# dict

Words: diversify
Meaning:
di.ver.si.fy\n   diversify  diversifies  diversifying  diversified\n  When an organization or person diversifies into other things, or diversifies their range of something, they increase the variety of things that they do or make.\nThe company’s troubles started only when it diversified into new products...\nManufacturers have been encouraged to diversify...\nThese firms have been given a tough lesson in the need to diversify their markets.\n  VERB: V into n/-ing, V, V n\n  = branch out\n=>  di.ver.si.fi.ca.tion      diversifications\nThe seminar was to discuss diversification of agriculture...\n  N-VAR


Words: diversion
Meaning:
di.ver.sion\n   diversion  diversions\n1. A diversion is an action or event that attracts your attention away from what you are doing or concentrating on.\nThe robbers threw smoke bombs to create a diversion...\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. A diversion is an activity that you do for pleasure. (FORMAL)\nFinger painting is very messy but an excellent diversion.\n  N-COUNT\n\n3. A diversion is a special route arranged for traffic to follow when the normal route cannot be used. (BRIT; in AM, use detour)\nThey turned back because of traffic diversions.\n  N-COUNT\n\n4. The diversion of something involves changing its course or destination.\n...the illegal diversion of profits from secret arms sales.\n  N-UNCOUNT: the N of n


Words: diversionary
Meaning:
di.ver.sion.ary\n   diversionary\n  A diversionary activity is one intended to attract people’s attention away from something which you do not want them to think about, know about, or deal with.\nFires were started by the prisoners as a diversionary tactic...\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n


Words: diversity
Meaning:
di.ver.sity\n   diversity  diversities\n1. The diversity of something is the fact that it contains many very different elements.\n...the cultural diversity of British society.\n  N-VAR: usu with supp\n  = variety\n2. A diversity of things is a range of things which are very different from each other.\nHis object is to gather as great a diversity of material as possible.\n  N-SING: N of n


Words: divert
Meaning:
di.vert\n   divert  diverts  diverting  diverted\n1. To divert vehicles or travellers means to make them follow a different route or go to a different destination than they originally intended. You can also say that someone or something diverts from a particular route or to a particular place. (BRIT; in AM, use detour)\n...Rainham Marshes, east London, where a new bypass will divert traffic from the A13...\nWe diverted a plane to rescue 100 passengers...\nShe insists on diverting to a village close to the airport...\n  VERB: V n from/to n, V n, V from/to n\n\n2. To divert money or resources means to cause them to be used for a different purpose.\nThe government is trying to divert more public funds from west to east.\n  VERB: V n prep/adv, also V n\n\n3. To divert a phone call means to send it to a different number or place from the one that was dialled by the person making the call.\nHe instructed switchboard staff to divert all Laura’s calls to him.\n  VERB: V n prep/adv, also V n\n\n4. If you say that someone diverts your attention from something important or serious, you disapprove of them behaving or talking in a way that stops you thinking about it.\nThey want to divert the attention of the people from the real issues.\n  VERB: V n prep/adv  disapproval\n  = distract


Words: diverting
Meaning:
di.vert.ing\n   diverting\n  If you describe something as diverting, you mean that it is amusing or entertaining. (OLD-FASHIONED)\n  ADJ\n  = enjoyable


Words: divest
Meaning:
di.vest\n   divest  divests  divesting  divested\n1. If you divest yourself of something that you own or are responsible for, you get rid of it or stop being responsible for it. (FORMAL)\nThe company divested itself of its oil interests.\n  VERB: V pron-refl of n\n  = rid\n2. If something or someone is divested of a particular quality, they lose that quality or it is taken away from them. (FORMAL)\n...in the 1960s, when sexual love had been divested of sin...\nThey have divested rituals of their original meaning...\n  VERB: be V-ed of n, V n of n\n  = strip


Words: divide
Meaning:
di.vide\n   divide  divides  dividing  divided\n1. When people or things are divided or divide into smaller groups or parts, they become separated into smaller parts.\nThe physical benefits of exercise can be divided into three factors...\nIt will be easiest if we divide them into groups...\nDivide the pastry in half and roll out each piece...\nWe divide into pairs and each pair takes a region...\nBacteria reproduce by dividing and making copies of themselves.\n  VERB: be V-ed into pl-n, V n into pl-n, V n in fraction, V into pl-n, V, also V n\n  = split\n2. If you divide something among people or things, you separate it into several parts or quantities which you distribute to the people or things.\nDivide the sauce among 4 bowls.\n  VERB: V n between/among pl-n\n  = share\n3. If you divide a larger number by a smaller number or divide a smaller number into a larger number, you calculate how many times the smaller number can fit exactly into the larger number.\nMeasure the floor area of the greenhouse and divide it by six.\n  VERB: V n by/into num\n\n4. If a border or line divides two areas or divides an area into two, it keeps the two areas separate from each other.\n...remote border areas dividing Tamil and Muslim settlements.\n...the long frontier dividing Mexico from the United States.\n  VERB: V n, V n from n\n  = separate\n5. If people divide over something or if something divides them, it causes strong disagreement between them.\nShe has done more to divide the Conservatives than anyone else...\nThe party is likely to divide along ideological lines.\n  VERB: V n, V prep\n  !=unite\n6. A divide is a significant distinction between two groups, often one that causes conflict.\n...a deliberate attempt to create a Hindu-Muslim divide in India.\n  N-COUNT: usu sing, usu with supp\n  = rift\n7. A divide is a moment in time or a point in a process when there is a complete change from one situation to another.\nThe time had come to cross the great divide between formality and truth.\n  N-COUNT: usu sing, usu with supp\n  = watershed\n8. You use divide and rule to refer to a policy which is intended to keep someone in a position of power by causing disagreements between people who might otherwise unite against them.\nThe government’s policies of divide and rule have only contributed to the volatility of the region.\n  PHRASE  disapproval


Words: divide up
Meaning:
divide up\n1. If you divide something up, you separate it into smaller or more useful groups.\nThe idea is to divide up the country into four sectors...\nThe Trust needs a new law to divide it up into smaller bodies.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P n (not pron) into pl-n, V n P into pl-n\n  = split up\n2. If you divide something up, you share it out among a number of people or groups in approximately equal parts.\nThe aim was to divide up the business, give everyone an equal stake in its future.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P n (not pron)


Words: divided highway
Meaning:
di.vid.ed high.way\n   divided highway  divided highways\n  A divided highway is a road which has two lanes of traffic travelling in each direction with a strip of grass or concrete down the middle to separate the two lots of traffic. (AM; in BRIT, use dual carriageway)\n  N-COUNT


Words: dividend
Meaning:
divi.dend\n   dividend  dividends\n1. A dividend is the part of a company’s profits which is paid to people who have shares in the company. (BUSINESS)\nThe first quarter dividend has been increased by nearly 4 per cent.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. If something pays dividends, it brings advantages at a later date.\nSteps taken now to maximise your health will pay dividends later on.\n  PHRASE: V inflects\n\n3.\n  see also peace dividend


Words: divider
Meaning:
di.vid.er\n   divider  dividers\n1. A divider is something which forms a barrier between two areas or sets of things.\nA curtain acted as a divider between this class and another.\n  N-COUNT: usu with supp\n\n2. Dividers are an instrument used for measuring lines and for marking points along them. Dividers consist of two pointed arms joined with a hinge.\n  N-PLURAL: also a pair of N


Words: dividing line
Meaning:
di.vid.ing line\n   dividing line  dividing lines\n1. A dividing line is a distinction or set of distinctions which marks the difference between two types of thing or two groups.\nThere’s a very thin dividing line between joviality and hysteria.\n  N-COUNT: usu sing, oft N between pl-n\n\n2. The dividing line between two areas is the boundary between them.\n...people on both sides of the dividing line between Israel and the occupied territories.\n  N-SING: oft N between pl-n


Words: divination
Meaning:
divi.na.tion\n   divination\n  Divination is the art or practice of discovering what will happen in the future using supernatural means. (FORMAL)\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: divine
Meaning:
di.vine\n   divine  divines  divining  divined\n1. You use divine to describe something that is provided by or relates to a god or goddess.\nHe suggested that the civil war had been a divine punishment.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n\n\n=>  di.vine.ly\nThe law was divinely ordained.\n  ADV: usu ADV -ed\n\n2. If you divine something, you discover or learn it by guessing. (LITERARY)\n...the child’s ability to divine the needs of its parents and respond to them...\nFrom this he divined that she did not like him much.\n  VERB: V n, V that, also V wh


Words: divine right
Meaning:
di.vine right\n   divine right  divine rights\n  If someone thinks they have a divine right to something, they think that it is their right to have it, without making any effort.\nA degree does not give you a divine right to wealth.\n  N-COUNT: usu sing


Words: diving
Meaning:
div.ing\n   diving\n1. Diving is the activity of working or looking around underwater, using special breathing equipment.\n...equipment and accessories for diving.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n2. Diving is the sport or activity in which you jump into water head first with your arms held straight above your head, usually from a diving board.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: diving bell
Meaning:
div.ing bell\n   diving bell  diving bells\n  A diving bell is a container shaped like a bell, in which people can breathe air while they work under water.\n  N-COUNT


Words: diving board
Meaning:
div.ing board\n   diving board  diving boards\n  A diving board is a board high above a swimming pool from which people can dive into the water.\n  N-COUNT


Words: divinity
Meaning:
di.vin.ity\n   divinity  divinities\n1. Divinity is the study of religion.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n  = theology\n2. Divinity is the quality of being divine.\n...a lasting faith in the divinity of Christ’s word.\n  N-UNCOUNT: oft with poss\n\n3. A divinity is a god or goddess.\nThe three statues above are probably Roman divinities.\n  N-COUNT


Words: divisible
Meaning:
di.vi.sible\n   divisible\n  If one number is divisible by another number, the second number can be divided into the first exactly, with nothing left over.\nTwenty-eight is divisible by seven.\n  ADJ: v-link ADJ by num


Words: division
Meaning:
di.vi.sion\n   division  divisions\n1. The division of a large unit into two or more distinct parts is the act of separating it into these parts.\n...the unification of Germany, after its division into two states at the end of World War Two.\n  N-UNCOUNT: oft with poss, oft N into pl-n\n\n2. The division of something among people or things is its separation into parts which are distributed among the people or things.\nThe current division of labor between workers and management will alter.\n  N-UNCOUNT: oft N of n among/between pl-n\n\n3. Division is the arithmetical process of dividing one number into another number.\nI taught my daughter how to do division at the age of six.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n  !=multiplication\n4. A division is a significant distinction or argument between two groups, which causes the two groups to be considered as very different and separate.\nThe division between the prosperous west and the impoverished east remains.\n  N-VAR: oft N between/among pl-n\n  = divide\n5. In a large organization, a division is a group of departments whose work is done in the same place or is connected with similar tasks.\n...the bank’s Latin American division.\n  N-COUNT: usu supp N\n\n6. A division is a group of military units which fight as a single unit.\nSeveral armoured divisions are being moved from Germany.\n  N-COUNT: usu supp N\n\n7. In some sports, such as football, baseball, and basketball, a division is one of the groups of teams which make up a league. The teams in each division are considered to be approximately the same standard, and they all play against each other during the season.\n  N-COUNT: usu supp N


Words: division sign
Meaning:
di.vi.sion sign\n   division sign  division signs\n  A division sign is the symbol . used between two numbers to show that the first number has to be divided by the second.\n  N-COUNT


Words: divisional
Meaning:
di.vi.sion.al\n   divisional\n  Divisional means relating to a division of a large organization or group.\nAn alarm links the police station to the divisional headquarters.\n  ADJ: ADJ n


Words: divisive
Meaning:
di.vi.sive\n   divisive\n  Something that is divisive causes unfriendliness and argument between people.\nAbortion has always been a divisive issue...\n  ADJ\n\n=>  di.vi.sive.ness\n...the divisiveness that has separated Miami’s black and Latino communities.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: divorce
Meaning:
di.vor.ce\n   divorce  divorces\n  A divorce is a man who is divorced. (mainly AM)\n  N-COUNT\n\ndi.vorce\n   divorce  divorces  divorcing  divorced\n1. A divorce is the formal ending of a marriage by law.\nNumerous marriages now end in divorce...\n  N-VAR\n\n2. If a man and woman divorce or if one of them divorces the other, their marriage is legally ended.\nMy parents divorced when I was very young...\nHe and Lillian had got divorced...\nI am absolutely furious that he divorced me to marry her...\nMr Gold is divorcing for the second time...\nI got divorced when I was about 31.\n  V-RECIP: pl-n V, pl-n get V-ed, V n, NON-RECIP: V, get V-ed\n\n3. A divorce of one thing from another, or a divorce between two things is a separation between them which is permanent or is likely to be permanent.\n...this divorce of Christian culture from the roots of faith...\n  N-SING: usu N of n from n, N between pl-n\n\n4. If you say that one thing cannot be divorced from another, you mean that the two things cannot be considered as different and separate things.\nGood management in the police cannot be divorced from accountability...\nWe have been able to divorce sex from reproduction.\n  VERB: be V-ed from n, V n from n\n  = dissociate


Words: divorced
Meaning:
di.vorced\n   divorced\n1. Someone who is divorced from their former husband or wife has separated from them and is no longer legally married to them.\nHe is divorced, with a young son.\n  ADJ: oft ADJ from n\n\n2. If you say that one thing is divorced from another, you mean that the two things are very different and separate from each other.\n...speculative theories divorced from political reality.\n  ADJ: v-link ADJ from n\n  = unconnected\n3. If you say that someone is divorced from a situation, you mean that they act as if they are not affected by it in any way.\nThis just shows how divorced from reality she’s become.\n  ADJ: v-link ADJ from n


Words: divorcee
Meaning:
di.vor.cee\n   divorcee  divorcees\n  A divorcee is a woman who is divorced. (mainly AM)\n  N-COUNT\n\ndi.vor.cee\n   divorcee  divorcees\n  A divorcee is a person, especially a woman, who is divorced.\n  N-COUNT


Words: divot
Meaning:
div.ot\n   divot  divots\n  A divot is a small piece of grass and earth which is dug out accidentally, for example by a golf club.\n  N-COUNT


Words: divulge
Meaning:
di.vulge\n   divulge  divulges  divulging  divulged\n  If you divulge a piece of secret or private information, you tell it to someone. (FORMAL)\nOfficials refuse to divulge details of the negotiations...\nI do not want to divulge where the village is.\n  VERB: V n, V wh, also V n to n, V that\n  = reveal, disclose


Words: divvy
Meaning:
div.vy\n   divvy  divvies  divvying  divvied\n  If you call someone a divvy, you are saying in a humorous way that you think they are rather foolish. (BRIT INFORMAL)\n  N-COUNT


Words: divvy up
Meaning:
divvy up\n  If you divvy up something such as money or food, you share it out. (INFORMAL)\nJohnson was free to divvy up his share of the money as he chose.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P n (not pron), also V n P\n  = divide


Words: Diwali
Meaning:
Di.wa.li\n   Diwali   also Divali\n  Diwali is a Hindu festival held in honour of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. It is celebrated in October or November with the lighting of lamps in homes and temples, and with prayers to Lakshmi.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: DIY
Meaning:
DIY\n  DIY is the activity of making or repairing things yourself, especially in your home. DIY is an abbreviation for `do-it-yourself’. (BRIT)\nHe’s useless at DIY. He won’t even put up a shelf.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: dizzy
Meaning:
diz.zy\n   dizzy  dizzier  dizziest  dizzies  dizzying  dizzied\n1. If you feel dizzy, you feel that you are losing your balance and are about to fall.\nHer head still hurt, and she felt slightly dizzy and disoriented...\n  ADJ\n\n=>  diz.zi.ly\nHer head spins dizzily as soon as she sits up.\n  ADV: usu ADV with v\n\n=>  diz.zi.ness\nHis complaint causes dizziness and nausea.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n2. You can use dizzy to describe a woman who is careless and forgets things, but is easy to like.\nShe is famed for playing dizzy blondes.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n\n\n3. If you say that someone has reached the dizzy heights of something, you are emphasizing that they have reached a very high level by achieving it. (HUMOROUS)\nI escalated to the dizzy heights of director’s secretary.\n  PHRASE: usu PHR after v, oft PHR of n  emphasis


Words: DJ
Meaning:
DJ  DJs   also D.J., dj\n1. A DJ is the same as a disc jockey.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. A DJ is the same as a dinner jacket. (BRIT)\n  N-COUNT


Words: DNA
Meaning:
DNA\n  DNA is an acid in the chromosomes in the centre of the cells of living things. DNA determines the particular structure and functions of every cell and is responsible for characteristics being passed on from parents to their children. DNA is an abbreviation for `deoxyribonucleic acid’.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: DNA fingerprinting
Meaning:
DNA finger.print.ing\n   DNA fingerprinting\n  DNA fingerprinting is the same as genetic fingerprinting.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: DNA test
Meaning:
DNA test  DNA tests\n  A DNA test is a test in which someone’s DNA is analysed, for example to see if they have committed a particular crime or are the parent of a particular child.\n  N-COUNT\n\n=>  DNA test.ing\nThey took samples from his hair for DNA testing.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: do
Meaning:
NOUN USES\n   do  dos\n1. A do is a party, dinner party, or other social event. (mainly BRIT INFORMAL)\nA friend of his is having a do in Stoke...\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. If someone tells you the dos and don’ts of a particular situation, they advise you what you should and should not do in that situation.\nPlease advise me on the most suitable colour print film and some dos and don’ts.\n  PHRASE\n\nAUXILIARY VERB USES\n   do  WEAK   STRONG does  WEAK   STRONG doing  did  done\nDo is used as an auxiliary with the simple present tense. Did is used as an auxiliary with the simple past tense. In spoken English, negative forms of do are often shortened, for example do not is shortened to don’t and did not is shortened to didn’t.\n1. Do is used to form the negative of main verbs, by putting `not’ after `do’ and before the main verb in its infinitive form, that is the form without `to’.\nThey don’t want to work...\nI did not know Jamie had a knife...\nIt doesn’t matter if you win or lose.\n  AUX: AUX neg inf, AUX neg inf, AUX neg inf\n\n2. Do is used to form questions, by putting the subject after `do’ and before the main verb in its infinitive form, that is the form without `to’.\nDo you like music?...\nWhat did he say?...\nWhere does she live?\n  AUX: AUX n v, AUX n v, AUX n v\n\n3. Do is used in question tags.\nYou know about Andy, don’t you?...\nI’m sure they had some of the same questions last year didn’t they?\n  AUX: cl AUX n, cl AUX n\n\n4. You use do when you are confirming or contradicting a statement containing `do’, or giving a negative or positive answer to a question.\n`Did he think there was anything suspicious going on?’.`Yes, he did.’...\n`Do you have a metal detector?’.`No, I don’t.’...\n  AUX: AUX, AUX\n\n5. Do is used with a negative to tell someone not to behave in a certain way.\nDon’t be silly...\nDon’t touch that!\n  AUX: only imper, AUX neg inf, AUX neg inf\n\n6. Do is used to give emphasis to the main verb when there is no other auxiliary.\nVeronica, I do understand...\nYou did have a tape recorder with you.\n  AUX: AUX inf, AUX inf  emphasis\n\n7. Do is used as a polite way of inviting or trying to persuade someone to do something.\nDo sit down...\nDo help yourself to another drink.\n  AUX: only imper, AUX inf, AUX inf  politeness\n\n8. Do can be used to refer back to another verb group when you are comparing or contrasting two things, or saying that they are the same.\nI make more money than he does...\nI had fantasies, as do all mothers, about how life would be when my girls were grown...\nGirls receive less health care and less education in the developing world than do boys.\n  VERB: V, as V n, than V n\n\n9. You use do after `so’ and `nor’ to say that the same statement is true for two people or groups.\nYou know that’s true, and so do I...\nWe don’t forget that. Nor does he...\n  VERB: V n, V n\n\nOTHER VERB USES\n   do  WEAK   STRONG does  WEAK   STRONG doing  did  done\ndo is used in a large number of expressions which are explained under other words in the dictionary. For example, the expression `easier said than done’ is explained at `easy’.\n1. When you do something, you take some action or perform an activity or task. Do is often used instead of a more specific verb, to talk about a common action involving a particular thing. For example you can say `do your teeth’ instead of `brush your teeth’.\nI was trying to do some work...\nAfter lunch Elizabeth and I did the washing up...\nDad does the garden...\n  VERB: V n, V n, V n\n\n2. Do can be used to stand for any verb group, or to refer back to another verb group, including one that was in a previous sentence.\nWhat are you doing?...\nThink twice before doing anything...\nA lot of people got arrested for looting so they will think before they do it again...\nI’m glad they gave me my money back, but I think they did this to shut me up...\nThe first thing is to get some more food. When we’ve done that we ought to start again...\nBrian counted to twenty and lifted his binoculars. Elena did the same...\nHe turned towards the open front door but, as he did so, she pushed past him.\n  VERB: V n, V pron-indef, V it, V this, V that, V the same, V so\n\n3. You can use do in a clause at the beginning of a sentence after words like `what’ and `all’, to give special emphasis to the information that comes at the end of the sentence.\nAll she does is complain...\nWhat I should do is go and see her...\n  VERB: V n, V n  emphasis\n\n4. If you do a particular thing with something, you use it in that particular way.\nI was allowed to do whatever I wanted with my life...\nThe technology was good, but you couldn’t do much with it.\n  VERB: V n with n, V amount with n\n\n5. If you do something about a problem, you take action to try to solve it.\nThey refuse to do anything about the real cause of crime: poverty...\nIf an engine packs in, there’s not much the engineer can do about it until the plane is back on the ground.\n  VERB: V n about n, V amount about n\n\n6. If an action or event does a particular thing, such as harm or good, it has that result or effect.\nA few bombs can do a lot of damage...\nIt’ll do you good to take a rest...\n  VERB: V n, V n n\n\n7. You can use do to talk about the degree to which a person, action, or event affects or improves a particular situation.\nSuch incidents do nothing for live music’s reputation...\nI’d just tried to do what I could for Lou.\n  VERB: V amount for n, V n for n\n\n8. You can talk about what someone or something does to a person to mean that they have a very harmful effect on them.\nI saw what the liquor was doing to her...\n  VERB: V to n\n\n9. If you ask someone what they do, you want to know what their job or profession is.\nWhat does your father do?...\n  VERB: V n\n\n10. If you are doing something, you are busy or active in some way, or have planned an activity for some time in the future.\nAre you doing anything tomorrow night?...\nThere is nothing to do around here.\n  VERB: V n, V n\n\n11. If you say that someone or something does well or badly, you are talking about how successful or unsuccessful they are.\nConnie did well at school and graduated with honours...\nHow did I do?\n  VERB: V adv, V adv\n\n12. If a person or organization does a particular service or product, they provide that service or sell that product. (mainly BRIT)\nThey provide design services and do printing and packaging...\nThey do a good range of herbal tea.\n  VERB: V n, V n\n\n13. You can use do when referring to the speed or rate that something or someone achieves or is able to achieve.\nThey were doing 70 miles an hour.\n  VERB: V amount\n\n14. If you do a subject, author, or book, you study them at school or college. (SPOKEN)\nI’d like to do maths at university.\n  VERB: V n\n\n15. If you do a particular person, accent, or role, you imitate that person or accent, or act that role.\nGina does accents extremely well.\n(next)


Words: do .1
Meaning:
VERB: V n\n\n16. If someone does drugs, they take illegal drugs.\nI don’t do drugs.\n  VERB: V n\n\n17. If you say that something will do or will do you, you mean that there is enough of it or that it is of good enough quality to meet your requirements or to satisfy you.\nAnything to create a scene and attract attention will do...\n`What would you like to eat?’.`Anything’ll do me, Eva.’\n  VERB: V, V n\n\n18. If you say that you could do with something, you mean that you need it or would benefit from it.\nI could do with a cup of tea...\nThe range could do with being extended.\n  PHRASE: V inflects, PHR n/-ing\n\n19. You can ask someone what they did with something as another way of asking them where they put it.\nWhat did you do with that notebook?\n  PHRASE: V inflects, PHR n\n\n20. If you ask what someone or something is doing in a particular place, you are asking why they are there.\n`Dr Campbell,’ he said, clearly surprised. `What are you doing here?’\n  PHRASE: PHR adv/prep\n\n21. If you say that one thing has something to do with or is something to do with another thing, you mean that the two things are connected or that the first thing is about the second thing.\nMr Butterfield denies having anything to do with the episode...\nThat’s none of your business, it has nothing to do with you...\n  PHRASE: have/be inflects, PHR n


Words: do away with
Meaning:
do away with\n1. To do away with something means to remove it completely or put an end to it.\nThe long-range goal must be to do away with nuclear weapons altogether.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P P n\n\n2. If one person does away with another, the first murders the second. If you do away with yourself, you kill yourself. (INFORMAL)\n...a woman whose husband had made several attempts to do away with her.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P P n, also V P P pron-refl


Words: do for
Meaning:
do for\n  If you say that you are done for, you mean that you are in a terrible and hopeless situation. (INFORMAL)\nWe need his help or we’re done for, dead and gone, lost.\n  PHRASAL VERB: usu passive, be V-ed P


Words: do in
Meaning:
do in\n  To do someone in means to kill them. (INFORMAL)\nWhoever did him in removed a man who was brave as well as ruthless.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V n P, also V P n (not pron)\n  = bump off


Words: do out
Meaning:
do out\n  If a room or building is done out in a particular way, it is decorated and furnished in that way. (BRIT)\n...a room newly done out in country-house style.\n  PHRASAL VERB: usu passive, be V-ed P prep/adv


Words: do out of
Meaning:
do out of\n  If you do someone out of something, you unfairly cause them not to have or get a particular thing that they were expecting to have. (INFORMAL)\nHe complains that the others have done him out of his share.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V n P P n


Words: do over
Meaning:
do over\n  If you do a task over, you perform it again from the beginning. (AM)\nIf she had the chance to do it over, she would have hired a press secretary.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V n P\n  = do again


Words: do up
Meaning:
do up\n1. If you do something up, you fasten it.\nMari did up the buttons...\nKeep your scarf on, do your coat up.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P n (not pron), V n P\n\n2. If you do up an old building, you decorate and repair it so that it is in a better condition. (BRIT)\nNicholas has bought a barn in Provence and is spending August doing it up.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V n P, also V P n (not pron)\n\n3. If you say that a person or room is done up in a particular way, you mean they are dressed or decorated in that way, often a way that is rather ridiculous or extreme.\n...Beatrice, usually done up like the fairy on the Christmas tree...\n  PHRASAL VERB: usu passive, be V-ed prep/adv


Words: do without
Meaning:
do without\n1. If you do without something you need, want, or usually have, you are able to survive, continue, or succeed although you do not have it.\nWe can’t do without the help of your organisation...\nWe’ve had a bit more money and that, and the baby doesn’t do without.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P n, V P\n\n2. If you say that you could do without something, you mean that you would prefer not to have it or it is of no benefit to you. (INFORMAL)\nHe could do without her rhetorical questions at five o’clock in the morning.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P n


Words: do-gooder
Meaning:
do-gooder  do-gooders\n  If you describe someone as a do-gooder, you mean that they do things which they think will help other people, although you think that they are interfering.\n  N-COUNT  disapproval


Words: doable
Meaning:
do.able\n   doable   also do-able\n  If something is doable, it is possible to do it.\nIs this project something that you think is doable?


Words: doberman
Meaning:
do.ber.man\n   doberman  dobermans\n  A doberman is a type of large dog with short dark fur.\n  N-COUNT


Words: docile
Meaning:
doc.ile\n   docile\n  A person or animal that is docile is quiet, not aggressive, and easily controlled.\n...docile, obedient children...\n  ADJ\n  = placid\n=>  do.cil.ity\nHer docility had surprised him.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n=>  doc.ile.ly\nShe stood there, docilely awaiting my decision.\n  ADV: ADV with v


Words: dock
Meaning:
dock  docks  docking  docked\n1. A dock is an enclosed area in a harbour where ships go to be loaded, unloaded, and repaired.\nShe headed for the docks, thinking that Ricardo might be hiding in one of the boats...\n  N-COUNT: also in/into N\n\n2. When a ship docks or is docked, it is brought into a dock.\nThe vessel docked at Liverpool in April 1811...\nRussian commanders docked a huge aircraft carrier in a Russian port...\n  VERB: V, V n\n\n3. When one spacecraft docks or is docked with another, the two crafts join together in space.\nThe space shuttle Atlantis is scheduled to dock with Russia’s Mir space station...\nThey have docked a robot module alongside the orbiting space station...\n  V-RECIP: V with n, V n prep\n\n4. A dock is a platform for loading vehicles or trains. (AM)\nThe truck left the loading dock with hoses still attached.\n  N-COUNT\n\n5. A dock is a small structure at the edge of water where boats can tie up, especially one that is privately owned. (AM)\n  N-COUNT\n  = jetty\n6. In a law court, the dock is where the person accused of a crime stands or sits.\nWhat about the odd chance that you do put an innocent man in the dock?\n  N-SING: usu in the N\n\n7. If you dock someone’s wages or money, you take some of the money away. If you dock someone points in a contest, you take away some of the points that they have.\nHe threatens to dock her fee...\n  VERB: V n, also V n n\n\n8.\n  see also dry dock


Words: dock worker
Meaning:
dock work.er\n   dock worker  dock workers\n  A dock worker is a person who works in the docks, loading and unloading ships.\n  N-COUNT


Words: docker
Meaning:
dock.er\n   docker  dockers\n  A docker is a person who works in the docks, loading and unloading ships. (BRIT; in AM, use longshoreman)\n  N-COUNT


Words: docket
Meaning:
dock.et\n   docket  dockets\n1. A docket is a certificate or ticket which shows the contents of something such as a parcel or cargo, and proves who the goods belong to. (BRIT)\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. A docket is a list of cases waiting for trial in a law court. (mainly AM)\n  N-COUNT


Words: dockland
Meaning:
dock.land\n   dockland  docklands\n  The dockland or docklands of a town or city is the area around the docks. (BRIT)\n  N-VAR


Words: dockside
Meaning:
dock.side\n   dockside\n  The dockside is the part of a dock that is next to the water.\n  N-SING: oft N n


Words: dockyard
Meaning:
dock.yard\n   dockyard  dockyards\n  A dockyard is a place where ships are built, maintained, and repaired.\n  N-COUNT


Words: doctor
Meaning:
doc.tor\n   doctor  doctors  doctoring  doctored\n1. A doctor is someone who is qualified in medicine and treats people who are ill.\nDo not discontinue the treatment without consulting your doctor...\nDoctor Paige will be here right after lunch to see her.\n  N-COUNT; N-TITLE; N-VOC\n\n2. A dentist or veterinarian can also be called doctor. (AM)\n  N-COUNT; N-TITLE; N-VOC\n\n3. The doctor’s is used to refer to the surgery or office where a doctor works.\nI have an appointment at the doctors.\n  N-COUNT: usu sing, the N\n\n4. A doctor is someone who has been awarded the highest academic or honorary degree by a university.\nHe is a doctor of philosophy.\n  N-COUNT; N-TITLE\n\n5. If someone doctors something, they change it in order to deceive people.\nThey doctored the prints to make her look as awful as possible.\n  VERB: V n


Words: Doctor of Philosophy
Meaning:
Doc.tor of Phi.loso.phy\n   Doctor of Philosophy  Doctors of Philosophy\n  A Doctor of Philosophy is someone who has a PhD.\n  N-COUNT


Words: doctoral
Meaning:
doc.tor.al\n   doctoral\n  A doctoral thesis or piece of research is written or done in order to obtain a doctor’s degree.\n  ADJ: ADJ n


Words: doctorate
Meaning:
doc.tor.ate\n   doctorate  doctorates\n  A doctorate is the highest degree awarded by a university.\nHe obtained his doctorate in Social Psychology.\n  N-COUNT


Words: doctrinaire
Meaning:
doc.tri.naire\n   doctrinaire\n  If you say that someone is doctrinaire or has a doctrinaire attitude, you disapprove of them because they have fixed principles which they try to force on other people. (FORMAL)\nHe is firm but not doctrinaire.\n  ADJ  disapproval\n  = dogmatic


Words: doctrinal
Meaning:
doc.tri.nal\n   doctrinal\n  Doctrinal means relating to doctrines. (FORMAL)\nDoctrinal differences were vigorously debated among religious leaders.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n


Words: doctrine
Meaning:
doc.trine\n   doctrine  doctrines\n  A doctrine is a set of principles or beliefs, especially religious ones.\n...the Marxist doctrine of perpetual revolution...\n  N-VAR: usu with supp, oft N of n


Words: docudrama
Meaning:
docu.dra.ma\n   docudrama  docudramas   also docu-drama\n  A docudrama is a film based on events that really happened. Docudramas are usually shown on television rather than in cinemas.\n  N-VAR


Words: document
Meaning:
docu.ment\n   document documents documenting  documented\nThe noun is pronounced   The verb is pronounced\n1. A document is one or more official pieces of paper with writing on them.\n...a policy document for the Labour Party conference...\nThe policeman wanted to see all our documents.\n  N-COUNT\n  = paper\n2. A document is a piece of text or graphics, for example a letter, that is stored as a file on a computer and that you can access in order to read it or change it. (COMPUTING)\nWhen you are finished typing, remember to save your document.\n  N-COUNT\n\n3. If you document something, you make a detailed record of it in writing or on film or tape.\nHe wrote a book documenting his prison experiences...\n  VERB: V n


Words: documentary
Meaning:
docu.men.tary\n   documentary  documentaries\n1. A documentary is a television or radio programme, or a film, which shows real events or provides information about a particular subject.\n...a TV documentary on homelessness.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. Documentary evidence consists of things that are written down.\nWe have documentary evidence that they were planning military action.\n  ADJ: ADJ n


Words: documentation
Meaning:
docu.men.ta.tion\n   documentation\n  Documentation consists of documents which provide proof or evidence of something, or are a record of something.\nPassengers must carry proper documentation.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: docusoap
Meaning:
docu.soap\n   docusoap  docusoaps\n  A docusoap is a television programme that shows the daily lives of people who work in a place such as a hospital or an airport, and is broadcast at a regular time each week or day.\n  N-COUNT


Words: doddering
Meaning:
dod.der.ing\n   doddering\n  If you refer to someone as a doddering old man or woman, you are saying in a disrespectful way that they are old and not strong.\n...a doddering old man making his will before he’s too senile.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n  disapproval\n  = decrepit


Words: doddery
Meaning:
dod.dery\n   doddery\n  Someone who is doddery walks in an unsteady way, especially because of old age.\n  ADJ


Words: doddle
Meaning:
dod.dle\n   doddle\n  If you say that something is a doddle, you mean that it is very easy to do. (BRIT INFORMAL)\n  N-SING: a N\n  = cinch


Words: dodge
Meaning:
dodge  dodges  dodging  dodged\n1. If you dodge, you move suddenly, often to avoid being hit, caught, or seen.\nHe dodged amongst the seething crowds of men...\n  VERB: V prep/adv\n\n2. If you dodge something, you avoid it by quickly moving aside or out of reach so that it cannot hit or reach you.\nHe desperately dodged a speeding car trying to run him down.\n  VERB: V n\n  = sidestep\n3. If you dodge something, you deliberately avoid thinking about it or dealing with it, often by being deceitful.\nHe boasts of dodging military service by feigning illness...\n  VERB: V n\n  = evade\n  Dodge is also a noun.\nThis was not just a tax dodge.\n  N-COUNT: usu supp N


Words: dodgem
Meaning:
dodg.em\n   dodgem  dodgems\n  A dodgem or dodgem car is a small electric car with a wide rubber strip all round. People drive dodgems around a special area at an amusement park and sometimes crash into each other for fun. (TRADEMARK) (mainly BRIT; in AM, use bumper car)\n  N-COUNT: usu pl


Words: dodger
Meaning:
dodg.er\n   dodger  dodgers\n  A dodger is someone who avoids doing a duty or paying a charge, for example paying taxes or for train travel.\n...tax dodgers who hide their interest earnings.\n  N-COUNT: usu n N\n  = evader\n  see also draft dodger


Words: dodgy
Meaning:
dodgy  dodgier  dodgiest\n1. If you describe someone or something as dodgy, you disapprove of them because they seem rather dishonest and unreliable. (BRIT INFORMAL)\nHe was a bit of a dodgy character.\n  ADJ  disapproval\n  = suspect\n2. If you say that something is dodgy, you mean that it seems rather risky, dangerous, or unreliable. (BRIT INFORMAL)\nPredicting voting trends from economic forecasts is a dodgy business.\n  ADJ\n\n3. If you say that someone has a dodgy heart or knee, for example, you mean that that part of their body is not very strong or healthy. (BRIT INFORMAL)\nMy heart’s a bit dodgy.\n  ADJ


Words: dodo
Meaning:
dodo  dodos  or dodoes\n1. A dodo was a very large bird that was unable to fly. Dodos are now extinct.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. If you refer to someone as a dodo, you think they are foolish or silly. (INFORMAL)\n  N-COUNT  disapproval


Words: doer
Meaning:
doer  doers\n  If you refer to someone as a doer, you mean that they do jobs promptly and efficiently, without spending a lot of time thinking about them.\nRobertson was a doer, not a thinker.\n  N-COUNT


Words: doff
Meaning:
doff  doffs  doffing  doffed\n  If you doff your hat or coat, you take it off. (OLD-FASHIONED)\nThe peasants doff their hats.\n  VERB: V n


Words: dog
Meaning:
dog  dogs  dogging  dogged\n1. A dog is a very common four-legged animal that is often kept by people as a pet or to guard or hunt. There are many different breeds of dog.\nThe British are renowned as a nation of dog lovers.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. You use dog to refer to a male dog, or to the male of some related species such as wolves or foxes.\nIs this a dog or a bitch?\n  N-COUNT\n  !=bitch\n3. If someone calls a man a dog, they strongly disapprove of him.\n  N-COUNT  disapproval\n\n4. People use dog to refer to something that they consider unsatisfactory or of poor quality. (AM INFORMAL)\n  N-COUNT  disapproval\n\n5. If problems or injuries dog you, they are with you all the time.\nHis career has been dogged by bad luck.\n  VERB: V n\n  = plague\n6.\n  see also dogged, guide dog, prairie dog, sniffer dog\n7. You describe something as a dog’s breakfast or dog’s dinner in order to express your disapproval of it, for example because it is very untidy, badly organized, or badly done. (BRIT INFORMAL)\n  PHRASE: v-link PHR, PHR after v  disapproval\n  = mess\n8. You use dog eat dog to express your disapproval of a situation where everyone wants to succeed and is willing to harm other people in order to do so.\nIt is very much dog eat dog out there...\n  PHRASE: v-link PHR, PHR n  disapproval\n  = cut-throat\n9. If you say that something is going to the dogs, you mean that it is becoming weaker and worse in quality. (INFORMAL)\nThey sit in impotent opposition while the country goes to the dogs.\n  PHRASE: V inflects  disapproval


Words: dog tag
Meaning:
dog tag  dog tags\n  Dog tags are metal identification discs that are worn on a chain around the neck by members of the United States armed forces.\n  N-COUNT: usu pl


Words: dog-collar
Meaning:
dog-collar  dog-collars   also dog collar\n1. A dog-collar is a stiff, round, white collar that fastens at the back and that is worn by Christian priests and ministers. (INFORMAL)\n  N-COUNT\n  = clerical collar\n2. A dog-collar is a collar worn by a dog.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dog-eared
Meaning:
dog-eared\n  A book or piece of paper that is dog-eared has been used so much that the corners of the pages are turned down or torn.\n...dog-eared copies of ancient history books.\n  ADJ


Words: dog-tired
Meaning:
dog-tired\n  If you say that you are dog-tired, you are emphasizing that you are extremely tired. (INFORMAL)\nBy dusk we were dog-tired and heading for home.\n  ADJ: v-link ADJ  emphasis


Words: dogfight
Meaning:
dog.fight\n   dogfight  dogfights   also dog fight\n1. A dogfight is a fight between fighter planes, in which they fly close to one another and move very fast.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. If you say that organizations or people are involved in a dogfight, you mean they are struggling very hard against each other in order to succeed.\nThe three leading contenders were locked in a dogfight.\n  N-COUNT: usu with supp


Words: dogfish
Meaning:
dog.fish\n   dogfish  dogfish\n  A dogfish is a small shark. There are several kinds of dogfish.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dogged
Meaning:
dog.ged\n   dogged\n  If you describe someone’s actions as dogged, you mean that they are determined to continue with something even if it becomes difficult or dangerous.\nThey have gained respect through sheer dogged determination.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n  = resolute, persistent\n=>  dog.ged.ly\nShe would fight doggedly for her rights as the children’s mother.\n  ADV: usu ADV with v\n\n=>  dog.ged.ness\nMost of my accomplishments came as the result of sheer doggedness.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: doggerel
Meaning:
dog.ger.el\n   doggerel\n  If you refer to a poem as doggerel, you are emphasizing that you think it is very bad poetry.\n...fragments of meaningless doggerel.\n  N-UNCOUNT  disapproval


Words: doggie bag
Meaning:
dog.gie bag\n   doggie bag  doggie bags\n  If you ask for a doggie bag in a restaurant, you ask for any food you have not eaten to be put into a bag for you to take home.\n  N-COUNT


Words: doghouse
Meaning:
dog.house\n   doghouse  doghouses   also dog-house\n1. A doghouse is a small building made especially for a dog to sleep in. (AM; in BRIT, use kennel)\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. If you are in the doghouse, people are annoyed or angry with you. (INFORMAL)\nHer husband was in the doghouse for leaving her to cope on her own.\n  PHRASE: v-link PHR


Words: dogleg
Meaning:
dog.leg\n   dogleg   doglegs     also dog-leg\n  A dogleg is a sharp bend in a road or a path.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dogma
Meaning:
dog.ma\n   dogma  dogmas\n  If you refer to a belief or a system of beliefs as a dogma, you disapprove of it because people are expected to accept that it is true, without questioning it.\nTheir political dogma has blinded them to the real needs of the country...\n  N-VAR: usu with supp  disapproval


Words: dogmatic
Meaning:
dog.mat.ic\n   dogmatic\n  If you say that someone is dogmatic, you are critical of them because they are convinced that they are right, and refuse to consider that other opinions might also be justified.\nMany writers at this time held rigidly dogmatic views...\n  ADJ  disapproval\n\n=>  dog.mati.cal.ly\nHe applies the Marxist world view dogmatically to all social phenomena.\n  ADV: ADV with v


Words: dogmatism
Meaning:
dog.ma.tism\n   dogmatism\n  If you refer to an opinion as dogmatism, you are criticizing it for being strongly stated without considering all the relevant facts or other people’s opinions.\nWe cannot allow dogmatism to stand in the way of progress.\n  N-UNCOUNT  disapproval\n\n=>  dog.ma.tist      dogmatists\nIntellectuals are becoming unhappy with dogmatists in the party leadership.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dogsbody
Meaning:
dogs.body\n   dogsbody  dogsbodies\n  A dogsbody is a person who has to do all the boring jobs that nobody else wants to do. (BRIT INFORMAL)\n  N-COUNT\n  = gofer


Words: dogwood
Meaning:
dog.wood\n   dogwood   dogwoods\n  A dogwood is a tree or bush that has groups of small white flowers surrounded by four large leaves.\n  N-VAR


Words: doily
Meaning:
doi.ly\n   doily  doilies\n  A doily is a small, round piece of paper or cloth that has a pattern of tiny holes in it. Doilies are put on plates under cakes and sandwiches.\n  N-COUNT


Words: doings
Meaning:
do.ings\n   doings\n  Someone’s doings are their activities at a particular time.\nThe film chronicles the everyday doings of a group of London schoolchildren.\n  N-PLURAL: usu with poss


Words: Dolby
Meaning:
Dol.by\n   Dolby\n  Dolby is a system which reduces the background noise on electronic cassette players. (TRADEMARK)\n...a cassette deck equipped with Dolby noise reduction.\n  N-UNCOUNT: oft N n


Words: doldrums
Meaning:
dol.drums\n   doldrums\n  If an activity or situation is in the doldrums, it is very quiet and nothing new or exciting is happening.\nThe economy is in the doldrums.\n  PHRASE: usu v-link PHR


Words: dole
Meaning:
dole\n1. The dole or dole is money that is given regularly by the government to people who are unemployed. (BRIT; in AM, usually use welfare)\n  N-UNCOUNT: also the N\n  = benefit\n2. Someone who is on the dole is registered as unemployed and receives money from the government. (mainly BRIT; in AM, usually use on welfare)\nIt’s not easy living on the dole.\n  PHRASE: PHR after v, v-link PHR


Words: dole out
Meaning:
dole out\n  If you dole something out, you give a certain amount of it to each member of a group.\nI got out my wallet and began to dole out the money.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P n (not pron), also V n P\n  = dish out


Words: dole queue
Meaning:
dole queue  dole queues\n  When people talk about the dole queue, they are talking about the state of being unemployed, especially when saying how many people are unemployed. (BRIT; in AM, usually use unemployment line)\nAnother 29,100 people have joined the dole queue.\n  N-COUNT


Words: doleful
Meaning:
dole.ful\n   doleful\n  A doleful expression, manner, or voice is depressing and miserable.\nHe gave me a long, doleful look.\n  ADJ\n  = mournful\n=>  dole.ful.ly\n`I don’t know why they left,’ he said dolefully.\n  ADV: ADV with v


Words: doll
Meaning:
doll  dolls  dolling  dolled\n  A doll is a child’s toy which looks like a small person or baby.\n  N-COUNT


Words: doll up
Meaning:
doll up\n  If a woman dolls herself up, she puts on smart or fashionable clothes in order to try and look attractive for a particular occasion. (INFORMAL)\nWe used to doll ourselves up and go into town.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V pron-refl P\n\n=>  dolled up\nShe was dolled up for the occasion.\n  ADJ: usu v-link ADJ


Words: doll’s house
Meaning:
doll’s house  doll’s houses\nin AM, use dollhouse\n  A doll’s house is a toy in the form of a small house, which contains tiny dolls and furniture for children to play with.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dollar
Meaning:
dol.lar\n   dollar  dollars\n1. The dollar is the unit of money used in the USA, Canada, Australia, and some other countries. It is represented by the symbol $. A dollar is divided into one hundred smaller units called cents.\nShe gets paid seven dollars an hour...\nThe government is spending billions of dollars on new urban rail projects.\n  N-COUNT: usu num N\n\n  The dollar is also used to refer to the American currency system.\nIn early trading in Tokyo, the dollar fell sharply against the yen.\n  N-SING: the N\n\n2. If you pay top dollar for something, you pay a lot of money for it. (INFORMAL)\nJapanese investors once paid top dollar for the most glamorous hotels in the United States.\n  PHRASE


Words: dollop
Meaning:
dol.lop\n   dollop  dollops\n  A dollop of soft or sticky food is a large spoonful of it. (INFORMAL)\n...a dollop of cream.\n  N-COUNT: usu N of n


Words: dolphin
Meaning:
dol.phin\n   dolphin  dolphins\n  A dolphin is a mammal which lives in the sea and looks like a large fish with a pointed mouth.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dolt
Meaning:
dolt  dolts\n  If you call someone a dolt, you think they are stupid, or have done something stupid. (INFORMAL)\n  N-COUNT  disapproval\n  = idiot


Words: domain
Meaning:
do.main\n   domain  domains\n1. A domain is a particular field of thought, activity, or interest, especially one over which someone has control, influence, or rights. (FORMAL)\n...the great experimenters in the domain of art...\n  N-COUNT: usu with supp\n\n2. On the Internet, a domain is a set of addresses that shows, for example, the category or geographical area that an Internet address belongs to. (COMPUTING)\n  N-COUNT


Words: domain name
Meaning:
do.main name\n   domain name domain names\n  A domain name is the name of a person’s or organization’s website on the Internet, for example `cobuild.collins.co.uk’. (COMPUTING)\nIs the domain name already registered or still available?\n  N-COUNT


Words: dome
Meaning:
dome  domes\n1. A dome is a round roof.\n...the dome of St Paul’s cathedral.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. A dome is any object that has a similar shape to a dome.\n...the dome of the hill.\n  N-COUNT


Words: domed
Meaning:
domed\n  Something that is domed is in the shape of a dome.\n...the great hall with its domed ceiling.\n  ADJ


Words: domestic
Meaning:
do.mes.tic\n   domestic  domestics\n1. Domestic political activities, events, and situations happen or exist within one particular country.\n...over 100 domestic flights a day to 15 UK destinations.\n...sales in the domestic market.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n\n  !=foreign, international\n  see also gross domestic product\n=>  do.mes.ti.cal.ly\nOpportunities will improve as the company expands domestically and internationally...\n  ADV: ADV after v, ADV -ed/adj, ADV with cl\n\n2. Domestic duties and activities are concerned with the running of a home and family.\n...a plan for sharing domestic chores.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n  = household\n3. Domestic items and services are intended to be used in people’s homes rather than in factories or offices.\n...domestic appliances.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n  = household  !=industrial\n4. A domestic situation or atmosphere is one which involves a family and their home.\nIt was a scene of such domestic bliss...\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n\n\n5. A domestic animal is one that is not wild and is kept either on a farm to produce food or in someone’s home as a pet.\n...a domestic cat.\n  ADJ\n  !=wild\n6. A domestic, a domestic help, or a domestic worker is a person who is paid to come to help with the work that has to be done in a house such as the cleaning, washing, and ironing.\n  N-COUNT


Words: domestic science
Meaning:
do.mes.tic sci.ence\n   domestic science\n  In British schools, domestic science was the name used to refer to the subject which involved cookery, sewing, and other household skills. The subject is now referred to as home economics, which is also the usual American term.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: domestic violence
Meaning:
do.mes.tic vio.lence\n   domestic violence\n  Domestic violence is violence that takes place in the home, especially between a husband and wife.\nWomen are still the main victims of domestic violence.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: domesticate
Meaning:
do.mes.ti.cate\n   domesticate  domesticates  domesticating  domesticated\n  When people domesticate wild animals or plants, they bring them under control and use them to produce food or as pets.\nWe domesticated the dog to help us with hunting.\n  VERB: V n\n  = tame


Words: domesticated
Meaning:
do.mes.ti.cat.ed\n   domesticated\n  Someone who is domesticated willingly does household tasks such as cleaning.\nMum wasn’t very domesticated.\n  ADJ


Words: domesticity
Meaning:
do.mes.ti.city\n   domesticity\n  Domesticity is the state of being at home with your family.\n...a small rebellion against routine and cosy domesticity.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: domicile
Meaning:
domi.cile\n   domicile  domiciles\n  Your domicile is the place where you live. (FORMAL)\n  N-COUNT: oft with poss\n  = abode


Words: domiciled
Meaning:
domi.ciled\n   domiciled\n  If you are domiciled in a particular place, you live there. (FORMAL)\nFrank is currently domiciled in Berlin.\n  ADJ: usu v-link ADJ, oft ADJ in n


Words: dominance
Meaning:
domi.nance\n   dominance\n  The dominance of a particular person or thing is the fact that they are more powerful, successful, or important than other people or things.\n...an attempt by each group to establish dominance over the other...\n  N-UNCOUNT: oft N of/over n\n  = supremacy


Words: dominant
Meaning:
domi.nant\n   dominant\n1. Someone or something that is dominant is more powerful, successful, influential, or noticeable than other people or things.\n...a change which would maintain his party’s dominant position in Scotland...\n  ADJ\n  = pre-eminent\n2. A dominant gene is one that produces a particular characteristic, whether a person has only one of these genes from one parent, or two genes, one from each parent. Compare recessive. (TECHNICAL)\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n


Words: dominate
Meaning:
domi.nate\n   dominate  dominates  dominating  dominated\n1. To dominate a situation means to be the most powerful or important person or thing in it.\nThe book is expected to dominate the best-seller lists...\nNo single factor appears to dominate.\n  VERB: V n, V\n\n=>  domi.na.tion\n...the domination of the market by a small number of organizations.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n2. If one country or person dominates another, they have power over them.\nWomen are no longer dominated by the men in their relationships...\nThe countries of Eastern Europe immediately started to dominate.\n  VERB: V n, V\n\n=>  domi.na.tion\nThey had five centuries of domination by the Romans.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n3. If a building, mountain, or other object dominates an area, it is so large or impressive that you cannot avoid seeing it.\nIt’s one of the biggest buildings in this area, and it really dominates this whole place.\n  VERB: V n


Words: dominating
Meaning:
domi.nat.ing\n   dominating\n  A dominating person has a very strong personality and influences the people around them.\nShe certainly was a dominating figure in politics...\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n\n  = commanding


Words: domineering
Meaning:
domi.neer.ing\n   domineering\n  If you say that someone is domineering, you disapprove of them because you feel that they try to control other people without any consideration for their feelings or opinions.\nMick was stubborn and domineering with a very bad temper...\n  ADJ  disapproval\n  = overbearing


Words: dominion
Meaning:
do.min.ion\n   dominion  dominions\n1. Dominion is control or authority. (FORMAL)\nThey truly believe they have dominion over us.\n  N-UNCOUNT: oft N over n\n\n2. A dominion is an area of land that is controlled by a ruler.\nThe Republic is a dominion of the Brazilian people.\n  N-COUNT: oft with poss


Words: domino
Meaning:
domi.no\n   domino  dominoes\n1. Dominoes are small rectangular blocks marked with two groups of spots on one side. They are used for playing various games.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. Dominoes is a game in which players put dominoes onto a table in turn.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: domino effect
Meaning:
domi.no ef.fect\n   domino effect\n  If one event causes another similar event, which in turn causes another event, and so on, you can refer to this as a domino effect.\nThe domino effect if one train is cancelled is enormous.\n  N-SING


Words: don
Meaning:
don  dons  donning  donned\n1. If you don clothing, you put it on. (WRITTEN)\nThe crowd threw petrol bombs at the police, who responded by donning riot gear.\n  VERB: V n\n\n2. A don is a lecturer at Oxford or Cambridge University in England.\n  N-COUNT\n\n  Lecturers from any university are sometimes referred to as dons. (BRIT)\n  N-COUNT


Words: Don Juan
Meaning:
Don Juan  Don Juans\n  If you describe a man as a Don Juan, you mean he has had sex with many women.\n  N-COUNT


Words: donate
Meaning:
do.nate\n   donate  donates  donating  donated\n1. If you donate something to a charity or other organization, you give it to them.\nHe frequently donates large sums to charity...\nOthers donated secondhand clothes...\n  VERB: V n to n, V n\n\n=>  do.na.tion\n...the donation of his collection to the art gallery.\n  N-UNCOUNT: usu N of n\n\n2. If you donate your blood or a part of your body, you allow doctors to use it to help someone who is ill.\n...people who are willing to donate their organs for use after death...\n  VERB: V n\n\n=>  do.na.tion\n...measures aimed at encouraging organ donation.\n  N-UNCOUNT: usu with supp


Words: donation
Meaning:
do.na.tion\n   donation  donations\n  A donation is something which someone gives to a charity or other organization.\nEmployees make regular donations to charity...\n  N-COUNT: oft N to/of/from n\n\n  see also donate


Words: done
Meaning:
done\n1. Done is the past participle of do.\n\n2. A task or activity that is done has been completed successfully.\nWhen her deal is done, the client emerges with her purchase.\n  ADJ: v-link ADJ\n\n3. When something that you are cooking is done, it has been cooked long enough and is ready.\nAs soon as the cake is done, remove it from the oven.\n  ADJ: v-link ADJ\n\n4. You say `Done’ when you are accepting a deal, arrangement, or bet that someone has offered to make with you. (SPOKEN)\n`You lead and we’ll look for it.’.`Done.’\n  CONVENTION  formulae\n\n5. If you say that something is over and done with, you mean that it is completely finished and you do not have to think about it any more. (SPOKEN)\nOnce this is all over and done with you can have a rest.\n  PHRASE: v-link PHR, PHR after v


Words: donkey
Meaning:
don.key\n   donkey  donkeys\n1. A donkey is an animal which is like a horse but which is smaller and has longer ears.\n  N-COUNT\n  = ass\n2. For donkey’s years means for a very long time. (BRIT INFORMAL)\nI’ve been a vegetarian for donkey’s years.\n  PHRASE: prep PHR  emphasis\n  = ages


Words: donkey jacket
Meaning:
don.key jack.et\n   donkey jacket  donkey jackets\n  A donkey jacket is a thick, warm jacket, usually dark blue with a strip across the shoulders at the back. (BRIT)\n  N-COUNT


Words: donkey work
Meaning:
don.key work\n   donkey work\n  If you do the donkey work, you do the hard work or the less interesting part of the work that needs to be done. (BRIT INFORMAL)\n  N-SING: usu the N


Words: donnish
Meaning:
don.nish\n   donnish\n  If you describe a man as donnish, you think he is rather serious and intellectual. (mainly BRIT)\n  ADJ


Words: donor
Meaning:
do.nor\n   donor  donors\n1. A donor is someone who gives a part of their body or some of their blood to be used by doctors to help a person who is ill.\nDoctors removed the healthy kidney from the donor.\n  N-COUNT: oft n N\n\n2. Donor organs or parts are organs or parts of the body which people allow doctors to use to help people who are ill.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n3. A donor is a person or organization who gives something, especially money, to a charity, organization, or country that needs it.\n  N-COUNT


Words: donor card
Meaning:
do.nor card\n   donor card  donor cards\n  A donor card is a card which people carry in order to make sure that, when they die, their organs are used by doctors to help people who are ill.\n  N-COUNT


Words: doodah
Meaning:
doo.dah\n   doodah  doodahs\n  You can refer to something, especially an electronic device, as a doodah when you do not know exactly what is called. (BRIT INFORMAL)\nThe car has all the latest electronic doodahs.\n  N-COUNT


Words: doodle
Meaning:
doo.dle\n   doodle  doodles  doodling  doodled\n1. A doodle is a pattern or picture that you draw when you are bored or thinking about something else.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. When someone doodles, they draw doodles.\nHe looked across at Jackson, doodling on his notebook.\n  VERB: V


Words: doom
Meaning:
doom  dooms  dooming  doomed\n1. Doom is a terrible future state or event which you cannot prevent.\n...his warnings of impending doom.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n2. If you have a sense or feeling of doom, you feel that things are going very badly and are likely to get even worse.\nWhy are people so full of gloom and doom?...\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n3. If a fact or event dooms someone or something to a particular fate, it makes certain that they are going to suffer in some way.\nThat argument doomed their marriage to failure.\n  VERB: V n to n\n  = condemn


Words: doomed
Meaning:
doomed\n1. If something is doomed to happen, or if you are doomed to a particular state, something unpleasant is certain to happen, and you can do nothing to prevent it.\nTheir plans seemed doomed to failure...\n  ADJ: v-link ADJ, ADJ to n, ADJ to-inf\n\n2. Someone or something that is doomed is certain to fail or be destroyed.\nI used to pour time and energy into projects that were doomed from the start.\n  ADJ


Words: doomsday
Meaning:
dooms.day\n   doomsday\n1. Doomsday is a day or time when you expect something terrible or unpleasant is going to happen.\n...the doomsday scenario of civil war between the two factions.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n2. In the Christian religion, Doomsday is the last day of the world, on which God will judge everyone.\n  N-PROPER


Words: doomsday cult
Meaning:
dooms.day cult\n   doomsday cult doomsday cults\n  A doomsday cult is a religious cult whose members believe that the world is about to end. (mainly JOURNALISM)\n  N-COUNT


Words: door
Meaning:
door  doors\n1. A door is a piece of wood, glass, or metal, which is moved to open and close the entrance to a building, room, cupboard, or vehicle.\nI knocked at the front door, but there was no answer...\nThe policeman opened the door and looked in...\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. A door is the space in a wall when a door is open.\nShe looked through the door of the kitchen. Her daughter was at the stove.\n  N-COUNT\n  = doorway\n3. Doors is used in expressions such as a few doors down or three doors up to refer to a place that is a particular number of buildings away from where you are. (INFORMAL)\nMrs Cade’s house was only a few doors down from her daughter’s apartment.\n  N-PLURAL: amount N down/up\n\n4.\n  see also next door\n5. When you answer the door, you go and open the door because a visitor has knocked on it or rung the bell.\nCarol answered the door as soon as I knocked.\n  PHRASE: V inflects\n\n6. If you say that someone gets or does something by the back door or through the back door, you are criticizing them for doing it secretly and unofficially.\nThe government would not allow anyone to sneak in by the back door and seize power by force...\n  PHRASE: PHR after v  disapproval\n\n7. If someone closes the door on something, they stop thinking about it or dealing with it.\nWe never close the door on a successful series.\n  PHRASE: V inflects: PHR n\n\n8. If people have talks and discussions behind closed doors, they have them in private because they want them to be kept secret.\n...decisions taken in secret behind closed doors.\n  PHRASE: PHR after v, PHR n\n\n9. If someone goes from door to door or goes door to door, they go along a street calling at each house in turn, for example selling something.\nThey are going from door to door collecting money from civilians.\n  PHRASE: PHR after v, PHR n\n\n10. If you talk about a distance or journey from door to door or door to door, you are talking about the distance from the place where the journey starts to the place where it finishes.\n...tickets covering the whole journey from door to door...\n  PHRASE\n\n11. If you say that something helps someone to get their foot in the door or their toe in the door, you mean that it gives them an opportunity to start doing something new, usually in an area that is difficult to succeed in.\nThe bondholding may help the firm get its foot in the door to win the business...\n  PHRASE: N inflects, PHR after v\n\n12. If someone shuts the door in your face or slams the door in your face, they refuse to talk to you or give you any information.\nDid you say anything to him or just shut the door in his face?\n  PHRASE: V inflects\n\n13. If you lay something at someone’s door, you blame them for an unpleasant event or situation.\nThe blame is generally laid at the door of the government.\n  PHRASE: V inflects\n\n14. If someone or something opens the door to a good new idea or situation, they introduce it or make it possible.\nThis book opens the door to some of the most exciting findings in solid-state physics...\n  PHRASE: V and N inflect, oft PHR to n\n\n15. When you are out of doors, you are not inside a building, but in the open air.\nThe weather was fine enough for working out of doors.\n  PHRASE: PHR after v, v-link PHR\n  = outdoors\n16. If you see someone to the door, you go to the door with a visitor when they leave.\n  PHRASE: V inflects\n\n17. If someone shows you the door, they ask you to leave because they are angry with you.\nWould they forgive and forget.or show him the door?\n  PHRASE: V inflects\n\n18.\nat death’s door: see death


Words: doorbell
Meaning:
door.bell\n   doorbell  doorbells\n  A doorbell is a bell on the outside of a house which you can ring so that the people inside know that you want to see them.\n  N-COUNT


Words: doorkeeper
Meaning:
door.keeper\n   doorkeeper  doorkeepers\n  A doorkeeper is a person whose job is to stand at the door of a building such as a hotel and help people who are going in or out.\n  N-COUNT


Words: doorman
Meaning:
door.man\n   doorman  doormen\n1. A doorman is a man who stands at the door of a club, prevents unwanted people from coming in, and makes people leave if they cause trouble.\n  N-COUNT\n  = bouncer\n2. A doorman is a person whose job is to stay by the main entrance of a large building, and help people visiting the building.\n  N-COUNT


Words: doormat
Meaning:
door.mat\n   doormat  doormats\n1. A doormat is a mat by a door which people can wipe their shoes on when they enter a house or building.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. If you say that someone is a doormat, you are criticizing them because they let other people treat them badly, and do not complain or defend themselves when they are being treated unfairly. (INFORMAL)\nIf you always give in to others you will end up feeling like a doormat.\n  N-COUNT  disapproval


Words: doorstep
Meaning:
door.step\n   doorstep  doorsteps\n1. A doorstep is a step in front of a door on the outside of a building.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. If a place is on your doorstep, it is very near to where you live. If something happens on your doorstep, it happens very close to where you live.\nIt is all too easy to lose sight of what is happening on our own doorstep...\n  PHRASE: v-link PHR, PHR after v


Words: doorstop
Meaning:
door.stop\n   doorstop  doorstops\n  A doorstop is a heavy object that you use to keep a door open.\n  N-COUNT


Words: doorway
Meaning:
door.way\n   doorway  doorways\n1. A doorway is a space in a wall where a door opens and closes.\nHannah looked up to see David and another man standing in the doorway...\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. A doorway is a covered space just outside the door of a building.\n...homeless people sleeping in shop doorways.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dope
Meaning:
dope  dopes  doping  doped\n1. Dope is a drug, usually an illegal drug such as marijuana or cocaine. (INFORMAL)\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n2. If someone dopes a person or animal or dopes their food, they put drugs into their food or force them to take drugs.\nAnyone could have got in and doped the wine...\nI’d been doped with Somnolin...\nThey’ve got him doped to the eyeballs.\n  VERB: V n, be V-ed with n, V-ed\n  = drug\n3. If someone calls a person a dope, they think that the person is stupid. (INFORMAL)\n  N-COUNT  disapproval\n  = idiot


Words: doped up
Meaning:
doped up\n  If someone is doped up, they are in a state where they cannot think clearly because they are under the influence of drugs. (INFORMAL)\nI feel a bit doped up, but I’m okay...\n  ADJ: usu v-link ADJ\n  = drugged


Words: dopey
Meaning:
dopey\n1. Someone who is dopey is sleepy, as though they have been drugged.\nThe medicine always made him feel dopey and unable to concentrate.\n  ADJ\n  = groggy\n2. If you describe someone as dopey, you mean that they are rather stupid. (INFORMAL)\n  ADJ  disapproval\n  = dozy


Words: dork
Meaning:
dork  dorks\n  If you say that someone is a dork, you think they dress badly in old-fashioned clothes and behave very awkwardly in social situations. (AM INFORMAL)\n...their unshakeable conviction that family holidays were strictly for dorks.\n  N-COUNT  disapproval\n  = nerd


Words: dormant
Meaning:
dor.mant\n   dormant\n  Something that is dormant is not active, growing, or being used at the present time but is capable of becoming active later on.\nThe virus remains dormant in nerve tissue until activated...\n  ADJ\n\n=>  dor.man.cy\nDuring dormancy the plants must be kept very dry.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: dormer
Meaning:
dor.mer\n   dormer  dormers\n  A dormer or dormer window is a window that is built upright in a sloping roof.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dormitory
Meaning:
dor.mi.tory\n   dormitory  dormitories\n1. A dormitory is a large bedroom where several people sleep, for example in a boarding school.\n...the boys’ dormitory...\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. A dormitory is a building in a college or university where students live. (AM; in BRIT, use hall of residence)\nShe lived in a college dormitory.\n  N-COUNT\n\n3. If you refer to a place as a dormitory suburb or town, you mean that most of the people who live there travel to work in another, larger town a short distance away. (BRIT)\n  ADJ: ADJ n


Words: dormouse
Meaning:
dor.mouse\n   dormouse  dormice\n  A dormouse is a small animal that looks like a mouse. It is found in southern England and Wales.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dorsal
Meaning:
dor.sal\n   dorsal\n  Dorsal means relating to the back of a fish or animal. (TECHNICAL)\n...a dolphin’s dorsal fin.\n  ADJ: ADJ n


Words: DOS
Meaning:
DOS\n  DOS is the part of a computer operating system that controls and manages files and programs stored on disk. DOS is an abbreviation for `disk operating system’. (TRADEMARK) (COMPUTING)\nWhere do I find the instructions to load DOS programs from Windows 98?\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: dosage
Meaning:
dos.age\n   dosage  dosages\n  A dosage is the amount of a medicine or drug that someone takes or should take.\nHe was put on a high dosage of vitamin C.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dose
Meaning:
dose  doses  dosing  dosed\n1. A dose of medicine or a drug is a measured amount of it which is intended to be taken at one time.\nOne dose of penicillin can wipe out the infection.\n  N-COUNT: oft N of n\n\n2. You can refer to an amount of something as a dose of that thing, especially when you want to emphasize that there is a great deal of it.\nThe West is getting a heavy dose of snow and rain today.\n  N-COUNT: usu adj N of n  emphasis\n\n3. If you dose a person or animal with medicine, you give them an amount of it.\nThe doctor fixed the rib, dosed him heavily with drugs, and said he would probably get better...\nI dosed myself with quinine.\n  VERB: V n with n, V pron-refl with n\n\n  Dose up means the same as dose.\nI dosed him up with Valium.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V n P with n


Words: doss
Meaning:
doss  dosses  dossing  dossed\n  If someone dosses somewhere, they sleep in a place which is uncomfortable, usually because they have nowhere else to live. (BRIT INFORMAL)\n...young people dossing in the streets of our cities.\n  VERB: V prep/adv\n\n  Doss down means the same as doss.\nWhen we had eaten, we dossed down in the lounge.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P prep/adv


Words: doss-house
Meaning:
doss-house  doss-houses   also doss house; dosshouse\n  A doss-house is a kind of cheap hotel in a city for people who have no home and very little money. (BRIT INFORMAL; in AM, use flophouse)\n  N-COUNT


Words: dosser
Meaning:
dos.ser\n   dosser  dossers\n  A dosser is a city person who does not have a permanent home and sleeps in the streets or in very cheap hotels. (BRIT INFORMAL)\n  N-COUNT  disapproval


Words: dossier
Meaning:
dos.si.er\n   dossier   dossiers\n  A dossier is a collection of papers containing information on a particular event, or on a person such as a criminal or a spy.\nThe company is compiling a dossier of evidence to back its allegations...\n  N-COUNT: oft N of/on n\n  = file


Words: dot
Meaning:
dot  dots  dotting  dotted\n1. A dot is a very small round mark, for example one that is used as the top part of the letter `i’, as a full stop, or as a decimal point.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. You can refer to something that you can see in the distance and that looks like a small round mark as a dot.\nSoon they were only dots above the hard line of the horizon.\n  N-COUNT\n  = speck, spot\n3. When things dot a place or an area, they are scattered or spread all over it.\nSmall coastal towns dot the landscape.\n  VERB: V n\n\n4.\n  see also dotted, polka dots\n5. If you arrive somewhere or do something on the dot, you arrive there or do it at exactly the time that you were supposed to.\nThey appeared on the dot of 9.50 pm as always...\n  PHRASE\n  = punctually\n6. If you say that someone dots the i’s and crosses the t’s, you mean that they pay great attention to every small detail in a task; often used to express your annoyance because such detailed work seems unnecessary and takes a very long time.\n  PHRASE: Vs inflect


Words: dot matrix printer
Meaning:
dot ma.trix print.er\n   dot matrix printer  dot matrix printers   also dot-matrix printer\n  A dot matrix printer is a computer printer using a device with a series of dots or pins stamped onto it to produce words and numbers.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dot-com
Meaning:
dot-com  dot-coms\n  A dot-com is a company that does all or most of its business on the Internet.\nIn 1999, dot-coms spent more than $1 billion on TV spots.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dotage
Meaning:
dot.age\n   dotage\n  If someone is in their dotage, they are very old and becoming weak.\nEven in his dotage, the Professor still sits on the committee.\n  N-UNCOUNT: usu poss N


Words: dote
Meaning:
dote  dotes  doting  doted\n  If you say that someone dotes on a person or a thing, you mean that they love or care about them very much and ignore any faults they may have.\nHe dotes on his nine-year-old son.\n  VERB: V on/upon n


Words: doting
Meaning:
dot.ing\n   doting\n  If you say that someone is, for example, a doting mother, husband, or friend, you mean that they show a lot of love for someone.\nHis doting parents bought him his first racing bike at 13.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n


Words: dotted
Meaning:
dot.ted\n   dotted\n1. A dotted line is a line which is made of a row of dots.\nCut along the dotted line.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n\n\n  If you sign on the dotted line, you formally agree to something by signing an official document.\nOnce you sign on the dotted line you are committed to that property.\n  PHRASE: V inflects\n\n2. If a place or object is dotted with things, it has many of those things scattered over its surface.\nThe maps were dotted with the names of small towns.\n  ADJ: v-link ADJ with n\n\n3. If things are dotted around a place, they can be found in many different parts of that place.\nMany pieces of sculpture are dotted around the house.\n  ADJ: v-link ADJ prep\n  = scattered\n4.\n  see also dot


Words: dotty
Meaning:
dot.ty\n   dotty  dottier  dottiest\n  If you say that someone is dotty, you mean that they are slightly mad or likely to do strange things. (mainly BRIT INFORMAL)\nShe was obviously going a bit dotty.\n  ADJ


Words: double
Meaning:
dou.ble\n   double  doubles  doubling  doubled\n1. You use double to indicate that something includes or is made of two things of the same kind.\n...a pair of double doors into the room from the new entrance hall.\n...a lone skier gliding along smooth double tracks.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n2. You use double before a singular noun to refer to two things of the same type that occur together, or that are connected in some way.\n...an extremely nasty double murder...\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n3. If something is double the amount or size of another thing, it is twice as large.\nThe offer was to start a new research laboratory at double the salary he was then getting...\n  PREDET: PREDET the n\n  = twice  !=half\n  Double is also a pronoun.\nIf they think you’re a tourist, they charge you double.\n  PRON\n\n4. You use double to describe something which is twice the normal size or can hold twice the normal quantity of something.\n...a double helping of ice cream.\n...a large double garage...\n  ADJ\n\n5. A double room is a room intended for two people, usually a couple, to stay or live in.\n...bed and breakfast for .180 for two people in a double room.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n\n\n  Double is also a noun.\nThe Great Western Hotel costs around .60 a night for a double.\n  N-COUNT\n\n6. A double bed is a bed that is wide enough for two people to sleep in.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n7. You use double to describe a drink that is twice the normal measure.\nHe was drinking his double whiskey too fast and scowling.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n  Double is also a noun.\nGive me a whisky, a double.\n  N-COUNT\n\n8. Double is used when you are spelling a word or telling someone a number to show that a letter or digit is repeated.\nRing four two double two double two if you’d like to speak to our financial adviser.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n9. When something doubles or when you double it, it becomes twice as great in number, amount, or size.\nThe number of managers must double to 100 within 3 years...\nThe program will double the amount of money available to help pay for child care.\n  VERB: V, V n\n\n10. If you refer to someone as a person’s double, you mean that they look exactly like them.\nYour mother sees you as her double.\n  N-COUNT: poss N\n\n11. If a person or thing doubles as someone or something else, they have a second job or purpose as well as their main one.\nLots of homes in town double as businesses.\n  VERB: V as n\n\n  Double up means the same as double.\nThe lids of the casserole dishes are designed to double up as baking dishes.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P as n\n\n12. In tennis or badminton, when people play doubles, two teams consisting of two players on each team play against each other on the same court.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n13. If you are bent double, the top half of your body is bent downwards so that your head is close to your knees.\nPickers are bent double, plucking each flower with lightning speed.\n  PHRASE: v-link PHR\n\n14. If you are seeing double, there is something wrong with your eyes, and you can see two images instead of one.\nI was dizzy, seeing double.\n  PHRASE: V inflects\n\n15.\nin double figures: see figure


Words: double act
Meaning:
dou.ble act\n   double act  double acts   also double-act\n  Two comedians or entertainers who perform together are referred to as a double act. Their performance can also be called a double act.\n...a famous comedy double act...\n  N-COUNT


Words: double agent
Meaning:
dou.ble agent\n   double agent  double agents\n  A double agent is someone who works as a spy for a particular country or organization, but who also works for its enemies.\n  N-COUNT


Words: double back
Meaning:
double back\n  If you double back you go back in the direction that you came from.\nWe drove past it and had to double back.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P\n  = turn back


Words: double bass
Meaning:
dou.ble bass\n   double bass  double basses   also double-bass\n  A double bass is the largest instrument in the violin family.\n  N-VAR: oft the N


Words: double bill
Meaning:
dou.ble bill\n   double bill  double bills   also double-bill\n  A double bill is a theatre or cinema performance in which there are two shows on the programme.\n  N-COUNT: oft N of n


Words: double bind
Meaning:
dou.ble bind\n   double bind  double binds\n  If you are in a double bind, you are in a very difficult situation, because whatever decision you make will have bad results.\nWomen are caught in a double bind, marginalised in the community if they are not wives and mothers, under excessive pressure to be perfect if they are.\n  N-COUNT: usu sing\n  = catch 22


Words: double bluff
Meaning:
dou.ble bluff\n   double bluff  double bluffs\n  A double bluff is an attempt to deceive someone by telling them exactly what you intend to do when you know that they will assume you are lying. (BRIT)\nThey suspected this was a double bluff on the part of Cairo Intelligence.\n...a continual round of bluff and double bluff.\n  N-VAR


Words: double chin
Meaning:
dou.ble chin\n   double chin  double chins\n  If someone has a double chin, they have a fold of fat under their chin, making them look as if they have two chins.\n  N-COUNT: usu sing


Words: double cream
Meaning:
dou.ble cream\n   double cream\n  Double cream is very thick cream. (BRIT; in AM, use heavy cream)\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: double entendre
Meaning:
dou.ble en.ten.dre\n   double entendre  double entendres\n  A double entendre is a word or phrase that has two meanings, one of which is rude and often sexual.\nHe is a master of the pun and the double entendre...\n  N-VAR


Words: double fault
Meaning:
dou.ble fault\n   double fault  double faults\n  In tennis, if a player serves a double fault, they make a mistake with both serves and lose the point.\n  N-COUNT


Words: double glazing
Meaning:
dou.ble glaz.ing\n   double glazing   also double-glazing\n  If someone has double glazing in their house, their windows are fitted with two layers of glass. People put in double glazing in order to keep buildings warmer or to keep out noise. (mainly BRIT)\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: double life
Meaning:
dou.ble life\n   double life  double lives\n  If you say that someone is living a double life, you mean that they lead two separate and very different lives, and they appear to be a different person in each.\nShe threatened to publicly expose his double life if he left her.\n  N-COUNT: usu sing


Words: double standard
Meaning:
dou.ble stand.ard\n   double standard  double standards\n  If you accuse a person or institution of applying double standards in their treatment of different groups of people, you mean that they unfairly allow more freedom of behaviour to one group than to another.\nMrs Starky accused the local police of operating double standards...\n  N-COUNT  disapproval


Words: double up
Meaning:
double up\n  If something doubles you up, or if you double up, you bend your body quickly or violently, for example because you are laughing a lot or because you are feeling a lot of pain.\n  PHRASAL VERB\n\n1...a savage blow in the crutch which doubled him up...\nThey laugh so hard they double up with laughter.\n  V n P, V P with/in n\n\n  Double over means the same as double up.\nEveryone was doubled over in laughter.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V-ed P\n\n2.\n  see also double 11


Words: double vision
Meaning:
dou.ble vi.sion\n   double vision\n  If someone is suffering from double vision, they see a single object as two objects, for example because they are ill or have drunk too much alcohol.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: double-barrelled
Meaning:
double-barrelled\nin AM, use double-barreled\n1. A double-barrelled gun has two barrels.\n...a double-barrelled shotgun.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n2. A double-barrelled surname has two parts which are joined by a hyphen, for example `Miss J. Heydon-Smith’. (BRIT)\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n3. Double-barrelled is used to describe something such as a plan which has two main parts. (JOURNALISM)\n  ADJ: ADJ n


Words: double-blind
Meaning:
double-blind\n  A double-blind study or experiment compares two groups of people, one of which is being tested while the other is not. Neither the people doing the testing nor the members of the two groups know which group is being tested.\nIn a double-blind trial, there were definite improvements.\n  ADJ


Words: double-breasted
Meaning:
double-breasted\n  A double-breasted jacket or suit has two very wide sections at the front of the jacket which fit over one another when you button them up.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n


Words: double-check
Meaning:
double-check  double-checks  double-checking  double-checked\n  If you double-check something, you examine or test it a second time to make sure that it is completely correct or safe.\nCheck and double-check spelling and punctuation...\nDouble-check that the ladder is secure...\nDon’t believe what you are told; double-check with an independent source.\n  VERB: V n, V that, V with n


Words: double-cross
Meaning:
double-cross  double-crosses  double-crossing  double-crossed\n  If someone you trust double-crosses you, they do something which harms you instead of doing something they had promised to do. (INFORMAL)\nDon’t try and double-cross me, Taylor, because I’ll kill you...\n  VERB: V n\n  = betray


Words: double-dealing
Meaning:
double-dealing\n  Double-dealing is behaviour which is deliberately deceitful.\nMarriages were broken and lives ruined by the revelation of double-dealing.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n  = betrayal, duplicity


Words: double-decker
Meaning:
double-decker  double-deckers\n1. A double-decker or a double-decker bus is a bus that has two levels, so that passengers can sit upstairs or downstairs. (mainly BRIT)\n  N-COUNT\n  !=single-decker\n2. Double-decker items or structures have two layers or levels instead of one.\n...a double-decker sandwich.\n  ADJ: ADJ n


Words: double-digit
Meaning:
double-digit\n  A double-digit number is between 10 and 99.\nAustralia had 15 years of double-digit inflation.\n  ADJ: ADJ n


Words: double-edged
Meaning:
double-edged\n1. If you say that a comment is double-edged, you mean that it has two meanings, so that you are not sure whether the person who said it is being critical or is giving praise.\nEven his praise is double-edged.\n  ADJ\n\n2. If you say that something is double-edged, you mean that its positive effects are balanced by its negative effects, or that its negative effects are greater.\nBut tourism is double-edged, boosting the economy but damaging the environment...\n  ADJ: usu v-link ADJ\n\na double-edged sword: see sword


Words: double-glaze
Meaning:
double-glaze  double-glazes  double-glazing  double-glazed\n  If someone double-glazes a house or its windows, they fit windows that have two layers of glass which keeps the inside of the house warmer and quieter. (mainly BRIT)\nThe company is now offering to double-glaze the windows for .3,900...\nWe recently had our house double-glazed.\n  VERB: V n, have n V-ed\n\n=>  double-glazed\n...double-glazed windows..\n  ADJ


Words: double-header
Meaning:
double-header  double-headers\nin AM, also use doubleheader\n  A double-header is a sporting contest between two teams that involves two separate games being played, often on the same day. (mainly AM)\n  N-COUNT


Words: double-park
Meaning:
double-park  double-parks  double-parking  double-parked\n  If someone double-parks their car or their car double-parks, they park in a road by the side of another parked car.\nMurray double-parked his car...\nThe car pulled in and double-parked in front of the town hall.\n  VERB: V n, V


Words: double-quick
Meaning:
double-quick\n  If you say that you will do something double-quick, you are emphasizing that you will do it very quickly. (INFORMAL)\nDon’t worry. We’ll have you out of here double-quick.\n  ADV: ADV after v  emphasis\n\n  In double-quick time means the same as double-quick.\nI was over the fence in double-quick time.\n  PHRASE: PHR after v


Words: double-take
Meaning:
double-take  double-takes\n  If you do a double-take when you see or hear something strange or surprising, you hesitate for a moment before reacting to it because you wonder if you really saw or heard it.\nI did a double-take when I saw her dressed in biker’s gear.\n  N-COUNT


Words: double-talk
Meaning:
double-talk   also double talk\n  If you refer to something someone says as double-talk, you mean that it can deceive people or is difficult to understand because it has two possible meanings.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: doublespeak
Meaning:
double.speak\n   doublespeak\n  If you refer to what someone says as doublespeak, you are criticizing them for presenting things in a way that is intended to hide the truth or give people the wrong idea.\n...the doublespeak so fluently used by governments and their press offices.\n  N-UNCOUNT  disapproval


Words: doublet
Meaning:
dou.blet\n   doublet  doublets\n  A doublet was a short, tight jacket that was worn by men in the fifteenth, sixteenth, and early seventeenth centuries.\n  N-COUNT


Words: doubly
Meaning:
dou.bly\n   doubly\n1. You use doubly to indicate that there are two aspects or features that are having an influence on a particular situation.\nThe new tax and the drop in house values make homeowners feel doubly penalised.\n  ADV: ADV group, ADV with v\n\n2. You use doubly to emphasize that something exists or happens to a greater degree than usual.\nIn pregnancy a high fibre diet is doubly important...\n  ADV: ADV adj/adv  emphasis


Words: doubt
Meaning:
doubt  doubts  doubting  doubted\n1. If you have doubt or doubts about something, you feel uncertain about it and do not know whether it is true or possible. If you say you have no doubt about it, you mean that you are certain it is true.\nThis raises doubts about the point of advertising...\nI had my doubts when she started, but she’s getting really good...\nThere can be little doubt that he will offend again...\n  N-VAR: oft N about/as to n, N that\n  = uncertainty\n2. If you doubt whether something is true or possible, you believe that it is probably not true or possible.\nOthers doubted whether that would happen...\nHe doubted if he would learn anything new from Marie...\nShe doubted that the accident could have been avoided.\n  VERB: V wh, V if, V that\n\n3. If you doubt something, you believe that it might not be true or genuine.\nNo one doubted his ability...\n  VERB: V n\n\n4. If you doubt someone or doubt their word, you think that they may not be telling the truth.\nNo one directly involved with the case doubted him...\n  VERB: V n\n  !=trust\n5. You say that something is beyond doubt or beyond reasonable doubt when you are certain that it is true and it cannot be contradicted or disproved.\nA referendum showed beyond doubt that voters wanted independence...\n  PHRASE: PHR after v, v-link PHR  emphasis\n\n6. If you are in doubt about something, you feel unsure or uncertain about it.\nHe is in no doubt as to what is needed...\nWhen in doubt, call the doctor.\n  PHRASE: v-link PHR, oft PHR about/as to n\n\n7. You say I doubt it as a response to a question or statement about something that you think is untrue or unlikely.\n`Somebody would have seen her.’.`I doubt it, not on Monday.’\n  CONVENTION\n\n8. If you say that something is in doubt or open to doubt, you consider it to be uncertain or unreliable.\nThe outcome was still in doubt...\nThat claim is increasingly open to doubt.\n  PHRASE: v-link PHR\n  = uncertain\n9. You use no doubt to emphasize that something seems certain or very likely to you.\nThe contract for this will no doubt be widely advertised...\n  PHRASE: PHR with cl  emphasis\n  = undoubtedly\n10. You use no doubt to indicate that you accept the truth of a particular point, but that you do not consider it is important or contradicts the rest of what you are saying.\nNo doubt many will regard these as harsh words, but regrettably they are true.\n  PHRASE: PHR with cl\n\n11. If you say that something is true without doubt or without a doubt, you are emphasizing that it is definitely true.\nWithout doubt this was the most important relationship I developed at college...\n  PHRASE: PHR with cl  emphasis\n  = undoubtedly\n12.\nthe benefit of the doubt: see benefit\na shadow of a doubt: see shadow


Words: doubter
Meaning:
doubt.er\n   doubter  doubters\n  If you refer to people as doubters, you mean that they have doubts about something, especially their religious or political system.\nSome doubters fear this news may not be as good as it appears.\n  N-COUNT: usu pl\n  !=believer


Words: doubtful
Meaning:
doubt.ful\n   doubtful\n1. If it is doubtful that something will happen, it seems unlikely to happen or you are uncertain whether it will happen.\nFor a time it seemed doubtful that he would move at all...\nIt is doubtful whether Tweed, even with his fluent French, passed for one of the locals...\n  ADJ: usu v-link ADJ, oft it v-link ADJ that/wh\n\n2. If you are doubtful about something, you feel unsure or uncertain about it.\nI was still very doubtful about the chances for success...\nWhy did he sound so doubtful?\n  ADJ: usu v-link ADJ, oft ADJ about n\n  = dubious\n=>  doubt.ful.ly\nKeeton shook his head doubtfully.\n  ADV: ADV after v\n  = dubiously\n3. If you say that something is of doubtful quality or value, you mean that it is of low quality or value.\n...selling something that is overpriced or of doubtful quality...\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n  disapproval\n  = dubious\n4. If a sports player is doubtful for a match or event, he or she seems unlikely to play, usually because of injury. (JOURNALISM)\n  ADJ: oft ADJ for n


Words: doubting Thomas
Meaning:
doubt.ing Thomas\n   doubting Thomas doubting Thomases\n  If you describe someone as a doubting Thomas, you mean they refuse to believe something until they see definite proof or evidence of it.\n  N-COUNT


Words: doubtless
Meaning:
doubt.less\n   doubtless\n  If you say that something is doubtless the case, you mean that you think it is probably or almost certainly the case.\nHe will doubtless try and persuade his colleagues to change their minds...\n  ADV: ADV with cl/group


Words: douche
Meaning:
douche  douches  douching  douched\n1. A douche is a method of washing the vagina using a stream of water. You also refer to the object which you use to wash the vagina in this way as a douche.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. To douche means to wash the vagina using a stream of water.\nNever douche if you are pregnant.\n  VERB: V


Words: dough
Meaning:
dough  doughs\n\n  In meaning 2, dough is used in informal American English, and is considered old-fashioned in informal British English.\n\n1. Dough is a fairly firm mixture of flour, water, and sometimes also fat and sugar. It can be cooked to make bread, pastry, and biscuits.\nRoll out the dough into one large circle...\n  N-MASS\n\n2. You can refer to money as dough.\nHe worked hard for his dough.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: doughnut
Meaning:
dough.nut\n   doughnut  doughnuts\nin AM, also use donut\n  A doughnut is a bread-like cake made from sweet dough that has been cooked in hot fat.\n  N-COUNT


Words: doughty
Meaning:
dough.ty\n   doughty\n  If you describe someone as a doughty fighter, you mean they are brave, determined, and not easily defeated. (OLD-FASHIONED)\n  ADJ: ADJ n  approval


Words: doughy
Meaning:
doughy\n  If you describe something as doughy, you mean that it has a fairly soft texture like dough.\nAdd water and mix with a knife to a doughy consistency.\n  ADJ


Words: dour
Meaning:
dour\n  If you describe someone as dour, you mean that they are very serious and unfriendly.\n...a dour, taciturn man...\n  ADJ\n\n=>  dour.ly\nThe old man stared dourly at them.\n  ADV: usu ADV with v, also ADV adj  disapproval


Words: douse
Meaning:
douse  douses  dousing  doused   also dowse\n1. If you douse a fire, you stop it burning by pouring a lot of water over it.\nThe pumps were started and the crew began to douse the fire with water.\n  VERB: V n\n\n2. If you douse someone or something with a liquid, you throw a lot of that liquid over them.\nThey hurled abuse at their victim as they doused him with petrol.\n  VERB: V n with/in n


Words: dove
Meaning:
dove doves\nPronounced   for meanings 1 and 2\n1. A dove is a bird that looks like pigeon but is smaller and lighter in colour. Doves are often used as a symbol of peace.\n  N-COUNT\n\n  see also turtle dove\n2. In politics, you can refer to people who support the use of peaceful methods to solve difficult situations as doves. Compare hawk.\nA clear split over tactics appears to be emerging between doves and hawks in the party.\n  N-COUNT\n\n3. In American English, dove is sometimes used as the past tense of dive.


Words: dovecote
Meaning:
dove.cote\n   dovecote   dovecotes     also dovecot\n  A dovecote is a small building or a container for pigeons or doves to live in.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dovetail
Meaning:
dove.tail\n   dovetail  dovetails  dovetailing  dovetailed\n  If two things dovetail or if one thing dovetails with another, the two things fit together neatly or have some common characteristics.\nI’m following up a few things that might dovetail.\n...an attempt to look for areas where U.S. interests can dovetail with Japanese concerns...\nIt is important that we dovetail our respective interests...\n  V-RECIP: pl-n V, V with n, V pl-n


Words: dovish
Meaning:
dov.ish\n   dovish   also doveish\n  Journalists use dovish to describe politicians or governments who are in favour of using peaceful and diplomatic methods to achieve something, rather than using force and violence.\n  ADJ\n  !=hawkish


Words: dowager
Meaning:
dowa.ger\n   dowager  dowagers\n1. You use dowager to refer to the wife of a dead duke, emperor, or other man of high rank.\n...the Dowager Countess Spencer...\nNobody was allowed to eat in the Empress Dowager’s presence.\n  ADJ: ADJ n, n ADJ\n\n  Dowager is also a noun.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. If you describe a woman as a dowager, you mean that she is old and rich or looks important. (LITERARY)\n...like stately dowagers on a cruise.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dowdy
Meaning:
dow.dy\n   dowdy  dowdier  dowdiest\n  If you describe someone or their clothes as dowdy, you mean their clothes are dull and unfashionable.\nHer clothes were clean but dowdy.\n  ADJ  disapproval\n  = frumpy


Words: dowel
Meaning:
dow.el\n   dowel  dowels\n  A dowel is a short thin piece of wood or metal which is used for joining larger pieces of wood or metal together.\n  N-COUNT


Words: down
Meaning:
ADJECTIVE USES\n   down\n1. If you are feeling down, you are feeling unhappy or depressed. (INFORMAL)\nThe old man sounded really down.\n  ADJ: v-link ADJ\n  = low\n2. If something is down on paper, it has been written on the paper.\nThat date wasn’t down on our news sheet.\n  ADJ: v-link ADJ, usu ADJ on n\n\n3. If a piece of equipment, especially a computer system, is down, it is temporarily not working because of a fault. Compare up.\nThe computer’s down again.\n  ADJ: v-link ADJ\n\nNOUN USES\n   down\n1. Down consists of the small, soft feathers on young birds. Down is used to make bed-covers and pillows.\n...goose down.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n2. Down is very fine hair.\nThe whole plant is covered with fine down.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n  see also downs\n\nPREPOSITION AND ADVERB USES\n   down\nDown is often used with verbs of movement, such as `fall’ and `pull’, and also in phrasal verbs such as `bring down’ and `calm down’.\n\nPlease look at category 15 to see if the expression you are looking for is shown under another headword.\n1. To go down something such as a slope or a pipe means to go towards the ground or to a lower level.\nWe’re going down a mountain...\nA man came down the stairs to meet them...\nThe tears began flooding down her cheeks.\n  PREP\n  !=up\n  Down is also an adverb.\nShe went down to the kitchen again...\nShe sat on the window seat until they climbed down from the roof...\n  ADV: ADV after v\n\n2. If you are a particular distance down something, you are that distance below the top or surface of it.\nHe managed to cling on to a ledge 40ft down the rock face...\n  PREP: amount PREP n\n  !=up\n  Down is also an adverb.\nFor the last 18 months miners have cut a face to develop a new shaft 400 metres down.\n  ADV: amount ADV\n\n3. You use down to say that you are looking or facing in a direction that is towards the ground or towards a lower level.\nShe was still looking down at her papers...\nShe put her head down, her hands over her face...\n  ADV: ADV after v\n  !=up\n4. If you put something down, you put it onto a surface.\nDanny put down his glass...\n  ADV: ADV after v\n\n5. If you go or look down something such as a road or river, you go or look along it. If you are down a road or river, you are somewhere along it.\nThey set off at a jog up one street and down another...\n...sailing down the river on a barge.\n  PREP: oft amount PREP n\n  !=up\n6. If you are travelling to a particular place, you can say that you are going down to that place, especially if you are going towards the south or to a lower level of land. (SPOKEN)\nI went down to L.A. all the way from Seattle...\n  ADV: ADV after v\n\n7. If an amount of something goes down, it decreases. If an amount of something is down, it has decreased and is at a lower level than it was.\nInterest rates came down today...\nInflation will be down to three percent...\nMy department had a healthy interest in keeping expenses down...\nThe Dow Jones industrial average is down 5 points at 2,913.\n  ADV: ADV after v, be ADV, oft ADV to/from/by amount\n  !=up\n8. If you say that there are a number of things down and a number to go, you are saying how many of the things have already been dealt with and how many remain to be dealt with.\nThirteen months down, twenty-four years to go.\n  PHRASE: PHR with amount\n\n9. Down to a particular detail means including everything, even that detail. Down to a particular person means including everyone, even that person.\n...from the chairman right down to the tea ladies.\n  PREP-PHRASE\n\n10. If you are down to a certain amount of something, you have only that amount left.\nThe poor man’s down to his last .3.\n  PREP-PHRASE: PREP amount\n\n11. If a situation is down to a particular person or thing, it has been caused by that person or thing. (mainly BRIT)\nAny mistakes are entirely down to us...\n  PREP-PHRASE\n\n12. If someone or something is down for a particular thing, it has been arranged that they will do that thing, or that thing will happen.\nMark had told me that he was down for an interview.\n  PREP-PHRASE\n\n13. If you pay money down on something, you pay part of the money you owe for it. (mainly AM)\nHe paid 20 percent down.\n  PREP-PHRASE\n\n  see also put down\n14. If people shout `down with’ something or someone, they are saying that they dislike them and want to get rid of them. (SPOKEN)\nDemonstrators chanted `down with the rebels’.\n  PHRASE: PHR n  disapproval\n\n15.\nup and down: see up\nups and downs: see up\n\nVERB USES\n   down  downs  downing  downed\n\nPlease look at category 3 to see if the expression you are looking for is shown under another headword.\n1. If you say that someone downs food or a drink, you mean that they eat or drink it.\nWe downed bottles of local wine.\n  VERB: V n\n  = consume\n2. If something or someone is downed, they fall to the ground because they have been hurt or damaged in some way. (JOURNALISM)\nTwo jet fighters were downed...\n  VERB: be V-ed\n\n=>  down.ing\n...the downing of an airliner, which killed 107 people.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n3.\nto down tools: see tool


Words: down payment
Meaning:
down pay.ment\n   down payment  down payments   also downpayment\n  If you make a down payment on something, you pay only a percentage of the total cost when you buy it. You then finish paying for it later, usually by paying a certain amount every month.\n  N-COUNT\n  = deposit


Words: down under
Meaning:
down un.der\n   down under\n  People sometimes refer to Australia and New Zealand as down under. (mainly BRIT INFORMAL)\nFor summer skiing down under, there is no better place than New Zealand.\n  PHRASE: prep PHR, PHR after v


Words: Down’s syndrome
Meaning:
Down’s syn.drome\n   Down’s syndrome\nin AM, usually use Down syndrome\n  Down’s syndrome is a disorder that some people are born with. People who have Down’s syndrome have a flat forehead and sloping eyes and lower than average intelligence.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: down-and-out
Meaning:
down-and-out  down-and-outs\n  If you describe someone as down-and-out, you mean that they have no job and nowhere to live, and they have no real hope of improving their situation.\n...a short story about a down-and-out advertising copywriter...\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n\n\n  Down-and-out is also a noun. (BRIT)\n...some poor down-and-out in need of a meal...\n  N-COUNT


Words: down-at-heel
Meaning:
down-at-heel   also down at heel\n  Something that is down-at-heel is in a in bad condition because it has been used too much or has not been looked after properly. If you say that someone is down-at-heel, you mean that they are wearing old, worn clothes because they have little money.\n...a down-at-heel disco in central East Berlin.\n...a down-at-heel waitress in a greasy New York diner.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n\n  = shabby


Words: down-river
Meaning:
down-river   also downriver\n  Something that is moving down-river is moving towards the mouth of a river, from a point further up the river. Something that is down-river is towards the mouth of a river.\nBy 09.30 we had cast off and were heading down-river.\n...a big tourist hotel a few hundred yards down-river...\nCologne is not so very far down-river from Mainz.\n  ADV: ADV after v, be ADV, n ADV, oft ADV from n\n  !=up-river\n  Down-river is also an adjective.\n...downriver factories dispensing billows of smoke.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n  !=up-river


Words: down-to-earth
Meaning:
down-to-earth\n  If you say that someone is down-to-earth, you approve of the fact that they concern themselves with practical things and actions, rather than with abstract theories.\n...her sincerity and her down-to-earth common sense...\n  ADJ  approval


Words: downbeat
Meaning:
down.beat\n   downbeat  downbeats\n1. If people or their opinions are downbeat, they are deliberately casual and not enthusiastic about a situation.\n...a downbeat assessment of 1992’s economic prospects.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n\n  !=upbeat\n2. If you are feeling downbeat, you are feeling depressed and without hope.\nThey found him in gloomy, downbeat mood.\n  ADJ\n  !=upbeat


Words: downcast
Meaning:
down.cast\n   downcast\n1. If you are downcast, you are feeling sad and without hope.\nBarbara looked increasingly downcast as defeat loomed.\n  ADJ: usu v-link ADJ\n  = dejected\n2. If your eyes are downcast, you are looking towards the ground, usually because you are feeling sad or embarrassed.\nShe was silent, her eyes downcast.\n  ADJ: usu v-link ADJ


Words: downer
Meaning:
down.er\n   downer  downers\n  If you describe a situation as a downer, you think that it is very depressing. (INFORMAL)\nFor divorced people, Christmas can be a downer.\n  N-COUNT: usu sing, a N\n\n  If you are on a downer, you are feeling depressed and without hope.\nWe’ve been on a bit of a downer since the Liverpool game.\n  PHRASE: v-link PHR


Words: downfall
Meaning:
down.fall\n   downfall  downfalls\n1. The downfall of a successful or powerful person or institution is their loss of success or power.\nHis lack of experience had led to his downfall.\n  N-COUNT: also N in pl, usu with poss\n  !=rise\n2. The thing that was a person’s downfall caused them to fail or lose power.\nHis honesty had been his downfall...\n  N-COUNT: usu with poss\n  = undoing


Words: downgrade
Meaning:
down.grade\n   downgrade  downgrades  downgrading  downgraded\n1. If something is downgraded, it is given less importance than it used to have or than you think it should have.\nThe boy’s condition has been downgraded from critical to serious...\n  VERB: usu passive, be V-ed\n  !=upgrade\n2. If someone is downgraded, their job or status is changed so that they become less important or receive less money.\nThere was no criticism of her work until after she was downgraded...\nHis superiors suspended him, and then downgraded him.\n  VERB: be V-ed, V n\n  = demote  !=upgrade


Words: downhearted
Meaning:
down.hearted\n   downhearted\n  If you are downhearted, you are feeling sad and discouraged.\nMax sighed, sounding even more downhearted...\n  ADJ: usu v-link ADJ\n  = dejected


Words: downhill
Meaning:
down.hill\n   downhill\n1. If something or someone is moving downhill or is downhill, they are moving down a slope or are located towards the bottom of a hill.\nHe headed downhill towards the river...\n  ADV: ADV after v, be ADV, ADV from n\n  !=uphill\n  Downhill is also an adjective.\n...downhill ski runs...\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n2. If you say that something is going downhill, you mean that it is becoming worse or less successful.\nSince I started to work longer hours things have gone steadily downhill...\n  ADV: ADV after v, be ADV\n\n3. If you say that a task or situation is downhill after a particular stage or time, you mean that it is easy to deal with after that stage or time.\nWell, I guess it’s all downhill from here.\n  ADJ: v-link ADJ\n  !=uphill


Words: Downing Street
Meaning:
Down.ing Street\n   Downing Street\n  Downing Street is the street in London in which the Prime Minister and the Chancellor of the Exchequer live. You can also use Downing Street to refer to the Prime Minister and his or her officials.\nThe Prime Minister arrived back at Downing Street from Paris this morning...\nDowning Street is taking the French opinion polls very seriously indeed.\n  N-PROPER


Words: download
Meaning:
down.load\n   download  downloads  downloading  downloaded\n  To download data means to transfer it to or from a computer along a line such as a telephone line, a radio link, or a computer network.\nUsers can download their material to a desktop PC.\n  VERB: V n


Words: downmarket
Meaning:
down.market\n   downmarket   also down-market\n  If you describe a product or service as downmarket, you think that they are cheap and are not very good in quality.\nIt is a downmarket eating house, seating about 60.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n\n  !=upmarket\n  Downmarket is also an adverb.\nWhy is the company going downmarket and developing smaller machines?\n  ADV: ADV after v\n  !=upmarket


Words: downplay
Meaning:
down.play\n   downplay  downplays  downplaying  downplayed\n  If you downplay a fact or feature, you try to make people think that it is less important or serious than it really is.\nThe government is trying to downplay the violence.\n  VERB: V n\n  = play down


Words: downpour
Meaning:
down.pour\n   downpour  downpours\n  A downpour is a sudden and unexpected heavy fall of rain.\n...a sudden downpour of rain.\n  N-COUNT


Words: downright
Meaning:
down.right\n   downright\n  You use downright to emphasize unpleasant or bad qualities or behaviour.\n...ideas that would have been downright dangerous if put into practice...\n  ADV: ADV adj  emphasis\n  = positively\n  Downright is also an adjective.\n...downright bad manners.\n  ADJ: ADJ n


Words: downs
Meaning:
downs\n  Downs are areas of gentle hills with few trees. (BRIT)\n...walking across the downs.\n...the Wiltshire downs.\n  N-PLURAL: oft in names, usu the N


Words: downshift
Meaning:
down.shift\n   downshift downshifts downshifting downshifted\n1. If someone downshifts, they leave a job that is well-paid but stressful for a less demanding job and a more enjoyable way of life. (BRIT)\nLynda now sees many of her clients downshifting in search of a new way of living.\n  VERB: V\n\n=>  down.shift.ing\nThe latest lifestyle trend is downshifting.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n=>  down.shifter     downshifters\nDownshifters are being tempted to leave the sophisticated city and go simple.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. If you downshift while driving, you change to a lower gear. (mainly AM; in BRIT, use change down)\nHe downshifted and turned the steering wheel.\n  VERB: V, also V to n


Words: downside
Meaning:
down.side\n   downside\n  The downside of a situation is the aspect of it which is less positive, pleasant, or useful than its other aspects.\nThe downside of this approach is a lack of clear leadership...\n  N-SING: oft the N of n\n  !=upside


Words: downsize
Meaning:
down.size\n   downsize  downsizes  downsizing  downsized\n  To downsize something such as a business or industry means to make it smaller. (BUSINESS)\nAmerican manufacturing organizations have been downsizing their factories.\n...today’s downsized economy.\n...a consultant who’s helped dozens of companies downsize.\n  VERB: V n, V-ed, V\n\n=>  down.siz.ing\n...a trend toward downsizing in the personal computer market.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: downspout
Meaning:
down.spout\n   downspout  downspouts\n  A downspout is a pipe attached to the side of a building, through which water flows from the roof into a drain. (AM; in BRIT, use drainpipe)\nHe installed rain gutters and downspouts.\n  N-COUNT\n  = drainpipe


Words: downstage
Meaning:
down.stage\n   downstage\n  When an actor is downstage or moves downstage, he or she is or moves towards the front part of the stage. (TECHNICAL)\nKrishna stands downstage in the open area.\n  ADV: ADV after v, be ADV\n  !=upstage\n  Downstage is also an adjective.\n...downstage members of the cast.\n  ADJ: ADJ n


Words: downstairs
Meaning:
down.stairs\n   downstairs\n1. If you go downstairs in a building, you go down a staircase towards the ground floor.\nDenise went downstairs and made some tea.\n  ADV: ADV after v\n  !=upstairs\n2. If something or someone is downstairs in a building, they are on the ground floor or on a lower floor than you.\nThe telephone was downstairs in the entrance hall...\n  ADV: be ADV, n ADV\n  !=upstairs\n3. Downstairs means situated on the ground floor of a building or on a lower floor than you are.\nShe repainted the downstairs rooms and closed off the second floor.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n  !=upstairs\n4. The downstairs of a building is its lower floor or floors.\nThe downstairs of the two little houses had been entirely refashioned.\n  N-SING: the N\n  !=upstairs


Words: downstream
Meaning:
down.stream\n   downstream\n  Something that is moving downstream is moving towards the mouth of a river, from a point further up the river. Something that is downstream is further towards the mouth of a river than where you are.\nWe had drifted downstream.\n  ADV: ADV after v, be ADV, n ADV, oft ADV of/from n\n  !=upstream\n  Downstream is also an adjective.\nBreaking the dam could submerge downstream cities such as Wuhan.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n  !=upstream


Words: downswing
Meaning:
down.swing\n   downswing  downswings\n  A downswing is a sudden downward movement in something such as an economy, that had previously been improving.\nThe manufacturing economy remains on a downswing.\n  N-COUNT: usu sing


Words: downtime
Meaning:
down.time\n   downtime\n1. In industry, downtime is the time during which machinery or equipment is not operating.\nOn the production line, downtime has been reduced from 55% to 26%.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n2. In computing, downtime is time when a computer is not working.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n3. Downtime is time when people are not working. (mainly AM)\nDowntime in Hollywood can cost a lot of money.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: downtown
Meaning:
down.town\n   downtown\n  Downtown places are in or towards the centre of a large town or city, where the shops and places of business are. (mainly AM)\n...an office in downtown Chicago.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n  !=uptown\n  Downtown is also an adverb.\nBy day he worked downtown for American Standard...\n  ADV: ADV after v, be ADV\n  !=uptown\n  Downtown is also a noun.\n...in a large vacant area of the downtown.\n  N-UNCOUNT: oft the N


Words: downtrend
Meaning:
down.trend\n   downtrend\n  A downtrend is a general downward movement in something such as a company’s profits or the economy.\nThe increase slowed to 0.4 percent, possibly indicating the start of a downtrend.\n  N-SING\n  !=uptrend


Words: downtrodden
Meaning:
down.trod.den\n   downtrodden\n  People who are downtrodden are treated very badly by people with power, and do not have the ability or the energy to do anything about it.\nThe owner is making huge profits at the expense of downtrodden peasants...\n  ADJ\n  = oppressed


Words: downturn
Meaning:
down.turn\n   downturn  downturns\n  If there is a downturn in the economy or in a company or industry, it becomes worse or less successful than it had been.\nThey predicted a severe economic downturn.\n  N-COUNT: oft N in n\n  !=upturn


Words: downward
Meaning:
down.ward\n   downward\n1. A downward movement or look is directed towards a lower place or a lower level.\n...a firm downward movement of the hands.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n  !=upward\n  see also downwards\n2. If you refer to a downward trend, you mean that something is decreasing or that a situation is getting worse.\nThe downward trend in home ownership is likely to continue.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n  !=upward


Words: downwards
Meaning:
down.wards\n   downwards   also downward\n1. If you move or look downwards, you move or look towards the ground or a lower level.\nBenedict pointed downwards again with his stick...\n  ADV: ADV after v, n ADV\n  !=upwards\n2. If an amount or rate moves downwards, it decreases.\nInflation is moving firmly downwards.\n  ADV: ADV after v\n  !=upwards\n3. If you want to emphasize that a statement applies to everyone in an organization, you can say that it applies from its leader downwards.\n...from the Prime Minister downwards.\n  ADV: from n ADV  emphasis


Words: downwind
Meaning:
down.wind\n   downwind\n  If something moves downwind, it moves in the same direction as the wind. If something is downwind, the wind is blowing towards it.\nHe attempted to return downwind to the airfield.\n  ADV: ADV after v, be ADV, oft ADV of n\n  !=upwind


Words: downy
Meaning:
downy  downier  downiest\n1. Something that is downy is filled or covered with small soft feathers.\n...the warm downy quilt.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n\n\n2. Something that is downy is covered with very fine hairs.\n...leaves that are often downy underneath.\n  ADJ\n  = velvety


Words: dowry
Meaning:
dow.ry\n   dowry  dowries\n  A woman’s dowry is the money and goods which, in some cultures, her family gives to the man that she marries.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dowse
Meaning:
dowse  dowses  dowsing  dowsed\n1. If someone dowses for underground water, minerals, or some other substance, they search for it using a special rod.\nHe said that dowsing for water is complete nonsense...\nWe dowse oil and ore in South America for big companies.\n...a dowsing rod.\n  VERB: V for n, V n, V-ing\n\n2.\n  see also douse


Words: doyen
Meaning:
doy.en\n   doyen  doyens\n  If you refer to a man as the doyen of a group or profession, you mean that he is the oldest and most experienced and respected member of it. (FORMAL)\n...the doyen of political interviewers.\n  N-COUNT: usu sing, usu the N of n  approval


Words: doyenne
Meaning:
doy.enne\n   doyenne  doyennes\n  If you refer to a woman as the doyenne of a group or profession, you mean that she is the oldest and most experienced and respected woman in it. (FORMAL)\n...the doyenne of British fashion.\n  N-COUNT: usu sing, usu the N of n  approval


Words: doze
Meaning:
doze  dozes  dozing  dozed\n  When you doze, you sleep lightly or for a short period, especially during the daytime.\nFor a while she dozed fitfully.\n  VERB: V\n  = nap


Words: doze off
Meaning:
doze off\n  If you doze off, you fall into a light sleep, especially during the daytime.\nI closed my eyes for a minute and must have dozed off.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P\n  = nod off


Words: dozen
Meaning:
doz.en\n   dozen  dozens\n\n  The plural form is dozen after a number, or after a word or expression referring to a number, such as `several’ or `a few’.\n\n1. If you have a dozen things, you have twelve of them.\nYou will be able to take ten dozen bottles free of duty through customs...\nHis chicken eggs sell for $22 a dozen.\n  NUM: usu aum NUM\n\n2. You can refer to a group of approximately twelve things or people as a dozen. You can refer to a group of approximately six things or people as half a dozen.\nIn half a dozen words, he had explained the bond that linked them...\nThe riot left four people dead and several dozen injured.\n  NUM: usu aum NUM\n\n3. If you refer to dozens of things or people, you are emphasizing that there are very many of them.\n...a storm which destroyed dozens of homes and buildings.\n  QUANT: QUANT of pl-n  emphasis\n\n  You can also use dozens as a pronoun.\nJust as revealing are Mr Johnson’s portraits, of which there are dozens.\n  PRON


Words: dozy
Meaning:
dozy  dozier  doziest\n1. If you are dozy, you are feeling sleepy and not very alert.\nMaybe I eat too much and that’s what makes me dozy.\n  ADJ\n  = drowsy\n2. If you describe someone as dozy, you mean they are rather stupid and slow to understand things. (INFORMAL)\n  ADJ  disapproval


Words: Dr
Meaning:
Dr Drs\nin AM, use Dr.\n1. Dr is a written abbreviation for Doctor.\n...Dr John Hardy of St Mary’s Medical School in London.\n\n2. Dr is used as a written abbreviation for Drive when it is part of a street name.\n...6 Queen’s Dr.


Words: drab
Meaning:
drab  drabber  drabbest\n  If you describe something as drab, you think that it is dull and boring to look at or experience.\n...his drab little office...\n  ADJ\n  = dreary\n=>  drab.ness\n...the dusty drabness of nearby villages.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n  see also dribs and drabs


Words: drachma
Meaning:
drach.ma\n   drachma  drachmas\n  The drachma was the unit of money that was used in Greece. In 2002 it was replaced by the euro.\n  N-COUNT: num N\n\n  The drachma was also used to refer to the Greek currency system.\nIn April 1992 the Greek drachma was the only Community currency not yet part of the EMS exchange-rate mechanism.\n  N-SING: the N


Words: draconian
Meaning:
dra.co.nian\n   draconian\n  Draconian laws or measures are extremely harsh and severe. (FORMAL)\n...draconian measures to lower US healthcare costs.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n


Words: draft
Meaning:
draft  drafts  drafting  drafted\n1. A draft is an early version of a letter, book, or speech.\nI rewrote his rough draft, which was published under my name...\nI faxed a first draft of this article to him.\n  N-COUNT: usu with supp\n\n2. When you draft a letter, book, or speech, you write the first version of it.\nHe drafted a standard letter to the editors...\n  VERB: V n\n\n3. If you are drafted, you are ordered to serve in the armed forces, usually for a limited period of time. (mainly AM)\nDuring the Second World War, he was drafted into the US Army...\n  VERB: usu passive, be V-ed into n\n  = conscript\n4. If people are drafted into a place, they are moved there to do a particular job.\nExtra police have been drafted into the town after the violence...\nThe manager will make a special plea to draft the player into his squad as a replacement.\n  VERB: be V-ed in/into n, V n in/into n\n\n5. The draft is the practice of ordering people to serve in the armed forces, usually for a limited period of time. (mainly AM)\n...his effort to avoid the draft.\n  N-SING: the N\n  = conscription\n6. A draft is a written order for payment of money by a bank, especially from one bank to another.\nTen days later Carmen received a bank draft for a plane ticket.\n  N-COUNT: oft by N\n\n7.\n  see also draught


Words: draft dodger
Meaning:
draft dodg.er\n   draft dodger  draft dodgers\n  A draft dodger is someone who avoids joining the armed forces when normally they would have to join. (mainly AM)\n  N-COUNT  disapproval


Words: drag
Meaning:
drag  drags  dragging  dragged\n1. If you drag something, you pull it along the ground, often with difficulty.\nHe got up and dragged his chair towards the table.\n  VERB: V n prep/adv\n\n2. To drag a computer image means to use the mouse to move the position of the image on the screen, or to change its size or shape. (COMPUTING)\nUse your mouse to drag the pictures to their new size.\n  VERB: V n\n\n3. If someone drags you somewhere, they pull you there, or force you to go there by physically threatening you.\nThe vigilantes dragged the men out of the vehicles...\n  VERB: V n prep/adv\n\n4. If someone drags you somewhere you do not want to go, they make you go there.\nWhen you can drag him away from his work, he can also be a devoted father...\n  VERB: V n adv/prep\n\n5. If you say that you drag yourself somewhere, you are emphasizing that you have to make a very great effort to go there.\nI find it really hard to drag myself out and exercise regularly.\n  VERB: V pron-refl adv/prep  emphasis\n\n6. If you drag your foot or your leg behind you, you walk with great difficulty because you foot or leg is injured in some way.\nHe was barely able to drag his poisoned leg behind him...\n  VERB: V n prep\n\n7. If the police drag a river or lake, they pull nets or hooks across the bottom of it in order to look for something.\nYesterday police frogmen dragged a small pond on the Common.\n  VERB: V n\n\n8. If a period of time or an event drags, it is very boring and seems to last a long time.\nThe minutes dragged past...\nThe pacing was uneven, and the early second act dragged.\n  VERB: V adv, V\n\n9. If something is a drag on the development or progress of something, it slows it down or makes it more difficult.\nSpending cuts will put a drag on growth.\n  N-SING: a N on n\n\n10. If you say that something is a drag, you mean that it is unpleasant or very dull. (INFORMAL)\n  N-SING: a N, oft N to-inf  disapproval\n\n11. If you take a drag on a cigarette or pipe that you are smoking, you take in air through it. (INFORMAL)\n  N-COUNT: oft N on n\n\n12. Drag is the wearing of women’s clothes by a male entertainer.\n  N-UNCOUNT: oft N n\n\n  If a man is in drag, he is wearing women’s clothes.\nThe band dressed up in drag.\n  PHRASE: PHR after v, v-link PHR\n\n13. If you drag your feet or drag your heels, you delay doing something or do it very slowly because you do not want to do it.\nThe government, he claimed, was dragging its feet.\n  PHRASE: V inflects


Words: drag down
Meaning:
drag down\n1. To drag someone down means to reduce them to an inferior social status or to lower standards of behaviour.\nShe dragged him down with her...\nThere were fears he would be dragged down by the scandal.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V n P (not pron), be V-ed P by n\n\n2. Something that drags you down makes you feel weak or depressed.\nI have had really bad bouts of flu that have really dragged me down.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V n P


Words: drag in
Meaning:
drag in\n  When you are talking, if you drag in a subject, you mention something that is not relevant and that other people do not want to discuss.\nThey disapproved of my dragging in his wealth...\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P n\n  = bring up


Words: drag into
Meaning:
drag into\n  To drag something or someone into an event or situation means to involve them in it when it is not necessary or not desirable.\nWhy should Carmela have dragged him into the argument?...\n  PHRASAL VERB: V n P n


Words: drag on
Meaning:
drag on\n  You say that an event or process drags on when you disapprove of the fact that it lasts for longer than necessary.\nThe conflict with James has dragged on for two years.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P


Words: drag out
Meaning:
drag out\n1. If you drag something out, you make it last for longer than is necessary.\nThe company was willing to drag out the proceedings for years...\nLet’s get it over with as soon as possible, rather than drag it out.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P n (not pron), V n P\n  = spin out\n2. If you drag something out of a person, you persuade them to tell you something that they do not want to tell you.\nThe families soon discovered that every piece of information had to be dragged out of the authorities.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V n P of n


Words: drag up
Meaning:
drag up\n  If someone drags up an unpleasant event or an old story from the past, they mention it when people do not want to be reminded of it.\nI don’t want to go back there and drag up that anger again...\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P n (not pron)\n  = bring up


Words: dragnet
Meaning:
drag.net\n   dragnet\n  A dragnet is a method used by police to catch suspected criminals. A large number of police officers search a specific area, in the hope that they will eventually find the person they are looking for.\n...a massive police dragnet for two suspected terrorists.\n  N-SING: oft n N


Words: dragon
Meaning:
drag.on\n   dragon  dragons\n  In stories and legends, a dragon is an animal like a big lizard. It has wings and claws, and breathes out fire.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dragonfly
Meaning:
dragon.fly\n   dragonfly  dragonflies\n  Dragonflies are brightly-coloured insects with long, thin bodies and two sets of wings. Dragonflies are often found near slow-moving water.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dragoon
Meaning:
dra.goon\n   dragoon  dragoons  dragooning  dragooned\n  If someone dragoons you into doing something that you do not want to do, they persuade you to do it even though you try hard not to agree.\n...the history professor who had dragooned me into taking the exam...\n  VERB: V n into -ing


Words: drain
Meaning:
drain  drains  draining  drained\n1. If you drain a liquid from a place or object, you remove the liquid by causing it to flow somewhere else. If a liquid drains somewhere, it flows there.\nMiners built the tunnel to drain water out of the mines...\nNow the focus is on draining the water...\nSprings and rivers that drain into lakes carry dissolved nitrates and phosphates...\n  VERB: V n adv/prep, V n, V prep/adv\n\n2. If you drain a place or object, you dry it by causing water to flow out of it. If a place or object drains, water flows out of it until it is dry.\nVast numbers of people have been mobilised to drain flooded land...\nThe soil drains freely and slugs aren’t a problem.\n  VERB: V n, V\n\n3. If you drain food or if food drains, you remove the liquid that it has been in, especially after it has been cooked or soaked in water.\nDrain the pasta well, arrange on four plates and pour over the sauce...\nWash the leeks thoroughly and allow them to drain.\n  VERB: V n, V\n\n4. A drain is a pipe that carries water or sewage away from a place, or an opening in a surface that leads to the pipe.\nTony built his own house and laid his own drains.\n  N-COUNT\n\n5. If the colour or the blood drains or is drained from someone’s face, they become very pale. You can also say that someone’s face drains or is drained of colour. (LITERARY)\nHarry felt the colour drain from his face...\nThacker’s face drained of colour...\nJock’s face had been suddenly drained of all colour...\n  VERB: V from n, V of n, be V-ed of n\n\n6. If something drains you, it leaves you feeling physically and emotionally exhausted.\nMy emotional turmoil had drained me.\n  VERB: V n\n\n=>  drained\nUnited left the pitch looking stunned and drained.\n  ADJ\n\n=>  drain.ing\nThis work is physically exhausting and emotionally draining.\n  ADJ\n\n7. If you say that something is a drain on an organization’s finances or resources, you mean that it costs the organization a large amount of money, and you do not consider that it is worth it.\n...an ultra-modern printing plant, which has been a big drain on resources...\n  N-SING: usu adj N, N on n\n\n  see also brain drain\n8. If you say that a country’s or a company’s resources or finances are drained, you mean that they are used or spent completely.\nThe state’s finances have been drained by war...\nThe company has steadily drained its cash reserves.\n  VERB: be V-ed, V n\n\n9. If you say that something is going down the drain, you mean that it is being destroyed or wasted. (INFORMAL)\nThey were aware that their public image was rapidly going down the drain...\n  PHRASE: usu PHR after v\n\n10. If you say that a business is going down the drain, you mean that it is failing financially. (INFORMAL)\nSmall local stores are going down the drain.\n  PHRASE: usu PHR after v


Words: drainage
Meaning:
drain.age\n   drainage\n  Drainage is the system or process by which water or other liquids are drained from a place.\nLine the pots with pebbles to ensure good drainage...\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: drainboard
Meaning:
drain.board\n   drainboard  drainboards\n  A drainboard is the same as a draining board. (AM)\n  N-COUNT: usu the N in sing


Words: draining board
Meaning:
drain.ing board\n   draining board  draining boards\n  The draining board is the place on a sink unit where things such as cups, plates, and cutlery are put to drain after they have been washed. (mainly BRIT; in AM, usually use drainboard)\n  N-COUNT: usu the N in sing


Words: drainpipe
Meaning:
drain.pipe\n   drainpipe  drainpipes\n  A drainpipe is a pipe attached to the side of a building, through which rainwater flows from the roof into a drain.\nHe evaded police by climbing through a window and shinning down a drainpipe.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dram
Meaning:
dram  drams\n  A dram is a small measure of whisky. (mainly SCOTTISH)\n...a dram of whisky...\nWould you care for a dram?\n  N-COUNT: oft N of n


Words: drama
Meaning:
dra.ma\n   drama  dramas\n1. A drama is a serious play for the theatre, television, or radio.\nHe acted in radio dramas.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. You use drama to refer to plays in general or to work that is connected with plays and the theatre, such as acting or producing.\nHe knew nothing of Greek drama...\nShe met him when she was at drama school.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n3. You can refer to a real situation which is exciting or distressing as drama.\nThere was none of the drama and relief of a hostage release...\n  N-VAR


Words: dramatic
Meaning:
dra.mat.ic\n   dramatic\n1. A dramatic change or event happens suddenly and is very noticeable and surprising.\nA fifth year of drought is expected to have dramatic effects on the California economy...\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n\n  = striking\n=>  dra.mati.cal.ly\nAt speeds above 50mph, serious injuries dramatically increase.\n  ADV: usu ADV with v, also ADV adj\n\n2. A dramatic action, event, or situation is exciting and impressive.\nHe witnessed many dramatic escapes as people jumped from as high as the fourth floor...\n  ADJ\n\n=>  dra.mati.cal.ly\nHe tipped his head to one side and sighed dramatically.\n  ADV: usu ADV with v, also ADV adj\n\n3. You use dramatic to describe things connected with or relating to the theatre, drama, or plays.\n...a dramatic arts major in college...\n  ADJ: ADJ n


Words: dramatics
Meaning:
dra.mat.ics\n   dramatics\n1. You use dramatics to refer to activities connected with the theatre and drama, such as acting in plays or producing them.\nAngela says she longs to join an amateur dramatics class.\n...the university dramatics society.\n  N-UNCOUNT: usu with supp\n\n2. You talk about dramatics to express your disapproval of behaviour which seems to show too much emotion, and which you think is done deliberately in order to impress people.\n...another wearisome outbreak of Nancy’s dramatics.\n  N-PLURAL  disapproval


Words: dramatis personae
Meaning:
dra.ma.tis per.so.nae\n   dramatis personae\n  The characters in a play are sometimes referred to as the dramatis personae. (TECHNICAL)\n  N-PLURAL: the N


Words: dramatize
Meaning:
drama.tize\n   dramatize  dramatizes  dramatizing  dramatized\nin BRIT, also use dramatise\n1. If a book or story is dramatized, it is written or presented as a play, film, or television drama.\n...an incident later dramatized in the movie `The Right Stuff’.\n...a dramatised version of the novel.\n  VERB: usu passive, be V-ed, V-ed\n\n=>  drama.ti.za.tion      dramatizations\n...a dramatisation of D H Lawrence’s novel, `Lady Chatterley’s Lover.’\n  N-COUNT: with supp\n\n2. If you say that someone dramatizes a situation or event, you mean that they try to make it seem more serious, more important, or more exciting than it really is.\nThey have a tendency to show off, to dramatize almost every situation.\n  VERB: V n  disapproval\n  = exaggerate\n3. If something that happens or is done dramatizes a situation, it focuses people’s attention on the situation in a dramatic way.\nThe need for change has been dramatized by plummeting bank profits.\n  VERB: V n\n  = highlight


Words: drape
Meaning:
drape  drapes  draping  draped\n1. If you drape a piece of cloth somewhere, you place it there so that it hangs down in a casual and graceful way.\nNatasha took the coat and draped it over her shoulders...\nShe had a towel draped around her neck.\n  VERB: V n prep, V-ed prep\n  = hang\n2. If someone or something is draped in a piece of cloth, they are loosely covered by it.\nThe coffin had been draped in a Union Jack...\nHe draped himself in the Canadian flag and went round the track...\n  VERB: be V-ed in/with n, V n in/with n\n\n3. If you drape a part of your body somewhere, you lay it there in a relaxed and graceful way.\nNicola slowly draped herself across the couch...\nHe draped his arm over Daniels’ shoulder...\n  VERB: V pron-refl prep, V n prep\n\n4. Drapes are pieces of heavy fabric that you hang from the top of a window and can close to keep the light out or stop people looking in. (AM; in BRIT, use curtains)\n  N-COUNT: usu pl


Words: drapery
Meaning:
dra.pery\n   drapery  draperies\n1. You can refer to cloth, curtains, or clothing hanging in folds as drapery or draperies.\nIn the dining-room the draperies create an atmosphere of elegance.\n  N-UNCOUNT: also N in pl\n\n2. Drapery is cloth that you buy in a shop. (BRIT; in AM, use dry goods)\nMy mother ran a couple of drapery shops.\n  N-UNCOUNT: oft N n


Words: drastic
Meaning:
dras.tic\n   drastic\n1. If you have to take drastic action in order to solve a problem, you have to do something extreme and basic to solve it.\nDrastic measures are needed to clean up the profession...\nHe’s not going to do anything drastic about economic policy.\n  ADJ\n  = radical\n2. A drastic change is a very great change.\n...a drastic reduction in the numbers of people dying.\n  ADJ\n\n=>  dras.ti.cal.ly\nAs a result, services have been drastically reduced.\n  ADV: ADV with v


Words: draught
Meaning:
draught  draughts\n1. A draught is a current of air that comes into a place in an undesirable way. (BRIT; in AM, use draft)\nBlock draughts around doors and windows...\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. Draught beer is beer which is kept in barrels rather than bottles.\nDraught beer is available too.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n\n\n  Beer that is on draught is kept in and served from a barrel rather than a bottle.\nThey drink bitter on draught in the local bar.\n  PHRASE: PHR after v, v-link PHR\n  = on tap\n3. Draughts is a game for two people, played with 24 round pieces on a board. (BRIT; in AM, use checkers)\nHe was in the study playing draughts by the fire with Albert.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n4. A draught is one of the round pieces which are used in the game of draughts. (BRIT; in AM, use checker)\n  N-COUNT


Words: draughts board
Meaning:
draughts board  draughts boards   also draught board\n  A draughts board is a square board for playing draughts, with 64 equal-sized, black and white squares. (BRIT; in AM, use checkerboard)\n  N-COUNT


Words: draughtsman
Meaning:
draughts.man\n   draughtsman  draughtsmen\nin AM, use draftsman\n  A draughtsman is someone whose job is to prepare very detailed drawings of machinery, equipment, or buildings.\n  N-COUNT


Words: draughtsmanship
Meaning:
draughts.man.ship\n   draughtsmanship\nin AM, use draftsmanship\n  Draughtsmanship is the ability to draw well or the art of drawing.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: draughty
Meaning:
draughty  draughtier  draughtiest\nin AM, use drafty\n  A draughty room or building has currents of cold air blowing through it, usually because the windows and doors do not fit very well.\n  ADJ


Words: draw
Meaning:
draw  draws  drawing  drew  drawn\n1. When you draw, or when you draw something, you use a pencil or pen to produce a picture, pattern, or diagram.\nShe would sit there drawing with the pencil stub...\nDraw a rough design for a logo...\n  VERB: V, V n\n  = sketch\n=>  draw.ing\nI like dancing, singing and drawing.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n2. When a vehicle draws somewhere, it moves there smoothly and steadily.\nClaire had seen the taxi drawing away...\n  VERB: V adv/prep\n\n3. If you draw somewhere, you move there slowly. (WRITTEN)\nShe drew away and did not smile...\nWhen we drew level, he neither slowed down nor accelerated.\n  VERB: V adv/prep, V adj\n\n4. If you draw something or someone in a particular direction, you move them in that direction, usually by pulling them gently. (WRITTEN)\nHe drew his chair nearer the fire...\nHe put his arm around Caroline’s shoulders and drew her close to him...\nWilson drew me aside after an interview.\n  VERB: V n prep, V n adj, V n with adv\n  = pull\n5. When you draw a curtain or blind, you pull it across a window, either to cover or to uncover it.\nAfter drawing the curtains, she lit a candle...\nMother was lying on her bed, with the blinds drawn.\n  VERB: V n, V-ed\n\n6. If someone draws a gun, knife, or other weapon, they pull it out of its container and threaten you with it.\nHe drew his dagger and turned to face his pursuers.\n  VERB: V n\n  = take out\n7. If an animal or vehicle draws something such as a cart, carriage, or another vehicle, it pulls it along.\n...a slow-moving tractor, drawing a trailer.\n  VERB: V n\n\n8. If you draw a deep breath, you breathe in deeply once.\nHe paused, drawing a deep breath.\n  VERB: V n\n\n9. If you draw on a cigarette, you breathe the smoke from it into your mouth or lungs.\nHe drew on an American cigarette...\nHer cheeks hollowed as she drew smoke into her lungs.\n  VERB: V on n, V n into n\n\n10. To draw something such as water or energy from a particular source means to take it from that source.\nVillagers still have to draw their water from wells.\n  VERB: V n from n\n\n11. If something that hits you or presses part of your body draws blood, it cuts your skin so that it bleeds.\nAny practice that draws blood could increase the risk of getting the virus.\n  VERB: V n\n\n12. If you draw money out of a bank, building society, or savings account, you get it from the account so that you can use it.\nShe was drawing out cash from a cash machine...\nCompanies could not draw money from bank accounts as cash.\n  VERB: V n with out, V n from n\n\n13. If you draw a salary or a sum of money, you receive a sum of money regularly.\nFor the first few years I didn’t draw any salary at all...\n  VERB: V n\n\n14. To draw something means to choose it or to be given it, as part of a competition, game, or lottery.\nWe delved through a sackful of letters to draw the winning name...\n  VERB: V n\n\n  Draw is also a noun.\n...the draw for the quarter-finals of the UEFA Cup.\n  N-COUNT\n\n15. A draw is a competition where people pay money for numbered or named tickets, then some of those tickets are chosen, and the owners are given prizes.\n  N-COUNT\n\n16. To draw something from a particular thing or place means to take or get it from that thing or place.\nI draw strength from the millions of women who have faced this challenge successfully...\n  VERB: V n from n\n\n17. If you draw a particular conclusion, you decide that that conclusion is true.\nHe draws two conclusions from this...\nHe says he cannot yet draw any conclusions about the murders.\n  VERB: V n from n, V n\n\n18. If you draw a comparison, parallel, or distinction, you compare or contrast two different ideas, systems, or other things.\n...literary critics drawing comparisons between George Sand and George Eliot...\n  VERB: V n\n\n19. If you draw someone’s attention to something, you make them aware of it or make them think about it.\nHe was waving his arms to draw their attention...\nHe just wants to draw attention to the plight of the unemployed.\n  VERB: V n, V n to n\n\n(nex


Words: draw .1
Meaning:
20. If someone or something draws a particular reaction, people react to it in that way.\nSuch a policy would inevitably draw fierce resistance from farmers.\n...an official tour to South Africa which drew angry political reactions.\n  VERB: V n from n, V n\n\n21. If something such as a film or an event draws a lot of people, it is so interesting or entertaining that a lot of people go to it.\nThe game is currently drawing huge crowds.\n  VERB: V n\n\n22. If someone or something draws you, it attracts you very strongly.\nHe drew and enthralled her...\nWhat drew him to the area was its proximity to central London.\n  VERB: V n, V n to n\n\n23. If someone will not be drawn or refuses to be drawn, they will not reply to questions in the way that you want them to, or will not reveal information or their opinion. (mainly BRIT)\nThe ambassador would not be drawn on questions of a political nature...\n`Did he say why?’.`No, he refuses to be drawn.’\n  VERB: with brd-neg, usu passive, be V-ed on n, be V-ed\n\n24. In a game or competition, if one person or team draws with another one, or if two people or teams draw, they have the same number of points or goals at the end of the game. (mainly BRIT)\nHolland and the Republic of Ireland drew one-one...\nWe drew with Ireland in the first game...\nEgypt drew two of their matches in Italy.\n  V-RECIP: pl-n V num, V with/against n, V n (non-recip)\n  = tie\n  Draw is also a noun. (in AM, usually use tie)\nWe were happy to come away with a draw against Sweden.\n  N-COUNT\n\n25.\n  see also drawing\n26. When an event or period of time draws to a close or draws to an end, it finishes.\nAnother celebration had drawn to its close.\n  PHRASE: V inflects\n\n27. If an event or period of time is drawing closer or is drawing nearer, it is approaching.\nAnd all the time next spring’s elections are drawing closer...\n  PHRASE: V inflects\n\n28.\nto draw a blank: see blank\nto draw the line: see line\nto draw lots: see lot


Words: draw in
Meaning:
draw in\n1. If you say that the nights, evenings, or days are drawing in, you mean that it is becoming dark at an earlier time in the evening, because autumn or winter is approaching. (BRIT)\nThe days draw in and the mornings get darker.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P\n\n2. If you draw someone in or draw them into something you are involved with, you cause them to become involved with it.\nIt won’t be easy for you to draw him in...\nDon’t let him draw you into his strategy.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V n P, V n P n\n\n3. If you draw in your breath, you breathe in deeply. If you draw in air, you take it into your lungs as you breathe in.\nRose drew her breath in sharply...\nRoll the wine around in your mouth, drawing in air at the same time.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V n P, V P n (not pron)\n  = take in


Words: draw off
Meaning:
draw off\n  If a quantity of liquid is drawn off from a larger quantity, it is taken from it, usually by means of a needle or pipe.\nThe fluid can be drawn off with a syringe...\nDoctors drew off a pint of his blood.\n  PHRASAL VERB: be V-ed P, V P n (not pron), also V n P


Words: draw on
Meaning:
draw on\n1. If you draw on or draw upon something such as your skill or experience, you make use of it in order to do something.\nHe drew on his experience as a yachtsman to make a documentary programme.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P n\n\n2. As a period of time draws on, it passes and the end of it gets closer.\nAs the afternoon drew on we were joined by more of the regulars.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P\n  = wear on


Words: draw out
Meaning:
draw out\n  If you draw someone out, you make them feel less nervous and more willing to talk.\nHer mother tried every approach to draw her out.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V n P


Words: draw up
Meaning:
draw up\n1. If you draw up a document, list, or plan, you prepare it and write it out.\nThey agreed to draw up a formal agreement...\nHe wants his ministers to concentrate on implementing policy, not on drawing it up.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P n (not pron), V n P\n  = formulate\n2. If you draw up a chair, you move it nearer to a person or place, for example so that you can watch something or join in with something.\nHe drew up a chair and sat down.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P n (not pron), also V n P\n  = pull up


Words: drawback
Meaning:
draw.back\n   drawback  drawbacks\n  A drawback is an aspect of something or someone that makes them less acceptable than they would otherwise be.\nHe felt the apartment’s only drawback was that it was too small.\n  N-COUNT\n  = disadvantage


Words: drawbridge
Meaning:
draw.bridge\n   drawbridge  drawbridges\n  A drawbridge is a bridge that can be pulled up, for example to prevent people from getting into a castle or to allow ships to pass underneath it.\n  N-COUNT


Words: drawer
Meaning:
drawer  drawers\n  A drawer is part of a desk, chest, or other piece of furniture that is shaped like a box and is designed for putting things in. You pull it towards you to open it.\nHe opened a drawer in his writing-table.\n  N-COUNT\n\n  see also chest of drawers


Words: drawing
Meaning:
draw.ing\n   drawing  drawings\n  A drawing is a picture made with a pencil or pen.\nShe did a drawing of me.\n  N-COUNT: oft N of n\n\n  see also draw


Words: drawing board
Meaning:
draw.ing board\n   drawing board  drawing boards\nin AM, use drawing-board\n1. A drawing board is a large flat board, often fixed to a metal frame so that it looks like a desk, on which you place your paper when you are drawing or designing something.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. If you say that you will have to go back to the drawing board, you mean that something which you have done has not been successful and that you will have to start again or try another idea.\n  PHRASE: PHR after v


Words: drawing pin
Meaning:
draw.ing pin\n   drawing pin  drawing pins   also drawing-pin\n  A drawing pin is a short pin with a broad, flat top which is used for fastening papers or pictures to a board, wall, or other surface. (BRIT; in AM, use thumbtack)\n  N-COUNT


Words: drawing room
Meaning:
draw.ing room\n   drawing room  drawing rooms\n  A drawing room is a room, especially a large room in a large house, where people sit and relax, or entertain guests. (FORMAL)\n  N-COUNT


Words: drawl
Meaning:
drawl  drawls  drawling  drawled\n  If someone drawls, they speak slowly and not very clearly, with long vowel sounds.\n`I guess you guys don’t mind if I smoke?’ he drawled...\nHe has a deep voice and he drawls slightly.\n  VERB: V with quote, V\n\n  Drawl is also a noun.\n...Jack’s southern drawl.\n  N-COUNT: with supp


Words: drawn
Meaning:
drawn\n1. Drawn is the past participle of draw.\n\n2. If someone or their face looks drawn, their face is thin and they look very tired, ill, worried, or unhappy.\nShe looked drawn and tired when she turned towards me.\n  ADJ


Words: drawn-out
Meaning:
drawn-out\n  You can describe something as drawn-out when it lasts or takes longer than you would like it to.\nThe road to peace will be long and drawn-out.\n  ADJ\n  = protracted


Words: drawstring
Meaning:
draw.string\n   drawstring  drawstrings   also draw-string\n  A drawstring is a cord that goes through an opening, for example at the top of a bag or a pair of trousers. When the cord is pulled tighter, the opening gets smaller.\n...a velvet bag with a drawstring.\n  N-COUNT: usu sing, oft N n


Words: dread
Meaning:
dread  dreads  dreading  dreaded\n1. If you dread something which may happen, you feel very anxious and unhappy about it because you think it will be unpleasant or upsetting.\nI’m dreading Christmas this year...\nI’d been dreading that the birth would take a long time.\n  VERB: V n/-ing, V that\n  !=look forward to\n2. Dread is a feeling of great anxiety and fear about something that may happen.\nShe thought with dread of the cold winters to come.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n3. Dread means terrible and greatly feared. (LITERARY)\n...a more effective national policy to combat this dread disease.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n\n  = dreaded\n4.\n  see also dreaded\n5. If you say that you dread to think what might happen, you mean that you are anxious about it because it is likely to be very unpleasant.\nI dread to think what will happen in the case of a major emergency...\n  PHRASE: V inflects, usu PHR wh


Words: dreaded
Meaning:
dread.ed\n   dreaded\n1. Dreaded means terrible and greatly feared.\nNo one knew how to treat this dreaded disease.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n2. You can use the dreaded to describe something that you, or a particular group of people, find annoying, inconvenient, or undesirable. (INFORMAL)\nShe’s a victim of the dreaded hay fever...\n  ADJ: ADJ n  feelings


Words: dreadful
Meaning:
dread.ful\n   dreadful\n1. If you say that something is dreadful, you mean that it is very bad or unpleasant, or very poor in quality.\nThey told us the dreadful news...\n  ADJ\n  = awful, appalling\n=>  dread.fully\nYou behaved dreadfully...\n  ADV: ADV with v\n\n2. Dreadful is used to emphasize the degree or extent of something bad.\nWe’ve made a dreadful mistake...\n  ADJ: ADJ n  emphasis\n  = terrible\n=>  dread.fully\nHe looks dreadfully ill...\n  ADV: ADV adj, ADV after v\n\n3. If someone looks or feels dreadful, they look or feel very ill, tired, or upset.\nAre you all right? You look dreadful...\n  ADJ: feel/look ADJ


Words: dreadlocked
Meaning:
dread.locked\n   dreadlocked\n  A dreadlocked person has their hair in dreadlocks. (WRITTEN)\n...the dreadlocked Rastafarian, Bob Marley.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n


Words: dreadlocks
Meaning:
dread.locks\n   dreadlocks\n  If someone has dreadlocks, their hair is divided into a large number of tight strips, like pieces of rope. Dreadlocks are worn especially by men who are Rastafarians.\n  N-PLURAL


Words: dream
Meaning:
dream  dreams  dreaming  dreamed  dreamt\n\n  American English uses the form dreamed as the past tense and past participle. British English uses either dreamed or dreamt.\n\n1. A dream is an imaginary series of events that you experience in your mind while you are asleep.\nHe had a dream about Claire...\nI had a dream that I was in an old study, surrounded by leather books.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. When you dream, you experience imaginary events in your mind while you are asleep.\nIvor dreamed that he was on a bus...\nShe dreamed about her baby.\n  VERB: V that, V about/of n, also V\n\n3. You can refer to a situation or event as a dream if you often think about it because you would like it to happen.\nHe had finally accomplished his dream of becoming a pilot...\nMy dream is to have a house in the country...\n  N-COUNT: usu with supp\n  = ambition\n4. If you often think about something that you would very much like to happen or have, you can say that you dream of it.\nAs a schoolgirl, she had dreamed of becoming an actress...\nFor most of us, a brand new designer kitchen is something we can only dream about...\nI dream that my son will attend college and find a good job.\n  VERB: V of/about n/-ing, V of/about n/-ing, V that\n\n5. You can use dream to describe something that you think is ideal or perfect, especially if it is something that you thought you would never be able to have or experience.\n...a dream holiday to Jamaica.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n6. If you describe something as a particular person’s dream, you think that it would be ideal for that person and that he or she would like it very much.\nGreece is said to be a botanist’s dream...\n  N-SING: poss N\n\n7. If you say that something is a dream, you mean that it is wonderful. (INFORMAL)\n  N-SING: a N\n\n8. You can refer to a situation or event that does not seem real as a dream, especially if it is very strange or unpleasant.\nWhen the right woman comes along, this bad dream will be over.\n  N-COUNT: usu sing, with supp\n\n9. If you say that you would not dream of doing something, you are emphasizing that you would never do it because you think it is wrong or is not possible or suitable for you.\nI wouldn’t dream of making fun of you...\n  VERB: with neg, V of -ing  emphasis\n\n10. If you say that you never dreamed that something would happen, you are emphasizing that you did not think that it would happen because it seemed very unlikely.\nI never dreamed that I would be able to afford a home here...\nWho could ever dream of a disaster like this?...\n  VERB: with brd-neg, V that, V of n  emphasis\n\n11.\n  see also pipe dream, wet dream\n12. If you say that you are in a dream, you mean that you do not concentrate properly on what you are doing because you are thinking about other things.\nAll day long I moved in a dream.\n  PHRASE: PHR after v, v-link PHR\n\n13. If you say that someone does something like a dream, you think that they do it very well. If you say that something happens like a dream, you mean that it happens successfully without any problems.\nShe cooked like a dream...\n  PHRASE: PHR after v\n\n14. If you describe someone or something as the person or thing of your dreams, you mean that you consider them to be ideal or perfect.\nThis could be the man of my dreams.\n  PHRASE: n PHR\n\n15. If you say that you could not imagine a particular thing in your wildest dreams, you are emphasizing that you think it is extremely strange or unlikely.\nNever in my wildest dreams did I think we could win.\n  PHRASE: with brd-neg, PHR with cl  emphasis\n\n16. If you describe something as being beyond your wildest dreams, you are emphasizing that it is better than you could have imagined or hoped for.\nShe had already achieved success beyond her wildest dreams.\n  PHRASE: n PHR, PHR after v, v-link PHR  emphasis


Words: dream team
Meaning:
dream team  dream teams\n  A dream team is the best possible group of people to be in a sports team or to do a particular job.\n...American basketball’s dream team.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dream ticket
Meaning:
dream tick.et\n   dream ticket\n  If journalists talk about a dream ticket, they are referring to two candidates for political positions, for example President and Vice-President, or Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister, who they think will be extremely successful.\n  N-SING


Words: dream up
Meaning:
dream up\n  If you dream up a plan or idea, you work it out or create it in your mind.\nI dreamed up a plan to solve both problems at once...\nHis son hadn’t dreamed it up.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P n (not pron), V n P


Words: dreamer
Meaning:
dream.er\n   dreamer  dreamers\n  If you describe someone as a dreamer, you mean that they spend a lot of time thinking about and planning for things that they would like to happen but which are improbable or impractical.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dreamily
Meaning:
dreami.ly\n   dreamily\n  If you say or do something dreamily, you say or do it in a way that shows your mind is occupied with pleasant, relaxing thoughts.\n`They were divine,’ she sighs, dreamily...\n  ADV: usu ADV with v, also ADV adj


Words: dreamland
Meaning:
dream.land\n   dreamland\n  If you refer to a situation as dreamland, you mean that it represents what someone would like to happen, but that it is completely unrealistic.\nIn dreamland we play them in the final.\n  N-UNCOUNT: also a N


Words: dreamless
Meaning:
dream.less\n   dreamless\n  A dreamless sleep is very deep and peaceful, and without dreams.\nHe fell into a deep dreamless sleep.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n


Words: dreamlike
Meaning:
dream.like\n   dreamlike\n  If you describe something as dreamlike, you mean it seems strange and unreal.\nHer paintings have a naive, dreamlike quality.\n  ADJ\n  = surreal


Words: dreamy
Meaning:
dreamy  dreamier  dreamiest\n1. If you say that someone has a dreamy expression, you mean that they are not paying attention to things around them and look as if they are thinking about something pleasant.\nHis face assumed a sort of dreamy expression.\n  ADJ\n\n2. If you describe something as dreamy, you mean that you like it and that it seems gentle and soft, like something in a dream.\n...dreamy shots of beautiful sunsets.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n  approval\n\n3.\n  see also dreamily


Words: dreary
Meaning:
dreary  drearier  dreariest\n  If you describe something as dreary, you mean that it is dull and depressing.\n...a dreary little town in the Midwest...\n  ADJ\n  = dismal\n=>  dreari.ly\n...a drearily familiar scenario.\n  ADV: ADV adj, ADV with v


Words: dredge
Meaning:
dredge  dredges  dredging  dredged\n  When people dredge a harbour, river, or other area of water, they remove mud and unwanted material from the bottom with a special machine in order to make it deeper or to look for something.\nPolice have spent weeks dredging the lake but have not found his body.\n  VERB: V n


Words: dredge up
Meaning:
dredge up\n1. If someone dredges up a piece of information they learned a long time ago, or if they dredge up a distant memory, they manage to remember it.\n...an American trying to dredge up some French or German learned in high school...\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P n (not pron)\n\n2. If someone dredges up a damaging or upsetting fact about your past, they remind you of it or tell other people about it.\nI wouldn’t want to dredge up the past...\nIt’s the media who keep dredging it up.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P n (not pron), V n P


Words: dredger
Meaning:
dredg.er\n   dredger  dredgers\n  A dredger is a boat which is fitted with a special machine that is used to increase the size of harbours, rivers, and canals.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dregs
Meaning:
dregs\n1. The dregs of a liquid are the last drops left at the bottom of a container, together with any solid bits that have sunk to the bottom.\nColum drained the dregs from his cup.\n  N-PLURAL: usu the N  disapproval\n\n2. If you talk about the dregs of society or of a community, you mean the people in it who you consider to be the most worthless and bad.\nHe sees dissidents as the dregs of society.\n  N-PLURAL: usu the N of n  disapproval


Words: drench
Meaning:
drench  drenches  drenching  drenched\n  To drench something or someone means to make them completely wet.\nThey turned fire hoses on the people and drenched them...\nThey were getting drenched by icy water...\nWe were completely drenched and cold...\n  VERB: V n, get V-ed, V-ed\n  = soak\n=>  -drenched\n...the rain-drenched streets of the capital.\n  COMB in ADJ


Words: dress
Meaning:
dress  dresses  dressing  dressed\n1. A dress is a piece of clothing worn by a woman or girl. It covers her body and part of her legs.\nShe was wearing a black dress.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. You can refer to clothes worn by men or women as dress.\nHe’s usually smart in his dress.\n...hundreds of Cambodians in traditional dress.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n  see also evening dress, fancy dress, full dress, morning dress\n3. When you dress or dress yourself, you put on clothes.\nHe told Sarah to wait while he dressed...\nSue had dressed herself neatly for work.\n  VERB: V, V pron-refl\n\n4. If you dress someone, for example a child, you put clothes on them.\nShe bathed her and dressed her in clean clothes.\n  VERB: V n\n\n5. If someone dresses in a particular way, they wear clothes of a particular style or colour.\nHe dresses in a way that lets everyone know he’s got authority...\n  VERB: V in n\n\n6. If you dress for something, you put on special clothes for it.\nWe don’t dress for dinner here.\n  VERB: V for n\n\n7. When someone dresses a wound, they clean it and cover it.\nThe poor child never cried or protested when I was dressing her wounds.\n  VERB: V n\n\n8. If you dress a salad, you cover it with a mixture of oil, vinegar, and herbs or flavourings.\nScatter the tomato over, then dress the salad.\n...a bowl of dressed salad.\n  VERB: V n, V-ed\n\n9.\n  see also dressing, dressed


Words: dress circle
Meaning:
dress cir.cle\n   dress circle\n  The dress circle is the lowest of the curved rows of seats upstairs in a theatre.\n  N-SING


Words: dress code
Meaning:
dress code  dress codes\n  The dress code of a place is the rules about what kind of clothes people are allowed to wear there.\nThere is a strict dress code: no trainers or jeans.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dress down
Meaning:
dress down\n  If you dress down, you wear clothes that are less smart than usual.\nShe dresses down in baggy clothes to avoid hordes of admirers.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P


Words: dress rehearsal
Meaning:
dress re.hears.al\n   dress rehearsal  dress rehearsals\n1. The dress rehearsal of a play, opera, or show is the final rehearsal before it is performed, in which the performers wear their costumes and the lights and scenery are all used as they will be in the performance.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. You can describe an event as a dress rehearsal for a later, more important event when it indicates how the later event will be.\nThese elections, you could almost say, are a dress rehearsal for the real elections.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dress sense
Meaning:
dress sense\n  Someone’s dress sense is their ability to choose clothes that make them look attractive.\nI’ve no dress sense at all...\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: dress shirt
Meaning:
dress shirt  dress shirts\n  A dress shirt is a special shirt which men wear on formal occasions. It is worn with a dinner jacket and bow tie.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dress up
Meaning:
dress up\n1. If you dress up or dress yourself up, you put on different clothes, in order to make yourself look smarter than usual or to disguise yourself.\nYou do not need to dress up for dinner...\nLittle girls dress up as angels for fiestas.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P, V P in/as n\n\n2. If you dress someone up, you give them special clothes to wear, in order to make them look smarter or to disguise them.\nMother loved to dress me up.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V n P\n\n3. If you dress something up, you try to make it seem more attractive, acceptable, or interesting than it really is.\nPoliticians dress up their ruthless ambition as a pursuit of the public good...\nHowever you dress it up, a bank only exists to lend money.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P n (not pron), V n P\n\n4.\n  see also dressed up, dressing-up


Words: dress-down Friday
Meaning:
dress-down Fri.day\n   dress-down Friday dress-down Fridays\n  In some companies employees are allowed to wear clothes that are less smart than usual on a Friday. This day is known as a dress-down Friday. (BUSINESS)\nBut is it really feasible to don sportswear to the office without the excuse of dress-down Friday?\n  N-COUNT


Words: dressage
Meaning:
dres.sage\n   dressage\n  Dressage is a competition in which horse riders have to make their horse perform controlled movements.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: dressed
Meaning:
dressed\n1. If you are dressed, you are wearing clothes rather than being naked or wearing your night clothes. If you get dressed, you put on your clothes.\nHe was fully dressed, including shoes...\nHe went into his bedroom to get dressed.\n  ADJ: usu v-link ADJ\n\n2. If you are dressed in a particular way, you are wearing clothes of a particular colour or kind.\n...a tall thin woman dressed in black.\n  ADJ: v-link ADJ in/as n, adv ADJ\n\n  see also well-dressed


Words: dressed up
Meaning:
dressed up\n1. If someone is dressed up, they are wearing special clothes, in order to look smarter than usual or in order to disguise themselves.\nYou’re all dressed up. Are you going somewhere?...\n  ADJ: usu v-link ADJ\n\n2. If you say that something is dressed up as something else, you mean that someone has tried to make it more acceptable or attractive by making it seem like that other thing.\nHe tried to organise things so that the trip would be dressed up as a UN mission.\n  ADJ: v-link ADJ as/in n  disapproval\n\n3.\ndressed up to the nines: see nine


Words: dresser
Meaning:
dress.er\n   dresser  dressers\n1. A dresser is a chest of drawers, usually with a mirror on the top. (AM; in BRIT, use dressing table)\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. A dresser is a piece of furniture which has cupboards or drawers in the lower part and shelves in the top part. It is usually used for storing china. (mainly BRIT)\n  N-COUNT\n\n3. You can use dresser to refer to the kind of clothes that a person wears. For example, if you say that someone is a smart dresser, you mean that they wear smart clothes.\n  N-COUNT: adj N


Words: dressing
Meaning:
dress.ing\n   dressing  dressings\n1. A salad dressing is a mixture of oil, vinegar, and herbs or flavourings, which you pour over salad.\nMix the ingredients for the dressing in a bowl.\n  N-MASS: oft supp N\n\n2. A dressing is a covering that is put on a wound to protect it while it heals.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dressing gown
Meaning:
dress.ing gown\n   dressing gown  dressing gowns   also dressing-gown\n  A dressing gown is a long, loose garment which you wear over your night clothes when you are not in bed.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dressing room
Meaning:
dress.ing room\n   dressing room  dressing rooms   also dressing-room\n1. A dressing room is a room in a theatre where performers can dress and get ready for their performance.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. A dressing room is a room at a sports stadium where players can change and get ready for their game. (BRIT; in AM, use locker room)\n  N-COUNT\n  = changing room


Words: dressing table
Meaning:
dress.ing ta.ble\n   dressing table  dressing tables   also dressing-table\n  A dressing table is a small table in a bedroom. It has drawers underneath and a mirror on top.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dressing-down
Meaning:
dressing-down\n  If someone gives you a dressing-down, they speak angrily to you because you have done something bad or foolish. (INFORMAL)\n  N-SING\n  = telling off


Words: dressing-up
Meaning:
dressing-up   also dressing up\n  When children play at dressing-up, they put on special or different clothes and pretend to be different people.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: dressmaker
Meaning:
dress.maker\n   dressmaker  dressmakers\n  A dressmaker is a person who makes women’s or children’s clothes.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dressmaking
Meaning:
dress.making\n   dressmaking\n  Dressmaking is the activity or job of making clothes for women or girls.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: dressy
Meaning:
dressy  dressier  dressiest\n  Dressy clothes are smart clothes which you wear when you want to look elegant or formal.\n  ADJ


Words: dribble
Meaning:
drib.ble\n   dribble  dribbles  dribbling  dribbled\n1. If a liquid dribbles somewhere, or if you dribble it, it drops down slowly or flows in a thin stream.\nSweat dribbled down Hart’s face...\nDribble the hot mixture slowly into the blender.\n  VERB: V prep/adv, V n prep/adv\n  = trickle\n2. When players dribble the ball in a game such as football or basketball, they keep kicking or tapping it quickly in order to keep it moving.\nHe dribbled the ball towards Ferris...\nHe dribbled past four defenders...\nHer dribbling skills look second to none.\n  VERB: V n, V, V-ing\n\n3. If a person dribbles, saliva drops slowly from their mouth.\n...to protect cot sheets when the baby dribbles...\n  VERB: V\n  = drool\n4. Dribble is saliva that drops slowly from someone’s mouth.\nHis clothes are soaked in dribble.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n  = drool


Words: dribs and drabs
Meaning:
dribs and drabs\n  If people or things arrive in dribs and drabs, they arrive in small numbers over a period of time rather than arriving all together. (INFORMAL)\nClients came in dribs and drabs.\n  PHRASE: PHR after v


Words: dried
Meaning:
dried\n  Dried food or milk has had all the water removed from it so that it will last for a long time.\n...an infusion which may be prepared from the fresh plant or the dried herb...\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n  see also dry


Words: dried fruit
Meaning:
dried fruit  dried fruits\n  Dried fruit is fruit that has been preserved by being dried; used especially to refer to currants, raisins, or sultanas, which are kinds of dried grapes.\n  N-VAR


Words: dried-up
Meaning:
dried-up\n  If you describe someone as dried-up, you are saying rudely that they are old and dull, and not worth paying attention to. (INFORMAL)\n...her fears of becoming a dried-up old prune.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n  disapproval\n  = withered\n  see also dry up


Words: drift
Meaning:
drift  drifts  drifting  drifted\n1. When something drifts somewhere, it is carried there by the movement of wind or water.\nWe proceeded to drift on up the river...\nThe waves became rougher as they drifted.\n  VERB: V adv/prep, V\n\n2. If someone or something drifts into a situation, they get into that situation in a way that is not planned or controlled.\nWe need to offer young people drifting into crime an alternative set of values...\nThere is a general sense that the country and economy alike are drifting.\n  VERB: V prep/adv, V\n\n3. If you say that someone drifts around, you mean that they travel from place to place without a plan or settled way of life.\nYou’ve been drifting from job to job without any real commitment.\n  VERB: V prep/adv  disapproval\n\n4. A drift is a movement away from somewhere or something, or a movement towards somewhere or something different.\n...the drift towards the cities.\n  N-COUNT: usu N prep\n\n5. To drift somewhere means to move there slowly or gradually.\nAs rural factories shed labour, people drift towards the cities.\n  VERB: V prep\n\n6. If sounds drift somewhere, they can be heard but they are not very loud.\nCool summer dance sounds are drifting from the stereo indoors.\n  VERB: V prep/adv\n\n7. If snow drifts, it builds up into piles as a result of the movement of the wind.\nThe snow, except where it drifted, was only calf-deep...\n  VERB: V\n\n8. A drift is a mass of snow that has built up into a pile as a result of the movement of wind.\n...a nine-foot snow drift.\n  N-COUNT\n\n9. The drift of an argument or speech is the general point that is being made in it.\nGrace was beginning to get his drift...\n  N-SING: poss N, N of n\n  = gist


Words: drift off
Meaning:
drift off\n  If you drift off to sleep, you gradually fall asleep.\nIt was only when he finally drifted off to sleep that the headaches eased.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P to n, also V P


Words: drifter
Meaning:
drift.er\n   drifter  drifters\n  If you describe someone as a drifter, you mean that they do not stay in one place or in one job for very long.\n  N-COUNT  disapproval


Words: driftwood
Meaning:
drift.wood\n   driftwood\n  Driftwood is wood which has been carried onto the shore by the motion of the sea or a river, or which is still floating on the water.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: drill
Meaning:
drill  drills  drilling  drilled\n1. A drill is a tool or machine that you use for making holes.\n...pneumatic drills.\n...a dentist’s drill.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. When you drill into something or drill a hole in something, you make a hole in it using a drill.\nHe drilled into the wall of Lili’s bedroom...\nI drilled five holes at equal distance.\n  VERB: V prep, V n\n\n3. When people drill for oil or water, they search for it by drilling deep holes in the ground or in the bottom of the sea.\nThere have been proposals to drill for more oil...\nThe team is still drilling.\n  VERB: V for n, V\n\n=>  drill.ing\nDrilling is due to start early next year.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n4. A drill is a way that teachers teach their students something by making them repeat it many times.\nThe teacher runs them through a drill.the days of the week, the weather and some counting.\n  N-COUNT\n\n5. If you drill people, you teach them to do something by making them repeat it many times.\nHe drills the choir to a high standard.\n  VERB: V n\n\n6. A drill is repeated training for a group of people, especially soldiers, so that they can do something quickly and efficiently.\nThe Marines carried out a drill that included 18 ships and 90 aircraft...\n  N-VAR: oft N n\n\n7. A drill is a routine exercise or activity, in which people practise what they should do in dangerous situations.\n...a fire drill.\n...air-raid drills.\n  N-COUNT: oft n N


Words: drink
Meaning:
drink  drinks  drinking  drank  drunk\n1. When you drink a liquid, you take it into your mouth and swallow it.\nHe drank his cup of tea...\nHe drank thirstily from the pool under the rock.\n  VERB: V n, V\n\n2. To drink means to drink alcohol.\nHe was smoking and drinking too much...\n  VERB: V\n\n=>  drink.ing\nShe had left him because of his drinking...\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n3. A drink is an amount of a liquid which you drink.\nI’ll get you a drink of water.\n  N-COUNT: oft N of n\n\n4. A drink is an alcoholic drink.\nShe felt like a drink after a hard day.\n  N-COUNT\n\n5. Drink is alcohol, such as beer, wine, or whisky.\nToo much drink is bad for your health.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n6.\n  see also drinking\n7. People say `I’ll drink to that’ to show that they agree with and approve of something that someone has just said. (INFORMAL)\n  CONVENTION  feelings


Words: drink to
Meaning:
drink to\n  When people drink to someone or something, they wish them success, good luck, or good health before having an alcoholic drink.\nLet’s drink to his memory, eh?\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P n


Words: drink up
Meaning:
drink up\n  When you drink up an amount of liquid, you finish it completely.\nDrink up your sherry and we’ll go...\nDrink up, there’s time for another.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P n (not pron), V P


Words: drink-drive
Meaning:
also drink drive\n  Drink-drive means relating to drink-driving.\nHe was nearly three times over the drink drive limit.\n  ADJ: ADJ n


Words: drink-driver
Meaning:
drink-driver  drink-drivers   also drink driver\n  A drink-driver is someone who drives after drinking more than the amount of alcohol that is legally allowed. (BRIT; in AM, use drunk driver)\n  N-COUNT\n\n=>  drink-driving\n...a drink-driving conviction.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: drinkable
Meaning:
drink.able\n   drinkable\n1. Water that is drinkable is clean and safe for drinking.\n  ADJ\n\n2. If you say that a particular wine, beer, or other drink is drinkable, you mean that it tastes quite pleasant.\nThe food was good and the wine drinkable.\n...a very drinkable plonk.\n  ADJ


Words: drinker
Meaning:
drink.er\n   drinker  drinkers\n1. If someone is a tea drinker or a beer drinker, for example, they regularly drink tea or beer.\nAre you a coffee drinker?\n  N-COUNT: supp N\n\n2. If you describe someone as a drinker, you mean that they drink alcohol, especially in large quantities.\nI’m not a heavy drinker.\n  N-COUNT


Words: drinking
Meaning:
drink.ing\n   drinking\n  Someone’s drinking friends or companions are people they regularly drink alcohol with.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n  see also drink


Words: drinking fountain
Meaning:
drink.ing foun.tain\n   drinking fountain  drinking fountains\n  A drinking fountain is a device which supplies water for people to drink in places such as streets, parks, or schools.\n  N-COUNT


Words: drinking water
Meaning:
drink.ing wa.ter\n   drinking water\n  Drinking water is water which it is safe to drink.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: drip
Meaning:
drip  drips  dripping  dripped\n1. When liquid drips somewhere, or you drip it somewhere, it falls in individual small drops.\nSit your child forward and let the blood drip into a tissue or on to the floor...\nAmid the trees the sea mist was dripping...\nThe children kept dripping Coke on the carpets.\n  VERB: V prep/adv, V, V n prep/adv\n\n2. When something drips, drops of liquid fall from it.\nA tap in the kitchen was dripping...\nLou was dripping with perspiration...\nHe was holding a cloth that dripped pink drops upon the floor.\n  VERB: V, V with n, V n\n\n3. A drip is a small individual drop of a liquid.\nDrips of water rolled down the trousers of his uniform.\n  N-COUNT\n\n4. A drip is a piece of medical equipment by which a liquid is slowly passed through a tube into a patient’s blood.\nI had a bad attack of pneumonia and spent two days in hospital on a drip.\n  N-COUNT\n\n5. If you say that something is dripping with a particular thing, you mean that it contains a lot of that thing. (LITERARY)\nThey were dazed by window displays dripping with diamonds and furs...\n  VERB: usu cont, V with n\n\n6.\n  see also drip-dry, dripping


Words: drip-dry
Meaning:
drip-dry\n  Drip-dry clothes or sheets are made of a fabric that dries free of creases when it is hung up wet.\n...drip-dry shirts.\n  ADJ


Words: dripping
Meaning:
drip.ping\n   dripping\n1. Dripping is the fat which comes out of meat when it is fried or roasted, and which can be used for frying food.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n2. If you are dripping wet, you are so wet that water is dripping from you.\nWe were dripping wet from the spray.\n  PHRASE: usu v-link PHR\n  = sopping\n3.\n  see also drip


Words: drippy
Meaning:
drip.py\n   drippy\n  If you describe someone as drippy, you mean that they are rather stupid and weak. If you describe something such as a book or a type of music as drippy, you mean that you think it is rather stupid, dull, and sentimental. (INFORMAL)\nThese men look a bit drippy.\n...drippy infantile ideas.\n  ADJ  disapproval\n  = wet


Words: drive
Meaning:
drive  drives  driving  drove  driven\n1. When you drive somewhere, you operate a car or other vehicle and control its movement and direction.\nI drove into town and went to a restaurant for dinner...\nShe never learned to drive...\nMrs Glick drove her own car and the girls went in Nancy’s convertible.\n  VERB: V prep/adv, V, V n\n\n=>  driv.ing\n...a qualified driving instructor...\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n2. If you drive someone somewhere, you take them there in a car or other vehicle.\nHis daughter Carly drove him to the train station.\n  VERB: V n prep/adv\n\n3. A drive is a journey in a car or other vehicle.\nI thought we might go for a drive on Sunday.\n  N-COUNT\n\n4. A drive is a wide piece of hard ground, or sometimes a private road, that leads from the road to a person’s house.\n  N-COUNT\n  = driveway\n5. If something drives a machine, it supplies the power that makes it work.\nThe current flows into electric motors that drive the wheels.\n  VERB: V n\n\n6. You use drive to refer to the mechanical part of a computer which reads the data on disks and tapes, or writes data onto them.\n...equipment such as terminals, tape drives or printers.\n  N-COUNT: usu supp N\n\n  see also disk drive\n7. If you drive something such as a nail into something else, you push it in or hammer it in using a lot of effort.\nI used a sledgehammer to drive the pegs into the ground...\nI held it still and drove in a nail.\n  VERB: V n prep, V n with adv\n\n8. In games such as cricket, golf, or football, if a player drives a ball somewhere, they kick or hit it there with a lot of force.\nArmstrong drove the ball into the roof of the net.\n  VERB: V n prep/adv, also V n\n\n9. If the wind, rain, or snow drives in a particular direction, it moves with great force in that direction.\nRain drove against the window.\n  VERB: V prep/adv\n\n=>  driv.ing\nHe crashed into a tree in driving rain.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n10. If you drive people or animals somewhere, you make them go to or from that place.\nThe last offensive drove thousands of people into Thailand...\nThe smoke also drove mosquitoes away.\n  VERB: V n prep, V n with adv\n\n11. To drive someone into a particular state or situation means to force them into that state or situation.\nThe recession and hospital bills drove them into bankruptcy...\nHe nearly drove Elsie mad with his fussing.\n  VERB: V n into/to n, V n adj\n\n12. The desire or feeling that drives a person to do something, especially something extreme, is the desire or feeling that causes them to do it.\nMore than once, depression drove him to attempt suicide...\nJealousy drives people to murder...\n...people who are driven by guilt, resentment and anxiety.\n...a man driven by a pathological need to win.\n  VERB: V n to-inf, V n to n, be V-ed, V-ed\n\n13. If you say that someone has drive, you mean they have energy and determination.\nJohn will be best remembered for his drive and enthusiasm.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n14. A drive is a very strong need or desire in human beings that makes them act in particular ways.\n...compelling, dynamic sex drives.\n  N-COUNT\n\n15. A drive is a special effort made by a group of people for a particular purpose.\nThe ANC is about to launch a nationwide recruitment drive...\n  N-SING: with supp\n  = campaign\n16. Drive is used in the names of some streets.\n...23 Queen’s Drive, Malvern, Worcestershire.\n  N-IN-NAMES\n\n17.\n  see also driving\n18. If you ask someone what they are driving at, you are asking what they are trying to say or what they are saying indirectly.\nIt was clear Cohen didn’t understand what Millard was driving at.\n  PHRASE: V inflects\n\n19.\nto drive a hard bargain: see bargain


Words: drive away
Meaning:
drive away\n  To drive people away means to make them want to go away or stay away.\nPatrick’s boorish rudeness soon drove Monica’s friends away...\nIncreased crime is driving away customers.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V n P, V P n (not pron)


Words: drive off
Meaning:
drive off\n  If you drive someone or something off, you force them to go away and to stop attacking you or threatening you.\nThe government drove the guerrillas off with infantry and air strikes...\nMen drove off the dogs with stones.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V n P, V P n (not pron)


Words: drive out
Meaning:
drive out\n  To drive out something means to make it disappear or stop operating.\nHe cut his rates to drive out rivals.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P n (not pron)


Words: drive shaft
Meaning:
drive shaft  drive shafts\n  A drive shaft is a shaft in a car or other vehicle that transfers power from the gear box to the wheels.\n  N-COUNT


Words: drive-by
Meaning:
drive-by\n  A drive-by shooting or a drive-by murder involves shooting someone from a moving car.\n  ADJ: ADJ n


Words: drive-in
Meaning:
drive-in  drive-ins\n  A drive-in is a restaurant, cinema, or other commercial place which is specially designed so that customers can use the services provided while staying in their cars.\n...fast food drive-ins.\n  N-COUNT\n\n  Drive-in is also an adjective.\n...a drive-in movie theater.\n  ADJ: ADJ n


Words: drive-through
Meaning:
drive-through\n  A drive-through shop or restaurant is one where you can buy things without leaving your car.\n...a drive-through burger bar.\n  ADJ: ADJ n


Words: drivel
Meaning:
driv.el\n   drivel\n  If you describe something that is written or said as drivel, you are critical of it because you think it is very silly.\nWhat absolute drivel!\n  N-UNCOUNT  disapproval\n  = nonsense


Words: driver
Meaning:
driv.er\n   driver  drivers\n1. The driver of a vehicle is the person who is driving it.\nThe driver got out of his van.\n...a taxi driver.\n  N-COUNT\n\n  see also back-seat driver\n2. A driver is a computer program that controls a device such as a printer. (COMPUTING)\n...printer driver software.\n  N-COUNT


Words: driver’s license
Meaning:
driv.er’s li.cense\n   driver’s license  driver’s licenses\n  A driver’s license is a card showing that you are qualified to drive because you have passed a driving test. (AM; in BRIT, use driving licence)\n  N-COUNT


Words: driver’s seat
Meaning:
driv.er’s seat\n   driver’s seat\n1. In a vehicle such as a car or a bus, the driver’s seat is the seat where the person who is driving sits.\n  N-SING: usu the N\n\n2. If you say that someone is in the driver’s seat, you mean that they are in control in a situation.\nNow he knows he’s in the driver’s seat and can wait for a better deal.\n  PHRASE: v-link PHR, PHR after v


Words: driveway
Meaning:
drive.way\n   driveway  driveways\n  A driveway is a piece of hard ground that leads from the road to the front of a house or other building.\n  N-COUNT\n  = drive


Words: driving
Meaning:
driv.ing\n   driving\n  The driving force or idea behind something that happens or is done is the main thing that has a strong effect on it and makes it happen or be done in a particular way.\nConsumer spending was the driving force behind the economic growth in the summer...\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n  see also drive


Words: driving licence
Meaning:
driv.ing li.cence\n   driving licence  driving licences\n  A driving licence is a card showing that you are qualified to drive because you have passed a driving test. (BRIT; in AM, use driver’s license)\n  N-COUNT


Words: driving range
Meaning:
driv.ing range\n   driving range  driving ranges\n  A driving range is an outdoor place where you can practise playing golf.\n  N-COUNT


Words: driving school
Meaning:
driv.ing school\n   driving school  driving schools\n  A driving school is a business that employs instructors who teach people how to drive a car.\n  N-COUNT


Words: driving seat
Meaning:
driv.ing seat\n   driving seat\n1. In a vehicle such as a car or a bus, the driving seat is the seat where the person who is driving the vehicle sits.\nHe got into the driving seat and started the engine.\n  N-SING: usu the N\n  = driver’s seat\n2. If you say that someone is in the driving seat, you mean that they are in control in a situation.\nAt 69 he is as firmly in the driving seat of the company as ever.\n  PHRASE: usu v-link PHR, PHR after v


Words: drizzle
Meaning:
driz.zle\n   drizzle  drizzles  drizzling  drizzled\n1. Drizzle is light rain falling in fine drops.\nThe drizzle had now stopped and the sun was breaking through.\n  N-UNCOUNT: also a N\n\n2. If it is drizzling, it is raining very lightly.\nClouds had come down and it was starting to drizzle...\n  VERB: it V


Words: drizzly
Meaning:
driz.zly\n   drizzly\n  When the weather is drizzly, the sky is dull and grey and it rains steadily but not very hard.\n...a dull, drizzly afternoon...\nIt was dull and slightly drizzly as we left.\n  ADJ: oft it v-link ADJ


Words: droll
Meaning:
droll\n  Something or someone that is droll is amusing or witty, sometimes in an unexpected way. (WRITTEN)\nThe band have a droll sense of humour.\n  ADJ


Words: drone
Meaning:
drone  drones  droning  droned\n1. If something drones, it makes a low, continuous, dull noise.\nAbove him an invisible plane droned through the night sky.\n...a virtually non-stop droning noise in the background.\n  VERB: V, V-ing\n\n  Drone is also a noun.\n...the constant drone of the motorways.\n  N-SING: usu N of n\n\n=>  dron.ing\n...the droning of a plane far overhead.\n  N-SING: usu N of n\n\n2. If you say that someone drones, you mean that they keep talking about something in a boring way.\nChambers’ voice droned, maddening as an insect around his head...\n  VERB: V  disapproval\n\n  Drone is also a noun.\nThe minister’s voice was a relentless drone.\n  N-SING\n\n  Drone on means the same as drone.\nAunt Maimie’s voice droned on...\nDaniel just drones on about American policy.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P, V P about n


Words: drool
Meaning:
drool  drools  drooling  drooled\n1. To drool over someone or something means to look at them with great pleasure, perhaps in an exaggerated or ridiculous way.\nFashion editors drooled over every item...\nAdvertisers are already drooling at reports that this might bring 20 million dollars.\n  VERB: V over n, V prep  disapproval\n\n2. If a person or animal drools, saliva drops slowly from their mouth.\nMy dog Jacques is drooling on my shoulder.\n  VERB: V


Words: droop
Meaning:
droop  droops  drooping  drooped\n  If something droops, it hangs or leans downwards with no strength or firmness.\nCrook’s eyelids drooped and he yawned...\n  VERB: V\n\n  Droop is also a noun.\n...the droop of his shoulders.\n  N-SING: usu N of n


Words: droopy
Meaning:
droopy  droopier  droopiest\n  If you describe something as droopy, you mean that it hangs down with no strength or firmness.\n...a tall man with a droopy moustache.\n  ADJ


Words: drop
Meaning:
drop  drops  dropping  dropped\n1. If a level or amount drops or if someone or something drops it, it quickly becomes less.\nTemperatures can drop to freezing at night...\nHis blood pressure had dropped severely...\nHe had dropped the price of his London home by .1.25m.\n  VERB: V prep/adv, V, V n\n\n  Drop is also a noun.\nHe was prepared to take a drop in wages...\n  N-COUNT: usu sing, oft N in n\n\n2. If you drop something, you accidentally let it fall.\nI dropped my glasses and broke them.\n  VERB: V n\n\n3. If something drops onto something else, it falls onto that thing. If something drops from somewhere, it falls from that place.\nHe felt hot tears dropping onto his fingers...\n  VERB: V prep/adv\n\n4. If you drop something somewhere or if it drops there, you deliberately let it fall there.\nDrop the noodles into the water...\n...shaped pots that simply drop into their own container...\nBombs drop round us and the floor shudders.\n  VERB: V n prep/adv, V prep/adv, V\n\n=>  drop.ping\n...the dropping of the first atomic bomb.\n  N-UNCOUNT: usu N of n\n\n5. If a person or a part of their body drops to a lower position, or if they drop a part of their body to a lower position, they move to that position, often in a tired and lifeless way.\nNancy dropped into a nearby chair...\nShe let her head drop...\nHe dropped his hands on to his knees.\n  VERB: V prep/adv, V, V n prep/adv\n\n6. To drop is used in expressions such as to be about to drop and to dance until you drop to emphasize that you are exhausted and can no longer continue doing something.\nShe looked about to drop...\n  VERB: no cont, V  emphasis\n\n7. If a man drops his trousers, he pulls them down, usually as a joke or to be rude.\nA couple of boozy revellers dropped their trousers.\n  VERB: V n\n\n8. If your voice drops or if you drop your voice, you speak more quietly.\nHer voice will drop to a dismissive whisper...\nHe dropped his voice and glanced round at the door.\n  VERB: V to n, V n\n\n9. If you drop someone or something somewhere, you take them somewhere and leave them there, usually in a car or other vehicle.\nHe dropped me outside the hotel...\n  VERB: V n prep/adv\n\n  Drop off means the same as drop.\nJust drop me off at the airport...\nHe was dropping off a late birthday present.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V n P prep/adv, V P n (not pron)\n\n10. If you drop an idea, course of action, or habit, you do not continue with it.\nThe prosecution was forced to drop the case...\n  VERB: V n\n\n=>  drop.ping\nThis was one of the factors that led to President Suharto’s dropping of his previous objections.\n  N-UNCOUNT: N of n\n\n11. If someone is dropped by a sports team or organization, they are no longer included in that team or employed by that organization.\nThe country’s captain was dropped from the tour party to England.\n  VERB: usu passive, be V-ed\n\n12. If you drop a game or part of a game in a sports competition, you lose it.\nOremans has yet to drop a set.\n  VERB: V n\n\n13. If you drop to a lower position in a sports competition, you move to that position.\nBritain has dropped from second to third place in the league.\n  VERB: V prep/adv\n\n14. A drop of a liquid is a very small amount of it shaped like a little ball. In informal English, you can also use drop when you are referring to a very small amount of something such as a drink.\n...a drop of blue ink...\nI’ll have another drop of that Italian milk.\n  N-COUNT: oft N of n\n\n15. Drops are a kind of medicine which you put drop by drop into your ears, eyes, or nose.\n...eye drops.\n  N-PLURAL: oft n N\n\n16. Fruit or chocolate drops are small round sweets with a fruit or chocolate flavour.\n  N-COUNT: usu pl, n N\n\n17. You use drop to talk about vertical distances. For example, a thirty-foot drop is a distance of thirty feet between the top of a cliff or wall and the bottom of it.\nThere was a sheer drop just outside my window...\n  N-COUNT: usu with supp\n\n18. If you drop a hint, you give a hint or say something in a casual way.\n(next)


Words: drop .1
Meaning:
If I drop a few hints he might give me a cutting.\n  PHRASE: V inflects\n\n19. If you want someone to drop the subject, drop it, or let it drop, you want them to stop talking about something, often because you are annoyed that they keep talking about it.\nMary Ann wished he would just drop it...\n  PHRASE: V inflects\n\n20.\nto drop dead: see dead\nat the drop of a hat: see hat\na drop in the ocean: see ocean\n  see also air drop


Words: drop by
Meaning:
drop by\n  If you drop by, you visit someone informally.\nShe and Danny will drop by later...\nHe dropped by my office this morning.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P, V P n


Words: drop goal
Meaning:
drop goal  drop goals\n  In rugby, a drop goal is a goal that a player scores by dropping the ball and kicking it between the posts.\n  N-COUNT


Words: drop in
Meaning:
drop in\n  If you drop in on someone, you visit them informally, usually without having arranged it.\nWhy not drop in for a chat?...\nShe spent most of the day dropping in on friends in Edinburgh.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P, V P on n


Words: drop off
Meaning:
drop off\n1.\nsee drop 9\n2. If you drop off to sleep, you go to sleep. (INFORMAL)\nI must have dropped off to sleep...\nJust as I was dropping off, a strange thought crossed my mind.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P to sleep, V P\n\n3. If the level of something drops off, it becomes less.\nSales to the British forces are expected to drop off...\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P\n  = fall


Words: drop out
Meaning:
drop out\n1. If someone drops out of college or a race, for example, they leave it without finishing what they started.\nHe’d dropped out of high school at the age of 16...\nShe dropped out after 20 kilometres with stomach trouble.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P of n, V P\n\n2. If someone drops out, they reject the accepted ways of society and live outside the usual system.\nShe encourages people to keep their jobs rather than dropping out to live in a commune.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P  disapproval\n\n  see also drop-out


Words: drop-dead
Meaning:
drop-dead\n  If you describe someone as, for example, drop-dead gorgeous, you mean that they are so gorgeous that people cannot fail to notice them. (INFORMAL)\nShe said that Campbell-Black was drop-dead gorgeous...\n  ADV: ADV adj\n\n  Drop-dead is also an adjective.\n...the drop-dead glamour of the designer decade.\n  ADJ: ADJ n


Words: drop-in
Meaning:
drop-in\n  Drop-in centres or services provide information and help for people with particular problems, usually on a free and informal basis.\n...a drop-in centre for young mothers.\n  ADJ: ADJ n


Words: drop-out
Meaning:
drop-out  drop-outs   also dropout\n1. If you describe someone as a drop-out, you disapprove of the fact that they have rejected the accepted ways of society, for example by not having a regular job.\n  N-COUNT  disapproval\n\n2. A drop-out is someone who has left school or college before they have finished their studies.\n...high-school drop-outs.\n  N-COUNT\n\n3. If you refer to the drop-out rate, you are referring to the number of people who leave a school or college early, or leave a course or other activity before they have finished it.\nThe drop-out rate among students is currently one in three.\n  ADJ: ADJ n


Words: droplet
Meaning:
drop.let\n   droplet  droplets\n  A droplet is a very small drop of liquid.\nDroplets of sweat were welling up on his forehead.\n  N-COUNT: oft N of n, n N


Words: dropper
Meaning:
drop.per\n   dropper  droppers\n  A dropper is a small glass tube with a hollow rubber part on one end which you use for drawing up and dropping small amounts of liquid.\n  N-COUNT


Words: droppings
Meaning:
drop.pings\n   droppings\n  Droppings are the faeces of birds and small animals.\n...pigeon droppings.\n  N-PLURAL


Words: dross
Meaning:
dross\n  If you describe something as dross, you mean that it is of very poor quality or has no value. (LITERARY)\nI go through phases where everything I write is just dross.\n  N-UNCOUNT  disapproval\n  = rubbish


Words: drought
Meaning:
drought  droughts\n  A drought is a long period of time during which no rain falls.\nDrought and famines have killed up to two million people here.\n  N-VAR


Words: drover
Meaning:
drov.er\n   drover  drovers\n  A drover is someone whose job is to make sheep or cattle move from one place to another in groups.\n  N-COUNT


Words: droves
Meaning:
droves\n  If you say that people are going somewhere or doing something in droves, you are emphasizing that there is a very large number of them.\nScientists are leaving the country in droves...\n  N-PLURAL: usu in N, in poss N, N of n  emphasis


Words: drown
Meaning:
drown  drowns  drowning  drowned\n1. When someone drowns or is drowned, they die because they have gone or been pushed under water and cannot breathe.\nA child can drown in only a few inches of water...\nLast night a boy was drowned in the river...\nHe walked into the sea and drowned himself...\nDolphins have sometimes been known to save drowning swimmers.\n  VERB: V, be V-ed, V pron-refl, V-ing\n\n2. If you say that a person or thing is drowning in something, you are emphasizing that they have a very large amount of it, or are completely covered in it.\n...people who gradually find themselves drowning in debt...\nThe potatoes were drowned in chilli.\n  VERB: V in n, be V-ed  emphasis\n\n3. If something drowns a sound, it is so loud that you cannot hear that sound properly.\nClapping drowned the speaker’s words for a moment...\n  VERB: V n\n\n  Drown out means the same as drown.\nTheir cheers drowned out the protests of demonstrators...\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P n (not pron)\n\n4. If you say that someone is drowning their sorrows, you mean that they are drinking alcohol in order to forget something sad or upsetting that has happened to them.\n  PHRASE: V inflects


Words: drowse
Meaning:
drowse  drowses  drowsing  drowsed\n  If you drowse, you are almost asleep or just asleep.\nNina drowsed for a while.\n  VERB: V\n  = doze


Words: drowsy
Meaning:
drowsy  drowsier  drowsiest\n  If you feel drowsy, you feel sleepy and cannot think clearly.\nHe felt pleasantly drowsy and had to fight off the urge to sleep.\n  ADJ\n\n=>  drowsi.ness\nBig meals during the day cause drowsiness.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n=>  drowsi.ly\n`Mm,’ she answered drowsily.\n  ADV: ADV with v


Words: drubbing
Meaning:
drub.bing\n   drubbing  drubbings\n  If someone gets a drubbing, they are defeated easily. (INFORMAL)\n  N-COUNT: usu sing


Words: drudge
Meaning:
drudge  drudges\n  If you describe someone as a drudge, you mean they have to work hard at a job which is not very important or interesting.\n  N-COUNT


Words: drudgery
Meaning:
drudg.ery\n   drudgery\n  You use drudgery to refer to jobs and tasks which are boring or unpleasant but which must be done.\nPeople want to get away from the drudgery of their everyday lives.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: drug
Meaning:
drug  drugs  drugging  drugged\n1. A drug is a chemical which is given to people in order to treat or prevent an illness or disease.\nThe drug will be useful to hundreds of thousands of infected people.\n...the drug companies.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. Drugs are substances that some people take because of their pleasant effects, but which are usually illegal.\nHis mother was on drugs, on cocaine...\nShe was sure Leo was taking drugs...\n...the problem of drug abuse.\n  N-COUNT\n\n3. If you drug a person or animal, you give them a chemical substance in order to make them sleepy or unconscious.\nShe was drugged and robbed.\n  VERB: V n\n\n4. If food or drink is drugged, a chemical substance is added to it in order to make someone sleepy or unconscious when they eat or drink it.\nI wonder now if that drink had been drugged...\nAnyone could have drugged that wine.\n  VERB: be V-ed, V n


Words: drug addict
Meaning:
drug ad.dict\n   drug addict  drug addicts\n  A drug addict is someone who is addicted to illegal drugs.\n  N-COUNT


Words: druggie
Meaning:
drug.gie\n   druggie  druggies   also druggy\n  If you refer to someone as a druggie you mean they are involved with or addicted to illegal drugs. (INFORMAL)\n  N-COUNT  disapproval


Words: druggist
Meaning:
drug.gist\n   druggist  druggists\n1. A druggist is someone who is qualified to sell medicines and drugs ordered by a doctor. (AM; in BRIT, usually use chemist)\n  N-COUNT\n  = pharmacist\n2. A druggist or a druggist’s is a store where medicines and drugs ordered by a doctor are sold. (AM; in BRIT, usually use chemist)\n  N-COUNT: oft the N


Words: drugstore
Meaning:
drug.store\n   drugstore  drugstores\n  In the United States, a drugstore is a shop where drugs and medicines are sold or given out, and where you can buy cosmetics, some household goods, and also drinks and snacks.\n  N-COUNT: oft the N


Words: drum
Meaning:
drum  drums  drumming  drummed\n1. A drum is a musical instrument consisting of a skin stretched tightly over a round frame. You play a drum by beating it with sticks or with your hands.\n  N-COUNT: oft the N\n\n2. A drum is a large cylindrical container which is used to store fuel or other substances.\n...an oil drum.\n  N-COUNT: usu with supp\n\n3. If something drums on a surface, or if you drum something on a surface, it hits it regularly, making a continuous beating sound.\nHe drummed his fingers on the leather top of his desk...\nRain drummed on the roof of the car.\n  VERB: V n on/against n, V on n\n\n4.\n  see also drumming\n5. If someone beats the drum or bangs the drum for something, they support it strongly.\n  PHRASE: V inflects


Words: drum into
Meaning:
drum into\n  If you drum something into someone, you keep saying it to them until they understand it or remember it.\nStandard examples were drummed into students’ heads...\nThey drummed it into her that she was not to tell anyone.\n  PHRASAL VERB: usu passive, be V-ed P n, V it P n that


Words: drum major
Meaning:
drum ma.jor\n   drum major  drum majors\n1. A drum major is a sergeant in the army who is in charge of the drummers in a military band, or who leads the band when they are marching. (BRIT)\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. A drum major is a man who leads a marching band by walking in front of them. (AM)\n  N-COUNT


Words: drum majorette
Meaning:
drum ma.jor.ette\n   drum majorette  drum majorettes\n  A drum majorette is a girl or young woman who wears a uniform and carries a stick which at intervals she throws into the air and catches. Drum majorettes march, often in lines, in front of a band as part of a procession.\n  N-COUNT


Words: drum out
Meaning:
drum out\n  If someone is drummed out of an organization such as the armed forces or a club, they are forced to leave it, usually because they have done something wrong.\nSailors caught in a drugs scandal are to be drummed out of the service.\n  PHRASAL VERB: usu passive, be V-ed P P n


Words: drum roll
Meaning:
drum roll  drum rolls   also drumroll\n  A drum roll is a series of drumbeats that follow each other so quickly that they make a continuous sound. A drum roll is often used to show that someone important is arriving, or to introduce someone.\nA long drum roll introduced the trapeze artists.\n  N-COUNT


Words: drum up
Meaning:
drum up\n  If you drum up support or business, you try to get it.\nIt is to be hoped that he is merely drumming up business.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P n (not pron)


Words: drumbeat
Meaning:
drum.beat\n   drumbeat  drumbeats\n1. A drumbeat is the sound of a beat on a drum.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. People sometimes describe a series of warnings or continuous pressure on someone to do something as a drumbeat. (mainly AM JOURNALISM)\n  N-COUNT: oft N of n


Words: drummer
Meaning:
drum.mer\n   drummer  drummers\n  A drummer is a person who plays a drum or drums in a band or group.\n  N-COUNT


Words: drumming
Meaning:
drum.ming\n   drumming\n1. Drumming is the action of playing the drums.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n2. Drumming is the sound or feeling of continuous beating.\nHe pointed up to the roof, through which the steady drumming of rain could be heard...\nHis mouth was dry and he felt a drumming in his temples.\n  N-UNCOUNT: also a N, oft N of n


Words: drumstick
Meaning:
drum.stick\n   drumstick  drumsticks\n1. A drumstick is the lower part of the leg of a bird such as a chicken which is cooked and eaten.\n  N-COUNT: usu pl\n\n2. Drumsticks are sticks used for beating a drum.\n  N-COUNT


Words: drunk
Meaning:
drunk  drunks\n1. Someone who is drunk has drunk so much alcohol that they cannot speak clearly or behave sensibly.\nI got drunk and had to be carried home...\n  ADJ\n\n2. A drunk is someone who is drunk or frequently gets drunk.\nA drunk lay in the alley.\n  N-COUNT\n\n3. If you are drunk with a strong emotion or an experience, you are in a state of great excitement because of it.\nThey are currently drunk with success...\n  ADJ: v-link ADJ, usu ADJ with n\n\n4. Drunk is the past participle of drink.


Words: drunk driver
Meaning:
drunk driv.er\n   drunk driver  drunk drivers\n  A drunk driver is someone who drives after drinking more than the amount of alcohol that is legally allowed. (mainly AM; in BRIT, usually use drink driver)\n  N-COUNT\n\n=>  drunk driv.ing\n...efforts designed to help stop drunk driving.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: drunken
Meaning:
drunk.en\n   drunken\n1. Drunken is used to describe events and situations that involve people who are drunk.\nThe pain roused him from his drunken stupor...\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n2. A drunken person is drunk or is frequently drunk.\nGroups of drunken hooligans smashed shop windows and threw stones.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n=>  drunk.en.ly\nOne night Bob stormed drunkenly into her house.\n  ADV: ADV with v\n\n=>  drunk.en.ness\nHe was arrested for drunkenness on his way to the football ground.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: dry
Meaning:
dry  drier  or dryer  driest  dries  drying  dried\n1. If something is dry, there is no water or moisture on it or in it.\nClean the metal with a soft dry cloth...\nPat it dry with a soft towel...\nOnce the paint is dry, apply a coat of the red ochre emulsion paint...\n  ADJ\n  !=wet, damp\n=>  dry.ness\n...the parched dryness of the air.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n2. When something dries or when you dry it, it becomes dry.\nLeave your hair to dry naturally whenever possible...\nWash and dry the lettuce...\n  VERB: V, V n\n\n3. When you dry the dishes after a meal, you wipe the water off the plates, cups, knives, pans, and other things when they have been washed, using a cloth.\nMrs. Madrigal began drying dishes.\n  VERB: V n\n  = wipe\n  Dry up means the same as dry. (BRIT)\nHe got up and stood beside Julie, drying up the dishes while she washed.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P n (not pron)\n\n4. If you say that your skin or hair is dry, you mean that it is less oily than, or not as soft as, normal.\nNothing looks worse than dry, cracked lips...\n  ADJ\n  !=greasy\n=>  dry.ness\nDryness of the skin can also be caused by living in centrally heated homes and offices.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n5. If the weather or a period of time is dry, there is no rain or there is much less rain than average.\nExceptionally dry weather over the past year had cut agricultural production...\n  ADJ\n  !=wet\n6. A dry place or climate is one that gets very little rainfall.\n...a hot, dry climate where the sun is shining all the time.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n\n  = arid  !=wet\n=>  dry.ness\nHe was advised to spend time in the warmth and dryness of Italy.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n7. In the dry means in a place or at a time that is not damp, wet, or rainy. (mainly BRIT)\nSuch cars, however, do grip the road well, even in the dry.\n  N-SING: the N, usu in N\n  !=wet\n8. If a river, lake, or well is dry, it is empty of water, usually because of hot weather and lack of rain.\n  ADJ\n\n9. If an oil well is dry, it is no longer producing any oil.\n  ADJ: usu v-link ADJ\n\n10. If your mouth or throat is dry, it has little or no saliva in it, and so feels very unpleasant, perhaps because you are tense or ill.\nHis mouth was dry, he needed a drink...\n  ADJ: usu v-link ADJ\n\n=>  dry.ness\nSymptoms included frequent dryness in the mouth.\n  N-UNCOUNT: usu with supp\n\n11. If someone has dry eyes, there are no tears in their eyes; often used with negatives or in contexts where you are expressing surprise that they are not crying.\nThere were few dry eyes in the house when I finished...\n  ADJ\n  !=moist\n12. If a country, state, or city is dry, it has laws or rules which forbid anyone to drink, sell, or buy alcoholic drink. (INFORMAL)\nGujurat has been a totally dry state for the past thirty years.\n  ADJ\n  = teetotal\n13. If you say that someone is sucking something dry or milking it dry, you are criticizing them for taking all the good things from it until there is nothing left.\nHe’s just milking the company dry.\n  ADJ: v n ADJ  disapproval\n\n14. Dry humour is very amusing, but in a subtle and clever way.\nFulton has retained his dry humour...\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n  approval\n\n=>  dri.ly\n`That is surprising.’.`Hardly,’ I said drily.\n  ADV: ADV with v, ADV adj\n\n=>  dry.ness\nHer writing has a wry dryness.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n15. If you describe something such as a book, play, or activity as dry, you mean that it is dull and uninteresting.\n...dry, academic phrases.\n  ADJ  disapproval\n\n16. Dry bread or toast is plain and not covered with butter or jam.\nFor breakfast, they had dry bread and tea.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n17. Dry sherry or wine does not have a sweet taste.\n...a glass of chilled, dry white wine.\n  ADJ\n  !=sweet\n18.\nhigh and dry: see high\nhome and dry: see home


Words: dry cleaner
Meaning:
dry clean.er\n   dry cleaner  dry cleaners\n  A dry cleaner or a dry cleaner’s is a shop where things can be dry-cleaned.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dry dock
Meaning:
dry dock  dry docks\n  A dry dock is a dock from which water can be removed so that ships or boats can be built or repaired.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dry goods
Meaning:
dry goods\n  Dry goods are cloth, thread, and other things that are sold at a draper’s shop. (AM; in BRIT, use drapery, haberdashery)\n  N-PLURAL


Words: dry land
Meaning:
dry land\n  If you talk about dry land, you are referring to land, in contrast to the sea or the air.\nWe were glad to be on dry land again.\n  N-UNCOUNT: oft on N


Words: dry off
Meaning:
dry off\n  If something dries off or if you dry it off, the moisture on its surface disappears or is removed.\nThey are then scrubbed with clean water and left to dry off for an hour or two in a warm room...\nWhen the bath water started to cool I got out, dried myself off, and dressed.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P, V n P, also V P n (not pron)


Words: dry out
Meaning:
dry out\n1. If something dries out or is dried out, it loses all the moisture that was in it and becomes hard.\nIf the soil is allowed to dry out the tree could die...\nThe cold winds dry out your skin very quickly.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P, V P n (not pron), also V n P\n\n2. If someone dries out or is dried out, they are cured of addiction to alcohol. (INFORMAL)\nHe checked into Cedars Sinai Hospital to dry out...\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P, also be V-ed P


Words: dry rot
Meaning:
dry rot\n  Dry rot is a serious disease of wood. It is caused by a fungus and causes wood to decay.\nThe house was riddled with dry rot.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: dry run
Meaning:
dry run  dry runs\n  If you have a dry run, you practise something to make sure that you are ready to do it properly.\nThe competition is planned as a dry run for the World Cup finals.\n  N-COUNT: oft N for n


Words: dry ski slope
Meaning:
dry ski slope dry ski slopes  or dry slope\n  A dry ski slope is a slope made of an artificial substance on which you can practise skiing.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dry up
Meaning:
dry up\n1. If something dries up or if something dries it up, it loses all its moisture and becomes completely dry and shrivelled or hard.\nAs the day goes on, the pollen dries up and becomes hard...\nWarm breezes from the South dried up the streets.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P, V P n (not pron), also V n P\n\n=>  dried-up\n...a tuft or two of dried-up grass.\n  ADJ\n  = desiccated\n2. If a river, lake, or well dries up, it becomes empty of water, usually because of hot weather and a lack of rain.\nReservoirs are drying up and farmers have begun to leave their land...\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P\n\n=>  dried-up\n...a dried-up river bed.\n  ADJ\n  = dry\n3. If a supply of something dries up, it stops.\nInvestment could dry up and that could cause the economy to falter...\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P\n\n4. If you dry up when you are speaking, you stop in the middle of what you were saying, because you cannot think what to say next.\nIf you ask her what she’s good at she will dry up after two minutes.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P\n\n5.\nsee dry 3\n6.\n  see also dried-up, drying up


Words: dry-clean
Meaning:
dry-clean  dry-cleans  dry-cleaning  dry-cleaned\n  When things such as clothes are dry-cleaned, they are cleaned with a liquid chemical rather than with water.\nNatural-filled duvets must be dry-cleaned by a professional.\n  VERB: usu passive, be V-ed


Words: dry-cleaning
Meaning:
dry-cleaning   also dry cleaning\n1. Dry-cleaning is the action or work of dry-cleaning things such as clothes.\nHe owns a dry-cleaning business.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n2. Dry-cleaning is things that have been dry-cleaned, or that are going to be dry-cleaned.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: dry-eyed
Meaning:
dry-eyed\n  If you say that someone is dry-eyed, you mean that although they are in a very sad situation they are not actually crying.\nAt the funeral she was dry-eyed and composed.\n  ADJ\n  !=tearful


Words: dry-stone wall
Meaning:
dry-stone wall  dry-stone walls\nin AM, use dry wall\n  A dry-stone wall is a wall that has been built by fitting stones together without using any cement.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dryer
Meaning:
dry.er\n   dryer  dryers   also drier\n  A dryer is a machine for drying things. There are different kinds of dryer, for examples ones designed for drying clothes, crops, or people’s hair or hands.\n...hot air electric hand dryers.\n  N-COUNT: oft n N\n\n  see also dry, tumble dryer


Words: drying up
Meaning:
dry.ing up\n   drying up\n  When you do the drying up, you dry things such as plates, pans, knives, and cups after they have been washed. (BRIT; in AM, use drying)\n  N-UNCOUNT: also the N


Words: DT’s
Meaning:
DT’s\n  When alcoholics have the DT’s, the alcohol causes their bodies to shake and makes them unable to think clearly.\n  N-PLURAL: the N


Words: dual
Meaning:
dual\n  Dual means having two parts, functions, or aspects.\n...his dual role as head of the party and head of state...\nRob may be entitled to dual nationality.\n  ADJ: ADJ n


Words: dual carriageway
Meaning:
dual carriage.way\n   dual carriageway  dual carriageways   also dual-carriageway\n  A dual carriageway is a road which has two lanes of traffic travelling in each direction with a strip of grass or concrete down the middle to separate the two lots of traffic. (BRIT; in AM, use divided highway)\n  N-VAR


Words: dualism
Meaning:
dual.ism\n   dualism\n  Dualism is the state of having two main parts or aspects, or the belief that something has two main parts or aspects. (FORMAL)\n...the Gnostic dualism of good and evil struggling for supremacy.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: duality
Meaning:
dual.ity\n   duality  dualities\n  A duality is a situation in which two opposite ideas or feelings exist at the same time. (FORMAL)\n  N-VAR


Words: dub
Meaning:
dub  dubs  dubbing  dubbed\n1. If someone or something is dubbed a particular thing, they are given that description or name. (JOURNALISM)\n...the man whom the Labour opposition dubbed as the `no change Prime Minister’...\nAt the height of her career, Orson Welles dubbed her `the most exciting woman in the world’.\n  VERB: V n as n, V n n\n\n2. If a film or soundtrack in a foreign language is dubbed, a new soundtrack is added with actors giving a translation.\nIt was dubbed into Spanish for Mexican audiences.\n  VERB: usu passive, be V-ed into n


Words: dubious
Meaning:
du.bi.ous\n   dubious\n1. If you describe something as dubious, you mean that you do not consider it to be completely honest, safe, or reliable.\nThis claim seems to us to be rather dubious...\n  ADJ\n  = questionable\n=>  du.bi.ous.ly\nCarter was dubiously convicted of shooting three white men in a bar.\n  ADV: ADV after v, ADV adj/-ed\n\n2. If you are dubious about something, you are not completely sure about it and have not yet made up your mind about it.\nMy parents were dubious about it at first but we soon convinced them.\n  ADJ: v-link ADJ, oft ADJ about n\n  = doubtful\n=>  du.bi.ous.ly\nHe eyed Coyne dubiously.\n  ADV\n\n3. If you say that someone has the dubious honour or the dubious pleasure of doing something, you are indicating that what they are doing is not an honour or pleasure at all, but is, in fact, unpleasant or bad.\nNagy has the dubious honour of being the first athlete to be banned in this way...\n  ADJ: ADJ n


Words: ducal
Meaning:
du.cal\n   ducal\n  Ducal places or things belong to or are connected with a duke. (FORMAL)\n  ADJ: ADJ n


Words: duchess
Meaning:
duch.ess\n   duchess  duchesses\n  A duchess is a woman who has the same rank as a duke, or who is a duke’s wife or widow.\n...the Duchess of Kent.\n  N-COUNT: oft the N of n


Words: duchy
Meaning:
duchy  duchies\n  A duchy is an area of land that is owned or ruled by a duke.\n...the Duchy of Cornwall.\n  N-COUNT: oft the N of n


Words: duck
Meaning:
duck  ducks  ducking  ducked\n1. A duck is a very common water bird with short legs, a short neck, and a large flat beak.\n  N-VAR\n\n  Duck is the flesh of this bird when it is eaten as food.\n...honey roasted duck.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n2. If you duck, you move your head or the top half of your body quickly downwards to avoid something that might hit you, or to avoid being seen.\nHe ducked in time to save his head from a blow from the poker...\nHe ducked his head to hide his admiration...\nI wanted to duck down and slip past but they saw me.\n  VERB: V, V n, V adv/prep\n\n3. If you duck something such as a blow, you avoid it by moving your head or body quickly downwards.\nHans deftly ducked their blows.\n  VERB: V n\n  = dodge\n4. You say that someone ducks a duty or responsibility when you disapprove of the fact that they avoid it. (INFORMAL)\nThe Opposition reckons the Health Secretary has ducked all the difficult decisions...\n  VERB: V n  disapproval\n\n5.\n  see also dead duck, lame duck, sitting duck\n6. You say that criticism is like water off a duck’s back or water off a duck’s back to emphasize that it is not having any effect on the person being criticized.\n  PHRASE: v-link PHR  emphasis\n\n7. If you take to something like a duck to water, you discover that you are naturally good at it or that you find it very easy to do.\nShe took to mothering like a duck to water.\n  PHRASE: V inflects


Words: duck out
Meaning:
duck out\n  If you duck out of something that you are supposed to do, you avoid doing it. (INFORMAL)\nGeorge ducked out of his forced marriage to a cousin...\nYou can’t duck out once you’ve taken on a responsibility.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P of n, V P\n  = back out


Words: duckling
Meaning:
duck.ling\n   duckling  ducklings\n  A duckling is a young duck.\n  N-COUNT\n\n  see also ugly duckling


Words: duct
Meaning:
duct  ducts\n1. A duct is a pipe, tube, or channel which carries a liquid or gas.\n...a big air duct in the ceiling.\n  N-COUNT: usu with supp\n\n2. A duct is a tube in your body which carries a liquid such as tears or bile.\n...tear ducts.\n  N-COUNT: with supp


Words: dud
Meaning:
dud  duds\n  Dud means not working properly or not successful. (INFORMAL)\nHe replaced a dud valve.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n  Dud is also a noun.\nThe mine was a dud.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dude ranch
Meaning:
dude ranch  dude ranches\n  A dude ranch is an American ranch where people can have holidays during which they can do activities such as riding or camping.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dudgeon
Meaning:
dudg.eon\n   dudgeon\n  If you say that someone is in high dudgeon, you are emphasizing that they are very angry or unhappy about something.\nWashington businesses are in high dudgeon over the plan.\n  PHRASE: v-link PHR  emphasis


Words: due
Meaning:
due  dues\n1. If an event is due to something, it happens or exists as a direct result of that thing.\nThe country’s economic problems are largely due to the weakness of the recovery...\n  PREP-PHRASE: v-link PREP n\n\n2. You can say due to to introduce the reason for something happening. Some speakers of English believe that it is not correct to use due to in this way.\nDue to the large volume of letters he receives Dave regrets he is unable to answer queries personally...\n  PREP-PHRASE\n\n3. If something is due at a particular time, it is expected to happen, be done, or arrive at that time.\nThe results are due at the end of the month...\nMr Carter is due in London on Monday.\n...customers who paid later than twenty days after the due date.\n  ADJ: usu v-link ADJ, oft ADJ to-inf, ADJ prep/adv\n\n4. Due attention or consideration is the proper, reasonable, or deserved amount of it under the circumstances.\nAfter due consideration it was decided to send him away to live with foster parents...\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n  = proper\n5. Something that is due, or that is due to someone, is owed to them, either as a debt or because they have a right to it.\nI was sent a cheque for .1,525 and advised that no further pension was due...\nI’ve got some leave due to me and I was going to Tasmania for a fortnight.\n  ADJ: v-link ADJ, oft ADJ to n\n\n  Due is also a preposition.\nHe had not taken a summer holiday that year but had accumulated the leave due him.\n  PREP: oft n PREP n\n\n6. If someone is due for something, that thing is planned to happen or be given to them now, or very soon, often after they have been waiting for it for a long time.\nHe is not due for release until 2020.\n  ADJ: v-link ADJ for n\n\n  Due is also a preposition.\nI reckon I’m due one of my travels.\n  PREP\n\n7. Dues are sums of money that you give regularly to an organization that you belong to, for example a social club or trade union, in order to pay for being a member.\nOnly 18 of the UN’s 180 members had paid their dues by the January deadline.\n  N-PLURAL: oft poss N\n\n8. Due is used before the words `north’, `south’, `east’, or `west’ to indicate that something is in exactly the direction mentioned.\nThey headed due north...\n  ADV: ADV adv/adj\n\n9. If you say that something will happen or take place in due course, you mean that you cannot make it happen any quicker and it will happen when the time is right for it.\nIn due course the baby was born...\n  PHRASE: PHR with cl\n\n10. You can say `to give him his due’, or `giving him his due’ when you are admitting that there are some good things about someone, even though there are things that you do not like about them.\nTo give Linda her due, she had tried to encourage John in his school work.\n  PHRASE\n\n11. You can say `with due respect’ when you are about to disagree politely with someone.\nWith all due respect, you’re wrong.\n  PHRASE: PHR cl  politeness


Words: duel
Meaning:
duel  duels  duelling  duelled\nin AM, use dueling, dueled\n1. A duel is a formal fight between two people in which they use guns or swords in order to settle a quarrel.\nHe had killed a man in a duel.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. To duel means to fight a duel or be involved in a conflict.\nWe duelled for two years and Peterson made the most of it, playing us off against each other.\n...two silver French duelling pistols.\n  V-RECIP: pl-n V, V-ing, also V with n, V (non-recip)


Words: duff
Meaning:
duff  duffs  duffing  duffed\n  If you describe something as duff, you mean it is useless, broken, or of poor quality. (BRIT INFORMAL)\nSometimes you have to take a duff job when you need the money.\n  ADJ  disapproval


Words: duffel
Meaning:
duf.fel\n   duffel  duffels\n1. A duffel is the same as a duffel coat.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. A duffel is the same as a duffel bag.\n  N-COUNT


Words: duffel bag
Meaning:
duf.fel bag\n   duffel bag  duffel bags   also duffle bag\n  A duffel bag is a bag shaped like a cylinder and made of strong fabric such as canvas. A duffel bag has a string at one end that is used to close the bag and to carry it with.\n  N-COUNT


Words: duffel coat
Meaning:
duf.fel coat\n   duffel coat  duffel coats   also duffle coat\n  A duffel coat is a heavy coat with a hood and long buttons that fasten with loops.\n  N-COUNT


Words: duffer
Meaning:
duf.fer\n   duffer  duffers\n  If you describe someone as a duffer, you mean that they are very bad at doing something. (BRIT INFORMAL, OLD-FASHIONED)\n  N-COUNT  disapproval


Words: dugout
Meaning:
dug.out\n   dugout  dugouts\n1. A dugout is a small boat that is made by removing the inside of a log.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. A dugout is a shelter made by digging a hole in the ground and then covering it or tunnelling so that the shelter has a roof over it.\n  N-COUNT


Words: duke
Meaning:
duke  dukes\n  A duke is a man with a very high social rank.\n...the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh.\n  N-COUNT: oft the N of n


Words: dukedom
Meaning:
duke.dom\n   dukedom  dukedoms\n1. A dukedom is the rank or title of a duke.\n...the present heir to the dukedom.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. A dukedom is the land owned by a duke.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dulcet
Meaning:
dul.cet\n   dulcet\n  People often use the expression dulcet tones to refer to someone’s voice. (HUMOROUS)\nYou hear his dulcet tones on the Radio 1 trailers in the morning.\n  PHRASE: with poss


Words: dull
Meaning:
dull  duller  dullest  dulls  dulling  dulled\n1. If you describe someone or something as dull, you mean they are not interesting or exciting.\nI felt she found me boring and dull...\n  ADJ  disapproval\n  = boring  !=interesting\n=>  dull.ness\nThey enjoy anything that breaks the dullness of their routine life.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n2. Someone or something that is dull is not very lively or energetic.\nThe body’s natural rhythms mean we all feel dull and sleepy between 1 and 3pm.\n  ADJ\n  = sluggish\n=>  dul.ly\nHis eyes looked dully ahead.\n  ADV: ADV after v\n\n=>  dull.ness\nDid you notice any unusual depression or dullness of mind?\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n3. A dull colour or light is not bright.\nThe stamp was a dull blue colour.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n\n\n=>  dul.ly\nThe street lamps gleamed dully through the night’s mist.\n  ADV: ADV with v\n\n4. You say the weather is dull when it is very cloudy.\nIt’s always dull and raining.\n  ADJ\n  !=sunny\n5. Dull sounds are not very clear or loud.\nThe coffin closed with a dull thud.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n\n\n=>  dul.ly\nHe heard his heart thump dully but more quickly.\n  ADV: ADV after v\n\n6. Dull feelings are weak and not intense.\nThe pain, usually a dull ache, gets worse with exercise...\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n  !=sharp\n=>  dul.ly\nHis arm throbbed dully.\n  ADV\n\n7. If a knife or blade is dull, it is not sharp. (OLD-FASHIONED)\n  ADJ\n  = blunt  !=keen\n8. If something dulls or if it is dulled, it becomes less intense, bright, or lively.\nHer eyes dulled and she gazed blankly...\nShare prices and trading have been dulled by worries over the war.\n  VERB: V, V n


Words: dullard
Meaning:
dull.ard\n   dullard  dullards\n  If you say that someone is a dullard, you mean that they are rather boring, unintelligent, and unimaginative. (OLD-FASHIONED)\n  N-COUNT


Words: duly
Meaning:
duly\n1. If you say that something duly happened or was done, you mean that it was expected to happen or was requested, and it did happen or it was done.\nWestcott appealed to Waite for an apology, which he duly received.\n  ADV: ADV before v\n\n2. If something is duly done, it is done in the correct way. (FORMAL)\n...the duly elected president of the country.\n  ADV: ADV before v


Words: dum-dum
Meaning:
dum-dum  dum-dums\n  A dum-dum or a dum-dum bullet is a bullet that is very soft or hollow at the front. Dum-dum bullets cause large and serious wounds because they break into small pieces and spread out when they hit someone.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dumb
Meaning:
dumb  dumber  dumbest  dumbs dumbing dumbed\n1. Someone who is dumb is completely unable to speak.\n...a young deaf and dumb man.\n  ADJ\n  = mute\n2. If someone is dumb on a particular occasion, they cannot speak because they are angry, shocked, or surprised. (LITERARY)\nWe were all struck dumb for a minute.\n  ADJ: v-link ADJ\n  = speechless\n=>  dumb.ly\nI shook my head dumbly, not believing him.\n  ADV: ADV with v\n\n3. If you call a person dumb, you mean that they are stupid or foolish. (INFORMAL)\nThe questions were set up to make her look dumb.\n  ADJ  disapproval\n\n4. If you say that something is dumb, you think that it is silly and annoying. (AM INFORMAL)\nI came up with this dumb idea...\n  ADJ  disapproval\n  = stupid


Words: dumb down
Meaning:
dumb down\n  If you dumb down something, you make it easier for people to understand, especially when this spoils it.\nNo one favored dumbing down the magazine.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P n, also V n P, V\n\n=>  dumb.ing down\nHe accused broadcasters of contributing to the dumbing down of America.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: dumb waiter
Meaning:
dumb wait.er\n   dumb waiter  dumb waiters   also dumbwaiter\n  A dumb waiter is a lift used to carry food and dishes from one floor of a building to another.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dumb-bell
Meaning:
dumb-bell  dumb-bells   also dumbbell\n  A dumb-bell is a short bar with weights on either side which people use for physical exercise to strengthen their arm and shoulder muscles.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dumbfound
Meaning:
dumb.found\n   dumbfound  dumbfounds  dumbfounding  dumbfounded\n  If someone or something dumbfounds you, they surprise you very much.\nThis suggestion dumbfounded Joe.\n  VERB: V n\n  = astonish


Words: dumbfounded
Meaning:
dumb.found.ed\n   dumbfounded\n  If you are dumbfounded, you are extremely surprised by something.\nI stood there dumbfounded.\n  ADJ: usu v-link ADJ\n  = astonished


Words: dumbstruck
Meaning:
dumb.struck\n   dumbstruck\n  If you are dumbstruck, you are so shocked or surprised that you cannot speak.\n  ADJ: usu v-link ADJ  emphasis\n  = speechless


Words: dummy
Meaning:
dum.my\n   dummy  dummies\n1. A dummy is a model of a person, often used to display clothes.\n...the bottom half of a shop-window dummy.\n  N-COUNT\n  = mannequin\n2. You can use dummy to refer to things that are not real, but have been made to look or behave as if they are real.\nDummy patrol cars will be set up beside motorways to frighten speeding motorists...\n  N-COUNT: oft N n\n  = fake\n3. A baby’s dummy is a rubber or plastic object that you give the baby to suck so that he or she feels comforted. (BRIT; in AM, usually use pacifier)\n  N-COUNT


Words: dummy run
Meaning:
dum.my run\n   dummy run  dummy runs\n  A dummy run is a trial or test procedure which is carried out in order to see if a plan or process works properly. (BRIT)\nBefore we started we did a dummy run.\n  N-COUNT\n  = test run


Words: dump
Meaning:
dump  dumps  dumping  dumped\n1. If you dump something somewhere, you put it or unload it there quickly and carelessly. (INFORMAL)\nWe dumped our bags at the nearby Grand Hotel and hurried towards the market...\n  VERB: V n prep/adv\n\n2. If something is dumped somewhere, it is put or left there because it is no longer wanted or needed. (INFORMAL)\nThe getaway car was dumped near a motorway tunnel...\nThe government declared that it did not dump radioactive waste at sea.\n  VERB: be V-ed, V n\n\n=>  dump.ing\nGerman law forbids the dumping of hazardous waste on German soil.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n3. A dump is a place where rubbish is left, for example on open ground outside a town.\n...companies that bring their rubbish straight to the dump...\n  N-COUNT\n  = tip\n4. If you say that a place is a dump, you think it is ugly and unpleasant to live in or visit. (INFORMAL)\n  N-COUNT  disapproval\n\n5. To dump something such as an idea, policy, or practice means to stop supporting or using it. (INFORMAL)\nMinisters believed it was vital to dump the poll tax before the election.\n  VERB: V n\n  = ditch\n6. If a firm or company dumps goods, it sells large quantities of them at prices far below their real value, usually in another country, in order to gain a bigger market share or to keep prices high in the home market. (BUSINESS)\nIt produces more than it needs, then dumps its surplus onto the world market.\n  VERB: V n\n\n7. If you dump someone, you end your relationship with them. (INFORMAL)\nI thought he was going to dump me for another girl...\n  VERB: V n\n  = ditch\n8. To dump computer data or memory means to copy it from one storage system onto another, such as from disk to magnetic tape. (COMPUTING)\nAll the data is then dumped into the main computer.\n  VERB: V n into n\n\n9. A dump is a list of the data that is stored in a computer’s memory at a particular time. Dumps are often used by computer programmers to find out what is causing a problem with a program. (COMPUTING)\n...a screen dump.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dump truck
Meaning:
dump truck  dump trucks\n  A dump truck is a truck whose carrying part can be tipped backwards so that the load falls out.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dumper truck
Meaning:
dump.er truck\n   dumper truck  dumper trucks\n  A dumper truck is the same as a dump truck. (BRIT)\n  N-COUNT


Words: dumping ground
Meaning:
dump.ing ground\n   dumping ground  dumping grounds\n  If you say that a place is a dumping ground for something, usually something unwanted, you mean that people leave or send large quantities of that thing there.\nEastern Europe is rapidly becoming a dumping-ground for radioactive residues.\n  N-COUNT: usu N for n, supp N  disapproval


Words: dumpling
Meaning:
dump.ling\n   dumpling  dumplings\n  Dumplings are small lumps of dough that are cooked and eaten, either with meat and vegetables or as part of a sweet pudding.\n  N-VAR


Words: Dumpster
Meaning:
Dump.ster\n   Dumpster  Dumpsters\n  A Dumpster is a large metal container for holding rubbish. (TRADEMARK) (AM; in BRIT, usually use skip)\n  N-COUNT


Words: dumpy
Meaning:
dumpy\n  If you describe someone as dumpy, you mean they are short and fat, and are usually implying they are unattractive.\n  ADJ  disapproval


Words: dunce
Meaning:
dunce  dunces\n  If you say that someone is a dunce, you think they are rather stupid because they find it difficult or impossible to learn what someone is trying to teach them.\nMichael may have been a dunce at mathematics, but he was gifted at languages.\n  N-COUNT  disapproval


Words: dung
Meaning:
dung\n  Dung is faeces from animals, especially from large animals such as cattle and horses.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: dungarees
Meaning:
dun.ga.rees\n   dungarees\n  Dungarees are a one-piece garment consisting of trousers, a piece of cloth which covers your chest, and straps which go over your shoulders. In American English, dungarees can also refer to jeans.\n  N-PLURAL: also a pair of N


Words: dunk
Meaning:
dunk  dunks  dunking  dunked\n  If you dunk something in a liquid, you put it in the liquid, especially for a particular purpose and for a short time.\nDunk new plants in a bucket of water for an hour or so before planting.\n  VERB: V n in n


Words: dunno
Meaning:
dun.no\n   dunno\n  Dunno is sometimes used in written English to represent an informal way of saying `don’t know’.\n`How on earth did she get it?’.`I dunno.’


Words: duo
Meaning:
duo  duos\n1. A duo is two musicians, singers, or other performers who perform together as a pair.\n...a famous dancing and singing duo.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. You can refer to two people together as a duo, especially when they have something in common. (mainly JOURNALISM)\n...Britain’s former golden Olympic duo of Linford Christie and Sally Gunnell.\n  N-COUNT


Words: duodenal
Meaning:
duo.de.nal\n   duodenal\n  Duodenal means relating to or contained in the duodenum. (MEDICAL)\n...duodenal ulcers.\n  ADJ: ADJ n


Words: duodenum
Meaning:
duo.denum\n   duodenum  duodenums\n  Your duodenum is the part of your small intestine that is just below your stomach. (MEDICAL)\n  N-COUNT


Words: duopoly
Meaning:
duo.po.ly\n   duopoly  duopolies\n1. If two companies or people have a duopoly on something such as an industry, they share complete control over it and it is impossible for others to become involved in it. (BUSINESS)\nThey are no longer part of a duopoly on overseas routes.\n  N-VAR\n\n2. A duopoly is a group of two companies which are the only ones which provide a particular product or service, and which therefore have complete control over an industry. (BUSINESS)\nTheir smaller rival is battling to end their duopoly.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dupe
Meaning:
dupe  dupes  duping  duped\n1. If a person dupes you, they trick you into doing something or into believing something which is not true.\n...a plot to dupe stamp collectors into buying fake rarities...\nWe know some sex offenders dupe the psychologists who assess them.\n  VERB: V n into -ing, V n\n\n2. A dupe is someone who is tricked by someone else.\nHe becomes an innocent dupe in a political scandal.\n  N-COUNT


Words: duplex
Meaning:
du.plex\n   duplex  duplexes\n1. A duplex is a house which has been divided into two separate units for two different families or groups of people. (AM)\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. A duplex or a duplex apartment is a flat or apartment which has rooms on two floors. (AM)\n  N-COUNT


Words: duplicate
Meaning:
du.pli.cate\n   duplicate duplicates duplicating  duplicated\nThe verb is pronounced   The noun and adjective are pronounced\n1. If you duplicate something that has already been done, you repeat or copy it.\nHis task will be to duplicate his success overseas here at home...\n  VERB: V n\n  = replicate\n  Duplicate is also a noun.\nCharles scored again, with an exact duplicate of his first goal.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. To duplicate something which has been written, drawn, or recorded onto tape means to make exact copies of it.\n...a business which duplicates video and cinema tapes for the movie makers.\n  VERB: V n\n  = copy\n  Duplicate is also a noun.\nI’m on my way to Switzerland, but I’ve lost my card. I’ve got to get a duplicate.\n  N-COUNT: also in N\n\n3. Duplicate is used to describe things that have been made as an exact copy of other things, usually in order to serve the same purpose.\nHe let himself in with a duplicate key.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n4.\n  see also duplication


Words: duplication
Meaning:
du.pli.ca.tion\n   duplication\n  If you say that there has been duplication of something, you mean that someone has done a task unnecessarily because it has already been done before.\n...unnecessary duplication of resources.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: duplicitous
Meaning:
du.plic.it.ous\n   duplicitous\n  Someone who is duplicitous is deceitful.\nHe is a possessive, duplicitous and unreasonable man.\n  ADJ


Words: duplicity
Meaning:
du.plic.ity\n   duplicity\n  If you accuse someone of duplicity, you mean that they are deceitful. (FORMAL)\nMalcolm believed he was guilty of duplicity in his private dealings.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n  = deceit


Words: durable
Meaning:
du.rable\n   durable\n  Something that is durable is strong and lasts a long time without breaking or becoming weaker.\nBone china is strong and durable.\n  ADJ\n\n=>  du.rabil.ity\nAirlines recommend hard-sided cases for durability.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: durable goods
Meaning:
du.rable goods\n   durable goods   or durables\n  Durable goods or durables are goods such as televisions or cars which are expected to last a long time, and are bought infrequently. (mainly AM; in BRIT, usually use consumer durables)\n  N-PLURAL


Words: duration
Meaning:
du.ra.tion\n   duration\n1. The duration of an event or state is the time during which it happens or exists.\nHe was given the task of protecting her for the duration of the trial...\nCourses are of two years’ duration.\n  N-UNCOUNT: oft the N of n\n\n2. If you say that something will happen for the duration, you mean that it will happen for as long as a particular situation continues.\nHis wounds knocked him out of combat for the duration.\n  PHRASE: PHR after v


Words: duress
Meaning:
du.ress\n   duress\n  To do something under duress means to do it because someone forces you to do it or threatens you. (FORMAL)\nHe thought her confession had been made under duress.\n  N-UNCOUNT: usu under N


Words: during
Meaning:
dur.ing\n   during\n1. If something happens during a period of time or an event, it happens continuously, or happens several times between the beginning and end of that period or event.\nSandstorms are common during the Saudi Arabian winter...\n  PREP\n\n2. If something develops during a period of time, it develops gradually from the beginning to the end of that period.\nWages have fallen by more than twenty percent during the past two months...\n  PREP\n\n3. An event that happens during a period of time happens at some point or moment in that period.\nDuring his visit, the Pope will also bless the new hospital.\n  PREP


Words: dusk
Meaning:
dusk\n  Dusk is the time just before night when the daylight has almost gone but when it is not completely dark.\nWe arrived home at dusk.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n  !=dawn


Words: dusky
Meaning:
dusky\n1. Dusky means rather dark. (LITERARY)\nHe was walking down the road one dusky Friday evening.\n  ADJ\n\n2. A dusky colour is soft rather than bright. (LITERARY)\n...dusky pink carpet.\n  COMB in COLOUR


Words: dust
Meaning:
dust  dusts  dusting  dusted\n1. Dust is very small dry particles of earth or sand.\nTanks raise huge trails of dust when they move...\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n2. Dust is the very small pieces of dirt which you find inside buildings, for example on furniture, floors, or lights.\nI could see a thick layer of dust on the stairs...\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n3. Dust is a fine powder which consists of very small particles of a substance such as gold, wood, or coal.\nThe air is so black with diesel fumes and coal dust, I can barely see.\n  N-UNCOUNT: oft n N\n\n4. When you dust something such as furniture, you remove dust from it, usually using a cloth.\nI vacuumed and dusted the living room...\nShe dusted, she cleaned, and she did the washing-up.\n  VERB: V n, V\n\n=>  dust.ing\nI’m very fortunate in that I don’t have to do the washing-up or the dusting.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n5. If you dust something with a fine substance such as powder or if you dust a fine substance onto something, you cover it lightly with that substance.\nLightly dust the fish with flour...\nDry your feet well and then dust between the toes with baby powder.\n  VERB: V n prep/adv, V adv/prep\n\n6. If you say that something has bitten the dust, you are emphasizing that it no longer exists or that it has failed. (HUMOROUS, INFORMAL)\nIn the last 30 years many cherished values have bitten the dust...\n  PHRASE: V inflects  emphasis\n\n7. If you say that something will happen when the dust settles, you mean that a situation will be clearer after it has calmed down. If you let the dust settle before doing something, you let a situation calm down before you try to do anything else. (INFORMAL)\nOnce the dust had settled Beck defended his decision...\n  PHRASE: V inflects\n\n8. If you say that something is gathering dust, you mean that it has been left somewhere and nobody is using it or doing anything with it.\nMany of the machines are gathering dust in basements...\n  PHRASE: V inflects


Words: dust jacket
Meaning:
dust jack.et\n   dust jacket  dust jackets   also dust-jacket\n  A dust jacket is a loose paper cover which is put on a book to protect it. It often contains information about the book and its author.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dust off
Meaning:
dust off\n1. If you say that someone dusts something off or dusts it down, you mean they are using an old idea or method, rather than trying something new.\nCritics were busy dusting down the same superlatives they had applied to their first three films...\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P n (not pron)\n\n2. If you say that someone has dusted himself or herself off or dusted himself or herself down, you mean that they have managed to recover from a severe problem which has affected their life.\nShe dusted herself down and left to build her own career...\n  PHRASAL VERB: V pron-refl P


Words: dust sheet
Meaning:
dust sheet  dust sheets   also dustsheet\n  A dust sheet is a large cloth which is used to cover objects such as furniture in order to protect them from dust.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dust storm
Meaning:
dust storm  dust storms\n  A dust storm is a storm in which strong winds carry a lot of dust.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dust-up
Meaning:
dust-up  dust-ups\n  A dust-up is a quarrel that often involves some fighting. (INFORMAL)\nHe’s now facing suspension after a dust-up with the referee.\n  N-COUNT\n  = scrap


Words: dustbin
Meaning:
dust.bin\n   dustbin  dustbins\n  A dustbin is a large container with a lid which people put their rubbish in and which is usually kept outside their house. (BRIT; in AM, usually use garbage can)\n  N-COUNT


Words: dustcart
Meaning:
dust.cart\n   dustcart  dustcarts\n  A dustcart is a truck which collects the rubbish from the dustbins outside people’s houses. (BRIT; in AM, usually use garbage truck)\n  N-COUNT


Words: duster
Meaning:
dust.er\n   duster  dusters\n  A duster is a cloth which you use for removing dust from furniture, ornaments, or other objects.\n  N-COUNT\n\n  see also feather duster


Words: dustman
Meaning:
dust.man\n   dustman  dustmen\n  A dustman is a person whose job is to empty the rubbish from people’s dustbins and take it away to be disposed of. (BRIT; in AM, use garbage man)\n  N-COUNT


Words: dustpan
Meaning:
dust.pan\n   dustpan  dustpans\n  A dustpan is a small flat container made of metal or plastic. You hold it flat on the floor and put dirt and dust into it using a brush.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dusty
Meaning:
dusty  dustier  dustiest\n1. If places, roads, or other things outside are dusty, they are covered with tiny bits of earth or sand, usually because it has not rained for a long time.\nThey started strolling down the dusty road in the moonlight.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n\n\n2. If a room, house, or object is dusty, it is covered with very small pieces of dirt.\n...a dusty attic...\n  ADJ


Words: Dutch
Meaning:
Dutch\n1. Dutch means belonging or relating to the Netherlands, or to its people, language, or culture.\n  ADJ\n\n2. The Dutch are the people of the Netherlands.\n  N-PLURAL: the N\n\n3. Dutch is the language that is spoken by the people who live in the Netherlands.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: Dutch courage
Meaning:
Dutch cour.age\n   Dutch courage\n  Dutch courage is the courage that you get by drinking alcoholic drinks. (INFORMAL)\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: Dutchman
Meaning:
Dutch.man\n   Dutchman  Dutchmen\n  A Dutchman is a man who is a native of the Netherlands.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dutiful
Meaning:
du.ti.ful\n   dutiful\n  If you say that someone is dutiful, you mean that they do everything that they are expected to do.\nThe days of the dutiful wife, who sacrifices her career for her husband, are over.\n  ADJ\n\n=>  du.ti.ful.ly\nThe inspector dutifully recorded the date in a large red book.\n  ADV: ADV with v


Words: duty
Meaning:
duty  duties\n1. Duty is work that you have to do for your job.\nStaff must report for duty at their normal place of work...\nMy duty is to look after the animals.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n2. Your duties are tasks which you have to do because they are part of your job.\nI carried out my duties conscientiously...\n  N-PLURAL\n\n3. If you say that something is your duty, you believe that you ought to do it because it is your responsibility.\nI consider it my duty to write to you and thank you.\n  N-SING: oft with poss\n\n4. Duties are taxes which you pay to the government on goods that you buy.\nImport duties still average 30%.\n...customs duties...\n  N-VAR\n\n5. If someone such as a policeman or a nurse is off duty, they are not working. If someone is on duty, they are working.\nI’m off duty...\nExtra staff had been put on duty.\n  PHRASE: PHR after v, v-link PHR


Words: duty-bound
Meaning:
duty-bound   also duty bound\n  If you say you are duty-bound to do something, you are emphasizing that you feel it is your duty to do it. (FORMAL)\nI felt duty bound to help.\n  ADJ: v-link ADJ to-inf  emphasis


Words: duty-free
Meaning:
duty-free\n  Duty-free goods are sold at airports or on planes or ships at a cheaper price than usual because you do not have to pay import tax on them.\n...duty-free cigarettes.\n  ADJ


Words: duty-free shop
Meaning:
duty-free shop  duty-free shops\n  A duty-free shop is a shop, for example at an airport, where you can buy goods at a cheaper price than usual, because no tax is paid on them.\n  N-COUNT


Words: duvet
Meaning:
du.vet\n   duvet  duvets\n  A duvet is a large cover filled with feathers or similar material which you put over yourself in bed instead of a sheet and blankets. (BRIT; in AM, use comforter)\n  N-COUNT\n  = quilt


Words: DVD
Meaning:
DVD  DVDs\n  A DVD is a disc on which a film or music is recorded. DVD discs are similar to compact discs but hold a lot more information. DVD is an abbreviation for `digital video disc’ or `digital versatile disc’.\n...a DVD player.\n  N-COUNT


Words: DVD-R
Meaning:
DVD-R DVD-Rs\n  A DVD-R is a DVD which is capable of recording sound and images, for example from another DVD or from the Internet. DVD-R is an abbreviation for `digital video disc recordable’ or `digital versatile disc recordable’.\n  N-COUNT


Words: DVD-RW
Meaning:
DVD-RW DVD-RWs\n  A DVD-RW is a DVD which is capable of recording sound and images, for example from another DVD or from the Internet. CD-RW is an abbreviation for `digital video disc rewritable’ or `digital versatile disc rewritable’.\n  N-COUNT


Words: DVT
Meaning:
DVT DVTs\n  DVT is a serious medical condition caused by blood clots in the legs moving up to the lungs. DVT is an abbreviation for `deep vein thrombosis’. (MEDICAL)\n  N-VAR


Words: dwarf
Meaning:
dwarf  dwarfs  or dwarves  dwarfs  dwarfing  dwarfed\n1. If one person or thing is dwarfed by another, the second is so much bigger than the first that it makes them look very small.\nHis figure is dwarfed by the huge red McDonald’s sign...\nThe US air travel market dwarfs that of Britain.\n  VERB: be V-ed, V n\n\n2. Dwarf is used to describe varieties or species of plants and animals which are much smaller than the usual size for their kind.\n...dwarf shrubs.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n3. In children’s stories, a dwarf is an imaginary creature that is like a small man. Dwarfs often have magical powers.\n  N-COUNT\n\n4. In former times, people who were much smaller than normal were called dwarfs. (OFFENSIVE, OLD-FASHIONED)\n  N-COUNT


Words: dweeb
Meaning:
dweeb  dweebs\n  If you call someone, especially a man or a boy, a dweeb, you are saying in a rather unkind way that you think they are stupid and weak. (AM INFORMAL)\n  N-COUNT  disapproval\n  = drip, nerd


Words: dwell
Meaning:
dwell  dwells  dwelling  dwelt  or dwelled\n1. If you dwell on something, especially something unpleasant, you think, speak, or write about it a lot or for quite a long time.\nI’d rather not dwell on the past.\n  VERB: V on/upon n\n\n2. If you dwell somewhere, you live there. (FORMAL)\nThey are concerned for the fate of the forest and the Indians who dwell in it...\n  VERB: V prep/adv\n  = live\n3.\n  see also dwelling


Words: dweller
Meaning:
dwell.er\n   dweller  dwellers\n  A city dweller or slum dweller, for example, is a person who lives in the kind of place or house indicated.\nThe number of city dwellers is growing...\n  N-COUNT: supp N


Words: dwelling
Meaning:
dwell.ing\n   dwelling  dwellings\n  A dwelling or a dwelling place is a place where someone lives. (FORMAL)\nSome 3,500 new dwellings are planned for the area...\n  N-COUNT\n  = home


Words: dwindle
Meaning:
dwin.dle\n   dwindle  dwindles  dwindling  dwindled\n  If something dwindles, it becomes smaller, weaker, or less in number.\nThe factory’s workforce has dwindled from over 4,000 to a few hundred...\nHe is struggling to come to terms with his dwindling authority.\n  VERB: V, V-ing\n  = shrink


Words: dye
Meaning:
dye  dyes  dyeing  dyed\n1. If you dye something such as hair or cloth, you change its colour by soaking it in a special liquid.\nThe women prepared, spun and dyed the wool...\n  VERB: V n\n\n2. Dye is a substance made from plants or chemicals which is mixed into a liquid and used to change the colour of something such as cloth or hair.\n...bottles of hair dye.\n  N-MASS


Words: dyed-in-the-wool
Meaning:
dyed-in-the-wool\n  If you use dyed-in-the-wool to describe someone or their beliefs, you are saying that they have very strong opinions about something, which they refuse to change.\n...a dyed-in-the-wool conservative.\n  ADJ: ADJ n


Words: dying
Meaning:
dy.ing\n   dying\n1. Dying is the present participle of die.\n\n2. A dying person or animal is very ill and likely to die soon.\n...a dying man.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n  The dying are people who are dying.\nThe dead and the dying were everywhere.\n  N-PLURAL: the N\n\n3. You use dying to describe something which happens at the time when someone dies, or is connected with that time.\nIt’ll stay in my mind till my dying day...\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n4. The dying days or dying minutes of a state of affairs or an activity are its last days or minutes.\nThe islands were seized by the Soviet army in the dying days of the second world war...\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n  = final\n5. A dying tradition or industry is becoming less important and is likely to disappear completely.\nShipbuilding is a dying business.\n  ADJ: ADJ n


Words: dyke
Meaning:
dyke  dykes\n\n  The spelling dike is also used, especially for meaning 1.\n\n1. A dyke is a thick wall that is built to stop water flooding onto very low-lying land from a river or from the sea.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. A dyke is a lesbian. (INFORMAL, OFFENSIVE)\n  N-COUNT


Words: dynamic
Meaning:
dy.nam.ic\n   dynamic  dynamics\n1. If you describe someone as dynamic, you approve of them because they are full of energy or full of new and exciting ideas.\nHe seemed a dynamic and energetic leader...\n  ADJ  approval\n\n=>  dy.nami.cal.ly\nHe’s one of the most dynamically imaginative jazz pianists still functioning.\n  ADV: ADV adj/-ed, ADV after v\n\n2. If you describe something as dynamic, you approve of it because it is very active and energetic.\nSouth Asia continues to be the most dynamic economic region in the world.\n  ADJ  approval\n\n3. A dynamic process is one that constantly changes and progresses.\n...a dynamic, evolving worldwide epidemic...\n  ADJ\n  !=static\n=>  dy.nami.cal.ly\nGermany has a dynamically growing market at home.\n  ADV: usu ADV adj/-ed\n\n4. The dynamic of a system or process is the force that causes it to change or progress.\nThe dynamic of the market demands constant change and adjustment...\n  N-COUNT: usu with supp\n\n5. The dynamics of a situation or group of people are the opposing forces within it that cause it to change.\n...the dynamics of the social system...\n  N-PLURAL: usu with supp\n\n6. Dynamics are forces which produce power or movement. (TECHNICAL)\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n7. Dynamics is the scientific study of motion, energy, and forces.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: dynamism
Meaning:
dy.na.mism\n   dynamism\n1. If you say that someone or something has dynamism, you are expressing approval of the fact that they are full of energy or full of new and exciting ideas.\n...a situation that calls for dynamism and new thinking.\n  N-UNCOUNT  approval\n  = energy\n2. If you refer to the dynamism of a situation or system, you are referring to the fact that it is changing in an exciting and dramatic way.\nSuch changes are indicators of economic dynamism.\n  N-UNCOUNT  approval


Words: dynamite
Meaning:
dy.na.mite\n   dynamite\n1. Dynamite is a type of explosive that contains nitroglycerin.\nFifty yards of track was blown up with dynamite.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n2. If you describe a piece of information as dynamite, you think that people will react strongly to it. (INFORMAL)\nHer diaries are political dynamite.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n3. If you describe someone or something as dynamite, you think that they are exciting. (INFORMAL)\nThe first kiss is dynamite.\n  N-UNCOUNT  approval


Words: dynamo
Meaning:
dy.na.mo\n   dynamo  dynamos\n  A dynamo is a device that uses the movement of a machine or vehicle to produce electricity.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dynastic
Meaning:
dy.nas.tic\n   dynastic\n  Dynastic means typical of or relating to a dynasty.\n...dynastic rule.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n


Words: dynasty
Meaning:
dyn.as.ty\n   dynasty  dynasties\n1. A dynasty is a series of rulers of a country who all belong to the same family.\nThe Seljuk dynasty of Syria was founded in 1094.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. A dynasty is a period of time during which a country is ruled by members of the same family.\n...carvings dating back to the Ming dynasty.\n  N-COUNT: with supp\n\n3. A dynasty is a family which has members from two or more generations who are important in a particular field of activity, for example in business or politics.\n...the Kennedy dynasty.\n  N-COUNT


Words: dysentery
Meaning:
dys.en.tery\n   dysentery\n  Dysentery is an infection in a person’s intestines that causes them to pass a lot of waste, in which blood and mucus are mixed with the person’s faeces.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: dysfunction
Meaning:
dys.func.tion\n   dysfunction  dysfunctions\n1. If you refer to a dysfunction in something such as a relationship or someone’s behaviour, you mean that it is different from what is considered to be normal. (FORMAL)\n...his severe emotional dysfunction was very clearly apparent.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. If someone has a physical dysfunction, part of their body is not working properly. (MEDICAL)\n...kidney and liver dysfunction.\n  N-VAR


Words: dysfunctional
Meaning:
dys.func.tion.al\n   dysfunctional\n  Dysfunctional is used to describe relationships or behaviour which are different from what is considered to be normal. (FORMAL)\n...the characteristics that typically occur in a dysfunctional family.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n


Words: dyslexia
Meaning:
dys.lexia\n   dyslexia\n  If someone suffers from dyslexia, they have difficulty with reading because of a slight disorder of their brain. (TECHNICAL)\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: dyslexic
Meaning:
dys.lex.ic\n   dyslexic\n  If someone is dyslexic, they have difficulty with reading because of a slight disorder of their brain. (TECHNICAL)\n  ADJ


Words: E number
Meaning:
E num.ber\n   E number  E numbers\n  E numbers are artificial substances which are added to some foods and drinks to improve their flavour or colour or to make them last longer. They are called E numbers because they are represented in Europe by code names which begin with the letter `E’. (BRIT)\n  N-COUNT


Words: E, e
Meaning:
E, e  E’s, e’s\n1. E is the fifth letter of the English alphabet.\n  N-VAR\n\n2. E is the drug ecstasy, or a tablet of ecstasy. (INFORMAL)\n  N-MASS


Words: e-
Meaning:
e- is used to form words that indicate that something happens on or uses the Internet. e- is an abbreviation for `electronic’.\n...the complete on-line e-store.\n...providing e-solutions for business.\n  PREFIX


Words: e-book
Meaning:
e-book e-books\n  An e-book is a book which is produced for reading on a computer screen. E-book is an abbreviation for `electronic book’.\nThe new e-books will include a host of Rough Guide titles.\n  N-COUNT


Words: e-business
Meaning:
e-business  e-businesses\n1. An e-business is a business which uses the Internet to sell goods or services, especially one which does not also have shops or offices that people can visit or phone. (BUSINESS)\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. E-business is the buying, selling, and ordering of goods and services using the Internet. (BUSINESS)\n...proven e-business solutions.\n  N-UNCOUNT: oft N n


Words: e-commerce
Meaning:
e-commerce\n  E-commerce is the same as e-business. (BUSINESS)\n...the anticipated explosion of e-commerce.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: e-fit
Meaning:
e-fit e-fits  also E-fit\n  An e-fit is a computer-generated picture of someone who is suspected of a crime. Compare identikit, Photofit.\nPolice have released an E-fit picture of the suspected gunman.\n  N-COUNT


Words: e-mail
Meaning:
e-mail  e-mails  e-mailing e-mailed  also E-mail, email\n1. E-mail is a system of sending written messages electronically from one computer to another. E-mail is an abbreviation of `electronic mail’.\nYou can contact us by e-mail...\nDo you want to send an E-mail?...\nFirst you need to get an e-mail address.\n  N-VAR\n\n2. If you e-mail someone, you send them an e-mail.\nJamie e-mailed me to say he couldn’t come...\nEmail your views to sport times.co.uk\n  VERB: V n, V n to n


Words: e-zine
Meaning:
e-zine  e-zines\n  An e-zine is a website which contains the kind of articles, pictures, and advertisements that you would find in a magazine.\n  N-COUNT


Words: e.g.
Meaning:
e.g.\n  e.g. is an abbreviation that means `for example’. It is used before a noun, or to introduce another sentence.\nWe need helpers of all types, engineers, scientists (e.g. geologists) and teachers...


Words: each
Meaning:
each\n1. If you refer to each thing or each person in a group, you are referring to every member of the group and considering them as individuals.\nEach book is beautifully illustrated...\nEach year, hundreds of animals are killed in this way...\nBlend in the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each one.\n  DET: DET sing-n\n\n  Each is also a pronoun.\n...two bedrooms, each with three beds...\nShe began to consult doctors, and each had a different diagnosis.\n  PRON\n\n  Each is also an emphasizing pronoun.\nWe each have different needs and interests.\n  PRON\n\n  Each is also an adverb.\nThe children were given one each, handed to them or placed on their plates...\nThey were selling tickets at six pounds each.\n  ADV: amount ADV\n\n  Each is also a quantifier.\nHe handed each of them a page of photos...\nEach of these exercises takes one or two minutes to do...\nThe machines, each of which is perhaps five feet in diameter, are not the largest devices in the room.\n  QUANT: QUANT of def-pl-n\n\n2. If you refer to each one of the members of a group, you are emphasizing that something applies to every one of them.\nHe picked up forty of these publications and read each one of them.\n  QUANT: QUANT of def-pl-n  emphasis\n\n3. You can refer to each and every member of a group to emphasize that you mean all the members of that group.\nEach and every person responsible for his murder will be brought to justice...\nThey can’t destroy truth without destroying each and every one of us.\n  PHRASE: PHR n, PHR of n  emphasis\n\n4. You use each other when you are saying that each member of a group does something to the others or has a particular connection with the others.\nWe looked at each other in silence...\nBoth sides are willing to make allowances for each other’s political sensitivities...\nUncle Paul and I hardly know each other.\n  PRON: v PRON, prep PRON


Words: each way
Meaning:
each way\n1. If you bet money each way on the result of a horse race or a dog race, you will win some money if the animal you bet on comes first, second, third, or sometimes fourth. (BRIT)\nIn the last race I put .20 each way on two outsiders.\n  ADV: ADV after v\n\n  Each way is also an adjective\n...a $10,000 each way bet on Minnehoma at 33-1.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n2. If you say that something is a good each way bet, you mean that you think it is a good thing to support or invest in because it is unlikely to fail. (BRIT)\nLarge overseas-based trusts are an excellent each way bet.\n...a good each way investment.\n  ADJ: ADJ n


Words: eager
Meaning:
eager\n1. If you are eager to do or have something, you want to do or have it very much.\nRobert was eager to talk about life in the Army...\nWhen my own son was five years old, I became eager for another baby...\nThe low prices still pull in crowds of eager buyers.\n  ADJ: usu v-link ADJ, ADJ to-inf, ADJ for n\n  = keen\n=>  eager.ness\n...an eagerness to learn.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n2. If you look or sound eager, you look or sound as if you expect something interesting or enjoyable to happen.\nArty sneered at the crowd of eager faces around him...\nHer voice was girlish and eager.\n  ADJ\n  = excited\n=>  eager.ly\n`So what do you think will happen?’ he asked eagerly.\n  ADV\n\n=>  eager.ness\n...a woman speaking with breathless eagerness.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n  = excitement


Words: eagle
Meaning:
eagle  eagles\n1. An eagle is a large bird that lives by eating small animals.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. If you talk about a person’s eagle eye, you mean that they are watching someone or something carefully or are very good at noticing things.\nHe did the work under the eagle eye of his teacher...\nThe Captain’s eagle eye swept the room.\n  PHRASE: usu with poss


Words: eagle-eyed
Meaning:
eagle-eyed\n  If you describe someone as eagle-eyed, you mean that they watch things very carefully and seem to notice everything.\nThree cannabis plants were found by eagle-eyed police officers.\n  ADJ


Words: ear
Meaning:
ear  ears\n1. Your ears are the two parts of your body, one on each side of your head, with which you hear sounds.\nHe whispered something in her ear...\nI’m having my ears pierced.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. If you have an ear for music or language, you are able to hear its sounds accurately and to interpret them or reproduce them well.\nMoby certainly has a fine ear for a tune...\nAn ear for foreign languages is advantageous.\n  N-SING: with supp, usu N for n\n\n3. Ear is often used to refer to people’s willingness to listen to what someone is saying.\nWhat would cause the masses to give him a far more sympathetic ear?...\nThey had shut their eyes and ears to everything.\n  N-COUNT: oft adj N\n\n4. The ears of a cereal plant such as wheat or barley are the parts at the top of the stem, which contain the seeds or grains.\n  N-COUNT: usu pl\n\n5. If someone says that they are all ears, they mean that they are ready and eager to listen. (INFORMAL)\n  PHRASE: usu v-link PHR\n\n6. If a request falls on deaf ears or if the person to whom the request is made turns a deaf ear to it, they take no notice of it.\nI hope that our appeals will not fall on deaf ears...\nHe has turned a resolutely deaf ear to American demands for action.\n  PHRASE: V inflects\n\n7. If you keep or have your ear to the ground, you make sure that you find out about the things that people are doing or saying.\nJobs in manufacturing are relatively scarce but I keep my ear to the ground.\n  PHRASE: V inflects\n\n8. If you lend an ear to someone or their problems, you listen to them carefully and sympathetically.\nThey are always willing to lend an ear and offer what advice they can.\n  PHRASE: V inflects\n\n9. If you say that something goes in one ear and out the other, you mean that someone pays no attention to it, or forgets about it immediately.\nThat rubbish goes in one ear and out the other.\n  PHRASE: V inflects\n\n10. If someone says that you will be out on your ear, they mean that you will be forced to leave a job, an organization or a place suddenly. (INFORMAL)\nWe never objected. We’d have been out on our ears looking for another job if we had.\n  PHRASE: N inflects, v-link PHR\n\n11. If you play by ear or play a piece of music by ear, you play music by relying on your memory rather than by reading printed music.\nNeil played, by ear, the music he’d heard his older sister practicing.\n  PHRASE: V inflects\n\n12. If you play it by ear, you decide what to say or do in a situation by responding to events rather than by following a plan which you have decided on in advance.\n  PHRASE: V inflects\n\n13. If you are up to your ears in something, it is taking up all of your time, attention, or resources.\nHe was desperate. He was in debt up to his ears.\n  PHRASE: v-link PHR, oft PHR in n\n\n14.\nmusic to your ears: see music\nwet behind the ears: see wet


Words: eardrum
Meaning:
ear.drum\n   eardrum  eardrums   also ear drum\n  Your eardrums are the thin pieces of tightly stretched skin inside each ear, which vibrate when sound waves reach them.\n  N-COUNT


Words: earful
Meaning:
ear.ful\n   earful\n  If you say that you got an earful, you mean that someone spoke angrily to you for quite an long time. (INFORMAL)\nI bet Sue gave you an earful when you got home.\n  N-SING: a N


Words: earl
Meaning:
earl  earls\n  An earl is a British nobleman.\n...the first Earl of Birkenhead.\n  N-COUNT: oft N of n


Words: earlier
Meaning:
ear.li.er\n   earlier\n1. Earlier is the comparative of early.\n\n2. Earlier is used to refer to a point or period in time before the present or before the one you are talking about.\nAs mentioned earlier, the University supplements this information with an interview...\nEarlier, it had been hoped to use the indoor track.\n...political reforms announced by the President earlier this year...\nMany years earlier, Grundy had given The Beatles their first television break.\n  ADV: ADV with v, ADV with cl, oft amount ADV\n\n  Earlier is also an adjective.\nEarlier reports of gunshots have not been substantiated.\n  ADJ: ADJ n


Words: earliest
Meaning:
ear.li.est\n   earliest\n1. Earliest is the superlative of early.\n\n2. At the earliest means not before the date or time mentioned.\nThe first official results are not expected until Tuesday at the earliest.\n  PHRASE: cl PHR


Words: earlobe
Meaning:
ear.lobe\n   earlobe  earlobes   also ear lobe\n  Your earlobes are the soft parts at the bottom of your ears.\n  N-COUNT


Words: early
Meaning:
ear.ly\n   early  earlier  earliest\n1. Early means before the usual time that a particular event or activity happens.\nI knew I had to get up early...\nWhy do we have to go to bed so early?\n  ADV: ADV after v\n  !=late\n  Early is also an adjective.\nI decided that I was going to take early retirement...\nI planned an early night.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n2. Early means near the beginning of a day, week, year, or other period of time.\n...in the 1970s and the early 1980s.\n...a few weeks in early summer...\nShe was in her early teens.\n...the early hours of Saturday morning.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n  !=late\n  Early is also an adverb.\nWe’ll hope to see you some time early next week.\n...early in the season.\n  ADV: ADV with cl, ADV n/prep\n\n3. Early means before the time that was arranged or expected.\nShe arrived early to secure a place at the front...\nThe first snow came a month earlier than usual.\n  ADV: ADV after v\n  !=late\n  Early is also an adjective.\nI’m always early.\n  ADJ\n\n4. Early means near the beginning of a period in history, or in the history of something such as the world, a society, or an activity.\n...the early stages of pregnancy.\n...Fassbinder’s early films...\nIt’s too early to declare his efforts a success.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n5. Early means near the beginning of something such as a piece of work or a process.\n...the book’s early chapters.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n  Early is also an adverb.\n...an incident which occurred much earlier in the game.\n  ADV: ADV with cl, ADV prep\n\n6. Early refers to plants which flower or crop before or at the beginning of the main season.\n...these early cabbages and cauliflowers.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n  Early is also an adverb.\n...early flowering shrubs.\n  ADV: ADV with v\n\n7. Early reports or indications of something are the first reports or indications about it. (FORMAL)\nThe early indications look encouraging...\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n8. You can use as early as to emphasize that a particular time or period is surprisingly early.\nInflation could fall back into single figures as early as this month.\n  PHRASE: PHR n  emphasis\n\n9. If you say about something that might be true that it is early days, you mean that it is too soon for you to be completely sure about it. (INFORMAL)\n  PHRASE: V inflects


Words: early bird
Meaning:
ear.ly bird\n   early bird  early birds\n1. An early bird is someone who does something or goes somewhere very early, especially very early in the morning.\nWe’ve always been early birds, getting up at 5.30 or 6am...\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. An early bird deal or offer is one that is available at a reduced price, but which you must buy earlier than you would normally do.\nEarly bird discounts are usually available at the beginning of the season.\n  ADJ: ADJ n


Words: early warning
Meaning:
ear.ly warn.ing\n   early warning   also early-warning\n  An early warning system warns people that something bad is likely to happen, for example that a machine is about to stop working, or that a country is being attacked.\n  ADJ: ADJ n


Words: earmark
Meaning:
ear.mark\n   earmark  earmarks  earmarking  earmarked\n1. If resources such as money are earmarked for a particular purpose, they are reserved for that purpose.\n...the extra money being earmarked for the new projects...\nThe education department has earmarked .6m for the new school...\nSome of the money has been earmarked to pay for the re-settlement of people from contaminated areas.\n  VERB: be V-ed for n, V n for n, be V-ed to-inf\n  = set aside\n2. If something has been earmarked for closure or disposal, for example, people have decided that it will be closed or got rid of.\nTheir support meant that he was not forced to sell the business which was earmarked for disposal last year...\n  VERB: usu passive, be V-ed for n


Words: earmuffs
Meaning:
ear.muffs\n   earmuffs   also ear muffs\n  Earmuffs consist of two thick soft pieces of cloth joined by a band, which you wear over your ears to protect them from the cold or from loud noise.\n  N-PLURAL: also a pair of N


Words: earn
Meaning:
earn  earns  earning  earned\n1. If you earn money, you receive money in return for work that you do.\nWhat a lovely way to earn a living...\n  VERB: V n\n\n2. If something earns money, it produces money as profit or interest.\n...a current account which earns little or no interest...\n  VERB: V n\n\n3. If you earn something such as praise, you get it because you deserve it.\nCompanies must earn a reputation for honesty...\nI think that’s earned him very high admiration.\n  VERB: V n, V n n


Words: earner
Meaning:
earn.er\n   earner  earners\n  An earner is someone or something that earns money or produces profit.\n...a typical wage earner...\nSugar is Fiji’s second biggest export earner.\n  N-COUNT: usu supp N


Words: earnest
Meaning:
ear.nest\n   earnest\n1. If something is done or happens in earnest, it happens to a much greater extent and more seriously than before.\nCampaigning will begin in earnest tomorrow...\n  PHRASE: PHR after v\n  = seriously\n2. Earnest people are very serious and sincere in what they say or do, because they think that their actions and beliefs are important.\nElla was a pious, earnest woman...\n  ADJ\n\n=>  ear.nest.ness\nHe was admired by many for his earnestness.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n3. If you are in earnest, you are sincere in what you are doing and saying.\nNo one could tell whether he was in earnest or in jest.\n  PHRASE: usu v PHR, v-link PHR


Words: earnestly
Meaning:
ear.nest.ly\n   earnestly\n1. If you say something earnestly, you say it very seriously, often because you believe that it is important or you are trying to persuade someone else to believe it.\n`Did you?’ she asked earnestly...\n  ADV: ADV with v\n\n2. If you do something earnestly, you do it in a thorough and serious way, intending to succeed.\nShe always listened earnestly as if this might help her to understand.\n  ADV: usu ADV with v, also ADV adj\n\n3. If you earnestly hope or wish for something, you hope or wish strongly and sincerely for it.\nI earnestly hope what I learned will serve me well in my new job.\n  ADV: ADV before v


Words: earnings
Meaning:
earn.ings\n   earnings\n  Your earnings are the sums of money that you earn by working.\nAverage weekly earnings rose by 1.5% in July...\n  N-PLURAL\n  = pay, income


Words: earnings-related
Meaning:
earnings-related\n  An earnings-related payment or benefit provides higher or lower payments according to the amount a person was earning while working. (BRIT)\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n


Words: earphone
Meaning:
ear.phone\n   earphone  earphones\n  Earphones are a small piece of equipment which you wear over or inside your ears so that you can listen to a radio or cassette recorder without anyone else hearing.\n  N-COUNT: usu pl


Words: earpiece
Meaning:
ear.piece\n   earpiece  earpieces\n  The earpiece of a telephone receiver, hearing aid, or other device is the part that you hold up to your ear or put into your ear.\n  N-COUNT


Words: earplug
Meaning:
ear.plug\n   earplug  earplugs   also ear plug\n  Earplugs are small pieces of a soft material which you put into your ears to keep out noise, water, or cold air.\n  N-COUNT: usu pl


Words: earring
Meaning:
ear.ring\n   earring  earrings\n  Earrings are pieces of jewellery which you attach to your ears.\n  N-COUNT


Words: earshot
Meaning:
ear.shot\n   earshot\n  If you are within earshot of someone or something, you are close enough to be able to hear them. If you are out of earshot, you are too far away to hear them.\nIt is within earshot of a main road...\nMark was out of earshot, walking ahead of them.\n  PHRASE: PHR after v, v-link PHR, oft PHR of n


Words: earth
Meaning:
earth\n1. Earth or the Earth is the planet on which we live. People usually say Earth when they are referring to the planet as part of the universe, and the Earth when they are talking about the planet as the place where we live.\nThe space shuttle Atlantis returned safely to earth today.\n...a fault in the Earth’s crust.\n  N-PROPER: oft the N\n\n2. The earth is the land surface on which we live and move about.\nThe earth shook and the walls of neighbouring houses fell around them.\n  N-SING: the N\n  = ground\n3. Earth is the substance on the land surface of the earth, for example clay or sand, in which plants grow.\nThe road winds for miles through parched earth, scrub and cactus...\n  N-UNCOUNT\n  = soil\n4. The earth in an electric plug or piece of electrical equipment is the wire through which electricity can pass into the ground, which makes the equipment safe if something goes wrong with it. (BRIT; in AM, use ground)\nThe earth wire was not connected.\n  N-SING\n\n=>  earthed\nLight fittings with metal parts should always be earthed.\n  ADJ: usu v-link ADJ\n\n5.\n  see also down-to-earth\n6. On earth is used for emphasis in questions that begin with words such as `how’, `why’, `what’, or `where’. It is often used to suggest that there is no obvious or easy answer to the question being asked.\nHow on earth did that happen?...\nWhat on earth had Luke done?...\n  PHRASE: quest PHR  emphasis\n\n7. On earth is used for emphasis after some negative noun groups, for example `no reason’.\nThere was no reason on earth why she couldn’t have moved in with us...\nThere is no feeling on earth like winning for the first time.\n  PHRASE: with neg, n PHR  emphasis\n\n8. On earth is used for emphasis after a noun group that contains a superlative adjective.\nHe wanted to be the fastest man on earth.\n  PHRASE: adj-superl n PHR  emphasis\n  = in the world\n9. If you come down to earth or back to earth, you have to face the reality of everyday life after a period of great excitement.\nWhen he came down to earth after his win he admitted: `It was an amazing feeling’...\n  PHRASE: PHR after v\n\n10. If you say that something cost the earth or that you paid the earth for it, you are emphasizing that it cost a very large amount of money. (INFORMAL)\nIt must have cost the earth.\n  PHRASE: V inflects  emphasis\n\n11.\nhell on earth: see hell


Words: earth-shattering
Meaning:
earth-shattering\n  Something that is earth-shattering is very surprising or shocking.\n...earth-shattering news.\n  ADJ


Words: earthbound
Meaning:
earth.bound\n   earthbound\n  If something is earthbound, it is unable to fly, or is on the ground rather than in the air or in space.\n...earthbound telescopes...\n  ADJ


Words: earthen
Meaning:
earth.en\n   earthen\n1. Earthen containers and objects are made of clay that is baked so that it becomes hard.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n  = earthenware\n2. An earthen floor, bank, or mound is made of hard earth.\n  ADJ: ADJ n


Words: earthenware
Meaning:
earthen.ware\n   earthenware\n1. Earthenware bowls, pots, or other objects are made of clay that is baked so that it becomes hard.\n...earthenware pots.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n  = terracotta\n2. Earthenware objects are referred to as earthenware.\n...colourful Italian china and earthenware.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n  = terracotta


Words: earthling
Meaning:
earth.ling\n   earthling  earthlings\n  Earthling is used in science fiction to refer to human beings who live on the planet Earth.\n  N-COUNT: usu pl


Words: earthly
Meaning:
earth.ly\n   earthly\n1. Earthly means happening in the material world of our life on earth and not in any spiritual life or life after death.\n...the need to confront evil during the earthly life...\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n2. Earthly is used for emphasis in phrases such as no earthly reason. If you say that there is no earthly reason why something should happen, you are emphasizing that there is no reason at all why it should happen.\nThere is no earthly reason why they should ever change...\n  ADJ: ADJ n  emphasis


Words: earthquake
Meaning:
earth.quake\n   earthquake  earthquakes\n  An earthquake is a shaking of the ground caused by movement of the earth’s crust.\n  N-COUNT


Words: earthwork
Meaning:
earth.work\n   earthwork  earthworks\n  Earthworks are large structures of earth that have been built for defence, especially ones which were built a very long time ago.\n  N-COUNT: usu pl


Words: earthworm
Meaning:
earth.worm\n   earthworm  earthworms\n  An earthworm is a kind of worm which lives in the ground.\n  N-COUNT


Words: earthy
Meaning:
earthy  earthier  earthiest\n1. If you describe someone as earthy, you mean that they are open and direct, and talk about subjects which other people avoid or feel ashamed about.\n...his extremely earthy humour.\n  ADJ  approval\n\n=>  earthi.ness\nHe loved Gerard’s peasant earthiness.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n2. If you describe something as earthy, you mean it looks, smells, or feels like earth.\nI’m attracted to warm, earthy colours...\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n


Words: earwig
Meaning:
ear.wig\n   earwig  earwigs\n  An earwig is a small, thin, brown insect that has a pair of claws at the back end of its body.\n  N-COUNT


Words: ease
Meaning:
ease  eases  easing  eased\n1. If you do something with ease, you do it easily, without difficulty or effort.\n...the ease with which young people could find work.\n  PHRASE: PHR after V\n  !=difficulty\n2. If you talk about the ease of a particular activity, you are referring to the way that it has been made easier to do, or to the fact that it is already easy to do.\nFor ease of reference, only the relevant extracts of the regulations are included.\n  N-UNCOUNT: N of n\n\n3. Ease is the state of being very comfortable and able to live as you want, without any worries or problems.\nShe lived a life of ease.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n  = comfort\n4. If something unpleasant eases or if you ease it, it is reduced in degree, speed, or intensity.\nTensions had eased...\nI gave him some brandy to ease the pain.\n...editorials calling for the easing of sanctions.\n  VERB: V, V n, V-ing\n\n5. If you ease your way somewhere or ease somewhere, you move there slowly, carefully, and gently. If you ease something somewhere, you move it there slowly, carefully, and gently.\nI eased my way towards the door...\nShe eased back into the chair and nodded...\nHe eased his foot off the accelerator...\nLeaphorn eased himself silently upward...\nI eased open the door.\n  VERB: V way prep/adv, V prep/adv, V n prep/adv, V pron-refl adv/prep, V n with adj\n\n6. If you are at ease, you are feeling confident and relaxed, and are able to talk to people without feeling nervous or anxious. If you put someone at their ease, you make them feel at ease.\nIt is essential to feel at ease with your therapist...\nBoth men were unwelcoming, making little attempt to put Kathryn or her companions at their ease.\n  PHRASE: v-link PHR, PHR after v\n\n7. If you are ill at ease, you feel rather uncomfortable, anxious, or worried.\nHe appeared embarrassed and ill at ease with the sustained applause that greeted him.\n  PHRASE: usu v-link PHR, PHR after v, oft PHR with n


Words: ease off
Meaning:
ease off\n  If something eases off, or a person or thing eases it off, it is reduced in degree, speed, or intensity.\nThese days, the pressure has eased off...\nKelly eased off his pace as they reached the elevator.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P, V P n (not pron), also V n P


Words: ease up
Meaning:
ease up\n1. If something eases up, it is reduced in degree, speed, or intensity.\nThe rain had eased up...\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P\n\n2. If you ease up, you start to make less effort.\nHe told supporters not to ease up even though he’s leading in the presidential race...\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P\n\n3. If you ease up on someone or something, your behaviour or attitude towards them becomes less severe or strict. (INFORMAL)\nOfficials have eased up on the press restrictions.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P on n


Words: easel
Meaning:
easel  easels\n  An easel is a wooden frame that supports a picture which an artist is painting or drawing.\n  N-COUNT


Words: easily
Meaning:
easi.ly\n   easily\n1. You use easily to emphasize that something is very likely to happen, or is very likely to be true.\nIt could easily be another year before the economy starts to show some improvement.\n  ADV: usu ADV before v, also ADV n/adj  emphasis\n\n2. You use easily to say that something happens more quickly or more often than is usual or normal.\nHe had always cried very easily...\n  ADV: ADV after v\n\n3.\n  see also easy


Words: east
Meaning:
east   also East\n1. The east is the direction where the sun rises.\n...the vast swamps which lie to the east of the River Nile...\nThe principal range runs east to west.\n  N-UNCOUNT: also the N\n\n2. The east of a place, country, or region is the part which is in the east.\n...a village in the east of the country...\n  N-SING: usu the N, oft N of n\n\n3. If you go east, you travel towards the east.\nTo drive, go east on Route 9.\n  ADV: ADV after v\n\n4. Something that is east of a place is positioned to the east of it.\n...just east of the center of town.\n  ADV: usu ADV of n\n\n5. The east edge, corner, or part of a place or country is the part which is towards the east.\n...a low line of hills running along the east coast.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n6. East is used in the names of some countries, states, and regions in the east of a larger area\nHe had been on safari in East Africa with his son.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n7. An east wind is a wind that blows from the east.\n  ADJ\n\n8. The East is used to refer to the southern and eastern part of Asia, including India, China, and Japan.\nEvery so often, a new martial art arrives from the East.\n  N-SING: the N\n\n9.\n  see also Middle East, Far East


Words: East German
Meaning:
East Ger.man\n   East German  East Germans\n  East German is used to describe things that belonged or related to the former German Democratic Republic.\n  ADJ\n\n  East Germans were people from the German Democratic Republic.\n  N-COUNT


Words: eastbound
Meaning:
east.bound\n   eastbound\n  Eastbound roads or vehicles lead to or are travelling towards the east. (FORMAL)\nHe caught an eastbound train to Tottenham Court Road.\n  ADJ: ADJ n


Words: Easter
Meaning:
East.er\n   Easter  Easters\n  Easter is a Christian festival when Jesus Christ’s return to life is celebrated. It is celebrated on a Sunday in March or April.\n`Happy Easter,’ he yelled.\n...the first Easter morning.\n  N-VAR: oft N n


Words: Easter egg
Meaning:
East.er egg\n   Easter egg  Easter eggs\n  An Easter egg is an egg made of chocolate that is given as a present at Easter. In some countries, Easter eggs are hidden and children then look for them.\n  N-COUNT


Words: Easter Sunday
Meaning:
East.er Sun.day\n   Easter Sunday\n  Easter Sunday is the Sunday in March or April when Easter is celebrated.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: easterly
Meaning:
east.er.ly\n   easterly\n1. An easterly point, area, or direction is to the east or towards the east.\nHe progressed slowly along the coast in an easterly direction.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n\n\n2. An easterly wind is a wind that blows from the east.\n...the cold easterly winds from Scandinavia.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n


Words: eastern
Meaning:
east.ern\n   eastern\n1. Eastern means in or from the east of a region, state, or country.\n...Eastern Europe.\n...France’s eastern border with Germany.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n2. Eastern means coming from or associated with the people or countries of the East, such as India, China, or Japan.\nIn many Eastern countries massage was and is a part of everyday life.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n  see also Middle Eastern


Words: easterner
Meaning:
east.ern.er\n   easterner  easterners\n  An easterner is a person who was born in or who lives in the eastern part of a place or country, especially an American from the East Coast of the USA. (mainly AM)\n  N-COUNT


Words: easternmost
Meaning:
east.ern.most\n   easternmost\n  The easternmost part of an area or the easternmost place is the one that is farthest towards the east. (FORMAL)\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n


Words: eastward
Meaning:
east.ward\n   eastward   also eastwards\n  Eastward or eastwards means towards the east.\nA powerful snow storm is moving eastward...\nThey were pressing on eastwards towards the city’s small airfield.\n  ADV: usu ADV after v, also n ADV\n  = east\n  Eastward is also an adjective.\n...the eastward expansion of the City of London.\n  ADJ


Words: easy
Meaning:
easy  easier  easiest\n1. If a job or action is easy, you can do it without difficulty or effort, because it is not complicated and causes no problems.\nThe shower is easy to install...\nThis is not an easy task...\n  ADJ: oft it v-link ADJ to-inf, ADJ to-inf\n  = simple  !=difficult\n=>  easi.ly\nDress your child in layers of clothes you can remove easily.\n  ADV: usu ADV with v\n  = simply\n2. If you describe an action or activity as easy, you mean that it is done in a confident, relaxed way. If someone is easy about something, they feel relaxed and confident about it.\nHe was an easy person to talk to.\n...when you are both feeling a little easier about the break up of your relationship.\n  ADJ: oft ADJ about n\n\n=>  easi.ly\nThey talked amiably and easily about a range of topics.\n  ADV: ADV with v\n\n3. If you say that someone has an easy life, you mean that they live comfortably without any problems or worries.\nShe has not had an easy life.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n\n  !=hard\n4. If you say that something is easy or too easy, you are criticizing someone because they have done the most obvious or least difficult thing, and have not considered the situation carefully enough.\nThat’s easy for you to say...\nIt was all too easy to believe it.\n  ADJ: v-link ADJ, oft it v-link ADJ to-inf, ADJ to-inf  disapproval\n\n5. If you describe someone or something as easy prey or as an easy target, you mean that they can easily be attacked or criticized.\nTourists have become easy prey...\nThe World Bank, with its poor environmental record, is an easy target for blame.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n6. If you tell someone to go easy on something, you are telling them to use only a small amount of it. (INFORMAL)\nGo easy on the alcohol.\n  PHRASE: V inflects, PHR n\n\n7. If you tell someone to go easy on, or be easy on, a particular person, you are telling them not to punish or treat that person very severely. (INFORMAL)\n`Go easy on him,’ Sam repeated, opening the door...\n  PHRASE: V and ADJ inflect, PHR n\n\n8. If someone tells you to take it easy or take things easy, they mean that you should relax and not do very much at all. (INFORMAL)\nIt is best to take things easy for a week or two.\n  PHRASE: V and ADJ inflect\n\n9.\n  see also easily


Words: easy listening
Meaning:
easy lis.ten.ing\n   easy listening\n  Easy listening is gentle, relaxing music. Some people do not like this kind of music because they do not think that it is very interesting or exciting.\n...an easy listening version of the Oasis hit Wonderwall.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: easy-going
Meaning:
easy-going\n  If you describe someone as easy-going, you mean that they are not easily annoyed, worried, or upset, and you think this is a good quality.\nHe was easy-going and good-natured...\n  ADJ  approval


Words: eat
Meaning:
eat  eats  eating  ate   eaten\n1. When you eat something, you put it into your mouth, chew it, and swallow it.\nShe was eating a sandwich...\nWe took our time and ate slowly.\n  VERB: V n, V\n\n2. If you eat sensibly or healthily, you eat food that is good for you.\n...a campaign to persuade people to eat more healthily.\n  VERB: V adv\n\n3. If you eat, you have a meal.\nLet’s go out to eat...\nWe ate lunch together a few times.\n  VERB: V, V n\n\n4. If something is eating you, it is annoying or worrying you. (INFORMAL)\n`What the hell’s eating you?’ he demanded.\n  VERB: only cont, V n\n\n5. If you have someone eating out of your hand, they are completely under your control.\nShe usually has the press eating out of her hand.\n  PHRASE: V and N inflect\n\n6.\nto have your cake and eat it: see cake\ndog eat dog: see dog\nto eat humble pie: see humble


Words: eat away
Meaning:
eat away\n  If one thing eats away another or eats away at another, it gradually destroys or uses it up.\nRot is eating away the interior of the house...\nThe recession is eating away at their revenues.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P n (not pron), V P at n


Words: eat into
Meaning:
eat into\n1. If something eats into your time or your resources, it uses them, when they should be used for other things.\nResponsibilities at home and work eat into his time...\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P n\n\n2. If a substance such as acid or rust eats into something, it destroys or damages its surface.\nUlcers occur when the stomach’s natural acids eat into the lining of the stomach.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P n


Words: eat up
Meaning:
eat up\n1. When you eat up your food, you eat all of it.\nEat up your lunch...\nSome seed fell along the footpath, and the birds came and ate it up.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P n (not pron), V n P\n\n2. If something eats up money, time, or resources, it uses them or consumes them in great quantities.\nHealth insurance costs are eating up his income.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P n (not pron)


Words: eaten up
Meaning:
eat.en up\n   eaten up\n  If someone is eaten up with jealousy, curiosity, or desire, they feel it very intensely. (INFORMAL)\nDon’t waste your time being eaten up with envy.\n  ADJ: v-link ADJ with n


Words: eater
Meaning:
eat.er\n   eater  eaters\n  You use eater to refer to someone who eats in a particular way or who eats particular kinds of food.\nI’ve never been a fussy eater...\n...vegetarians and meat eaters.\n  N-COUNT: supp N


Words: eatery
Meaning:
eat.ery\n   eatery  eateries\n  An eatery is a place where you can buy and eat food. (JOURNALISM)\n...one of the most elegant old eateries in town.\n  N-COUNT


Words: eating apple
Meaning:
eat.ing ap.ple\n   eating apple  eating apples\n  An eating apple is an ordinary apple that is usually eaten raw rather than cooked.\n  N-COUNT\n  !=cooking apple


Words: eau de cologne
Meaning:
eau de co.logne\n   eau de cologne   also eau de Cologne\n  Eau de cologne is a fairly weak, sweet-smelling perfume.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n  = cologne


Words: eaves
Meaning:
eaves\n  The eaves of a house are the lower edges of its roof.\nThere were icicles hanging from the eaves.\n  N-PLURAL


Words: eavesdrop
Meaning:
eaves.drop\n   eavesdrop  eavesdrops  eavesdropping  eavesdropped\n  If you eavesdrop on someone, you listen secretly to what they are saying.\nThe government illegally eavesdropped on his telephone conversations...\nThe housemaid eavesdropped from behind the kitchen door.\n  VERB: V on n, V\n  = listen in\n=>  eaves.drop.ping\n...foreign electronic eavesdropping on army communications.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n=>  eaves.drop.per      eavesdroppers\nModern technology enables eavesdroppers to pick up conversations through windows or walls.\n  N-COUNT


Words: ebb
Meaning:
ebb  ebbs  ebbing  ebbed\n1. When the tide or the sea ebbs, its level gradually falls.\nWhen the tide ebbs it’s a rock pool inhabited by crustaceans.\n  VERB: V\n\n2. The ebb or the ebb tide is one of the regular periods, usually two per day, when the sea gradually falls to a lower level as the tide moves away from the land.\n...the spring ebb tide...\n  N-COUNT: usu the N\n\n3. If someone’s life, support, or feeling ebbs, it becomes weaker and gradually disappears. (FORMAL)\nWere there occasions when enthusiasm ebbed?\n  VERB: V\n\n  Ebb away means the same as ebb.\nTheir popular support is ebbing away.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P\n\n4. If someone or something is at a low ebb or at their lowest ebb, they are not being very successful or profitable.\n...a time when everyone is tired and at a low ebb...\n  PHRASE: v-link PHR\n\n5. You can use ebb and flow to describe the way that something repeatedly increases and decreases or rises and falls.\n...the ebb and flow of feeling and moods.\n  PHRASE: usu PHR of n


Words: ebony
Meaning:
eb.ony\n   ebony\n1. Ebony is a very hard, heavy, dark-coloured wood.\n...a small ebony cabinet.\n  N-UNCOUNT: oft N n\n\n2. Something that is ebony is a very deep black colour. (LITERARY)\nHe had rich, soft ebony hair.\n  ADJ


Words: ebullient
Meaning:
ebul.lient\n   ebullient\n  If you describe someone as ebullient, you mean that they are lively and full of enthusiasm or excitement about something. (FORMAL)\n...the ebullient Russian President.\n  ADJ\n\n=>  ebul.lience\nHis natural ebullience began to return.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: eccentric
Meaning:
ec.cen.tric\n   eccentric  eccentrics\n  If you say that someone is eccentric, you mean that they behave in a strange way, and have habits or opinions that are different from those of most people.\nHe is an eccentric character who likes wearing a beret and dark glasses.\n  ADJ\n  = odd\n  An eccentric is an eccentric person.\nOn first impressions it would be easy to dismiss Duke as an eccentric.\n  N-COUNT\n\n=>  ec.cen.tri.cal.ly\n...painters, eccentrically dressed and already half drunk.\n  ADV


Words: eccentricity
Meaning:
ec.cen.tri.city\n   eccentricity  eccentricities\n1. Eccentricity is unusual behaviour that other people consider strange.\nShe is unusual to the point of eccentricity.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n2. Eccentricities are ways of behaving that people think are strange, or habits or opinions that are different from those of most people.\nWe all have our eccentricities.\n  N-COUNT: usu pl, oft with poss\n  = peculiarity


Words: ecclesiastic
Meaning:
ec.cle.si.as.tic\n   ecclesiastic  ecclesiastics\n  An ecclesiastic is a priest or clergyman in the Christian Church. (FORMAL)\n  N-COUNT


Words: ecclesiastical
Meaning:
ec.cle.si.as.ti.cal\n   ecclesiastical\n  Ecclesiastical means belonging to or connected with the Christian Church.\nMy ambition was to travel upwards in the ecclesiastical hierarchy.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n


Words: echelon
Meaning:
eche.lon\n   echelon  echelons\n  An echelon in an organization or society is a level or rank in it. (FORMAL)\n...the lower echelons of society.\n  N-COUNT: usu adj N, oft N of n


Words: echo
Meaning:
echo  echoes  echoing  echoed\n1. An echo is a sound which is caused by a noise being reflected off a surface such as a wall.\nHe heard nothing but the echoes of his own voice.\n  N-COUNT: oft N of n\n\n2. If a sound echoes, it is reflected off a surface and can be heard again after the original sound has stopped.\nHis feet echoed on the bare board floor...\nThe bang came suddenly, echoing across the buildings, shattering glass.\n  VERB: V, V prep/adv\n  = reverberate\n3. In a place that echoes, a sound is reflected off a surface, and is repeated after the original sound has stopped.\nThe room echoed...\nThe corridor echoed with the barking of a dozen dogs.\n...the bare stone floors and the echoing hall.\n  VERB: V, V with/in n, V-ing\n\n4. If you echo someone’s words, you repeat them or express agreement with their attitude or opinion.\nTheir views often echo each other...\n  VERB: V n\n\n5. A detail or feature which reminds you of something else can be referred to as an echo.\nThe accident has echoes of past disasters.\n  N-COUNT: usu N of n\n\n6. If one thing echoes another, the first is a copy of a particular detail or feature of the other.\nPinks and beiges were chosen to echo the colours of the ceiling.\n  VERB: V n\n  = repeat\n7. If something echoes, it continues to be discussed and remains important or influential in a particular situation or among a particular group of people.\nThe old fable continues to echo down the centuries.\n  VERB: V prep


Words: echolocation
Meaning:
echo.lo.ca.tion\n  also echo-location\n  Echolocation is a system used by some animals to determine the position of an object by measuring how long it takes for an echo to return from the object. (TECHNICAL)\nMost bats navigate by echolocation.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: eclair
Meaning:
eclair  eclairs   also eclair\n  An eclair is a long thin cake made of very light pastry, which is filled with cream and usually has chocolate on top.\n  N-COUNT


Words: eclectic
Meaning:
ec.lec.tic\n   eclectic\n  An eclectic collection of objects, ideas, or beliefs is wide-ranging and comes from many different sources. (FORMAL)\n...an eclectic collection of paintings, drawings, and prints.\n  ADJ\n  = diverse


Words: eclecticism
Meaning:
ec.lec.ti.cism\n   eclecticism\n  Eclecticism is the principle or practice of choosing or involving objects, ideas, and beliefs from many different sources. (FORMAL)\n...her cultural eclecticism.\n  N-UNCOUNT: usu with supp


Words: eclipse
Meaning:
eclipse  eclipses  eclipsing  eclipsed\n1. An eclipse of the sun is an occasion when the moon is between the earth and the sun, so that for a short time you cannot see part or all of the sun. An eclipse of the moon is an occasion when the earth is between the sun and the moon, so that for a short time you cannot see part or all of the moon.\n...an eclipse of the sun.\n...the total lunar eclipse.\n  N-COUNT: usu with supp, oft adj N, N of n\n\n2. If one thing is eclipsed by a second thing that is bigger, newer, or more important than it, the first thing is no longer noticed because the second thing gets all the attention.\nThe gramophone had been eclipsed by new technology such as the compact disc...\n  VERB: be V-ed\n  = overshadow


Words: eco-
Meaning:
eco-\n  Eco- combines with nouns and adjectives to form other nouns and adjectives which describe something as being related to ecology.\n...the eco-horror of the North Sea oil spill.\n  PREFIX


Words: eco-friendly
Meaning:
eco-friendly\n  Eco-friendly products or services are less harmful to the environment than other similar products or services.\n...eco-friendly washing powder...\n  ADJ: oft ADJ n


Words: eco-tourism
Meaning:
eco-tourism\n  Eco-tourism is the business of providing holidays and related services which are not harmful to the environment of the area. (BUSINESS)\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n=>  eco-tourist      eco-tourists\n...an environmentally sensitive project to cater for eco-tourists.\n  N-COUNT


Words: eco-warrior
Meaning:
eco-warrior eco-warriors\n  An eco-warrior is someone who spends a lot of time working actively for environmental causes. (BRIT JOURNALISM)\n  N-COUNT


Words: ecological
Meaning:
eco.logi.cal\n   ecological\n1. Ecological means involved with or concerning ecology.\nLarge dams have harmed Siberia’s delicate ecological balance.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n=>  eco.logi.cal.ly\nIt is economical to run and ecologically sound.\n  ADV\n\n2. Ecological groups, movements, and people are concerned with preserving the environment and natural resources, so that they can be used in a sensible way, rather than being wasted.\nEcological groups say that nothing is being done to tackle the problem.\n  ADJ: ADJ n


Words: ecologist
Meaning:
ecolo.gist\n   ecologist  ecologists\n1. An ecologist is a person who studies ecology.\nEcologists argue that the benefits of treating sewage with disinfectants are doubtful.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. An ecologist is a person who believes that the environment and natural resources should be preserved and used in a sensible way, rather than being wasted.\nIn the opinion polls the ecologists reached 20 per cent.\n  N-COUNT


Words: ecology
Meaning:
ecol.ogy\n   ecology  ecologies\n1. Ecology is the study of the relationships between plants, animals, people, and their environment, and the balances between these relationships.\n...a senior lecturer in ecology.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n2. When you talk about the ecology of a place, you are referring to the pattern and balance of relationships between plants, animals, people, and the environment in that place.\n...the ecology of the rocky Negev desert in Israel.\n  N-VAR: usu with supp


Words: economic
Meaning:
eco.nom.ic\n   economic\n1. Economic means concerned with the organization of the money, industry, and trade of a country, region, or society.\n...Poland’s radical economic reforms...\nThe pace of economic growth is picking up.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n\n\n=>  eco.nomi.cal.ly\n...an economically depressed area...\nEconomically and politically, this affair couldn’t come at a worse time.\n  ADV: ADV adj/-ed, ADV after v, ADV with cl\n\n2. If something is economic, it produces a profit.\nThe new system may be more economic but will lead to a decline in programme quality.\n  ADJ\n  = profitable


Words: economical
Meaning:
eco.nomi.cal\n   economical\n1. Something that is economical does not require a lot of money to operate. For example a car that only uses a small amount of petrol is economical.\n...plans to trade in their car for something smaller and more economical...\nIt is more economical to wash a full load.\n  ADJ: oft ADJ to-inf, it v-link ADJ to-inf\n\n=>  eco.nomi.cal.ly\nServices could be operated more efficiently and economically.\n  ADV: ADV after v\n\n2. Someone who is economical spends money sensibly and does not want to waste it on things that are unnecessary. A way of life that is economical does not need a lot of money.\n...ideas for economical housekeeping.\n  ADJ\n\n3. Economical means using the minimum amount of time, effort, or language that is necessary.\nHis gestures were economical, his words generally mild.\n  ADJ: usu v-link ADJ


Words: economics
Meaning:
eco.nom.ics\n   economics\n1. Economics is the study of the way in which money, industry, and trade are organized in a society.\nHe gained a first class Honours degree in economics.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n  see also home economics\n2. The economics of a society or industry is the system of organizing money and trade in it.\n...the economics of the third world.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: economies of scale
Meaning:
econo.mies of scale\n\n  Economies of scale are the financial advantages that a company gains when it produces large quantities of products. (BUSINESS)\nCar firms are desperate to achieve economies of scale.\n  N-PLURAL


Words: economist
Meaning:
econo.mist\n   economist  economists\n  An economist is a person who studies, teaches, or writes about economics.\n  N-COUNT


Words: economize
Meaning:
econo.mize\n   economize  economizes  economizing  economized\nin BRIT, also use economise\n  If you economize, you save money by spending it very carefully.\nWe’re going to have to economize from now on...\nHollywood has been talking about economizing on movie budgets.\n  VERB: V, V on n


Words: economy
Meaning:
econo.my\n   economy  economies\n1. An economy is the system according to which the money, industry, and trade of a country or region are organized.\nZimbabwe boasts Africa’s most industrialised economy.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. A country’s economy is the wealth that it gets from business and industry.\nThe Japanese economy grew at an annual rate of more than 10 per cent.\n  N-COUNT: usu the N in sing\n\n3. Economy is the use of the minimum amount of money, time, or other resources needed to achieve something, so that nothing is wasted.\n...improvements in the fuel economy of cars...\n  N-UNCOUNT: with supp\n\n4. If you make economies, you try to save money by not spending money on unnecessary things.\nThey will make economies by hiring fewer part-time workers.\n  N-COUNT: usu pl\n\n5. Economy services such as travel are cheap and have no luxuries or extras.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\nsee economy class\n6. Economy is used to describe large packs of goods which are cheaper than normal sized packs.\n...an economy pack containing 150 assorted screws.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n7. If you describe an attempt to save money as a false economy, you mean that you have not saved any money as you will have to spend a lot more later.\nA cheap bed can be a false economy...\n  PHRASE: v-link PHR


Words: economy class
Meaning:
econo.my class\n   economy class\n  On an aeroplane, an economy class ticket or seat is the cheapest available.\nThe price includes two economy class airfares from Brisbane to Los Angeles.\n  ADJ: ADJ n


Words: economy-class syndrome
Meaning:
economy-class syn.drome\n\n  Economy-class syndrome is a serious medical condition caused by blood clots in the legs moving up to the lungs; used especially in connection with long-haul flights.\nLemon juice can help to prevent economy-class syndrome by improving blood circulation.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: ecosystem
Meaning:
eco.sys.tem\n   ecosystem  ecosystems\n  An ecosystem is all the plants and animals that live in a particular area together with the complex relationship that exists between them and their environment. (TECHNICAL)\n...the forest ecosystem.\n  N-COUNT


Words: ecstasy
Meaning:
ec.sta.sy\n   ecstasy  ecstasies\n1. Ecstasy is a feeling of very great happiness.\n...a state of almost religious ecstasy.\n  N-VAR\n\n2. Ecstasy is an illegal drug which makes people feel happy and energetic.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n3. If you are in ecstasy about something, you are very excited about it. If you go into ecstasies, you become very excited.\nMy father was in ecstasy when I won my scholarship...\nShe went into ecstasies over actors.\n  PHRASE: N inflects


Words: ecstatic
Meaning:
ec.stat.ic\n   ecstatic\n1. If you are ecstatic, you feel very happy and full of excitement.\nHis wife gave birth to their first child, and he was ecstatic about it...\nThey were greeted by the cheers of an ecstatic crowd.\n  ADJ\n  = delirious\n=>  ec.stati.cal.ly\nWe are both ecstatically happy.\n  ADV\n\n2. You can use ecstatic to describe reactions that are very enthusiastic and excited. For example, if someone receives an ecstatic reception or an ecstatic welcome, they are greeted with great enthusiasm and excitement.\nThey gave an ecstatic reception to the speech...\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n  = rapturous


Words: ectopic
Meaning:
ec.top.ic\n   ectopic\n  An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg becomes implanted outside a woman’s womb, for example in one of her fallopian tubes.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n


Words: ecumenical
Meaning:
ecu.meni.cal\n   ecumenical\n  Ecumenical activities, ideas, and movements try to unite different Christian Churches. (FORMAL)\n...ecumenical church services...\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n


Words: ecumenism
Meaning:
ecu.men.ism\n   ecumenism\n  Ecumenism is the belief that the different Christian Churches should be as united as possible, and can also be used to refer to actions based on this belief. (FORMAL)\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: eczema
Meaning:
ec.ze.ma\n   eczema\n  Eczema is a skin disease which makes your skin itch and become sore, rough, and broken.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: eddy
Meaning:
eddy  eddies\n  An eddy is a movement in water or in the air which goes round and round instead of flowing in one continuous direction.\n  N-COUNT


Words: edge
Meaning:
edge  edges  edging  edged\n1. The edge of something is the place or line where it stops, or the part of it that is furthest from the middle.\nWe were on a hill, right on the edge of town...\nShe was standing at the water’s edge...\n  N-COUNT: usu with supp\n\n2. The edge of something sharp such as a knife or an axe is its sharp or narrow side.\n...the sharp edge of the sword.\n  N-COUNT: usu with supp\n\n3. If someone or something edges somewhere, they move very slowly in that direction.\nHe edged closer to the telephone, ready to grab it...\n  VERB: V prep/adv\n\n4. The edge of something, especially something bad, is the point at which it may start to happen.\nThey have driven the rhino to the edge of extinction...\n  N-SING: usu the N of n\n  = verge, brink\n5. If someone or something has an edge, they have an advantage that makes them stronger or more likely to be successful than another thing or person.\nThe three days France have to prepare could give them the edge over England...\nThrough superior production techniques they were able to gain the competitive edge.\n  N-SING: oft N over n, N in n/-ing\n  = advantage\n6. If you say that someone or something has an edge, you mean that they have a powerful quality.\nFeaturing new bands gives the show an edge...\nGreene’s stories had an edge of realism.\n  N-SING: a N\n\n7. If someone’s voice has an edge to it, it has a sharp, bitter, or emotional quality.\nBut underneath the humour is an edge of bitterness...\n  N-SING: oft N of n, N to n\n\n8.\n  see also cutting edge, knife-edge, leading edge\n9. If you or your nerves are on edge, you are tense, nervous, and unable to relax.\nMy nerves were constantly on edge.\n  PHRASE: usu v-link PHR\n\n10. If you say that someone is on the edge of their seat or chair, you mean that they are very interested in what is happening or what is going to happen.\n  PHRASE: N inflects, usu v-link PHR, v PHR\n\n11. If something takes the edge off a situation, usually an unpleasant one, it weakens its effect or intensity.\nA spell of poor health took the edge off her performance.\n  PHRASE: V inflects, PHR n\n\n12.\nto set your teeth on edge: see tooth


Words: edge out
Meaning:
edge out\n  If someone edges out someone else, they just manage to beat them or get in front of them in a game, race, or contest.\nFrance edged out the British team by less than a second...\nMcGregor’s effort was enough to edge Johnson out of the top spot.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P n (not pron), V n P of n, also V n P


Words: edged
Meaning:
edged\n  If something is edged with a particular thing, that thing forms a border around it.\n...a large lawn edged with flowers and shrubs.\n  ADJ: v-link ADJ with/in n\n\n  Edged is also a combining form.\n...a lace-edged handkerchief.\n  COMB in ADJ


Words: edgeways
Meaning:
edge.ways\n   edgeways\nThe spelling edgewise is also used, especially in American English.\n  If you say that you cannot get a word in edgeways, you are complaining that you do not have the opportunity to speak because someone else is talking so much. (INFORMAL)\nHe spent all the time talking and they could not get a word in edgeways.\n  PHRASE: V inflects  disapproval


Words: edging
Meaning:
edg.ing\n   edging  edgings\n  Edging is something that is put along the borders or sides of something else, usually to make it look attractive.\n...the satin edging on Randall’s blanket.\n  N-VAR


Words: edgy
Meaning:
edgy  edgier  edgiest\n  If someone is edgy, they are nervous and anxious, and seem likely to lose control of themselves. (INFORMAL)\nShe was nervous and edgy, still chain-smoking.\n  ADJ\n  = uptight, tense


Words: edible
Meaning:
ed.ible\n   edible\n  If something is edible, it is safe to eat and not poisonous.\n...edible fungi.\n  ADJ\n  !=inedible


Words: edict
Meaning:
edict  edicts\n  An edict is a command or instruction given by someone in authority. (FORMAL)\nHe issued an edict that none of his writings be destroyed.\n  N-COUNT: oft N that, N against n


Words: edification
Meaning:
edi.fi.ca.tion\n   edification\n  If something is done for your edification, it is done to benefit you in some way, for example by teaching you about something. (FORMAL)\nDemonstrations, films, and videotapes are shown for your edification.\n  N-UNCOUNT: oft with poss


Words: edifice
Meaning:
edi.fice\n   edifice  edifices\n  An edifice is a large and impressive building. (FORMAL)\nThe American consulate was a magnificent edifice in the centre of Bordeaux.\n  N-COUNT


Words: edifying
Meaning:
edi.fy.ing\n   edifying\n1. If you describe something as edifying, you mean that it benefits you in some way, for example by teaching you about something. (FORMAL)\nIn the 18th century art was seen, along with music and poetry, as something edifying.\n  ADJ\n  = instructive\n2. You say that something is not very edifying when you want to express your disapproval or dislike of it, or to suggest that there is something unpleasant or unacceptable about it.\nIt all brought back memories of a not very edifying past.\n  ADJ: with brd-neg  disapproval


Words: edit
Meaning:
edit  edits  editing  edited\n1. If you edit a text such as an article or a book, you correct and adapt it so that it is suitable for publishing.\nThe majority of contracts give the publisher the right to edit a book after it’s done.\n...an edited version of the speech.\n  VERB: V n, V-ed\n\n=>  edit.ing\nThroughout the editing of this book, we have had much support and encouragement.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n2. If you edit a book or a series of books, you collect several pieces of writing by different authors and prepare them for publishing.\nThis collection of essays is edited by Ellen Knight...\nShe has edited the media studies quarterly, Screen.\n...the Real Sandwich Book, edited by Miriam Polunin.\n  VERB: be V-ed by n, V n, V-ed\n\n=>  edit.ing\nHe was certainly not cut out to combine the jobs of editing and writing as a journalist.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n3. If you edit a film or a television or radio programme, you choose some of what has been filmed or recorded and arrange it in a particular order.\nHe taught me to edit and splice film...\nHe is editing together excerpts of some of his films.\n  VERB: V n, V n with together\n\n=>  edit.ing\nHe sat in on much of the filming and early editing.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n4. Someone who edits a newspaper, magazine, or journal is in charge of it.\nI used to edit the college paper in the old days.\n  VERB: V n\n\n5. An edit is the process of examining and correcting a text so that it is suitable for publishing.\nThe purpose of the edit is fairly simple.to chop out the boring bits from the original.\n  N-COUNT


Words: edit out
Meaning:
edit out\n  If you edit something out of a book or film, you remove it, often because it might be offensive to some people.\nHis voice will be edited out of the final film...\nShe edited that line out again.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P n (not pron), V n P\n  = cut


Words: edition
Meaning:
edi.tion\n   edition  editions\n1. An edition is a particular version of a book, magazine, or newspaper that is printed at one time.\nA paperback edition is now available at bookshops.\n  N-COUNT: usu supp N\n\n2. An edition is the total number of copies of a particular book or newspaper that are printed at one time.\nThe second edition was published only in America.\n  N-COUNT: usu supp N\n\n3. An edition is a single television or radio programme that is one of a series about a particular subject.\nThey appeared on an edition of BBC2’s Arena.\n  N-COUNT: with supp\n  = episode


Words: editor
Meaning:
edi.tor\n   editor  editors\n1. An editor is the person who is in charge of a newspaper or magazine and who decides what will be published in each edition of it.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. An editor is a journalist who is responsible for a particular section of a newspaper or magazine.\nCookery Editor Moyra Fraser takes you behind the scenes.\n  N-COUNT: supp N\n\n3. An editor is a person who checks and corrects texts before they are published.\nYour role as editor is important, for you can look at a piece of writing objectively.\n  N-COUNT\n\n4. An editor is a radio or television journalist who reports on a particular type of news.\n...our economics editor, Dominic Harrod.\n  N-COUNT: supp N\n\n5. An editor is a person who prepares a film, or a radio or television programme, by selecting some of what has been filmed or recorded and putting it in a particular order.\nShe worked at 20th Century Fox as a film editor.\n  N-COUNT\n\n6. An editor is a person who collects pieces of writing by different authors and prepares them for publication in a book or a series of books.\nMichael Rosen is the editor of the anthology.\n  N-COUNT\n\n7. An editor is a computer program that enables you to change and correct stored data. (COMPUTING)\n  N-COUNT


Words: editorial
Meaning:
edi.to.rial\n   editorial  editorials\n1. Editorial means involved in preparing a newspaper, magazine, or book for publication.\nHe has been on the editorial staff of `Private Eye’ since 1963...\nI went to the editorial board meetings when I had the time.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n=>  edi.to.ri.al.ly\nRosie Boycott was not involved editorially with Virago.\n  ADV\n\n2. Editorial means involving the attitudes, opinions, and contents of something such as a newspaper, magazine, or television programme.\nWe are not about to change our editorial policy.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n=>  edi.to.ri.al.ly\nEditorially, they never really became a unique distinct product.\n  ADV: usu ADV after v, ADV with cl\n\n3. An editorial is an article in a newspaper which gives the opinion of the editor or owner on a topic or item of news.\nIn an editorial, The Independent suggests the victory could turn nasty.\n  N-COUNT


Words: editorialize
Meaning:
edi.to.ri.al.ize\n   editorialize  editorializes  editorializing  editorialized\nin BRIT, also use editorialise\n  If someone editorializes, they express their opinion about something rather than just stating facts; mainly used in contexts where you are talking about journalists and newspapers.\nOther papers have editorialized, criticizing the Czech government for rushing to judgment on this individual.\n  VERB: V


Words: editorship
Meaning:
edi.tor.ship\n   editorship  editorships\n  The editorship of a newspaper or magazine is the position of its editor, or his or her work as its editor.\nUnder his editorship, the Economist has introduced regular sports coverage.\n  N-VAR: oft poss N, N of n


Words: educate
Meaning:
edu.cate\n   educate  educates  educating  educated\n1. When someone, especially a child, is educated, he or she is taught at a school or college.\nHe was educated at Haslingden Grammar School.\n  VERB: usu passive, be V-ed\n\n2. To educate people means to teach them better ways of doing something or a better way of living.\nDrinkwise Day is mainly designed to educate people about the destructive effects of alcohol abuse.\n  VERB: V n\n  = inform


Words: educated
Meaning:
edu.cat.ed\n   educated\n  Someone who is educated has a high standard of learning.\nHe is an educated, amiable and decent man.\n  ADJ\n  = learned


Words: educated guess
Meaning:
edu.cat.ed guess\n   educated guess  educated guesses\n  An educated guess is a guess which is based on a certain amount of knowledge and is therefore likely to be correct.\nEstimating the right cooking time will always be an educated guess.\n  N-COUNT


Words: education
Meaning:
edu.ca.tion\n   education  educations\n1. Education involves teaching people various subjects, usually at a school or college, or being taught.\nThey’re cutting funds for education...\n  N-VAR\n\n2. Education of a particular kind involves teaching the public about a particular issue.\n...better health education.\n  N-UNCOUNT: usu with supp\n\n3.\n  see also adult education, further education, higher education


Words: educational
Meaning:
edu.ca.tion.al\n   educational\n1. Educational matters or institutions are concerned with or relate to education.\n...the British educational system.\n...pupils with special educational needs.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n\n\n=>  edu.ca.tion.al.ly\n...educationally sound ideas for managing classrooms.\n  ADV\n\n2. An educational experience teaches you something.\nThe staff should make sure the kids have an enjoyable and educational day.\n  ADJ\n  = instructive


Words: educational psychology
Meaning:
edu.ca.tion.al psy.chol.ogy\n   educational psychology\n  Educational psychology is the area of psychology that is concerned with the study and assessment of teaching methods, and with helping individual pupils who have educational problems.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n=>  edu.ca.tion.al psy.cholo.gist      educational psychologists\nAn assessment by an independent educational psychologist was essential.\n  N-COUNT


Words: educationalist
Meaning:
edu.ca.tion.al.ist\n   educationalist  educationalists\n  An educationalist is someone who is specialized in the theories and methods of education. (BRIT; in AM, use educator)\n  N-COUNT


Words: educationist
Meaning:
edu.ca.tion.ist\n   educationist  educationists\n  An educationist is the same as an educationalist. (BRIT)\n  N-COUNT


Words: educative
Meaning:
edu.ca.tive\n   educative\n  Something that has an educative role teaches you something. (FORMAL)\n...the educative value of allowing broadcasters into their courts.\n  ADJ


Words: educator
Meaning:
edu.ca.tor\n   educator  educators\n1. An educator is a person who educates people. (AM; also BRIT FORMAL)\n  N-COUNT\n  = teacher\n2. An educator is someone who is specialized in the theories and methods of education. (mainly AM; in BRIT, use educationalist)\n  N-COUNT


Words: edutainment
Meaning:
edu.tain.ment\n   edutainment\n  People use edutainment to refer to things such as computer games which are designed to be entertaining and educational at the same time.\n...the increased demand for edutainment software.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: Edwardian
Meaning:
Ed.ward.ian\n   Edwardian\n  Edwardian means belonging to, connected with, or typical of Britain in the first decade of the 20th century, when Edward VII was King.\n...the Edwardian era.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n


Words: eel
Meaning:
eel  eels\n  An eel is a long, thin fish that looks like a snake.\n  N-VAR\n\n  Eel is the flesh of this fish which is eaten as food.\n...smoked eel.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: eerie
Meaning:
eerie  eerier  eeriest\n  If you describe something as eerie, you mean that it seems strange and frightening, and makes you feel nervous.\nI walked down the eerie dark path.\n...an eerie calm.\n  ADJ\n\n=>  eeri.ly\nMonrovia after the fighting is eerily quiet.\n  ADV


Words: efface
Meaning:
ef.face\n   efface  effaces  effacing  effaced\n  To efface something means to destroy or remove it so that it cannot be seen any more. (FORMAL)\n...an event that has helped efface the country’s traditional image...\n  VERB: V n\n\n  see also self-effacing


Words: effect
Meaning:
ef.fect\n   effect  effects  effecting  effected\n1. The effect of one thing on another is the change that the first thing causes in the second thing.\nParents worry about the effect of music on their adolescent’s behavior...\nEven minor head injuries can cause long-lasting psychological effects.\n  N-VAR: oft N of/on n, N of -ing, adj N\n\n2. An effect is an impression that someone creates deliberately, for example in a place or in a piece of writing.\nThe whole effect is cool, light and airy.\n  N-COUNT\n  = impression\n3. A person’s effects are the things that they have with them at a particular time, for example when they are arrested or admitted to hospital, or the things that they owned when they died. (FORMAL)\nHis daughters were collecting his effects.\n  N-PLURAL: with poss\n  = belongings\n4. The effects in a film are the specially created sounds and scenery.\n  N-PLURAL\n\n5. If you effect something that you are trying to achieve, you succeed in causing it to happen. (FORMAL)\nProspects for effecting real political change seemed to have taken a major step backwards.\n  VERB: V n\n\n6.\n  see also greenhouse effect, placebo effect, ripple effect, side-effect, sound effect, special effect\n7. If you say that someone is doing something for effect, you mean that they are doing it in order to impress people and to draw attention to themselves.\nThe Cockney accent was put on for effect.\n  PHRASE: PHR after v\n\n8. You add in effect to a statement or opinion that is not precisely accurate, but which you feel is a reasonable description or summary of a particular situation.\nThat deal would create, in effect, the world’s biggest airline.\n  PHRASE: PHR with cl  vagueness\n  = effectively\n9. If you put, bring, or carry a plan or idea into effect, you cause it to happen in practice.\nThese and other such measures ought to have been put into effect in 1985.\n  PHRASE: V inflects\n  = implement\n10. If a law or policy takes effect or comes into effect at a particular time, it officially begins to apply or be valid from that time. If it remains in effect, it still applies or is still valid.\n...the ban on new logging permits which will take effect from July...\nThe decision was taken yesterday and will remain in effect until further government instructions.\n  PHRASE: V inflects\n\n11. You can say that something takes effect when it starts to produce the results that are intended.\nThe second injection should only have been given once the first drug had taken effect...\n  PHRASE: V inflects\n\n12. You use effect in expressions such as to good effect and to no effect in order to indicate how successful or impressive an action is.\nMr Morris feels the museum is using advertising to good effect...\n  PHRASE: PHR after v\n\n13. You use to this effect, to that effect, or to the effect that to indicate that you have given or are giving a summary of something that was said or written, and not the actual words used.\nA circular to this effect will be issued in the next few weeks...\n  PHRASE: n PHR\n\n14. If you say that something will happen with immediate effect or with effect from a particular time, you mean that it will begin to apply or be valid immediately or from the stated time. (BRIT mainly FORMAL)\nThe price of the Saturday edition is going up with effect from 3 November.\n  PHRASE: PHR after v\n\n15.\ncause and effect: see cause


Words: effective
Meaning:
ef.fec.tive\n   effective\n1. Something that is effective works well and produces the results that were intended.\nThe project looks at how we could be more effective in encouraging students to enter teacher training...\nSimple antibiotics are effective against this organism...\n...an effective public transport system.\n  ADJ: oft ADJ in -ing, ADJ against n\n\n=>  ef.fec.tive.ly\n...the team roles which you believe to be necessary for the team to function effectively...\nServices need to be more effectively organised than they are at present.\n  ADV: usu ADV after v, also ADV -ed\n\n=>  ef.fec.tive.ness\n...the effectiveness of computers as an educational tool.\n  N-UNCOUNT: oft N of n\n\n2. Effective means having a particular role or result in practice, though not officially or in theory.\nThey have had effective control of the area since the security forces left.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n3. When something such as a law or an agreement becomes effective, it begins officially to apply or be valid.\nThe new rules will become effective in the next few days.\n  ADJ: v-link ADJ


Words: effectively
Meaning:
ef.fec.tive.ly\n   effectively\n  You use effectively with a statement or opinion to indicate that it is not accurate in every detail, but that you feel it is a reasonable description or summary of a particular situation.\nThe region was effectively independent.\n  ADV: usu ADV before v, also ADV adj


Words: effectual
Meaning:
ef.fec.tual\n   effectual\n  If an action or plan is effectual, it succeeds in producing the results that were intended. (FORMAL)\nThis is the only effectual way to secure our present and future happiness.\n  ADJ\n  = effective  !=ineffectual


Words: effeminate
Meaning:
ef.femi.nate\n   effeminate\n  If you describe a man or boy as effeminate, you think he behaves, looks, or sounds like a woman or girl.\n...a skinny, effeminate guy in lipstick and earrings...\n  ADJ  disapproval\n  !=manly


Words: effervescent
Meaning:
ef.fer.ves.cent\n   effervescent\n1. An effervescent liquid is one that contains or releases bubbles of gas.\n...an effervescent mineral water.\n  ADJ\n\n2. If you describe someone as effervescent, you mean that they are lively, entertaining, enthusiastic, and exciting.\n...an effervescent blonde actress...\n  ADJ  approval\n  = bubbly, vivacious\n=>  ef.fer.ves.cence\nHe wrote about Gillespie’s effervescence, magnetism and commitment.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: effete
Meaning:
ef.fete\n   effete\n  If you describe someone as effete, you are criticizing them for being weak and powerless. (FORMAL)\n...the charming but effete Russian gentry of the 1840s and 1850s.\n  ADJ  disapproval


Words: efficacious
Meaning:
ef.fi.ca.cious\n   efficacious\n  Something that is efficacious is effective. (FORMAL)\nThe nasal spray was new on the market and highly efficacious.\n  ADJ\n  = effective


Words: efficacy
Meaning:
ef.fi.ca.cy\n   efficacy\n  If you talk about the efficacy of something, you are talking about its effectiveness and its ability to do what it is supposed to. (FORMAL)\nRecent medical studies confirm the efficacy of a healthier lifestyle.\n  N-UNCOUNT: usu with poss


Words: efficiency
Meaning:
ef.fi.cien.cy\n   efficiency  efficiencies\n1. Efficiency is the quality of being able to do a task successfully, without wasting time or energy.\nThere are many ways to increase agricultural efficiency in the poorer areas of the world.\n...energy efficiency.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n2. In physics and engineering, efficiency is the ratio between the amount of energy a machine needs to make it work, and the amount it produces. (TECHNICAL)\n  N-UNCOUNT: also N in pl


Words: efficient
Meaning:
ef.fi.cient\n   efficient\n  If something or someone is efficient, they are able to do tasks successfully, without wasting time or energy.\nWith today’s more efficient contraception women can plan their families and careers.\n  ADJ\n\n=>  ef.fi.cient.ly\nI work very efficiently and am decisive, and accurate in my judgement.\n  ADV


Words: effigy
Meaning:
ef.fi.gy\n   effigy  effigies\n1. An effigy is a quickly and roughly made figure, often ugly or amusing, that represents someone you hate or feel contempt for.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. An effigy is a statue or carving of a famous person. (FORMAL)\n  N-COUNT


Words: effing
Meaning:
eff.ing\n   effing\n  Some people use effing to emphasize a word or phrase, especially when they are feeling angry or annoyed. (BRIT RUDE)\n  ADJ: ADJ n  emphasis


Words: effluent
Meaning:
ef.flu.ent\n   effluent  effluents\n  Effluent is liquid waste material that comes out of factories or sewage works. (FORMAL)\nThe effluent from the factory was dumped into the river...\n  N-MASS\n  = waste


Words: effort
Meaning:
ef.fort\n   effort  efforts\n1. If you make an effort to do something, you try very hard to do it.\nHe made no effort to hide his disappointment...\nFinding a cure requires considerable time and effort.\n...his efforts to reform Italian research...\nDespite the efforts of the United Nations, the problem of drug traffic continues to grow...\nBut a concerted effort has begun to improve the quality of the urban air.\n  N-VAR: oft N to-inf\n\n2. If you say that someone did something with effort or with an effort, you mean it was difficult for them to do. (WRITTEN)\nShe took a deep breath and sat up slowly and with great effort...\nWith an effort she contained her irritation.\n  N-UNCOUNT: usu with N, also a N\n  = difficulty\n3. An effort is a particular series of activities that is organized by a group of people in order to achieve something.\n...a famine relief effort in Angola.\n  N-COUNT: usu supp N\n\n4. If you say that something is an effort, you mean that an unusual amount of physical or mental energy is needed to do it.\nEven carrying the camcorder while hiking in the forest was an effort.\n  N-SING: a N\n  = strain, struggle\n5. If you make the effort to do something, you do it, even though you need extra energy to do it or you do not really want to.\nI don’t get lonely now because I make the effort to see people.\n  PHRASE: V inflects, oft PHR to-inf


Words: effortless
Meaning:
ef.fort.less\n   effortless\n1. Something that is effortless is done easily and well.\nIn a single effortless motion, he scooped Frannie into his arms.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n\n  = easy\n=>  ef.fort.less.ly\nHer son Peter adapted effortlessly to his new surroundings.\n  ADV\n\n2. You use effortless to describe a quality that someone has naturally and does not have to learn.\nShe liked him above all for his effortless charm.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n


Words: effrontery
Meaning:
ef.fron.tery\n   effrontery\n  Effrontery is behaviour that is bold, rude, or disrespectful. (FORMAL)\nOne could only gasp at the sheer effrontery of the man.\n  N-UNCOUNT  disapproval


Words: effusion
Meaning:
ef.fu.sion\n   effusion  effusions\n  If someone expresses their emotions or ideas with effusion, they express them with more enthusiasm and for longer than is usual or expected.\nI did not embarrass her with my effusions.\n  N-VAR


Words: effusive
Meaning:
ef.fu.sive\n   effusive\n  If you describe someone as effusive, you mean that they express pleasure, gratitude, or approval in a very enthusiastic way.\nHe was effusive in his praise for the general...\n  ADJ\n\n=>  ef.fu.sive.ly\nShe greeted them effusively.\n  ADV


Words: EFL
Meaning:
EFL\n  EFL is the teaching of English to people whose first language is not English. EFL is an abbreviation for `English as a Foreign Language’.\n...an EFL teacher.\n  N-UNCOUNT: oft N n


Words: egalitarian
Meaning:
egali.tar.ian\n   egalitarian\n  Egalitarian means supporting or following the idea that all people are equal and should have the same rights and opportunities.\nI still believe in the notion of an egalitarian society.\n  ADJ


Words: egalitarianism
Meaning:
egali.tari.an.ism\n   egalitarianism\n  Egalitarianism is used to refer to the belief that all people are equal and should have the same rights and opportunities, and to actions that are based on this belief.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: egg
Meaning:
egg  eggs  egging  egged\n1. An egg is an oval object that is produced by a female bird and which contains a baby bird. Other animals such as reptiles and fish also lay eggs.\n...a baby bird hatching from its egg.\n...ant eggs.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. In Western countries, eggs often means hen’s eggs, eaten as food.\nBreak the eggs into a shallow bowl and beat them lightly.\n...bacon and eggs.\n  N-VAR\n\n3. Egg is used to refer to an object in the shape of a hen’s egg.\n...a chocolate egg.\n  N-COUNT: usu supp N\n\n4. An egg is a cell that is produced in the bodies of female animals and humans. If it is fertilized by a sperm, a baby develops from it.\nIt only takes one sperm to fertilize an egg.\n  N-COUNT\n\n5.\n  see also Easter egg, nest egg, Scotch egg\n6. If someone puts all their eggs in one basket, they put all their effort or resources into doing one thing so that, if it fails, they have no alternatives left.\nThe key word here is diversify; don’t put all your eggs in one basket.\n  PHRASE: usu v PHR\n\n7. If someone has egg on their face or has egg all over their face, they have been made to look foolish.\nIf they take this game lightly they could end up with egg on their faces.\n  PHRASE: face inflects, have/with PHR\n\n8.\na chicken and egg situation: see chicken


Words: egg cup
Meaning:
egg cup  egg cups   also eggcup\n  An egg cup is a small container in which you put a boiled egg while you eat it.\n  N-COUNT


Words: egg on
Meaning:
egg on\n  If you egg a person on, you encourage them to do something, especially something dangerous or foolish.\nHe was lifting up handfuls of leaves and throwing them at her. She was laughing and egging him on...\nThey egged each other on to argue and to fight.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V n P, V n P to-inf


Words: egg timer
Meaning:
egg tim.er\n   egg timer  egg timers   also egg-timer\n  An egg timer is a device that measures the time needed to boil an egg.\n  N-COUNT


Words: egg whisk
Meaning:
egg whisk  egg whisks\n  An egg whisk is a piece of kitchen equipment used for mixing the different parts of an egg together.\n  N-COUNT


Words: egghead
Meaning:
egg.head\n   egghead  eggheads\n  If you think someone is more interested in ideas and theories than in practical actions you can say they are an egghead. (INFORMAL)\nThe Government was dominated by self-important eggheads.\n  N-COUNT  disapproval\n  = boffin


Words: eggnog
Meaning:
egg.nog\n   eggnog   also egg nog\n  Eggnog is a drink made from egg, milk, sugar, spices, and alcohol such as rum or brandy.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: eggplant
Meaning:
egg.plant\n   eggplant  eggplants\n  An eggplant is a vegetable with a smooth, dark purple skin. (AM; in BRIT, use aubergine)\n  N-VAR


Words: eggshell
Meaning:
egg.shell\n   eggshell  eggshells   also egg shell\n  An eggshell is the hard covering on the outside of an egg.\n  N-VAR


Words: ego
Meaning:
ego   egos\n  Someone’s ego is their sense of their own worth. For example, if someone has a large ego, they think they are very important and valuable.\nHe had a massive ego, never would he admit he was wrong.\n  N-VAR\n\n  see also alter ego, super-ego


Words: ego trip
Meaning:
ego trip  ego trips\n  If you say that someone is on an ego trip, you are criticizing them for doing something for their own satisfaction and enjoyment, often to show that they think they are more important than other people.\n  N-COUNT  disapproval


Words: egocentric
Meaning:
ego.cen.tric\n   egocentric\n  Someone who is egocentric thinks only of themselves and their own wants, and does not consider other people.\nHe was egocentric, a man of impulse who expected those around him to serve him.\n  ADJ  disapproval\n  = self-centred


Words: egomaniac
Meaning:
ego.ma.ni.ac\n   egomaniac   egomaniacs\n  An egomaniac is someone who thinks only of themselves and does not care if they harm other people in order to get what they want.\nAdam is clever enough, but he’s also something of an egomaniac.\n  N-COUNT  disapproval


Words: egotism
Meaning:
ego.tism\n   egotism\n  Egotism is the quality of being egotistic.\n  N-UNCOUNT  disapproval\n  = selfishness


Words: egotistic
Meaning:
ego.tis.tic\n   egotistic\n  Someone who is egotistic or egotistical behaves selfishly and thinks they are more important than other people.\nSusan and Deborah share an intensely selfish, egotistic streak.\n  ADJ\n  The form egotistical is also used.  disapproval\n  = self-centred


Words: egregious
Meaning:
egre.gious\n   egregious\n  Egregious means very bad indeed. (FORMAL)\n...the most egregious abuses of human rights.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n\n  = grievous


Words: Egyptian
Meaning:
Egyp.tian\n   Egyptian  Egyptians\n1. Egyptian means belonging or relating to Egypt or to its people, language, or culture.\n  ADJ\n\n2. The Egyptians are the people who come from Egypt.\n  N-COUNT\n\n3. Egyptian means related to or connected with ancient Egypt.\n...the Egyptian pharaoh.\n  ADJ\n\n4. The Egyptians were the people who lived in ancient Egypt.\n  N-COUNT


Words: eh
Meaning:
eh\n  Eh is used in writing to represent a noise that people make as a response in conversation, for example to express agreement or to ask for something to be explained or repeated.\nLet’s talk all about it outside, eh?...\n`He’s um ill in bed.’.`Eh?’.`He’s ill in bed.’\n  CONVENTION


Words: eiderdown
Meaning:
eider.down\n   eiderdown  eiderdowns\n  An eiderdown is a bed covering, placed on top of sheets and blankets, that is filled with small soft feathers or warm material. (BRIT; in AM, usually use comforter)\n  N-COUNT\n  = quilt


Words: eighteen
Meaning:
eight.een\n   eighteen  eighteens\n  Eighteen is the number 18.\nHe was employed by them for eighteen years.\n  NUM


Words: eighteenth
Meaning:
eight.eenth\n   eighteenth\n  The eighteenth item in a series is the one that you count as number eighteen.\nThe siege is now in its eighteenth day.\n  ORD


Words: eighth
Meaning:
eighth  eighths\n1. The eighth item in a series is the one that you count as number eight.\n...the eighth prime minister of India.\n  ORD\n\n2. An eighth is one of eight equal parts of something.\nThe Kuban produces an eighth of Russia’s grain, meat and milk.\n  FRACTION


Words: eighth note
Meaning:
eighth note  eighth notes\n  An eighth note is a musical note that has a time value equal to half a quarter note. (AM; in BRIT, use quaver)\n  N-COUNT


Words: eightieth
Meaning:
eighti.eth\n   eightieth\n  The eightieth item in a series is the one that you count as number eighty.\nMr Stevens recently celebrated his eightieth birthday.\n  ORD


Words: eighty
Meaning:
eighty  eighties\n1. Eighty is the number 80.\nEighty horses trotted up.\n  NUM\n\n2. When you talk about the eighties, you are referring to numbers between 80 and 89. For example, if you are in your eighties, you are aged between 80 and 89. If the temperature is in the eighties, the temperature is between 80 and 89 degrees.\nHe was in his late eighties and had become the country’s most respected elder statesman.\n  N-PLURAL\n\n3. The eighties is the decade between 1980 and 1989.\nHe ran a property development business in the eighties.\n  N-PLURAL: the N


Words: eisteddfod
Meaning:
eistedd.fod\n   eisteddfod  eisteddfods\n  An eisteddfod is a Welsh festival at which competitions are held in music, poetry, drama, and art.\n  N-COUNT


Words: either
Meaning:
either\n1. You use either in front of the first of two or more alternatives, when you are stating the only possibilities or choices that there are. The other alternatives are introduced by `or’.\nSightseeing is best done either by tour bus or by bicycles...\nThe former President was demanding that he should be either put on trial or set free...\nEither she goes or I go.\n  CONJ\n\n2. You use either in a negative statement in front of the first of two alternatives to indicate that the negative statement refers to both the alternatives.\nThere had been no indication of either breathlessness or any loss of mental faculties right until his death.\n  CONJ\n\n3. You can use either to refer to one of two things, people, or situations, when you want to say that they are both possible and it does not matter which one is chosen or considered.\nThere were glasses of champagne and cigars, but not many of either were consumed...\n  PRON\n\n  Either is also a quantifier.\nDo either of you smoke or drink heavily?\n  QUANT: QUANT of def-pl-n\n\n  Either is also a determiner.\nI don’t particularly agree with either group.\n  DET: DET sing-n\n\n4. You use either in a negative statement to refer to each of two things, people, or situations to indicate that the negative statement includes both of them.\nShe warned me that I’d never marry or have children..`I don’t want either.’\n  PRON: with brd-neg\n\n  Either is also a quantifier.\nThere are no simple answers to either of those questions.\n  QUANT\n\n  Either is also a determiner.\nHe sometimes couldn’t remember either man’s name.\n  DET\n\n5. You use either by itself in negative statements to indicate that there is a similarity or connection with a person or thing that you have just mentioned.\nHe did not even say anything to her, and she did not speak to him either...\n  ADV: ADV after v, with brd-neg\n\n6. When one negative statement follows another, you can use either at the end of the second one to indicate that you are adding an extra piece of information, and to emphasize that both are equally important.\nDon’t agree, but don’t argue either...\n  ADV: ADV after v\n\n7. You can use either to introduce a noun that refers to each of two things when you are talking about both of them.\nThe basketball nets hung down from the ceiling at either end of the gymnasium...\n  DET: DET sing-n


Words: ejaculate
Meaning:
ejacu.late\n   ejaculate  ejaculates  ejaculating  ejaculated\n  When a man ejaculates, sperm comes out through his penis.\n... a tendency to ejaculate quickly.\n  VERB: V\n\n=>  ejacu.la.tion      ejaculations\nEach male ejaculation will contain up to 300 million sperm.\n  N-VAR


Words: eject
Meaning:
eject  ejects  ejecting  ejected\n1. If you eject someone from a place, you force them to leave.\nOfficials used guard dogs to eject the protesters...\nHe was ejected from a restaurant.\n  VERB: V n, V n from n\n\n=>  ejec.tion      ejections\n...the ejection of hecklers from the meeting.\n  N-VAR\n  = expulsion\n2. To eject something means to remove it or push it out forcefully.\nHe aimed his rifle, fired a single shot, then ejected the spent cartridge.\n  VERB: V n\n  = expel\n3. When a pilot ejects from an aircraft, he or she leaves the aircraft quickly using an ejector seat, usually because the plane is about to crash.\nThe pilot ejected from the plane and escaped injury.\n  VERB: V from n, also V\n  = bail out


Words: ejector seat
Meaning:
ejec.tor seat\n   ejector seat  ejector seats\n  An ejector seat is a special seat which can throw the pilot out of a fast military aircraft in an emergency.\n  N-COUNT


Words: eke
Meaning:
eke  ekes  eking  eked\n  If you eke a living or eke out an existence, you manage to survive with very little money.\nThat forced peasant farmers to try to eke a living off steep hillsides ...\nHe was eking out an existence on a few francs a day.\n  PHRASE: V inflects


Words: eke out
Meaning:
eke out\n  If you eke out something, you make your supply of it last as long as possible.\nMany workers can only eke out their redundancy money for about 10 weeks.\n  PHRASAL VERB: V P n (not pron), also V n P


Words: elaborate
Meaning:
elabo.rate\n   elaborate elaborates  elaborating  elaborated\nThe adjective is pronounced   The verb is pronounced\n1. You use elaborate to describe something that is very complex because it has a lot of different parts.\n...an elaborate research project.\n...an elaborate ceremony that lasts for eight days.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n\n  = complicated\n2. Elaborate plans, systems, and procedures are complicated because they have been planned in very great detail, sometimes too much detail.\n...elaborate efforts at the highest level to conceal the problem.\n...an elaborate management training scheme for graduates.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n\n  = complicated\n=>  elabo.rate.ly\nIt was clearly an elaborately planned operation.\n  ADV\n\n3. Elaborate clothing or material is made with a lot of detailed artistic designs.\nHe is known for his elaborate costumes.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n\n\n=>  elabo.rate.ly\n...elaborately costumed dolls.\n  ADV\n\n4. If you elaborate a plan or theory, you develop it by making it more complicated and more effective.\nHis task was to elaborate policies which would make a market economy compatible with a clean environment.\n  VERB: V n\n\n=>  elabo.ra.tion\n...the elaboration of specific policies and mechanisms.\n  N-UNCOUNT: oft N of n\n\n5. If you elaborate on something that has been said, you say more about it, or give more details.\nA spokesman declined to elaborate on a statement released late yesterday...\nWould you care to elaborate?\n  VERB: V on n, V


Words: elan
Meaning:
elan   also elan\n  If you say that someone does something with elan, you mean that they do it in an energetic and confident way. (LITERARY)\n  N-UNCOUNT\n  = panache


Words: elapse
Meaning:
elapse  elapses  elapsing  elapsed\n  When time elapses, it passes. (FORMAL)\nForty-eight hours have elapsed since his arrest.\n  VERB: V


Words: elastic
Meaning:
elas.tic\n   elastic\n1. Elastic is a rubber material that stretches when you pull it and returns to its original size and shape when you let it go. Elastic is often used in clothes to make them fit tightly, for example round the waist.\n...a piece of elastic.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n2. Something that is elastic is able to stretch easily and then return to its original size and shape.\nBeat it until the dough is slightly elastic.\n  ADJ\n\n3. If ideas, plans, or policies are elastic, they are able to change to suit new circumstances or conditions as they occur.\n...an elastic interpretation of the rules of boxing...\nIf export and import demand is elastic, then the change in trade volumes will operate to remove the surplus.\n  ADJ\n  = flexible


Words: elastic band
Meaning:
elas.tic band\n   elastic band  elastic bands\n  An elastic band is a thin circle of very stretchy rubber that you can put around things in order to hold them together. (mainly BRIT; in AM, use rubber band)\n  N-COUNT\n  = rubber band


Words: elasticated
Meaning:
elas.ti.cat.ed\n   elasticated\n  If a piece of clothing or part of a piece of clothing is elasticated, elastic has been sewn or woven into it to make it fit better and to help it keep its shape. (BRIT; in AM, use elasticized)\n...a pink silk jacket with an elasticated waist.\n  ADJ


Words: elasticity
Meaning:
elas.tici.ty\n   elasticity\n  The elasticity of a material or substance is its ability to return to its original shape, size, and condition after it has been stretched.\nDaily facial exercises help her to retain the skin’s elasticity...\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: Elastoplast
Meaning:
Elas.to.plast\n   Elastoplast Elastoplasts\n1. Elastoplast is a type of sticky tape that you use to cover small cuts on your body. (TRADEMARK) (BRIT; in AM, use Band-Aid)\n  N-VAR\n\n2. If you refer to an Elastoplast solution to a problem, you mean that you disapprove of it because you think that it will only be effective for a short period. (BRIT; in AM, use Band-Aid)\nIt is only an Elastoplast solution to a far greater constitutional problem.\n  ADJ: ADJ n  disapproval


Words: elated
Meaning:
elat.ed\n   elated\n  If you are elated, you are extremely happy and excited because of something that has happened.\nI was elated that my second heart bypass had been successful...\n  ADJ: usu v-link ADJ\n  = euphoric


Words: elation
Meaning:
ela.tion\n   elation\n  Elation is a feeling of great happiness and excitement about something that has happened.\nHis supporters have reacted to the news with elation.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n  = euphoria


Words: elbow
Meaning:
el.bow\n   elbow  elbows  elbowing  elbowed\n1. Your elbow is the part of your arm where the upper and lower halves of the arm are joined.\nHe slipped and fell, badly bruising an elbow.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. If you elbow people aside or elbow your way somewhere, you push people with your elbows in order to move somewhere.\nThey also claim that the security team elbowed aside a steward...\nMr Smith elbowed me in the face...\nBrand elbowed his way to the centre of the group of bystanders.\n  VERB: V n with aside, V n prep, V way prep/adv\n  = jostle\n3. If someone or something elbows their way somewhere, or elbows other people or things out of the way, they achieve success by being aggressive and determined.\nNon-state firms gradually elbow aside the inefficient state-owned ones...\nEnvironmental concerns will elbow their way right to the top of the agenda.\n  VERB: V n with aside/out, V way prep\n\n4.\nto rub elbows with: see rub


Words: elbow grease
Meaning:
el.bow grease\n   elbow grease\n  People use elbow grease to refer to the strength and energy that you use when doing physical work like rubbing or polishing. (INFORMAL)\nIt took a considerable amount of polish and elbow grease before the brass shone like new.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: elbow room
Meaning:
el.bow room\n   elbow room\n1. Elbow room is the freedom to do what you want to do or need to do in a particular situation. (INFORMAL)\nHis speech was designed to give himself more political elbow room.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n  = leeway\n2. If there is enough elbow room in a place or vehicle, it is not too small or too crowded. (INFORMAL)\nThere was not much elbow room in the cockpit of a Snipe.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n  = space


Words: elder
Meaning:
el.der\n   elder  elders\n1. The elder of two people is the one who was born first.\n...his elder brother.\n...the elder of her two daughters.\n  ADJ: ADJ n, the ADJ, the ADJ of n\n\n2. A person’s elder is someone who is older than them, especially someone quite a lot older. (FORMAL)\nThe young have no respect for their elders.\n  N-COUNT: poss N\n\n3. In some societies, an elder is one of the respected older people who have influence and authority.\n...tribal elders.\n  N-COUNT\n\n4. An elder is a bush or small tree which has groups of small white flowers and black berries.\n  N-COUNT


Words: elder statesman
Meaning:
el.der states.man\n   elder statesman  elder statesmen\n1. An elder statesman is an old and respected politician or former politician who still has influence because of his or her experience.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. An experienced and respected member of an organization or profession is sometimes referred to as an elder statesman.\n  N-COUNT: usu with supp


Words: elderberry
Meaning:
elder.berry\n   elderberry  elderberries\n1. Elderberries are the edible black berries that grow on an elder bush or tree.\n  N-COUNT: usu pl\n\n2. An elderberry is an elder bush or tree.\n  N-VAR


Words: elderly
Meaning:
el.der.ly\n   elderly\n  You use elderly as a polite way of saying that someone is old.\n...an elderly couple...\nMany of those most affected are elderly.\n  ADJ  politeness\n\n  The elderly are people who are old.\nThe elderly are a formidable force in any election.\n  N-PLURAL: the N


Words: eldest
Meaning:
eld.est\n   eldest\n  The eldest person in a group is the one who was born before all the others.\nThe eldest child was a daughter called Fiona...\nDavid was the eldest of three boys...\nThe two eldest are already doing well at Kings Wood.\n  ADJ


Words: elect
Meaning:
elect  elects  electing  elected\n1. When people elect someone, they choose that person to represent them, by voting for them.\nThe people of the Philippines have voted to elect a new president...\nManchester College elected him Principal in 1956...\nThe country is about to take a radical departure by electing a woman as its new president.\n  VERB: V n, V n n, V n as n\n\n=>  elect.ed\n...the country’s democratically elected president.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n2. If you elect to do something, you choose to do it. (FORMAL)\nThose electing to smoke will be seated at the rear.\n  VERB: V to-inf\n\n3. Elect is added after words such as `president’ or `governor’ to indicate that a person has been elected to the post but has not officially started to carry out the duties involved. (FORMAL)\n...the date when the president-elect takes office.\n  ADJ: n ADJ


Words: election
Meaning:
elec.tion\n   election  elections\n1. An election is a process in which people vote to choose a person or group of people to hold an official position.\n...the first fully free elections for more than fifty years...\nThe final election results will be announced on Friday...\nMany residents say they have little or no idea who’s standing for election.\n  N-VAR\n\n2. The election of a particular person or group of people is their success in winning an election.\n...the election of the Labour government in 1964.\n...his election as president...\nThe Democrat candidate is the favorite to win election.\n  N-UNCOUNT: usu with poss


Words: electioneering
Meaning:
elec.tion.eer.ing\n   electioneering\n  Electioneering is the activities that politicians and their supporters carry out in order to persuade people to vote for them or their political party in an election, for example making speeches and visiting voters.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: elective
Meaning:
elec.tive\n   elective  electives\n1. An elective post or committee is one to which people are appointed as a result of winning an election. (FORMAL)\nBuchanan has never held elective office.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n\n\n2. Elective surgery is surgery that you choose to have before it becomes essential. (FORMAL)\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n\n\n3. An elective is a subject which a student can choose to study as part of his or her course. (AM; in BRIT, use option)\n  N-COUNT


Words: elector
Meaning:
elec.tor\n   elector  electors\n1. An elector is a person who has the right to vote in an election.\n  N-COUNT: usu pl\n  = voter\n2. An elector is a member of the electoral college. People vote for electors in each state to represent them in the presidential elections. (AM)\n  N-COUNT


Words: electoral
Meaning:
elec.tor.al\n   electoral\n  Electoral is used to describe things that are connected with elections.\nThe Mongolian Democratic Party is campaigning for electoral reform.\n...Italy’s electoral system of proportional representation.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n=>  elec.tor.al.ly\nHe believed that the policies were both wrong and electorally disastrous.\n  ADV: ADV adj/-ed, ADV after v, ADV with cl


Words: electoral college
Meaning:
elec.tor.al col.lege\n   electoral college\n  The electoral college is the system that is used in the United States in presidential elections. The electors in the electoral college act as representatives for each state, and they elect the president and vice-president. (AM)\n  N-SING: the N


Words: electoral register
Meaning:
elec.tor.al reg.is.ter\n   electoral register  electoral registers\n  An electoral register is an official list of all the people who have the right to vote in an election. (BRIT)\nMany students are not on the electoral register.\n  N-COUNT: usu the N in sing\n  = electoral roll


Words: electoral roll
Meaning:
elec.tor.al roll\n   electoral roll  electoral rolls\n  An electoral roll is the same as an electoral register. (BRIT)\n  N-COUNT


Words: electorate
Meaning:
elec.tor.ate\n   electorate  electorates\n  The electorate of a country or area is all the people in it who have the right to vote in an election.\nHe has the backing of almost a quarter of the electorate.\n  N-COUNT-COLL


Words: electric
Meaning:
elec.tric\n   electric\n1. An electric device or machine works by means of electricity, rather than using some other source of power.\n...her electric guitar.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n\n\n2. An electric current, voltage, or charge is one that is produced by electricity.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n3. Electric plugs, sockets, or power lines are designed to carry electricity.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n4. Electric is used to refer to the supply of electricity. (INFORMAL)\nAn average electric bill might go up $2 or $3 per month...\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n  = electricity\n5. If you describe the atmosphere of a place or event as electric, you mean that people are in a state of great excitement.\nThe mood in the hall was electric.\n  ADJ


Words: electric blanket
Meaning:
elec.tric blan.ket\n   electric blanket  electric blankets\n  An electric blanket is a blanket with wires inside it which carry an electric current that keeps the blanket warm.\n  N-COUNT


Words: electric blue
Meaning:
elec.tric blue\n   electric blue   also electric-blue\n  Something that is electric blue is very bright blue in colour.\n  COLOUR


Words: electric chair
Meaning:
elec.tric chair\n   electric chair  electric chairs\n  The electric chair is a method of killing criminals, used especially in the United States, in which a person is strapped to a special chair and killed by a powerful electric current.\n  N-COUNT: usu the N in sing


Words: electric shock
Meaning:
elec.tric shock\n   electric shock  electric shocks\n  If you get an electric shock, you get a sudden painful feeling when you touch something which is connected to a supply of electricity.\n  N-COUNT


Words: electrical
Meaning:
elec.tri.cal\n   electrical\n1. Electrical goods, equipment, or appliances work by means of electricity.\n...shipments of electrical equipment.\n...electrical appliances.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n\n\n=>  elec.tri.cal.ly\n...electrically-powered vehicles.\n  ADV: ADV -ed\n\n2. Electrical systems or parts supply or use electricity.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n\n\n3. Electrical energy is energy in the form of electricity.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n\n\n=>  elec.tri.cal.ly\n...electrically charged particles...\nThe researchers stimulated the muscle electrically.\n  ADV: usu ADV adj\n\n4. Electrical industries, engineers, or workers are involved in the production and supply of electricity or electrical goods.\n  ADJ: ADJ n


Words: electrical engineer
Meaning:
elec.tri.cal en.gi.neer\n   electrical engineer  electrical engineers\n  An electrical engineer is a person who uses scientific knowledge to design, construct, and maintain electrical devices.\n  N-COUNT


Words: electrical engineering
Meaning:
elec.tri.cal en.gi.neer.ing\n   electrical engineering\n  Electrical engineering is the designing, constructing, and maintenance of electrical devices.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: electrician
Meaning:
elec.tri.cian\n   electrician   electricians\n  An electrician is a person whose job is to install and repair electrical equipment.\n  N-COUNT


Words: electricity
Meaning:
elec.tric.ity\n   electricity\n  Electricity is a form of energy that can be carried by wires and is used for heating and lighting, and to provide power for machines.\nThe electricity had been cut off.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: electrics
Meaning:
elec.trics\n   electrics\n  You can refer to a system of electrical wiring as the electrics. (BRIT)\nPlumbing and electrics are installed to a high standard.\n  N-PLURAL


Words: electrification
Meaning:
elec.tri.fi.ca.tion\n   electrification\n  The electrification of a house, town, or area is the connecting of that place with a supply of electricity.\n...rural electrification.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n  see also electrify


Words: electrified
Meaning:
elec.tri.fied\n   electrified\n  An electrified fence or other barrier has been connected to a supply of electricity, so that a person or animal that touches it will get an electric shock.\nThe house was set amid dense trees and surrounded by an electrified fence.\n  ADJ: ADJ n


Words: electrify
Meaning:
elec.tri.fy\n   electrify  electrifies  electrifying  electrified\n1. If people are electrified by an event or experience, it makes them feel very excited and surprised.\nThe world was electrified by his courage and resistance.\n  VERB: usu passive, be V-ed\n  = thrill\n=>  elec.tri.fy.ing\nHe gave an electrifying performance.\n  ADJ\n\n2. When a railway system or railway line is electrified, electric cables are put over the tracks, or electric rails are put beside them, so that the trains can be powered by electricity.\nThe west-coast line was electrified as long ago as 1974.\n...the electrified section of the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway.\n  VERB: usu passive, be V-ed, V-ed


Words: electro-
Meaning:
electro-\n  Electro- is used to form words that refer to electricity or processes involving electricity.\n...electro-chemical phenomena.\n...electro-magnetic energy.\n  PREFIX


Words: electrocardiogram
Meaning:
elec.tro.car.dio.gram\n   electrocardiogram  electrocardiograms\n  If someone has an electrocardiogram, doctors use special equipment to measure the electric currents produced by that person’s heart in order to see whether it is working normally.\n  N-COUNT


Words: electrocute
Meaning:
elec.tro.cute\n   electrocute  electrocutes  electrocuting  electrocuted\n1. If someone is electrocuted, they are accidentally killed or badly injured when they touch something connected to a source of electricity.\nThree people were electrocuted by falling power-lines...\nHe accidentally electrocuted himself.\n  VERB: be V-ed, V pron-refl\n\n2. If a criminal is electrocuted, he or she is executed using electricity.\nHe was electrocuted for a murder committed when he was 17.\n  VERB: usu passive, be V-ed\n\n=>  elec.tro.cu.tion      electrocutions\nThe court sentenced him to death by electrocution.\n  N-VAR


Words: electrode
Meaning:
elec.trode\n   electrode  electrodes\n  An electrode is a small piece of metal or other substance that is used to take an electric current to or from a source of power, a piece of equipment, or a living body.\nThe patient’s brain activity is monitored via electrodes taped to the skull.\n  N-COUNT


Words: electrolysis
Meaning:
elec.troly.sis\n   electrolysis\n  Electrolysis is the process of passing an electric current through a substance in order to produce chemical changes in the substance. (TECHNICAL)\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: electrolyte
Meaning:
elec.tro.lyte\n   electrolyte  electrolytes\n  An electrolyte is a substance, usually a liquid, which electricity can pass through. (TECHNICAL)\n  N-COUNT


Words: electromagnet
Meaning:
elec.tro.mag.net\n   electromagnet  electromagnets\n  An electromagnet is a magnet that consists of a piece of iron or steel surrounded by a coil. The metal becomes magnetic when an electric current is passed through the coil.\n  N-COUNT


Words: electromagnetic
Meaning:
elec.tro.mag.net.ic\n   electromagnetic\n  Electromagnetic is used to describe the electrical and magnetic forces or effects produced by an electric current.\n...electromagnetic fields.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n


Words: electron
Meaning:
elec.tron\n   electron  electrons\n  An electron is a tiny particle of matter that is smaller than an atom and has a negative electrical charge. (TECHNICAL)\n  N-COUNT


Words: electronic
Meaning:
elec.tron.ic\n   electronic\n1. An electronic device has transistors or silicon chips which control and change the electric current passing through the device.\n...expensive electronic equipment.\n  ADJ: ADJ n\n\n2. An electronic process or activity involves the use of electronic devices.\n...electronic surveillance.\n...electronic music.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n\n\n=>  elec.troni.cal.ly\nData is transmitted electronically.\n...an electronically controlled dishwasher.\n  ADV: ADV with v


Words: electronic book
Meaning:
elec.tron.ic book\n   electronic book electronic books\n  An electronic book the same as an e-book. (COMPUTING)\n  N-COUNT


Words: electronic publishing
Meaning:
elec.tron.ic pub.lish.ing\n   electronic publishing\n  Electronic publishing is the publishing of documents in a form that can be read on a computer, for example as a CD-ROM.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: electronic tagging
Meaning:
elec.tron.ic tag.ging\n   electronic tagging\n  Electronic tagging is a system in which a criminal or suspected criminal has an electronic device attached to them which enables the police to know if they leave a particular area. (BRIT)\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: electronics
Meaning:
elec.tron.ics\n   electronics\n  Electronics is the technology of using transistors and silicon chips, especially in devices such as radios, televisions, and computers.\n...Europe’s three main electronics companies.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: elegant
Meaning:
el.egant\n   elegant\n1. If you describe a person or thing as elegant, you mean that they are pleasing and graceful in appearance or style.\nPatricia looked beautiful and elegant as always.\n...an elegant restaurant.\n  ADJ\n  = stylish\n=>  el.egance\n...Princess Grace’s understated elegance...\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n=>  el.egant.ly\n...a tall, elegantly dressed man with a mustache.\n  ADV\n\n2. If you describe a piece of writing, an idea, or a plan as elegant, you mean that it is simple, clear, and clever.\nThe document impressed me with its elegant simplicity.\n  ADJ\n\n=>  el.egant.ly\n...an elegantly simple idea.\n  ADV


Words: elegiac
Meaning:
el.egi.ac\n   elegiac\n  Something that is elegiac expresses or shows sadness. (LITERARY)\nThe music has a dreamy, elegiac quality.\n  ADJ


Words: elegy
Meaning:
el.egy\n   elegy  elegies\n  An elegy is a sad poem, often about someone who has died.\n...a touching elegy for a lost friend.\n  N-COUNT


Words: element
Meaning:
el.ement\n   element  elements\n1. The different elements of something are the different parts it contains.\nThe exchange of prisoners of war was one of the key elements of the UN’s peace plan.\n  N-COUNT: usu pl, usu with supp\n  = constituent, component\n2. A particular element of a situation, activity, or process is an important quality or feature that it has or needs.\nFitness has now become an important element in our lives.\n  N-COUNT: with supp\n  = factor\n3. When you talk about elements within a society or organization, you are referring to groups of people who have similar aims, beliefs, or habits.\n...criminal elements within the security forces.\n...the hooligan element.\n  N-COUNT: usu pl, supp N\n\n4. If something has an element of a particular quality or emotion, it has a certain amount of this quality or emotion.\nThese reports clearly contain elements of propaganda.\n  N-COUNT: usu sing, N of n\n\n5. An element is a substance such as gold, oxygen, or carbon that consists of only one type of atom.\n  N-COUNT\n  !=compound\n6. The element in an electric fire or water heater is the metal part which changes the electric current into heat.\n  N-COUNT: usu sing\n\n7. You can refer to the weather, especially wind and rain, as the elements.\nThe area where most refugees are waiting is exposed to the elements.\n  N-PLURAL: the N\n\n8. If you say that someone is in their element, you mean that they are in a situation they enjoy.\nMy stepmother was in her element, organizing everything...\n  PHRASE: v-link PHR


Words: elemental
Meaning:
el.ement.al\n   elemental\n  Elemental feelings and types of behaviour are simple, basic, and forceful. (LITERARY)\n...the elemental life they would be living in this new colony.\n  ADJ\n  = basic


Words: elementary
Meaning:
el.emen.ta.ry\n   elementary\n  Something that is elementary is very simple and basic.\n...elementary computer skills.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n\n  = basic


Words: elementary school
Meaning:
el.emen.ta.ry school\n   elementary school  elementary schools\n  An elementary school is a school where children are taught for the first six or sometimes eight years of their education. (mainly AM)\n...the move from elementary school to middle school or junior high.\n  N-VAR


Words: elephant
Meaning:
el.ephant\n   elephant  elephants\n  An elephant is a very large animal with a long, flexible nose called a trunk, which it uses to pick up things. Elephants live in India and Africa.\n  N-COUNT\n\n  see also white elephant


Words: elephantine
Meaning:
el.ephan.tine\n   elephantine\n  If you describe something as elephantine, you mean that you think it is large and clumsy.\n...elephantine clumsiness...\nHis legs were elephantine.\n  ADJ  disapproval


Words: elevate
Meaning:
el.evate\n   elevate  elevates  elevating  elevated\n1. When someone or something achieves a more important rank or status, you can say that they are elevated to it. (FORMAL)\nHe was elevated to the post of prime minister.\n  VERB: usu passive, be V-ed to n\n  = promote\n=>  el.eva.tion\nThe Prime Minister is known to favour the elevation of more women to the Cabinet...\n  N-UNCOUNT: usu with poss, N to n\n\n2. If you elevate something to a higher status, you consider it to be better or more important than it really is.\nDon’t elevate your superiors to superstar status.\n  VERB: V n to n\n\n3. To elevate something means to increase it in amount or intensity. (FORMAL)\nEmotional stress can elevate blood pressure.\n...overweight individuals who have elevated cholesterol levels.\n  VERB: V n, V-ed\n  = raise\n4. If you elevate something, you raise it above a horizontal level. (FORMAL)\nJack elevated the gun at the sky.\n  VERB: V n


Words: elevated
Meaning:
el.evat.ed\n   elevated\n1. A person, job, or role that is elevated is very important or of very high rank.\nHis career has blossomed and that has given him a certain elevated status.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n\n\n2. If thoughts or ideas are elevated, they are on a high moral or intellectual level.\n...the magazine’s elevated British tone.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n\n\n3. If land or buildings are elevated, they are raised up higher than the surrounding area.\nAn elevated platform on the stage collapsed during rehearsals.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n\n  = raised


Words: elevation
Meaning:
el.eva.tion\n   elevation  elevations\n1. In architecture, an elevation is the front, back, or side of a building, or a drawing of one of these. (TECHNICAL)\n...the addition of two-storey wings on the north and south elevations.\n  N-COUNT: with supp\n\n2. The elevation of a place is its height above sea level.\nWe’re probably at an elevation of about 13,000 feet above sea level.\n  N-COUNT: usu with supp\n  = altitude\n3. An elevation is a piece of ground that is higher than the area around it.\n  N-COUNT\n\n4.\n  see also elevate


Words: elevator
Meaning:
el.eva.tor\n   elevator  elevators\n  An elevator is a device that carries people up and down inside buildings. (AM; in BRIT, use lift)\n  N-COUNT


Words: eleven
Meaning:
elev.en\n   eleven  elevens\n  Eleven is the number 11.\n...the Princess and her eleven friends.\n  NUM


Words: eleven-plus
Meaning:
eleven-plus   also eleven plus\n  The eleven-plus is an exam which was taken by children in Britain at about the age of eleven, in order to decide which secondary school they should go to. (BRIT)\n  N-SING: oft the N


Words: elevenses
Meaning:
elev.en.ses\n   elevenses\n  Elevenses is a short break when you have a cup of tea or coffee, and sometimes biscuits, at around eleven o’clock in the morning. (BRIT INFORMAL)\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: eleventh
Meaning:
elev.enth\n   eleventh\n  The eleventh item in a series is the one that you count as number eleven.\nWe were working on the eleventh floor.\n  ORD


Words: eleventh hour
Meaning:
elev.enth hour\n   eleventh hour\n  If someone does something at the eleventh hour, they do it at the last possible moment.\nHe postponed his trip at the eleventh hour.\n...last night’s eleventh hour agreement.\n  N-SING: usu  at the N, N n


Words: elf
Meaning:
elf  elves\n  In fairy stories, elves are small magical beings who play tricks on people.\n  N-COUNT: usu pl


Words: elfin
Meaning:
elf.in\n   elfin\n  If you describe someone as elfin, you think that they are attractive because they are small and have delicate features.\n...a little boy with an elfin face.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n  approval


Words: elicit
Meaning:
elic.it\n   elicit  elicits  eliciting  elicited\n1. If you elicit a response or a reaction, you do or say something which makes other people respond or react.\nMr Norris said he was hopeful that his request would elicit a positive response...\n  VERB: V n\n\n2. If you elicit a piece of information, you get it by asking the right questions. (FORMAL)\nPhone calls elicited no further information.\n  VERB: V n


Words: elide
Meaning:
elide  elides  eliding  elided\n1. If you elide something, especially a distinction, you leave it out or ignore it. (FORMAL)\nThese habits of thinking elide the difference between what is common and what is normal.\n  VERB: V n\n\n2. In linguistics, if you elide a word, you do not pronounce or write it fully. (TECHNICAL)\nHe complained about BBC announcers eliding their words.\n  VERB: V n\n  = contract


Words: eligible
Meaning:
eli.gible\n   eligible\n1. Someone who is eligible to do something is qualified or able to do it, for example because they are old enough.\nAlmost half the population are eligible to vote in today’s election...\nYou could be eligible for a university scholarship.\n  ADJ: usu v-link ADJ, usu ADJ for n, ADJ to-inf\n\n=>  eli.gibil.ity\nThe rules covering eligibility for benefits changed in the 1980s.\n  N-UNCOUNT: oft N for n\n\n2. An eligible man or woman is not yet married and is thought by many people to be a suitable partner.\nHe’s the most eligible bachelor in Japan.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n


Words: eliminate
Meaning:
elimi.nate\n   eliminate  eliminates  eliminating  eliminated\n1. To eliminate something, especially something you do not want or need, means to remove it completely. (FORMAL)\nThe Sex Discrimination Act has not eliminated discrimination in employment...\nIf you think you may be allergic to a food or drink, eliminate it from your diet.\n  VERB: V n, V n from n\n\n=>  elimi.na.tion\n...the prohibition and elimination of chemical weapons.\n  N-UNCOUNT: usu N of n\n\n2. When a person or team is eliminated from a competition, they are defeated and so take no further part in the competition.\nI was eliminated from the 400 metres in the semi-finals...\nIf you are eliminated in the show-jumping then you are out of the complete competition.\n  V-PASSIVE: be V-ed from n, be V-ed\n  = knock out\n3. If someone says that they have eliminated an enemy, they mean that they have killed them. By using the word `eliminate’, they are trying to make the action sound more positive than if they used the word `kill’.\nHe declared war on the government and urged right-wingers to eliminate their opponents...\n  VERB: V n


Words: eliminator
Meaning:
elimi.na.tor\n   eliminator  eliminators\n  In sport, an eliminator is a game which decides which team or player is to go through to the next stage of a particular competition. (BRIT; in AM, use elimination game)\n...a world title eliminator.\n  N-COUNT: usu n N


Words: elite
Meaning:
elite   elites\n1. You can refer to the most powerful, rich, or talented people within a particular group, place, or society as the elite.\n...a government comprised mainly of the elite...\nWe have a political elite in this country.\n  N-COUNT\n\n2. Elite people or organizations are considered to be the best of their kind.\n...the elite troops of the President’s bodyguard.\n  ADJ: ADJ n


Words: elitism
Meaning:
elit.ism\n   elitism\n  Elitism is the quality or practice of being elitist.\nIt became difficult to promote excellence without being accused of elitism.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: elitist
Meaning:
elit.ist\n   elitist   elitists\n1. Elitist systems, practices, or ideas favour the most powerful, rich, or talented people within a group, place, or society.\nThe legal profession is starting to be less elitist and more representative.\n  ADJ  disapproval\n\n2. An elitist is someone who has elitist ideas or is part of an elite.\nHe was an elitist who had no time for the masses.\n  N-COUNT  disapproval


Words: elixir
Meaning:
elix.ir\n   elixir  elixirs\n  An elixir is a liquid that is considered to have magical powers. (LITERARY)\n...the elixir of life.\n  N-COUNT: oft N of n


Words: Elizabethan
Meaning:
Eliza.bethan\n   Elizabethan\n  Elizabethan means belonging to or connected with England in the second half of the sixteenth century, when Elizabeth the First was Queen.\n...Elizabethan England.\n...the Elizabethan theatre.\n  ADJ: usu ADJ n


Words: elk
Meaning:
elk  elks  or elk\n  An elk is a type of large deer. Elks have big, flat horns called antlers and are found in Northern Europe, Asia, and North America. Some British speakers use elk to refer to the European and Asian varieties of this animal, and moose to refer to the North American variety.\n  N-VAR


Words: ellipse
Meaning:
el.lipse\n   ellipse  ellipses\n  An ellipse is an oval shape similar to a circle but longer and flatter.\nThe Earth orbits in an ellipse.\n  N-COUNT


Words: ellipsis
Meaning:
el.lip.sis\n   ellipsis\n  In linguistics, ellipsis means leaving out words rather than repeating them unnecessarily; for example, saying `I want to go but I can’t’ instead of `I want to go but I can’t go’. (TECHNICAL)\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: elliptical
Meaning:
el.lip.ti.cal\n   elliptical\n1. Something that is elliptical has the shape of an ellipse. (FORMAL)\n...the moon’s elliptical orbit...\n  ADJ\n\n2. Elliptical references to something are indirect rather than clear. (FORMAL)\n...elliptical references to problems best not aired in public.\n  ADJ\n  = oblique  !=direct\n=>  el.lip.ti.cal.ly\nHe spoke only briefly and elliptically about the mission.\n  ADV: ADV after v


Words: elm
Meaning:
elm  elms\n  An elm is a tree that has broad leaves which it loses in winter.\n  N-VAR\n\n  Elm is the wood of this tree.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: elocution
Meaning:
elo.cu.tion\n   elocution\n  Elocution lessons are lessons in which someone is taught to speak clearly and in an accent that is considered to be standard and acceptable.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: elongate
Meaning:
elon.gate\n   elongate  elongates  elongating  elongated\n  If you elongate something or if it elongates, you stretch it so that it becomes longer. (FORMAL)\n`Mom,’ she intoned, elongating the word...\nCorn is treated when the stalk starts to elongate.\n  VERB: V n, V\n  = lengthen


Words: elongated
Meaning:
elon.gat.ed\n   elongated\n  If something is elongated, it is very long and thin, often in an unnatural way.\nThe light from my candle threw his elongated shadow on the walls.\n  ADJ


Words: elope
Meaning:
elope  elopes  eloping  eloped\n  When two people elope, they go away secretly together to get married.\nMy girlfriend Lynn and I eloped...\nIn 1912 he eloped with Frieda von Richthofen.\n  V-RECIP: pl-n V, V with n


Words: eloquent
Meaning:
elo.quent\n   eloquent\n1. Speech or writing that is eloquent is well expressed and effective in persuading people.\nI heard him make a very eloquent speech at that dinner.\n  ADJ\n\n=>  elo.quence\n...the eloquence of his prose.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n=>  elo.quent.ly\nJan speaks eloquently about her art.\n  ADV\n\n2. A person who is eloquent is good at speaking and able to persuade people.\nHe was eloquent about his love of books.\n...one particularly eloquent German critic.\n  ADJ  approval\n\n=>  elo.quence\nI wish I’d had the eloquence of Helmut Schmidt.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: else
Meaning:
else\n1. You use else after words such as `anywhere’, `someone’, and `what’, to refer in a vague way to another person, place, or thing.\nIf I can’t make a living at painting, at least I can teach someone else to paint...\nWe had nothing else to do on those long trips...\nThere’s not much else I can say.\n  ADJ: pron-indef/quest ADJ\n\n  Else is also an adverb.\nI never wanted to live anywhere else.\n  ADV: adv ADV\n\n2. You use else after words such as `everyone’, `everything’, and `everywhere’ to refer in a vague way to all the other people, things, or places except the one you are talking about.\nAs I try to be truthful, I expect everyone else to be truthful...\nCigarettes are in short supply, like everything else here.\n  ADJ: pron-indef ADJ\n\n  Else is also an adverb.\nLondon seems so much dirtier than everywhere else.\n  ADV: adv ADV\n\n3. You use or else after stating a logical conclusion, to indicate that what you are about to say is evidence for that conclusion.\nHe must be a good plumber, or else he wouldn’t be so busy...\nEvidently no lessons have been learnt or else the government would not have handled the problem so sloppily.\n  PHRASE\n  = otherwise\n4. You use or else to introduce a statement that indicates the unpleasant results that will occur if someone does or does not do something.\nMake sure you are strapped in very well, or else you will fall out.\n  PHRASE\n  = otherwise\n5. You use or else to introduce the second of two possibilities when you do not know which one is true.\nYou are either a total genius or else you must be absolutely raving mad...\n  PHRASE\n\n6. Above all else is used to emphasize that a particular thing is more important than other things.\nAbove all else I hate the cold.\n  PHRASE: PHR with cl  emphasis\n\n7. You can say `if nothing else’ to indicate that what you are mentioning is, in your opinion, the only good thing in a particular situation.\nIf nothing else, you’ll really enjoy meeting them.\n  PHRASE: PHR with cl\n\n8. You say `or else’ after a command to warn someone that if they do not obey, you will be angry and may harm or punish them. (SPOKEN)\nHe told us to put it right, or else.\n  PHRASE: cl PHR


Words: elsewhere
Meaning:
else.where\n   elsewhere\n  Elsewhere means in other places or to another place.\nAlmost 80 percent of the state’s residents were born elsewhere...\nBut if you are not satisfied then go elsewhere...\n  ADV: ADV after v, n ADV, ADV with cl, be ADV, from ADV, oft ADV prep/adv


Words: ELT
Meaning:
ELT\n  ELT is the teaching of English to people whose first language is not English. ELT is an abbreviation for `English Language Teaching’. (mainly BRIT)\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: elucidate
Meaning:
elu.ci.date\n   elucidate  elucidates  elucidating  elucidated\n  If you elucidate something, you make it clear and easy to understand. (FORMAL)\nHaig went on to elucidate his personal principle of war...\nThere was no need for him to elucidate.\n  VERB: V n, V\n  = clarify\n=>  elu.ci.da.tion\n...Gerald’s attempts at elucidation.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: elude
Meaning:
elude  eludes  eluding  eluded\n1. If something that you want eludes you, you fail to obtain it.\nAt 62, Brian found the celebrity and status that had eluded him for so long.\n  VERB: no passive, V n\n\n2. If you elude someone or something, you avoid them or escape from them.\nHe eluded the police for 13 years.\n  VERB: V n\n\n3. If a fact or idea eludes you, you do not succeed in understanding it, realizing it, or remembering it.\nThe appropriate word eluded him.\n  VERB: no passive, V n\n  = escape


Words: elusive
Meaning:
elu.sive\n   elusive\n  Something or someone that is elusive is difficult to find, describe, remember, or achieve.\nIn London late-night taxis are elusive and far from cheap.\n  ADJ\n\n=>  elu.sive.ness\n...the elusiveness of her character.\n  N-UNCOUNT


Words: em-
Meaning:
em-\nOften pronounced   particularly in American English.\n  Em- is a form of en- that is used before b-, m-, and p-.\nThe person who embodies democracy at the local level is the mayor...\nI want to empower the businessman.\n  PREFIX


Words: emaciated
Meaning:
ema.ci.at.ed\n   emaciated\n  A person or animal that is emaciated is extremely thin and weak because of illness or lack of food.\n...horrific television pictures of emaciated prisoners.\n  ADJ


Words: emanate
Meaning:
ema.nate\n   emanate  emanates  emanating  emanated\n1. If a quality emanates from you, or if you emanate a quality, you give people a strong sense that you have that quality. (FORMAL)\nIntelligence and cunning emanated from him...\nHe emanates sympathy.\n  VERB: V from n, V n\n  = radiate\n2. If something emanates from somewhere, it comes from there. (FORMAL)\n...reports emanating from America.\n  VERB: V from n


Words: emanation
Meaning:
ema.na.tion\n   emanation  emanations\n  An emanation is a form of energy or a mass of tiny particles that comes from something. (FORMAL)\n  N-COUNT


Words: emancipate
Meaning:
eman.ci.pate\n   emancipate  emancipates  emancipating  emancipated\n  If people are emancipated, they are freed from unpleasant or unfair social, political, or legal restrictions. (FORMAL)\nCatholics were emancipated in 1792...\nThat war preserved the Union and emancipated the slaves...\n...the newly emancipated state...\n  VERB: be V-ed, V n, V-ed\n  = liberate\n=>  eman.ci.pa.tion\n...the emancipation of women.\n  N-UNCOUNT: oft N of n


Words: emancipated
Meaning:
eman.ci.pat.ed\n   emancipated\n  If you describe someone as emancipated, you mean that they behave in a less restricted way than is traditional in their society.\nShe is an emancipated woman.\n  ADJ\n  = liberated


Words: emasculate
Meaning:
emas.cu.late\n   emasculate  emasculates  emasculating  emasculated\n1. If someone or something is emasculated, they have been made weak and ineffective.\nLeft-wing dissidents have been emasculated and marginalised...\nThe company tried to emasculate the unions...\nSince Japan’s defeat, the military has remained largely emasculated.\n  VERB: be V-ed, V n, V-ed  disapproval\n  = neuter\n=>  emas.cu.la.tion\n...the emasculation of fundamental freedoms.\n  N-UNCOUNT\n\n2. If a man is emasculated, he loses his male role, identity, or qualities.\nTosh was known to be a man who feared no-one, yet he was clearly emasculated by his girlfriend.\n  VERB: usu passive, be V-ed  disapproval


Words: embalm
Meaning:
em.balm\n   embalm  embalms  embalming  embalmed\n  If a dead person is embalmed, their body is preserved using special substances.\nHis body was embalmed.\n...the embalmed body of Lenin.\n  VERB: usu passive, be V-ed, V-ed


Words: embankment
Meaning:
em.bank.ment\n   embankment  embankments\n  An embankment is a thick wall of earth that is built to carry a road or railway over an area of low ground, or to prevent water from a river or the sea from flooding the area.\nThey climbed a steep embankment.\n...a railway embankment.\n  N-COUNT: oft in names after n


Words: embargo
Meaning:
em.bar.go\n   embargo  embargoes  embargoing  embargoed\n1. If one country or group of countries imposes an embargo against another, it forbids trade with that country.\nThe United Nations imposed an arms embargo against the country...\nHe has called on the government to lift its embargo on trade with Vietnam.\n  N-COUNT: usu with supp\n  = ban\n2. If goods of a particular kind are embargoed, people are not allowed to import them from a particular country or export them to a particular country.\nThe fruit was embargoed...\nThey embargoed oil shipments to the US.\n...embargoed goods.\n  VERB: be V-ed, V n, V-ed\n  = ban


Words: embark
Meaning:
em.bark\n   embark  embarks  embarking  embarked\n1. If you embark on something new, difficult, or exciting, you start doing it.\nHe’s embarking on a new career as a writer...\nThe government embarked on a programme of radical economic reform.\n  VERB: V on/upon n, V on/upon n\n\n2. When someone embarks on a ship, they go on board before the start of a journey.\nThey travelled to Portsmouth, where they embarked on the battle cruiser HMS Renown...\nBob ordered brigade HQ to embark.\n  VERB: V on n, V\n\n=>  em.bar.ka.tion\nEmbarkation was scheduled for just after 4 pm.\n  N-UNCOUNT


