Learn the word, then use it.

A feeling of care or sadness for someone who is having a difficult time.

Example: She felt sympathy for the injured bird.

Synonyms / related: compassion, understanding, pity

Forms: plural: sympathies · adjective: sympathetic · verb: sympathize

Honest and genuine in what you say or feel.

Example: His apology sounded sincere.

Synonyms / related: genuine, honest, heartfelt

Forms: noun: sincerity · adverb: sincerely · comparison: more sincere, most sincere

Not loyal to a person, promise, duty, or belief.

Example: The guard was called unfaithful because he broke his promise to the king.

Synonyms / related: disloyal, faithless, untrustworthy

Forms: adverb: unfaithfully · noun: unfaithfulness · comparison: more unfaithful, most unfaithful

A very unhappy or unfortunate person; sometimes an insulting word for a bad or unpleasant person.

Example: The poor wretch had been left outside in the storm.

Synonyms / related: miserable person, unfortunate person, scoundrel

Forms: plural: wretches · adjective: wretched · adverb: wretchedly

To create or write something, especially music or writing; it can also mean to make up or form something.

Example: Maya composed a short song for the school concert.

Synonyms / related: create, write, form

Forms: base: compose · 3rd person: composes · past: composed · past participle: composed · -ing: composing

A competition that decides the champion, or the title of being champion.

Example: Our team reached the provincial championship.

Synonyms / related: tournament, title, final competition

Forms: plural: championships · related noun: champion · related verb: champion

Encouraged trouble, anger, or conflict to grow.

Example: The false rumour fomented anger in the crowd.

Synonyms / related: incited, stirred up, provoked

Forms: base: foment · 3rd person: foments · past: fomented · past participle: fomented · -ing: fomenting

Showed clearly how something works, or provided evidence that something is true.

Example: The experiment demonstrated how heat can change a material.

Synonyms / related: showed, proved, illustrated

Forms: base: demonstrate · 3rd person: demonstrates · past: demonstrated · past participle: demonstrated · -ing: demonstrating

Expressed approval or admiration for someone or something.

Example: The coach praised the swimmers for working hard.

Synonyms / related: commended, complimented, applauded

Forms: base: praise · 3rd person: praises · past: praised · past participle: praised · -ing: praising

Helped or supported someone or something.

Example: Several volunteers aided the family after the storm.

Synonyms / related: helped, assisted, supported

Forms: base: aid · 3rd person: aids · past: aided · past participle: aided · -ing: aiding

Something that makes a situation more difficult or less favourable.

Example: A long commute can be a disadvantage when you need more study time.

Synonyms / related: drawback, weakness, downside

Forms: plural: disadvantages · opposite: advantage

A thin stick used in magic stories or as a tool for pointing or controlling something.

Example: The magician waved a wand over the empty hat.

Synonyms / related: rod, stick, staff

Forms: plural: wands

A covering worn on the head.

Example: He pulled a warm hat over his ears.

Synonyms / related: cap, headwear, head covering

Forms: plural: hats

Material made by weaving or knitting fibres together.

Example: She wrapped the fragile cup in a soft cloth.

Synonyms / related: fabric, material, textile

Forms: plural: cloths when referring to separate pieces of cloth

An informal, child-friendly word for a rabbit.

Example: The little bunny hid behind the garden pot.

Synonyms / related: rabbit, little rabbit

Forms: plural: bunnies

Material used to fill something; it can also mean a seasoned food mixture placed inside another food.

Example: The toy bunny was filled with soft stuffing.

Synonyms / related: filling, padding, filler

Forms: related verb: stuff · past: stuffed · -ing: stuffing

Thin in an attractive, delicate, or narrow way.

Example: A slender branch bent in the wind.

Synonyms / related: slim, thin, narrow

Forms: comparison: slenderer or more slender · superlative: slenderest or most slender

Attractive or pleasing; as an adverb, it can mean fairly or quite.

Example: The garden looked pretty in the morning light.

Synonyms / related: attractive, lovely, pleasing

Forms: comparison: prettier · superlative: prettiest · adverb use: pretty difficult = fairly difficult

A state of extreme surprise, shock, or inability to think clearly.

Example: He stared in stupefaction when the empty box suddenly opened.

Synonyms / related: astonishment, amazement, shock

Forms: verb: stupefy · adjective: stupefied

To try to do something; as a noun, an effort to do something.

Example: She attempted to solve the puzzle without a hint.

Synonyms / related: try, endeavour, effort

Forms: base: attempt · 3rd person: attempts · past: attempted · past participle: attempted · -ing: attempting

Not active, working, or being used; as a verb, to spend time doing little.

Example: The machine stood idle while the workers repaired the belt.

Synonyms / related: inactive, unused, lazy

Forms: verb: idle · past: idled · -ing: idling · noun: idleness

To use, eat, drink, or use up something.

Example: A large machine can consume a lot of electricity.

Synonyms / related: use, eat, use up

Forms: base: consume · 3rd person: consumes · past: consumed · past participle: consumed · -ing: consuming

Sleepy and having difficulty staying fully awake.

Example: The warm room made him feel drowsy.

Synonyms / related: sleepy, dozy, sluggish

Forms: comparison: drowsier · superlative: drowsiest · noun: drowsiness

To say that something is not true, or to refuse to give or allow something.

Example: She denied taking the missing pencil.

Synonyms / related: reject, dispute, refuse

Forms: base: deny · 3rd person: denies · past: denied · past participle: denied · -ing: denying

To force someone or something to leave or come out.

Example: The school may expel a student for a very serious offence.

Synonyms / related: eject, remove, drive out

Forms: base: expel · 3rd person: expels · past: expelled · past participle: expelled · -ing: expelling

To politely refuse, or to become smaller, weaker, or less; as a noun, a decrease.

Example: He declined the invitation because he was busy.

Synonyms / related: refuse, decrease, deteriorate

Forms: base: decline · 3rd person: declines · past: declined · past participle: declined · -ing: declining

The answer obtained when one number is divided by another.

Example: The quotient of 24 divided by 6 is 4.

Synonyms / related: division result, answer to a division problem

Forms: plural: quotients

Related to the present or recent times, or using new ideas and methods.

Example: The museum combines ancient objects with modern technology.

Synonyms / related: current, contemporary, up-to-date

Forms: noun: modernity · verb: modernize · adjective: modernized

A group of businesses that produce a particular kind of product or service; it can also mean hard work.

Example: The automobile industry employs many different kinds of workers.

Synonyms / related: business sector, trade, manufacturing

Forms: plural: industries · adjective: industrial

A serious promise; as a verb, to promise something formally.

Example: The team pledged to practise fairly and support one another.

Synonyms / related: promise, commitment, vow

Forms: base: pledge · 3rd person: pledges · past: pledged · past participle: pledged · -ing: pledging

To become larger or fuller, often because of pressure, injury, or emotion.

Example: His ankle began to swell after the fall.

Synonyms / related: expand, enlarge, inflate

Forms: base: swell · 3rd person: swells · past: swelled · past participle: swollen or swelled · -ing: swelling

To close something, or to be closed.

Example: Please shut the gate before the dog runs out.

Synonyms / related: close, seal, fasten

Forms: base: shut · 3rd person: shuts · past: shut · past participle: shut · -ing: shutting

A person who is among the first to explore, develop, or use a new idea or place.

Example: The scientist was a pioneer in early computer research.

Synonyms / related: trailblazer, innovator, pathfinder

Forms: plural: pioneers · verb: pioneer · past: pioneered · -ing: pioneering

To hug someone, or to accept an idea or change willingly.

Example: The family embraced one another at the airport.

Synonyms / related: hug, accept, welcome

Forms: base: embrace · 3rd person: embraces · past: embraced · past participle: embraced · -ing: embracing

A package wrapped for delivery; as a verb, to divide or wrap something into portions.

Example: A parcel arrived at the front door this morning.

Synonyms / related: package, packet, bundle

Forms: plural: parcels · verb: parcel · past: parcelled/parceled · -ing: parcelling/parceling

A farm tool that cuts and turns soil; as a verb, to turn soil or push through something.

Example: The farmer used a plow to prepare the field.

Synonyms / related: till, cultivate, turn the soil

Forms: also spelled plough · base: plow · past: plowed · past participle: plowed · -ing: plowing

A small problem or delay; as a verb, to fasten or attach something.

Example: The trip went smoothly except for one small hitch.

Synonyms / related: snag, problem, fasten

Forms: base: hitch · 3rd person: hitches · past: hitched · past participle: hitched · -ing: hitching

A person who regularly travels between home and work or school.

Example: Many commuters take the train into the city each morning.

Synonyms / related: traveller, passenger, daily traveller

Forms: plural: commuters · verb: commute · past: commuted · -ing: commuting

Extra and available if needed; as a verb, to avoid harming or using something.

Example: We keep a spare key with a trusted neighbour.

Synonyms / related: extra, reserve, additional

Forms: base: spare · 3rd person: spares · past: spared · past participle: spared · -ing: sparing

To refuse to accept, approve, or believe something.

Example: The editor rejected the first draft and asked for changes.

Synonyms / related: refuse, decline, dismiss

Forms: base: reject · 3rd person: rejects · past: rejected · past participle: rejected · -ing: rejecting · noun: rejection

The evening or day before an important event or special day.

Example: On the eve of the tournament, the team packed its equipment.

Synonyms / related: night before, day before, evening before

Forms: plural: eves

Willing to follow rules, instructions, or commands.

Example: The obedient dog waited beside its owner.

Synonyms / related: compliant, well-behaved, dutiful

Forms: noun: obedience · adverb: obediently · opposite: disobedient

A state of great confusion, uncertainty, or disturbance.

Example: The sudden change threw the office into turmoil.

Synonyms / related: chaos, confusion, upheaval

Forms: usually uncountable

To waste money, time, or an opportunity carelessly.

Example: Do not squander the extra time you have to finish the project.

Synonyms / related: waste, throw away, misuse

Forms: base: squander · 3rd person: squanders · past: squandered · past participle: squandered · -ing: squandering

A long piece of music written for an orchestra; it can also describe a pleasing combination of sounds.

Example: The orchestra performed a symphony by Beethoven.

Synonyms / related: orchestral work, composition, musical work

Forms: plural: symphonies · adjective: symphonic

To sit or rest on a high or narrow place; as a noun, the place where a bird rests.

Example: A robin perched on a tree branch.

Synonyms / related: sit, rest, roost

Forms: base: perch · 3rd person: perches · past: perched · past participle: perched · -ing: perching

To plan or mean to do something.

Example: I intend to finish the book before Friday.

Synonyms / related: plan, mean, aim

Forms: base: intend · 3rd person: intends · past: intended · past participle: intended · -ing: intending · noun: intention

As a verb, to say no or decline to do something; as a noun, waste or garbage.

Example: She refused to leave until she had finished her work.

Synonyms / related: decline, reject, say no

Forms: verb: refuse · refuses · refused · refusing · noun: refuse (waste)

To accept or endure something unpleasant without stopping it.

Example: Some plants can tolerate very cold weather.

Synonyms / related: endure, put up with, accept

Forms: base: tolerate · 3rd person: tolerates · past: tolerated · past participle: tolerated · -ing: tolerating · noun: tolerance

To make cloth by crossing threads over and under each other; it can also mean to move repeatedly from side to side.

Example: The cyclist weaved carefully through the slow traffic.

Synonyms / related: interlace, braid, zigzag

Forms: base: weave · 3rd person: weaves · past: wove · past participle: woven · -ing: weaving

A structure built out over water for boats, fishing, or walking.

Example: We walked to the end of the pier to watch the boats.

Synonyms / related: dock, jetty, wharf

Forms: plural: piers

A tall, pointed structure on top of a church or other building.

Example: The church steeple could be seen from across the town.

Synonyms / related: spire, tower, pinnacle

Forms: plural: steeples

A group formed for a purpose, or the act of arranging things in an orderly way.

Example: The environmental organization planted trees along the river.

Synonyms / related: group, association, arrangement

Forms: plural: organizations · verb: organize · adjective: organized

As a noun, moving air; as a verb, to turn, twist, or follow a curving path.

Example: A cold wind blew across the lake.

Synonyms / related: breeze, air current, twist

Forms: noun plural: winds · verb: wind · winds · past: wound · past participle: wound · -ing: winding

As a noun, an injury in which the body is cut or damaged; it is also the past tense of wind, meaning turned or twisted.

Example: The nurse cleaned the wound carefully.

Synonyms / related: injury, cut, hurt

Forms: injury verb: wound · wounded · wounding · also past/past participle of wind: wound

As a verb, to plant seeds; as a noun, an adult female pig.

Example: Farmers sow seeds in prepared soil.

Synonyms / related: plant, scatter seed, seed

Forms: verb: sow · sows · past: sowed · past participle: sown or sowed · -ing: sowing

To move around freely without a fixed route or destination.

Example: Deer roam through the forest at dawn.

Synonyms / related: wander, range, travel

Forms: base: roam · 3rd person: roams · past: roamed · past participle: roamed · -ing: roaming

To fall, sit, or lie down heavily; as a noun, something that fails badly.

Example: After practice, he flopped onto the couch.

Synonyms / related: collapse, drop, fail

Forms: base: flop · 3rd person: flops · past: flopped · past participle: flopped · -ing: flopping

A steady, usually dull pain; as a verb, to feel this kind of pain.

Example: My legs ached after the long hike.

Synonyms / related: pain, soreness, hurt

Forms: base: ache · 3rd person: aches · past: ached · past participle: ached · -ing: aching

Wanting more food, money, possessions, or power than is fair or needed.

Example: It was greedy to take all the treats without sharing.

Synonyms / related: selfish, grasping, avaricious

Forms: comparison: greedier · superlative: greediest · noun: greed

Involving a chance of danger, loss, or failure.

Example: Climbing the wet rocks without proper shoes would be risky.

Synonyms / related: dangerous, uncertain, hazardous

Forms: comparison: riskier · superlative: riskiest · noun: risk

An arm or leg of a person or animal, or a large branch of a tree.

Example: The squirrel balanced on a high tree limb.

Synonyms / related: arm, leg, branch

Forms: plural: limbs

To bend the upper body forward and downward; as a noun, it can also mean a small set of steps at an entrance.

Example: He had to stoop to walk under the low branch.

Synonyms / related: bend, hunch, bow

Forms: base: stoop · 3rd person: stoops · past: stooped · past participle: stooped · -ing: stooping

To walk back and forth or at a measured speed; as a noun, the speed at which something happens.

Example: She paced outside the room while waiting for the result.

Synonyms / related: walk, stride, rate

Forms: base: pace · 3rd person: paces · past: paced · past participle: paced · -ing: pacing

Fully developed or grown; as a verb, to become fully developed.

Example: The young tree matured over many years.

Synonyms / related: developed, grown, ripen

Forms: base: mature · 3rd person: matures · past: matured · past participle: matured · -ing: maturing · noun: maturity

For a bird, to clean and arrange its feathers with its beak; it can also mean to make oneself look neat or feel proud.

Example: The duck preens its feathers after swimming.

Synonyms / related: groom, clean, primp

Forms: base: preen · 3rd person: preens · past: preened · past participle: preened · -ing: preening

To send a television, radio, or online program to many people; also the program that is sent.

Example: The station broadcast the game live across the province.

Synonyms / related: transmit, air, send out

Forms: base: broadcast · 3rd person: broadcasts · past: broadcast · past participle: broadcast · -ing: broadcasting

To be brave enough to do something difficult or risky; as a noun, a challenge to do something.

Example: I dare to try the difficult problem before asking for help.

Synonyms / related: venture, challenge, risk

Forms: base: dare · 3rd person: dares · past: dared · past participle: dared · -ing: daring

A number written using a decimal point, or something based on groups of ten.

Example: The decimal 0.5 is equal to one half.

Synonyms / related: base-ten number, decimal fraction

Forms: plural: decimals · related: decimal point

To make an effort to do something; as a noun, an attempt.

Example: Try the question again using a different strategy.

Synonyms / related: attempt, test, have a go

Forms: base: try · 3rd person: tries · past: tried · past participle: tried · -ing: trying

A brief burst of activity, excitement, or light snow.

Example: A flurry of snow covered the sidewalk for a few minutes.

Synonyms / related: burst, rush, shower

Forms: plural: flurries

Faithful and supportive toward a person, group, or cause.

Example: The loyal dog waited by the gate for its owner.

Synonyms / related: faithful, devoted, steadfast

Forms: noun: loyalty · adverb: loyally

Slowly, in small stages, rather than all at once.

Example: The sky gradually became darker as the storm approached.

Synonyms / related: slowly, little by little, progressively

Forms: adjective: gradual · noun: gradualness

Most important or first in order; it can also describe the first stage of something.

Example: The primary goal of the experiment was to test the new material.

Synonyms / related: main, chief, principal

Forms: plural noun: primaries · adverb: primarily

A social group whose members share community, culture, ancestry, or identity.

Example: The museum exhibit described the traditions of several Indigenous tribes.

Synonyms / related: community, people, clan

Forms: plural: tribes · adjective: tribal

A set of things arranged in a particular order; as a verb, to arrange in order.

Example: Put the events in sequence from first to last.

Synonyms / related: order, series, progression

Forms: plural: sequences · verb: sequence · sequenced · sequencing

To make something smaller, lower, or less.

Example: Turning off unused lights can reduce electricity use.

Synonyms / related: decrease, lower, cut

Forms: base: reduce · 3rd person: reduces · past: reduced · past participle: reduced · -ing: reducing · noun: reduction

To catch up with and pass someone or something that is moving ahead.

Example: The faster runner overtook the leader near the finish line.

Synonyms / related: pass, catch up with, surpass

Forms: base: overtake · 3rd person: overtakes · past: overtook · past participle: overtaken · -ing: overtaking

Extremely worried, upset, or distressed.

Example: She was distraught when she could not find her lost dog.

Synonyms / related: distressed, upset, frantic

Forms: usually not compared

To get or be given something.

Example: We received a letter from the school yesterday.

Synonyms / related: get, accept, obtain

Forms: base: receive · 3rd person: receives · past: received · past participle: received · -ing: receiving

Soft, wet, and lacking a firm shape or texture.

Example: The overcooked carrots became mushy.

Synonyms / related: soft, soggy, pulp-like

Forms: comparison: mushier · superlative: mushiest · noun: mush

A tall, narrow plant that commonly grows in wet ground or shallow water.

Example: Tall reeds grew along the edge of the pond.

Synonyms / related: rush, wetland plant, cane

Forms: plural: reeds

A group of things made, handled, or processed together.

Example: We baked a second batch of cookies.

Synonyms / related: group, lot, set

Forms: plural: batches · verb: batch · batched · batching

A copy or action that tries to look or sound like something else.

Example: His imitation of the bird call made everyone laugh.

Synonyms / related: copy, mimicry, reproduction

Forms: plural: imitations · verb: imitate · adjective: imitative

A close copy of an object, especially one made to look like the original.

Example: The museum displayed a replica of the ancient helmet.

Synonyms / related: copy, reproduction, duplicate

Forms: plural: replicas

Something made to match an original; as a verb, to reproduce or imitate something.

Example: Please make a copy of the worksheet for each student.

Synonyms / related: duplicate, reproduction, imitate

Forms: plural: copies · verb: copy · copies · copied · copying

A person who designs buildings and often helps plan how they will be constructed.

Example: The architect drew plans for the new library.

Synonyms / related: designer, planner, building designer

Forms: plural: architects · noun: architecture · adjective: architectural

The title of a news story, usually printed or displayed prominently.

Example: The headline summarized the main event in a few words.

Synonyms / related: title, heading, banner

Forms: plural: headlines · verb: headline · headlined · headlining

To move upward or rise to a higher position.

Example: The hikers began to ascend the steep trail.

Synonyms / related: rise, climb, go up

Forms: base: ascend · 3rd person: ascends · past: ascended · past participle: ascended · -ing: ascending · opposite: descend

A small broken piece of something; as a verb, to break into pieces.

Example: Archaeologists found a fragment of pottery in the soil.

Synonyms / related: piece, shard, bit

Forms: plural: fragments · verb: fragment · fragmented · fragmenting

To injure someone or something badly by tearing, clawing, or rough handling; as a noun, a heavy hammer.

Example: The warning sign explained that a wild animal could maul anyone who approached it.

Synonyms / related: attack, tear, mangle

Forms: base: maul · 3rd person: mauls · past: mauled · past participle: mauled · -ing: mauling

A curved, pointed nail on an animal’s foot; as a verb, to scratch or tear with claws.

Example: The eagle gripped the branch with its claws.

Synonyms / related: talon, nail, scratch

Forms: plural: claws · verb: claw · clawed · clawing

To strike repeatedly, defeat someone in a contest, or move with a regular rhythm.

Example: Her heart beat quickly after the race.

Synonyms / related: strike, defeat, pound

Forms: base: beat · 3rd person: beats · past: beat · past participle: beaten · -ing: beating

To look at someone with an angry or displeased expression.

Example: He scowled when he saw the broken window.

Synonyms / related: glare, frown, glower

Forms: base: scowl · 3rd person: scowls · past: scowled · past participle: scowled · -ing: scowling

A small enclosed shelter or cage, often used for rabbits or other small animals.

Example: The rabbit rested inside its wooden hutch.

Synonyms / related: cage, pen, enclosure

Forms: plural: hutches

A feeling or belief that something may be wrong or that someone may be responsible for something.

Example: Her suspicion grew when the story kept changing.

Synonyms / related: doubt, mistrust, hunch

Forms: plural: suspicions · verb: suspect · adjective: suspicious

A confident promise or statement that something is true or will happen.

Example: The teacher gave us assurance that the trip was still planned.

Synonyms / related: guarantee, promise, confidence

Forms: plural: assurances · verb: assure

A feeling of knowing or understanding something without conscious step-by-step reasoning.

Example: Her intuition told her to check the answer one more time.

Synonyms / related: instinct, hunch, gut feeling

Forms: adjective: intuitive · adverb: intuitively

An entrance hall or open area just inside a building.

Example: We left our wet boots in the foyer.

Synonyms / related: entrance hall, lobby, vestibule

Forms: plural: foyers

An entrance area in a large building; as a verb, to try to influence a decision-maker.

Example: We waited in the hotel lobby before checking in.

Synonyms / related: foyer, entrance hall, reception area

Forms: plural: lobbies · verb: lobby · lobbied · lobbying

A passage inside a building that connects rooms.

Example: The classroom is at the end of the hallway.

Synonyms / related: corridor, passage, hall

Forms: plural: hallways

A set of questions used to collect information, or the act of examining something carefully.

Example: The class completed a survey about favourite books.

Synonyms / related: questionnaire, study, examine

Forms: plural: surveys · verb: survey · surveyed · surveying

A heavy, dull sound or a heavy hit.

Example: We heard a thump when the book fell from the shelf.

Synonyms / related: bang, bump, pound

Forms: base: thump · 3rd person: thumps · past: thumped · past participle: thumped · -ing: thumping

To beat or strike heavily and repeatedly; a heart can also pound by beating very strongly.

Example: His heart pounded as he ran up the stairs.

Synonyms / related: thump, hammer, beat

Forms: base: pound · 3rd person: pounds · past: pounded · past participle: pounded · -ing: pounding

Large, impressive, or important; informally, a grand can also mean one thousand dollars.

Example: The old theatre had a grand entrance with tall columns.

Synonyms / related: magnificent, impressive, splendid

Forms: comparison: grander · superlative: grandest

A large spoon with a deep bowl, used for serving soup or other liquids.

Example: She used a ladle to serve the soup.

Synonyms / related: serving spoon, scoop

Forms: plural: ladles · verb: ladle · ladled · ladling

A small dish used for baking or serving individual portions of food.

Example: The custard was baked in a small ramekin.

Synonyms / related: baking dish, small dish

Forms: plural: ramekins

A small organ that stores bile made by the liver.

Example: The gallbladder stores bile until the body needs it for digestion.

Synonyms / related: bile-storage organ

Forms: plural: gallbladders

A large organ that processes nutrients, makes bile, and helps remove harmful substances from the blood.

Example: The liver performs many important jobs in the body.

Synonyms / related: organ, hepatic organ

Forms: plural: livers · adjective: hepatic

The large bone in the upper leg or thigh.

Example: The femur is the longest bone in the human body.

Synonyms / related: thigh bone

Forms: plural: femurs or femora

An organ that helps digestion and makes hormones such as insulin.

Example: The pancreas helps the body control blood sugar.

Synonyms / related: digestive organ

Forms: plural: pancreases · adjective: pancreatic

A man who leads a meeting, committee, or organization.

Example: The chairman opened the meeting at nine o’clock.

Synonyms / related: chair, chairperson, presiding officer

Forms: plural: chairmen · gender-neutral alternative: chair or chairperson

A person who flies an aircraft, especially a pilot in an older or more formal sense.

Example: The early aviator crossed the ocean in a small aircraft.

Synonyms / related: pilot, airman, flyer

Forms: plural: aviators · noun: aviation

A person who operates an aircraft; as a verb, to guide or test something.

Example: The pilot checked the weather before takeoff.

Synonyms / related: aviator, aircrew member, guide

Forms: plural: pilots · verb: pilot · piloted · piloting

The leader of a team, ship, aircraft crew, or military unit in certain contexts.

Example: The team captain encouraged everyone before the game.

Synonyms / related: leader, commander, skipper

Forms: plural: captains · verb: captain · captained · captaining

A small partly burned piece of coal, wood, or other material.

Example: A glowing cinder remained after the fire died down.

Synonyms / related: ember, ash fragment, burned piece

Forms: plural: cinders

A plant with thick parts that store water; as an adjective, juicy or full of moisture.

Example: The succulent stored water in its thick leaves.

Synonyms / related: water-storing plant, juicy

Forms: plural noun: succulents

A flowering plant with colourful, trumpet-shaped flowers.

Example: Purple petunias filled the garden box.

Synonyms / related: flower, garden plant

Forms: plural: petunias

A flowering plant known for large, often fragrant blossoms.

Example: The peony opened into a large pink flower.

Synonyms / related: flower, garden perennial

Forms: plural: peonies

A spring flower, often yellow, with a trumpet-shaped centre.

Example: Daffodils appeared soon after the snow melted.

Synonyms / related: narcissus, spring flower

Forms: plural: daffodils

A natural or learned skill for doing something well.

Example: She has a knack for solving math puzzles quickly.

Synonyms / related: talent, skill, gift

Forms: usually singular in the phrase: a knack for

To keep at a distance from a person, place, or thing.

Example: The sign warned hikers to stay away from the cliff edge.

Synonyms / related: avoid, keep away, steer clear

Forms: phrase: stay away · stayed away · staying away

To move back, leave, remove something, or take money from an account.

Example: She withdrew her name from the competition.

Synonyms / related: remove, retreat, pull out

Forms: base: withdraw · 3rd person: withdraws · past: withdrew · past participle: withdrawn · -ing: withdrawing

To move quickly aside to avoid something, or to avoid a duty or question.

Example: He dodged the ball just before it reached him.

Synonyms / related: avoid, duck, evade

Forms: base: dodge · 3rd person: dodges · past: dodged · past participle: dodged · -ing: dodging

To reveal information that was previously private or unknown.

Example: The report disclosed the final cost of the project.

Synonyms / related: reveal, divulge, make known

Forms: base: disclose · 3rd person: discloses · past: disclosed · past participle: disclosed · -ing: disclosing · noun: disclosure

To depend on someone or something for help, support, or a result.

Example: We rely on the bus schedule when planning the trip.

Synonyms / related: depend on, count on, trust

Forms: base: rely · 3rd person: relies · past: relied · past participle: relied · -ing: relying

To say that something is true, often reluctantly; it can also mean allow someone to enter.

Example: He admitted that he had forgotten the homework.

Synonyms / related: acknowledge, confess, allow in

Forms: base: admit · 3rd person: admits · past: admitted · past participle: admitted · -ing: admitting

To show or state that something is true, correct, or definite.

Example: Please confirm the meeting time before we leave.

Synonyms / related: verify, validate, affirm

Forms: base: confirm · 3rd person: confirms · past: confirmed · past participle: confirmed · -ing: confirming · noun: confirmation

The science of substances, their properties, and how they change or react.

Example: In chemistry class, we learned how acids and bases can react.

Synonyms / related: chemical science

Forms: usually uncountable · adjective: chemical · noun: chemist

The study of numbers, quantities, shapes, patterns, and logical relationships.

Example: Math helps us describe patterns and solve quantitative problems.

Synonyms / related: mathematics, number study

Forms: usually uncountable · adjective: mathematical

Written works such as novels, poems, plays, and essays, especially when studied as art or culture.

Example: The class read Canadian literature from several time periods.

Synonyms / related: writing, written works, books

Forms: usually uncountable · adjective: literary

The science of matter, energy, motion, forces, space, and time.

Example: Physics can explain why a ball speeds up as it falls.

Synonyms / related: physical science

Forms: grammatically singular in most uses · adjective: physical · noun: physicist

A contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses.

Example: Influenza can cause fever, cough, aches, and tiredness.

Synonyms / related: flu, viral respiratory illness

Forms: usually uncountable · common short form: flu

A highly contagious viral disease that commonly causes fever and a rash.

Example: Vaccination has greatly reduced measles in many places.

Synonyms / related: viral disease

Forms: treated as singular: measles is

A serious viral disease that was eradicated worldwide through vaccination.

Example: Smallpox was declared eradicated globally in 1980.

Synonyms / related: variola, viral disease

Forms: usually uncountable

A long bench with a back, especially one used for seating in a church.

Example: The family sat together in the front pew.

Synonyms / related: bench, church seat

Forms: plural: pews

A seat for one person, usually with a back; as a verb, to lead a meeting or committee.

Example: She pulled a chair closer to the table.

Synonyms / related: seat, stool, armchair

Forms: plural: chairs · verb: chair · chaired · chairing

A long upholstered seat for two or more people.

Example: We sat together on the sofa to watch the movie.

Synonyms / related: couch, settee

Forms: plural: sofas

The shelter or home of a wild animal; it can also mean a small comfortable room in a house.

Example: The fox returned to its den before sunrise.

Synonyms / related: lair, burrow, small room

Forms: plural: dens

A building or room where many people sleep, especially students at a school or university.

Example: The students returned to the dormitory after dinner.

Synonyms / related: dorm, residence hall, sleeping quarters

Forms: plural: dormitories · informal: dorm

A person’s permanent or official home, especially in formal or legal language.

Example: The form asked for his country of domicile.

Synonyms / related: residence, home, dwelling

Forms: plural: domiciles · adjective: domiciled

Curtains or hanging cloth used for decoration.

Example: Heavy drapery covered the tall windows.

Synonyms / related: curtains, hangings, fabric

Forms: plural: draperies

A movable cover for a window or camera opening; as a verb, to close a business or building.

Example: The photographer pressed the shutter at exactly the right moment.

Synonyms / related: window cover, camera mechanism, close

Forms: plural: shutters · verb: shutter · shuttered · shuttering

A piece of cloth hung to cover a window, doorway, or stage opening.

Example: She opened the curtain to let sunlight into the room.

Synonyms / related: drape, screen, drapery

Forms: plural: curtains · verb: curtain · curtained · curtaining

A social gathering for celebration or enjoyment; it can also mean a political group or a group involved in an agreement.

Example: We had a small birthday party at home.

Synonyms / related: celebration, gathering, group

Forms: plural: parties · verb: party · partied · partying

A large formal celebration or special social event.

Example: The museum held a gala to celebrate its anniversary.

Synonyms / related: celebration, banquet, special event

Forms: plural: galas

A festival or celebration, especially in Spanish-speaking cultures.

Example: The town held a colourful fiesta in the main square.

Synonyms / related: festival, celebration, festivity

Forms: plural: fiestas

A dairy food made mainly from milk or cream fat; as a verb, to spread butter on something.

Example: She spread butter on the warm toast.

Synonyms / related: dairy spread

Forms: usually uncountable · verb: butter · buttered · buttering

A solid or semi-solid fat used in baking to make foods tender or crumbly.

Example: The recipe used shortening to make the pastry flaky.

Synonyms / related: baking fat, fat

Forms: usually uncountable · verb source: shorten

A butter-like spread commonly made from vegetable oils and other ingredients.

Example: He used margarine instead of butter on the toast.

Synonyms / related: spread, butter substitute

Forms: usually uncountable

An illness or health problem, often one that is not extremely severe.

Example: The doctor asked about any recent ailments.

Synonyms / related: illness, condition, complaint

Forms: plural: ailments

A state of being sick or unhealthy.

Example: The illness kept him home from school for several days.

Synonyms / related: sickness, disease, condition

Forms: plural: illnesses

A disorder of the body or mind with identifiable signs, symptoms, or effects.

Example: Some diseases are caused by infections, while others are not.

Synonyms / related: illness, disorder, condition

Forms: plural: diseases

Clever at getting what one wants, sometimes by tricking others.

Example: The fox in the story was cunning enough to escape the trap.

Synonyms / related: crafty, clever, sly

Forms: noun: cunning · adverb: cunningly

Clever in a secretive or dishonest way.

Example: He gave a sly smile before hiding the surprise.

Synonyms / related: cunning, crafty, sneaky

Forms: comparison: slyer or slier · superlative: slyest or sliest · adverb: slyly

Difficult to deal with or requiring care and clever thinking; sometimes deceptive.

Example: The final puzzle was tricky but possible to solve.

Synonyms / related: difficult, challenging, deceptive

Forms: comparison: trickier · superlative: trickiest

A woman who gives massages professionally.

Example: The hotel arranged an appointment with a trained masseuse.

Synonyms / related: massage practitioner, massage therapist

Forms: plural: masseuses · masculine traditional form: masseur

The person who introduces and directs acts in a traditional circus ring.

Example: The ringmaster introduced the next circus act.

Synonyms / related: host, master of ceremonies, circus announcer

Forms: plural: ringmasters

A comic performer who uses costume, movement, or jokes to entertain.

Example: The clown made the children laugh with a silly routine.

Synonyms / related: comic, jester, performer

Forms: plural: clowns · verb: clown · clowned · clowning

A person who trains or performs with lions, especially in historical circus contexts.

Example: The old poster showed a lion tamer in a traditional circus.

Synonyms / related: animal trainer, trainer

Forms: plural: lion tamers

A noisy, rough fight involving several people.

Example: A brawl broke out outside the stadium.

Synonyms / related: fight, melee, scuffle

Forms: plural: brawls · verb: brawl · brawled · brawling

A situation in which people have different opinions or do not agree.

Example: The group had a disagreement about which route to take.

Synonyms / related: difference, dispute, conflict

Forms: plural: disagreements · verb: disagree

A decorative or serving container used for pouring liquids, especially wine or spirits.

Example: The restaurant poured water from a glass decanter.

Synonyms / related: carafe, bottle, serving vessel

Forms: plural: decanters

A long or difficult journey, especially on foot.

Example: The hikers made a two-day trek through the mountains.

Synonyms / related: journey, hike, expedition

Forms: plural: treks · verb: trek · trekked · trekking

An organized journey made for a particular purpose such as exploration or research.

Example: The scientists joined an expedition to study Arctic wildlife.

Synonyms / related: journey, mission, exploration

Forms: plural: expeditions

The act of travelling from one place to another, especially over some distance.

Example: The train journey took nearly six hours.

Synonyms / related: trip, voyage, travel

Forms: plural: journeys · verb: journey · journeyed · journeying

A small booklet or folded sheet that gives information about a subject.

Example: The clinic gave us a pamphlet about healthy sleep.

Synonyms / related: booklet, brochure, leaflet

Forms: plural: pamphlets

Money paid regularly to use property or an object; as a verb, to pay for temporary use.

Example: They rent an apartment near the school.

Synonyms / related: lease, hire, rental payment

Forms: base: rent · 3rd person: rents · past: rented · past participle: rented · -ing: renting

To throw back light or an image, or to think carefully about something.

Example: Take a minute to reflect on how you solved the problem.

Synonyms / related: think about, consider, mirror

Forms: base: reflect · 3rd person: reflects · past: reflected · past participle: reflected · -ing: reflecting · noun: reflection

To think carefully about something for some time.

Example: She paused to ponder the best answer.

Synonyms / related: consider, reflect on, contemplate

Forms: base: ponder · 3rd person: ponders · past: pondered · past participle: pondered · -ing: pondering

To think carefully about something, or to take it into account.

Example: Consider all four choices before selecting an answer.

Synonyms / related: think about, weigh, reflect on

Forms: base: consider · 3rd person: considers · past: considered · past participle: considered · -ing: considering · noun: consideration

A system of index cards used to list and locate items in a library collection.

Example: Older libraries used a card catalog to help readers find books.

Synonyms / related: library catalog, index, catalogue

Forms: plural: card catalogs

To pay no attention to something; as a noun, lack of attention or respect.

Example: Please disregard the old instructions and use the new sheet.

Synonyms / related: ignore, overlook, dismiss

Forms: base: disregard · 3rd person: disregards · past: disregarded · past participle: disregarded · -ing: disregarding

To deliberately pay no attention to someone or something.

Example: He ignored the noise and kept reading.

Synonyms / related: disregard, overlook, pay no attention to

Forms: base: ignore · 3rd person: ignores · past: ignored · past participle: ignored · -ing: ignoring

To consider or think of someone or something in a particular way; as a noun, respect or attention.

Example: She is widely regarded as an excellent teacher.

Synonyms / related: consider, view, respect

Forms: base: regard · 3rd person: regards · past: regarded · past participle: regarded · -ing: regarding

By many people or over a large area or range.

Example: The book is widely read in schools.

Synonyms / related: broadly, extensively, commonly

Forms: adjective: wide · comparison: more widely, most widely

Extremely tired or completely used up.

Example: After the long hike, everyone felt exhausted.

Synonyms / related: very tired, worn out, drained

Forms: verb source: exhaust · noun: exhaustion

Needing rest or sleep because of work, activity, or lack of sleep.

Example: I felt tired after swimming practice.

Synonyms / related: weary, sleepy, fatigued

Forms: comparison: more tired, most tired · verb source: tire

Feeling or showing thanks for help, kindness, or something good.

Example: I am grateful for your help with the project.

Synonyms / related: thankful, appreciative, obliged

Forms: adverb: gratefully · noun: gratitude

Feeling pleased and grateful because something good happened or help was given.

Example: We were thankful that everyone arrived safely.

Synonyms / related: grateful, appreciative, glad

Forms: adverb: thankfully · noun: thankfulness

A substance used for cleaning, especially clothes, dishes, or surfaces.

Example: Use only a small amount of laundry detergent.

Synonyms / related: cleaner, soap, cleansing agent

Forms: plural: detergents

A substance added to soil or plants to supply nutrients and support growth.

Example: The gardener added fertilizer to the soil in spring.

Synonyms / related: plant food, soil nutrient

Forms: plural: fertilizers · verb: fertilize · noun: fertilization

Slightly wet, but not completely soaked.

Example: The towel was still damp after an hour.

Synonyms / related: moist, slightly wet, clammy

Forms: comparison: damper · superlative: dampest · noun: dampness

To make or become completely wet by leaving something in liquid.

Example: Soak the beans in water overnight.

Synonyms / related: immerse, saturate, drench

Forms: base: soak · 3rd person: soaks · past: soaked · past participle: soaked · -ing: soaking

A unit used to measure liquid volume.

Example: The recipe called for one pint of milk.

Synonyms / related: volume measure, liquid measure

Forms: plural: pints

A small unit of weight or, in some contexts, liquid volume.

Example: The package weighed only a few ounces.

Synonyms / related: unit, weight measure

Forms: plural: ounces · abbreviation: oz

Showing or including a very wide view of an area.

Example: The lookout offered a panoramic view of the valley.

Synonyms / related: wide-angle, sweeping, wide-view

Forms: noun: panorama · adverb: panoramically

Shaped like a sphere or ball.

Example: Earth is approximately spherical.

Synonyms / related: round, ball-shaped, globular

Forms: noun: sphere · adverb: spherically

Shaped like a circle or moving around a centre.

Example: The table has a circular top.

Synonyms / related: round, ring-shaped, cyclic

Forms: noun: circle · adverb: circularly

An area of a town, city, or region set apart for a purpose or identity.

Example: The school is in the northern district of the city.

Synonyms / related: area, region, zone

Forms: plural: districts

Between different classes or groups, especially at school.

Example: The school held an interclass soccer tournament.

Synonyms / related: between classes, cross-class

Forms: prefix: inter- = between · noun: class

To make or repair something quickly from available pieces; as a noun, a rounded paving stone.

Example: They cobbled together a simple shelter from spare materials.

Synonyms / related: patch together, assemble, improvise

Forms: base: cobble · 3rd person: cobbles · past: cobbled · past participle: cobbled · -ing: cobbling

A series of people or things that follow one after another.

Example: A succession of rainy days kept the field muddy.

Synonyms / related: sequence, series, chain

Forms: plural: successions · verb: succeed · adjective: successive

A warm, thick chocolate sauce often served on ice cream or desserts.

Example: She poured hot fudge over the ice cream.

Synonyms / related: chocolate sauce, dessert sauce

Forms: phrase; usually uncountable

A frozen sweet food commonly made from milk or cream, sugar, and flavouring.

Example: We ate ice cream after dinner.

Synonyms / related: frozen dessert, gelato

Forms: usually uncountable; plural when referring to servings or types: ice creams

The system of rules and patterns used to form words, phrases, and sentences in a language.

Example: Good grammar helps make a sentence clear.

Synonyms / related: language rules, syntax and structure

Forms: usually uncountable · adjective: grammatical · adverb: grammatically

A system people use to communicate through speech, writing, or signs.

Example: English is one of the languages spoken in Canada.

Synonyms / related: tongue, communication system

Forms: plural: languages · adjective: linguistic

The way a word is written using letters in the correct order.

Example: Check the spelling of each word before handing in your work.

Synonyms / related: orthography, lettering

Forms: plural: spellings · verb: spell · spelled/spelt · spelling

A unit of language that carries meaning; as a verb, to express something using particular language.

Example: Choose a precise word to complete the sentence.

Synonyms / related: term, expression, vocabulary item

Forms: plural: words · verb: word · worded · wording

To make a small sudden movement or facial expression because of pain or embarrassment.

Example: He winced with pain when he bumped his knee.

Synonyms / related: flinch, grimace, recoil

Forms: base: wince · 3rd person: winces · past: winced · past participle: winced · -ing: wincing

A long thin line or mark; a sudden flash can also make a streak across the sky.

Example: A bright streak of lightning crossed the sky.

Synonyms / related: stripe, line, flash

Forms: plural: streaks · verb: streak · streaked · streaking

To break or close suddenly with a sharp sound; as a noun, a quick sharp sound or a small fastener.

Example: The jacket closed with a metal snap.

Synonyms / related: click, break, fastener

Forms: base: snap · 3rd person: snaps · past: snapped · past participle: snapped · -ing: snapping

A fastener with two rows of teeth or coils that join when a slider moves along them.

Example: He pulled up the zipper on his coat.

Synonyms / related: zip, fastener

Forms: plural: zippers · verb: zipper · zippered · zippering

A trademarked name often used for a hook-and-loop fastening system.

Example: The shoe straps close with Velcro fasteners.

Synonyms / related: hook-and-loop fastener, touch fastener

Forms: trademarked brand name

A small object used to fasten clothing, or a control pressed to operate something.

Example: She sewed a missing button onto the shirt.

Synonyms / related: fastener, control, switch

Forms: plural: buttons · verb: button · buttoned · buttoning

A frozen dessert made with fruit flavouring and usually some dairy ingredients.

Example: We ordered orange sherbet for dessert.

Synonyms / related: frozen dessert, sorbet-like dessert

Forms: usually uncountable

A trademarked name often used informally for a frozen flavoured ice pop on a stick.

Example: He ate a cherry ice pop after playing outside.

Synonyms / related: ice pop, frozen pop

Forms: trademarked brand name

To decorate cloth by sewing patterns or pictures with thread.

Example: She embroidered a flower onto the cloth.

Synonyms / related: stitch, decorate, needlework

Forms: base: embroider · 3rd person: embroiders · past: embroidered · past participle: embroidered · -ing: embroidering · noun: embroidery

A playground structure made for climbing, often with bars, ladders, or platforms.

Example: The children climbed across the jungle gym.

Synonyms / related: climbing frame, play structure

Forms: plural: jungle gyms

A very high natural area of land rising above the surrounding ground.

Example: Snow covered the top of the mountain.

Synonyms / related: peak, mount, highland

Forms: plural: mountains · adjective: mountainous

A raised area of land that is lower and usually smaller than a mountain.

Example: We walked up the grassy hill.

Synonyms / related: slope, rise, knoll

Forms: plural: hills · adjective: hilly

One step in a staircase; stairs are a set of steps leading between levels.

Example: She climbed the stairs to the second floor.

Synonyms / related: step, stairway

Forms: plural: stairs · related: staircase

The blank space around the edge of a page or the edge or limit of something.

Example: Write your notes in the margin of the page.

Synonyms / related: border, edge, space

Forms: plural: margins · adjective: marginal

A soft fabric with a thick, smooth surface.

Example: She wore a dark velvet dress.

Synonyms / related: velour, soft fabric

Forms: usually uncountable · adjective: velvety

The raised edge beside a road; as a verb, to control or limit something.

Example: He waited by the curb for the bus.

Synonyms / related: kerb, edge, restrain

Forms: plural: curbs · verb: curb · curbed · curbing

Cows and bulls kept as farm animals, especially as a group.

Example: The ranch keeps cattle on a large grass field.

Synonyms / related: livestock, cows and bulls

Forms: collective plural; one animal is a cow, bull, calf, steer, etc.

A large farm, especially one where cattle or other animals are raised.

Example: The family raises cattle on a ranch.

Synonyms / related: farm, stock farm

Forms: plural: ranches · verb: ranch · ranched · ranching · noun: rancher

A worker who helps care for animals and do other work on a ranch.

Example: The ranch hand repaired the fence before sunset.

Synonyms / related: ranch worker, cowhand

Forms: plural: ranch hands

Very cruel, harsh, or severe.

Example: The runners faced brutal heat during the race.

Synonyms / related: harsh, cruel, severe

Forms: adverb: brutally · noun: brutality

Weak and lacking strength or force.

Example: A feeble light came from the old flashlight.

Synonyms / related: weak, frail, faint

Forms: comparison: feebler · superlative: feeblest · adverb: feebly

Small, delicate, and pretty in appearance or movement.

Example: She drank tea from a dainty cup.

Synonyms / related: delicate, elegant, fine

Forms: comparison: daintier · superlative: daintiest · noun: daintiness

Easily annoyed or made angry.

Example: He was irritable after getting too little sleep.

Synonyms / related: bad-tempered, touchy, cranky

Forms: adverb: irritably · noun: irritability · verb: irritate

Having a pleasant or sweet smell.

Example: The fragrant flowers filled the room with a sweet smell.

Synonyms / related: aromatic, sweet-smelling, perfumed

Forms: noun: fragrance · adverb: fragrantly

To show, point out, or give a sign of something.

Example: Dark clouds may indicate that rain is coming.

Synonyms / related: show, signal, point out

Forms: base: indicate · 3rd person: indicates · past: indicated · past participle: indicated · -ing: indicating · noun: indication

Covered with sharp points, or easily annoyed and difficult to deal with.

Example: The cactus felt prickly to the touch.

Synonyms / related: spiny, thorny, irritable

Forms: comparison: pricklier · superlative: prickliest

Having many sharp points or projecting spikes.

Example: The plant had spiky leaves.

Synonyms / related: pointed, spiny, sharp

Forms: comparison: spikier · superlative: spikiest · noun: spike

To fall, move, or dive suddenly and steeply downward or into something.

Example: The temperature plunged overnight.

Synonyms / related: drop, dive, plummet

Forms: base: plunge · 3rd person: plunges · past: plunged · past participle: plunged · -ing: plunging

Done too quickly, often without enough thought or care.

Example: A hasty decision can cause problems later.

Synonyms / related: rushed, hurried, rash

Forms: comparison: hastier · superlative: hastiest · noun: haste

A choice made after thinking about what to do.

Example: She made a careful decision after comparing the options.

Synonyms / related: choice, judgment, resolution

Forms: plural: decisions · verb: decide · adjective: decisive

Having good luck or a favourable result.

Example: We were fortunate to find shelter before the storm.

Synonyms / related: lucky, favoured, blessed

Forms: adverb: fortunately · noun: fortune · opposite: unfortunate

Cheerful, friendly, and good-humoured.

Example: His jovial mood made everyone smile.

Synonyms / related: cheerful, merry, jolly

Forms: adverb: jovially · noun: joviality

A reason given to explain or justify something; as a verb, to forgive or allow someone to leave.

Example: The student brought a written excuse for the absence.

Synonyms / related: reason, explanation, justification

Forms: plural noun: excuses · verb: excuse · excused · excusing

Money or something else that is owed to another person or organization.

Example: He worked to pay off the debt.

Synonyms / related: amount owed, obligation, liability

Forms: plural: debts · adjective: indebted

A long bar used as a barrier or support, or one of the metal tracks used by trains.

Example: She held the rail while walking down the stairs.

Synonyms / related: bar, handrail, track

Forms: plural: rails · verb: rail · railed · railing

A platform that projects from an upper floor of a building, usually with a railing.

Example: They stepped onto the balcony to look at the view.

Synonyms / related: terrace, platform, gallery

Forms: plural: balconies

To fail to notice something, or to have a view over a place; as a noun, a high viewing place.

Example: Do not overlook the small clue in the final sentence.

Synonyms / related: miss, ignore, look over

Forms: base: overlook · 3rd person: overlooks · past: overlooked · past participle: overlooked · -ing: overlooking

The outer edge of a round or curved object.

Example: A thin line of ice formed around the rim of the pond.

Synonyms / related: edge, border, lip

Forms: plural: rims · verb: rim · rimmed · rimming

A decorative edge of hanging threads, or an outer or less central part of something.

Example: A fringe of trees surrounded the field.

Synonyms / related: border, edge, trim

Forms: plural: fringes · verb: fringe · fringed · fringing

An action, especially one that is important, good, or bad; also a legal document showing ownership.

Example: Helping the neighbour was a kind deed.

Synonyms / related: act, action, exploit

Forms: plural: deeds

Not suitable, correct, or acceptable for a situation.

Example: It is improper to copy someone else’s work and claim it as your own.

Synonyms / related: inappropriate, incorrect, unsuitable

Forms: adverb: improperly · opposite: proper

To make someone admire, respect, or notice something strongly.

Example: Her clear explanation impressed the judges.

Synonyms / related: amaze, admire, make an impression on

Forms: base: impress · 3rd person: impresses · past: impressed · past participle: impressed · -ing: impressing · noun: impression

To feel angry or upset because something seems unfair or insulting.

Example: He resented being blamed for something he did not do.

Synonyms / related: begrudge, be angry about, object to

Forms: base: resent · 3rd person: resents · past: resented · past participle: resented · -ing: resenting · noun: resentment

Not wild or dangerous; as a verb, to train or control something wild.

Example: The once-wild horse became tame around people.

Synonyms / related: domesticated, gentle, train

Forms: base: tame · 3rd person: tames · past: tamed · past participle: tamed · -ing: taming

Nervous and unable to relax; as a noun, a grammar form that shows time.

Example: The room felt tense before the results were announced.

Synonyms / related: anxious, strained, time form

Forms: comparison: tenser · superlative: tensest · noun: tension · verb: tense · tensed · tensing

To accept something as true without proof, or to take on a role or responsibility.

Example: Do not assume the first answer is correct without checking it.

Synonyms / related: suppose, presume, take on

Forms: base: assume · 3rd person: assumes · past: assumed · past participle: assumed · -ing: assuming · noun: assumption

A wait or postponement; as a verb, to make something happen later.

Example: Heavy snow caused a delay in the bus schedule.

Synonyms / related: postponement, hold-up, defer

Forms: plural: delays · verb: delay · delayed · delaying

An amount of something available for use; as a verb, to provide what is needed.

Example: The camp had a limited supply of clean water.

Synonyms / related: provide, stock, reserve

Forms: plural: supplies · verb: supply · supplies · supplied · supplying

In a cheerful, lively, or happy way.

Example: The children sang merrily as they walked.

Synonyms / related: cheerfully, happily, joyfully

Forms: adjective: merry · comparison: more merrily, most merrily

A written symbol or group of symbols used to represent a number.

Example: The numeral 7 represents the number seven.

Synonyms / related: number symbol, digit

Forms: plural: numerals · adjective: numerical

A person who is described as lacking courage in a difficult or dangerous situation.

Example: Calling someone a coward can be hurtful, so use the word carefully.

Synonyms / related: timid person, faintheart

Forms: plural: cowards · adjective: cowardly · noun: cowardice

Something bought for a good price; as a verb, to negotiate about price or terms.

Example: The winter coat was a bargain at half price.

Synonyms / related: good deal, negotiate, deal

Forms: plural: bargains · verb: bargain · bargained · bargaining

To say or show that harm or trouble may happen, or to put something at risk.

Example: Dark clouds threatened to spoil the picnic.

Synonyms / related: menace, warn, endanger

Forms: base: threaten · 3rd person: threatens · past: threatened · past participle: threatened · -ing: threatening · noun: threat

A joint that lets a door, lid, or other part swing open and closed.

Example: The door squeaked at the hinge.

Synonyms / related: joint, pivot, depend on

Forms: plural: hinges · verb: hinge · hinged · hinging

To walk heavily or for a long distance; as a noun, a heavy step or long walk.

Example: The hikers tramped through the wet field.

Synonyms / related: stomp, trek, march

Forms: base: tramp · 3rd person: tramps · past: tramped · past participle: tramped · -ing: tramping

Clever and funny in the way someone speaks or writes.

Example: Shelby made a witty comment that made everyone laugh.

Synonyms / related: clever, humorous, quick-witted

Forms: comparison: wittier · superlative: wittiest · noun: wit

Not bright, sharp, exciting, or interesting; as a verb, to make something less strong or sharp.

Example: The old knife had become dull.

Synonyms / related: blunt, boring, dim

Forms: comparison: duller · superlative: dullest · verb: dull · dulled · dulling

To damage or ruin something, or for food to become no longer good to eat.

Example: Leaving the milk out too long may spoil it.

Synonyms / related: ruin, damage, go bad

Forms: base: spoil · 3rd person: spoils · past: spoiled or spoilt · past participle: spoiled or spoilt · -ing: spoiling

To crush or rub something into smaller pieces by pressure or friction.

Example: We grind the coffee beans before brewing them.

Synonyms / related: crush, mill, pulverize

Forms: base: grind · 3rd person: grinds · past: ground · past participle: ground · -ing: grinding

Movement or the act of changing position.

Example: The sensor turns on when it detects motion.

Synonyms / related: movement, action, movement pattern

Forms: plural: motions · verb: motion · motioned · motioning

A large picture painted or created directly on a wall.

Example: Students painted a colourful mural in the school hallway.

Synonyms / related: wall painting, wall art

Forms: plural: murals

The state something is in, or a circumstance that affects what happens.

Example: The bicycle was still in good condition.

Synonyms / related: state, circumstance, requirement

Forms: plural: conditions · verb: condition · conditioned · conditioning

A set of circumstances happening at a particular time.

Example: We stayed calm and thought carefully about the situation.

Synonyms / related: circumstance, case, state of affairs

Forms: plural: situations · adjective: situational

Extremely dirty.

Example: His shoes were filthy after walking through the mud.

Synonyms / related: very dirty, grimy, foul

Forms: comparison: filthier · superlative: filthiest · noun: filth

Not guilty of a crime or wrongdoing; also harmless or without bad intention.

Example: The evidence showed that the accused person was innocent.

Synonyms / related: not guilty, blameless, harmless

Forms: noun: innocence · adverb: innocently

To spread or move in different directions over an area.

Example: The birds scattered when the dog ran toward them.

Synonyms / related: disperse, spread, sprinkle

Forms: base: scatter · 3rd person: scatters · past: scattered · past participle: scattered · -ing: scattering

To give food to a person or animal, or for an animal to eat.

Example: The birds feed on seeds on the ground.

Synonyms / related: nourish, give food to, eat

Forms: base: feed · 3rd person: feeds · past: fed · past participle: fed · -ing: feeding

A small change made to improve something or make it fit a new situation.

Example: A small seat adjustment made the bicycle more comfortable.

Synonyms / related: change, modification, correction

Forms: plural: adjustments · verb: adjust · adjective: adjustable

The place, time, or cause from which something begins or comes.

Example: The chapter explains the origin of the story.

Synonyms / related: source, beginning, root

Forms: plural: origins · adjective: original

A worker who carries luggage or performs similar service duties, especially at a hotel or station.

Example: The porter carried the bags to the hotel room.

Synonyms / related: attendant, baggage handler, doorman

Forms: plural: porters

Good, hopeful, useful, or greater than zero; it can also mean showing that something is present in a test.

Example: The experiment had a positive outcome.

Synonyms / related: favourable, optimistic, constructive

Forms: adverb: positively · noun: positivity · opposite: negative

Great sadness, trouble, or difficulty.

Example: The story describes the hero’s joys and woes.

Synonyms / related: sorrow, trouble, misery

Forms: plural: woes

An explanation or set of ideas used to explain facts or observations.

Example: Scientists test theories against evidence.

Synonyms / related: explanation, model, hypothesis

Forms: plural: theories · adjective: theoretical

A sudden strong urge to do something, or in physics, a quantity related to force acting over time.

Example: She resisted the impulse to answer before reading every choice.

Synonyms / related: urge, instinct, sudden desire

Forms: plural: impulses · adjective: impulsive

The ability to think quickly and express clever or funny ideas.

Example: Her quick wit made the conversation lively.

Synonyms / related: cleverness, humour, intelligence

Forms: usually uncountable in this sense · adjective: witty

The feeling of having done something wrong, or responsibility for wrongdoing.

Example: He felt guilt after blaming someone unfairly.

Synonyms / related: remorse, blame, responsibility

Forms: adjective: guilty · opposite: innocence

A covered or raised area at the entrance of a building.

Example: We left the muddy boots on the porch.

Synonyms / related: veranda, entryway, stoop

Forms: plural: porches

A garden flower with blossoms that can look like a small dragon’s mouth.

Example: Pink snapdragons grew along the garden path.

Synonyms / related: flower, garden plant

Forms: plural: snapdragons

A flowering plant commonly grown in gardens, pots, and window boxes.

Example: A red geranium bloomed on the windowsill.

Synonyms / related: flower, garden plant

Forms: plural: geraniums

A pipe fitting connected to a water supply, especially a fire hydrant used by firefighters.

Example: The fire truck stopped beside the hydrant.

Synonyms / related: fire hydrant, water outlet

Forms: plural: hydrants

A tool marked in degrees and used to measure or draw angles.

Example: Use a protractor to measure the angle.

Synonyms / related: angle measurer, geometry tool

Forms: plural: protractors

Intended to last for a very long time or not to be removed or changed.

Example: The marker left a permanent stain on the fabric.

Synonyms / related: lasting, enduring, fixed

Forms: adverb: permanently · noun: permanence

Shy, nervous, or lacking confidence or courage.

Example: The timid puppy stayed behind the chair.

Synonyms / related: shy, fearful, hesitant

Forms: comparison: more timid, most timid · noun: timidity

Light, thin, and not strong or well made.

Example: The flimsy box bent when we lifted it.

Synonyms / related: weak, fragile, insubstantial

Forms: comparison: flimsier · superlative: flimsiest

A short stick used by a conductor, relay runner, or certain officials.

Example: The runner passed the baton to her teammate.

Synonyms / related: stick, relay baton, conductor's wand

Forms: plural: batons

A comment or statement; as a verb, to say or notice something.

Example: His remark made the class laugh.

Synonyms / related: comment, observation, statement

Forms: plural: remarks · verb: remark · remarked · remarking

The process of becoming damaged, rotten, or weaker over time.

Example: Fallen leaves decay and return nutrients to the soil.

Synonyms / related: rot, deterioration, decomposition

Forms: verb: decay · decays · decayed · decaying

Easily damaged, requiring careful handling, or fine and gentle in appearance.

Example: The delicate glass ornament was wrapped carefully.

Synonyms / related: fragile, fine, dainty

Forms: adverb: delicately · noun: delicacy

To state something clearly, formally, or publicly.

Example: The referee declared the match over.

Synonyms / related: announce, state, proclaim

Forms: base: declare · 3rd person: declares · past: declared · past participle: declared · -ing: declaring

To sleep lightly for a short time.

Example: He began to doze on the warm bus ride home.

Synonyms / related: nap, snooze, sleep lightly

Forms: base: doze · 3rd person: dozes · past: dozed · past participle: dozed · -ing: dozing

To run very fast for a short distance; as a noun, a short fast race.

Example: She sprinted to the finish line.

Synonyms / related: dash, race, run fast

Forms: base: sprint · sprints · sprinted · sprinting

Silent or with sound turned off; as a verb, to reduce or switch off sound.

Example: He muted the television during the phone call.

Synonyms / related: silent, quiet, silence

Forms: verb: mute · muted · muting · noun: mute

To pause before doing or saying something because you are uncertain.

Example: She hesitated before choosing an answer.

Synonyms / related: pause, waver, delay

Forms: base: hesitate · hesitates · hesitated · hesitating · noun: hesitation

A long narrow raised area of land or a raised line on a surface.

Example: The hikers followed the ridge above the valley.

Synonyms / related: crest, raised line, spine

Forms: plural: ridges

To hold something tightly, especially because of fear, pain, or urgency.

Example: She clutched my arm when the lights went out.

Synonyms / related: grip, grasp, hold tightly

Forms: base: clutch · clutches · clutched · clutching

A support used under the arm or hand to help someone walk.

Example: He used a crutch while his ankle healed.

Synonyms / related: walking aid, support

Forms: plural: crutches

An offer of a price, or an attempt to achieve something; as a verb, to make such an offer.

Example: They made a bid for the old painting.

Synonyms / related: offer, proposal, attempt

Forms: base: bid · bids · past: bid · past participle: bid · -ing: bidding

Another choice or possibility instead of the first one.

Example: We found an alternative route when the road was closed.

Synonyms / related: option, choice, substitute

Forms: plural: alternatives · adverb: alternatively

To move quickly and awkwardly, or to mix things into disorder.

Example: The children scrambled up the rocky slope.

Synonyms / related: clamber, rush, mix up

Forms: base: scramble · scrambles · scrambled · scrambling

Covered with plants that have grown too much or become uncontrolled.

Example: The path was overgrown with weeds.

Synonyms / related: wild, weed-covered, untrimmed

Forms: verb source: overgrow · past: overgrew · past participle: overgrown

To make someone feel afraid, nervous, or less confident, often to influence their behaviour.

Example: The older player tried to intimidate the new team.

Synonyms / related: frighten, bully, scare

Forms: base: intimidate · intimidates · intimidated · intimidating · noun: intimidation

To calm, comfort, or reduce pain or irritation.

Example: Her quiet voice helped soothe the frightened child.

Synonyms / related: calm, comfort, ease

Forms: base: soothe · soothes · soothed · soothing

To make someone or an animal feel afraid.

Example: The sudden thunder frightened the dog.

Synonyms / related: scare, alarm, startle

Forms: base: frighten · frightens · frightened · frightening · noun: fright

To look steadily at something for some time.

Example: They gazed at the stars from the porch.

Synonyms / related: stare, look, watch

Forms: base: gaze · gazes · gazed · gazing

To pass a dry material through a sieve to remove lumps or separate fine particles.

Example: Sift the flour before mixing the batter.

Synonyms / related: screen, strain, separate

Forms: base: sift · sifts · sifted · sifting

A fine powder made by grinding grain, commonly used in baking.

Example: We measured two cups of flour for the bread.

Synonyms / related: meal, powdered grain

Forms: usually uncountable

A person who teaches or helps one student or a small group; as a verb, to teach in this way.

Example: The tutor helped him understand the math problem.

Synonyms / related: teacher, coach, instructor

Forms: plural: tutors · verb: tutor · tutored · tutoring

A small type of horse.

Example: The child rode a pony at the farm.

Synonyms / related: small horse

Forms: plural: ponies

Having a pleasantly full or rounded shape; as a verb, to make fuller.

Example: The ripe berries looked plump and juicy.

Synonyms / related: rounded, full, chubby

Forms: comparison: plumper · plumpest · verb: plump · plumped · plumping

To talk quickly and continuously, often about ordinary things.

Example: The children chattered excitedly on the bus.

Synonyms / related: talk, babble, chat

Forms: base: chatter · chatters · chattered · chattering

One of two small masses of tissue at the back of the throat.

Example: The doctor checked her tonsils during the examination.

Synonyms / related: throat tissue

Forms: plural: tonsils · adjective: tonsillar

A cone-shaped dwelling traditionally used by some Indigenous peoples of the Plains.

Example: The museum exhibit showed how a teepee was constructed.

Synonyms / related: tipi, conical dwelling

Forms: plural: teepees; also spelled tipi or tepee

A small, simple bed, often portable; in some regions, a baby bed.

Example: The camper slept on a folding cot.

Synonyms / related: camp bed, small bed

Forms: plural: cots

To employ someone for work or pay to use something temporarily.

Example: The company plans to hire two new workers.

Synonyms / related: employ, recruit, rent

Forms: base: hire · hires · hired · hiring

Heat, light, and flames produced by burning; as a verb, to dismiss someone from a job or shoot a weapon.

Example: We warmed our hands near the fire.

Synonyms / related: flame, blaze, dismiss

Forms: plural: fires · verb: fire · fired · firing

A metal frame in a fireplace, or a tool with rough holes used to shred food; as a verb, to shred by rubbing.

Example: The logs rested on the fireplace grate.

Synonyms / related: grid, shredder, rasp

Forms: plural: grates · verb: grate · grated · grating

A built-in place in a room where a controlled fire can burn.

Example: The family sat near the fireplace on a cold evening.

Synonyms / related: hearth, fireplace opening

Forms: plural: fireplaces

To cook food with dry heat, usually in an oven.

Example: Bake the bread in the oven until it is golden.

Synonyms / related: cook, roast, oven-cook

Forms: base: bake · bakes · baked · baking

An enclosed appliance or chamber used for baking, roasting, or heating food.

Example: The cookies baked in the oven for twelve minutes.

Synonyms / related: stove oven, baking chamber

Forms: plural: ovens

A long thin flexible rope, cable, or electrical line.

Example: The lamp cord was tucked safely behind the desk.

Synonyms / related: cable, rope, line

Forms: plural: cords

Unable to see; as a noun, a window covering; as a verb, to prevent someone from seeing.

Example: She pulled down the blind to block the sunlight.

Synonyms / related: sightless, shade, screen

Forms: plural noun: blinds · verb: blind · blinded · blinding

A bird, especially a domestic bird kept for meat or eggs.

Example: Chickens are common domestic fowl.

Synonyms / related: bird, poultry

Forms: plural: fowl or fowls

A warm-blooded animal with feathers, wings, and a beak.

Example: A small bird landed on the fence.

Synonyms / related: avian, fowl

Forms: plural: birds · adjective: avian

Pigs, especially as a group; also an old-fashioned insulting word for a person.

Example: The farmer kept swine in a fenced field.

Synonyms / related: pigs, hogs

Forms: plural/collective: swine

A pig, especially a large one; as a verb, to take more than one’s fair share.

Example: The farm raised hogs for market.

Synonyms / related: pig, swine

Forms: plural: hogs · verb: hog · hogged · hogging

A complete loss of hope; as a verb, to lose hope.

Example: In the midst of despair, she still searched for a solution.

Synonyms / related: hopelessness, despondency, lose hope

Forms: verb: despair · despaired · despairing · adjective: despairing

The middle of a place, group, or situation.

Example: He stayed calm in the midst of confusion.

Synonyms / related: middle, centre

Forms: usually used in phrases such as in the midst of

Feeling that a situation is so bad that you are willing to try almost anything, or urgently needing something.

Example: They were desperate to find shelter before dark.

Synonyms / related: frantic, urgent, hopeless

Forms: adverb: desperately · noun: desperation

A young dog.

Example: The puppy fell asleep beside the chair.

Synonyms / related: young dog, pup

Forms: plural: puppies

To make a quick movement because of fear, pain, or surprise.

Example: He flinched when the balloon popped.

Synonyms / related: wince, recoil, shrink back

Forms: base: flinch · flinches · flinched · flinching

An unpleasant feeling caused by danger or the belief that something bad may happen.

Example: She spoke despite her fear of making a mistake.

Synonyms / related: fright, anxiety, dread

Forms: plural: fears · verb: fear · feared · fearing · adjective: fearful

To buy something; as a noun, something that has been bought.

Example: We purchased the tickets online.

Synonyms / related: buy, acquire, obtain

Forms: base: purchase · purchases · purchased · purchasing

The base of a tree left after the trunk is cut; as a verb, to puzzle someone so they cannot answer.

Example: The final question stumped the class.

Synonyms / related: puzzle, baffle, tree base

Forms: plural: stumps · verb: stump · stumped · stumping

To break a law, rule, agreement, or right.

Example: Drivers who ignore the sign may violate the law.

Synonyms / related: break, breach, infringe

Forms: base: violate · violates · violated · violating · noun: violation

A rule made and enforced by a government or other authority.

Example: The new law took effect in January.

Synonyms / related: rule, statute, regulation

Forms: plural: laws · adjective: legal

To worry repeatedly about something.

Example: Do not fret about one small mistake.

Synonyms / related: worry, brood, be anxious

Forms: base: fret · frets · fretted · fretting

A sentence or problem that asks for information or an answer; as a verb, to ask or doubt.

Example: The final question was difficult.

Synonyms / related: query, inquiry, ask

Forms: plural: questions · verb: question · questioned · questioning

To talk quickly in a way that is hard to understand, or to make a continuous murmuring sound.

Example: The toddler babbled happily in the back seat.

Synonyms / related: chatter, prattle, murmur

Forms: base: babble · babbles · babbled · babbling

To calm someone who is angry or upset, or to make a situation peaceful.

Example: The parent tried to pacify the crying child.

Synonyms / related: calm, soothe, appease

Forms: base: pacify · pacifies · pacified · pacifying · noun: pacification

Money, goods, or other help given voluntarily to support a person or cause.

Example: The food bank received a generous donation.

Synonyms / related: gift, contribution, offering

Forms: plural: donations · verb: donate · donor: person who donates

Funny or intended to make people laugh.

Example: The story included several humorous scenes.

Synonyms / related: funny, amusing, comic

Forms: adverb: humorously · noun: humour/humor

Willing to give, share, or help more than is expected.

Example: A generous neighbour donated books to the school.

Synonyms / related: giving, kind, charitable

Forms: adverb: generously · noun: generosity

Very worried, upset, or troubled.

Example: She looked distressed when she could not find her dog.

Synonyms / related: worried, upset, troubled

Forms: verb source: distress · noun: distress

Feeling anxious or concerned that something bad may happen.

Example: He was worried about missing the bus.

Synonyms / related: concerned, anxious, uneasy

Forms: verb source: worry · worries · worried · worrying

Deep sadness, especially after a serious loss.

Example: The family supported one another through their grief.

Synonyms / related: sorrow, sadness, mourning

Forms: usually uncountable · verb: grieve

To feel or express deep sadness, especially after a loss.

Example: They grieved after the death of their pet.

Synonyms / related: mourn, sorrow, lament

Forms: base: grieve · grieves · grieved · grieving

A building material made from sun-dried earth and straw, or a building made from it.

Example: The old house had thick adobe walls.

Synonyms / related: mud brick, earthen brick

Forms: usually uncountable as material · plural buildings/bricks: adobes

Exactly matching in shape and size in geometry, or in agreement more generally.

Example: The two triangles are congruent because all corresponding sides and angles match.

Synonyms / related: identical in shape and size, matching, consistent

Forms: noun: congruence · adverb: congruently

Something unclear or unfocused; as a verb, to make or become unclear.

Example: The fast-moving car became a blur in the photograph.

Synonyms / related: smudge, haze, obscure

Forms: plural: blurs · verb: blur · blurred · blurring

A large special meal; as a verb, to eat a large amount or enjoy something greatly.

Example: The family prepared a feast for the celebration.

Synonyms / related: banquet, large meal, celebration meal

Forms: plural: feasts · verb: feast · feasted · feasting

To walk through water or another substance that reaches partway up the legs.

Example: They waded through shallow water near the beach.

Synonyms / related: walk through water, ford

Forms: base: wade · wades · waded · wading

To have or express an unfavourable opinion about something.

Example: Her parents disapproved of the risky plan.

Synonyms / related: object to, oppose, criticize

Forms: base: disapprove · disapproves · disapproved · disapproving · noun: disapproval

To have a different opinion, or for facts or statements not to match.

Example: Two classmates can disagree without being rude.

Synonyms / related: differ, object, oppose

Forms: base: disagree · disagrees · disagreed · disagreeing · noun: disagreement

To smile broadly, often showing the teeth.

Example: He grinned when he saw the surprise.

Synonyms / related: smile broadly, beam

Forms: base: grin · grins · grinned · grinning

A person’s signature, especially a famous person’s; as a verb, to sign something.

Example: The player signed an autograph for the young fan.

Synonyms / related: signature, signed name

Forms: plural: autographs · verb: autograph · autographed · autographing

Care taken to avoid danger or mistakes; as a verb, to warn someone.

Example: Use caution when walking on the icy steps.

Synonyms / related: care, warning, prudence

Forms: plural: cautions · verb: caution · cautioned · cautioning · adjective: cautious

Continuing without stopping or changing much; as a noun, a value that does not change.

Example: The machine made a constant humming sound.

Synonyms / related: continuous, steady, unchanging

Forms: adverb: constantly · noun: constancy

To move smoothly along a surface; as a noun, something that moves this way or a playground structure.

Example: The children slid down the playground slide.

Synonyms / related: glide, slip, chute

Forms: base: slide · slides · past: slid · past participle: slid · -ing: sliding

To carry out an act, especially a serious one, or to promise yourself to a course of action.

Example: To commit a crime means to carry out an illegal act.

Synonyms / related: carry out, perform, pledge

Forms: base: commit · commits · committed · committing · noun: commitment

An act that breaks a criminal law.

Example: The police investigated the crime.

Synonyms / related: offence, illegal act, violation

Forms: plural: crimes · adjective: criminal

Very valuable, loved, or important.

Example: The old photograph was precious to her family.

Synonyms / related: valuable, treasured, dear

Forms: adverb: preciously · noun: preciousness

A space or room directly under the roof of a house.

Example: Old boxes were stored in the attic.

Synonyms / related: loft, roof space

Forms: plural: attics

A room below ground level, often used for storage.

Example: The jars were kept in the cool cellar.

Synonyms / related: basement, storage room

Forms: plural: cellars

An upper space in a building, often just below the roof, or a raised open area.

Example: The barn loft was filled with hay.

Synonyms / related: attic, upper room, gallery

Forms: plural: lofts

Kind, polite, and pleasant, especially toward other people.

Example: The host was gracious to every guest.

Synonyms / related: courteous, kind, polite

Forms: adverb: graciously · noun: graciousness

Not polite or respectful.

Example: Interrupting someone repeatedly can seem rude.

Synonyms / related: impolite, disrespectful, discourteous

Forms: comparison: ruder · superlative: rudest · noun: rudeness

Giving or reflecting a lot of light; it can also mean vivid, cheerful, or intelligent.

Example: The bright lamp lit the whole room.

Synonyms / related: shining, vivid, clever

Forms: comparison: brighter · superlative: brightest · adverb: brightly

A thick, broad, flat piece of stone, concrete, wood, or another material.

Example: The workers poured a concrete slab for the shed.

Synonyms / related: block, plate, flat piece

Forms: plural: slabs

A flexible board used for diving or gymnastics; figuratively, something that helps start further progress.

Example: The diver bounced once on the springboard.

Synonyms / related: diving board, launching point

Forms: plural: springboards

To get or acquire something, especially through effort or a process.

Example: You must obtain permission before entering the lab.

Synonyms / related: get, acquire, secure

Forms: base: obtain · obtains · obtained · obtaining

A movable fold of skin that covers and protects the eye.

Example: She closed her eyelids when the light became too bright.

Synonyms / related: lid of the eye

Forms: plural: eyelids

A shallow outdoor basin filled with water for birds to drink or bathe in.

Example: A robin splashed in the garden birdbath.

Synonyms / related: bird basin, water basin

Forms: plural: birdbaths