babble v. to utter meaningless sounds; to talk foolishly or excessively -- babble n. -- babbler n.
babe n. BABY
babel n. a place or scene of noise and confusion; a confused sound (as of voices); hubbub, racket, din, uproar
baboon n. a large ape of Asia and Africa with a doglike muzzle
babushka n. a kerchief for the head usually folded triangularly
baby n. a very young child; INFANT; the youngest or smallest of a group; a childish person -- baby adj. -- babyhood n. -- babyish adj.; baby v. to use with great care or consideration; HUMOR
baccalaureate n. the degree of bachelor conferred by colleges and universities; a sermon (baccalaureate sermon) delivered to a graduating class
bacchanalia n. pl. -lia; a drunken orgy -- bacchanalian adj. or n.
bachelor n. a person holding the first or lowest academic degree; a man who has not married -- bachelorhood n.
bacillus n. pl. -cilli; any of numerous rod-shaped bacteria; a disease-producing bacterium -- bacillary adj.
back n. the rear or dorsal part of the human body; the corresponding part of a lower animal; the part or surface opposite the front; REAR, REVERSE; a player in the backfield in football -- backless adj.; back adv. to, toward, or at the rear; AGO
backache n. pain in the back; especially a dull persistent pain in the lower back
backbite v. to say mean or spiteful things about someone who is absent -- backbiter n.
backboard n. a board or construction placed at the back or serving as a back
backbone n. the bony column in the back of a vertebrate that encloses the spinal cord and is the chief support of the trunk; firm resolute character
backdrop n. a painted cloth hung across the rear of a stage
backer n. one that supports (as a policy); upholder, champion, sponsor, patron
backfield n. the football players whose positions are behind the line
backfire n. a premature explosion in the cylinder or an explosion in the intake or exhaust passages of an internal-combustion engine -- backfire v.
backgammon n. a game played with pieces on a double board in which the moves are determined by throwing dice
background n. the scenery behind something seen or represented; the conditions that form the setting within which something is experienced; the sum of a person's experience, training, and understanding
backhand n. a stroke made with the back of the hand turned in the direction in which the hand is moving; the side on which such a stroke is made
backing n. a material back; SUPPORT, AID; a body of supporters
backlog n. a large log at the back of a hearth fire; a reserve especially of unfilled orders; an accumulation of unperformed tasks
backrest n. a rest at or for the back
backside n. BUTTOCKS
backslap v. to display excessive cordiality -- backslapper n.
backslide v. to lapse morally or in the practice of religion -- backslider n.
backspin n. a backward rotary motion of a ball
backstop n. something serving as a stop behind something else; especially a screen or fence used in a game (as baseball) to keep a ball from leaving the field of play
backstretch n. the side opposite the homestretch on a racecourse
backstroke n. a swimming stroke executed by a swimmer lying on his back
backtrack v. to retrace one's course; to reverse a position or stand
backward adv. toward the back; with back foremost; in a reverse or contrary direction or way; toward the past; toward a worse state; backward adj. directed, turned, or done backward; DIFFIDENT, SHY; retarded in development -- backwardness n.
backwards adv. toward the back; with back foremost; in a reverse or contrary direction or way; toward the past; toward a worse state; backward adj. directed, turned, or done backward; DIFFIDENT, SHY; retarded in development -- backwardness n.
backwash n. backward movement (as of water or air) produced by motion of oars or other propelling force
backwoods n. pl. wooded or partly cleared frontier areas; a remote or isolated place
bacon n. salted and smoked meat from the sides or back of a pig
bacteriology n. a science dealing with bacteria; bacterial life and phenomena -- bacteriological adj. -- bacteriologist n.
bacterium n. pl. -ria; any of a large group of microscopic plants including some that are disease producers and others valued especially for their fermentations -- bacterial adj. -- bactericidal adj.
bad adj. worse; worst; below standard; POOR; UNFAVORABLE <a bad report>; WICKED; not well-behaved; NAUGHTY; DISAGREEABLE <a bad taste>; HARMFUL; DEFECTIVE, FAULTY <bad wiring>; not valid <a bad check>; SPOILED, DECAYED; UNWELL, ILL; SORRY, REGRETFUL
bade past tense of BID
badge n. a device or token usually worn as a sign of status (as of membership, office, or authority)
badger n. a sturdy burrowing mammal with long claws on the forefeet; badger v. to harass or annoy persistently
badinage n. playful talk back and forth; BANTER
badminton n. a court game played with light rackets and a shuttlecock volleyed over a net
baffle v. FRUSTRATE, THWART, FOIL; PERPLEX; baffle n. a device (as a wall or screen) to deflect, check, or regulate flow (as of liquid or sound)
bag n. a flexible usually closable container (as for storing or carrying); bag v. bagged; bagging; DISTEND, BULGE; to get possession of; especially to take in hunting <bag a partridge>; trap, snare, catch
bagasse n. plant residue (as of sugarcane) left after a product (as juice) has been extracted
bagatelle n. TRIFLE
bagel n. a hard glazed doughnut-shaped roll
baggage n. the traveling bags and personal belongings of a traveler; LUGGAGE; a saucy, worthless, or immoral woman
baggy adj. puffed out or hanging like a bag -- baggily adv.
bagnio n. BROTHEL
bagpipe n. a musical wind instrument consisting of a bag, a tube with valves, and sounding pipes -- often used in pl.
baht n. pl. bahts or baht -- unit of currency
bail n. security given to guarantee a prisoner's appearance when legally required; one giving such security or the release secured; bail v. to release under bail; to procure the release of by giving bail
bailiff n. an aide of a British sheriff employed especially in serving writs and making arrests; a minor officer of a U.S. court; an estate or farm manager especially in Britain; STEWARD
bailiwick n. one's special province or domain; territory, field, sphere
bailsman n. one who gives bail for another
bairn n. Scot; CHILD
bait v. to persecute by continued attacks; to harass with dogs usually for sport <bait a bear>; ALLURE, ENTICE; to furnish (as a hook) with bait; to give food and drink to (as an animal); badger, heckle, hound
baize n. a coarse feltlike fabric
bake v. to cook or become cooked in dry heat especially in an oven; to dry and harden by heat <bake bricks> -- baker; bake n. a social gathering featuring baked food
bakery n. a place for baking or selling baked goods
baksheesh n. a gift of money especially in the Near East
balance n. a weighing device; SCALE; a weight, force, or influence counteracting the effect of another; a vibrating wheel used to regulate a watch or clock; a state of equilibrium; REMAINDER, REST
balboa n. unit of currency
balbriggan n. a knitted cotton fabric used especially for underwear
balcony n. a platform projecting from the side of a building and enclosed by a railing; a gallery inside a building (as a theater)
bald adj. lacking a natural or usual covering (as of hair); UNADORNED, PLAIN; bare, barren, naked, nude -- baldness n.
baldachin n. a canopylike structure over an altar
baldachino n. a canopylike structure over an altar
balderdash n. NONSENSE
baldric n. a belt worn over the shoulder to carry a sword or bugle
bale n. a large bundle or closely packed package; bale v. to pack in a bale -- baler n.
baleen n. WHALEBONE
baleful adj. DEADLY, HARMFUL; OMINOUS; sinister
balk n. HINDRANCE, CHECK, SETBACK; balk v. CHECK, BLOCK, THWART; to stop short and refuse to go on; frustrate
balky adj. likely to balk
ball n. a rounded body or mass (as at the base of the thumb or for use as a missile or in a game); a game played with a ball; PITCH <curve ball>; a pitched baseball that misses the strike zone and is not swung at by the batter
ballad n. a simple song; AIR; a narrative poem of strongly marked rhythm suitable for singing; a slow romantic dance song
ballast n. heavy material put in the hold of a ship to steady it or in the car of a balloon to steady it or control its ascent; crushed stone used in making roadbeds firm; ballast v. to provide with ballast; balance
ballcarrier n. the football player carrying the ball in an offensive play
ballerina n. a female ballet dancer
ballet n. dancing in which fixed poses and steps are combined with light flowing movements often to convey a story or theme; a theatrical art form using ballet dancing; a company of ballet dancers
ballistic adj. of or relating to ballistics; being a missile that is self-powered during most of its ascent, travels in a high arch, and descends as a free-falling object
ballistics n. sing or pl. the science dealing with the motion of projectiles (as bullets) or of bombs dropped from aircraft; the flight characteristics of a missile
balloon n. a bag filled with gas or heated air so as to rise and float in the atmosphere; a toy consisting of a rubber bag that can be inflated -- balloonist n.
ballot n. a piece of paper used to cast a vote; the action or a system of voting; the right to vote; the number of votes cast in an election; ballot v. to decide by ballot; VOTE
ballroom n. a large room for dances
ballyhoo n. a noisy attention-getting demonstration or talk; grossly exaggerated or sensational advertising or propaganda
balm n. a fragrant healing or soothing lotion or ointment; any of several spicy fragrant herbs; something that comforts or soothes
balmy adj. gently soothing; MILD; soft, bland
balsa n. the extremely light strong wood of a tropical American tree
balsam n. a fragrant aromatic and usually resinous substance oozing from various plants; a preparation containing or smelling like balsam; a balsam-yielding plant; any of several showy garden plants
baluster n. an upright support of a rail (as of a staircase)
balustrade n. a row of balusters topped by a rail
bamboo n. any of various woody mostly tall tropical grasses including some with strong hollow stems used for building, furniture, or utensils
bamboozle v. TRICK, HOODWINK
ban v. banned; banning; PROHIBIT, FORBID; ban n. CURSE; a legal or official prohibiting; ban n. pl. bani -- unit of currency
banal adj. COMMONPLACE, TRITE -- banality n.
banana n. a treelike tropical plant bearing thick clusters of yellow or reddish fruit; this fruit
band n. something (as a fetter or an obligation) that constrains or restrains; a strip serving to bring or hold together; one used to cover, protect, or finish something; a range of wavelengths (as in radio); band v. to tie up, finish
bandage n. a strip of material used especially in dressing wounds; bandage v. to dress or cover with a bandage
bandana n. a large colored figured handkerchief
bandanna n. a large colored figured handkerchief
bandbox n. a light box for carrying articles of attire
banderol n. a long narrow forked flag or streamer
banderole n. a long narrow forked flag or streamer
bandit n. pl. bandits or banditti; BRIGAND, GANGSTER -- banditry n.
bandoleer n. a belt slung over the shoulder and used especially to carry ammunition
bandolier n. a belt slung over the shoulder and used especially to carry ammunition
bandstand n. a usually roofed outdoor stand or platform on which a band or orchestra performs
bandwagon n. a wagon carrying musicians in a parade; a candidate, side, or movement that attracts open support or approval because it seems to be winning or gaining popularity -- used in phrases like climb on the bandwagon
bandy v. to exchange (as blows or quips) in rapid succession; to use in a glib or offhand way; bandy adj. curved outward <bandy legs>
bane n. POISON; WOE, HARM; a source of this -- baneful adj.
bang v. BUMP; to strike, thrust, or move usually with a loud noise; bang n. BLOW; a sudden loud noise; bang adv. DIRECTLY, RIGHT; bang n. a fringe of hair cut short (as across the forehead); bang v. to cut a bang or a bang in
bangle n. BRACELET; a loose-hanging ornament
banish v. to require by authority to leave a country; to drive out; EXPEL; exile, ostracize, deport -- banishment n.
banister n. a baluster of a stair rail; the handrail of a staircase
banjo n. a musical instrument with a long neck, a drumlike body, and usually 5 strings -- banjoist n.
bank n. a piled-up mass (as of cloud or earth); an undersea elevation; rising ground bordering a lake, river, or sea; the sidewise slope of a surface along a curve or of a vehicle as it rounds a curve; bank v. to form a bank about
bankbook n. the depositor's book in which a bank records his deposits and withdrawals
bankroll n. supply of money; FUNDS
bankrupt n. an insolvent person; especially one whose property is turned over by court action to a trustee to be handled for the benefit of his creditors -- bankrupt v.; bankrupt adj. reduced to financial ruin; especially legally declared a bankrupt
banner n. a piece of cloth attached to a staff and used by a ruler or commander as his standard; FLAG; banner adj. distinguished from all others especially in excellence <a banner year for apple growers>
bannock n. a flat oatmeal or barley cake usually cooked on a griddle
banns n. pl. public announcement especially in church of a proposed marriage
banquet n. a ceremonial dinner -- banquet v.
banquette n. a raised way along the inside of a parapet or trench for gunners or guns; a long upholstered seat especially along a wall
banshee n. a female spirit in Gaelic folklore whose wailing warns a family of an approaching death
bantam n. a small domestic fowl that is often a miniature of a standard breed; a small but pugnacious person
banter v. to ridicule playfully; CHAFF, RALLY; banter n. RAILLERY
bantling n. a young child
banyan n. a large East Indian tree whose aerial roots grow downward to the ground and form new trunks
baobab n. an Old World tropical tree with short swollen trunk and sour edible gourdlike fruits
baptism n. a Christian sacrament signifying spiritual rebirth and symbolized by the ritual use of water; an act of baptizing -- baptismal adj.
baptistery n. a place especially in a church used for baptism
baptize v. to administer baptism to; CHRISTEN; to purify especially by an ordeal
bar n. a long narrow piece of material (as wood or metal) used especially for a lever, fastening, or support; BARRIER, OBSTACLE; the railing in a law court at which prisoners are stationed; the legal profession or the whole body of lawyers; a stripe
barb n. a sharp usually hooked or back-extending projection (as on an arrowhead, a fishook, or a plant process) -- barbed adj.
barbarian n. an incompletely civilized person -- barbarian adj.
barbarism n. a word or expression that offends current standards of correctness or purity; the social level of barbarians; the use or display of barbarian or barbarous cultural attributes
barbarous adj. using linguistic barbarisms; deficient in culture or refinement; mercilessly harsh or cruel -- barbarity n. -- barbarously adv.
barbecue n. a large animal (as an ox) roasted whole over an open fire; a social gathering at which barbecued food is served; barbecue v. to cook over hot coals or on a revolving spit usually with a highly seasoned vinegar sauce
barbell n. a bar with adjustable weights attached to each end used for exercise and in weight-lifting competition
barber n. one whose business is cutting and dressing hair or shaving and trimming beards
barberry n. a spiny shrub bearing sour oblong red berries
barbican n. an outer defensive work
barbiturate n. a salt or ester of an organic acid (barbituric acid); especially one used as a sedative or hypnotic
barcarole n. a Venetian boat song characterized by a beat suggesting a rowing rhythm; a piece of music imitating this
barcarolle n. a Venetian boat song characterized by a beat suggesting a rowing rhythm; a piece of music imitating this
bard n. POET
bare adj. NAKED; UNCONCEALED, EXPOSED; EMPTY; leaving nothing to spare; MERE; PLAIN, UNADORNED; nude, bald -- bareness n.; bare v. to make or lay bare; REVEAL
bareback adv. (or adj); without a saddle
barebacked adv. (or adj); without a saddle
barefaced adj. having the face uncovered; especially BEARDLESS; not concealed; OPEN
barefoot adv. (or adj); with the feet bare
barefooted adv. (or adj); with the feet bare
bareheaded adv. (or adj); without a hat
barely adv. by a narrow margin; SCARCELY; with nothing to spare; SPARSELY; hardly
bargain n. AGREEMENT; something of which the value exceeds the cost; a transaction, situation, or event with important good or bad results; bargain v. to talk over the terms of an agreement; CHAFFER, HAGGLE; to come to terms; BARTER
barge n. a broad flat-bottomed boat for river or canal use usually moved by towing; a powerboat supplied to a flagship (as for use by an admiral); a ceremonial boat elegantly furnished -- bargeman n.; barge v. to carry by barge
baritone n. a male voice between bass and tenor; a man with such a voice
barium n. a silver-white metallic chemical element that occurs only in combination and is used in the form of its sulfate as a pigment and as a substance that is opaque to X rays
bark v. to make the characteristic short sharp cry of a dog; to speak or utter in a curt loud tone; SNAP; bark n. the sound made by a barking dog; bark n. the tough corky outer covering of a woody stem or root; bark v. to strip the bark from
barkeeper n. one that keeps or tends a bar for the sale of liquors
barker n. a person who stands at the entrance especially to a show and tries to attract customers to it
barley n. a cereal grass with seeds used as food and in making malt liquors; its seed
barn n. a building used especially for storing hay and grain and for housing livestock and often adjoined by a fenced enclosure (barnyard)
barnacle n. a marine crustacean free-swimming when young but fixed (as to rocks) when adult
barnstorm v. to tour through rural districts staging theatrical performances usually in one-night stands; to travel from place to place making brief stops (as in political campaigning)
barnyard n. a usually fenced area adjoining a barn
barometer n. an instrument for measuring atmospheric pressure and so predicting weather changes -- barometric adj.
baron n. a member of the lowest grade of the British peerage -- baronial adj. -- barony n.
baronage n. PEERAGE
baroness n. the wife or widow of a baron; a woman holding a baronial title in her own right
baronet n. a man holding a rank of honor below a baron but above a knight -- baronetcy n.
baroque adj. marked by elaborate and sometimes grotesque ornamentations and especially by curved and plastic figures
barouche n. a 4-wheeled carriage with a high driver's seat in front and a folding top
barracks n. sing or pl. a building or group of buildings for lodging soldiers
barracuda n. any of several large fierce sea fishes related to the gray mullets
barrage n. a barrier laid down by machine-gun or artillery fire directed against a narrow strip of ground
barratry n. the purchase or sale of office or preferment in church or state; a fraudulent breach of duty by the master or crew of a ship intended to harm the owner or cargo; the practice of inciting lawsuits or quarrels
barred adj. STRIPED
barrel n. a round bulging cask with flat ends of equal diameter; the amount contained in a barrel; a cylindrical or tubular part <gun barrel>; barrel v. -reled or -relled; -relling; -relling; to pack in a barrel; to travel at high speed
barren adj. STERILE, UNFRUITFUL; lacking interest or charm; UNPROFITABLE; DULL, STUPID -- barrenness n.; barren n. a tract of barren land
barrette n. a clasp for holding a woman's hair in place
barricade v. to block, obstruct, or fortify with a barricade; barricade n. a hastily thrown-up obstruction or fortification; BARRIER, OBSTACLE
barrier n. something material that separates, demarcates, or serves as a barricade; an immaterial obstacle <racial barrier>
barrister n. a British counselor admitted to plead in the higher courts; lawyer, attorney
barroom n. an establishment whose main feature is a bar for the sale of liquor
barrow n. a large burial mound of earth and stones; barrow n. a male hog castrated while young; barrow n. a frame that has handles and sometimes a wheel and is used for carrying things; a cart with boxlike body and two shafts for pushing
bartender n. one that serves liquor at a bar
barter v. to trade by exchange of goods -- barter n.
basal adj. BASIC
basalt n. a dark fine-grained igneous rock -- basaltic adj.
base n. BOTTOM, FOUNDATION; a main ingredient or fundamental part; the point of beginning an act or operation; any of the four stations at the corners of a baseball diamond; a place on which a force depends for supplies
baseball n. a game played with a bat and ball by 2 teams on a field with 4 bases arranged in a diamond; the ball used in this game
baseboard n. a line of boards or molding covering the joint of a wall and the adjoining floor
baseless adj. having no base or basis; GROUNDLESS
basement n. the part of a building that is wholly or partly below ground level; the lowest or fundamental part of something
bash v. to strike violently; BEAT; to smash by a blow
bashful adj. inclined to shrink from public attention -- bashfulness n.
basic adj. of, relating to, or forming the base or essence; FUNDAMENTAL; of, relating to, or having the character of a chemical base <a basic substance>; underlying -- basically adv.
basil n. an aromatic mint used in cookery
basilica n. an early Christian church of simple design; a church or cathedral given ceremonial privileges
basilisk n. a legendary reptile with fatal breath and glance
basin n. a wide hollow vessel for holding liquid (as water); a hollow or enclosed place containing water; the region drained by a river
basis n. pl. bases; FOUNDATION, BASE; a fundamental principle
bask v. to expose oneself to comfortable heat; to enjoy something as if comforting warmth <bask in his friends' admiration>
basket n. a container of woven material (as twigs or grasses); any of various lightweight usually wood containers -- basketful n.
basketball n. a game played on a court by 2 teams who try to throw an inflated ball through a raised goal; the ball used in this game
bass n. any of several spiny-finned sport and food fishes of eastern North America; bass adj. deep or grave in tone; of low pitch; bass n. a deep sound or tone; the lowest part in harmonic or polyphonic music; the lowest male singing voice
bassinet n. a basket hooded at one end for use as a cradle
basso n. a bass singer
bassoon n. a musical wind instrument lower in pitch than the oboe
basswood n. a linden tree; its wood; TULIP TREE
bast n. strong woody plant fiber used especially in making ropes
bastard n. an illegitimate child; bastard adj. ILLEGITIMATE; of an inferior or nontypical kind, size, or form; SPURIOUS -- bastardy n.
baste v. to sew with long stitches so as to keep temporarily in place; baste v. to moisten (as roasting meat) at intervals with liquid while cooking
bastinado n. pl. -does; a blow or beating especially with a stick; a punishment consisting of beating the soles of the feet
bastion n. a projecting part of a fortification; a fortified area or position -- bastioned adj.
bat n. a stout stick; CLUB; a sharp blow; an implement (as of wood) used to hit the ball (as in baseball); a turn at batting -- usually used with at; bat v. batted; batting; to hit with or as if with a bat
batch n. a quantity (as of bread) baked at one time; a quantity of material for use at one time or produced at one operation
bate v. MODERATE, REDUCE
bateau also batteau n. pl. bateaux; any of various small craft
bath n. pl. baths; a washing of the body; water for washing the body; a liquid in which objects are immersed so that it can act on them; BATHROOM
bathe v. to wash in liquid and especially water; to apply water or a medicated liquid to <bathed her eyes>; to wash along, over, or against so as to wet; to suffuse with or as if with light; to take a bath; to take a swim -- bather n.
bathhouse n. a building equipped for bathing; a building containing dressing rooms for bathers
bathos n. the sudden appearance of the commonplace in otherwise elevated matter or style; insincere or overdone pathos -- bathetic adj.
bathrobe n. a loose usually absorbent robe worn before and after bathing or as a dressing gown
bathroom n. a room with facilities for bathing; TOILET
bathtub n. a usually fixed tub for bathing
batiste n. a fine sheer fabric of plain weave
batman n. an orderly of a British military officer
baton n. STAFF, ROD; especially a stick with which the leader directs an orchestra or band
batrachian n. a tailless leaping amphibian; FROG, TOAD -- batrachian adj.
batsman n. a batter especially in cricket
battalion n. a large body of troops organized to act together; ARMY; a military unit composed of a headquarters and two or more units (as companies)
batten v. to grow or make fat; THRIVE; batten n. a strip of wood for nailing across other pieces to cover a crack or strengthen parts; batten v. to fasten with battens
batter v. to beat or damage with repeated blows; batter n. a soft mixture (as for cake) basically of flour and liquid; batter n. one that bats; especially the player whose turn it is to bat
battery n. BEATING; especially unlawful beating of or use of force on a person; a grouping of artillery pieces for tactical purposes; the guns of a warship; a group of electric cells for furnishing electric current
batting n. layers or sheets of cotton or wool (as for lining quilts)
battle n. a general military engagement; an extended contest or controversy; battle v. to engage in battle; CONTEND, FIGHT
battledore n. a light flat bat or racket used in striking a shuttlecock
battlefield n. a place where a battle is fought
battlement n. a decorative or defensive parapet on top of a wall
battleship n. a warship of the most heavily armed and armored class
bauble n. a trifling bit of finery; TRINKET
bauxite n. a clayey substance that is the chief ore of aluminum
bawdy adj. OBSCENE, LEWD -- bawdily adv. -- bawdiness n.
bawl v. to cry or cry out loudly; to scold harshly; bawl n. a long loud cry; BELLOW
bay adj. reddish brown; bay n. a bay-colored animal; a moderate brown; bay n. the Old World laurel; a shrub or tree resembling this; bay n. a compartment of a building set off from other parts (as by pillars)
bayberry n. a West Indian tree related to the allspice; the American wax myrtle; its fruit
bayonet n. a daggerlike weapon made to fit on the muzzle end of a rifle; bayonet v. -neted or -netted; -neting; -netting; to use or stab with a bayonet
bayou n. a minor or secondary stream that is tributary to a larger body of water; a marshy or sluggish body of water
bazaar n. a group of shops; MARKETPLACE; a fair usually for charity
bazooka n. a weapon consisting of a tube and launching an explosive rocket able to pierce armor
be v. past 1st & 3rd sing was; 2nd sing were; pl. were; past subjunctive were; past part been; pres part being; pres 1st sing am; 2nd sing are; 3rd sing is; pl. are; pres subjunctive be; to equal in meaning or symbolically <God is love
beach n. the shore of the sea or of a lake; beach v. to run or drive ashore
beachcomber n. a drifter, loafer, or casual worker along the seacoast; one who searches along a shore for useful or salable flotsam and refuse
beachhead n. an area on an enemy-held shore occupied by an advance attacking force to protect the later landing of troops or supplies
beacon n. a signal fire; a signal mark (as a lighthouse) for guidance; a radio transmitter emitting signals for guidance of airplanes
bead n. pl: a series of prayers and meditations made with a rosary; a small piece of material pierced for threading on a line (as in a rosary); a small globular body; a narrow projecting rim or band -- beading n. -- beady adj.
beadle n. a usually English parish officer whose duties include keeping order in church
beagle n. small short-legged smooth-coated hound
beak n. the bill of a bird and especially of a bird of prey; a pointed projecting part -- beaked adj.
beaker n. a large drinking cup with a wide mouth; a thin-walled laboratory vessel with a wide mouth
beam n. a large long piece of timber or metal; the bar of a balance from which the scales hang; the breadth of a ship at its widest part; a ray or shaft of light; a collection of nearly parallel rays (as X rays) or streams of particles (as electrons)
bean n. the edible seed borne in pods by some leguminous plants; a plant or a pod bearing these seeds
beanie n. a small round tight-fitting skullcap worn especially by schoolboys and collegians
bear n. pl: bear a large heavy mammal with shaggy hair and a very short tail; a surly uncouth person; one who sells securities or commodities in expectation of a price decline -- bearish adj.; bear v. bore; borne; born; bearing; CARRY
beard n. the hair that grows on the face of a man; a growth of bristly hairs (as on rye or the chin of a goat) -- beardless adj.; beard v. to confront boldly
bearing n. manner of carrying oneself; COMPORTMENT; a supporting object, purpose, or point; an emblem in a coat of arms; connection with or influence on something; SIGNIFICANCE; a machine part in which another part (as an axle or pin) turns
bearskin n. an article (as a military hat) made of the skin of a bear
beast n. ANIMAL 1; especially a 4-footed animal; a contemptible person; brute -- beastly adj.
beat v. beat; beaten; beat; beating; to strike repeatedly; TREAD; to affect or alter by beating <beat metal into sheets>; OVERCOME; SURPASS; to sound (as an alarm) on a drum; to act or arrive before <beat his brother home>; THROB -- beater n.
beatific adj. giving or indicative of great joy or bliss
beatify v. to make supremely happy; to declare to have attained the blessedness of heaven and authorize the title "Blessed" for -- beatification n.
beatitude n. a state of utmost bliss; a declaration made in the Sermon on the Mount (Mt 5; 3-12) beginning "Blessed are"
beatnik n. a person who behaves and dresses unconventionally and is inclined to exotic philosophizing and extreme self-expression
beau n. pl. beaux or beaus; a man of fashion; DANDY; SUITOR, LOVER
bed n. an article of furniture to sleep on; a plot of ground prepared for plants; FOUNDATION, BOTTOM <river bed>; LAYER, STRATUM <bed of sandstone>; bed v. bedded; bedding; to put or go to bed; to fix in a foundation; EMBED; to plant in a bed or beds
bedaub v. SMEAR
bedazzle v. to confuse by or as if by a strong light -- bedazzlement n.
bedbug n. a wingless bloodsucking insect infesting houses and especially beds
bedclothes n. BEDDING 1
bedding n. materials for making up a bed; FOUNDATION
bedeck v. ADORN
bedevil v. HARASS, TORMENT; CONFUSE, MUDDLE
bedew v. to wet with or as if with dew
bedfellow n. one sharing the bed of another
bedizen v. to dress or adorn with showy or vulgar finery
bedlam n. archaic: an insane asylum; a scene of uproar and confusion
bedouin n. a nomadic Arab of the Arabian, Syrian, or North African deserts
bedraggled adj. soiled and disordered as if by being drenched
bedridden adj. kept in bed by illness or weakness
bedrock n. the solid rock underlying surface materials (as soil)
bedroll n. bedding rolled up for carrying
bedroom n. a room containing a bed and used especially for sleeping
bedside n. the place beside a bed especially of a sick or dying person
bedspread n. a usually ornamental outer cover for a bed
bedstead n. the framework of a bed
bedtime n. time to go to bed
bee n. a colonial 4-winged insect often kept in hives for the honey it produces; any of various related insects; a neighborly gathering for work
beech n. a deciduous hardwood tree with smooth gray bark and small sweet triangular nuts (beechnuts) -- beechen adj.
beef n. pl. beeves or beefs; the flesh of a steer, cow, or bull; the dressed carcass of a beef animal; a steer, cow, or bull especially when fattened for food; MUSCLE, BRAWN
beefsteak n. a slice of beef suitable for broiling or frying
beefy adj. THICKSET, BRAWNY
beehive n. HIVE
beekeeper n. a raiser of bees -- beekeeping n.
beeline n. a straight direct course
been past part of BE
beer n. an alcoholic beverage brewed from malt and hops -- beery adj.
beeswax n. wax that bees secrete and use in making honeycomb
beet n. a garden plant with edible leaves and a thick sweet root used as a vegetable, as a source of sugar, or as forage; its root
beetle n. an insect with 4 wings of which the stiff outer pair covers the membranous inner pair when not in flight; beetle n. a heavy tool for hammering or ramming; beetle v. to jut out; PROJECT
befall v. to happen to; OCCUR
befit v. to be suitable to; BECOME
befog v. OBSCURE; CONFUSE
before adv. in front; EARLIER; before prep. in front of <stood before him>; earlier than <got there before me>; in a more important category than <put quality before quantity>; before conj. earlier than the time when <he got here before I did>
beforehand adv. (or adj); in advance
befoul v. SOIL
befriend v. to act as friend to
befuddle v. MUDDLE, CONFUSE
beg v. begged; begging; to ask as a charity; ENTREAT; EVADE; to seek or live by asking charity
beget v. -got; -gotten; -got; -getting; to become the father of; SIRE
beggar n. one that begs especially as a way of life; beggar v. IMPOVERISH
beggarly adj. marked by unrelieved poverty <a beggarly life>; contemptibly mean or inadequate <a beggarly wage>
beggary n. extreme poverty; the class or occupation of beggars
begin v. began; begun; beginning; to do the first part of an action; to undertake or undergo initial steps; COMMENCE; to come into being; ARISE;, FOUND; ORIGINATE, INVENT -- beginner n.
begone v. to go away; DEPART -- used especially in the imperative
begonia n. any of a genus of tropical herbs widely grown for their showy leaves and waxy flowers
begrime v. to make dirty with grime; SOIL
begrudge v. GRUDGE
beguile v. DECEIVE, CHEAT; to while away; to coax by wiles; CHARM
beguine n. a vigorous popular dance of the islands of Saint Lucia and Martinique
begum n. a Muslim woman of high rank
behalf n. BENEFIT, SUPPORT, DEFENSE
behave v. to bear, comport, or conduct oneself in a particular and especially a proper way; to act, function, or react in a particular way
behavior n. way of behaving; especially personal conduct -- behavioral adj.
behead v. to cut off the head of
behemoth n. a huge powerful animal described in Job 40; 15-24 that is probably the hippopotamus
behest n. COMMAND, INJUNCTION
behind adj. BACK, BACKWARD; LATE, SLOW; behind prep. in a former place, situation, or time of <stayed behind the troops>; to or at the back or farther side or part of <ran behind the house> <stood behind a tree>; inferior to (as in rank)
behindhand adv. (or adj); in arrears; BEHIND; behind the times; tardy, late, overdue
behold v. to have in sight; SEE; -- used imperatively to direct the attention; view, observe, notice, contemplate -- beholder n.
beholden adj. OBLIGATED, INDEBTED
behoof n. ADVANTAGE, PROFIT
behoove v. to be necessary, proper, or advantageous for
behove v. to be necessary, proper, or advantageous for
beige n. a pale dull yellowish brown -- beige adj.
being n. EXISTENCE; LIFE; the qualities or constitution of an existent thing; a living thing; especially PERSON
belabor v. to beat soundly; DRUB; to assail (as with words) tiresomely or at length
belated adj. DELAYED, LATE
belay v. to wind (a rope) around a pin or cleat in order to hold secure; QUIT, STOP -- used in the imperative
belch v. to expel (gas) from the stomach through the mouth; to gush forth <a volcano belch lava>
beldam n. an old woman; especially HAG
beldame n. an old woman; especially HAG
beleaguer v. BESET, BESIEGE; HARASS
belfry n. a tower for a bell (as on a church); the part of the tower in which the bell hangs
belie v. MISREPRESENT; to give the lie to; be false to; to run counter to
belief n. CONFIDENCE, TRUST; something (as a tenet or creed) believed; conviction, opinion
believe v. to have religious convictions; to have a firm conviction about something; accept as truly such as indicated; to hold as an opinion; SUPPOSE -- believable adj. -- believer n.
belike adv. archaic; PROBABLY
belittle v. to make seem little or less; DISPARAGE
bell n. a hollow metallic device that makes a ringing sound when struck; the sounding or stroke of a bell (as on shipboard to tell the time); time so indicated; something with the flared form of a typical bell; bell v. to provide with a bell
belladonna n. a poisonous herb related to the potato that yields a drug used especially to relieve spasms and pain or to dilate the eye; this drug
bellboy n. a hotel or club employee who escorts guests to rooms, assists them with luggage, and runs errands
belle n. an attractive and popular girl or woman
bellhop n. BELLBOY
bellicose adj. WARLIKE, PUGNACIOUS; belligerent, quarrelsome -- bellicosity n.
belligerency n. the status of a nation engaged in war; BELLIGERENCE, TRUCULENCE
belligerent adj. waging war; TRUCULENT; bellicose, pugnacious -- belligerence n. -- belligerent n.
bellow v. to make the deep hollow sound characteristic of a bull; to call or utter in a loud deep voice -- bellow n.
bellows n. sing or pl. a closed boxlike device with sides that can be spread apart or pressed together thereby drawing in air and then expelling it thrrough a tube
bellwether n. one that takes the lead or initiative; LEADER
belly n. ABDOMEN; STOMACH; the under part of an animal's body; belly v. BULGE
belong v. to be suitable or appropriate; to be properly situated <shoes belong in the closet>; to be the property <this belong to me>; to be attached (as through birth or membership) <belong to a club>
belongings n. pl. GOODS, EFFECTS, POSSESSIONS
beloved adj. dearly loved -- beloved n.
below adv. in or to a lower place or rank; on earth; in hell; under, beneath, underneath; below prep. in or to a lower place than; UNDER <swimming below the surface>; inferior to (as in rank)
belt n. a strip (as of leather) worn about the waist; an endless band passing around pulleys or cylinders to communicate motion or convey material; a region marked by some distinctive feature; especially one suited to a particular crop
belvedere n. a structure (as a summerhouse) designed to command a view
bemire v. to cover or soil with or sink in mire
bemoan v. LAMENT, DEPLORE; bewail
bemock v. MOCK
bemuse v. BEWILDER, CONFUSE
bench n. a long seat for two or more persons; a table for holding work and tools <a carpenter's bench>; the seat of a judge in court; the office or dignity of a judge; COURT; JUDGES
bend n. a knot by which a rope is fastened (as to another rope); bend v. bent; bending; to draw (as a bow) taut; to turn or cause to turn; CURVE; TREND; to make fast; SECURE; SUBDUE; RESOLVE, DETERMINE; APPLY <bent themselves to the task>; DEFLECT
beneath adv. BELOW, UNDERNEATH; under; beneath prep. BELOW, UNDER <stood beneath a tree>; unworthy of <considered such behavior beneath contempt>
benedict n. a newly married man who has long been a bachelor
benediction n. the invocation of a blessing especially at the close of a public worship service
benefaction n. a charitable donation; contribution, alms
benefactor n. one that confers a benefit and especially a benefaction
benefactress n. a female benefactor
benefice n. an ecclesiastical office to which the revenue from an endowment is attached
beneficence n. beneficent quality; BENEFACTION
beneficent adj. doing or producing good (as by acts of kindness or charity); productive of benefit
beneficial adj. being of benefit or help; HELPFUL; advantageous, profitable -- beneficially adv.
beneficiary n. one that receives some benefit (as the income of a trust or the proceeds of an insurance)
benefit n. ADVANTAGE, PROFIT; useful aid; HELP; material aid provided or due (as in sickness or unemployment) as a right; a performance or event to raise funds for some person or cause; benefit v. -fited or -fitted; -fiting; -fitting
benevolence n. charitable nature; an act of kindness; CHARITY -- benevolent adj.
benighted adj. overtaken by darkness or night; living in ignorance
benign adj. kindly disposed; GRACIOUS; of a mild kind; especially not malignant <benign tumors>; benignant, kind -- benignity n.
benignant adj. BENIGN 1; kind, kindly
benison n. BLESSING, BENEDICTIONS
bent n. tendency of mind; BIAS; power of endurance; talent, aptitude, gift
benumb v. DULL, DEADEN; to make numb especially by cold
benzene n. a colorless highly flammable liquid obtained chiefly in the distillation of coal and used as a solvent and in making dyes and drugs
benzine n. any of various flammable petroleum distillates used as solvents for fats or as motor fuels
benzoate n. a salt or ester of benzoic acid
benzoin n. a balsamlike resin from trees of southern Asia used especially in medicine and perfumes
benzol n. BENZENE
bequeath v. to leave by will; to hand down
bequest n. the action of bequeathing; LEGACY
berate v. to scold harshly
berceuse n. LULLABY; a musical composition of a tranquil nature
bereave v. bereaved or bereft; bereaving; to deprive especially by death; STRIP <bereaved of hope> -- bereavement n.
beret n. a round soft cap with no visor
berg n. ICEBERG
beriberi n. a deficiency disease marked by weakness, wasting, and nerve damage and caused by lack of thiamine
berkelium n. an artificially prepared radioactive chemical element
berry n. a small pulpy fruit; especially a simple fruit (as a grape, tomato, or banana) with the wall of the ripened ovary thick and pulpy; the dry seed of some plants (as coffee)
berserk adj. FRENZIED, CRAZED -- berserk adv.
berth n. room enough for a ship to maneuver; the place where a ship lies at anchor; a place to sit or sleep especially on a ship or vehicle; JOB, POSITION; post, situation; berth v. to bring or come into a berth; to allot a berth to
beryl n. a hard silicate mineral occurring as green, yellow, pink, or white crystals
beryllium n. a light strong metallic chemical element used as a hardener in alloys
beseech v. besought or beseeched; beseeching; to ask earnestly; ENTREAT; implore, beg
beseem v. archaic; to be seemly or fitting; BEFIT
beset v. TROUBLE, HARASS; ASSAIL; to hem in; SURROUND
besetting adj. persistently present or assailing
beshrew v. archaic; CURSE
beside adv. archaic; BESIDES; beside prep. by the side of <sit beside me>; in addition to <beside being pretty, she's intelligent>; other than <there's nobody here beside me>
besiege v. to lay siege to; IMPORTUNE -- besieger n.
besmear v. SMEAR
besmirch v. SMIRCH, SOIL
besom n. BROOM
besotted adj. DULL, STUPID; especially muddled with drink
bespangle v. to adorn with or as if with spangles
bespatter v. SPATTER
bespeak v. to hire or arrange for beforehand; INDICATE, SIGNIFY; FORETELL
besprinkle v. SPRINKLE
best adj. superlative of GOOD; excelling all others; most productive (as of good or satisfaction); LARGEST, MOST; best adv. superlative of WELL; in the best way; to the highest degree; MOST; best n. something that is best; best v. to get the better of
bestial adj. of or relating to beasts; resembling a beast especially in lack of intelligence or reason; BEASTLY
bestiality n. the condition or status of a lower animal; display or gratification of bestial traits or impulses
bestir v. to rouse to action
bestow v. PUT, PLACE, STOW; to present as a gift; CONFER -- bestowal n.
bestride v. to ride, sit, or stand astride
bet v. bet or betted; betting; WAGER -- bet n.
betake v. to cause (oneself) to go
betel n. a climbing pepper whose leaves are chewed together with lime and the astringent seed (betel nut) of a palm especially by southern Asians
bethel n. a place of worship especially for seamen
bethink v. to cause (oneself) to call to mind or consider
betide v. to happen to; BEFALL
betimes adv. in good time; EARLY; soon, beforehand
betoken v. to give evidence of; PRESAGE; indicate, prove
betray v. to lead astray; especially SEDUCE; to deliver to an enemy by treachery; to prove unfaithful to; to reveal unintentionally; SHOW, INDICATE; mislead, delude, deceive, disclose, divulge -- betrayal n. -- betrayer n.
betroth v. to promise to marry; AFFIANCE -- betrothal n.
betrothed n. the person to whom one is betrothed
better adj. comparative of GOOD; more than half; improved in health; of higher quality; better adv. comparative of WELL; in a superior manner; to a higher or greater degree; MORE; better n. something better; a superior especially in merit or rank
betterment n. IMPROVEMENT
bettor n. one that bets
between prep. by the common action of <earned $10,000 between the two of them>; in the interval separating <an alley between two buildings>; in point of comparison of <choose between two cars>
betwixt adv. or prep. archaic; BETWEEN
bevel n. the angle or slant that one surface or line makes with another when not at right angles; a device for adjusting the slant of the surfaces of a piece of work; bevel v. -eled or -elled; -eling; -elling
beverage n. liquid for drinking; especially a liquid (as milk or coffee) other than water
bevy n. a group (as of women or quail) together
bewail v. LAMENT; deplore, bemoan
beware v. to be on one's guard; be wary of
bewilder v. PERPLEX, CONFUSE; mystify, distract, puzzle -- bewilderment n.
bewitch v. to affect by witchcraft; CHARM, FASCINATE; enchant, attract
bey n. a former Turkish provincial governor; the former ruler of Tunis or Tunisia
beyond adv. FARTHER; BESIDES; beyond prep. on or to the farther side of; out of the reach or sphere of; BESIDES
bezel n. a sloping edge on a cutting tool; the top part of a ring setting; the faceted part of a cut gem that rises above the setting; a usually grooved rim holding the glass on a watch, clock dial, or headlight
bezoar n. a concretion found in animal intestines
bhang n. a narcotic and intoxicant product of the hemp plant
biannual adj. occurring twice a year -- biannually adv.
bias n. a line diagonal to the grain of a fabric; PREJUDICE, BENT; bias adv. on the bias; DIAGONALLY; bias v. biased or biassed; biasing; biassing; PREJUDICE
bib n. a protective cover tied under a child's chin over the clothes at meals
bibelot n. a small household ornament or decorative object
bibliography n. the history or description of writings or publications; a list of writings (as on a subject or of an author) -- bibliographer n. -- bibliographic or bibliographical adj.
bibliophile n. a lover of books
bibulous adj. highly absorbent; inclined to drink especially to excess
bicameral adj. having or consisting of two legislative branches
bicarbonate of soda; a white crystalline salt used in cooking and in medicine
biceps n. a muscle (as in the front of the upper arm) having two points of origin
bichloride n. any of several chlorides; especially one (mercuric chloride or bichloride of mercur) that is a poisonous compound of mercury and chlorine used as an antiseptic and fungicide
bicker n. WRANGLING, ALTERCATION; bicker v. to contend in petty altercation; SQUABBLE
bicuspid n. either of 2 double-pointed teeth next to the canine on each side of each jaw in man
bicycle n. a light 2-wheeled vehicle with a steering handle, saddle, and pedals by which it is propelled
bid v. bade or bid; bidden; bid; bade; bidding; COMMAND, ORDER; INVITE; to give expression to; to make a bid; OFFER -- bidder n.; bid n. an act of bidding; a chance or turn to bid; an offer (as at an auction) of what one will give for something
bide v. bode or bided; bided; biding; WAIT, TARRY; DWELL; to wait for <bided his time>
biennial adj. taking place once in two years; lasting two years; producing leaves the first year and fruiting and dying the second year -- biennial n. -- biennially adv.
bier n. a stand bearing a coffin or corpse
bifocals n. pl. eyeglasses with lenses that have one part that corrects for near vision and one for distant vision
bifurcate v. to divide into two branches or parts -- bifurcation n.
big adj. large in size, amount, or scope; PREGNANT; SWELLING; IMPORTANT, IMPOSING; great -- bigness n.
bigamy n. the act of marrying one person while still legally married to another -- bigamist n. -- bigamous adj.
bighorn n. a wild sheep of mountainous western North America
bight n. the slack part of a rope fastened at both ends; a curve in a coast; the bay formed by such a curve
bigot n. one intolerantly devoted to his own church, party, or opinion; fanatic, enthusiast, zealot -- bigoted adj. -- bigotry n.
bigwig n. an important person
bike n. BICYCLE
bikini n. a woman's brief 2-piece bathing suit
bilateral adj. having or involving 2 sides; affecting reciprocally 2 sides or parties -- bilaterally adv.
bile n. a bitter greenish fluid secreted by the liver that aids in the digestion of fats; ill-humored state; SURLINESS
bilge n. the part of a ship that lies between the bottom and the point where the sides go straight up; foul water that collects in the bottom of a ship
bilingual adj. expressed in, knowing, or using two languages
bilious adj. marked by or suffering from disordered liver function; IRRITABLE, CHOLERIC
bilk v. to cheat out of what is due; SWINDLE
bill n. the jaws of a bird together with their horny covering; a mouth structure (as of a turtle) resembling these; bill v. to caress fondly; bill n. a written document (as a memorandum)
billboard n. a flat surface on which advertising bills are posted
billet n. an order requiring a person to provide lodging for a soldier; quarters assigned by or as if by such an order; POSITION, APPOINTMENT; billet v. to assign lodging to by billet
billfold n. WALLET
billhead n. a printed form on which a commercial bill may be made out
billiards n. any of several games played on a rectangular table (billiard table) by driving balls against each other or into pockets with a cue
billingsgate n. coarsely abusive language
billion n. pl. billions or billion; a thousand millions; Brit: a million millions -- billion adj. -- billionth adj. or n.
billow n. WAVE; especially a great wave; a rolling mass (as of fog or flame) like a great wave -- billowy adj.; billow v. to rise and roll in waves; to swell out <billow sails>
billy n. a heavy usually wooden club; especially a policeman's club
bimetallism n. the policy of using two metals at fixed ratios to form a standard of value for a monetary system
bin n. a box, crib, or enclosure used for storage
binary adj. consisting of two things or parts; DOUBLE -- binary n.
binaural adj. of or relating to sound transmission, recording, or reproduction techniques that provide two separate transmission or recording paths to achieve an effect of hearing sound sources in their original positions
bind v. bound; binding; TIE; to restrain as if by tying; to put under an obligation; to constrain with legal authority; to unite into a mass; BANDAGE; CONSTIPATE; to strengthen or decorate with a band
binding n. something (as a ski fastening, a cover, or an edging fabric) used to bind
binge n. SPREE
binnacle n. a container holding a ship's compass
binocular adj. of, relating to, or adapted to the use of both eyes; binocular n. a binocular optical instrument (as a microscope); FIELD GLASS -- usually pl.
binomial n. a mathematical expression consisting of two terms connected by the sign plus () or minus (--); a biological species name consisting of two terms -- binomial adj.
biochemistry n. chemistry that deals with the chemical compounds and processes in organisms -- biochemical adj. -- biochemist n.
biogeography n. a branch of biology that deals with the distribution of plants and animals -- biogeographer n. -- biogeographic adj.
biography n. a written history of a person's life; such writings in general -- biographer n. -- biographical or biographic adj.
biology n. a science that deals with living beings and life processes; the laws and phenomena of life (as of a kind of organism) -- biological adj. -- biologist n.
biopsy n. the removal of cells or tissue from the living body for examination
biotin n. a member of the vitamin B complex found especially in yeast, liver, and egg yolk and active in growth promotion
biparental adj. involving or derived from 2 parents <biparental inheritance>
bipartisan adj. representing or composed of members of two parties
bipartite adj. being in two parts; shared by two <bipartite treaty>
biped n. a 2-footed animal
biplane n. an airplane with two main supporting surfaces placed one above the other
biracial adj. of, relating to, or involving members of two races
birch n. any of a genus of mostly short-lived deciduous shrubs and trees with membranous outer bark and pale close-grained wood; this wood; a birch rod or bundle of twigs for flogging -- birchen adj.; birch v. WHIP, FLOG
bird n. a warm-blooded egg-laying vertebrate having the body feathered and the forelimbs modified to form wings
birdbath n. a usually ornamental basin set up for birds to bathe in
birdhouse n. an artificial nesting place for birds
birdie n. a score of one under par on a hole in golf
birdlime n. a sticky substance smeared on twigs to snare small birds
birdseed n. a mixture of small seeds (as of hemp or millet) used chiefly for feeding cage birds
biretta n. a square cap with three ridges on top worn especially by Roman Catholic clergymen
birth n. the act or fact of being born or of bringing forth young; LINEAGE, DESCENT; ORIGIN, BEGINNING
birthday n. the day or anniversary of one's birth
birthmark n. an unusual mark or blemish on the skin at birth
birthplace n. place of birth or origin
birthrate n. the number of births for every hundred or every thousand persons in a given area or group during a given time
birthright n. a right, privilege, or possession to which one is entitled by birth; prerogative, heritage, inheritance
birthstone n. a precious stone associated symbolically with the month of one's birth
biscuit n. an unraised bread formed into flat cakes and baked hard and crisp; a bread made with a leavening agent other than yeast baked in small cakes
bisect v. to divide into two usually equal parts; CROSS, INTERSECT
bisexual adj. possessing characters of or sexually oriented toward both sexes; of, relating to, or involving two sexes
bishop n. a clergyman ranking above a priest and typically governing a diocese; any of various Protestant church officials who superintend other clergy; a chess piece that can move diagonally across any number of unoccupied squares
bishopric n. DIOCESE; the office of bishop
bismuth n. a heavy brittle grayish white metallic chemical element used in alloys and medicine
bison n. pl. bison; a large shaggy-maned hump-shouldered wild ox formerly abundant on the plains of central U.S.
bisque n. a thick cream soup; ice cream containing powdered nuts or macaroons
bistro n. a small or unpretentious European wineshop or restaurant; BAR; NIGHTCLUB
bit n. the part of a bridle that is placed in a horse's mouth; a drilling or boring tool used in a brace; bit n. a morsel of food; a small piece or quantity of something; a small coin; a unit of value equal to 12 1/2 cents; something small or trivial
bitch n. the female of the dog
bite v. bit; bitten; bit; biting; to grip with teeth or jaws; to wound or sting with or as if with fangs; to cut or pierce as if with a sharp-edged instrument; to cause to smart or sting; CORRODE; to take bait <fish are biting well>
bitter adj. having the acrid lingering taste suggestive of wormwood or hops that is one of the basic taste sensations; marked by intensity or severity (as of distress or hatred); extremely harsh or cruel -- bitterly adv. -- bitterness n.
bittern n. a small heron with a loud booming call
bitters n. sing or pl. a usually alcoholic solution of bitter and often aromatic plant products used in mixing drinks and as a mild tonic
bittersweet n. a poisonous nightshade with purple flowers and orange-red berries; a woody vine with yellow capsules that open when ripe and disclose scarlet seed coverings
bitumen n. any of various mixtures of hydrogen-and-carbon- substances (as asphalt, tar, or petroleum)
bituminous adj. resembling, mixed with, or containing bitumen; being coal that when heated yields considerable volatile bituminous matter
bivalve n. an animal (as a clam) with a shell composed of 2 separate parts that open and shut -- bivalve adj.
bivouac n. a temporary encampment or shelter; bivouac v. bivouacked; bivouacking; to form a bivouac; CAMP
black adj. of the color black; very dark; SWARTHY; of or relating to a group of dark-haired dark-skinned people; SOILED, DIRTY; lacking light <a black night>; WICKED, EVIL <black deeds> <black magic>; DISMAL, GLOOMY <a black outlook>
blackamoor n. NEGRO
blackball n. a black object used to cast a negative vote; such a vote -- blackball v.
blackberry n. the usually black or purple juicy but seedy edible fruit of various brambles; a plant bearing this fruit
blackbird n. any of various birds (as the redwing blackbird) of which the male is largely or wholly black
blackboard n. a dark smooth surface (as of slate) used for writing or drawing on usually with chalk
blacken v. to make or become black; DEFAME, SULLY
blackguard n. SCOUNDREL, RASCAL
blackhead n. a small oily mass plugging the outlet of a skin gland
blackjack n. a leather-covered club with a flexible handle; a card game in which the object is to be dealt cards having a higher count than the dealer but not exceeding 21; blackjack v. to hit with or as if with a blackjack
blacklist n. a list of persons who are disapproved of and are to be punished (as by refusal of jobs or a boycott) -- blacklist v.
blackmail n. extortion by threats especially of public exposure; something so extorted -- blackmail v. -- blackmailer n.
blackout n. a transitory loss or dulling of vision or consciousness -- black out v.
blacksmith n. a workman who shapes heated iron by hammering it
blackthorn n. a European thorny plum; an American hawthorn
blacktop n. a blackish bituminous material used especially for surfacing roads
bladder n. a sac in which liquid is stored; especially one in a vertebrate into which urine passes from the kidneys
blade n. a leaf of a plant and especially of a grass; the flat part of a leaf as distinguished from its stalk; something (as the flat part of an oar or an arm of a propeller) resembling the blade of a leaf; the cutting part of an instrument or tool
blain n. an inflammatory swelling or sore
blame v. to find fault with; to hold responsible or responsible for; charge, condemn, criticize; blame n. CENSURE, REPROOF; responsibility for fault or error; guilt -- blameless adj. -- blamelessness n.
blameworthy adj. deserving blame -- blameworthiness n.
blanch v. BLEACH; to make or become white or pale
blancmange n. a dessert made from gelatin or a starchy substance and milk usually sweetened and flavored
bland adj. smooth in manner; SUAVE; gently soothing <a bland diet>; INSIPID; diplomatic, mild, soft, balmy -- blandly adv. -- blandness n.
blandishment n. flattering or coaxing speech or action; CAJOLERY
blank adj. showing or causing an appearance of dazed dismay; EXPRESSIONLESS; DULL, COLORLESS <blank moments>; EMPTY; especially free from writing or marks; ABSOLUTE, DOWNRIGHT <a blank refusal>; not shaped in final form -- blankly adv. -- blankness n.
blanket n. a heavy woven often woolen covering <an extra blanket for the bed>; a covering layer <a blanket of snow>; blanket v. to cover with a blanket; blanket adj. covering a group or class <blanket insurance>
blare v. to sound loud and harsh; to proclaim loudly -- blare n.
blarney n. skillful flattery; BLANDISHMENT
blase adj. not responsive to pleasure or excitement as a result of excessive indulgence; SOPHISTICATED
blaspheme v. to speak of or address with irreverence; to utter blasphemy
blasphemy n. the act of expressing lack of reverence for God; irreverence toward something considered sacred -- blasphemous adj.
blast n. a violent gust of wind; its effect; sound made by a wind instrument; a sudden withering especially of plants; BLIGHT; a current of air forced at high pressure through a hole (as in a bellows, organ, or furnace); EXPLOSION
blaze n. FIRE; intense direct light (as of the sun at noon); something (as a dazzling display or sudden outburst) suggesting fire <a blaze of autumn leaves>; glare, glow; blaze v. to burn brightly; to flare up; to be conspicuously bright; GLITTER
blazer n. a light single-breasted jacket for sport wear
blazon n. COAT OF ARMS; ostentatious display; blazon v. to publish abroad; DECK, ADORN
bleach v. to whiten or become white; BLANCH; bleach n. a preparation used in bleaching
bleachers n. sing or pl. a usually uncovered stand containing lower-priced tiered seats for spectators
bleak adj. desolately barren and windswept; lacking warm or cheering qualities <bleak weather> <bleak prospects> -- bleakly adv. -- bleakness n.
blear adj. dim with water or tears <blear eyes>
bleary adj. dull or dimmed especially from fatigue or sleep; poorly outlined or defined
bleat n. the cry of a sheep or goat or a sound like it -- bleat v.
bleed v. bled; bleeding; to lose or shed blood; to be wounded; to feel pain or distress; to flow or ooze from a wounded surface; to draw fluid from <bleed a patient> <bleed a tire>; to extort money from
bleeder n. one that bleeds; especially HEMOPHILIAC
blemish v. to spoil by a flaw; MAR; blemish n. a noticeable flaw (as a pimple on the skin)
blench v. FLINCH, QUAIL; shrink, recoil, wince; blench v. to grow or make pale
blend v. to mix thoroughly; to prepare (as coffee) by mixing different varieties; to combine into an integrated whole; HARMONIZE; fuse, merge, mingle; blend n. a product of blending; compound, composite
bless v. blessed or blest; blessing; to hallow or consecrate by religious rite or word; to make the sign of the cross over; to invoke divine care for; PRAISE, GLORIFY; to confer happiness upon
blessed adj. HOLY; BEATIFIED; DELIGHTFUL -- blessedness n.
blessing n. the act of one who blesses; a thing conducive to happiness; grace said at a meal
blew past tense of BLOW
blight n. a plant disorder marked by withering; an organism causing a blight; an impairing or frustrating influence; an impaired condition; blight v. to affect with or suffer from blight
blimp n. a small airship without a rigid framework
blind adj. lacking or grossly deficient in ability to see; intended for blind persons <blind schools>; not based on reason, evidence, or knowledge <blind faith> <a blind choice>; not intelligently controlled or directed <blind chance>
blindfold v. to cover the eyes of with or as it with a bandage -- blindfold n.
blink v. WINK; TWINKLE; EVADE, SHIRK; blink n. GLIMMER, SPARKLE; a usually involuntary shutting and opening of the eyes
blinker n. a blinking light used as a signal
blintz n. a thin rolled pancake with a filling usually of cream cheese
blintze n. a thin rolled pancake with a filling usually of cream cheese
bliss n. complete happiness; HEAVEN, PARADISE; felicity
blissful adj. full of or causing bliss -- blissfully adv.
blister n. a raised area of skin containing watery fluid; an agent that causes blisters; something (as a raised spot in paint) suggesting a blister; blister v. to develop a blister; to cause blisters
blitz n. an intensive series of air raids; a fast intensive campaign -- blitz v.
blitzkrieg n. war conducted with great speed and force
blizzard n. a long severe snowstorm especially with wind-driven snow and intense cold
bloat v. to swell by or as if by filling with water or air
bloater n. a fat herring or mackerel lightly salted and smoked
blob n. a small lump or drop (as of paste or paint) of a thick consistency
bloc n. a combination of individuals or groups (as nations) working for a common purpose
block n. a solid piece of substantial material (as wood or stone); a frame enclosing one or more pulleys and having a hook or strap by which it may be attached to objects; a quantity of things considered as a unit <a block of seats>
blockade n. the shutting off of a place usually by troops or ships to prevent entrance or exit; blockade v. to subject to a blockade
blockbuster n. a very large high-explosive demolition bomb
blockhead n. DOLT, DUNCE
blockhouse n. a small strong building used as a shelter (as from enemy fire) or observation post (as of operations producing blast or radiation)
blond also blonde adj. fair in complexion; of a light or bleached color <blond mahogany>; blond also blonde n. a blond person
blood n. the red liquid that circulates in the heart, arteries, and veins of animals; LIFEBLOOD; LIFE; LINEAGE, STOCK; KINSHIP; KINDRED; the taking of life; TEMPER, PASSION; a gay fellow -- bloodless adj. -- bloodstained adj. -- bloody adj.
bloodcurdling adj. seeming to have the effect of congealing the blood through fear or horror; TERRIFYING <bloodcurdling screams>
blooded adj. entirely or largely of pure stock <blooded horses>; having blood of a specified kind <warm-blooded animals>
bloodhound n. a large powerful hound noted for keenness of smell
bloodmobile n. an automobile equipped for collecting blood from donors
bloodshed n. wounding or taking of life; SLAUGHTER, CARNAGE
bloodshot adj. inflamed to redness <bloodshot eyes>
bloodstain n. a discoloration caused by blood -- bloodstained adj.
bloodstone n. a green quartz sprinkled with red spots
bloodstream n. the flowing blood in a circulatory system
bloodsucker n. an animal that sucks blood; especially LEECH -- bloodsucking adj.
bloodthirsty adj. eager to shed blood; CRUEL -- bloodthirstily adv.
bloom n. FLOWER; flowers or amount of flowers (as of a plant); the period or state of flowering; a state or time of beauty and vigor; a powdery coating especially on fruits and leaves; rosy color; an appearance of freshness or health -- bloomy adj.
bloomers n. pl. a woman's garment of short loose trousers gathered at the knee
blooper n. an embarrassing blunder made in public; a fly ball hit barely beyond a baseball infield
blossom n. the flower of a plant; BLOOM; blossom v. FLOWER, BLOOM
blot n. SPOT, STAIN <ink blot>; BLEMISH; stigma, brand; blot v. blotted; blotting; SPOT, STAIN; OBSCURE, ECLIPSE; obs: MAR; DISGRACE; to dry or remove with or as if with blotting papers; to make a blot
blotch n. a usually large and irregular spot or mark (as of ink or color) -- blotch v. -- blotchy adj.
blotter n. a piece of blotting paper; a book for preliminary records (as of sales or arrests)
blouse n. a loose outer garment like a smock; the uniform coat of the U.S. Army; a usually loose garment reaching from the neck to about the waist level
blow v. blew; blown; blowing; to move forcibly <the wind blew>; to send forth a current of gas (as air); to sound or cause to sound <blow a horn>; PANT, GASP; to expel moist air in breathing <the whale blew>; BOAST; BLUSTER
blowgun n. a tube from which an arrow or a dart may be shot by the force of the breath
blowout n. a bursting of something (as a tire) because of pressure of the contents (as air)
blowpipe n. an instrument for blowing gas (as air) into a flame in such a way as to concentrate and increase the heat
blowsy adj. DISHEVELED, SLOVENLY
blowtorch n. a small portable burner in which combustion is intensified by means of a blast of air or oxygen
blowy adj. WINDY
blubber n. the fat of large sea mammals (as whales); a noisy crying; blubber v. to cry noisily
blucher n. a shoe with the tongue and vamp in one piece
bludgeon n. a short often loaded club; bludgeon v. to strike with or as if with a bludgeon
blue adj. of the color blue; BLUISH; MELANCHOLY; DEPRESSING; PURITANICAL; INDECENT; blue n. a color between green and violet in the spectrum; the color of the clear daytime sky; something (as clothing or the sky) that is blue
bluebell n. a plant with blue bell-shaped flowers
blueberry n. the edible blue or blackish berry of various shrubs related to the heaths; one of these shrubs
bluebird n. any of several small songbirds related to the robin and more or less blue above
bluefish n. a marine sport and food fish bluish above and silvery below
bluegrass n. a valuable pasture and lawn grass with bluish green stems
blueing n. a preparation of blue or violet dyes used in laundering to counteract yellowing of white fabrics
bluejacket n. an enlisted man in the navy; SAILOR
bluenose n. one who advocates a rigorous moral code
bluepoint n. a small delicate oyster originally from Long Island
blueprint n. a photographic print in white on a blue ground used especially for copying mechanical drawings and architects' plans; a detailed plan of action -- blueprint v.
blues n. pl. MELANCHOLY; music in a style of American Negro origin marked by recurrent minor intervals and melancholy lyrics
bluestocking n. a woman having intellectual interests
bluet n. a low American herb with dainty solitary bluish flowers
bluff adj. having a broad flattened front; rising steeply with a broad flat front; OUTSPOKEN, FRANK; blunt, brusque, curt, gruff; bluff n. a high steep bank; CLIFF; bluff v. to frighten or deceive by a show of confidence
bluing n. a preparation of blue or violet dyes used in laundering to counteract yellowing of white fabrics
bluish adj. somewhat blue
blunder v. to move clumsily or unsteadily; to make a stupid or needless mistake; blunder n. an avoidable and usually serious mistake
blunderbuss n. an obsolete short-barreled firearm with a flaring muzzle
blunt adj. not sharp; DULL; lacking in tact; BLUFF; brusque, curt, gruff -- bluntly adv. -- bluntness n.; blunt v. to make or become dull
blur n. a blot or cloud that obscures; something vaguely seen or perceived -- blurry adj.; blur v. blurred; blurring; DIM, CLOUD, OBSCURE
blurb n. a brief notice praising a product extravagantly
blurt v. to utter suddenly and impulsively
blush n. a reddening of the face (as from modesty or confusion); FLUSH -- blush v.
bluster v. to blow in noisy gusts; to talk or act with noisy violence -- bluster n. -- blustery adj.
boa n. a large snake (as the (boa constrictor) or the related anaconda) that crushes its prey in its; coils a fluffy scarf usually of fur or feathers
boar n. a male swine; the Old World wild hog from which domestic swine are descended
board n. the side of a ship; a thin flat length of sawed lumber; material (as cardboard) or a piece of material formed as a thin flat firm sheet; pl: STAGE 1; a table spread with a meal; daily meals especially when furnished for pay
boardinghouse n. a house at which persons are boarded
boardwalk n. a promenade (as of planking) along a beach
boast v. to vaunt oneself; to mention or assert with undue pride; to prize as a possession; HAVE <the house boast a fireplace> -- boast n. -- boaster n.
boastful adj. given to or marked by boasting <boastful speeches> -- boastfully adv.
boat n. a vessel (as a canoe or ship) for traveling through water
boathouse n. a house or shelter for boats
boating n. the action, fact, or pastime of cruising or racing in a boat
boatman n. a man who manages, works on, or deals in boats
boatswain n. a subordinate officer of a ship in charge of the hull and related matters (as rigging and anchors)
bob v. bobbed; bobbing; to move up and down jerkily or repeatedly; to come or go suddenly or unexpectedly; bob n. a bobbing movement; bob n. a knob, bunch, or tuft especially of hair or angling bait; FLOAT 2; a short haircut of a woman or child
bobbin n. a cylinder or spindle for holding or dispensing thread (as in a sewing machine)
bobble v. FUMBLE -- bobble n.
bobby n. Brit; POLICEMAN
bobcat n. a small usually rusty-colored American lynx
bobolink n. an American migratory songbird related to the meadowlarks
bobsled n. a short sled usually used as one of a joined pair; a compound sled formed of two bobsleds and a coupling -- bobsled v.
bobwhite n. QUAIL
boccie n. Italian lawn bowling played on a long narrow court
bock n. a dark heavy beer usually sold in early spring
bode v. to indicate by signs; PRESAGE; bode, past tense of BIDE
bodice n. the usually close-fitting part of a dress above the waist
bodiless adj. lacking a body or material form
bodily adj. of or relating to the body <bodily welfare>
bodkin n. DAGGER; a pointed implement for punching holes in cloth; a blunt needle for drawing tape or ribbon through a loop or hem
body n. the physical whole of a living or dead organism; the trunk or main mass of an organism as distinguished from its appendages; a human being; PERSON; the main part of something; a mass of matter distinct from other masses; GROUP; VISCOSITY
bodyguard n. a personal guard; RETINUE
bog n. wet spongy and usually acid ground -- boggy adj.; bog v. bogged; bogging; to sink into or as if into a bog
bogey n. SPECTER, HOBGOBLIN; a source of annoyance; a score of one over par on a hole in golf
bogeyman n. a terrifying person or thing; especially an imaginary figure used in threatening children
bogie n. SPECTER, HOBGOBLIN; a source of annoyance; a score of one over par on a hole in golf
bogus adj. SPURIOUS, SHAM
bogy n. SPECTER, HOBGOBLIN; a source of annoyance; a score of one over par on a hole in golf
boil n. an inflamed swelling on the skin containing pus; boil v. to heat or become heated to a temperature (boiling point) at which vapor is formed and rises in bubbles <water boil and changes to steam>
boiler n. a container in which something is boiled; the part of a steam-generating plant in which water is heated until it becomes steam; a tank holding hot water
boilermaker n. whiskey with a beer chaser
boisterous adj. noisily turbulent or exuberant -- boisterously adv.
boldface n. a heavy-faced type; printing in boldface -- bold-faced adj.
bole n. the trunk of a tree
bolero n. a Spanish dance or its music; a short loose jacket open at the front
bolivar n. pl. bolivars or bolivares -- unit of currency
boliviano n. unit of currency
boll n. a seed pod (as of cotton)
bolo n. a long heavy single-edged knife used in the Philippines
bologna n. a large smoked sausage of beef, veal, and pork
bolster n. a long pillow or cushion extending from side to side of a bed; bolster v. to support with or as if with a bolster; REINFORCE
bolt n. a usually short stout blunt missile for a crossbow or catapult; a flash of lightning; THUNDERBOLT; a sliding bar to fasten a door; a roll of cloth or wallpaper of specified length
bolus n. a rounded mass (as of chewed food or medicine)
bomb n. an explosive-filled case that may be dropped (as from a plane) or projected (as by hand) and is designed to detonate under specified conditions (as impact); a container of material (as insecticide) under pressure for release in a fine spray
bombard v. to attack with artillery; to assail persistently; to subject to the impact of rapidly moving particles (as electrons) -- bombardment n.
bombardier n. a bomber-crew member who releases the bombs
bombast n. pretentious wordy utterance -- bombastic adj.
bombazine n. a silk fabric in twill weave dyed black; a twilled fabric with silk warp and worsted filling
bomber n. one that bombs; especially an airplane for dropping bombs
bombproof adj. safe against the explosive force of bombs
bombshell n. BOMB 1; something wholly unanticipated
bombsight n. a sighting device on an airplane for aiming bombs
bonanza n. something yielding a rich return
bonbon n. a candy usually with a creamy center in a cover (as of chocolate)
bond n. pl: FETTERS; a binding or uniting force or tie <bond of friendship>; an agreement or obligation often made binding by a pledge of money or goods; a person who acts as surety for another
bondage n. SLAVERY, SERVITUDE
bondholder n. one that owns a government or corporation bond
bondman n. SLAVE, SERF
bondsman n. BONDMAN; bondsman n. SURETY
bondwoman n. a female slave or serf
bone n. a hard largely calcareous tissue forming most of the skeleton of a vertebrate animal; one of the pieces in which bone naturally occurs; a hard animal substance (as ivory or whalebone) similar to true bone
boner n. a stupid and ridiculous blunder
bonfire n. a large fire built in the open air
bongo n. one of a pair of small tuned drums played with the hands
bonhomie n. good-natured easy friendliness; GENIALITY
bonito n. any of several medium-sized tunas
bonnet n. a covering (as a cap) for the head; especially a hat for a woman or infant tied under the chin
bonny also bonnie adj. chiefly Brit; HANDSOME, PRETTY, FINE
bonsai n. a potted plant (as a tree) dwarfed by special methods of culture
bonus n. something and especially money given in addition to what is usual or due; bounty, premium, reward
boo n. a shout of disapproval or contempt -- boo v.
booby n. an awkward ineffective person; DOLT
boodle n. bribe money; LOOT
book n. a set of sheets bound into a volume; a long written or printed narrative or record; a subdivision of a long literary work; cap: BIBLE; book v. to engage, reserve, or schedule by or as if by writing in a book <book seats on a plane>
bookcase n. a piece of furniture consisting of shelves to hold books
bookend n. a support placed at the end of a row of books to hold them up
bookie n. BOOKMAKER
bookish adj. fond of books and reading; inclined to rely unduly on book knowledge
bookkeeping n. the art or practice of keeping a systematic record of business transactions and accounts -- bookkeeper n.
booklet n. PAMPHLET
bookmaker n. one who determines odds and receives and pays off bets -- bookmaking n.
bookmark n. a marker for finding a place in a book
bookmobile n. a truck that serves as a traveling library
bookplate n. a label placed in a book to show who owns it
bookseller n. the proprietor of a bookstore
bookshelf n. a shelf for books
boom n. a long spar used to extend the bottom of a sail; a beam projecting from the upright pole of a derrick to support or guide the object lifted; a line of floating timbers used to hold logs in a restricted water area
boomerang n. a bent or angular club that can be so thrown as to return near the starting point
boomtown n. a town undergoing a sudden growth in economic activity and population
boon n. BENEFIT, BLESSING; favor, gift; boon adj. INTIMATE, CONGENIAL
boondoggling n. a trivial, useless, or wasteful activity
boor n. a rude or clownish person; churl, lout, bumpkin -- boorish adj.
boost v. to push up from below; INCREASE, RAISE <boost prices>; AID, PROMOTE <voted a bonus to boost morale> -- boost n. -- booster n.
boot n. something given to equalize an exchange; boot v. archaic; AVAIL, PROFIT; boot n. a covering for the foot and leg; a protective sheath (as of a flower) or liner (as in a tire); Brit: an automobile trunk; KICK; a discharge from employment
bootblack n. a person who shines boots and shoes
bootee n. an infant's knitted or crocheted sock
booth n. pl. booths; a small enclosed stall (as at a fair); a restaurant accommodation having a table between backed benches
bootie n. an infant's knitted or crocheted sock
bootleg v. to make, transport, or sell (as liquor) illegally -- bootleg adj. or n. -- bootleger n.
bootless adj. USELESS; futile, vain -- bootlessly adv.
booty n. PLUNDER, SPOIL
booze v. to drink liquor to excess -- boozer n.; booze n. intoxicating liquor -- boozy adj.
borax n. a crystalline compound of boron that occurs as a mineral and is used as a flux and cleanser and in glass and ceramics
border n. EDGE, MARGIN; BOUNDARY, FRONTIER; rim, brim, brink; border v. to put a border on; ADJOIN; VERGE
borderland n. territory at or near a border; an outlying or intermediate region often not clearly defined <the borderland between sleeping and waking>
bore v. to make a hole in usually with a rotary tool; to make (as a well) by piercing or drilling; perforate, drill -- borer n.; bore n. a hole made by boring; a lengthwise cylindrical cavity; the diameter of a hole or tube
boreal adj. of, relating to, or located in northern regions
boredom n. the condition of being bored
born adj. produced by or acquired at birth <native-born citizens>
borne past part of BEAR
boron n. a chemical element that occurs in nature only in combination and is used especially in metallurgy
borough n. a British town that sends one or more members to parliament; an incorporated British urban area; an incorporated town or village in some U.S. states; any of the 5 political divisions of New York City
borrow v. to take or receive (something) temporarily and with intent to return; to take into possession or use from another source; DERIVE, APPROPRIATE <borrow a metaphor> <borrow rites>
borsch n. a soup made especially from beets
borscht n. a soup made especially from beets
bosh n. foolish talk; NONSENSE
bosky adj. covered with trees or shrubs
bosom n. the front of the human chest; especially the female breasts; the part of a garment covering the breast; the seat of secret thoughts and feelings; bosom adj. CLOSE, INTIMATE
boss n. a knoblike ornament; STUD; boss v. to ornament with bosses; EMBOSS; boss n. one (as a foreman or manager) exercising control or supervision; a politician who controls votes or dictates policies -- bossy adj.; boss v. to act as a boss; SUPERVISE
bosun variant of BOATSWAIN
botany n. a branch of biology dealing with plants and plant life -- botanical or botanic adj. -- botanist n. -- botanize v.
botch v. to patch clumsily; BUNGLE -- botch n.
both adj. the one and the other; both pron. both ones; the one and the other; both conj. both or all of the following, namely; INCLUSIVELY -- used with following and <he was both hungry and tired>
bother v. WORRY, PESTER, TROUBLE; vex, annoy, irk -- bother n. -- bothersome adj.
bottle n. a container (as of glass) with a narrow neck and no handles; the quantity held by a bottle; intoxicating liquor; bottle v. to put into a bottle
bottleneck n. a narrow passage or point of congestion; something that obstructs or impedes
bottom n. an under or supporting surface; BUTTOCKS; the bottom of a body of water; the lowest part or place; an inferior position <start at the bottom> -- bottom adj. -- bottomless adj.
boudoir n. a woman's private room
bouffant adj. puffed out <bouffant hairdos>
bough n. a usually large or main branch of a tree
bought past tense of BUY
bouillon n. a clear soup made usually from beef
boulder n. a large detached rounded or worn mass of rock
boulevard n. a broad often landscaped thoroughfare
bounce v. BOUND, REBOUND -- bounce n.
bouncer n. a man employed in a public place to remove disorderly persons
bound adj. intending to go; GOING; bound n. LIMIT, BOUNDARY -- boundless adj. -- boundlessness n.; bound v. to set limits to; to form the boundary of; to name the boundaries of; bound adj. constrained by or as if by bonds; CONFINED, OBLIGED
boundary n. something that marks or fixes a limit (as of territory); border, frontier
bounty n. GENEROSITY; something given liberally; a reward, premium, or subsidy given usually for doing something; award, prize, bonus
bouquet n. a bunch of flowers; distinctive aroma (as of wine); scent, fragrance
bourbon n. a whiskey distilled from a corn mash
bourgeois n. pl. bourgeois; a middle-class person -- bourgeois adj.
bourgeoisie n. a social order dominated by bourgeois
bourn n. archaic; BOUNDARY; DESTINATION
bourne n. archaic; BOUNDARY; DESTINATION
bourse n. a European stock exchange
bout n. CONTEST, MATCH; OUTBREAK, ATTACK <a bout of measles>; SESSION
boutique n. a small retail store; especially a fashionable specialty shop for women
boutonniere n. a flower or bouquet worn in a buttonhole
bovine adj. of, related to, or resembling the ox or cow -- bovine n.
bow v. SUBMIT, YIELD; to bend the head or body (as in submission, courtesy, or assent); bow n. an act or posture of bowing; bow n. BEND, ARCH; especially RAINBOW; a weapon for shooting arrows; ARCHER
bowdlerize v. to expurgate with prudish care
bowel n. pl: INTESTINES; one of the divisions of the intestine; pl: the inmost parts <the bowel of the earth>
bower n. a shelter of boughs or vines; ARBOR
bowl n. a concave vessel to hold liquids; a drinking vessel; a bowl-shaped part or structure -- bowlful n.; bowl n. a ball for rolling on a level surface in bowling; a cast of the ball in bowling; bowl v. to play a game of bowling
bowlder variant of BOULDER
bowleg n. a leg bowed outward usually at or below the knee -- bowlegged adj.
bowler n. one that bowls; bowler n. DERBY 3
bowling n. any of various games in which balls are rolled on a green (bowling green) or alley (bowling alley) at an object or a group of objects; especially TENPINS
bowman n. ARCHER
bowsprit n. a spar projecting forward from the prow of a ship
bowstring n. the cord connecting the two ends of a bow
box n. an evergreen shrub or small tree used especially for hedges -- boxwood n.; box n. a rigid typically rectangular receptacle often with a cover; the quantity held by a box; a small compartment (as for a group of theater patrons)
boxcar n. a roofed freight car usually with sliding doors in the sides
boxer n. PUGILIST; boxer n. a compact short-haired usually fawn or brindle dog of German origin
boxing n. the sport of fighting with the fists
boy n. a male child; YOUTH; a male servant -- boyhood n. -- boyish adj. -- boyishness n.
boycott v. to refrain from having any dealings with -- boycott n.
bra n. BRASSIERE
brace n. a crank-shaped device for turning a bit; something (as a tie, prop, or clamp) that distributes, directs, or resists pressure or weight; an appliance for supporting a body part; pl: SUSPENDERS
bracelet n. an ornamental band or chain worn around the arm
bracken n. a large coarse fern; a growth of such ferns
bracket n. a projecting frameword or arm designed to support weight; a shelf on such framework; one of a pair of punctuation marks; (); used especially to enclose interpolated matter; a continuous section of a series
brackish adj. somewhat salty
bract n. an often modified leaf on or at the base of a flower stalk
brad n. a slender nail with a small head
brae n. chiefly Scot; a hillside especially along a river
brag v. bragged; bragging; to talk or assert boastfully -- brag n.
braggadocio n. BRAGGART, BOASTER; empty boasting; arrogant pretension
braggart n. one who brags
braid v. to form (strands) into a braid; PLAIT; to make by braiding; to ornament with braid; braid n. a cord or ribbon of three or more interwoven strands; a narrow ornamental fabric of intertwined threads
braille n. a system of writing for the blind that uses characters made up of raised dots
brain n. the part of the vertebrate nervous system that is the organ of thought and nervous coordination, is made up of nerve cells and their fibers, and is enclosed in the skull; a centralized mass of nerve tissue in an invertebrate; INTELLECT
brainchild n. a product of one's creative imagination
brainstorm n. a sudden burst of inspiration
brainwashing n. a forcible attempt by indoctrination to induce someone to give up his basic political, social, or religious beliefs and attitudes and to accept contrasting regimented ideas; persuasion by propaganda or salesmanship
braise v. to cook (meat) slowly in fat and little moisture in a covered dish
brake n. a large coarse fern; BRACKEN; brake n. a device for slowing up or checking motion (as of a wheel); brake v. to slow or stop by or as if by a brake; to apply a brake; brake n. rough or wet land heavily overgrown (as with thickets or reeds)
brakeman n. a train crew member whose duties include operating hand brakes and switches and checking the train mechanically
bramble n. any of a large genus of prickly shrubs of the rose family
bran n. broken husks of cereal grain sifted from flour or meal
branch n. a natural subdivision (as a bough or twig) of a plant stem; a division (as of an antler or a river) related to a whole like a plant branch to its stem; a discrete unit or element of a complex system (as of knowledge, people, or business)
brand n. a piece of charred or burning wood; a mark made (as by burning) usually to identify; a mark of disgrace; STIGMA; a class of goods identified as the product of a particular firm or producer; a distinctive kind <his own brand of humor>
brandish v. to shake or wave menacingly; flourish, swing
brandy n. a liquor distilled from wine or fermented fruit juice -- brandy v.
brass n. an alloy of copper and zinc; an object of brass; bold assurance -- brassy adj.
brassiere n. a woman's close-fitting undergarment designed to support the breasts
brat n. a usually ill-behaved child
bravado n. swaggering pretense of courage
brave adj. showing courage; EXCELLENT, SPLENDID; bold, intrepid -- bravely adv.; brave v. to face or endure bravely; brave n. a North American Indian warrior
bravery n. COURAGE
bravo n. a shout of approval -- often used as an interjection in applauding
bravura n. a florid brilliant musical style; self-assured brilliant performance
brawl n. a noisy quarrel; fracas, row, rumpus, scrap -- brawl v. -- brawler n.
brawn n. strong muscles; muscular strength -- brawny adj.
bray n. the characteristic harsh cry of a donkey -- bray v.
braze v. to solder with a relatively infusible alloy (as brass)
brazen adj. made of brass; sounding harsh and loud; of the color of brass; SHAMELESS, IMPUDENT -- brazenly adv.
brazier n. a worker in brass; brazier n. a vessel holding burning coals (as for heating); a device on which food is exposed to heat through a wire grill
breach n. a breaking of a law, obligation, tie (as of friendship), or standard (as of conduct); an interruption or opening made by or as if by breaking through; violation, transgression, infringement; breach v. to make a breach in
bread n. baked food made basically of flour or meal; FOOD; bread v. to cover with bread crumbs before cooking
breadbasket n. a major cereal-producing region
breadstuff n. GRAIN, FLOUR
breadth n. WIDTH; SPACIOUSNESS; liberality of taste or views
breadwinner n. a member of a family whose wages supply its livelihood
break v. broke; broken; breaking; to separate into parts usually suddenly or violently; come or force apart; TRANSGRESS <break a law>; to force a way into, out of, or through; to disrupt the order or unity of <break ranks> <break up a gang>
breakage n. the action of breaking; articles or amount broken; allowance for things broken
breakdown n. functional failure; especially a physical, mental, or nervous collapse; DISINTEGRATION <breakdown of communications>; DECOMPOSITION <breakdown of stored fruit>; ANALYSIS, CLASSIFICATION
breaker n. one that breaks; a wave that breaks into foam (as when nearing shore)
breakfast n. the first meal of the day -- breakfast v.
breakout n. a military attack to break from encirclement
breakthrough n. an act or point of breaking through an obstruction or defensive line; a sudden advance in knowledge or technique
breakwater n. a structure built to break the force of waves
bream n. any of various small freshwater sunfishes
breast n. either of two milk-producing glandular organs situated on the front of the chest especially in the human female; the front part of the chest; something resembling a breast
breastbone n. STERNUM
breastplate n. a mental plate of armor for protecting the breast
breaststroke n. a swimming stroke executed by extending the arms in front of the head while drawing the knees forward and outward and then sweeping the arms back with palms out while kicking backward and outward
breastwork n. a temporary or improvised fortification
breath n. the act or power of breathing; a slight breeze; air inhaled or exhaled in breathing; spoken sound; UTTERANCE; SPIRIT -- breathless adj. -- breathlessly adv.
breathe v. to draw air into and expel it from the lungs in respiration; LIVE; to halt for rest; to utter softly or secretly
breathtaking adj. making one out of breath <a breathtaking climb>; EXCITING, THRILLING <breathtaking beauty>
breech n. pl. trousers ending near the knee; PANTS; BUTTOCKS, RUMP; the rear part of a firearm behind the bore
breed v. bred; breeding; BEGET; ORIGINATE; to propagate sexually; MATE; to bring up; NURTURE; generate, reproduce -- breeder n.; breed n. a strain of similar and presumably related plants or animals usually developed under the influence of man; KIND
breeding n. ANCESTRY; training in polite social intercourse; sexual propagation of plants or animals
breeze n. a light wind -- breezy adj.
breezeway n. a roofed open passage usually connecting two buildings (as a house and garage)
brethren pl. of BROTHER -- used especially in formal or solemn address
brevet n. a commission giving a military officer higher nominal rank than that for which he receives pay -- brevet v.
breviary n. a book of prayers, hymns, psalms, and readings used by Roman Catholic priests
brevity n. shortness of duration; CONCISENESS
brew v. to prepare (as beer) by steeping, boiling, and fermenting -- brewer n. -- brewery n.
briar n. a plant (as a bramble or rose) with a thorny or prickly woody stem; a group or mass of brier bushes -- briery adj.
bribe v. to corrupt or influence (one in a position of trust) by favors or gifts -- bribery n.; bribe n. something offered or given in bribing
brick n. a block molded from moist clay and hardened by heat used especially for building; brick v. to close, cover, or pave with bricks
brickbat n. a piece of a broken brick especially when thrown as a missile; an uncomplimentary remark
bricklayer n. a person who builds or paves with bricks -- bricklaying n.
bridal n. MARRIAGE, WEDDING; bridal adj. of or relating to a bride or a wedding
bride n. a woman newly married or about to be married
bridegroom n. a man newly married or about to be married
bridesmaid n. a woman who attends a bride at her wedding
bridge n. a structure built over a depression or obstacle for use as a passageway; something (as the upper part of the nose) resembling a bridge in form or function; especially a platform over the deck of a ship
bridgehead n. an advanced position seized in enemy territory as a foothold
bridgework n. the dental bridges in a mouth
bridle n. headgear with which a horse is controlled; CURB, RESTRAINT; bridle v. to put a bridle on; to restrain with or as if with a bridle; to show hostility or scorn usually by tossing the head
brief adj. short in duration or extent; CONCISE; CURT -- briefly adv. -- briefness n.; brief n. a concise statement or document; especially one summarizing a law client's case or a legal argument; pl: short snug drawers
briefcase n. a flat flexible case usually of leather for carrying papers
brier n. a plant (as a bramble or rose) with a thorny or prickly woody stem; a group or mass of brier bushes -- briery adj.
brig n. a 2-masted square-rigged sailing ship; brig n. the place of confinement for offenders on a naval ship
brigade n. a military unit composed of a headquarters, one or more units of infantry or armored forces, and supporting units; a group organized for a particular purpose (as fire-fighting)
brigand n. BANDIT -- brigandage n.
brigantine n. a 2-masted square-rigged ship not carrying a square mainsail
brisket n. the breast or lower chest of a quadruped
brisling n. a small sardinelike herring
bristle n. a short stiff coarse hair -- bristly adj.; bristle v. to stand stiffly erect; to show angry defiance; to appear as if covered with bristles
bristling n. a small sardinelike herring
brittle adj. easily broken or snapped; FRAGILE; crisp
broach n. a pointed tool (as for copening casks); a bitlike tool for enlarging or shaping a hole; broach v. to pierce (as a cask) in order to draw the contents; to shape or enlarge a hole with a broach; to introduce as a topic of conversation
broad adj. WIDE; SPACIOUS; CLEAR, OPEN; OBVIOUS; COARSE, CRUDE <broad stories>; liberal in outlook; GENERAL; dealing with essential points -- broadly adv.
broadcast adj. cast in all directions; made public by means of radio or television -- broadcast adv.; broadcast n. the transmitting of sound or images by radio waves; a single radio or television program; broadcast v. -cast or -casted; -casting
broadcloth n. a smooth dense woolen cloth; a fine soft cloth of cotton, silk, or synthetic fiber
broaden v. WIDEN
broadside n. the part of a ship's side above the waterline; simultaneous discharge of all the guns on one side of a ship; a volley of abuse or denunciation
broadsword n. a broad-bladed sword
brocade n. a usually silk fabric with a raised design
broccoli n. an open branching cauliflower whose young flowering shoots are used as a vegetable
brochette n. a small spit; SKEWER
brochure n. PAMPHLET, BOOKLET
brogan n. a heavy shoe; especially a work shoe reaching to the ankle
brogue n. a dialect or regional pronunciation; especially an Irish accent
broider v. EMBROIDER -- broidery n.
broil v. to cook by exposure to radiant heat; GRILL -- broil n.
broiler n. a utensil for broiling; a young chicken fit for broiling
broke past tense of BREAK
broken adj. SHATTERED; having gaps or breaks; INTERRUPTED, DISRUPTED; SUBDUED, CRUSHED; BANKRUPT; imperfectly spoken -- brokenly adv.
brokenhearted adj. shattered by grief or despair
broker n. an agent who negotiates contracts of purchase and sale for a fee or commission; DEALER
brokerage n. the business of a broker; the fee or commission on business transacted through a broker
bromide n. a compound of bromine and another element or a radical including some (as (potassium bromide)) used as sedatives; a trite remark or notion
bromidic adj. DULL, TIRESOME <bromidic remarks>
bromine n. a deep red liquid corrosive chemical element that gives off an irritating vapor and occurs naturally only in combination
bronchial adj. of, relating to, or affecting the bronchi or their branches
bronchitis n. inflammation of the bronchi and their branches -- bronchitic adj.
bronchus n. pl. bronchi; either of the main divisions of the windpipe each leading to a lung
bronco n. a small half-wild horse of western North America
bronze v. to give the appearance of bronze; bronze n. an alloy basically of copper and tin; something (as a sculpture) of bronze; a yellowish brown color
brooch n. an ornamental clasp or pin
brood n. a family of young animals or children and especially of birds; brood v. to sit on eggs to hatch them; to shelter (hatched young) with wings; PONDER; brood adj. kept for breeding <a brood mare>
brooder n. one that broods; a heated structure for raising young birds
brook v. TOLERATE, BEAR; brook n. a small natural stream of water
brooklet n. a small brook
broom n. a shrub of the pea group with long slender branches and yellow flowers; an implement for sweeping originally made from twigs -- broomstick n.
broth n. liquid in which meat or sometimes vegetable food has been cooked
brothel n. an establishment housing prostitutes
brother n. a male having one or both parents in common with another individual; KINSMAN; a kindred human being; a man who is a religious but not a priest -- brotherliness n. -- brotherly adj.
brotherhood n. the state of being brothers or a brother; ASSOCIATION, FRATERNITY; the whole body of persons in a business or profession
brougham n. a light closed horse-drawn carriage with the driver outside in front; a coupe automobile; especially one electrically driven; a sedan having no roof over the driver's seat
brought past tense of BRING
brouhaha n. HUBBUB, FURORE
brow n. the eyebrow or the ridge on which it grows; FOREHEAD; the projecting upper part of a steep place
browbeat v. to disconcert by abuse; BULLY; intimidate
brown adj. of the color brown; of dark or tanned complexion; brown n. a pigment or dye that colors brown; a color like that of coffee or chocolate that is a blend of red and yellow darkened by black -- brownish adj.; brown v. to make or become brown
brownie n. a cheerful goblin supposed to do good deeds at night
brownstone n. a dwelling faced with reddish brown sandstone
browse n. tender shoots, twigs, and leaves fit for food for cattle; browse v. to feed on browse; GRAZE; to read bits at random in a book or collection of books
bruin n. BEAR
bruise n. a surface injury to flesh; CONTUSION; bruise v. to inflict a bruise on; to become bruised; to break down by pounding; CRUSH <bruise garlic for a salad>
bruit v. to noise abroad; RUMOR
brunch n. a late breakfast, an early lunch, or a combination of the two
brunet adj. of dark or relatively dark pigmentation; especially having brown or black hair and eyes -- brunet n.
brunette adj. of dark or relatively dark pigmentation; especially having brown or black hair and eyes -- brunet n.
brunt n. the main shock, force, or stress especially of an attack
brush also brushwood n. small branches lopped from trees or shrubs; THICKET; coarse shrubby vegetation; brush n. a device composed of bristles set in a handle and used especially for cleaning or painting; a bushy tail (as of a fox)
brutal adj. resembling or befitting a brute (as in coarseness or cruelty); RUTHLESS, BRUTISH -- brutality n. -- brutally adv.
brute adj. of, relating to, or typical of beasts; BRUTAL; UNREASONING; purely physical; brute n. BEAST 1; a brutal person; animal
brutish adj. BRUTE 1; stupidly cruel or sensual; UNREASONING
bubble v. to form, rise in, or give off bubbles; bubble n. a globule of gas in a liquid; a thin film of liquid filled with gas; something lacking firmness or solidity -- bubbly adj.
buccaneer n. PIRATE
buck n. a male animal (as a deer or antelope); DANDY; slang: DOLLAR; buck v. to spring with a quick plunging leap <a buck horse>; to charge against something; to strive for advancement sometimes without regard to ethical behavior
buckboard n. a 4-wheeled vehicle with a springy platform carrying the seat
bucket n. PAIL; an object resembling a bucket in collecting, scooping, or carrying something -- bucketful n.
buckle n. a clasp (as on a belt) for two loose ends; buckle v. to fasten with a buckle; to apply oneself with vigor; to crumple up; BEND, COLLAPSE; buckle n. BEND, FOLD, KINK
buckler n. SHIELD
buckram n. a coarse stiff cloth used especially for binding books
bucksaw n. a saw set in a deep often H-Shaped frame and used for sawing wood on a sawhorse
buckshot n. coarse lead shot used in shotgun shells
buckskin n. the skin of a buck; a soft usually suede-finished leather
buckwheat n. an herb grown for its triangular seeds which are used as a cereal grain; these seeds
bucolic adj. RURAL, RUSTIC
bud n. an undeveloped plant shoot (as of a leaf or a flower); a partly opened flower; an asexual reproductive structure; something not yet mature; bud v. budded; budding; to form or put forth buds; to reproduce by asexual buds
buddy n. COMPANION; especially a fellow soldier
budge v. MOVE, STIR, SHIFT
budgerigar n. a small Australian parrot raised in many colors for a pet
budget n. STOCK, SUPPLY; a financial report containing estimates of income and expenses; a plan for coordinating income and expenses; budget v. to allow for in a budget; to draw up a budget
buff n. a fuzzy-surfaced usually oil-tanned leather; a garment of this; a dull yellow-orange color; FAN, ENTHUSIAST; buff adj. of the color buff; buff v. POLISH, SHINE
buffalo n. pl. -lo or -loes; any of several wild oxen; especially BISON
buffer n. one that buffs; buffer n. something that lessens shock (as from a physicial or financial blow)
buffet n. BLOW, SLAP; buffet v. to strike with the hand or repeatedly; to struggle against or on; beat; buffet n. SIDEBOARD; a counter for refreshments; a meal at which people serve themselves (as from a buffet)
buffoon n. CLOWN; fool, jester -- buffoonery n.
bug n. a small usually obnoxious creeping or crawling creature (as a louse or spider); especially any of a group of 4-winged sucking insects that includes many serious plant pests; a disease-producing germ
bugaboo n. BOGEY
bugbear n. BOGEY; a source of dread
buggy n. a light carriage
bugle n. a brass wind instrument resembling a trumpet but shorter -- bugler n.
build v. built; building; to form or have formed by ordering and uniting materials <build a house>; to bring into being or develop; ESTABLISH, FOUND <build an argument on facts>; INCREASE, ENLARGE; ENHANCE <build up one's reputation>
building n. a usually roofed and walled structure (as a house) for permanent use; the art or business of constructing buildings
bulb n. a large underground plant bud or bud group from which a new plant (as a lily or onion) can grow; a fleshy plant structure (as a tuber) resembling a bud; a plant having or growing from a bulb; a rounded, spheroidal
bulbul n. a Persian songbird
bulge n. a swelling projecting part; bulge v. to become or cause to become protuberant
bulk n. MAGNITUDE, VOLUME; a large mass; the major portion -- bulky adj.; bulk v. to give a bulky effect; LOOM; to be impressive or important
bulkhead n. a partition separating compartments on a ship; a retaining wall along a waterfront; a structure built to cover a mine shaft or a descending stairway
bull n. the adult male of an animal of the cattle kind or of some other large animals (as the elephant or walrus); one who buys securities or commodities in expectation of a price increase -- bullish adj.; bull adj. MALE; large of its kind
bulldog n. a compact muscular short-haired dog of English origin; bulldog v. to throw (a steer) by seizing the horns and twisting the neck
bulldoze v. to move, clear, gouge out, or level off with a tractor-driven machine (bulldozer) having a broad blade or a ram for pushing; to force as if by using a bulldozer
bullet n. a missile to be shot from a firearm -- bullet-proof adj.
bulletin n. a brief public report of a matter of public interest; a periodical publication (as of a college) -- bulletin v.
bullfight n. a spectacle in which men ceremonially excite and kill bulls in an arena -- bullfighter n.
bullfinch n. a red-breasted English songbird often kept as a pet
bullfrog n. FROG; especially a large deep-voiced frog
bullhead n. a large-headed fish (as a catfish)
bullheaded adj. stupidly stubborn; HEADSTRONG
bullion n. gold or silver metal
bullock n. a young bull; STEER
bully n. a blustering fellow oppressive to others weaker than himself; bully adj. EXCELLENT, FIRST-RATE -- often used interjectionally; bully v. to behave as a bully toward; DOMINEER; browbeat, intimidate
bulrush n. a tall coarse rush or sedge
bulwark n. a wall-like defensive structure; a strong support or protection in danger
bum v. bummed; bumming; to wander as a tramp; LOAF; to seek or gain by begging <bum a meal>; bum n. an idle worthless fellow; LOAFER; bum adj. WORTHLESS; DISABLED <a bum knee>
bumblebee n. a large hairy social bee that makes a loud humming sound in flight
bump v. to strike or knock forcibly; to move or alter by bumping; to collide with; bump n. a sudden forceful blow or impact; a local bulge; especially a swelling of tissue -- bumpy adj.
bumper n. a cup or glass filled to the brim; something unusually large -- bumper adj.; bumper n. a device for absorbing shock or preventing damage in collision; especially a metal bar at either end of an automobile
bumpkin n. a country lout
bumptious adj. obtusely and often noisily self-assertive
bun n. a sweet biscuit or roll
bunch n. SWELLING; CLUSTER, GROUP -- bunchy adj.; bunch v. to form or form into a bunch
bunco n. a swindling scheme -- bunco v.
buncombe n. NONSENSE, TWADDLE
bundle n. several items bunched and fastened together; something wrapped for carrying; PARCEL; a considerable amount; LOT; GROUP; bundle v. to gather or tie in a bundle
bung n. the stopper in the bunghole of a cask
bungalow n. a one-storied dwelling with low sweeping lines and a wide veranda
bunghole n. a hole for emptying or filling a cask
bungle v. to do badly; BOTCH -- bungle n. -- bungler n.
bunion n. an inflamed swelling of the first joint of the big toe
bunk n. a built-in bed (as on a ship) that is often one of a tier; bunk n. BUNKUM, NONSENSE
bunker n. a bin or compartment for storage (as for coal on a ship); a protective embankment or dugout; an embankment constituting a hazard on a golf course
bunko n. a swindling scheme -- bunco v.
bunkum n. NONSENSE, TWADDLE
bunt v. BUTT; to push or tap a baseball lightly without swinging the bat; bunt n. an act or instance of bunting; a bunted ball
bunting n. any of numerous small stout-billed finches; bunting n. a thin fabric used especially for flags; FLAGS
buoy n. a floating object anchored in water to mark something (as a channel, shoal, or rock); a float consisting of a ring of buoyant material to support a person who has fallen into the water; buoy v. to mark by a buoy; to keep afloat
buoyancy n. the quality of being able to float; upward force exerted by a liquid or gas upon a body in or on it; resilience of spirit -- buoyant adj.
bur variant of BURR
burden n. LOAD; CARE, RESPONSIBILITY; something oppressive; ENCUMBRANCE; CARGO; capacity for cargo; burden v. LOAD, OPPRESS -- burdensome adj.; burden n. REFRAIN, CHORUS; a main theme or idea; GIST
burdock n. a tall coarse herb with prickly flower heads
bureau n. pl. -reaus or -reaux; a chest of drawers for bedroom use; an administrative unit (as of a government department); a business office <news bureau>
bureaucracy n. a body of appointive government officials; administration characterized by specialization of functions under fixed rules and a hierarchy of authority
burgee n. a swallow-tailed flag used especially by ships for signals or identification
burgeon v. to put forth fresh growth (as from buds); grow vigorously; FLOURISH
burgess n. a citizen of a borough; an official or representative usually of a borough
burgh n. a Scottish town
burgher n. TOWNSMAN; a prosperous solid citizen
burglary n. forcible entry into a building and especially a dwelling with intent to steal -- burglar n. -- burglarious adj. -- burglarize v.
burgomaster n. the chief magistrate of a town in some European countries
burial n. the act or process of burying
burlap n. a coarse fabric usually of jute or hemp used especially for bags
burlesque n. witty or derisive usually literary imitation; broadly humorous theatrical entertainment consisting of several items (as songs, skits, or dances); burlesque v. to make ludicrous by burlesque; MOCK; caricature, parody
burly adj. strongly and heavily built; HUSKY; muscular, brawny
burn v. burned or burnt; burning; to be on fire; to feel or look as if on fire; to alter or become altered by or as if by the action of fire or heat; SCORCH, CHAR, SCALD <clay burn to brick>; to use as fuel <burn coal>; to destroy by fire <burn trash>
burnish v. to polish usually with something hard and smooth -- burnisher n.
burnoose n. a hooded cloak worn by Arabs and Moors
burnous n. a hooded cloak worn by Arabs and Moors
burp n. an act of belching -- burp v.
burr n. usu: bur a rough or prickly envelope of a fruit; a plant that bears burs; a roughness left on metal that has been cut or shaped (as by a drill or lathe); WHIR -- burry adj.
burro n. a usually small donkey
burrow n. a hole in the ground made by an animal (as a rabbit); burrow v. to form by tunneling <burrow a way through the snow>; to make a burrow; to progress by or as if by digging <clams burrow into the sand> -- burrower n.
bursar n. a treasurer especially of a college
bursitis n. inflammation of the serous sac (bursa) of a joint (as the elbow or shoulder)
burst v. burst or bursted; bursting; to fly apart or into pieces; suddenly to give vent to; PLUNGE <burst into song>; to enter or emerge suddenly; SPRING; to be filled to the breaking point; burst n. a sudden outbreak or effort; SPURT; EXPLOSION
bury v. to deposit in the earth; to inter with funeral ceremonies; CONCEAL, HIDE
bus n. pl. buses or busses; a large motor-driven passenger vehicle
busboy n. a waiter's helper
busby n. a military full-dress fur hat with a bag hanging down on one side
bush n. SHRUB; rough uncleared country; a thick tuft or mat -- bushy adj.
bushel n. a dry meaure equal to 4 pecks or 32 quarts
bushing n. a metal lining used especially as a bearing (as for an axle or shaft)
bushwhack v. to live or hide out in the woods; AMBUSH -- bushwhacker n.
busily adv. in a busy manner
business n. OCCUPATION, CALLING; TASK, MISSION; a commercial or industrial enterprise; TRADE <business is good>; AFFAIR, MATTER; personal concerns <minds his own business>; work, commerce, industry
businessman n. a man engaged in business especially as an executive
buskin n. a laced half boot; tragic drama
buss n. KISS -- buss v.
bust n. sculpture representing the upper part of the human figure; the part of the human torso between he neck and the waist; especially the breasts of a woman
bustle v. to move or work in a brisk fussy way; bustle n. briskly energetic activity; STIR; bustle n. a pad or frame formerly worn to swell out the fullness at the back of woman's skirt
busy adj. engaged in action; not idle; being in use <busy telephones>; full of activity <busy streets>; OFFICIOUS; industrious, diligent; busy v. to make or keep busy; OCCUPY
busybody n. MEDDLER
but conj. except for the fact <would have protested but that he was afraid>; as to the following, namely <there's no doubt but he's the guilty one>; without the concomitant that <never rains but it pours>; on the contrary, rather <not one
butcher n. one who slaughters animals or dresses their flesh; a dealer in meat; one who kills brutally or needlessly -- butchery n.; butcher v. to slaughter and dress for meat <butcher hogs>; to kill barbarously
butler n. the chief male servant of a household
butt v. to strike with the head or horns; butt n. a blow or thrust with the head or horns; butt n. TARGET; an object of abuse or ridicule; butt v. ABUT; to place or join edge to edge without overlapping; butt n. a large, thicker
butte n. an isolated steep-sided hill
butter n. a solid edible emulsion of fat obtained from cream by churning; a substance resembling butter -- buttery adj.; butter v. to spread with butter
buttercup n. a usually 5-petaled yellow-flowered herb
butterfat n. the natural fat of milk and chief constituent of butter
butterfingered adj. likely to let things fall or slip through the fingers -- butterfingers n. sing or pl.
butterfly n. any of a group of slender day-flying insects with 4 broad wings covered with bright-colored scales
buttermilk n. the liquid remaining after butter is churned
butternut n. the edible oily nut of an American tree related to the walnut; this tree
butterscotch n. a candy made from sugar, corn syrup, and water; the flavor of such candy
buttocks n. pl. the seat of the body; RUMP
button n. a small knob secured to an object and usually passed through an opening (buttonhole) in another part of the object to act as a fastener; a buttonlike part, object, or device; button v. to close or fasten with buttons
buttonhook n. a hook for drawing small buttons through buttonholes
buttress n. a projecting structure to support a wall; PROP, SUPPORT; buttress v. PROP, SUPPORT
buxom adj. healthily plump
buy v. bought; buying; to obtain for a price; PURCHASE; BRIBE -- buyer n.; buy n. PURCHASE 1 2; an exceptional value
buzz v. to make a buzz; to fly low and fast over in an airplane; buzz n. a low humming sound (as of bees in flight)
buzzard n. a heavy slow-flying hawk; an American vulture
buzzer n. a device that signals with a buzzing sound
by prep. NEAR <stood by the window>; through or through the medium of; VIA <left by the door>; PAST <drove by the house>; DURING, AT <studied by night>; no later than <get here by 3 pm.>
bye n. a position of a participant in a tournament who has no opponent after pairs are drawn and advances to the next round without playing
byelaw n. a rule adopted by an organization for managing its internal affairs
bygone adj. gone by; PAST -- bygone n.
bylaw n. a rule adopted by an organization for managing its internal affairs
bypass n. a way around something; especially an alternate route; bypass v. to avoid by means of a bypass
bypath n. BYWAY
byplay n. action engaged in at the side of a stage while the main action proceeds
bystander n. one present but not participating; onlooker, witness, spectator
