# dict

Words: spastic
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  (medical or old-fashioned) having or caused by CEREBRAL PALSY, an illness which makes it difficult for sb to control their muscles and movements. Using this word is now often considered offensive:\nspastic children * spastic reactions\n  2  (informal) an offensive word, sometimes used by children to mean ’stupid’\n    spastic noun


Words: spat
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  (informal) a short argument or disagreement about sth unimportant\n \n  2  [usually pl.] a fabric covering for the ankle that was worn in the past by men over the shoe and fastened with buttons at the side\nsee also SPIT, SPITTING, SPAT, SPAT v.


Words: spate
Meaning:
noun\n[usually sing.] ~ of sth a large number of things, which are usually unpleasant, that happen suddenly within a short period of time:\nThe bombing was the latest in a spate of terrorist attacks. * a recent spate of killings / thefts\n IDIOMS \n  in (full) spate (especially BrE) (of a river) containing more water and flowing more strongly than usual:\nAfter heavy rain, the river was in spate. * (figurative) Celia was in full spate (= completely involved in talking and not likely to stop or able to be interrupted).


Words: spatial
Meaning:
(also spacial)  adjective\n(formal or technical) relating to space and the position, size, shape, etc. of things in it:\nchanges taking place in the spatial distribution of the population * the development of a child’s spatial awareness (= the ability to judge the positions and sizes of objects)\n    spatially  adverb


Words: spatter
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb\n  1  ~ sb/sth (with sth) | ~ sth (on / over sb/sth) to cover sb/sth with drops of liquid, dirt, etc., especially accidentally:\n[VN] blood-spattered walls * As the bus passed, it spattered us with mud. * Oil was spattered on the floor. [also V]\n  2  [V +adv./prep.] (of liquid) to fall on a surface in drops, often noisily:\nWe heard the rain spattering on the roof.\n    noun (also spattering) [sing.] ~ (of sth) a number of drops of a liquid or small amounts of sth that hit a surface; the noise this makes:\na spatter of rain against the window * a spattering of blood * (figurative) a spatter of applause


Words: spatula
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  a tool with a broad flat blade used for mixing and spreading things, especially in cooking and painting\n \n  2  (especially AmE) = FISH SLICE\n \n  3  (BrE) (AmE tongue depressor) a thin flat instrument that doctors use for pressing the tongue down when they are examining sb’s throat


Words: spawn
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb\n  1  [V, VN] (of fish, FROGS, etc.) to lay eggs\n  2  [VN] (often disapproving) to cause sth to develop or be produced:\nThe band’s album spawned a string of hit singles.\n    noun [U] a soft substance containing the eggs of fish, FROGS etc.\nsee also FROGSPAWN


Words: spay
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] (technical) to remove the OVARIES of a female animal, to prevent it from breeding:\nHave you had your cat spayed?


Words: speak
Meaning:
have conversation\n  1  [V] ~ (to sb) (about sth/sb) | ~ (with sb) (about sth/sb) to talk to sb about sth; to have a conversation with sb:\nI’ve spoken to the manager about it. * The President refused to speak to the waiting journalists. * (especially AmE) Can I speak with you for a minute? * ’Can I speak to Susan?’ ’Speaking.’ (= at the beginning of a telephone conversation) * ’Do you know him?’ ’Not to speak to.’ (= only by sight) * I saw her in the street but we didn’t speak.\n  use voice\n  2  [V] to use your voice to say sth:\nHe can’t speak because of a throat infection. * Please speak more slowly. * Without speaking, she stood up and went out. * He speaks with a strange accent. * She has a beautiful speaking voice.\n  mention / describe\n  3  [V] ~ of / about sth/sb to mention or describe sth/sb:\nShe still speaks about him with great affection. * Witnesses spoke of a great ball of flame. * Speaking of travelling, (= referring back to a subject just mentioned) are you going anywhere exciting this year? * The brochure speaks of beautiful secluded grounds.\n  a language\n  4  [VN] (not used in the progressive tenses) to be able to use a particular language:\nto speak several languages / a little Urdu / an unusual dialect * Do you speak English?\n  5  to use a particular language to express yourself:\n[VN] What language is it they’re speaking? * [V] Would you prefer it if we spoke in German?\n  -speaking\n  6  (in adjectives) speaking the language mentioned:\nFrench-speaking Canada * non-English-speaking students\n  -speak\n  7  (in nouns) (informal, often disapproving) the language or JARGON of a particular group, organization or subject:\ncomputerspeak * eurospeak\n  make speech\n  8  [V]   [usually +adv./prep.] to make a speech to an audience:\nto speak in public / on the radio / at a conference / to Congress * Professor Wilson was invited to speak about the results of his research. * She spoke in favour of the new tax. * He has a number of speaking engagements this week.\n  say / state\n  9  [VN] to say or state sth:\nShe was clearly speaking the truth. * He spoke the final words of the play.\nsee also SPOKEN\n IDIOMS \n  be on speaking terms (with sb) | be speaking (to sb) to be willing to be polite or friendly towards sb, especially after an argument:\nShe’s not been on speaking terms with her uncle for years. * Are they speaking to each other again yet?\n  no sth / nothing to speak of | not to speak of such a small amount of sth that is not worth mentioning:\nShe’s saved a little money but nothing to speak of. * They’ve got no friends to speak of.\n  generally, broadly, roughly, relatively, etc. speaking used to show that what you are saying is true in a general, etc. way:\nGenerally speaking, the more you pay, the more you get. * There are, broadly speaking, two ways of doing this. * Personally speaking, I’ve always preferred Italian food.\n  so to speak used to emphasize that you are expressing sth in an unusual or amusing way:\nThey were all very similar. All cut from the same cloth, so to speak.\n  speak for itself / themselves to be so easy to see and understand that you do not need to say anything else about it/them:\nHer success speaks for itself. * Recent events speak for themselves.\n  speak for myself / herself / himself, etc. to express what you think or want yourself, rather than sb else doing it for you:\nI’m quite capable of speaking for myself, thank you!\n  speak for yourself (spoken, informal) used to tell sb that a general statement they have just made is not true of you:\n’We didn’t play very well.’ ’Speak for yourself!’ (= I think that I played well).\n  speaking as sth used to say that you are the type of person mentioned and are expressing your opinion from that point of view:\nSpeaking as a parent, I’m very concerned about standards in education.\n  speak your mind to say exactly what you think, in a very direct way:\nShe’s never hesitated about speaking her mind.\n  speak out of turn to say sth when you should not, for example because it is not the right time or you are not the right person to say it\n  speak volumes (about / for sth/sb) to tell you a lot about sth/sb, without the need for words:\nHis achievement speaks volumes for his determination. * What you wear speaks volumes about you.\n  speak well / ill of sb (formal) to say good or bad things about sb:\nShe never speaks ill of anyone.\nmore at ACTION n., DEVIL, FACT, ILL n., LANGUAGE, MANNER, STRICTLY, TURN n.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  speak for sb to state the views or wishes of a person or a group; to act as a representative for sb:\nOur party speaks for the poor and unemployed. * I can’t speak for the others, but I’d love to come myself.\n  speak of sth (formal) to be evidence that sth exists or is present:\nEverything here speaks of perfect good taste.\n  speak out (against sth) to state your opinions publicly, especially in opposition to sth and in a way that takes courage:\nHe was the only one to speak out against the decision. * I will continue to speak out on matters of public concern.\nsee also OUTSPOKEN\n  speak to sb (about sth) (informal) to talk to sb in a serious way about sth wrong they have done, to try and stop them doing it again:\nThis is the third time I’ve had to speak to him about being late.\n  speak up usually used in orders to tell sb to speak more loudly:\nPlease speak up-we can’t hear you at the back.\n  speak up (for sb/sth) to say what you think clearly and freely, especially in order to support or defend sb/sth\n______________________________\n WHICH WORD? \nspeak / talk\nSpeak and talk have similar meanings.\nTalk is more common in spoken English and usually suggests that two or more people are having a conversation or discussing something: We talked on the phone for nearly an hour. * John and I have been talking about our families. * Could I talk to you about the travel arrangements? Talk with is more formal than talk to in BrE, but it is very general in AmE: He refused to talk with/to reporters.\nSpeak is a little more formal and suggests that someone is using their voice or that one person is saying something to a group: I was so shocked I couldn’t speak. * Could you speak louder? * A doctor spoke to the class about/on stress. Speak to / with is often used in polite requests, for example when you are making a phone call. Speak with is a little more formal in BrE: Hello, could I speak to Michael? * I’d like to speak to/with the manager, please.\nWhen a noun follows speak, it must be a language: He speaks Italian. Talk can be followed by nouns such as business or sense.\n______________________________


Words: speakeasy
Meaning:
noun\n(plural speakeasies) a place in the US where people could buy alcohol illegally, at the time in the 1920s and 1930s when it was illegal to make or sell alcohol


Words: speaker
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  a person who gives a talk or makes a speech:\nSir David Bellamy was a guest speaker at the conference. * She was a brilliant public speaker. * The Society has an interesting talk by a visiting speaker every month.\n \n  2  a person who is or was speaking:\nI looked around to see who the speaker was. * A speaker conveys information through tone and body language.\n \n  3  a person who speaks a particular language:\nFrench speakers * native speakers of English\n \n  4  (the) Speaker the title of the person whose job is to control the discussions in a parliament:\nthe Speaker of the House of Commons / Representatives\n  5  the part of a radio or piece of musical or computing equipment that the sound comes out of:\na CD player and radio with two ultra-slim speakers\nsee also LOUDSPEAKER


Words: speakerphone
Meaning:
noun\n(AmE) a telephone that can be used without being held, because it contains a MICROPHONE and a LOUDSPEAKER


Words: spear
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  1  a weapon with a long wooden handle and a sharp metal point used for fighting, hunting and fishing in the past\n  2  the long pointed stem of some plants\n    verb [VN] to push or throw a spear or other pointed object through sth/sb:\nThey were standing in the river spearing fish. * She speared an olive with her fork.


Words: spearhead
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun [usually sing.] (written) a person or group that begins an activity or leads an attack against sb/sth\n    verb [VN] (written) to begin an activity or lead an attack against sb/sth:\nHe is spearheading a campaign for a new stadium in the town.


Words: spearmint
Meaning:
noun\n[U] a type of MINT used especially in making sweets/candy and TOOTHPASTE:\nspearmint chewing gum\ncompare PEPPERMINT


Words: spec
Meaning:
noun\n(BrE) (AmE specs) a detailed description of sth, especially the design and materials needed to produce sth:\nWe want the machine manufactured to our own spec.\nsee also SPECIFICATION, SPECS\n \n IDIOMS \n \n  on spec (BrE, informal) when you do sth on spec, you are trying to achieve sth without organizing it in advance, but hoping you will be lucky:\nI went to the concert on spec-I hadn’t reserved a seat. * A lot of young people apply for jobs on spec (= not in reply to an advertisement, but hoping that a job might be available).


Words: special
Meaning:
adjective, noun \n    adjective\n  1  [usually before noun] not ordinary or usual; different from what is normal:\nThe school will only allow this in special circumstances. * Some of the officials have special privileges. * There is something special about this place. * This type of wood needs special treatment.\n  2  more important than others; deserving or getting more attention than usual:\nWhat are your special interests? * She’s a very special friend. * Our special guest on next week’s show will be ... * Don’t lose it-it’s special.\n  3  organized or intended for a particular purpose:\na special event / occasion * These teachers need special training. * Dr Pearce is the special adviser on environmental issues.\n  4  used by or intended for one particular person or group of people:\nShe has a special way of smiling. * He sent a special message to the men.\n  5  [only before noun] better or more than usual:\nAs an only child she got special attention. * Please take special care of it.\ncompare ESPECIAL\n    noun\n  1  something that is not usually available but is provided for a particular purpose or on one occasion:\nan election-night special on television * The menu changes regularly and there are daily specials to choose from.\n  2  (informal, especially AmE) a price for a particular product in a shop/store or restaurant that is lower than usual:\nThere’s a special on coffee this week.


Words: Special Branch
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.+sing./pl. v.] the department of the British police force that deals with the defence of the country against political crimes and TERRORISM


Words: special constable
Meaning:
noun\n(in Britain) a person who is not a professional police officer but who is trained to help the police force, especially during an emergency


Words: special delivery
Meaning:
noun\n[U] a service that delivers a letter, etc. faster than normal:\nI’ll send the contract to you by special delivery.


Words: special effects
Meaning:
noun\n[pl.] unusual or exciting pieces of action in films/movies or television programmes, that are created by computers or clever photography to show things that do not normally exist or happen


Words: special licence
Meaning:
noun\n(BrE) a LICENCE allowing two people to get married at a time or place that is not usually allowed


Words: special needs
Meaning:
noun\n[pl.] (especially BrE) needs that a person has because of mental or physical problems:\nShe teaches children with special needs.


Words: special offer
Meaning:
noun\n[C, U] a product that is sold at less than its usual price, especially in order to persuade people to buy it; the act of offering goods in this way:\nShop around for special offers. * a special offer on perfume * French wine is on special offer this week.


Words: special pleading
Meaning:
noun\n[U] trying to persuade sb about sth by mentioning only the arguments that support your point of view and ignoring the arguments that do not support it


Words: specialism
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [C] an area of study or work that sb SPECIALIZES in:\na business degree with a specialism in computing * Dr Crane’s specialism is tropical diseases.\n  2  [U] the fact of SPECIALIZING in a particular subject


Words: specialist
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a person who is an expert in a particular area of work or study:\na specialist in Japanese history\n  2  a doctor who has SPECIALIZED in a particular area of medicine:\na cancer specialist * You need to see a specialist.\ncompare GENERALIST\n    specialist adjective [only before noun]:\nspecialist magazines / shops * You need some specialist advice.


Words: speciality
Meaning:
(BrE) (also specialty AmE, BrE) noun (plural specialities)\n  1  a type of food or product that a restaurant or place is famous for because it is so good:\nSeafood is a speciality on the island. * local specialities * a speciality cheese shop (= one that sells many different types of cheese) * Haggis is a Scottish speciality.\n  2  an area of work or study that sb gives most of their attention to and knows a lot about; sth that sb is good at:\nMy speciality is international tax law.


Words: specialize
Meaning:
(BrE also specialise)  verb\n[V] ~ (in sth) to become an expert in a particular area of work, study or business; to spend more time on one area of work, etc. than on others:\nHe specialized in criminal law. * Many students prefer not to specialize too soon. * The shop specializes in hand-made chocolates.\n    specialization, specialisation  noun [U]


Words: specialized
Meaning:
(BrE also specialised)  adjective\ndesigned or developed for a particular purpose or area of knowledge:\nspecialized equipment * specialized skills


Words: specially
Meaning:
adverb\n  1  for a particular purpose, person, etc:\nThe ring was specially made for her. * a specially designed diet plan * We came specially to see you.\n  2  (informal) more than usual or more than other things:\nIt will be hard to work today-specially when it’s so warm and sunny outside. * I hate homework. Specially history. -> ESPECIALLY


Words: specialty
Meaning:
noun\n(especially AmE) = SPECIALITY:\nregional specialties * specialty foods / stores * Her specialty is taxation law.


Words: species
Meaning:
noun\n(plural species) a group into which animals, plants, etc. that are able to breed with each other are divided, smaller than a GENUS and identified by a Latin name:\na rare species of beetle * There are many species of dog(s). * a conservation area for endangered species


Words: specific
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  detailed and exact\nSYN PRECISE:\nI gave you specific instructions. * ’I’d like your help tomorrow.’ ’Can you be more specific (= tell me exactly what you want)?’\n  2  [usually before noun] connected with one particular thing only\nSYN PARTICULAR:\nchildren’s television programmes aimed at a specific age group * The money was collected for a specific purpose. * children with specific learning difficulties (= in one area only)\n  3  ~ to sth (formal) existing only in one place or limited to one thing\nSYN PECULIAR:\na belief that is specific to this part of Africa


Words: specifically
Meaning:
adverb\n  1  in a detailed and exact way:\nI specifically told you not to go near the water!\n  2  connected with or intended for one particular thing only:\nliquid vitamins specifically designed for children * a magazine aimed specifically at working women\n  3  used when you want to add more detailed and exact information:\nThe newspaper, or more specifically, the editor, was taken to court for publishing the photographs.


Words: specification
Meaning:
noun\n[C, U] a detailed description of how sth is, or should be, designed or made:\nthe technical specifications of the new model (= of car) * The house has been built exactly to our specifications. * The office was furnished to a high specification.


Words: specifics
Meaning:
noun\n[pl.] the details of a subject that you need to think about or discuss:\nOkay, that’s the broad plan-let’s get down to the specifics.


Words: specify
Meaning:
verb\n(specifies, specifying, specified, specified) to state sth, especially by giving an exact measurement, time, exact instructions, etc:\n[VN] Remember to specify your size when ordering clothes. * Forms must be returned by the specified date. * [V wh-] The contract clearly specifies who can operate the machinery. * [V that] The regulations specify that calculators may not be used in the examination.


Words: specimen
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a small amount of sth that shows what the rest of it is like:\nAstronauts have brought back specimens of rock from the moon. * Can you give me a specimen of your handwriting?\n  2  an example of sth, especially an animal or a plant:\nThe aquarium has some interesting specimens of unusual tropical fish. * Redwood trees can live for a long time; one specimen is 4 000 years old. * (humorous) They were fine specimens of British youth!\n  3  a small quantity of blood, URINE, etc. that is taken from sb and tested by a doctor:\nto provide / take a specimen


Words: speck
Meaning:
noun\na very small spot; a small piece of dirt, etc:\nThe ship was now just a speck in the distance. * specks of dust / dirt


Words: specs
Meaning:
noun [pl.]\n  1  (informal, especially BrE) = GLASSES:\nI need a new pair of specs.\n  2  (AmE) = SPEC


Words: spectacle
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  (spectacles) [pl.] (formal) = GLASSES:\na pair of spectacles * a spectacle case (= to put your glasses in)\n \n  2  [C, U] a performance or an event that is very impressive and exciting to look at:\nThe carnival parade was a magnificent spectacle.\n \n  3  [C] a sight or view that is very impressive to look at:\nThe sunset was a stunning spectacle.\n \n  4  [sing.] an unusual or surprising sight or situation that attracts a lot of attention:\nI remember the sad spectacle of her standing in her wedding dress, covered in mud.\n IDIOMS \n  make a spectacle of yourself to draw attention to yourself by behaving or dressing in a ridiculous way in public


Words: spectacular
Meaning:
adjective, noun \n    adjective very impressive:\nspectacular scenery / views * Giggs scored a spectacular goal. * It was a spectacular achievement on their part. * a spectacular display of fireworks\n    spectacularly adverb:\nIt has been a spectacularly successful year.\n    noun an impressive show or performance:\na Christmas TV spectacular


Words: spectator sport
Meaning:
noun\na sport that many people watch; a sport that is interesting to watch:\nWhat is the country’s most popular spectator sport? * Fishing is not really a spectator sport.


Words: spectral
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  (literary) like a ghost; connected with a ghost:\na spectral figure / voice\n  2  (technical) connected with a SPECTRUM:\nspectral bands * the full spectral range


Words: spectre
Meaning:
(BrE) (AmE specter)  noun\n  1  ~ (of sth) something unpleasant that people are afraid might happen in the future:\nThe country is haunted by the spectre of civil war. * These weeks of drought have once again raised the spectre of widespread famine.\n  2  (literary) a ghost:\nWas he a spectre returning to haunt her?


Words: spectroscope
Meaning:
noun\n(technical) a piece of equipment for forming and looking at SPECTRA\n    spectroscopic  adjective:\nspectroscopic analysis


Words: spectrum
Meaning:
1  a band of coloured lights in order of their WAVELENGTHS, as seen in a RAINBOW and into which a ray of light may be separated:\nA spectrum is formed by a ray of light passing through a prism. * Red and violet are at opposite ends of the spectrum.\n  2  a range of sound waves or several other types of wave:\nthe electromagnetic / radio / sound spectrum\n  3  [usually sing.] (written) a complete or wide range of related qualities, ideas, etc:\na broad spectrum of interests * We shall hear views from across the political spectrum.


Words: speculate
Meaning:
verb\n  1  ~ (about / on sth) to form an opinion about sth without knowing all the details or facts:\n[V] We all speculated about the reasons for her resignation. * They were all speculating as to the identity of the stranger. * [V wh-] It is useless to speculate why he did it. * [V that] We can speculate that the stone circles were used in some sort of pagan ceremony.\n  2  [V] ~ (in / on sth) to buy goods, property, shares, etc., hoping to make a profit when you sell them, but with the risk of losing money:\nHe likes to speculate on the stock market.


Words: speculation
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [U, C] ~ (that ...) | ~ (about / over sth) the act of forming opinions about what has happened or what might happen without knowing all the facts:\nThere was widespread speculation that she was going to resign. * His private life is the subject of much speculation. * Today’s announcement ends months of speculation about the company’s future. * She dismissed the newspaper reports as pure speculation. * Our speculations proved right. * The president’s absence led to speculation over his health.\n  2  [U, C] ~ (in sth) the activity of buying and selling goods or shares in a company in the hope of making a profit, but with the risk of losing money:\nspeculation in oil


Words: speculative
Meaning:
adjective (especially written)\n  1  based on guessing or on opinions that have been formed without knowing all the facts:\nThe report is highly speculative and should be ignored.\n  2  showing that you are trying to guess sth:\nShe cast a speculative look at Kate.\n  3  (of business activity) done in the hope of making a profit but involving the risk of losing money:\nspeculative investment


Words: speculator
Meaning:
noun\na person who buys and sells goods or shares in a company in the hope of making a profit:\nproperty / currency speculators


Words: speech
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [C] ~ (on / about sth) a formal talk that a person gives to an audience:\nto give / make / deliver a speech on human rights * He made the announcement in a speech on television. * Several people made speeches at the wedding.\n  2  [U] the ability to speak:\nI seemed to have lost the power of speech. * a speech defect * freedom of speech (= the right to say openly what you think)\n  3  [U] the way in which a particular person speaks:\nHer speech was slurred-she was clearly drunk.\n  4  [U] the language used when speaking:\nThis expression is used mainly in speech, not in writing. * speech sounds\n  5  [C] a group of lines that an actor speaks in a play in the theatre:\nShe has the longest speech in the play.\nsee also FIGURE OF SPEECH


Words: speech therapy
Meaning:
noun\n[U] special treatment to help people who have problems in speaking clearly, for example in pronouncing particular sounds\n    speech therapist noun


Words: speechifying
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (informal, disapproving) the act of making speeches in a very formal way, trying to sound important\n    speechify  verb (speechifies, speechifying, speechified, speechified) [V]


Words: speechless
Meaning:
adjective\nnot able to speak, especially because you are extremely angry or surprised:\nLaura was speechless with rage. * His words left her speechless.\n    speechlessly adverb:\nShe stared at him speechlessly.\n    speechlessness noun [U]


Words: speed
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  rate of movement / action\n  1  [C, U] the rate at which sb/sth moves or travels:\nHe reduced speed and turned sharp left. * The train began to pick up speed (= go faster). * The car was gathering speed. * a speed of 50 mph / 80 kph * at high / low / full / top speed * at breakneck speed (= dangerously fast) * travelling at the speed of light / sound * There are speed restrictions on this road. * Increasing your walking speed will help to exercise your heart.\n  2  [C, U] the rate at which sth happens or is done:\nthe processing speed of the computer * This course is designed so that students can progress at their own speed. * We aim to increase the speed of delivery (= how quickly goods are sent).\n  3  [U] the quality of being quick or rapid:\nThe accident was due to excessive speed. * Speed is his greatest asset as a tennis player. * She was overtaken by the speed of events (= things happened more quickly than she expected). * (formal) A car flashed past them at speed (= fast).\n  in photography\n  4  [C] a measurement of how sensitive photographic film is to light\n  5  [C] the time taken by a camera SHUTTER to open and close:\nHigher shutter speeds are best used only in good light.\n  on bicycle / car\n  6  [C] (especially in compounds) a GEAR on a bicycle, in a car, etc:\na four-speed gearbox * a ten-speed mountain bike\n  drug\n  7  [U] (informal) an illegal AMPHETAMINE drug that is taken to give feelings of excitement and energy\n IDIOMS \n  be up to speed (on sth)\n1 (of a person, company, etc.) performing at an expected rate or level:\nthe cost of bringing the chosen schools up to speed\n2 (of a person) having the most recent and accurate information or knowledge:\nI’ll bring you up to speed on the latest developments.\n  full speed / steam ahead with as much speed or energy as possible\nmore at HASTE, TURN n.\n    verb (speeded, speeded)\n HELP NOTE  In senses 1 and 2 sped is also used for the past tense and past participle.)\n  move / happen quickly\n  1  [V +adv./prep.] (written) to move along quickly:\nThe car sped along the road towards the village. * He sped away on his bike. * They sped off to get help.\n  2  [VN +adv./prep.] (written) to take sb/sth somewhere very quickly, especially in a vehicle:\nThe cab speeded them into the centre of the city.\n  3  [VN] (written) to make sth happen more quickly:\nThe drugs will speed her recovery.\n  drive too fast\n  4  [V] (usually used in the progressive tenses) to drive faster than the speed that is legally allowed:\nThe police caught him speeding.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  speed up | speed sth<->up to move or happen faster; to make sth move or happen faster:\nThe train soon speeded up. * Can you try and speed things up a bit? * They have speeded up production of the new car.


Words: speed hump
Meaning:
(especially BrE) (AmE usually speed bump) (also BrE informal sleeping policeman) noun\na raised area across a road that is put there to make traffic go slower


Words: speed limit
Meaning:
noun\nthe highest speed at which you can legally drive on a particular road:\nYou should always keep to the speed limit. * to break / exceed the speed limit * The road has a 30 mph speed limit.


Words: speed trap
Meaning:
(BrE also radar trap) noun\na place on a road where police use special equipment to catch drivers who are going too fast


Words: speeding
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the traffic offence of driving faster than the legal limit:\nMax was fined ｣300 for speeding.


Words: speedway
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [U] (BrE) the sport of racing motorcycles on a special track\n  2  [C] (AmE) a special track for racing cars or motorcycles on


Words: speedy
Meaning:
adjective (speedier, speediest)\n  1  happening or done quickly or without delay:\nWe wish you a speedy recovery (= from an illness or injury). * a speedy reply / response\n  2  moving or working very quickly:\nspeedy computers -> FAST\n    speedily adverb:\nAll enquiries will be dealt with as speedily as possible.


Words: speleologist
Meaning:
noun\na scientist who studies CAVES or a person who goes into caves as a sport\ncompare CAVER, POTHOLER, SPELUNKER\n    speleology  noun [U]


Words: spell
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb (spelt, spelt ) or (spelled, spelled)\n  1  [VN] to say or write the letters of a word in the correct order:\nHow do you spell your surname? * I thought her name was Catherine, but it’s Kathryn spelt with a ’K’.\n  2  to form words correctly from individual letters:\n[V] I’ve never been able to spell. * [VN-ADJ] You’ve spelt my name wrong.\nsee also MISSPELL\n  3  [VN] (of letters of a word) to form words when they are put together in a particular order:\nC-A-T spells ’cat’.\n  4  [VN] ~ sth (for sb/sth) to have sth, usually sth bad, as a result; to mean sth, usually sth bad:\nThe crop failure spelt disaster for many farmers. * This defeat spelt the end of his hopes of winning the title again.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  spell sth<->out\n1 to explain sth in a simple, clear way:\nYou know what I mean-I’m sure I don’t need to spell it out. * [+ wh-] Let me spell out why we need more money.\n2 to say or write the letters of a word in the right order:\nCould you spell that name out again?\n    noun\n  1  [C] a short period of time during which sth lasts:\na spell of warm weather * a cold / hot / wet / bright spell * There will be rain at first, with sunny spells later. * She went to the doctor complaining of dizzy spells.\n  2  [C] a period of time doing sth or working somewhere:\nShe had a spell as a singer before becoming an actress. * I spent a brief spell on the Washington Post.\n  3  [C] words that are thought to have magic power or to make a piece of magic work; a piece of magic that happens when sb says these magic words:\na book of spells * The wizard recited a spell. * to cast / put a spell on sb * to be under a spell (= affected by magic)\n  4  [sing.] a quality that a person or thing has that makes them so attractive or interesting that they have a strong influence on you:\nI completely fell under her spell. * It was a magic night until the spell was broken. * Since last century the spell of the pyramids has drawn tourists to Egypt.\n IDIOMS  see CAST v., WEAVE v.


Words: spell check
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] to use a computer program to check your writing to see if your spelling is correct\n    spell check noun = SPELLCHECKER


Words: spellbound
Meaning:
adjective\n[not usually before noun] with your attention completely held by what you are listening to or watching:\na storyteller who can hold audiences spellbound * The kids watched and listened spellbound to the performance.


Words: spelling
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [U] the act of forming words correctly from individual letters; the ability to do this:\na spelling mistake / test * the differences between British and American spelling * My spelling is terrible.\n  2  [C] the way that a word is spelt:\na list of difficult spellings


Words: spend
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb (spent, spent )\n  1  ~ sth (on sth / on doing sth) to give money to pay for goods, services, etc:\n[VN] I’ve spent all my money already. * She spent ｣100 on a new dress. * [VN -ing] The company has spent thousands of pounds updating their computer systems. [also V]\n  2  ~ sth (on sth) | ~ sth (doing sth / in doing sth) to use time for a particular purpose; to pass time:\n[VN] We spent the weekend in Paris. * How long did you spend on your homework? * How do you spend your spare time? * Most of her life was spent in caring for others. * Her childhood was spent in Italy. * [VN -ing] I spend too much time watching television. * I’ve spent years trying to learn Japanese.\n  3  [VN] [often passive] to use energy, effort, etc., especially until it has all been used:\nShe spends too much effort on things that don’t matter. * The storm had finally spent itself.\nsee also SPENT\n IDIOMS \n  spend the night with sb\n1 to stay with sb for a night:\nMy daughter’s spending the night with a friend.\n2 (also spend the night together) to stay with sb for a night and have sex with them\n  spend a penny (old-fashioned, BrE, informal) people say ’spend a penny’ to avoid saying ’use the toilet’\n    noun [sing.] (informal) the amount of money spent for a particular purpose or over a particular length of time:\nThe average spend at the cafe is ｣10 a head.


Words: spender
Meaning:
noun\na person who spends money in the particular way mentioned:\na big spender (= who spends a lot of money)


Words: spending
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the amount of money that is spent by a government or an organization:\nto increase / reduce public spending


Words: spending money
Meaning:
noun\n[U] money that you can spend on personal things for pleasure or entertainment:\nYou’ll need to take money for food and some spending money.\ncompare POCKET MONEY


Words: spendthrift
Meaning:
noun\n(disapproving) a person who spends too much money or who wastes money\n    spendthrift adjective [usually before noun]:\nspendthrift governments / institutions


Words: spent
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  [usually before noun] that has been used, so that it cannot be used again:\nspent bullets / matches * spent blooms (= flowers that have died)\n  2  (written) very tired:\nAfter the gruelling test, he felt totally spent.\n IDIOMS \n  a spent force a person or group that no longer has any power or influence:\nThe opposition party is now a spent political force.\nsee also SPEND, SPENT, SPENT v.


Words: sperm
Meaning:
noun (plural sperm or sperms)\n  1  [C] a cell that is produced by the sex organs of a male and that can combine with a female egg to produce young:\nHe has a low sperm count (= very few live male cells).\n  2  [U] the liquid that is produced by the male sex organs that contains these cells\nSYN SEMEN


Words: spermicide
Meaning:
noun\n[U, C] a substance that kills SPERM, used during sex to prevent the woman from becoming pregnant\n    spermicidal  adjective [only before noun]:\nspermicidal cream


Words: spew
Meaning:
verb\n  1  [+adv./prep.] to flow out quickly, or to make sth flow out quickly, in large amounts:\n[V] Flames spewed from the aircraft’s engine. * [VN] Massive chimneys were spewing out smoke and flames.\n  2  ~ (sth) (up) (BrE, informal) to VOMIT:\n[V] He spewed up on the pavement. * He makes me want to spew. * [VN] She spewed up the entire meal.


Words: sphagnum
Meaning:
(also Sphagnum moss) noun\n[U] a type of MOSS that grows in wet areas, used especially for planting plants in pots, making FERTILIZER, etc.


Words: sphere
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  (geometry) a solid figure that is completely round, with every point on its surface at an equal distance from the centre\n \n  2  any object that is completely round, for example a ball\n \n  3  an area of activity, influence or interest; a particular section of society:\nthe political / economic sphere * This area was formerly within the sphere of influence of the US. * He and I moved in totally different social spheres.\n \n  4  (-sphere) (in nouns) a region that surrounds a planet, especially the earth:\nionosphere * atmosphere


Words: sphincter
Meaning:
noun\n(anatomy) a ring of muscle that surrounds an opening in the body and can tighten to close it:\nthe anal sphincter


Words: sphinx
Meaning:
noun\n(often the Sphinx) an ancient Egyptian stone statue of a creature with a human head and the body of a lion lying down. In ancient Greek stories the Sphinx spoke in RIDDLES.


Words: spic
Meaning:
noun\n(!!! slang, especially AmE) a very offensive word for a person from a country where Spanish is spoken, for example a Mexican or Puerto Rican\n IDIOMS \n  spic and span = spick and span at SPICK


Words: spice
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  1  [C, U] one of the various types of powder or seed that come from plants and are used in cooking. Spices have a strong taste and smell:\ncommon spices such as ginger and cinnamon * a spice jar / rack\n  2  [U] extra interest or excitement:\nWe need an exciting trip to add some spice to our lives.\n IDIOMS  see VARIETY\n    verb [VN] ~ sth (up) (with sth)\n  1  to add spice to food in order to give it more flavour:\nhighly spiced dishes\n  2  to add interest or excitement to sth:\nHe exaggerated the details to spice up the story. * Her conversation is always spiced with humour.


Words: spick
Meaning:
adjective\n IDIOMS \n  spick and span (also spic and span) [not usually before noun] neat and clean:\nTheir house is always spick and span.


Words: spicy
Meaning:
adjective (spicier, spiciest)\n  1  (of food) having a strong taste because spices have been used to flavour it:\nspicy chicken wings\n  2  (informal) (of a story, piece of news, etc.) exciting and slightly shocking:\nspicy stories about the sex lives of the stars\n    spiciness noun [U]:\nthe spiciness of the food


Words: spider
Meaning:
noun\na small creature with eight thin legs. Many spiders spin WEBS (= nets of thin threads) to catch insects for food:\nShe stared in horror at the hairy black spider.


Words: spider’s web
Meaning:
(especially BrE) (also spider web especially in AmE) (also web) noun\na fine net of threads made by a spider to catch insects: (figurative) a spider’s web of overhead wires and cables * (figurative) to be caught in a spider’s web of confusion\nsee also COBWEB


Words: spidery
Meaning:
adjective\nlong and thin, like the legs of a spider:\nspidery fingers * spidery writing (= consisting of thin lines that are not very clear)


Words: spiel
Meaning:
noun\n(informal, usually disapproving) a long speech that sb has used many times, that is intended to persuade you to believe sth or buy sth:\nThe salesman went into a long spiel about the merits of the new design.


Words: spiff
Meaning:
verb\n\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  spiff up | spiff sb/sth<->up (AmE, informal) to make yourself/sb/sth look neat and attractive:\nHe got all spiffed up. * She spiffed up her old shoes.


Words: spigot
Meaning:
noun\n  1  (technical) a device in a tap/faucet that controls the flow of liquid from a container\n  2  (AmE) any tap/faucet, especially one outdoors


Words: spike
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n\n \n  1  [C] a thin object with a sharp point, especially a pointed piece of metal, wood, etc:\na row of iron spikes on a wall * Her hair stood up in spikes.\nsee also SPIKE HEEL\n \n  2  [C, usually pl.] a metal point attached to the sole of a sports shoe to prevent you from slipping while running\ncompare CLEAT\n \n  3  (spikes) [pl.] shoes fitted with these metal spikes, used for running:\na pair of spikes\n  4  [C] a long pointed group of flowers that grow together on a single stem\n    verb [VN] \n  1  to push a sharp piece of metal, wood, etc. into sb/sth; to injure sth on a sharp point\n  2  ~ sth (with sth) to add alcohol, poison or a drug to sb’s drink or food without them knowing:\nHe gave her a drink spiked with tranquillizers * (figurative) Her words were spiked with malice.\n  3  to reject sth that a person has written or said; to prevent sth from happening or being made public:\nThe article was spiked for fear of legal action against the newspaper.\n IDIOMS \n  spike sb’s guns (BrE) to spoil the plans of an opponent


Words: spike heel
Meaning:
noun\n(especially AmE) a very thin high heel on a woman’s shoe; a shoe with such a heel\nSYN STILETTO


Words: spiky
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  having sharp points:\nspiky leaves / plants\n  2  (of hair) sticking straight up from the head\n  3  (BrE) (of people) easily annoyed or offended\n    spikiness noun [U]


Words: spill
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb (spilled, spilled) (BrE also spilt, spilt )\n  1  (especially of liquid) to accidentally flow over the edge of a container; to make liquid do this:\n[V] Water had spilled out of the bucket onto the floor. * The bag split, and sugar spilled everywhere. * [VN] He startled her and made her spill her drink. * Thousands of gallons of crude oil were spilled into the ocean. * I managed to carry three full glasses without spilling a drop.\n  2  [V +adv./prep.] (of people) to come out of a place in large numbers and spread out:\nThe doors opened and people spilled into the street. * (figurative) Light spilled from the windows.\n IDIOMS \n  spill the beans (informal) to tell sb sth that should be kept secret or private\n  spill (sb’s) blood (formal or literary) to kill or wound people:\nNothing can justify spilling innocent blood.\n  spill your guts (to sb) (AmE, informal) to tell sb everything you know or feel about sth, because you are upset:\nHe has spilled his guts in his new autobiography.\nmore at CRY v.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  spill sth<->out | spill out to tell sb all about a problem etc. very quickly; to come out quickly:\nHas she been spilling out her troubles to you again? * When he started to speak, the words just spilled out.\n  spill over (into sth)\n1 to fill a container and go over the edge:\nShe filled the glass so full that the water spilled over. * (figurative) Her emotions suddenly spilled over.\n2 to start in one area and then affect other areas:\nUnrest has spilt over into areas outside the city. * The effects of stress at work can spill over into home life.\nrelated noun OVERSPILL, SPILLOVER\n    noun\n\n \n  1  (also formal spillage) [C, U] an act of letting a liquid come or fall out of a container; the amount of liquid that comes or falls out:\nMany seabirds died as a result of the oil spill. * I wiped up the coffee spills on the table.\n \n  2  [C] a long match, or a thin piece of twisted paper, used for lighting fires, oil lamps, etc.\n \n  3  [C, usually sing.] a fall, especially from a bicycle or a boat:\nto take a spill\n \n IDIOMS  see THRILL n.


Words: spillover
Meaning:
noun [C, U]\n  1  something that is too large or too much for the place where it starts, and spreads to other places:\nA second room was needed for the spillover of staff and reporters.\n  2  the results or the effects of sth that have spread to other situations or places:\nThe developments in the town will create spillovers for neighbouring regions. * spillover effects / benefits


Words: spillway
Meaning:
noun\n(technical) a passage for the extra water from a DAM (= a wall across a river that holds water back)


Words: spin
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb\n (spinning, spun, spun )\n \n  turn round quickly\n \n  1  ~ (sth) (round / around) to turn round and round quickly; to make sth do this:\n[V] The plane was spinning out of control. * a spinning ice skater * My head is spinning (= I feel as if my head is going around and I can’t balance). * His theories on economics are enough to make your head spin (= make you feel very confused). * [VN] to spin a ball / coin / wheel * We place our bets and the croupier spun the roulette wheel.\n \n  2  ~ (round / around) to turn round quickly once; to make sb do this:\n[V] He spun around to face her. * She spun on her heel and walked out. [also VN]\n \n  make thread\n \n  3  ~ (A into B) | ~ (B from A) to make thread from wool, cotton, silk, etc. by twisting it:\n[V] She sat by the window spinning. * [VN] to spin and knit wool * spinning silk into thread\n  of spider / silkworm\n  4  [VN] to produce thread from its body to make a WEB or COCOON:\na spider spinning a web * A silkworm spins a cocoon that can yield 800 metres of pure silk.\n  drive / travel quickly\n  5  [V +adv./prep.] to drive or travel quickly:\nThey went spinning along the roads on their bikes.\n  dry clothes\n  6  [VN] to remove the water from clothes that have just been washed, in a SPIN DRYER\n  present information\n  7  [VN] to present information or a situation in a particular way, especially one that makes you or your ideas seem good:\nAn aide was already spinning the senator’s defeat as ’almost as good as an outright win’.\n IDIOMS \n  spin (sb) a yarn, tale, etc. to tell sb a long story that is not true, usually in order to deceive them\nmore at HEEL n.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  spin off (from sth) | spin sth<->off (from sth) to happen or to produce sth as a new or unexpected result of sth that already exists:\nproducts spinning off from favourite books * toys spun off from the popular children’s TV programme\nrelated noun SPIN-OFF\n  spin sth<->off (business) (especially AmE) to form a new company from parts of an existing one:\nThe transportation operation will be spun off into a separate company.\n  spin sth<->out to make sth last as long as possible\n    noun\n  fast turning movement\n  1  [C, U] a very fast turning movement:\nthe earth’s spin * the spin of a wheel * The dance was full of twists and spins. * Give the washing a short spin. * We calculated the rate of spin.\n  2  [C, usually sing.] if an aircraft goes into a spin, it falls and turns round rapidly\n  in car\n  3  [C] (informal, becoming old-fashioned) a short ride in a car for pleasure:\nLet’s go for a spin. * He asked if he could take the car for a spin.\n  in tennis / cricket\n  4  [U] the way you make a ball turn very fast when you throw it or hit it:\nShe puts a lot of spin on the ball. * a spin bowler (= in cricket, a bowler who uses spin)\nsee also TOPSPIN\n  on information\n  5  [sing., U] (informal) a way of presenting information or a situation in a particular way, especially one that makes you or your ideas seem good:\nPoliticians put their own spin on the economic situation.\n IDIOMS \n  in a (flat) spin very confused, worried or excited:\nHer resignation put her colleagues in a spin.


Words: spin doctor
Meaning:
noun\n(informal) a person whose job is to present information to the public about a politician, an organization, etc. in the way that seems most positive:\nThe spin doctors are trying to revive the party’s fading image.


Words: spin dryer
Meaning:
(also spin drier) noun\n(BrE) a machine that partly dries clothes that you have washed by turning them round and round very fast to remove the water\ncompare TUMBLE-DRYER\n    spin-dry verb [VN]


Words: spin-off
Meaning:
noun ~ (from / of sth)\n  1  an unexpected but useful result of an activity that is designed to produce sth else:\ncommercial spin-offs from medical research * One unexpected spin-off of the course was the forming of some really close friendships. * the spin-off effects of recycling waste\n  2  a book, a film/movie, a television programme, or an object that is based on a book, film/movie or television series that has been very successful:\nThe TV comedy series is a spin-off of the original movie. * spin-off merchandise from the latest Disney movie


Words: spina bifida
Meaning:
noun\n[U] a medical condition in which some bones in the SPINE have not developed normally at birth, often causing PARALYSIS (= loss of control or feeling) in the legs


Words: spinal
Meaning:
adjective\n[usually before noun] (technical) connected with the SPINE (= the long bone in the back):\nspinal injuries


Words: spindle
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  a rod that turns in a machine, or that another part of the machine turns around\n \n  2  a thin pointed rod used for spinning wool into thread by hand


Words: spindly
Meaning:
adjective\n(informal, often disapproving) very long and thin and not strong:\nspindly legs * spindly plants growing without enough light


Words: spine
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  the row of small bones that are connected together down the middle of the back\nSYN BACKBONE\n \n  2  any of the sharp pointed parts like needles on some plants and animals:\nPorcupines use their spines to protect themselves.\nsee also SPINY\n \n  3  the narrow part of the cover of a book that the pages are joined to


Words: spine-tingling
Meaning:
adjective\n(of an event, a piece of music, etc.) enjoyable because it is very exciting or frightening


Words: spineless
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  (disapproving) (of people) weak and easily frightened\n  2  (of animals) having no SPINE (= the long bone in the back)\n  3  (of animals or plants) having no SPINES (= sharp parts like needles)


Words: spinet
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a kind of HARPSICHORD (= an early type of musical instrument), played like a piano\n  2  ~ piano / organ (AmE) a small upright piano/electronic ORGAN


Words: spinner
Meaning:
noun\n  1  (in cricket) a BOWLER who uses SPIN when throwing the ball; a SPIN BOWLER\n  2  a person who spins thread\n  3  a device that spins around, used on a fishing line to attract fish


Words: spinning
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the art or the process of twisting wool, etc. to make thread:\ncotton spinning * hand spinning


Words: spinning wheel
Meaning:
noun\na simple machine that people used in their homes in the past for twisting wool, etc. It has a large wheel operated with the foot.


Words: spinster
Meaning:
noun\n(old-fashioned, often disapproving) a woman who is not married, especially an older woman who is not likely to marry:\nThe sisters were to remain spinsters for the rest of their lives.\n HELP NOTE  This word should not now be used to mean simply a woman who is not married.\ncompare BACHELOR\n    spinsterhood  noun [U]:\nFor most women, marriage used to bring a higher status than spinsterhood.


Words: spiny
Meaning:
adjective\n(of animals or plants) having sharp points like needles:\nspiny sea urchins * spiny leaves\nsee also SPINE


Words: spiral
Meaning:
noun, adjective, verb \n    noun\n\n \n  1  a shape or design, consisting of a continuous curved line that winds around a central point, with each curve further away from the centre:\nThe birds circled in a slow spiral above the house. * A spiral of smoke rose from the chimney.\n \n  2  a continuous harmful increase or decrease in sth, that gradually gets faster and faster:\nthe destructive spiral of violence in the inner cities * measures to control the inflationary spiral * the upward / downward spiral of sales * the vicious spiral of rising wages and prices\n    adjective moving in a continuous curve that winds around a central point:\na spiral staircase * A snail’s shell is spiral in form.\n    spirally adverb \n    verb (-ll-, AmE usually -l-) [V]   [usually +adv./prep.] \n  1  to move in continuous circles, going upwards or downwards:\nSmoke spiralled into the sky. * The plane spiralled down to the ground.\n  2  to increase rapidly:\nthe spiralling cost of health care * Prices are spiralling out of control.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  spiral down / downward to decrease rapidly


Words: spire
Meaning:
noun\na tall pointed structure on the top of a building, especially a church:\na magnificent view of the spires of the city


Words: spirit
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  mind / feelings / character\n  1  [U, C] the part of a person that includes their mind, feelings and character rather than their body:\nthe power of the human spirit to overcome difficulties\n  2  (spirits) [pl.] a person’s feelings or state of mind:\nto be in high / low spirits * You must try and keep your spirits up (= stay cheerful). * My spirits sank at the prospect of starting all over again.\n  3  [C] (always with an adjective) a person of the type mentioned:\na brave / generous / mean / proud spirit * kindred spirits (= people who like the same things as you) * She was one of the leading spirits of the reform movement.\nsee also FREE SPIRIT\n  courage / determination\n  4  [U] courage, determination or energy:\nShow a little fighting spirit. * Although the team lost, they played with tremendous spirit. * They took away his freedom and broke his spirit.\n  loyal feelings\n  5  [U, sing.] loyal feelings towards a group, team or society:\nThere’s not much community spirit around here.\nsee also TEAM SPIRIT\n  attitude\n  6  [sing.] a state of mind or mood; an attitude:\nWe approached the situation in the wrong spirit. * ’OK, I’ll try’. ’That’s the spirit (= the right attitude).’ * The party went well because everyone entered into the spirit of things. * It’s too early to go home yet! Where’s your spirit of adventure?\nsee also PARTY SPIRIT\n  typical quality\n  7  [sing.] the typical or most important quality or mood of sth:\nthe spirit of the times * the pioneer spirit * The exhibition captures the spirit of ’Cool Britannia’.\n  real meaning\n  8  [U] the real or intended meaning or purpose of sth:\nObey the spirit, not the letter (= the narrow meaning of the words) of the law.\n  soul\n  9  [C] the soul thought of as separate from the body and believed to live on after death; a GHOST:\nHe is dead, but his spirit lives on. * It was believed that people could be possessed by evil spirits.\nsee also THE HOLY SPIRIT\n  imaginary creature\n  10  [C] (old-fashioned) an imaginary creature with magic powers, for example, a FAIRY or an ELF\n  alcohol\n  11  [C, usually pl.] (especially BrE) a strong alcoholic drink:\nI don’t drink whisky or brandy or any other spirits.\n  12  [U] a special type of alcohol used in industry or medicine\nsee also METHYLATED SPIRIT, SURGICAL SPIRIT, WHITE SPIRIT\n IDIOMS \n  in spirit in your thoughts:\nI shall be with you in spirit (= thinking about you though not with you physically).\n  the spirit is willing (but the flesh is weak) (humorous, saying) you intend to do good things but you are too lazy, weak or busy to actually do them\n  as / when / if the spirit moves you as/when/if you feel like it:\nI’ll go for a run this evening, if the spirit moves me.\nmore at FIGHT v., RAISE v.\n    verb [VN +adv./prep.] to take sb/sth away in a quick, secret or mysterious way:\nAfter the concert, the band was spirited away before their fans could get near them.


Words: spirit level
Meaning:
(also level) noun\na glass tube partly filled with liquid, with a bubble of air inside. Spirit levels are used to test whether a surface is level, by the position of the bubble.


Words: spirited
Meaning:
adjective\n[usually before noun] full of energy, determination or courage:\na spirited young woman * a spirited horse * a spirited discussion / conversation * She put up a spirited defence in the final game.\ncompare DISPIRITED\nsee also HIGH-SPIRITED, PUBLIC-SPIRITED\n    spiritedly adverb


Words: spiritless
Meaning:
adjective\n(formal) without energy, enthusiasm or determination:\na pale, spiritless child * a spiritless argument


Words: spiritual
Meaning:
adjective, noun \n    adjective [usually before noun]\n  1  connected with the human spirit, rather than the body or physical things:\na spiritual experience * spiritual development / growth / needs * a lack of spiritual values in the modern world * We’re concerned about your spiritual welfare.\nOPP MATERIAL\n  2  connected with religion:\na spiritual leader\ncompare TEMPORAL\n    spiritually  adverb:\na spiritually uplifting book\n IDIOMS \n  your spiritual home the place where you are happiest, especially a country where you feel you belong more than in your own country because you share the ideas and attitudes of the people who live there:\nWhen she moved to Italy, she knew she’d found her true spiritual home.\n    noun (also Negro spiritual) a religious song of the type originally sung by black slaves in America


Words: spiritualism
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the belief that people who have died can send messages to living people, usually through a MEDIUM (= a person who has special powers)


Words: spit
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb (spitting, spat, spat  )\n HELP NOTE  spit is also sometimes used for the past tense and past participle, especially in AmE.)\n  from mouth\n  1  [VN] ~ sth (out) to force liquid, food, etc. out of your mouth:\nShe took a mouthful of food and then suddenly spat it out. * He was spitting blood from a badly cut lip.\n  2  [V] ~ (at / on sb/sth) to force SALIVA (= the liquid that is produced in the mouth) out of your mouth, often as a sign of anger or lack of respect:\nHe coughed and spat. * The prisoners were spat on by their guards. * She spat in his face and went out. * A gang of youths swore and spat at officials outside the stadium.\n  say sth angrily\n  3  to say sth in an angry or forceful way:\n[V speech] ’You liar!’ she spat. * [VN] He was dragged out of the court, spitting abuse at the judge and jury.\n  of an animal\n  4  [V] to make a short angry sound:\nSnakes spit and hiss when they are cornered. * The cat arched its back and spat at the dog.\n  of sth cooking / burning\n  5  [V] to make a noise and throw out fat, SPARKS, etc:\nsausages spitting in the frying pan * The logs on the fire crackled and spat.\n  rain\n  6  [V] (informal) (only used in the progressive tenses) when it is spitting, it is raining lightly\n IDIOMS \n  spit it out (spoken) usually used in orders to tell sb to say sth when they seem frightened or unwilling to speak:\nIf you’ve got something to say, spit it out!\n  spit venom / blood to show that you are very angry; to speak in an angry way:\nShe looked at him with eyes that spat venom.\n  within spitting distance (of sth) (BrE) (also within shouting distance AmE, BrE) (spoken, informal) very close:\nWe live within spitting distance of the bus station.\nmore at IMAGE\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  spit up (AmE, informal) (especially of a baby) to VOMIT\n    noun\n  in / from mouth\n \n  1  [U] the liquid that is produced in your mouth\nSYN SALIVA\n \n  2  [C, usually sing.] the act of spitting liquid or food out of your mouth\n \n  piece of land\n \n  3  [C] a long thin piece of land that sticks out into the sea/ocean, a lake, etc:\na shingle spit * a remote spit of land on the coast\n \n  for cooking meat\n  4  [C] a long thin metal rod that you put through meat to hold and turn it while you cook it over a fire:\nchickens roasting on a spit\n IDIOMS \n  spit and polish (informal) thorough cleaning and polishing of sth


Words: spite
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun [U] a feeling of wanting to hurt or upset sb\nSYN MALICE:\nI’m sure he only said it out of spite.\n IDIOMS \n  in spite of sth if you say that sb did sth in spite of a fact, you mean it is surprising that that fact did not prevent them from doing it\nSYN DESPITE:\nIn spite of his age, he still leads an active life. * They went swimming in spite of all the danger signs. * English became the official language for business in spite of the fact that the population was largely Chinese.\n  in spite of yourself if you do sth in spite of yourself, you do it although you did not intend or expect to:\nHe fell asleep, in spite of himself. * In spite of herself, tears welled up in her eyes.\n    verb [VN] (only used in the infinitive with to) to deliberately annoy or upset sb:\nThey’re playing the music so loud just to spite us.\n IDIOMS  see NOSE n.


Words: spiteful
Meaning:
adjective\nbehaving in an unkind way in order to hurt or upset sb\nSYN MALICIOUS:\na spiteful child * He made some very spiteful remarks to me.\n    spitefully  adverb:\n’I don’t need you,’ she said spitefully.\n    spitefulness noun [U]


Words: spiv
Meaning:
noun\n(BrE, slang, disapproving) a man who makes his money by being dishonest in business, especially one who dresses in a way that makes people believe he is rich and successful


Words: splash
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb\n  1  [V] (of liquid) to fall noisily onto a surface:\nWater splashed onto the floor. * Rain splashed against the windows. * Big tears ran down her cheeks and splashed onto the paper.\n  2  [VN] ~ sth (on / onto / over sb/sth) | ~ sb/sth (with sth) to make sb/sth wet by making water, mud, etc. fall on them/it:\nHe splashed cold water on his face. * He splashed his face with cold water. * My clothes were splashed with mud. * Stop splashing me! * Try not to splash the leaves when you water the plant.\n  3  [V] to move through water making drops fly everywhere:\nThe kids were splashing through the puddles. * People were having fun in the pool, swimming or just splashing around.\n  4  [VN] ~ sth with sth [usually passive] to decorate sth with areas of bright colour, not in a regular pattern:\nThe walls were splashed with patches of blue and purple.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  splash sth across / over sth to put a photograph, news story, etc. in a place where it will be easily noticed:\nThe story was splashed across the front pages of the Sunday papers. * The name of their sponsors is splashed across the team’s football shirts.\n  splash down (of a spacecraft) to land in the sea or ocean:\nThey are due to splash down in the Pacific tomorrow.\nrelated noun SPLASHDOWN\n  splash out (on sth) | splash sth<->out (on / for sth) (BrE, informal) to spend a lot of money on sth:\nWe’re going to splash out and buy a new car. * He splashed out hundreds of pounds on designer clothes.\n    noun\n  1  [C] the sound of sth hitting liquid or of liquid hitting sth:\nWe heard the splash when she fell into the pool.\n  2  [C] a small amount of liquid that falls onto sth; the mark that this makes:\nsplashes of water on the floor * dark splashes of mud on her skirt * Any splashes on the skin should be removed immediately.\n  3  [C] a small area of bright colour or light that contrasts with the colours around it:\nThese flowers will give a splash of colour throughout the summer.\n  4  [sing.] (BrE, informal) a small amount of liquid that you add to a drink:\ncoffee with just a splash of milk * a scotch with a splash of soda\ncompare DASH\n  5  [sing.] an article in a newspaper, etc. that is intended to attract a lot of attention:\nTheir engagement was the front-page splash in all the papers. * a splash headline / report\n IDIOMS \n  make / cause, etc. a splash (informal) to do sth in a way that attracts a lot of attention, or causes a lot of excitement:\nHer first book made a big splash. * Parents still like to make a splash for a daughter’s wedding.


Words: splashy
Meaning:
adjective\n(splashier, splashiest) (especially AmE) bright and very easy to notice:\na splashy advertising campaign * a dress in a splashy print


Words: splat
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] (informal) the sound made by sth wet hitting a surface with force:\nThe tomato hit the wall with a splat.\n    splat adverb:\nThe omelette fell splat onto the floor.


Words: splatter
Meaning:
verb\n  1  [V] (of large drops of liquid) to fall or hit sth noisily:\nHeavy rain splattered on the roof.\n  2  to drop or throw water, paint, mud, etc. on sb/sth; to make sb/sth wet or dirty by landing on them in large drops:\n[VN] The walls were splattered with blood. * [V] Coffee had splattered across the front of his shirt.


Words: splay
Meaning:
verb\n~ (sth) (out) to make fingers, legs, etc. become further apart from each other or spread out; to be spread out wide apart:\n[VN] She lay on the bed, her arms and legs splayed out. * [V] His long fingers splayed across her back.


Words: spleen
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [C] a small organ near the stomach that controls the quality of the blood:\na ruptured spleen\n  2  [U] (literary) anger:\nHe vented his spleen (= shouted in an angry way) on the assembled crowd.\nsee also SPLENETIC


Words: splendid
Meaning:
adjective, exclamation \n    adjective (especially BrE)\n  1  (old-fashioned) excellent; very good:\nWhat a splendid idea! * We’ve all had a splendid time. * It will be a splendid opportunity to practise your Spanish. * The meal was simply splendid.\n  2  very impressive; very beautiful:\na splendid house / castle * The hotel stands in splendid isolation, surrounded by moorland.\n    splendidly adverb:\nYou all played splendidly. * The guests were splendidly dressed.\n    exclamation (old-fashioned, especially BrE) used to express approval or pleasure


Words: splendour
Meaning:
(BrE) (AmE splendor)  noun\n  1  [U] grand and impressive beauty:\na view of Rheims Cathedral, in all its splendour * The palace has been restored to its former splendour.\n  2  (splendours) [pl.] the beautiful and impressive features or qualities of sth, especially a place:\nthe splendours of Rome (= its fine buildings, etc.)


Words: splice
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb [VN] ~ sth (together)\n  1  to join the ends of two pieces of rope by weaving them together\n  2  to join the ends of two pieces of film, tape, etc. by sticking them together\n IDIOMS \n  get spliced (old-fashioned, BrE, informal) to get married\n    noun the place where two pieces of film, tape, rope, etc. have been joined


Words: splint
Meaning:
noun\na long piece of wood or metal that is tied to a broken arm or leg to keep it still and in the right position


Words: splinter
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun a small thin sharp piece of wood, metal, glass, etc. that has broken off a larger piece:\nsplinters of glass * to remove a splinter from your finger\n    verb\n  1  (of wood, glass, stone, etc.) to break, or to make sth break, into small, thin sharp pieces:\n[V] The mirror cracked but did not splinter. * The vase splintered into a thousand pieces. * [VN] The impact splintered the wood.\n  2  [V] (of a group of people) to divide into smaller groups that are no longer connected; to separate from a larger group:\nThe party began to splinter. * Several firms have splintered off from the original company.


Words: split
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb (splitting, split, split)\n  divide\n  1  to divide, or to make a group of people divide, into smaller groups that have very different opinions:\n[VN] a debate that has split the country down the middle * [V] The committee split over government subsidies.\n  2  ~ (sth) (into sth) to divide, or to make sth divide, into two or more parts:\n[VN] She split the class into groups of four. * [V] The results split neatly into two groups. * Slate splits easily into thin sheets.\nsee also SPLIT UP\n  3  [VN] ~ sth (between sb/sth) | ~ sth (with sb) to divide sth into two or more parts and share it between different people, activities, etc:\nShe split the money she won with her brother. * We share a house and split all the bills. * His time is split between the London and Paris offices.\nsee also SPLIT UP\n  tear\n  4  ~ (sth) (open) to tear, or to make sth tear, along a straight line:\n[V] Her dress had split along the seam. * [V-ADJ] The cushion split open and sent feathers everywhere. * [VN] Don’t tell me you’ve split another pair of pants! [also VN-ADJ]\n  cut\n  5  ~ sth (open) to cut sb’s skin and make it bleed:\n[VN-ADJ] She split her head open on the cupboard door. * [VN] How did you split your lip?\n  end relationship\n  6  [V] ~ (from / with sb) to leave sb and stop having a relationship with them:\nThe singer split with his wife last June. * She intends to split from the band at the end of the tour.\nsee also SPLIT UP\n  leave\n  7  [V] (old-fashioned, informal) to leave a place quickly:\nLet’s split!\n IDIOMS \n  split the difference (when discussing a price, etc.) to agree on an amount that is exactly halfway between the two amounts that have been suggested\n  split hairs to pay too much attention in an argument to differences that are very small and not important\n  split an infinitive to place an adverb between ’to’ and the INFINITIVE of a verb, for example, to say ’to strongly deny a rumour’. Some people consider this to be bad English style.\n  split your sides (laughing / with laughter) to laugh a lot at sb/sth\n  split the ticket (AmE, politics) to vote for candidates from more than one party\nmore at MIDDLE n.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  split away / off (from sth) | split sth<->away / off (from sth) to separate from, or to separate sth from, a larger object or group:\nA rebel faction has split away from the main group. * The storm split a branch off from the main trunk.\n  split on sb (to sb) (BrE, informal) to tell sb in authority about sth wrong, dishonest etc. that sb else has done:\nDon’t worry-he won’t split on us.\n  split up (with sb) to stop having a relationship with sb:\nMy parents split up last year. * She’s split up with her boyfriend.\n  split sb up to make two people stop having a relationship with each other:\nMy friend is doing her best to split us up.\n  split sb up | split up to divide a group of people into smaller parts; to become divided up in this way:\nWe were split up into groups to discuss the question. * Let’s split up now and meet again at lunchtime.\n  split sth<->up to divide sth into smaller parts:\nThe day was split up into 6 one-hour sessions.\n    noun\n  disagreement\n  1  [C] ~ (between A and B) | ~ (with sb/sth) a disagreement that divides a group of people or makes sb separate from sb else:\na damaging split within the party leadership * the years following his bitter split with his wife * There have been reports of a split between the Prime Minister and the Cabinet.\n  division\n  2  [sing.] a division between two or more things; one of the parts that sth is divided into:\nHe demanded a 5050 split in the profits.\n  tear / hole\n  3  [C] a long crack or hole made when sth tears:\nThere’s a big split in the tent.\n  banana dish\n  4  [C] a sweet dish made from fruit, especially a BANANA cut in two along its length, with cream, ice cream, etc. on top:\na banana split\n  body position\n  5  (the splits) [pl.] (AmE also split [sing.]) a position in which you stretch your legs flat across the floor in opposite directions with the rest of your body upright:\na gymnast doing the splits


Words: split ends
Meaning:
noun\n[pl.] if you have split ends, some of your hairs have divided into parts at the ends because they are dry or in poor condition


Words: split infinitive
Meaning:
noun\n(grammar) the form of the verb with to, with an adverb placed between to and the verb, as in She seems to really like it. Some people consider this to be bad English style.


Words: split screen
Meaning:
noun\na way of displaying two or more pictures or pieces of information at the same time on a television, cinema or computer screen\n    split-screen adjective [only before noun]:\na movie with several split-screen sequences


Words: split ticket
Meaning:
noun\n(in elections in the US) a vote in which sb votes for candidates from two different parties\n    split-ticket adjective:\na split-ticket vote


Words: split-second
Meaning:
adjective\n[only before noun] done very quickly or very accurately:\nShe had to make a split-second decision. * The success of the raid depended on split-second timing.


Words: splitting
Meaning:
adjective\n[only before noun] if you have a splitting headache, you have a very bad pain in your head


Words: splodge
Meaning:
, AmE, BrE) noun\na large mark or spot of ink, paint, mud, etc.; a small area of colour or light:\nHe had a splodge of oil on his cheek.


Words: splurge
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun [usually sing.] (informal) an act of spending a lot of money on sth that you do not really need\n    verb [VN, V] ~ (sth) (on sth) (informal) to spend a lot of money on sth that you do not really need


Words: splutter
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb\n  1  ~ sth (out) | ~ (with sth) to speak quickly and with difficulty, making soft SPITTING sounds, because you are angry or embarrassed\nSYN SPUTTER:\n[V speech] ’But, but ...you can’t!’ she spluttered. * [VN] Her father spluttered indignation. [also V]\n  2  [V] to make a series of short explosive sounds\nSYN SPUTTER:\nThe firework spluttered and went out. * She fled from the blaze, coughing and spluttering.\n    noun a short explosive sound:\nThe car started with a splutter.


Words: spoil
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb (spoiled, spoiled )\n  1  [VN] to change sth good into sth bad, unpleasant, useless, etc.\nSYN RUIN:\nOur camping trip was spoilt by bad weather. * Don’t let him spoil your evening. * The tall buildings have spoiled the view. * Don’t eat too many nuts-you’ll spoil your appetite (= will no longer be hungry at mealtime). * (BrE) spoiled ballot papers (= not valid because not correctly marked) * I won’t tell you what happens in the last chapter-I don’t want to spoil it for you.\n  2  [VN] to give a child everything that they ask for and not enough discipline in a way that has a bad effect on their character and behaviour:\nShe spoils those kids of hers.\n  3  [VN] ~ sb / yourself to make sb/yourself happy by doing sth special:\nWhy not spoil yourself with a weekend in a top hotel? * He really spoiled me on my birthday.\n  4  [V] (of food) to become bad so that it can no longer be eaten\n IDIOMS \n  be spoiling for a fight to want to fight with sb very much\nmore at COOK n.\n    noun\n  1  (the spoils) [pl.] (formal or literary) goods stolen from a place by thieves or by an army that has won a battle or war:\nthe spoils of war / conquest * The robbers divided up the spoils.\n  2  (spoils) [pl.] the profits or advantages that sb gets from being successful:\nthe spoils of high office * The two teams shared the spoils with a 11 result.\n  3  [U] (technical) waste material that is brought up when a hole is dug, etc.


Words: spoiler
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a part of an aircraft’s wing that can be raised in order to interrupt the flow of air over it and so slow the aircraft’s speed\n  2  a raised part on a fast car that prevents it from being lifted off the road when travelling very fast:\nrear / front spoilers\n  3  (especially AmE) a candidate for a political office who is unlikely to win but who may get enough votes to prevent one of the main candidates from winning\n  4  a person or thing that spoils sth\n  5  a newspaper story, book, etc. that is produced very quickly in order to take attention away from a competitor’s one that appears at the same time


Words: spoilsport
Meaning:
noun\n(informal) a person who spoils other people’s enjoyment, for example by not taking part in an activity or by trying to stop other people from doing it:\nDon’t be such a spoilsport!


Words: spoilt
Meaning:
, AmE, BrE) adjective\n(of a child) rude and badly behaved because they are given everything they ask for and not enough discipline:\na spoiled brat * He’s spoilt rotten (= a lot).\n IDIOMS \n  be spoilt for choice (BrE) to have such a lot of things to choose from that it is very difficult to make a decision


Words: spoke
Meaning:
noun\none of the thin bars or rods that connect the centre of a wheel to its outer edge, for example on a bicycle\n \n IDIOMS \n \n  put a spoke in sb’s wheel (BrE) to prevent sb from carrying out their plans\nsee also SPEAK, SPOKE, SPOKEN v.


Words: spoken
Meaning:
1  past participle of SPEAK\n  2  (-spoken) (in adjectives) speaking in the way mentioned:\na quietly spoken man\nsee also OUTSPOKEN


Words: spoken for
Meaning:
adjective\n[not before noun] already claimed or being kept for sb:\nI’m afraid you can’t sit there-those seats are spoken for. * Liza is already spoken for (= she is already married or has a boyfriend).


Words: spokesman
Meaning:
noun\n(plural spokesmen sth) a person who speaks on behalf of a group or an organization:\na police spokesman * A spokeswoman for the government denied the rumours. -> GENDER


Words: spokesperson
Meaning:
noun\n(plural spokespersons or spokespeople) ~ (for sb/sth) a person who speaks on behalf of a group or an organization


Words: sponge
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n\n \n  1  [C] a piece of artificial or natural material that is soft and light and full of holes and can hold water easily, used for washing or cleaning:\na bath sponge (= to wash your body with in the bath) * (figurative) His mind was like a sponge, ready to absorb anything.\n \n  2  [U] artificial sponge used for filling furniture, cushions, etc.\n \n  3  [C] a simple sea creature with a light body full of holes, from which natural sponge is obtained\n \n  4  [C, U] (BrE) = SPONGE CAKE:\na chocolate sponge\n    verb\n  1  [VN] ~ sb / yourself / sth (down) to wash sb/yourself/sth with a wet cloth or SPONGE:\nShe sponged his hot face. * Take your jacket off and I’ll sponge it down with water.\n  2  [VN +adv./prep.] to remove sth using a wet cloth or SPONGE:\nWe tried to sponge the blood off my shirt.\n  3  [V] ~ (off / on sb) (informal, disapproving) to get money, food, etc. regularly from other people without doing anything for them or offering to pay:\nHe spent his whole life sponging off his relatives.


Words: sponge bag
Meaning:
(also toilet bag, washbag) noun\n(all BrE) a small bag for holding your soap, TOOTHBRUSH, etc., especially when you are travelling


Words: sponge pudding
Meaning:
noun\n[U, C] (BrE) a hot DESSERT (= a sweet dish) like a sponge cake that usually has jam or fruit on top:\nsponge pudding and custard


Words: sponger
Meaning:
noun\n(disapproving) a person who gets money, food, etc. from other people without doing anything for them or offering to pay


Words: spongiform
Meaning:
adjective\n(medical) having or relating to a structure with holes in it like a SPONGE:\nbovine spongiform encephalopathy (= a disease of cows in which the brain develops this structure)\nsee also BSE


Words: spongy
Meaning:
adjective\nsoft and able to absorb water easily like a SPONGE:\nspongy moss * The ground was soft and spongy. * The bread had a spongy texture.\n    sponginess noun [U]


Words: sponsor
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  1  a person or company that pays for a radio or television programme, or for a concert or sporting event, usually in return for advertising:\nThe race organizers are trying to attract sponsors. * The first episode of the new programme attracted the number of viewers that the sponsors had been guaranteed.\n  2  a person who agrees to give sb money for a charity if that person succeeds in completing a particular activity:\nI’m collecting sponsors for next week’s charity run.\n  3  a person or company that supports sb by paying for their training or education:\nUnless he can find a sponsor he’ll be forced to retire from athletics.\n  4  a person who introduces and supports a proposal for a new law, etc:\nthe sponsor of the new immigration bill\n  5  a person who agrees to be officially responsible for another person\n  6  a person who presents a child for Christian BAPTISM or CONFIRMATION\nSYN GODPARENT\n    verb\n  1  [VN] (of a company, etc.) to pay the costs of a particular event, programme, etc. as a way of advertising:\nsports events sponsored by the tobacco industry\n  2  [VN] to arrange for sth official to take place:\nThe US is sponsoring negotiations between the two sides.\n  3  to agree to give sb money for a charity if they complete a particular task:\n[VN] Will you sponsor me for a charity walk I’m doing? * a sponsored walk / swim [also VN to inf]\n  4  [VN] to support sb by paying for their training or education:\nShe found a company to sponsor her through college.\n  5  [VN] (technical) to introduce a proposal for a new law, etc:\nThe bill was sponsored by a Labour MP.


Words: sponsorship
Meaning:
noun [U]\n  1  financial support from a sponsor:\na $50 million sponsorship deal * The project needs to raise ｣8 million in sponsorship. * We need to find sponsorship for the expedition.\n  2  the act of sponsoring sb/sth or being sponsored:\nthe senator’s sponsorship of the job training legislation


Words: spontaneity
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the quality of being spontaneous:\nThere is a lack of spontaneity in her performance. * the contrast between an adult’s formality and a child’s spontaneity


Words: spontaneous
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  not planned but done because you suddenly want to do it:\na spontaneous offer of help * The audience burst into spontaneous applause.\n  2  (of a person) often doing things without planning to, because they suddenly want to do them\n  3  (technical) happening naturally, without being made to happen:\nspontaneous remission of the disease * a spontaneous abortion (= a MISCARRIAGE)\n  4  done naturally, without being forced or practised:\na tape recording of spontaneous speech * a wonderfully spontaneous performance of the piece\n    spontaneously adverb:\nWe spontaneously started to dance. * The bleeding often stops spontaneously.


Words: spontaneous combustion
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the burning of a mineral or vegetable substance caused by chemical changes inside it and not by fire or heat from outside


Words: spoof
Meaning:
noun\n(informal) a humorous copy of a film/movie, television programme, etc. that exaggerates its main features:\nIt’s a spoof on horror movies. * a spoof game show / a game show spoof\n    spoof verb [V, VN]


Words: spook
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun (informal)\n  1  a ghost:\na castle haunted by spooks\n  2  (especially AmE) a SPY:\na CIA spook\n    verb (informal, especially AmE) to frighten a person or an animal; to become frightened: [VN] [usually passive] We were spooked by the strange noises and lights. * [V] The horse spooked at the siren.


Words: spooky
Meaning:
adjective\n(spookier, spookiest)\n HELP NOTE  You can also use more spooky and most spooky. (informal) strange and frightening:\na spooky old house * a spooky atmosphere / feeling * I was just thinking about her when she phoned. Spooky!


Words: spool
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun (especially AmE) = REEL (1):\na spool of thread\n    verb [VN +adv./prep.] \n  1  to wind sth onto or off a spool\n  2  [VN, V] (computing) to move data and store it for a short time, for example on a disk, especially before it is printed


Words: spoon
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n\n \n  1  a tool that has a handle with a shallow bowl at the end, used for stirring, serving and eating food:\na soup spoon * a wooden spoon * Remove the onion from the oil with a slotted spoon.\nsee also DESSERTSPOON, GREASY SPOON, TABLESPOON, TEASPOON\n \n  2  = SPOONFUL\n \n IDIOMS  see BORN\n    verb [VN +adv./prep.] to lift and move food with a spoon:\nShe spooned the sauce over the chicken pieces.


Words: spoon-feed
Meaning:
verb [VN] \n  1  ~ sb (with sth) | ~ sth to sb (disapproving) to teach people sth in a way that gives them too much help and does not make them think for themselves:\nThe students here do not expect to be spoon-fed. * They had information spoon-fed to them.\n  2  to feed sb, especially a baby, with a spoon


Words: spoonerism
Meaning:
noun\na mistake in which you accidentally change around the first sounds of two words when saying them, often with a humorous result, for example well-boiled icicle for well-oiled bicycle\n ORIGIN  Named after W.A. Spooner, (18441930), the head of New College, Oxford, who was said to make many mistakes like this when he spoke.


Words: sporadic
Meaning:
adjective\n(written) happening only occasionally or at intervals that are not regular:\nsporadic fighting / gunfire / violence * sporadic outbreaks of the disease\n    sporadically  adverb:\nShe attended lectures only sporadically. * Fighting continued sporadically for two months.


Words: spore
Meaning:
noun\n(biology) one of the very small cells like seeds that are produced by some plants and that develop into new plants:\nFerns, mosses and fungi produce spores.


Words: sporran
Meaning:
noun\na flat bag, usually made of leather or fur, that is worn by men in front of the KILT as part of the Scottish national dress


Words: sport
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  1  [U] (BrE) (AmE sports [pl.]) activity that you do for pleasure and that needs physical effort or skill, usually done in a special area and according to fixed rules:\nThere are excellent facilities for sport and recreation. * I’m not interested in sport. * the use of drugs in sport\n  2  [C] a particular form of sport:\nWhat’s your favourite sport? * team / water sports * a sports club\nsee also BLOOD SPORT, FIELD SPORTS, SPECTATOR SPORT, WINTER SPORTS\n  3  [C] (informal, especially AustralE) used as a friendly way of greeting sb, especially a man:\nHow are you doing, sport? * Good on you, sport!\n  4  [U] (formal) amusement or fun:\nThe comments were only made in sport. * to make sport of (= to joke about) sb/sth\n  5  [C] (technical) a plant or an animal that is different in a noticeable way from its usual type\n IDIOMS \n  be a (good) sport (informal) to be generous, cheerful and pleasant, especially in a difficult situation:\nShe’s a good sport. * Go on, be a sport (= used when asking sb to help you).\n    verb\n  1  [VN] to have or wear sth in a proud way so that everyone can see:\nto sport a beard / a diamond ring / a flower in your buttonhole * She was sporting a T-shirt with the company’s logo on it.\n  2  [V +adv./prep.] (literary) to play in a happy and lively way


Words: sporting
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  [only before noun] connected with sports:\na major sporting event * a range of sporting activities * His main sporting interests are golf and tennis. * (AmE) a store selling sporting goods\n  2  (especially BrE) fair and generous in your treatment of other people, especially in a game or sport\nOPP for sense 2 UNSPORTING\n    sportingly adverb:\nHe sportingly agreed to play the point again.\n IDIOMS \n  a sporting chance a reasonable chance of success


Words: sports day
Meaning:
(BrE) (AmE field day) noun\na special day at school when there are no classes and children compete in sports events


Words: sportsman
Meaning:
noun\n(plural sportsmen ) (especially BrE) a person who takes part in sport, especially sb who is very good at it\nSYN ATHLETE:\na keen sportswoman * He is one of this country’s top professional sportsmen.


Words: sportsmanlike
Meaning:
adjective\nbehaving in a fair, generous and polite way, especially when playing a sport or game:\na sportsmanlike attitude


Words: sportsmanship
Meaning:
noun\n[U] fair, generous and polite behaviour, especially when playing a sport or game:\nHe has a reputation for fair play and good sportsmanship.


Words: sportsperson
Meaning:
noun\n(plural sportspersons or sportspeople) (especially BrE) a person who takes part in sport, especially sb who is very good at it\nSYN ATHLETE


Words: sportswear
Meaning:
noun [U]\n  1  (especially BrE) clothes that are worn for playing sports, or in informal situations\n  2  (especially AmE) clothes that are worn in informal situations


Words: sporty
Meaning:
adjective (sportier, sportiest) (informal)\n  1  (especially BrE) liking or good at sport:\nI’m not very sporty.\n  2  (of clothes) bright, attractive and informal; looking suitable for wearing for sports:\na sporty cotton top\n  3  (of cars) fast and elegant:\na sporty Mercedes


Words: spot
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  small mark\n \n  1  a small round area that has a different colour or feels different from the surface it is on:\nWhich has spots, the leopard or the tiger? * The male bird has a red spot on its beak. * (BrE) She was wearing a black skirt with white spots.\nsee also BEAUTY SPOT, SUNSPOT\n \n  2  a small dirty mark on sth:\nHis jacket was covered with spots of mud. * grease / rust spots\n \n  3  [usually pl.] a small mark or lump on a person’s skin, sometimes with a yellow head to it:\nThe baby’s whole body was covered in small red spots. * (BrE) teenagers worried about their spots\ncompare PIMPLE, RASH, ZIT\n  place\n  4  a particular area or place:\na quiet / secluded / lonely spot * He showed me the exact spot where he had asked her to marry him. * She stood rooted to the spot with fear (= unable to move). * a picnic / tourist spot * This is a favourite spot for walkers and climbers.\nsee also BLACK SPOT, BLIND SPOT, HOT SPOT, NIGHTSPOT, TROUBLE SPOT\n  small amount\n  5  [usually sing.] ~ of sth (BrE, informal) a small amount of sth:\nHe’s in a spot of trouble. * Would you like a spot of lunch? * She’s gone out to do a spot of shopping.\n  6  [usually pl.] ~ (of sth) a small amount of a liquid:\nI felt a few spots of rain.\n  part of show\n  7  a part of a television, radio, club or theatre show that is given to a particular entertainer or type of entertainment:\na guest / solo spot\n  in competition\n  8  a position in a competition or an event:\ntwo teams battling for top spot\n  light\n  9  (informal) = SPOTLIGHT\n  business\n  10  [sing.] (used before nouns to make compound nouns) connected with a system of trading where goods are delivered and paid for immediately after sale:\nspot prices * spot goods\n IDIOMS \n  in a (tight) spot (informal) in a difficult situation:\nShe’ll always help you if you’re in a spot.\n  on the spot\n1 immediately:\nHe answered the question on the spot. * an on-the-spot parking fine\n2 at the actual place where sth is happening:\nAn ambulance was on the spot within minutes. * an on-the-spot report\n3 in one exact place, without moving in any direction:\nRunning on the spot is good exercise.\n  put sb on the spot to make sb feel awkward or embarrassed by asking them a difficult question:\nThe interviewer’s questions really put him on the spot.\nmore at BRIGHT adj., GLUE v., HIT v., KNOCK v., LEOPARD, RIVET v., SOFT\n    verb (-tt-)\n  1  (not used in the progressive tenses) to see or notice a person or thing, especially suddenly or when it is not easy to do so:\n[VN] I finally spotted my friend in the crowd. * I’ve just spotted a mistake on the front cover. * Can you spot the difference between these two pictures? * Her modelling career began when she was spotted at the age of 14. * Spotting the disease early can save lives. * [VN -ing] Neighbours spotted smoke coming out of the house. * [V that] No one spotted that the gun was a fake. * [V wh-] I soon spotted what the mistake was.\nsee also SPOTTER\n  2  [VNN] (AmE, sport) to give your opponent or the other team an advantage:\nWe spotted the opposing team two goals.\n IDIOMS \n  be spotted with sth to be covered with small round marks of sth:\nHis shirt was spotted with oil.


Words: spot check
Meaning:
noun\na check that is made suddenly and without warning on a few things or people chosen from a group to see that everything is satisfactory:\nto carry out random spot checks on vehicles


Words: spot on
Meaning:
adjective\n[not before noun] (BrE, informal) exactly right:\nHis assessment of the situation was spot on.


Words: spotless
Meaning:
adjective\nperfectly clean:\na spotless white shirt * She keeps the house spotless. * I want this place spotless. * (figurative) He has a spotless record so far.\n    spotlessly adverb:\nspotlessly clean * The rooms are spotlessly kept.


Words: spotlight
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n\n \n  1  (also informal spot) [C] a light with a single, very bright beam that can be directed at a particular place or person; the area of light from this:\nThe room was lit by spotlights. * She stood alone on stage in the spotlight.\n \n  2  (the spotlight) [sing.] attention from newspapers, television and the public:\nUnemployment is once again in the spotlight. * The issue will come under the spotlight when parliament reassembles. * The report has turned the spotlight on the startling rise in street crime. * She was happy to share the spotlight with her sister.\n    verb (spotlit, spotlit  )\n HELP NOTE  Especially in sense 2, spotlighted is also used for the past tense and past participle.) [VN] \n  1  to shine a spotlight on sb/sth:\na spotlit stage\n  2  to give special attention to a problem, situation, etc. so that people notice it\nSYN HIGHLIGHT:\nThe programme spotlights serious financial problems in the health service.


Words: spotted
Meaning:
adjective\n \n  1  (of fabric, etc.) having a regular pattern of round dots on it:\na black and white spotted dress\n \n  2  having dark marks on it, sometimes in a pattern:\na leopard’s spotted coat


Words: spotter
Meaning:
noun\n  1  (especially in compounds) a person who looks for a particular type of thing or person, as a hobby or job:\na talent spotter (= sb who visits clubs and theatres looking for new performers)\nsee also TRAINSPOTTER\n  2  (also spotter plane) a plane used for finding out what an enemy is doing


Words: spotty
Meaning:
adjective\n \n  1  (BrE, usually disapproving) (of a person) having a lot of spots on the skin:\na spotty adolescent * a spotty face / skin\n \n  2  (AmE) = PATCHY (2)


Words: spouse
Meaning:
noun\n(formal or law) a husband or wife:\nFill in your spouse’s name here.\n    spousal  adjective [only before noun] (AmE, formal):\nspousal consent / support * spousal abuse


Words: spout
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n\n \n  1  [C] a pipe or tube on a container, that you can pour liquid out through:\nthe spout of a teapot\n \n  2  a stream of liquid coming out of somewhere with great force\n \n IDIOMS \n \n  be / go up the spout (BrE, slang) to be/go wrong; to be spoilt or not working:\nWell, that’s my holiday plans gone up the spout!\n    verb\n  1  to send out sth, especially a liquid, in a stream with great force; to come out of sth in this way:\n[VN] The wound was still spouting blood. * The geyser spouted huge columns of water from the ground. * [V +adv./prep.] Clear water spouted from the fountains.\n  2  [V] (of a WHALE) to send out a stream of water from a hole in its head\n  3  ~ (off / on) (about sth) (informal, disapproving) to speak a lot about sth; to repeat sth in a boring or annoying way:\n[V] He’s always spouting off about being a vegetarian. * What are you spouting on about now? * [VN] He could spout poetry for hours. * She could do nothing but spout insults. * The article was full of the usual cliches spouted by fashion editors.


Words: sprain
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] to injure a joint in your body, especially your wrist or ankle, by suddenly twisting it:\nI stumbled and sprained my ankle.\n    sprain noun:\na bad ankle sprain


Words: sprawl
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb [V +adv./prep.] \n  1  to sit or lie with your arms and legs spread out in a relaxed or awkward way:\nHe was sprawling in an armchair in front of the TV. * Something hit her and sent her sprawling to the ground. * I tripped and went sprawling.\n  2  to spread in an untidy way; to cover a large area:\nThe town sprawled along the side of the lake.\n    noun\n  1  [C, usually sing, U] a large area covered with buildings that spreads from the city into the countryside in an ugly way:\nattempts to control the fast-growing urban sprawl\n  2  [C, usually sing.] an act of spreading to cover a large area in an untidy way; sth that spreads like this


Words: sprawled
Meaning:
adjective\nsitting or lying with your arms and legs spread out in a lazy or awkward way:\nHe was lying sprawled in an armchair, watching TV.


Words: sprawling
Meaning:
adjective\n[only before noun] spreading in an untidy way:\na modern sprawling town * sprawling handwriting


Words: spray
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n\n \n  1  [U, C] very small drops of a liquid that are sent through the air, for example by the wind:\nsea spray * A cloud of fine spray came up from the waterfall. * (figurative) a spray of machine-gun bullets\n \n  2  [U, C] (especially in compounds) a substance that is forced out of a container such as an AEROSOL, in very small drops:\na can of insect spray (= used to kill insects) * body spray\nsee also HAIRSPRAY\n \n  3  [C] a device or container, for example, an AEROSOL, that you use to apply liquid in fine drops:\nI need a new throat spray. * It’s better to buy a non-aerosol spray. * Use a spray to apply the weedkiller.\n  4  [C] an act of applying liquid to sth in very small drops:\nI’ll just give the plants a quick spray.\n  5  [C] a small branch of a tree or plant, with its leaves and flowers or berries, that you use for decoration\n  6  [C] an attractive arrangement of flowers or jewels, that you wear:\na spray of orchids\n    verb\n  1  ~ sth (on / onto / over sb/sth) | ~ sb/sth (with sth) to cover sb/sth with very small drops of a liquid that are forced out of a container or sent through the air:\n[VN] Spray the conditioner onto your wet hair. * The crops are regularly sprayed with pesticide. * [VN-ADJ] She’s had the car sprayed blue. * [V] Champagne sprayed everywhere.\n  2  ~ sb/sth (with sth) to cover sb/sth with a lot of small things with a lot of force:\n[VN] The gunman sprayed the building with bullets. * [V] Pieces of glass sprayed all over the room.\n  3  [V] (especially of a male cat) to leave small amounts of URINE to mark its own area


Words: spray can
Meaning:
noun\na small metal container that has paint in it under pressure and that you use to spray paint onto sth


Words: spray paint
Meaning:
noun\n[U] paint that is kept in a container under pressure and that you can spray onto sth:\na can of red spray paint\n    spray-paint verb:\n[VN] The walls were spray-painted with slogans.


Words: spray-on
Meaning:
adjective\n[only before noun] (especially BrE) that you can spray onto sth/sb from a special container:\na spray-on water repellent for shoes


Words: sprayer
Meaning:
noun\na piece of equipment used for spraying liquid, especially paint or a substance used to kill insects that damage crops:\na paint / crop sprayer


Words: spread
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb (spread, spread)\n  open / arrange\n  1  [VN] ~ sth (out) (on / over sth) to open sth that has been folded so that it covers a larger area than before:\nto spread a cloth on a table * Sue spread the map out on the floor. * The bird spread its wings.\n  2  [VN] ~ sth (out) (on / over sth) to arrange objects so that they cover a large area and can be seen easily:\nPapers had been spread out on the desk.\n  arms / legs\n  3  [VN] ~ sth (out) to move your arms, legs, fingers, etc. far apart from each other:\nShe spread her arms and the child ran towards her.\n  among people\n  4  to affect or make sth affect, be known by, or used by more and more people: [V, usually +adv./prep.] The disease spreads easily. * Within weeks, his confidence had spread throughout the team. * Use of computers spread rapidly during that period. * [VN] to spread rumours / lies about sb * The disease is spread by mosquitoes.\n  cover large area\n  5  [usually +adv./prep.] to cover, or to make sth cover, a larger and larger area:\n[V] The fire rapidly spread to adjoining buildings. * Water began to spread across the floor. * A smile spread slowly across her face. * [VN] Using too much water could spread the stain.\n  6  [VN] to cause sb/sth to be in a number of different places:\nSeeds and pollen are spread by the wind. * We have 10 000 members spread all over the country.\n  7  [V +adv./prep.] ~ (out) to cover a large area:\nThe valley spread out beneath us.\n  soft layer\n  8  ~ (A on / over B) | ~ (B with A) to put a layer of a substance onto the surface of sth; to be able to be put onto a surface:\n[VN] to spread butter on pieces of toast * pieces of toast spread with butter * [V] If the paint is too thick, it will not spread evenly.\n  divide / share\n  9  [VN] ~ sth (out) (over sth) to separate sth into parts and divide them between different times or different people:\nA series of five interviews will be spread over two days. * Why not pay monthly and spread the cost of your car insurance? * We attempted to spread the workload between the departments.\n    spreader noun:\na spreader of gossip * a glue spreader\n IDIOMS \n  spread like wildfire (of news, etc.) to become known by more and more people very quickly:\nRumours of his death spread like wildfire.\n  spread your net to consider a wide range of possibilities or cover a large area, especially to try to find sb/sth:\nThey have spread their net far and wide in the search for a new team coach.\n  spread your wings to become more independent and confident and try new activities, etc:\nGoing to college gave her the chance to spread her wings.\n  spread the word to tell people about sth\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  spread out | spread yourself out\n1 to stretch your body or arrange your things over a large area:\nThere’s more room to spread out in first class. * Do you have to spread yourself out all over the sofa?\n2 to separate from other people in a group, to cover a larger area:\nThe searchers spread out to cover the area faster.\n    noun\n  increase\n  1  [U] an increase in the amount or number of sth that there is, or in the area that is affected by sth:\nto prevent the spread of disease / infection * to encourage the spread of information / knowledge * Shut doors to delay the spread of fire. * the spread of a city into the surrounding areas\nsee also MIDDLE-AGE SPREAD\n  range / variety\n  2  [C, usually sing.] a range or variety of people or things:\na broad spread of investments / opinions * There was a good spread of scores on the test.\n  on bread\n  3  [C, U] a soft food that you put on bread:\nUse a low-fat spread instead of butter. * cheese spread\n  area covered\n  4  [usually sing.] ~ (of sth) the area that sth exists in or happens in:\nThe company has a good geographical spread of hotels in this country.\n  5  [usually sing.] ~ (of sth) how wide sth is or the area that sth covers:\nThe bird’s wings have a spread of nearly a metre.\n  in newspaper / magazine\n  6  [C] an article or advertisement in a newspaper or magazine, especially one that covers two opposite pages:\nThe story continued with a double-page spread on the inside pages.\nsee also CENTRE SPREAD\n  meal\n  7  [C] (informal) a large meal, especially one that is prepared for a special occasion:\nThey had laid on a huge spread for the party.\n  of land / water\n  8  [usually sing.] ~ (of sth) (AmE) an area of land or water:\na vast spread of water * (AmE) They have a huge spread in California (= a large farm or ranch).\n  finance\n  9  [U] the difference between two rates or prices\n  on bed\n  10  [C] (AmE) = BEDSPREAD


Words: spreadeagled
Meaning:
(BrE) (AmE spreadeagle) adjective\n[not usually before noun] in a position with your arms and legs spread out:\nHe lay spreadeagled on the floor.\n    spreadeagle verb [VN]


Words: spreadsheet
Meaning:
noun\na computer program that is used, for example, when doing financial or project planning. You enter data in rows and columns and the program calculates costs, etc. from it.


Words: spree
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a short period of time that you spend doing one particular activity that you enjoy, but often too much of it:\na shopping / spending spree * He’s out on a spree.\n  2  (used especially in newspapers) a period of activity, especially criminal activity:\nto go on a killing / wrecking spree


Words: sprig
Meaning:
noun\na small stem with leaves on it from a plant or bush, used in cooking or as a decoration:\na sprig of parsley / holly / heather


Words: sprigged
Meaning:
adjective\n(especially of fabric or paper) decorated with patterns of stems with leaves or flowers on


Words: sprightly
Meaning:
(also less frequent spry) adjective\n(especially of older people) full of life and energy:\na sprightly 80-year-old * She’s very sprightly for her age.\n    sprightliness noun [U]


Words: spring
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  season\n \n  1  [U, C] the season between winter and summer when plants begin to grow:\nflowers that bloom in spring / in the spring * He was born in the spring of 1944. * There’s a feeling of spring in the air today. * spring flowers / weather\n \n  twisted wire\n \n  2  [C] a twisted piece of metal that can be pushed, pressed or pulled but which always returns to its original shape or position afterwards:\nbed springs * The springs in the sofa have gone (= they no longer return to their original position). * She’s full of energy, like a coiled spring.\n \n  3  [U] the ability of a spring to return to its original position:\nThe mattress has lost its spring.\n  water\n  4  [C] a place where water comes naturally to the surface from under the ground:\na mountain spring * spring water\n  cheerful quality\n  5  [U, sing.] a cheerful, lively quality:\nShe walked along with a spring in her step.\n  sudden jump\n  6  [C] a quick sudden jump upwards or forwards:\nWith a spring, the cat leapt on to the table.\n IDIOMS  see JOY\n    verb (sprang ) (AmE also sprung, sprung)\n  jump / move suddenly\n  1  [V]   [usually +adv./prep.] (of a person or an animal) to move suddenly and with one quick movement in a particular direction:\nHe turned off the alarm and sprang out of bed. * Everyone sprang to their feet (= stood up suddenly) when the principal walked in. * The cat crouched ready to spring. * The attacker sprang out at her from a doorway. * (figurative) to spring to sb’s defence / assistance (= to quickly defend or help sb)\n  2  (of an object) to move suddenly and violently: [V, +adv./prep.] The branch sprang back and hit him in the face. * [V-ADJ] She turned the key and the lid sprang open.\n  surprise\n  3  [VN] ~ sth (on sb) to do sth, ask sth or say sth that sb is not expecting:\nShe sprang a surprise by winning the tournament. * I’m sorry to spring it on you, but I’ve been offered another job.\n  appear suddenly\n  4  [V +adv./prep.] to appear or come somewhere suddenly:\nTears sprang to her eyes. * He tried to bite back the words that sprang to his lips.\n  free prisoner\n  5  [VN] (informal) to help a prisoner to escape:\nPlans to spring the hostages have failed.\n IDIOMS \n  spring into action | spring into / to life (of a person, machine, etc.) to suddenly start working or doing sth:\n’Let’s go!’ he said, springing into action. * The town springs into life (= becomes busy) during the carnival.\n  spring a leak (of a boat or container) to develop a hole through which water or another liquid can pass\n  spring a trap\n1 to make a trap for catching animals close suddenly\n2 to try to trick sb into doing or saying sth; to succeed in this\nmore at MIND n.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  spring from sth (written) to be caused by sth; to start from sth:\nThe idea for the novel sprang from a trip to India.\n  spring from ... (spoken, informal) to appear suddenly and unexpectedly from a particular place:\nWhere on earth did you spring from?\n  spring up to appear or develop quickly and/or suddenly:\nPlay areas for children are springing up all over the place. * Opposition groups are springing up like mushrooms.


Words: spring chicken
Meaning:
noun\n IDIOMS \n  be no spring chicken (humorous) to be no longer young:\nTake it easy. You’re no spring chicken yourself, you know.


Words: spring onion
Meaning:
(BrE) (AmE green onion, scallion) noun\na type of small onion with a long green stem and leaves. Spring onions are eaten raw in salads.


Words: spring roll
Meaning:
(especially BrE) noun\na type of Chinese food consisting of a tube of thin pastry, filled with vegetables and/or meat and fried until it is crisp\nsee also EGG ROLL


Words: spring tide
Meaning:
noun\na TIDE in which there is a very great rise and fall of the sea, and which happens near the new moon and the full moon each month


Words: spring-clean
Meaning:
verb\nto clean a house, room, etc. thoroughly, including the parts you do not usually clean:\n[VN] Fran decided to spring-clean the apartment. [also V]\n    spring clean noun [sing.] (BrE):\nThe place needed a good spring clean before we could move in.


Words: springboard
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a strong board that you jump on and use to help you jump high in DIVING and GYMNASTICS\n  2  ~ (for / to sth) something that helps you start an activity, especially by giving you ideas:\nThe document provided a springboard for a lot of useful discussion. * The show aims to give new young talent a springboard to success.


Words: springtime
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (especially written) the season of spring:\na visit to Holland in springtime / in the springtime


Words: springy
Meaning:
(springier, springiest) adjective\n  1  returning quickly to the original shape after being pushed, pulled, stretched, etc:\nWe walked across the springy grass.\n  2  full of energy and confidence:\nShe’s 73, but hasn’t lost that youthful, springy step.


Words: sprinkle
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb\n  1  [VN] ~ A on / onto / over B | ~ B with A to throw small pieces of sth or drops of a liquid on sth:\nShe sprinkled sugar over the strawberries. * She sprinkled the strawberries with sugar. * Sprinkle chocolate on top of the cake. * The sheets and pillows were sprinkled with lavender water.\n  2  [VN] [usually passive] ~ sth with sth to include a few of sth in sth else:\nHis poems are sprinkled with quotations from ancient Greek. * a black velvety sky sprinkled with stars\n  3  [V] (AmE) if it sprinkles, it rains lightly:\nIt’s only sprinkling. We can still go out.\n    noun [sing.]\n  1  = SPRINKLING:\nAdd a sprinkle of cheese and serve.\n  2  (especially AmE) light rain:\nWe’ve only had a few sprinkles (of rain) recently.


Words: sprinkler
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a device with holes in that is used to spray water in drops on plants, soil or grass\n  2  a device inside a building which automatically sprays out water if there is a rise in temperature because of a fire


Words: sprinkling
Meaning:
(also sprinkle) noun\na small amount or number of sth that is dropped, spread or included somewhere:\nAdd a sprinkling of pepper. * There was a sprinkling of freckles on her cheeks. * Most were men, but there was also a sprinkling of young women.


Words: sprint
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb to run a short distance very fast: [V, usually +adv./prep.] He sprinted for the line. * Three runners sprinted past. * She jumped out of the car and sprinted for the front door. * [VN] I sprinted the last few metres.\n    noun\n  1  a race in which the competitors run, swim, etc. very fast over a short distance:\na 100-metre sprint * the world sprint champion\n  2  [usually sing.] a short period of running, swimming, etc. very fast:\na sprint for the line * a sprint for the bus * She won in a sprint finish.\n    sprinter noun


Words: sprite
Meaning:
noun\n(in stories) a small creature with magic powers, especially one that is graceful or likes playing tricks


Words: spritz
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] (especially AmE) to spray very small drops of liquid on sth quickly:\nLightly spritz your hair with water.\n    spritz noun


Words: sprocket
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  (also sprocket wheel) a wheel with a row of teeth around the edge that connect with the holes of a bicycle chain or with holes in a film, etc. in order to turn it\n \n  2  one of the teeth on such a wheel


Words: sprout
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb\n  1  [V] (of plants, vegetables, etc.) to produce new leaves or BUDS:\nThe seeds will sprout in a few days. * new leaves sprouting from the trees\n  2  to appear; to develop sth, especially in large numbers:\n[V] Hundreds of mushrooms had sprouted up overnight. * [VN] The town has sprouted shopping malls, discos and nightclubs in recent years.\n  3  to start to grow sth; to start to grow on sb/sth:\n[VN] Tim has sprouted a beard since we last saw him. * I wished I could just sprout wings and fly away. * [V] Hair sprouted from his chest.\n    noun\n\n \n  1  = BRUSSELS SPROUT\n \n  2  a new part growing on a plant


Words: spruce
Meaning:
noun, verb, adjective \n    noun\n  1  [C, U] an EVERGREEN forest tree with leaves like needles\n  2  [U] the soft wood of the spruce, used, for example, in making paper\n    verb\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  spruce up | spruce sb/sth / yourself<->up to make sb/sth/yourself clean and neat:\nShe spruced up for the interview. * The city is sprucing up its museums and galleries. * I spruced myself up before I went out.\n    adjective (of people or places) neat and clean in appearance


Words: spume
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (literary) the mass of white bubbles that forms in waves when the sea is rough\nSYN FOAM:\nThe wind whipped up the sea into clouds of spume.


Words: spunk
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [U] (informal) courage; determination\n  2  [U] (BrE, !!!, slang) = SEMEN\n  3  [C] (informal, especially AustralE) a sexually attractive man


Words: spur
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n\n \n  1  a sharp pointed object that riders sometimes wear on the heels of their boots and use to encourage their horse to go faster:\nHe dug his spurs into the horse’s sides.\n \n  2  [usually sing.] ~ (to sth) a fact or an event that makes you want to do sth better or more quickly:\nHis speech was a powerful spur to action. * A few encouraging words might provide just the spur she needs.\n \n  3  an area of high ground that sticks out from a mountain or hill\n \n  4  a road or a railway/railroad track that leads from the main road or line\n \n IDIOMS \n  on the spur of the moment suddenly, without planning in advance:\nI phoned him up on the spur of the moment. * a spur-of-the-moment decision\n  win / earn your spurs (formal) to achieve fame or success\n    verb (-rr-) [VN] \n  1  ~ sb/sth (on) (to sth / to do sth) to encourage sb to do sth or to encourage them to try harder to achieve sth:\nHer difficult childhood spurred her on to succeed. * I was spurred into action by the letter. * The band has been spurred on by the success of their last single. * My trainer spurred me to keep up a pace of four miles an hour.\n  2  to make sth happen faster or sooner:\nThe agreement is essential to spurring economic growth around the world. * The fire, spurred by high temperatures and strong winds, had burnt more than 140 acres.\n  3  to encourage a horse to go faster, especially by pushing the spurs on your boots into its side:\nAs he shouted his order he spurred the horse forward suddenly.


Words: spurious
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  false, although seeming to be genuine:\nHe had managed to create the entirely spurious impression that the company was thriving.\n  2  based on false ideas or ways of thinking:\na spurious argument\n    spuriously adverb


Words: spurn
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] (written) to reject or refuse sb/sth, especially in a proud way:\nEve spurned Mark’s invitation. * a spurned lover * The president spurned the tight security surrounding him and adopted a more intimate style of campaigning.


Words: spurt
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb\n  1  ~ (out) (from sth) (of liquid or flames) to burst or pour out suddenly in a fast stream; to produce a sudden fast stream of liquid or flames:\n[V] Blood was spurting from her nose. * Red and yellow flames spurted out of the fire. * [VN] Her nose was spurting blood. * The volcano spurted clouds of steam and ash high into the air.\n  2  [V +adv./prep.] to increase your speed for a short time to get somewhere faster:\nShe spurted past me to get to the line first.\n    noun\n  1  an amount of liquid or flames that comes out of somewhere with great force:\na great spurt of blood * The water came out of the tap in spurts.\n  2  a sudden increase in speed, effort, activity or emotion for a short period of time:\nYou’d better put on a spurt (= hurry up) if you want to finish that work today. * Babies get very hungry during growth spurts. * a sudden spurt of anger / laughter / interest


Words: sputter
Meaning:
verb\n  1  [V] if an engine, a lamp or a fire sputters, it makes a series of short explosive sounds\nSYN SPLUTTER:\nSuddenly the car sputtered and stopped. * sputtering fireworks\n  2  to speak quickly and with difficulty, making soft SPITTING sounds, because you are angry or shocked\nSYN SPLUTTER:\n[V speech] ’W-What?’ sputtered Anna. [also VN]


Words: sputum
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (medical) liquid from the throat or lungs, especially when it is coughed up because of disease:\nblood in the sputum


Words: spy
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun (plural spies) a person who tries to get secret information about another country, organization, or person, especially sb who is employed by a government or the police:\na government / police spy * He worked as a British spy in Russia. * a spy plane / satellite (= used to watch the activities of the enemy) * a spy ring * Video spy cameras are being used in public places.\n    verb (spies, spying, spied, spied)\n  1  [V] to collect secret information about another country, organization or person:\nHe spied for his government for more than ten years.\n  2  [VN] (literary or formal) to suddenly see or notice sb/sth:\nIn the distance we spied the Pacific for the first time.\n IDIOMS \n  spy out the land to collect information before deciding what to do\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  spy on sb/sth to watch sb/sth secretly:\nHave you been spying on me?\n  spy sth<->out to get information about sth


Words: squabble
Meaning:
verb\n[V] ~ (with sb) (about / over sth) to quarrel noisily about sth that is not very important:\nMy sisters were squabbling over what to watch on TV.\n    squabble noun:\nfamily squabbles * There were endless squabbles over who should sit where. * The party is split by internal squabbles.


Words: squad
Meaning:
pl. v.]\n  1  a section of a police force that deals with a particular type of crime:\nthe drugs / fraud squad * an anti-terrorist squad\nsee also FLYING SQUAD\n  2  (in sport) a group of players or competitors from which a team is chosen for a particular game or match:\nthe Olympic / national squad * They still have not named their squad for the World Cup qualifier * the under-21 squad * a 15-man squad\n  3  a small group of soldiers working or being trained together\nsee also FIRING SQUAD\n  4  a group of people who kill their opponents, usually for political reasons:\na death / hit / assassination squad


Words: squadron
Meaning:
noun\n[C+sing./pl. v.] a group of military aircraft or ships forming a section of a military force:\na bomber / fighter squadron


Words: squalid
Meaning:
adjective (disapproving)\n  1  (of places and living conditions) very dirty and unpleasant:\nsqualid housing * squalid, overcrowded refugee camps\n  2  (of situations or activities) involving low moral standards or dishonest behaviour\nSYN SORDID:\nIt was a squalid affair involving prostitutes and drugs.


Words: squall
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun a sudden strong and violent wind, often during rain or snow storms:\nA sudden vicious squall knocked her to the ground.\n    verb [V] (usually used in the progressive tenses) (disapproving) to cry very loudly and noisily:\nsqualling kids * The baby was squalling in its crib.


Words: squalor
Meaning:
noun\n[U] dirty and unpleasant conditions:\nthe poverty and squalor of the slums * He had lost his job and was living in squalor.


Words: squander
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] ~ sth (on sb/sth) to waste money, time, etc. in a stupid or careless way:\nMy uncle squandered all his money on gambling. * She squandered her chances of winning. * He just squandered his talent.


Words: square
Meaning:
adjective, noun, verb, adverb \n    adjective\n  shape\n  1  (geometry) having four straight equal sides and four angles of 90ｰ:\na square room / table\n  2  forming an angle of 90ｰ exactly or approximately:\nThe book had rounded, not square, corners. * square shoulders * He had a firm, square jaw.\n  measurement\n  3  used after a unit of measurement to say that sth measures the same amount on each of four sides:\na carpet four metres square\n  4  (abbreviation sq) used after a number to give a measurement of area:\nan area of 36 square metres\n  broad / solid\n  5  used to describe sth that is broad or that looks solid in shape:\na man / woman of square build\nsee also FOUR-SQUARE\n  level / parallel\n  6  [not before noun] ~ (with sth) level with or parallel to sth:\ntables arranged square with the wall\n  with money\n  7  (informal) if two people are square, neither of them owes money to the other:\nHere’s the ｣10 I owe you-now we’re square.\n  in sport\n  8  ~ (with sb) if two teams are square, they have the same number of points:\nThe teams were all square at half-time.\n  fair / honest\n  9  fair or honest, especially in business matters:\na square deal * Are you being square with me?\n  in agreement\n  10  ~ with sth in agreement with sth:\nThat isn’t quite square with what you said yesterday.\n  boring\n  11  (informal, disapproving) (of a person) considered to be boring, for example, because they are old-fashioned or work too hard at school\n IDIOMS \n  a square meal a good, satisfying meal:\nHe looks as though he hasn’t had a square meal for weeks.\n  a square peg (in a round hole) (BrE, informal) a person who does not feel happy or comfortable in a particular situation, or who is not suitable for it\n    noun\n  shape\n \n  1  [C] a shape with four straight sides of equal length and four angles of 90ｰ; a piece of sth that has this shape:\nFirst break the chocolate into squares. * The floor was tiled in squares of grey and white marble.\n \n  in town\n \n  2  [C] an open area in a town, usually with four sides, surrounded by buildings:\nThe hotel is just off the main square. * the market / town / village square\n \n  3  (Square) [sing.] (abbreviation Sq.) (used in addresses):\nThey live at 95 Russell Square.\n  mathematics\n  4  [C] the number obtained when you multiply a number by itself:\nThe square of 7 is 49.\nsee also SET SQUARE, T-SQUARE\n  boring person\n  5  [C] (informal, disapproving) a person who is considered to be boring, for example because they are old-fashioned or because they work too hard at school\n IDIOMS \n  back to square one a return to the situation you were in at the beginning of a project, task, etc., because you have made no real progress:\nIf this suggestion isn’t accepted, we’ll be back to square one.\n    verb [VN]\n  shape\n  1  ~ sth (off) to make sth have straight edges and corners:\nIt was like trying to square a circle. That is, it was impossible. * The boat is rounded at the front but squared off at the back.\n  mathematics\n  2  [usually passive] to multiply a number by itself:\nThree squared is written 3. * Four squared equals 16.\n  shoulders\n  3  if you square yourself, or square your shoulders, you make your back and shoulders straight to show you are ready or determined to do sth:\nBruno squared himself to face the waiting journalists.\n  in sport\n  4  (especially BrE) to make the number of points you have scored in a game or competition equal to those of your opponents:\nHis goal squared the game 11.\n  pay money\n  5  (informal) to pay money to sb in order to get their help:\nThey must have squared the mayor before they got their plan underway.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  square away [usually passive] (AmE) to put sth in order; to finish sth completely\n  square off (against sb) (AmE) to fight or prepare to fight sb:\nThe two candidates will square off on this issue in a debate tomorrow.\n  square up (to sb/sth)\n1 to face a difficult situation and deal with it in a determined way\n2 to face sb as if you are going to fight them:\nDiane squared up to him defiantly.\n  square up (with sb) to pay money that you owe:\nCan I leave you to square up with the waiter?\n  square sth with sth | square with sth to make two ideas, facts or situations agree or combine well with each other; to agree or be CONSISTENT with another idea, fact or situation:\nThe interests of farmers need to be squared with those of consumers. * How can you square this with your conscience? * Your theory does not square with the facts. * What she was being asked to do did not square with her political beliefs.\n  square sth with sb to ask permission or check with sb that they approve of what you want to do:\nI think I’ll be able to come, but I’ll square it with my parents first.\n    adverb (only used after the verb) directly; not at an angle\nSYN SQUARELY:\nI looked her square in the face. * He hit me square on the jaw.\n IDIOMS  see FAIR adv.


Words: square bracket
Meaning:
(BrE) (AmE bracket) noun\n[usually pl.] either of a pair of marks, [ ], placed at the beginning and end of extra information in a text, especially comments made by an EDITOR


Words: square dance
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a traditional dance from the US in which groups of four couples dance together, starting the dance by facing each other in a square\n  2  a social event at which people dance square dances


Words: square root
Meaning:
noun\n(mathematics) a number which when multiplied by itself produces a particular number:\nThe square root of 64 ({root}64) is 8 (8 ﾗ 8 = 64).\ncompare CUBE ROOT


Words: squarely
Meaning:
adverb (usually used after the verb)\n  1  directly; not at an angle or to one side:\nShe looked at me squarely in the eye. * He stood squarely in front of them, blocking the entrance. * (figurative) We must meet the challenge squarely (= not try to avoid it).\n  2  directly or exactly; without any uncertainty:\nThe responsibility for the crisis rests squarely on the government. * The show is aimed squarely at people under the age of 25. * This case falls squarely into the category of abuse. * The party puts its support squarely behind the minister.\n IDIOMS  see FAIRLY


Words: squash
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb\n  1  ~ sth (against sth) to press sth so that it becomes soft, damaged or flat, or changes shape:\n[VN] The tomatoes at the bottom of the bag had been squashed. * He squashed his nose against the window. * Move up-you’re squashing me! * [VN-ADJ] Squash your cans flat before recycling.\n  2  [+adv./prep.] to push sb/sth or yourself into a space that is too small:\n[V] We all squashed into the back of the car. * [VN] How many people are they going to try and squash into this bus? * She was squashed between the door and the table. * There were dozens of us in the room, squashed together like sardines.\n  3  [VN] to stop sth from continuing; to destroy sth because it is a problem for you:\nto squash a plan / an idea / a revolt * If parents don’t answer children’s questions, their natural curiosity will be squashed. * The statement was an attempt to squash the rumours.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  squash up (against sb/sth) | squash sb/sth <->up (against sb/sth) to move so close to sb/sth else that it is uncomfortable:\nWe squashed up to make room for Sue. * I was squashed up against the wall.\n    noun\n\n \n  1  (also formal squash rackets) [U] a game for two players, played in a court enclosed by four walls, using RACKETS and a small rubber ball:\na squash court * to play squash\n \n  2  [U, C] (BrE) a drink made with fruit juice, sugar and water:\na glass of orange / lemon squash * Two orange squashes, please.\n \n  3  [C, U] (plural squash BrE also squashes) a type of vegetable that grows on the ground. Winter squash have hard skin and orange flesh. Summer squash have soft yellow or green skin and white flesh.\n \n  4  [sing.] (informal) if sth is a squash, there is hardly enough room for everything or everyone to fit into a small space:\nIt’s a real squash with six of us in the car.


Words: squat
Meaning:
verb, noun, adjective \n    verb\n (-tt-)\n \n  1  [V] ~ (down) to sit on your heels with your knees bent up close to your body:\nChildren were squatting on the floor. * When we saw them we squatted down behind a wall.\n \n  2  to live in a building or on land which is not yours, without the owner’s permission:\n[V] They ended up squatting in the empty houses on Oxford Road. [also VN]\n    noun\n  1  a building that people are living in without permission and without paying rent:\nto live in a squat\n  2  a squatting position of the body\n    adjective short and wide or fat, in a way that is not attractive:\na squat tower * a squat muscular man with a shaven head


Words: squatter
Meaning:
noun\na person who is living in a building or on land without permission and without paying rent:\nThe squatters were evicted by bailiffs on Tuesday.


Words: squaw
Meaning:
noun\n(old use) a word for a Native American woman that is now often considered offensive:\nan Indian squaw


Words: squawk
Meaning:
verb\n  1  [V] (of birds) to make a loud sharp sound:\nThe parrot squawked and flew away.\n  2  to speak or make a noise in a loud, sharp voice because you are angry, surprised, etc:\n[V speech] ’You did what?!’ she squawked. [also V]۠\n    squawk noun:\nThe bird gave a startled squawk. * a squawk of protest


Words: squeak
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb\n  1  [V] to make a short high sound that is not very loud:\nMy new shoes squeak. * The mouse ran away, squeaking with fear. * One wheel makes a horrible squeaking noise.\n  2  to speak in a very high voice, especially when you are nervous or excited:\n[V speech] ’Let go of me!’ he squeaked nervously. [also V]\n  3  [V +adv./prep.] to only just manage to win sth, pass a test, etc:\nWe squeaked into the final with a goal in the last minute. * The gun control measures narrowly squeaked through Congress. * The socialist party squeaked home with a majority of just two seats.\n    noun a short, high cry or sound, that is not usually very loud:\nthe squeak of a mouse * Shirley gave a little squeak of surprise.


Words: squeaky clean
Meaning:
adjective (informal)\n  1  completely clean, and therefore attractive:\nsqueaky clean hair\n  2  morally correct in every way; that cannot be criticized:\nan all-American boy with a squeaky clean image. * politicians who are less than squeaky clean


Words: squeal
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb\n  1  [V] to make a long, high sound:\nThe pigs were squealing. * The car squealed to a halt. * Children were running around squealing with excitement.\n  2  to speak in a very high voice, especially when you are excited or nervous:\n[V speech] ’Don’t!’ she squealed. [also V]\n  3  [V] ~ (on sb) (informal, disapproving) to give information, especially to the police, about sth illegal that sb has done:\nSomeone must have squealed on him.\n    noun a long high cry or sound:\na squeal of pain * a squeal of delight * He stopped with a squeal of brakes.


Words: squeamish
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  easily upset, or made to feel sick by unpleasant sights or situations, especially when the sight of blood is involved\n  2  not wanting to do sth that might be considered dishonest or immoral\n  3  (the squeamish) noun [pl.] people who are squeamish:\nThis movie is not for the squeamish


Words: squeegee
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a tool with a rubber edge and a handle, used for removing water from smooth surfaces such as windows\n  2  a tool for washing floors, that has a long handle with two thick pieces of soft material at the end, which may be squeezed together using a mechanism attached to the handle


Words: squeeze
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb\n  press with fingers\n  1  to press sth firmly, especially with your fingers:\n[VN] to squeeze a tube of toothpaste * to squeeze the trigger of a gun (= to fire it) * He squeezed her hand and smiled at her. * [V] Just take hold of the tube and squeeze.\n  get liquid out\n  2  ~ sth (out of / from sth) | ~ sth (out) to get liquid out of sth by pressing or twisting it hard:\n[VN] to squeeze the juice from a lemon * He took off his wet clothes and squeezed the water out. * freshly squeezed orange juice * (figurative) She felt as if every drop of emotion had been squeezed from her. [also VN-ADJ]\n  into / through small space\n  3  ~ (sb/sth) into, through, etc. sth | ~ through, in, past, etc. to force sb/sth/yourself into or through a small space:\n[VN] We managed to squeeze six people into the car. * It’s a pretty town, squeezed between the mountains and the ocean. * (figurative) We managed to squeeze a lot into a week (= we did a lot of different things). * [V] to squeeze into a tight dress / a parking space * to squeeze through a gap in the hedge / a crowd * If you move forward a little, I can squeeze past.\n  threaten\n  4  [VN] ~ sb (for sth) (informal) to get sth by putting pressure on sb, threatening them, etc:\nHe’s squeezing me for ｣500.\n  limit money\n  5  [VN] to strictly limit or reduce the amount of money that sb/sth had or can use:\nHigh interest rates have squeezed the industry hard. * The banks have had their profits squeezed this year.\n IDIOMS \n  squeeze sb dry to get as much money, information, etc. out of sb as you can\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  squeeze sb/sth<->in to give time to sb/sth, although you are very busy:\nIf you come this afternoon the doctor will try to squeeze you in. * I’ll try and squeeze in another hour’s work before I go out.\n  squeeze sb/sth<->out (of sth) to prevent sb/sth from continuing to do sth or be in business:\nSupermarkets are squeezing out small shops.\n  squeeze sth out of / from sb to get sth by putting pressure on sb, threatening them, etc:\nto squeeze a confession from a suspect\n  squeeze up (against sb/sth) | squeeze sb<->up (against sb/sth) to move close to sb/sth so that you are pressed against them/it:\nThere’ll be enough room if we all squeeze up a little. * I had to sit squeezed up against the wall.\n    noun\n  pressing with fingers\n  1  [C, usually sing.] an act of pressing sth, usually with your hands:\nHe gave my hand a little squeeze. * Give the tube another squeeze.\n  of liquid\n  2  [C] a small amount of liquid that is produced by pressing sth:\na squeeze of lemon juice\n  in small space\n  3  [sing.] a situation where it is almost impossible for a number of people or things to fit into a small or restricted space:\nIt was a tight squeeze but we finally got everything into the case. * Seven people in the car was a bit of a squeeze.\n  reduction in money\n  4  [C, usually sing.] a reduction in the amount of money, jobs, etc. available; a difficult situation caused by this:\na squeeze on jobs / profits / benefits * We’re really feeling the squeeze since I lost my job. * a cash / credit squeeze\n  boyfriend / girlfriend\n  5  [sing.] (informal, especially AmE) a boyfriend or girlfriend:\nWho’s his main squeeze?\n IDIOMS \n  put the squeeze on sb (to do sth) (informal) to put pressure on sb to act in a particular way; to make a situation difficult for sb:\nYou come straight to me if she tries to put the squeeze on you. * Increased competition is really putting the squeeze on North American producers.


Words: squelch
Meaning:
verb\n  1  [V]   [often +adv./prep.] to make a wet sucking sound:\nThe mud squelched as I walked through it. * Her wet shoes squelched at every step. * We squelched across the muddy field.\n  2  [VN] (AmE) to stop sth from growing, increasing or developing\nSYN SQUASH:\nto squelch a rumour / strike / fire\n    squelch noun [usually sing.]:\nHe pulled his foot out of the mud with a squelch.\n    squelchy adjective:\nsquelchy ground / tomatoes


Words: squid
Meaning:
noun\n[C, U] (plural squid or squids) a sea creature that has a long soft body and ten short arms around its mouth, and that is sometimes used for food


Words: squiggle
Meaning:
noun\na line, for example in sb’s HANDWRITING that is drawn or written in a careless way with twists and curls in it:\nAre these dots and squiggles supposed to be your signature?\n    squiggly  adjective


Words: squint
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb\n\n \n  1  to look at sth with your eyes partly shut in order to keep out bright light or to see better:\n[V] to squint into / against the sun * She was squinting through the keyhole. * He squinted at the letter in his hand. * [VN] When he squinted his eyes, he could just make out a house in the distance.\n \n  2  [V] (BrE) (of an eye) to look in a different direction from the other eye:\nHis left eye squints a little. * A squinting eye can be corrected by surgery.\n \n  3  [V] to have eyes that look in different directions:\nDoes she squint?\n    noun\n  1  [C, usually sing.] a disorder of the eye muscles which causes each eye to look in a different direction:\nHe was born with a squint.\n  2  [sing.] (BrE, informal) a short look:\nHave a squint at this.


Words: squire
Meaning:
noun\n  1  (also Squire) (in the past in England) a man of high social status who owned most of the land in a particular country area:\na country squire * Squire Trelawney in ’Treasure Island’\n  2  (Squire) (BrE, informal or humorous) used by a man as a friendly way of addressing another man:\nWhat can I get you, Squire?\n  3  (in the past) a young man who was an assistant to a KNIGHT before becoming a KNIGHT himself


Words: squirearchy
Meaning:
noun\n[C+sing./pl. v.] (in the past in England) the people of high social status who owned large areas of land, considered as a social or political group


Words: squirm
Meaning:
verb\n  1  to move around a lot making small twisting movements, because you are nervous, uncomfortable, etc.: [V, usually +adv./prep.] The children were squirming restlessly in their seats. * [V-ADJ] Someone grabbed him but he managed to squirm free.\n  2  [V] to feel great embarrassment or shame:\nIt made him squirm to think how badly he’d messed up the interview.


Words: squirrel
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun a small animal with a long thick tail and red, grey or black fur. Squirrels eat nuts and live in trees.\nsee also GROUND SQUIRREL\n    verb (-ll-, AmE -l-)\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  squirrel sth<->away to hide or store sth so that it can be used later:\nShe had money squirrelled away in various bank accounts.


Words: squirt
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb\n  1  [usually +adv./prep.] to force liquid, gas, etc. in a thin fast stream through a narrow opening; to be forced out of a narrow opening in this way:\n[VN] The snake can squirt poison from a distance of a metre. * I desperately squirted water on the flames. * [V] When I cut the lemon, juice squirted in my eye.\n  2  [VN] ~ sb/sth (with sth) to hit sb/sth with a stream of water, gas, etc:\nThe children were squirting each other with water from the hose. * He squirted a water pistol at me (= made the water come out of it).\n    noun\n  1  a thin, fast stream of a liquid that comes out of a small opening:\na squirt of perfume * a squirt of ketchup on the french fries\n  2  (informal, disapproving) a word used to refer to a short, young or unimportant person that you do not like or that you find annoying


Words: squish
Meaning:
verb (informal)\n  1  [V, VN] if sth soft squishes or is squished, it is crushed out of shape when it is pressed\n  2  [V] to make a soft wet sucking sound


Words: St abbreviation
Meaning:
1  (also st) (both BrE) (also St., st. AmE, BrE) (used in written addresses) Street:\nFleet St\n  2  (St.) (AmE) State\n  3  (also St. especially in AmE) Saint


Words: St Bernard
Meaning:
noun\na large strong dog, originally from Switzerland, where it was trained to help find people who were lost in the snow


Words: stab
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb (-bb-)\n  1  [VN] to push a sharp, pointed object, especially a knife, into sb, killing or injuring them:\nHe was stabbed to death in a racist attack. * She stabbed him in the arm with a screwdriver.\n  2  ~ (sth) (at sb) | ~ sb/sth (with sth) | ~ (sth) (at / into / through sth) to make a short, forceful movement with a finger or pointed object:\n[VN] He stabbed his finger angrily at my chest. * She stabbed the air with her fork. * She stabbed her cigarette into the ashtray. * [V] (figurative) The pain stabbed at his chest.\n IDIOMS \n  stab sb in the back to do or say sth that harms sb who trusts you\nSYN BETRAY\n    noun\n  1  an act of stabbing or trying to stab sb/sth; a wound caused by stabbing:\nHe received several stabs in the chest. * She died of a single stab wound to the heart.\n  2  a sudden sharp pain or unpleasant feeling:\nShe felt a sudden stab of pain in the chest. * a stab of guilt / fear / pity / jealousy\n  3  [usually sing.] ~ (at sth / at doing sth) (informal) an attempt to do sth:\nHe found the test difficult but nevertheless made a good stab at it. * Countless people have had a stab at solving the riddle. * I’ve always enjoyed acting, but I’d like to have a stab at directing one day.\n IDIOMS \n  a stab in the back (informal) an act that harms sb, done by a person they thought was a friend:\nHer refusal to support his campaign was a real stab in the back.\nmore at DARK n.


Words: stabbing
Meaning:
noun, adjective \n    noun an occasion when a person is stabbed with a knife or other pointed object:\na fatal stabbing * There has been an increase in the number of stabbings in the city.\n    adjective [usually before noun] (of pain) very sharp, sudden and strong:\na stabbing pain in the chest


Words: stability
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the quality or state of being steady and not changing or being disturbed in any way (= the quality of being STABLE):\npolitical / economic / social stability * the stability of the dollar on the world’s money markets * price stability * Being back with their family should provide emotional stability for the children. * The country is now enjoying a period of relative stability and prosperity.\nOPP INSTABILITY


Words: stabilize
Meaning:
(BrE also stabilise)  verb\nto become or to make sth become firm, steady and unlikely to change; to make sth STABLE:\n[V] The patient’s condition stabilized. * [VN] government measures to stabilize prices * Doctors stabilized the patient’s condition.\ncompare DESTABILIZE\n    stabilization, stabilisation  [U]:\neconomic stabilization


Words: stabilizer
Meaning:
(BrE also stabiliser)  noun\n  1  a device that keeps sth steady, especially one that stops an aircraft or a ship from rolling to one side\n  2  (stabilizers) [pl.] (BrE) (AmE training wheels) small wheels that are fitted at each side of the back wheel on a child’s bicycle to keep it upright:\nShe can ride her bike without stabilizers now.


Words: stable
Meaning:
adjective, noun, verb \n    adjective\n  1  firmly fixed; not likely to move, change or fail\nSYN STEADY:\nstable prices / employment * a stable relationship * This ladder doesn’t seem very stable. * The patient’s condition is stable (= it is not getting worse). * The situation in the country has remained relatively stable for a few months now.\n  2  (of a person) calm and reasonable; not easily upset\nSYN BALANCED:\nMentally, she is not very stable.\n  3  (technical) (of a substance) staying in the same chemical or ATOMIC state:\nchemically stable * an element forming stable compounds\nOPP UNSTABLE\n    stably  adverb \n    noun\n  1  [C] a building in which horses are kept:\nThe horse was led back to its stable.\n  2  (BrE also stables) [C+sing./pl. v.] an organization that keeps horses for a particular purpose: (BrE) a riding / racing stables * His stables are near Oxford.\n  3  [C] a group of RACEHORSES owned or trained by the same person:\nThere have been just three winners from his stable this season.\n  4  [sing.] a group of people who work or trained in the same place; a group of products made by the same company:\nactors from the same stable * the latest printer from the Epson stable\n IDIOMS \n  close, lock, etc. the stable door after the horse has bolted (BrE) (AmE close, etc. the barn door after the horse has escaped) to try to prevent or avoid loss or damage when it is already too late to do so\n    verb [VN] to put or keep a horse in a stable:\nWhere do you stable your pony?\n______________________________\n WORD FAMILY \nstable adj. (=/= unstable)\nstability n. (=/= instability)\nstabilize v.\n______________________________


Words: staccato
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  (music) with each note played separately in order to produce short, sharp sounds:\nstaccato sounds\nOPP LEGATO\n  2  with short, sharp sounds:\na peculiar staccato voice * staccato bursts of gunfire\n    staccato adverb


Words: stack
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  1  [C] a pile of sth, usually neatly arranged:\na stack of plates / books * a stack hi-fi system (= where radio, CD player, etc. are arranged on top of each other)\nsee also HAYSTACK\n  2  [C] ~ (of sth) (informal, especially BrE) a large number or amount of sth; a lot of sth:\nstacks of money * There’s a stack of unopened mail waiting for you at the house. * I’ve got stacks of work to do.\n  3  [C] a tall chimney, especially on a factory\nsee also CHIMNEY STACK, SMOKESTACK\n  4  (the stacks) [pl.] the part of a library, sometimes not open to the public, where books that are not often needed are stored:\nThe books you need will have to be brought up from the stacks.\n  5  [C] (computing) a way of storing information in a computer in which the most recently stored item is the first to be RETRIEVED (= found or got back)\n IDIOMS  see BLOW v.\n    verb\n  1  ~ (sth) (up) to arrange objects neatly in a pile; to be arranged in this way:\n[VN] to stack plates / boxes * Logs stacked up against a wall. * [V] Do these chairs stack? * stacking chairs\n  2  [VN] ~ sth (with sth) to fill sth with piles of things:\nThey were busy stacking the shelves with goods.\n  3  [V, VN] ~ (sth) (up) if aircraft stack (up) or are stacked (up) over an airport, there are several flying around waiting for their turn to land\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  stack up\n1 to keep increasing in quantity until there is a large pile, a long line, etc:\nCars quickly stacked up behind the bus. * During the strike, refuse has been stacking up in the streets.\n2 ~ (against sb/sth) (informal) to compare to sb/sth else:\nLet’s try him in the team and see how he stacks up. * This year’s figures didn’t stack up to those of 1999 (= they were not as good).


Words: stacked
Meaning:
adjective\n[not usually before noun] if a surface is stacked with objects, there are large numbers or piles of them on it:\na table stacked with glasses * shelves stacked with files\n IDIOMS \n  the cards / odds are stacked against you you are unlikely to succeed because the conditions are not good for you\n  the cards / odds are stacked in your favour you are likely to succeed because the conditions are good and you have an advantage


Words: stadium
Meaning:
noun\n(plural stadiums or stadia ) a large sports ground surrounded by rows of seats and usually other buildings:\na football / sports stadium * an all-seater stadium


Words: staff
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n\n \n  1  [C, usually sing.] all the workers employed in an organization considered as a group:\nmedical / library staff * (BrE) teaching staff * (BrE) We have 20 part-time members of staff. * (AmE) staff members * staff development / training * a staff restaurant / meeting * (especially BrE) a lawyer on the staff of the Worldwide Fund for Nature\nsee also GROUND STAFF\n \n  2  [sing.] (AmE) the people who work at a school, college or university, but who do not teach students:\nstudents, faculty and staff\n \n  3  [C+sing./pl. v.] a group of senior army officers who help a commanding officer:\na staff officer\nsee also CHIEF OF STAFF, GENERAL STAFF\n  4  [C] (old-fashioned or formal) a long stick used as a support when walking or climbing, as a weapon, or as a symbol of authority\n  5  [C] (music) (especially AmE) = STAVE\n IDIOMS \n  the staff of life (literary) a basic food, especially bread\n    verb [VN] [usually passive] to work in an institution, a company, etc.; to provide people to work there:\nThe advice centre is staffed entirely by volunteers. * The charity provided money to staff and equip two hospitals. * a fully staffed department\nsee also OVERSTAFFED, SHORT-STAFFED, UNDERSTAFFED\n    staffing noun [U]:\nstaffing levels\n______________________________\n GRAMMAR POINT \nstaff\nIn BrE staff (sense 1) can be singular: a staff of ten (= a group of ten people) or plural: I have ten staff working for me. If it is the subject of a verb this verb is plural: The staff in this shop are very helpful.\nIn AmE staff (senses 1 and 2) can only be singular: a staff of ten (but not _t_e_n_ _s_t_a_f_f.) * The staff in this store is very helpful.\nThe plural form staffs is less frequent but is used in both BrE and AmE to refer to more than one group of people: the senator and his staff (singular) * senators and their staffs (plural).\n______________________________


Words: staff officer
Meaning:
noun\na military officer who helps an officer of very high rank or who works at a military HEADQUARTERS or a government department


Words: staff sergeant
Meaning:
noun\na member of the army or the US air force just above the rank of a SERGEANT:\nStaff Sergeant Bob Woods


Words: stag night
Meaning:
noun [usually sing.]\n  1  (BrE) the night before a man’s wedding, often spent with his male friends\n  2  (also stag party) (both BrE) (AmE bachelor party) a party that a man has with his male friends just before he gets married, often the night before\ncompare HEN PARTY


Words: stage
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  period / state\n \n  1  [C] a period or state that sth/sb passes through while developing or making progress:\nThis technology is still in its early stages. * The children are at different stages of development. * The product is at the design stage. * People tend to work hard at this stage of life. * At one stage it looked as though they would win. * Don’t worry about the baby not wanting to leave you-it’s a stage they all go through.\n \n  part of process\n \n  2  [C] a separate part that a process, etc. is divided into:\nWe did the first stage of the trip by train. * The police are building up a picture of the incident stage by stage. * The pay increase will be introduced in stages (= not all at once). * We can take the argument one stage further.\n \n  theatre\n \n  3  [C] a raised area, usually in a theatre, etc. where actors, dancers, etc. perform:\nThe audience threw flowers onto the stage. * There were more than 50 people on stage in one scene. * They marched off stage to the sound of trumpets.\nsee also BACKSTAGE, OFFSTAGE, ONSTAGE\n  4  (often the stage) [sing.] the theatre and the world of acting as a form of entertainment:\nHis parents didn’t want him to go on the stage (= to be an actor). * She was a popular star of stage and screen (= theatre and cinema / movies).\n  in politics\n  5  [sing.] an area of activity where important things happen, especially in politics:\nShe was forced to the centre of the political stage. * Germany is playing a leading role on the international stage.\nsee also CENTRE STAGE\n  carriage\n  6  [C] (old-fashioned, informal) = STAGECOACH\nsee also LANDING STAGE\n IDIOMS \n  set the stage for sth to make it possible for sth to happen; to make sth likely to happen:\nFamily problems in childhood can set the stage for stress in adult life.\n    verb [VN] \n  1  to organize and present a play or an event for people to see:\nto stage a ceremony / an event / an exhibition * The local theatre group is staging a production of ’Hamlet’. * Birmingham has bid to stage the next national athletics championships.\n  2  to organize and take part in action that needs careful planning, especially as a public protest:\nto stage a strike / demonstration / march / protest\n  3  to make sth happen:\nThe dollar staged a recovery earlier today. * After five years in retirement, he staged a comeback to international tennis.


Words: stage direction
Meaning:
noun\na note in the text of a play telling actors when to come on to or leave the stage, what actions to perform, etc:\nThe stage direction reads, ’Exit left’.


Words: stage door
Meaning:
noun\nthe entrance at the back of a theatre used by actors, staff, etc:\nA crowd of fans was waiting outside the stage door.


Words: stage manager
Meaning:
noun\nthe person who is responsible for the stage, lights, scenery, etc. during the performance of a play in a theatre


Words: stage whisper
Meaning:
noun\n  1  words that are spoken quietly by an actor to the audience and that the other people on stage are not supposed to hear\n  2  words that are spoken quietly by sb but that they in fact want everyone to hear:\n’I knew this would happen,’ she said in a stage whisper.


Words: stage-manage
Meaning:
verb [VN] \n  1  to act as stage manager for a performance in a theatre\n  2  to arrange and carefully plan an event that the public will see, especially in order to give a particular impression


Words: stagecoach
Meaning:
noun\na large carriage pulled by horses, that was used in the past to carry passengers, and often mail, along a regular route


Words: stagehand
Meaning:
noun\na person whose job is to help move scenery, etc. in a theatre, to prepare the stage for the next play or the next part of a play


Words: stagflation
Meaning:
noun\n[U] an economic situation where there is high INFLATION (= prices rising continuously) but no increase in employment and business activity


Words: stagger
Meaning:
verb\n  1  to walk with weak unsteady steps, as if you are about to fall: [V, usually +adv./prep.] The injured woman staggered to her feet. * He staggered home, drunk. * We seem to stagger from one crisis to the next. * (figurative) The company is staggering under the weight of a ｣10m debt * [VN] I managed to stagger the last few steps.\n  2  to shock or surprise sb very much:\n[VN] Her remarks staggered me. * [V that] It staggers me that the government is doing nothing about it.\n  3  [VN] to arrange for events that would normally happen at the same time to start or happen at different times:\nThere were so many runners, that they had to stagger the start.\n    stagger noun:\nto walk with a stagger


Words: staggered
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  [not before noun] ~ (at / by sth) | ~ (to hear, learn, see, etc.) very surprised and shocked at sth you are told or at sth that happens:\nI was staggered at the amount of money the ring cost.\n  2  arranged in such a way that not everything happens at the same time:\nstaggered working hours (= people start and finish at different times) * a staggered introduction of the new system


Words: staggering
Meaning:
adjective\nso large, shocking or surprising that it is difficult to believe\nSYN ASTOUNDING:\nThey paid a staggering ｣1 million for the house.\n    staggeringly adverb:\nstaggeringly beautiful / expensive


Words: staging
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [C, U] the way in which a play is produced and presented on stage:\na modern staging of ’King Lear’\n  2  [U] a temporary platform used for standing or working on


Words: stagnant
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  stagnant water or air is not moving and therefore smells unpleasant:\na stagnant pond / pool * Few fish survive in the stagnant waters of the lake.\n  2  not developing, growing or changing:\nMajor new investments are aimed at reviving the stagnant economy. * a stagnant population * The housing market has been largely stagnant over the past few months.


Words: stagnate
Meaning:
verb [V] \n  1  to stop developing or making progress:\nProfits have stagnated. * I feel I’m stagnating in this job. * Businesses must adapt to change or stagnate.\n  2  to be or become stagnant:\nThe water in the pond was stagnating.\n    stagnation  noun [U]:\na period of economic stagnation


Words: stagy
Meaning:
(also stagey)  adjective\nnot natural, as if it is being acted by sb in a play:\nHe fell to the ground writhing in stagy agony.


Words: staid
Meaning:
adjective\n(staider, staidest) not amusing or interesting; boring and old-fashioned:\nThe museum is trying to get rid of its staid image.


Words: stain
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb\n  1  ~ (sth) (with sth) to leave marks that are difficult to remove on sth; to be marked in this way:\n[VN] I hope it doesn’t stain the carpet. * [V] This carpet stains easily. * [VN-ADJ] The juice from the berries stained their fingers red.\n  2  to change the colour of sth using a coloured liquid:\n[VN] to stain wood * Stain the specimen before looking at it under the microscope. * [VN-ADJ] They stained the floors dark brown.\n  3  [VN] (written) to damage the opinion that people have of sth:\nThe events had stained the city’s reputation unfairly.\n    noun\n  1  [C] a dirty mark on sth, that is difficult to remove:\na blood / a coffee / an ink stain * stubborn stains (= that are very difficult to remove) * How can I get this stain out? * The carpet has been treated so that it is stain-resistant (= stains can be removed easily from it).\n  2  [U, C] a liquid used for changing the colour of wood or fabric:\nwood stain\n  3  [sing.] a ~ on sth (written) something that damages a person’s reputation, so that people think badly of them:\nHe left the court without a stain on his character.


Words: stained
Meaning:
adjective\n(often in compounds) covered with stains or marked with a stain:\nMy dress was stained. * paint-stained jeans


Words: stair
Meaning:
noun\n  1  (stairs) [pl.] a set of steps built between two floors inside a building:\nWe had to carry the piano up three flights of stairs. * The children ran up / down the stairs. * at the bottom / top of the stairs * He remembered passing her on the stairs.\nsee also DOWNSTAIRS, UPSTAIRS\n  2  [C] one of the steps in a set of stairs:\nHow many stairs are there up to the second floor?\n  3  [sing.] (literary) = STAIRCASE:\nThe house had a panelled hall and a fine oak stair.\n    stair adjective [only before noun]:\nthe stair carpet\n IDIOMS \n  below stairs (old-fashioned, BrE) in the part of a house where the servants lived in the past


Words: staircase
Meaning:
noun\na set of stairs inside a building including the posts and rails (= BANISTERS) that are fixed at the side:\na marble / stone / wooden staircase * a spiral staircase (= a set of stairs that curve upwards around a central post)


Words: stake
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  1  [C] a wooden or metal post that is pointed at one end and pushed into the ground in order to support sth, mark a particular place, etc:\nTall plants can be secured by tying them to stakes.\n  2  (the stake) [sing.] a wooden post that sb could be tied to in former times before being burnt to death (= killed by fire) as a punishment:\nJoan of Arc was burnt at the stake.\n  3  [C] money that sb invests in a company:\na 20% stake in the business * a controlling / majority / minority stake\n  4  [sing.] ~ in sth an important part or share in a business, plan, etc. that is important to you and that you want to be successful:\nShe has a personal stake in the success of the play. * Many young people no longer feel they have a stake in society.\n  5  [C, usually pl.] something that you risk losing, especially money, when you try to predict the result of a race, game, etc., or when you are involved in an activity that can succeed or fail:\nThey were playing cards for high stakes (= a lot of money). * With only two points separating the top five players, the stakes are high as they enter the final round.\n  6  (stakes) [pl.] the money that is paid to the winners in horse racing\n  7  (stakes) [U] used in the names of some horse races\n IDIOMS \n  at stake that can be won or lost, depending on the success of a particular action:\nWe cannot afford to take risks when peoples’ lives are at stake * The prize at stake is a place in the final.\n  go to the stake over / for sth to be prepared to do anything in order to defend your opinions or beliefs:\nHe would have gone to the stake for his belief in his daughter’s innocence.\n  in the ...stakes used to say how much of a particular quality a person has, as if they were in a competition in which some people are more successful than others:\nJohn doesn’t do too well in the personality stakes.\n    verb [VN] \n  1  ~ sth (on sth) to risk money or sth important on the result of sth:\nHe staked ｣25 on the favourite (= for example, in horse racing). * She staked her political career on tax reform, and lost. * That’s him over there-I’d stake my life on it (= I am completely confident).\n  2  ~ sth (up) to support sth with a stake:\nto stake newly planted trees\n IDIOMS \n  stake (out) a / your claim (to / for / on sth) to say or show publicly that you think sth should be yours:\nAdams staked his claim for a place in the Olympic team with his easy win yesterday.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  stake sth<->out\n1 to clearly mark the limits of sth that you claim is yours\n2 to state your opinion, position, etc. on sth very clearly:\nThe President staked out his position on the issue.\n3 to watch a place secretly, especially for signs of illegal activity:\nDetectives had been staking out the house for several weeks.\nrelated noun STAKE-OUT


Words: stakeholder
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a person or company that is involved in a particular organization, project, system, etc., especially because they have invested money in it:\nAll our employees are stakeholders in the company. * The government has said it wants to create a stakeholder economy in which all members of society feel that they have an interest in its success.\n  2  a person who holds all the bets placed on a game or race and who pays the money to the winner


Words: stalactite
Meaning:
noun\na long pointed piece of rock hanging down from the roof of a CAVE (= a hollow place underground), formed over a long period of time as water containing LIME runs off the roof


Words: stalagmite
Meaning:
noun\na piece of rock pointing upwards from the floor of a CAVE (= a hollow place underground), that is formed over a long period of time from drops of water containing LIME that fall from the roof


Words: stale
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  (of food, especially bread and cake) no longer fresh and therefore unpleasant to eat\n  2  (of air, smoke, etc.) no longer fresh; smelling unpleasant:\nstale cigarette smoke * stale sweat\n  3  something that is stale has been said or done too many times before and is no longer interesting or exciting:\nstale jokes / news * Their marriage had gone stale.\n  4  a person who is stale has done the same thing for too long and so is unable to do it well, feel enthusiastic about it or produce any new ideas:\nAfter ten years in the job, she felt stale and needed a change. * The cast is changed regularly to stop the actors from getting stale.\n    staleness noun [U]


Words: stalemate
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [U, C, usually sing.] a situation in a dispute or competition in which neither side is able to win or make any progress:\nThe talks ended in (a) stalemate. * proposals aimed at breaking (= ending) the political stalemate * The strike has once again reached stalemate.\n  2  [U, sing.] (in CHESS) a situation in which a player cannot successfully move any of their pieces and the game ends without a winner:\nThe match ended in (a) stalemate\ncompare CHECKMATE


Words: stalk
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n\n \n  1  a thin stem that supports a leaf, flower or fruit and joins it to another part of the plant or tree; the main stem of a plant:\nflowers on long stalks * celery stalks * He ate the apple, stalk and all.\n \n  2  a long thin structure that supports sth, especially an organ in some animals, and joins it on to another part:\nCrabs and lobsters have eyes on stalks.\n    verb\n  1  to move slowly and quietly towards an animal or a person, in order to kill, catch or harm it or them:\n[VN] The lion was stalking a zebra. * He stalked his victim as she walked home, before attacking and robbing her. [also V]\n  2  [VN] to illegally follow and watch sb over a long period of time, in a way that is annoying or frightening:\nShe claimed that he had been stalking her over a period of three years.\n  3  [V +adv./prep.] to walk in an angry or proud way:\nHe stalked off without a word. * The actress stalked out of a press conference when asked if she had a weight problem.\n  4  (written) to move through a place in an unpleasant or threatening way:\n[VN] The gunmen stalked the building, looking for victims. * (figurative) Fear stalks the streets of the city at night. [also V]


Words: stalker
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a person who follows and watches another person over a long period of time in a way that is annoying or frightening\n  2  a person who follows an animal quietly and slowly, especially in order to kill or capture it


Words: stalking
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the crime of following and watching sb over a long period of time in a way that is annoying or frightening


Words: stalking horse
Meaning:
noun [sing.]\n  1  a person or thing that is used to hide the real purpose of a particular course of action\n  2  a politician who competes against the leader of their party in order to see how much support the leader has; a stronger candidate can then compete against the leader more seriously


Words: stall
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n\n \n  1  [C] a table or small shop with an open front that people sell things from, especially at a market \nSYN STAND:\na market stall * They have a fish stall on the market. * Drinks were being sold from makeshift stalls at the side of the road.\nsee also BOOKSTALL\n \n  2  [C] a section inside a farm building that is large enough for one animal to be kept in:\na cattle / pig stall\n \n  3  [C] (especially AmE) a small enclosed area of a room that contains a shower or toilet\n  4  (the stalls) [pl.] (BrE) (AmE the orchestra [sing.]) the seats that are nearest to the stage in a theatre:\nthe front row of the stalls\n  5  [C, usually pl.] the seats at the front of a church where the CHOIR (= singers) and priests sit\n  6  [C, usually sing.] a situation in which a vehicle’s engine suddenly stops because it is not getting enough power\n  7  [C, usually sing.] a situation in which an aircraft loses speed and goes steeply downwards:\nThe plane went into a stall.\n    verb\n  1  (of a vehicle or an engine) to stop suddenly because of a lack of power or speed; to make a vehicle or engine do this:\n[V] The car stalled and refused to start again. * I kept stalling. * [VN] I stalled the car three times during my driving test.\n  2  [V] ~ (on / over sth) to try to avoid doing sth or answering a question so that you have more time:\nThey are still stalling on the deal. * ’What do you mean?’ she asked, stalling for time. * The opposition party was angered by the Prime Minister’s stalling tactics.\n  3  [VN] to make sb wait so that you have more time to do sth:\nSee if you can stall her while I finish searching her office.\n  4  to stop sth from happening until a later date; to stop making progress:\n[VN] attempts to revive the stalled peace plan * [V] Discussions have once again stalled.


Words: stallion
Meaning:
noun\na fully grown male horse, especially one that is used for breeding\ncompare COLT, GELDING, MARE


Words: stalwart
Meaning:
noun, adjective \n    noun ~ (of sth) a loyal supporter who does a lot of work for an organization, especially a political party:\na Labour / Tory stalwart * They have been stalwarts of the local amateur dramatic society for over 30 years.\n    adjective [usually before noun]\n  1  that is loyal and you can rely on, even in a difficult situation:\nstalwart supporters\n  2  (formal) physically strong


Words: stamen
Meaning:
noun\n(technical) a small thin male part in the middle of a flower that produces POLLEN and is made up of a STALK supporting an ANTHER. The centre of each flower usually has several stamens.


Words: stamina
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the physical or mental strength that enables you to do sth difficult for long periods of time:\nIt takes a lot of stamina to run a marathon. * exercises aimed at increasing stamina


Words: stammer
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb to speak with difficulty, repeating sounds or words and often stopping, before saying things correctly\nSYN STUTTER:\n[V] Many children stammer but grow out of it. * [V speech] ’W-w-what?’ he stammered. * [VN] She was barely able to stammer out a description of her attacker.\n    stammerer noun \n    noun [sing.] a problem that sb has in speaking in which they repeat sounds or words or often pause before saying things correctly:\nShe spoke with a stammer. * As a child, he had a dreadful stammer.


Words: stamp
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  on letter / package\n \n  1  (also formal postage stamp) [C] a small piece of paper with a design on it that you buy and stick on an envelope or a parcel/package before you post it:\na 28p stamp * Could I have three first-class stamps, please? * He has been collecting stamps since he was eight. * a stamp album * The Post Office has issued a commemorative stamp to mark the event.\n \n  printing tool\n \n  2  [C] a tool for printing the date or a design or mark onto a surface:\na date stamp\nsee also RUBBER STAMP\n \n  printed design / words\n  3  [C] a design or words made by stamping sth onto a surface:\nThe passports, with the visa stamps, were waiting at the embassy. * (figurative) The project has the government’s stamp of approval.\n  proof of payment\n  4  [C] a small piece of paper with a design on it, stuck on a document to show that a particular amount of money has been paid:\na TV licence stamp\n  character / quality\n  5  ~ (of sth) (formal) the mark or sign of a particular quality or person:\nAll his work bears the stamp of authority.\n  6  [sing.] (formal) a kind or class, especially of people:\nmen of a different stamp\n  of foot\n  7  an act or sound of stamping the foot:\nThe stamp of hoofs alerted Isabel.\n    verb\n  foot\n  1  to put your foot down heavily and noisily on the ground:\n[VN] I tried stamping my feet to keep warm. * Sam stamped his foot in anger. * He stamped the snow off his boots. * [V] The audience were stamping and cheering.\n  walk\n  2  [V +adv./prep.] to walk with loud heavy steps\nSYN STAMP:\nShe turned and stamped out of the room. * The children came stamping down the stairs.\n  print design / words\n  3  [VN] [often passive] ~ A on B | ~ B (with A) to print letters, words, a design, etc. onto sth using a special tool:\nI’ll stamp the company name on your cheque. * Wait here to have your passport stamped. * The maker’s name was stamped in gold on the box. * The box was stamped with the maker’s name.\nsee also RUBBER-STAMP, STAMP STH ON STH\n  show feeling / quality\n  4  [VN] [usually passive] to make a feeling show clearly on sb’s face, in their actions, etc:\nTheir faces were stamped with hostility. * The crime had revenge stamped all over it. * Terror was stamped across her face.\n  5  [VN] ~ sb as sth to show that sb has a particular quality:\nHer success has stamped her as one of the country’s top riders.\n  on letter / package\n  6  [VN] [usually passive] to stick a stamp on a letter or parcel/package\n  cut out object\n  7  [VN] ~ sth (out) (of / from sth) to cut and shape an object from a piece of metal or plastic using a special machine or tool:\nThe hinges are stamped out of sheets of metal.\nsee also STAMP STH OUT\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  stamp on sth\n1 to put your foot down with force on sth:\nThe child stamped on the spider.\n2 to stop sth from happening or stop sb from doing sth, especially by using force or authority:\nAll attempts at modernization were stamped on by senior officials.\n  stamp sth on sth to make sth have an important effect or influence on sth:\nShe stamped her own interpretation on the role. * The date is forever stamped on her memory.\n  stamp sth<->out\n1 to get rid of sth that is bad, unpleasant or dangerous, especially by using force or a lot of effort:\nto stamp out racism / drug abuse / rebellion\n2 to put out a fire by bringing your foot down heavily on it:\nHe stamped out the flames before they spread any further.


Words: stamped addressed envelope
Meaning:
noun\n(abbreviation SAE) (BrE) an envelope in which you have written your name and address and put a stamp so that sb else can use it to send sth to you:\nPlease enclose a stamped addressed envelope to get your test results.


Words: stampede
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun [C, usually sing.]\n  1  a situation in which a group of people or large animals such as horses suddenly start running in the same direction, especially because they are frightened or excited:\nA stampede broke out when the doors opened.\n  2  a situation in which a lot of people are trying to do or achieve the same thing at the same time:\nFalling interest rates has led to a stampede to buy property.\n    verb\n  1  (of large animals or people) to run in a stampede; to make animals do this:\n[V] a herd of stampeding elephants * A huge bunch of kids came stampeding down the corridor. [also VN]\n  2  [VN] [usually passive] ~ sb (into sth / into doing sth) to make sb rush into doing sth without giving them time to think about it:\nI refuse to be stampeded into making any hasty decisions.


Words: stamping ground
Meaning:
(AmE also stomping ground) noun\n(informal) a place that sb likes and where they often go\nSYN HAUNT:\nThis bar used to be one of my brother’s old stamping grounds.


Words: stance
Meaning:
noun\n  1  ~ (on sth) the opinions that sb has about sth and expresses publicly\nSYN POSITION:\nWhat is the newspaper’s stance on the war? * He is known for his anti-abortion stance. * Judges are increasingly taking a tougher stance on rape.\n  2  the way in which sb stands, especially when playing a sport:\nWiden your stance (= move your feet wider apart) for greater stability when hitting the ball.


Words: stand
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb (stood, stood )\n  on feet / be upright\n  1  [V] to be on your feet; to be upright:\nShe was too weak to stand. * a bird standing on one leg * Don’t just stand there-do something! * I was standing only a few feet away. * Stand still while I take your photo. * We all stood around in the corridor waiting. * to stand on your head / hands (= to be upside down, balancing on your head / hands). * After the earthquake, only a few houses were left standing.\n  2  [V] ~ (up) to get up onto your feet from another position:\nEveryone stood when the President came in. * We stood up in order to get a better view.\n  put upright\n  3  [VN +adv./prep.] to put sth/sb in an upright position somewhere:\nStand the ladder up against the wall. * I stood the little girl on a chair so that she could see.\n  be in place / condition\n  4  [V +adv./prep.] (written) to be in a particular place:\nThe castle stands on the site of an ancient battlefield. * An old oak tree once stood here.\n  5  [V-ADJ] to be in a particular condition or situation:\nThe house stood empty for a long time. * ’You’re wrong about the date-it was 1988.’ ’I stand corrected (= accept that I was wrong).’ * [V] You never know where you stand with her-one minute she’s friendly, the next she’ll hardly speak to you. * As things stand, there is little chance of a quick settlement of the dispute.\n  be at height / level\n  6  [V-N] (not used in the progressive tenses) to be a particular height:\nThe tower stands 30 metres high.\n  7  [V] ~ at sth to be at a particular level, amount, height, etc:\nInterest rates stand at 3%. * The world record then stood at 6.59 metres.\n  of car / train, etc.\n  8  [V +adv./prep.] to be in a particular place, especially while waiting to go somewhere:\nThe train standing at platform 3 is for London, Victoria.\n  of liquid / mixture\n  9  [V] to remain still, without moving or being moved:\nMix the batter and let it stand for twenty minutes. * standing pools of rainwater\n  offer / decision\n  10  [V] if an offer, a decision, etc. made earlier stands, it is still valid:\nMy offer still stands. * The world record stood for 20 years.\n  be likely to do sth\n  11  [V to inf] to be in a situation where you are likely to do sth:\nYou stand to make a lot from this deal.\n  have opinion\n  12  [V] ~ (on sth) to have a particular attitude or opinion about sth or towards sb:\nWhere do you stand on private education?\n  dislike\n  13  [no passive] (not used in the progressive tenses) used especially in negative sentences and questions to emphasize that you do not like sb/sth:\n[VN] I can’t stand his brother. * I can’t stand the sight of blood. * I can’t stand it when you do that. * [V -ing] She couldn’t stand being kept waiting. * [VN -ing] I can’t stand people interrupting all the time. * How do you stand him being here all the time?\n  survive treatment\n  14  [VN] used especially with can/could to say that sb/sth can survive sth or can TOLERATE sth without being hurt or damaged:\nHis heart won’t stand the strain much longer. * Modern plastics can stand very high and very low temperatures.\n  buy drink / meal\n  15  [no passive] to buy a drink or meal for sb:\n[VN] He stood drinks all round. * [VNN] She was kind enough to stand us a meal.\n  in election\n  16  (especially BrE) (AmE usually run) [V] ~ (for / as sth) to be a candidate in an election:\nHe stood for parliament (= tried to get elected as an MP). * She stood unsuccessfully as a candidate in the local elections.\n IDIOMS \n  Idioms containing stand are at the entries for the nouns and adjectives in the idioms, for example stand on ceremony is at ceremony.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  stand aside\n1 to move to one side:\nShe stood aside to let us pass.\n2 to not get involved in sth:\nDon’t stand aside and let others do all the work.\n3 to stop doing a job so sb else can do it\n  stand back (from sth)\n1 to move back from a place:\nThe police ordered the crowd to stand back.\n2 to be situated away from sth:\nThe house stands back from the road.\n3 to think about a situation as if you are not involved in it:\nIt’s time to stand back and look at your career so far.\n  stand by\n1 to be present while sth bad is happening but not do anything to stop it:\nHow can you stand by and see him accused of something he didn’t do?\nrelated noun BYSTANDER\n2 to be ready for action:\nThe troops are standing by.\nrelated noun STANDBY\n  stand by sb to help sb or be friends with them, even in difficult situations:\nher famous song, ’Stand by your man’\n  stand by sth to still believe or agree with sth you said, decided or agreed earlier:\nShe still stands by every word she said.\n  stand down\n1 ~ (as sth) to leave a job or position:\nHe stood down to make way for someone younger.\n2 (of a witness) to leave the STAND in a court of law after giving evidence\n  stand for sth [no passive]\n1 (not used in the progressive tenses) to be an abbreviation or symbol of sth:\n’The book’s by T.C. Smith.’ ’What does the ’T.C.’ stand for?’\n2 to support sth:\nI hated the organization and all it stood for (= the ideas that it supported).\n3 (not stand for sth) to not let sb do sth or sth happen:\nI’m not standing for it any longer.\n  stand in (for sb) to take sb’s place\nSYN DEPUTIZE:\nMy assistant will stand in for me while I’m away.\nrelated noun STAND-IN\n  stand out (as sth) to be much better or more important than sb/sth:\nFour points stand out as being more important than the rest.\nsee also OUTSTANDING\n  stand out (from / against sth) to be easily seen; to be noticeable:\nThe lettering stood out well against the dark background. * She’s the sort of person who stands out in a crowd.\n  stand over sb be near sb and watch them:\nI don’t like you standing over me while I am cooking.\n  stand up to be on your feet:\nThere were no seats left so I had to stand up. * You’ll look taller if you stand up straight.\n  stand sb up (informal) to deliberately not meet sb you have arranged to meet, especially sb you are having a romantic relationship with:\nI’ve been stood up!\n  stand up for sb/sth to support or defend sb/sth:\nAlways stand up for your friends. * You must stand up for your rights. * She had learnt to stand up for herself.\n  stand up (to sth) to remain valid even when tested, examined closely, etc:\nHis argument simply doesn’t stand up to close scrutiny. * I’m afraid this document will never stand up in a court of law.\n  stand up to sb to resist sb; to not accept bad treatment from sb without complaining:\nIt was brave of her to stand up to those bullies.\n  stand up to sth (of materials, products, etc.) to remain in good condition in spite of rough treatment\nSYN WITHSTAND:\nThe carpet is designed to stand up to a lot of wear and tear.\n    noun\n  opinion\n \n  1  [usually sing.] an attitude towards sth or an opinion that you make clear to people:\nto take a firm / strong stand on sth * He was criticized for his tough stand on immigration.\n \n  defence\n \n  2  [usually sing.] a strong effort to defend yourself or your opinion about sth:\nWe must make a stand against further job losses. * the rebels’ desperate last stand\n \n  for showing / holding sth\n \n  3  a table or an upright structure that goods are sold from, especially in the street or at a market\nSYN STALL:\na hamburger / ice cream / newspaper stand\nsee also NEWS-STAND\n  4  (especially BrE) a table or an upright structure where things are displayed or advertised, for example at an EXHIBITION:\na display / exhibition / trade stand * Oxford University Press’s stand at the book fair\n  5  (often in compounds) a piece of equipment or furniture that you use for holding a particular type of thing:\na bicycle / microphone / cake stand\nsee also HATSTAND, MUSIC STAND, NIGHTSTAND, WASHSTAND\n  at sports ground\n  6  a large sloping structure at a STADIUM with rows where people sit or stand to watch the game:\nWe had seats in the east stand.\nsee also GRANDSTAND\n  in court of law\n  7  [usually sing.] = WITNESS BOX:\nHe took the stand as the first witness.\n  in cricket\n  8  [usually sing.] the period of time in which two people who are BATTING (= hitting the ball) play together and score points:\nClinch and Harris shared an opening stand of 69.\n  for band / orchestra, etc.\n  9  a raised platform for a band, an orchestra, a speaker, etc.\nsee also BANDSTAND\n  for taxis / buses, etc.\n  10  a place where taxis, buses, etc. park while they are waiting for passengers\ncompare TAXI RANK\n  of plants / trees\n  11  ~ (of sth) (technical) a group of plants or trees of one kind:\na stand of pines\nsee also HANDSTAND, ONE-NIGHT STAND\n IDIOMS  see FIRM adj.


Words: stand-alone
Meaning:
adjective\n[usually before noun] (especially of a computer) able to be operated on its own without being connected to a larger system


Words: stand-in
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a person who does sb’s job for a short time when they are not available:\nI acted as Tom’s stand-in when he was away. * the stand-in captain\n  2  a person who replaces an actor in some scenes in a film/movie, especially dangerous ones:\nMost of the stunts are performed by stand-ins.


Words: stand-off
Meaning:
noun\n~ (between A and B) a situation in a dispute in which no agreement can be reached\nSYN DEADLOCK:\na stand-off between the union and the management


Words: stand-up
Meaning:
adjective [only before noun]\n  1  stand-up COMEDY consists of one person standing in front of an audience and telling jokes:\na stand-up act * a stand-up comedian\n  2  (especially BrE) a stand-up argument, fight, etc. is one in which people shout loudly at each other or are violent towards each other\n  3  worn, used, etc. in an upright position:\na stand-up collar * The stand-up edging prevents soil from falling on the path.


Words: standard
Meaning:
noun, adjective \n    noun\n  level of quality\n  1  [C, U] ~ (of sth) a level of quality, especially one that people think is acceptable:\na fall in academic standards * We aim to maintain high standards of customer care. * The standard of this year’s applications is very low. * He failed to reach the required standard, and did not qualify for the race. * Her work is not up to standard (= of a good enough standard). * Who sets the standard for water quality? * A number of Britain’s beaches fail to meet European standards on cleanliness. * In the shanty towns there are very poor living standards.\nsee also STANDARD OF LIVING\n  2  [C, usually pl.] a level of quality that is normal or acceptable for a particular person or in a particular situation:\nYou’d better lower your standards if you want to find somewhere cheap to live. * It was a simple meal by Eddie’s standards. * The equipment is slow and heavy by modern standards.\n  level of behaviour\n  3  (standards) [pl.] a level of behaviour that sb considers to be morally acceptable:\na man of high moral standards * Standards aren’t what they used to be.\nsee also DOUBLE STANDARD\n  unit of measurement\n  4  [C] a unit of measurement that is officially used; an official rule used when producing sth:\na reduction in the weight standard of silver coins * industry standards\nsee also GOLD STANDARD\n  flag\n  5  [C] a flag that is used during official ceremonies, especially one connected with a particular military group:\nthe royal standard\n  song\n  6  [C] a song that has been recorded by many different singers\n    adjective\n  average / normal\n  1  average or normal rather than having special or unusual features:\nA standard letter was sent to all candidates. * Televisions are a standard feature in most hotel rooms. * the standard rate of tax (= paid by everyone) * It is standard practice to search visitors as they enter the building. * All vehicles come with a catalytic converter as standard. * standard issue uniforms (= given to everyone)\n  size / measurement\n  2  [usually before noun] following a particular standard set, for example, by an industry:\nstandard sizes of clothes * Washing machines have standard measurements to fit under kitchen units.\n  book / writer\n  3  [only before noun] read by most people who are studying a particular subject\n  language\n  4  [usually before noun] (of spelling, pronunciation, grammar. etc.) believed to be correct and used by most people:\nStandard English\ncompare NON-STANDARD, SUB-STANDARD


Words: Standard Grade
Meaning:
noun\n(in Scotland) an exam in a particular subject at a lower level than HIGHERS. Standard Grades are usually taken in a number of different subjects at the age of 16.


Words: standard of living
Meaning:
noun\n(plural standards of living) the amount of money and level of comfort that a particular person or group has


Words: standard-bearer
Meaning:
noun\n(written) a leader in a political group or CAMPAIGN:\na standard-bearer of the left / right of the party


Words: standardize
Meaning:
(BrE also standardise)  verb\n[VN] to make objects or activities of the same type have the same features or qualities; to make sth standard:\nattempts to standardize legislation on the matter * a standardized contract / design / test\n    standardization, standardisation  noun [U]:\nthe standardization of components


Words: standby
Meaning:
noun, adjective \n    noun (plural standbys) noun a person or thing that can always be used if needed, for example if sb/sth else is not available or if there is an emergency:\nI always keep a pizza in the freezer as a standby * a standby electricity generator * Wilson has been called into the squad as a standby * A dark suit is a useful standby for any formal occasion\n IDIOMS \n  on standby\n1 ready to do sth immediately if needed or asked:\nThe emergency services were put on standby after a bomb warning. * As the level of the water rose, villages were put on evacuation standby. * The troops are on 24-hour standby (= ready to move at an time of the day or night).\n2 ready to travel or go somewhere if a ticket or sth that is needed suddenly becomes available:\nHe was put on standby for the flight to New York.\n    adjective [only before noun] a standby ticket for a flight, theatre, etc. cannot be bought in advance and is only available a very short time before the plane leaves or the performance starts:\na standby ticket / passenger


Words: standing
Meaning:
adjective, noun \n    adjective [only before noun]\n  1  existing or arranged permanently, not formed or made for a particular situation:\na standing army * (BrE) a standing charge (= an amount of money that you pay in order to use a service, such as gas or water) * a standing committee * It’s a standing joke (= something that a group of people regularly laugh at). * We have a standing invitation to visit them anytime.\n  2  done from a position in which you are standing rather than sitting or running:\na standing jump / start\nsee also FREE-STANDING\n    noun [U]\n  1  the position or reputation of sb/sth within a group of people or in an organization\nSYN STATUS:\nthe high / low standing of politicians with the public * The contract has no legal standing.\n  2  [U] the period of time that sth has existed:\na friendship of many years’ standing\nsee also LONG-STANDING\n  3  (standings) [pl.] a list of people, teams, etc. showing their positions in a sports competition:\nHendry remains at the top of the championship standings.


Words: standing order
Meaning:
noun\n[C, U] an instruction that you give to your bank to pay sb a fixed amount of money from your account on the same day each week/month, etc:\nto set up a standing order * to pay by standing order\ncompare BANKER’S ORDER, DIRECT DEBIT


Words: standing room
Meaning:
noun\n[U] space for people to stand in, especially in a theatre, sports ground, etc:\nstanding room for 12 000 supporters * It was standing room only at the concert (= all the seats were sold).


Words: standout
Meaning:
noun\n(AmE, informal) a person or thing that is very noticeable because they are better, more impressive, etc. than others in a group:\nThe songs on the album are good though none is a standout.


Words: standpipe
Meaning:
noun\na pipe that is connected to a public water supply and used to provide water outside a building


Words: standpoint
Meaning:
noun\n[usually sing.] a point of view or way of thinking about ideas or situations\nSYN PERSPECTIVE:\na modern / political / theoretical standpoint * He is writing from the standpoint of someone who knows what life is like in prison.


Words: standstill
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] a situation in which all activity or movement has stopped:\nThe security alert brought the airport to a standstill. * Traffic in the northbound lane is at a complete standstill.


Words: stanza
Meaning:
noun\n(technical) a group of lines in a repeated pattern that form a unit in some types of poem\nSYN VERSE


Words: staple
Meaning:
adjective, noun, verb \n    adjective [only before noun] forming a basic, large or important part of sth:\nThe staple crop is rice. * Jeans are a staple part of everyone’s wardrobe.\n    noun\n  1  a small piece of wire that is used in a device called a STAPLER and is pushed through pieces of paper and bent over at the ends in order to fasten the pieces of paper together\n  2  a small piece of metal in the shape of a U that is hit into wooden surfaces using a hammer, used especially for holding electrical wires in place\n  3  a basic type of food that is used a lot:\nAid workers helped distribute corn, milk and other staples.\n  4  something that is produced by a country and is important for its economy:\nRubber became the staple of the Malayan economy.\n  5  ~ (of sth) a large or important part of sth:\nRoyal gossip is a staple of the tabloid press.\n    verb [VN +adv./prep.] to attach one thing to another using a staple or staples:\nStaple the invoice to the receipt. * Staple the invoice and the receipt together.


Words: staple diet
Meaning:
noun [U, C] ~ (of sth)\n  1  the food that a person or an animal normally eats:\na staple diet of meat and potatoes * Bamboo is the panda’s staple diet.\n  2  something that is used a lot:\nSex and violence seem to be the staple diet of television drama.


Words: star
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  in sky\n  1  [C] a large ball of burning gas in space that we see as a point of light in the sky at night:\nThere was a big moon and hundreds of stars were shining overhead. * Sirius is the brightest star in the sky. * We camped out under the stars.\nsee also FALLING STAR, LODESTAR, POLE STAR, SHOOTING STAR, STARRY\n  shape\n  2  [C] an object, a decoration, a mark, etc., usually with five or six points, whose shape represents a star:\na horse with a white star on its forehead * a sheriff’s star * I’ve put a star by the names of the girls in the class. * a four-star general\n  mark of quality\n  3  [C, usually sing.] a mark that represents a star and tells you how good sth is, especially a hotel or restaurant:\nthree- / four- / five-star hotels * What star rating does this restaurant have?\n  performer\n  4  [C] a famous and excellent singer, performer, sports player, etc:\npop / rock / Hollywood stars * a football / tennis star * He’s so good-I’m sure he’ll be a big star. * She acts well but she hasn’t got star quality. * The best models receive star treatment.\nsee also ALL-STAR, FILM STAR, MEGASTAR, MOVIE STAR, SUPERSTAR\n  5  [C] a person who has the main part, or one of the main parts, in a film/movie, play, etc:\nShe was the star of many popular television series. * The star of the show was a young Italian singer. * the star role / part\nsee also STAR TURN\n  best of group\n  6  [C] (often used before another noun) a person or thing that is the best of a group:\na star student * He was the star performer at the championships. * The star prize is a weekend for two in Paris. * The monkey was the star attraction (= the best or most popular act) at the show.\n  helpful person\n  7  [C, usually sing.] (spoken, informal) used to show that you feel very grateful for sth that sb has done or that you think they are wonderful:\nThanks! You’re a star!\n  influence on sb’s future\n  8  (stars) [pl.] a description of what is going to happen to sb in the future, based on the position of the stars and planets when they were born\nSYN HOROSCOPE:\nDo you read your stars in the paper?\n  9  [C] a planet or force that some people believe to influence a person’s life:\nYou must have been born under a lucky star!\nsee also ILL-STARRED\n IDIOMS \n  see stars (informal) to see flashes of light in front of your eyes, usually because you have been hit on the head\nmore at REACH v., THANK\n    verb (-rr-)\n  perform in movie / play\n  1  [V] ~ (with / opposite sb) (in sth) to have one of the main parts in a film/movie, play, etc:\nShe starred opposite Jack Nicholson in ’As Good as it Gets’. * No one has yet been chosen for the starring role (= the main part).\n  2  [VN] [no passive] if a film/movie, play, etc. stars sb, that person has one of the main parts:\na movie starring Tom Cruise and Demi Moore * The studio wants to star her in a sequel to last year’s hit.\nsee also CO-STAR\n  mark with symbol\n  3  [VN] [usually passive] to put a symbol shaped like a star (called an ASTERISK) next to a word, etc. in order to make people notice it:\nTreat all the sections that have been starred as priority.


Words: Star of David
Meaning:
noun\n(plural Stars of David) a star with six points that is used as a symbol of Judaism and the state of Israel


Words: star sign
Meaning:
(also informal sign) noun\none of the twelve signs of the ZODIAC:\n’What’s your star sign?’ ’Aquarius.’


Words: star-crossed
Meaning:
adjective\n(literary) not able to be happy because of bad luck or fate:\nShakespeare’s star-crossed lovers, Romeo and Juliet


Words: starboard
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the side of a ship or an aircraft that is on the right when you are facing forward\ncompare PORT


Words: starburst
Meaning:
noun\n(written) a bright light in the shape of a star, or a shape that looks like a star exploding:\na wild starburst of colour


Words: starch
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  1  [U, C] a white CARBOHYDRATE food substance found in potatoes, flour, rice, etc.; food containing this:\nrice / potato starch * You need to cut down on starch. * There’s too much starch in your diet.\n  2  [U] starch prepared in powder form or as a spray and used for making clothes, sheets, etc. stiff:\nSpray starch on the shirt collars before ironing them.\n    verb [VN] [usually passive] to make clothes, sheets, etc. stiff using starch:\na starched white shirt


Words: stardom
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the state of being famous as an actor, a singer, etc:\nThe group is being tipped for stardom (= people say they will be famous). * She shot to stardom in a Broadway musical. * He thanked all those who had helped him on the road to stardom (= during the time he was trying to become famous).


Words: stare
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb\n [V] ~ (at sb/sth) to look at sb/sth for a long time:\nI screamed and everyone stared. * I stared blankly at the paper in front of me. * They stared up at the hole in the ceiling. * He sat staring into space (= looking at nothing). * She looked at them with dark staring eyes.\n \n IDIOMS \n \n  be staring sb in the face\n1 to be obvious or easy to see:\nThe answer was staring us in the face.\n2 to be certain to happen:\nDefeat was staring them in the face.\n  be staring sth in the face to be unable to avoid sth:\nThey were staring defeat in the face.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  stare sb out (BrE) (also stare sb down especially in AmE) to look into sb’s eyes for a long time until they feel embarrassed and are forced to look away\n    noun an act of looking at sb/sth for a long time, especially in a way that is unfriendly or that shows surprise:\nShe gave him a blank stare. * He fixed the interviewer with a penetrating stare.


Words: stark
Meaning:
adjective, adverb \n    adjective (starker, starkest)\n  1  (often disapproving) looking severe and without any colour or decoration:\nI think white would be too stark for the bedroom. * The hills stood stark against the winter sky.\n  2  unpleasant; real, and impossible to avoid:\nThe author paints a stark picture of life in a prison camp. * a stark choice / warning * The remains of the building stand as a stark reminder of the fire. * He now faces the stark reality of life in prison. * The stark fact is that even with more time, we still couldn’t raise enough money.\n  3  very different to sth in a way that is easy to see:\nstark alternatives / differences * Social divisions in the city are stark. * The good weather was in stark contrast to the storms of previous weeks.\n  4  [only before noun] complete and total:\nThe children watched in stark terror.\n    starkly adverb:\nThe interior is starkly simple. * The lighthouse stood out starkly against the dark sky. * We are starkly aware of the risks. * These theories contrast starkly with the reality of everyday life.\n    starkness noun [U] \n    adverb ~ naked completely naked\n IDIOMS  see RAVING


Words: starry
Meaning:
noun [usually before noun]\n  1  (of the sky) full of stars:\na beautiful starry night\n  2  looking like a star:\nstarry flowers\n  3  (of eyes) shining like stars


Words: starry-eyed
Meaning:
adjective\n(informal) full of emotion, hopes or dreams about sb/sth in a way that is not realistic:\na starry-eyed idealist / plan * I remember when you were all starry-eyed about Rob.


Words: start
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb\n  doing sth\n  1  to begin doing sth:\n[VN] I start work at nine. * He’s just started a new job. * I only started (= began to read) this book yesterday. * We need to start (= begin using) a new jar of coffee. * The kids start school next week. * [V to inf] It started to rain. * Mistakes were starting to creep in. * [V -ing] She started laughing. * [V] It’s a long story. Where shall I start? * It’s time you started on your homework. * Let’s start by reviewing what we did last week. * Can you start (= a new job) on Monday? * [V-ADJ] The best professional musicians start young.\n  happening\n  2  to start happening; to make sth start happening:\n[V] When does the class start? * Have you any idea where the rumour started? * [VN] Who started the fire? * Do you start the day with a good breakfast? * You’re always trying to start an argument. * [VN -ing] The news started me thinking.\n  machine / vehicle\n  3  when you start a machine or a vehicle or it starts, it begins to operate:\n[VN] Start the engines! * I can’t get the car started. * [V] The car won’t start.\n  existing\n  4  ~ (sth) (up) to begin to exist; to make sth begin to exist:\n[V] There are a lot of small businesses starting up in that area. * [VN] They decided to start a catering business. * She started a yoga class at work.\n  journey\n  5  [V] ~ (out) to begin a journey; to leave:\nWhat time are we starting tomorrow?\n  going / walking\n  6  [V +adv./prep.] to begin to move in a particular direction:\nI started after her (= began to follow her) to tell her the news. * He started for the door, but I blocked his way.\n  in particular way / from place / level\n  7  ~ (out / off) (sth) (as sth) to begin, or to begin sth such as a career, in a particular way that changed later:\n[V] She started as a secretary but ended up running the department. * The company started out with 30 employees. * [VN] He started life as a teacher before turning to journalism.\n  8  [V +adv./prep.] to begin from a particular place, amount or situation:\nThe trail starts just outside the town. * Hotel prices start at ｣65 a night for a double room. * The evening started badly when the speaker failed to turn up.\n  move suddenly\n  9  [V] to move suddenly and quickly because you are surprised or afraid\nSYN JUMP:\nThe sudden noise made her start. -> BEGIN\n IDIOMS \n  don’t (you) start (spoken, informal) used to tell sb not to complain or be critical:\nDon’t start! I told you I’d be late.\n  you, he, she, etc. started it (spoken, informal) you, he, she, etc. began a fight or an argument:\n’Stop fighting, you two!’ ’He started it!’\n  start something (informal) to cause trouble\n  to start with\n1 used when you are giving the first and most important reason for sth:\nTo start with it’s much too expensive ...\n2 at the beginning:\nThe club had only six members to start with. * I’ll have melon to start with. * She wasn’t keen on the idea to start with.\nmore at ALARM n., BALL n., FOOT n.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  start back to begin to return somewhere:\nIsn’t it time we started back?\n  start off\n1 to begin to move:\nThe horse started off at a steady trot.\n2 to begin happening; to begin doing sth:\nThe discussion started off mildly enough.\n3 to begin by doing or being sth:\nLet’s start off with some gentle exercises. * We started off by introducing ourselves. * [+ADJ] The leaves start off green but turn red later. * [+ -ing] I started off working quite hard, but it didn’t last.\n  start sb off (on sth)\n1 [no passive] to make sb begin doing sth:\nWhat started her off on that crazy idea? * Don’t say anything to her-you’ll start her off again (= make her get angry). * [+ -ing] Kevin started us all off laughing.\n2 to help sb begin doing sth:\nMy mother started me off on the piano when I was three. * [+ -ing] His father started him off farming.\n  start on sb [no passive] to attack sb physically or with words\n  start on at sb (about sth) | start on (at sb) about sth (informal) to begin to complain about sth or criticize sb:\nShe started on at me again about getting some new clothes. * Don’t start on about him not having a job.\n  start out\n1 to begin to do sth, especially in business or work:\nto start out in business * She started out on her legal career in 1963. * When the band started out, they couldn’t afford much equipment.\n2 to have a particular intention when you begin sth:\n[+ to inf] I started out to write a short story, but it soon developed into a novel.\n  start over (especially AmE) to begin again:\nShe wasn’t happy with our work and made us start over.\n  start up | start sth<->up to begin working, happening, etc.; to make sth do this:\nI heard his car start up. * Start up the engines!\nsee also START-UP\n    noun\n  beginning\n  1  [C, usually sing.] the point at which sth begins:\na perfect start to the day * Things didn’t look too hopeful at the start of the year. * If we don’t hurry, we’ll miss the start of the game. * The meeting got off to a good / bad start (= started well / badly). * The trip was a disaster from start to finish. * We’ve had problems (right) from the start. * (informal) This could be the start of something big.\n  2  [sing.] the act or process of beginning sth:\nI’ll paint the ceiling if you make a start on the walls. * I want to make an early start in the morning. * She’s moving abroad to make a fresh start (= to begin a new life).\nsee also FALSE START, KICK-START\n  opportunity\n  3  [C, usually sing.] the opportunity that you are given to begin sth in a successful way:\nThey worked hard to give their children a good start in life. * The job gave him his start in journalism.\n  in race\n  4  (the start) [sing.] the place where a race begins:\nThe runners / riders lined up at the start.\n  5  [C, usually sing.] an amount of time or distance that sb has as an advantage over other people at the beginning of a race:\nShe went into the second round with a five-minute start on the rest of the cyclists. * I gave the younger children a start.\nsee also HEAD START\n  6  [C, usually pl.] (sport) a race or competition that sb has taken part in:\nShe has been beaten only once in six starts.\n  sudden movement\n  7  [C, usually sing.] an act of moving your body quickly and suddenly because you are surprised, afraid, etc:\nShe woke from the dream with a start. * You gave me quite a start!\n IDIOMS \n  for a start (spoken) used to emphasize the first of a list of reasons, opinions, etc:\nI’m not working there-for a start, it’s too far to travel.\nmore at FIT n., FLYING START


Words: start-up
Meaning:
adjective\n[only before noun] connected with starting a new business or project:\nstart-up costs / problems


Words: starter
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  (especially BrE) (AmE usually appetizer) a small amount of food that is served before the main course of a meal:\nThis dish serves 46 people as a starter.\ncompare HORS D’OEUVRE\n \n  2  a person, horse, car, etc. that is in a race at the beginning:\nOnly 8 of the 28 starters completed the course.\ncompare NON-STARTER\n \n  3  a person who gives the signal for a race to start:\nthe starter’s flag / gun / pistol\n  4  a device used for starting the engine of a vehicle:\nthe starter button / switch * a starter motor\n  5  a person who begins doing a particular activity in the way mentioned:\nHe was a late starter in the theatre (= older than most people when they start). * a slow starter\nsee also SELF-STARTER\n  6  (often used as an adjective) something that is intended to be used by sb who is starting to do sth:\na starter home (= a small home for sb who is buying property for the first time) * a starter kit / pack\n IDIOMS \n  for starters (spoken) used to emphasize the first of a list of reasons, opinions, etc., or to say what happens first:\nThere are a number of problems-for starters, where is the money coming from? * The winners will be flown to Paris-and that’s just for starters.\n  under starters orders (of a runner, rider, etc.) waiting for a signal to start the race


Words: starting blocks
Meaning:
(also the blocks) noun\n[pl.] the two blocks on the ground that runners push their feet against at the beginning of a race


Words: starting point
Meaning:
noun\n  1  ~ (for sth) a thing, an idea or a set of facts that can be used to begin a discussion or process:\nThe TV documentary served as a useful starting point for our discussion.\n  2  the place where you begin a journey


Words: startle
Meaning:
verb\nto surprise sb suddenly in a way that slightly shocks or frightens them:\n[VN] I didn’t mean to startle you. * The explosion startled the horse. * I was startled by her question. * [VN to inf] It startled me to find her sitting in my office.\n    startled  adjective:\nShe looked at him with startled eyes. * He looked startled. * She jumped back like a startled rabbit.


Words: startling
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  extremely unusual and surprising:\na startling contrast / discovery * startling revelations in the Sunday papers\n  2  (of a colour) extremely bright:\nstartling blue eyes * Her skin was a startling white.\n    startlingly adverb:\nShe was startlingly beautiful. * Their findings are startlingly similar.


Words: starvation
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the state of suffering and death caused by having no food:\nto die of / from starvation * Millions will face starvation next year as a result of the drought. * a starvation diet (= one in which you do not have much to eat) * They were on starvation wages (= extremely low wages).


Words: starve
Meaning:
verb\n  1  to suffer or die because you do not have enough food to eat; to make sb suffer or die in this way:\n[V] The animals were left to starve to death. * pictures of starving children * The new job doesn’t pay as much but we won’t starve! * [VN] She’s starving herself to try to lose weight. * Many of the prisoners looked half starved.\n  2  (-starved) (in adjectives) not having sth that you need:\nsupply-starved rebels\nsee also CASH-STARVED\n IDIOMS \n  be starving (for sth) (also be starved especially in AmE) (informal) to feel very hungry:\nWhen’s food? I’m starving!\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  starve sb into sth / into doing sth to force sb to do sth by not allowing them to get any food or money:\nThe blockade was aimed at starving the country into submission.\n  starve sb/sth of sth (AmE also starve sb/sth for sth) [usually passive] to not give sth that is needed:\nI felt starved of intelligent conversation. * The department has been starved of resources.\n  starve sb<->out (of sth) to force sb to leave a particular building or area by not allowing them to get any food:\nIf they won’t come out, we’ll starve them out!


Words: stash
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb [VN +adv./prep.] (informal) to store sth in a safe or secret place:\nShe has a fortune stashed away in various bank accounts. * The gun was stashed under the bed.\n    noun [usually sing.] (informal) an amount of sth that is kept secretly:\na stash of money


Words: state
Meaning:
noun, adjective, verb \n    noun\n  condition of sb / sth\n  1  [C] the mental, emotional or physical condition that a person or thing is in:\na confused state of mind * He was in a state of permanent depression. * A report condemned the state of prisoners’ cells. * anxieties about the state of the country’s economy * The building is in a bad state of repair (= needs to be repaired). * She was in a state of shock. * (BrE, informal) Look at the state of you! You can’t go out looking like that. * You’re not in a fit state to drive. -> CONDITION\n  country\n  2  (also State) [C] a country considered as an organized political community controlled by one government:\nthe Baltic States * the State of Israel * European Union member states\nsee also CITY STATE, NATION STATE, POLICE STATE, WELFARE STATE -> COUNTRY\n  part of country\n  3  (also State) [C] (abbreviation St.) an organized political community forming part of a country:\nthe states of Victoria and Western Australia * the southern States of the US\n  government\n  4  (also the State) [U, sing.] the government of a country:\nmatters / affairs of state * people who are financially dependent on the state * a state-owned company * They wish to limit the power of the State.\n  official ceremony\n  5  [U] the formal ceremonies connected with high levels of government or with kings and queens:\nThe president was driven in state through the streets.\n  the us\n  6  (the States) [pl.] (informal) the United States of America:\nI’ve never been to the States.\n IDIOMS \n  be in / get into a state (informal, especially BrE)\n1 to be/become excited or anxious:\nShe was in a real state about her exams. * He made a mistake and got into a terrible state about it.\n2 to be dirty or untidy:\nWhat a state this place is in!\n  in a state of grace (in the Roman Catholic Church) having been forgiven by God for the wrong or evil things you have done:\nHe died in a state of grace.\n  a state of affairs a situation:\nThis state of affairs can no longer be ignored.\n  the state of play\n1 the stage that has been reached in a dispute, process, etc. which has not yet been completed:\nWhat is the current state of play in the peace talks?\n2 (especially BrE) the score in a sports match, especially in cricket\n  turn State’s evidence (AmE) = turn King’s / Queen’s evidence at EVIDENCE\nmore at LIE v., NANNY\n    adjective (also State) [only before noun]\n  government\n  1  provided or controlled by the government of a country:\nstate education * families dependent on state benefits (= in Britain, money given by the government to people who are poor) * state secrets (= information that could be harmful to a country if it were discovered by an enemy)\n  official\n  2  connected with the leader of a country attending an official ceremony:\nThe Queen is on a state visit to Moscow. * the state opening of Parliament * the state apartments / rooms (= used for official ceremonies)\n  part of country\n  3  connected with a particular state of a country, especially in the US:\na state prison / hospital / university * state police / troopers * a state holiday / tax\n    verb\n  1  to formally write or say sth, especially in a careful and clear way:\n[VN] He has already stated his intention to run for election. * The facts are clearly stated in the report. * There is no need to state the obvious (= to say sth that everyone already knows). * [V wh-] State clearly how many tickets you require. * [V that] He stated categorically that he knew nothing about the deal. * [VN that] It was stated that standards at the hospital were dropping. * [VN to inf] The contract was stated to be invalid.\n HELP NOTE  This pattern is usually used in the passive.\n  2  [VN] [usually passive] to fix or announce the details of sth, especially on a written document:\nThis is not one of their stated aims. * You must arrive at the time stated. * Do not exceed the stated dose (= of medicine).


Words: state of siege
Meaning:
noun\na situation in which the government limits people’s freedom to enter or leave a city, town or building:\nArmed police placed the city centre under a virtual state of siege while the trial continued.


Words: state of the art
Meaning:
adjective\nusing the most modern or advanced techniques or methods; as good as it can be at the present time:\nThe system was state of the art. * a state-of-the-art system


Words: state school
Meaning:
(BrE) (AmE public school) noun\na school that is paid for by the government and provides free education\ncompare PRIVATE SCHOOL, PUBLIC SCHOOL


Words: statecraft
Meaning:
noun\n[U] skill in managing state and political affairs:\nHe had little real experience of statecraft.


Words: statehood
Meaning:
noun [U] (written)\n  1  the fact of being an independent country and of having the rights and powers of a country:\nSlovakia’s path to independent statehood\n  2  the condition of being one of the states within a country such as the US or Australia:\nWest Virginia was granted statehood in 1863.


Words: stateless
Meaning:
adjective\nnot officially a citizen of any country:\nThe children of illegal immigrants will in many cases be born stateless.\n    statelessness noun [U]


Words: stately
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  impressive in size, appearance or manner:\nan avenue of stately chestnut trees * a tall, stately woman\n  2  slow, formal and graceful:\na stately dance * The procession made its stately progress through the streets of the city.\n    stateliness noun [U]


Words: stately home
Meaning:
noun\n(BrE) a large, impressive house of historical interest, especially one that the public may visit


Words: statement
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  1  [C] something that you say or write that gives information or an opinion:\nAre the following statements true or false? * Your statement is misleading. * Is that a statement or a question? * The play makes a strong political statement.\n  2  [C] ~ (on / about sth) a formal or official account of facts or opinions:\na public / a written / an official statement * A government spokesperson made a statement to the press. * The prime minister is expected to issue a statement on the policy change this afternoon. * The police asked me to make a statement (= a written account of facts concerning a crime, used in court if legal action follows).\n  3  [C] a printed record of money paid, received, etc:\nThe directors are responsible for preparing the company’s financial statements. * My bank sends me monthly statements.\nsee also BANK STATEMENT\n  4  [C] (in Britain) an official report on a child’s special needs made by a local education authority:\na statement of special educational needs\n  5  [U] (formal) the act of stating or expressing sth in words:\nWhen writing instructions, clarity of statement is the most important thing.\n    verb [VN] [often passive] (in Britain) to officially decide and report that a child has special needs for his or her education:\nstatemented children


Words: stateroom
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a private room on a large ship\n  2  a room used by important government members, members of a royal family, etc. on formal occasions


Words: stateside
Meaning:
adjective, adverb\n(AmE, informal) connected with the US; in or towards the US (used when the person speaking is not in the US):\nWhen are you next planning a trip stateside?


Words: statesman
Meaning:
noun\n(plural statesmen ) a wise, experienced and respected political leader:\nthe party’s elder statesman


Words: statesmanlike
Meaning:
adjective\nhaving or showing the qualities and abilities of a statesman:\nHe was commended for his statesmanlike handling of the crisis.


Words: statewide
Meaning:
adjective, adverb\nhappening or existing in all parts of a state of the US:\na statewide election / poll * She won 10% of the vote statewide.


Words: static
Meaning:
adjective, noun \n    adjective\n  1  not moving, changing or developing:\nThe balance sheet provides a static picture of the financial position at a point in time. * Prices on the stock market, which have been static, are now rising again. * a static population level\n  2  (physics) (of a force) acting as a weight but not producing movement:\nstatic pressure\nOPP DYNAMIC\n    noun [U]\n  1  noise or other effects that disturb radio or television signals and are caused by particular conditions in the atmosphere\n  2  (also static electricity) electricity that gathers on or in an object which cannot CONDUCT a current:\nMy hair gets full of static when I brush it.\n  3  (statics) the science that deals with the forces that balance each other to keep objects in a state of rest\ncompare DYNAMICS


Words: station
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  for trains / buses\n \n  1  a place where trains stop so that passengers can get on and off; the buildings connected with this: (BrE) a railway station * (especially AmE) a train station * (BrE) a tube / an underground station * (AmE) a subway station * I get off at the next station * We met in front of the main station.\n \n  2  (usually in compounds) a place where buses and COACHES stop; the buildings connected with this:\na bus / coach station\n \n  for work / service\n \n  3  (usually in compounds) a place or building where a service is organized and provided or a special type of work is done:\na police / fire station * (BrE) a petrol station * (AmE) a gas station * an agricultural research station * a pollution monitoring station\ncompare SPACE STATION\n  radio / tv company\n  4  (often in compounds) a radio or television company and the programmes it broadcasts:\na local radio / TV station * He tuned to another station.\n  social position\n  5  (old-fashioned or formal) your social position:\nShe was definitely getting ideas above her station.\n  position\n  6  a place where sb has to wait and watch or be ready to do work if needed:\nYou are not to leave your station without permission.\n  large farm\n  7  (usually in compounds) a large sheep or CATTLE farm in Australia or New Zealand\n  for army / navy\n  8  a small base for the army or navy; the people living in it:\na naval station\nsee also ACTION STATIONS\n IDIOMS  see PANIC n.\n    verb [VN +adv./prep.]\n  armed forces\n  1  [often passive] to send sb, especially from one of the armed forces, to work in a place for a period of time:\ntroops stationed abroad\n  go to position\n  2  ~ sb / yourself ... (formal) to go somewhere and stand or sit there, especially to wait for sth; to send sb somewhere to do this:\nShe stationed herself at the window to await his return. * A photographer had been stationed at the main entrance.


Words: stationary
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  not moving; not intended to be moved:\nI remained stationary. * The car collided with a stationary vehicle. * a stationary exercise bike\nOPP MOBILE\n  2  not changing in condition or quantity:\na stationary population


Words: stationer
Meaning:
noun (especially BrE)\n  1  a person who owns or manages a shop selling stationery\n  2  (stationer’s) (plural stationers) a shop that sells stationery:\nIs there a stationer’s near here?


Words: stationery
Meaning:
noun [U]\n \n  1  materials for writing and for using in an office, for example paper, pens and envelopes\n \n  2  special paper for writing letters on


Words: statistic
Meaning:
noun\n  1  (statistics) (also informal stats) [pl.] a collection of information shown in numbers:\ncrime / unemployment statistics * According to official statistics the disease killed over 500 people. * Statistics show that far more people are able to ride a bicycle than can drive a car. * These statistics are misleading.\nsee also VITAL STATISTICS\n  2  (statistics) (also informal stats) [U] the science of collecting and analysing statistics:\nThere is a compulsory course in statistics.\n  3  [C] a piece of information shown in numbers:\nAn important statistic is that 94 per cent of crime relates to property. * I felt I was no longer being treated as a person but as a statistic.\n    statistical  adjective:\nstatistical analysis / methods / data\n    statistically  adverb:\nThe difference between the two samples was not statistically significant.


Words: statue
Meaning:
noun\na figure of a person or an animal in stone, metal, etc., usually the same size as in real life or larger:\na bronze / marble statue * a statue of Apollo


Words: statuesque
Meaning:
adjective\n(written) (usually used about a woman) tall and beautiful in an impressive way; like a statue


Words: stature
Meaning:
noun [U] (written)\n  1  the importance and respect that a person has because of their ability and achievements:\nan actress of considerable stature * The orchestra has grown in stature.\n  2  a person’s height:\na woman of short stature * He is small in stature.


Words: status
Meaning:
noun [U, C, usually sing.]\n  1  the legal position of a person, group or country:\nThey were granted refugee status. * The party was denied legal status.\n  2  [U, C, usually sing.] the social or professional position of sb/sth in relation to others:\nlow status jobs * to have a high social status * Women are only asking to be given equal status with men. * She achieved celebrity status overnight.\n  3  [U] high rank or social position:\nThe job brings with it status and a high income.\n  4  [U, C, usually sing.] the level of importance that is given to sth:\nthe high status accorded to science in our culture\n  5  [U] the situation at a particular time during a process:\nWhat is the current status of our application for funds?


Words: status quo
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] (from Latin) the situation as it is now, or as it was before a recent change:\nto defend / restore the status quo * conservatives who want to maintain the status quo.


Words: status symbol
Meaning:
noun\na possession that people think shows their high social status and wealth:\nExotic pets are the latest status symbol.


Words: statute
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a law that is passed by a parliament, council, etc. and formally written down:\nPenalties are laid down in the statute. * Corporal punishment was banned by statute in 1987. * The wording of the statute is ambiguous.\n  2  a formal rule of an organization or institution:\nUnder the statutes of the university they had no power to dismiss him.


Words: statute book
Meaning:
noun\na collection of all the laws made by a government:\nIt’s not yet on the statute book (= it has not yet become law).


Words: statute of limitations
Meaning:
noun\n(law) the legal limit on the period of time within which action can be taken on a crime or other legal question


Words: statutory
Meaning:
adjective\n[usually before noun] fixed by law; that must be done by law:\nThe authority failed to carry out its statutory duties. * When you buy foods you have certain statutory rights.\n    statutorily adverb:\nThe broadcasting media are statutorily required to be impartial.


Words: staunch
Meaning:
adjective, verb \n    adjective (superlative staunchest, no comparative) strong and loyal in your opinions and attitude:\na staunch supporter of the monarchy * one of the president’s staunchest allies * a staunch Catholic\n    staunchly adverb:\nShe staunchly defended the new policy. * The family was staunchly Protestant.\n    staunchness noun [U] \n    verb (also stanch  especially in AmE) [VN] (formal) to stop the flow of sth, especially blood


Words: stave
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n\n \n  1  a strong stick or pole:\nfence staves\n \n  2  (BrE) (also staff AmE, BrE) (music) a set of five lines on which music is written\n    verb (staved, staved) or (stove, stove )\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  stave sth<->in to break or damage sth by making part of it fall inwards:\nThe side of the boat was staved in when it hit the rocks.\n  stave sth<->off (staved, staved) to prevent sth bad from affecting you for a period of time; to delay sb/sth:\nto stave off hunger / illness / inflation / bankruptcy * The company managed to stave off bankruptcy for another few months.


Words: stay
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb\n  1  to continue to be in a particular place for a period of time without moving away:\n[V] to stay in bed / in the house / in your room * ’Do you want a drink?’ ’No, thanks, I can’t stay.’ * Stay there and don’t move! * We ended up staying for lunch. * She stayed at home (= did not go out to work) while the children were young. * I’m staying late at the office tonight. * My hat won’t stay on! * Can you stay behind after the others have gone and help me clear up? * I can stay a few minutes longer. * We stayed to see what would happen. * [V -ing] They stayed talking until well into the night.\n HELP NOTE  In spoken English stay can be used with and plus another verb, instead of with to and the infinitive, to show purpose or to tell somebody what to do: I’ll stay and help you. * Can you stay and keep an eye on the baby?\n  2  to continue to be in a particular state or situation:\n[V-ADJ] He never stays angry for long. * I can’t stay awake any longer. * The store stays open until late on Thursdays. * Stay tuned (= used to ask people to continue listening to or watching a particular programme on the radio or television). * [V +adv./prep.] I don’t know why they stay together (= remain married or in a relationship). * Inflation stayed below 4% last month. * She did not want to stay in nursing all her life. * The TV stays on all day in their house. * [V-N] We promised to stay friends for ever.\n  3  [V] to live in a place temporarily as a guest or visitor:\nWe found out we were staying in the same hotel. * My sister’s coming to stay next week. * He’s staying with friends this weekend. * I stayed three nights at my cousin’s house.\n HELP NOTE  In Scottish English, stay can mean ’to live in a place permanently’: Where do you stay (= where do you live)?\n IDIOMS \n  be here to stay | have come to stay to be accepted or used by most people and therefore a permanent part of our lives:\nIt looks like televised trials are here to stay.\n  stay! (spoken) used to tell a dog not to move\n  stay the course to continue doing sth until it has finished or been completed, even though it is difficult:\nVery few of the trainees have stayed the course.\n  stay your hand (old-fashioned or literary) to stop yourself from doing sth; to prevent you from doing sth\n  stay the night (especially BrE) to sleep at sb’s house for one night:\nYou can always stay the night at our house.\n  stay put (informal) if sb/sth stays put, they continue to be in the place where they are or where they have been put:\nHe chose to stay put while the rest of us toured the area.\nmore at CLEAR adv., LOOSE adj.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  stay around (informal) to not leave somewhere:\nI’ll stay around in case you need me. * They didn’t stay around to be caught.\n  stay away (from sb/sth) to not go near a particular person or place:\nI want you to stay away from my daughter.\n  stay in to not go out or indoors:\nI feel like staying in tonight.\n  stay on to continue studying, working, etc. somewhere for longer than expected or after other people have left:\nShe’s staying on at university to do research. * We hope he will stay on as manager at the end of his contract.\n  stay out\n1 to continue to be outdoors or away from your house at night:\nI don’t like you staying out so late.\n2 (of workers) to continue to be on strike\n  stay out of sth\n1 to not become involved in sth that does not concern you:\nI wish you’d stay out of my business!\n2 to avoid sth:\nto stay out of trouble / sight\n  stay over to sleep at sb’s house for one night:\nWe have a spare bed if you want to stay over.\n  stay up to go to bed later than usual:\nYou’ve got school tomorrow. I don’t want you staying up late. * We stayed up half the night talking.\n    noun\n  1  a period of staying; a visit:\nI enjoyed my stay in Prague. * an overnight stay\n  2  a rope or wire that supports a ship’s MAST, a pole, etc.\nsee also MAINSTAY\n IDIOMS \n  a stay of execution (especially law) a delay in carrying out the order of a court:\nto grant a stay of execution * There will be no stay of execution and few mourners for this concrete tower block, due to be demolished next month.


Words: stayer
Meaning:
noun\n(BrE) a person or an animal, especially a horse, with the ability to keep going in a tiring race or competition:\nThis horse is an excellent stayer.


Words: STD
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a disease that is passed from one person to another during sexual activity (abbreviation for ’sexually transmitted disease’)\n  2  (BrE) a system of making direct telephone calls over long distances (abbreviation for ’subscriber trunk dialling’)


Words: stead
Meaning:
noun\n IDIOMS \n  in sb’s / sth’s stead (formal) instead of sb/sth:\nFoxton was dismissed and John Smith was appointed in his stead.\n  stand sb in good stead to be useful or helpful to sb when needed:\nYour languages will stand you in good stead when it comes to finding a job.


Words: steadfast
Meaning:
adjective\n~ (in sth) (literary, approving) not changing in your attitudes or aims:\nsteadfast loyalty * He remained steadfast in his determination to bring the killers to justice.\n    steadfastly adverb:\nShe steadfastly refused to speak.\n    steadfastness noun [U]


Words: steady
Meaning:
adjective, verb, adverb, exclamation \n    adjective (steadier, steadiest)\n  1  developing, growing, etc. gradually and in an even and regular way:\na steady increase / decline in numbers * five years of steady economic growth * We are making slow but steady progress. * The castle receives a steady stream of visitors.\n  2  not changing and not interrupted\nSYN REGULAR:\nHis breathing was steady. * a steady job / income * She drove at a steady 50 mph * They set off at a steady pace. * a steady boyfriend / girlfriend (= with whom you have a serious relationship or one that has lasted a long time) * to have a steady relationship\n  3  firmly fixed, supported or balanced; not shaking or likely to fall down:\nHe held the boat steady as she got in. * I met his steady gaze. * Such fine work requires a good eye and a steady hand. * She’s not very steady on her feet these days.\nOPP UNSTEADY\n  4  (of a person) sensible; who can be relied on\n    steadily:\nThe company’s exports have been increasing steadily. * The situation got steadily worse. * He looked at her steadily. * The rain fell steadily.\n    steadiness noun [U]\n IDIOMS \n  (as) steady as a rock extremely steady and calm; that you can rely on\nmore at READY adj.\n    verb (steadies, steadying, steadied, steadied)\n  1  ~ (yourself / sb/sth) to stop yourself/sb/sth from moving, shaking or falling; to stop moving, shaking or falling:\n[VN] She steadied herself against the wall. * [V] The lift rocked slightly, steadied, and the doors opened.\n  2  [V] to stop changing and become regular again:\nHer heartbeat steadied. * The pound steadied against the dollar.\n  3  [VN] to make sb/sth calm:\nHe took a few deep breaths to steady his nerves.\n    adverb in a way that is steady and does not change or shake:\nIn trading today the dollar held steady against the yen.\n IDIOMS \n  go steady (with sb) (old-fashioned, informal) to have a romantic or sexual relationship with sb, in which you see the other person regularly:\nThey’ve been going steady for a year now.\n    exclamation (informal)\n  1  ~ on (becoming old-fashioned) used to tell sb to be careful about what they are saying or doing, for example because it is extreme or not appropriate:\nSteady on! You can’t say things like that about somebody you’ve never met.\n  2  used to tell sb to be careful:\nSteady! You’re going to fall off that wall if you’re not careful.


Words: steak
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  (also less frequent beefsteak) [U, C] a thick slice of good quality beef:\nfillet / rump / sirloin steak * How would you like your steak done? * a steak knife (= one with a special blade for eating steak with)\n \n  2  [U, C] a thick slice of any type of meat:\npork steak * a gammon steak\n \n  3  [U] (often in compounds) beef that is not of the best quality, often sold in small pieces and used in pies, STEWS, etc:\nbraising / stewing steak * a steak and kidney pie\n \n  4  [C] a large thick piece of fish:\na cod / salmon steak


Words: steal
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb (stole )\n  1  ~ (sth) (from sb/sth) to take sth from a person, shop/store, etc. without permission and without intending to return it or pay for it:\n[V] We found out he’d been stealing from us for years. * I’ll report you to the police if I catch you stealing again. * [VN] My wallet was stolen. * I had my wallet stolen. * Thieves stole jewellery worth over ｣10 000. * It’s a crime to handle stolen goods. * (figurative) to steal sb’s ideas\n  2  [V +adv./prep.] to move secretly and quietly so that other people do not notice you:\nShe stole out of the room so as not to wake the baby. * (figurative) A chill stole over her body.\n  3  [VN] (in baseball) to run to the next BASE before another player from your team hits the ball, so that you are closer to scoring:\nHe tried to steal second base but was out.\n IDIOMS \n  steal a glance / look (at sb/sth) (written) to look at sb/sth quickly so that nobody sees you doing it\n  steal sb’s heart (literary) to make sb fall in love with you\n  steal a kiss (from sb) (literary) to kiss sb suddenly or secretly\n  steal a march (on sb) [no passive] (written) to gain an advantage over sb by doing sth before them:\nThe company is looking at ways to steal a march on its European competitors.\n  steal the show [no passive] to attract more attention and praise than other people in a particular situation:\nAs always, the children stole the show. * British bands stole the show at this year’s awards.\n  steal sb’s thunder to get the attention, success, etc. that sb else was expecting, usually by saying or doing what they had intended to say or do\n    noun (AmE) (in baseball) the act of running to another BASE while the PITCHER is throwing the ball\n IDIOMS \n  be a steal (especially AmE) to be for sale at an unexpectedly low price:\nThis suit is a steal at $80.\n______________________________\n WHICH WORD? \n (table)steal / rob / burgle / thief / robber / burglar\nVerbs\nObject of verb:\nbank, public building - Thieves robbed a bank last night. * _T_h_i_e_v_e_s_ _s_t_o_l_e_ _a_ _b_a_n_k_ _l_a_s_t_ _n_i_g_h_t. * _T_h_i_e_v_e_s_ _b_u_r_g_l_e_d_ _a_ _b_a_n_k_ _l_a_s_t_ _n_i_g_h_t.\nmoney, property - My wallet was stolen. * _M_y_ _w_a_l_l_e_t_ _w_a_s_ _r_o_b_b_e_d. * _M_y_ _w_a_l_l_e_t_ _w_a_s_ _b_u_r_g_l_e_d.\nperson - I’ve been robbed. * I’ve been burgled (= my house). * _I_’_v_e_ _b_e_e_n_ _s_t_o_l_e_n.}{f28\noffice, house, etc.  - Our house was burgled. * _O_u_r_ _h_o_u_s_e_ _w_a_s_ _s_t_o_l_e_n. * _O_u_r_ _h_o_u_s_e_ _w_a_s_ _r_o_b_b_e_d.\nSteal. You can also steal from somebody: He had been stealing from his employer for years.\nRob. You can also be robbed of something: She was robbed of all her money and clothes.\nBurgle. This is BrE. AmE is burglarize.\nLook also at the verb MUG.\nNouns\nA thief is a person who steals things, especially secretly and without using violence. A burglar is a person who gets into a house, office, etc., especially by force, in order to steal things. A robber is a person who steals property from a person or public place, especially using violence.\nLook also at MUGGER.\n______________________________


Words: stealth
Meaning:
noun, adjective \n    noun [U] the fact of doing sth in a quiet or secret way:\nThe government was accused of trying to introduce the tax by stealth. * Lions rely on stealth when hunting.\n    adjective [only before noun] (of an aircraft) designed in a way that makes it difficult to be discovered by RADAR:\na stealth bomber


Words: stealthy
Meaning:
adjective\ndoing things quietly or secretly; done quietly or secretly:\na stealthy animal * a stealthy movement\n    stealthily  adverb:\nShe crept stealthily along the corridor.


Words: steam
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n [U]\n \n  1  the hot gas that water changes into when it boils:\nSteam rose from the boiling kettle. * a Turkish steam bath\n \n  2  the power that is produced from steam under pressure, used to operate engines, machines, etc:\nthe introduction of steam in the 18th century * steam power * the steam age * a steam train / engine\n \n  3  very small drops of water that form in the air or on cold surfaces when warm air suddenly cools:\nShe wiped the steam from her glasses.\n \n IDIOMS \n  full speed / steam ahead with as much speed or energy as possible\n  get up / pick up steam\n1 (informal) to become gradually more powerful, active, etc:\nHis election campaign is beginning to get up steam.\n2 (of a vehicle) to increase speed gradually\n  let off steam (informal) to get rid of your energy, anger or strong emotions by doing sth active or noisy:\nI went for a long walk to let off steam.\n  run out of steam (informal) to lose energy and enthusiasm and stop doing sth, or do it less well\n  get, etc. somewhere under your own steam (BrE, informal) to go somewhere without help from other people:\nI’ll get to the party under my own steam.\n    verb\n  1  [V] to send out steam:\nOur damp clothes steamed in the heat. * a mug of steaming hot coffee\n  2  to place food over boiling water so that it cooks in the steam; to be cooked in this way:\n[VN] steamed fish / vegetables [also V]\n  3  [V +adv./prep.] (of a boat, ship, etc.) to move using the power produced by steam:\nThe boat steamed across the lake.\n  4  [V +adv./prep.] (especially of a person) to go somewhere very quickly:\nHe spotted her steaming down the corridor towards him. * (figurative) The company is steaming ahead with its investment programme.\n IDIOMS \n  be / get (all) steamed up (about / over sth) (BrE) (AmE be steamed (about sth)) (informal) to be/become very angry or excited about sth:\nYou’re getting all steamed up about nothing!\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  steam sth<->off | steam sth off sth to remove one piece of paper from another using steam to soften the glue that is holding them together\n  steam sth<->open to open an envelope using steam to soften the glue\n  steam up | steam sth<->up to become, or to make sth become, covered with steam:\nAs he walked in, his glasses steamed up.


Words: steamer
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a boat or ship driven by steam\nsee also PADDLE STEAMER\n  2  a metal container with small holes in it, that is placed over a pan of boiling water in order to cook food in the steam


Words: steamroller
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun a large slow vehicle with a ROLLER used for making roads flat\n    verb (AmE usually steam roll) to defeat sb or force them to do sth, using your power or authority:\n[VN] The team steamrollered their way to victory. * She knew that she’d let herself be steamrollered. * They steamrollered the bill through Parliament. [also V]


Words: steamy
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  full of steam; covered with steam:\na steamy bathroom * steamy windows * the steamy heat of Tokyo\n  2  (informal) sexually exciting\nSYN EROTIC:\na steamy love scene


Words: steel
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun [U]\n  1  a strong hard metal that is made of a mixture of iron and CARBON:\nthe iron and steel industry * The frame is made of steel. * The bridge is reinforced with huge steel girders.\nsee also STAINLESS STEEL\n  2  the industry that produces steel:\nSteel used to be important in South Wales. * steel workers * a steel town\n  3  (old use or literary) weapons that are used for fighting:\nthe clash of steel\n IDIOMS \n  of steel having a quality like steel, especially a strong, cold or hard quality:\nShe felt a hand of steel (= a strong, firm hand) on her arm. * You need a cool head and nerves of steel (= great courage). * There was a hint of steel in his voice (= he sounded cold and firm).\n    verb ~ yourself (for / against sth) to prepare yourself to deal with sth unpleasant: [VN] As she waited, she steeled herself for disappointment. * [VN to inf] He steeled himself to tell them the truth.


Words: steel band
Meaning:
noun\na group of musicians who play music on drums that are made from empty metal oil containers. Steel bands originally came from the West Indies.


Words: steel wool
Meaning:
(BrE also wire wool) noun\n[U] a mass of fine steel threads that you use for cleaning pots and pans, making surfaces smooth, etc.


Words: steely
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  (of a person’s character or behaviour) strong, hard and unfriendly:\na cold, steely voice * a look of steely determination\n  2  like steel in colour:\nsteely blue eyes * The sky was cold and steely.\n    steeliness noun [U]


Words: steep
Meaning:
adjective, verb \n    adjective (steeper, steepest)\n  1  (of a slope, hill, etc.) rising or falling quickly, not gradually:\na steep hill / slope / bank * a steep climb / descent / drop * a steep flight of stairs * The path grew steeper as we climbed higher.\n  2  [usually before noun] (of a rise or fall in an amount) sudden and very big:\na steep decline in the birth rate * a steep rise in unemployment\n  3  (informal) (of a price or demand) too much; unreasonable:\n｣2 for a cup of coffee seems a little steep to me.\n    steeply adverb:\na steeply sloping roof * The path climbed steeply upwards. * Prices rose steeply.\n    steepness noun [U] \n    verb\n IDIOMS \n  be steeped in sth (written) to have a lot of a particular quality:\na city steeped in history\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  steep sth in sth to put food in a liquid and leave it for some time so that it becomes soft and flavoured by the liquid:\nSteep the fruit in brandy overnight.\n  steep yourself in sth (written) to spend a lot of time thinking or learning about sth:\nThey spent a month steeping themselves in Chinese culture.


Words: steepen
Meaning:
verb\nto become or to make sth become steeper:\n[V] After a couple of miles, the slope steepened considerably. [also VN]


Words: steeplechase
Meaning:
(also chase) noun\n  1  a long race in which horses have to jump over fences, water, etc.\ncompare FLAT RACING\n  2  a long race in which people run and jump over gates and water, etc. around a track


Words: steer
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb\n  1  to control the direction in which a boat, car, etc. moves:\n[VN] He steered the boat into the harbour. * (figurative) He took her arm and steered her towards the door. * [V] You row and I’ll steer.\n  2  (of a boat, car, etc.) to move in a particular direction:\n[VN] The ship steered a course between the islands. * [V] The ship steered into port.\n  3  [VN +adv./prep.] to take control of a situation and influence the way in which it develops:\nHe managed to steer the conversation away from his divorce. * She steered the team to victory. * The skill is in steering a middle course between the two extremes. * Schools no longer steer girls towards arts subjects.\n IDIOMS  see CLEAR adv.\n    noun a BULL (= a male cow) that has been CASTRATED (= had part of its sex organs removed), kept for its meat\ncompare BULLOCK, OX


Words: steerage
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (in the past) the part of a ship where passengers with the cheapest tickets used to travel:\nsteerage passengers


Words: steering
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the mechanism of a vehicle that you use to control the direction it goes in\nsee also POWER STEERING


Words: steering committee
Meaning:
, steering group noun\na group of people that a government or an organization chooses to direct an activity and to decide how it will be done


Words: stein
Meaning:
noun\n(from German) a large decorated cup for drinking beer, usually made of EARTHENWARE and often with a lid


Words: stellar
Meaning:
adjective [usually before noun]\n  1  (technical) connected with the stars\ncompare INTERSTELLAR\n  2  (informal) excellent:\na stellar performance / career


Words: stem
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n\n \n  1  the main long thin part of a plant above the ground from which the leaves or flowers grow; a smaller part that grows from this and supports flowers or leaves:\nlong, trailing stems of ivy * a tall plant with branching stems\n \n  2  the long thin part of a wine glass between the bowl and the base\n \n  3  the thin tube of a tobacco pipe\n \n  4  (-stemmed) (in adjectives) having one or more stems of the type mentioned:\na long-stemmed rose * slender-stemmed wine glasses\n \n  5  (grammar) the main part of a word that stays the same when endings are added to it:\n’Writ’ is the stem of the forms ’writes’, ’writing’ and ’written’.\n IDIOMS \n  from stem to stern all the way from the front of a ship to the back\n    verb (-mm-) [VN] to stop sth that is flowing from spreading or increasing:\nThe cut was bandaged to stem the bleeding. * They discussed ways of stemming the flow of smuggled drugs. * The government had failed to stem the tide of factory closures.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  stem from sth (not used in the progressive tenses) to be the result of sth:\nMost people’s insecurities stem from something that happened in their childhood.


Words: stench
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] a strong, very unpleasant smell:\nan overpowering stench of rotting fish * (figurative) The stench of treachery hung in the air.


Words: stencil
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun a thin piece of metal, plastic or card with a design cut out of it, that you put onto a surface and paint over so that the design is left on the surface; the pattern or design that is produced in this way\n    verb (-ll-, AmE also -l-) [VN, V] to make letters or a design on sth using a stencil


Words: stenographer
Meaning:
(also informal steno) noun\n(especially AmE) a person whose job is to write down what sb else says, using a quick system of signs or abbreviations


Words: step
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  movement / sound\n \n  1  [C] the act of lifting your foot and putting it down in order to walk or move somewhere; the sound this makes:\na baby’s first steps * He took a step towards the door. * We heard steps outside.\nsee also FOOTSTEP, GOOSE-STEP\n \n  way of walking\n \n  2  [C, usually sing.] the way that sb walks:\nHe walked with a quick light step. * There was a smile on her face and a spring in her step.\n \n  distance\n  3  [C] the distance that you cover when you take a step:\nIt’s only a few steps further. * He turned around and retraced his steps (= went back the way he had come). * She moved a step closer to me. * The hotel is only a short step from the beach.\n  in series / process\n  4  [C] one of a series of things that you do in order to achieve sth:\nThis was a first step towards a united Europe. * We are taking steps to prevent pollution. * This won’t solve the problem but it’s a step in the right direction. * The new drug is a major step forward in the treatment of the disease. * Closing the factory would be a retrograde step.\n  5  [C] one of a series of things that sb does or that happen, which forms part of a process\nSYN STAGE:\nHaving completed the first stage, you can move on to step 2. * I’d like to take this idea a step further. * This was a big step up (= to a better position) in his career. * I’ll explain it to you step by step. * a step-by-step guide to building your own home\n  stair\n  6  [C] a surface that you put your foot on in order to walk to a higher or lower level, especially one of a series:\nShe was sitting on the bottom step of the staircase. * We walked down some stone steps to the beach. * A short flight of steps led up to the door.\nsee also DOORSTEP\n  in dance\n  7  [C, usually pl.] a series of movements that you make with your feet and which form a dance:\nDo you know the steps of this dance?\nsee also QUICKSTEP\n  exercise\n  8  [U] (often in compounds) a type of exercise that you do by stepping on and off a raised piece of equipment:\nstep aerobics * a step class\n  ladder\n  9  (steps) [pl.] (BrE) a STEPLADDER:\na pair of steps * We need the steps to get into the attic.\n  in music\n  10  [C] (AmE) the interval between two notes that are next to each other in a scale\ncompare TONE (7), SEMITONE\n IDIOMS \n  break step to change the way you are walking so that you do not walk in the same rhythm as the people you are walking or marching with:\nThe soldiers turned without once breaking step.\n  fall into step (beside / with sb) (written) to change the way you are walking so that you start walking in the same rhythm as the person you are walking with:\nHe caught her up and fell into step beside her.\n  in / out of step (with sb/sth)\n1 putting your feet on the ground in the right/wrong way, according to the rhythm of the music or the people you are moving with:\nI found myself marching in step with the music.\n2 having ideas that are the same as or different from other people’s:\nShe was out of step with her colleagues.\n  mind / watch your step\n1 to walk carefully\n2 to behave in a careful and sensible way:\nYou’d better watch your step with him if you don’t want trouble.\n  a / one step ahead (of sb/sth) when you are one step ahead of sb/sth, you manage to avoid them or to achieve sth more quickly than they do\n    verb (-pp-) [V +adv./prep.] to lift your foot and move it in a particular direction or put it on or in sth; to move a short distance:\nto step onto / off a bus * I stepped forward when my name was called out. * She stepped aside to let them pass. * We stepped carefully over the broken glass. * I turned around quickly and stepped on his toes. * She opened the door and stepped out into the sunshine. * (figurative) Going into the hotel is like stepping back in time.\n IDIOMS \n  step into the breach to do sb’s job or work when they are suddenly or unexpectedly unable to do it\n  step into sb’s shoes to continue a job or the work that sb else has started:\nShe stepped into her father’s shoes when he retired.\n  step on it (spoken) used especially in orders to tell sb to drive faster\n  step on sb’s toes (AmE) = tread on sb’s toes at TOE n.\n  step out of line | be / get out of line to behave badly or break the rules:\nHis boss warned him that if he stepped out of line once more he would be fired.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  step back (from sth) to think about a situation calmly, as if you are not involved in it yourself:\nWe are learning to step back from ourselves and identify our strengths and weaknesses.\n  step aside / down to leave an important job or position and let sb else take your place\n  step forward to offer to help sb or give information\n  step in to help sb in a dispute or difficult situation:\nA local businessman stepped in with a large donation for the school. * The team coach was forced to step in to stop the two athletes from coming to blows.\n  step out (especially AmE) to go out:\nI’m just going to step out for a few minutes.\n  step up to come forward:\nShe stepped up to receive her prize.\n  step sth<->up to increase the amount, speed, etc. of sth:\nHe has stepped up his training to prepare for the race. * The teaching unions are stepping up industrial action in support of their pay claim.


Words: stepladder
Meaning:
noun\na short ladder that is made of two parts, one with steps, that are joined together at the top, so that it can stand on its own or be folded flat for carrying or storing


Words: steppe
Meaning:
noun\n[C, usually pl., U] a large area of land with grass but few trees, especially in SE Europe and Siberia:\nthe vast Russian steppes


Words: stepping stone
Meaning:
noun\n  1  one of a line of flat stones that you step on in order to cross a stream or river\n  2  something that allows you to make progress or begin to achieve sth:\na stepping stone to a more lucrative career


Words: stereo
Meaning:
noun (plural stereos)\n  1  (also stereo system) [C] a machine that plays CDs or cassettes, or a radio, etc. that has two separate SPEAKERS so that you hear different sounds from each:\na car / personal stereo * Let’s put some music on the stereo.\n  2  [U] the system for playing recorded music, speech, etc. in which the sound is directed through two channels:\nto broadcast in stereo\ncompare MONO\n    stereo (also formal stereophonic ) adjective [only before noun]:\nstereo sound\ncompare QUADRAPHONIC


Words: stereoscopic
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  (technical) able to see objects with length, width and depth, as humans do:\nstereoscopic vision\n  2  (of a picture, photograph, etc.) that is made so that you see the objects in it with length, width, and depth when you use a special machine:\na stereoscopic image / photograph


Words: stereotype
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun a fixed idea or image that many people have of a particular type of person or thing, but which is often not true in reality:\ncultural / gender / racial stereotypes * He doesn’t conform to the usual stereotype of the businessman with a dark suit and briefcase.\n    stereotypical  adjective:\nthe stereotypical image of feminine behaviour\n    verb [VN] [often passive] ~ sb (as sth) to form a fixed idea about a person or thing which may not really be true:\nChildren from certain backgrounds tend to be stereotyped by their teachers. * Why are professors stereotyped as absent-minded?\n    stereotyped adjective:\na play full of stereotyped characters\n    stereotyping noun [U]:\nsexual stereotyping


Words: sterile
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  (of humans or animals) not able to produce children or young animals\nSYN INFERTILE\ncompare FERTILE\n  2  completely clean and free from bacteria:\nsterile bandages / equipment * sterile water\n  3  (of a discussion, an argument, etc.) not producing any useful result:\na sterile debate\n  4  lacking individual personality, imagination or new ideas:\nThe room felt cold and sterile. * He felt creatively and emotionally sterile.\n  5  (of land) not good enough to produce crops\n    sterility  noun [U]:\nThe disease can cause sterility in men and women. * the meaningless sterility of statistics * She contemplated the sterility of her life.


Words: sterilize
Meaning:
(BrE also sterilise)  verb [VN] \n  1  [often passive] to kill the bacteria in sth:\nto sterilize surgical instruments * sterilized milk / water\n  2  [usually passive] to make a person or an animal unable to have babies, especially by removing or blocking their sex organs\n    sterilization, sterilisation  noun [U, C]\n    sterilizing, sterilising adjective [only before noun]:\nsterilizing fluid / tablets


Words: sterilizer
Meaning:
(BrE also steriliser)  noun\na machine or piece of equipment that you use to make objects or substances completely clean and free from bacteria


Words: sterling
Meaning:
noun, adjective \n    noun [U] the money system of Britain, based on the pound:\nthe value of sterling * You can be paid in pounds sterling or American dollars.\n    adjective [usually before noun] (formal) of excellent quality:\nHe has done sterling work on the finance committee. * My old watch has given me 15 years of sterling service. * She has sterling qualities.


Words: stern
Meaning:
adjective, noun \n \n    adjective (sterner, sternest)\n \n  1  serious and often disapproving; expecting sb to obey you:\na stern face / expression / look * a stern warning * Her voice was stern. * The police are planning sterner measures to combat crime.\n \n  2  serious and difficult:\na stern test of nerves * We face stern opposition.\n \n    sternly adverb sternness noun [U]\n \n IDIOMS \n  be made of sterner stuff to have a stronger character and to be more determined in dealing with problems than other people:\nMany would have given up, but Tim was made of sterner stuff.\n    noun the back end of a ship or boat:\nto stand in / on / at the stern\ncompare BOW n., POOP\n IDIOMS  see STEM n.


Words: steroid
Meaning:
noun\na chemical substance produced naturally in the body. There are several different steroids and they can be used to treat various diseases and are also sometimes used illegally by people playing sports to improve their performance.


Words: stew
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun [U, C] a dish of meat and vegetables cooked slowly in liquid in a container that has a lid:\nbeef stew and dumplings * I’m making a stew for lunch.\n IDIOMS \n  get (yourself) / be in a stew (about / over sth) (informal) to become/feel very anxious or upset about sth:\nThere’s no point getting in a stew about it.\n    verb\n  1  to cook sth slowly, or allow sth to cook slowly, in liquid in a closed dish:\n[VN] stewed apples * [V] The meat needs to stew for two hours.\nsee also STEWED\n  2  [V]   [usually +adv./prep.] to think or worry about sth:\nI’ve been stewing over the problem for a while. * Leave him to stew.\n IDIOMS \n  let sb stew in their own juice (informal) to leave sb to worry and suffer the unpleasant effects of their own actions


Words: steward
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  a man whose job is to take care of passengers on a ship, an aircraft or a train and who brings them meals, etc:\na ship’s steward\n \n  2  a person employed to manage another person’s property, especially a large house or land\n \n  3  (BrE) a person who helps to organize a large public event, for example, a race, public meeting, etc.\n \n  4  (BrE) a person whose job is to arrange for the supply of food to a college, club, etc.\nsee also SHOP STEWARD


Words: stewardess
Meaning:
noun\n  1  = AIR HOSTESS\n  2  a woman whose job is to take care of the passengers on a ship or train


Words: stewardship
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (formal) the act of taking care of or managing sth, for example, property, an organization, money or valuable objects:\nThe organization certainly prospered under his stewardship.


Words: stick
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb (stuck, stuck )\n  push sth in\n  1  [+adv./prep.] to push sth, usually a sharp object, into sth; to be pushed into sth:\n[VN] The nurse stuck the needle into my arm. * Don’t stick your fingers through the bars of the cage. * [V] I found a nail sticking in the tyre.\n  attach\n  2  [+adv./prep.] to fix sth to sth else, usually with a sticky substance; to become fixed to sth in this way:\n[VN] He stuck a stamp on the envelope. * We used glue to stick the broken pieces together. * I stuck the photos into an album. * [V] Her wet clothes were sticking to her body. * The glue’s useless-the pieces just won’t stick.\n  put\n  3  [VN +adv./prep.] (informal) to put sth in a place, especially quickly or carelessly:\nStick your bags down there. * He stuck his hands in his pockets and strolled off. * Can you stick this on the noticeboard? * Peter stuck his head around the door and said, ’Coffee, anyone?’ * (spoken) Stick ’em up! (= put your hands above your head-I have a gun)\n  become fixed\n  4  [V] ~ (in sth) to become fixed in one position and impossible to move:\nThe key has stuck in the lock. * This drawer keeps sticking.\n  difficult situation\n  5  (BrE, informal) (usually used in negative sentences and questions) to accept a difficult or unpleasant situation or person:\n[VN] I don’t know how you stick that job. * They’re always arguing-I can’t stick it any longer. * The problem is, my mother can’t stick my boyfriend. * [V -ing] John can’t stick living with his parents.\n  become accepted\n  6  [V] to become accepted:\nThe police couldn’t make the charges stick (= show them to be true). * His friends called him Bart and the name has stuck (= has become the name that everyone calls him).\n  in card games\n  7  [V] to not take any more cards\nsee also STUCK\n IDIOMS \n  stick in your mind (of a memory, an image, etc.) to be remembered for a long time:\nOne of his paintings in particular sticks in my mind.\n  stick in your throat / craw (informal)\n1 (of words) to be difficult or impossible to say:\nShe wanted to say how sorry she was but the words seemed to stick in her throat.\n2 (of a situation) to be difficult or impossible to accept; to make you angry\n  stick your neck out (informal) to do or say sth when there is a risk that you may be wrong:\nI’ll stick my neck out and say that Bill is definitely the best candidate for the job.\n  stick to your guns (informal) to refuse to change your mind about sth even when other people are trying to persuade you that you are wrong\nmore at BOOT n., FINGER n., KNIFE n., MILE, NOSE n., OAR, SORE adj., TELL\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  stick around (informal) to stay in a place, waiting for sth to happen or for sb to arrive:\nStick around; we’ll need you to help us later.\n  stick at sth to work in a serious and determined way to achieve sth:\nIf you want to play an instrument well, you’ve got to stick at it.\n  stick by sb [no passive] to be loyal to a person and support them, especially in a difficult situation:\nHer husband was charged with fraud but she stuck by him.\n  stick by sth [no passive] to do what you promised or planned to do:\nThey stuck by their decision.\n  stick sth<->down (informal) to write sth somewhere:\nI think I’ll stick my name down on the list.\n  stick out to be noticeable or easily seen:\nThey wrote the notice in big red letters so that it would stick out.\n  stick out (of sth) | stick sth<->out (of sth) to be further out than sth else or come through a hole; to push sth further out than sth else or through a hole:\nHis ears stick out. * She stuck her tongue out at me. * Don’t stick your arm out of the car window.\n  stick it / sth out (informal) to continue doing sth to the end, even when it is difficult or boring:\nShe didn’t like the course but she stuck it out to get the certificate.\n  stick out for sth (informal) to refuse to give up until you get what you need or want:\nThey are sticking out for a higher pay rise.\n  stick to sth\n1 to continue doing sth in spite of difficulties:\nShe finds it impossible to stick to a diet.\n2 to continue doing or using sth and not want to change it:\nHe promised to help us and he stuck to his word (= he did as he had promised). * ’Shall we meet on Friday this week?’ ’No, let’s stick to Saturday.’ * She stuck to her story.\n  stick together (informal) (of people) to stay together and support each other:\nWe were the only British people in the town so we tended to stick together.\n  stick up to point upwards or be above a surface:\nThe branch was sticking up out of the water.\n  stick up for sb / yourself / sth [no passive] to support or defend sb/yourself/sth:\nStick up for what you believe. * She taught her children to stick up for themselves at school. * Don’t worry-I’ll stick up for you.\n  stick with sb/sth [no passive] (informal)\n1 to stay close to sb so that they can help you:\nStick with me and I’ll make you a millionaire!\n2 to continue with sth or continue doing sth:\nThey decided to stick with their original plan.\n    noun\n  from tree\n \n  1  [C] a thin piece of wood that has fallen or been broken from a tree:\nWe collected dry sticks to start a fire. * The boys were throwing sticks and stones at the dog. * Her arms and legs were like sticks (= very thin).\n \n  for walking\n \n  2  [C] (especially BrE) = WALKING STICK:\nThe old lady leant on her stick as she talked.\nsee also SHOOTING STICK, WHITE STICK\n \n  in sport\n  3  [C] a long thin object that is used in some sports to hit or control the ball:\na hockey stick\n  long thin piece\n  4  [C] (often in compounds) a long thin piece of sth:\na stick of dynamite * carrot sticks * (AmE) a stick of butter\nsee also FRENCH STICK\n  5  [C] (often in compounds) a thin piece of wood or plastic that you use for a particular purpose:\npieces of pineapple on sticks * The men were carrying spades and measuring sticks.\nsee also CHOPSTICK, COCKTAIL STICK, DRUMSTICK, MATCHSTICK, YARDSTICK\n  of glue, etc.\n  6  [C] a quantity of a substance, such as solid glue, that is sold in a small container with round ends and straight sides, and can be pushed further out of the container as it is used\nsee also LIPSTICK\n  in plane / vehicle\n  7  [C] (informal, especially AmE) the control stick of a plane\nsee also JOYSTICK\n  8  [C] (informal, especially AmE) a handle used to change the GEARS of a vehicle\nsee also GEAR LEVER, STICK SHIFT\n  for orchestra\n  9  [C] a BATON, used by the person who CONDUCTS an orchestra\n  criticism\n  10  [U] (BrE, informal) criticism or harsh words:\nThe referee got a lot of stick from the home fans.\n  country areas\n  11  (the sticks) [pl.] (informal) country areas, a long way from cities:\nWe live out in the sticks.\n  person\n  12  [C] (old-fashioned, BrE, informal) a person:\nHe’s not such a bad old stick.\n HELP NOTE  There are many other compounds ending in stick. You will find them at their place in the alphabet.\n IDIOMS  see BEAT v., BIG adj., CARROT, CLEFT adj., SHORT n., UP v., WRONG adj.


Words: stick-on
Meaning:
adjective\n[only before noun] (of an object) with glue on one side so that it sticks to sth:\nstick-on badges / labels


Words: sticker
Meaning:
noun\na sticky label with a picture or message on it, that you stick on to sth:\nwindow / car / bumper stickers


Words: sticking point
Meaning:
noun\nsomething that people do not agree on and that prevents progress in a discussion:\nThis was one of the major sticking points in the negotiations.


Words: stickler
Meaning:
noun\n~ (for sth) a person who thinks that a particular quality or type of behaviour is very important and expects other people to think and behave in the same way:\na stickler for punctuality


Words: sticky
Meaning:
adjective (stickier, stickiest)\n  1  made of or covered in a substance that sticks to things that touch it:\nsticky fingers covered in jam * Stir in the milk to make a soft but not sticky dough.\n  2  (of paper, labels, etc.) with glue on one side so that you can stick it to a surface\n  3  (informal) (of the weather) hot and damp:\na sticky, humid afternoon\n  4  (informal) (of a person) feeling hot and uncomfortable\nSYN SWEATY:\nShe felt hot and sticky after six hours on the bus.\n  5  (informal) difficult or unpleasant:\na sticky problem / situation * Their relationship is going through a sticky patch and they’ve decided to have counselling.\n    stickily  adverb stickiness noun [U]\n IDIOMS \n  have sticky fingers (informal) to be likely to steal sth\n  a sticky wicket (BrE, informal) a difficult situation\nmore at END n.


Words: stiff
Meaning:
adjective, adverb, noun, verb \n    adjective (stiffer, stiffest)\n  difficult to bend / move\n  1  firm and difficult to bend or move:\nstiff cardboard * a stiff brush * The windows were stiff and she couldn’t get them open. * I’ve got a stiff neck.\n  muscles\n  2  when a person is stiff, their muscles hurt when they move them:\nI’m really stiff after that bike ride yesterday.\n  mixture\n  3  thick and almost solid; difficult to stir:\nWhisk the egg whites until stiff.\n  difficult / severe\n  4  more difficult or severe than usual:\nIt was a stiff climb to the top of the hill. * The company faces stiff competition from its rivals. * The new proposals have met with stiff opposition. * There are stiff fines for breaking the rules. * a stiff breeze / wind (= one that blows strongly)\n  not friendly\n  5  (of a person or their behaviour) not friendly or relaxed:\nThe speech he made to welcome them was stiff and formal.\n  price\n  6  (informal) costing a lot or too much:\nThere’s a stiff ｣6 entrance fee to the exhibition.\n  alcoholic drink\n  7  [only before noun] strong; containing a lot of alcohol:\na stiff whisky * ’What you need is a stiff drink,’ he told her.\n    stiffly adverb:\n’Thank you,’ she replied stiffly. * The key turned stiffly in the lock. * She sat down stiffly on a chair by the wall, aware that they were looking at her.\n    stiffness noun [U]:\npain and stiffness in her legs * She could tell from his eyes and the stiffness of his voice that she had offended him.\n IDIOMS \n  (keep) a stiff upper lip to keep calm and hide your feelings when you are in pain or in a difficult situation:\nHe was taught to keep a stiff upper lip and never to cry in public. * Their reaction contrasts sharply with the stiff upper lip of the English.\n    adverb\n  1  (informal) very much; to an extreme degree:\nbe bored / scared / worried stiff\n  2  frozen ~ (of wet material) very cold and hard because the water has become ice:\nThe clothes on the washing line were frozen stiff. * I came home from the game frozen stiff (= very cold).\n    noun (slang) the body of a dead person\n    verb [VN] (AmE, informal) to cheat sb or not pay them what you owe them, especially by not leaving any money as a TIP


Words: stiffen
Meaning:
verb\n  1  ~ (sth) (with sth) to make yourself or part of your body firm, straight and still, especially because you are angry or frightened:\n[V] She stiffened with fear. * [VN] I stiffened my back and faced him.\n  2  ~ (up) | ~ sth (of part of the body) to become, or to make sth become, difficult to bend or move:\n[V] My muscles had stiffened up after the climb. * [VN] stiffened legs / muscles\n  3  to make an attitude or idea stronger or more powerful; to become stronger:\n[VN] The threat of punishment has only stiffened their resolve (= made them even more determined to do sth). [also V]\n  4  [VN] ~ sth (with sth) to make sth, such as fabric, firm and unable to bend:\na starch to stiffen fabrics


Words: stifle
Meaning:
verb\n  1  [VN] to prevent sth from happening; to prevent a feeling from being expressed:\nShe managed to stifle a yawn. * to stifle a cry / giggle * They hope the new rules will not stifle creativity. * The government failed to stifle the unrest.\n  2  to feel unable to breathe, or to make sb unable to breathe, because it is too hot and/or there is no fresh air:\n[V] I felt I was stifling in the airless room. * [VN] Most of the victims were stifled by the fumes.\n    stifling  adjective:\na stifling smell / room * ’It’s stifling in here-can we open a window?’ * At 25, she found family life stifling.\n    stiflingly adverb:\nThe room was stiflingly hot.


Words: stigma
Meaning:
noun\n[U, C, usually sing.] feelings of disapproval that people have about particular illnesses or ways of behaving:\nthe social stigma of alcoholism * There is no longer any stigma attached to being divorced.


Words: stigmata
Meaning:
noun\n[pl.] marks that look like the wounds made by nails on the body of Jesus Christ, believed by some Christians to have appeared as holy marks on the bodies of some saints


Words: stigmatize
Meaning:
(BrE also stigmatise)  verb\n[VN] [usually passive] (written) to treat sb in a way that makes them feel that they are very bad or unimportant\n    stigmatization, stigmatisation  noun [U]


Words: stiletto
Meaning:
noun (plural stilettos or stilettoes)\n \n  1  (also stiletto heel) (especially BrE) a woman’s shoe with a very high narrow heel; the heel on such a shoe\nSYN SPIKE HEEL\n \n  2  a small knife with a narrow pointed blade


Words: still
Meaning:
adverb, adjective, noun, verb \n    adverb\n  1  continuing until a particular point in time and not finishing:\nI wrote to them last month and I’m still waiting for a reply. * Mum, I’m still hungry! * Do you still live at the same address? * There’s still time to change your mind. * It was, and still is, my favourite movie.\n  2  in spite of what has just been said:\nAlthough he promised faithfully to come, I still didn’t think he would. * We searched everywhere but we still couldn’t find it. * The weather was cold and wet. Still, we had a great time.\n  3  used for making a comparison stronger:\nThe next day was warmer still. * If you can manage to get two tickets that’s better still.\n  4  ~ more / another even more:\nThere was still more bad news to come.\n IDIOMS  see LESS adv.\n    adjective\n\n \n  1  not moving; calm and quiet:\nstill water * Keep still while I brush your hair. * The kids found it hard to stay still. * Can’t you sit still? * We stayed in a village where time has stood still (= life has not changed for many years).\n \n  2  with no wind:\na still summer’s day * the still night air\n \n  3  (BrE) (of a drink) not containing bubbles of gas; not FIZZY:\nstill mineral water\n \n IDIOMS \n  the still of the night (literary) the time during the night when it is silent and calm\n  a / the still small voice (literary) the voice of God or your CONSCIENCE, that tells you to do what is morally right\n  still waters run deep (saying) a person who seems to be quiet or shy may surprise you by knowing a lot or having deep feelings\n    noun\n  1  a photograph of a scene from a film/movie or video:\na publicity still from his new movie * The police studied the stills from the security video.\n  2  a piece of equipment that is used for making strong alcoholic drinks:\na whisky still\nsee also DISTIL\n    verb (literary) to become calm and quiet; to make sth calm and quiet: [V] The wind stilled. * [VN] She spoke quietly to still the frightened child. * (figurative) to still sb’s doubts / fears


Words: still life
Meaning:
noun\n[U, C] (plural still lifes) the art of painting or drawing arrangements of objects such as flowers, fruit, etc.; a painting, etc. like this:\nShe prefers still life to landscape painting. * a still life in oils


Words: stillborn
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  born dead:\na stillborn baby\n  2  not successful; not developing:\nThe proposal was stillborn.


Words: stillness
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the quality of being quiet and not moving:\nThe sound of footsteps on the path broke the stillness.


Words: stilt
Meaning:
noun [usually pl.]\n  1  one of a set of posts that support a building so that it is high above the ground or water:\nThe houses are built on stilts to prevent flooding during the rainy season.\n  2  one of two long pieces of wood that have a step on the side that you can stand on, so that you can walk above the ground:\na circus performer on stilts


Words: stilted
Meaning:
adjective\n(disapproving) (of a way of speaking or writing) not natural or relaxed; too formal:\nWe made stilted conversation for a few moments.\n    stiltedly adverb


Words: Stilton
Meaning:
noun\n[U, C] a type of English cheese with blue lines of MOULD running through it and a strong flavour


Words: stimulant
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a drug or substance that makes you feel more awake and gives you more energy:\nCoffee and tea are mild stimulants.\n  2  ~ (to sth) an event or activity that encourages more activity


Words: stimulate
Meaning:
verb\n  1  [VN] to make sth develop or become more active; to encourage sth:\nThe exhibition has stimulated interest in her work. * The article can be used to stimulate discussion among students. * a government package designed to stimulate economic growth\n  2  to make sb interested and excited about sth:\n[VN] Parents should give children books that stimulate them. * Both men and women are stimulated by erotic photos (= sexually). * [VN to inf] The conference stimulated him to study the subject in more depth.\n  3  [VN] (technical) to make a part of the body function:\nThe women were given fertility drugs to stimulate the ovaries.\n    stimulation  noun [U]:\nsensory / intellectual / sexual / visual / physical stimulation


Words: stimulating
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  full of interesting or exciting ideas; making people feel enthusiastic:\na stimulating book / discussion * a stimulating teacher * The college offers a challenging and stimulating environment in which to study.\n  2  making you feel more active and healthy:\nshower gel containing plant extracts that have a stimulating effect on the skin


Words: stimulus
Meaning:
for sth) | ~ (to do sth)\n  1  [usually sing.] something that helps sb/sth to develop better or more quickly:\nBooks provide children with ideas and a stimulus for play. * The new tax laws should act as a stimulus to exports.\n  2  something that produces a reaction in a human being, an animal or a plant:\nsensory / verbal / visual stimuli * The animals were conditioned to respond to auditory stimuli (= sounds).


Words: sting
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb (stung, stung )\n  1  (of an insect or plant) to touch your skin or make a very small hole in it so that you feel a sharp pain:\n[VN] I was stung on the arm by a wasp. * [V] Be careful of the nettles-they sting!\n  2  to feel, or to make sb feel, a sharp pain in a part of their body:\n[V] I put some antiseptic on the cut and it stung for a moment. * My eyes were stinging from the smoke. * [VN] Tears stung her eyes.\n  3  [VN] ~ sb (to / into sth) | ~ sb (into doing sth) to make sb feel angry or upset:\nHe was stung by their criticism. * Their cruel remarks stung her into action. * They launched a stinging attack on the government. * He was stung into answering in his defence.\n  4  [VN] [often passive] ~ sb (for sth) (informal) to charge sb more money than they expected; to charge sb who did not expect to pay:\nI got stung for a ｣100 meal. * How much did they sting you for?\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  sting sb for sth (BrE, informal) to borrow money from sb:\nCan I sting you for a couple of pounds?\n    noun\n\n \n  1  (AmE also stinger) [C] the sharp pointed part of an insect or creature that can go into the skin leaving a small, painful and sometimes poisonous wound:\nthe sting of a bee * The scorpion has a sting in its tail.\n \n  2  [C] a wound that is made when an insect, a creature or a plant stings you:\nA wasp or bee sting is painful but not necessarily serious.\n \n  3  [C, U] any sharp pain in your body or mind:\nthe sting of salt in a wound * There was a sting of sarcasm in his voice. * She felt the sting of tears in her eyes. * He smiled at her, trying to take the sting out of his words (= trying to make the situation less painful or difficult).\n \n  4  [C] (AmE) a clever secret plan by the police to catch criminals:\na sting operation to catch heroin dealers in Detroit\n  5  [C] (especially AmE) a clever plan by criminals to cheat people out of a lot of money\n IDIOMS \n  a sting in the tail (informal) an unpleasant feature that comes at the end of a story, an event, etc. and spoils it


Words: stingray
Meaning:
noun\na large wide flat sea fish that has a long tail with a sharp sting in it that can cause serious wounds


Words: stingy
Meaning:
adjective\n(informal) not given or giving willingly; not generous, especially with money:\nYou’re stingy! (= not willing to spend money) * Don’t be so stingy with the cream!\n    stinginess noun [U]


Words: stink
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb (stank ) or (stunk, stunk) [V] ~ (of sth) (informal)\n  1  to have a strong, unpleasant smell:\nHer breath stank of garlic. * It stinks of smoke in here.\n  2  to seem very bad, unpleasant or dishonest:\nThe whole business stank of corruption. * ’What do you think of the idea?’ ’I think it stinks.’\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  stink sth<->out to fill a place with a strong, unpleasant smell:\nShe stinks out the whole house with her incense and candles.\n    noun (informal)\n  1  [C, usually sing.] a very unpleasant smell:\nthe stink of sweat and urine\n  2  [sing.] a lot of trouble and anger about sth:\nThe whole business caused quite a stink. * We’ll kick up a stink (= complain a lot and cause trouble) if they try to close the school down.


Words: stink bomb
Meaning:
noun\na container that produces a very bad smell when it is broken. Stink bombs are used for playing tricks on people.


Words: stinker
Meaning:
noun\n(informal) a person or thing that is very unpleasant or difficult:\nIt’s been a real stinker of a day.


Words: stinking
Meaning:
adjective, adverb \n    adjective\n  1  having a very strong, unpleasant smell:\nI was pushed into a filthy, stinking room.\n  2  [only before noun] (informal, especially BrE) very bad or unpleasant:\nI’ve got a stinking cold.\n  3  [only before noun] (BrE, informal) showing a lot of anger:\nI wrote them a stinking letter to complain.\n    adverb (informal, usually disapproving) extremely:\nThey must be stinking rich * When this is over we’re going to go out and get stinking drunk.


Words: stint
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun ~ (as sth) a period of time that you spend working somewhere or doing a particular activity:\nHe did a stint abroad early in his career. * a two-year stint in the Navy * I’ve done my stint in the kitchen for today.\n    verb ~ (on sth) | ~ (yourself) (usually used in negative sentences) to provide or use only a small amount of sth: [V] She never stints on the food at her parties. * [VN] We don’t need to stint ourselves-have some more!\nsee also UNSTINTING


Words: stipend
Meaning:
noun\n(formal) an amount of money that is paid regularly to sb, especially a priest, as wages or money to live on:\nan annual / monthly stipend * (especially AmE) a summer internship with a small stipend


Words: stipendiary
Meaning:
noun\n(plural stipendiaries) (also stipendiary magistrate) (in Britain) a MAGISTRATE who is paid for his or her work


Words: stipple
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] [often passive] (technical) to paint or draw sth using small dots or marks:\na stippled effect\n    stippling  noun [U]


Words: stipulate
Meaning:
verb\n(formal) to state clearly and firmly that sth must be done, or how it must be done:\n[VN] A delivery date is stipulated in the contract. * [V that] The job advertisement stipulates that the applicant must have three years’ experience. [also V wh-]\n    stipulation  noun [C, U]:\nThe only stipulation is that the topic you choose must be related to your studies.


Words: stir
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb\n (-rr-)\n \n  mix\n \n  1  [VN] ~ sth (into sth) | ~ sth (in) to move a liquid or substance around, using a spoon or sth similar, in order to mix it thoroughly:\nShe stirred her tea. * Stir the paint before you use it. * The vegetables are stirred into the rice while it is hot. * Stir in the milk until the sauce thickens.\n \n  move\n \n  2  to move, or to make sth move, slightly:\n[V] She heard the baby stir in the next room. * [VN] A slight breeze was stirring the branches. * A noise stirred me from sleep.\n \n  3  to move, or to make sb move, in order to do sth:\n[V] You haven’t stirred from that chair all evening! * [VN] Come on, stir yourself. You’re late! * Their complaints have finally stirred him into action.\n  feelings\n  4  [VN] ~ sb (to sth) to make sb excited or make them feel sth strongly:\na book that really stirs the imagination * She was stirred by his sad story.\n  5  [V] (of a feeling or a mood) to begin to be felt:\nA feeling of guilt began to stir in her. * New optimism was stirring throughout the country.\n  cause trouble\n  6  (BrE, informal, disapproving) to try to cause trouble:\n[VN] You’re just stirring it! [also V] \nsee also STIRRER\n IDIOMS \n  stir the blood to make sb excited\n  stir your stumps (old-fashioned, BrE, informal) to begin to move; to hurry\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  stir sb<->up to encourage sb to do sth; to make sb feel they must do sth\n  stir sth<->up\n1 to make people feel strong emotions:\nto stir up anger / discontent / hatred\n2 to try to cause arguments or problems:\nto stir up a debate * Whenever he’s around, he always manages to stir up trouble. * We’ve got enough problems without you trying to stir things up.\n3 to make sth move around in water or air:\nThe wind stirred up a lot of dust.\n    noun\n  1  [sing.] excitement, anger or shock that is felt by a number of people:\nHer resignation caused quite a stir.\n  2  [C, usually sing.] the action of stirring sth:\nCould you give the rice a stir?


Words: stir-crazy
Meaning:
adjective\n(informal, especially AmE) showing signs of mental illness because of being kept in prison


Words: stir-fry
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb [VN] to cook thin strips of vegetables or meat quickly by stirring them in very hot oil:\nstir-fried chicken\n    noun a hot dish made by stir-frying small pieces of meat, fish and/or vegetables


Words: stirrer
Meaning:
noun\n(BrE, informal, disapproving) a person who likes causing trouble, especially between other people by spreading secrets


Words: stirring
Meaning:
noun, adjective \n    noun ~ (of sth) the beginning of a feeling, an idea or a development:\nShe felt a stirring of anger. * the first stirrings of spring in the air\n    adjective\n [usually before noun] causing strong feelings; exciting:\na stirring performance / song * stirring memories


Words: stirrup
Meaning:
noun\none of the metal rings that hang down on each side of a horse’s SADDLE, used to support the rider’s foot


Words: stitch
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n\n \n  1  [C] one of the small lines of thread that you can see on a piece of fabric after it has been sewn; the action that produces this:\nTry to keep the stitches small and straight.\n \n  2  [C] one of the small circles of wool that you make around the needle when you are knitting:\nto drop a stitch (= to lose one that you have made) * The knitting should be 120 stitches wide. * to cast stitches on / off (= to add or remove them)\n \n  3  [C, U] (especially in compounds) a particular style of sewing or knitting that you use to make the pattern you want:\nchain stitch\n \n  4  [C] a short piece of thread, etc. that doctors use to sew the edges of a wound together:\nThe cut needed eight stitches. * I had six stitches in my foot after the accident. * I’m having my stitches out today.\n  5  [C, usually sing.] a sudden pain in the side of your body, usually caused by running or laughing:\nCan we slow down? I’ve got a stitch.\n IDIOMS \n  in stitches (informal) laughing a lot:\nThe play had us in stitches.\n  not have a stitch on | not be wearing a stitch (informal) to be naked\n  a stitch in time (saves nine) (saying) it is better to deal with sth immediately because if you wait it may become worse or more difficult and cause extra work\n    verb [VN] to sew sth; to use a needle and thread to mend, join, or decorate pieces of fabric:\nHer wedding dress was stitched by hand. * A pocket was stitched to the front of the jacket. * (figurative) An agreement was hastily stitched together (= made very quickly).\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  stitch sb<->up (BrE, informal) to cheat sb or put them in a position where they seem guilty of sth they have not done\n  stitch sth<->up\n1 to use a needle and thread to join things together:\nto stitch up a wound / cut / tear\n2 (BrE, informal) to arrange or complete sth:\nto stitch up a deal * They think they have the US market stitched up.


Words: stoat
Meaning:
noun\na small wild animal with a long body and brown fur that, in northern areas, turns white in winter. The white fur is called ERMINE.


Words: stock
Meaning:
noun, verb, adjective \n    noun\n  supply\n  1  [U, C] a supply of goods that is available for sale in a shop/store:\nWe have a fast turnover of stock. * That particular model is not currently in stock. * I’m afraid we’re temporarily out of stock. * We don’t carry a large stock of pine furniture. * It is important to carry out regular stock checks.\n  2  [C, U] ~ (of sth) a supply of sth that is available for use:\nShe’s built up a good stock of teaching materials over the years. * Food stocks are running low. * a country’s housing stock (= all the houses available for living in)\n  finance\n  3  [U] the value of the shares in a company that have been sold\n  4  [C, usually pl.] a share that sb has bought in a company or business:\nstock prices * stocks and shares\ncompare SHARE n. (4)\n  5  [U, C] (BrE) money that is lent to a government at a fixed rate of interest; an official document that gives details of this:\ngovernment stock\n  farm animals\n  6  [U] farm animals, such as cows and sheep, that are kept for their meat, wool, etc:\nbreeding stock\nsee also LIVESTOCK\n  family / ancestors\n  7  [U] of farming, noble, French, etc. ~ having the type of family or ancestors mentioned\n  food\n  8  [U, C] a liquid made by cooking bones, meat, etc. in water, used for making soups and sauces:\nfish / vegetable stock\n  for punishment\n  9  (stocks) [pl.] a wooden structure with holes for the feet, used in the past to lock criminals in as a form of punishment, especially in a public place\ncompare PILLORY\n  respect\n  10  [U] (formal) the degree to which sb is respected or liked by other people:\nTheir stock is high / low.\n  of gun\n  11  [C] the part of a gun that you hold against your shoulder when firing it\n  plant\n  12  [U, C] a garden plant with brightly coloured flowers with a sweet smell\n  13  [C] (technical) a plant from which a stem is taken to be added to another plant so that the two grow together; the plant onto which this stem is added\n  theatre\n  14  [C] (AmE) = STOCK COMPANY\nsee also LAUGHING STOCK, ROLLING STOCK\n IDIOMS \n  on the stocks in the process of being made, built or prepared:\nOur new model is already on the stocks and will be available in the spring.\n  take stock (of sth) to stop and think carefully about the way in which a particular situation is developing in order to decide what to do next:\nIt was time to stand back and take stock of his career.\nmore at LOCK n.\nsee also STOCKTAKING\n    verb [VN] \n  1  (of a shop / store) to keep a supply of a particular type of goods to sell:\nDo you stock green tea? * We stock a wide range of camping equipment.\n  2  [often passive] ~ sth (with sth) to fill sth with food, books, etc:\nThe pond was well stocked with fish. * a well-stocked library\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  stock sth<->up to fill sth with goods, food, etc:\nWe need to stock up the freezer.\n  stock up (on / with sth) to buy a lot of sth so that you can use it later:\nWe ought to stock up on film before our trip.\n    adjective [only before noun]\n  1  (disapproving) a stock excuse, answer, etc. is one that is often used because it is easy and convenient, but that is not very original:\n’No comment,’ was the actor’s stock response. * Her stock excuse was: ’I’m washing my hair tonight’.\n  2  usually available for sale in a shop/store:\nstock sizes


Words: stock company
Meaning:
noun (AmE)\n  1  a company owned by people who have shares in it\n  2  (also stock) a theatre company that does several different plays in a season; a REPERTORY company


Words: stock cube
Meaning:
noun\na solid CUBE made from the dried juices of meat or vegetables, sold in packets and used for making soups, sauces, etc.


Words: stock exchange
Meaning:
noun\n[usually sing.] a place where shares in companies are bought and sold; all of the business activity involved in doing this:\nthe London Stock Exchange * to lose money on the stock exchange


Words: stock market
Meaning:
(also market) noun\nthe business of buying and selling shares in companies and the place where this happens; a STOCK EXCHANGE:\nto make money on the stock market * a stock market crash (= when prices of shares fall suddenly and people lose money)


Words: stock-car racing
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (BrE) (AmE demolition derby [C]) a type of race in which the competing cars are allowed to hit each other


Words: stock-in-trade
Meaning:
noun\n[U] a person’s stock-in-trade is sth that they do, say or use very often or too often:\nFamous people and their private lives are the stock-in-trade of the popular newspapers.


Words: stockbroker
Meaning:
(also broker) noun\na person or an organization that buys and sells STOCKS and shares for other people


Words: stocking
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  either of a pair of thin pieces of clothing that fit closely over a woman’s legs and feet:\na pair of silk stockings\ncompare TIGHTS\nsee also BODY STOCKING\n \n  2  = CHRISTMAS STOCKING\n \n IDIOMS \n \n  in your stocking(ed) feet wearing socks or stockings but not shoes


Words: stockist
Meaning:
noun\n(BrE) a shop/store or company that sells a particular product or type of goods:\nThe paints are available from stockists throughout the UK.


Words: stockman
Meaning:
1  (especially AustralE) a man whose job is to take care of farm animals\n  2  (AmE) a man who owns farm animals\n  3  (AmE) a man who is in charge of the goods in a WAREHOUSE, etc.


Words: stockpile
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun a large supply of sth that is kept to be used in the future if necessary:\nthe world’s stockpile of nuclear weapons\n    verb [VN] to collect and keep a large supply of sth:\nto stockpile food / fuel


Words: stocktaking
Meaning:
noun [U]\n  1  (especially BrE) the process of making a list of all the goods in a shop/store or business:\nclosed for stocktaking\ncompare INVENTORY\n  2  the process of thinking carefully about your own situation or position:\nShe had some mental stocktaking to do.


Words: stocky
Meaning:
adjective\n(stockier, stockiest) (of a person) short, with a strong, solid body:\na stocky figure / build\n    stockily adverb:\nHe was stockily built.


Words: stodgy
Meaning:
adjective (informal disapproving, especially BrE)\n  1  (of food) heavy and making you feel very full:\nstodgy puddings\n  2  serious and boring; not exciting:\nThe article was rather stodgy-too many facts.


Words: stoic
Meaning:
noun\n(formal) a person who is able to suffer pain or trouble without complaining or showing what they are feeling\n    stoic (also stoical ) adjective:\nher stoic endurance * his stoical acceptance of death\n    stoically  adverb:\nThey reacted stoically to the news.\n ORIGIN  From the Stoics, a group of ancient Greek philosophers, who believed that wise people should not allow themselves to be affected by painful or pleasant experiences.


Words: stoicism
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (formal) the fact of not complaining or showing what you are feeling when you are suffering:\nShe endured her long illness with stoicism.


Words: stoke
Meaning:
verb [VN] \n  1  ~ sth (up) (with sth) to add fuel to a fire, etc:\nto stoke up a fire with more coal * to stoke a furnace\n  2  ~ sth (up) to make people feel sth more strongly:\nto stoke up anger / envy * The publicity was intended to stoke up interest in her music.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  stoke up (on / with sth) (informal) to eat or drink a lot of sth, especially so that you do not feel hungry later:\nStoke up for the day on a good breakfast.


Words: stoker
Meaning:
noun\na person whose job is to add coal or other fuel to a fire, etc., especially on a ship or a steam train


Words: stole
Meaning:
noun\na piece of clothing consisting of a wide band of fabric or fur, worn by a woman around the shoulders; a similar piece of clothing worn by a priest\nsee also STEAL, STOLE, STOLEN v.


Words: stolid
Meaning:
adjective\n(usually disapproving) not showing much emotion or interest; remaining always the same and not reacting or changing:\nMark sat stolid and silent.\n    stolidly adverb\n    stolidity  noun [U]


Words: stomach
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n the organ inside the body where food goes when you swallow it; the front part of the body below the chest:\nstomach pains * an upset stomach * (BrE also) a stomach upset * exercises to strengthen the stomach muscles * It’s not a good idea to drink (= alcohol) on an empty stomach (= without having eaten anything). * You shouldn’t exercise on a full stomach. * The attacker kicked him in the stomach. * Lie on your stomach with your arms by your side. * They crawled along the ground on their stomachs.\nsee also TUMMY\n \n IDIOMS \n \n  have no stomach for sth\n1 to not want to eat sth:\nShe had no stomach for the leftover stew.\n2 to not have the desire or courage to do sth:\nThey had no stomach for a fight.\n  turn your stomach to make you feel upset, sick or disgusted:\nPictures of the burnt corpses turned my stomach.\nmore at BUTTERFLY, EYE n., FEEL v., PIT n., PUMP v., STRONG\n    verb [VN] (especially in negative sentences or questions)\n  1  to approve of sth and be able to enjoy it; to enjoy being with a person:\nI can’t stomach violent films. * I find him very hard to stomach.\n  2  to be able to eat sth without feeling ill/sick:\nShe couldn’t stomach any breakfast.


Words: stomach pump
Meaning:
noun\na machine with a tube that doctors use to remove poisonous substances from sb’s stomach through their mouth


Words: stomp
Meaning:
verb\n[V +adv./prep.] (informal) to walk, dance, or move with heavy steps:\nShe stomped angrily out of the office. * The children were stomping around noisily.


Words: stone
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  hard substance\n \n  1  [U] (often used before nouns or in compounds) a hard solid mineral substance that is found in the ground, often used for building:\nMost of the houses are built of stone. * stone walls * a stone bridge / floor / carving * a flight of stone steps\nsee also DRYSTONE WALL, LIMESTONE, SANDSTONE, SOAPSTONE\n \n  2  [C] (especially BrE) a small piece of rock of any shape:\na pile of stones * Some children were throwing stones into the lake.\nsee also HAILSTONE\n \n  3  [C] (usually in compounds) a piece of stone shaped for a particular purpose:\nThese words are carved on the stone beside his grave.\nsee also CORNERSTONE, FOUNDATION STONE, GRAVESTONE, HEADSTONE, LODESTONE, MILLSTONE, PAVING STONE, STEPPING STONE, TOMBSTONE\n  jewel\n  4  [C] = PRECIOUS STONE\n  in fruit\n  5  [C] (especially BrE) (AmE usually pit) a hard shell containing the nut or seed in the middle of some types of fruit:\ncherry / peach stones\n  in body\n  6  [C] (often in compounds) a small piece of hard material that can form in the BLADDER or KIDNEY and cause pain:\nkidney stones\nsee also GALLSTONE\n  measurement of weight\n  7  [C] (plural stone) (abbreviation st) (in Britain) a unit for measuring weight, equal to 6.35 kg or 14 pounds:\nHe weighs over 15 stone. * She’s trying to lose a stone.\n IDIOMS \n  leave no stone unturned to try every possible course of action in order to find or achieve sth\n  a stone’s throw a very short distance away:\nWe live just a stone’s throw from here. * The hotel is within a stone’s throw of the beach.\nmore at BLOOD n., CARVE, HEART, KILL v., PEOPLE n.\n    verb [VN]\n  throw stones\n  1  [usually passive] to throw stones at sb/sth:\nShops were looted and vehicles stoned. * to be stoned to death (= as a punishment)\n  fruit\n  2  (BrE) (also pit AmE, BrE) to remove the hard seed (= the stone/pit) from the inside of a fruit:\nstoned black olives\n IDIOMS \n  stone the crows | stone me (old-fashioned, BrE) used to express surprise, shock, anger, etc.


Words: stone cold
Meaning:
adjective\ncompletely cold, when it should be warm or hot:\nThe soup was stone cold.\n IDIOMS \n  stone-cold sober having drunk no alcohol at all


Words: stone dead
Meaning:
adjective\n(BrE) completely dead or completely destroyed:\nAny feeling he had left for her was now stone dead.


Words: stoned
Meaning:
adjective\n[not usually before noun] (slang) not behaving or thinking normally because of the effects of a drug such as MARIJUANA or alcohol


Words: stonewall
Meaning:
verb\n[VN, V] (especially in politics) to delay a discussion or decision by refusing to answer questions or by talking a lot


Words: stoneware
Meaning:
noun\n[U] pots, dishes, etc. made from clay that contains a small amount of the hard stone called FLINT


Words: stonewashed
Meaning:
adjective\n(of jeans, etc.) washed in a special way so that the fabric loses some colour and looks older


Words: stony
Meaning:
adjective (stonier, stoniest)\n  1  having a lot of stones on it or in it:\na stony beach * stony ground / soil\n  2  showing a lack of feeling or sympathy:\nThey listened to him in stony silence.\n IDIOMS \n  fall on stony ground to fail to produce the result or the effect that you hope for; to have little success:\nHis charming smile fell on stony ground with her. * The peace initiatives have already fallen on stony ground.\n  stony broke = flat broke at FLAT adv.


Words: stooge
Meaning:
noun\n  1  (informal, usually disapproving) a person who is used by sb to do things that are unpleasant or dishonest\n  2  a performer in a show whose role is to appear silly so that the other performers can make jokes about him or her


Words: stool
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  (often in compounds) a seat with legs but with nothing to support your back or arms:\na bar stool * a piano stool\n \n  2  (medical) a piece of solid waste from your body\n \n IDIOMS  see TWO


Words: stool pigeon
Meaning:
noun\n(informal) a person, especially a criminal, who helps the police to catch another criminal, for example by spending time with them and getting secret information\nSYN INFORMER


Words: stoop
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb [V] \n  1  ~ (down) to bend your body forwards and downwards:\nShe stooped down to pick up the child. * The doorway was so low that he had to stoop.\n  2  to stand or walk with your head and shoulders bent forwards:\nHe tends to stoop because he’s so tall.\n IDIOMS \n  stoop so low (as to do sth) (written) to lower your moral standards far enough to do sth bad or unpleasant:\nShe was unwilling to believe anyone would stoop so low as to steal a ring from a dead woman’s finger.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  stoop to sth to lower your moral standards to do sth bad or unpleasant:\nYou surely don’t think I’d stoop to that! * [+ -ing] I didn’t think he’d stoop to cheating.\n    noun\n  1  [sing.] if sb has a stoop, their shoulders are always bent forward\n  2  [C] (AmE) a raised area outside the door of a house with steps leading up to it:\nthe front stoop * We sat talking on the stoop until midnight.


Words: stop
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb\n (-pp-)\n \n  not move\n \n  1  to no longer move; to make sb/sth no longer move:\n[V] The car stopped at the traffic lights. * Ann stopped in front of the house. * This train doesn’t stop at Royston. * We stopped for the night in Port Augusta. * [VN] He was stopped by the police for speeding.\n \n  not continue\n \n  2  to no longer continue to do sth; to make sb/sth no longer do sth:\n[V -ing] That phone never stops ringing! * Please stop crying and tell me what’s wrong. * [V] She criticizes everyone and the trouble is, she doesn’t know when to stop. * (spoken) Can’t you just stop? * [VN] Stop me (= make me stop talking) if I’m boring you. * (spoken) Stop it! You’re hurting me. * [V wh-] Mike immediately stopped what he was doing.\n \n HELP NOTE  Notice the difference between stop doing sth and stop to do sth: We stopped taking pictures. means ’We were no longer taking pictures.’; We stopped to take pictures. means ’We stopped what we were doing so that we could start taking pictures.’\n  end\n  3  to end or finish; to make sth end or finish:\n[V] When is this fighting going to stop? * The bus service stops at midnight. * [V -ing] Has it stopped raining yet? * [VN] Doctors couldn’t stop the bleeding. * The referee was forced to stop the game because of heavy snow.\n  prevent\n  4  ~ sb/sth (from doing sth)| (BrE also) ~ sb/sth (doing sth) to prevent sb from doing sth; to prevent sth from happening:\n[VN] I want to go and you can’t stop me. * We need more laws to stop pollution. * There’s nothing to stop you from accepting the offer. * There’s no stopping us now (= nothing can prevent us from achieving what we want to achieve). * You can’t stop people from saying what they think. * (BrE also) [VN -ing] You can’t stop people saying what they think.\n  for short time\n  5  [V] ~ (for sth) | ~ (to do sth) to end an activity for a short time in order to do sth:\nI’m hungry. Let’s stop for lunch. * We stopped to admire the scenery. * People just don’t stop to think about the consequences.\n HELP NOTE  In spoken English, stop can be used with and plus another verb, instead of with to and the infinitive, to show purpose: He stopped and bought some flowers. * Let’s stop and look at the map.\n  not function\n  6  to no longer work or function; to make sth no longer work or function:\n[V] Why has the engine stopped? * What time is it? My watch has stopped. * I felt as if my heart had stopped. * [VN] I stopped the tape and pressed rewind. * Can you stop the printer once it’s started?\n  stay\n  7  [V] ~ (for sth) (BrE, informal) to stay somewhere for a short time, especially at sb’s house:\nI’m not stopping. I just came to give you this message. * Can you stop for tea?\n  money\n  8  [VN] ~ sth (from sth) to prevent money from being paid:\nto stop a cheque (= tell the bank not to pay it) * (BrE) Dad threatened to stop ｣1 a week from our pocket money if we didn’t clean our rooms.\n  close hole\n  9  [VN] ~ sth (up) (with sth) to block, fill or close a hole, an opening, etc:\nStop up the other end of the hose, will you? * I stopped my ears but still heard her cry out.\n IDIOMS \n  stop at nothing to be willing to do anything to get what you want, even if it is dishonest or wrong:\nShe’ll stop at nothing to make money.\n  stop the clock to stop measuring time in a game or an activity that has a time limit\n  stop short | stop sb short to suddenly stop, or make sb suddenly stop, doing sth:\nHe stopped short when he heard his name. * ’I’m pregnant,’ she said. That stopped him short.\n  stop short of sth / of doing sth to be unwilling to do sth because it may involve a risk, but to nearly do it:\nShe stopped short of calling the president a liar. * The protest stopped short of a violent confrontation.\nmore at BUCK n., TRACK n.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  stop by (sth) to make a short visit somewhere:\nI’ll stop by this evening for a chat. * Could you stop by the store on the way home for some bread?\n  stop in (BrE, informal) to stay at home rather than go out:\nI didn’t feel well on Friday night so I stopped in.\n  stop off (at / in ...) to make a short visit somewhere during a trip in order to do sth:\nWe stopped off at a hotel for the night. * Try to stop off for at least an hour to explore the medieval town.\n  stop out (BrE, informal) to stay out late at night\n  stop over (at / in ...) to stay somewhere for a short time during a long journey:\nI wanted to stop over in India on the way to Australia.\nrelated noun STOPOVER\n  stop up (BrE, informal) to stay up late\n    noun\n  act of stopping\n  1  an act of stopping or stopping sth; the state of being stopped:\nThe trip included an overnight stop in Brussels. * She brought the car to a stop. * Work has temporarily come to a stop while the funding is reviewed. * It is time to put a stop to the violence. * Babies do not grow at a steady rate but in stops and starts.\nsee also NON-STOP, WHISTLE-STOP\n  of bus / train\n  2  a place where a bus or train stops regularly for passengers to get on or off:\nI get off at the next stop. * Is this your stop? * Winchester will be the next station stop.\nsee also BUS STOP, PIT STOP, REQUEST STOP\n  punctuation\n  3  (BrE) = FULL STOP\n  music\n  4  a row of pipes on an ORGAN that produce the different sounds\n  5  a handle on an ORGAN that the player pushes in or pulls out to control the sound produced by the pipes\n  phonetics\n  6  a speech sound made by stopping the flow of air coming out of the mouth and then suddenly releasing it, for example / p, k, t / \nSYN PLOSIVE\nsee also GLOTTAL STOP\n IDIOMS  see FULL STOP, PULL v.


Words: stop light
Meaning:
noun [C]\n  1  (BrE) a red TRAFFIC LIGHT\n  2  (also stoplights [pl.]) (AmE) = TRAFFIC LIGHT\n  3  (AmE) = BRAKE LIGHT


Words: stop-go
Meaning:
adjective\n[usually before noun] (BrE, disapproving) used to describe the policy of first restricting and then encouraging economic activity and growth:\nthe damaging stop-go economic cycle * the government’s stop-go management of the economy


Words: stopcock
Meaning:
(also cock) noun\na tap that controls the flow of liquid or gas through a pipe:\nIf you have a burst pipe, turn off the stopcock immediately.


Words: stopgap
Meaning:
noun\nsomething that you use or do for a short time while you are looking for sth better:\nThe arrangement was only intended as a stopgap. * a stopgap measure


Words: stopover
Meaning:
(AmE also layover) noun\na short stay somewhere between two parts of a journey:\nWe had a two-day stopover in Fiji on the way to Australia.


Words: stoppage
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [C] a situation in which people stop working as part of a protest or strike:\n400 workers were involved in the stoppage. * a two-day stoppage by train drivers\n  2  [C] (sport) an interruption in the game for a particular reason:\nPlay resumed quickly after the stoppage. * stoppage time (= added on at the end of the game if there have been stoppages)\n  3  [C] a situation in which sth does not move forward or is blocked:\na stoppage of blood to the heart\n  4  (stoppages) [pl.] (old-fashioned, BrE, formal) an amount of money that an employer takes from people’s wages for tax and other payments


Words: stopper
Meaning:
(AmE also plug) noun\n\nan object that fits into the top of a bottle to close it:\na glass / plastic stopper * a bottle stopper\n \n    stopper verb [VN]


Words: stopwatch
Meaning:
noun\na watch that you can stop and start by pressing buttons, in order to time a race, etc. accurately


Words: storage
Meaning:
noun [U]\n  1  the process of keeping sth in a particular place until it is needed; the space where things can be kept:\ntables that fold flat for storage * There’s a lot of storage space in the loft. * food storage facilities * We need more storage now.\nsee also COLD STORAGE\n  2  (computing) the process of keeping information, etc. on a computer; the way it is kept:\nthe storage and retrieval of information * data storage\n  3  the process of paying to keep furniture, etc. in a special building until you want it:\nWhen we moved we had to put our furniture in storage for a while.


Words: store
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  1  [C] a large shop that sells many different types of goods:\na big department store\nsee also CHAIN STORE, VARIETY STORE\n  2  [C] (AmE) a shop, large or small:\na health food store * a liquor store\nsee also CONSIGNMENT STORE, CONVENIENCE STORE, GENERAL STORE\n  3  [C] a quantity or supply of sth that you have and use:\nher secret store of chocolate * There is a vast store of knowledge in the world on every conceivable subject.\n  4  (stores) [pl.] goods of a particular kind or for a particular purpose:\nmedical / military stores\n  5  [C] (often stores) [pl.] a place where goods of a particular kind are kept:\na grain store * weapons stores\n IDIOMS \n  in store (for sb) waiting to happen to sb:\nWe don’t know what life holds in store for us. * If she had known what lay in store for her, she would never have agreed to go. * They think it’ll be easy but they have a surprise in store.\n  set / put (great, etc.) store by sth to believe in sth; to consider sth to be important:\nShe sets great store by her appearance. * It is unwise to put too much store by these statistics.\nmore at HIT v., MIND v.\n    verb [VN] \n  1  ~ sth (away / up) to put sth somewhere and keep it there to use later:\nanimals storing up food for the winter * You can store coffee beans in the freezer to keep them fresh. * He hoped the electronic equipment was safely stored away.\n  2  to keep information or facts in a computer or in your brain:\nThousands of pieces of data are stored in a computer’s memory.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  store sth<->up to not express strong feelings or deal with problems when you have them, especially when this causes problems later:\nShe had stored up all her anger and eventually snapped. * By ignoring your feelings you are only storing up trouble for yourself.


Words: store card
Meaning:
noun\na card that a particular shop/store provides for regular customers so that they can use it to buy goods that they will pay for later\ncompare CREDIT CARD


Words: store detective
Meaning:
noun\na person employed by a large shop/store to watch customers and make sure they do not steal goods


Words: storefront
Meaning:
noun (AmE)\n  1  = SHOPFRONT\n  2  a room at the front of a shop/store:\nThey run their business from a small storefront. * a storefront office


Words: storehouse
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a building where things are stored\nSYN WAREHOUSE\n  2  ~ of information, knowledge, etc. a place or thing that has or contains a lot of information:\nThis book is a storehouse of useful information.


Words: storey
Meaning:
(especially BrE) (AmE usually story)  noun (plural storeys, AmE stories)\n \n  1  a level of a building; a floor:\nthe upper / lower storey of the house * a single-storey / two-storey / three-storey building\nsee also MULTI-STOREY\n \n  2  (-storeyed) (AmE -storied) (in adjectives) (of a building) having the number of levels mentioned:\na four-storeyed building\n______________________________\n \n WHICH WORD? \nstorey / floor\nYou use storey (BrE)/story (AmE) mainly when you are talking about the number of levels a building has: a five-storey house * The office building is five storeys high.\nFloor is used mainly to talk about which particular level in the building someone lives on, goes to, etc.: His office is on the fifth floor.\n-> note at FLOOR\n______________________________


Words: storied
Meaning:
adjective (AmE)\n  1  [only before noun] mentioned in stories; famous; well known:\nthe rock star’s storied career\n  2  (-storied) = -storeyed at STOREY


Words: stork
Meaning:
noun\na large black and white bird with a long beak and neck and long legs, that lives near water but often builds its nest on the top of a high building


Words: storm
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  1  very bad weather with strong winds and rain, and often THUNDER and LIGHTNING:\nfierce / heavy / violent storms * A few minutes later the storm broke (= began). * I think we’re in for a storm (= going to have one). * storm damage -> WEATHER\n  2  (in compounds) very bad weather of the type mentioned:\na thunderstorm / snowstorm / sandstorm\nsee also ELECTRIC STORM, RAINSTORM\n  3  ~ (of sth) a situation in which a lot of people suddenly express very strong feelings about sth:\na storm of protest / controversy\n  4  ~ of sth a sudden loud noise that is caused by emotion or excitement\nSYN ROAR:\na storm of applause / weeping\nsee also BRAINSTORM\n IDIOMS \n  a storm in a teacup (BrE) (AmE a tempest in a teapot) a lot of anger or worry about sth that is not important\n  take sth/sb by storm\n1 to be extremely successful very quickly in a particular place or among particular people:\nThe play took London by storm.\n2 to attack a place suddenly and capture it\nmore at CALM n., PORT\n    verb\n  1  to suddenly attack a place:\n[VN] Police stormed the building and captured the gunman. * The embassy was stormed by demonstrators. * [V] Soldiers stormed into the city at dawn.\n  2  [V +adv./prep.] to go somewhere quickly and in an angry, noisy way:\nShe stormed into my office waving a newspaper. * He burst into tears and stormed off.\n  3  [V speech] (written) to say sth in a loud angry way:\n’Don’t you know who I am?’ she stormed.


Words: storm cloud
Meaning:
noun\n[usually pl.] a dark cloud that you see when bad weather is coming:\nAbove the mountains, storm clouds were gathering. * (figurative) The storm clouds of revolution were gathering.


Words: storm door
Meaning:
noun\nan extra door that is fitted to the outside door of a house, etc. to give protection from bad weather or the winter


Words: storm trooper
Meaning:
noun\na soldier who is specially trained for violent attacks, especially one in Nazi Germany in the 1930s and 1940s


Words: storm-tossed
Meaning:
adjective\n[only before noun] (literary) affected or damaged by storms:\nthe storm-tossed sea * a storm-tossed boat


Words: stormy
Meaning:
adjective (stormier, stormiest)\n  1  with strong winds and heavy rain or snow:\na dark and stormy night * stormy weather / seas\n  2  full of strong feelings and angry arguments:\na stormy debate / meeting / relationship


Words: story
Meaning:
noun (plural stories)\n \n  1  ~ (about / of sth/sb) a description of events and people that the writer or speaker has invented in order to entertain people:\nadventure / detective / love stories * a book of short stories * a story about time travel * Shall I tell you a story? * He read the children a story. * a bedtime story\nsee also FAIRY STORY, GHOST STORY, SHORT STORY\n \n  2  ~ (about / of sth/sb) an account, often spoken, of what happened to sb or of how sth happened:\nIt was many years before the full story was made public. * The police didn’t believe her story. * We must stick to our story about the accident. * I can’t decide until I’ve heard both sides of the story. * It’s a story of courage. * Many years later I returned to Africa but that’s another story (= I am not going to talk about it now).\nsee also COCK AND BULL STORY, HARD-LUCK STORY, LIFE STORY, SHAGGY-DOG STORY, SOB STORY, SUCCESS STORY, TALL STORY\n \n  3  an account of past events or of how sth has developed:\nHe told us the story of his life. * the story of the Beatles * the story of the building of the bridge\n  4  a report in a newspaper, magazine or news broadcast:\na front-page story * Now for a summary of tonight’s main news stories.\nsee also COVER STORY, LEAD STORY\n  5  (also storyline) the series of events in a book, film/movie, play, etc.\nSYN PLOT:\nHer novels always have the same basic story.\n  6  (informal) something that sb says which is not true:\nShe knew the child had been telling stories again.\n  7  (AmE) = STOREY\n IDIOMS \n  the story goes (that) ... | so the story goes used to describe sth that people are saying although it may not be correct:\nShe never saw him again-or so the story goes.\n  that’s the story of my life (informal) when you say that’s the story of my life about an unfortunate experience you have had, you mean you have had many similar experiences:\nAnother missed opportunity-that’s the story of my life!\nmore at LIKELY adj., LONG adj., OLD, PITCH v., TELL


Words: storybook
Meaning:
noun\na book of stories for children:\na picture in a storybook * storybook characters * storybook adventures (= like the ones in stories for children)


Words: storyteller
Meaning:
noun\na person who tells or writes stories\n    storytelling noun [U]:\nShe has a gift for storytelling. * storytelling sessions


Words: stout
Meaning:
adjective, noun \n    adjective (stouter, stoutest)\n  1  (of a person) rather fat\n  2  [usually before noun] strong and thick:\na stout pair of shoes * a stout rope / stick\n  3  [usually before noun] (formal) brave and determined:\nHe put up a stout defence in court. * This requires a stout heart.\n    stoutly adverb:\nHe was tall and stoutly built. * ’I disagree,’ said Polly stoutly.\n    stoutness noun [U] \n    noun [U, C] strong dark beer made with MALT or BARLEY


Words: stove
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  a piece of equipment that can burn various fuels and is used for heating rooms:\na gas / wood-burning stove\n \n  2  (especially AmE) = COOKER:\nShe put a pan of water on the stove. * (AmE, BrE) Most people don’t want to spend hours slaving over a hot stove (= cooking).\nsee also STAVE, STOVE, STOVE v.


Words: stow
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] ~ sth (away) (in sth) to put sth in a safe place:\nShe found a seat, stowed her backpack and sat down. * His passport was stowed away in the desk.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  stow away to hide in a ship, plane, etc. in order to travel secretly:\nAt the age of 13 he had stowed away on a ship bound for Rio.\nrelated noun STOWAWAY


Words: stowaway
Meaning:
noun\na person who hides in a ship or plane before it leaves, in order to travel without paying or being seen


Words: straddle
Meaning:
verb [VN] \n  1  to sit or stand with one of your legs on either side of sb/sth:\nHe swung his leg over the motorcycle, straddling it easily.\n  2  to cross, or exist on both sides of, a river, a road or an area of land:\nThe mountains straddle the French-Swiss border.\n  3  to exist within, or include, different periods of time, activities or groups of people:\na writer who straddles two cultures


Words: straggle
Meaning:
prep.] \n  1  to grow, spread or move in an untidy way in different directions:\nHer hair was straggling over her eyes. * The town straggled to an end and the fields began.\n  2  to move slowly behind a group of people that you are with so that you become separated from them:\nOn the way the kids straggled behind us.


Words: straggler
Meaning:
noun\n[usually pl.] a person or an animal that is among the last or the slowest in a group to do sth, for example, to finish a race or leave a place:\nThe tour guide came back for the stragglers who were still taking pictures.


Words: straggly
Meaning:
adjective\ngrowing or hanging in a way that does not look tidy or attractive:\na thin woman with grey, straggly hair * a straggly hedge


Words: straight
Meaning:
adverb, adjective, noun \n    adverb (straighter, straightest)\n  not in curve\n  1  not in a curve or at an angle; in a straight line:\nKeep straight on for two miles. * Can you stretch your arms out straighter? * He was too tired to walk straight. * I can’t shoot straight (= accurately). * She looked me straight in the eye.\n  immediately\n  2  by a direct route; immediately:\nCome straight home after school. * I was so tired I went straight to bed. * She went straight from college to a top job. * I’m going to the library straight after the class. * I’ll come straight to the point-your work isn’t good enough.\n  in level / correct position\n  3  in or into a level or upright position; in or into the correct position:\nSit up straight! * She pulled her hat straight.\n  honestly\n  4  honestly and directly:\nI told him straight that I didn’t like him. * Are you playing straight with me?\n  without interruption\n  5  continuously without interruption:\nThey had been working for 16 hours straight.\n IDIOMS \n  go straight (informal) to stop being a criminal and live an honest life\n  play it straight to be honest and not try to deceive sb\n  straight away immediately; without delay:\nI’ll do it straight away.\n  straight from the shoulder if you say sth straight from the shoulder, you are being very honest and direct, even if what you are saying is critical\n  straight off / out (informal) without hesitating:\nShe asked him straight off what he thought about it all.\n  straight up (BrE, spoken, informal) used to ask if what sb has said is true or to emphasize that what you have said is true:\nI saw it-straight up!\nmore at THINK v.\n    adjective (straighter, straightest)\n  without curves\n  1  without a bend or curve; going in one direction only:\na straight line / road * long straight hair (= without curls) * a boat sailing in a straight line * straight-backed chairs\n  clothing\n  2  not fitting close to the body and not curving away from the body:\na straight skirt\n  aim / blow\n  3  going directly to the correct place:\na straight punch to the face\n  in level / correct position\n  4  positioned in the correct way; level, upright or parallel to sth:\nIs my tie straight?\n  clean / neat\n  5  [not usually before noun] clean and neat, with everything in the correct place:\nIt took hours to get the house straight.\n  honest\n  6  honest and direct:\na straight answer to a straight question * I don’t think you’re being straight with me. * It’s time for some straight talking. * You can trust Ben-he’s (as) straight as a die (= completely honest).\n  choice\n  7  [only before noun] simple; involving only two clear choices:\nIt was a straight choice between taking the job and staying out of work. * (BrE) The election was a straight fight between the two main parties.\n  actor / play\n  8  [only before noun] (of an actor or a play) not connected with COMEDY or musical theatre, but with serious theatre\n  without interruption\n  9  [only before noun] one after another in a series, without interruption:\nThe team has had five straight wins.\n  alcoholic drink\n  10  (AmE) (BrE neat) not mixed with water or anything else\n  normal / boring\n  11  (informal) you can use straight to describe a person who is normal and ordinary, but who you consider dull and boring\n  sex\n  12  (informal) HETEROSEXUAL\nOPP GAY\n    straightness noun [U] \n IDIOMS \n  (earn / get) straight A’s (especially AmE) (to get) the best marks/grades in all your classes:\na straight A student\n  get sth straight to make a situation clear; to make sure that you or sb else understands the situation:\nLet’s get this straight-you really had no idea where he was?\n  a straight face if you keep a straight face, you do not laugh or smile, although you find sth funny\nsee also STRAIGHT-FACED\n  put / set sb straight (about / on sth) to correct sb’s mistake; to make sure that sb knows the correct facts when they have had the wrong idea or impression\n  the straight and narrow (informal) the honest and morally acceptable way of living:\nHis wife is trying to keep him on the straight and narrow.\nmore at RAMROD, RECORD n.\n    noun\n  sex\n  1  (informal) a person who has sexual relationships with people of the opposite sex, rather than the same sex:\ngays and straights\n  of road / track\n  2  (AmE also straightaway) a straight part of a RACETRACK or road\nsee also THE HOME STRAIGHT


Words: straight arrow
Meaning:
noun\n(AmE, informal) a person who is very honest or who never does anything new, exciting or different


Words: straight edge
Meaning:
noun\na strip of wood, metal or plastic with a straight edge used for drawing accurate straight lines, or checking them


Words: straight man
Meaning:
noun\na person in a show whose role is to provide the main entertainer with opportunities to make jokes


Words: straightaway
Meaning:
adverb, noun \n    adverb immediately; at once:\nYou’d better call the doctor straightaway. * Millie didn’t answer straightaway.\n    noun (AmE) = STRAIGHT (2)


Words: straighten
Meaning:
verb\n \n  1  ~ (sth) (out) to become straight; to make sth straight:\n[VN] I straightened my tie and walked in. * [V] The road bends here then straightens out.\n \n  2  ~ (sth) (up) to make your body straight and upright:\n[VN] He stood up and straightened his shoulders. * I straightened myself up to answer the question. * [V] Straighten up slowly, then repeat the exercise ten times.\n \n PHRASAL VERBS \n \n  straighten sb<->out to help sb to deal with problems or understand a confused situation\n \n  straighten sth<->out to deal with a confused situation by organizing things that are causing problems:\nI need time to straighten out my finances.\n  straighten sth<->up to make sth neat and tidy


Words: straightforward
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  easy to do or to understand; not complicated:\na straightforward process / operation / solution * It’s quite straightforward to get here.\n  2  (of a person or their behaviour) honest and open; not trying to deceive sb or hide sth\n    straightforwardly adverb:\nLet me put it more straightforwardly. * a straightforwardly pleasant man\n    straightforwardness noun [U]


Words: strain
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  worry / anxiety\n  1  [U, C] pressure on sb/sth because they have too much to do or manage, or sth very difficult to deal with; the problems, worry or anxiety that this produces:\nTheir marriage is under great strain at the moment. * These repayments are putting a strain on our finances. * Relax, and let us take the strain (= do things for you). * The transport service cannot cope with the strain of so many additional passengers. * You will learn to cope with the stresses and strains of public life. * I found it a strain having to concentrate for so long. * There are strains in the relationship between the two countries.\n  physical pressure\n  2  [U, C] the pressure that is put on sth when a physical force stretches, pushes, or pulls it:\nThe rope broke under the strain. * You should try not to place too much strain on muscles and joints. * The ground here cannot take the strain of a large building. * The cable has a 140kg breaking strain (= it will break when it is stretched or pulled by a force greater than this).\n  injury\n  3  [C, U] an injury to a part of your body, such as a muscle, that is caused by using it too much or by twisting it:\na calf / groin / leg strain * muscle strain\n  type of plant / animal / disease\n  4  [C] a particular type of plant or animal, or of a disease caused by bacteria, etc:\na new strain of mosquitoes resistant to the poison * This is only one of the many strains of the disease.\n  in sb’s character\n  5  [C, usually sing.] a particular tendency in the character of a person or group, or a quality in their manner\nSYN STREAK:\nHe had a definite strain of snobbery in him.\n  of music\n  6  [C, usually pl.] (formal) the sound of music being played or sung:\nShe could hear the strains of Mozart through the window.\n    verb\n  injure\n  1  [VN] to injure yourself or part of your body by making it work too hard:\nto strain a muscle * You’ll strain your back carrying those heavy suitcases.\n  make effort\n  2  ~ (sth) (for sth) | ~ (sth) (to do sth) to make an effort to do sth, using all your mental or physical strength:\n[VN to inf] I strained my ears (= listened very hard) to catch what they were saying. * [VN] Necks were strained for a glimpse of the stranger. * [V to inf] People were straining to see what was going on. * [V] He burst to the surface, straining for air. * Bend gently to the left without straining.\n  stretch to limit\n  3  [VN] to try to make sth do more than it is able to do:\nThe sudden influx of visitors is straining hotels in the town to the limit. * His constant complaints were straining our patience. * The dispute has strained relations between the two countries (= made them difficult). * Her latest version of events strained their credulity still further.\n  push / pull hard\n  4  [V +adv./prep.] to push hard against sth; to pull hard on sth:\nShe strained against the ropes that held her. * The dogs were straining at the leash, eager to get to the park.\n  separate solid from liquid\n  5  [VN] ~ sth (off) to pour food, etc. through sth with very small holes in it, for example a SIEVE, in order to separate the solid part from the liquid part:\nUse a colander to strain the vegetables. * Strain off any excess liquid.\n IDIOMS \n  strain at the leash (informal) to want to do sth very much:\nLike all youngsters, he’s straining at the leash to leave home.\n  strain every nerve / sinew (to do sth) (written) to try as hard as you can to do sth:\nHe strained every nerve to snatch victory from defeat.\nmore at CREAK v.


Words: strained
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  showing the effects of worry or pressure\nSYN TENSE:\nHer face looked strained and weary. * He spoke in a low, strained voice.\n  2  (of a situation) not relaxed or friendly\nSYN TENSE:\nThere was a strained atmosphere throughout the meeting. * Relations between the two families are strained.\n  3  not natural; produced by a deliberate effort\nSYN FORCED:\nShe gave a strained laugh.


Words: strainer
Meaning:
noun\na kitchen UTENSIL (= a tool) with a lot of small holes in it, used for separating solids from liquids:\na tea-strainer


Words: strait
Meaning:
noun\n  1  (also straits) [pl.] (especially in the names of places) a narrow passage of water that connects two seas or large areas of water:\nthe Strait(s) of Gibraltar\n  2  (straits) [pl.] a very difficult situation especially because of lack of money:\nThe factory is in dire straits. * She found herself in desperate financial straits.


Words: strait-laced
Meaning:
(also straight-laced)  adjective\n(disapproving) having strict or old-fashioned ideas about people’s moral behaviour


Words: straitened
Meaning:
adjective\n[only before noun] (formal) without enough money or as much money as there was before:\nThe family of eight was living in straitened circumstances.


Words: straitjacket
Meaning:
(also straightjacket)  noun\n  1  a piece of clothing like a jacket with long arms which are tied to prevent the person wearing it from behaving violently. Straitjackets are sometimes used to control people who are mentally ill.\n  2  (disapproving) a thing that stops sth from growing or developing:\nthe straitjacket of taxation


Words: strand
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  1  a single thin piece of thread, wire, hair, etc:\na strand of wool * a few strands of dark hair * She wore a single strand of pearls around her neck.\n  2  one of the different parts of an idea, a plan, a story, etc:\nWe heard every strand of political opinion. * The author draws the different strands of the plot together in the final chapter.\n  3  (literary or IrishE) the shore of the sea or ocean, or of a lake or river\n    verb [VN] [usually passive]\n  1  to leave sb in a place from which they have no way of leaving:\nThe strike left hundreds of tourists stranded at the airport.\n  2  to make a boat, fish, WHALE, etc. be left on the shore and unable to return to the water:\nThe ship was stranded on a sandbank.


Words: strange
Meaning:
adjective (stranger, strangest)\n  1  ~ (that / how ...) unusual or surprising, especially in a way that is difficult to understand:\nA strange thing happened this morning. * She was looking at me in a very strange way. * It’s strange (that) we haven’t heard from him. * It’s strange how childhood impressions linger. * That’s strange-the front door’s open. * I’m looking forward to the exam, strange as it may seem. * There was something strange about her eyes. * Strange to say, I don’t really enjoy television.\n  2  ~ (to sb) not familiar because you have not been there before or met the person before:\na strange country / city / neighbourhood * to wake up in a strange bed * Never accept lifts from strange men. * At first the place was strange to me.\n    strangeness noun [U]\n IDIOMS \n  feel strange to not feel comfortable in a situation; to have an unpleasant physical feeling:\nShe felt strange sitting at her father’s desk. * It was terribly hot and I started to feel strange.\nmore at TRUTH


Words: strangely
Meaning:
adverb\nin an unusual or surprising way:\nShe’s been acting very strangely lately. * The house was strangely quiet. * strangely shaped rocks * Strangely enough, I don’t feel at all nervous.


Words: stranger
Meaning:
noun\n  1  ~ (to sb) a person that you do not know:\nThere was a complete stranger sitting at my desk. * They got on well together although they were total strangers. * We’ve told our daughter not to speak to strangers. * She remained a stranger to me.\n  2  ~ (to ...) a person who is in a place that they have not been in before:\nSorry, I don’t know where the bank is. I’m a stranger here myself. * He must have been a stranger to the town.\n IDIOMS \n  be no / a stranger to sth (formal) to be familiar/not familiar with sth because you have/have not experienced it many times before:\nHe is no stranger to controversy.


Words: strangle
Meaning:
verb [VN] \n  1  to kill sb by squeezing or pressing on their throat and neck:\nto strangle sb to death * He strangled her with her own scarf. * Whenever she starts going on about her beloved son, I could cheerfully strangle her.\n  2  (written) to prevent sth from growing or developing:\nThe current monetary policy is strangling the economy. * ’Oh, no!’ she cried, strangling a sob.


Words: strangled
Meaning:
adjective\n(of a cry, sb’s voice, etc.) a cry or other sound that is not clear because it stops before it has completely finished:\nThere was a strangled cry from the other room. * a strangled gasp / voice / whisper


Words: stranglehold
Meaning:
noun [sing.]\n  1  a strong hold around sb’s neck that makes it difficult for them to breathe:\nBoth arms were around his neck in a stranglehold.\n  2  ~ (on sth) complete control over sth that makes it impossible for it to grow or develop well:\nThe company now had a stranglehold on the market. * attempts to break the US stranglehold on the industry


Words: strangulated
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  (medical) (of a part of the body) squeezed so tightly that blood etc. cannot pass through it:\na strangulated hernia\n  2  (written) (of a voice) sounding as though the throat is tightly squeezed, usually because of fear or worry:\nHe gave a strangulated squawk.


Words: strangulation
Meaning:
noun [U]\n  1  the act of killing sb by squeezing their throat tightly; the state of being killed in this way:\nto die of slow strangulation\n  2  (disapproving) the act of preventing sth from growing or developing:\nthe strangulation of the human spirit


Words: strap
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n a strip of leather, fabric or other material that is used to fasten sth, keep sth in place, carry sth or hold onto sth:\nthe shoulder straps of her dress * a watch with a leather strap\n    verb (-pp-) [VN] \n  1  [+adv./prep.] to fasten sb/sth in place using a strap or straps:\nHe strapped the knife to his leg. * Everything had to be strapped down to stop it from sliding around. * Are you strapped in (= wearing a seat belt in a car, plane, etc.)?\n  2  ~ sth (up) to wrap strips of material around a wound or an injured part of the body:\nI have to keep my leg strapped up for six weeks.


Words: strapped
Meaning:
adjective\n~ (for cash, funds, etc.) (informal) having little or not enough money:\nI’m strapped for cash at the moment-can I pay you later? * financially strapped governments


Words: stratagem
Meaning:
noun\n(formal) a trick or plan that you use to gain an advantage or to deceive an opponent:\nto adopt a cunning stratagem


Words: strategic
Meaning:
adjective [usually before noun]\n  1  done as part of a plan that is meant to achieve a particular purpose or to gain an advantage:\nstrategic planning * a strategic decision to sell off part of the business * Cameras were set up at strategic points (= in places where they would be most effective) along the route.\n  2  connected with getting an advantage in a war or other military situation:\nMalta was of vital strategic importance during the war. * a strategic alliance * the strategic bombing of communication centres\n  3  (of weapons, especially nuclear weapons) intended to be fired at an enemy’s country rather than used in a battle:\nstrategic missiles\ncompare TACTICAL (3)\n    strategically  adverb:\na strategically placed microphone * a strategically important target


Words: strategist
Meaning:
noun\na person who is skilled at planning things, especially military activities:\na military strategist * a brilliant political strategist


Words: strategy
Meaning:
noun (plural strategies)\n  1  [C] ~ (for doing sth) | ~ (to do sth) a plan that is intended to achieve a particular purpose:\nto develop a strategy for dealing with unemployment * It’s all part of an overall strategy to gain promotion. * the government’s economic strategy\n  2  [U] the process of planning sth or carrying out a plan in a skilful way:\nmarketing strategy\n  3  [U, C] the skill of planning the movements of armies in a battle or war; an example of doing this:\nmilitary strategy * defence strategies\ncompare TACTIC


Words: stratify
Meaning:
verb\n(stratifies, stratifying, stratified, stratified) [VN] [usually passive] (formal or technical) to arrange sth in layers or STRATA:\na highly stratified society * stratified rock


Words: stratosphere
Meaning:
noun\n(the stratosphere) [sing.] the layer of the earth’s atmosphere between about 10 and 50 kilometres above the surface of the earth\ncompare IONOSPHERE\n    stratospheric  adjective:\nstratospheric clouds / ozone


Words: stratum
Meaning:
1  (geology) a layer or set of layers of rock, earth, etc:\na thick stratum of flint / gravel * geological / limestone strata * Excavated coins can often be dated from other objects in the same stratum.\n  2  (written) a class in a society:\npeople from all social strata


Words: straw
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  [U] stems of wheat or other grain plants that have been cut and dried. Straw is used for making MATS, hats, etc., for packing things to protect them, and as food for animals or for them to sleep on:\na mattress filled with straw * a straw hat\ncompare HAY\n \n  2  [C] a single stem or piece of straw:\nHe was leaning over the gate chewing on a straw.\n \n  3  (also drinking straw) a thin tube of plastic or paper that you suck a drink through\n \n IDIOMS \n  clutch / grasp at straws to try all possible means to find a solution or some hope in a difficult or unpleasant situation, even though this seems very unlikely:\nI know I’m just clutching at straws here, but is it possible that the doctors are wrong?\n  the last / final straw | the straw that breaks the camel’s back the last in a series of bad events, etc. that makes it impossible for you to accept a situation any longer\n  a straw in the wind (BrE) a small sign of what might happen in the future\nmore at BRICK n., DRAW v.


Words: straw poll
Meaning:
(AmE also straw vote) noun\nan occasion when a number of people are asked in an informal way to give their opinion about sth or to say how they are likely to vote in an election


Words: strawberry
Meaning:
noun\n(plural strawberries) a soft red fruit with very small yellow seeds on the surface, that grows on a low plant:\nstrawberries and cream * strawberry plants


Words: stray
Meaning:
verb, adjective, noun \n    verb [V] \n  1  [usually +adv./prep.] to move away from the place where you should be, without intending to:\nHe strayed into the path of an oncoming car. * Her eyes kept straying over to the clock on the wall. * His hand strayed to the telephone. * Her parents fear that, living in this neighbourhood, she might stray into the wrong company. * He can’t have strayed far. * I strayed a few blocks in the wrong direction and became hopelessly lost.\n  2  [usually +adv./prep.] to begin to think about or discuss a different subject from the one you should be thinking about or discussing:\nMy mind kept straying back to our last talk together. * We seem to be straying from the main theme of the debate. * The conversation had begun to stray into dangerous territory.\n  3  (of a person who is married or in a relationship) to have a sexual relationship with sb who is not your usual partner:\nIt had never occurred to her that her husband might stray while he was away on business.\n    adjective [only before noun]\n  1  (of animals normally kept as pets) lost from home; having no home:\nstray dogs / cats\n  2  separated from other things or people of the same kind:\nA civilian was killed by a stray bullet. * a few stray hairs\n    noun\n  1  an animal that has got lost or separated from its owner or that has no owner\nsee also WAIF\n  2  a person or thing that is not in the right place or is separated from others of the same kind


Words: streak
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  1  a long thin mark or line that is a different colour from the surface it is on:\nThere was a streak of blood on his face. * streaks of grey in her hair * dirty streaks on the window * streaks of sunlight\n  2  a part of a person’s character, especially an unpleasant part:\na ruthless / vicious / mean streak * a streak of cruelty\n  3  a series of successes or failures, especially in a sport or in gambling:\na streak of good luck * to hit (= have) a winning streak * to be on a losing streak * a lucky / unlucky streak\n    verb\n  1  [VN] ~ sth (with sth) to mark or cover sth with streaks:\nTears streaked her face. * His face was streaked with mud. * She’s had her hair streaked (= had special chemicals put on her hair so that it has attractive coloured lines in it). * The sunset streaked the sky with brilliant colours.\n  2  [V +adv./prep.] to move very fast in a particular direction:\nA car pulled out and streaked off down the road. * She streaked home in under 54 seconds.\n  3  [V]   [usually +adv./prep.] (informal) to run through a public place with no clothes on as a way of getting attention:\nErica became famous for streaking across a cricket pitch.


Words: streaky
Meaning:
adjective\nmarked with lines of a different colour:\nstreaky blonde hair * The wallpaper was streaky with grease. * (BrE) streaky bacon (= with layers of fat in it)


Words: stream
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n\n \n  1  a small narrow river:\nmountain / underground streams * We waded across a shallow stream.\nsee also DOWNSTREAM, UPSTREAM, THE GULF STREAM\n \n  2  ~ (of sth) a continuous flow of liquid or gas:\nA stream of blood flowed from the wound. * He blew out a stream of cigar smoke. * a jet stream\nsee also BLOODSTREAM\n \n  3  ~ (of sth/sb) a continuous flow of people or vehicles:\nI’ve had a steady stream of visitors. * Cars filed past in an endless stream.\n  4  ~ of sth a large number of things that happen one after the other:\na constant stream of enquiries / complaints * The agency provided me with a steady stream of work. * Most of the letter consisted of a stream of abuse.\n  5  (especially BrE) a group in which students of the same age and level of ability are placed in some schools:\nShe was put into the fast stream.\n IDIOMS \n  be / come on stream to be in operation or available:\nThe new computer system comes on stream next month.\n    verb\n  1  ~ (from sth) | ~ (with sth) (of liquid or gas) to move or pour out in a continuous flow; to produce a continuous flow of liquid or gas:\n[V] Tears streamed down his face. * a streaming cold (= with a lot of liquid coming from the nose) * Blood was streaming from her head. * Her head was streaming with blood. * Sunlight streamed through the windows. * [V, VN] Black smoke streamed from the exhaust. * The exhaust streamed black smoke.\n  2  (of people or things) [V +adv./prep.] to move somewhere in large numbers, one after the other:\nPeople streamed across the bridge. * The refugees streamed north to the border.\n  3  [V] to move freely, especially in the wind or water:\nHer scarf streamed behind her. * She was walking by the sea, her pale hair streaming.\n  4  [VN] [usually passive] (especially BrE) (AmE usually track) (in schools) to put school students into groups according to their ability:\nPupils are streamed for French and Maths.


Words: stream of consciousness
Meaning:
noun\n[U] a continuous flow of ideas, thoughts, and feelings, as they are experienced by a person; a style of writing that expresses this without using the usual methods of description and conversation:\nVirginia Woolf’s use of stream of consciousness in her novel ’Mrs Dalloway’


Words: streamer
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a long narrow piece of coloured paper, used to decorate a place for a party or other celebration:\nThe room was decorated with balloons and streamers.\n  2  a long narrow piece of fabric or other material


Words: streaming
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (especially BrE) the policy of dividing school students into groups of the same level of ability:\nStreaming within comprehensive schools is common practice.


Words: streamline
Meaning:
verb [VN] [usually passive]\n  1  to give sth a smooth even shape so that it can move quickly and easily through air or water:\nThe cars all have a new streamlined design.\n  2  to make a system, an organization, etc. work better, especially in a way that saves money:\nThe production process is to be streamlined.


Words: street
Meaning:
noun\n(abbreviation St, st) a public road in a city or town that has houses and buildings on one side or both sides:\nThe bank is just across the street. * to walk along / down / up the street * the town’s narrow cobbled streets * 92nd Street * 10 Downing Street * He is used to being recognized in the street. * a street map / plan of York * street theatre / musicians * My office is at street level (= on the ground floor). * It’s not safe to walk the streets at night. * It was time to take the political struggle onto the streets (= by protesting in large groups in the streets of a city).\nsee also BACKSTREET, HIGH STREET, SIDE STREET -> ROAD\n \n IDIOMS \n \n  (out) on the streets / street (informal) without a home; outside, not in a house or other building:\nthe problems of young people living on the streets * If it had been left to me I would have put him out on the street long ago.\n \n  on / walking the streets working as a prostitute\n  streets ahead (of sb/sth) (BrE, informal) much better or more advanced than sb/sth else:\na country that is streets ahead in the control of environmental pollution * Beth is streets ahead of all the other students in her year.\n  the streets are paved with gold (saying) used to say that it seems easy to make money in a place\n  (right) up your street (especially BrE) (AmE usually (right) up your alley) (informal) very suitable for you because it is sth that you know a lot about or are very interested in:\nThis job seems right up your street.\nmore at EASY adj., HIT v., MAN n.


Words: street cred
Meaning:
(also cred) (informal) (also less frequent street credibility) noun\n[U] a way of behaving and dressing that is acceptable to young people, especially those who live in cities and have experienced the problems of real life:\nThose clothes do nothing for your street cred.


Words: street furniture
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (technical) equipment such as road signs, street lights, etc. placed at the side of a road


Words: street value
Meaning:
noun\n[usually sing.] a price for which sth that is illegal or has been obtained illegally can be sold:\ndrugs with a street value of over ｣1 million


Words: streetwise
Meaning:
(AmE also streetsmart) adjective\n(informal) having the knowledge and experience that is needed to deal with the difficulties and dangers of life in a big city:\nKids seem much more streetwise these days.


Words: strength
Meaning:
noun\n  being physically strong\n  1  [U, sing.] ~ to do sth the quality of being physically strong:\nHe pushed against the rock with all his strength. * It may take a few weeks for you to build up your strength again. * She didn’t have the strength to walk any further. * He had a physical strength that matched his outward appearance.\n  2  [U] the ability that sth has to resist force or hold heavy weights without breaking or being damaged:\nthe strength of a rope / box\n  being brave\n  3  [U, sing.] the quality of being brave and determined in a difficult situation:\nDuring this ordeal he was able to draw strength from his faith. * She has a remarkable inner strength. * You have shown great strength of character.\n  power / influence\n  4  [U] the power and influence that sb/sth has:\nPolitical power depends upon economic strength. * Their superior military strength gives them a huge advantage. * to negotiate from a position of strength * The rally was intended to be a show of strength by the socialists.\n  of opinion / feeling\n  5  [U] how strong or deeply felt an opinion or a feeling is:\nthe strength of public opinion * This view has recently gathered strength (= become stronger or more widely held). * I was surprised by the strength of her feelings.\n  advantage\n  6  [C] a quality or an ability that a person or thing has that gives them an advantage:\nThe ability to keep calm is one of her many strengths. * the strengths and weaknesses of an argument * The new weapon’s strength lies in its accuracy.\n  of natural force\n  7  [U] how strong a natural force is:\nthe strength of the sun * wind strength * the strength and direction of the tide\n  of flavour\n  8  [U, C] how strong a particular flavour or substance is:\nAdd more curry powder depending on the strength required. * a range of beers with different strengths (= with different amounts of alcohol in them) * a packet of double-strength mints\n  of currency\n  9  [U] how strong a country’s CURRENCY (= unit of money) is in relation to other countries’ CURRENCIES:\nthe strength of the dollar\n  number in group\n  10  [U] the number of people in a group, a team or an organization:\nThe strength of the workforce is about to be doubled from 3 000 to 6 000. * The team will be back at full strength (= with all the best players) for the next match. * The protesters turned out in strength (= in large numbers). * These cuts have left the local police force under strength (= with fewer members than it needs).\n IDIOMS \n  go from strength to strength to become more and more successful:\nSince her appointment the department has gone from strength to strength.\n  on the strength of sth because sb has been influenced or persuaded by sth:\nI got the job on the strength of your recommendation. * She hopes to secure a recording contract on the strength of these songs.\nmore at TOWER n.\n______________________________\n WHICH WORD? \nstrength / force / power\nYou use strength to talk about how strong a person or a thing is, especially their ability to hold great weight: He has been doing weight-training to build up his strength. * I don’t have the strength to carry you any further.\nYou do not usually use power to talk about a person’s ability to move or hold heavy objects, though it can be used to refer to the strength in one part of a person’s body: She has great power in her shoulders. Power in a physical sense is more likely to relate to the energy contained in a machine, an explosion or something natural such as the wind: The power of the wind can be harnessed to produce electricity.\nForce relates to how much physical energy is used by somebody or something, especially when they hit or push something: He fell to the ground under the force of the blow. * Our car was completely wrecked by the force of the collision. * The waves were hitting the rocks with tremendous force. The force of an explosion or a storm is how strong it is.\n______________________________


Words: strengthen
Meaning:
verb\nto become stronger; to make sb/sth stronger:\n[V] Her position in the party has strengthened in recent weeks. * Yesterday the pound strengthened against the dollar. * The wind had strengthened overnight. * The fall in unemployment is a sign of a strengthening economy. * [VN] Repairs are necessary to strengthen the bridge. * The exercises are designed to strengthen your stomach muscles. * The move is clearly intended to strengthen the President’s position as head of state. * The new manager has strengthened the side by bringing in several younger players. * Their attitude only strengthened his resolve to fight on. * The new evidence will strengthen their case. * The experience of bereavement can strengthen family ties.\nOPP WEAKEN


Words: strenuous
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  needing great effort and energy:\na strenuous climb / walk * Avoid strenuous exercise immediately after a meal. * How about a stroll in the park? Nothing too strenuous.\n  2  showing great energy and determination:\nThe ship went down although strenuous efforts were made to save it. * The plan has met with strenuous opposition.\n    strenuously adverb:\nHe still works out strenuously every morning. * The government strenuously denies the allegations.


Words: streptococcus
Meaning:
noun\n(plural streptococci ) (medical) a type of bacteria, some types of which can cause serious infections and illnesses


Words: stress
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  mental pressure\n  1  [U, C] pressure or worry caused by the problems in sb’s life:\nThings can easily go wrong when people are under stress. * to suffer from stress * coping with stress * She failed to withstand the stresses and strains of public life. * stress-related illnesses * emotional / mental stress * Stress is often a factor in the development of long-term sickness. * stress management (= dealing with stress)\n  physical pressure\n  2  [U, C] ~ (on sth) pressure put on sth that can damage it or make it lose its shape:\nWhen you have an injury you start putting stress on other parts of your body. * a stress fracture of the foot (= one caused by such pressure)\n  emphasis\n  3  [U] ~ (on sth) special importance given to sth:\nShe lays great stress on punctuality. * I think the company places too much stress on cost and not enough on quality.\n  on word / syllable\n  4  [U, C] (phonetics) an extra force used when pronouncing a particular word or syllable:\nWe worked on pronunciation, stress and intonation. * primary / secondary stress * In ’strategic’ the stress falls on the second syllable\ncompare INTONATION\n  in music\n  5  [U, C] extra force used when making a particular sound in music\n  illness\n  6  [U] illness caused by difficult physical conditions:\nThose most vulnerable to heat stress are the elderly.\n    verb\n  emphasize\n  1  to emphasize a fact, an idea, etc:\n[VN] He stressed the importance of a good education. * [V that] I must stress that everything I’ve told you is strictly confidential. * [V speech] ’There is,’ Johnson stressed, ’no real alternative.’ * [VN that] It must be stressed that this disease is very rare. [also V wh-]\n  word / syllable\n  2  [VN] to give extra force to a word or syllable when saying it:\nYou stress the first syllable in ’happiness’.


Words: stress mark
Meaning:
noun\na mark used to show where the stress is placed on a particular word or syllable\nsee also PRIMARY STRESS, SECONDARY STRESS


Words: stressed
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  (also informal stressed out) [not before noun] too anxious and tired to be able to relax:\nHe was feeling very stressed and tired.\n  2  (of a syllable) pronounced with emphasis\nOPP UNSTRESSED\n  3  [only before noun] (technical) that has had a lot of physical pressure put on it:\nstressed metal


Words: stressful
Meaning:
adjective\ncausing a lot of anxiety and worry:\na stressful job / situation / lifestyle * It was a very stressful time for all of us.


Words: stretch
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb\n  make bigger / looser\n \n  1  to make sth longer, wider or looser, for example, by pulling it; to become longer, etc. in this way:\n[VN] Is there any way of stretching shoes? * [V] This sweater has stretched.\n \n  2  [V] (of fabric) to become bigger or longer when you pull it and return to its original shape when you stop:\nThe jeans stretch to provide a perfect fit.\n \n  pull tight\n \n  3  to pull sth so that it is smooth and tight:\n[VN] Stretch the fabric tightly over the frame. * [VN-ADJ] Make sure that the rope is stretched tight.\n  your body\n  4  to put your arms or legs out straight and tighten your muscles:\n[V] He stretched and yawned lazily. * [VN] The exercises are designed to stretch and tone your leg muscles.\n  reach with arm\n  5  [+adv./prep.] to put out an arm or a leg in order to reach sth:\n[V] She stretched across the table for the butter. * [VN] I stretched out a hand and picked up the book.\n  over area\n  6  [V +adv./prep.] to spread over an area of land:\nFields and hills stretched out as far as we could see. * Beyond the mountains stretches a vast desert.\n  over time\n  7  [V +adv./prep.] to continue over a period of time:\nThe town’s history stretches back to before 1500. * The training stretches over a period of 16 months. * Endless summer days stretched out before us. * The talks look set to stretch into a second week.\n  money / supplies\n  8  [V] ~ (to sth) (used in negative sentences and questions about an amount of money) to be enough to buy or pay for sth:\nI need a new car, but my savings won’t stretch to it. * There are lots of things I’d like to buy, but our budget just won’t stretch that far.\n  9  [VN] to make use of all your money, supplies, etc:\nThe influx of refugees has stretched the country’s resources to the limit.\n  sb’s skill / intelligence\n  10  [VN] to make use of all sb’s skill, intelligence, etc:\nI need a job that will stretch me. * She was never really stretched at school. * We can’t take on any more work-we’re fully stretched as it is. * The book really stretches your imagination.\n  truth / belief\n  11  [VN] to use sth in a way that would not normally be considered fair, acceptable, etc:\nHe admitted that he had maybe stretched the truth (= not been completely honest) a little. * The play’s plot stretches credulity to the limit.\n IDIOMS \n  stretch your legs (informal) to go for a short walk after sitting for some time:\nIt was good to get out of the car and stretch our legs.\n  stretch a point to allow or do sth that is not usually acceptable, especially because of a particular situation:\nI was hoping they would stretch a point and let me stay on for a while.\nmore at RULE n.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  stretch out | stretch yourself out to lie down, usually in order to relax or sleep:\nHe stretched himself out on the sofa and fell asleep.\n    noun\n  area of land / water\n  1  [C] ~ (of sth) an area of land or water, especially a long one:\nan unspoilt stretch of coastline * a particularly dangerous stretch of road * You rarely see boats on this stretch of the river.\n  period of time\n  2  [C] a continuous period of time\nSYN SPELL:\nThey worked in four-hour stretches. * She used to read for hours at a stretch (= without stopping).\n  3  [C, usually sing.] (informal) a period of time that sb spends in prison:\nHe did a ten-year stretch for fraud.\n  of body\n  4  [C, U] an act of stretching out your limbs or your body and tightening the muscles; the state of being stretched:\nWe got out of the car and had a good stretch. * Only do these more difficult stretches when you are warmed up. * Stay in this position and feel the stretch in your legs.\n  of fabric\n  5  [U] the ability to be made longer or wider without breaking or tearing:\nYou need a material with plenty of stretch in it. * stretch jeans\n  on race track\n  6  [C, usually sing.] a straight part at the end of a racing track\nSYN STRAIGHT:\nthe finishing / home stretch * (figurative) The campaign has entered its final stretch.\n IDIOMS \n  at full stretch using as much energy as possible, or the greatest possible amount of supplies:\nFire crews have been operating at full stretch.\n  not by any stretch of the imagination | by no stretch of the imagination used to say strongly that sth is not true, even if you try to imagine or believe it:\nShe could not, by any stretch of the imagination, be called beautiful. * By no stretch of the imagination could the trip be described as relaxing.


Words: stretch limo
Meaning:
noun\n(plural stretch limos) (also formal stretch limousine) a very large car that has been made longer so that it can have extra seats


Words: stretch marks
Meaning:
noun\n[pl.] the marks that are left on a person’s skin after it has been stretched, particularly after a woman has been pregnant


Words: stretcher
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun a long piece of strong fabric with a pole on each side, used for carrying sb who is sick or injured and who cannot walk:\nHe was carried off on a stretcher. * stretcher cases (= people too badly injured to be able to walk)\n    verb [VN +adv./prep.] [usually passive] to carry sb somewhere on a stretcher:\nHe was stretchered off the pitch with a broken leg. * She was stretchered into the waiting ambulance.


Words: stretcher-bearer
Meaning:
noun\na person who helps to carry a stretcher, especially in a war or when there is a very serious accident


Words: stretchy
Meaning:
adjective\nthat can easily be made longer or wider without tearing or breaking:\nstretchy fabric * a stretchy skirt


Words: strew
Meaning:
1  [VN] [usually passive] ~ A on, over, across, etc. B | ~ B with A to cover a surface with things:\nClothes were strewn across the floor. * The floor was strewn with clothes. * The streets were strewn with corpses. * (figurative) The way ahead is strewn with difficulties.\n  2  [VN] to be spread or lying over a surface:\nLeaves strewed the path.


Words: stricken
Meaning:
adjective (formal)\n  1  ~ (with sb/sth) seriously affected by an unpleasant feeling or disease or by a difficult situation:\nShe raised her stricken face and begged for help. * Whole villages were stricken with the disease. * We went to the aid of the stricken boat.\n  2  (in compounds) seriously affected by the thing mentioned:\npoverty-stricken families\nsee also PANIC-STRICKEN, GRIEF-STRICKEN, HORROR-STRICKEN, STRIKE v.


Words: strict
Meaning:
adjective (stricter, strictest)\n  1  that must be obeyed exactly:\nstrict rules / regulations / discipline * She left strict instructions that she was not to be disturbed. * There are strict guidelines on how the work is to be carried out. * He told me in the strictest confidence (= on the understanding that I would tell nobody else). * She’s on a very strict diet.\n  2  demanding that rules, especially rules about behaviour, should be obeyed:\na strict teacher / parent / disciplinarian * She’s very strict about things like homework. * They were always very strict with their children.\n  3  obeying the rules of a particular religion, belief, etc. exactly:\na strict Muslim / Catholic / vegetarian\n  4  [usually before noun] very exact and clearly defined:\nIt wasn’t illegal in the strict sense (of the word).\n    strictness noun [U]


Words: strictly
Meaning:
adverb\n  1  with a lot of control and rules that must be obeyed:\nShe was brought up very strictly. * The industry is strictly regulated.\n  2  used to emphasize that sth happens or must happen in all circumstances\nSYN ABSOLUTELY:\nSmoking is strictly forbidden. * My letter is, of course, strictly private and confidential.\n  3  in all details; exactly:\nThis is not strictly true.\n  4  used to emphasize that sth only applies to one particular person, thing or situation\nSYN PURELY:\nWe’ll look at the problem from a strictly legal point of view. * I know we’re friends, but this is strictly business. * Their relationship is strictly platonic.\n IDIOMS \n  strictly speaking if you are using words or rules in their exact or correct sense:\nStrictly speaking, the book is not a novel, but a short story. * Using the word in that context is not, strictly speaking, correct.


Words: stricture
Meaning:
noun (formal)\n  1  [usually pl.] ~ (on sb/sth) a severe criticism, especially of sb’s behaviour:\nShe merely ignored any strictures on the way she dressed.\n  2  ~ (against / on sth) a rule or situation that restricts your behaviour\nSYN RESTRICTION:\nsocial / economic strictures * strictures against civil servants expressing political opinions


Words: stride
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb (past tense strode prep.] to walk with long steps in a particular direction:\nWe strode across the snowy fields. * She came striding along to meet me.\n    noun\n  1  one long step; the distance covered by a step:\nHe crossed the room in two strides. * I was gaining on the other runners with every stride.\n  2  your way of walking or running:\nhis familiar purposeful stride * She did not slow her stride until she was face to face with us.\n  3  an improvement in the way sth is developing:\nWe’re making great strides in the search for a cure.\n IDIOMS \n  get into your stride (BrE) (AmE hit (your) stride) to begin to do sth with confidence and at a good speed after a slow, uncertain start:\nAfter a nervous start, he finally got into his stride in the second set.\n  put sb off their stride to make sb take their attention off what they are doing and stop doing it so well:\nThe shouting from the back of the hall completely put me off my stride.\n  (match sb) stride for stride to keep doing sth as well as sb else, even though they keep making it harder for you:\nWe’ve managed to match our closest competitors stride for stride as regards prices.\n  take sth in your stride (BrE) (AmE take sth in stride) to accept and deal with sth difficult without letting it worry you too much:\nIt’s going to be tough-but I’m sure you’ll take it all in your stride.\n  without breaking stride (especially AmE) without stopping what you are doing


Words: strident
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  having a loud harsh and unpleasant sound:\na strident voice / tone * strident music * the strident ringing of the phone\n  2  aggressive and determined:\nHe is a strident advocate of nuclear power. * The plan has provided strident criticism from local residents.\n    stridency  noun [U]\n    stridently adverb


Words: strife
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (formal or literary) angry or violent disagreement between two people or groups of people\nSYN CONFLICT:\ncivil / industrial / political strife * The country was torn apart by strife.


Words: strike
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb (struck, struck )\n  hit sb / sth\n  1  [VN] (formal) to hit sb/sth hard or with force:\nThe ship struck a rock. * The child ran into the road and was struck by a car. * The tree was struck by lightning. * He fell, striking his head on the edge of the table. * The stone struck her on the forehead.\n  2  (formal) to hit sb/sth with your hand or a weapon:\n[VN] She struck him in the face. * He struck the table with his fist. * Who struck the first blow (= started the fight)? [also VNN]\n  kick / hit ball\n  3  [VN] (formal) to hit or kick a ball, etc:\nHe walked up to the penalty spot and struck the ball firmly into the back of the net.\n  attack\n  4  [V] to attack sb/sth, especially suddenly:\nThe lion crouched ready to strike. * Police fear that the killer may strike again.\n  of disaster / disease\n  5  (written) to happen suddenly and have a harmful or damaging effect on sb/sth:\n[V] Two days later tragedy struck. * [VN] The area was struck by an outbreak of cholera.\n  thought / idea / impression\n  6  (not used in the progressive tenses) (of a thought or an idea) to come into sb’s mind suddenly:\n[VN] An awful thought has just struck me. * I was struck by her resemblance to my aunt. * [VN wh-] It suddenly struck me how we could improve the situation.\n  7  ~ sb (as sth) to give sb a particular impression:\n[VN] His reaction struck me as odd. * How does the idea strike you? * She strikes me as a very efficient person. * [VN (that)] It strikes me that nobody is really in favour of the changes.\n  of light\n  8  [VN] to fall on a surface:\nThe windows sparkled as the sun struck the glass.\n  dumb / deaf / blind\n  9  [VN-ADJ] [usually passive] to put sb suddenly into a particular state:\nto be struck dumb / deaf / blind\n  of workers\n  10  [V] to refuse to work as a protest:\nThe union has voted to strike for a pay increase of 6%. * Striking workers picketed the factory.\n  match\n  11  to rub sth such as a match against a surface so that it produces a flame; to produce a flame when rubbed against a rough surface:\n[VN] to strike a match on a wall * The sword struck sparks off the stone floor. * [V] The matches were damp and he couldn’t make them strike.\n  of clock\n  12  to show the time by making a ringing noise, etc:\n[V] Did you hear the clock strike? * Four o’clock had just struck. * [VN] The clock has just struck three.\n  make sound\n  13  [VN] to produce a musical note, sound, etc. by pressing a key or hitting sth:\nto strike a chord on the piano\n  gold / oil, etc.\n  14  [VN] to discover gold, oil, etc. by digging or DRILLING:\nThey had struck oil!\n  go with purpose\n  15  [V +adv./prep.] ~ (off / out) to go somewhere with great energy or purpose:\nWe left the road and struck off across the fields.\n IDIOMS \n  be struck by / on / with sb/sth (informal) to be impressed or interested by sb/sth; to like sb/sth very much:\nI was struck by her youth and enthusiasm. * We’re not very struck on that new restaurant.\n  strike a balance (between A and B) to manage to find a way of being fair to two opposing things; to find a COMPROMISE between two things\n  strike a bargain / deal to make an agreement with sb in which both sides have an advantage\n  strike a blow for / against / at sth to do sth in support of/against a belief, principle, etc:\nHe felt that they had struck a blow for democracy.\n  strike fear, etc. into sb/sb’s heart (formal) to make sb be afraid, etc.\n  strike gold to find or do sth that brings you a lot of success or money:\nHe has struck gold with his latest novel.\n  strike it rich (informal) to get a lot of money, especially suddenly or unexpectedly\n  strike (it) lucky (informal) to have good luck:\nWe certainly struck it lucky with the weather.\n  strike a pose / an attitude to hold your body in a particular way to create a particular impression:\nto strike a dramatic / heroic pose\n  strike while the iron is hot (saying) to make use of an opportunity immediately\n  within striking distance (of sth) near enough to be reached or attacked easily; near enough to reach or attack sth easily:\nThe beach is within striking distance. * The cat was now within striking distance of the duck.\nmore at CHORD, HARD adj., HOME adv., LIGHTNING n., NOTE n., PAY DIRT\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  strike at sb/sth\n1 to try to hit sb/sth, especially with a weapon:\nHe struck at me repeatedly with a stick.\n2 to cause damage or have a serious effect on sb/sth:\nto strike at the root of the problem * criticisms that strike at the heart of the party’s policies\n  strike back (at / against sb) to try to harm sb in return for an attack or injury you have received\n  strike sb down [usually passive]\n1 (of a disease, etc.) to make sb unable to lead an active life; to make sb seriously ill; to kill sb:\nHe was struck down by cancer at the age of thirty.\n2 to hit sb very hard, so that they fall to the ground\n  strike sth<->off to remove sth with a sharp blow; to cut sth off:\nHe struck off the rotten branches with an axe.\n  strike sb/sth off (sth) to remove sb/sth’s name from sth, such as the list of members of a professional group:\nStrike her name off the list. * The doctor was struck off (= not allowed to continue to work as a doctor) for incompetence.\n  strike out\n1 to start being independent:\nI knew it was time I struck out on my own.\n2 (AmE, informal) to fail or be unsuccessful:\nThe movie struck out and didn’t win a single Oscar.\n  strike out (at sb/sth)\n1 to aim a sudden violent blow at sb/sth:\nHe lost his temper and struck out wildly.\n2 to criticize sb/sth, especially in a public speech or in a book or newspaper:\nIn a recent article she strikes out at her critics.\n  strike sth<->out / through to remove sth by drawing a line through it\nSYN CROSS OUT:\nThe editor struck out the whole paragraph.\n  strike out (for / towards sth) to move in a determined way (towards sth):\nHe struck out (= started swimming) towards the shore.\n  strike up (with sth) | strike up sth (of a band, an orchestra, etc.) to begin to play a piece of music:\nThe orchestra struck up and the curtain rose. * The band struck up a waltz.\n  strike up sth (with sb) to begin a friendship, a relationship, a conversation, etc:\nHe would often strike up conversations with complete strangers.\n    noun\n  of workers\n  1  a period of time when an organized group of employees of a company stops working because of a disagreement over pay or conditions:\nthe train drivers’ strike * a strike by teachers * a general / unofficial / one-day strike * Air traffic controllers are threatening to come out on / go on strike. * Half the workforce are now (out) on strike. * The train drivers have voted to take strike action. * The student union has called for a rent strike (= a refusal to pay rent as a protest).\nsee also HUNGER STRIKE\n  attack\n  2  a military attack, especially by aircraft dropping bombs:\nan air strike * a lightning strike (= a very quick, sudden attack) * They decided to launch a pre-emptive strike.\n  hitting / kicking\n  3  [usually sing.] an act of hitting or kicking sth/sb:\nHis spectacular strike in the second half made the score 20.\n  in baseball\n  4  an unsuccessful attempt to hit the ball\n  in bowling\n  5  a situation in TENPIN BOWLING when a player knocks down all the PINS with the first ball\n  discovery of oil\n  6  [usually sing.] a sudden discovery of sth valuable, especially oil


Words: strike rate
Meaning:
noun\n[usually sing.] (sport) the number of times a player is successful in relation to the number of times they try to score or win


Words: strike-bound
Meaning:
adjective\nunable to operate because employees have stopped working as a protest:\na strike-bound airport


Words: strike-breaker
Meaning:
noun\na person who continues to work while other employees are on strike; a person who is employed to replace people who are on strike\ncompare BLACKLEG\n    strike-breaking noun [U]


Words: strikeout
Meaning:
noun\n(in baseball) a situation in which the player who is supposed to be hitting the ball is out and has to stop because he or she has tried to hit the ball three times and failed


Words: striker
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a worker who has stopped working because of a disagreement over pay or conditions\n  2  (in football) a player whose main job is to attack and try to score goals


Words: striking
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  interesting and unusual enough to attract attention\nSYN MARKED:\na striking feature / example * She bears a striking resemblance to her older sister. * In striking contrast to their brothers, the girls were both intelligent and charming.\n  2  very attractive, often in an unusual way\nSYN STUNNING:\nstriking good looks * She was undoubtedly a very striking young woman.\n    strikingly adverb:\nThe two polls produced strikingly different results. * She is strikingly beautiful.


Words: Strimmer
Meaning:
noun\n(BrE) an electric garden tool held in the hands and used for cutting grass that is difficult to cut with a larger machine


Words: string
Meaning:
noun, verb, adjective \n    noun\n  for tying / fastening\n \n  1  [U, C] material made of several threads twisted together, used for tying things together; a piece of string used to fasten or pull sth or keep sth in place:\na piece / length of string * He wrapped the package in brown paper and tied it with string. * The key is hanging on a string by the door.\nsee also DRAWSTRING, THE PURSE STRINGS\n \n  things joined\n \n  2  [C] a set or series of things that are joined together, for example on a string:\na string of pearls * The molecules join together to form long strings.\n \n  series\n  3  [C] a series of things or people that come closely one after another:\na string of hits / successes * He owns a string of racing stables.\n  computing\n  4  [C] a series of CHARACTERS (= letters, numbers, etc.)\n  musical instruments\n  5  [C] a tightly stretched piece of wire, NYLON, or CATGUT on a musical instrument, that produces a musical note when the instrument is played\n  6  (the strings) [pl.] the group of musical instruments in an orchestra that have strings, for example violins; the people who play them:\nThe opening theme is taken up by the strings.\ncompare BRASS, PERCUSSION, WOODWIND\n  on tennis racket\n  7  [C] any of the tightly stretched pieces of NYLON, etc. in a RACKET, used for hitting balls in tennis and some other games\nsee also G-STRING\n IDIOMS \n  have another string / more strings to your bow (BrE) to have more than one skill or plan that you can used if you need to:\nThe exhibition shows that he has other strings to his artistic bow.\n  (with) no strings (attached) with no special conditions or restrictions:\nIt’s a business proposition, pure and simple. No strings attached.\nmore at APRON, LONG adj., PULL v.\n    verb (strung, strung ) [VN]\n  hang decoration\n  1  [+adv./prep.] ~ A on, along, in, etc. B | ~ B with A to hang or tie sth in place, especially as decoration:\nWe strung paper lanterns up in the trees. * Flags were strung out along the route. * The route was strung with flags.\n  join things\n  2  [+adv./prep.] to put a series of small objects on string, etc.; to join things together with string, etc:\nShe had strung the shells on a silver chain. * (figurative) carbon atoms strung together to form giant molecules\n  racket / musical instrument\n  3  to put a string or strings on a RACKET or musical instrument\nsee also HIGHLY STRUNG\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  string sb along (informal) to allow sb to believe sth that is not true, for example that you love them, intend to help them, etc:\nShe has no intention of giving you a divorce; she’s just stringing you along.\n  string along (with sb) (BrE, informal) to go somewhere with sb, especially because you have nothing else to do:\nDo you mind if I string along with you?\n  string sth<->out to make sth last longer than expected or necessary:\nThey seem determined to string the talks out for an indefinite period.\nsee also STRUNG OUT\n  string sth<->together to combine words or phrases to form sentences:\nI can barely string two words together in Japanese. * He managed to string together a few words of thanks.\n  string sb<->up (informal) to kill sb by hanging them, especially illegally:\nIf I ever find out who did this, I’ll string them up.\n    adjective [only before noun]\n  musical instrument\n  1  consisting of musical instruments that have strings; connected with these musical instruments:\na string quartet * a string player\n  made of string\n  2  made of string or sth like string:\na string bag / vest


Words: stringent
Meaning:
adjective (formal)\n  1  (of a law, rule, regulation, etc.) very strict and that must be obeyed:\nstringent air quality regulations * Licences are only granted under the most stringent conditions.\n  2  (of financial conditions) difficult and very strictly controlled because there is not much money:\nthe government’s stringent economic policies\n    stringency  noun [U]:\na period of financial stringency\n    stringently adverb:\nThe rules are stringently enforced.


Words: stringer
Meaning:
noun\na journalist who is not on the regular staff of a newspaper, but who often supplies stories for it


Words: stringy
Meaning:
adjective (disapproving)\n  1  (of hair) long and thin and looking as if it has not been washed\n  2  (of food) containing long thin pieces like string and difficult to chew:\ntough, stringy meat\n  3  (of a person or part of their body) thin so that you can see the muscles:\na stringy neck


Words: strip
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb (-pp-)\n  take off clothes\n  1  ~ sth (off) | ~ (down to sth) | ~ sb (to sth) to take off all or most of your clothes:\n[V] I stripped and washed myself all over. * They ordered us to strip and lie down on the grass. * We stripped off and ran down to the water. * She stripped down to her underwear. * [VN] She stripped off her clothes and got into bed. * He stood there stripped to the waist (= the upper part of his body was bare). * [VN-ADJ] He was stripped naked and left in a cell.\n  remove layer\n  2  [VN] ~ sth (off) | ~ A (off / from B) / ~ B (of A) to remove a layer from sth, especially so that it is completely bare:\nStrip off all the existing paint. * Deer had stripped the tree of its bark. * Deer had stripped all the bark off the tree. * After the guests had gone, I stripped all the beds (= removed all the sheets in order to wash them).\n  remove everything\n  3  ~ sth (out) to remove all the things from a place and leave it empty:\n[VN] We had to strip out all the old wiring and start again. * [VN-ADJ] Thieves had stripped the house bare.\n  machine\n  4  [VN] ~ sth (down) to separate a machine, etc. into parts so that they can be cleaned or repaired\nSYN DISMANTLE:\nHe strips and cleans his rifle every morning. * They taught us how to strip down a car engine and put it back together again.\n  punishment\n  5  [VN] ~ sb of sth to take away property or honours from sb, as a punishment:\nHe was disgraced and stripped of his title.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  strip sth<->away\n1 to remove a layer from sth:\nFirst, you need to strip away all the old plaster.\n2 to remove anything that is not true or necessary:\nThe movie aims to strip away the lies surrounding Kennedy’s life and death.\n    noun\n  long, narrow piece\n  1  a long narrow piece of paper, metal, fabric, etc:\na strip of material * Cut the meat into strips.\nsee also RUMBLE STRIP\n  2  a long narrow area of land, sea, etc:\nthe Gaza Strip * a tiny strip of garden * The islands are separated by a narrow strip of water.\nsee also AIRSTRIP, LANDING STRIP\n  of sports team\n  3  [usually sing.] (BrE) the uniform that is worn by the member of a sports team when they are playing:\nJuventus in their famous black and white strip * the team’s away strip (= that they use when playing games away from home)\n  taking clothes off\n  4  [usually sing.] an act of taking your clothes off, especially in a sexually exciting way and in front of an audience:\nto do a strip * a strip show\nsee also STRIPTEASE\n  street\n  5  (AmE) a street that has many shops, stores, restaurants, etc. along it:\nSunset Strip\n  picture story\n  6  (AmE) = COMIC STRIP\n IDIOMS  see TEAR v.


Words: strip club
Meaning:
(also strip joint especially in AmE) noun\na club where people go to watch performers take their clothes off in a sexually exciting way


Words: strip light
Meaning:
noun\na light consisting of a long glass tube that is used especially in offices, kitchens, etc.\n    strip lighting noun [U]


Words: strip mining
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (AmE) a type of mining in which coal is taken out of the ground near the surface\nsee also OPENCAST


Words: strip search
Meaning:
noun\nan act of searching a person for illegal drugs, weapons, etc., for example at an airport or in a prison, after they have been made to take off all their clothes\n    strip-search verb [VN]


Words: stripe
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  a long narrow line of colour, that is a different colour from the areas next to it:\na zebra’s black and white stripes * a white tablecloth with red stripes\nsee also PINSTRIPE, THE STARS AND STRIPES\n \n  2  a narrow piece of fabric, often in the shape of a V, that is worn on the uniform of a soldier or police officer to show their rank:\na uniform with a sergeant’s stripes on the sleeve


Words: striped
Meaning:
(also BrE informal stripy) adjective\nmarked with a pattern of stripes:\na striped shirt * a blue and white striped jacket


Words: stripling
Meaning:
noun\n(old-fashioned or humorous) a young man who is older than a boy but who does not seem to be a real man yet


Words: stripper
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [C] a performer who takes his or her clothes off in a sexually exciting way in front of an audience:\na male stripper\n  2  [U, C] (especially in compounds) a substance or tool that is used for removing paint, etc. from sth:\nThe vandals threw paint stripper on the car.


Words: striptease
Meaning:
noun\n[C, U] a form of entertainment, for example in a bar or club, when a performer removes his or her clothes in a sexually exciting way, usually to music, in front of an audience


Words: strive
Meaning:
verb\n(strove  against sth) (formal) to try very hard to achieve sth or to defeat sth:\n[V] We encourage all members to strive for the highest standards. * striving against corruption * [V to inf] Newspaper editors all strive to be first with a story. * She strove to find a solution that was acceptable to all.\n    striving noun [U, sing.]:\nour striving for perfection


Words: stroke
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  hitting movement\n  1  an act of hitting a ball, for example with a bat or RACKET:\nWhat a beautiful stroke! * He won by two strokes (= in golf, by taking two fewer strokes than his opponent).\n  2  a single movement of the arm when hitting sb/sth:\nHis punishment was six strokes of the cane.\n  in swimming / rowing\n  3  any of a series of repeated movements in swimming or rowing:\nShe took a few more strokes to reach the bank. * He swam with long powerful strokes.\n  4  (often in compounds) a style of swimming:\nButterfly is the only stroke I can’t do.\nsee also BACKSTROKE, BREASTSTROKE\n  5  the person who sets the speed at which everyone in a boat rows\n  gentle touch\n  6  [usually sing.] (especially BrE) an act of moving your hand gently over a surface, usually several times:\nHe gave the cat a stroke.\n  of pen / brush\n  7  a mark made by moving a pen, brush, etc. once across a surface:\nto paint with fine brush strokes * At the stroke of a pen (= by signing sth) they removed thousands of people from the welfare system.\n  action\n  8  ~ (of sth) a single successful action or event:\nYour idea was a stroke of genius. * It was a stroke of luck that I found you here. * It was a bold stroke to reveal the identity of the murderer on the first page. * She never does a stroke (of work) (= never does any work).\nsee also MASTER STROKE\n  of clock\n  9  each of the sounds made by a clock or bell giving the hours:\nAt the first stroke it will be 9 o’clock exactly. * on the stroke of three (= at 3 o’clock exactly)\n  illness\n  10  a sudden serious illness when a blood VESSEL (= tube) in the brain bursts or is blocked, which can cause death or the loss of the ability to move or to speak clearly:\nto have / suffer a stroke * The stroke left him partly paralysed.\n IDIOMS \n  at a (single) stroke | at one stroke with a single immediate action:\nThey threatened to cancel the whole project at a stroke.\n  put sb off their stroke (BrE) to make sb make a mistake or hesitate in what they are doing:\nMy speech was going well until I was put off my stroke by an interruption.\n    verb [VN]\n  touch gently\n  1  (especially BrE) to move your hand gently and slowly over an animal’s fur or hair:\nHe’s a beautiful dog. Can I stroke him?\nsee also PET\n  2  to move your hand gently over a surface, sb’s hair, etc:\nHe stroked her hair affectionately.\n  move sth gently\n  3  [+adv./prep.] to move sth somewhere with a gentle movement:\nShe stroked away his tears. * He stroked the ball between the posts.\n  be nice to sb\n  4  (informal, especially AmE) to be very nice to sb, especially to get them to do what you want


Words: stroll
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb [V]   [usually +adv./prep.] to walk somewhere in a slow relaxed way:\nPeople were strolling along the beach.\n    noun a slow relaxed walk:\nWe went for a stroll in the park. * The beach is a leisurely ten-minute stroll away.


Words: stroller
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  a person who is enjoying a slow relaxed walk:\nThe street was crowded with evening strollers.\n \n  2  (AmE) = BUGGY, PUSHCHAIR


Words: strong
Meaning:
having physical power\n  1  (of people, animals, etc.) having a lot of physical power so that you can lift heavy weights, do hard physical work, etc:\nstrong muscles / arms * She wasn’t a strong swimmer (= she could not swim well). * He’s strong enough to lift a car!\n  2  (of a natural or physical force) having great power:\nStay indoors in the middle of the day, when the sun is strongest. * a strong wind / current * a strong magnet\n  3  having a powerful effect on the body or mind:\na strong drug\n  having power over people\n  4  having a lot of power or influence:\na strong leader / government\n  5  (the strong) [pl.] people who are rich or powerful\n  hard to resist / defeat / attack\n  6  very powerful and difficult for people to fight against or defeat:\na strong army / team * (figurative) The temptation to tell her everything was very strong.\n  7  (of an argument, evidence, etc.) difficult to attack or criticize:\nThere is strong evidence of a link between exercise and a healthy heart. * You have a strong case for getting your job back.\n  opinion / belief / feeling\n  8  [only before noun] (of a person) holding an opinion or a belief very firmly and seriously:\na strong supporter / opponent of the government\n  9  (of an opinion, a belief or a feeling) very powerful:\nstrong support for / opposition to the government * People have strong feelings about this issue.\n  not easily broken\n  10  (of objects) not easily broken or damaged; made well:\na strong stick / rope / chair\n  not easily upset\n  11  not easily upset or frightened; not easily influenced by other people:\nYou need strong nerves to ride a bike in London. * It’s difficult, I know. But be strong! * a strong character / personality * She’s had a strong will since she was a baby.\nsee also HEADSTRONG, STRONG-MINDED, STRONG-WILLED\n  likely to succeed\n  12  likely to succeed or happen:\na strong candidate for the job * You’re in a strong position to negotiate a deal. * There’s a strong possibility that we’ll lose the game.\n  good at sth\n  13  good at sth:\nThe play has a very strong cast. * Mathematics was never my strong point (= I was never very good at it).\n  number\n  14  great in number:\nThere was a strong police presence at the demonstration.\n  15  used after numbers to show the size of a group:\na 5 000-strong crowd * The crowd was 5 000 strong.\n  healthy\n  16  (of a person) not easily affected by disease; healthy:\nAre you feeling stronger now after your rest?\n  firmly established\n  17  firmly established; difficult to destroy:\na strong marriage * The college has strong links with local industry.\n  business\n  18  (of prices, an economy, etc.) having a value that is high or increasing:\nstrong share prices * The euro is getting stronger against the dollar.\n  19  (of a business or an industry) in a safe financial position:\nTheir catering business remained strong despite the recession.\n  easy to see / hear / feel / smell\n  20  easy to see, hear, feel or smell; very great or INTENSE:\na strong smell * a strong feeling of nausea * a strong voice (= loud) * strong colours * a face with strong features (= large and noticeable) * She spoke with a strong Australian accent. * He was under strong pressure to resign.\n  food\n  21  having a lot of flavour:\nstrong cheese / mustard\n  drinks\n  22  containing a lot of a substance:\nstrong black coffee\n  words\n  23  (of words or language) very forceful, often causing offence to people:\nThe movie has been edited for strong language (= swearing).\n  grammar\n  24  [usually before noun] (of a verb) forming the past tense by changing a vowel, not by adding a regular ending, for example sing, sang\n  phonetics\n  25  [usually before noun] used to describe the way some words are pronounced when they have stress. For example, the strong form of and is .\nsee also STRENGTH\nOPP WEAK\n    strongly adverb:\na strongly-built boat * a light shining strongly * a strongly-worded protest * He was strongly opposed to the idea. * This is an issue I feel strongly about (= I have firm opinions about). * The room smelt strongly of polish.\n IDIOMS \n  be a bit strong (BrE, informal) used to say that you think what sb has said is unfair or too critical\n  be strong on sth\n1 to be good at sth:\nI’m not very strong on dates (= I can’t remember the dates of important events).\n2 to have a lot of sth:\nThe report was strong on criticism, but short on practical suggestions.\n  be sb’s strong suit to be a subject that sb knows a lot about:\nI’m afraid geography is not my strong suit.\n  come on strong (informal) to make your feelings clear in an aggressive way, especially your sexual feelings towards sb\n  going strong (informal) to continue to be healthy, active or successful:\nMy grandmother is 90 and still going strong.\n  have a strong stomach to be able to see or do unpleasant things without feeling sick or upset\nmore at CARD n.


Words: strong force
Meaning:
noun\n(technical) one of the four FUNDAMENTAL FORCES in the universe, which holds the parts of the NUCLEUS of an atom together\nsee also ELECTROMAGNETISM, GRAVITY, WEAK FORCE


Words: strong-arm
Meaning:
adjective\n[only before noun] (disapproving) using threats or violence in order to make people do what you want:\nto use strong-arm tactics / methods against your political opponents


Words: strong-minded
Meaning:
adjective\nhaving strong opinions that are not easily influenced by what other people think or say\nSYN DETERMINED:\nMy mother was a very strong-minded woman who always got her own way.


Words: stronghold
Meaning:
noun\n  1  an area in which there is a lot of support for a particular belief or group of people, especially a political party:\na Republican stronghold / a stronghold of Republicanism * The Labour Party retained its traditional stronghold in the north. * The college is a stronghold of the child-centred approach to teaching.\n  2  a castle or a place that is strongly built and difficult to attack:\nThe castle was an important royal stronghold for hundreds of years. * Troops surrounded the mountain stronghold of the guerrillas.\n  3  an area where there are a large number of a particular type of animal:\nThis valley is one of the last strongholds of the Siberian tiger.


Words: strongman
Meaning:
1  a leader who uses threats or violence to rule a country:\nThe country has been under the control of military strongmen for a long time.\n  2  a physically very strong man, especially sb who performs in a CIRCUS


Words: strongroom
Meaning:
noun\na room, for example in a bank, with thick walls and a strong solid door, where valuable items are kept


Words: strop
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] (BrE, informal) a very bad mood when you are annoyed about sth:\nDon’t get in a strop-I’m only a few minutes late.


Words: stroppy
Meaning:
adjective\n(BrE, informal) (of a person) easily annoyed and difficult to deal with:\nDon’t get stroppy with me-it isn’t my fault!


Words: structural
Meaning:
adjective\n[usually before noun] connected with the way in which sth is built or organized:\nStorms have caused structural damage to hundreds of homes. * There have been some fundamental structural changes in society. * a structural engineer (= a person who is qualified to design large buildings, bridges, etc.) * a structural survey (= an examination of a building to check for any damage to the walls, roof, etc.)\n    structurally  adverb:\nThe building is structurally sound. * The languages are structurally different.


