# dict

Words: ’un
Meaning:
pronoun\n(BrE, informal) a way of saying or writing ’one’:\nThat was a good ’un. * The little ’uns (= the small children) couldn’t keep up.


Words: -’s
Meaning:
suffix, short form \n    suffix (added to nouns)\n  1  belonging to:\nthe woman’s hat * Peter’s desk * children’s clothes\n  2  used to refer to sb’s home or, in British English, a particular shop:\nShall we go to David’s (= David’s house) tonight? * (BrE) I’ll call in at the chemist’s on my way home\n    short form (informal)\n  1  used after he, she or it and where, what, who or how to mean ’is’ or ’has’:\nShe’s still in the bath. * What’s he doing now? * It’s time to go now. * Who’s taken my pen? * Where’s he gone? * It’s gone wrong again.\n  2  (used after let when making a suggestion that includes yourself and others) us:\nLet’s go out for lunch.


Words: -age
Meaning:
suffix (in nouns)\n  1  the action or result of:\nbreakage\n  2  a state or condition of:\nbondage\n  3  a set or group of:\nbaggage\n  4  an amount of:\nmileage\n  5  the cost of:\npostage\n  6  a place where:\nanchorage


Words: -al
Meaning:
suffix\n  1  (in adjectives) connected with:\nmagical * verbal\nsee also -ALLY\n  2  (in nouns) a process or state of:\nsurvival


Words: -ant
Meaning:
, -ent suffix\n  1  (in adjectives) that is or does sth:\ndifferent * significant\n  2  (in nouns) a person or thing that:\ninhabitant * deterrent


Words: -ate
Meaning:
suffix\n  1  (in adjectives) full of or having the quality of:\npassionate * Italianate\n  2  (in verbs) to give the thing or quality mentioned to:\nhyphenate * activate\n  3  (in nouns) the status or function of:\na doctorate\n  4  (in nouns) a group with the status or function of:\nthe electorate\n  5  (in nouns) (chemistry) a SALT formed by the action of a particular acid:\nsulphate


Words: -ative
Meaning:
suffix\n(in adjectives) doing or tending to do sth:\nillustrative * talkative\n    -atively suffix (in adverbs):\ncreatively


Words: -cide
Meaning:
combining form (in nouns)\n  1  the act of killing:\nsuicide * genocide\n  2  a person or thing that kills:\ninsecticide\n    -cidal (in adjectives):\nhomicidal


Words: -crat
Meaning:
combining form\n(in nouns) a member or supporter of a particular type of government or system:\ndemocrat * bureaucrat\n    -cratic (in adjectives):\naristocratic


Words: -cy
Meaning:
(BrE also -acy) suffix (in nouns)\n  1  the state or quality of:\ninfancy * accuracy\n  2  the status or position of:\nchaplaincy


Words: -dom
Meaning:
suffix (in nouns)\n  1  the condition or state of:\nfreedom * martyrdom\n  2  the rank of; an area ruled by:\nkingdom\n  3  the group of:\nofficialdom


Words: -ectomy
Meaning:
combining form\n(in nouns) a medical operation in which part of the body is removed:\nappendectomy (= removal of the APPENDIX)


Words: -ed
Meaning:
-d suffix\n  1  (in adjectives) having; having the characteristics of:\ntalented * bearded * diseased\n  2  (makes the past tense and past participle of regular verbs):\nhated * walked * loved


Words: -ee
Meaning:
suffix (in nouns)\n  1  a person affected by an action:\nemployee\ncompare -ER, -OR\n  2  a person described as or concerned with:\nabsentee * refugee


Words: -eer
Meaning:
suffix\n  1  (in nouns) a person concerned with:\nauctioneer * mountaineer\n  2  (in verbs) (often disapproving) to be concerned with:\nprofiteer * commandeer


Words: -en
Meaning:
suffix\n  1  (in verbs) to make or become:\nblacken * sadden\n  2  (in adjectives) made of; looking like:\nwooden * golden


Words: -er
Meaning:
suffix\n  1  (in nouns) a person or thing that:\nlover * computer\ncompare -EE, -OR\n  2  (in nouns) a person or thing that has the thing or quality mentioned:\nthree-wheeler * foreigner\n  3  (in nouns) a person concerned with:\nastronomer * philosopher\n  4  (in nouns) a person belonging to:\nNew Yorker\n  5  (makes comparative adjectives and adverbs):\nwider * bigger * happier * sooner\ncompare -EST


Words: -ery
Meaning:
-ry suffix (in nouns)\n  1  the group or class of:\ngreenery * gadgetry\n  2  the state or character of:\nbravery * rivalry\n  3  the art or practice of:\ncookery * archery\n  4  a place where sth is made, grows, lives, etc:\nbakery * orangery


Words: -ese
Meaning:
suffix\n  1  (in adjectives and nouns) of a country or city; a person who lives in a country or city; the language spoken there:\nChinese * Viennese\n  2  (in nouns) (often disapproving) the style or language of:\njournalese * officialese


Words: -est
Meaning:
suffix\n(makes superlative adjectives and adverbs):\nwidest * biggest * happiest * soonest\ncompare -ER


Words: -fest
Meaning:
combining form\n(in nouns) a festival or large meeting involving a particular activity or with a particular atmosphere:\na jazzfest * a talkfest * a lovefest


Words: -fold
Meaning:
suffix\n(in adjectives and adverbs) multiplied by; having the number of parts mentioned:\nto increase tenfold


Words: -ful
Meaning:
suffix\n  1  (in adjectives) full of; having the qualities of; tending to:\nsorrowful * masterful * forgetful\n  2  (in nouns) an amount that fills sth:\nhandful * spoonful


Words: -graphy
Meaning:
combining form (in nouns)\n  1  a type of art or science:\nchoreography * geography\n  2  a method of producing images:\nradiography\n  3  a form of writing or drawing:\ncalligraphy * biography


Words: -hood
Meaning:
suffix (in nouns)\n  1  the state or quality of:\nchildhood * falsehood\n  2  a group of people of the type mentioned:\nthe priesthood


Words: -ian
Meaning:
-an suffix\n  1  (in nouns and adjectives) from; typical of:\nBostonian * Brazilian * Shakespearian * Libran\n  2  (in nouns) a specialist in:\nmathematician


Words: -iana
Meaning:
-ana suffix\n(in nouns) a collection of objects, facts, stories, etc. connected with the person, place, period, etc. mentioned:\nMozartiana * Americana * Victoriana


Words: -ic
Meaning:
suffix\n  1  (in adjectives and nouns) connected with:\nscenic * economic * Arabic\n  2  (in adjectives) that performs the action mentioned:\nhorrific * specific\n    -ical (in adjectives):\ncomical\n    -ically (in adverbs):\nphysically


Words: -ion
Meaning:
(also -ation, -ition, -sion, -tion, -xion) suffix\n(in nouns) the action or state of:\nhesitation * competition * confession


Words: -ish
Meaning:
suffix (in adjectives)\n  1  from the country mentioned:\nTurkish * Irish\n  2  (sometimes disapproving) having the nature of; like:\nchildish\n  3  fairly; approximately:\nreddish * thirtyish\n    -ishly (in adverbs):\nfoolishly


Words: -ism
Meaning:
suffix (in nouns)\n  1  the action or result of:\ncriticism\n  2  the state or quality of:\nheroism\n  3  the teaching, system or MOVEMENT of:\nBuddhism\n  4  unfair treatment or hatred for the reason mentioned:\nracism\n  5  a feature of language of the type mentioned:\nAmericanism * colloquialism\n  6  a medical condition or disease:\nalcoholism


Words: -ist
Meaning:
suffix (in nouns and some related adjectives)\n  1  a person who believes or practises:\natheist\n  2  a member of a profession or business activity:\ndentist\n  3  a person who uses a thing:\nviolinist\n  4  a person who does sth:\nplagiarist


Words: -itis
Meaning:
suffix (in nouns)\n  1  (medical) a disease of:\ntonsillitis\n  2  (informal, especially humorous) too much of; too much interest in:\nWorld Cup-itis


Words: -ize
Meaning:
-ise suffix (in verbs)\n  1  to become, make or make like:\nprivatize * fossilize * Americanize\n  2  to speak, think, act, treat, etc. in the way mentioned:\ncriticize * theorize * deputize * pasteurize\n  3  to place in:\nhospitalize\n    -ization, -isation(in nouns):\nimmunization\n    -izationally, -isationally(in adverbs):\norganizationally


Words: -ment
Meaning:
suffix\n(in nouns) the action or result of:\nbombardment * development\n    -mental (in adjectives):\ngovernmental * judgemental


Words: -most
Meaning:
suffix\n(in adjectives) the furthest:\ninmost (= the furthest in) * southernmost * topmost (= the furthest up / nearest to the top)


Words: -ology
Meaning:
(BrE also -logy) combining form (in nouns)\n  1  a subject of study:\nsociology * genealogy\n  2  a characteristic of speech or writing:\nphraseology * trilogy\n    -ological, -logical(also -ologic, -logic) (in adjectives):\npathological\n    -ologist, -logist(in nouns):\nbiologist


Words: -ous
Meaning:
suffix\n(in adjectives) having the nature or quality of:\npoisonous * mountainous\n    -ously (in adverbs):\ngloriously\n    -ousness (in nouns):\nspaciousness


Words: -phile
Meaning:
combining form\n(in nouns and adjectives) liking a particular thing; a person who likes a particular thing:\nAnglophile * bibliophile\ncompare -PHOBE


Words: -philia
Meaning:
combining form\n(in nouns) love of sth, especially connected with a sexual attraction that is not considered normal:\npaedophilia\ncompare -PHOBIA


Words: -phobe
Meaning:
combining form\n(in nouns) a person who dislikes a particular thing or particular people:\nAnglophobe * xenophobe\ncompare -PHILE


Words: -ship
Meaning:
suffix (in nouns)\n  1  the state or quality of:\nownership * friendship\n  2  the status or office of:\ncitizenship * professorship\n  3  skill or ability as:\nmusicianship\n  4  the group of:\nmembership


Words: -some
Meaning:
suffix\n  1  (in adjectives) producing; likely to:\nfearsome * quarrelsome\n  2  (in nouns) a group of the number mentioned:\na foursome


Words: -th
Meaning:
suffix\n  1  (in ordinal numbers):\nsixth * fifteenth * hundredth\n  2  (in nouns) the action or process of:\ngrowth


Words: -ward
Meaning:
(also less frequent -wards) suffix\n(in adjectives) in the direction of:\nbackward * eastward * homeward\n    -wards (also -ward especially in AmE) (in adverbs):\nonwards * forwards


Words: -wise
Meaning:
suffix (in adjectives and adverbs)\n  1  in the manner or direction of:\nlikewise * clockwise * lengthwise\n  2  (informal) concerning:\nThings aren’t too good businesswise.


Words: -y
Meaning:
suffix\n  1  (also -ey) (in adjectives) full of; having the quality of:\ndusty * clayey\n  2  (in adjectives) tending to:\nrunny * sticky\n  3  (in nouns) the action or process of:\ninquiry\n  4  (also -ie) (in nouns, showing affection):\ndoggy * daddy


Words: A
Meaning:
noun, symbol, abbreviation \n    noun (also a) (plural A’s, a’s )\n  1  [C, U] the first letter of the English alphabet:\n’Apple’ begins with (an) A / ’A’.\n  2  (A) [C, U] (music) the 6th note in the scale of C MAJOR\n  3  [C, U] the highest mark/grade that a student can get for a piece of work or course of study:\nShe got (an) A in / for Biology. * He had straight A’s (= nothing but A’s) all through high school.\n  4  (A) [U] used to represent the first of two or more possibilities:\nShall we go for plan A or plan B?\n  5  (A) [U] used to represent a person, for example in an imagined situation or to hide their identity:\nLet’s assume A knows B is guilty.\nsee also A-FRAME, A LEVEL, A-ROAD\n IDIOMS \n  from A to B from one place to another:\nI don’t care what a car looks like as long as it gets me from A to B.\n  from A to Z including everything there is to know about sth:\nBy the end of the week we knew the subject from A to Z.\n    symbol\n  1  used in Britain before a number to refer to a particular important road:\nthe A34 to Newbury\n  2  used (but not in the US) before numbers which show standard metric sizes of paper:\na sheet of A4 paper (= 297ﾗ210mm)\n    abbreviation (in writing) AMP(S)


Words: a
Meaning:
indefinite article\n HELP NOTE  The form a is used before consonant sounds and the form an before vowel sounds. When saying abbreviations like ’FM’ or ’UN’, use a or an according to how the first letter is said. For example, F is a consonant, but begins with the sound / e / and so you say:\nan FM radio. U is a vowel but begins with / j / and so you say: a UN declaration.\n  1  used before countable or singular nouns referring to people or things that have not already been mentioned:\na man / horse / unit * an aunt / egg / hour / x-ray * I can only carry two at a time. * There’s a visitor for you. * She’s a friend of my father’s (= one of my father’s friends).\n  2  used before uncountable nouns when these have an adjective in front of them, or phrase following them:\na good knowledge of French * a sadness that won’t go away\n  3  any; every:\nA lion is a dangerous animal.\n  4  used to show that sb/sth is a member of a group or profession:\nTheir new car’s a BMW. * She’s a Buddhist. * He’s a teacher. * Is that a Monet (= a painting by Monet)?\n  5  used in front of two nouns that are seen as a single unit:\na knife and fork\n  6  used instead of one before some numbers:\nA thousand people were there.\n  7  used when talking about prices, quantities and rates\nSYN PER:\nThey cost 50p a kilo. * I can type 50 words a minute. * He was driving at 50 miles an hour.\n  8  a person like sb:\nShe’s a little Hitler.\n  9  used before sb’s name to show that the speaker does not know the person:\nThere’s a Mrs Green to see you.\n  10  used before the names of days of the week to talk about one particular day:\nShe died on a Tuesday.


Words: a la carte
Meaning:
adjective, adverb\n(from French) if food in a restaurant is a la carte, or if you eat a la carte, you choose from a list of dishes that have separate prices, rather than having a complete meal at a fixed price:\nThere is an excellent a la carte restaurant for hotel residents. * It was more expensive to eat a la carte.


Words: a la mode
Meaning:
adjective, adverb (from French)\n  1  [not before noun] (old-fashioned) fashionable; in the latest fashion:\nWe’ll get Papa to buy you something a little more a la mode.\n  2  [after noun] (AmE) served with ice cream:\napple pie a la mode


Words: A level
Meaning:
(also advanced level) noun\n[C, U] a British exam taken in a particular subject, usually in the final year of school at the age of 18:\nYou need three A levels to get onto this university course. * What A levels are you doing? * I’m doing maths A level. * two A level passes / two passes at A level\ncompare GCE, GCSE, GNVQ


Words: a priori
Meaning:
adjective, adverb\n(from Latin, written) using facts or principles that are known to be true in order to decide what the probable effects or results of sth will be, for example saying ’They haven’t eaten anything all day so they must be hungry.’:\nan a priori assumption\ncompare A POSTERIORI


Words: A-frame
Meaning:
(also A-frame house) noun\n(especially AmE) a house with very steep sides that meet at the top in the shape of the letter A


Words: A-road
Meaning:
noun\n(in Britain) a road that is less important than a motorway, but wider and straighter than a B-ROAD


Words: a.m.
Meaning:
(AmE also A.M.)  abbreviation\nbetween midnight and midday (from Latin ’ante meridiem’):\nIt starts at 10 a.m.\ncompare P.M.


Words: AA
Meaning:
abbreviation\nAutomobile Association (a British organization which provides services for car owners)


Words: AAA
Meaning:
abbreviation\nAmerican Automobile Association (an American organization which provides services for car owners)


Words: aback
Meaning:
adverb\n IDIOMS \n  be taken aback (by sb/sth) to be shocked or surprised by sb/sth:\nShe was completely taken aback by his anger.\nsee also TAKE SB ABACK


Words: abacus
Meaning:
noun\n(plural abacuses ) a frame containing rods with small balls that slide along them. It is used as a tool or toy for counting.


Words: abandon
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb [VN] \n  1  ~ sb (to sth) to leave sb, especially sb you are responsible for, with no intention of returning:\nThe baby had been abandoned by its mother. * People often simply abandon their pets when they go abroad. * The study showed a deep fear among the elderly of being abandoned to the care of strangers.\n  2  ~ sth (to sb/sth) to leave a thing or place, especially because it is impossible or dangerous to stay:\nSnow forced many drivers to abandon their vehicles. * They had to abandon their lands and property to the invading forces. * He gave the order to abandon ship (= to leave the ship because it was sinking).\n  3  to stop supporting or helping sb; to stop believing in sth:\nThe country abandoned its political leaders after the war. * By 1930 he had abandoned his Marxist principles.\n  4  to stop doing sth, especially before it is finished; to stop having sth:\nThey had to abandon the match because of rain. * I have abandoned hope of any reconciliation. * We had to abandon any further attempt at negotiation.\n  5  ~ yourself to sth (literary) to feel an emotion so strongly that you can feel nothing else:\nHe abandoned himself to despair.\n    noun [U] (written) an uncontrolled way of behaving that shows that sb does not care what other people think:\nHe signed cheques with careless abandon.\n IDIOMS  see GAY adj.


Words: abandoned
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  left and no longer wanted, used or needed:\nan abandoned car / house * The child was found abandoned but unharmed. * There was an abandoned supermarket trolley in the middle of the road.\n  2  (written) (of people or their behaviour) wild; not following accepted standards


Words: abandonment
Meaning:
noun [U] (written)\n  1  the act of leaving a person, thing or place with no intention of returning:\ntheir childhood abandonment by their mother\n  2  the act of giving up an idea or stopping an activity with no intention of returning to it:\nthe government’s abandonment of its new economic policy


Words: abase
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] ~ yourself (formal) to act in a way that shows that you accept sb’s power over you\n    abasement noun [U]


Words: abashed
Meaning:
adjective\n[not before noun] embarrassed and ashamed because of sth that you have done\nOPP UNABASHED


Words: abate
Meaning:
verb\n(formal) to become less strong; to make sth less strong:\n[V] The storm showed no signs of abating. * They waited for the crowd’s fury to abate. * [VN] Steps are to be taken to abate pollution.\n    abatement noun [U]


Words: abbey
Meaning:
noun\na large church together with a group of buildings in which MONKS or NUNS live or lived in the past:\nWestminster Abbey * a ruined abbey


Words: abbreviate
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] [usually passive] ~ sth (to sth) to make a word, phrase or name shorter by leaving out letters or using only the first letter of each word:\nthe Jet Propulsion Laboratory (usually abbreviated to JPL)\n    abbreviated adjective:\nWhere appropriate, abbreviated forms are used.


Words: abbreviation
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [C] ~ (of / for sth) a short form of a word, etc:\nWhat’s the abbreviation for ’Saint’?\n  2  [U] the process of abbreviating sth


Words: ABC
Meaning:
noun, abbreviation \n    noun [sing.] (BrE) (AmE ABCs [pl.])\n  1  all the letters of the alphabet, especially as they are learnt by children:\nDo you know your ABC?\n  2  the basic facts about a subject:\nthe ABC of gardening\n IDIOMS  see EASY\n    abbreviation American Broadcasting Company (a large national American television company):\n’Good Morning America’ on ABC


Words: abdicate
Meaning:
verb\n  1  to give up the position of being king or queen:\n[V] He abdicated in favour of his son. * [VN] She was forced to abdicate the throne of Spain.\n  2  [VN] ~ responsibility / your responsibilities to fail or refuse to perform a duty\n    abdication noun [U, C]


Words: abdomen
Meaning:
noun\n  1  the part of the body below the chest that contains the stomach, bowels, etc.\n  2  the end part of an insect’s body that is attached to its THORAX\n    abdominal  adjective [only before noun]:\nabdominal pains


Words: abduct
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] to take sb away illegally, especially using force \nSYN KIDNAP:\nHe had attempted to abduct the two children.\n    abduction  noun [U, C]:\nchild abduction\n    abductor noun


Words: abel
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n\n \n  1  a piece of paper, etc. that is attached to sth and gives information about it:\nThe washing instructions are on the label. * price / address labels * We tested various supermarkets’ own label pasta sauces (= those marked with the name of the shop / store where they are sold). * He’ll only wear clothes with a designer label.\n \n  2  (disapproving) a word or phrase that is used to describe sb/sth in a way that seems too general, unfair or not correct:\nI hated the label ’housewife’.\n \n  3  a company that produces and sells records, CDs, etc:\nthe Virgin record label * It’s his first release for a major label.\n    verb (-ll-, AmE -l-) [often passive]\n  1  [VN] to fix a label on sth or write information on sth:\nWe carefully labelled each item with the contents and the date. * The file was labelled ’Private’.\n  2  ~ sb/sth (as) sth to describe sb/sth in a particular way, especially unfairly:\n[VN-N] He was labelled (as) a traitor by his former colleagues. * [VN-ADJ] It is unfair to label a small baby as naughty.


Words: aberration
Meaning:
noun\n[C, U] (formal) a fact, an action or a way of behaving that is not usual, and that may be unacceptable:\na temporary aberration of his exhausted mind * A childless woman was regarded as an aberration, almost a social outcast.


Words: abet
Meaning:
verb\n(-tt-) [VN] to help or encourage sb to do sth wrong:\nHe was abetted in the deception by his wife.\n IDIOMS  see AID v.


Words: abeyance
Meaning:
noun\n[U]\n IDIOMS \n  in abeyance (formal) not being used, or being stopped for a period of time:\nLegal proceedings are in abeyance, while further enquiries are made.


Words: abhor
Meaning:
verb\n(-rr-) [VN] (not used in the progressive tenses) (formal) to hate sth, for example a way of behaving or thinking, especially for moral reasons


Words: abhorrence
Meaning:
noun\n[U, sing.] (formal) a feeling of strong hatred, especially for moral reasons:\nHe had an abhorrence of waste of any kind.


Words: abhorrent
Meaning:
adjective\n(formal) ~ (to sb) causing hatred, especially for moral reasons:\nDiscrimination of any sort is abhorrent to a civilized society.


Words: abide
Meaning:
verb (abided, abided)\n HELP NOTE  In sense 2 abode  is also used for the past tense and past participle.\n  1  [VN] can’t / couldn’t ~ sb/sth to dislike sb/sth so much that you hate having to be with or deal with them:\nI can’t abide people with no sense of humour. * He couldn’t abide the thought of being cooped up in an office.\n  2  [V +adv./prep.] (old use or formal) to stay or live in a place:\nMay joy and peace abide in us all.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  abide by sth to accept and act according to a law, an agreement, etc:\nYou’ll have to abide by the rules of the club. * We will abide by their decision.


Words: abiding
Meaning:
adjective\n(written) (of a feeling or belief) lasting for a long time and not changing:\nHe is an artist with an abiding concern for humanity.


Words: ability
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [sing.] ~ to do sth the fact that sb/sth is able to do sth:\nThe system has the ability to run more than one program at the same time. * Everyone has the right to good medical care regardless of their ability to pay. * A gentle form of exercise will increase your ability to relax.\nOPP INABILITY\n  2  [C, U] a level of skill or intelligence:\nAlmost everyone has some musical ability. * He was a man of extraordinary abilities. * students of mixed abilities * A woman of her ability will easily find a job. * I try to do my job to the best of my ability (= as well as I can).\n -ability|, -ibility \n-> -ABLE


Words: abject
Meaning:
adjective [usually before noun] (formal)\n  1  terrible and without hope:\nabject poverty / misery / failure\n  2  without any pride or respect for yourself:\nan abject apology\n    abjectly adverb


Words: abjure
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] (formal) to promise publicly that you will give up or reject a belief or a way of behaving \nSYN RENOUNCE


Words: ablaze
Meaning:
adjective [not before noun] (written)\n  1  burning quickly and strongly:\nThe whole building was soon ablaze. * Cars and buses were set ablaze during the riot.\n  2  ~ (with sth) full of bright colours or light:\nThe trees were ablaze with the colours of autumn. * There were lights still ablaze as they drove up to the house.\n  3  ~ (with sth) full of strong emotion or excitement:\nHe turned to her, his eyes ablaze with anger.


Words: able
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  ~ to do sth (used as a modal verb) to have the skill, intelligence, opportunity, etc. needed to do sth:\nYou must be able to speak French for this job. * A viral illness left her barely able to walk. * I didn’t feel able to disagree with him. * Will you be able to come?\nOPP UNABLE -> CAN\n  2  (abler ) intelligent; good at sth:\nthe ablest student in the class * We aim to help the less able in society to lead an independent life.\nsee also ABLY\n______________________________\n WORD FAMILY \nable adj. (=/= unable)\nability n. (=/= inability)\ndisabled adj.\ndisability n.\n______________________________\n\n-able (BrE also -ible) suffix (in adjectives)\n  1  that can or must be:\ncalculable * taxable\n  2  having the quality of:\nfashionable * comfortable * changeable\n    -ability, -ibility (in nouns):\ncapability * responsibility\n    -ably, -ibly (in adverbs):\nnoticeably * incredibly


Words: able-bodied
Meaning:
adjective\nphysically healthy, fit and strong in contrast to sb who is weak or DISABLED:\nMilitary service is compulsory for every able-bodied male between 18 and 27. * Disabled and able-bodied children can enrol on the athletics course.


Words: abnegation
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (formal) the act of not allowing yourself to have sth that you want; the act of rejecting sth


Words: abnormal
Meaning:
adjective\ndifferent from what is usual or expected, especially in a way that is worrying, harmful or not wanted:\nabnormal levels of sugar in the blood * They thought his behaviour was abnormal. * The ship was blown off course by abnormal weather conditions.\nOPP NORMAL\n    abnormally  adverb:\nabnormally high blood pressure


Words: abnormality
Meaning:
noun\n(plural abnormalities) [C, U] a feature or characteristic in a person’s body or behaviour that is not usual and may be harmful, worrying or cause illness:\nabnormalities of the heart * congenital / foetal abnormality


Words: aboard
Meaning:
adverb, preposition\non or onto a ship, plane, bus or train:\nWe finally went aboard. * He was already aboard the plane. * The plane crashed killing all 157 passengers aboard. * All aboard! (= the bus, boat, etc. is leaving soon) * Welcome aboard! (= used as a greeting to passengers or to a person joining a new organization, etc.)


Words: abode
Meaning:
noun\n[usually sing.] (formal or humorous) the place where sb lives:\nhomeless people of no fixed abode (= with no permanent home) * You are most welcome to my humble abode.\nsee also ABIDE v., RIGHT OF ABODE


Words: abolition
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the ending of a law, a system or an institution:\nthe abolition of slavery / apartheid / the death penalty


Words: abominable
Meaning:
adjective\nextremely unpleasant and causing disgust:\nThe judge described the attack as an abominable crime. * We were served the most abominable coffee.\n    abominably  adverb:\nShe treated him abominably.


Words: abomination
Meaning:
noun\n(formal) a thing that causes disgust and hatred, or is considered extremely offensive:\na concrete abomination masquerading as a hotel


Words: aboriginal
Meaning:
adjective, noun \n    adjective\n  1  (usually Aboriginal) relating to the original people living in Australia:\nthe issue of Aboriginal land rights\n  2  relating to the original people, animals, etc. of a place and to a period of time before Europeans arrived:\nthe aboriginal peoples of Canada * aboriginal art / culture\n    noun (usually Aboriginal) a member of a race of people who were the original people living in a country, especially Australia


Words: aborigine
Meaning:
noun\na member of a race of people who were the original people living in a country, especially Australia


Words: abort
Meaning:
verb\n  1  [VN] to end a pregnancy early in order to prevent a baby from developing and being born alive:\nto abort a child / pregnancy / foetus\n  2  [V] (technical) to give birth to a child or young animal too early for it to survive:\nThe virus can cause pregnant animals to abort.\nsee also MISCARRY\n  3  [often passive] to end or cause sth to end before it has been completed, especially because it is likely to fail:\n[VN] We had no option but to abort the mission. * [V] (computing) If the wrong password is given the program aborts.


Words: abortion
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [U] the deliberate ending of a pregnancy at an early stage:\nto support / oppose abortion * a woman’s right to abortion * abortion laws * I’ve always been anti-abortion.\n  2  [C] a medical operation to end a pregnancy at an early stage:\nShe decided to have an abortion.\ncompare MISCARRIAGE


Words: abortive
Meaning:
adjective\n(formal) (of an action) not successful; failed:\nan abortive military coup * abortive attempts to divert the course of the river


Words: abound
Meaning:
verb\n[V] (written) to exist in great numbers or quantities:\nStories about his travels abound.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  abound with / in sth to have sth in great numbers or quantities:\nThe lakes abound with fish.\nsee also ABUNDANCE, ABUNDANT


Words: about
Meaning:
adverb, preposition, adjective \n    adverb\n  1  a little more or less than; a little before or after\nSYN APPROXIMATELY:\nIt costs about $10. * They waited (for) about an hour. * He arrived (at) about ten.\n  2  nearly; very close to:\nI’m just about ready. * This is about the best we can hope for.\n  3  (especially BrE) in many directions; here and there:\nThe children were rushing about in the garden.\n  4  (especially BrE) in no particular order; in various places:\nHer books were lying about on the floor.\n  5  (especially BrE) doing nothing in particular:\nPeople were standing about in the road.\n  6  (especially BrE) able to be found in a place:\nThere was nobody about. * There’s a lot of flu about. * She’s somewhere about-I saw her a few minutes ago.\n  7  (technical or formal) facing the opposite direction:\nHe brought the ship about. -> AROUND\n IDIOMS \n  that’s about all | that’s about it used to say that you have finished telling sb about sth and there is nothing to add:\n’Anything else?’ ’No, that’s about it for now.’\nmore at JUST adv., OUT adv.\n    preposition\n  1  on the subject of sb/sth; in connection with sb/sth:\na book about flowers * Tell me all about it. * What’s she so angry about? * There’s something strange about him. * I don’t know what you’re on about (= talking about). * There’s nothing you can do about it now.\n  2  used to describe the purpose of sth:\nMovies are all about making money these days. * What was all that about? (= what was the reason for what has just happened?)\n  3  busy with sth; doing sth:\nEverywhere people were going about their daily business. * And while you’re about it ... (= while you’re doing that)\n  4  (especially BrE) in many directions in a place; here and there:\nWe wandered about the town for an hour or so. * He looked about the room.\n  5  (especially BrE) in various parts of a place; here and there:\nThe papers were strewn about the room.\n  6  (especially BrE) next to a place or person; in the area mentioned:\nShe’s somewhere about the office.\n  7  (literary) surrounding sb/sth:\nShe wore a shawl about her shoulders.\n IDIOMS \n  how / what about?\n1 used when asking for information about sb/sth:\nHow about Ruth? Have you heard from her? * I’m having fish. What about you?\n2 used to make a suggestion:\nHow about going for a walk? * What about a break?\n    adjective\n IDIOMS \n  be about to do sth to be close to doing sth; to be going to do sth very soon:\nI was just about to ask you the same thing.\n  not be about to do sth to not be willing to do sth; to not intend to do sth:\nI’ve never done any cooking and I’m not about to start now.\n______________________________\n VOCABULARY BUILDING \nways of saying approximately\nThe flight takes approximately three hours.\nThe tickets cost about ｣320 each.\nThe repairs will cost $200, give or take a few dollars.\nHow much will it cost, more or less ?\nWe are expecting thirty or so people to come.\nShe must be 25 or thereabouts.\nProfits have fallen by roughly 15%.\nYou can expect to earn round about ｣340 000 a year.\nThe price is somewhere around $800.\nShe earns somewhere in the region of ｣325 000.\nAll these words and phrases are used in both speaking and writing; about is the most common and approximately the most formal.\n______________________________


Words: about-turn
Meaning:
(BrE) (also about-face AmE, BrE) noun\n[sing.] a complete change of opinion, plan or behaviour:\nThe government did an about-turn over nuclear energy.


Words: above
Meaning:
preposition, adverb, adjective \n    preposition\n  1  at or to a higher place or position than sth/sb:\nThe water came above our knees. * We were flying above the clouds. * the people in the apartment above mine * A captain in the navy ranks above a captain in the army. * They finished the year six places above their local rivals.\n  2  more than sth; greater in number, level or age than sb/sth:\nInflation is above 6%. * Temperatures have been above average. * We cannot accept children above the age of 10.\n  3  of greater importance or of higher quality than sb/sth:\nI rate her above most other players of her age.\n  4  too good or too honest to do sth:\nShe’s not above lying when it suits her. * He’s above suspicion (= he is completely trusted).\n  5  (of a sound) louder or clearer than another sound:\nI couldn’t hear her above the noise of the traffic.\n IDIOMS \n  above all most important of all; especially:\nAbove all, make sure you keep in touch.\n  above yourself (disapproving) having too high an opinion of yourself\nmore at OVER prep.\n    adverb\n  1  at or to a higher place:\nPut it on the shelf above. * Seen from above the cars looked tiny. * They were acting on instructions from above (= from sb in a higher position of authority).\n  2  greater in number, level or age:\nincreases of 5% and above * A score of 70 or above will get you an ’A’. * children aged 12 and above\n  3  earlier in sth written or printed:\nAs was stated above ... * See above, page 97.\n    adjective [only before noun] mentioned or printed previously in a letter, book, etc:\nPlease write to us at the above address.\n    the above noun [sing.+sing./pl. v.]:\nPlease notify us if the above is not correct. * All the above (= people mentioned above) have passed the exam.\n______________________________\n WHICH WORD? \nabove / over\nAbove and over can both be used to describe a position higher than something: They built a new room above/over the garage. When you are talking about movement from one side of something to the other, you can only use over: They jumped over the stream. Over can also mean ’covering’: He put a blanket over the sleeping child.\nAbove and over can also mean ’more than’. Above is used in relation to a minimum level or a fixed point: 2 000 feet above sea level * Temperatures will not rise above zero tonight. Over is used with numbers, ages, money and time: He’s over 50. * It costs over ｣3100. * We waited over 2 hours.\n______________________________


Words: abrade
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] (technical) to rub the surface of sth, such as rock or skin, and damage it or make it rough


Words: abrasion
Meaning:
noun (technical)\n  1  [C] a damaged area of the skin where it has been rubbed against sth hard and rough:\nHe suffered cuts and abrasions to the face.\n  2  [U] damage to a surface caused by rubbing sth very hard against it:\nDiamonds have extreme resistance to abrasion.


Words: abrasive
Meaning:
adjective, noun \n    adjective\n  1  an abrasive substance is rough and can be used to clean a surface or to make it smooth:\nabrasive kitchen cleaners * Rub down with fine abrasive paper.\n  2  (of a person or their manner) rude and unkind; acting in a way that may hurt other people’s feelings:\nan abrasive style / tone / comment * Throughout his career he was known for his abrasive manner.\n    abrasively adverb\n    abrasiveness noun [U] \n    noun a substance used for cleaning surfaces or for making them smooth


Words: abreast
Meaning:
adverb\n~ (of sb/sth) next to sb/sth and facing the same way:\ncycling two abreast * A police car drew abreast of us and signalled us to stop.\n IDIOMS \n  keep abreast of sth to make sure that you know all the most recent facts about a subject:\nIt is almost impossible to keep abreast of all the latest developments in computing.


Words: abridge
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] to make a book, play, etc. shorter by leaving parts out:\nShe has been asked to abridge the novel for radio.\n    abridged adjective:\nan abridged edition / version\nOPP UNABRIDGED\n    abridgement (also abridgment) noun [U, C]


Words: abroad
Meaning:
adverb (especially BrE)\n  1  in or to a foreign country:\nto be / go / travel / live abroad * She worked abroad for a year. * imports of cheap food from abroad * He was famous, both at home and abroad (= in his own country and in other countries). * For a holiday abroad you need a valid passport.\n  2  (formal) being talked about or felt by many people:\nThere was news abroad that a change was coming.\n  3  (old use) outside; outdoors


Words: abrogate
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] (technical) to officially end a law, an agreement, etc:\nThe rule has been abrogated by mutual consent.\n    abrogation  noun [U]


Words: abrupt
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  sudden and unexpected, often in an unpleasant way:\nan abrupt change / halt / departure * The accident brought his career to an abrupt end.\n  2  speaking or acting in a way that seems unfriendly and rude; not taking time to say more than is necessary:\nan abrupt manner * She was very abrupt with me in our meeting.\n    abruptly adverb:\nThe interview ended abruptly.\n    abruptness noun [U]


Words: abscess
Meaning:
noun\na swollen and infected area on your skin or in your body, full of a thick yellowish liquid (called PUS):\na painful abscess on the gum


Words: abscond
Meaning:
verb [V] \n  1  ~ (from sth) to escape from a place that you are not allowed to leave without permission:\nShe absconded from every children’s home they placed her in.\n  2  ~ (with sth) to leave secretly and take with you sth, especially money, that does not belong to you:\nHe absconded with the company funds.


Words: abseil
Meaning:
(BrE) (AmE rappel) verb\n[V] ~ (down, off, etc. sth) to go down a steep cliff or rock while attached to a rope, pushing against the slope or rock with your feet\n    abseil (BrE) (AmE rappel) noun


Words: absence
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [U, C] ~ (from ...) the fact of sb being away from a place where they are usually expected to be; the occasion or period of time when sb is away:\nabsence from work * repeated absences from school * The decision was made in my absence (= while I was not there). * We did not receive any news during his long absence.\nsee also LEAVE\n  2  [U] the fact of sb/sth not existing or not being available; a lack of sth:\nThe case was dismissed in the absence of any definite proof. * the absence of any women on the board of directors\nOPP PRESENCE\n IDIOMS  see CONSPICUOUS


Words: absent
Meaning:
adjective, verb \n    adjective \n  1  ~ (from sth) not in a place because of illness, etc:\nto be absent from work / school / a meeting\nOPP PRESENT\n  2  ~ (from sth) not present in sth:\nLove was totally absent from his childhood.\nOPP PRESENT\n  3  showing that you are not really looking at or thinking about what is happening around you:\nan absent expression / look / stare\nsee also ABSENTLY\n    verb  [VN] ~ yourself (from sth) (formal) to not go to or be in a place where you are expected to be:\nHe had absented himself from the office for the day.


Words: absent-minded
Meaning:
adjective\ntending to forget things, perhaps because you are not thinking about what is around you, but about sth else:\nGrandpa’s becoming quite absent-minded.\n    absent-mindedly adverb:\nShe absent-mindedly twisted a strand of hair around her fingers.\n    absent-mindedness noun [U]


Words: absently
Meaning:
adverb\nin a way that shows you are not looking at or thinking about what is happening around you:\nHe nodded absently, his attention absorbed by the screen.


Words: absolute
Meaning:
adjective, noun \n    adjective\n  1  total and complete:\na class for absolute beginners * absolute confidence / trust / silence / truth * ’You’re wrong,’ she said with absolute certainty. * Around them the darkness was absolute, the silence oppressive.\n  2  [only before noun] used, especially in spoken English, to give emphasis to what you are saying:\nThere’s absolute rubbish on television tonight. * He must earn an absolute fortune. * 4 Mb is the absolute minimum you need to run the program. * What an absolute idiot I’ve been!\n  3  definite and without any doubt or uncertainty:\nThere was no absolute proof. * He taught us that the laws of physics were absolute. * The divorce became absolute last week.\nsee also DECREE ABSOLUTE\n  4  not limited or restricted:\nabsolute power / authority * an absolute ruler / monarchy (= one with no limit to their power)\n  5  existing or measured independently and not in relation to sth else:\nAlthough prices are falling in absolute terms, energy is still expensive. * Beauty cannot be measured by any absolute standard.\ncompare RELATIVE\n    noun an idea or a principle that is believed to be true or valid in any circumstances:\nRight and wrong are, for her, moral absolutes.


Words: absolute majority
Meaning:
noun\n(in an election) more than half of the total number of votes or winning candidates:\n280 seats are needed for an absolute majority in the National Assembly.


Words: absolutely
Meaning:
adverb (especially spoken)\n  1  used to emphasize that sth is completely true:\nYou’re absolutely right. * He made it absolutely clear. * I’m not absolutely certain I posted it. * It was absolutely pouring with rain.\n  2  ~ no ... | ~ nothing used to emphasize sth negative:\nShe did absolutely no work. * There’s absolutely nothing more the doctors can do.\n  3  used with adjectives or verbs that express strong feelings or extreme qualities to mean ’extremely’:\nI was absolutely furious with him. * She absolutely adores you. * He’s an absolutely brilliant cook.\n  4   used to emphasize that you agree with sb, or to give sb permission to do sth:\n’They could have told us, couldn’t they?’ ’Absolutely!’ * ’Can we leave a little early?’ ’Absolutely!’\n  5  ~ not used to emphasize that you strongly disagree with sb, or to refuse permission:\n’Was it any good?’ ’No, absolutely not.’


Words: absolution
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (especially in the Christian Church) a formal statement that a person is forgiven for what he or she has done wrong


Words: absolutism
Meaning:
noun [U]\n  1  a political system in which a ruler or government has total power at all times\n  2  belief in a political, religious or moral principle which is thought to be true in any circumstances\n    absolutist noun, adjective


Words: absolve
Meaning:
of sth)\n  1  to state formally that sb is not guilty or responsible for sth:\nThe court absolved him of all responsibility for the accident.\n  2  to give ABSOLUTION to sb:\nI absolve you from all your sins.


Words: absorb
Meaning:
verb [VN]\n  liquid / gas\n  1  to take in a liquid, gas or other substance from the surface or space around:\nPlants absorb oxygen. * The cream is easily absorbed into the skin. * Let the rice cook until it has absorbed all the water.\n  make part of sth larger\n  2  [often passive] to make sth smaller become part of sth larger:\nThe surrounding small towns have been absorbed into the city. * The country simply cannot absorb this influx of refugees.\n  information\n  3  to take sth into the mind and learn or understand it:\nIt’s a lot of information to absorb all at once. * It took me several days to absorb the fact of her death. * They spent a week in Paris just absorbing the atmosphere.\n  interest sb\n  4  to interest sb very much so that they pay no attention to anything else:\nThis work had absorbed him for several years.\n  heat / light / energy\n  5  to take in and keep heat, light, energy, etc. instead of reflecting it:\nBlack walls absorb a lot of heat during the day.\n  shock / impact\n  6  to reduce the effect of a blow, hit, etc:\nThis tennis racket absorbs shock on impact. * The bats have graphite shafts that absorb the vibration.\nsee also SHOCK ABSORBER\n  money / time / changes\n  7  to use up a large supply of sth, especially money or time:\nThe new proposals would absorb $80 billion of the federal budget.\n  8  to deal with changes, effects, costs, etc:\nThe company is unable to absorb such huge losses.


Words: absorbed
Meaning:
adjective\n[not usually before noun] ~ in sth/sb very interested in sth/sb so that you are not paying attention to anything else:\nShe seemed totally absorbed in her book.


Words: absorbent
Meaning:
adjective\nable to take in sth easily, especially liquid:\nabsorbent paper / materials\n    absorbency  noun [U]:\nCotton has high absorbency.


Words: absorbing
Meaning:
adjective\ninteresting and enjoyable and holding your attention completely:\nan absorbing book / game


Words: absorption
Meaning:
noun [U]\n  1  the process of a liquid, gas or other substance being taken in:\nVitamin D is necessary to aid the absorption of calcium from food.\n  2  the process of a smaller group, country, etc. becoming part of a larger group or country:\nthe absorption of immigrants into the host country\n  3  ~ (in sth) the fact of sb being very interested in sth so that it takes all their attention:\nHis work suffered because of his total absorption in sport.


Words: abstain
Meaning:
verb [V] ~ (from sth)\n  1  to choose not to use a vote, either in favour of or against sth:\nTen people voted in favour, five against and two abstained.\n  2  to decide not to do sth, especially sth you like or enjoy, because it is bad for your health or considered morally wrong:\nto abstain from alcohol / sex / drugs\nsee also ABSTINENCE, ABSTENTION


Words: abstainer
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a person who chooses not to vote either in favour of or against sth\n  2  a person who never drinks alcohol


Words: abstemious
Meaning:
adjective\n(formal) not allowing yourself to have much food or alcohol, or to do things that are enjoyable:\nHe was a hard-working man with abstemious habits.


Words: abstention
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [C, U] ~ (from sth) an act of choosing not to use a vote either in favour of or against sth:\nThe voting was 15 in favour, 3 against and 2 abstentions. * Voter abstention is seen as the only real form of dissent in elections.\n  2  [U] (formal) the act of not allowing yourself to have or do sth enjoyable or sth that is considered bad:\nThe Church insisted on abstention from all luxuries.\nsee also ABSTAIN


Words: abstinence
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (formal) the practice of not allowing yourself sth, especially food, alcoholic drinks or sex, for moral, religious or health reasons:\ntotal abstinence from strong drink\nsee also ABSTAIN


Words: abstract
Meaning:
adjective, noun, verb \n    adjective \n  1  based on general ideas and not on any particular real person, thing or situation:\nabstract knowledge / principles * The research shows that pre-school children are capable of thinking in abstract terms.\ncompare CONCRETE adj. (2)\n  2  existing in thought or as an idea but not having a physical reality:\nWe may talk of beautiful things but beauty itself is abstract.\n  3  (of art) not representing people or things in a realistic way, but expressing the artist’s ideas about them:\nthe work of American abstract expressionists like Mark Rothko\ncompare FIGURATIVE (2), REPRESENTATIONAL\n    abstractly adverb \n    noun \n  1  an abstract work of art:\nKandinsky’s first pure abstracts are marked by their wild colour.\n  2  a short piece of writing containing the main ideas in a document\nSYN SUMMARY\n IDIOMS \n  in the abstract in a general way, without referring to a particular real person, thing or situation:\nLegal questions rarely exist in the abstract; they are based on real cases. * I’m just talking in the abstract now.\n    verb  [VN] \n  1  ~ sth (from sth) to remove sth from somewhere:\nShe abstracted the main points from the argument. * a plan to abstract 8 million gallons of water from the river\n  2  (technical) to make a written summary of a book, etc.


Words: abstract expressionism
Meaning:
noun\n[U] a style and movement in abstract art that developed in New York in the middle of the 20th century and tries to express the feelings of the artist rather than showing a physical object\n    abstract expressionist noun:\nabstract expressionists like Jackson Pollock\n    abstract expressionist adjective [usually before noun]:\nabstract expressionist art


Words: abstract noun
Meaning:
noun\n(grammar) a noun, for example goodness or freedom, that refers to an idea or a general quality, not to a physical object\ncompare COMMON NOUN, PROPER NOUN


Words: abstracted
Meaning:
adjective\n(formal) thinking deeply about sth and not paying attention to what is around you:\nHe was listening to music and had an abstracted expression.\n    abstractedly adverb


Words: abstraction
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [C, U] (formal) a general idea not based on any particular real person, thing or situation; the quality of being abstract:\nideological / mathematical abstractions\n  2  [U] (formal) the state of thinking deeply about sth and not paying attention to what is around you:\nShe was gazing in abstraction at the far corner of the room.\n  3  [U, C] (technical) the action of removing sth from sth else; the process of being removed from sth else:\nwater abstraction from rivers


Words: absurd
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  completely ridiculous; not logical and sensible:\nThat uniform makes the guards look absurd. * Of course it’s not true, what an absurd idea.\n  2  (the absurd) noun [sing.] things that are or that seem to be absurd:\nHe has a good sense of the absurd.\n    absurdity noun [U, C] (plural absurdities):\nIt was only later that she could see the absurdity of the situation.\n    absurdly adverb:\nThe paintings were sold for absurdly high prices.


Words: abundance
Meaning:
noun\n[sing., U] ~ (of sth) (formal) a large quantity that is more than enough\n IDIOMS \n  in abundance in large quantities:\nFruit and vegetables grew in abundance on the island.


Words: abundant
Meaning:
adjective\n(formal) existing in large quantities; more than enough\nSYN PLENTIFUL:\nFish are abundant in the lake. * We have abundant evidence to prove his guilt.


Words: abundantly
Meaning:
adverb\n  1  ~ clear very clear:\nShe made her wishes abundantly clear.\n  2  in large quantities:\nCalcium is found most abundantly in milk.


Words: abuse
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun \n  1  [U, sing.] ~ (of sth) the use of sth in a way that is wrong or harmful:\nalcohol / drug / solvent abuse * He was arrested on charges of corruption and abuse of power. * The system of paying cash bonuses is open to abuse (= might be used in the wrong way). * What she did was an abuse of her position as manager.\n  2  [U, pl.] unfair, cruel or violent treatment of sb:\nchild abuse * sexual abuse * reported abuses by the secret police * She suffered years of physical abuse.\n  3  [U] rude and offensive remarks, usually made when sb is very angry:\nto scream / hurl / shout abuse * a stream / torrent of abuse * The man burst into a torrent of foul-mouthed racist abuse.\n    verb  [VN] \n  1  to make bad use of sth, or to use so much of sth that it harms your health:\nto abuse alcohol / drugs * He systematically abused his body with heroin and cocaine.\n  2  to use power or knowledge unfairly or wrongly:\nShe abused her position as principal by giving jobs to her friends. * He felt they had abused his trust by talking about him to the press (= deceived him, although he had trusted them).\n  3  to treat a person or an animal in a cruel or violent way, especially sexually:\nAll the children had been physically and emotionally abused. * He had abused his own daughter (= had sex with her). * The boy had been viciously assaulted and sexually abused.\n  4  to make rude or offensive remarks to or about sb:\nJournalists covering the case have been threatened and abused.\n    abuser noun:\na drug abuser * a child abuser


Words: abusive
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  (of speech or of a person) rude and offensive; criticizing rudely and unfairly:\nabusive language / remarks * He became abusive when he was drunk.\n  2  (of behaviour) involving violence:\nan abusive relationship\n    abusively adverb (rare)


Words: abut
Meaning:
verb\n(-tt-) ~ (on / onto sth) (formal) (of land or a building) to be next to sth or to have one side touching the side of sth:\n[V] His land abuts onto a road. [also VN]


Words: abysmal
Meaning:
adjective\nextremely bad or of a very low standard\nSYN TERRIBLE:\nHis manners are abysmal.\n    abysmally adverb


Words: abyss
Meaning:
noun\n[usually sing.] (formal or literary) a very deep wide space or hole that seems to have no bottom:\nAhead of them was a gaping abyss. * (figurative) an abyss of ignorance / despair / loneliness * They took a long look into the abyss before deciding whether to jump. * (figurative) The country is stepping back from the edge of an abyss.


Words: AC
Meaning:
abbreviation\n  1  (also ac, a / c) (especially AmE) AIR CONDITIONING\n  2  ALTERNATING CURRENT (an electric current that changes direction at regular intervals many times a second)\ncompare DC


Words: acacia
Meaning:
(also acacia tree) noun\na tree with yellow or white flowers. There are several types of acacia tree, some of which produce a sticky liquid used in making glue.


Words: academia
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the world of learning, teaching, research, etc. at universities, and the people involved in it:\nleading figures from academia and industry


Words: academic
Meaning:
adjective, noun \n    adjective\n  1  [usually before noun] connected with education, especially studying in schools and universities:\nThe students return in October for the start of the new academic year. * high / low academic standards * an academic career * The enrolment criteria are geographical rather than academic.\n  2  [usually before noun] involving a lot of reading and studying rather than practical or technical skills:\nacademic subjects / qualifications\n  3  good at subjects involving a lot of reading and studying:\nShe wasn’t very academic and hated school.\n  4  not connected to a real or practical situation and therefore not important:\nIt is a purely academic question. * The whole thing’s academic now-we can’t win anyway.\n    academically  adverb:\nYou have to do well academically to get into medical school. * He wasn’t very well qualified academically but had a lot of experience.\n    noun a person who teaches and/or does research at a university or college


Words: academy
Meaning:
(plural academies)\n  1  noun a school or college for special training:\nthe Royal Academy of Music * a police / military academy\n  2  (usually Academy) a type of official organization which aims to encourage and develop art, literature, science, etc:\nthe Royal Academy of Arts\n  3  a secondary school in Scotland or a private school in the US


Words: Academy Award
Meaning:
(also Oscar) noun\none of the awards given every year by the US Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences for achievement in the making of films/movies


Words: ACAS
Meaning:
abbreviation\n(in Britain) Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service. ACAS is an organization that helps employers and employees settle disagreements.


Words: accede
Meaning:
verb ~ (to sth) (formal)\n  1  to agree to a request, proposal, etc:\n[V] He acceded to demands for his resignation. * Japan had little choice but to accede. [also V speech]\n  2  [V] to achieve a high position, especially to become king or queen:\nQueen Victoria acceded to the throne in 1837.\nsee also ACCESSION


Words: accelerate
Meaning:
verb\n  1  to happen or to make sth happen faster or earlier than expected:\n[V] Inflation continues to accelerate. * [VN] Exposure to the sun can accelerate the ageing process.\n  2  [V] (of a vehicle or person) to start to go faster:\nThe runners accelerated smoothly around the bend. * The car accelerated to overtake me.\nOPP DECELERATE


Words: acceleration
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [U, sing.] ~ (in sth) an increase in how fast sth happens:\nan acceleration in the rate of economic growth\n  2  [U] the rate at which a vehicle increases speed:\na car with good acceleration * acceleration from 060 mph in 11.2 seconds\n  3  [U] (physics) the rate at which the VELOCITY (= speed in a particular direction) of an object changes:\nacceleration caused by gravity


Words: accelerator
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  (BrE) (also gas pedal AmE, BrE) the PEDAL in a car or other vehicle that you press with your foot to control the speed of the engine\n \n  2  (physics) a machine for making ELEMENTARY PARTICLES move at high speeds


Words: accent
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun \n  1  [C, U] a way of pronouncing the words of a language that shows which country or area a person comes from:\na northern / Dublin / Indian accent * a strong / broad Scottish accent (= one that is very noticeable) * She spoke English with a faint Dutch accent.\ncompare DIALECT\n  2  [sing.] a special importance that is given to sth:\nIn all our products the accent is on quality.\n  3  [C] the emphasis that you should give to part of a word when saying it:\nIn ’today’ the accent is on the second syllable.\n  4  [C] a mark on a letter to show that it should be pronounced in a particular way:\nCanape has an accent on the ’e’.\n    verb  [VN] (rare) to emphasize a part of sth:\nThe women accent their eyes with make-up.


Words: accented
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  spoken with a foreign accent:\nHe spoke heavily accented English.\n  2  (technical) spoken with particular emphasis:\naccented vowels / syllables\n  3  (technical) (of a letter of the alphabet) written or printed with a special mark on it to show it should be pronounced in a particular way:\naccented characters


Words: accentuate
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] to emphasize sth or make it more noticeable:\nHer short hair accentuated her huge eyes. * The fundamental patterns of inequality have remained and have been accentuated by the war.\n    accentuation  noun [U]


Words: accept
Meaning:
verb\n  offer / invitation\n  1  to take willingly sth that is offered; to say ’yes’ to an offer, invitation, etc:\n[V] He asked me to marry him and I accepted. * [VN] Please accept our sincere apologies. * Please accept this small token of my appreciation. * He is charged with accepting bribes from a firm of suppliers. * It was pouring with rain so I accepted his offer of a lift. * She’s decided not to accept the job. * She said she’d accept $15 for it.\n  receive as suitable\n  2  [VN] to receive sth as suitable or good enough:\nMy article has been accepted for publication. * This machine only accepts coins. * Will you accept a cheque?\n  agree\n  3  [VN] to agree to or approve of sth:\nThey accepted the court’s decision. * He accepted all the changes we proposed. * She won’t accept advice from anyone. * Everything about the child’s adoption was against accepted practice.\n  responsibility\n  4  [VN] to admit that you are responsible or to blame for sth:\nHe accepts full responsibility for what happened. * You have to accept the consequences of your actions.\n  believe\n  5  ~ sth (as sth) to believe that sth is true:\n[VN] I don’t accept his version of events. * Can we accept his account as the true version? * [V that] I am not prepared to accept that this decision is final. * I accept that this move will not be a popular one. * [VN that] It is generally accepted that people are motivated by success. * [VN to inf] The workforce is generally accepted to have the best conditions in Europe.\n HELP NOTE  This pattern is only used in the passive.\n  difficult situation\n  6  ~ sth (as sth) to continue in a difficult situation without complaining, because you realize that you cannot change it:\n[VN] You just have to accept the fact that we’re never going to be rich. * Nothing will change as long as the workers continue to accept these appalling conditions. * They accept the risks as part of the job. * [V that] He just refused to accept that his father was no longer there.\n  welcome\n  7  [VN] ~ sb (into sth) | ~ sb (as sth) to make sb feel welcome and part of a group:\nIt may take years to be completely accepted by the local community. * She had never been accepted into what was essentially a man’s world. * He never really accepted her as his own child.\n  allow sb to join\n  8  ~ sb (into sth) | ~ sb (as sth) to allow sb to join an organization, attend an institution, use a service, etc:\n[VN] The college he applied to has accepted him. * She was disappointed not to be accepted into the club. * The landlord was willing to accept us as tenants. * [VN to inf] She was accepted to study music.


Words: acceptable
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  agreed or approved of by most people in a society:\nChildren must learn socially acceptable behaviour.\n  2  ~ (to sb) that sb agrees is satisfactory or allowed:\nWe want a political solution that is acceptable to all parties. * For this course a pass in English at grade B is acceptable. * Air pollution in the city had reached four times the acceptable levels.\n  3  not very good but good enough:\nThe food was acceptable, but no more. -> ENOUGH\n    acceptability  noun [U]\n    acceptably  adverb


Words: acceptance
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [U, C] the act of accepting a gift, an invitation, an offer, etc:\nPlease confirm your acceptance of this offer in writing. * He made a short acceptance speech / speech of acceptance.\n  2  [U] the act of agreeing with sth and approving of it:\nThe new laws have gained widespread acceptance.\n  3  [U] the process of allowing sb to join sth or be a member of a group:\nYour acceptance into the insurance plan is guaranteed. * Social acceptance is important for most young people.\n  4  [U] willingness to accept an unpleasant or difficult situation:\nacceptance of death / suffering


Words: access
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun [U]\n  1  ~ (to sth) a way of entering or reaching a place:\nThe only access to the farmhouse is across the fields. * Disabled visitors are welcome; there is good wheelchair access to most facilities. * The police gained access through a broken window. * There is easy access by road.\n  2  ~ (to sth) the opportunity or right to use sth or to see sb/sth:\nStudents must have access to good resources. * You need a password to get access to the computer system. * access to confidential information * Journalists were denied access to the President. * Many divorced fathers only have access to their children at weekends (= they are allowed by law to see them only at weekends).\ncompare VISITATION\n    verb [VN] \n  1  (computing) to open a computer file in order to get or add information\n  2  (formal) to reach, enter or use sth:\nThe loft can be accessed by a ladder.


Words: access course
Meaning:
noun\n(BrE) a course of education that prepares students without the usual qualifications, in order that they can study at university or college:\nA popular weekly evening class is the Access Course, which is designed for those considering higher education. * an access course in science and technology


Words: access road
Meaning:
noun\na road used for driving into or out of a particular place:\nan access road to an industrial estate\ncompare SLIP ROAD


Words: access time
Meaning:
noun\n[U, C] (computing) the time taken to obtain data stored in a computer:\nan average access time of less than 100 milliseconds


Words: accessible
Meaning:
adjective ~ (to sb)\n  1  that can be reached, entered, used, seen, etc:\nThe remote desert area is accessible only by helicopter. * These documents are not accessible to the public.\n  2  easy to understand:\nHer poetry is always very accessible. * a programme making science more accessible to young people\n  3  (of a person) easy to talk to and get to know\nOPP INACCESSIBLE\n    accessibility  noun [U]


Words: accession
Meaning:
noun ~ (to sth)\n  1  [U] the act of becoming a ruler of a country:\nthe accession of Queen Victoria to the throne\nsee also ACCEDE\n  2  [U] the act of becoming part of an international organization:\nthe accession of new member states to the EU\n  3  [C] (technical) a thing that is added to a collection of objects, paintings, etc. in a library or museum


Words: accessory
Meaning:
noun, adjective \n    noun (plural accessories)\n  1  [usually pl.] an extra piece of equipment that is useful but not essential or that can be added to sth else as a decoration:\nbicycle accessories * a range of furnishings and accessories for the home\n  2  [usually pl.] a thing that you can wear or carry that matches your clothes, for example a belt or a bag:\nfashion accessories to dress up your wardrobe\n  3  ~ (to sth) (law) a person who helps sb to commit a crime or who knows about it and protects the person from the police:\nHe was charged with being an accessory to murder. * an accessory before / after the fact (= before / after the crime was committed)\n    adjective (technical) not the most important when compared to others:\nthe accessory muscles of respiration


Words: accident
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [C] an unpleasant event, especially in a vehicle, that happens unexpectedly and causes injury or damage:\na car / road / traffic accident * He was killed in an accident. * One in seven accidents is caused by sleepy drivers. * The accident happened at 3 p.m. * to have an accident * a serious / minor accident * a fatal accident (= in which sb is killed) * accidents in the home * a climbing / riding accident * (BrE) the hospital accident and emergency department * Take out accident insurance before you go on your trip. * I didn’t mean to break it-it was an accident.\n  2  [C, U] something that happens unexpectedly and is not planned in advance:\nTheir early arrival was just an accident. * It is no accident that men fill most of the top jobs in nursing. * an accident of birth / fate / history (= describing facts and events that are due to chance or circumstances)\n IDIOMS \n  accidents will happen people say accidents will happen to tell sb who has had an accident, for example breaking sth, that it does not matter and they should not worry\n  by accident in a way that is not planned or organized:\nWe met by accident at the airport. * Helen got into acting purely by accident.\nmore at CHAPTER, WAIT v.


Words: accident and emergency
Meaning:
(BrE) (abbreviation A & E) (AmE emergency room) noun\nthe part of a hospital where people who need urgent treatment are taken\nsee also CASUALTY


Words: accident-prone
Meaning:
adjective\nmore likely to have accidents than other people:\nShe was the most accident-prone of the four children.


Words: accidental
Meaning:
adjective\nhappening by chance; not planned:\na verdict of accidental death * I didn’t think our meeting was accidental-he must have known I would be there.\n    accidentally  adverb:\nAs I turned around, I accidentally hit him in the face. * The damage couldn’t have been caused accidentally.


Words: acclaim
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb [VN] [usually passive] ~ sb/sth (as sth) to praise or welcome sb/sth publicly:\na highly / widely acclaimed performance * The work was acclaimed as a masterpiece.\n    noun [U] praise and approval for sb/sth, especially an artistic achievement:\ninternational / popular acclaim * The book received great critical acclaim.


Words: acclamation
Meaning:
noun [U]\n  1  (formal) loud and enthusiastic approval or welcome\n  2  (technical) the act of electing sb using a spoken not written vote:\nThe decision was taken by acclamation.


Words: acclimatize
Meaning:
(BrE also acclimatise)  verb\n~ (yourself) (to sth) to get used to a new place, situation or climate:\n[V] Arrive two days early in order to acclimatize. * It takes many months to acclimatize to life in the tropics. * [VN] She was fine once she had acclimatized herself to the cold.\n    acclimatization, acclimatisation  noun [U]


Words: accommodate
Meaning:
verb\n  1  [VN] to provide sb with a room or place to sleep, live or sit:\nThe hotel can accommodate up to 500 guests. * The aircraft is capable of accommodating 28 passengers.\n  2  [VN] to provide enough space for sb/sth:\nOver 70 minutes of music can be accommodated on one CD. * The old town hall now accommodates a Folk Museum.\n  3  [VN] (formal) to consider sth, such as sb’s opinion or a fact, and be influenced by it when you are deciding what to do or explaining sth:\nOur proposal tries to accommodate the special needs of minority groups. * She modified her views so as to accommodate the objections of American feminists.\n  4  [VN] ~ sb (with sth) (formal) to help sb by doing what they want\nSYN OBLIGE:\nI have accommodated the press a great deal, giving numerous interviews. * I’m sure the bank will be able to accommodate you.\n  5  ~ to sth | ~ sth / yourself to sth (formal) to change your behaviour so that you can deal with a new situation better:\n[V] I quickly needed to accommodate to the new schedule. [also VN]


Words: accommodating
Meaning:
adjective\nwilling to help and do things for other people:\nThey are very accommodating to foreign visitors. * David was gentle, generous and accommodating to a fault.


Words: accommodation
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [U] (BrE) a place to live, work or stay in:\nrented / temporary / furnished accommodation * Hotel accommodation is included in the price of your holiday. * The building plans include much needed new office accommodation. * First-class accommodation is available on all flights.\n  2  (accommodations) [pl.] (AmE) somewhere to live or stay, often also providing food or other services:\nMore and more travelers are looking for bed and breakfast accommodations in private homes.\n  3  [C, U] (formal) a satisfactory agreement or arrangement between people or groups with different opinions; the process of reaching this agreement:\nThey were forced to reach an accommodation with the rebels. * The two countries should be persuaded to work towards some sort of mutual accommodation.


Words: accompaniment
Meaning:
noun ~ (to sth)\n  1  [C, U] music that is played to support singing or another instrument:\ntraditional songs with piano and flute accompaniment\n  2  [C] something that you eat, drink or use together with sth else:\nThese wines make a good accompaniment to most fish dishes.\n  3  [C] (formal) something that happens at the same time as another thing:\nHigh blood pressure is a common accompaniment to this disease.\n IDIOMS \n  to the accompaniment of sth\n1 while a musical instrument is being played:\nThey performed to the accompaniment of Spanish guitars.\n2 while sth else is happening:\nShe made her speech to the accompaniment of loud laughter.


Words: accompanist
Meaning:
noun\na person who plays a musical instrument, especially a piano, while sb else plays or sings the main part of the music


Words: accompany
Meaning:
verb (accompanies, accompanying, accompanied, accompanied) [VN] \n  1  (formal) to travel or go somewhere with sb:\nHis wife accompanied him on the trip. * I must ask you to accompany me to the police station. * Warships will accompany the convoy.\n  2  to happen or appear with sth else:\nstrong winds accompanied by heavy rain * Each pack contains a book and accompanying cassette. * Shouts of protest accompanied this announcement. * The text is accompanied by a series of stunning photographs.\n  3  ~ sb (at / on sth) to play a musical instrument, especially a piano, while sb else sings or plays the main tune:\nThe singer was accompanied on the piano by her sister.


Words: accomplish
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] to succeed in doing or completing sth \nSYN ACHIEVE:\nThe first part of the plan has been safely accomplished. * I don’t feel I’ve accomplished very much today. * That’s it. Mission accomplished (= we have done what we aimed to do).


Words: accomplished
Meaning:
adjective\nvery good at a particular thing; having a lot of skills:\nan accomplished artist / actor / chef * She was an elegant and accomplished woman.


Words: accomplishment
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [C] an impressive thing that is done or achieved after a lot of work:\nIt was one of the President’s greatest accomplishments. * The series of paintings is quite an accomplishment.\n  2  [C, U] a skill or special ability:\nDrawing and singing were among her many accomplishments. * a poet of rare accomplishment\n  3  [U] (formal) the successful completing of sth:\nMoney will be crucial to the accomplishment of our objectives.


Words: accord
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun a formal agreement between two organizations, countries, etc:\nThe two sides signed a peace accord last July.\n IDIOMS \n  in accord (with sth/sb) (formal) in agreement with:\nThis action would not be in accord with our policy. * Botanists are not in complete accord about how many species exist.\n  of your own accord without being asked, forced or helped:\nHe came back of his own accord. * The symptoms will clear up of their own accord after a few days.\n  with one accord (BrE, formal) if people do sth with one accord, they do it at the same time, because they agree with each other\n    verb (formal)\n  1  ~ sth to sb/sth | ~ sb/sth sth to give sb/sth authority, status or a particular type of treatment: [VN, VNN] Our society accords great importance to the family. * Our society accords the family great importance.\n  2  [V] ~ (with sth) to agree with or match sth:\nThese results accord closely with our predictions. * His views accord with public opinion. * We ensure that our goods accord with modern standards.


Words: accordance
Meaning:
noun\n IDIOMS \n  in accordance with sth (formal) according to a rule or the way that sb says that sth should be done:\nin accordance with legal requirements * We acted in accordance with my parents’ wishes.


Words: according to
Meaning:
preposition\n  1  as stated or reported by sb/sth:\nAccording to Mick, it’s a great movie. * You’ve been absent six times according to our records.\n  2  following or agreeing with sth:\nThe work was done according to her instructions. * Everything went according to plan. * The salary will be fixed according to qualifications and experience.


Words: accordingly
Meaning:
adverb\n  1  in a way that is appropriate to what has been done or said in a particular situation:\nWe have to discover his plans and act accordingly.\n  2  (used especially at the beginning of a sentence) for that reason; therefore:\nThe cost of materials rose sharply last year. Accordingly, we were forced to increase our prices.


Words: accordion
Meaning:
(BrE also piano accordion) noun\na musical instrument that you hold in both hands to produce sounds. You press the two ends together and pull them apart and press keys and buttons to produce the different notes.


Words: accost
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] (written) to go up to sb and speak to them, especially in a way that is rude or threatening:\nShe was accosted in the street by a complete stranger.


Words: account
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  at bank\n \n  1  (abbreviation a / c) an arrangement that sb has with a bank, etc. to keep money there, take some out, etc:\nI don’t have a bank account. * to have an account at / with a bank * to open / close an account * What’s your account number please? * I paid the cheque into my savings account. * a joint account (= one in the name of more than one person)\nsee also BUDGET ACCOUNT, CHECKING ACCOUNT, CURRENT ACCOUNT, DEPOSIT ACCOUNT\n \n  business records\n \n  2  [usually pl.] a written record of money that is owed to a business and of money that has been paid by it:\nto do the accounts * to keep the accounts up to date * the accounts department\nsee also EXPENSE ACCOUNT, PROFIT AND LOSS ACCOUNT\n  with shop / store\n  3  (BrE also credit account) (AmE also charge account) an arrangement with a shop/store or business to pay bills for goods or services at a later time, for example in regular amounts every month:\nPut it on my account please. * We have accounts with most of our suppliers.\n  regular customer\n  4  (business) a regular customer:\nThe advertising agency has lost several of its most important accounts.\n  computing\n  5  an arrangement that sb has with a company that allows them to use the Internet, send and receive messages by e-mail, etc:\nan Internet / e-mail account\n  description\n  6  a written or spoken description of sth that has happened:\nShe gave the police a full account of the incident. * The diaries contained detailed accounts of the writer’s experiences in China.\n  7  an explanation or a description of an idea, a theory or a process:\nthe Biblical account of the creation of the world\n IDIOMS \n  by / from all accounts according to what other people say:\nI’ve never been there, but it’s a lovely place, by all accounts.\n  by your own account according to what you say yourself:\nBy his own account he had an unhappy childhood.\n  give a good / poor account of yourself (BrE) to do sth or perform well or badly, especially in a contest:\nThe team gave a good account of themselves in the match on Saturday.\n  of no / little account (formal) not important:\nEmotional matters were of no account to them during the war.\n  on account if you buy sth or pay on account, you pay nothing or only a small amount immediately and the rest later\n  on sb’s account because of what you think sb wants:\nPlease don’t change your plans on my account.\n  on account of sth because of sth:\nShe retired early on account of ill health. * The marsh is an area of great scientific interest on account of its wild flowers.\n  on no account | not on any account (used to emphasize sth) not for any reason:\nOn no account should the house be left unlocked.\n  on your own account\n1 for yourself:\nIn 1992 Smith set up in business on his own account.\n2 because you want to and you have decided, not sb else:\nNo one sent me, I am here on my own account.\n  on this / that account (formal) because of the particular thing that has been mentioned:\nWeather conditions were poor, but he did not delay his departure on that account.\n  put / turn sth to good account (formal) to use sth in a good or helpful way:\nHe turned his artistic talents to good account by becoming a sculptor.\n  take account of sth | take sth into account to consider particular facts, circumstances, etc. when making a decision about sth:\nThe company takes account of environmental issues wherever possible. * Coursework is taken into account as well as exam results. * The defendant asked for a number of other offences to be taken into account.\nmore at BLOW n., CALL v., SETTLE v.\n    verb [usually passive] (formal) to have the opinion that sb/sth is a particular thing: [VN-ADJ] In English law a person is accounted innocent until they are proved guilty. * [VN-N] The event was accounted a success.\n IDIOMS \n  there’s no accounting for taste (saying) used to say how difficult it is to understand why sb likes sb/sth that you do not like at all:\nShe thinks he’s wonderful-oh well, there’s no accounting for taste.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  account for sth\n1 to be the explanation or cause of sth:\nThe poor weather may have accounted for the small crowd. * Oh well, that accounts for it (= I understand now why it happened).\n2 to give an explanation of sth:\nHow do you account for the show’s success? * He was unable to account for the error.\n3 to be a particular amount or part of sth:\nThe Japanese market accounts for 35% of the company’s revenue.\n  account for sb/sth\n1 to know where sb/sth is or what has happened to them, especially after an accident:\nAll passengers have now been accounted for. * Three files cannot be accounted for.\n2 (informal) to defeat or destroy sb/sth:\nOur anti-aircraft guns accounted for five enemy bombers.\n  account for sth (to sb) to give a satisfactory record of how the money in your care has been spent:\nWe have to account for every penny we spend on business trips.


Words: accountable
Meaning:
adjective\n[not usually before noun] ~ (to sb) (for sth) responsible for your decisions or actions and expected to explain them when you are asked:\nPoliticians are ultimately accountable to the voters. * Someone must be held accountable for the killings. * The state spends taxpayers’ money and should be held accountable.\n    accountability noun [U]:\nproposals for greater police accountability * the accountability of a company’s directors to the shareholders


Words: accoutrements
Meaning:
noun\n[pl.] (formal or humorous) pieces of equipment that you need for a particular activity:\nThere was the waiting surgeon, green-gowned nurses and all the alarming accoutrements of modern medicine.


Words: accredit
Meaning:
verb [VN] \n  1  [usually passive] ~ sth to sb | ~ sb with sth (formal) to believe that sb is responsible for doing or saying sth:\nThe discovery of distillation is usually accredited to the Arabs of the 11th century. * The Arabs are usually accredited with the discovery of distillation. * She is accredited with having first introduced the word into the language.\n  2  [usually passive] ~ sb to ... (technical) to choose sb for an official position, especially as an AMBASSADOR:\nHe was accredited to Madrid.


Words: accreditation
Meaning:
noun\n[U] official approval given by an organization stating that sb/sth has achieved a required standard:\nHe carried a letter of accreditation. * The Accreditation of Prior Learning scheme allows work experience to be added towards qualifications.


Words: accredited
Meaning:
adjective [usually before noun]\n  1  (of a person) officially recognized as sth; with official permission to be sth:\nour accredited representative * Only accredited journalists were allowed entry.\n  2  officially approved as being of an accepted quality or standard:\na fully accredited school / university / course


Words: accretion
Meaning:
noun (technical or formal)\n  1  [C] a layer of a substance that is slowly added to sth\n  2  [U] the process of new layers being slowly added to sth:\nthe accretion of sand by wind action


Words: accrue
Meaning:
verb (formal)\n  1  [V] ~ (to sb) (from sth) to increase over a period of time:\neconomic benefits accruing to the country from tourism * Interest will accrue if you keep your money in a savings account.\n  2  [VN] to allow a sum of money or debts to grow over a period of time\nSYN ACCUMULATE:\nThe firm had accrued debts of over $6m.


Words: accumulate
Meaning:
verb\n  1  [VN] to gradually get more and more of sth over a period of time:\nI seem to have accumulated a lot of books. * By investing wisely she accumulated a fortune. * We have accumulated a great amount of evidence.\n  2  [V] to gradually increase in number or quality over a period of time\nSYN BUILD UP:\nDebts began to accumulate. * Dust and dirt soon accumulate if a house is not cleaned regularly.\n    accumulation  noun [U, C]:\nthe accumulation of wealth * an accumulation of toxic chemicals


Words: accuracy
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the state of being exact or correct; the ability to do sth skilfully without making mistakes:\nThey questioned the accuracy of the information in the file. * Candidates are judged on technical accuracy as well as artistic expression. * She hits the ball with great accuracy.\nOPP INACCURACY


Words: accurate
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  correct and true in every detail:\nan accurate description / account / calculation * accurate information / data * Accurate records must be kept. * The police are trying to obtain a more accurate picture of crime levels.\n  2  able to give completely correct information or to do sth in an exact way:\na highly accurate electronic compass * accurate to within 3 mm * My watch is not very accurate. * Scientists have found a more accurate way of dating cave paintings.\n  3  an accurate throw, shot, weapon, etc. hits or reaches the thing that it was aimed at\nOPP INACCURATE\n    accurately adverb:\nThe article accurately reflects public opinion. * You need to hit the ball accurately.


Words: accursed
Meaning:
adjective\n(old-fashioned) having a CURSE (= a bad magic SPELL) on it:\nan accursed house * His line would be accursed to the last generation.


Words: accusation
Meaning:
noun\n[C, U] ~ (of sth) (against sb) | ~ (that ...) a statement saying that you think a person is guilty of doing sth wrong, especially of committing a crime; the fact of ACCUSING sb:\naccusations of corruption / cruelty / racism * I don’t want to make an accusation until I have some proof. * No one believed her wild accusations against her husband. * He denied the accusation that he had ignored the problems. * There was a hint of accusation in her voice.


Words: accusative
Meaning:
noun\n(grammar) (in some languages) the form of a noun, a pronoun or an adjective when it is the DIRECT OBJECT of a verb, or connected with the DIRECT OBJECT:\nIn the sentence, ’I saw him today’, the word ’him’ is in the accusative.\ncompare DATIVE, GENITIVE, NOMINATIVE, VOCATIVE\n    accusative adjective:\nThe accusative forms of the pronouns ’I’, ’he’, ’she’ and ’we’ are ’me’, ’her’, ’him’ and ’us’.


Words: accusatory
Meaning:
adjective\n(formal) suggesting that you think sb has done sth wrong:\nHe pointed an accusatory finger in her direction.


Words: accuse
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] ~ sb (of sth) to say that sb has done sth wrong or is guilty of sth:\nto accuse sb of murder / theft * She accused him of lying. * The government was accused of incompetence. * (formal) They stand accused of crimes against humanity.\n    accuser noun\n______________________________\n WORD FAMILY \naccuse v.\naccusation n.\naccusing adj.\naccusatory adj.\naccused n.\n______________________________


Words: accusing
Meaning:
adjective\nshowing that you think sb has done sth wrong:\nan accusing look / finger / tone * Her accusing eyes were fixed on him. * The report points an accusing finger at the insurance industry.\n    accusingly adverb:\n’Edward!’ she said accusingly.


Words: accustom
Meaning:
verb\n\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  accustom yourself / sb to sth to make yourself/sb familiar with sth or become used to it:\nIt took him a while to accustom himself to the idea. * She quickly accustomed herself to the darkness. * Education should accustom children to thinking for themselves.


Words: accustomed
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  ~ to sth / to doing sth familiar with sth and accepting it as normal or usual:\nto become / get accustomed to sth * My eyes slowly grew accustomed to the dark. * She was a person accustomed to having eight hours’ sleep a night. * This was not the kind of behaviour I was accustomed to.\n  2  [usually before noun] (formal) usual:\nHe took his accustomed seat by the fire.\nOPP UNACCUSTOMED


Words: ace
Meaning:
noun, adjective \n    noun\n\n \n  1  a playing card with a large single symbol on it, which has either the highest or the lowest value in a particular card game:\nthe ace of spades / hearts / diamonds / clubs\n \n  2  (informal) a person who is very good at doing sth:\na soccer / tennis / flying ace * an ace pilot / marksman\n \n  3  (in tennis) a SERVE (= the first hit) that is so good that your opponent cannot reach the ball:\nHe served 20 aces in the match.\n \n IDIOMS \n  an ace up your sleeve (BrE) (AmE an ace in the hole) (informal) a secret advantage, for example a piece of information or a skill, that you are ready to use if you need to\n  hold all the aces to have all the advantages in a situation:\nThe union soon realized that the management held all the aces.\n  play your ace to use your best argument, etc. in order to get an advantage in a situation\n  within an ace of sth / of doing sth (BrE) very close to sth:\nWe came within an ace of victory.\n    adjective (informal) very good:\nWe had an ace time.


Words: acerbic
Meaning:
adjective\n(formal) (of a person or what they say) critical in a direct and rather cruel way:\nThe letter was written in her usual acerbic style.\n    acerbity  noun [U] (rare)


Words: acetate
Meaning:
noun [U]\n  1  a chemical compound made from acetic acid, used in making plastics, etc.\n  2  a type of smooth artificial fabric


Words: acetone
Meaning:
noun\n[U] a colourless liquid with a strong smell used for cleaning things, making paint thinner and producing various chemicals


Words: acetylene
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (Symbol C2H2) a gas that burns with a very hot bright flame, used for cutting or joining metal


Words: ache
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb\n  1  [V] to feel a continuous dull pain:\nI’m aching all over. * Her eyes ached from lack of sleep. * (figurative) It makes my heart ache (= it makes me sad) to see her suffer.\n  2  ~ for sb/sth (written) to have a strong desire for sb/sth or to do sth\nSYN LONG:\n[V] I was aching for home. * [V to inf] He ached to see her.\n    noun (often in compounds) a continuous feeling of pain in a part of the body:\nMummy, I’ve got a tummy ache. * Muscular aches and pains can be soothed by a relaxing massage. * (figurative) an ache in my heart (= a continuous sad feeling)\nsee also BELLYACHE, HEARTACHE\n    achy adjective (informal):\nI felt hot and achy all over.


Words: achieve
Meaning:
verb\n  1  [VN] to succeed in reaching a particular goal, status or standard, especially by making an effort for a long time:\nHe had finally achieved success. * They could not achieve their target of less than 3% inflation.\n  2  [VN] to succeed in doing sth or causing sth to happen\nSYN ACCOMPLISH:\nI haven’t achieved very much today. * All you’ve achieved is to upset my parents.\n  3  [V] to be successful:\nTheir background gives them little chance of achieving at school.\n    achievable adjective:\nProfits of $20m look achievable. * achievable goals\nOPP UNACHIEVABLE


Words: achievement
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [C] a thing that sb has done successfully, especially using their own effort and skill:\nthe greatest scientific achievement of the decade * It was a remarkable achievement for such a young player. * They were proud of their children’s achievements.\n  2  [U] the act or process of achieving sth:\nthe need to raise standards of achievement in education * Even a small success gives you a sense of achievement (= a feeling of pride).


Words: Achilles tendon
Meaning:
(also Achilles) noun\nthe TENDON that connects the muscles at the back of the lower part of the leg to the heel


Words: Achilles’ heel
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] a weak point or fault in sb’s character, which can be attacked by other people:\nThe desire for publicity became her Achilles’ heel. * The enemy had an Achilles’ heel somewhere, if only he could find it.\n ORIGIN  Named after the Greek hero Achilles. When he was a small child, his mother dipped him into the river Styx, which made him invulnerable (= he could not be injured). She held him by his heel, which therefore was not touched by the water. Achilles died after being wounded by an arrow in the heel.


Words: acid
Meaning:
noun, adjective \n    noun\n  1  [U, C] (chemistry) a chemical compound, usually a liquid, that contains HYDROGEN and has a PH of less than seven. The HYDROGEN can be replaced by a metal to form a SALT. Acids are usually sour and can often burn holes in or damage things they touch.\ncompare ALKALI\nsee also ACETIC ACID, AMINO ACID, CITRIC ACID, HYDROCHLORIC ACID, LACTIC ACID, NITRIC ACID, NUCLEIC ACID, SULPHURIC ACID\n  2  [U] (slang) = LSD\n    adjective\n  1  (technical) that contains acid or has the essential characteristics of an acid; that has a PH of less than seven:\nRye is tolerant of poor, acid soils.\ncompare ALKALINE\n  2  that has a bitter sharp taste\nSYN SOUR:\nacid fruit\n  3  (written) (of a person’s remarks) critical and unkind\nSYN SARCASTIC:\nan acid wit


Words: acid house
Meaning:
noun\n[U] a type of electronic music with a strong steady beat, often played at parties where some people take harmful drugs


Words: acid rain
Meaning:
noun\n[U] rain that contains harmful chemicals from factory gases and that damages trees, crops and buildings:\nSulphur, falling as acid rain, is killing fish in the Great Lakes.


Words: acid test
Meaning:
(also litmus test especially in AmE) noun\n[sing.] a way of deciding whether sth is successful or true:\nThe acid test of a good driver is whether he or she remains calm in an emergency.


Words: acidify
Meaning:
verb\n(acidifies, acidifying, acidified, acidified) [V, VN] (technical) to become or make sth become an acid\n    acidification noun [U]


Words: acknowledge
Meaning:
verb\n  admit\n  1  to accept that sth is true:\n[VN] She refuses to acknowledge the need for reform. * Are you prepared to acknowledge your responsibility? * a generally acknowledged fact * [V that] I did not acknowledge that he had done anything wrong. * [VN to inf] It is generally acknowledged to be true. [also V -ing]\n  accept status\n  2  ~ sb/sth (as sth) to accept that sb/sth has a particular authority or status \nSYN RECOGNIZE:\n[VN] The country acknowledged his claim to the throne. * [VN, VN to inf] He is widely acknowledged as the best player in the world. * He is widely acknowledged to be the best player in the world.\n  reply to letter\n  3  [VN] to tell sb that you have received sth that they sent to you:\nAll applications will be acknowledged. * Please acknowledge receipt of this letter.\n  smile / wave\n  4  [VN] to show that you have noticed sb/sth by smiling, waving, etc:\nI was standing right next to her, but she didn’t even acknowledge me. * He waved, acknowledging the applause.\n  express thanks\n  5  [VN] to publicly express thanks for help you have been given:\nI gratefully acknowledge financial support from several local businesses. * He is always ready to acknowledge his debt to his teachers.


Words: acknowledgement
Meaning:
(also acknowledgment)  noun\n  1  [sing., U] an act of accepting that sth exists or is true, or that sth is there:\nThis report is an acknowledgement of the size of the problem. * She gave me a smile of acknowledgement (= showed that she had seen and recognized me). * There is acknowledgement on his part that he was to blame.\n  2  [C, U] an act or a statement expressing thanks to sb; something that is given to sb as thanks:\nI was sent a free copy in acknowledgement of my contribution. * The flowers were a small acknowledgement of your kindness.\n  3  [C] a letter saying that sth has been received:\nI didn’t receive an acknowledgement of my application.\n  4  [C, usually pl.] a statement, especially at the beginning of a book, in which the writer expresses thanks to the people who have helped:\na page of acknowledgements


Words: acme
Meaning:
noun\n[usually sing.] (formal) the highest stage of development or the most excellent example of sth:\nthe acme of engineering achievement


Words: acne
Meaning:
noun\n[U] a skin condition, common among young people, that produces many PIMPLES (= spots), especially on the face and neck:\nto suffer from / have acne


Words: acolyte
Meaning:
noun\n  1  (formal) a person who follows and helps a leader:\nthe Emperor’s faithful acolytes\n  2  (technical) a person who helps a priest in some church ceremonies


Words: aconite
Meaning:
noun\n[C, U] a wild plant with yellow or blue flowers and a poisonous root that is sometimes used to make drugs


Words: acoustic
Meaning:
1  related to sound or to the sense of hearing\n  2  [usually before noun] (of a musical instrument) designed to make natural sound, not sound produced by electrical equipment\n    acoustically adverb


Words: acoustics
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [pl.] (also acoustic [sing.]) the shape, design, etc. of a room or theatre that make it good or bad for carrying sound:\nThe acoustics of the new concert hall are excellent.\n  2  [U] the scientific study of sound


Words: acquaint
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] ~ sb / yourself with sth (formal) to make sb/yourself familiar with or aware of sth:\nPlease acquaint me with the facts of the case. * You will first need to acquaint yourself with the filing system.


Words: acquaintance
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [C] a person that you know but who is not a close friend:\nClaire has a wide circle of friends and acquaintances. * He’s just a business acquaintance. * I bumped into an old acquaintance on the train.\n  2  [U, C] ~ (with sb) (formal) slight friendship:\nHe hoped their acquaintance would develop further.\n  3  [U, C] ~ with sth (formal) knowledge of sth:\nI had little acquaintance with modern poetry.\n IDIOMS \n  make sb’s acquaintance | make the acquaintance of sb (formal) to meet sb for the first time:\nI am delighted to make your acquaintance, Mrs Baker. * I made the acquaintance of several musicians around that time.\n  of your acquaintance (formal) that you know:\nNo one else of my acquaintance was as rich or successful.\n  on first acquaintance (formal) when you first meet sb:\nEven on first acquaintance it was clear that he was not ’the right type’.\nmore at NOD v.


Words: acquaintanceship
Meaning:
noun\n[U, C, usually sing.] (formal) a slight friendship with sb or knowledge of sth:\nIt was unfair to judge her on such a brief acquaintanceship.


Words: acquainted
Meaning:
adjective [not before noun]\n  1  ~ with sth (formal) familiar with sth, having read, seen or experienced it:\nThe students are already acquainted with the work of Shakespeare. * Employees should be fully acquainted with emergency procedures.\n  2  ~ (with sb) not close friends with sb, but having met a few times before:\nI am well acquainted with her family. * We got acquainted at the conference (= met and started to get to know each other).


Words: acquiesce
Meaning:
verb\n[V] ~ (in sth) (formal) to accept sth without arguing, even if you do not really agree with it:\nSenior government figures must have acquiesced in the cover-up. * She explained her plan and reluctantly he acquiesced.


Words: acquiescence
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (formal) the fact of being willing to do what sb wants and to accept their opinions, even if you are not sure that they are right:\nThere was general acquiescence in the UN sanctions.\n    acquiescent  adjective:\nThe peasants proved more acquiescent than had been expected.


Words: acquire
Meaning:
verb [VN] (formal)\n  1  to gain sth by your own efforts, ability or behaviour:\nShe has acquired a good knowledge of English. * How long will it take to acquire the necessary skills? * He has acquired a reputation for dishonesty. * I have recently acquired a taste for olives.\n  2  to obtain sth by buying or being given it:\nThe company has just acquired new premises. * How did the gallery come to acquire so many Picassos? * I’ve suddenly acquired a stepbrother.\n IDIOMS \n  an acquired taste a thing that you do not like much at first but gradually learn to like:\nAbstract art is an acquired taste.


Words: acquisition
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [U] the act of getting sth, especially knowledge, a skill, etc:\ntheories of child language acquisition\n  2  [C] something that sb buys to add to what they already own, usually sth valuable:\nHis latest acquisition is a racehorse. * The money will be spent on acquisitions for the university library.\n  3  [C, U] (business) a company, piece of land, etc. bought by sb, especially another company; the act of buying it:\nThey have made acquisitions in several EU countries. * the acquisition of shares by employees * The group has announced its first overseas acquisition: a successful software company.


Words: acquisitive
Meaning:
adjective\n(formal, disapproving) wanting very much to buy or get new possessions:\nthe post-war acquisitive society * It is an acquisitive company looking for ways to expand.\n    acquisitiveness noun [U]:\nWe rejected the acquisitiveness of our parents’ generation.


Words: acquit
Meaning:
verb (-tt-) [VN] \n  1  ~ sb (of sth) to decide and state officially in a court of law that sb is not guilty of a crime:\nThe jury acquitted him of murder. * Both defendants were acquitted. * She was acquitted on all charges. * He was acquitted on the grounds of insufficient evidence.\nOPP CONVICT\n  2  ~ yourself well, badly, etc. (formal) to perform or behave well, badly, etc:\nHe acquitted himself brilliantly in the exams.


Words: acquittal
Meaning:
noun\n[C, U] an official decision in a court of law that a person is not guilty of a crime:\nThe case resulted in an acquittal. * The jury voted for acquittal.


Words: acre
Meaning:
noun\na unit for measuring an area of land; 4 840 square YARDS or about 4 050 square metres:\n3 000 acres of parkland * a three-acre wood * (informal) Each house has acres of space around it (= a lot of space).


Words: acreage
Meaning:
noun\n[U, C] an area of land measured in acres:\nThe aim is to increase the forestry acreage by 60% by the end of the decade.


Words: acrid
Meaning:
adjective\nhaving a strong, bitter smell or taste that is unpleasant:\nacrid smoke from burning tyres * The fog was yellow and acrid and bit at the back of the throat.


Words: acrimonious
Meaning:
adjective\n(formal) (of an argument, etc.) angry and full of strong bitter feelings and words:\nHis parents went through an acrimonious divorce.\n    acrimoniously adverb:\nTalks broke down acrimoniously.


Words: acrobat
Meaning:
noun\nan entertainer who performs difficult acts such as balancing on high ropes, especially at a CIRCUS


Words: acrobatic
Meaning:
adjective\ninvolving or performing difficult acts or movements with the body:\nacrobatic feats * an acrobatic dancer


Words: acrobatics
Meaning:
noun\n[pl.] acrobatic acts and movements:\nacrobatics on the high wire * (figurative) vocal acrobatics (= performing skilfully with the voice when singing)


Words: acronym
Meaning:
noun\na word formed from the first letters of the words that make up the name of sth, for example ’Aids’ is an acronym for ’acquired immune deficiency syndrome’


Words: across
Meaning:
adverb, preposition \n    adverb\n HELP NOTE  For the special uses of across in phrasal verbs, look at the entries for the verbs. For example come across is in the phrasal verb section at come.\n  1  from one side to the other side:\nIt’s too wide. We can’t swim across. * The yard measures about 50 feet across.\n  2  in a particular direction towards or at sb/sth:\nWhen my name was called, he looked across at me.\n  3  (across from) opposite:\nThere’s a school just across from our house.\n  4  (of an answer in a CROSSWORD) written from side to side:\nI can’t do 3 across.\n    preposition\n\n \n  1  from one side to the other side of sth:\nHe walked across the field. * I drew a line across the page. * A grin spread across her face. * Where’s the nearest bridge across the river?\n \n  2  on the other side of sth:\nThere’s a bank right across the street.\n \n  3  on or over a part of the body:\nHe hit him across the face. * It’s too tight across the back.\n \n  4  in every part of a place, group of people, etc.\nSYN THROUGHOUT:\nHer family is scattered across the country. * This view is common across all sections of the community.


Words: acrostic
Meaning:
noun\na poem or other piece of writing in which particular letters in each line, usually the first letters, can be read downwards to form a word or words


Words: acrylic
Meaning:
adjective, noun \n    adjective made of a substance or fabric produced by chemical processes from a type of acid:\nacrylic paints / fibres * an acrylic sweater\n    noun\n  1  [U] a type of plastic or artificial fabric produced by chemical processes\n  2  [C, usually pl.] a type of paint used by artists


Words: ACT
Meaning:
abbreviation\nAmerican College Test (an exam that some high school students take before they go to college)


Words: act
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  sth that sb does\n  1  [C] a particular thing that sb does:\nan act of kindness / generosity * acts of terrorism * a serious criminal act * The murder was the act of a psychopath.\n  law\n  2  [C] a law that has been passed by a parliament:\nan Act of Congress * the Further and Higher Education Act 1992 * A Committee on Safety of Medicines was set up under the Act.\n  pretending\n  3  [sing.] a way of behaving that is not sincere but is intended to have a particular effect on others:\nDon’t take her seriously-it’s all an act. * You could tell she was just putting on an act.\n  in play / entertainment\n  4  [C] one of the main divisions of a play, an opera, etc:\na play in five acts * The hero dies in Act 5, Scene 3.\n  5  [C] one of several short pieces of entertainment in a show:\na circus / comedy / magic act\n  6  [C] a performer or group of musicians:\nOasis had a reputation as one of rock’s most impressive live acts.\n IDIOMS \n  act of God (law) an event caused by natural forces beyond human control, such as a storm, a flood or an earthquake\n  be / get in on the act (informal) to be/become involved in an activity that sb else has started, especially to get sth for yourself:\nNew companies want to get in on the act and provide cable services.\n  do, perform, stage a disappearing / vanishing act (informal) to go away or be impossible to find when people need or want you\n  get your act together (informal) to organize yourself and your activities in a more effective way in order to achieve sth:\nHe needs to get his act together if he’s going to pass.\n  in the act (of doing sth) while you are doing sth:\nHe was caught in the act of stealing a car. * It is often difficult to tell when someone is using drugs unless they are caught in the act.\nmore at CLEAN v., READ v.\n    verb\n  do sth\n  1  [V] to do sth for a particular purpose or in order to deal with a situation:\nIt is vital that we act to stop the destruction of the rainforests. * The girl’s life was saved because the doctors acted so promptly. * He claims he acted in self-defence.\n  behave\n  2  [V] to behave in a particular way:\nJohn’s been acting very strangely lately. * Stop acting like spoilt children! * She was acting as if she’d seen a ghost.\n HELP NOTE  In spoken English people often use like instead of as if or as though in this meaning, especially in AmE: She was acting like she’d seen a ghost. This is considered incorrect in written BrE.\n  pretend\n  3  to pretend by your behaviour to be a particular type of person:\n[V-N] He’s been acting the devoted husband all day. * [V-ADJ] I decided to act dumb. * He acts all macho, but he’s a real softie underneath.\n  perform in play / movie\n  4  to perform a part in a play or film/movie:\n[V] Have you ever acted? * Most of the cast act well. * [VN] Who’s acting (= taking the part of) Hamlet? * She is acting the role of Juliet. * The play was well acted.\n  perform function\n  5  [V] ~ as / like sth to perform a particular role or function:\nCan you act as interpreter? * A five-year sentence should act as a deterrent to others. * hormones in the brain that act like natural painkillers\n  have effect\n  6  [V] ~ (on sth) to have an effect on sth:\nAlcohol acts quickly on the brain. * It took a few minutes for the drug to act.\n IDIOMS  see AGE n., FOOL n., OWN v.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  act for / on behalf of sb to be employed to deal with sb’s affairs for them, for example by representing them in a court of law\n  act on / upon sth to take action as a result of advice, information, etc:\nActing on information from a member of the public, the police raided the club. * Why didn’t you act on her suggestion?\n  act sth<->out\n1 to perform a ceremony or show how sth happened, as if performing a play:\nThe ritual of the party conference is acted out in the same way every year. * The children started to act out the whole incident.\n2 to act a part in a real situation:\nShe acted out the role of the wronged lover.\n  act up (informal)\n1 to behave badly:\nThe kids started acting up.\n2 to not work as it should:\nHow long has your ankle been acting up?


Words: actate
Meaning:
verb\n[V] (technical) (of a woman or female animal) to produce milk from the breasts to feed a baby or young animal\n    lactation  noun [U]:\nthe period of lactation


Words: acting
Meaning:
noun, adjective \n    noun [U] the activity or profession of performing in plays, films/movies, etc:\nShe started her acting career while still at school.\n    adjective [only before noun] doing the work of another person for a short time:\nthe acting manager


Words: action
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  what sb does\n  1  [U] the process of doing sth in order to make sth happen or to deal with a situation:\nThe time has come for action if these beautiful animals are to survive. * Firefighters took action immediately to stop the blaze spreading. * What is the best course of action in the circumstances? * She began to explain her plan of action to the group.\nsee also DIRECT ACTION, INDUSTRIAL ACTION\n  2  [C] a thing that sb does:\nHer quick action saved the child’s life. * Each of us must take responsibility for our own actions.\n  legal process\n  3  [C, U] a legal process to stop a person or company from doing sth, or to make them pay for a mistake, etc:\nA libel action is being brought against the magazine that published the article. * He is considering taking legal action against the hospital.\n  in war\n  4  [U] fighting in a battle or war:\nmilitary action * soldiers killed in action\n  in story / play\n  5  [U] the events in a story, play, etc:\nThe action takes place in France.\n  exciting events\n  6  [U] exciting events:\nI like films with plenty of action. * If you want to know where all the action is around here, just ask Jo. * New York is where the action is.\n  effect\n  7  [U] ~ of sth (on sth) the effect that one substance or chemical has on another:\nthe action of sunlight on the skin * The action of the rushing water cleans the gully.\n  of part of the body\n  8  [U, C] (technical) the way a part of the body moves or functions:\na study of the action of the liver\n  of machine\n  9  [sing.] the mechanism of a piano, gun, clock, etc. or the way the parts move\n IDIOMS \n  actions speak louder than words (saying) what a person actually does means more than what they say they will do\n  in action if sb/sth is in action, they are doing the activity or work that is typical for them:\nJust press the button to see your favourite character in action. * I’ve yet to see all the players in action.\n  into action if you put an idea or a plan into action, you start making it happen or work:\nThe new plan for traffic control is being put into action on an experimental basis.\n  out of action not able to work or be used because of injury or damage:\nJon is out of action for weeks with a broken leg. * The photocopier is out of action today.\n  a piece / slice of the action (informal) a share or role in an interesting or exciting activity, especially in order to make money:\nForeign firms will all want a piece of the action if the new airport goes ahead.\nmore at EVASIVE, SPRING v., SWING v.\n    verb [VN] to take appropriate steps to make sure that sth is done or dealt with:\nYour request will be actioned.


Words: action group
Meaning:
noun\n(often as part of a name) a group that is formed to work for social or political change:\nthe Child Poverty Action Group


Words: action replay
Meaning:
noun (BrE)\n  1  (AmE instant replay) part of sth, for example a football game on television, that is immediately repeated, often more slowly, so that you can see a goal or another exciting or important moment again\n  2  an event or a situation that repeats sth that has happened before:\nIt was an action replay of the problems of his first marriage.


Words: actionable
Meaning:
adjective\ngiving sb a valid reason to bring a case in a court of law:\nOur lawyer advised us that the breach of contract was actionable.


Words: activate
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] to make sth such as a device or chemical process start working:\nThe burglar alarm is activated by movement. * The gene is activated by a specific protein.\n    activation  noun [U]


Words: active
Meaning:
adjective, noun \n    adjective\n  busy\n  1  always busy doing things, especially physical activities:\nAlthough he’s nearly 80, he is still very active. * Before our modern age, people had a more physical and active lifestyle.\n  taking part\n  2  involved in sth; making a determined effort and not leaving sth to happen by itself:\nThey were both politically active. * active involvement / participation / support / resistance * She takes an active part in school life. * The parents were active in campaigning against cuts to the education budget. * They took active steps to prevent the spread of the disease.\n  doing an activity\n  3  doing sth regularly; functioning:\nsexually active teenagers * animals that are active only at night * The virus is still active in the blood. * an active volcano (= likely to ERUPT)\n  lively\n  4  lively and full of ideas:\nThat child has a very active imagination.\n  chemical\n  5  having or causing a chemical effect:\nWhat is the active ingredient in aspirin?\n  grammar\n  6  connected with a verb whose subject is the person or thing that performs the action:\nIn ’He was driving the car’, the verb is active.\ncompare PASSIVE\n    actively adverb:\nYour proposal is being actively considered. * She was actively looking for a job.\n    noun (also active voice) [sing.] the form of a verb in which the subject is the person or thing that performs the action:\nIn ’She drove the car’, ’she’ is the subject and the verb ’drove’ is in the active.\ncompare PASSIVE


Words: active service
Meaning:
(AmE also active duty) noun\n[U] the work of a member of the armed forces, especially during a war:\ntroops on active service


Words: activist
Meaning:
noun\na person who works to achieve political or social change, especially as a member of an organization with particular aims:\ngay activists\n    activism  noun [U]


Words: activity
Meaning:
noun (plural activities)\n  1  [U] a situation in which sth is happening or a lot of things are being done:\neconomic activity * The streets were noisy and full of activity. * Muscles contract and relax during physical activity.\ncompare INACTIVITY\n  2  [C, often pl.] a thing that you do for interest or pleasure, or in order to achieve a particular aim:\nleisure / outdoor / classroom activities * The club provides a wide variety of activities including tennis, swimming and squash. * illegal / criminal activities


Words: actor
Meaning:
noun\na person who performs on the stage, on television or in films/movies, especially as a profession


Words: actress
Meaning:
noun\na woman who performs on the stage, on television or in films/movies, especially as a profession\n HELP NOTE  Many women now prefer to be called actors, although when the context is not clear, an actor is usually understood to refer to a man.


Words: actual
Meaning:
adjective [only before noun]\n  1  used to emphasize sth that is real or exists in fact:\nWhat were his actual words? * The actual cost was much higher than we had expected. * James looks younger than his wife but in actual fact (= really) he is several years older.\n  2  used to emphasize the most important part of sth:\nThe wedding preparations take weeks but the actual ceremony takes less than an hour.\n______________________________\n WHICH WORD? \nactual / current / present\nActual does not mean current or present.It means ’real’ or ’exact’ : I need the actual figures, not an estimate.\nPresent - ’existing or happening now ’: How long have you been in your present job?\nCurrent also means ’existing or happening now’, but can suggest that the situation is temporary: The factory cannot continue its current level of production.\nActually does not mean ’at the present time’. Use currently, at present or at the moment instead.\n-> note at PRESENTLY\n______________________________


Words: actuality
Meaning:
noun (plural actualities) (formal)\n  1  [U] the state of sth existing in reality:\nThe building looked as impressive in actuality as it did in photographs.\n  2  [C, usually pl.] things that exist; facts:\nthe grim actualities of prison life


Words: actually
Meaning:
adverb\n  1  used in speaking to emphasize a fact or a comment, or that sth is really true:\nWell, what did she actually say? * It’s not actually raining at the moment. * That’s the only reason I’m actually going. * There are lots of people there who can actually help you. * I didn’t want to say anything without actually reading the letter first.\n  2  used to show a contrast between what is true and what sb believes, and to show surprise about this contrast:\nIt was actually quite fun after all. * The food was not actually all that expensive. * Our turnover actually increased last year.\n  3  used to correct sb in a polite way:\nWe’re not American, actually. We’re Canadian. * Actually, it would be much more sensible to do it later. * They’re not married, actually.\n  4  used to get sb’s attention, to introduce a new topic or to say sth that sb may not like, in a polite way:\nActually, I’ll be a bit late home. * Actually, I’m busy at the moment-can I call you back? -> ACTUAL


Words: actuary
Meaning:
noun\n(plural actuaries) a person whose job involves calculating insurance risks and payments for insurance companies by studying how frequently accidents, fires, deaths, etc. happen\n    actuarial  adjective


Words: actuate
Meaning:
verb [VN] (formal)\n  1  to make a machine or device start to work\nSYN ACTIVATE:\nThe timer must have been actuated by radio control.\n  2  [usually passive] to make sb behave in a particular way\nSYN MOTIVATE:\nHe was actuated entirely by malice.


Words: acumen
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the ability to understand and judge things quickly and clearly:\nbusiness / commercial / financial acumen


Words: acupressure
Meaning:
(also shiatsu) noun\n[U] a form of medical treatment, originally from Japan, in which pressure is applied to particular parts of the body using the fingers


Words: acupuncture
Meaning:
noun\n[U] a Chinese method of treating pain and illness using special thin needles which are pushed into the skin in particular parts of the body


Words: acute
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  very serious or severe:\nThere is an acute shortage of water. * acute pain * the world’s acute environmental problems * Competition for jobs is acute. * The scandal was an acute embarrassment for the President.\n  2  an acute illness is one that has quickly become severe and dangerous:\nacute appendicitis\ncompare CHRONIC\n  3  (of the senses) very sensitive and well developed:\nDogs have an acute sense of smell.\n  4  intelligent and quick to notice and understand things:\nHe is an acute observer of the social scene. * Her judgement is acute.\n  5  (geometry) (of an angle) less than 90ｰ\n    acuteness noun [U] (rare)


Words: acute accent
Meaning:
noun\nthe mark placed over a vowel to show how it should be pronounced, as over the e in fiance\ncompare CIRCUMFLEX, GRAVE, TILDE, UMLAUT


Words: acutely
Meaning:
adverb\n  1  ~ aware / conscious noticing or feeling sth very strongly:\nI am acutely aware of the difficulties we face.\n  2  (describing unpleasant feelings) very; very strongly:\nacutely embarrassed


Words: AD
Meaning:
(BrE) (AmE A.D.)  abbreviation\nused in the Christian CALENDAR to show a particular number of years since the year when Christ was believed to have been born (from Latin ’Anno Domini’):\nin (the year) AD 55 * in 55 AD * in the fifth century AD\ncompare BC, BCE, CE


Words: ad hoc
Meaning:
adjective\n(from Latin) arranged or happening when necessary and not planned in advance:\nan ad hoc meeting to deal with the problem * The meetings will be held on an ad hoc basis.\n    ad hoc adverb


Words: ad infinitum
Meaning:
adverb\n(from Latin) without ever coming to an end; again and again:\nYou cannot stay here ad infinitum without paying rent. * The problem would be repeated ad infinitum.


Words: ad nauseam
Meaning:
adverb\n(from Latin) if a person says or does sth ad nauseam, they say or do it again and again so that it becomes boring or annoying:\nTelevision sports commentators repeat the same phrases ad nauseam.


Words: adage
Meaning:
noun\na well-known phrase expressing a general truth about people or the world:\nAccording to the old adage, a picture is worth a thousand words.


Words: adagio
Meaning:
noun\n(plural adagios) (music) a piece of music to be played in a slow and graceful manner\n    adagio adjective, adverb


Words: Adam’s apple
Meaning:
noun\nthe lump at the front of the throat that sticks out, particularly in men, and moves up and down when you swallow


Words: adamant
Meaning:
adjective\ndetermined not to change your mind or to be persuaded about sth:\nEva was adamant that she would not come.\n    adamantly adverb:\nHis family were adamantly opposed to the marriage.


Words: adapt
Meaning:
verb\n  1  [VN] ~ sth (for sth) to change sth in order to make it suitable for a new use or situation\nSYN MODIFY:\nMost of these tools have been specially adapted for use by disabled people. * These styles can be adapted to suit individual tastes.\n  2  ~ (yourself) (to sth) to change your behaviour in order to deal more successfully with a new situation\nSYN ADJUST:\n[V] We have had to adapt quickly to the new system. * A large organization can be slow to adapt to change. * The organisms were forced to adapt in order to survive. * It’s amazing how soon you adapt. * [VN] It took him a while to adapt himself to his new surroundings.\n  3  [VN] ~ sth (for sth) (from sth) to change a book or play so that it can be made into a play, film/movie, television programme, etc:\nThree of her novels have been adapted for television.


Words: adaptable
Meaning:
adjective\n(approving) able to change or be changed in order to deal successfully with new situations:\nOlder workers can be as adaptable and quick to learn as anyone else. * Successful businesses are highly adaptable to economic change.\n    adaptability  noun [U]


Words: adaptation
Meaning:
(also less frequent adaption) noun\n  1  [C] a film/movie, book or play that is based on a particular piece of work but that has been changed for a new situation:\na screen adaptation of Shakespeare’s ’Macbeth’\n  2  [U] the process of changing sth, for example your behaviour, to suit a new situation:\nthe adaptation of desert species to the hot conditions


Words: adaptive
Meaning:
adjective\n(technical) concerned with changing; able to change when necessary in order to deal with different situations


Words: adaptor
Meaning:
(also adapter)  noun\n  1  a device for connecting pieces of electrical equipment that were not designed to fit together\n  2  a device for connecting more than one piece of equipment to the same SOCKET (= a place in the wall where equipment is connected to the electricity supply)


Words: add
Meaning:
verb\n  1  [VN] ~ sth (to sth) to put sth together with sth else so as to increase the size, number, amount, etc:\nA new wing was added to the building. * Shall I add your name to the list? * Next add the flour. * The juice contains no added sugar. * Chlorine is added to the water to kill bacteria. * The plan has the added (= extra) advantage of bringing employment to rural areas.\n  2  [VN] ~ A to B | ~ A and B (together) to put numbers or amounts together to get a total:\nAdd 9 to the total. * If you add all these amounts together you get a huge figure.\nOPP SUBTRACT\n  3  ~ sth (to sth) to say sth more; to make a further remark:\n[VN] I have nothing to add to my earlier statement. * [V speech] ’And don’t be late,’ she added. * [V that] He added that they would return a week later.\n  4  [VN] ~ sth (to sth) to give a particular quality to an event, a situation, etc:\nThe suite will add a touch of class to your bedroom.\n IDIOMS \n  add fuel to the fire / flames to do or say sth that makes a bad situation even worse, especially by making sb more angry\n  add insult to injury to make your relationship with sb even worse by offending them as well as actually harming them\n  added to this ... | add to this ... used to introduce another fact that helps to emphasize a point you have already made:\nAdd to this the excellent service and you can see why it’s the most popular hotel on the island.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  add sth<->in to include sth with sth else:\nRemember to add in the cost of drinks.\n  add sth<->on (to sth) to include or attach sth extra:\nA service charge of 15% was added on to the bill.\nrelated noun ADD-ON\n  add to sth to increase sth in size, number, amount, etc:\nThe bad weather only added to our difficulties. * The house has been added to (= new rooms, etc. have been built on to it) from time to time.\n  add up (informal)\n1 (especially in negative sentences) to seem reasonable; to make sense:\nHis story just doesn’t add up.\n2 (not used in the progressive tenses) to increase by small amounts until there is a large total:\nWhen you’re feeding a family of six the bills soon add up.\n  add up | add sth<->up to calculate the total of two or more numbers or amounts:\nThe waiter can’t add up. * Add up all the money I owe you.\n  add up to sth\n1 to make a total amount of sth:\nThe numbers add up to exactly 100.\n2 to lead to a particular result; to show sth:\nThese clues don’t really add up to very much (= give us very little information).


Words: add-on
Meaning:
noun\na thing that is added to sth else:\nThe company offers scuba-diving as an add-on to the basic holiday price. * add-on software (= added to a computer)


Words: addendum
Meaning:
noun\n(plural addenda ) (formal) a section of extra information that is added to sth, especially to a book


Words: adder
Meaning:
noun\na small poisonous snake, often with diamond-shaped marks on its back. Adders are the only poisonous snakes in Britain.


Words: addict
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a person who is unable to stop taking harmful drugs:\na heroin / drug / nicotine addict * the treatment and rehabilitation of addicts\n  2  a person who is very interested in sth and spends a lot of their free time on it:\na video game addict


Words: addicted
Meaning:
adjective [not before noun] ~ (to sth)\n  1  unable to stop taking harmful drugs, or using or doing sth as a habit:\nto become addicted to drugs / alcohol / gambling * It did not take James very long to get addicted.\n  2  spending all your free time doing sth because you are so interested in it:\nHer son is addicted to computer games.


Words: addiction
Meaning:
noun\n[U, C] ~ (to sth) the condition of being addicted to sth:\ncocaine addiction * He is now fighting his addiction to alcohol. * an addiction to TV game shows


Words: addictive
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  if a drug is addictive, it makes people unable to stop taking it:\nHeroin is highly addictive. * Marijuana is said to be psychologically though not physically addictive.\n  2  if an activity or type of behaviour is addictive, people need to do it as often as possible because they enjoy it:\nI find jogging very addictive. * Some people have an addictive personality.


Words: addition
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [U] the process of adding two or more numbers together to find their total:\nchildren learning addition and subtraction\nOPP SUBTRACTION\n  2  [C] ~ (to sth) a thing that is added to sth else:\nthe latest addition to our range of cars * an addition to the family (= another child) * (AmE) to build a new addition onto a house * last minute additions to the government’s package of proposals\n  3  [U] ~ (of sth) the act of adding sth to sth else:\nPasta’s basic ingredients are flour and water, sometimes with the addition of eggs or oil.\n IDIOMS \n  in addition (to sb/sth) used when you want to mention another person or thing after sth else:\nIn addition to these arrangements, extra ambulances will be on duty until midnight. * There is, in addition, one further point to make.


Words: additional
Meaning:
adjective\nextra; more than was first mentioned or is usual:\nadditional resources / funds / security * The government is providing an additional ｣25 million to expand the service.\n    additionally  adverb (written):\nAdditionally, the bus service will run on Sundays, every two hours.


Words: additive
Meaning:
noun\na substance that is added in small amounts to sth, especially food, in order to improve it, give it colour, make it last longer, etc:\nFood additives can cause allergies. * The classification of additives by ’E’ number is made under an EC directive. * additive-free orange juice * chemical additives in petrol


Words: addled
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  confused; unable to think clearly:\nhis addled brain\n  2  (of an egg) not fresh; bad to eat


Words: address
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n \n \n  1  [C] details of where sb lives or works and where letters, etc. can be sent:\nWhat’s your name and address? * I’ll give you my address and telephone number. * Is that your home address? * an address book (= that you write addresses and phone numbers in) * an e-mail address * Please note my change of address. * Police found him at an address (= a house or flat / apartment) in West London. * people of no fixed address (= with no permanent home)\nsee also FORWARDING ADDRESS\n \n  2  [C] a formal speech that is made in front of an audience:\ntonight’s televised presidential address\n \n  3  [U] form / mode of ~ the correct title, etc. to use when you talk to sb\n    verb  [VN] \n  1  [usually passive] ~ sth (to sb/sth) to write on an envelope, etc. the name and address of the person, company, etc. that you are sending it to by mail:\nThe letter was correctly addressed, but delivered to the wrong house. * Address your application to the Personnel Manager.\nsee also SAE, SASE\n  2  to make a formal speech to a group of people:\nto address a meeting / rally / conference * The President has been asked to address the assembly.\n  3  ~ sb | ~ sth to sb (formal) to say sth directly to sb:\nI was surprised when he addressed me in English. * Any questions should be addressed to your teacher. * The book is addressed to the general reader.\n  4  ~ sb (as sth) to use a particular name or title for sb when you speak or write to them:\nThere are different ways in which to address a member of the royal family. * The judge should be addressed as ’Your Honour’. * In Britain, a surgeon is addressed as ’Mr’ not ’Dr’.\n  5  ~ (yourself to) sth (formal) to think about a problem or a situation and decide how you are going to deal with it:\nYour essay does not address the real issues. * We must address ourselves to the problem of traffic pollution.


Words: adduce
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] [often passive] (formal) to provide evidence, reasons, facts, etc. in order to explain sth or to show that sth is true:\nSeveral factors have been adduced to explain the fall in the birth rate. * The defending lawyer was able to adduce evidence of his client’s innocence.


Words: adenoids
Meaning:
noun\n[pl.] pieces of soft tissue at the back of the nose and throat that can swell up and cause breathing difficulties, especially in children\n    adenoidal  adjective [only before noun]:\nan adenoidal voice (= one that sounds as though you are talking through your nose, caused by adenoids)


Words: adept
Meaning:
adjective\n(written) ~ (at / in sth) | ~ (at / in doing sth) good at doing sth that is quite difficult:\nHe became adept at getting even the shyest students to talk.\n    adept  noun\n    adeptly adverb


Words: adequate
Meaning:
adjective\n~ (for sth) | ~ (to do sth) enough in quantity, or good enough in quality, for a particular purpose or need:\nan adequate supply of hot water * The room was small but adequate. * The space available is not adequate for our needs. * There is a lack of adequate provision for disabled students. * He didn’t give an adequate answer to the question. * training that is adequate to meet the future needs of industry\nOPP INADEQUATE -> ENOUGH\n    adequacy  noun [U]:\nThe adequacy of the security arrangements has been questioned.\n    adequately adverb:\nAre you adequately insured?


Words: adhere
Meaning:
verb\n[V] ~ (to sth) (formal) to stick firmly to sth:\nOnce in the bloodstream, the bacteria adhere to the surface of the red cells. * Clean the surface first, or the paint will not adhere. * There was oil adhering to the bird’s feathers.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  adhere to sth (formal) to behave according to a particular law, rule, set of instructions, etc.; to follow a particular set of beliefs or a fixed way of doing sth:\nFor ten months he adhered to a strict no-fat low-salt diet. * She adheres to teaching methods she learned over 30 years ago. * Staff should adhere strictly to the safety guidelines. * The diet will work if it is adhered to.


Words: adherence
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the fact of behaving according to a particular rule, etc., or of following a particular set of beliefs, or a fixed way of doing sth:\nstrict adherence to the rules


Words: adhesive
Meaning:
noun, adjective \n    noun [C, U] a substance that you use to make things stick together:\nUse a good waterproof adhesive in addition to the screws.\n    adjective\n that can stick to sth:\nadhesive tape\nsee also SELF-ADHESIVE


Words: adjacent
Meaning:
adjective\n~ (to sth) (of an area, a building, a room, etc.) situated next to or near sth:\nThe planes landed on adjacent runways. * Our farm land was adjacent to the river.


Words: adjective
Meaning:
noun\n(grammar) a word that describes a person or thing, for example big, red and clever in a big house, red wine and a clever idea:\n’Reliable’ is not an adjective that could be applied to my car.\n    adjectival  adjective:\nan adjectival phrase\n    adjectivally  adverb:\nIn ’bread knife’, the word ’bread’ is used adjectivally.


Words: adjoin
Meaning:
verb\n(written) to be next to or joined to sth:\n[VN] A barn adjoins the farmhouse. [also V]\n    adjoining adjective [usually before noun]:\nThey stayed in adjoining rooms. * We’ll have more space if we knock down the adjoining wall (= the wall between two rooms).


Words: adjourn
Meaning:
verb\n[often passive] to stop a meeting or an official process for a period of time, especially in a court of law:\n[V] The court adjourned for lunch. * [VN] The trial has been adjourned until next week. * The chairman may adjourn the meeting at any time.\n    adjournment noun [C, U]:\nThe judge granted us a short adjournment.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  adjourn to ... (formal or humorous) to go to another room or place, especially in order to relax:\nI suggest we adjourn to the bar for a drink.


Words: adjudge
Meaning:
verb\n[usually passive] (formal) to make a decision about sb/sth based on the facts that are available:\n[VN-ADJ] The company was adjudged bankrupt. * [VN-N] The tour was adjudged a great success. * [VN to inf] The reforms were generally adjudged to have failed.\n HELP NOTE  This pattern is only used in the passive.


Words: adjudicate
Meaning:
verb\n  1  ~ (on / upon / in sth) | ~ (between A and B) to make an official decision about who is right in a disagreement between two groups or organizations:\n[V] A special subcommittee adjudicates on planning applications. * [VN] Their purpose is to adjudicate disputes between employers and employees.\n  2  [V] to be a judge in a competition:\nWho is adjudicating at this year’s contest?\n    adjudication  noun [U, C]:\nThe case was referred to a higher court for adjudication. * The adjudication will be published tomorrow.\n    adjudicator noun:\nYou may refer your complaint to an independent adjudicator. * The adjudicators praised the high standard of all the entries.


Words: adjunct
Meaning:
noun\n  1  (grammar) an adverb or a phrase that adds meaning to the verb in a sentence or part of a sentence:\nIn ’She went home yesterday’ and ’He ran away in a panic’, ’yesterday’ and ’in a panic’ are adjuncts.\n  2  (formal) a thing that is added or attached to sth larger or more important:\nThe memory expansion cards are useful adjuncts to the computer.


Words: adjust
Meaning:
verb\n \n  1  [VN] ~ sth (to sth) to change sth slightly to make it more suitable for a new set of conditions or to make it work better:\nWatch out for sharp bends and adjust your speed accordingly. * This button is for adjusting the volume. * Adjust your language to the age of your audience. * The brakes need to be adjusted.\n \n  2  ~ (to sth / to doing sth) | ~ (yourself to sth) to get used to a new situation by changing the way you behave and/or think:\n[V] It took her a while to adjust to living alone after the divorce. * It can be difficult to adjust to being a parent. * It took several seconds for his eyes to adjust to the dark. * They’ll be fine-they just need time to adjust. * [VN] You’ll quickly adjust yourself to student life. * My eyes were still trying to adjust themselves to the strong sunlight.\n \n  3  [VN] to move sth slightly so that it looks neater or feels more comfortable:\nHe smoothed his hair and adjusted his tie.\nsee also WELL ADJUSTED


Words: adjustable
Meaning:
adjective\nthat can be moved to different positions or changed in shape or size:\nadjustable seat belts * The height of the bicycle seat is adjustable.


Words: adjustable spanner
Meaning:
(BrE) (also monkey wrench AmE, BrE) noun\na tool that can be adjusted to hold and turn things of different widths\ncompare SPANNER, WRENCH


Words: adjustment
Meaning:
noun [C, U]\n  1  a small change made to sth in order to correct or improve it:\nI’ve made a few adjustments to the design. * Some adjustment of the lens may be necessary.\n  2  a change in the way a person behaves or thinks:\nShe went through a period of emotional adjustment after her marriage broke up.


Words: adlib
Meaning:
verb\n(-bb-) to say sth in a speech or a performance that you have not prepared or practised\nSYN IMPROVISE:\n[V] The pair have often been known to abandon their script and begin ad libbing. * [VN] I lost my notes and had to ad lib the whole speech. * He ad libbed his way through the meeting.\n    ad lib noun:\nThe speech was full of ad libs and witty asides.\n    ad lib adjective:\nan ad lib speech\n    ad lib adverb:\nShe delivered her lines ad lib.


Words: administer
Meaning:
verb [VN] \n  1  [often passive] to manage and organize the affairs of a company, an organization, a country, etc.\nSYN MANAGE:\nto administer a charity / fund / school * the high cost of administering medical services * The pension funds are administered by commercial banks.\n  2  to make sure that sth is done fairly and in the correct way:\nto administer justice / the law * The questionnaire was administered by trained interviewers.\n  3  ~ sth (to sb) (formal) to give or to provide sth, especially in a formal way:\nThe teacher has the authority to administer punishment. * A taxi driver administered first aid to the victims. * The priest was called to administer the last rites.\n  4  [often passive] ~ sth (to sb) (formal) to give drugs, medicine, etc. to sb:\nThe dose was administered to the child intravenously. * Police believe his wife could not have administered the poison.\n  5  ~ a kick, a punch, etc. (to sb/sth) (formal) to kick or to hit sb/sth:\nHe administered a severe blow to his opponent’s head.


Words: administration
Meaning:
noun\n  1  (also BrE informal admin) [U] the activities that are done in order to plan, organize and run a business, school or other institution:\nAdministration costs are passed on to the customer. * the day-to-day administration of a company * I work in the Sales Administration department.\n  2  [U] the process or act of organizing the way that sth is done:\nthe administration of justice\n  3  [C] the people who plan, organize and run a business, institution, etc:\nuniversity administrations\n  4  (often Administration) [C] the government of a country, especially the US:\nThis happened frequently during the Nixon Administration. * Successive administrations have failed to solve the country’s economic problems.\n  5  [U] (formal) the act of giving a drug to sb:\nthe administration of antibiotics


Words: administrative
Meaning:
adjective\nconnected with organizing the work of a business or an institution:\nan administrative job / assistant / error\n    administratively adverb


Words: administrator
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a person whose job is to manage and organize the public or business affairs of a company or an institution:\na hospital administrator\n  2  a person who is good at organizing things:\nShe’s a brilliant organizer and administrator.


Words: admirable
Meaning:
adjective\n(formal) having qualities that you admire and respect:\nHer dedication to her work was admirable. * He made his points with admirable clarity.\n    admirably  adverb:\nJoe coped admirably with a difficult situation.


Words: admiral
Meaning:
noun\nan officer of very high rank in the navy:\nThe admiral visited the ships under his command. * Admiral Lord Nelson * Good morning, Admiral.\nsee also REAR ADMIRAL, RED ADMIRAL


Words: admiralty
Meaning:
noun\n(the Admiralty) [sing.+sing./pl. v.] (in Britain in the past) the government department controlling the navy


Words: admiration
Meaning:
noun\n[U] ~ (for sb/sth) a feeling of respect and liking for sb/sth:\nI have great admiration for her as a writer. * to watch / gaze in admiration


Words: admire
Meaning:
verb [VN] \n  1  ~ sb/sth (for sth) | ~ sb (for doing sth) to respect sb for what they are or for what they have done:\nI really admire your enthusiasm. * The school is widely admired for its excellent teaching. * You have to admire the way he handled the situation. * I don’t agree with her, but I admire her for sticking to her principles.\n  2  to look at sth and think that it is attractive and/or impressive:\nHe stood back to admire his handiwork. * I’ve just been admiring your new car. * Let’s just sit and admire the view.\n    admiring adjective:\nShe was used to receiving admiring glances from men.\n    admiringly adverb


Words: admirer
Meaning:
noun\n  1  ~ of sb/sth a person who admires sb/sth, especially a well-known person or thing:\nHe is a great admirer of Picasso’s early paintings.\n  2  a man who is attracted to a woman and admires her:\nShe never married but had many admirers.


Words: admissible
Meaning:
adjective\nthat can be allowed or accepted, especially in a court of law:\nPhotographs are usually admissible evidence provided it can be proved that they are authentic. * The claim was not admissible under the current policy.\nOPP INADMISSIBLE\n    admissibility  noun [U]


Words: admission
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [U, C] ~ (to sth) the act of accepting sb into an institution, organization, etc.; the right to enter a place or to join an institution or organization:\nHospital admission is not necessary in most cases. * Hospital admissions for asthma attacks have doubled. * countries applying for admission to the European Union * the university admissions policy / office * Last admissions to the park are at 4 p.m. * They tried to get into the club but were refused admission. * She failed to gain admission to the university of her choice. * Is there any charge for admission? * There was a steady decline in cinema admissions during the 1960s. -> ENTRANCE\n  2  [C] ~ (of sth) | ~ (that ...) a statement in which sb admits that sth is true, especially sth wrong or bad that they have done:\nan admission of guilt / failure / defeat * The minister’s resignation was an admission that she had lied. * He is a thief by his own admission (= he has admitted it).\n  3  [U] the amount of money that you pay to go into a building or to an event:\nadmission charges / prices * ｣5 admission * What’s the admission?


Words: admit
Meaning:
verb (-tt-)\n  accept truth\n  1  ~ (to sth / to doing sth) | ~ (to sb) (that ...) to agree, often unwillingly, that sth is true\nSYN CONFESS:\n[V] She admits to being strict with her children. * Don’t be afraid to admit to your mistakes. * It was a stupid thing to do, I admit. * [VN] He admitted all his mistakes. * She stubbornly refuses to admit the truth. * Why don’t you just admit defeat (= recognize that you cannot do sth) and let someone else try? * Admit it! You were terrified! * [V (that)] They freely admit (that) they still have a lot to learn. * I couldn’t admit to my parents that I was finding the course difficult. * You must admit that it all sounds very strange. * [VN that] It was generally admitted that the government had acted too quickly. * [V speech] ’I’m very nervous,’ she admitted reluctantly. * [VN to inf] The appointment is now generally admitted to have been a mistake.\n HELP NOTE  This pattern is only used in the passive.\n  accept blame\n  2  ~ (to sth / to doing sth) to say that you have done sth wrong or illegal\nSYN CONFESS:\n[V] She admitted to having stolen the car. * He refused to admit to the other charges. * [VN] She admitted theft. * He refused to admit his guilt. * [V -ing] She admitted having driven the car without insurance.\n  allow to enter / join\n  3  [VN] ~ sb/sth (to / into sth) to allow sb/sth to enter a place:\nEach ticket admits one adult and one child. * The narrow windows admit little light into the room. * You will not be admitted to the theatre after the performance has started.\n  4  [VN] ~ sb (to / into sth) to allow sb to become a member of a club, a school, or an organization:\nThe society admits all US citizens over 21. * Women were only admitted into the club last year.\n  to hospital\n  5  [VN] [often passive] ~ sb to / into a hospital, an institution, etc. to take sb to a hospital, or other institution where they can receive special care:\nTwo crash victims were admitted to the local hospital.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  admit of sth (formal) to show that sth is possible or probable as a solution, an explanation, etc.


Words: admittance
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (formal) the right to enter or the act of entering a building, an institution, etc:\nHundreds of people were unable to gain admittance to the hall. * He was refused admittance into the country.


Words: admittedly
Meaning:
adverb\nused, especially at the beginning of a sentence, when you are accepting that sth is true:\nAdmittedly, it is rather expensive but you don’t need to use much. * Admittedly, Venice wasn’t a very big place, but there was little chance of meeting her again accidentally.


Words: admonish
Meaning:
verb (formal)\n  1  ~ sb (for sth / for doing sth) to tell sb firmly that you do not approve of sth that they have done:\n[VN] She was admonished for chewing gum in class. [also V speech, VN speech]\n  2  to strongly advise sb to do sth:\n[VN to inf] A warning voice admonished him not to let this happen. [also V speech, VN speech]


Words: admonition
Meaning:
noun\n[C, U] (formal) a warning to sb about their behaviour:\nTo William he had written a letter full of the gravest admonitions, urging him to think carefully about what he was committing himself to.\n    admonitory  adjective:\nThe sergeant lifted an admonitory finger at us.


Words: ado
Meaning:
noun\n IDIOMS \n  without further / more ado (old-fashioned) without delaying; immediately:\nWe set to work without further ado.


Words: adobe
Meaning:
noun\n[U] mud that is dried in the sun, mixed with STRAW and used as a building material:\nadobe walls / houses / dwellings * The floors were bare adobe and the walls painted blue.


Words: adolescence
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the time in a person’s life when he or she develops from a child into an adult:\nAdolescence brings about major changes in a young person’s body.


Words: adolescent
Meaning:
noun\na young person who is developing from a child into an adult:\nadolescents between the ages of 13 and 18 and the problems they face\n    adolescent adjective:\nadolescent boys / girls / experiences


Words: adopt
Meaning:
verb\n  child\n  1  to take sb else’s child into your family and become its legal parent(s):\n[V] a campaign to encourage childless couples to adopt * [VN] to adopt a child * She was forced to have her baby adopted.\ncompare FOSTER\n  method\n  2  [VN] to start to use a particular method or to show a particular attitude towards sb/sth:\nAll three teams adopted different approaches to the problem.\n  suggestion\n  3  [VN] to formally accept a suggestion or policy by voting:\nto adopt a resolution * The council is expected to adopt the new policy at its next meeting.\n  new name / country\n  4  [VN] to choose a new name, a country, a custom, etc. and begin to use it as your own:\nto adopt a name / title / language * Early Christians in Europe adopted many of the practices of the older, pagan religions.\n  way of behaving\n  5  [VN] (formal) to use a particular manner, way of speaking, expression, etc:\nHe adopted an air of indifference.\n  candidate\n  6  [VN] ~ sb (as sth) (BrE, politics) to choose sb as a candidate in an election or as a representative:\nShe was adopted as parliamentary candidate for Wood Green.


Words: adopted
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  an adopted child has legally become part of a family which is not the one in which he or she was born:\nDanny is their adopted son.\n  2  an adopted country is one in which sb chooses to live although it is not the one they were born in


Words: adoption
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [C, U] the act of adopting a child:\nShe put the baby up for adoption.\n  2  [U] the decision to start using sth such as an idea, a plan or a name:\nthe adoption of new technology\n  3  [C, U] (BrE, politics) the act of choosing sb as a candidate for an election:\nhis adoption as the Labour candidate


Words: adoptive
Meaning:
adjective\n[usually before noun] an adoptive parent or family is one that has legally adopted a child:\nhis adoptive father


Words: adoration
Meaning:
noun\n[U] a feeling of great love or worship:\nHe gazed at her with pure adoration. * The painting is called ’Adoration of the Infant Christ’.


Words: adore
Meaning:
verb (not used in the progressive tenses)\n  1  [VN] to love sb very much:\nIt’s obvious that she adores him.\n  2  (informal) to like sth very much:\n[VN] I simply adore his music! * Don’t you just adore that dress! * [V -ing] She adores working with children.


Words: adoring
Meaning:
adjective\n[usually before noun] showing much love and admiration:\nher adoring grandmother * He waved to the adoring crowds.\n    adoringly adverb


Words: adorn
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] [often passive] ~ sth/sb (with sth) (formal) to make sth/sb look more attractive by decorating it or them with sth:\nThe walls were adorned with paintings. * The children adorned themselves with flowers. * Gold rings adorned his fingers. * (ironic) Graffiti adorned the walls.\n    adornment noun [U, C]:\nA plain necklace was her only adornment.


Words: adrenalin
Meaning:
noun\n[U] a substance produced in the body when you are excited, afraid or angry. It makes the heart beat faster and increases your energy and ability to move quickly:\nThe excitement at the start of a race can really get the adrenalin flowing. * a rush / surge of adrenalin * A shot of adrenalin was given as an antidote to the wasp sting.


Words: adrift
Meaning:
adjective [not before noun]\n  1  if a boat or a person in a boat is adrift, the boat is not tied to anything or is floating without being controlled by anyone:\nThe survivors were adrift in a lifeboat for six days.\n  2  (BrE) (of a person) feeling alone and without a direction or an aim in life:\nyoung people adrift in the big city\n  3  no longer attached or fixed in the right position:\nI nearly suffocated when the pipe on my breathing apparatus came adrift. * (figurative) She had been cut adrift from everything she had known. * (figurative) Our plans had gone badly adrift.\n  4  ~ (of sb/sth) (BrE) (in sport) behind the score or position of your opponents:\nThe team are now just six points adrift of the leaders.\n IDIOMS \n  cast / set sb adrift (usually passive) to leave sb to be carried away on a boat that is not being controlled by anyone: (figurative) Without language human beings are cast adrift.


Words: adroit
Meaning:
adjective\n(written) skilful and clever, especially in dealing with people:\nan adroit negotiator\n    adroitly adverb:\nHe adroitly avoided answering my questions.\n    adroitness noun [U]


Words: adulation
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (formal) admiration and praise, especially when this is greater than is necessary:\nThe band enjoy the adulation of their fans wherever they go.\n    adulatory  adjective


Words: adult
Meaning:
noun, adjective \n    noun\n  1  a fully grown person who is legally responsible for their actions:\nChildren must be accompanied by an adult. * Why can’t you two act like civilized adults?\n  2  a fully grown animal:\nThe fish return to the river as adults in order to breed.\n    adjective\n  1  fully grown or developed:\npreparing young people for adult life * the adult population * adult monkeys\n  2  behaving in an intelligent and responsible way; typical of what is expected of an adult:\nWhen my parents split up, it was all very adult and open.\n  3  [only before noun] intended for adults only, because it is about sex or contains violence:\nan adult movie\nsee also ADULTHOOD


Words: adult education
Meaning:
(also continuing education) noun\n[U] education for adults that is available outside the formal education system, for example at evening classes


Words: adulterate
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] [often passive] ~ sth (with sth) to make food or drink less pure by adding another substance to it:\nThe water supply had been adulterated with chemicals from the soil.\nsee also UNADULTERATED\n    adulteration  noun [U]


Words: adultery
Meaning:
noun\n[U] sex between a married person and sb who is not their husband or wife:\nShe suspected her husband had committed adultery.\n    adulterous  adjective:\nan adulterous relationship


Words: advance
Meaning:
noun, verb, adjective \n    noun\n  forward movement\n  1  [C] the forward movement of a group of people, especially armed forces:\nWe feared that an advance on the capital would soon follow. * enemy advances\n  development\n  2  [C, U] ~ (in sth) progress or a development in a particular activity or area of understanding:\nrecent advances in medical science * We live in an age of rapid technological advance. * major advances in the field of physics\n  money\n  3  [C, usually sing.] money paid for work before it has been done or money paid earlier than expected:\nThey offered an advance of ｣5 000 after the signing of the contract. * She asked for an advance on her salary. * The bank will give you an advance of 95% of the purchase price.\n  sexual\n  4  (advances) [pl.] attempts to start a sexual relationship with sb:\nHe had made advances to one of his students. * She rejected his sexual advances.\n  price increase\n  5  [C] ~ (on sth) an increase in the price or value of sth:\nShare prices showed significant advances today.\n IDIOMS \n  in advance (of sth)\n1 before the time that is expected; before sth happens:\na week / month / year in advance * The rent is due one month in advance. * It’s cheaper if you book the tickets in advance. * People were evacuated from the coastal regions in advance of the hurricane.\n2 more developed than sb/sth else:\nGalileo’s ideas were well in advance of the age in which he lived.\n    verb\n  move forward\n  1  [V] ~ (on / towards sb/sth) to move forward towards sb/sth, often in order to attack or threaten them or it:\nThe mob advanced on us, shouting angrily. * The troops were finally given the order to advance. * They had advanced 20 miles by nightfall. * the advancing Allied troops * She closed the door firmly and advanced towards the desk.\ncompare RETREAT\n  develop\n  2  if knowledge, technology, etc. advances, it develops and improves:\n[V] Our knowledge of the disease has advanced considerably over recent years. * [VN] This research has done much to advance our understanding of language learning.\n  help to succeed\n  3  [VN] to help sth to succeed\nSYN FURTHER:\nStudying for new qualifications is one way of advancing your career. * They worked together to advance the cause of democracy.\n  money\n  4  ~ sth (to sb) | ~ (sb) sth to give sb money before the time it would usually be paid: [VN, VNN] We are willing to advance the money to you. * We will advance you the money.\n  suggest\n  5  [VN] (formal) to suggest an idea, a theory, or a plan for other people to discuss\nSYN PUT FORWARD:\nThe article advances a new theory to explain changes in the climate.\n  make earlier\n  6  [VN] (formal) to change the time or date of an event so that it takes place earlier\nSYN BRING FORWARD:\nThe date of the trial has been advanced by one week.\nOPP POSTPONE\n  to later part\n  7  (formal) to move forward to a later part of sth; to move sth forward to a later part:\n[V] Users advance through the program by answering a series of questions. * [VN] This button advances the tape to the beginning of the next track.\n  increase\n  8  [V] (business) (of prices, costs, etc.) to increase in price or amount:\nInflation advanced sharply during the 1980s.\n    adjective [only before noun]\n  1  done or given before sth is going to happen:\nPlease give us advance warning of any changes to the schedule. * We need advance notice of the numbers involved. * No advance booking is necessary on most departures.\n  2  ~ party / team a group of people who go somewhere first, before the main group:\nThe advance party for a winter ascent of Mount Everest has arrived in Nepal.


Words: advanced
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  having the most modern and recently developed ideas, methods, etc:\nadvanced technology * advanced industrial societies * Sweden has a reputation for advanced and stylish design.\n  2  (of a course of study) at a high or difficult level:\nThere were only three of us on the advanced course. * an advanced student of English\n  3  at a late stage of development:\nthe advanced stages of the disease\n IDIOMS \n  of advanced years | sb’s advanced age used in polite expressions to describe sb as ’very old’:\nHe was a man of advanced years. * (humorous) Even at my advanced age I still know how to enjoy myself!


Words: advancement
Meaning:
noun (formal)\n  1  [U, C] the process of helping sth to make progress or succeed; the progress that is made:\nthe advancement of knowledge / education / science\n  2  [U] progress in a job, social class, etc:\nThere are good opportunities for advancement if you have the right skills.


Words: advancing
Meaning:
adjective\n~ years / age used as a polite way of referring to the fact of time passing and of sb growing older:\nShe is still very active, in spite of her advancing years.


Words: advantage
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun [C, U]\n  1  ~ (over sb) a thing that helps you to be better or more successful than other people:\na big / great / definite advantage * Being tall gave him an advantage over the other players. * an unfair advantage (= sth that benefits you, but not your opponents) * She had the advantage of a good education. * Is there any advantage in getting there early? * You will be at an advantage (= have an advantage) if you have thought about the interview questions in advance. * companies seeking competitive advantage over their trading rivals\n  2  a quality of sth that makes it better or more useful:\nA small car has the added advantage of being cheaper to run. * the advantages of living in a small town * Each of these systems has its advantages and disadvantages.\n  3  (in tennis) the first point scored after a score of 4040:\nAdvantage Henman.\n IDIOMS \n  be / work to your advantage to give you an advantage; to change a situation in a way that gives you an advantage:\nIt would be to your advantage to attend this meeting. * Eventually, the new regulations will work to our advantage.\n  take advantage of sth/sb\n1 to make use of sth well; to make use of an opportunity:\nWe took full advantage of the hotel facilities. * She took advantage of the children’s absence to tidy their rooms.\n2 to make use of sb/sth in a way that is unfair or dishonest:\nHe took advantage of my generosity (= for example, by taking more than I had intended to give).\n  to (good / best) advantage in a way that shows the best of sth:\nThe photograph showed him to advantage. * May was the month to see the garden to best advantage.\n  turn sth to your advantage to use or change a bad situation so that it helps you:\nEvery magician has a trick that goes wrong, but you can turn this to your advantage by pretending it was deliberate and making the audience laugh.\n    verb [VN] (formal) to put sb in a better position than other people or than they were in before


Words: advantaged
Meaning:
adjective\nbeing in a good social or financial situation:\nWe aim to improve opportunities for the less advantaged in society.\nOPP DISADVANTAGED


Words: advantageous
Meaning:
adjective\n~ (to sb) good or useful in a particular situation:\nA free trade agreement would be advantageous to both countries.\nOPP DISADVANTAGEOUS\n    advantageously adverb:\nHe rearranged his business affairs advantageously by investing his money overseas.


Words: advent
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [sing.] (the ~ of sth/sb) (written) the coming of an important event, person, invention, etc:\nthe advent of new technology\n  2  (Advent) [U] the period of four weeks before Christmas in the Christian religion


Words: Advent calendar
Meaning:
noun\na piece of stiff paper with a picture and 24 small doors with numbers on. Children open a door each day during Advent and find a picture or a piece of chocolate behind each one.


Words: adventure
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [C] an unusual, exciting or dangerous experience, journey or series of events:\nher adventures travelling in Africa * When you’re a child, life is one big adventure. * adventure stories * Popper described science as the greatest adventure in the world.\n  2  [U] excitement and the willingness to take risks, try new ideas, etc:\na sense / spirit of adventure * I set out across the country looking for adventure.


Words: adventurer
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a person who enjoys exciting new experiences, especially going to unusual places:\nHe’s a romantic at heart, a born adventurer.\n  2  (often disapproving) a person who is willing to take risks or act in a dishonest way in order to gain money or power


Words: adventurism
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (disapproving) a willingness to take risks in business or politics in order to gain sth for yourself:\nHe condemned what he saw as undisciplined adventurism.


Words: adventurous
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  (AmE also adventuresome) (of a person) willing to take risks and try new ideas; enjoying being in new, exciting situations:\nFor the more adventurous tourists, there are trips into the mountains with a local guide. * Many teachers would like to be more adventurous and creative.\n  2  including new and interesting things, methods and ideas:\nThe menu contained traditional favourites as well as more adventurous dishes. * an adventurous new production of the play\n  3  full of new, exciting or dangerous experiences:\nan adventurous trip / lifestyle * My interests include anything adventurous or challenging.\nOPP UNADVENTUROUS\n    adventurously adverb (rare)


Words: adverb
Meaning:
noun\n(grammar) a word that adds more information about place, time, manner, cause or degree to a verb, an adjective, a phrase or another adverb:\nIn ’speak kindly’, ’incredibly deep’, ’just in time’ and ’too quickly’, ’kindly’, ’incredibly’, ’just’ and ’too’ are all adverbs.\n    adverbial  adjective:\n’Very quickly indeed’ is an adverbial phrase.


Words: adverbial particle
Meaning:
noun\n(grammar) an adverb used especially after a verb to show position, direction of movement, etc:\nIn ’come back’, ’break down’ and ’fall off’, ’back’, ’down’ and ’off’ are all adverbial particles.


Words: adversarial
Meaning:
adjective\n(formal or technical) (especially of political or legal systems) involving people who are in opposition and who make attacks on each other:\nthe adversarial nature of the two-party system * an adversarial system of justice


Words: adversary
Meaning:
noun\n(plural adversaries) (formal) a person that sb is opposed to and competing with in an argument or a battle\nSYN OPPONENT:\nhis old political adversary


Words: adverse
Meaning:
adjective\n[usually before noun] negative and unpleasant; not likely to produce a good result:\nadverse change / circumstances / weather conditions * Lack of money will have an adverse effect on our research programme. * They have attracted strong adverse criticism. * This drug is known to have adverse side effects.\n    adversely adverb:\nHer health was adversely affected by the climate.


Words: adversity
Meaning:
noun\n[U, C] (plural adversities) (formal) a difficult or unpleasant situation:\ncourage in the face of adversity * He overcame many personal adversities.


Words: advertise
Meaning:
verb\n  1  ~ sth (as sth) to tell the public about a product or a service in order to encourage people to buy or to use it:\n[V] If you want to attract more customers, try advertising in the local paper. * [VN] to advertise a product / a business / your services * The cruise was advertised as the ’journey of a lifetime’. * I bought the camera and case as advertised in the catalogue.\n  2  ~ (for sb/sth) to let people know that sth is going to happen, or that a job is available by giving details about it in a newspaper, on a notice in a public place, etc:\n[V] We are currently advertising for a new sales manager. * [VN] We should have advertised the concert much more widely.\n  3  [VN] to show or tell sth about yourself to other people:\nIf I were you, I wouldn’t advertise the fact that you don’t have a work permit. * She coughed to advertise her presence.


Words: advertisement
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  [C] (also informal ad) (BrE also advert) ~ (for sth) a notice, picture or film telling people about a product, job or service:\nPut an advertisement in the local paper to sell your car.\nsee also CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS\n \n  2  [C] (BrE also advert) ~ for sth an example of sth that shows its good qualities:\nDirty streets and homelessness are no advertisement for a prosperous society.\n \n  3  [U] the act of advertising sth and making it public:\nWe are employing an assistant to help with the advertisement of the group’s activities.


Words: advertising
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the activity and industry of advertising things to people on television, in newspapers, etc:\nA good advertising campaign will increase our sales. * Cigarette advertising has been banned. * radio / TV advertising * Val works for an advertising agency (= a company that designs advertisements). * a career in advertising


Words: advice
Meaning:
noun\n[U] ~ (on sth) an opinion or a suggestion about what sb should do in a particular situation:\nadvice on road safety * They give advice for people with HIV and Aids. * You should follow your doctor’s advice. * We were advised to seek legal advice. * Let me give you a piece of advice. * A word of advice-don’t wear that dress. * Take my advice-don’t get married. * I did it on his advice.


Words: advisable
Meaning:
adjective\n[not usually before noun] ~ (to do sth) sensible and a good idea in order to achieve sth:\nEarly booking is advisable. * It is advisable to practise each exercise individually before doing the whole routine.\nOPP INADVISABLE\n    advisability  noun [U]


Words: advise
Meaning:
verb\n  1  ~ (sb) (against sth / against doing sth) to tell sb what you think they should do in a particular situation:\n[V] I would strongly advise against going out on your own. * [VN] Her mother was away and couldn’t advise her. * I’d advise extreme caution. * [VN to inf] Police are advising fans without tickets to stay away. * I’d advise you not to tell him. * [V that] They advise that a passport be carried with you at all times. * [VN that] It is strongly advised that you take out some form of medical insurance. * [V -ing] I’d advise buying your tickets well in advance if you want to travel in August. * [V speech, VN speech] ’Get there early,’ she advised (them).\nsee also ILL-ADVISED, WELL ADVISED\n  2  ~ (sb) on sth | ~ (sb) about sth / doing sth to give sb help and information on a subject that you know a lot about:\n[V] We employ an expert to advise on new technology. * [VN] She advises the government on environmental issues. * [V wh-] The pharmacist will advise which medicines are safe to take. * [VN wh-] Your lawyer can advise you whether to take any action.\n  3  ~ sb (of sth) (formal) to officially tell sb sth:\n[VN] Please advise us of any changes in your personal details. * [VN wh-] I will contact you later to advise you when to come. * [VN that] I regret to advise you that the course is now full.


Words: advisedly
Meaning:
adverb\n(formal) if you say that you are using a word advisedly, you mean that you have thought carefully before choosing it


Words: adviser
Meaning:
(also less frequent advisor)  noun\n~ (to sb) (on sth) a person who gives advice, especially sb who knows a lot about a particular subject:\na financial adviser * a special adviser to the President on foreign affairs


Words: advisory
Meaning:
adjective, noun \n    adjective having the role of giving professional advice:\nan advisory committee / body / service * the Careers Advisory Service * He acted in an advisory capacity only.\n    noun (plural advisories) (AmE) an official warning that sth bad is going to happen:\na tornado advisory


Words: advocacy
Meaning:
noun [U]\n  1  ~ (of sth) (formal) the giving of public support to an idea, a course of action or a belief:\nHe won the Peace Prize for his advocacy of non-violent protest.\n  2  (technical) the work of lawyers who speak about cases in courts of law


Words: advocate
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb  (formal) to support sth publicly\nSYN RECOMMEND:\n[VN] The group does not advocate the use of violence. * [V -ing] Many experts advocate rewarding your child for good behaviour. * [V that] The report advocated that all buildings be fitted with smoke detectors. * (BrE also) The report advocated that all buildings should be fitted with smoke detectors. [also VN -ing] \n    noun \n  1  ~ (of / for sth/sb) a person who supports or speaks in favour of sb or of a public plan or action:\nan advocate for hospital workers * a staunch advocate of free speech\nsee also DEVIL’S ADVOCATE\n  2  a person who defends sb in a court of law -> LAWYER


Words: adze
Meaning:
(BrE) (AmE adz)  noun\na heavy tool with a curved blade at RIGHT ANGLES to the handle, used for cutting or shaping large pieces of wood


Words: aegis
Meaning:
noun\n IDIOMS \n  under the aegis of sb/sth (formal) with the protection or support of a particular organization or person:\nMedical supplies are being sent under the aegis of the Red Cross.


Words: aeon
Meaning:
(BrE) (also eon AmE, BrE)  noun\n(formal) an extremely long period of time; thousands of years:\naeons of geological history * Only yesterday-and it seemed aeons ago, not just a few hours-he had been a happily married man.


Words: aerate
Meaning:
verb [VN] \n  1  to make it possible for air to become mixed with soil, water, etc:\nEarthworms do the important job of aerating the soil.\n  2  to add a gas, especially CARBON DIOXIDE, to a liquid under pressure:\naerated water\n    aeration  noun [U]


Words: aerial
Meaning:
noun, adjective \n    noun\n (BrE) (also antenna AmE, BrE) a piece of equipment made of wire or metal rods for receiving or sending radio and television signals:\na forest of television aerials on the roofs\n    adjective\n  1  from a plane:\naerial attacks / bombardment / photography * an aerial view of Palm Island * Not all patterns and marks seen on aerial photographs represent archaeological sites.\n  2  in the air; existing above the ground:\nThe banyan tree has aerial roots. * Bees have half a dozen aerial dances to indicate where to find nectar.


Words: aero-
Meaning:
combining form\n(in nouns, adjectives and adverbs) connected with air or aircraft:\naerodynamic * aerospace


Words: aerobatics
Meaning:
noun\n[pl.] exciting and skilful movements performed in aircraft, such as flying upside down, especially in front of an audience:\na spectacular display of aerobatics by the Red Arrows\n    aerobatic adjective:\nan aerobatic display


Words: aerobics
Meaning:
noun\n[U] physical exercises intended to strengthen the heart and lungs, often done in classes, with music:\nto do aerobics\n    aerobic adjective:\naerobic exercise


Words: aerodynamics
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [pl.] the qualities of an object that affect the way it moves through the air:\nResearch has focused on improving the car’s aerodynamics.\n  2  [U] the science that deals with how objects move through air\n    aerodynamic adjective:\nthe car’s aerodynamic shape (= making it able to move faster)


Words: aerogramme
Meaning:
(BrE) (AmE aerogram)  (also air letter) noun\na sheet of light paper that can be folded and sent by air as a letter


Words: aeronautics
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the science or practice of building and flying aircraft\n    aeronautical  adjective:\nan aeronautical engineer


Words: aeroplane
Meaning:
(BrE) (AmE airplane) (also plane BrE, AmE) noun\na flying vehicle with wings and one or more engines


Words: aerosol
Meaning:
noun\na metal container in which a liquid such as paint or HAIRSPRAY is kept under pressure and released as a spray:\nozone-friendly aerosols * an aerosol can / spray


Words: aerospace
Meaning:
noun\n(often used as an adjective) the industry of building aircraft and vehicles and equipment to be sent into space:\njobs in aerospace and defence * the aerospace industry


Words: aesthete
Meaning:
(AmE also esthete)  noun\n(formal, sometimes disapproving) a person who has a love and understanding of art and beautiful things


Words: aesthetic
Meaning:
(AmE also esthetic)  adjective, noun \n    adjective\n  1  concerned with beauty and art and the understanding of beautiful things:\nan aesthetic appreciation of the landscape * The benefits of conservation are both financial and aesthetic.\n  2  made in an artistic way and beautiful to look at:\nTheir furniture was more aesthetic than functional.\n    aesthetically (AmE also esthetically)  adverb:\naesthetically pleasing colour combinations\n    noun\n  1  [C] the aesthetic qualities and ideas of sth:\nThe students debated the aesthetic of the poems.\n  2  (aesthetics) [U] the branch of philosophy that studies the principles of beauty, especially in art\n    aestheticism (AmE also estheticism)  noun [U]


Words: afar
Meaning:
adverb\n IDIOMS \n  from afar (literary) from a long distance away:\nHe loved her from afar (= did not tell her he loved her). * Even from afar the castle was most impressive.


Words: affair
Meaning:
noun\n  public / political activities\n  1  (affairs) [pl.] events that are of public interest or political importance:\nworld / international / business affairs * an expert on foreign affairs (= political events in other countries) * affairs of state\nsee also CURRENT AFFAIRS\n  event\n  2  [C, usually sing.] an event that people are talking about or describing in a particular way:\nThe newspapers exaggerated the whole affair wildly. * The debate was a pretty disappointing affair. * She wanted the celebration to be a simple family affair. * the Whitewater affair\n  relationship\n  3  [C] a sexual relationship between two people, usually when one or both of them is married to sb else:\nShe is having an affair with her boss. * They had a passionate affair for six months.\nsee also LOVE AFFAIR\n  private business\n  4  (affairs) [pl.] matters connected with a person’s private business and financial situation:\nI looked after my father’s financial affairs.\n  5  [sing.] a thing that sb is responsible for (and that other people should not be concerned with):\nHow I spend my money is my affair.\n  object\n  6  [C] (old-fashioned) (with an adjective) an object that is unusual or difficult to describe:\nHer hat was an amazing affair with feathers and a huge brim.\n IDIOMS  see STATE n.


Words: affect
Meaning:
verb\n  1  [VN] [often passive] to produce a change in sb/sth\nSYN INFLUENCE:\nHow will these changes affect us? * Your opinion will not affect my decision. * The south of the country was worst affected by the drought.\n  2  [VN] [often passive] (of a disease) to attack sb or a part of the body; to make sb become ill/sick\nSYN AFFLICT:\nThe condition affects one in five women. * Rub the cream into the affected areas.\n  3  [VN] [often passive] to make sb have strong feelings of sadness, pity, etc.\nSYN TOUCH, MOVE:\nThey were deeply affected by the news of her death. * Try not to let his problems affect you too much.\n  4  (formal) to pretend to be feeling or thinking sth:\n[VN] She affected a calmness she did not feel. [also V to inf]\n  5  [VN] (formal, disapproving) to use or wear sth that is intended to impress other people\nSYN PUT ON:\nI wish he wouldn’t affect that ridiculous accent.\n______________________________\n WHICH WORD? \naffect / effect\naffect verb = ’to have an influence on sb/sth’. Does television affect children’s behaviour? It is not a noun.\neffect noun = ’result, influence’. Does television have an effect on children’s behaviour?\neffect verb is formal and means ’to achieve or produce’.\n______________________________


Words: affectation
Meaning:
noun\n[C, U] behaviour or an action that is not natural or sincere and that is often intended to impress other people:\nHis little affectations irritated her. * Kay has no affectation at all. * He raised his eyebrows with an affectation of surprise (= pretending to be surprised).


Words: affected
Meaning:
adjective\n(of a person or their behaviour) not natural or sincere:\nan affected laugh / smile\nOPP UNAFFECTED\n    affectedly adverb


Words: affection
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [U, sing.] ~ (for sb/sth) the feeling of liking or loving sb/sth very much and caring about them:\nMr Darcy’s affection for his sister * Children need lots of love and affection. * He didn’t show his wife any affection. * She was held in deep affection by all her students. * I have a great affection for New York.\n  2  (affections) [pl.] (written) a person’s feelings of love:\nAnne had two men trying to win her affections. * The object of her affections was a young man named Paul.


Words: affectionate
Meaning:
adjective\nshowing caring feelings and love for sb:\nHe is very affectionate towards his children. * Rosie gave her an affectionate kiss on each cheek.\n    affectionately adverb:\nWilliam was affectionately known as Billy.


Words: affidavit
Meaning:
noun\n(law) a written statement that you swear is true, and that can be used as evidence in a court of law:\nto make / swear / sign an affidavit


Words: affiliate
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb \n  1  [VN] [usually passive] ~ sb/sth (with / to sb/sth) to link a group, a company, or an organization very closely with another larger one:\nThe group is not affiliated to any political party. * The hospital is affiliated with the local university.\n  2  ~ (yourself) (with sb/sth) to join, to be connected with, or to work for an organization:\n[VN] The majority of people questioned affiliated themselves with a religious group. * The doctors are affiliated with the Relief Fund. [also V]\n    noun  a company, an organization, etc. that is connected with or controlled by another larger one:\nan affiliate of the World Bank


Words: affiliated
Meaning:
adjective\n[only before noun] closely connected to or controlled by a group or an organization:\nAll affiliated members can vote. * a government-affiliated institute\nOPP UNAFFILIATED


Words: affiliation
Meaning:
noun [U, C] (formal)\n  1  a person’s connection with a political party, religion, etc:\nHe had been detained without trial because of his political affiliation.\n  2  one group or organization’s official connection with another:\nTrade unions have a long history of affiliation to the Labour Party.


Words: affinity
Meaning:
noun (plural affinities) (formal)\n  1  [sing.] ~ (for / with sb/sth) | ~ (between A and B) a strong feeling that you understand sb/sth and like them or it:\nSam was born in the country and had a deep affinity with nature. * Humans have a special affinity for dolphins.\n  2  [U, C] ~ (with sb/sth) | ~ (between A and B) a close relationship between two people or things that have similar qualities, structures or features:\nThere is a close affinity between Italian and Spanish.


Words: affirm
Meaning:
verb\n(formal) to state firmly or publicly that sth is true or that you support sth strongly:\n[VN] Both sides affirmed their commitment to the ceasefire. * The decision was affirmed by the Court of Appeal. * [V that] I can affirm that no one will lose their job. [also V speech]\n    affirmation  noun [U, C]:\nShe nodded her head in affirmation.


Words: affirmative
Meaning:
adjective, noun \n    adjective (formal) an affirmative word or reply means ’yes’ or expresses agreement:\nan affirmative response to the question\nOPP NEGATIVE\n    affirmatively adverb:\n90% voted affirmatively.\n    noun (formal) a word or statement that means ’yes’; an agreement or a CONFIRMATION: (formal) She answered in the affirmative (= said ’yes’).\nOPP NEGATIVE


Words: affix
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb  [VN] [often passive] ~ sth (to sth) (formal) to stick or attach sth to sth else:\nThe label should be firmly affixed to the package.\n    noun  (grammar) a letter or group of letters added to the beginning or end of a word to change its meaning. The PREFIX un- in unhappy and the SUFFIX -less in careless are both affixes.


Words: afflict
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] [often passive] (formal) to affect sb/sth in an unpleasant or harmful way:\nAbout 40% of the country’s population is afflicted with the disease. * Aid will be sent to the afflicted areas. * Severe drought has afflicted the region.


Words: affluent
Meaning:
adjective\nhaving a lot of money and a good standard of living:\naffluent Western countries * a very affluent neighbourhood\n    affluence  noun [U]:\nThe 1950s were an age of affluence in America.


Words: afford
Meaning:
verb\n  1  [no passive] (usually used with can, could or be able to, especially in negative sentences or questions) to have enough money or time to be able to buy or to do sth:\n[VN] Can we afford a new car? * None of them could afford ｣50 for a ticket. * She felt she couldn’t afford any more time off work. * I’d give up work if I could afford it. * [V to inf] We can’t afford to go abroad this summer. * She never took a taxi, even though she could afford to. * [VN to inf] He couldn’t then afford the money to go on the trip.\n  2  [no passive] (usually used with can or could, especially in negative sentences and questions) if you say that you can’t afford to do sth, you mean that you should not do it because it will cause problems for you if you do:\n[V to inf] We cannot afford to ignore this warning. * (formal) They could ill afford to lose any more staff. * [VN] We cannot afford any more delays.\n  3  (formal) to provide sb with sth:\n[VN] The tree affords some shelter from the sun. * The legislation aims to afford protection to employees. * [VNN] The programme affords young people the chance to gain work experience.\n    affordability  noun [U]\n    affordable  adjective:\naffordable prices / housing


Words: afforestation
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the process of planting areas of land with trees in order to form a forest\ncompare DEFORESTATION\n    afforest  verb [VN] [usually passive]:\nLarge areas are being afforested each year.


Words: affray
Meaning:
noun\n[C, usually sing, U] (law) a fight or violent behaviour in a public place:\nThe men were charged with affray / with causing an affray.


Words: affront
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun [usually sing.] ~ (to sb/sth) a remark or an action that insults or offends sb/sth:\nHis speech was an affront to many in the local community.\n    verb [VN] [usually passive] (formal) to insult or offend sb:\nHe hoped they would not feel affronted if they were not invited. * an affronted expression * His attitude really affronted her.


Words: aficionado
Meaning:
noun\n(plural aficionados) a person who likes a particular sport, activity or subject very much and knows a lot about it:\na ballet aficionado / an aficionado of ballet * This coffee is regarded by aficionados as one of the world’s finest.


Words: afield
Meaning:
adverb\n IDIOMS \n  far / farther / further afield far away from home; to or in places that are not near:\nYou can hire a car if you want to explore further afield. * Journalists came from as far afield as China and Brazil.


Words: AFL-CIO
Meaning:
abbreviation\nAmerican Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations. The AFL-CIO is an organization of trade unions.


Words: aflame
Meaning:
adjective [not before noun] (literary)\n  1  burning; on fire:\nThe whole building was soon aflame.\n  2  full of bright colours and lights:\nThe woods were aflame with autumn colours.\n  3  showing excitement or embarrassment:\neyes / cheeks aflame


Words: afloat
Meaning:
adjective [not before noun]\n  1  floating on water:\nSomehow we kept the boat afloat. * He could not swim and only a life jacket kept him afloat.\n  2  (of a business, etc.) having enough money to pay debts; able to survive:\nThey will have to borrow ｣10 million next year, just to stay afloat.


Words: afoot
Meaning:
adjective\n[not before noun] being planned; happening:\nThere are plans afoot to increase taxation. * Changes were afoot but we had no idea what they would turn out to be.


Words: aforementioned
Meaning:
(also said) adjective\n[only before noun] (formal or law) mentioned before, in an earlier sentence:\nThe aforementioned person was seen acting suspiciously. * Insurance is included on all aforesaid items.


Words: afoul
Meaning:
adverb\n(AmE)\n IDIOMS \n  run afoul of sth to do sth that is not allowed by a law or rule or sth that people in authority disapprove of:\nto run afoul of the law


Words: afraid
Meaning:
adjective [not before noun]\n  1  ~ (of sb/sth) | ~ (of doing sth) | ~ (to do sth) feeling fear; frightened because you think that you might be hurt or suffer:\nDon’t be afraid. * It’s all over. There’s nothing to be afraid of now. * Are you afraid of spiders? * I started to feel afraid of going out alone at night. * She was afraid to open the door.\n  2  ~ of doing sth | ~ to do sth | ~ (that ...) worried about what might happen:\nShe was afraid of upsetting her parents. * Don’t be afraid to ask if you don’t understand. * The boy wasn’t afraid to say what he believed. * Tamsin was afraid of making a fool of herself. * We were afraid (that) we were going to capsize the boat.\n  3  ~ for sb/sth worried or frightened that sth unpleasant, dangerous, etc. will happen to a particular person or thing:\nI’m not afraid for me, but for the baby. * They had already fired three people and he was afraid for his job.\n IDIOMS \n  I’m afraid (spoken) used as a polite way of telling sb sth that is unpleasant or disappointing, or that you are sorry about:\nI can’t help you, I’m afraid. * I’m afraid we can’t come. * I’m afraid that it’s not finished yet, Mr Lewis. * ’Is there any left?’ ’I’m afraid not.’ * ’Will it hurt?’ ’I’m afraid so.’\n______________________________\n WHICH WORD? \nafraid / frightened / scared\nBe afraid/frightened/scared all mean that you feel fear: I’ve never been so frightened in my life!\nScared is very common in informal speech and is often used to describe small fears: Dad was driving very fast and we were a bit scared. Afraid is more formal and less common.\n+ of afraid/frightened/scared of sb/sth means that you feel fear when you see or experience something: I’m afraid of snakes.\n+ for afraid/frightened/scared for sb/sth means that you are worried that something unpleasant may happen to somebody: I was frightened for his safety.\nSometimes about is used with frightened and scared, but not with afraid: I’m scared about going to the city again.\nYou can use very, a bit, too, etc. with frightened and scared, but not with afraid.\n+ noun a frightened/scared child. You cannot use afraid in front of a noun.\n______________________________


Words: afresh
Meaning:
adverb\n(written) again, especially from the beginning or with new ideas:\nHe left his job to start life afresh.


Words: African
Meaning:
adjective, noun \n    adjective of or connected with Africa\n    noun a person from Africa, especially a black person


Words: African American
Meaning:
noun\na person from America who is a member of a race of people who have dark skin, originally from Africa\n    African American adjective


Words: Afro
Meaning:
noun\n(plural Afros) a style of hair sometimes worn by black people and popular in the 1970s, in which the hair forms a round mass of tight curls


Words: aft
Meaning:
adverb\n(technical) in, near or towards the back of a ship or an aircraft:\nfore and aft of the cockpit\n    aft adjective:\nThe ship was moored to the dock fore and aft.\ncompare FORE


Words: after
Meaning:
preposition, conjunction, adverb, adjective \n    preposition\n  1  later than sth; following sth in time:\nWe’ll leave after lunch. * They arrived shortly after 5. * Not long after that he resigned. * Let’s meet the day after tomorrow / the week after next. * After winning the prize she became famous overnight. * After an hour I went home (= when an hour had passed). * (AmE) It’s ten after seven in the morning (= 7.10 a.m.)\n  2  (...after ...) used to show that sth happens many times or continuously:\nday after day of hot weather * I’ve told you time after time not to do that.\nsee also one after another at ONE\n  3  behind sb when they have left; following sb:\nShut the door after you. * I’m always having to clean up after the children (= clean the place after they have left it dirty and untidy). * He ran after her with the book. * She was left staring after him.\n  4  next to and following sb/sth in order or importance:\nYour name comes after mine in the list. * He’s the tallest, after Richard. * After you (= Please go first). * After you with the paper. (= Can I have it next?)\n  5  in contrast to sth:\nIt was pleasantly cool in the house after the sticky heat outside.\n  6  as a result of or because of sth that has happened:\nI’ll never forgive him after what he said.\n  7  in spite of sth; although sth has happened:\nI can’t believe she’d do that, not after all I’ve done for her.\n  8  trying to find or catch sb/sth:\nThe police are after him. * He’s after a job at our place.\n  9  about sb/sth:\nShe asked after you (= how you were).\n  10  in the style of sb/sth; following the example of sb/sth:\na painting after Goya * We named the baby ’Ena’ after her grandmother.\n  11  (after-) (used in adjectives) happening or done later than the time or event mentioned:\nafter-hours drinking (= after closing time) * an after-school club * after-dinner mints\n IDIOMS \n  after all\n1 in spite of what has been said or expected:\nSo you made it after all!\n2 used when you are explaining sth, or giving a reason:\nHe should have paid. He suggested it, after all.\n  be after doing sth (IrishE)\n1 to be going to do sth soon; to be intending to do sth soon\n2 to have just done sth\n    conjunction at a time later than sth; when sth has finished:\nI’ll call you after I’ve spoken to them. * Several years after they’d split up they met again by chance in Paris.\n    adverb later in time; afterwards:\nThat was in 1996. Soon after, I heard that he’d died. * I could come next week, or the week after. * And they all lived happily ever after.\n    adjective [only before noun] (old use) following; later:\nin after years


Words: after-effect
Meaning:
noun\n[usually pl.] the after-effects of a drug, an illness or an unpleasant event are the feelings that you experience later as a result of it


Words: afterbirth
Meaning:
noun\n(usually the afterbirth) [sing.] the material that comes out of a woman or female animal’s body after a baby has been born, and which was necessary to feed and protect the baby\nSYN PLACENTA


Words: aftercare
Meaning:
noun [U]\n  1  care or treatment given to a person who has just left hospital, prison, etc:\naftercare services\n  2  (BrE) service and advice that is offered by some companies to customers who have bought a car, washing machine, etc:\nWhen you buy one of our products you will receive details of our comprehensive aftercare package.


Words: afterglow
Meaning:
noun [usually sing.] (literary)\n  1  the light that is left in the sky after the sun has set:\nthe lingering sunset which left a distinctive purple afterglow\n  2  a warm pleasant feeling after a good experience:\nHe was basking in the afterglow of love.


Words: afterlife
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] a life that some people believe exists after death:\nMost Christians believe in an afterlife of some sort, often referred to as heaven.


Words: aftermath
Meaning:
noun\n[usually sing.] the situation that exists as a result of an important (and usually unpleasant) event, especially a war, an accident, etc:\nA lot of rebuilding took place in the aftermath of the war. * the assassination of the Prime Minister and its immediate aftermath


Words: afternoon
Meaning:
noun\n[U, C] the part of the day from 12 midday until about 6 o’clock:\nthis / yesterday / tomorrow afternoon * In the afternoon they went shopping. * She studies art two afternoons a week. * Are you ready for this afternoon’s meeting? * The baby always has an afternoon nap. * Come over on Sunday afternoon. * Where were you on the afternoon of May 21? * Good afternoon! (= as a formal greeting)


Words: afters
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (BrE, informal) a sweet dish that you eat at the end of a meal:\nfruit salad for afters\nsee also DESSERT, PUDDING, SWEET n.


Words: aftershock
Meaning:
noun\na small earthquake that happens after a bigger one:\nThe area suffered a series of aftershocks measuring up to 6.3 on the Richter scale.


Words: aftertaste
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] a taste (usually an unpleasant one) that stays in your mouth after you have eaten or drunk sth


Words: afterthought
Meaning:
noun\n[usually sing.] a thing that is thought of, said or added later, and is often not carefully planned:\nThey only invited Jack and Sarah as an afterthought.


Words: afterwards
Meaning:
(especially BrE) (AmE usually afterward) adverb at a later time; after an event that has already been mentioned:\nAfterwards she was sorry for what she’d said. * Let’s go to the theatre first and eat afterwards. * Shortly afterwards he was seen in a bar in town.


Words: again
Meaning:
adverb\n  1  one more time; on another occasion:\nCould you say it again, please? * When will I see you again? * This must never happen again. * Once again (= as had happened several times before), the train was late. * I’ve told you again and again (= many times) not to do that. * I’ll have to write it all over again (= again from the beginning).\n  2  showing that sb/sth is in the same place or state that they were in originally:\nHe was glad to be home again. * She spends two hours a day getting to work and back again. * You’ll soon feel well again.\n  3  added to an amount that is already there:\nThe cost is about half as much again as it was two years ago. * I’d like the same again (= the same amount or the same thing), please.\n  4  used to show that a comment or fact is connected with what you have just said:\nAnd again, we must think of the time involved.\n  5  then / there ~ used to introduce a fact or an opinion that contrasts with what you have just said:\nWe might buy it but then again we might not.\n  6  (spoken) used when you ask sb to tell you sth or repeat sth that you think they have told you already:\nWhat was the name again?\n IDIOMS  see NOW adv., SAME pron., TIME n.


Words: against
Meaning:
preposition\n HELP NOTE  For the special uses of against in phrasal verbs, look at the entries for the verbs. For example count against sb is in the phrasal verb section at count.\n  1  opposing or disagreeing with sb/sth:\nthe fight against terrorism * We’re playing against the league champions next week. * We were rowing against the current. * That’s against the law. * She was forced to marry against her will. * Are you for or against the death penalty? * She is against seeing (= does not want to see) him. * I’d advise you against doing that.\n  2  not to the advantage or favour of sb/sth:\nThe evidence is against him. * Her age is against her.\ncompare FOR prep. (7)\n  3  close to, touching or hitting sb/sth:\nPut the piano there, against the wall. * The rain beat against the windows.\n  4  in order to prevent sth from happening or to reduce the harm caused by sth:\nan injection against rabies * They took precautions against fire. * Are we insured against theft?\n  5  with sth in the background, as a contrast:\nHis red clothes stood out clearly against the snow. * (figurative) The love story unfolds against a background of civil war.\n  6  used when you are comparing two things:\nYou must weigh the benefits against the cost. * Check your receipts against the statement. * What’s the rate of exchange against the dollar?\n IDIOMS  see AS conj., STACKED


Words: agape
Meaning:
adjective\n[not before noun] (written) if a person’s mouth is agape, it is wide open, especially because they are surprised or shocked:\nHe watched the spectacle, mouth agape.


Words: age
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  1  [C, U] the number of years that a person has lived or a thing has existed:\nHe left school at the age of 18. * She needs to find more friends of her own age. * children from 510 years of age * Young people of all ages go there to meet. * When I was your age I was already married. * He started playing the piano at an early age. * All ages admitted. * Children over the age of 12 must pay full fare. * She was beginning to feel her age (= feel that she was getting old). * ways of calculating the age of the earth\n  2  [C, U] a particular period of a person’s life:\nmiddle age * 15 is an awkward age. * He died of old age.\n  3  [C] a particular period of history:\nthe nuclear age * the age of the computer\nsee also BRONZE AGE, IRON AGE, NEW AGE, STONE AGE\n  4  [U] the state of being old:\nFine wine improves with age. * The jacket was showing signs of age. * the wisdom that comes with age\n  5  (ages) [pl.] (also an age [sing.]) (informal, especially BrE) a very long time:\nI waited for ages. * It’ll probably take ages to find a parking space. * Carlos left ages ago. * It’s been an age since we’ve seen them.\n IDIOMS \n  be / act your age to behave in a way that is suitable for sb of your age and not as though you were much younger:\nIsn’t it time you started acting your age?\n  come of age\n1 when a person comes of age, they reach the age when they have an adult’s legal rights and responsibilities:\nThe money will go to the children when they come of age.\n2 if sth comes of age, it reaches the stage of development at which people accept and value it:\nIt was the year that concern for the environment really came of age.\n  look your age to seem as old as you really are and not younger or older:\nShe doesn’t look her age; I thought she was ten years younger.\n  under age not legally old enough to do a particular thing:\nIt is illegal to sell cigarettes to children who are under age. * under-age driving / drinking / sex\nmore at ADVANCED, DAY, FEEL v., GRAND adj., RIPE, TENDER adj.\n    verb (aging, aged, aged)\n HELP NOTE  In BrE the present participle can also be spelled ageing.\n  1  [V] to become older:\nAs he aged, his memory got worse. * The population is aging (= more people are living longer).\n  2  [VN] to make sb/sth look, feel or seem older:\nThe shock has aged her enormously. * Exposure to the sun ages the skin. * These photos have been artificially aged.\n  3  to develop in flavour over a period of time; to allow sth to do this:\n[V] The cheese is left to age for at least a year. * [VN] The wine is aged in oak casks.


Words: age group
Meaning:
(also less frequent age bracket) noun\npeople of a similar age or within a particular range of ages:\nmen in the older age group * education for the 1618 age group * Which age bracket are you? (Please tick the box).


Words: aged
Meaning:
adjective\n  1   [not before noun] of the age of:\nThey have two children aged six and nine. * volunteers aged between 25 and 40\n  2   (formal) very old:\nmy aged aunt\n  3  (the aged)  noun [pl.] very old people:\nservices for the sick and the aged


Words: ageing
Meaning:
(BrE) (also aging AmE, BrE)  noun, adjective \n    noun [U] the process of growing old:\nsigns / effects of ageing * skin care products which claim to halt the ageing process\n    adjective [usually before noun] becoming older and usually less useful, safe, healthy, etc:\nageing equipment * an ageing rock star * He takes care of his ageing mother.


Words: ageism
Meaning:
(AmE also agism)  noun\n[U] unfair treatment of people because they are considered too old:\nageism in job advertisements\n    ageist adjective:\nageist and sexist remarks * ageist attitudes about life after 40\n    ageist noun


Words: ageless
Meaning:
adjective (literary)\n  1  never looking old or never seeming to grow old:\nHer beauty appeared ageless.\n  2  existing for ever; impossible to give an age to:\nthe ageless mystery of the universe


Words: agency
Meaning:
noun (plural agencies)\n  1  a business or an organization that provides a particular service especially on behalf of other businesses or organizations:\nan advertising / employment agency * You can book at your local travel agency. * international aid agencies caring for refugees\nsee also DATING AGENCY, NEWS AGENCY, PRESS AGENCY\n  2  (especially AmE) a government department that provides a particular service:\nthe Central Intelligence Agency (CIA)\n IDIOMS \n  through the agency of (formal) as a result of the action of sb/sth:\nHe obtained his position through the agency of an old friend.


Words: agenda
Meaning:
noun\na list of items to be discussed at a meeting:\nThe next item on the agenda is the publicity budget. * For the government, education is now at the top of the agenda (= most important). * In our company, quality is high on the agenda. * Newspapers have been accused of trying to set the agenda for the government (= decide what is important).\nsee also HIDDEN AGENDA\n______________________________\n WHICH WORD? \nagenda / diary / schedule / timetable / itinerary\nA book with a space for each day where you write down things that you have to do in the future is called a diary or a datebook (AmE) (not an agenda). You may also have a calendar on your desk or hanging up in your room, where you write down your appointments. A diary or a journal is also the record that some people keep of what has happened during the day: the Diary of Anne Frank.\nIn BrE your schedule is a plan that lists all the work that you have to do and when you must do each thing and a timetable is a list showing the fixed times at which events will happen: a bus/train timetable.In AmE these are both called a schedule.\nAn itinerary is a plan of a journey, including the route and the places you visit.\n______________________________


Words: agent
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a person whose job is to act for, or manage the affairs of, other people in business, politics, etc:\nan insurance agent * Our agent in New York deals with all US sales. * If you’re going to rent out your house while you’re abroad, you’ll need someone to act as your agent here.\nsee also ESTATE AGENT, LAND AGENT, TRAVEL AGENT\n  2  a person whose job is to find work for an actor, musician, etc. or to find sb who will publish a writer’s work:\na theatrical / literary agent\nsee also PRESS AGENT\n  3  = SECRET AGENT:\nan enemy agent\nsee also DOUBLE AGENT, SPECIAL AGENT\n  4  (written) a person or thing that has an important effect on a situation:\nThe charity has been an agent for social change.\n  5  (technical) a chemical or a substance that produces an effect or a change or is used for a particular purpose:\ncleaning / oxidizing agents\nsee also FREE AGENT


Words: agent provocateur
Meaning:
(also provocateur) noun\n(plural agents provocateurs ) (from French) a person who is employed by a government to encourage people in political groups to do sth illegal so that they can be arrested


Words: agglomeration
Meaning:
noun\n[C, U] (formal) a group of things put together in no particular order or arrangement:\nan ugly agglomeration of buildings


Words: aggrandizement
Meaning:
(BrE also aggrandisement)  noun\n[U] (formal, disapproving) an increase in the power or importance of a person or country:\nHer sole aim is personal aggrandizement. * He was a strong and greedy monarch who pursued a course of military aggrandizement from the beginning of his reign.


Words: aggravate
Meaning:
verb [VN] \n  1  to make an illness or a bad or unpleasant situation worse\nSYN WORSEN:\nPollution can aggravate asthma. * Military intervention will only aggravate the conflict even further.\n  2  (informal) to annoy sb, especially deliberately\nSYN IRRITATE\n    aggravating adjective:\naggravating circumstances / factors * Her constant interruptions were very aggravating.\n    aggravation  noun [U, C]:\nThe drug may cause an aggravation of the condition. * I don’t need all this aggravation at work.


Words: aggravated
Meaning:
adjective\n[only before noun] (law) an aggravated crime involves further unnecessary violence or unpleasant behaviour:\naggravated assault / burglary


Words: aggregate
Meaning:
noun, adjective, verb \n    noun \n  1  [C] a total number or amount made up of smaller amounts that are collected together:\na record aggregate of 285 points * The three smaller parties gained an aggregate of 25 per cent of the vote.\n  2  [U, C] (technical) sand or broken stone that is used to make CONCRETE or for building roads, etc.\n IDIOMS \n  in (the) aggregate (formal) added together as a total or single amount:\nBusinesses are, in the aggregate, deeper in debt than ever before.\n  on aggregate (BrE, sport) when the scores of a number of games are added together:\nThey won 42 on aggregate.\n    adjective  [only before noun] (economics or sport) made up of several amounts that are added together to form a total number:\naggregate demand / investment / turnover * an aggregate win over their rivals\n    verb  [VN] [usually passive] ~ (sth) (with sth) (formal or technical) to combine different items, amounts, etc. into a single group or total:\nThe scores were aggregated with the first round totals to decide the winner.\n    aggregation  noun [U, C]:\nthe aggregation of data


Words: aggression
Meaning:
noun [U]\n  1  feelings of anger and hatred that may result in threatening or violent behaviour:\nThe research shows that computer games may cause aggression. * Nowadays our aggression is channelled into sports.\n  2  a violent attack or threats by one country against another country:\nunprovoked military aggression


Words: aggressive
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  angry, and behaving in a threatening way; ready to attack:\nAs a teenager Sean was aggressive and moody. * a dangerous aggressive dog\n  2  behaving in a very determined and forceful way in order to succeed:\nan aggressive advertising campaign * A good salesperson has to be aggressive in today’s competitive market.\n    aggressively adverb:\n’What do you want?’ he demanded aggressively. * aggressively marketed products\n    aggressiveness noun [U]


Words: aggressor
Meaning:
noun\na person, country, etc. that attacks first:\nThey are seen as the aggressors in the civil war.


Words: aggrieved
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  (written) ~ (at / by sth) feeling that you have been treated unfairly:\nHe had every right to feel aggrieved at the decision.\n  2  (law) suffering unfair or illegal treatment and making a complaint:\nthe aggrieved party (= person) in the case


Words: aggro
Meaning:
noun [U] (BrE, spoken, informal)\n  1  violent aggressive behaviour:\nDon’t give me any aggro or I’ll call the police.\n  2  problems and difficulties that are annoying:\nI had a lot of aggro at the dole office.


Words: aghast
Meaning:
adjective\n[not before noun] ~ (at sth) (written) filled with horror and surprise when you see or hear sth:\nErica looked at him aghast. * He stood aghast at the sight of so much blood.


Words: agile
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  able to move quickly and easily:\na strong and agile athlete\n  2  able to think quickly and in an intelligent way:\nan agile mind / brain\n    agility  noun [U]:\nHe had the agility of a man half his age.


Words: agitate
Meaning:
verb\n  1  ~ (for / against sth) to argue strongly for sth you want, especially for changes in a law, in social conditions, etc:\n[V] political groups agitating for social change * [V to inf] Her family are agitating to have her transferred to a prison in the UK.\n  2  [VN] to make sb feel angry, anxious or nervous:\nThis remark seemed to agitate her guest.\n  3  [VN] (technical) to make sth, especially a liquid, move around by stirring or shaking it:\nAgitate the mixture to dissolve the powder.


Words: agitated
Meaning:
adjective\nshowing in your behaviour that you are anxious and nervous:\nCalm down! Don’t get so agitated.


Words: agitation
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [U] worry and anxiety that you show by behaving in a nervous way:\nDot arrived in a state of great agitation.\n  2  [U, C] ~ (for / against sth) public protest in order to achieve political change:\nwidespread agitation for social reform\n  3  [U] (technical) the act of stirring or shaking a liquid


Words: agitator
Meaning:
noun\n(disapproving) a person who tries to persuade people to take part in political protest:\na known agitator and troublemaker


Words: aglow
Meaning:
adjective\n[not before noun] (literary) shining with warmth and colour or happiness:\nChristmas trees aglow with lights * children’s faces all aglow


Words: AGM
Meaning:
abbreviation\n(BrE) the abbreviation for ’annual general meeting’ (an important meeting which the members of an organization hold once a year in order to elect officers, discuss past and future activities and examine the accounts)


Words: agnostic
Meaning:
noun\na person who is not sure whether or not God exists or who believes that we cannot know whether God exists or not\ncompare ATHEIST\n    agnostic adjective\n    agnosticism  noun [U]


Words: ago
Meaning:
adverb\nused in expressions of time with the simple past tense to show how far in the past sth happened:\ntwo weeks / months / years ago * The letter came a few days ago. * She was here just a minute ago. * a short / long time ago * How long ago did you buy it? * It was on TV not (so) long ago. * He stopped working some time ago (= quite a long time ago). * They’re getting married? It’s not that long ago (= it’s only a short time ago) that they met!


Words: agog
Meaning:
adjective\n[not before noun] excited and very interested to find out sth:\nWe were all agog with curiosity.


Words: agonize
Meaning:
(BrE also agonise)  verb\n[V] ~ (over / about sth) to spend a long time thinking and worrying about a difficult situation or problem:\nI spent days agonizing over whether to take the job or not.


Words: agonized
Meaning:
(BrE also agonised)  adjective\nsuffering or expressing severe pain or anxiety:\nagonized cries * After five months of agonized debate they signed the treaty.


Words: agonizing
Meaning:
(BrE also agonising)  adjective\ncausing great pain, anxiety or difficulty:\nhis father’s agonizing death * It was the most agonizing decision of her life.


Words: agonizingly
Meaning:
(BrE also agonisingly)  adverb\nused meaning ’extremely’ to emphasize sth negative:\nan agonizingly slow process


Words: agony
Meaning:
noun\n(plural agonies) [U, C] extreme physical or mental pain:\nJack collapsed in agony on the floor. * It was agony not knowing where the children were. * She waited in an agony of suspense. * The worst agonies of the war were now beginning. * It is inhuman to keep a man facing the agony of execution for so long.\n IDIOMS  see PILE v.


Words: agony aunt
Meaning:
(BrE) (AmE advice columnist) noun\na person who writes in a newspaper or magazine giving advice in reply to people’s letters about their personal problems


Words: agony column
Meaning:
(BrE) (AmE advice column) noun\npart of a newspaper or magazine in which sb gives advice to readers who have sent letters about their personal problems


Words: agoraphobia
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (technical) a fear of being in public places where there are many other people:\nShe had agoraphobia and never wanted to go out of the house.\ncompare CLAUSTROPHOBIA


Words: agree
Meaning:
verb\n  share opinion\n  1  ~ (with sb) (about / on sth) | ~ (with sth) to have the same opinion as sb; to say that you have the same opinion:\n[V] When he said that, I had to agree. * He agreed with them about the need for change. * I agree with her analysis of the situation. * ’He’s a lousy cook.’ ’I couldn’t agree more (= I completely agree)!’ * [V (that)] We agreed (that) the proposal was a good one. * [V speech] ’That’s true’, she agreed.\nOPP DISAGREE\n  2  be agreed (on / about sth) | be agreed (that ...) if people are agreed or sth is agreed, everyone has the same opinion about sth:\n[VN] Are we all agreed on this? * [VN (that)] It was agreed (that) we should hold another meeting.\n  say yes\n  3  ~ (to sth) to say ’yes’; to say that you will do what sb wants or that you will allow sth to happen\nSYN CONSENT:\n[V] I asked for a pay rise and she agreed. * Do you think he’ll agree to their proposal? * [V (that)] She agreed (that) we could finish early. * [V to inf] He agreed to let me go early.\n  decide\n  4  to decide with sb else to do sth or to have sth:\n[VN] They met at the agreed time. * Can we agree a price? * They left at ten, as agreed. * [V] Can we agree on a date? * [V to inf] We agreed to meet on Thursday. * [V wh-] We couldn’t agree what to do.\n  accept\n  5  [VN] to officially accept a plan, request, etc.\nSYN APPROVE:\nNext year’s budget has been agreed.\n  be the same\n  6  [V] ~ (with sth) to be the same as sth\nSYN TALLY:\nThe figures do not agree. * Your account of the accident does not agree with hers.\nOPP DISAGREE\n  grammar\n  7  [V] ~ (with sth) to match a word or phrase in NUMBER, GENDER or PERSON:\nIn ’Tom likes jazz’, and ’They like rock music’, the singular verb ’likes’ agrees with the subject ’Tom’ and the plural verb ’like’ agrees with the pronoun ’they’.\n IDIOMS \n  agree to differ if two people agree to differ, they accept that they have different opinions about sth, but they decide not to discuss it any longer:\nWe must just agree to differ on this.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  not agree with sb (of food) to make you feel ill/sick:\nI love strawberries, but they don’t agree with me.


Words: agreeable
Meaning:
adjective (formal)\n  1  pleasant and easy to like:\nWe spent a most agreeable day together. * He seemed extremely agreeable.\nOPP DISAGREEABLE\n  2  [not before noun] ~ (to sth) willing to do sth or allow sth:\nDo you think they will be agreeable to our proposal?\n  3  ~ (to sb) able to be accepted by sb:\nThe deal must be agreeable to both sides.


Words: agreeably
Meaning:
adverb\n(formal) in a pleasant, nice way:\nan agreeably warm day * They were agreeably surprised by the quality of the food. * They chatted agreeably while waiting.


Words: agreement
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [C] ~ (with sb) | ~ (between A and B) an arrangement, a promise or a contract made with sb:\nan international peace agreement * The agreement (= the document recording the agreement) was signed during a meeting at the UN. * An agreement was finally reached between management and employees. * They had made a verbal agreement to sell. * They had an agreement never to talk about work at home.\nsee also GENTLEMAN’S AGREEMENT\n  2  [U] the state of sharing the same opinion or feeling:\nAre we in agreement about the price? * The two sides failed to reach agreement.\nOPP DISAGREEMENT\n  3  [U] the fact of sb approving of sth and allowing it to happen:\nYou’ll have to get your parents’ agreement if you want to go on the trip.\n  4  [U] ~ (with sth) (grammar) (of words in a phrase) the state of having the same NUMBER, GENDER or PERSON.\nSYN CONCORD:\nIn the sentence ’They live in the country’, the plural form of the verb ’live’ is in agreement with the plural subject ’they’.


Words: agribusiness
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (technical) the industry concerned with the production and sale of farm products, especially involving large companies


Words: agriculture
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the science or practice of farming:\nthe Ministry of Agriculture, Farming and Fisheries\n    agricultural  adjective:\nagricultural policy / land / production / development


Words: agro-
Meaning:
combining form\n(in nouns, adjectives and adverbs) connected with farming:\nagro-industry * agriculture


Words: aground
Meaning:
adverb\nif a ship runs/goes aground, it touches the ground in shallow water and cannot move:\nThe oil tanker ran / went aground off the Spanish coast.\n    aground adjective:\nThey plan to refloat the ship now aground on the island of Stroma.


Words: ague
Meaning:
noun\n[U, C] (old-fashioned) a disease such as MALARIA that causes fever and SHIVERING (= shaking of the body)


Words: ah
Meaning:
exclamation\nused to express surprise, pleasure, admiration or sympathy, or when you disagree with sb:\nAh, there you are. * Ah, this coffee is good. * Ah well, better luck next time. * Ah, but that may not be true.


Words: aha
Meaning:
exclamation\nused when you are expressing pleasure that you have understood sth or found sth out:\nAha! So that’s where I left it!


Words: ahead
Meaning:
adverb\n HELP NOTE  For the special uses of ahead in phrasal verbs, look at the entries for the verbs. For example press ahead (with sth) is in the phrasal verb section at press.\n  1  further forward in space or time; in front:\nI’ll run ahead and warn them. * The road ahead was blocked. * We’ve got a lot of hard work ahead. * This will create problems in the months ahead. * He was looking straight ahead (= straight forward, in front of him).\n  2  earlier; in advance:\nThe party was planned weeks ahead.\n  3  winning; further advanced:\nOur team was ahead by six points. * You need to work hard to keep ahead.


Words: ahead of preposition
Meaning:
1  further forward in space or time than sb/sth; in front of sb/sth:\nThree boys were ahead of us. * Ahead of us lay ten days of intensive training.\n  2  earlier than sb/sth:\nI finished the work several days ahead of the deadline.\n  3  further advanced than sb/sth; in front of sb, for example in a race or competition:\nShe was always well ahead of the rest of the class. * His ideas were way ahead of his time.


Words: ahem
Meaning:
exclamation\nused in writing to show the sound of a short cough made by sb who is trying to get attention or to say sth that is difficult or embarrassing:\nAhem, can I make a suggestion?


Words: ahoy
Meaning:
exclamation\nused by people in boats to attract attention:\nAhoy there! * Ship ahoy! (= there is a ship in sight)


Words: AI
Meaning:
abbreviation\n  1  ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION:\nAID or artificial insemination by a donor\n  2  ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE


Words: aid
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  1  [U] money, food, etc. that is sent to help countries in difficult situations:\neconomic / humanitarian / emergency aid * An extra ｣10 million in foreign aid has been promised. * aid agencies (= organizations that provide help) * medical aid programmes\nsee also FINANCIAL AID, LEGAL AID\n  2  [U] help that you need to perform a particular task:\nHe was breathing only with the aid of a ventilator. * This job would be impossible without the aid of a computer.\n  3  [U] (formal) help that is given to a person:\nOne of the station staff saw he was in difficulty and came to his aid (= helped him).\nsee also FIRST AID\n  4  [C] an object, a machine, a tool, etc. that you use to help you do sth:\na hearing aid * Photographs make useful teaching aids.\n IDIOMS \n  in aid of sth/sb (BrE) in order to help sb/sth:\ncollecting money in aid of charity\n  what’s ...in aid of? (BrE, spoken) used to ask why sth is happening:\nWhat’s all this crying in aid of?\n    verb ~ (sb/sth) (in sth / in doing sth) | ~ sb (with sth) (written) to help sb/sth to do sth, especially by making it easier: [V] The new test should aid in the early detection of the disease. * [VN] This feature is designed to aid inexperienced users. * They were accused of aiding his escape. * They were accused of aiding him in his escape. * Aided by heat and strong winds, the fire quickly spread. * Some perfumes aid restful sleep. [also VN to inf] -> HELP\n IDIOMS \n  aid and abet (law) to help sb to do sth illegal or wrong:\nShe stands accused of aiding and abetting the bombing. * Aided and abetted by two glasses of wine, he became very sentimental.


Words: aide-de-camp
Meaning:
noun\n(plural aides-de-camp ) (abbreviation ADC) an officer in the army or navy who helps a more senior officer


Words: Aids
Meaning:
(BrE) (also AIDS AmE, BrE)  noun\n[U] the abbreviation for ’Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome’ (an illness which attacks the body’s ability to resist infection and which usually causes death):\nAids research / education / victims * He developed full-blown Aids five years after contracting HIV.


Words: ail
Meaning:
verb [VN] \n  1  (formal) to cause problems for sb/sth:\nThey discussed the problems ailing the steel industry.\n  2  (old use) to make sb ill/sick:\nWhat is ailing you?


Words: aileron
Meaning:
noun\n(technical) a part of the wing of a plane that moves up and down to control the plane’s balance


Words: ailing
Meaning:
adjective (formal)\n  1  ill and not improving:\nShe looked after her ailing father.\n  2  (of a business, government, etc.) having problems and getting weaker:\nmeasures to help the ailing economy * A new art gallery will give a boost to this ailing industrial city.


Words: aim
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  1  [C] the purpose of doing sth; what sb is trying to achieve:\nthe aims of the lesson * She went to London with the aim of finding a job. * Our main aim is to increase sales in Europe. * Bob’s one aim in life is to earn a lot of money. * Teamwork is required in order to achieve these aims. * She set out the company’s aims and objectives in her speech.\n  2  [U] the action or skill of pointing a weapon at sb/sth:\nHer aim was good and she hit the lion with her first shot. * The gunman took aim (= pointed his weapon) and fired.\n IDIOMS \n  take aim at sb/sth (AmE) to direct your criticism at sb/sth\n    verb\n  1  ~ (at doing sth) | ~ (at / for sth) to try or plan to achieve sth:\n[V] The government is aiming at a 50% reduction in unemployment. * They’re aiming at training everybody by the end of the year. * We should aim for a bigger share of the market. * He has always aimed high (= tried to achieve a lot). * [V to inf] They are aiming to reduce unemployment by 50%. * We aim to be there around six.\n  2  [VN] (be aimed at) to have sth as an aim:\nThese measures are aimed at preventing violent crime.\n  3  ~ (sth) (at sb/sth) | ~ (for sb/sth) to point or direct a weapon, a shot, a kick, etc. at sb/sth:\n[V] I was aiming at the tree but hit the car by mistake. * Aim for the middle of the target. * [VN] The gun was aimed at her head.\n  4  [VN] [usually passive] ~ sth at sb to say or do sth that is intended to influence or affect a particular person or group:\nThe book is aimed at very young children. * My criticism wasn’t aimed at you.


Words: aimless
Meaning:
adjective\nhaving no direction or purpose:\nMy life seemed aimless.\n    aimlessly adverb:\nShe drifted aimlessly from one job to another.\n    aimlessness noun [U]:\nHe worried about his son’s aimlessness and lack of ambition.


Words: ain’t
Meaning:
short form (non-standard or humorous)\n  1  am not/is not/are not:\nThings ain’t what they used to be.\n  2  has not/have not:\nI ain’t got no money. * You ain’t seen nothing yet.


Words: air
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  gas\n \n  1  [U] the mixture of gases that surrounds the earth and that we breathe:\nair pollution * Let’s go out for some fresh air. * I need to put some air in my tyres. * currents of warm air * whales coming up for air (= in order to breathe) * The act lays down a minimum standard for air quality.\n \n  space\n \n  2  [U] (usually the air) the space above the ground or that is around things:\nI kicked the ball high in / into the air. * Spicy smells wafted through the air. * Music filled the night air.\n \n  for planes\n \n  3  [U] the space above the earth where planes fly:\nIt only takes three hours by air (= in a plane). * air travel / traffic / fares * The temple was clearly visible from the air. * A surprise air attack (= from aircraft) was launched at night.\n  impression\n  4  [sing.] the particular feeling or impression that is given by sb/sth; the way sb does sth:\nThe room had an air of luxury. * She looked at him with a defiant air. * There was an air of complete confidence about her.\n  tune\n  5  [C] (old-fashioned) (often used in the title of a piece of music) a tune:\nBach’s Air on a G string\n  behaviour\n  6  (airs) [pl.] (disapproving) a way of behaving that shows that sb thinks that they are more important, educated, etc. than they really are:\nI hate the way she puts on airs.\n IDIOMS \n  airs and graces (BrE, disapproving) a way of behaving that shows that sb thinks that they are more important, educated, etc. than they really are\nSYN AIRS:\nEven when he became a star he didn’t have any airs and graces.\n  float / walk on air to feel very happy:\nMost couples feel they are walking on air on their wedding day.\n  in the air felt by a number of people to exist or to be happening:\nThere’s romance in the air.\n  on / off (the) air broadcasting or not broadcasting on television or radio:\nWe will be back on air tomorrow morning at 7. * The programme was taken off the air over the summer.\n  up in the air not yet decided:\nOur travel plans are still up in the air.\nmore at BREATH, CASTLE, CLEAR v., NOSE n., PLUCK v., THIN adj.\n    verb\n  clothes\n  1  (especially BrE) to put clothing, etc. in a place that is warm or has plenty of air so that it dries completely and smells fresh; to be left to dry somewhere:\n[VN] Air the sheets well. * [V] Leave the towels out to air.\n  a room\n  2  (BrE) (AmE air (sth) out) to allow fresh air into a room or a building; to be filled with fresh air:\n[VN] The rooms had all been cleaned and freshly aired. * Leave the window open to air the room. [also V]\n  opinions\n  3  [VN] to express your opinions publicly:\nThe weekly meeting enables employees to air their grievances.\n  radio / tv programme\n  4  (especially AmE) to broadcast a programme on the radio or on television; to be broadcast:\n[VN] The show will be aired next Tuesday night. * [V] The program aired last week.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  air out | air sth<->out (AmE) = AIR (2)


Words: air bag
Meaning:
noun\na safety device in a car that fills with air if there is an accident, to protect the people in the car


Words: air bed
Meaning:
(BrE) (also air mattress AmE, BrE) noun\na large plastic or rubber bag that can be filled with air and used as a bed:\nYou can sleep on the air bed. * She was lying on an air bed in the swimming pool.


Words: air conditioning
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (abbreviation AC, a / c) a system that cools and dries the air in a building or car:\nIs the air conditioning on?\n \n    air-conditioned adjective:\nair-conditioned offices * The restaurant is fully air-conditioned.


Words: air force
Meaning:
noun\n[C+sing./pl. v.] the part of a country’s armed forces that fights using aircraft:\nthe US Air Force * air-force officers


Words: air pocket
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a closed area that becomes filled with air:\nMake sure there are no air pockets around the roots of the plant.\n  2  an area of low air pressure that makes a plane suddenly drop while flying:\nThe plane hit an air pocket.


Words: air pump
Meaning:
noun\na piece of equipment for pumping air into or out of sth:\nan air pump used to filter water in a fish tank


Words: air raid
Meaning:
noun\nan attack by a number of aircraft dropping many bombs on a place:\nThe family was killed in an air raid. * an air-raid shelter / warning


Words: air terminal
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a building at an airport that provides services for passengers travelling by plane\n  2  (BrE) an office in a city from which passengers can catch buses to the airport


Words: air traffic control
Meaning:
noun [U]\n  1  the activity of giving instructions by radio to pilots of aircraft so that they know when and where to take off or land:\nair traffic control systems\n  2  the group of people or the organization that provides an air traffic control service:\nThe pilot was given clearance to land by air traffic control.


Words: air traffic controller
Meaning:
noun\na person at an airport whose job is to give instructions by radio to pilots of aircraft so that they know when and where to take off or land


Words: air-sea rescue
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (especially BrE) the process of rescuing people from the sea using aircraft:\nan air-sea rescue helicopter


Words: air-to-air
Meaning:
adjective\n[usually before noun] from one aircraft to another while they are both flying:\nan air-to-air missile


Words: airborne
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  [not before noun] (of a plane or passengers) in the air:\nDo not leave your seat until the plane is airborne.\n  2  [only before noun] carried through the air:\nairborne seeds / viruses\ncompare WATER-BORNE\n  3  [only before noun] (of soldiers) trained to jump out of aircraft onto enemy land in order to fight:\nan airborne division


Words: airbrush
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun an artist’s tool for spraying paint onto a surface, that works by air pressure\n    verb [VN] ~ sth (out) to paint sth with an airbrush; to change a detail in a photograph with an airbrush:\nan airbrushed photograph of a model * Somebody had been airbrushed out of the picture.


Words: aircraft
Meaning:
noun\n(plural aircraft) any vehicle that can fly and carry goods or passengers:\nfighter / transport / military aircraft\nsee also LIGHT AIRCRAFT


Words: aircrew
Meaning:
noun\n[C+sing./pl. v.] the pilot and other people who fly a plane, especially in the air force:\nRAF aircrew training * Not all the aircrew who flew that night returned.


Words: airily
Meaning:
adverb\n(written) in a way that shows that you are not worried or that you are not treating sth as serious:\n’There’s nothing wrong with him,’ she said airily.


Words: airing
Meaning:
noun [sing.]\n  1  the expression or discussion of opinions in front of a group of people:\nan opportunity to give your views an airing * The subject got a thorough airing in the British press.\n  2  the act of allowing warm air to make clothes, beds, etc. fresh and dry:\nto give the sheets / blankets / clothes an airing * Open the windows and give the house a good airing.


Words: airing cupboard
Meaning:
noun\n(BrE) a warm cupboard in which clean sheets, clothes, etc. are put to make sure they are completely dry


Words: airless
Meaning:
adjective\n(written) not having any fresh or moving air or wind, and therefore unpleasant:\na stuffy, airless room * The night was hot and airless.


Words: airlift
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun an operation to take people, soldiers, food, etc. to or from an area by plane, especially in an emergency or when roads are closed or dangerous:\nan airlift of food and medical supplies to the besieged city\n    verb [VN] to take sb/sth to or from an area by plane, especially in an emergency or when roads are closed or dangerous:\nTwo casualties were airlifted to safety. * Over 200 residents were airlifted off the island.


Words: airline
Meaning:
noun\n[C+sing./pl. v.] a company that provides regular flights to take passengers and goods to different places:\ninternational airlines * an airline pilot


Words: airlock
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a small room with a tightly closed door at each end, which you go through to reach another area at a different air pressure, for example on a spacecraft or SUBMARINE\n  2  a bubble of air that blocks the flow of liquid in a pump or pipe


Words: airmail
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the system of sending letters, etc. by air:\nSend it airmail / by airmail. * an airmail envelope / letter


Words: airman
Meaning:
1  a member of the British air force, especially one below the rank of an officer\n  2  a member of one of the lowest ranks in the US air force:\nAirman Brines


Words: airplane
Meaning:
noun\n(AmE) = PLANE:\nThey arrived in Belgium by airplane. * an airplane crash / flight * a commercial / jet / military airplane


Words: airport
Meaning:
noun\na place where planes land and take off and that has buildings for passengers to wait in:\nGatwick Airport * waiting in the airport lounge


Words: airship
Meaning:
noun\na large aircraft without wings, filled with a gas which is lighter than air, and driven by engines


Words: airspace
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the part of the sky where planes fly, usually the part above a particular country that is legally controlled by that country:\nThe airspace over Europe is becoming more and more crowded. * The jet entered Chinese airspace without permission.


Words: airtight
Meaning:
adjective\nnot allowing air to get in or out:\nStore the cake in an airtight container. * (figurative) an airtight alibi (= one that cannot be proved to be false)


Words: airtime
Meaning:
noun [U]\n  1  the amount of time that is given to a particular subject on radio or television:\nCelebrities and politicians vie for prime-time television and radio airtime. * They are calling for more airtime for Jazz.\n  2  the amount of time that is paid for when you are using a MOBILE PHONE:\nThis deal gives you 180 minutes free airtime a month.


Words: airwaves
Meaning:
noun\n[pl.] radio waves that are used in broadcasting radio and television:\nMore and more TV and radio stations are crowding the airwaves. * A well-known voice came over the airwaves.


Words: airway
Meaning:
noun\n  1  (medical) the passage from the nose and throat to the lungs, through which you breathe:\nPrevent the tongue falling back and obstructing the airway.\n  2  (often used in names of airlines) a route regularly used by planes:\nBritish Airways


Words: airy
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  with plenty of fresh air because there is a lot of space:\nThe office was light and airy.\n  2  (written) acting or done in a way that shows that you are not worried or that you are not treating sth as serious:\nHe dismissed her with an airy wave.\nsee also AIRILY\n  3  (written, disapproving) not serious or practical:\nairy promises / speculation


Words: aisle
Meaning:
noun\na passage between rows of seats in a church, theatre, train, etc., or between rows of shelves in a SUPERMARKET:\nan aisle seat (= in a plane) * Coffee and tea are in the next aisle.\ncompare GANGWAY\n \n IDIOMS \n \n  go / walk down the aisle (informal) to get married\nmore at ROLL v.


Words: aitch
Meaning:
noun\nthe letter H written as a word:\nHe spoke with a cockney accent and dropped his aitches (= did not pronounce the letter H at the start of words).


Words: akimbo
Meaning:
adverb\n IDIOMS \n  (with) arms akimbo with your hands on your hips and your elbows pointing outwards


Words: alabaster
Meaning:
noun\n[U] a type of white stone that is often carved to make statues and ornaments:\nan alabaster tomb * (literary) her pale, alabaster (= white and smooth) skin


Words: alarm
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n\n \n  1  [U] fear and anxiety that sb feels when sth dangerous or unpleasant might happen:\n’What have you done?’ Ellie cried in alarm. * I felt a growing sense of alarm when he did not return that night. * The doctor said there was no cause for alarm.\n \n  2  [C, usually sing.] a loud noise or a signal that warns people of danger or of a problem:\nShe decided to sound the alarm (= warn people that the situation was dangerous). * I hammered on all the doors to raise the alarm. * By the time the alarm was raised the intruders had escaped.\nsee also FALSE ALARM\n \n  3  [C] a device that warns people of a particular danger:\na burglar / fire / smoke alarm * The cat set off the alarm (= made it start ringing). * A car alarm went off in the middle of the night (= started ringing).\n  4  = ALARM CLOCK:\nThe alarm went off at 7 o’clock.\n IDIOMS \n  alarm bells ring / start ringing if you say that alarm bells are ringing, you mean that people are starting to feel worried and suspicious:\nThe government’s proposal has set alarm bells ringing for people on low incomes.\n    verb\n  1  to make sb anxious or afraid:\n[VN] The captain knew there was an engine fault but didn’t want to alarm the passengers. [also VN to inf]\n  2  [VN] to fit sth such as a door with a device that warns people when sb is trying to enter illegally


Words: alarm clock
Meaning:
(also alarm) noun\na clock that you can set to ring a bell, etc. at a particular time and wake you up:\nI set the alarm clock for 7 o’clock.


Words: alarmed
Meaning:
adjective [not before noun]\n  1  ~ (at / by sth) anxious or afraid that sth dangerous or unpleasant might happen:\nShe was alarmed at the prospect of travelling alone.\n  2  protected by an alarm:\nThis door is alarmed.


Words: alarming
Meaning:
adjective\ncausing worry and fear:\nan alarming increase in the number of cases of skin cancer * The rainforests are disappearing at an alarming rate.\n    alarmingly adverb:\nPrices have risen alarmingly.


Words: alarmist
Meaning:
adjective\n(disapproving) causing unnecessary fear and anxiety:\nA spokesperson for the food industry said the TV programme was alarmist.\n    alarmist noun


Words: alas
Meaning:
exclamation\n(old use or literary) used to show you are sad or sorry:\nFor many people, alas, hunger is part of everyday life.


Words: albatross
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  a very large white seabird with long wings that lives in the Pacific and Southern Oceans\n \n  2  [usually sing.] (written) a thing that causes problems or prevents you from doing sth:\nThe national debt is an albatross around the president’s neck.


Words: albino
Meaning:
noun\n(plural albinos) a person or an animal that is born with no colour (= PIGMENT) in the hair or skin, which are white, or in the eyes, which are pink\n    albino adjective [only before noun]


Words: album
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a book in which you keep photographs, stamps, etc:\na photo album\n  2  a collection of pieces of music that have been recorded on one record, CD or cassette:\nthe band’s latest album\ncompare SINGLE


Words: albumen
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (technical) the colourless inside part of an egg that is white when cooked\nsee also WHITE\ncompare YOLK


Words: alchemy
Meaning:
noun [U]\n  1  a form of chemistry studied in the Middle Ages which involved trying to discover how to change ordinary metals into gold\n  2  (literary) a mysterious power or magic that can change things


Words: alcohol
Meaning:
noun [U]\n  1  drinks such as beer, wine, etc. that can make people drunk:\nHe never drinks alcohol. * For many young people drinking alcohol is a sign of ’growing up’. * alcohol abuse\n  2  the colourless liquid that is found in drinks such as beer, wine, etc. and is used in medicines, cleaning products, etc:\nWine usually contains about 10% alcohol. * The food and drink industry has responded to the demand for low- and no-alcohol drinks. * levels of alcohol in the blood * He pleaded guilty to driving with excess alcohol. * low-alcohol beer * Choose an alcohol-free skin toner if you have dry skin.


Words: alcoholic
Meaning:
adjective, noun \n    adjective\n  1  connected with or containing alcohol:\nalcoholic drinks\n  2  caused by drinking alcohol:\nThe guests left in an alcoholic haze.\n    noun (also AmE informal lush) a person who regularly drinks too much alcohol and cannot easily stop drinking, so that it has become an illness


Words: Alcoholics Anonymous
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (abbreviation AA) an organization that has meetings to give advice and support to people who cannot stop drinking too much alcohol, and which tries to help them stop:\nself-help groups like Alcoholics Anonymous * Alcoholics Anonymous meet at the centre twice a week.


Words: alcove
Meaning:
noun\nan area in a room that is formed by part of a wall being built farther back than the rest of the wall:\nThe bookcase fits neatly into the alcove.


Words: alderman
Meaning:
1  (in England and Wales in the past) a senior member of a town, BOROUGH or county council, below the rank of a MAYOR, chosen by other members of the council\n  2  (in the US, Canada and Australia) an elected member of a town or city council:\nAlderman Tim Evans


Words: ale
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [U, C] a type of beer, usually sold in bottles or cans. There are several kinds of ale:\nbrown / pale ale\n  2  [C] a glass, bottle or can of ale:\nTwo light ales please.\n  3  [U] (old-fashioned) beer generally\nsee also GINGER ALE, REAL ALE


Words: alert
Meaning:
adjective, verb, noun \n    adjective\n  1  able to think quickly; quick to notice things:\nSuddenly he found himself awake and fully alert. * Two alert scientists spotted the mistake. * Try to stay alert while driving at night. * an alert mind * mentally alert\n  2  ~ to sth aware of sth, especially a problem or danger:\nWe must be alert to the possibility of danger. * She was alert to the slightest sound.\n    alertly adjective\n    alertness noun [U] \n    verb [often passive]\n  1  to warn sb about a dangerous or urgent situation:\n[VN] Neighbours quickly alerted the emergency services. * Alerted by a noise downstairs, he sat up and turned on the light. [also VN (that), VN to inf]\n  2  [VN] ~ sb to sth to make sb aware of sth:\nThey had been alerted to the possibility of further price rises.\n    noun\n  1  [sing., U] a situation in which people are watching for danger and ready to deal with it:\nPolice are warning the public to be on the alert for suspicious packages. * More than 5 000 troops have been placed on (full) alert.\n  2  [C] a warning of danger or of a problem:\na bomb / fire alert\nsee also RED ALERT


Words: alfalfa
Meaning:
noun\n[U] a plant with small divided leaves and purple flowers, grown as food for farm animals and as a salad vegetable


Words: algae
Meaning:
noun\n[U, pl.] (singular alga ) (technical) very simple plants with no real leaves, stems or roots that grow in or near water, including SEAWEED\n    algal  adjective [only before noun]:\nalgal blooms / growth


Words: algebra
Meaning:
noun\n[U] a type of mathematics in which letters and symbols are used to represent quantities\n    algebraic  adjective:\nan algebraic equation


Words: alias
Meaning:
adverb, noun \n    adverb used when a person, especially a criminal or an actor, is known by two names:\nMick Clark, alias Sid Brown * Inspector Morse, alias John Thaw (= John Thaw plays the part of Inspector Morse) * John Thaw, alias Inspector Morse of the famous TV series\n    noun a false or different name, especially one that is used by a criminal:\nHe checked into the hotel under an alias.


Words: alibi
Meaning:
noun\n  1  evidence that proves that a person was in another place at the time of a crime and so could not have committed it:\nThe suspects all had alibis for the day of the robbery.\n  2  an excuse for sth that you have done wrong


Words: alien
Meaning:
adjective, noun \n    adjective\n  1  ~ (to sb/sth) strange and frightening; different from what you are used to:\nan alien environment * In a world that had suddenly become alien and dangerous, he was her only security.\n  2  (often disapproving) from another country or society; foreign:\nan alien culture * alien influences that threatened their way of life\n  3  ~ to sb/sth (disapproving) not usual or acceptable:\nThe idea is alien to our religion. * A referendum is alien to the party’s concept of democracy. * Cruelty was quite alien to him.\n  4  connected with creatures from another world:\nalien beings from outer space\n    noun\n  1  (AmE also non-citizen) (law or technical) a person who is not a citizen of the country in which they live or work:\nan illegal alien\n  2  a creature from another world:\naliens from outer space


Words: alienate
Meaning:
verb [VN] \n  1  to make sb less friendly or sympathetic towards you:\nHis comments have alienated a lot of young voters.\n  2  ~ sb (from sth/sb) to make sb feel that they do not belong in a particular group:\nVery talented children may feel alienated from the others in their class.\n    alienation  noun [U]:\nThe new policy resulted in the alienation of many voters. * Many immigrants suffer from a sense of alienation.


Words: alight
Meaning:
adjective, verb \n    adjective [not before noun]\n  1  on fire:\nA cigarette set the dry grass alight. * A car was overturned and set alight. * Her dress caught alight in the fire.\n  2  (written) (of faces or eyes) showing a feeling of happiness or excitement:\nThe children’s faces were alight with enthusiasm.\n IDIOMS  see WORLD\n    verb [V] (formal or literary)\n  1  ~ (in / on / upon sth) (of a bird or an insect) to land in or on sth after flying to it\n  2  ~ (from sth) to get out of a bus, a train or other vehicle\nSYN GET OFF:\nDo not alight from a moving bus.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  alight on / upon sth to think of, find or notice sth, especially by chance:\nEventually, we alighted on the idea of seeking sponsorship. * Her eyes suddenly alighted on the bundle of documents.


Words: align
Meaning:
verb\n  1  ~ (sth) (with sth) to arrange sth in the correct position, or to be in the correct position, in relation to sth else, especially in a straight line:\n[VN] Make sure the shelf is aligned with the top of the cupboard. * [V] The top and bottom line of each column on the page should align.\n  2  [VN] ~ sth (with / to sth) to change sth slightly so that it is in the correct relationship to sth else:\nDomestic prices have been aligned with those in world markets.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  align yourself with sb/sth to publicly support an organization, a set of opinions or a person that you agree with:\nNewspapers traditionally align themselves with one political party.


Words: alignment
Meaning:
noun [U, C]\n  1  arrangement in a straight line:\nthe alignment of the sun, moon and earth at a particular time * A bone in my spine was out of alignment.\n  2  political support given to one country or group by another:\nJapan’s alignment with the West


Words: alike
Meaning:
adjective, adverb \n    adjective [not before noun] very similar:\nMy sister and I do not look alike. * Airports are all alike to me.\ncompare UNLIKE\n    adverb\n  1  in a very similar way:\nThey tried to treat all their children alike.\n  2  used after you have referred to two people or groups, to mean ’both’ or ’equally’:\nGood health and safety management benefits employers and employees alike.\n IDIOMS  see SHARE v.


Words: alimony
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (especially AmE) the money that a court of law orders sb to pay regularly to their former wife or husband when the marriage is ended\ncompare PALIMONY


Words: alive
Meaning:
adjective [not before noun]\n  1  living; not dead:\nWe don’t know whether he’s alive or dead. * Is your mother still alive? * Doctors kept the baby alive for six weeks. * I was glad to hear you’re alive and well. * She had to steal food just to stay alive. * He was buried alive in the earthquake.\n  2  ~ (with sth) full of emotion, excitement, activity, etc:\nEdward was alive with happiness. * Her eyes were alive with interest.\n  3  continuing to exist:\nto keep a tradition / memory / hope alive * Money from charities is keeping the theatre alive.\n  4  ~ with sth full of living or moving things:\nThe pool was alive with goldfish.\n  5  ~ to sth aware of sth; knowing sth exists and is important:\nto be alive to the dangers / facts / possibilities * The government should be alive to the problems faced by industry.\n IDIOMS \n  alive and kicking very active, healthy or popular\n  bring sth alive to make sth interesting:\nMaps and pictures bring the book alive. * The teacher brought history alive with fascinating stories.\n  come alive\n1 (of a subject or an event) to become interesting and exciting:\nThe game came alive in the second half. * New political issues suddenly came alive after the election.\n2 (of a place) to become busy and full of activity:\nThe city starts to come alive after dark. * The fishing villages come alive in spring.\n3 (of a person) to show interest in sth and become excited about it:\nShe came alive as she talked about her job.\nmore at EAT


Words: alkali
Meaning:
noun\n[C, U] (chemistry) a chemical substance that reacts with acids to form a salt and has a PH of more than seven\ncompare ACID


Words: alkaline
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  (chemistry) having the nature of an alkali\n  2  (technical) containing alkali:\nalkaline soil\ncompare ACID


Words: alkaloid
Meaning:
noun\n(biology or medical) a poisonous substance found in some plants. There are many different alkaloids and some are used as the basis for drugs.


Words: all
Meaning:
determiner, pronoun, adverb \n    determiner\n  1  (used with plural nouns. The noun may have the, this, that, my, her, his, etc. in front of it, or a number.) the whole number of:\nAll horses are animals, but not all animals are horses. * Cars were coming from all directions (= every direction). * All the people you invited are coming. * All my plants have died. * All five men are hard workers.\n  2  (used with uncountable nouns. The noun may have the, this, that, my, her, his, etc. in front of it.) the whole amount of:\nAll wood tends to shrink. * You’ve had all the fun and I’ve had all the hard work. * All this mail must be answered. * He has lost all his money.\n  3  used with singular nouns showing sth has been happening for a whole period of time:\nHe’s worked hard all year. * She was unemployed for all that time.\n  4  the greatest possible:\nIn all honesty (= being as honest as I can), I can’t agree.\n  5  consisting or appearing to consist of one thing only:\nThe magazine was all advertisements. * She was all smiles (= smiling a lot).\n  6  any whatever:\nHe denied all knowledge of the crime.\n IDIOMS \n  and all that (jazz, rubbish, etc.) (informal) and other similar things:\nI’m bored by history-dates and battles and all that stuff.\n  not all that good, well, etc. not particularly good, well, etc:\nHe doesn’t sing all that well.\n  not as bad(ly), etc. as all that not as much as has been suggested:\nThey’re not as rich as all that.\n  of all people, things, etc. (informal) used to express surprise because sb/sth seems the least likely person, example, etc:\nI didn’t think you, of all people, would become a vegetarian.\n  of all the ... (informal) used to express anger:\nI’ve locked myself out. Of all the stupid things to do!\nmore at FOR prep.\n    pronoun\n  1  the whole number or amount:\nAll of the food has gone. * They’ve eaten all of it. * They’ve eaten it all. * I invited some of my colleagues but not all. * Not all of them were invited. * All of them enjoyed the party. * They all enjoyed it. * His last movie was best of all.\n  2  (followed by a relative clause, often without that) the only thing; everything:\nAll I want is peace and quiet. * It was all that I had. -> ALTOGETHER\n IDIOMS \n  all in all when everything is considered:\nAll in all it had been a great success.\n  all in one having two or more uses, functions, etc:\nIt’s a corkscrew and bottle-opener all in one.\n  all or nothing a situation which will end either in complete success or complete failure\n  and all\n1 also; included; in addition:\nShe jumped into the river, clothes and all (= with her clothes on).\n2 (spoken) as well; too:\n’I’m freezing.’ ’Yeah, me and all.’\n  (not) at all in any way; to any degree:\nI didn’t enjoy it at all.\n  in all as a total\nSYN ALTOGETHER:\nThere were twelve of us in all for dinner. * That’s ｣25.40 in all.\n  not at all used as a polite reply to an expression of thanks:\n’Thanks very much for your help.’ ’Not at all, it was a pleasure.’\n  your all everything you have:\nThey gave their all (= fought and died) in the war.\nmore at ABOVE prep., AFTER prep., END v., END n., FOR prep., SIDE n.\n    adverb\n  1  completely:\nShe was dressed all in white. * He lives all alone. * The coffee went all over my skirt.\n  2  (informal) very:\nShe was all excited. * Now don’t get all upset about it.\n  3  ~ too ... used to show that sth is more than you would like:\nI’m all too aware of the problems. * The end of the trip came all too soon.\n  4  (in sports and games) to each side:\nThe score was four all.\n IDIOMS \n  all along all the time; from the beginning:\nI realized it was in my pocket all along.\n  all around -> ALL ROUND\n  all the better, harder, etc. so much better, harder, etc:\nWe’ll have to work all the harder with two people off sick.\n  all but\n1 almost:\nThe party was all but over when we arrived. * It was all but impossible to read his writing.\n2 everything or everyone except sth/sb:\nAll but one of the plates were damaged.\n  all in\n1 physically tired\nSYN EXHAUSTED:\nAt the end of the race he felt all in.\n2 (BrE) including everything:\nThe holiday cost ｣250 all in.\nsee also ALL-IN\n  all of sth (often ironic) used to emphasize an amount, a size, etc. usually when it is very small:\nIt must be all of 100 metres to the car!\n  all over\n1 everywhere:\nWe looked all over for the ring.\n2 what you would expect of the person mentioned:\nThat sounds like my sister all over.\n  all round (BrE) (AmE all around)\n1 in every way; in all respects:\na good performance all round\n2 for each person:\nShe bought drinks all round.\n  all there (informal) having a healthy mind; thinking clearly:\nHe behaves very oddly at times-I don’t think he’s quite all there.\n  be all about sb/sth:\nThis book is all about Greece. * (informal) Now then, what’s this all about (= what is the problem)? * It’s all about money these days.\n  be all for sth / for doing sth to believe strongly that sth should be done:\nThey’re all for saving money where they can.\n  be all over sb (informal) to show a lot of affection for or enthusiasm about sb:\nHe was all over her at the party.\n  be all up (with sb) (old-fashioned, informal) to be the end for sb:\nIt looks as though it’s all up with us now (= we are ruined, have no further chances, etc.).


Words: all right
Meaning:
(also non-standard or informal alright) adjective, adverb, exclamation \n    adjective, adverb\n  1  satisfactory; in a satisfactory manner:\nIs the coffee all right? * Are you getting along all right in your new job? * ’They’re off to Spain next week.’ ’It’s all right for some, isn’t it? (= some people are lucky)’\n  2  safe and well:\nI hope the children are all right. * Do you feel all right?\n  3  only just good enough:\nYour work is all right but I’m sure you could do better.\n  4  that can be allowed:\nAre you sure it’s all right for me to leave early?\n  5  used to emphasize that there is no doubt about sth:\n’Are you sure it’s her?’ ’Oh, it’s her all right.’\n IDIOMS \n  I’m all right, Jack (BrE, informal) used by or about sb who is happy with their own life and does not care about other people’s problems\n  it’ll be all right on the night (spoken) used to say that a performance, an event, etc. will be successful even if the preparations for it have not gone well\nmore at BIT\n    exclamation\n  1  used to check that sb agrees or understands:\nWe’ve got to get up early, all right?\n  2  used to say that you agree:\n’Can you do it?’ ’Oh, all right.’\n  3  used when accepting thanks or when sb says they are sorry:\n’I’m really sorry.’ ’That’s all right, don’t worry.’\n  4  used to get sb’s attention:\nAll right class, turn to page 20.


Words: all singing , all dancing
Meaning:
adjective\n[only before noun] (BrE, informal) (of a machine or system) having a lot of advanced technical features and therefore able to perform many different functions:\nWith these extras your PC will become the all singing, all dancing box the salesman claimed it would be.


Words: all-
Meaning:
combining form (in adjectives and adverbs)\n  1  completely:\nan all-American show * an all-inclusive price\n  2  in the highest degree:\nall-important * all-powerful


Words: all-clear
Meaning:
noun (the all-clear) [sing.]\n  1  if a doctor gives sb the all-clear, they tell the person that he/she does not have any health problems: (figurative) The building was given the all-clear following tests.\n  2  permission to do sth:\nThe ship was given the all-clear to sail again.\n  3  a signal (often a sound) which shows that a place or situation is no longer dangerous:\nThe children hid in the basement until the all-clear sounded.


Words: all-embracing
Meaning:
adjective\n(written) including everything:\nan all-embracing theory * an all-embracing study of human society


Words: all-important
Meaning:
adjective\nextremely important:\nPosture is all-important when you are sitting at a desk. * Lack of parking space is affecting the town’s all-important tourist industry.


Words: all-in
Meaning:
adjective\n[only before noun] (BrE) including the cost of all parts of sth:\nan all-in price of ｣500 with no extras to pay * The all-in holiday includes fares, full board and entrance to museums.


Words: all-in-one
Meaning:
adjective\n[only before noun] (BrE) able to do the work of two or more things that are usually separate:\nan all-in-one shampoo and conditioner * The all-in-one body suit looks great with jeans.


Words: all-night
Meaning:
adjective [only before noun]\n  1  (of a place) open through the night:\nan all-night cafe\n  2  (of an activity) continuing through the night:\nan all-night party


Words: all-out
Meaning:
adjective\n[only before noun] using or involving every possible effort and done in a very determined way:\nAll-out war was almost inevitable now. * an all-out attack on the opposition\n    all out adverb:\nWe’re going all out to win.


Words: all-purpose
Meaning:
adjective\n[only before noun] having many different uses; able to be used in many situations:\nCheddar is an all-purpose cheese for cooking and eating. * Each child had one pair of all-purpose shoes.


Words: all-round
Meaning:
(BrE) (AmE all-around) adjective [only before noun]\n  1  including many different subjects, skills, etc:\nan all-round education\n  2  (of a person) with a wide range of skills or abilities:\nShe’s a good all-round player.


Words: all-time
Meaning:
adjective\n[only before noun] (used when you are comparing things or saying how good or bad sth is) of any time:\none of the all-time great tennis players * my all-time favourite song * Unemployment reached an all-time record of 3 million. * Profits are at an all-time high / low.


Words: allay
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] (formal) to make sth, especially a feeling, less strong:\nto allay fears / concern / suspicion


Words: allegation
Meaning:
noun\n~ (of sth) (against sb) | ~ (that ...) | ~ (about sb/sth) a public statement that is made without giving proof, accusing sb of doing sth that is wrong or illegal:\nSeveral newspapers made allegations of corruption in the city’s police department. * allegations of dishonesty against him * an allegation that he had been dishonest * to investigate / deny / withdraw an allegation * The committee has made serious allegations about interference in its work.


Words: allege
Meaning:
verb\n[often passive] (formal) to state sth as a fact but without giving proof:\n[V (that)] The prosecution alleges (that) she was driving carelessly. * [VN that] It is alleged that he mistreated the prisoners. * [VN to inf] He is alleged to have mistreated the prisoners.\n HELP NOTE  This pattern is only used in the passive. [VN] This procedure should be followed in cases where dishonesty has been alleged. [also V speech]\n    alleged adjective [only before noun] (formal):\nthe alleged attacker / victim / killer (= that sb says is one) * the alleged attack / offence / incident (= that sb says has happened) * The girl gave evidence in court against her alleged attacker.\n    allegedly  adverb:\ncrimes allegedly committed during the war


Words: allegiance
Meaning:
noun\n[U, C] ~ (to sb/sth) a person’s continued support for a political party, religion, ruler, etc:\nto pledge / swear allegiance to sb/sth * to switch / transfer / change allegiance * an oath / a vow / a statement of allegiance * People of various party allegiances joined the campaign. * He affirmed his allegiance to the president.


Words: allegory
Meaning:
noun\n[C, U] (plural allegories) a story, play, picture, etc. in which each character or event is a symbol representing an idea or a quality, such as truth, evil, death, etc.; the use of such symbols:\na political allegory * the poet’s use of allegory\nsee also FABLE\n    allegorical  adjective:\nan allegorical figure / novel\n    allegorically adverb


Words: allegro
Meaning:
noun\n(plural allegros) (music) a piece of music to be played in a fast and lively manner\n    allegro adjective, adverb


Words: allergic
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  ~ (to sth) having an allergy to sth:\nI like cats but unfortunately I’m allergic to them.\n  2  caused by an allergy:\nan allergic reaction / rash\n  3  [not before noun] ~ to sth (informal, humorous) having a strong dislike of sth/sb:\nYou could see he was allergic to housework.


Words: allergy
Meaning:
noun\n(plural allergies) ~ (to sth) a medical condition that causes you to react badly or feel ill when you eat or touch a particular substance:\nI have an allergy to animal hair. * Hay fever is caused by an allergy to pollen.


Words: alleviate
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] (written) to make sth less severe\nSYN EASE:\nto alleviate suffering * A number of measures were taken to alleviate the problem.\n    alleviation  noun [U]:\nthe alleviation of poverty


Words: alley
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  (also alleyway ) a narrow passage behind or between buildings:\na narrow / dark alley * The car was hidden down a narrow alley in the downtown area. * He ran down one of the dark alleys at the back of the shops.\nsee also BLIND ALLEY, BOWLING ALLEY\n \n  2  (AmE) = TRAMLINES\n \n IDIOMS \n \n  (right) up your alley (AmE) = (right) up your street at STREET:\nA teaching job would be right up her alley.


Words: alliance
Meaning:
noun\n  1  ~ (with sb/sth) | ~ (between A and B) an agreement between countries, political parties, etc. to work together in order to achieve sth that they all want:\nto form / make a political alliance * The Social Democrats are now in alliance with the Greens. * an alliance between education and business to develop the use of technology in schools\n  2  a group of people, political parties, etc. who work together in order to achieve sth that they all want:\nThe Green Alliance was formed to campaign against environmental damage.


Words: allied
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  (often Allied) [only before noun] connected with countries that unite to fight a war together, especially the countries that fought together against Germany in the First and Second World Wars:\nItaly joined the war on the Allied side in 1915. * Many civilians died as a result of allied bombing. * allied forces / troops\n  2  ~ (to / with sth) (written) (of two or more things) similar or existing together; connected with sth:\nmedicine, nursing, physiotherapy and other allied professions * In this job you will need social skills allied with technical knowledge.\nsee also ALLY


Words: alligator
Meaning:
noun\na large reptile of the CROCODILE family, with a long tail, hard skin and very big jaws, that lives in rivers and lakes in America and China


Words: alliteration
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (technical) the use of the same letter or sound at the beginning of words that are close together, as in sing a song of sixpence\n    alliterative  adjective


Words: allocate
Meaning:
verb\n~ sth (for sth) | ~ sth (to sb/sth) | ~ (sb/sth) sth to give sth officially to sb/sth for a particular purpose:\n[VN] They intend to allocate more places to mature students this year. * A large sum has been allocated for buying new books for the library. * [VN, VNN] More resources are being allocated to the project. * The project is being allocated more resources.


Words: allocation
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [C] an amount of money, space, etc. that is given to sb for a particular purpose:\nWe have spent our entire allocation for the year.\n  2  [U] the act of giving sth to sb for a particular purpose:\nthe allocation of food to those who need it most


Words: allot
Meaning:
verb\n(-tt-) ~ sth (to sb/sth) | ~ (sb/sth) sth to give time, money, tasks, etc. to sb/sth as a share of what is available:\n[VN] I managed to complete the test within the time allotted. * [VN, VNN] How much money has been allotted to us? * How much money have we been allotted?


Words: allotment
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [C] (BrE) a small area of land in a town which a person can rent in order to grow vegetables on it\n  2  [C, U] (formal) an amount of sth that sb is given or allowed to have; the process of giving sth to sb:\nWater allotments to farmers were cut back in the drought. * the allotment of shares to company employees


Words: allow
Meaning:
verb\n  let sb / sth do sth\n  1  to let sb/sth do sth; to let sth happen or be done:\n[VN to inf] His parents won’t allow him to stay out late. * He is not allowed to stay out late. * They shouldn’t be allowed to get away with it. * She won’t allow herself to be dictated to. * He allowed his mind to wander. * [VN] Smoking is not allowed in the hall. * [V -ing] We do not allow smoking in the hall.\n  2  [VNN] to let sb have sth:\nYou’re allowed half an hour to complete the test. * I’m not allowed visitors. * I sometimes allow myself the luxury of a cigar.\n  3  [VN]   [usually +adv./prep.] [usually passive] to let sb/sth go into, through, out of, etc. a place:\nNo dogs allowed (= you cannot bring them in). * The prisoners are allowed out of their cells for two hours a day. * The crowd parted to allow her through. * You won’t be allowed up (= out of bed) for several days.\n  make possible\n  4  to make sth possible:\n[VN] A ramp has been installed to allow better access for wheelchairs. [also V -ing]\n  time / money / food, etc.\n  5  [VN] ~ sth (for sb/sth) to make sure that you have enough of sth for a particular purpose:\nHow much time would you allow for the trip? * You need to allow three metres of fabric for the dress.\n  accept / admit\n  6  (formal) to accept or admit sth; to agree that sth is true or correct:\n[VN] The judge allowed my claim. * ’Objection!’ ’I’ll allow it.’ * [V that] He refuses to allow that such a situation could arise. * [VNN] She was very helpful when my mother was ill-I’ll allow you that. [also V speech] \ncompare DISALLOW\n IDIOMS \n  allow me (spoken) used to offer help politely:\n’Allow me,’ he said, taking the tray from her.\nmore at REIN n.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  allow for sb/sth to include sb/sth when calculating sth:\nIt will take about an hour to get there, allowing for traffic delays. * All these factors must be allowed for.\n  allow of sth (formal) to make sth possible:\nThe facts allow of only one explanation.\n______________________________\n WHICH WORD? \nallow / let / permit\nLet is the least formal and the most common of these verbs in spoken English. It is followed by an object and an infinitive without ’to’, and is often used to give orders: Let James sit there. * Don’t let me forget there’s a cake in the oven. * My father won’t let me go out tonight. Let is not used in the passive.\nAllow is more formal than let and is more common in writing. Permit is the most formal and is used in official or technical written language. Both words can be followed by an object and a ’to’ infinitive and are both often used in the passive: I’m not allowed to smoke in the house. * Some parents allow their children to do whatever they like. * Photography is not permitted in the gallery. * Customers are permitted to use the car park.\n______________________________


Words: allowable
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  that is allowed, especially by law or by a set of rules:\nIt’s not allowable under union rules. * What is the maximum allowable number of users on the network?\n  2  (BrE) allowable amounts of money are amounts that you do not have to pay tax on:\nallowable deductions / contributions / losses


Words: allowance
Meaning:
noun\n  1  an amount of money that is given to sb regularly or for a particular purpose:\nan allowance of $20 a day * a clothing / living / travel allowance * Do you get an allowance for clothing?\nsee also ATTENDANCE ALLOWANCE\n  2  the amount of sth that is allowed in a particular situation:\na baggage allowance of 20 kilos * Roman soldiers received a salt allowance, called salarium, the origin of the word salary.\n  3  (BrE) an amount of money that can be earned or received before you start paying tax:\npersonal tax allowances\n  4  (especially AmE) = POCKET MONEY\n IDIOMS \n  make allowance(s) for sth to consider sth, for example when you are making a decision or planning sth:\nThe budget made allowance for inflation. * The plan makes no allowance for people working at different rates.\n  make allowances (for sb) to allow sb to behave in a way that you would not usually accept, because of a problem or because there is a special reason:\nYou have to make allowances for him because he’s tired.


Words: alloy
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun  [C, U] a metal that is formed by mixing two types of metal together, or by mixing metal with another substance:\nBrass is an alloy of copper and zinc. * alloy steel\n    verb  [VN] ~ sth (with sth) (technical) to mix one metal with another, especially one of lower value


Words: allude
Meaning:
verb\n\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  allude to sb/sth (formal) to mention sth in an indirect way:\nThe problem had been alluded to briefly in earlier discussions.\nsee also ALLUSION


Words: allure
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (written) the quality of being attractive and exciting:\nsexual allure * the allure of the big city


Words: allusion
Meaning:
noun\n[C, U] ~ (to sb/sth) something that is said or written that refers to or mentions another person or subject in an indirect way:\nHis statement was seen as an allusion to the recent drug-related killings. * Her poetry is full of obscure literary allusion.


Words: alluvial
Meaning:
adjective\n[usually before noun] (technical) made of sand and earth that is left by rivers or floods:\nalluvial deposits / soil / plains


Words: ally
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun  (plural allies)\n  1  [C] a country that has agreed to help and support another country, especially in case of a war:\nour European / NATO allies * a loyal ally of the United States\n  2  [C] a person who helps and supports sb who is in a difficult situation, especially a politician:\na close ally and friend of the prime minister * His sister was his ally against their grandparents.\n  3  (the Allies) [pl.] the group of countries including Britain and the US that fought together in the First and Second World Wars:\nthe Western Allies\n    verb sth (written) to give your support to another group or country: [VN] The prince allied himself with the Scots. [also V]\n______________________________\n WORD FAMILY \nally v., n.\nallied adj.\nalliance n.\n______________________________


Words: Alma Mater
Meaning:
(also alma mater)  noun\n[sing.] (especially AmE) the school or university that sb went to:\nHe donated $20 million to his alma mater, Colombia University.


Words: almanac
Meaning:
(also less frequent almanack)  noun\n  1  a book that is published every year giving information for that year about a particular subject or activity:\na cricket almanac\n  2  a book that gives information about the sun, moon, times of the TIDES (= the rise and fall of the sea level), etc. for each day of the year


Words: almighty
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  (in prayers) having complete power:\nAlmighty God, have mercy on us.\n  2  [only before noun] (informal) very great or severe:\nan almighty bang / crash / roar\n  3  (!!!, offensive) used in the expressions shown in the example, to express surprise or anger:\nChrist / God Almighty! What the hell do you think you are doing?\n  4  (the Almighty) noun [sing.] God:\nto pray to the Almighty


Words: almond
Meaning:
noun\nthe flat pale sweet nut of the almond tree used in cooking and to make almond oil:\nflaked / ground almonds * blanched almonds (= with their skins removed) * almond essence / paste * almond eyes (= eyes shaped like almonds) * almond blossom (= the flowers of the almond tree)


Words: almoner
Meaning:
noun\n(old-fashioned, BrE) a person employed by a hospital to help patients with their financial and social problems, now usually called a ’medical social worker’


Words: almost
Meaning:
adverb\nnot quite; \nSYN NEARLY:\nI like almost all of them. * It’s a mistake they almost always make. * The story is almost certainly false. * It’s almost time to go. * Dinner’s almost ready. * He slipped and almost fell. * Their house is almost opposite ours. * They’ll eat almost anything. * Almost no one (hardly anyone) believed him.\n______________________________\n WHICH WORD? \nalmost / nearly / practically\nThese three words have similar meanings and are used frequently with the following words:\nalmost ~  nearly ~  practically ~\ncertainly  (numbers)  all\nall  all  every\nevery  always  no\nentirely  every  nothing\nimpossible  finished  impossible\nempty  died  anything\nThey are used in positive sentences: She almost/nearly/practically missed her train. They can be used before words like all, every and everybody: Nearly all the students have bikes. * I’ve got practically every CD they’ve made. Practically is used more in spoken than in written English. Nearly is the most common with numbers: There were nearly 200 people at the meeting. They can also be used in negative sentences but it is more common to make a positive sentence with only just: We only just got there in time. (or: We almost/nearly didn’t get there in time.)\nAlmost and practically can be used before words like any, anybody, anything, etc.: I’ll eat almost anything. You can also use them before no, nobody, never, etc. but it is much more common to use hardly or scarcely with any, anybody, ever, etc.: She’s hardly ever in. (or: She’s almost never in.)\nAlmost can be used when you are saying that one thing is similar to another: The boat looked almost like a toy.\nIn BrE you can use very and so before nearly: He was very nearly caught.\n-> note at HARDLY\n______________________________


Words: almshouse
Meaning:
noun\n(in the past in Britain) a house owned by a charity where poor people (usually the old) lived without paying rent


Words: aloe
Meaning:
noun\na tropical plant with thick, prickly leaves that contain a lot of water. The juice of some types of aloe is used in medicine and COSMETICS.


Words: alone
Meaning:
adjective [not before noun] adverb\n  1  without any other people:\nI don’t like going out alone at night. * He lives alone. * Finally the two of us were alone together. * She was sitting all alone in the hall. * Tom is not alone in finding Rick hard to work with.\n  2  without the help of other people or things:\nIt’s hard bringing up children alone. * The assassin said he had acted alone.\n  3  lonely and unhappy or without any friends:\nCarol felt all alone in the world. * I’ve been so alone since you went away.\n  4  used after a noun or pronoun to show that the person or thing mentioned is the only one:\nYou can’t blame anyone else; you alone made the decision.\n  5  used after a noun or pronoun to emphasize one particular thing:\nThe shoes alone cost ｣200.\n IDIOMS \n  go it alone to do sth without help from anyone:\nAndrew decided to go it alone and start his own business.\n  leave / let sb alone to stop annoying sb or trying to get their attention:\nShe’s asked to be left alone but the press photographers follow her everywhere.\n  leave / let sth alone to stop touching, changing, or moving sth:\nI’ve told you before-leave my things alone!\n  let alone used after a statement to emphasize that because the first thing is not true or possible, the next thing cannot be true or possible either:\nThere isn’t enough room for us, let alone any guests. * I didn’t have any clothes, let alone a passport.\n  stand alone\n1 to be independent or not connected with other people, organizations or ideas:\nThese islands are too small to stand alone as independent states. * The problems that research is designed to solve do not stand alone, but are part of a wider context.\n2 to be not near other objects or buildings:\nThe arch once stood alone at the entrance to the castle.\nmore at TIME n.\n______________________________\n WHICH WORD? \nalone / lonely / lone\nAlone, and on your own, by yourself, which are less formal and are the normal phrases used in spoken English, describe a person or thing that is separate from others. They do not mean that the person is unhappy: I like being alone in the house. * I’m going to London by myself next week. * I want to finish this on my own (= without anyone’s help).\nLone/solitary/single mean that there is only one person or thing there; lone and solitary may sometimes suggest that the speaker thinks the person involved is lonely: a lone jogger in the park * long, solitary walks.\nLonely (AmE also lonesome) means that you are alone and sad: a lonely child * Sam was very lonely when he first moved to New York. It can also describe places or activities that make you feel lonely: a lonely house.\n______________________________


Words: along
Meaning:
preposition, adverb \n    preposition\n\n \n  1  from one end to or towards the other end of sth:\nThey walked slowly along the road. * I looked along the shelves for the book I needed.\n \n  2  in a line that follows the side of sth long:\nHouses had been built along both sides of the river.\n \n  3  at a particular point on or beside sth long:\nYou’ll find his office just along the corridor.\n    adverb\n HELP NOTE  For the special uses of along in phrasal verbs, look at the entries for the verbs. For example get along with sb is in the phrasal verb section at get.\n  1  forward:\nI was just walking along singing to myself. * He pointed out various landmarks as we drove along.\n  2  with sb:\nWe’re going for a swim. Why don’t you come along? * I’ll be along (= I’ll join you) in a few minutes.\n  3  towards a better state or position:\nThe book’s coming along nicely.\n IDIOMS \n  along with sb/sth in addition to sb/sth; in the same way as sb/sth:\nShe lost her job when the factory closed, along with hundreds of others.


Words: alongside
Meaning:
preposition\n  1  next to or at the side of sth:\nA police car pulled up alongside us. * a lifeboat moored alongside the yacht * Much of the land alongside the river is below sea level.\n  2  together with or at the same time as sth/sb:\nTraditional beliefs still flourish alongside a modern urban lifestyle.\n    alongside adverb:\nNick caught up with me and rode alongside.


Words: aloof
Meaning:
adjective\n[not usually before noun] ~ (from sb/sth) not friendly or interested in other people:\nHe was a cold man, aloof and distant. * She stayed aloof while the argument went on around her.\n    aloofness noun [U]:\nHer cool aloofness was seen as arrogance by some people.\n IDIOMS \n  keep / hold (yourself) aloof | remain / stand aloof to not become involved in sth; to show no interest in people:\nThe Emperor kept himself aloof from the people.


Words: aloud
Meaning:
adverb\n  1  in a voice that other people can hear:\nThe teacher listened to the children reading aloud. * He read the letter aloud to us. * ’What am I going to do?’ she wondered aloud. -> LOUD\n  2  in a loud voice:\nShe cried aloud in protest.\n IDIOMS  see THINK v.


Words: alpaca
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [C] a S American animal that is related to the LLAMA and has long hair\n  2  [U] a type of soft wool or fabric made from the hair of the alpaca, used especially for making expensive clothes:\nan alpaca coat


Words: alpha particle
Meaning:
noun\n(technical) a PARTICLE with a positive electric CHARGE passing through it, that is produced in a nuclear reaction


Words: alphabet
Meaning:
noun\na set of letters or symbols in a fixed order used for writing a language:\nAlpha is the first letter of the Greek alphabet.\n ORIGIN  From alpha and beta, the first two letters of the Greek alphabet.


Words: alphabetical
Meaning:
adjective\naccording to the correct order of the letters of the alphabet:\nThe names on the list are in alphabetical order.\n    alphabetically  adverb:\narranged / listed / stored alphabetically * The books should be ordered alphabetically by subject.


Words: alpine
Meaning:
adjective, noun \n    adjective existing in or connected with high mountains, especially the Alps in Central Europe:\nalpine villages / scenery / plants * A wide variety of alpine flowers can be found at all altitudes.\n    noun any plant that grows best on mountains


Words: already
Meaning:
adverb\n  1  before now or before a particular time in the past:\n’Lunch?’ ’No thanks, I’ve already eaten.’ * We got there early but Mike had already left.\n  2  used to express surprise that sth has happened so soon or so early:\nIs it 10 o’clock already? * You’re not leaving already, are you?\n  3  used to emphasize that a situation or problem exists:\nI’m already late. * There are far too many people already. We can’t take any more.\n______________________________\n BRITISH / AMERICAN \nalready / just / yet\nAlready and yet are usually used with the present perfect tense, but in AmE they can also be used with the simple past tense: I already did it. * Did you eat yet?\nHowever, this is much more common in spoken English than in written and some Americans do not consider it acceptable, even in speech. The present perfect is more common in AmE and almost always used in BrE: I’ve already done it. * Have you eaten yet?\nJust is mostly used with the perfect tenses in BrE and with the simple past in AmE: I’ve just had some bad news. (BrE) * I just got some bad news. (AmE)\n______________________________


Words: alright
Meaning:
adverb\n(informal) = ALL RIGHT\n HELP NOTE  Some people consider that this form should not be used in formal writing.


Words: Alsatian
Meaning:
(BrE) (also German shepherd AmE, BrE) noun\na large dog, often trained to help the police, to guard buildings or (especially in the US) to help blind people find their way


Words: also
Meaning:
adverb\n(not used with negative verbs) in addition; too:\nShe’s fluent in French and German. She also speaks a little Italian. * rubella, also known as German measles * (informal) I didn’t like it that much. Also, it was much too expensive. * Jake’s father had also been a doctor (= both Jake and his father were doctors). * She was not only extremely intelligent but also very practical.\n______________________________\n WHICH WORD? \nalso / as well / too\nAlso is more formal than as well and too, and it usually comes before the main verb or after be: I went to New York last year, and I also spent some time in Washington. In BrE it is not usually used at the end of a sentence. Too is much more common in spoken and informal English. It is usually used at the end of a sentence: ’I’m going home now.’ ’I’ll come too.’. In BrE as well is used like too, but in AmE it sounds formal or old-fashioned.\nWhen you want to add a second negative point in a negative sentence, use not...either: She hasn’t phoned and she hasn’t written either. If you are adding a negative point to a positive one, you can use not...as well/too: You can have a burger, but you can’t have fries as well.\n______________________________


Words: also-ran
Meaning:
noun\na person who is not successful, especially in a competition or an election or when compared with other people:\nA year ago he was just an also-ran for the Democratic nomination.


Words: altar
Meaning:
noun\na holy table in a church or TEMPLE:\nthe high altar (= the most important one in a particular church)\n \n IDIOMS \n \n  at / on the altar of sth (written) because of sth that you think is worth suffering for:\nHe was willing to sacrifice his happiness on the altar of fame.


Words: alter
Meaning:
verb\n  1  to become different; to make sb/sth different:\n[V] Property prices did not significantly alter during 1999. * He had altered so much I scarcely recognized him. * [VN] It doesn’t alter the way I feel. * Nothing can alter the fact that we are to blame. * The old landscape has been radically altered, severely damaging wildlife. * This incident altered the whole course of events.\n  2  [VN] to make changes to a piece of clothing so that it will fit you better:\nWe can have the dress altered to fit you. -> CHANGE


Words: alter ego
Meaning:
noun (plural alter egos) (from Latin)\n  1  a person whose personality is different from your own but who shows or acts as another side of your personality:\nSuperman’s alter ego was Clark Kent.\n  2  a close friend who is very like yourself


Words: alteration
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [C] a change to sth that makes it different:\nmajor / minor alterations * They are making some alterations to the house. * an alteration in the baby’s heartbeat\n  2  [U] the act of making a change to sth:\nThe dress will not need much alteration.


Words: altercation
Meaning:
noun\n[C, U] (formal) a noisy argument or disagreement:\nA youth became involved in an altercation with a police officer over a parking ticket.


Words: alternate
Meaning:
adjective, verb, noun \n    adjective  [usually before noun]\n  1  (of two things) happening or following one after the other regularly:\nalternate layers of fruit and whipped cream * Stretch up 30 times with alternate arms as a warm-up exercise.\n  2  if sth happens on alternate days, nights, etc. it happens on one day, etc. but not on the next:\nJohn has to work on alternate Sundays. * The ferry service will initially run on alternate days, increasing eventually to daily sailings.\n  3  (especially AmE) = ALTERNATIVE\n    alternately adverb:\nHe felt alternately hot and cold with anxiety.\n    verb \n  1  [VN] ~ A and B | ~ A with B to make things or people follow one after the other in a repeated pattern:\nAlternate cubes of meat and slices of red pepper. * Alternate cubes of meat with slices of red pepper. * Her music alternates moments of sudden quiet with moments of dramatic intensity.\n  2  [V] ~ (with sth) (of things or people) to follow one after the other in a repeated pattern:\nalternating dark and pale stripes * Dark stripes alternate with pale ones.\n  3  [V] ~ between A and B to keep changing from one thing to another and back again:\nHer mood alternated between happiness and despair.\n    alternation  noun [U, C]:\nthe alternation of day and night * Such rapid alternations of mood are a feature of her writing.\n    noun  (AmE) a person who does a job for sb who is away


Words: alternating current
Meaning:
noun\n[U, C] (abbreviation AC) an electric current that changes its direction at regular intervals many times a second\ncompare DIRECT CURRENT


Words: alternative
Meaning:
noun, adjective \n    noun a thing that you can choose to do or have out of two or more possibilities:\nYou can be paid in cash weekly or by cheque monthly; those are the two alternatives. * We had no alternative but to fire Gibson. * There is a vegetarian alternative on the menu every day.\n    adjective [only before noun]\n  1  (also alternate especially in AmE) that can be used instead of sth else:\nan alternative method of doing sth * Do you have an alternative solution to the problem?\n  2  different from the usual or traditional way in which sth is done:\nalternative comedy / lifestyles / values * alternative energy (= electricity or power that is produced using the energy from the sun, wind, water, etc.) * alternative medicine (= any type of treatment that does not use the usual scientific methods of Western medicine, for example one using herbs instead of artificial drugs)


Words: alternatively
Meaning:
adverb\nused to introduce a suggestion that is a second choice or possibility:\nThe agency will make travel arrangements for you. Alternatively, you can organize your own transport.


Words: although
Meaning:
(also AmE informal altho)  conjunction\n  1  used for introducing a statement that makes the main statement in a sentence seem surprising\nSYN THOUGH:\nAlthough the sun was shining it wasn’t very warm. * Although small, the kitchen is well designed.\n  2  used to mean ’but’ or ’however’ when you are commenting on a statement:\nI felt he was wrong, although I didn’t say so at the time.\n______________________________\n WHICH WORD? \nalthough / even though / though / however\nYou can use these words to show contrast between two clauses or two sentences. Though is used more in spoken English than in written. You can use although, even though and though at the beginning of a sentence or clause that has a verb. Notice where the commas go: Although/Even though/Though everyone played well, we lost the game. * We lost the game, although/even though/though everyone played well.\nYou cannot use even on its own at the beginning of a sentence or clause instead of although, even though or though: _E_v_e_n_ _e_v_e_r_y_o_n_e_ _p_l_a_y_e_d_ _w_e_l_l_,_ _w_e_ _l_o_s_t_ _t_h_e_ _g_a_m_e_.\nAlthough and though can also mean ’but’, like however, which is more formal. They cannot all go in the same place in a sentence. Notice where the commas go: Everyone played well. However, we still lost the game/We still lost the game,however. * Everyone played well. It should not be forgotten, however, that we still lost the game. * Everyone played well, although/though we still lost the game. * Everyone played well. We still lost the game , though. Note that you cannot use however in a sentence that begins with although, though or even though: _A_l_t_h_o_u_g_h_ _e_v_e_r_y_o_n_e_ _p_l_a_y_e_d_ _w_e_l_l_,_ _h_o_w_e_v_e_r_,_ _w_e_ _s_t_i_l_l_ _l_o_s_t_ _t_h_e_ _g_a_m_e.\n______________________________


Words: altitude
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [C, usually sing.] the height above sea level:\nWe are flying at an altitude of 6 000 metres. * The plane made a dive to a lower altitude.\n  2  [C, usually pl., U] a place that is high above sea level:\nSnow leopards live at high altitudes. * The athletes trained at altitude in Mexico City. * The climbers failed to reach the summit because of altitude sickness.


Words: alto
Meaning:
noun, adjective \n    noun (plural altos)\n  1  (also contralto) [C] a singing voice with a lower range than that of a SOPRANO; a person with an alto voice\n  2  [sing.] a musical part that is written for an alto voice\ncompare BARITONE, BASS, COUNTER-TENOR, TENOR\n    adjective [only before noun] (of a musical instrument) with the second highest range of notes in its group:\nan alto saxophone\ncompare SOPRANO, TENOR


Words: altogether
Meaning:
adverb, noun \n    adverb\n  1  (used to emphasize sth) completely; in every way:\nThe train went slower and slower until it stopped altogether. * I don’t altogether agree with you. * I am not altogether happy about the decision. * It was an altogether different situation.\n  2  used to give a total number or amount:\nYou owe me ｣68 altogether.\n  3  used to introduce a summary when you have mentioned a number of different things:\nThe food was good and we loved the atmosphere and the people. Altogether it was a great evening.\n    noun\n IDIOMS \n  in the altogether (old-fashioned, informal) without any clothes on\n______________________________\n WHICH WORD? \naltogether / all together\nAltogether and all together do not mean the same thing. Altogether means ’in total’ or (in BrE) ’completely’: We have invited fifty people altogether. * I am not altogether convinced by this argument.\nAll together means ’all in one place’ or ’all at once’: Can you put your books all together in this box? * Let’s sing ’Happy Birthday’. All together now!\n______________________________


Words: altruism
Meaning:
[U] (formal) the fact of caring about the needs and happiness of other people more than your own:\nPoliticians are not necessarily motivated by pure altruism.


Words: aluminium
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (Symbol Al) a chemical element. Aluminium is a light, silver-grey metal used for making pans, etc:\naluminium saucepans / window frames * aluminium foil (= for example, for wrapping food)


Words: alumna
Meaning:
noun\n(plural alumnae ) (formal, especially AmE) a former woman student of a school, college or university


Words: alumni
Meaning:
noun\n[pl.] (especially AmE) the former male and female students of a school, college or university:\nHarvard Alumni Association


Words: alumnus
Meaning:
noun\n(plural alumni ) (formal, especially AmE) a former male student of a school, college or university


Words: alveolar
Meaning:
noun\n(phonetics) a speech sound made with the tongue touching the part of the mouth behind the upper front teeth, for example / t / or / d / ۠\n    alveolar adjective


Words: always
Meaning:
adverb\n  1  at all times; on every occasion:\nThere’s always somebody at home in the evenings. * Always lock your car whenever you leave it. * She always arrives at 7.30. * The children always seem to be hungry. * We’re not always this busy!\n  2  for a long time; since you can remember:\nPat has always loved gardening. * This is the way we’ve always done it. * This painting is very good-Ellie always was very good at art (= so it is not very surprising). * Did you always want to be an actor?\n  3  for all future time:\nI’ll always love you.\n  4  if you say a person is always doing sth, or sth is always happening, you mean that they do it, or it happens, very often, and that this is annoying:\nShe’s always criticizing me. * That phone’s always ringing. * Why are you always complaining about my cooking?\n  5  (can / could always ..., there’s always ...) used to suggest a possible course of action:\nIf it doesn’t fit, you can always take it back. * If he can’t help, there’s always John.\n IDIOMS \n  as always as usually happens or is expected:\nAs always, Polly was late for school.\nmore at ONCE adv.


Words: Alzheimer’s disease
Meaning:
(also Alzheimer’s) noun\n[U] a serious disease, especially affecting older people, that prevents the brain from functioning normally and causes loss of memory, loss of ability to speak clearly, etc.


Words: amalgam
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [C, usually sing.] ~ (of sth) (formal) a mixture or combination of things:\nThe film script is an amalgam of all three books. * an amalgam of several companies and organizations\n  2  [U] (technical) a mixture of MERCURY and another metal, used especially to fill holes in teeth


Words: amalgamate
Meaning:
into sth)\n  1  if two organizations amalgamate or are amalgamated, they join together to form one large organization:\n[V] The company has now amalgamated with another local firm. * A number of colleges have amalgamated to form the new university. * [VN] The two companies were amalgamated into one. * They decided to amalgamate the two schools.\n  2  [VN] ~ sth (into / with sth) to put two or more things together so that they form one:\nThis information will be amalgamated with information obtained earlier\n    amalgamation  noun [U, C]:\nthe amalgamation of small farms into larger units


Words: amass
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] to collect sth, especially in large quantities:\nHe amassed a fortune from silver mining. * They amassed enough evidence to convict her.


Words: amateur
Meaning:
noun, adjective \n    noun\n  1  a person who takes part in a sport or other activity for enjoyment or interest, not as a job:\nThe tournament is open to both amateurs and professionals.\n  2  (usually disapproving) a person who is not skilled:\nThis work was done by a bunch of amateurs!\nOPP PROFESSIONAL\n    amateurism  noun [U]:\nNew regulations on amateurism allow payment for promotional work.\n    adjective\n  1  [usually before noun] doing sth for enjoyment or interest, not as a job:\nan enthusiastic amateur photographer\n  2  [usually before noun] done for enjoyment or interest, not as a job:\namateur athletics\n  3  = AMATEURISH\nOPP PROFESSIONAL


Words: amateur dramatics
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (BrE) the activity of producing and acting in plays for the theatre, by people who do it for enjoyment, not as a job


Words: amateurish
Meaning:
(also amateur) adjective\n(usually disapproving) not done or made well or with skill:\nDetectives described the burglary as ’crude and amateurish’.


Words: amaze
Meaning:
verb\nto surprise sb very much:\n[VN] Just the size of the place amazed her. * [VN wh-] It never ceases to amaze me what some people will do for money. * What amazes me is how long she managed to hide it from us. * [VN (that)] It amazed her that he could be so calm at such a time. [also VN to inf]


Words: amazed
Meaning:
adjective\n~ (at / by sb/sth) | ~ (how / that ...) | ~ (to see, find, learn, etc.) very surprised:\nan amazed silence * I was amazed at her knowledge of French literature. * We were amazed by his generosity. * I was banging so loudly I’m amazed (that) they didn’t hear me. * She was amazed how little he had changed. * We were amazed to find that no one was hurt.


Words: amazement
Meaning:
noun\n[U] a feeling of great surprise:\nTo my amazement, he was able to recite the whole poem from memory. * She looked at him in amazement.


Words: amazing
Meaning:
adjective\nvery surprising, especially in a way that makes you feel pleasure or admiration:\nan amazing achievement / discovery / success / performance * That’s amazing, isn’t it? * It’s amazing how quickly people adapt. * It’s amazing the difference a few polite words make. * The amazing thing is, he really believes he’ll get away with it.\n    amazingly adverb:\nAmazingly, no one noticed. * The meal was amazingly cheap. * I think you did amazingly well.


Words: Amazon
Meaning:
noun\n  1  (in ancient Greek stories) a woman from a tribe of female WARRIORS (= soldiers)\n  2  (amazon) (literary) a tall strong woman


Words: ambassador
Meaning:
noun\nan official who lives in a foreign country as the senior representative there of his or her own country:\nthe British Ambassador to Italy / in Rome * a former ambassador to the UN * (figurative) The best ambassadors for the sport are the players.\n    ambassadorial  adjective


Words: amber
Meaning:
noun [U]\n  1  a hard clear yellowish-brown substance, used in making ornaments or jewellery:\namber beads\n  2  a yellowish-brown colour:\nThe traffic lights were on amber.\n    amber adjective:\namber eyes / lights


Words: ambience
Meaning:
(also ambiance)  noun\n[sing.] the character and atmosphere of a place:\nthe relaxed ambience of the city * low lighting for added ambience


Words: ambient
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  [only before noun] (technical) relating to the surrounding area; on all sides:\nambient temperature / light / conditions\n  2  (especially of music) creating a relaxed atmosphere:\na compilation of ambient electronic music * soft, ambient lighting


Words: ambiguity
Meaning:
noun (plural ambiguities)\n  1  [U] the state of having more than one possible meaning:\nWrite clear definitions in order to avoid ambiguity. * A lot of humour depends on ambiguity.\n  2  [C] a word or statement that can be understood in more than one way:\nThere were several inconsistencies and ambiguities in her speech.\n  3  [C, U] the state of being difficult to understand or explain because of involving many different aspects:\nYou must understand the ambiguity of my position.


Words: ambiguous
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  that can be understood in more than one way; having different meanings:\nan ambiguous word / term / statement * Her account was deliberately ambiguous.\n  2  not clearly stated or defined:\nHis role has always been ambiguous.\nOPP UNAMBIGUOUS\n    ambiguously adverb:\nan ambiguously worded agreement


Words: ambit
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] (formal) the range of the authority or influence of sth:\nThis case falls clearly within the ambit of the 1994 act.


Words: ambition
Meaning:
doing sth)\n  1  [C] something that you want to do or achieve very much:\nShe never achieved her ambition of becoming a famous writer. * His burning ambition was to study medicine. * It had been her lifelong ambition. * political / literary / sporting ambitions\n  2  [U] the desire or determination to be successful, rich, powerful, etc:\nmotivated by personal ambition * She was intelligent but suffered from a lack of ambition.


Words: ambitious
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  determined to be successful, rich, powerful, etc:\na fiercely ambitious young manager * They were very ambitious for their children (= they wanted them to be successful).\n  2  needing a lot of effort, money or time to succeed:\nthe government’s ambitious plans for social reform * Jogging every morning? That’s very ambitious, isn’t it?\nOPP UNAMBITIOUS\n    ambitiously adverb


Words: ambivalent
Meaning:
adjective\n~ (about / towards sb/sth) (written) having or showing both good and bad feelings about sb/sth:\nShe seems to feel ambivalent about her new job. * He has an ambivalent attitude towards her.\n    ambivalence noun [U, sing.] ~ (about / towards sb/sth):\nThere was ambivalence among church members about women becoming priests. * Many people feel some ambivalence towards television and its effect on our lives.


Words: amble
Meaning:
verb\n[V +adv./prep.] to walk at a slow relaxed speed:\nWe ambled down to the beach. * They ambled along for miles. * Mark ambled over to the girls.


Words: ambulance
Meaning:
noun\na vehicle with special equipment, used for taking sick or injured people to a hospital:\nthe ambulance service * ambulance staff * Call an ambulance!


Words: ambulance chaser
Meaning:
noun\n(AmE, disapproving, informal) a lawyer who earns money by encouraging people who have been in an accident to make claims in a court of law


Words: ambulance man
Meaning:
(also ambulance worker) noun\n(BrE) a person who drives an AMBULANCE and treats sick or injured people before they are taken to a hospital\ncompare PARAMEDIC


Words: ambush
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun [C, U] the act of hiding and waiting for sb and then making a surprise attack on them:\nTwo soldiers were killed in a terrorist ambush. * They were lying in ambush, waiting for the aid convoy. * The government was defeated in its attempt to pass the law by an opposition ambush.\n    verb [VN] to make a surprise attack on sb/sth from a hidden position:\nThe guerrillas ambushed them near the bridge. * (figurative) She was ambushed by reporters and cameramen.


Words: ameliorate
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] (formal) to make sth better:\nSteps have been taken to ameliorate the situation.\n    amelioration  noun [U]


Words: amen
Meaning:
(also Amen)  exclamation, noun\na word used at the end of prayers and HYMNS, meaning ’may it be so’:\nWe ask this through Christ our Lord, Amen. * Amen to that (= I certainly agree with that).


Words: amenable
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  ~ (to sth) (of people) easy to control; willing to be influenced by sb/sth:\nThey had three very amenable children. * He seemed most amenable to my idea.\n  2  ~ to sth (formal) that you can treat in a particular way:\n’Hamlet’ is the least amenable of all Shakespeare’s plays to being summarized.


Words: amend
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] to change a law, document, statement, etc. slightly in order to correct a mistake or to improve it:\nHe asked to see the amended version. * The law has been amended to read as follows: ...


Words: amendment
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [C, U] ~ (to sth) a small change or improvement that is made to a law or a document; the process of changing a law or a document:\nto introduce / propose / table an amendment (= to suggest it) * She made several minor amendments to her essay. * Parliament passed the bill without further amendment.\n  2  (Amendment) [C] a statement of a change to the CONSTITUTION of the US:\nThe 19th Amendment gave women the right to vote.


Words: amends
Meaning:
noun\n[pl.]\n IDIOMS \n  make amends (to sb) (for sth / for doing sth) to do sth for sb in order to show that you are sorry for sth wrong or unfair that you have done:\nShe tried to make amends for what she had said to her mother by buying her some flowers.


Words: amenity
Meaning:
noun\n[usually pl.] (plural amenities) a feature that makes a place pleasant, comfortable or easy to live in:\nThe campsite is close to all local amenities. * Many of the houses lacked even basic amenities (= for example, baths, showers, hot water).


Words: American
Meaning:
noun, adjective \n    noun\n  1  a person from America, especially the US\nsee also AFRICAN AMERICAN, NATIVE AMERICAN\n  2  (also American English) the English language as spoken in the US\n    adjective of or connected with N or S America, especially the US:\nI’m American. * American culture / tourists\n IDIOMS \n  as American as apple pie used to say that sth is typical of America\n______________________________\n MORE ABOUT \nAmerica\nThe continent of America is divided into North America and South America. The narrow region joining North and South America is Central America.\nNorth America, which is a geographical term, consists of the United States of America, Canada and Mexico. Latin America, a cultural term, refers to the non-English speaking countries of Central and South America, where mainly Portuguese and Spanish are spoken. Mexico is part of Latin America.\nThe United States of America is usually shortened to the USA, the US, the States or simply America: the US President * Have you ever been to the States? * She emigrated to America in 1995. Many people from other parts of the continent dislike this use of America to mean just the US, but it is very common.\nAmerican is usually used to talk about somebody or something from the United States of America: Do you have an American passport? * American football * I’m not American, I’m Canadian. Latin American and South American are used to refer to other parts of the continent: Latin American dance music * Quite a lot of South Americans study here.\n______________________________


Words: American football
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (BrE) (AmE football) an American game played by two teams of 11 players, using an OVAL ball which players kick, throw, or carry up and down the playing field. Teams try to put the ball over the other team’s line.


Words: Americana
Meaning:
noun\n[pl.] things connected with the US that are thought to be typical of it:\nShe collects Fifties Americana.


Words: Americanism
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [C] a word, phrase or spelling that is typical of American English, used in another variety of English\n  2  [U] the essential quality of being American


Words: Americanize
Meaning:
(BrE also Americanise)  verb\n[VN] to make sb/sth American in character\n    Americanization, Americanisation  noun [U]


Words: amiable
Meaning:
adjective\npleasant; friendly and easy to like:\nan amiable tone of voice * Her parents seemed very amiable.\n    amiability  noun [U]\n    amiably adverb:\n’That’s fine,’ he replied amiably.


Words: amicable
Meaning:
adjective\ndone or achieved in a polite or friendly way and without quarrelling:\nan amicable relationship * An amicable settlement was reached. * In spite of their disagreement they parted on amicable terms.\n    amicably adverb:\nThe policeman chatted amicably to the bystanders.


Words: amid
Meaning:
preposition (formal)\n  1  in the middle of or during sth, especially sth that causes excitement or fear:\nHe finished his speech amid tremendous applause. * The firm collapsed amid allegations of fraud.\n  2  surrounded by sth:\nThe hotel was in a beautiful position amid lemon groves.


Words: amino acid
Meaning:
noun\n(chemistry) any of the substances which combine to form PROTEINS:\nEggs contain all eight essential amino acids which we depend on for good health.


Words: amiss
Meaning:
adjective, adverb \n    adjective [not before noun] wrong; not as it should be:\nShe sensed something was amiss and called the police. * He shone a light inside and saw nothing amiss.\n    adverb\n IDIOMS \n  not come / go amiss (BrE) to be useful or pleasant in a particular situation:\nA little luck wouldn’t go amiss right now!\n  take sth amiss (BrE) to feel offended by sth, perhaps because you have understood it in the wrong way:\nWould she take it amiss if I offered to help?


Words: ammonia
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (Symbol NH3) a colourless gas with a strong smell; a clear liquid containing ammonia, used as a cleaning substance


Words: ammunition
Meaning:
noun [U]\n  1  a supply of bullets, etc. to be fired from guns:\nThe bandits escaped with a rifle and 120 rounds of ammunition.\n  2  information that can be used against another person in an argument:\nThe letter gave her all the ammunition she needed. * These figures provide political ammunition to police chiefs arguing for more resources.


Words: amnesty
Meaning:
noun (plural amnesties)\n  1  [C, usually sing, U] an official statement that allows people who have been put in prison for crimes against the state to go free:\nThe president granted a general amnesty for all political prisoners. * Guerrilla groups have accepted the government’s offer of amnesty and have begun demobilizing.\n  2  [C, usually sing.] a period of time during which people can admit to a crime or give up weapons without being punished:\n2 000 knives have been handed in during the month-long amnesty.


Words: amniocentesis
Meaning:
noun\n[U, sing.] a medical test that involves taking some liquid from a pregnant woman’s WOMB in order to find out if the baby has particular illnesses or health problems:\nPregnant women over the age of 35 will be offered (an) amniocentesis.


Words: amoeba
Meaning:
(AmE also ameba)  noun\n(plural amoebas or amoebae ) a very small living creature that consists of only one cell


Words: amok
Meaning:
adverb\n IDIOMS \n  run amok to suddenly become very angry or excited and start behaving violently, especially in a public place:\nSome drunken students had run amok in the college car park.


Words: among
Meaning:
preposition\n  1  surrounded by sb/sth; in the middle of sb/sth:\na house among the trees * They strolled among the crowds. * I found the letter amongst his papers. * It’s OK, you’re among friends now.\n  2  being included or happening in groups of things or people:\nA British woman was among the survivors. * He was among the last to leave. * This attitude is common among the under-25s. * ’What was wrong with the job?’ ’Well, the pay wasn’t good, among other things. * Discuss it among yourselves first (= with each other).\n  3  used when you are dividing or choosing sth, and three or more people or things are involved:\nThey divided the money up among the children.


Words: amoral
Meaning:
adjective\nnot following any moral rules and not caring about right and wrong:\nGuy was greedy, amoral and dishonest.\ncompare IMMORAL, MORAL\n    amorality  noun [U]:\nHis amorality helped him to survive in business.


Words: amorous
Meaning:
adjective\nshowing sexual desire and love towards sb:\nMary rejected Tony’s amorous advances.\n    amorously adverb


Words: amorphous
Meaning:
adjective\n[usually before noun] (written) having no definite shape, form or structure:\nan amorphous mass of cells with no identity at all


Words: amortize
Meaning:
(BrE also amortise)  verb\n[VN] (business) to pay back a debt by making small regular payments over a period of time\n    amortization, amortisation  noun [U, C]


Words: amount
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun [C, U]\n  1  a sum of money:\nThe insurance company will refund any amount due to you. * You will receive a bill for the full amount. * Small amounts will be paid in cash.\n  2  ~ (of sth) (used especially with uncountable nouns) a quantity of sth:\nan amount of time / money / information * We’ve had an enormous amount of help from people. * The server is designed to store huge amounts of data.\n IDIOMS \n  any amount of sth a large quantity of sth:\nThere’s been any amount of research into the subject.\n  no amount of sth used for saying that sth will have no effect:\nNo amount of encouragement would make him jump into the pool.\n    verb\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  amount to sth\n1 to add up to sth; to make sth as a total:\nHis earnings are said to amount to ｣300 000 per annum. * They gave me some help in the beginning but it did not amount to much (= they did not give me much help).\n2 to be equal to or the same as sth:\nHer answer amounted to a complete refusal. * Their actions amount to a breach of contract. * We were jailed for a week-well, confined to quarters, but it amounted to the same thing.


Words: amp
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  (also ampere ) (abbreviation A) the unit for measuring electric current:\na 13 amp fuse / plug\n \n  2  (informal) = AMPLIFIER


Words: amphetamine
Meaning:
noun\n[C, U] a drug that makes you feel excited and full of energy. Amphetamines are sometimes taken illegally.


Words: amphibian
Meaning:
noun\nany animal that can live both on land and in water. Amphibians have cold blood and skin without scales. FROGS, TOADS and NEWTS are all amphibians.\ncompare REPTILE


Words: amphibious
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  able to live both on land and in water\n  2  (of military operations) involving soldiers landing at a place from the sea:\nan amphibious raid / assault\n  3  suitable for use on land or water:\namphibious vehicles


Words: amphitheatre
Meaning:
(BrE) (AmE amphitheater)  noun\n  1  a circular building without a roof and with rows of seats that rise in steps around an open space. Amphitheatres were used especially in ancient Greece and Rome for public entertainments.\n  2  a room, hall or theatre with rows of seats that rise in steps\n  3  (technical) an open space that is surrounded by high land in a circular slope:\nThe path emerges from the gorge into an open amphitheatre with slopes all around.


Words: ample
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  enough or more than enough:\nample opportunity / evidence / space / proof * There was ample time to get to the airport. * Ample free parking is available.\n  2  (of a person’s figure) large, often in an attractive way:\nan ample bosom * These clothes belonged to a man of more ample girth.\n    amply  adverb:\nHis efforts were amply rewarded.


Words: amplifier
Meaning:
(also informal amp) noun\nan electrical device or piece of equipment that makes sounds or radio signals louder:\na 25 watt amplifier


Words: amplify
Meaning:
verb (amplifies, amplifying, amplified, amplified)\n  1  [VN] to increase sth in strength, especially sound:\nto amplify a guitar / an electric current / a signal\n  2  (formal) to add details to a story, statement, etc:\n[V] She refused to amplify further. * [VN] You may need to amplify this point.\n    amplification  noun [U]:\nelectronic amplification * That comment needs some amplification.


Words: amplitude
Meaning:
noun\n[U, C] (physics) the greatest distance that a wave, especially a sound or radio wave, VIBRATES (= moves up and down)


Words: ampoule
Meaning:
(AmE also ampule)  noun\na small container, usually made of glass, containing a drug that will be used for an INJECTION:\nThe drugs stolen include an ampoule of adrenalin which could kill if injected.


Words: amputate
Meaning:
verb\nto cut off sb’s arm, leg or finger in a medical operation:\n[VN] He had to have both legs amputated. * [V] They may have to amputate.\n    amputation  noun [U, C]


Words: amulet
Meaning:
noun\na piece of jewellery that some people wear because they think it protects them from bad luck, illness, etc.


Words: amuse
Meaning:
verb\n  1  [often passive] to make sb laugh or smile:\n[VN] My funny drawings amused the kids. * This will amuse you. * [VN to inf] It amused him to think that they were probably talking about him at that very moment.\n  2  [VN] to make time pass pleasantly for sb/yourself:\nShe suggested several ideas to help Laura amuse the twins. * I’m sure I’ll be able to amuse myself for a few hours.


Words: amused
Meaning:
adjective\n~ (at / by sth) | ~ (to see, find, learn, etc.) thinking that sb/sth is funny, so that you smile or laugh:\nThere was an amused look on the President’s face. * We were all amused at his stories. * He was amused to see how seriously she took the game. * Janet was not amused (= she was annoyed or angry).\n IDIOMS \n  keep sb amused to give sb interesting things to do, or to entertain them so that they do not become bored:\nPlaying with water can keep children amused for hours.


Words: amusement
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [U] the feeling that you have when sth is funny or amusing, or it entertains you:\nShe could not hide her amusement at the way he was dancing. * To my amusement he couldn’t get the door open. * Her eyes twinkled with amusement. * His son was a continuous source of amusement and delight to him.\n  2  [C, usually pl.] a game, an activity, etc. that provides entertainment and pleasure:\ntraditional seaside amusements including boats, go-karts and a funfair


Words: amusement arcade
Meaning:
(BrE) (also arcade AmE, BrE) noun\na place where you can play games on machines which you use coins to operate


Words: amusement park
Meaning:
noun\na large park which has a lot of things that you can ride and play on and many different activities to enjoy


Words: amusing
Meaning:
adjective\nfunny and enjoyable:\nan amusing story / game / incident * She writes very amusing letters. * I didn’t find the joke at all amusing.\n    amusingly adverb:\nThe film amusingly pokes fun at the media.


Words: anabolic steroid
Meaning:
noun\nan artificial HORMONE (= a chemical substance) that increases the size of the muscles. It is sometimes taken illegally by people who play sports.\nsee also STEROID


Words: anachronism
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a person, a custom or an idea that seems old-fashioned and does not belong to the present:\nThe monarchy is seen by many people as an anachronism in the modern world. * She said nuclear weapons were an anachronism in the post cold war era.\n  2  something that is placed, for example in a book or play, in the wrong period of history:\nThe book is full of anachronisms which suggests there were parts rewritten in later centuries.\n    anachronistic  adjective:\nThe costumes were anachronistic for a Victorian play.


Words: anaconda
Meaning:
noun\na large S American snake of the BOA family, that crushes other animals to death before eating them


Words: anaemia
Meaning:
(BrE) (AmE anemia)  noun\n[U] a medical condition in which sb has too few red cells in their blood, making them look pale and feel weak


Words: anaemic
Meaning:
(BrE) (AmE anemic)  adjective\n  1  suffering from anaemia:\nShe looks anaemic.\n  2  (written) weak and not having much effect:\nan anaemic performance


Words: anaesthesia
Meaning:
noun [U]\n  1  the use of anaesthetic during medical operations:\nsurgery carried out under anaesthesia\n  2  (technical) the state of being unable to feel anything, especially pain


Words: anaesthetic
Meaning:
(BrE) (AmE anesthetic)  noun, adjective \n    noun [C, U] a drug that makes a person or an animal unable to feel anything, especially pain, either in the whole body or in a part of the body:\nHow long will I be under the anaesthetic? * They gave him a general anaesthetic (= one that makes you lose consciousness). * (a) local anaesthetic (= one that affects only a part of the body) * We forget what life must have been like without anaesthetics and painkillers.\n    adjective [only before noun] containing a substance that makes a person or an animal unable to feel pain in all or part of the body:\nan anaesthetic drug / spray


Words: anaesthetize
Meaning:
(BrE also anaesthetise) (especially BrE) (AmE usually anesthetize)  verb\n[VN] to make a person unable to feel pain, etc., especially by giving them an anaesthetic before a medical operation


Words: anagram
Meaning:
noun\na word or phrase that is made by arranging the letters of another word or phrase in a different order:\nAn anagram of ’Elvis’ is ’lives’.


Words: anal
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  connected with the ANUS:\nthe anal region\n  2  (also anal-retentive) (disapproving) caring too much about small details and about how things are organized\n    anally  adverb


Words: analgesic
Meaning:
noun\n(medical) a substance that reduces pain\nSYN PAINKILLER:\nAspirin is a mild analgesic.\n    analgesic adjective:\nanalgesic drugs / effects


Words: analogous
Meaning:
adjective\n(formal) ~ (to / with sth) similar in some way to another thing or situation and therefore able to be compared with it:\nSleep has often been thought of as being in some way analogous to death. * The two processes are not analogous.


Words: analogue
Meaning:
(BrE) (AmE analog)  adjective, noun \n    adjective (technical)\n  1  (of an electronic process) using a continuously changing range of physical quantities to measure or store data:\nan analogue circuit / computer / signal\n  2  (BrE also analog) (of a clock or watch) showing the time using hands on a DIAL and not with a display of numbers\ncompare DIGITAL\n    noun (formal or technical) a thing that is similar to another thing:\nScientists are attempting to compare features of extinct animals with living analogues.


Words: analogy
Meaning:
noun (plural analogies)\n  1  [C] ~ (between A and B) | ~ (with sth) a comparison of one thing with another thing that has similar features; a feature that is similar:\nThe teacher drew an analogy between the human heart and a pump. * There are no analogies with any previous legal cases.\n  2  [U] the process of comparing one thing with another thing that has similar features in order to explain it:\nlearning by analogy


Words: analyse
Meaning:
(BrE) (AmE analyze)  verb\n  1  to examine the nature or structure of sth, especially by separating it into its parts, in order to understand or explain it:\n[VN] The job involves gathering and analysing data. * He tried to analyse his feelings. * The first step is to define and analyse the problem. * [V wh-] We need to analyse what went wrong.\n  2  [VN] = PSYCHOANALYSE


Words: analysis
Meaning:
1  [U, C] the detailed study or examination of sth in order to understand more about it; the result of the study:\nstatistical analysis * The book is an analysis of poverty and its causes. * At the meeting they presented a detailed analysis of twelve schools in a London borough.\n  2  [U, C] a careful examination of a substance in order to find out what it consists of:\nThe blood samples are sent to the laboratory for analysis. * You can ask for a chemical analysis of your tap water.\n  3  [U] = PSYCHOANALYSIS:\nIn analysis the individual resolves difficult emotional conflicts.\n IDIOMS \n  in the final / last analysis used to say what is most important after everything has been discussed, or considered:\nIn the final analysis, humour is a matter of individual interpretation.


Words: analyst
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a person whose job involves examining facts or materials in order to give an opinion on them:\na political / food analyst * City analysts forecast pre-tax profits of ｣40 billion this year.\nsee also SYSTEMS ANALYST\n  2  = PSYCHOANALYST


Words: analytical
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  using a logical method of thinking about sth in order to understand it, especially by looking at all the parts separately:\nShe has a clear analytical mind. * an analytic approach to the problem\n  2  using scientific analysis in order to find out about sth:\nanalytical methods of research * analytical chemistry\n    analytically  adverb:\nTests that measure children’s ability to think analytically are being introduced in a number of schools.


Words: anarchy
Meaning:
noun\n[U] a situation in a country, an organization, etc. in which there is no government, order or control:\nThe overthrow of the military regime was followed by a period of anarchy. * There was complete anarchy in the classroom when their usual teacher was away.\n    anarchic ) adjective:\nIt had become a lawless, anarchic city in which corruption thrived.


Words: anathema
Meaning:
noun\n[U, C, usually sing.] (formal) a thing or an idea which you hate because it is the opposite of what you believe:\nRacial prejudice is (an) anathema to me.


Words: anatomy
Meaning:
noun (plural anatomies)\n  1  [U] the scientific study of the structure of human or animal bodies:\nthe department of anatomy and physiology\n  2  [C, U] the structure of an animal or a plant:\nthe anatomy of the horse * human anatomy\n  3  [C] (humorous) a person’s body:\nVarious parts of his anatomy were clearly visible.\n  4  [C] (formal) an examination of what sth is like, the way it works or why it happens:\nan anatomy of the current recession\n    anatomical  adjective:\nanatomical diagrams\n    anatomically  adverb


Words: ancestor
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a person in your family who lived a long time ago:\nHis ancestors had come to America from Ireland.\nSYN FOREBEAR\n  2  an animal that lived in the past which a modern animal has developed from:\na reptile that was the common ancestor of lizards and turtles\n  3  an early form of a machine which later became more developed\nSYN FORERUNNER:\nThe ancestor of the modern bicycle was called a penny-farthing.\ncompare DESCENDANT\n    ancestral  adjective:\nher ancestral home (= that had belonged to her ancestors and that she had inherited from them)


Words: ancestry
Meaning:
noun\n[C, usually sing, U] (plural ancestries) the family or the race of people that you are descended from:\nto have Scottish ancestry * He was able to trace his ancestry back over 1 000 years.


Words: anchor
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n\n \n  1  a heavy metal object that is attached to a rope or chain and dropped over the side of a ship or boat to keep it in one place:\nto drop anchor * The ship lay at anchor two miles off the rocky coast. * We weighed anchor (= pulled it out of the water).\n \n  2  (written) a person or thing that gives sb a feeling of safety:\nthe anchor of the family\n \n  3  (especially AmE) = ANCHORMAN, ANCHORWOMAN\n    verb\n  1  to lower an anchor from a boat or ship in order to prevent it from moving away:\n[V] We anchored off the coast of Spain. [also VN]\n  2  [VN] to fix sth firmly in position so that it cannot move:\nMake sure the table is securely anchored.\n  3  [VN] [usually passive] ~ sb/sth (in / to sth) to firmly base sth on sth else:\nHer novels are anchored in everyday experience.\n  4  (AmE) to be the person who introduces reports or reads the news on television or radio:\n[VN] She anchored the evening news for seven years. [also V]


Words: anchorage
Meaning:
noun [C, U]\n  1  a place where ships or boats can anchor\n  2  a place where sth can be fastened to sth else:\nanchorage points for a baby’s car seat


Words: anchorman
Meaning:
nouns\n(plural anchormen ) (also anchor especially in AmE) a man or woman who presents a radio or television programme and introduces reports by other people


Words: anchovy
Meaning:
noun\n[C, U] (plural anchovies) a small fish with a strong salty flavour:\na pizza topped with cheese and anchovies


Words: ancient
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  belonging to a period of history that is thousands of years in the past:\nancient history / civilization * ancient Greece\n  2  very old; having existed for a very long time:\nan ancient oak tree * ancient monuments * (humorous) He’s ancient-he must be at least fifty!\n  3  (the ancients) noun [pl.] the people who lived in ancient times, especially the Egyptians, Greeks and Romans\n    anciently adverb (rare):\nThe area where the market was anciently held (= in ancient times).


Words: ancillary
Meaning:
adjective ~ (to sth)\n  1  providing necessary support to the main work or activities of an organization:\nancillary staff / services / equipment * Ancillary workers in the health service such as cooks and cleaners are often badly paid.\n  2  in addition to sth else but not as important:\nancillary rights under the law


Words: and
Meaning:
conjunction (used to connect words or parts of sentences)\n  1  also; in addition to:\nbread and butter * a table, two chairs and a desk * Sue and I left early. * Do it slowly and carefully. * Can he read and write? * I cooked lunch. And I made a cake. (= you are emphasizing how much you have done)\n HELP NOTE  When and is used in common phrases connecting two things or people that are closely linked, the determiner is not usually repeated before the second: a knife and fork * my father and mother, but a knife and a spoon * my father and my uncle.\n  2  added to \nSYN PLUS:\n5 and 5 makes 10. * What’s 47 and 16?\n HELP NOTE  When numbers (but not dates) are spoken, and is used between the hundreds and the figures that follow: 2 264-two thousand, two hundred and sixty-four, but 1964-nineteen sixty-four.\n  3  then; following this:\nShe came in and took her coat off.\n  4  go, come, try, stay, etc. ~ used before a verb instead of to, to show purpose:\nGo and get me a pen please. * I’ll come and see you soon. * We stopped and bought some bread.\n HELP NOTE  In this structure try can only be used in the infinitive or to tell somebody what to do.\n  5  used to introduce a comment or a question:\n’We talked for hours.’ ’And what did you decide?’\n  6  as a result:\nMiss another class and you’ll fail.\n  7  used between repeated words to show that sth is repeated or continuing:\nHe tried and tried but without success. * The pain is getting worse and worse.\n  8  used between repeated words to show that there are important differences between things or people of the same kind:\nI like city life but there are cities and cities.\nsee also AND / OR


Words: and / or
Meaning:
conjunction\n(informal) used when you say that two situations exist together, or as an ALTERNATIVE to each other:\nThere is no help for those with lots of luggage and / or small children.


Words: androgynous
Meaning:
adjective\nhaving both male and female characteristics; looking neither strongly male nor strongly female:\nShe had an androgynous sexiness.


Words: anecdotal
Meaning:
adjective\nbased on anecdotes and possibly not true or accurate:\nanecdotal evidence * Anecdotal evidence suggests there were irregularities at the polling station on the day of the election.


Words: anecdote
Meaning:
noun [C, U]\n  1  a short, interesting or amusing story about a real person or event:\namusing anecdotes about his brief career as an actor * The book is a rich store of anecdote.\n  2  a personal account of an event:\nThis research is based on anecdote not fact.


Words: anemone
Meaning:
noun\na small plant with white, red, blue or purple flowers that are shaped like cups and have dark centres\nsee also SEA ANEMONE


Words: anesthesia
Meaning:
, anesthetic, anesthetist, anesthetize \n(AmE) = ANAESTHESIA, ANAESTHETIC, ANAESTHETIST, ANAESTHETIZE


Words: anew
Meaning:
adverb\n(written) if sb does sth anew, they do it again from the beginning or do it in a different way:\nThey started life anew thousands of miles away.


Words: angel
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a spirit who is believed to be a messenger or servant of God. Angels are often shown dressed in white, with wings.\nsee also GUARDIAN ANGEL\n  2  a person who is very good and kind; a child who behaves well:\nJohn is no angel, believe me (= he does not behave well). * Mary’s children are little angels.\n  3  (informal) used when you are talking to sb and you are grateful to them:\nThanks Dad, you’re an angel. * Be an angel and make me a cup of coffee.


Words: angelica
Meaning:
noun\n[U] pieces of a plant with a sweet smell, that have been boiled in sugar and are used to decorate cakes


Words: angelus
Meaning:
(also the Angelus) noun\n[sing.] (in the Roman Catholic Church) prayers said in the morning, at midday and in the evening; a bell rung when it is time for these prayers


Words: anger
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun [U] ~ (at sb/sth) the strong feeling that you have when sth has happened that you think is bad and unfair:\nHe was filled with anger at the way he had been treated. * Jan slammed her fist on the desk in anger. * Many people never really express any anger. * the growing anger and frustration of young unemployed people\n    verb [VN] [often passive] to make sb angry:\nThe question clearly angered him. * She was angered by their selfishness and lack of concern.


Words: angina
Meaning:
noun\n(medical) severe pain in the chest caused by a low supply of blood to the heart during exercise because the ARTERIES are partly blocked


Words: angle
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n\n \n  1  the space between two lines or surfaces that join, measured in degrees:\na 45ｰ angle * the rocket’s angle of descent\nsee also ACUTE ANGLE, OBTUSE ANGLE, RIGHT ANGLE, WIDE-ANGLE LENS\n \n  2  the direction that sth is leaning or pointing in when it is not in a vertical or horizontal line:\nThe tower of Pisa leans at an angle. * The plane was coming in at a steep angle. * His hair was sticking up at all angles.\n \n  3  a position from which you look at sth:\nThe photo was taken from an unusual angle. * The painting changes slightly when seen from different angles.\n  4  a particular way of presenting or thinking about a situation, problem, etc:\nWe’re looking for a new angle for our next advertising campaign. * You can look at the issue from many different angles. * The article concentrates on the human angle (= the part that concerns people’s emotions) of the story.\n    verb\n  1  [VN] to move or place sth so that it is not straight or not directly facing sb/sth:\nHe angled his chair so that he could sit and watch her.\n  2  [VN] to present information, a report, etc. from a particular point of view or for a particular audience:\nThe programme is angled towards younger viewers.\n  3  (usually go angling) [V] to catch fish with a line and a hook\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  angle for sth to try to get a particular reaction or response from sb, without directly asking for what you want:\nIt was obvious she was angling for sympathy.


Words: angle bracket
Meaning:
noun\n[usually pl.] one of a pair of marks, < >, used to enclose words or figures to separate them from the text around them


Words: Anglican
Meaning:
noun\na member of the Church of England or of a Church connected with it in another country\n    Anglican adjective:\nthe Anglican Church


Words: Anglicize
Meaning:
(BrE also Anglicise)  verb\n[VN] to make sb/sth English in character:\nGutmann anglicized his name to Goodman.


Words: angling
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (BrE) the art or sport of catching fish with a fishing rod, usually in rivers and lakes rather than in the sea


Words: Anglo-Catholic
Meaning:
noun\na member of the part of the Church of England that is most similar to the Roman Catholic Church in its beliefs and practices


Words: Anglo-Saxon
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [C] a person whose ancestors were English\n  2  [C] an English person of the period before the Norman Conquest\n  3  [U] the language OLD ENGLISH\n    Anglo-Saxon adjective:\nAnglo-Saxon kings


Words: anglophone
Meaning:
noun\na person who speaks English, especially in countries where English is not the only language that is spoken:\nCanada’s native anglophones\n    anglophone adjective:\nanglophone communities * distinctions between Anglophone and Francophone Africa


Words: angora
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [C] a breed of cat, goat or rabbit that has long smooth hair\n  2  [U] a type of soft wool or fabric made from the hair of the angora goat or rabbit:\nan angora sweater


Words: angostura
Meaning:
noun\n[U] a bitter liquid, flavoured with the bark of a tropical tree, that is used to give flavour to alcoholic drinks


Words: angry
Meaning:
adjective (angrier, angriest)\n HELP NOTE  You can also use more angry and most angry.\n  1  ~ (with / at sb) (at / about sth) having strong feelings about sth that you dislike very much or about an unfair situation:\nPlease don’t be angry with me. It wasn’t my fault. * The passengers grew angry about the delay. * He felt angry at the injustice of the situation. * Thousands of angry demonstrators filled the square. * The comments provoked an angry response from union leaders. * I was very angry with myself for making such a stupid mistake. * Her behaviour really made me angry.\n  2  (literary) (of the sea or the sky) dark and STORMY:\nthe angry sea with its terrible waves\n  3  (literary) (of a wound) red and infected\n    angrily  adverb:\nSome senators reacted angrily to the President’s remarks. * He swore angrily.


Words: angst
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (from German) a feeling of anxiety and worry about a situation, or about your life:\nsongs full of teenage angst


Words: anguish
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (formal) severe pain, mental suffering or unhappiness:\nHe groaned in anguish. * Tears of anguish filled her eyes.\n    anguished adjective:\nanguished cries * an anguished letter from her prison cell


Words: angular
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  (written) (of a person) thin and without much flesh so that the bones are noticeable:\nan angular face * a tall angular woman * gawky angular movements\n  2  having angles or sharp corners:\nan abstract design of large angular shapes


Words: animal
Meaning:
noun, adjective \n    noun\n  1  a creature that is not a bird, a fish, a reptile, an insect or a human being:\nthe animals and birds of South America * a small furry animal * Fish oils are less saturated than animal fats. * domestic animals such as dogs and cats\n  2  any living being that is not a plant or a human:\nthe animal kingdom * This product has not been tested on animals. * animal rights (= the rights of animals to be treated well by human beings)\n  3  any living creature, including human beings:\nHumans are the only animals to have developed speech.\ncompare VEGETABLE\n  4  a person who behaves in a cruel or unpleasant way, or who is very dirty:\nThe person who did this is an animal, a brute.\n  5  a particular type of person, thing, organization, etc:\nShe’s not a political animal. * The government which followed the election was a very different animal.\nsee also DUMB ANIMALS, HIGHER ANIMALS\n    adjective [only before noun] relating to the physical needs and basic feelings of people:\nanimal desires / passion / instincts * animal magnetism (= a quality in sb that other people find attractive, usually in a sexual way)


Words: animate
Meaning:
verb, adjective \n    verb  [VN] \n  1  to make sth more lively or full of energy:\nA smile suddenly animated her face.\n  2  [usually passive] to make models, toys, etc. seem to move in a film/movie by rapidly showing slightly different pictures of them in a series, one after another\n    adjective  (formal) living; having life:\nanimate beings\nOPP INANIMATE


Words: animated
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  full of interest and energy\nSYN LIVELY:\nan animated discussion / conversation * Her face suddenly became animated.\n  2  (of pictures, drawings, etc. in a film) made to look as if they are moving:\nanimated cartoons / graphics / models\n    animatedly adverb:\nPeople were talking animatedly.


Words: animation
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [U] energy and enthusiasm in the way you look, behave or speak:\nHis face was drained of all colour and animation.\nsee also SUSPENDED ANIMATION\n  2  [U] the process of making films/movies, videos and computer games in which drawings or models of people and animals seem to move:\ncomputer / cartoon animation\n  3  [C] a film/movie in which drawings of people and animals seem to move:\nThe electronic dictionary included some animations.


Words: animosity
Meaning:
noun\n[U, C] (plural animosities) ~ (toward(s) sb/sth) | ~ (between A and B) a strong feeling of opposition, anger or hatred\nSYN HOSTILITY:\nHe felt no animosity towards his critics. * personal animosities between members of the two groups


Words: aniseed
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the dried seeds of the anise plant, used to give flavour to alcoholic drinks and sweets/candy


Words: ankle
Meaning:
noun\nthe joint connecting the foot to the leg:\nto sprain / break your ankle * My ankles have swollen. * We found ourselves ankle-deep in water. * ankle socks / boots (= that cover the ankle)


Words: annals
Meaning:
noun [pl.]\n  1  an official record of events or activities year by year; historical records:\nHis deeds went down in the annals of British history.\n  2  used in the title of academic JOURNALS:\nAnnals of Science, vol viii


Words: anneal
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] (technical) to heat metal or glass and allow it to cool slowly, in order to make it harder


Words: annex
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] to take control of a country, region, etc., especially by force:\nGermany annexed Austria in 1938.\n    annexation  noun [U, C]


Words: annexe
Meaning:
(BrE) (also annex AmE, BrE)  noun\n  1  a building that is added to, or is near, a larger one and that provides extra living or work space:\nOur rooms were in the annexe.\n  2  (formal) an extra section of a document


Words: annihilate
Meaning:
verb [VN] \n  1  to destroy sb/sth completely:\nThe human race has enough weapons to annihilate itself.\n  2  to defeat sb/sth completely:\nShe annihilated her opponent, who failed to win a single game.\n    annihilation  noun [U]:\nthe annihilation of the whole human race


Words: anniversary
Meaning:
noun\n(plural anniversaries) a date that is an exact number of years after the date of an important or special event:\non the anniversary of his wife’s death * to celebrate your wedding anniversary * the theatre’s 25th anniversary celebrations


Words: annotate
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] to add notes to a book or text, giving explanations or comments\n    annotation  noun [C, U]:\nIt will be published with annotations and index. * The new edition is based on previously unpublished manuscripts with full annotation.\n    annotated adjective:\nan annotated edition


Words: announce
Meaning:
verb\n  1  ~ (sth) (to sb) to tell people sth officially, especially about a decision, plans, etc:\n[VN] They haven’t formally announced their engagement yet. * The government yesterday announced to the media plans to create a million new jobs. * (figurative) A ring at the doorbell announced the late arrival of Jack.\n HELP NOTE  You cannot ’announce somebody something’: _T_h_e_y_ _a_n_n_o_u_n_c_e_d_ _u_s_ _t_h_e_i_r_ _d_e_c_i_s_i_o_n_._ [V that] We are pleased to announce that all five candidates were successful. * [VN that] It was announced that new speed restrictions would be introduced. [also V wh-]\n  2  to give information about sth in a public place, especially through a LOUDSPEAKER:\n[VN] Has our flight been announced yet? * The winners will be announced in reverse order. * [V that] They announced that the flight would be delayed. [also V speech]\n  3  to say sth in a loud and/or serious way:\n[V speech] ’I’ve given up smoking,’ she announced. * [V that] She announced that she’d given up smoking. [also VN]\n  4  [VN] ~ yourself / sb to tell sb your name or sb else’s name when you or they arrive at a place:\nWould you announce the guests as they arrive? (= call out their names, for example at a formal party)\n  5  [VN] to introduce, or give information about, a programme on radio or television


Words: announcement
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [C] a spoken or written statement that informs people about sth:\nToday’s announcement of a peace agreement came after weeks of discussion. * Announcements of births, marriages and deaths appear in some newspapers. * a formal / an official / a public announcement * I have a few announcements to make.\n  2  [U] the act of publicly informing people about sth:\nAnnouncement of the verdict was accompanied by shouts and cheers.


Words: announcer
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a person who introduces, or gives information about, programmes on radio or television\n  2  a person who gives information about sth in a station, an airport, etc., especially through a LOUDSPEAKER\n  3  (AmE) = PRESENTER


Words: annoy
Meaning:
verb\n  1  to make sb slightly angry \nSYN IRRITATE:\n[VN] His constant joking was beginning to annoy her. * It really annoys me when people forget to say thank you. * I’m sure she does it just to annoy me. * [VN to inf] It annoys me to see him getting ahead of me.\n  2  [VN] to make sb uncomfortable or unable to relax\nSYN BOTHER:\nHe swatted a fly that was annoying him.


Words: annoyance
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [U] the feeling of being slightly angry:\nHe could not conceal his annoyance at being interrupted. * Much to our annoyance, they decided not to come after all. * She stamped her foot in annoyance. * His behaviour caused great annoyance to his colleagues.\n  2  [C] something that makes you slightly angry:\npetty annoyances and irritations


Words: annoyed
Meaning:
adjective\n[not usually before noun] ~ (with sb) (at / about sth) | ~ (that ...) | ~ to find, see, etc. slightly angry:\nHe was beginning to get very annoyed with me about my carelessness. * I was annoyed with myself for giving in so easily. * I bet she was annoyed at having to write it out again. * I was annoyed that they hadn’t turned up. * He was annoyed to find himself going red.


Words: annoying
Meaning:
adjective\nmaking sb feel slightly angry\nSYN IRRITATING:\nThis interruption is very annoying. * Her most annoying habit was eating with her mouth open.\n    annoyingly adverb


Words: annual
Meaning:
adjective, noun \n    adjective [usually before noun]\n  1  happening or done once every year:\nan annual meeting / event / report\n  2  relating to a period of one year:\nan annual income / subscription / budget * an average annual growth rate of 8% * annual rainfall\ncompare BIANNUAL\n    noun\n  1  a book, especially one for children, that is published once a year, with the same title each time, but different contents:\nThe children usually asked for comic or sporting annuals for Christmas.\n  2  any plant that grows and dies within one year or season\ncompare BIENNIAL n., PERENNIAL n.


Words: annualized
Meaning:
(BrE also annualised)  adjective\n(technical) calculated for a period of a year but based on the amounts for a shorter period:\nIn June, inflation stood at an annualized rate of 3.3 per cent.


Words: annuity
Meaning:
noun (plural annuities)\n  1  a fixed amount of money paid to sb each year, usually for the rest of their life:\nShe receives a small annuity.\n  2  a type of insurance that pays a fixed amount of money to sb each year:\nincome from pensions, annuities and trusts


Words: annul
Meaning:
verb\n(-ll-) [VN] to state officially that sth is no longer legally valid:\nTheir marriage was annulled after just six months.\n    annulment noun [C, U]


Words: annunciation
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] (the Annunciation) (in the Christian religion) the occasion when Mary was told that she was to be the mother of Christ, celebrated on 25 March


Words: anode
Meaning:
noun\n(technical) the point (or TERMINAL) in a battery or other electrical device where the electric current enters. On a battery the anode is marked .\ncompare CATHODE


Words: anodyne
Meaning:
adjective\n(formal) unlikely to cause disagreement or offend anyone; not expressing strong opinions\nSYN BLAND


Words: anoint
Meaning:
verb\n~ sb/sth (with sth) to put oil or water on sb’s head as part of a religious ceremony:\n[VN] The priest anointed her with oil. [also VN-N]


Words: anomalous
Meaning:
adjective\n(formal) different from what is normal or expected:\nHe is in an anomalous position as the only part-time worker in the firm. * They couldn’t find an explanation for the seemingly anomalous results of the experiment.\n    anomalously adverb


Words: anomaly
Meaning:
noun\n(plural anomalies) ~ (in sth) a thing, situation, etc. that is different from what is normal or expected:\nthe many anomalies in the tax system * the apparent anomaly that those who produced the wealth, the workers, were the poorest


Words: anonymity
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the state of remaining unknown to most other people:\nNames of people in the documentary were changed to preserve anonymity. * the anonymity of the big city (= where people do not know each other) * (especially AmE) He agreed to give an interview on condition of anonymity (= if his name was not mentioned). * The person donating the money insisted on complete anonymity. * Anyone providing information to the police will be guaranteed anonymity.


Words: anonymous
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  (of a person) with a name that is not known or that is not made public:\nan anonymous donor / caller / buyer / benefactor / source * The money was donated by a local businessman who wishes to remain anonymous.\n  2  (abbreviation anon.) written, given, made, etc. by sb who does not want their name to be known or made public:\nan anonymous letter / gift\n  3  (written) without any unusual or interesting features:\nlong stretches of dull and anonymous countryside * new housing estates with their anonymous tower blocks and large barren spaces\n    anonymously adverb


Words: anorak
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  (especially BrE) a short coat with a HOOD that is worn as protection against rain, wind and cold\n \n  2  (BrE, informal) a person who spends so much of their time learning facts or collecting things that most other people think they are boring


Words: anorexia
Meaning:
noun\n[U] an emotional disorder, especially affecting young women, in which there is an ABNORMAL fear of being fat, causing the person to stop eating, leading to dangerous weight loss\ncompare BULIMIA


Words: another
Meaning:
determiner, pronoun\n  1  one more; an extra thing or person:\nWould you like another drink? * ’Finished?’ ’No, I’ve got another three questions to do.’ * We’ve still got another (= a further) forty miles to go. * ’It’s a bill.’ ’Oh no, not another!’ * I got another of those calls yesterday.\ncompare OTHER\n HELP NOTE  Another can be followed by a singular noun, by of and a plural noun, or by a number and a plural noun.\n  2  different; a different person or thing:\nLet’s do it another time. * We need another computer (= a new one). * We can try that-but whether it’ll work is another matter. * The room’s too small. Let’s see if they’ve got another one. * I don’t like this room. I’m going to ask for another.\n  3  a person or thing of a very similar type:\nShe’s going to be another Kate Moss (= as famous as her). * There’ll never be another like him.\nsee also ONE ANOTHER\n IDIOMS \n  of one kind, sort, etc. or another used when you are referring to various types of a thing, without saying exactly what you mean:\nWe’ve all got problems of one kind or another.\nmore at ONE


Words: answer
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun ~ (to sth)\n  1  something that you say, write or do to react to a question or situation:\nI can’t easily give an answer to your question. * Have you had an answer to your letter? * As if in answer to our prayers, she offered to lend us ｣10 000. * I rang the bell, but there was no answer. * She had no answer to the accusations. * a question and answer session\n  2  something that you write or say in reply to a question in a test, an exam, an exercise, etc.; the correct reply to a question in a test, etc:\nWrite your answers on the sheet provided. * Do you know the answer to question 12? (= the right one) * The answers are at the back of the book. * The sender of the first correct answer to be drawn will receive ｣100.\n  3  a solution to a problem:\nThere is no easy answer. * This could be the answer to all our problems. * The obvious answer would be to cancel the party.\n  4  a person or thing from one place that may be thought to be as good as a famous person or thing from another place:\nThe new theme park will be Britain’s answer to Disneyland.\n IDIOMS \n  have / know all the answers (informal, often disapproving) to be confident that you know sth, especially when you actually do not:\nHe thinks he knows all the answers.\nmore at NO exclam.\n    verb\n\n \n  1  to say, write or do sth as a reaction to a question or situation\nSYN REPLY:\n[V] I repeated the question, but she didn’t answer. * He answered as truthfully as he could. * [VN] You haven’t answered my question. * to answer a letter / an advertisement * to answer the phone (= to pick up the phone when it rings) * to answer the door (= to open the door when sb knocks / rings) * My prayers have been answered (= I have got what I wanted). * He refused to answer the charges against him. * Come on, answer me! Where were you? * He answered me with a smile. * We are grateful to all those people who answered our call for help with fund-raising. * [V speech] ’I’d prefer to walk,’ she answered. * [VN speech] ’I’d prefer to walk,’ she answered him. * [V that] She answered that she would prefer to walk. * [VNN] Answer me this: how did they know we were here? [also VN that]\n \n  2  [VN] (formal) to be suitable for sth; to match sth:\nDoes this answer your requirements?\n \n IDIOMS \n \n  answer to the name of sth (especially of a pet animal) to be called sth:\nThe dog was an ugly brute, answering to the name of Spike.\nmore at DESCRIPTION\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  answer back to defend yourself against criticism:\nHe was given the chance to answer back in a radio interview.\n  answer back | answer sb back to speak rudely to sb in authority, especially when they are criticizing you or telling you to do sth:\nDon’t answer back! * Stop answering your mother back!\n  answer for sth\n1 to accept responsibility or blame for sth:\nYou will have to answer for your behaviour one day. * This government has a lot to answer for (= is responsible for a lot of bad things).\n2 to promise that sb has a particular quality or can be relied on to do sth:\nI can answer for her honesty. * Anne says she can answer for his ability to do the job well.\n  answer for sb (usually in negative sentences) to say that sb else will do sth or have a particular opinion:\nI agree, but I can’t answer for my colleagues.\n  answer to sb (for sth) to have to explain your actions or decisions to sb:\nAll sales clerks answer to the store manager.\n______________________________\n WHICH WORD? \nanswer / reply\nVerbs\nAnswer and reply are the most common verbs used for speaking or writing as a reaction to a question, letter, etc.\nNote that you answer a person, question or letter, not answer to them, but you reply to somebody or something: I’m writing to answer your questions. * I’m writing to reply to your questions. * _I_’_m_ _w_r_i_t_i_n_g_ _t_o_ _a_n_s_w_e_r_ _t_o_ _y_o_u_r_ _q_u_e_s_t_i_o_n_s.\nAlthough answer can be used with an object, it often sounds more natural without one: I knocked on the door but nobody answered. Reply is often used with the actual words spoken: ’I won’t let you down,’ he replied.\nRespond is less common and more formal: The directors were unwilling to respond to questions.\nYou can only answer a door or a phone.\nsee also REJOIN, RETORT\nNouns\nNote the phrases in answer to and in reply to: I’m writing in answer to your letter.\nsee also RESPONSE, REJOINDER, RETORT\n______________________________


Words: answerable
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  [not before noun] ~ to sb (for sth) having to explain your actions to sb in authority over you:\nShe was a free agent, answerable to no one for her behaviour.\n  2  [not before noun] ~ (for sth) responsible for sth and ready to accept punishment or criticism for it:\nMinisters must be made answerable for their decisions.\n  3  (of a question) that can be answered


Words: answering machine
Meaning:
(BrE also answerphone ) noun\na machine which you connect to your telephone to answer your calls and record any message left by the person calling:\nI called several times, but only got the answering machine.


Words: ant
Meaning:
noun\na small insect that lives in highly organized groups. There are many types of ant:\nan ants’ nest * an ant colony\nsee also ANTHILL\n \n IDIOMS \n \n  have ants in your pants (informal) to be very excited or impatient about sth and unable to stay still


Words: antagonism
Meaning:
noun\n[U, pl.] ~ (to / toward(s) sb/sth) | ~ (between A and B) (written) feelings of hatred and opposition:\nThe antagonism he felt towards his old enemy was still very strong. * You could sense the antagonism between them. * the racial antagonisms in society


Words: antagonist
Meaning:
noun\n(formal) a person who strongly opposes sb/sth\nSYN OPPONENT:\nHe has always been the prime minister’s most formidable antagonist in Parliament.


Words: antagonize
Meaning:
(BrE also antagonise)  verb\n[VN] to do sth to make sb angry with you:\nNot wishing to antagonize her further, he said no more.


Words: Antarctic
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] (the Antarctic) the regions of the world around the South Pole\n    Antarctic adjective [only before noun]:\nAntarctic explorers\ncompare ARCTIC


Words: ante
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.]\n IDIOMS \n  raise / up the ante to increase the level of sth, especially demands or sums of money:\nHis ex-wife has upped the ante in her alimony suit against him.


Words: ante-
Meaning:
prefix\n(in nouns, adjectives and verbs) before; in front of:\nante-room * antenatal * antedate\ncompare POST-, PRE-


Words: ante-room
Meaning:
(also formal antechamber) noun\na room where people can wait before entering a larger room, especially in a palace or an important public building


Words: antecedent
Meaning:
noun, adjective \n    noun\n  1  [C] (formal) a thing or an event that exists or comes before another, and may have influenced it\n  2  (antecedents) [pl.] (formal) the people in sb’s family who lived a long time ago\nSYN ANCESTORS\n  3  [C] (grammar) a word or phrase to which the following word, especially a pronoun, refers:\nIn ’He grabbed the ball and threw it in the air’, ’ball’ is the antecedent of ’it’.\n    adjective (formal) previous:\nantecedent events


Words: antediluvian
Meaning:
adjective\n(formal or humorous) very old-fashioned:\ncriticism of Britain’s antediluvian blasphemy law


Words: antelope
Meaning:
noun\n(plural antelope or antelopes) an African animal like a deer, that runs very fast. There are many types of antelope.


Words: antenatal
Meaning:
(BrE) (also prenatal AmE, BrE) adjective\n[only before noun] relating to the medical care given to pregnant women:\nantenatal care / classes / screening * an antenatal clinic\ncompare POSTNATAL


Words: antenna
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  (plural antennae ) either of the two long thin parts on the heads of some insects and some animals that live in shells, used to feel and touch things with\nSYN FEELER: (figurative) The minister was praised for his acute political antennae (= ability to understand complicated political situations).\n \n  2  (plural antennas or antennae) (especially AmE) = AERIAL:\nradio antennas


Words: anterior
Meaning:
adjective\n[only before noun] (technical) (of a part of the body) at or near the front:\nanterior and posterior ends of the embryo\nOPP POSTERIOR


Words: anthem
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a song which has a special importance for a country or an organization and is sung on special occasions:\nThe European anthem was played at the opening and closing ceremonies. * The song could become an anthem for the classless society.\nsee also NATIONAL ANTHEM\n  2  a short religious song for a CHOIR (= a group of singers), often with an ORGAN


Words: anthology
Meaning:
noun\n(plural anthologies) a collection of poems, stories, letters, etc. that have been written by different people and published together in a book:\nan anthology of poems for children


Words: anthropoid
Meaning:
adjective, noun (technical) \n    adjective (of an APE) looking like a human\n    noun any type of APE that is similar to a human:\na theory about how man developed from being among the higher anthropoids to being human


Words: anthropology
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the study of the human race, especially of its origins, development, customs and beliefs\n    anthropological  adjective


Words: anthropomorphic
Meaning:
adjective\n(of beliefs or ideas) treating gods, animals or objects as if they had human qualities:\nan explanation of animal behaviour in anthropomorphic terms\n    anthropomorphism  noun [U]


Words: anti
Meaning:
preposition\n(informal) if sb is anti sb/sth, they do not like or agree with that person or thing:\nThey’re completely anti the new proposals.


Words: anti-
Meaning:
prefix (in nouns and adjectives)\n  1  opposed to; against:\nanti-tank weapons * antisocial\ncompare PRO-\n  2  the opposite of:\nanti-hero * anticlimax\n  3  preventing:\nantifreeze


Words: anti-aircraft
Meaning:
adjective\n[only before noun] designed to destroy enemy aircraft:\nanti-aircraft fire / guns / missiles


Words: anti-choice
Meaning:
adjective\n(AmE, disapproving) against giving women the right to have an ABORTION\ncompare PRO-CHOICE


Words: anti-hero
Meaning:
noun\nthe main character in a story, but one who does not have the qualities of a typical HERO, and is either more like an ordinary person or is very unpleasant:\nAnthony Perkins is the evil anti-hero of the Hitchcock thriller ’Psycho’.


Words: anti-lock
Meaning:
adjective\n[only before noun] anti-lock BRAKES stop the wheels of a vehicle locking if you have to stop suddenly, and so make the vehicle easier to control:\nan anti-lock braking system or ABS


Words: anti-personnel
Meaning:
adjective\n[only before noun] (of weapons) designed to kill or injure people, not to destroy buildings or vehicles, etc:\nanti-personnel mines / bombs / devices


Words: anti-Semitism
Meaning:
noun\n[U] hatred of Jews; unfair treatment of Jews\n    anti-Semitic  adjective:\nanti-Semitic propaganda\n    anti-Semite  noun:\nHe was a notorious anti-Semite.


Words: antibiotic
Meaning:
noun\n[usually pl.] a substance, for example PENICILLIN, that can destroy or prevent the growth of bacteria and cure infections:\nThe doctor put her on antibiotics (= told her to take them).\n    antibiotic adjective:\nan antibiotic drug * effective antibiotic treatment


Words: anticipate
Meaning:
verb\n  1  to expect sth:\n[VN] We don’t anticipate any major problems. * [V -ing] They anticipate moving to bigger premises by the end of the year. * [VN -ing] I don’t anticipate it being a problem. * [V that] We anticipate that sales will rise next year. * [VN that] It is anticipated that inflation will stabilize at 3%.\n  2  to see what might happen in the future and take action to prepare for it:\n[VN] We need someone who can anticipate and respond to changes in the fashion industry. * [V wh-] Try and anticipate what the interviewers will ask. [also V that]\n  3  to think with pleasure and excitement about sth that is going to happen:\n[VN] We eagerly anticipated the day we would leave school. [also V -ing, VN -ing]\n  4  (formal) to do sth before it can be done by sb else:\n[VN] When Scott reached the South Pole he found that Amundsen had anticipated him. [also VN -ing] \n    anticipatory  adjective (formal):\na fast anticipatory movement by the goalkeeper


Words: anticipation
Meaning:
noun [U]\n  1  the fact of seeing that sth might happen in the future and perhaps doing sth about it now:\nHe bought extra food in anticipation of more people coming than he’d invited.\n  2  a feeling of excitement about sth (usually sth good) that is going to happen:\nhappy / eager / excited anticipation * The courtroom was filled with anticipation.


Words: anticlimax
Meaning:
noun\n[C, U] a situation that is disappointing because it happens at the end of sth that was much more exciting, or because it is not as exciting as you expected:\nTravelling in Europe was something of an anticlimax after the years he’d spent in Africa. * a sense / feeling of anticlimax\ncompare CLIMAX\n    anticlimactic  adjective


Words: anticlockwise
Meaning:
(BrE) (AmE counterclockwise) adverb, adjective\nin the opposite direction to the movement of the hands of a clock:\nTurn the key anticlockwise / in an anticlockwise direction. * an anticlockwise rotation / twist / spiral * Moist air blew counterclockwise around the low pressure area.\nOPP CLOCKWISE


Words: antics
Meaning:
noun [pl.]\n  1  behaviour which is silly and funny in a way that people usually like:\nThe bank staff got up to all sorts of antics to raise money for charity.\n  2  behaviour which is ridiculous or dangerous


Words: anticyclone
Meaning:
noun\nan area of high air pressure that produces calm weather conditions with clear skies:\nThe anticyclone brought bright sunshine and calm conditions to most areas.\ncompare DEPRESSION


Words: antidepressant
Meaning:
noun\na drug used to treat DEPRESSION\n    antidepressant adjective [only before noun]:\nantidepressant drugs


Words: antidote
Meaning:
noun ~ (to sth)\n  1  a substance that controls the effects of a poison or disease:\nThere is no known antidote to the poison produced by the fish.\n  2  anything that takes away the effects of sth unpleasant:\nA Mediterranean cruise was the perfect antidote to a long cold winter.


Words: antifreeze
Meaning:
noun\n[U] a chemical that is added to the water in the RADIATOR of cars and other vehicles to stop it from freezing:\nLack of antifreeze is a major cause of highway breakdowns. * Check the antifreeze to make sure there is enough in the system.


Words: antigen
Meaning:
noun\n(medical) a substance that enters the body and can cause disease. The body then usually produces ANTIBODIES to fight the antigens.


Words: antihistamine
Meaning:
noun\n[C, U] a drug used to treat ALLERGIES, especially HAY FEVER. There are several types of antihistamine:\nantihistamine cream / injections / shots


Words: antimony
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (Symbol Sb) a chemical element. Antimony is a silver-white metal that breaks easily, used especially in making ALLOYS.


Words: antioxidant
Meaning:
noun\n  1  (biology) a substance such as VITAMIN C or E that removes dangerous MOLECULES, etc., such as FREE RADICALS from the body\n  2  (chemistry) a substance that helps prevent OXIDIZATION, especially one used to help prevent stored food products from going bad


Words: antipathy
Meaning:
noun\n[U, C, usually sing.] (plural antipathies) ~ (between A and B) | ~ (to / toward(s) sb/sth) (formal) a strong feeling of dislike:\npersonal / mutual / general antipathy * a growing antipathy towards the idea * His professional judgement was coloured by his personal antipathies.\n    antipathetic sth):\nantipathetic to change


Words: antiperspirant
Meaning:
noun\n[U, C] a substance that people use, especially under their arms, to prevent or reduce sweat\nsee also DEODORANT


Words: Antipodes
Meaning:
noun\n(the Antipodes) [pl.] (BrE) a way of referring to Australia and New Zealand, often used in a humorous way\n    Antipodean  adjective:\nan Antipodean accent


Words: antiquarian
Meaning:
adjective, noun \n    adjective [usually before noun] connected with the study, collection or sale of valuable old objects, especially books:\nan antiquarian bookshop\n    noun (also less frequent antiquary ) a person who studies, collects or sells old and valuable objects


Words: antiquated
Meaning:
adjective\n(usually disapproving) (of things or ideas) old-fashioned and no longer suitable for modern conditions:\nantiquated legal procedures


Words: antique
Meaning:
adjective, noun \n    adjective [usually before noun] (of furniture, jewellery, etc.) old and often valuable:\nan antique mahogany desk\n    noun an object such as a piece of furniture that is old and often valuable:\nPriceless antiques were destroyed in the fire. * an antique shop (= one that sells antiques) * an antique dealer (= a person who sells antiques)


Words: antiquity
Meaning:
noun (plural antiquities)\n  1  [U] the ancient past, especially the times of the Greeks and Romans:\nThe statue was brought to Rome in antiquity. * classical antiquity * a study of society from late antiquity to the fifteenth century\n  2  [U] the state of being very old or ancient:\nA number of the monuments are of considerable antiquity. * Archaeologists found 40 bodies of varying antiquity in the area.\n  3  [C, usually pl.] an object from ancient times:\nEgyptian / Roman antiquities


Words: antiseptic
Meaning:
noun, adjective \n    noun [C, U] a substance that helps to prevent infection in wounds by killing bacteria\nSYN DISINFECTANT:\na mild / strong / powerful antiseptic * Use antiseptic to clean and dress cuts. * Dab the graze with antiseptic.\n    adjective\n  1  able to prevent infection:\nantiseptic cream / lotion / wipes * Essential oils have powerful antiseptic properties.\n  2  very clean and free from bacteria\nSYN STERILE:\nCover the burn with an antiseptic dressing. * antiseptic surgery


Words: antisocial
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  harmful or annoying to other people, or to society in general:\nantisocial behaviour * antisocial tendencies / activities / habits\n  2  not wanting to spend time with other people:\nThey’ll think you’re being antisocial if you don’t go.\ncompare SOCIABLE -> UNSOCIABLE


Words: antithesis
Meaning:
(formal)\n  1  the opposite of sth:\nLove is the antithesis of selfishness. * Students finishing their education at 16 is the very antithesis of what society needs.\n  2  a contrast between two things:\nThere is an antithesis between the needs of the state and the needs of the people.\n    antithetical  adjective:\nA culture of violence is antithetical to the church’s traditional teaching.


Words: antler
Meaning:
noun\n[usually pl.] one of the two horns that grow on the head of male deer:\nPoachers in search of antlers prey on red deer.


Words: antonym
Meaning:
noun\n(technical) a word that means the opposite of another word:\n’Old’ has two possible antonyms: ’young’ and ’new’. * a dictionary of antonyms\ncompare SYNONYM


Words: anus
Meaning:
noun\n(anatomy) the opening in a person’s bottom through which solid waste leaves the body\nsee also ANAL


Words: anvil
Meaning:
noun\nan iron block on which a BLACKSMITH puts hot pieces of metal before shaping them with a hammer


Words: anxiety
Meaning:
noun (plural anxieties)\n  1  [U] ~ (about / over sth) the state of feeling nervous or worried that sth bad is going to happen:\nacute / intense / deep anxiety * Some hospital patients experience high levels of anxiety. * Waiting for exam results is a time of great anxiety.\n  2  [C] a worry or fear about sth:\nIf you’re worried about your health, share your anxieties with your doctor. * to express / allay / quell an anxiety\n  3  [U] ~ to do sth | ~ for sth a strong feeling of wanting to do sth or of wanting sth to happen:\nthe candidate’s anxiety to win the vote * the people’s anxiety for the war to end


Words: anxious
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  ~ (about sth) | ~ (for sb) feeling worried or nervous:\nHe seemed anxious about the meeting. * Parents are naturally anxious for their children.\n  2  causing anxiety; showing anxiety:\nThere were a few anxious moments in the baseball game. * an anxious look / face / expression\n  3  ~ to do sth | ~ for sth | ~ for sb to do sth | ~ that ... wanting sth very much:\nShe was anxious to finish school and get a job. * There are plenty of graduates anxious for work. * He was anxious not to be misunderstood. * I’m anxious for her to do as little as possible. * She was anxious that he should meet her father. -> WORRIED\n    anxiously adverb:\nto ask / look / wait anxiously * Residents are anxiously awaiting a decision.


Words: any
Meaning:
determiner, pronoun, adverb \n    determiner\n  1  used with uncountable or plural nouns in negative sentences and questions, after if or whether, and after some verbs such as prevent, ban, avoid, etc. to refer to an amount or a number of sth, however large or small:\nI didn’t eat any meat. * Are there any stamps in that drawer? * I’ve got hardly any money. * You can’t go out without any shoes. * He forbids any talking in class. * She asked if we had any questions.\n HELP NOTE  In positive sentences some is usually used instead of any: I’ve got some paper if you want it. It is also used in questions that expect a positive answer: Would you like some milk in your tea?\n  2  used with singular countable nouns to refer to one of a number of things or people, when it does not matter which one:\nTake any book you like. * Any colour will do. * Any teacher will tell you that students learn at different rates.\nsee also in any case at CASE n., in any event at EVENT, at any rate at RATE n.\n  3  not just ~ used to show that sb/sth is special:\nIt isn’t just any day-it’s my birthday!\n    pronoun\n  1  used in negative sentences and in questions and after if or whether to refer to an amount or a number, however large or small:\nWe need some more paint; there isn’t any left. * I need some stamps. Are there any in your bag? * Please let me know how many are coming, if any. * She spent hardly any of the money. * He returned home without any of the others.\n HELP NOTE  In positive sentences some is usually used instead of any. It is also used in questions that expect a positive reply: I’ve got plenty of paper-would you like some?\n  2  one or more of a number of people or things, especially when it does not matter which:\nI’ll take any you don’t want. * ’Which colour do you want?’ ’Any of them will do.’\n IDIOMS \n  sb isn’t having any (of it) (informal) sb is not interested or does not agree:\nI suggested sharing the cost, but he wasn’t having any of it.\n    adverb\n  1  used to emphasize an adjective or adverb in negative sentences or questions, meaning ’at all’:\nHe wasn’t any good at French. * I can’t run any faster. * Is your father feeling any better? * I don’t want any more. * If you don’t tell them, nobody will be any the wiser.\n  2  (AmE, informal) used at the end of a negative sentence to mean ’at all’:\nThat won’t hurt you any.


Words: any more
Meaning:
(BrE) (also anymore AmE, BrE) adverb\noften used at the end of negative sentences and at the end of questions, to mean ’any longer’:\nShe doesn’t live here any more. * Why doesn’t he speak to me any more? * Next year she won’t have to go out to work any more.\n HELP NOTE  Do not use ’no more’ with this meaning: _S_h_e_ _d_o_e_s_n_’_t_ _l_i_v_e_ _h_e_r_e_ _n_o_ _m_o_r_e_.


Words: any time
Meaning:
(BrE) (also anytime AmE, BrE) adverb\nat a time that is not fixed:\nCall me any time.\n IDIOMS \n  anytime soon (AmE) used in negative sentences and questions to refer to the near future:\nDo you think she’ll be back anytime soon?


Words: anyhow
Meaning:
adverb\n  1  = ANYWAY\n  2  in a careless way; not arranged in an order:\nShe piled the papers in a heap on her desk, just anyhow.


Words: anyone
Meaning:
(also anybody) pronoun\n  1  used instead of someone in negative sentences and in questions after if/whether, and after verbs such as prevent, ban, avoid:\nIs anyone there? * Does anyone else want to come? * Did anyone see you? * Hardly anyone came. * I forbid anyone to touch that clock.\n HELP NOTE  The difference between anyone and someone is the same as the difference between any and some. Look at the notes there.\n  2  any person at all; it does not matter who:\nAnybody can see that it’s wrong. * The exercises are so simple that almost anyone can do them.\n  3  (in negative sentences) an important person:\nShe wasn’t anybody before she got that job.


Words: anything
Meaning:
pronoun\n  1  used instead of something in negative sentences and in questions; after if/whether; and after verbs such as prevent, ban, avoid:\nWould you like anything else? * There’s never anything worth watching on TV. * If you remember anything at all, please let us know. * We hope to prevent anything unpleasant from happening.\n HELP NOTE  The difference between anything and something is the same as the difference between any and some. Look at the notes there.\n  2  any thing at all, when it does not matter which:\nI’m so hungry, I’ll eat anything.\n  3  any thing of importance:\nIs there anything (= any truth) in these rumours?\n IDIOMS \n  anything but definitely not:\nThe hotel was anything but cheap. * It wasn’t cheap. Anything but.\n  as happy, quick, etc. as anything (informal) very happy, quick, etc:\nI felt as pleased as anything.\n  like anything (BrE, informal) very much:\nThey’re always slagging me off like anything.\n  not anything like sb (informal) not at all like; completely different from:\nHe isn’t anything like my first boss.\n  not anything like used to emphasize that sth is not as good, not enough, etc:\nThe book wasn’t anything like as good as her first one.\n  not for anything (informal) definitely not:\nI wouldn’t give it up for anything.\n  or anything (spoken) or another thing of a similar type:\nIf you want to call a meeting or anything, just let me know.


Words: anyway
Meaning:
(also anyhow) adverb\n  1  used when adding sth to support an idea or argument\nSYN BESIDES:\nIt’s too expensive and anyway the colour doesn’t suit you. * It’s too late now, anyway.\n  2  in spite of sth; even so:\nThe water was cold but I took a shower anyway. * I’m afraid we can’t come, but thanks for the invitation anyway.\n  3  used when changing the subject of a conversation, ending the conversation, or returning to a subject:\nAnyway, let’s forget about that for the moment. * Anyway, I’d better go now-I’ll see you tomorrow. * Anyhow, as I was saying ...\n  4  used to correct or slightly change what you have said:\nShe works in a bank. She did when I last saw her, anyway.


Words: anywhere
Meaning:
(AmE also anyplace) adverb\n  1  used in negative sentences and in questions instead of somewhere:\nI can’t see it anywhere. * Did you go anywhere interesting? * Many of these animals are not found anywhere else. * He’s never been anywhere outside Britain.\n HELP NOTE  The difference between anywhere and somewhere is the same as the difference between any and some. Look at the notes there.\n  2  in, at or to any place, when it does not matter where:\nPut the box down anywhere. * An accident can happen anywhere.\n    anywhere pronoun:\nI don’t have anywhere to stay. * Do you know anywhere I can buy a second-hand computer?


Words: AOB
Meaning:
abbreviation\nany other business (the things that are discussed at the end of an official meeting that are not on the AGENDA)


Words: apace
Meaning:
adverb\n(formal) at a fast speed; quickly:\nto continue / grow / proceed / develop apace * The privatization of state companies continued apace.


Words: apart
Meaning:
adverb\n  1  separated by a distance, of space or time:\nThe two houses stood 500 metres apart. * Their birthdays are only three days apart. * (figurative) The two sides in the talks are still a long way apart (= are far from reaching an agreement).\n  2  not together; separate or separately:\nWe’re living apart now. * Over the years, Rosie and I had drifted apart. * She keeps herself apart from other people. * I can’t tell the twins apart (= see the difference between them).\n  3  into pieces:\nThe whole thing just came apart in my hands. * We had to take the engine apart. * When his wife died, his world fell apart.\n  4  used to say that sb/sth is not included in what you are talking about:\nColin apart, not one of them seems suitable for the job.\n IDIOMS  see JOKE v., POLE n., RIP v., WORLD


Words: apart from
Meaning:
(also aside from especially in AmE) preposition\n  1  except for:\nI’ve finished apart from the last question.\n  2  in addition to; as well as:\nApart from their house in London, they also have a villa in Spain. * It was a difficult time. Apart from everything else, we had financial problems. * You’ve got to help. Apart from anything else you’re my brother. -> BESIDES


Words: apartheid
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the former political system in South Africa in which only white people had full political rights and other people, especially black people, were forced to live away from white people, go to separate schools, etc:\nthe pressures of life under apartheid * a call for the elimination / dismantling of apartheid


Words: apartment
Meaning:
noun\n  1  (especially AmE) a set of rooms rented for living in, usually on one floor of a building\ncompare CONDOMINIUM, FLAT\n  2  a set of rooms rented for a holiday/vacation:\nself-catering holiday apartments\n  3  [usually pl.] (BrE) a room in a house, especially a large or famous house:\nYou can visit the whole palace except for the private apartments.


Words: apathetic
Meaning:
adjective\nshowing no interest or enthusiasm:\nThe illness made her apathetic and unwilling to meet people.\n    apathetically  adverb:\nHe looked at me apathetically.


Words: apathy
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the feeling of not being interested in or enthusiastic about anything:\nThere is widespread apathy among the electorate. * public / political / student apathy


Words: ape
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n a large animal like a monkey, with no tail. There are different types of ape:\nthe great apes (for example, ORANG-UTANS or CHIMPANZEES)\n \n IDIOMS \n \n  go ape / apeshit (slang, especially AmE) to become extremely angry or excited\n    verb [VN] \n  1  (BrE, disapproving) to do sth in the same way as sb else, especially when it is not done very well:\nFor years the British film industry merely aped Hollywood.\n  2  (especially AmE) to copy the way sb else behaves or talks, in order to make fun of them\nSYN MIMIC:\nWe used to ape the teacher’s southern accent.


Words: aperitif
Meaning:
noun\n(especially BrE) a drink, usually one containing alcohol, that people sometimes have just before a meal:\nWould you like an aperitif? * This vermouth is a delicious aperitif.


Words: aperture
Meaning:
noun\n  1  (formal) a small opening in sth:\nThe soldier fired the rifle through a narrow aperture in a pile of sandbags.\n  2  (technical) an opening that allows light to reach a LENS, especially in cameras:\nFor flash photography, set the aperture at f.5.6. * Open up the lens aperture to maximize the brightness of the shot. * Binoculars of this aperture are very expensive.


Words: Apex
Meaning:
(also APEX)  abbreviation\n(BrE) Advanced Purchase Excursion (a system that offers cheaper travel tickets when they are bought in advance)


Words: apex
Meaning:
noun\n[usually sing.] (plural apexes) the top or highest part of sth:\nthe apex of the roof / triangle * (figurative) At 37, she’d reached the apex of her career.


Words: aphasia
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (medical) the loss of the ability to understand or produce speech, because of brain damage


Words: aphid
Meaning:
noun\na very small insect that is harmful to plants. There are several types of aphid, including, for example, GREENFLY.


Words: aphorism
Meaning:
noun\n(formal) a short phrase that says sth true or wise:\nJohnson’s aphorism: ’When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life.’\n    aphoristic  adjective


Words: aphrodisiac
Meaning:
noun\na food or drug that is said to give people a strong desire to have sex:\na powerful aphrodisiac * Power is the ultimate aphrodisiac.\n    aphrodisiac adjective:\nthe aphrodisiac properties / qualities of ginseng


Words: apiary
Meaning:
noun\n(plural apiaries) a place where bees are kept:\nThe apiary was nearby; half a dozen hives faced south down the slope.


Words: apiece
Meaning:
adverb\n(used after a noun or number) having, costing or measuring a particular amount each:\nYorke and Cole scored a goal apiece. * The largest stones weigh over five tonnes apiece.


Words: aplenty
Meaning:
adverb, adjective\n[after noun] (formal) in large amounts, especially more than is needed:\nCriticisms of the government were to be found aplenty.


Words: aplomb
Meaning:
noun\n[U] if sb does sth with aplomb, they do it in a confident and successful way, often in a difficult situation:\nwith considerable / great / remarkable aplomb * He delivered the speech with his usual aplomb.


Words: apocalypse
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [sing., U] the destruction of the world:\nCivilization is on the brink of apocalypse.\n  2  (the Apocalypse) [sing.] the end of the world, as described in the Bible\n  3  [sing.] a situation causing very serious damage and destruction:\nan environmental apocalypse


Words: apocalyptic
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  describing very serious damage and destruction in past or future events:\nan apocalyptic view of history * apocalyptic warnings of the end of society\n  2  like the end of the world:\nan apocalyptic scene


Words: apocryphal
Meaning:
adjective\n(of a story) well known, but probably not true:\nMost of the stories about him are apocryphal.


Words: apogee
Meaning:
noun [sing.]\n  1  (formal) the highest point of sth, where it is greatest or most successful:\na religious community that was as its apogee in the twelfth century\n  2  (astronomy) the point in the ORBIT of the moon, a planet or other object in space when it is furthest from the earth


Words: apolitical
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  (of a person) not interested in politics; not thinking politics are important\n  2  not connected with a political party:\nan apolitical organization * Administration should be an apolitical tool of the government.


Words: apologetic
Meaning:
adjective\n~ (about / for sth) feeling or showing that you are sorry for doing sth wrong or for causing a problem:\n’Sorry,’ she said, with an apologetic smile. * They were very apologetic about the trouble they’d caused.\n    apologetically  adverb:\n’I’m sorry I’m late,’ he murmured apologetically.


Words: apologist
Meaning:
noun\n~ (for sb/sth) a person who tries to explain and defend sth, especially a political system or religious ideas:\nan apologist for the government / the police force * apologists for nuclear power


Words: apologize
Meaning:
(BrE also apologise)  verb\n[V] ~ (to sb) (for sth) to say that you are sorry for doing sth wrong or causing a problem:\nWhy should I apologize? * Go and apologize to her. * We apologize for the late departure of this flight.


Words: apology
Meaning:
noun (plural apologies)\n  1  [C, U] ~ (to sb) (for sth) a word or statement saying sorry for sth that has been done wrong or that causes a problem:\nto offer / make / demand / accept an apology * You owe him an apology for what you said. * We should like to offer our apologies for the delay to your flight today. * We received a letter of apology.\n  2  [C, usually pl.] information that you cannot go to a meeting or must leave early:\nThe meeting started with apologies (= the names of people who said they could not go to the meeting). * (formal) She made her apologies and left early.\n IDIOMS \n  make no apology / apologies for sth if you say that you make no apology/apologies for sth, you mean that you do not feel that you have said or done sth wrong


Words: apoplectic
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  (written) very angry:\nHe was apoplectic with rage at the decision.\n  2  (old-fashioned) connected with apoplexy:\nan apoplectic attack / fit


Words: apoplexy
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (old-fashioned) the sudden loss of the ability to feel or move caused by an injury in the brain\nSYN STROKE


Words: apostate
Meaning:
noun\n(formal) a person who has rejected their religious or political beliefs\n    apostasy  noun [U]


Words: aposteriori
Meaning:
adjective, adverb\n(from Latin, formal) analysing sth by starting from known facts and then thinking about the possible causes of the facts, for example saying ’Look, the streets are wet so it must have been raining’.\ncompare A PRIORI


Words: apostle
Meaning:
noun\n  1  (Apostle) any one of the twelve men that Christ chose to tell people about him and his teachings\n  2  ~ (of sth) (formal) a person who strongly believes in a policy or an idea and tries to make other people believe in it:\nan apostle of free enterprise


Words: apostolic
Meaning:
adjective (technical)\n  1  connected with the Apostles or their teaching:\napostolic writings\n  2  connected with the Pope or Popes, who are considered to have had authority passed down to them from Christ’s Apostles:\nThe Pope appointed six apostolic administrators.


Words: apostrophe
Meaning:
noun\n  1  the mark ( ’ ) used to show that one or more letters or numbers have been left out, as in she’s for she is and ’63 for 1963\n  2  the mark ( ’ ) used before or after the letter ’s’ to show that sth belongs to sb, as in Sam’s watch and the horses’ tails\n  3  the mark ( ’ ) used before the letter ’s’ to show the plural of a letter or number, as in How many 3’s are there in 9? and There are two m’s in ’comma’.


Words: apotheosis
Meaning:
(formal)\n  1  the highest or most perfect development of sth\n  2  the best time in sb’s life or career\n  3  a formal statement that a person has become a god:\nthe apotheosis of a Roman Emperor


Words: appal
Meaning:
(BrE) (AmE appall)  verb\n(-ll-) to shock sb very much:\n[VN] The brutality of the crime has appalled the public. * The idea of sharing a room appalled her. * The thought of having to do it all again appals me. * [VN that] It appalled me that they could simply ignore the problem. [also VN to inf]


Words: appalled
Meaning:
adjective\n~ (at sth) feeling or showing horror or disgust at sth unpleasant or wrong:\nan appalled expression / silence * We watched appalled as the child ran in front of the car. * They were appalled at the waste of recyclable material.


Words: appalling
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  shocking; extremely bad:\nThe prisoners were living in appalling conditions.\n  2  (informal) very bad:\nThe bus service is appalling now.\n    appallingly adverb:\nappallingly bad / difficult * The essay was appallingly written.


Words: apparatchik
Meaning:
noun\n(from Russian, disapproving or humorous) an official in a large political organization:\nparty apparatchiks


Words: apparatus
Meaning:
noun (plural apparatuses)\n  1  [U] the tools or other pieces of equipment that are needed for a particular activity or task:\na piece of laboratory apparatus * Firefighters needed breathing apparatus to enter the burning house.\n  2  [C, usually sing.] the structure of a system or an organization, particularly that of a political party or a government:\nthe power of the state apparatus\n  3  [C, usually sing.] (technical) a system of organs in the body:\nthe sensory apparatus


Words: apparel
Meaning:
noun [U]\n  1  (especially AmE) clothing, when it is being sold in shops/stores:\nThe store sells women’s and children’s apparel.\n  2  (old-fashioned or formal) clothes, particularly those worn on a formal occasion:\nlords and ladies in fine apparel


Words: apparent
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  [not usually before noun] ~ (from sth) (that ...) | ~ (to sb) (that ...) easy to see or understand \nSYN OBVIOUS:\nIt was apparent from her face that she was really upset. * Their devotion was apparent. * It soon became apparent to everyone that he couldn’t sing. * Then, for no apparent reason, the train suddenly stopped.\n  2  [usually before noun] that seems to be real or true but may not be:\nMy parents were concerned at my apparent lack of enthusiasm for school. * Their affluence is more apparent than real (= they are not as rich as they seem to be).\nsee also APPEAR


Words: apparently
Meaning:
adverb\naccording to what you have heard or read; according to the way sth appears:\nApparently they are getting divorced soon. * He paused, apparently lost in thought. * I thought she had retired, but apparently (= in fact) she hasn’t.


Words: apparition
Meaning:
noun\na ghost or an image of a person who is dead:\nApparitions of a woman in white robes have been reported.


Words: appeal
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  1  [C, U] ~ (against sth) a formal request to a court of law or to sb in authority for a judgement or a decision to be changed: (BrE) to lodge an appeal * (AmE) to file an appeal * (BrE) an appeal court / judge * (AmE) an appeals court / judge * an appeal against the 3-match ban\nsee also COURT OF APPEAL\n  2  [U] a quality that makes sb/sth attractive or interesting:\nmass / wide / popular appeal * The Beatles have never really lost their appeal. * The prospect of living in a city holds little appeal for me.\nsee also SEX APPEAL\n  3  [C, U] ~ (to sb) (for sth) | ~ to sb to do sth an urgent and deeply felt request for money, help or information, especially one made by a charity or by the police:\nto launch a TV appeal for donations to the charity * a look of silent appeal * The child’s mother made an emotional appeal on TV for his return. * The police made an appeal to the public to remain calm.\n  4  [C] ~ to sth an indirect suggestion that any good, fair or reasonable person would act in a particular way:\nI relied on an appeal to his finer feelings.\n    verb\n  1  [V] ~ (to sb/sth) (against sth) to make a formal request to a court of law or to sb in authority for a judgement or a decision to be changed:\nHe said he would appeal after being found guilty on four counts of murder. * The company is appealing against the ruling.\n  2  [V] ~ (to sb) to attract or interest sb:\nThe prospect of a long wait in the rain did not appeal. * The design has to appeal to all ages and social groups.\n  3  [V] ~ (to sb) (for sth) to make a serious and urgent request:\nNationalist leaders appealed for calm. * I am appealing on behalf of the famine victims (= asking for money). * Police have appealed for witnesses to come forward. * Organizers appealed to the crowd not to panic.\n  4  ~ (to sth) to try to persuade sb to do sth by suggesting that it is a fair, reasonable, or honest thing to do:\n[V] They needed to appeal to his sense of justice. [also V speech]


Words: appealing
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  attractive or interesting:\nSpending the holidays in Britain wasn’t a prospect that I found particularly appealing. * Brightly coloured packaging made the pens especially appealing to children.\nOPP UNAPPEALING\n  2  showing that you want people to help you or to show you pity or sympathy:\n’Would you really help?’ he said with an appealing look.\n    appealingly adverb:\nThe dog looked up at her appealingly.


Words: appear
Meaning:
verb\n  look / seem\n  1  linking verb (not used in the progressive tenses) to give the impression of being or doing sth\nSYN SEEM:\n[V-ADJ] She didn’t appear at all surprised at the news. * [V-N] He appears a perfectly normal person. * [V to inf] She appeared to be in her late thirties. * They appeared not to know what was happening. * There appears to have been a mistake. * [V (that)] It appears there has been a mistake. * It appears unlikely that interest rates will fall further. * It would appear that this was a major problem.\n  be seen\n  2  [V]   [usually +adv./prep.] to start to be seen:\nA bus appeared around the corner. * Smoke appeared on the horizon. * Three days later a rash appeared. * Posters for the gig appeared all over town. * New shoots are just appearing at the base of the plant.\n  begin to exist\n  3  [V]   [usually +adv./prep.] to begin to exist or be known or used for the first time:\nWhen did mammals appear on the earth? * This problem first appeared in the inner cities.\n  of book / programme\n  4  [V]   [usually +adv./prep.] to be published or broadcast:\nHis new book will be appearing in the spring. * It was too late to prevent the story from appearing in the national newspapers. * These allegations appear in a forthcoming documentary.\n  in movie / play\n  5  [V]   [usually +adv./prep.] to take part in a film/movie, play, television programme, etc:\nHe has appeared in over 60 movies. * She regularly appears on TV. * Next month he will be appearing as Clinton in a new play on Broadway.\n  arrive\n  6  [V]   [usually +adv./prep.] to arrive at a place:\nBy ten o’clock Lee still hadn’t appeared.\n  be written / mentioned\n  7  [V]   [usually +adv./prep.] to be written or mentioned somewhere:\nYour name will appear at the front of the book.\n  in court\n  8  [V]   [usually +adv./prep.] to be present in a court of law in order to give evidence or answer a CHARGE:\nA man will appear in court today charged with the murder. * She is expected to appear at Dumfries Sheriff Court on Monday. * She appeared on six charges of theft. * They will appear before magistrates tomorrow. * He has been asked to appear as a witness for the defence.\n  9  [V] ~ for / on behalf of sb to act as sb’s lawyer in court:\nCherie Booth is the lawyer appearing for the defendant.\nsee also APPARENT\ncompare DISAPPEAR


Words: appearance
Meaning:
noun\n  way sth looks / seems\n  1  [C, U] the way that sb/sth looks on the outside; what sb/sth seems to be:\nthe physical / outward / external appearance of sth * She had never been greatly concerned about her appearance. * The dog was similar in general appearance to a spaniel. * He gave every appearance of (= seemed very much to be) enjoying himself. * Judging by appearances can be misleading. * To all appearances (= as far as people could tell) he was dead. * When she lost all her money, she was determined to keep up appearances (= hide the true situation and pretend that everything was going well).\n  sb / sth arriving\n  2  [C, usually sing.] the fact of sb/sth arriving, especially when it is not expected:\nThe sudden appearance of a security guard caused them to drop the money and run. * I don’t want to go to the party, but I suppose I’d better put in an appearance (= go there for a short time).\n  3  [C, usually sing.] the moment at which sth begins to exist or starts to be seen or used:\nthe early appearance of daffodils in spring * the appearance of organic vegetables in the supermarkets\n  in public\n  4  [C] an act of appearing in public, especially as a performer, politician, etc., or in a court of law:\nThe Dutch player will make his first appearance for Liverpool this Saturday. * The singer’s first public appearance was at the age of eight. * the defendant’s appearance in court * a brief / guest / celebrity appearance\n  being published / broadcast\n  5  [C, usually sing.] an act of being published or broadcast:\nthe appearance of claims about the minister’s private life in the press


Words: appease
Meaning:
verb [VN] (formal, usually disapproving)\n  1  to make sb calmer or less angry by giving them what they want:\nThe move was widely seen as an attempt to appease critics of the regime.\n  2  to give a country what it wants in order to avoid war\n    appeasement noun [U]:\na policy of appeasement


Words: appellate court
Meaning:
noun\n(technical) a court of law in which people can APPEAL against decisions made in other courts of law


