, reptiles, birds, and some primitive mammals. b. The posterior
 part of the intestinal tract in various invertebrates. [Lat.]   cloacal
 adj.



 cloak  n.  1. A loose outer garment, usually sleeveless. 2. Something that
 covers or conceals.   -tr.v.cloaked cloaking cloaks   1. To cover with or
 as if with a cloak. 2. To hide; conceal. [ME cloke < OFr., var. of cloche,
 cloak, bell < Med. Lat. clocca, bell, from its shape.]



 cloak-and-dagger  adj.  Marked by melodramatic intrigue and often
 espionage.



 cloakroom  n.  A room where coats and other articles may be left
 temporarily, as in a theater.



 clobber  tr.v. -bered -bering -bers   Slang.  1. To strike violently and
 repeatedly; batter or maul. 2. To defeat decisively. [Orig. unknown.]



 cloche  n.  1. A bell-shaped glass vessel used to cover plants or food. 2.
 A close-fitting woman's hat with a bell-like shape. [Fr., bell < OFr. <
 Med. Lat. clocca.]



 clock
 clock(1)  n.  1. An instrument other than a watch for measuring or
 indicating time, esp. a mechanical device with a numbered dial and moving
 hands or pointers. 2. A time clock. 3. A metering device, as a speedometer
 or taxi meter. 4.  Botany. The downy flower head of a dandelion that has
 gone to seed.   -v.clocked clocking clocks   -tr. To record the time or
 speed of, as with a stopwatch. -intr. To record working hours with a time
 clock: clocks in at 8:00 am and out at 4:00 pm  [ME clokke < OFr. cloke,
 var. of cloche, bell < Med. Lat. clocca.]   clocker n.
 clock(2)  n.  An embroidered or woven decoration on the side of a stocking
 or sock. [Perh. < clock1, bell (obs.), from an original bell-shaped
 appearance.]



 clock radio  n.  A radio with a built-in clock that can be set to turn the
 radio on automatically.



 clockwise  adv.  In the same direction as the rotating hands of a clock.
 clockwise adj.



 clockwork  n.  The mechanism of a clock or a similar mechanism.

       Idiom Section:  like clockwork. With machinelike regularity and
 precision; perfectly.



 clod  n.  1. A lump or chunk, esp. of earth or clay. 2. Earth or soil. 3.
 A dull, ignorant, or stupid person; dolt. [ME < OE.]   cloddish adj.
 cloddishly adv.   cloddishness n.



 clodhopper  n.  1. A clumsy, coarse person; bumpkin. 2. A big, heavy shoe.




 clog  n.  1. An obstacle or hindrance. 2. A weight, such as a block, that
 is attached to the leg of an animal to hinder movement. 3. A heavy, usually
 wooden-soled shoe.   -v.clogged clogging clogs   -tr. 1. To block up;
 obstruct: Heavy traffic clogged the highway.  2.  a. To impede or encumber
 (an animal) with a cog. b. To impede or hamper. -intr. 1. To become
 obstructed or choked up: pipes clogging with rust.  2. To thicken or stick
 together so as to obstruct. 3. To do a clog dance. [ME, block attached to
 an animal's leg.]



 clog dance  n.  A dance performed while wearing clogs and characterized by
 heavy, stamping steps.



 cloisonne  n.  1. A kind of enamelware in which the surface decoration is
 formed by different colors of enamel separated by thin strips of metal set
 on edge. 2. The process or method of producing cloisonne.   -adj. Of,
 denoting, or being cloisonne. [Fr., p.part. of cloisonner, to partition <
 cloison, partition < VLat. *clausio < Lat. claudere, to close.]



 cloister  n.  1. A covered walk with an open colonnade on one side,
 running along the inside walls of buildings that face a quadrangle. 2.  a.
 A place, esp. a monastery or convent, devoted to religious seclusion. b.
 Life in a monastery or convent.   -tr.v.-tered -tering -ters   1. To
 confine in or as if in a cloister; seclude. 2. To furnish (a building) with
 a cloister. [ME cloistre < OFr. < Lat. claustrum, enclosed place <
 claudere, to close.]



 cloistral or claustral   adj.  1. Of, resembling, or suggesting a
 cloister; secluded. 2. Living in a cloister.



 clomb  v.  Archaic.  Past tense and past participle of climb.



 clomiphene  n.  A drug, C26H28CINO, that is used in its citrate form to
 stimulate ovulation. [c(h)lo(ro)- + (a)mi(ne) + phen(yl).]



 clomp  intr.v. clomped clomping clomps   To walk heavily and noisily.
 [Imit.]



 clone  n.  1. A group of genetically identical cells descended from a
 single common ancestor. 2. One or more organisms descended asexually from a
 single ancestor. 3. One that is an exact replica of another.   -v.cloned
 cloning clones   -intr. To create a genetic duplicate of an individual
 organism through asexual reproduction, as by stimulating a single cell.
 -tr. 1. To duplicate (an organism) asexually by cloning. 2. To create (a
 new organism) asexually by cloning. [Gk. klon, twig.]   clonal adj.
 clonally adv.   cloner n.



 clonorchiasis  n.  A parasitic infection of mammals usually caused by the
 ingestion of raw fish that is infected with the trematode Opisthorchis
 sinensis.  [NLat. Clonorchis, former genus name + -iasis.]



 clonus  n. pl. -nuses  A convulsion characterized by rapidly alternating
 muscular contraction and relaxation. [< Gk. klonos, turmoil.]   clonic adj.
   clonicity clonism  n.



 clop  n.  The drumming sound of a horse's hoof striking pavement.
 -intr.v.clopped clopping clops   To make a clop. [Imit.]



 close  adj. closer closest   1. Near in time or space. 2.  a. Near in
 relationship: His closest living relative is a second cousin.  b. Bound by
 mutual interests, loyalties, or affections; intimate: close friends.  3.
 With little or no space between elements or parts; tight; compact: a close
 weave.  4. Near to the surface; short: a close shot.  5. Almost even, as in
 tally or score: a close election.  6. Very much like an original: a close
 copy.  7. Rigorous; strict: paid close attention.  8. Shut or shut in; not
 open. 9. Enclosed or almost enclosed. 10. Confining or narrow; crowded. 11.
 Fitting tightly: close garments.  12. Lacking fresh air; stuffy: a close
 room.  13. Confined to specific persons or groups; restricted. 14. Strictly
 confined or confining: kept under close supervision.  15. Hidden from view;
 secluded. 16. Taciturn in manner; reticent: close about her personal life.
 17. Averse to relinquishing possessions or money; stingy. 18. Not easy to
 acquire; scarce: close credit.  19. Uttered with the tongue near the
 palate. Used of vowels. 20. Marked by more rather than less punctuation,
 esp. commas.   -v. closed closing closes   -tr. 1. To shut: closed the
 door.  2. To fill or stop up: closed the cracks with plaster.  3. To
 declare not open to the public: The mayor closed the streets for snow
 removal.  4. To bring to an end: close a letter.  5. To join or unite;
 bring into contact: close a circuit.  6. To draw together: It took eight
 stitches to close the wound.  7. To enclose on all sides; shut in. -intr.
 1. To become shut: The door closed.  2. To come to an end: a play that
 closed after four performances.  3. To discontinue operation: The shop
 closes at six.  4. To engage in a one-on-one struggle; grapple: The
 policeman closed with the thief.  5. To reach an agreement; come to terms.
 6. To come together: His arms closed around her.  Phrasal verb.  close in.
 1. To surround with an oppressive, isolating effect: problems that closed
 in on her.  2. To surround and advance upon so as to eliminate the
 possibility of escape: The enemy closed in on us.  3. To enshroud to such a
 degree that both entrance and exit are precluded: an airport that was
 closed in by fog.  close out. To dispose of merchandise, usually at greatly
 reduced prices.   -n.  1. The act of closing. 2. A conclusion; finish: The
 meeting came to a close.  3. An enclosed place, esp. land surrounding or
 beside a cathedral or other building. 4.  Archaic. A fight at close
 quarters. 5.   Scot. [amp ] Brit. Regional. A narrow lane or alley.   -adv.
  In a close position; near: stayed close together.  [ME clos, closed < OFr.
 < Lat. clausus, p.part. of claudere, to close.]   closely adv.   closeness
 n.   closer n.   closing n.

      Usage: Strictly speaking, the expression close proximity  says nothing
 that is not said by proximity  itself.



 close call  n.  Informal.  A narrow escape.



 closed  adj.  1. Having boundaries; enclosed. 2. Blocked or barred to
 passage or entry. 3. Explicitly limited; restricted: closed membership.  4.
 Self-contained. 5. Carried on in secrecy without the presence of witnesses:
 a closed session of the judiciary committee.  6.  Mathematics.  a. Of or
 pertaining to a curve, such as a circle, having no end points. b. Of or
 pertaining to a surface having no boundary curves. c. Characterized by or
 possessing the property by which an operation acting on an element in a set
 produces an element within the set.



 closed-captioned  adj.  Being a telecast with captions that can be seen
 only on a specially equipped receiver: a closed-captioned news program for
 the deaf.



 closed chain  n.  Chemistry.  A ring (sense 14).



 closed circuit  n.  1. A television transmission circuit with a limited
 number of reception stations and no broadcast facilities. 2. An electric
 circuit providing an uninterrupted endless path for the flow of current.



 closed corporation  n.  A corporation in which ownership of shares of
 stock is held by a relatively few persons and is rarely bought or sold on
 the open market.



 closed-end investment company  n.  A company with fixed capitalization
 whose shares are bought and sold by investors and whose capital is invested
 in other companies.



 closed gentian  n.  The bottle gentian.



 closed interval  n.  An interval (sense 3.b.).



 closed shop  n.  A union shop.



 close-fisted  adj.  Miserly; stingy.



 close-grained  adj.  Dense or compact in structure or texture:
 close-grained wood.



 close-hauled  adv.  Nautical.  With sails trimmed flat for sailing as
 close to the wind as possible.   close-hauled adj.



 close-minded  adj.  1. Intolerant of the beliefs and opinions of others.
 2. Very stubborn and unyielding.



 close-mouthed  adj.  Not disposed to talk; reticent.



 close-order drill  n.  A military drill in marching, maneuvering, and
 formal handling of arms in which the participants perform at close
 intervals.



 close-out  n.  A sale in which all goods are disposed of, usually at
 greatly reduced prices.



 close shave  n.  Informal.  A narrow escape.



 closet  n.  1. A small room, cabinet, or recess for storing linens,
 household supplies, or clothes. 2. A small private chamber, as for
 studying. 3. A water closet; toilet.   -tr.v.-eted -eting -ets   To enclose
 or shut up in a private room, as for discussion: closeted himself with an
 adviser.    -adj. 1.  a. Private; confidential. b. Secret; hidden: a closet
 alcoholic.  2. Based upon theory and speculation rather than practice. [ME,
 private room < OFr., dim. of clos, enclosure < Lat. clausum < clausus,
 enclosed. -see close.]



 closet drama  n.  A play to be read rather than performed.



 closet queen  n.  Slang.  A man who is latently or secretly homosexual.



 close-up  n.  1. A picture, as a motion picture or television shot, taken
 at close range. 2. A close or intimate look or view.



 clostridium  n. pl. -ia  Any of various rod-shaped, spore-forming, chiefly
 anaerobic bacteria of the genus Clostridium, such as the nitrogen-fixing
 bacteria found in soil and those causing botulism. [NLat. Clostridium,
 genus name < Gk. kloster, spindle < klothein, to spin.]   clostridial adj.



 closure  n.  1. The act of closing or the condition of being closed. 2.
 Something that closes or shuts. 3. A finish; conclusion. 4. Variant of
 cloture. 5. The property of being mathematically closed.   -v.-sured
 -suring -sures   To end by cloture. [ME < OFr. < Lat. clausura < clausus,
 enclosed. -see close.]



 clot  n.  A thick, viscous, or coagulated mass or lump.   -v.clotted
 clotting clots   -intr. To form into clots. -tr. 1. To cause to clot. 2. To
 fill or cover with clots. [ME < OE.]



 cloth  n. pl. cloths  1. Fabric or material formed by weaving, knitting,
 pressing, or felting of natural or synthetic fibers. 2. A piece of fabric
 or material used for a specific purpose, as a tablecloth. 3.  Nautical.  a.
 Canvas. b. A sail. 4. Distinctive professional attire or mode of dress. 5.
 a. The dress of the clergy. b. The clergy. [ME < OE clao.]



 clothbound  adj.  Designating a book bound in thick paper boards covered
 with cloth.



 clothe  tr.v. clothed  or clad  or clothing  or clothes   1. To put
 clothes on; dress. 2. To provide clothes for. 3. To cover as if with
 clothes; invest. [ME clothen < OE claoian < clao, cloth.]



 clothes  pl.n.  1. Articles of dress; wearing apparel; garments. 2.
 Bedclothes. [ME < OE claoas < clao, cloth.]



 clotheshorse  n.  1. A frame on which clothes are hung to dry or air. 2. A
 person considered excessively concerned with dress.



 clothesline  n.  A cord, rope, or wire on which clothes are hung to dry or
 air.



 clothes moth  n.  Any of various moths of the family Tineidae, whose
 larvae feed on wool, hair, fur, and feathers.



 clothespin  n.  A clip of wood or plastic for fastening clothes to a
 clothesline.



 clothespress or clothes press   n.  A chest, closet, or wardrobe in which
 clothes are kept.



 clothes tree  n.  A hall tree.



 clothier  n.  One who makes or sells clothing or cloth.



 clothing  n.  1. Clothes collectively; wearing apparel; attire. 2. A
 covering.



 Clotho  n.  Greek Mythology.  One of the three Fates, spinner of the
 thread of destiny. [Lat. < Gk. Klotho < klothein, to spin.]



 cloth yard  n.  The standard unit of cloth measurement, equal to 36
 inches, or 0.9144 meters.



 cloture or closure   n.  A parliamentary procedure by which debate is
 ended and an immediate vote is taken on the matter under discussion.
 -tr.v.-tured -turing -tures   To close (a parliamentary debate) by cloture.
 [Fr. cloture, alteration of OFr. closure. -see closure.]



 cloud  n.  1.  a. A visible body of very fine droplets of water or
 particles of ice dispersed in the atmosphere above the earth's surface at
 various altitudes ranging up to several miles. b. A visible mass in the
 air, as of steam, smoke, or dust. 2. A large moving body of things on the
 ground or in the air; swarm: a cloud of locusts.  3. Something that darkens
 or fills with gloom. 4. A dark region or blemish, as on a polished stone.
 5. Something that obscures. 6. A charge or suspicion affecting a
 reputation. 7. A collection of charged particles: an electron cloud.
 -v.clouded clouding clouds   -tr. 1. To cover with or as if with clouds:
 Mist clouded the hills.  2. To make gloomy or troubled. 3. To cast
 aspersions on; sully: Scandal clouded his reputation.  -intr. To become
 cloudy or overcast: The sky clouded over.

       Idiom Section:  in the clouds. 1. Imaginary; unreal; fanciful. 2.
 Impractical. [ME, hill, cloud < OE clud, hill.]   cloudless adj.



 cloudberry  n.  A creeping plant, Rubus chamaemorus, of northern regions,
 having white flowers and edible, reddish-orange fruit.



 cloudburst  n.  A sudden rainstorm; downpour.



 cloud chamber  n.  A device in which the formation of chains of droplets
 on ions generated by the passage of charged subatomic particles through a
 supersaturated vapor is used to detect such particles, to infer the
 presence of neutral particles, and to study certain nuclear reactions.



 cloudland  n.  A realm of imagination or fantasy.



 cloud nine  n.  A state of elation or great happiness: was on cloud nine
 after winning the marathon.



 cloud seeding  n.  A technique of stimulating rainfall, esp. by
 distributing quantities of dry ice crystals or silver iodide smoke through
 clouds; rainmaking.



 cloudy  adj. -ier -iest   1. Full of or covered with clouds; overcast. 2.
 Of or like a cloud or clouds. 3. Marked with indistinct masses or streaks:
 cloudy marble.  4. Not transparent, as certain liquids. 5.  a. Liable to
 more than one interpretation. b. Not clearly perceived or perceptible. 6.
 Troubled; gloomy.   cloudily adv.   cloudiness n.



 clout  n.  1. A blow, esp. with the fist. 2. A long, powerful hit in
 baseball. 3.  Informal.  a. Influence; pull: political clout.  b. Power;
 muscle. 4. An archery target. 5.  Archaic.  Regional. A piece of cloth used
 for mending; patch.   -tr.v.clouted clouting clouts   1. To hit, esp. with
 the fist. 2.  Archaic.  Regional. To patch or bandage. [ME, prob. < OE
 clut, patch.]



 clove
 clove(1)  n.  1. An East Indian evergreen tree, Eugenia aromatica, whose
 aromatic unopened flower buds are used as a spice. 2. cloves  A spice
 consisting of the dried flower buds of the clove, used whole or ground. [ME
 clowes, clove spice < OFr. clou (de girofle), nail (of the clove tree) <
 Lat. clavus, nail.]
 clove(2)  n.  One of the small sections of a separable bulb, such as that
 of garlic. [ME < OE clufu.]
 clove(3)  v.  A past tense and archaic past participle of cleave1.
 clove(4)  v.  Archaic.  Past tense of cleave2.



 clove hitch  n.  Nautical.  A knot used to secure a line to a spar, post,
 or other object, consisting of two turns with the second held under the
 first. [ME clove, split, p.part. of cleven, to split < OE cleofan.]



 cloven  v.  A past participle of cleave1.   -adj. Split; divided.



 cloven foot  n.  A cloven hoof.   cloven-footed adj.



 cloven hoof  n.  1. A divided or cleft hoof, as in deer or cattle. 2.
 Evil, based on the usual depiction of Satan as a figure with cloven hoofs.



 cloven-hoofed  adj.  1. Having cloven hoofs, as cattle do. 2. Satanic;
 devilish.



 clove oil  n.  An aromatic oil distilled from the dried flower buds of the
 clove tree, used in medicine as an antiseptic.



 clove pink  n.  A variety of the carnation, Dianthus caryophyllus, having
 flowers with a spicy fragrance.



 clover  n.  1. A plant of the genus Trifolium, having compound leaves with
 three leaflets and tight heads of small flowers. Many species provide
 valuable pasturage. 2. Any of several plants related to the clover, such as
 the bush clover.

       Idiom Section:  in clover. Living a carefree life of ease, comfort,
 or prosperity. [ME < OE claefre.]



 cloverleaf  n.  A highway interchange at which two highways crossing each
 other on different levels are provided with curving access and exit ramps
 enabling vehicles to go in any of four directions.



 clown  n.  1. A buffoon or jester who entertains by jokes, antics, and
 tricks in a circus, play, or other presentation. 2. A coarse, rude, vulgar
 person; boor. 3. A rustic or peasant.   -intr.v.clowned clowning clowns
 1. To behave like a clown or buffoon. 2. To perform as a jester or clown.
 [Perh. of LG orig.]   clownish adj.   clownishly adv.   clownishness n.



 cloxacillin  n.  A synthetic antibiotic of the penicillin group that is
 effective against staphylocci. [c(h)l(oro)- + ox- + a(zo) + (peni)cillin.]



 cloy  v. cloyed cloying cloys   -tr. To supply with too much of something,
 esp. with something too rich or sweet; surfeit. -intr. To cause to feel
 surfeited. [Obs. accloy < ME acloien.]   cloyingly adv.   cloyingness n.



 cloze  n.  A test of reading comprehension in which the test taker is
 asked to supply words that have been systematically deleted from the test.
 [Alteration of closure.]   cloze adj.



 club  n.  1. A stout, heavy stick, usually thicker at one end than at the
 other, suitable for use as a weapon; cudgel. 2. A bat or stick used in
 certain games to drive a ball, esp. a stick with a curved head used in such
 games as golf and hockey. 3.  a. A black figure on a playing card, shaped
 like a trefoil or clover leaf. b. A card marked with such figures. c. clubs
  The suit so marked. 4. A group of people organized for a common purpose,
 esp. a group that meets regularly. 5. The room, building, or other
 facilities used for the meetings of a club. club regulations.    -v.clubbed
 clubbing clubs   -tr. 1. To strike or beat with or as if with a club. 2. To
 use (a rifle or similar firearm) as a club by holding the barrel and
 hitting with the butt end. 3.  Archaic. To gather or combine (hair, for
 example) into a clublike mass. 4. To contribute for a joint or common
 purpose. -intr. 1.  Archaic. To form or gather into a mass. 2. To join or
 combine for a common purpose; form a club. [ME < ON klubba.]



 clubbable or clubable   adj.  Informal.  Suited to membership in a social
 club; sociable.



 clubby  adj. -bier -biest   1. Typical of a club or club members. 2.
 Friendly; sociable. 3. Clannish; exclusive.   clubbiness n.



 club car  n.  A railroad passenger car equipped with lounge chairs,
 tables, a buffet or bar, and other extra comforts.



 club chair  n.  An upholstered easy chair with arms and a low back.



 clubfoot  n.  1. Congenital deformity of the foot, marked by a misshapen
 appearance often resembling a club. 2. A foot so deformed.   clubfooted
 adj.



 clubhouse  n.  1. A building occupied by a club. 2. The locker room for a
 sports team.



 clubman  n.  A man who is a member of a club or clubs, esp. one who is
 active in club life.



 club moss  n.  Any of various evergreen, erect or creeping, mosslike
 plants of the genus Lycopodium, having tiny, scalelike, overlapping leaves
 and reproducing by spores. [From the club-shaped strobiles on some species
 of this plant.]



 club root  n.  A disease of cabbage and related plants, caused by a
 fungus, Plasmodiophora brassicae, and resulting in large, distorted
 swellings on the roots.



 club sandwich  n.  A sandwich, usually of three slices of bread, with a
 filling of various meats, tomato, lettuce, and dressing.



 club soda  n.  An effervescent, unflavored water used in various alcoholic
 and nonalcoholic drinks.



 club steak  n.  Delmonico steak.



 clubwoman  n.  A female member of a club or clubs, esp. one who is active
 in club life.



 cluck  n.  1.  a. The characteristic sound made by a hen when brooding or
 calling her chicks. b. A sound resembling a cluck. 2.  Informal. A stupid
 or foolish person.   -v.clucked clucking clucks   -intr. 1. To utter a
 cluck. 2. To make a sound similar to a cluck, as in coaxing a horse. -tr.
 1. To call by making a cluck. 2. To express by clucking: He clucked
 disapproval.  [Imit.]



 clue or clew   n.  Something that guides or directs in the solution of a
 problem or mystery.   -tr.v.clued clueing  or cluing  or clues  clewed
 clewing clews    To give (someone) guiding information: Clue me in on
 what's happening.  [Var. of clew (from Theseus' use of a thread as a guide
 through the Cretan labyrinth).]



 Clumber spaniel or clumber spaniel   n.  A dog of a breed developed in
 England, having short legs and a silky, predominantly white coat. [After
 Clumber, an estate in Nottinghamshire, England.]



 clump  n.  1. A clustered mass; lump. 2. A thick grouping, as of trees or
 bushes. 3. A heavy dull sound; thud.   -v.clumped clumping clumps   -intr.
 1. To form clumps. 2. To walk with a heavy dull sound. -tr. To gather into
 or form clumps of. [Prob. LG klump < MLG klumpe.]   clumpy adj.



 clumsy  adj. -sier -siest   1. Lacking physical coordination, skill, or
 grace; awkward. 2. Awkwardly made; unwieldy: clumsy wooden shoes.  3.
 Gauche; inept: a clumsy excuse.  [< obs. clumse, to be numb with cold < ME
 clomsen, of ON orig.]   clumsily adv.   clumsiness n.



 clung  v.  Past tense and past participle of cling.



 clunk  n.  1. A dull sound; thump. 2. A hefty blow. 3. A stupid or dull
 person.   -v.clunked clunking clunks   -intr. 1. To make or move with a
 clunk. 2. To strike something with a clunk. -tr.  To strike with a clunk.
 [Imit.]



 clunker  n.  1. A rattletrap, esp. an old car. 2. A failure; flop.



 clupeid  n.  Any of various oily, soft-finned fishes of the family
 Clupeidae, which includes the herrings and menhadens.   -adj. Of or
 belonging to the Clupeidae. [NLat. Clupeidae, family name < Lat. clupea, a
 kind of small fish.]



 cluster  n.  1. A group of the same or similar elements gathered or
 occurring closely together; bunch. 2. Two or more successive consonants in
 a word, as cl and st in the word cluster.    -v.-tered -tering -ters
 -intr. To gather or grow into clusters. -tr. To cause to grow or form into
 clusters. [ME < OE clyster.]



 cluster headache  n.  A severe headache similar to migraine that can occur
 several times daily for a period of weeks.



 clutch
 clutch(1)  v. clutched clutching clutches   -tr. 1. To grasp and hold
 tightly. 2. To seize or snatch. -intr. To attempt to grasp or seize: clutch
 at the ring.    -n. 1. A hand, claw, talon, or paw in the act of grasping.
 2. A tight grasp. 3. clutches  Control or power: the clutches of sin.  4. A
 device for gripping and holding. 5.  a. Any of various devices for engaging
 and disengaging two working parts of a shaft or of a shaft and a driving
 mechanism. b. The lever, pedal, or other apparatus that activates such a
 device. 6. A tense or critical situation: came through in the clutch.  [ME
 clucchen, var. of clicchen < OE clyccan.]
 clutch(2)  n.  1. The number of eggs produced or incubated at one time. 2.
 A brood of chickens.   -tr.v.clutched clutching clutches   To hatch
 (chicks). [Var. of dial. cletch, perh. < cleck, to hatch < ME clekken < ON
 klekja.]



 clutter  n.  1. A confused or disordered state or collection; jumble:
 clutter in the attic.  2. A confused noise; clatter.   -v.-tered -tering
 -ters   -tr. To litter or pile in a disordered state: cluttered up the
 garage with tools and boxes.  -intr. 1. To run or move with bustle and
 confusion. 2. To make a clatter. [Prob. < ME cloteren, to clot.]



 Clydesdale  n.  A large, powerful draft horse of a breed developed in the
 Clyde valley, Scotland.



 clypeate or clypeated   adj.  1. Shaped like a round shield. 2. Having a
 clypeus.



 clypeus  n. pl. -ei  Biology.  A shieldlike structure, esp. a plate on the
 front of the head of an insect. [NLat. < Lat. clipeus, round shield.]
 clypeal adj.



 clyster  n.  Medicine.  An enema. [ME clister < Lat. clyster < Gk.
 kluster, clyster pipe < kluzein, to wash out.]



 Clytemnestra or Clytaemnestra   n.  Greek Mythology.  The wife of
 Agamemnon. [Lat. < Gk. Klutaimnestra.]



 Cm   The symbol for the element curium.



 cnidoblast  n.  A modified interstitial cell in coelenterates that
 produces a nematocyst. [Gk. knide, nettle + -blast.]



 Co   The symbol for the element cobalt.



 co-   1. With; together; joint; jointly: coeducation.  2.  a. Partner or
 associate in an activity: co-author.  b. Subordinate or assistant: copilot.
  3. To the same extent or degree: coextend.  4. Complement of an angle:
 cotangent.  [ME < Lat. < com-, com-.]



 coacervate  n.  Chemistry.  A cluster of droplets separated out of a
 lyophilic colloid. [< Lat. coacervatus, p.part. of coacervare, to heap
 together : co(m)-, together + acervare, to heap < acervus, a heap.]
 coacervate adj.   coacervation n.



 coach  n.  1. A large closed carriage with four wheels. 2. A closed
 automobile, usually with two doors. 3. A motorbus. 4. A railroad passenger
 car. 5. A low-priced class of passenger accommodations on a train or
 airplane. 6. A person who trains athletes or athletic teams. 7. A person
 who gives private instruction, as in singing or acting. 8. A private tutor
 employed to prepare a student for an examination.   -tr. -intr.v.coached
 coaching coaches   1. To train or act as a coach. 2. To transport by or
 ride in a coach. [Fr. coche, ult. < Hung. kocsi, after Kocs, Hungary, where
 such carriages were first made.]   coacher n.



 coach dog  n.  Dalmatian (sense 1). [So called because it was trained to
 run behind a coach.]



 coachman  n.  1. A person who drives a coach. 2. An artificial fishing fly
 having white wings, a multi-colored feather body with a brown hackle, and a
 gold tag.



 coaction  n.  1. An impelling or restraining force; compulsion. 2. Joint
 action. [ME coaccioun < Lat. coactio, a collecting < cogere, to collect :
 co(m)-, together + agere, to drive.]   coactive adj.   coactively adv.



 coadjutant  n.  A helper; assistant.



 coadjutor  n.  1. A coworker; assistant. 2. The assistant to a bishop. [ME
 coadjutour < Lat. coadjutor : co(m)- (intensive) + adjutor, assistant <
 adjutare, to aid.]



 coadunate  adj.  Closely joined; united; grown together. [LLat.
 coadunatus, p.part. of coadunare, to combine : Lat. co(m)-, together + Lat.
 adunare, to unite (ad-, to + unus, one).]   coadunation n.   coadunative
 adj.



 coagulant  n.  An agent that causes coagulation.   coagulant adj.



 coagulase  n.  An enzyme, as rennin or thrombin, that causes blood
 clotting. [coagul(ate) + -ase.]



 coagulate  v. -lated -lating -lates   -tr. To cause transformation of (a
 liquid or sol) into a soft, semisolid, or solid mass. -intr. To become
 coagulated. [ME coagulaten < Lat. coagulare < coagulum, coagulator. -see
 coagulum.]   coagulability n.   coagulable adj.   coagulation n.
 coagulator n.



 coagulum  n. pl. -la  A coagulated mass; clot; curd. [Lat., coagulator <
 cogere, to condense : co(m)-, together + agere, to drive.]



 coal  n.  1.  a. A natural dark-brown to black solid used as a fuel,
 formed from fossilized plants and consisting of amorphous carbon with
 various organic and some inorganic compounds. b. A piece of this substance.
 2. A glowing or charred piece of coal, wood, or other solid fuel; ember. 3.
 Charcoal.   -v.coaled coaling coals   -tr. 1. To burn (a combustible solid)
 to a charcoal residue. 2. To provide with coal. -intr. To take on coal. [ME
 col < OE.]



 coaler  n.  Something, as a ship or train, used for carrying or supplying
 coal.



 coalesce  intr.v. -lesced -lescing -lesces   1. To grow together; fuse. 2.
 To come together so as to form one whole; unite: The rebel units coalesced
 into one army to fight the invaders.  [Lat. coalescere : co(m)-, together +
 alescere, to grow, inceptive of alere, to nourish.]   coalescence n.
 coalescent adj.



 coal gas  n.  1. A gaseous mixture produced by the destructive
 distillation of bituminous coal and used as a commercial fuel. 2. The
 gaseous mixture released by burning coal.



 coalification  n.  The process by which coal is formed from plant
 materials.   coalify v. -fied -fying -fies



 coalition  n.  1. An alliance, esp. a temporary one, of factions, parties,
 or nations. 2. A combination into one body; union. [Med. Lat. coalitio <
 Lat. coalescere, to grow together. -see coalesce.]   coalitionist n.



 coal measures  pl.n.  Geology.  1. Coal Measures  A stratigraphic unit
 equivalent to the Pennsylvanian or Upper Carboniferous periods. 2. Strata
 of the Carboniferous period containing coal deposits.



 coal oil  n.  Kerosene.



 Coalsack  n.  1. A dark nebula near the Southern Cross, appearing as a
 hole in the Milky Way. 2. A dark region of the sky, the Northern Coalsack,
 near the Northern Cross.



 coal tar  n.  A viscous black liquid obtained by the destructive
 distillation of coal, used as a raw material for many dyes, drugs, and
 organic chemicals and for waterproofing, paints, roofing, and insulation
 materials.



 coaming  n.  A raised rim or curb around an opening, as in a ship's deck,
 designed to keep out water. [Orig. unknown.]



 co-anchor  n.  Either of two news commentators who work as anchorpersons
 during a broadcast.   co-anchor v. -chored -choring -chors



 coarctate  adj.  1. Describing an insect pupa compressed in the larval
 shell. 2. Having a constricted separation between the abdomen and thorax.
 [Lat. coarctatus, p.part. of coarctare, to compress : co(m)-, together +
 artare, to compress < artus, confined.]   coarctation n.



 coarse  adj. coarser coarsest   1. Of low, common, or inferior quality. 2.
 Lacking in delicacy or refinement: coarse language.  3. Consisting of large
 particles; not fine in texture: coarse sand.  4. Rough; harsh: a coarse
 tweed.  [ME cors, prob. < course, custom. -see course.]   coarsely adv.
 coarseness n.

      Synonyms: coarse gross crass indelicate vulgar
 obscene ribald These adjectives primarily describe offensive speech or
 writing and behavior. Coarse  implies roughness and crudeness in manners,
 appearance, or expression. Gross  implies excessive behavior approaching
 bestiality. Crass  suggests stupidity combined with rudeness or other
 manifestation of lack of refinement: crass ignorance. Indelicate  implies
 immodesty, tactless behavior, or lack of taste in expression: an indelicate
 remark. Vulgar  emphasizes offensiveness to propriety and suggests
 boorishness and poor breeding. Obscene  strongly stresses lewdness or
 indecency, particularly in reference to accepted standards of morality.
 Ribald  implies vulgar, coarse, off-color language or behavior intended to
 provoke laughter.




 coarse-grained  adj.  1. Having a rough or coarse texture. 2. Not refined;
 indelicate; crude.



 coarsen  intr.  -tr.v.-ened -ening -ens   To become or make coarse.



 coast  n.  1. The land next to the sea; seashore. 2.  Obsolete. The
 frontier or border of a country. 3. A hill or other slope down which one
 may coast, as on a sled. 4. The act of sliding or coasting; slide. 5. Coast
  The Pacific Coast of the United States.   -v.coasted coasting coasts
 -intr. 1.  a. To slide down an inclined slope, as on a sled. b. To move
 effortlessly and smoothly. 2. To move without further acceleration. 3. To
 sail near or along a coast. 4. To act or move aimlessly or with little
 effort. -tr. To sail or move along the coast or border of. [ME coste < OFr.
 < Lat. costa, side.]   coastal adj.



 coast artillery  n.  Artillery for protecting coastal areas.



 coaster  n.  1. One that coasts. 2. A vessel engaged in coastal trade. 3.
 A coasting sled or toboggan. 4. A disk placed under a bottle, pitcher, or
 drinking glass to protect a table top or other surface beneath. 5. A small
 tray, often on wheels, for passing something, as a wine decanter, around a
 table.



 coaster brake  n.  A brake and clutch operating on the rear wheel and
 drive mechanism of a bicycle when pedaling is reversed.



 coast guard or Coast Guard   n.  1. The military or naval coastal patrol
 of a nation, responsible for the protection of life and property at sea,
 coastal defense, and enforcement of customs, immigration, and navigation
 laws. 2. A member of a coast guard; coastguardsman.



 coastguardsman  n.  A member of a coast guard.



 coastline  n.  The shape or boundary of a coast.



 coast rhododendron  n.  An evergreen shrub, Rhododendron californicum (or
 R. macrophyllum ), of the Pacific coast of North America, having
 rose-purple flowers.



 coastward  adv.  -adj. Toward or directed toward the coast.   coastwards
 adv.



 coastwise  adj.  -adv. Following, by way of, or along the coast.
 coastways adv.



 coat  n.  1.  a. An outer garment covering the body from the shoulders to
 the waist or below. b. A garment extending to just below the waist and
 usually forming the top part of a suit. 2. A natural integument or outer
 covering, such as the fur of an animal. 3. A layer of material covering
 something else; coating.   -tr.v.coated coating coats   1. To provide or
 cover with a coat. 2. To cover with a layer, as of paint. [ME cote < OFr.]
  coated adj.



 coati  n.  Any of several omnivorous mammals of the genus Nasua, of South
 and Central America and the southwestern United States, related to and
 resembling the raccoon but having a longer snout and tail. [Port. coati <
 Tupi : cua, belt + tim, nose.]



 coatimundi or coatimondi   n.  The coati. [Tupi.]



 coating  n.  1. A layer of a substance spread over a surface for
 protection or decoration; a covering layer. 2. Cloth for making coats.



 coat of arms  n.  1. A tabard or surcoat blazoned with heraldic bearings.
 2. A representation of a coat of arms.



 coat of mail  n. pl. coats of mail  An armored coat made of chain mail,
 interlinked rings, or overlapping metal plates; hauberk.



 coattail  n.  1. The loose back part of a coat below the waist. 2.
 coattails  The skirts of a formal or dress coat.

       Idiom Section:  on (someone's) coattails. As a result of the success
 of another.



 co-author  n.  A collaborating or joint author.   -tr.v.-thored -thoring
 -thors   To be a co-author of.



 coax  v. coaxed coaxing coaxes   -tr. 1. To persuade or try to persuade by
 pleading or flattery; cajole; wheedle. 2. To obtain by persistent
 persuasion: coaxed the secret out of him.  3.  Obsolete. To caress or
 fondle. -intr. To use persuasion or inducement. [Obs. cokes, to fool <
 cokes, fool.]   coaxer n.   coaxingly adv.



 coaxial  adj.  Having or mounted on a common axis.



 coaxial cable  n.  A high-frequency telephone, telegraph, and television
 transmission cable consisting of a conducting outer metal tube enclosing
 and insulated from a central conducting core.



 cob  n.  1. The central core of an ear of corn; corncob. 2. A male swan.
 3. A thickset, stocky, short-legged horse. 4. A small lump or mass, as of
 coal. [Prob. < obs. cob, round object.]



 cobalamin or cobalamine   n.  Vitamin B12. [cobal(t) + (vit)amin.]



 cobalt  n.  Co  A hard, brittle metallic element, found associated with
 nickel, silver, lead, copper, and iron ores and resembling nickel and iron
 in appearance. It is used chiefly for magnetic alloys, high-temperature
 alloys, and in the form of its salts for blue glass and ceramic pigments.
 Atomic number 27; atomic weight 58.9332; melting point 1,495 deg. C;
 boiling point 2,900 deg. C; specific gravity 8.9; valences 2, 3. [G. Kobalt
 < MHG Kobolt, goblin (from the trouble it gave silver miners).]



 cobalt 60  n.  A radioactive isotope of cobalt with mass number 60 and
 exceptionally intense gamma-ray activity, used in radiotherapy, metallurgy,
 and materials testing.



 cobalt blue  n.  1. A blue to green pigment consisting of a variable
 mixture of cobalt and aluminum oxides. 2. A deep to vivid blue or strong
 greenish blue.



 cobaltite or cobaltine   n.  A silver-white to gray mineral, CoAsS, that
 is an important cobalt ore and is used in ceramics.



 cobber  n.  Australian.  A comrade; pal. [Orig. unknown.]



 cobble
 cobble(1)  n.  1. A cobblestone. 2. Cob coal (sense 2).   -tr.v.-bled
 -bling -bles   To pave with cobblestones. [Back-formation < cobblestone.]
 cobble(2)  tr.v. -bled -bling -bles   1. To make or mend (boots or shoes).
 2. To put together clumsily; bungle. [Prob. back-formation < cobbler.]



 cobbler
 cobbler(1)  n.  1. One who mends boots and shoes. 2.  Archaic. One who is
 clumsy at his work; bungler. [ME cobeler.]
 cobbler(2)  n.  1. A deep-dish fruit pie with a thick top crust. 2. An iced
 drink made of wine or liqueur, sugar, and citrus fruit. [Orig. unknown.]



 cobblestone  n.  A naturally rounded stone formerly used for paving
 streets and walls. [ME cobelston.]



 cob coal  n.  1. Coal in rounded lumps of various sizes. 2. A lump of coal
 about the size of a cobblestone.



 cobelligerent  n.  A nation associated with another or others in waging
 war.



 cobia  n.  A large game fish, Rachycentron canadum, of tropical and
 subtropical seas. [Orig. unknown.]



 coble  n.  1.  Chiefly British. A small, flat-bottomed fishing boat with a
 lugsail on a raking mast. 2.  Scots. A kind of flat-bottomed rowboat. [ME
 cobel, ult. < Lat. caupulus, a kind of small ship.]



 cobnut  n.  1. A tree, Corylus avellana grandis, related to the hazel. 2.
 The large, edible nut of the cobnut.



 COBOL or Cobol   n.  A language based on English words and phrases, used
 in programming digital computers for various business applications.
 [co(mmon) b(usiness) o(riented) l(anguage).]



 cobra  n.  1. Any of several venomous snakes of the genus Naja and related
 genera, of Asia and Africa, capable of expanding the skin of the neck to
 form a flattened hood. 2. Leather made from the skin of a cobra. [Short for
 Port. cobra (de capello), snake (with a hood) < Lat. colubra, snake.]



 cobweb  n.  1.  a. The web spun by a spider to catch its prey. b. A single
 thread of such a web. 2. Something resembling a cobweb in gauziness or
 flimsiness. 3. An intricate plot; snare: caught in a cobweb of espionage
 and intrigue.  4. cobwebs  Confusion; disorder: cobwebs in the brain.
 -tr.v.-webbed -webbing -webs   To cover with or as if with cobwebs. [ME
 coppeweb : coppe, spider (short for attercoppe < OE attercoppe : ator,
 poison + copp, head) + web, web < OE.]   cobwebby adj.



 coca  n.  1. A South American tree, Erythroxylon coca, having leaves that
 contain cocaine and related alkaloids. 2. The dried leaves of the coca or
 related plants, chewed by people of the Andes for their stimulating effect.
 [Sp. < Quechua kuka.]



 cocaine or cocain   n.  A colorless or white crystalline narcotic
 alkaloid, C17H21NO4, extracted from coca leaves and used as a surface
 anesthetic.



 cocainism  n.  The habitual use of cocaine.



 cocainize  tr.v. -ized -izing -izes   To anesthetize (a body part) with
 cocaine.   cocainization n.



 cocarboxylase  n.  A coenzyme that functions in the catalysis of the
 decarboxylation of pyruvic acid in the Krebs cycle.



 cocci  n.  Plural of coccus.



 coccid  n.  An insect of the family Coccidae, including the scale insects
 and mealybugs. [NLat. Coccidae, family name < Coccus, genus name < Gk.
 kokkos, grain.]



 coccidioidomycosis  n.  A fungus disease of humans and other animals
 caused by the fungus Coccidioides immitis that usually affects the lungs.
 [NLat. Coccidiodes, genus name (< Coccidia, order name < coccus) +
 mycosis.]



 coccidiosis  n.  A disease of many animals, including cattle, swine,
 sheep, dogs, cats, and poultry, but rarely of man, resulting from an
 infection of the digestive tract by parasitic protozoa of the order
 Coccidia. [NLat. Coccidia, order name (< coccus) + -osis.]



 coccobacillus  n. pl. -cilli  A bacillus that is short and oval in shape.
 [cocc(us) + -o- + bacillus.]



 coccus  n. pl. cocci  1. A bacterium with a spherical or spheroidal shape.
 2.  Botany. A division that contains a single seed and splits apart from a
 many-lobed fruit. [NLat. < Gk. kokkos, grain.]   coccoid coccal  adj.



 -coccus   A microorganism of spherical or spheroidal shape: streptococcus.
  [NLat. < Gk. kokkos, berry.]



 coccygeal  adj.  Of or pertaining to the coccyx. [< Gk. kokkyx, kokkyg-,
 coccyx.]



 coccyx  n. pl. coccyges  A small bone at the base of the spinal column,
 consisting of several fused rudimentary vertebrae. [Gk. kokkux, cuckoo,
 coccyx (from the resemblance of the bone to a cuckoo's beak).]   coccygeal
 adj.



 Cochin China  n.  A large domestic fowl of a breed developed in Asia,
 having thickly feathered legs. [After Cochin China, a former name for a
 region of Vietnam.]



 cochineal  n.  1. A brilliant red dye made by drying and pulverizing the
 bodies of the females of a tropical American scale insect, Dactylopius
 coccus, that feeds on certain species of cacti. 2. A vivid red. [Fr.
 cochenille < Sp. cochinilla, prob. < Lat. coccineus, scarlet < Gk. <
 kokkos, kermes berry (from its use in making scarlet dye).]   cochineal
 adj.



 cochineal insect  n.  A tropical American insect, Dactylopius coccus, that
 feeds on certain species of cacti.



 cochlea  n. pl. -leae  A spiral tube of the inner ear resembling a snail
 shell and containing nerve endings essential for hearing. [NLat. < Lat.,
 snail shell < Gk. kokhlias, snail < kokhlos, land snail.]   cochlear adj.



 cochlear nerve  n.  A division of the acoustic nerve.



 cochleate or cochleated   adj.  Shaped like a snail shell; spirally
 twisted. [Lat. cochleatus < cochlea, snail shell. -see cochlea.]



 cock
 cock(1)  n.  1.  a. The adult male of the domestic fowl; rooster. b. A male
 bird. 2. A weather vane shaped like a rooster; weathercock. 3. A leader or
 chief. 4. A faucet or valve by which the flow of a liquid or gas can be
 regulated. 5.  a. The hammer in a firearm. b. Its position when ready for
 firing. 6. A tilting or jaunty turn upward: the cock of a hat.  7.  Slang.
 The penis.   -v.cocked cocking cocks   -tr. 1. To set the hammer of (a
 firearm) in a position ready for firing. 2. To tilt or turn up or to one
 side, usually in a jaunty or alert manner. 3. To raise in preparation to
 throw or hit. -intr. 1. To cock the hammer of a firearm. 2. To turn or
 stick up.

       Idiom Section:  cock of the walk. An overbearing or domineering
 person. [ME cok < OE coc.]
 cock(2)  n.  A cone-shaped pile of straw or hay.   -tr.v.cocked cocking
 cocks   To arrange (straw or hay) in a cock. [ME cok.]



 cockade  n.  A rosette or knot of ribbon worn esp. on the hat as a badge.
 [Alteration of obs. cockard < Fr. cocarde < OFr. coquarde, vain < coq,
 cock.]   cockaded adj.



 cock-a-hoop  adj.  1. In a state of elation or exultation. 2. Boastful. 3.
 Askew. [From the phrase to set cock on hoop, to drink festively.]
 cock-a-hoop adv.



 Cockaigne  n.  An imaginary land of easy and luxurious living. [ME
 cokaigne < OFr. < (pais de) cokaigne, land of plenty, prob. < MLG kokenje,
 small cake, dim. of koke, cake.]



 cock-a-leekie or cockaleekie   n.  A cream soup made with leeks and
 chicken. [Alteration of cockie, dim. of cock1 + leekie, dim. of leek.]



 cockalorum  n.  1. A little man with an unduly high opinion of himself. 2.
 Boastful talk; braggadocio. [Perh. alteration of obs. Flem. kockeloeren, to
 crow.]



 cockamamie or cockamamy   adj.  Slang.  1. Trifling; nearly valueless. 2.
 Ludicrous; nonsensical: gave me a cockamamie reason for not going.  [Prob.
 alteration of decalcomania.]



 cock-and-bull story  n.  An absurd or highly improbable tale passed off as
 being true.



 cockatiel or cockateel   n.  A crested parrot, Nymphicus hollandicus, of
 Australia, having gray and yellow plumage. [Du. kaketielje, prob. ult. <
 Malay kakatua, cockatoo.]



 cockatoo  n. pl. -toos  Any of various parrots of the genus Kakatoe and
 related genera, of Australia and adjacent areas, characterized by a long,
 erectile crest. [Du. kaketoe, < Malay kakatua.]



 cockatrice  n.  A mythical serpent that is hatched from a cock's egg and
 has the power of killing by its glance. [ME cocatrice, basilisk < OFr.
 cocatris < Med. Lat. calcatrix (< Lat. calcare, to track < calx, heel),
 transl. of Gk. ikhneumon, tracker. -see ichneumon.]