# dict

Words: term paper
Meaning:
noun\n(in an American school or college) a long piece of written work that a student does on a subject that is part of a course of study


Words: term-time
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (BrE) the period of time when classes are held at a school, college, or university, as opposed to the holidays/vacations:\nI never went out in the evenings during term-time.\n    term-time adjective [only before noun]:\nPlease state your home and term-time addresses.


Words: terminal
Meaning:
noun, adjective \n    noun\n  1  a building or set of buildings at an airport where air passengers arrive and leave:\nA second terminal was opened in 1998.\n  2  a place, building or set of buildings where journeys by train, bus or boat begin or end:\na railway / bus / ferry terminal\n  3  (computing) a piece of equipment, usually consisting of a keyboard and a screen that joins the user to a central computer system\n  4  (technical) a point at which connections can be made in an electric CIRCUIT:\na positive / negative terminal\n    adjective\n  1  (of an illness or a disease) that cannot be cured and will lead to death, often slowly:\nHe has terminal lung cancer. * The illness is usually terminal. * (figurative) She’s suffering from terminal (= very great) boredom.\n  2  (of a person) suffering from an illness that cannot be cured and will lead to death:\na terminal case / patient\n  3  certain to get worse and come to an end:\nThe industry is in terminal decline.\n  4  [only before noun] (formal or technical) at the end of sth:\na terminal branch of a tree * terminal examinations (= at the end of a course, etc.)\n    terminally  adverb:\na hospice for the terminally ill * a terminally dull film


Words: terminate
Meaning:
verb (formal)\n  1  to end; to make sth end:\n[V] Your contract of employment terminates in December. * [VN] The agreement was terminated immediately. * to terminate a pregnancy (= to have an ABORTION)\n  2  [V] (of a bus or train) to end a journey/trip:\nThis train terminates at London Victoria.


Words: termination
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [U, C] (formal) the act of ending sth; the end of sth:\nFailure to comply with these conditions will result in termination of the contract.\n  2  [C] (medical) a medical operation to end a pregnancy at an early stage\nSYN ABORTION


Words: terminology
Meaning:
noun (plural terminologies)\n  1  [U, C] the set of technical words or expressions used in a particular subject:\nmedical terminology * Scientists are constantly developing new terminologies.\n  2  [U] words used with particular meanings:\nThe disagreement arose over a difference use of terminology.\n    terminological  adjective


Words: termite
Meaning:
noun\nan insect that lives in organized groups, mainly in hot countries. Termites do a lot of damage by eating the wood of trees and buildings:\na termite colony


Words: termly
Meaning:
adjective\n(BrE) happening in each of the periods that the school or college year is divided into:\ntermly reports / examinations * to pay fees in termly instalments


Words: terms
Meaning:
noun [pl.]\n  1  the conditions that people offer, demand or accept when they make an agreement, an arrangement or a contract:\npeace terms * Under the terms of the agreement, their funding of the project will continue until 2005. * They failed to agree on the terms of a settlement. * These are the terms and conditions of your employment.\n  2  conditions that you agree to when you buy, sell, or pay for sth; a price or cost:\nto buy sth on easy terms (= paying for it over a long period) * My terms are ｣20 a lesson.\n  3  a way of expressing yourself or of saying sth:\nWe wish to protest in the strongest possible terms (= to say we are very angry). * I’ll try to explain in simple terms. * The letter was brief, and couched in very polite terms. * She spoke of you in glowing terms (= expressing her admiration of you).\n IDIOMS \n  be on good, friendly, bad, etc. terms (with sb) to have a good, friendly, etc. relationship with sb:\nI had no idea that you and he were on such intimate terms (= were such close friends). * He is still on excellent terms with his ex-wife. * I’m on first-name terms with my boss now (= we call each other by our first names).\n  come to terms (with sb) to reach an agreement with sb; to find a way of living or working together:\nThe enemy was eventually forced to come to terms.\n  come to terms with sth to accept sth unpleasant by learning to deal with it:\nShe is still coming to terms with her son’s death.\n  in terms of sth | in ...terms used to show what aspect of a subject you are talking about or how you are thinking about it:\nThe job is great in terms of salary, but it has its disadvantages. * The decision was disastrous in political terms. * He’s talking in terms of starting a completely new career.\n  on your own terms | on sb’s terms according to the conditions that you or sb else decides:\nI’ll only take the job on my own terms. * I’m not doing it on your terms.\nmore at CONTRADICTION, EQUAL, SPEAK, UNCERTAIN


Words: terms of reference
Meaning:
noun\n[pl.] the limits that are set on what an official committee or report has been asked to do:\nThe matter, they decided, lay outside the commission’s terms of reference.


Words: terra firma
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (from Latin, usually humorous) safe dry land, as contrasted with water or air:\nAfter two days at sea, it was good to be back on terra firma again.


Words: terrace
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  [C] (BrE) (often in the names of streets) a continuous row of similar houses that are joined together in one block:\n12 Albert Terrace\n \n  2  [C] a flat, hard area, especially outside a house or restaurant, where you can sit, eat and enjoy the sun:\na sun terrace * a roof terrace * All rooms have a balcony or terrace.\nsee also PATIO\n \n  3  (terraces) [pl.] (BrE) the wide steps at a football ground where people can stand to watch the game\n \n  4  [C] one of a series of flat areas of ground that are cut into the side of a hill like steps so that crops can be grown there


Words: terraced
Meaning:
adjective\n \n  1  (BrE) used to describe houses that form part of a terrace, or streets with houses in terraces:\na terraced cottage * terraced housing * terraced streets\n \n  2  (of a slope or the side of a hill) having a series of flat areas of ground like steps cut into it:\na terraced garden * a terraced hillside


Words: terraced house
Meaning:
(also less frequent terrace house) (both BrE) (AmE row house, townhouse) noun\na house that is one of a row of houses that are joined together on each side


Words: terracing
Meaning:
noun [U]\n  1  (BrE) an area with wide steps at a football ground where people can stand to watch the game:\nMany clubs want to keep terracing at their grounds.\n  2  a slope or the side of a hill that has had flat areas like steps cut into it


Words: terracotta
Meaning:
noun [U]\n  1  reddish-brown clay that has been baked but not GLAZED, used for making pots, etc:\nterracotta pots / tiles / roofs\n  2  a reddish-brown colour


Words: terrain
Meaning:
noun\n[C, U] (written) used to refer to an area of land when you are mentioning its natural features, for example, if it is rough, flat, etc:\ndifficult / rough / mountainous terrain * They walked for miles across steep and inhospitable terrain.


Words: terrapin
Meaning:
noun\na small TURTLE (= a reptile with a hard round shell), that lives in warm rivers and lakes in N America\ncompare TORTOISE


Words: terrestrial
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  (technical) (of animals and plants) living on the land or on the ground, rather than in water, in trees or in the air:\nterrestrial species / animals / plants * a terrestrial habitat\n  2  connected with the planet Earth:\nterrestrial life\ncompare CELESTIAL, EXTRATERRESTRIAL\n  3  (of television and broadcasting systems) operating on earth rather than from a SATELLITE


Words: terrible
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  very unpleasant; making you feel very unhappy, upset or frightened:\na terrible shock / experience / nightmare * What terrible news! * I’ve just had a terrible thought. * It was a terrible thing to happen to someone so young. * That’s a terrible thing to say!\n  2  causing great harm or injury; very serious:\na terrible storm / murder / accident * He had suffered terrible injuries. * I’ll have to stay with her-she’s in a terrible state.\n  3  [not before noun] unhappy or ill:\nI feel terrible-I think I’ll go to bed. * You look terrible, you’d better sit down.\n  4  (informal) of very bad quality; very bad:\na terrible meal / book / hotel * I have a terrible memory for names. * Your driving is terrible!\n  5  [only before noun] used to show the great extent or degree of sth bad:\na terrible mistake * to be in terrible pain * The room was in a terrible mess. * (informal) I had a terrible job (= it was very difficult) to persuade her to come! * You’ll be in terrible trouble if you’re late again.


Words: terribly
Meaning:
adverb\n  1  (especially BrE) very:\nI’m terribly sorry-did I hurt you? * It’s terribly important for parents to be consistent. * I’m not terribly interested in politics.\n  2  very much; very badly:\nI miss him terribly. * They suffered terribly when their son was killed. * The experiment went terribly wrong. * Would you mind terribly if I didn’t come today?


Words: terrier
Meaning:
noun\na small active dog. There are many types of terrier.\nsee also BULL TERRIER, JACK RUSSELL, PIT BULL TERRIER, YORKSHIRE TERRIER


Words: terrific
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  (informal) excellent; wonderful:\nI feel absolutely terrific today! * She’s doing a terrific job. * You look terrific in that dress. * He was really terrific when I was in trouble. * That’s terrific news! * (ironic) So nobody’s coming. Terrific!\n  2  very large; very great:\nWe drove along at a terrific speed. * I’ve got a terrific amount of work to do.


Words: terrifically
Meaning:
adverb\n(informal) extremely (usually used about positive qualities):\nterrifically exciting / talented


Words: terrified
Meaning:
adjective\n~ (of sb/sth) | ~ (of doing sth) | ~ (that ...) very frightened:\nto be terrified of heights / spiders * I’m terrified of losing you. * He was terrified (that) he would fall. * She was terrified at the thought of being alone. * You look absolutely terrified! * She looked at him with wide, terrified eyes.\n IDIOMS  see WIT


Words: terrify
Meaning:
verb\n(terrifies, terrifying, terrified, terrified) [VN] to make sb feel extremely frightened:\nFlying terrifies her.\n    terrifying adjective:\nIt was a terrifying experience.\n    terrifyingly adverb:\nThe mountain roads are terrifyingly steep.


Words: terrine
Meaning:
noun\n[U, C] a soft mixture of finely chopped meat, fish, etc. pressed into a container and served cold, especially in slices as the first course of a meal:\nchicken / vegetable terrine


Words: territorial
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  connected with the land or sea that is owned by a particular country:\nterritorial gains / disputes * Both countries feel they have territorial claims to (= have a right to own) the islands.\n  2  (technical) (of animals, birds, etc.) guarding and defending an area of land that they believe to be their own:\nterritorial instincts * Cats are very territorial.\n    territoriality  noun [U]:\nthe instinctive territoriality of some animals\n    territorially adverb:\nThe country was trying to expand territorially.


Words: territorial waters
Meaning:
noun\n[pl.] the parts of a sea or an ocean which are near a country’s coast and are legally under its control:\nThe dumping of industrial waste will be prohibited outside territorial waters.


Words: territory
Meaning:
noun (plural territories)\n  1  [C, U] land that is under the control of a particular country or ruler:\nenemy / disputed / foreign territory * occupied territories * They have refused to allow UN troops to be stationed in their territory.\n  2  [C, U] an area that one person, group, animal, etc. considers as their own and defends against others who try to enter it:\nMating blackbirds will defend their territory against intruders. * (figurative) This type of work is uncharted territory for us. * (figurative) Legal problems are Andy’s territory (= he deals with them). * She seems to regard that end of the office as her territory. * Each of these gangs has its own territory.\n  3  [C, U] an area of a town, country, etc. that sb has responsibility for in their work or another activity:\nOur representatives cover a very large territory.\n  4  [U] a particular type of land:\nunexplored territory\n  5  (also Territory) [C] a country or an area that is part of the US, Australia or Canada but is not a state or PROVINCE:\nGuam and American Samoa are US territories.\n IDIOMS \n  come / go with the territory to be a normal and accepted part of a particular job, situation, etc:\nYou need sunshine to ripen grapes and in England unpredictability comes with the territory.\nmore at NEUTRAL adj.


Words: terror
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [U, sing.] a feeling of extreme fear:\na feeling of sheer / pure terror * Her eyes were wild with terror. * People fled from the explosion in terror. * She lives in terror of (= is constantly afraid of) losing her job. * Some women have a terror of losing control in the birth process. * (literary) The very name of the enemy struck terror into their hearts.\n  2  [C] a person, situation or thing that makes you very afraid:\nThese street gangs have become the terror of the neighbourhood. * Death holds no terrors for (= does not frighten or worry) me. * The terrors of the night were past.\n  3  [U] violent action or the threat of violent action that is intended to cause fear, usually for political purposes\nSYN TERRORISM:\na campaign of terror * terror tactics\nsee also REIGN OF TERROR\n  4  [C] (informal) a person (usually a child) or an animal that causes you trouble or is difficult to control:\nTheir kids are real little terrors.


Words: terrorism
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the use of violent action in order to achieve political aims or to force a government to act:\nan act of terrorism * the fight against terrorism * The government has sworn to do everything in its power to combat terrorism.


Words: terrorist
Meaning:
noun\na person who takes part in terrorism:\nThe terrorists are threatening to blow up the plane. * a terrorist attack / bomb / group\ncompare FREEDOM FIGHTER


Words: terrorize
Meaning:
(BrE also terrorise)  verb\n[VN] ~ sb (into doing sth) to frighten and threaten people so that they will not oppose sth or will do as they are told:\ndrug dealers terrorizing the neighbourhood * Thousands of people were terrorized into leaving their homes.


Words: terry
Meaning:
noun\n[U] a soft cotton fabric that absorbs liquids and has a surface covered with raised LOOPS of thread, used especially for making towels


Words: terse
Meaning:
adjective\nusing few words and often not seeming polite or friendly:\na terse voice / style * The President issued a terse statement denying the charges.\n    tersely adverb:\n’I won’t,’ he replied tersely.\n    terseness noun [U]


Words: tertiary
Meaning:
adjective\nthird in order, rank or importance:\nthe tertiary sector (= the area of industry that deals with services rather than materials or goods) * (BrE) tertiary education (= at university or college level)\ncompare PRIMARY, SECONDARY


Words: tertiary college
Meaning:
noun\n(in Britain) a college that provides education for people aged 16 and older, but that is not a university


Words: TESOL
Meaning:
abbreviation\n  1  teaching English to speakers of other languages\n  2  (AmE) teachers of English to speakers of other languages (an organization of teachers)


Words: tessellated
Meaning:
adjective\n(technical) made from small flat pieces arranged in a pattern:\na tessellated pavement / floor


Words: test
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  of knowledge / ability\n \n  1  ~ (on sth) an examination of sb’s knowledge or ability, consisting of questions for them to answer or activities for them to carry out:\nan IQ / intelligence / aptitude test * to take a test * (BrE) to do a test * a test on irregular verbs * to pass / fail a test * (BrE) a good mark in the test * (AmE) a good grade on the test\n \n HELP NOTE  Use take / do / sit a test not _w_r_i_t_e_ _a_ _t_e_s_t_._\nsee also DRIVING TEST -> EXAM\n \n  of health\n \n  2  a medical examination to discover what is wrong with you or to check the condition of your health:\na test for Aids * an eye test * a pregnancy test * When can I get my test results? * We’ll need to carry out a series of tests. * The hospital is doing some tests.\nsee also BLOOD TEST, BREATH TEST\n  of machine / product, etc.\n  3  an experiment to discover whether or how well sth works, or to find out more information about it:\nlaboratory tests * a nuclear test * Tests have shown high levels of pollutants in the water.\nsee also ACID TEST, FIELD TEST, MEANS TEST, ROAD TEST\n  of strength, etc.\n  4  a situation or an event that shows how good, strong, etc. sb/sth is:\nThe local elections will be a good test of the government’s popularity. * The match with Dundee is a real test of character for us. * He saw their separation as a test of the strength of their love.\n  in cricket, etc.\n  5  = TEST MATCH:\nThey played well in the first test against South Africa.\n IDIOMS \n  put sb/sth to the test to put sb/sth in a situation which will show what their true qualities are:\nHis theories have never really been put to the test.\n  stand the test of time to prove to be good, popular, etc. over a long period of time:\nHer poetry will stand the test of time.\n    verb\n  knowledge / ability\n  1  to examine sb’s knowledge or ability by asking them questions or giving them activities to carry out:\n[VN] We test your English before deciding which class to put you in. * Children are tested on core subjects at ages 7, 11 and 14. * [V] Schools use various methods of testing.\n  health\n  2  ~ sb/sth (for sth) to examine the blood, a part of the body, etc. to find out what is wrong with a person, or to check the condition of their health:\n[VN] to test sb’s eyesight / hearing * The doctor tested him for hepatitis. * [V-ADJ] to test positive / negative * Two athletes tested positive for steroids.\n  machine / product, etc.\n  3  [VN] ~ sth (on sth / for sth) to use a machine, product or substance to find out how well it works or to find out more information about it:\nYou should test your brakes regularly. * Our beauty products are not tested on animals. * The water is regularly tested for purity.\n  strength, etc.\n  4  [VN] to be difficult and therefore need all your strength, ability, etc:\nThe long climb tested our fitness and stamina.\nsee also TESTING\n IDIOMS \n  test the waters to find out what the situation is before doing sth or making a decision\nmore at TRIED\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  test for sth | test sth for sth to examine sth to see if a particular substance, etc. is present:\ntesting for oil * The software has been tested for viruses.


Words: test case
Meaning:
noun\na legal case or other situation whose result will be used as an example when decisions are being made on similar cases in the future


Words: test drive
Meaning:
noun\nan occasion when you drive a vehicle that you are thinking of buying so that you can see how well it works and if you like it\n    test-drive verb:\n[VN] Why not test-drive the new BMW?


Words: test match
Meaning:
(also test) noun\na cricket or rugby match played between the teams of two different countries, usually as part of a series of matches on a tour


Words: test-tube baby
Meaning:
noun\na baby that grows from an egg that is FERTILIZED outside the mother’s body and then put back inside to continue developing normally\nsee also IN VITRO


Words: testament
Meaning:
noun (formal)\n  1  [C, usually sing, U] ~ (to sth) a thing that shows that sth else exists or is true\nSYN TESTIMONY:\nThe new model is a testament to the skill and dedication of the workforce.\n  2  [C] = WILL:\nThis is the last will and testament of ...\nsee also NEW TESTAMENT, OLD TESTAMENT


Words: tester
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a person or thing that tests sth:\na battery tester * testers of new software\n  2  a small container of a product, such as PERFUME, that you can try in a shop/store to see if you like it


Words: testicle
Meaning:
noun\neither of the two organs that produce SPERM, enclosed in a bag of skin below the PENIS\n    testicular  adjective [only before noun]:\ntesticular cancer


Words: testify
Meaning:
verb (testifies, testifying, testified, testified)\n  1  ~ (against / for sb) | ~ (to / about sth) to make a statement that sth happened or that sth is true, especially as a WITNESS in a court of law:\n[V] She refused to testify against her husband. * There are several witnesses who will testify for the defence. * He was summoned to testify before a grand jury. * [V (that)] He testified (that) he was at the theatre at the time of the murder. [also V speech]\n  2  [V (that)] to say that you believe sth is true because you have evidence of it:\nToo many young people are unable to write or spell well, as employers will testify.\n  3  [V] (especially AmE) to express your belief in God publicly\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  testify to sth (formal) to show or be evidence that sth is true\nSYN EVIDENCE:\nThe film testifies to the courage of ordinary people during the war.


Words: testimonial
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a formal written statement, often by a former employer, about sb’s abilities, qualities and character; a formal written statement about the quality of sth:\na glowing testimonial * The catalogue is full of testimonials from satisfied customers.\n  2  a thing that is given or done to show admiration for sb or to thank sb:\na testimonial game (= to raise money for a particular player) * He attended a testimonial dinner in his honour.


Words: testimony
Meaning:
noun (plural testimonies)\n  1  [U, sing.] ~ (to sth) a thing that shows that sth else exists or is true\nSYN TESTAMENT:\nThis increase in imports bears testimony to the successes of industry. * The pyramids are an eloquent testimony to the ancient Egyptians’ engineering skills.\n  2  [C, U] a formal written or spoken statement saying what you know to be true, usually in a court of law:\na sworn testimony * Her claim was supported by the testimony of several witnesses. * Can I refuse to give testimony?


Words: testing
Meaning:
noun, adjective \n    noun [U] the activity of testing sb/sth in order to find sth out, see if it works, etc:\nnuclear testing * testing and assessment in education\n    adjective (of a problem or situation) difficult to deal with and needing particular strength or abilities:\nThis has been a testing time for us all.


Words: testing ground
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a place or situation used for testing new ideas and methods to see if they work:\nEastern Europe has been a testing ground for rapid economic reform.\n  2  a place used for testing machines, vehicles, etc. to see if they work correctly:\na piece of land in use as a tank testing ground


Words: testosterone
Meaning:
noun\na HORMONE produced in men’s TESTICLES that causes them to develop the physical and sexual features that are characteristic of the male body\ncompare OESTROGEN, PROGESTERONE


Words: testy
Meaning:
adjective\n(written) easily annoyed or irritated\nSYN IRRITABLE:\nThe old man sounded testy.\n    testily  adverb:\n’Leave me alone,’ she said testily.


Words: tetanus
Meaning:
noun\n[U] a disease in which the muscles, especially the jaw muscles, become stiff, caused by bacteria entering the body through cuts or wounds


Words: tetchy
Meaning:
adjective\nbad-tempered; likely to get angry easily or without good reason:\nHe sounded tetchy when I asked him where he’d been.\n    tetchily  adverb


Words: tete-a-tete
Meaning:
noun\n(from French) a private conversation between two people:\nThere was little chance of a tete-a-tete with Peter.


Words: tether
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb [VN] ~ sth (to sth) to tie an animal to a post so that it cannot move very far:\nHe tethered his horse to a tree.\n    noun a rope or chain used to tie an animal to sth, allowing it to move around in a small area\n IDIOMS  see END n.


Words: Teutonic
Meaning:
adjective\n[usually before noun] (informal, often disapproving) showing qualities considered typical of German people:\nThe preparations were made with Teutonic thoroughness.


Words: Tex-Mex
Meaning:
adjective\n[only before noun] connected with the variety of Mexican cooking, music, etc. that is found in Texas and the SW part of the US:\na Tex-Mex restaurant


Words: text
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [U] the main printed part of a book or magazine, not the notes, pictures, etc:\nMy job is to lay out the text and graphics on the page.\n  2  [U] any form of written material:\na computer that can process text * printed text * Highlight the area of text on screen and press the ’delete’ key.\n  3  [C] the written form of a speech, a play, an article, etc:\nThe newspaper had printed the full text of the president’s speech. * Can you act out this scene without referring to the text?\n  4  [C] a book, play, etc., especially one studied for an exam:\na literary text * (BrE) ’Macbeth’ is a set text this year.\n  5  [C] a piece of writing that you have to answer questions about in an exam or a lesson\nSYN PASSAGE:\nRead the text carefully and then answer the questions.\n  6  [C] (AmE) = TEXTBOOK:\nmedical texts\n  7  [C] a sentence or short passage from the Bible that is read out and discussed by sb, especially during a religious service


Words: textbook
Meaning:
noun, adjective \n    noun (AmE also text) a book that teaches a particular subject and that is used especially in schools and colleges:\na school / medical / history textbook\n    adjective [only before noun] used to describe sth that is done exactly as it should be done, in the best possible way:\nIt was a textbook example of how the game should be played.


Words: textile
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [C, U] any type of fabric made by weaving or knitting:\na factory producing a range of textiles * the textile industry * a textile mill / designer\n  2  (textiles) [pl.] the industry that makes fabric:\nHe got a job in textiles.


Words: textual
Meaning:
adjective\n[usually before noun] (written) connected with or contained in a text:\ntextual criticism / analysis * textual errors


Words: texture
Meaning:
noun [C, U]\n  1  the way a surface, substance or fabric feels when you touch it, for example, how rough, smooth, hard or soft it is:\nthe soft texture of velvet * She uses a variety of different colours, shapes and textures in her wall hangings. * The method used will vary with the soil texture and climate.\n  2  the way food or drink tastes or feels in your mouth, for example, whether it is rough, smooth, light, heavy, etc:\nThe two cheeses were very different in both taste and texture.\n  3  the way that different parts of a piece of music or literature are combined to create a final impression:\nthe rich texture of the symphony


Words: textured
Meaning:
adjective\nwith a surface that is not smooth, but has a particular texture:\ntextured wallpaper * a coarse-textured surface * The walls have a textured finish. * Use a knife to give a textured effect to the clay.


Words: thalidomide
Meaning:
noun\n[U] a SEDATIVE drug which was given to pregnant women until, in the 1960s, it was found to have prevented some babies from developing normal arms and legs


Words: than
Meaning:
preposition, conjunction\n  1  used to introduce the second part of a comparison:\nI’m older than her. * There was more whisky in it than soda. * He loves me more than you do. * It was much better than I’d expected. * You should know better than to behave like that. * I’d rather e-mail than phone, if that’s OK by you.\n  2  more / less / fewer, etc. ~ used for comparing amounts, numbers, distances, etc:\nIt never takes more than an hour. * It’s less than a mile to the beach. * There were fewer than twenty people there.\n  3  used in expressions showing that one thing happens straight after another:\nNo sooner had I sat down than there was a loud knock on the door. * Hardly had we arrived than the problems started.\n IDIOMS  see OTHER adj.


Words: thank
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] ~ sb (for sth / for doing sth) to tell sb that you are grateful for sth:\nI must write and thank Mary for the present. * There’s no need to thank me-I enjoyed doing it. * In his speech, he thanked everyone for all their hard work. * She said goodbye and thanked us for coming.\n IDIOMS \n  have sb to thank (for sth) used when you are saying who is responsible for sth:\nI have my parents to thank for my success.\n  I’ll thank you for sth / to do sth (formal, spoken) used to tell sb that you are annoyed and do not want them to do sth:\nI’ll thank you to mind your own business.\n  thank God / goodness / heaven(s) (for sth) used to say that you are pleased about sth:\nThank God you’re safe! * ’Thank goodness for that!’ she said with a sigh of relief. * Thanks heavens I’ve found my keys.\n HELP NOTE  Some people find the phrase thank God offensive.\n  thank your lucky stars to feel very grateful and lucky about sth:\nJust thank your lucky stars you weren’t in the house at the time.\n  sb won’t thank you for sth used to say that sb will not be pleased or will be annoyed about sth:\nJohn won’t thank you for interfering.


Words: thank you
Meaning:
exclamation, noun \n    exclamation-see also THANKS\n  1  ~ (for sth / for doing sth) used to show that you are grateful to sb for sth they have done:\nThank you for your letter. * Thank you very much for sending the photos.\n  2  a polite way of accepting sth that sb has offered you:\n’Would you like some help with that?’ ’Oh, thank you.’\n  3  (no thank you) a polite way of refusing sth that sb has offered you:\n’Would you like some more cake?’ ’No thank you.’\n  4  used at the end of a sentence to tell sb firmly that you do not need their help or advice:\n’Shall I do that?’ ’I can do it myself, thank you.’\n    noun [usually sing.] ~ (to sb) (for sth) an act, a gift, a comment, etc. intended to thank sb for sth they have done:\nThe actor sent a big thank you to all his fans for their letters of support. * She took the money without so much as a thank you. * a thank-you letter


Words: thankful
Meaning:
adjective\n[not usually before noun] ~ (for sth) | ~ (to do sth) | ~ (that ...) pleased about sth good that has happened, or sth bad that has not happened:\nI was thankful to see they’d all arrived safely. * He wasn’t badly hurt-that’s something to be thankful for. * She was thankful for the darkness which allowed her to slip away unnoticed. * I was thankful that they hadn’t asked for more.\n IDIOMS  see SMALL adj.


Words: thankfully
Meaning:
adverb\n  1  used to show that you are pleased and relieved that sth good has happened or that sth bad has been avoided\nSYN FORTUNATELY:\nThere was a fire in the building, but thankfully no one was hurt. * Thankfully, the house was empty when I got home.\n  2  in a pleased or grateful way:\nAt the end of a busy day, I just sink thankfully into bed. * I accepted the invitation thankfully.


Words: thankless
Meaning:
adjective\nunpleasant or difficult to do and unlikely to bring you any rewards or thanks from anyone:\nSometimes being a mother and a housewife felt like a thankless task.


Words: thanks
Meaning:
exclamation, noun \n    exclamation-see also THANK YOU\n  1  ~ (for sth / doing sth) used to show that you are grateful to sb for sth they have done:\nThanks a lot for lending me the money. * Many thanks for your support. * ’How are you?’ ’Fine, thanks.’ (= thanks for asking)\n  2  a polite way of accepting sth that sb has offered you:\n’Would you like a coffee?’ ’Oh, thanks.’ * ’Here’s the change.’ ’Thanks very much.’ * ’Do you want to come with us?’ ’I’d love to, thanks.’\n  3  (no thanks) a polite way of refusing sth that sb has offered you:\n’Would you like some more?’ ’No thanks.’\n    noun [pl.] ~ (to sb) (for sth) words or actions that show that you are grateful to sb for sth\nSYN GRATITUDE:\nHow can I ever express my thanks to you for all you’ve done? * Thanks are due to all those who worked so hard for so many months. * She murmured her thanks. * We gave thanks to God for all our blessings.\nsee also VOTE OF THANKS\n IDIOMS \n  no thanks to sb/sth in spite of sb/sth; with no help from sb/sth:\nWe managed to get it finished in the end-no thanks to him (= he didn’t help).\n  thanks to sb/sth (sometimes ironic) used to say that sth has happened because of sb/sth:\nIt was all a great success-thanks to a lot of hard work. * Everyone knows about it now, thanks to you!


Words: thanksgiving
Meaning:
noun\n  1  Thanksgiving (Day) [U, C] a public holiday in the US (on the fourth Thursday in November) and in Canada (on the second Monday in October), originally to give thanks to God for the HARVEST and for health\ncompare HARVEST FESTIVAL\n  2  [U] (formal) the expression of thanks to God


Words: that determiner
Meaning:
, pronoun, conjunction, adverb \n    determiner )\n  1  used for referring to a person or thing that is not near the speaker or as near to the speaker as another:\nLook at that man over there. * How much are those apples at the back?\n  2  used for referring to sb/sth that has already been mentioned or is already known about:\nI was living with my parents at that time. * That incident changed their lives. * Have you forgotten about that money I lent you last week? * That dress of hers is too short.\n    pronoun )\n  1  used for referring to a person or thing that is not near the speaker, or not as near to the speaker as another:\nWho’s that? * That’s Peter over there. * Hello. Is that Jo? * That’s a nice dress. * Those look riper than these.\n  2  used for referring to sb/sth that has already been mentioned, or is already known about:\nWhat can I do about that? * Do you remember when we went to Norway? That was a good trip. * That’s exactly what I think.\n  3  (formal) used for referring to people or things of a particular type:\nThose present were in favour of change. * There are those who say (= some people say) she should not have got the job. * Salaries are higher here than those in my country.\n  4   (plural that) used as a relative pronoun to introduce a part of a sentence which refers to the person, thing or time you have been talking about:\nWhere’s the letter that came yesterday? * Who was it that won the US Open? * The watch (that) you gave me keeps perfect time. * The people (that) I spoke to were very helpful. * It’s the best novel (that) I’ve ever read. * We moved here the year (that) my mother died.\n HELP NOTE  In spoken and informal written English that is nearly always left out when it is the object of the verb or is used with a preposition.\n IDIOMS \n  and (all) that (BrE, informal) and everything else connected with an activity, a situation, etc.\nSYN AND SO ON:\nDid you bring the contract and (all) that?\n  that is (to say) used to say what sth means or to give more information:\nHe’s a local government administrator, that is to say a civil servant. * You’ll find her very helpful-if she’s not too busy, that is.\n  that’s that used to say that your decision cannot be changed:\nWell I’m not going, and that’s that.\n    conjunction \n  1  used after some verbs, adjectives and nouns to introduce a new part of the sentence:\nShe said (that) the story was true. * It’s possible (that) he has not received the letter. * The fact (that) he’s older than me is not relevant.\n HELP NOTE  In spoken and informal written English that is usually left out after reporting verbs and adjectives. It is less often left out after nouns.\n  2  so ...that ... used to express a result:\nShe was so tired (that) she couldn’t think straight.\n HELP NOTE  In informal English that is often left out.\n  3  (literary) used for expressing a hope or a wish:\nOh that I could see him again!\n    adverb \n  1  used when saying how much or showing how long, big, etc. sth is with your hands:\nI can’t walk that far (= as far as that). * It’s about that long.\n  2  not (all) ~ not very, or not as much as has been said:\nIt isn’t all that cold. * There aren’t that many people here.\n  3  (BrE, informal) used to emphasize how much:\nI was that scared I didn’t know what to do.


Words: thatch
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n\n \n  1  [U, C] dried STRAW, REEDS, etc. used for making a roof; a roof made of this material:\na roof made of thatch * The thatch was badly damaged in the storm.\n \n  2  [sing.] ~ of hair (informal) thick hair on sb’s head\n    verb [VN] to cover the roof of a building with thatch\n    thatched adjective:\nThey live in a thatched cottage.


Words: thaw
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb\n  1  [V] ~ (out) (of ice and snow) to turn back into water after being frozen:\nThe snow started to thaw as the temperature kept up. * The country was slowly thawing out after the long cold winter.\nOPP FREEZE\n  2  [V] when it thaws or is thawing, the weather becomes warm enough to melt snow and ice:\nIt’s starting to thaw.\n  3  ~ (sth) (out) to become, or to let frozen food become, soft or liquid ready for cooking\ncompare DEFROST, DE-ICE, UNFREEZE:\n[V] Leave the meat to thaw completely before cooking. [often VN]\n  4  ~ (sth) (out) to become, or make sth become, a normal temperature after being very cold:\n[V] I could feel my ears and toes start to thaw out. [also VN]\n  5  [V] ~ (out) to become more friendly and less formal:\nRelations between the two countries thawed a little after the talks. * The atmosphere slowly began to thaw.\n    noun\n  1  [C, usually sing.] a period of warmer weather following one of cold weather, causing snow and ice to melt:\nThe river doubles in size during the spring thaw.\n  2  [sing.] ~ (in sth) a situation in which the relations between two enemy countries become more friendly:\na thaw in relations with China


Words: the
Meaning:
definite article\n  1  used to refer to sb/sth that has already been mentioned or is easily understood:\nThere were three questions. The first two were relatively easy but the third one was hard. * There was an accident here yesterday. A car hit a tree and the driver was killed. * The heat was getting to be too much for me. * The nights are getting longer.\n  2  used to refer to sb/sth that is the only, normal or obvious one of their kind:\nthe Mona Lisa * the Nile * the Queen * What’s the matter? * The phone rang. * I patted her on the back. * How’s the (= your) baby?\n  3  used when explaining which person or thing you mean:\nthe house at the end of the street * The people I met there were very friendly. * It was the best day of my life. * You’re the third person to ask me that. * Friday the thirteenth * Alexander the Great\n  4  used to refer to a thing in general rather than a particular example:\nHe taught himself to play the violin. * The dolphin is an intelligent animal. * They placed the African elephant on their endangered list. * I heard it on the radio. * I’m usually out during the day.\n  5  used with adjectives to refer to a thing or a group of people described by the adjective:\nWith him, you should always expect the unexpected. * the unemployed / the elderly / the French\n  6  used before the plural of sb’s last name to refer to a whole family or a married couple:\nDon’t forget to invite the Jordans.\n  7  enough of sth for a particular purpose:\nI wanted it but I didn’t have the money.\n  8  used with a unit of measurement to mean ’every’:\nMy car does forty miles to the gallon. * You get paid by the hour.\n  9  used with a unit of time to mean ’the present’:\nWhy not have the dish of the day? * She’s flavour of the month with him.\n  10   (spoken) used, stressing the, to show that the person or thing referred to is famous or important:\nSheryl Crow? Not the Sheryl Crow? * At that time London was the place to be.\n IDIOMS \n  the more, less, etc. ..., the more, less, etc. ... used to show that two things change to the same degree:\nThe more she thought about it, the more depressed she became. * The less said about the whole thing, the happier I’ll be.


Words: the accused
Meaning:
noun\n(plural the accused) a person who is on trial for committing a crime:\nThe accused was found innocent. * All the accused have pleaded guilty.\ncompare DEFENDANT


Words: the Big Apple
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] (informal) New York City:\nHe wanted to take a bite out of the Big Apple (= to become familiar with New York).


Words: the big screen
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] the cinema (when contrasted with television):\nThe movie hits the big screen in July. * her first big-screen success


Words: the Black Death
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] the name used for the very serious infectious disease, (called BUBONIC PLAGUE), which killed millions of people in Europe and Asia in the 14th century


Words: the black economy
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] (BrE) business activity or work that is done without the knowledge of the government or other officials so that people can avoid paying tax on the money they earn


Words: the body politic
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] (formal) all the people of a particular nation considered as an organized political group:\nThis new policy has touched a nerve in the American body politic.


Words: the brat pack
Meaning:
noun\n[usually sing.] a group of famous young people, especially film/movie actors, who sometimes behave badly:\na member of the Hollywood brat pack


Words: the Bronze Age
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] the period in history between the Stone Age and the Iron Age when people used tools and weapons made of bronze


Words: the burden of proof
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] (law) the task or responsibility of proving that sth is true:\nThe burden of proof is on the prosecution.


Words: the business end
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] ~ (of sth) (informal) the end of a tool or weapon which performs its main function:\nNever hold a gun by the business end.


Words: the chequered flag
Meaning:
(BrE) (also checkered flag AmE, BrE) noun\na flag with black and white squares that is waved when a driver has finished a motor race


Words: the Church of England
Meaning:
noun\n(abbreviation CE, C. of E.) [sing.] the official Church in England, whose leader is the Queen or King


Words: the civil service
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] the government departments in a country, except the armed forces, and the people who work for them:\nHe had a long career in the civil service.


Words: the Conservative Party
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.+sing./pl. v.] one of the main British political parties, on the political right, which especially believes in FREE ENTERPRISE and that industry should be privately owned


Words: the cost of living
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] the amount of money that people need to pay for food, clothing and somewhere to live:\na steady rise in the cost of living * the high cost of living in London


Words: the dark ages
Meaning:
noun [pl.]\n  1  (the Dark Ages) the period of European history between the end of the Roman Empire and the 10th century AD\n  2  (often humorous) a period of history or a time when sth was not developed or modern:\nBack in the dark ages of computing, in about 1980, they started a software company. * You’re living in the dark ages, Mum!


Words: the dawn chorus
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] (BrE) the sound of birds singing very early in the morning:\nThe dawn chorus woke Robyn at 5 o’clock.


Words: the death penalty
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] the punishment of being killed that is used in some countries for very serious crimes:\nthe abolition / return of the death penalty * a crime which carries the death penalty


Words: the Deep South
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] the southern states of the US, especially Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana and South Carolina


Words: the Democratic Party
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] one of the two main political parties in the US, usually considered to be in favour of social REFORM\ncompare THE REPUBLICAN PARTY


Words: the Diplomatic Service
Meaning:
(especially BrE) (AmE usually the Foreign Service) noun\n[sing.] the government department concerned with representing a country in foreign countries


Words: the East End
Meaning:
noun\nan area of East London traditionally connected with working people\n    East Ender noun:\nHe’s a real East Ender.


Words: the European Union
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] (abbreviation EU) an economic and political organization that many European countries belong to


Words: the evil eye
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] the magic power to harm sb by looking at them:\nsymbols to ward off the evil eye * to give somebody the evil eye (= to look at somebody and harm them by doing so)


Words: the Far East
Meaning:
noun\nChina, Japan and other countries of E and SE Asia\ncompare THE MIDDLE EAST\n    Far Eastern adjective


Words: the first person
Meaning:
noun [sing.]\n  1  (grammar) a set of pronouns and verb forms used by a speaker to refer to himself or herself, or to a group including himself or herself:\n’I am’ is the first person singular of the present tense of the verb ’to be’. * ’I’, ’me’, ’we’ and ’us’ are first-person pronouns.\n  2  a way of writing a novel, etc. as if one of the characters is telling the story using the word I:\na novel written in the first person\ncompare THE SECOND PERSON, THE THIRD PERSON


Words: the First World War
Meaning:
(also World War I) noun\n[sing.] the first large international war that was fought mainly in Europe between 1914 and 1918


Words: the Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.+sing./pl. v.] (abbreviation FCO) the British government department that deals with relations with other countries. It used to be called the Foreign Office and it is still sometimes referred to as this.


Words: the fourth dimension
Meaning:
noun [sing.]\n  1  (used by scientists and writers of SCIENCE FICTION) time\n  2  an experience that is outside normal human experience


Words: the fourth estate
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] newspapers and journalists in general and the political influence that they have\nSYN THE PRESS


Words: the Fourth of July
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] a national holiday in the US when people celebrate the anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 1776\nsee also INDEPENDENCE DAY


Words: the front bench
Meaning:
noun\n[C+sing./pl. v.] the most important members of the government and the OPPOSITION in the British parliament, who sit in the front rows of seats:\nan Opposition front-bench spokesman on defence * She was recalled to the front bench less than a year after she resigned.\ncompare BACK BENCH


Words: the front line
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] an area where the enemies are facing each other during a war and where fighting takes place:\nTanks have been deployed all along the front line. * front-line troops\n IDIOMS \n  in the front line (of sth) doing work that will have an important effect on sth:\na life spent in the front line of research


Words: the general public
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.+sing./pl. v.] ordinary people who are not members of a particular group or organization:\nAt that time, the general public was / were not aware of the health risks. * The exhibition is not open to the general public.


Words: the generation gap
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] the difference in attitude or behaviour between young and older people that causes a lack of understanding:\na movie that is sure to bridge the generation gap


Words: the greenhouse effect
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] the problem of the gradual rise in temperature of the earth’s atmosphere, caused by an increase of gases such as CARBON DIOXIDE in the air surrounding the earth, which trap the heat of the sun:\nThe destruction of forests is contributing to the greenhouse effect. * We are all beginning to experience global warming due to the enhanced greenhouse effect.\nsee also GLOBAL WARMING


Words: the Grim Reaper
Meaning:
noun\nan imaginary figure who represents death. It looks like a SKELETON, wears a long CLOAK and carries a SCYTHE.


Words: the Gulf Stream
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] a warm current of water flowing across the Atlantic Ocean from the Gulf of Mexico towards Europe


Words: the gutter press
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] (disapproving) newspapers that print a lot of shocking stories about people’s private lives rather than serious news


Words: the haves
Meaning:
noun\n[pl.] people who have enough money and possessions:\nthe division between the haves and the have-nots\ncompare THE HAVE-NOTS


Words: the heebie-jeebies
Meaning:
noun\n[pl.] (old-fashioned, informal) a feeling of nervous fear or worry:\nBeing alone in the dark gives me the heebie-jeebies.


Words: the high jump
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] a sporting event in which people try to jump over a high bar that is gradually raised higher and higher:\nShe won a silver medal in the high jump.\n IDIOMS \n  be for the high jump (BrE, informal) to be going to be severely punished:\nIf I catch you cheating, you’ll be for the high jump.


Words: the high seas
Meaning:
noun\n[pl.] (formal or literary) the areas of sea that are not under the legal control of any one country:\ninternational laws to regulate fishing on the high seas * a film about pirates seeking adventure on the high seas


Words: the Highway Code
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] (in Britain) the official rules for drivers and other users of public roads; the book that contains these rules


Words: the historic present
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] (grammar) the simple present tense used to describe events in the past in order to make the description more powerful


Words: the hit parade
Meaning:
noun\n(old-fashioned) a list published every week that shows which pop records have sold the most copies


Words: the holy of holies
Meaning:
noun [sing.]\n  1  the most holy part of a religious building\n  2  (humorous) a special room or building that can only be visited by important people


Words: the Home Office
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.+sing./pl. v.] the British government department that deals with the law, the police and prisons, and with decisions about who can enter the country


Words: the home straight
Meaning:
(especially BrE) (also the home stretch especially in AmE) noun [sing.]\n  1  the last part of a race\n  2  the last part of an activity, etc. when it is nearly completed:\nWe’re going into the home stretch of the presidential election.


Words: the hot seat
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] (informal) if sb is in the hot seat, they have to take responsibility for important or difficult decisions and actions


Words: the House of Commons
Meaning:
(also the Commons) noun\n  1  [sing.+sing./pl. v.] (in Britain and Canada) the part of Parliament whose members are elected by the people of the country\n  2  [sing.] the building where the members of the House of Commons meet\ncompare THE HOUSE OF LORDS


Words: the House of Lords
Meaning:
(also the Lords) noun\n  1  [sing.+sing./pl. v.] (in Britain) the part of Parliament whose members are not elected by the people of the country\n  2  [sing.] the building where members of the House of Lords meet\ncompare THE HOUSE OF COMMONS


Words: the House of Representatives
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] the largest part of Congress in the US, or of the Parliament in Australia and New Zealand, whose members are elected by the people of the country\ncompare SENATE (1)


Words: the Houses of Parliament
Meaning:
noun\n[pl.] (in Britain) the Parliament that consists of both THE HOUSE OF COMMONS and THE HOUSE OF LORDS; the buildings in London where the British Parliament meets


Words: the Industrial Revolution
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] the period in the 18th and 19th centuries in Europe and the US when machines began to be used to do work, and industry grew rapidly


Words: the injured party
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] (especially law) the person who has been treated unfairly, or the person who claims in a court of law to have been treated unfairly


Words: the Inland Revenue
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] the government department in Britain that is responsible for collecting taxes\ncompare THE INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE


Words: the Internal Revenue Service
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] (abbreviation IRS) (in the US) the government department that is responsible for collecting most national taxes, for example income tax\ncompare THE INLAND REVENUE


Words: the International Date Line
Meaning:
(also date line) noun\n[sing.] the imaginary line that goes from north to south through the Pacific Ocean. The date on the west side is one day earlier than that on the east side.


Words: the Iron Curtain
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] the name that people used for the border that used to exist between Western Europe and the COMMUNIST countries of Eastern Europe


Words: the Ivy League
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] a group of eight traditional universities in the eastern US with high academic standards and a high social status\ncompare OXBRIDGE\n    Ivy League adjective:\nIvy League colleges


Words: the metric system
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] the system of measurement that uses the metre, the kilogram and the litre as basic units


Words: the Middle East
Meaning:
(also less frequent the Near East) noun\n[sing.] an area that covers SW Asia and NE Africa\ncompare THE FAR EAST\n    Middle Eastern (also less frequent Near Eastern) adjective


Words: the millennium bug
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] a problem that threatened to make computer systems all over the world stop working in the year 2000 because they could not recognize a date ending in two zeros


Words: the moral majority
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.+sing./pl. v.] the largest group of people in a society, considered as having very traditional ideas about moral matters, religion, sexual behaviour, etc.


Words: the national curriculum
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] (in Britain) a programme of study in all the main subjects that children aged 5 to 16 in state schools must follow


Words: the National Front
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.+sing./pl. v.] (in Britain) a small political party with extreme views, especially on issues connected with race


Words: the National Guard
Meaning:
noun [sing.]\n  1  a small army, often used to protect a political leader\n  2  the army in each state of the US that can be used by the FEDERAL government if needed


Words: the National Health Service
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] (abbreviation NHS) the public health service in Britain that provides medical care and is paid for by taxes:\nI got my glasses on the National Health (Service).


Words: the negotiating table
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] (used mainly in newspapers) a formal discussion to try and reach an agreement:\nWe want to get all the parties back to the negotiating table.


Words: the New Testament
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] the second part of the Bible, that describes the life and teachings of Jesus Christ\ncompare THE OLD TESTAMENT


Words: the New World
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] a way of referring to North, Central and South America, used especially in the past\ncompare THE OLD WORLD


Words: the nitty-gritty
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] (informal) the basic or most important details of an issue or a situation:\nTime ran out before we could get down to the real nitty-gritty.


Words: the northern lights
Meaning:
noun\n[pl.] (also aurora borealis) bands of coloured light, mainly green and red, that are sometimes seen in the sky at night in the most northern countries of the world


Words: the old country
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] the country where you were born, especially when you have left it to live somewhere else


Words: the old guard
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.+sing./pl. v.] the original members of a group or an organization, who are often against change:\nSome of the old guard were resentful that a newcomer had been appointed to the post.


Words: the Old Testament
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] the first part of the Bible, that tells the history of the Jews, their beliefs and their relationship with God before the birth of Christ\ncompare THE NEW TESTAMENT


Words: the Olympic Games
Meaning:
(also the Olympics) noun\n[pl.] an international sports festival held every four years in a different country:\nthe Sydney Olympics in 2000


Words: the Orthodox Church
Meaning:
(also the Eastern Orthodox Church) noun\n[sing.] a branch of the Christian Church in Eastern Europe and Greece


Words: the Pacific Rim
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] the countries around the Pacific Ocean, especially the countries of Eastern Asia, considered as an economic group


Words: the past perfect
Meaning:
(also the past perfect tense, the pluperfect) noun\n[sing.] (grammar) the form of a verb that expresses an action completed before a particular point in the past, formed in English with had and the past participle


Words: the past tense
Meaning:
(also the past) noun\n[sing.] (grammar) the form of a verb used to describe actions in the past:\nThe past tense of ’take’ is ’took’.


Words: the periodic table
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] (chemistry) a list of all the chemical elements, arranged according to their ATOMIC NUMBER


Words: the pole vault
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] a sporting event in which people try to jump over a high bar, using a long pole to push themselves off the ground\n    pole-vaulter noun\n    pole-vaulting noun [U]


Words: the poverty line
Meaning:
(also the poverty level especially in AmE) noun\n[sing.] the official level of income that is necessary to be able to buy the basic things you need such as food and clothes and to pay for somewhere to live:\nA third of the population is living at or below the poverty line.


Words: the present day
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] the situation that exists in the world now, rather than in the past or the future:\na study of European drama, from Ibsen to the present day\n    present-day adjective [only before noun]:\npresent-day fashions * present-day America


Words: the present perfect
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] (grammar) the form of a verb that expresses an action done in a time period up to the present, formed in English with the present tense of have and the past participle of the verb, as in I have eaten


Words: the private sector
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] the part of the economy of a country that is not under the direct control of the government:\nto work in the private sector * private-sector pay rises\ncompare THE PUBLIC SECTOR


Words: the Privy Council
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.+sing./pl. v.] (in Britain) a group of people who advise the king or queen on political affairs\n    Privy Councillor noun


Words: the privy purse
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] (in Britain) an amount of money that the government gives to the king or queen for their own private use


Words: the proletariat
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.+sing./pl. v.] (technical) (used especially when talking about the past) the class of ordinary people who earn money by working, especially those who do not own any property:\nthe industrial proletariat * Marx wrote of the class struggle between the bourgeoisie and the proletariat.\ncompare BOURGEOISIE


Words: the public sector
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] (economics) the part of the economy of a country that is owned or controlled by the government:\npublic sector housing\ncompare THE PRIVATE SECTOR


Words: the purse strings
Meaning:
noun\n[pl.] a way of referring to money and how it is controlled or spent:\nWho holds the purse strings in your house? * The government will have to tighten the purse strings (= spend less).


Words: the rank and file
Meaning:
noun [sing.+sing./pl. v.]\n  1  the ordinary soldiers who are not officers\n  2  the ordinary members of an organization:\nthe rank and file of the workforce * rank-and-file members


Words: the rat race
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] (disapproving) the way of life of people living and working in a large city where everyone competes in an aggressive way with each other in order to be more successful, earn more money, etc:\nIt’s very easy to get caught up in the rat race. * The novel is about a couple who get out of the rat race and buy a farm in France.


Words: the Red Crescent
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] the name used by national branches in Muslim countries of the International Movement of the Red Cross and the Red Crescent, an organization that takes care of people suffering because of war or natural disasters


Words: the Red Cross
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] an international organization that takes care of people suffering because of war or natural disasters. Its full name is the International Movement of the Red Cross and the Red Crescent.


Words: the Republican Party
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] one of the two main political parties in the US, usually considered to support CONSERVATIVE views, and to want to limit the power of central government\ncompare THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY


Words: the right wing
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [sing.+sing./pl. v.] the part of a political party whose members are least in favour of social change:\nHe is on the right wing of the party.\n  2  [C, U] an attacking player or a position on the right side of the field in a game of football, etc.


Words: the safe period
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] the time just before and during a woman’s PERIOD when she is unlikely to become pregnant


Words: the Salvation Army
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] a Christian organization whose members wear military uniforms and work to help poor people


Words: the second person
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] (grammar) the form of a pronoun or verb used when addressing sb:\nIn the phrase ’you are’, the verb ’are’ is in the second person and the word ’you’ is a second-person pronoun.\ncompare THE FIRST PERSON, THE THIRD PERSON


Words: the sequence of tenses
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] (grammar) the rules according to which the tense of a SUBORDINATE CLAUSE depends on the tense of a main CLAUSE, so that, for example, ’I think that you are wrong’ becomes ’I thought that you were wrong’ in the past tense


Words: the shot-put
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] (also shot-putting, putting the shot) the event or sport of throwing a heavy metal ball (called a SHOT) as far as possible


Words: the silent majority
Meaning:
noun\n[usually sing.] the large number of people in a country who think the same as each other, but do not express their views publicly:\nIt is time the silent majority made their opposition known.


Words: the silly season
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] (BrE) the time, usually in the summer, when newspapers are full of unimportant stories because there is little serious news


Words: the silver screen
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] (old-fashioned) the film/movie industry:\nstars of the silver screen * The book is being adapted for the silver screen.


Words: the small print
Meaning:
(BrE) (AmE the fine print) noun\n[U] the important details of an agreement or a legal document that are usually printed in small type and are therefore easy to miss:\nRead all the small print before signing.


Words: the small screen
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] television (when contrasted with cinema):\nThis will be the film’s first showing on the small screen. * his first small-screen role


Words: the sound barrier
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] the point at which an aircraft’s speed is the same as the speed of sound, causing reduced control, a very loud noise (called a SONIC BOOM) and various other effects:\nto break the sound barrier (= to travel faster than the speed of sound)


Words: the State Department
Meaning:
noun\nthe US government department of foreign affairs:\nsenior US Defence and State Department officials


Words: the Territorial Army
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.+sing./pl. v.] (abbreviation TA) (in Britain) a military force of people who are not professional soldiers but who train as soldiers in their free time


Words: the third person
Meaning:
noun [sing.]\n  1  (grammar) a set of pronouns and verb forms used by a speaker to refer to other people and things:\n’They are’ is the third person plural of the verb ’to be’.\n  2  a way of writing a novel, etc. as the experience of sb else, using third person forms:\na book written in the third person\ncompare THE FIRST PERSON, THE SECOND PERSON


Words: the Third World
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] a way of referring to the poor or developing countries of Africa, Asia and Latin America, which is sometimes considered offensive:\nthe causes of poverty and injustice in the Third World * third-world debt\ncompare FIRST WORLD


Words: the top ten
Meaning:
noun\n[pl.] the ten pop records that have sold the most copies in a particular week:\nThe band’s first album went straight into the top ten at number six.


Words: the triple jump
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] a sporting event in which people try to jump as far forward as possible with three jumps. The first jump lands on one foot, the second on the other, and the third on both feet.


Words: the unconscious
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] (psychology) the part of a person’s mind with thoughts, feelings, etc. that they are not aware of and cannot control but which can sometimes be understood by studying their behaviour or dreams\ncompare SUBCONSCIOUS


Words: the undersigned
Meaning:
noun\n(plural the undersigned) (formal) the person who has signed that particular document:\nWe, the undersigned, agree to ...


Words: the United Nations
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.+sing./pl. v.] (abbreviation (the) UN) an association of many countries which aims to improve economic and social conditions and to solve political problems in the world in a peaceful way


Words: the United States
Meaning:
(of America) noun\n[sing.+sing./pl. v.] (abbreviation (the) US, USA) a large country in N America consisting of 50 states and the District of Columbia -> AMERICAN


Words: the upper class
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] (also the upper classes [pl.]) the groups of people that are considered to have the highest social status and that have more money and/or power than other people in society:\na member of the upper class / upper classes\n    upper class adjective:\nHer family is very upper class. * an upper-class accent\ncompare LOWER CLASS, MIDDLE CLASS, WORKING CLASS


Words: the upper crust
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.+sing./pl. v.] (informal) the people who belong to the highest social class\n    upper-crust adjective [only before noun]


Words: the vitals
Meaning:
noun\n[pl.] (old-fashioned or humorous) the organs of the body that are essential for staying alive, for example the brain, heart, lungs, etc.


Words: the White House
Meaning:
noun [sing.]\n  1  the official home of the President of the US in Washington, DC\n  2  the US President and his or her officials:\nThe White House has issued a statement. * White House advisers / aides


Words: the Wild West
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] the western states of the US during the years when the first Europeans were settling there, used especially when you are referring to the fact that there was not much respect for the law there


Words: the working class
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.+sing./pl. v.] (also the working classes [pl.]) the social class whose members do not have much money or power and are usually employed to do MANUAL work (= physical work using their hands):\nthe political party of the working class * The working class has / have rejected them in the elections.\ncompare MIDDLE CLASS, UPPER CLASS\n    working-class adjective:\na working-class background / community / family


Words: the World Wide Web
Meaning:
(also the Web) (abbreviation WWW) noun\na MULTIMEDIA system of sound, pictures and video for finding information on the Internet:\nto browse a site on the World Wide Web


Words: theatre
Meaning:
(BrE) (AmE theater)  noun\n \n  1  [C] a building or an outdoor area where plays and similar types of entertainment are performed:\nWest End / Broadway theatres * an open-air theatre * How often do you go to the theatre?\nsee also LECTURE THEATRE\n \n  2  [C] (AmE) = CINEMA\n \n  3  [U] plays considered as entertainment:\nan evening of live music and theatre * (BrE) I like music, theatre and cinema. * current ideas about what makes good theatre (= what makes good entertainment when performed)\n \n  4  [U] (also the theatre [sing.]) the work of writing, producing and acting in plays:\nI want to work in theatre. * He was essentially a man of the theatre.\n  5  [C, U] (BrE) = OPERATING THEATRE:\na theatre sister (= a nurse who helps during operations) * He’s still in theatre.\n  6  [C, usually sing.] ~ (of war, etc.) (formal) the place in which a war or fighting takes place:\nan intelligence officer in the Pacific theatre


Words: theatregoer
Meaning:
(BrE) (AmE theatergoer)  noun\na person who goes regularly to the theatre\n    theatregoing (BrE) (AmE theatergoing) adjective:\nthe theatregoing public


Words: theatrical
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  [only before noun] connected with the theatre:\na theatrical agent / career\n  2  (often disapproving) (of behaviour) exaggerated in order to attract attention or create a particular effect:\na theatrical gesture / sigh\n    theatrically  adverb:\nTheatrically speaking, he was a genius. * ’What now?’ she sighed theatrically.


Words: theatricality
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the exaggerated quality of sth that is intended to attract attention or create a particular effect:\nThe speech reflected his love of theatricality and rhetoric. * I was fascinated by the theatricality of the event.


Words: theatricals
Meaning:
noun [pl.]\n  1  performances of plays:\namateur theatricals\n  2  (also theatrics especially in AmE) behaviour that is exaggerated and emotional in order to attract attention:\nI’ve had enough of her theatricals for one day!


Words: thee
Meaning:
pronoun\n(old use or dialect) a word meaning ’you’, used when talking to only one person who is the object of the verb:\nWe beseech thee, O Lord.\ncompare THOU


Words: theft
Meaning:
noun\n[U, C] ~ (of sth) the crime of stealing sth from a person or place:\ncar theft * Police are investigating the theft of computers from the company’s offices. * A number of thefts have been reported recently.\ncompare BURGLARY, ROBBERY\nsee also THIEF


Words: their
Meaning:
determiner (the possessive form of they)\n  1  of or belonging to them:\nTheir parties are always fun. * Which is their house?\n  2  used instead of his or her to refer to a person whose sex is not mentioned or not known:\nIf anyone calls, ask for their number so I can call them back.


Words: theirs
Meaning:
pronoun\n(the possessive form of they) of or belonging to them:\nTheirs are the children with very fair hair. * It’s a favourite game of theirs.


Words: them
Meaning:
pronoun (the object form of they)\n  1  used when referring to people, animals or things as the object of a verb or preposition:\nTell them the news. * What are you doing with those matches? Give them to me. * Did you eat all of them?\n  2  used instead of him or her to refer to a person whose sex is not mentioned or not known:\nIf anyone comes in before I get back, ask them to wait.


Words: thematic
Meaning:
adjective\n[usually before noun] connected with the theme or themes of sth:\nthe thematic structure of a text\n    thematically  adverb:\nThe books have been grouped thematically.


Words: theme
Meaning:
noun\n  1  the subject or main idea in a talk, piece of writing or work of art:\nNorth American literature is the main theme of this year’s festival. * The President stressed a favourite campaign theme-greater emphasis on education. * The naked male figure was always the central theme of Greek art. * The stories are all variations on the theme of unhappy marriage.\n  2  (music) a short tune that is repeated or developed in a piece of music\n  3  = THEME MUSIC:\nthe theme from ’The Godfather’\n  4  (old-fashioned, AmE) a short piece of writing on a particular subject, done for school


Words: theme music
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (also theme, theme song, theme tune [C]) music that is played at the beginning and end and/or is often repeated in a film/movie, television programme, etc:\ntheme music for the hit TV series, ’Harry’s Game’\ncompare SIGNATURE TUNE


Words: theme park
Meaning:
noun\na large park where people go to enjoy themselves, for example by riding on large machines such as ROLLER COASTERS, and where much of the entertainment is connected with one subject or idea:\na western-style theme park


Words: themed
Meaning:
adjective\n[usually before noun] (BrE) (of an event or a place of entertainment) designed to reflect a particular subject or period of history:\na themed restaurant * The days of the slave trade are brought to life in a themed experience which includes interactive displays and a museum.


Words: themselves
Meaning:
pronoun\n  1  (the reflexive form of they) used when people or animals performing an action are also affected by it:\nThey seemed to be enjoying themselves. * The children were arguing amongst themselves. * They’ve bought themselves a new VCR.\n  2  used to emphasize they or a plural subject:\nThey themselves had had a similar experience. * Don and Julie paid for it themselves.\n  3  used instead of himself or herself to refer to a person whose sex is not mentioned or not known:\nThere wasn’t anyone who hadn’t enjoyed themselves.\n IDIOMS \n  (all) by themselves\n1 alone; without anyone else:\nThey wanted to spend the evening by themselves.\n2 without help:\nThey did the cooking by themselves.\n  (all) to themselves for them alone; not shared with anyone


Words: then
Meaning:
adverb, adjective \n    adverb\n  1  used to refer to a particular time in the past or future:\nLife was harder then because neither of us had a job. * Things were very different back then. * She grew up in Zimbabwe, or Rhodesia as it then was. * I saw them at Christmas but haven’t heard a thing since then. * I’ve been invited too, so I’ll see you then. * There’s a room free in Bob’s house next week but you can stay with us until then. * Call again next week. They should have reached a decision by then. * Just then (= at that moment) there was a knock at the door. * She left in 1984 and from then on he lived alone. * I took one look at the car and offered to buy it there and then / then and there (= immediately).\n  2  used to introduce the next item in a series of actions, events, instructions, etc:\nHe drank a glass of whisky, then another and then another. * First cook the onions, then add the mushrooms. * We lived in France and then Italy before coming back to England.\n  3  used to show the logical result of a particular statement or situation:\nIf you miss that train then you’ll have to get a taxi. * ’My wife’s got a job in Glasgow.’ ’I take it you’ll be moving, then.’ * ’You haven’t done anything to upset me.’ ’So what’s wrong, then?’ * Why don’t you hire a car? Then you’ll be able to visit more of the area.\n  4  used to introduce additional information:\nShe’s been very busy at work and then there was all that trouble with her son.\n  5  (formal) used to introduce a summary of sth that has just been said:\nThese, then, are the main areas of concern.\n  6  used to show the beginning or end of a conversation, statement, etc:\nRight then, where do you want the table to go? * ’I really have to go.’ ’OK. Bye, then.’ * OK then, I think we’ve just about covered everything on the agenda.\n IDIOMS \n  ...and then some (spoken) used to emphasize the large amount or number of sth, and to say that you have not mentioned everything:\nThere are Indian, Chinese, Mexican, Thai restaurants ...and then some!\n  but then | then again | but then again (spoken) used to introduce additional information or information that contrasts with sth that has just been said:\nShe was early, but then again, she always is. * ’So you might accept their offer?’ ’Yes, then again I might not.’\nmore at NOW adv.\n    adjective [only before noun] used to describe sb who had a particular title, job, etc. at the time in the past that is being discussed:\nThat decision was taken by the then president.


Words: thence
Meaning:
adverb\n(old use or formal) from that place; following that:\nThey made their way from Spain to France and thence to England. * He was promoted to manager, thence to a partnership in the firm.


Words: thenceforth
Meaning:
adverb\n(old use or formal) starting from that time:\nThenceforth he became known as the Lord Protector.


Words: theocracy
Meaning:
noun (plural theocracies)\n  1  [U] government of a country by religious leaders\n  2  [C] a country that is governed by religious leaders\n    theocratic  adjective:\ntheocratic rule


Words: theology
Meaning:
noun (plural theologies)\n  1  [U] the study of religion and beliefs:\na degree in Theology * a theology student\n  2  [C] a set of religious beliefs:\nthe theologies of the East\n    theological  adjective (BrE):\na theological college * (AmE) a theological seminary\n    theologically  adverb


Words: theorem
Meaning:
noun\n(technical) a rule or principle, especially in mathematics, that can be proved to be true:\na mathematical theorem * Pythagoras’ theorem


Words: theoretical
Meaning:
adjective [usually before noun]\n  1  concerned with the ideas and principles on which a particular subject is based, rather than with practice and experiment:\na theoretical analysis / approach / debate / model * theoretical physics * The first year provides students with a sound theoretical basis for later study.\nOPP EXPERIMENTAL, PRACTICAL\n  2  that could possibly exist, happen or be true, although this is unlikely:\nIt’s a theoretical possibility.\n    theoretically  adverb:\ntheoretically sound conclusions * It is theoretically possible for him to overrule their decision, but highly unlikely.


Words: theorist
Meaning:
noun\na person who develops ideas and principles about a particular subject in order to explain why things happen or exist:\na political theorist


Words: theorize
Meaning:
(BrE also theorise)  verb\n~ (about / on sth) to suggest facts and ideas to explain sth; to form a theory or theories about sth:\n[V] The study theorizes about the role of dreams in peoples’ lives. [also VN, V that]\n    theorizing, theorising noun [U]


Words: theory
Meaning:
noun (plural theories)\n  1  [C, U] a formal set of ideas that is intended to explain why sth happens or exists:\nAccording to the theory of relativity, nothing can travel faster than light. * The debate is centred around two conflicting theories.\n  2  [U] the principles on which a particular subject is based:\nthe theory and practice of language teaching * literary / political theory\n  3  [C] ~ (that) an opinion or idea that sb believes is true but that is not proved:\nI have this theory that most people prefer being at work to being at home.\n IDIOMS \n  in theory used to say that a particular statement is supposed to be true but may in fact be wrong:\nIn theory, these machines should last for ten years or more. * That sounds fine in theory, but have you really thought it through? * ’Aren’t you supposed to be retired?’ ’Yes, in theory.’


Words: theosophy
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [U, C] a religious system of thought that tries to know God by means of MEDITATION, prayer, etc.\n  2  (Theosophy) [U] the belief of a religious group, the Theosophical Society, started in New York in 1875


Words: therapeutic
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  [usually before noun] designed to help treat an illness:\nthe therapeutic properties of herbs\n  2  helping you to relax:\nPainting can be very therapeutic.\n    therapeutically  adverb:\nApparently, hypnosis was used therapeutically by the Romans.


Words: therapist
Meaning:
noun\n  1  (especially in compounds) a specialist who treats a particular type of illness or problem, or who uses a particular type of treatment:\na speech therapist * a beauty therapist\nsee also OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST, PHYSIOTHERAPIST\n  2  = PSYCHOTHERAPIST


Words: therapy
Meaning:
noun (plural therapies)\n  1  [U, C] the treatment of a physical problem or an illness:\nMost patients undergo some sort of drug therapy (= treatment using drugs) for leukaemia. * alternative / complementary / natural therapies (= treatments that do not use traditional drugs) * (figurative) The next stage in the economic shock therapy will be freeing energy prices.\n  2  [U] = PSYCHOTHERAPY:\na therapy group / session * She’s in therapy.\nsee also CHEMOTHERAPY, GROUP THERAPY, HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY, OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY, PHYSIOTHERAPY, RADIOTHERAPY, SPEECH THERAPY


Words: there
Meaning:
adverb, exclamation \n    adverb\n  1  (there is, are, was, were, etc.) used to show that sth exists or happens:\nThere’s a restaurant around the corner. * There are two people waiting outside. * Has there been an accident? * I don’t want there to be any misunderstanding. * There seemed to be no doubt about it. * There comes a point where you give up. * There remains the problem of finance. * Suddenly there was a loud bang. * (informal) There’s only four days left. * (literary) There once was a poor farmer who had four sons.\n  2  in, at or to that place or position:\nWe went on to Paris and stayed there eleven days. * I hope we get there in time. * It’s there, right in front of you! * There it is-just behind the chair. * ’Have you seen my pen?’ ’Yes, it’s over there.’ * There are a lot of people back there (= behind) waiting to get in. * I’m not going in there-it’s freezing! * We’re almost there (= we have almost arrived). * Can I get there and back in a day? * I left in 1990 and I haven’t been back there since. * Hello, is Bob there please? (= used when calling sb on the phone) * I took one look at the car and offered to buy it there and then / then and there (= immediately).\n  3  existing or available:\nI went to see if my old school was still there. * The money’s there if you need it.\n  4  at that point (in a story, an argument, etc.):\n’I feel ...’ There she stopped. * I don’t agree with you there.\n  5  (especially spoken) used to attract sb’s attention:\nHello, there! * You there! Come back! * There you are! I’ve been looking for you everywhere.\n  6  (especially spoken) used to attract sb’s attention to a particular person, thing or fact:\nThere’s the statue I was telling you about. * That woman there is the boss’s wife. * There goes the last bus (= we’ve just missed it). * There goes the phone (= it’s ringing). * (humorous) There goes my career! (= my career is ruined) * So, there you have it: that’s how it all started.\n  7  ~ to do sth used to show the role of a person or thing in a situation:\nThe fact is, they’re there to make money.\n IDIOMS \n  been there, done that (informal) used to show that you think a place or an activity is not very interesting or impressive because you have already experienced it:\nNot Spain again! Been there, done that, got the T-shirt.\n  be there for sb to be available if sb wants to talk to you or if they need help:\nYou know I’ll always be there for you.\n  have been there before (informal) to know all about a situation because you have experienced it\n  not all there (spoken) not very intelligent, especially because of mental illness\n  there it is (spoken) that is the situation:\nIt’s crazy, I know, but there it is.\n  there’s a good boy, girl, dog, etc. (spoken) used to praise or encourage small children or animals:\nFinish your lunch, there’s a good boy.\n  there’s sth for you (spoken) used to say that sth is a very good example of sth:\nShe visited him every day he was in the hospital. There’s devotion for you. * (ironic) He didn’t even say thank you. There’s gratitude for you!\n  there you are (also there you go) (spoken)\n1 used when giving sb a thing they want or have asked for:\nThere you are-that’ll be ｣3.80, please. * OK, there you go.\n2 used when explaining or showing sth to sb:\nYou switch on, push in the disk and there you are! * There you are! I told you it was easy!\n3 used when you are talking about sth that happens in a typical way or about a situation that cannot be changed:\nThere you go-that’s what they’re like. * I know it’s not ideal but there you go ...\n  there you go again used to criticize sb when they behave in a way that is typical of them:\nThere you go again-jumping to conclusions.\nmore at HERE adv.\n    exclamation used to express satisfaction that you were right about sth; used to show that sth annoys you:\nThere now! What did I tell you? (= you can see that I was right.) * There! That didn’t hurt too much, did it? * There! You’ve gone and woken the baby!\n IDIOMS \n  so there! used to show that you are determined not to change your attitude or opinion:\nWell, you can’t have it, so there!\n  there, there! used to persuade a small child to stop crying or being upset:\nThere, there! Never mind, you’ll soon feel better.


Words: thereabouts
Meaning:
adverb (usually used after or)\n  1  near the place mentioned:\nHe comes from Leeds or thereabouts.\n  2  used to say that a particular number, quantity, time, etc. is not exact:\nThey paid $100 000 or thereabouts for the house. * She must be about 60 or thereabouts.


Words: thereafter
Meaning:
adverb\n(formal) after the time or event mentioned:\nShe married at 17 and gave birth to her first child shortly thereafter.\ncompare HEREAFTER


Words: thereby
Meaning:
adverb\n(formal) used to introduce the result of the action or situation mentioned:\nRegular exercise strengthens the heart, thereby reducing the risk of heart attack.


Words: therefore
Meaning:
adverb\nused to introduce the logical result of sth that has just been mentioned:\nHe’s only 17 and therefore not eligible to vote. * There is still much to discuss. We shall, therefore, return to this item at our next meeting.


Words: therefrom
Meaning:
adverb\n(formal or law) from the thing mentioned:\nThe committee will examine the contents of the agreement and any problems arising therefrom.


Words: therein
Meaning:
adverb\n(formal or law) in the place, object, document, etc. mentioned:\nThe insurance policy covers the building and any fixtures contained therein. * In court she denied any knowledge of the article and the allegations made therein.\n IDIOMS \n  therein lies ... used to emphasize the result or CONSEQUENCE of a particular situation:\nHe works extremely hard and therein lies the key to his success.


Words: thereof
Meaning:
adverb\n(formal or law) of the thing mentioned:\nIs the property or any part thereof used for commercial activity?


Words: thereon
Meaning:
adverb\n(formal or law) on the thing mentioned:\na meeting to discuss the annual accounts and the auditors’ report thereon


Words: thereto
Meaning:
adverb\n(formal or law) to the thing mentioned:\nThe lease entitles the holder to use the buildings and any land attached thereto.


Words: thereunder
Meaning:
adverb\n(formal or law) under the thing mentioned:\nThis savings plan is only available under the Finance Act 1990 and any regulations made thereunder.


Words: thereupon
Meaning:
adverb (formal)\n  1  immediately after the situation mentioned; as a direct result of the situation mentioned:\nThe audience thereupon rose cheering to their feet.\n  2  on the thing mentioned:\na large notice with black letters printed thereupon


Words: thermal
Meaning:
adjective, noun \n    adjective [only before noun]\n  1  (technical) connected with heat:\nthermal energy / insulation\n  2  (of clothing) designed to keep you warm by preventing heat from escaping from the body:\nthermal underwear\n  3  (of streams, lakes, etc.) in which the water has been naturally heated by the earth:\nthermal springs\n    thermally adverb \n    noun\n  1  [C] a rising current of warm air used, for example, by a GLIDER to gain height\n  2  (thermals) [pl.] (especially BrE) warm underwear that prevents heat from escaping from the body


Words: thermo-
Meaning:
combining form\n(in nouns, adjectives and adverbs) connected with heat:\nthermonuclear * thermometer


Words: thermodynamics
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the science that deals with the relations between heat and other forms of energy:\nthe laws of thermodynamics\n    thermodynamic adjective


Words: thermometer
Meaning:
noun\nan instrument used for measuring the temperature of the air, a person’s body, etc:\na thermometer reading


Words: thermonuclear
Meaning:
adjective\nconnected with nuclear reactions that only happen at very high temperatures:\na thermonuclear reaction


Words: thermoplastic
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (technical) a plastic material that can be easily shaped and bent when it is heated, and becomes hard when it is cooled


Words: Thermos
Meaning:
(BrE also Thermos flask) (AmE also Thermos bottle) noun\na particular kind of VACUUM FLASK (= a container like a bottle with double walls with a VACUUM between them, used for keeping liquids hot or cold)\ncompare FLASK


Words: thermostat
Meaning:
noun\na device that measures and controls the temperature of a machine or room, by switching the heating or cooling system on and off as necessary\n    thermostatic  adjective [only before noun]:\nthermostatic control\n    thermostatically  adverb:\nThe oven is thermostatically controlled.


Words: thesaurus
Meaning:
noun\n(plural thesauri ) a book that is like a dictionary, but in which the words are arranged in groups that have similar meanings


Words: thesis
Meaning:
1  ~ (on sth) a long piece of writing completed by a student as part of a university degree, based on their own research: (BrE) a doctoral / PhD thesis * (AmE) a thesis for a master’s degree * Students must submit a thesis on an agreed subject within four years.\n  2  a statement or an opinion that is discussed in a logical way and presented with evidence in order to prove that it is true:\nThese latest findings support the thesis that sexuality is determined by nature rather than choice.


Words: thespian
Meaning:
noun\n(often humorous) an actor\n    thespian adjective:\nHer popularity owed much to her thespian talents.


Words: they
Meaning:
pronoun (used as the subject of a verb)\n  1  people, animals or things that have already been mentioned or are easily identified:\n’Where are John and Liz?’ ’They went for a walk.’ * They (= the things you are carrying) go on the bottom shelf.\n  2  used instead of he or she to refer to a person whose sex is not mentioned or not known:\nIf anyone arrives late they’ll have to wait outside.\n  3  people in general:\nThe rest, as they say, is history.\n  4  people in authority or experts:\nThey cut my water off. * They now say that red wine is good for you.


Words: thick
Meaning:
adjective, noun, adverb \n    adjective (thicker, thickest)\n  distance between sides\n  1  having a larger distance between opposite sides or surfaces than other similar objects or than normal:\na thick carpet / slice of bread * a thick book (= one that has a lot of pages) * a thick coat (= one made of heavy fabric) * thick fingers * Everything was covered with a thick layer of dust.\n  2  used to ask about or state the distance between opposite sides or surfaces:\nHow thick are the walls? * They’re two feet thick.\n  hair / fur / trees\n  3  growing closely together in large numbers:\nthick dark hair * This breed of cattle has a very thick coat. * His eyebrows were thick and bushy. * a thick forest * a thick bush (= with a lot of leaves)\n  liquid\n  4  not flowing very easily:\nthick cream / soup * The effect will be ruined if the paint is too thick.\n  fog / smoke / air\n  5  ~ (with sth) difficult to see through; difficult to breathe in:\nThe plane crashed in thick fog. * thick smoke * The air was thick with dust. * Thick cloud covered the sky. * (figurative) The atmosphere was thick with tension.\n  with large number / amount\n  6  ~ with sb/sth having a large number of people or a large amount of sth in one place:\nThe beach was thick with sunbathers.\n  stupid\n  7  (BrE, informal) (of a person) slow to learn or understand things:\nAre you thick, or what?\n  accent\n  8  (sometimes disapproving) easily recognized as being from a particular country or area:\na thick Brooklyn accent\n  voice\n  9  ~ (with sth) deep and not as clear as normal, especially because of illness or emotion:\nHis voice was thick with emotion.\n  friendly with sb\n  10  ~ (with sb) (informal) very friendly with sb, especially in a way that makes other people suspicious:\nYou seem to be very thick with the boss!\nsee also THICKLY, THICKNESS\n IDIOMS \n  give sb / get a thick ear (BrE, informal) to hit sb/be hit on the head as a punishment:\nYou’ll get a thick ear if you’re not careful!\n  lay it on thick (informal) to talk about sb/sth in a way that makes them or it seem much better or much worse than they really are; to exaggerate sth:\nPraise them when necessary, but don’t lay it on too thick.\n  (as) thick as thieves (informal) (of two or more people) very friendly, especially in a way that makes other people suspicious\n  (as) thick as two short planks (BrE, informal) (of a person) very stupid\n  a thick head (informal) a physical condition in which your head is painful or you cannot think clearly as a result of an illness or of drinking too much alcohol:\nYou’re going to have a thick head in the morning!\n  sb’s thick head (informal) used to show that you are annoyed that sb does not understand sth:\nWhen will you get it into your thick head that I don’t want to see you again!\n  a thick skin the ability to accept criticism, insults, etc. without becoming upset\nOPP A THIN SKIN\nsee also THICK-SKINNED\nmore at BLOOD n., GROUND n.\n    noun [U]\n IDIOMS \n  in the thick of sth involved in the busiest or most active part of sth:\nAs a player, he’s always in the thick of the action. * Her comments landed her in the thick of a family feud.\n  through thick and thin even when there are problems or difficulties:\nHe’s supported the team for over ten years through thick and thin. * In marriage, you have to stick together through thick and thin.\n    adverb (comparative thicker, no superlative) in a way that produces a wide piece or deep layer of sth:\nMake sure you cut the bread nice and thick.\n IDIOMS \n  thick and fast quickly and in large quantities:\nQuestions were coming at them thick and fast.


Words: thick-skinned
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  (of a person) not easily upset by criticism or unkind comments:\nYou have to be pretty thick-skinned to do this job.\n  2  (of fruit) having a thick skin:\na thick-skinned variety of grape\nOPP THIN-SKINNED


Words: thicken
Meaning:
verb\nto become thicker; to make sth thicker:\n[V] Keep stirring until the sauce has thickened. * It was a dangerous journey through thickening fog. * [VN] You can thicken the stew with flour.\n IDIOMS  see PLOT n.


Words: thicket
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a group of bushes or small trees growing closely together:\na dense thicket of bamboo\n  2  a large number of things that are not easy to understand or separate:\nHe spent the morning trying to work his way through a thicket of statistics.


Words: thickly
Meaning:
adverb\n  1  in a way that produces a wide piece or deep layer of sth:\nthickly sliced / buttered bread * thickly carpeted stairs * Apply the paint thickly in even strokes.\n  2  ~ wooded, populated, etc. having a lot of trees, people, etc. close together\n  3  in a deep voice that is not as clear as normal, especially because of illness or emotion:\n’Just leave me alone,’ he said thickly.


Words: thickness
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [U, C] the size of sth between opposite surfaces or sides\nSYN WIDTH:\nUse wood of at least 12 mm thickness. * Cook for about 10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the steaks. * Roll out the pastry to a thickness of 1 cm. * The walls are at least two feet in thickness. * The board is available in four thicknesses.\n  2  [C] ~ (of sth) a layer of sth:\nThe jacket was lined with a double thickness (= two layers) of fabric.


Words: thickset
Meaning:
adjective\n(especially of a man) having a strong heavy body:\nHe has the same thickset build as his father.


Words: thief
Meaning:
noun\n(plural thieves ) a person who steals sth from another person or place:\na car / jewel thief\nsee also THEFT -> STEAL\n IDIOMS  see HONOUR n., THICK adj.


Words: thieving
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (informal) the act of stealing things\n    thieving adjective (informal):\nYou’ve no right to take that, you thieving swine!


Words: thigh
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  the top part of the leg between the knee and the hip\n \n  2  the top part of the leg of a chicken, etc., cooked and eaten


Words: thimble
Meaning:
noun\na small metal or plastic object that you wear on the end of your finger to protect it when sewing


Words: thin
Meaning:
adjective, adverb, verb \n    adjective (thinner, thinnest)\n  not thick\n  1  having a smaller distance between opposite sides or surfaces than other similar objects or than normal:\nCut the vegetables into thin strips. * A number of thin cracks appeared in the wall. * The body was hidden beneath a thin layer of soil. * a thin blouse (= of light fabric)\nsee also PAPER-THIN -> NARROW\n  not fat\n  2  (of a person or part of the body) (sometimes disapproving) not covered with much flesh:\nHe was tall and thin, with dark hair. * She was looking pale and thin. * He is as thin as a rake (= very thin). * thin arms / legs / lips\n  hair\n  3  not growing closely together or in large amounts:\nthin grey hair\n  liquid\n  4  containing more liquid than is normal or expected\nSYN RUNNY:\nThe sauce was thin and tasteless.\n  smoke\n  5  fairly easy to see through:\nThey fought their way through where the smoke was thinner.\n  air\n  6  containing less OXYGEN than normal:\nHumans would not be able to survive in the thin atmosphere of the planet.\n  sound\n  7  (disapproving) high and weak:\nHer thin voice trailed off into silence.\n  smile\n  8  not sincere or enthusiastic:\nHe gave a thin smile.\n  light\n  9  not very bright:\nthe thin grey light of dawn\n  poor quality\n  10  of poor quality; lacking an important quality:\na thin excuse (= one that people are not likely to believe) * Their arguments all sound a little thin to me. * The general standard of applicants is pretty thin this year.\n    thinness  noun [U]-see also THINLY\n IDIOMS \n  be skating / walking on thin ice to be taking a risk\n  disappear, vanish, etc. into thin air to disappear suddenly in a mysterious way:\nShe can’t just have vanished into thin air.\n  have a thin time (of it) (BrE, informal) to have many problems or difficulties to deal with; to not be successful:\nHe’s had a thin time of it since losing his job.\n  out of thin air from nowhere or nothing, as if by magic:\nUnfortunately, I can’t just conjure up the money out of thin air!\n  the thin end of the wedge (especially BrE) an event or action that is the beginning of sth more serious and/or unpleasant:\nThe introduction of a tax on workplace parking is seen by many as the thin end of the wedge.\n  thin on top (informal) without much hair on the head:\nHe’s starting to get a little thin on top (= he’s losing his hair).\n  a thin skin the lack of ability to accept criticism, insults, etc. without becoming upset:\nYou shouldn’t be in politics if you have such a thin skin.\nOPP A THICK SKIN\nsee also THIN-SKINNED\nmore at GROUND n., LINE n., THICK adj., WEAR v.\n    adverb (thinner, thinnest) in a way that produce a thin piece or layer of sth:\nDon’t spread it too thin. * I like my bread sliced thin.\n    verb (-nn-)\n  liquid\n  1  [VN] ~ sth (down) (with sth) to make a liquid less thick or strong by adding water or another substance:\nThin the paint with water.\n  of hair\n  2  to become less thick:\na middle-aged man with thinning hair\n  become less thick\n  3  ~ sth (out) to become less thick or fewer in number; to make sth less thick or fewer, for example by removing some things or people:\n[V] The clouds thinned and the moon shone through. * The crowd had thinned out and only a few people were left. * Global warming could be accelerated due to the thinning of the ozone layer. * [VN] Thin out the seedlings to about 10cm apart.\n______________________________\n VOCABULARY BUILDING \nsaying that someone is thin\nThin is the most usual word: Steve is tall and thin and has brown hair. It is sometimes used with a negative meaning: Mother looked thin and tired after her long illness.\nThe following words all express praise or admiration:\nSlim means pleasantly thin. It is often used to describe women who have controlled their weight by diet or exercise: She has a beautifully slim figure.\nA slender girl or woman is thin and graceful.\nA lean man is thin and fit.\nWillowy describes a woman who is attractively tall and thin.\nThe following words are more negative in their meaning:\nSkinny means very thin, often in a way that is not attractive: a skinny little kid.\nBony describes parts of the body when they are so thin that the bones can be seen: the old man’s bony hands.\nScrawny suggests that a person is thin, weak and not attractive: a scrawny old woman.\nGaunt describes a person who is a little too thin and looks sad or ill.\nUnderweight is used in medical contexts to describe people who are too thin because they are ill or have not had enough food: Women who smoke risk giving birth to underweight babies.\nEmaciated describes a serious condition resulting from illness or lack of food.\nAnorexic is a medical term, but is now also used informally to describe a girl or woman who is so thin that you are worried about them.\nIt is more acceptable to talk to somebody about how thin or slim they are than about how fat they are.\n-> note at FAT\n______________________________


Words: thin-skinned
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  easily upset by criticism or insults\n  2  (of fruit) having a thin skin\nOPP THICK-SKINNED


Words: thine
Meaning:
pronoun, determiner (old use) \n    pronoun a word meaning ’yours’, used when talking to only one person\n    determiner the form of thy that is used before a vowel or ’h’, meaning ’your’


Words: thing
Meaning:
noun\n  object\n  1  [C] an object whose name you do not use because you do not need to or want to, or because you do not know it:\nCan you pass me that thing over there? * She’s very fond of sweet things (= sweet foods). * He’s just bought one of those exercise things. * Turn that thing off while I’m talking to you!\n  2  [C] an object that is not alive in the way that people and plants are:\nDon’t treat her like that-she’s a person, not a thing! * He’s good at making things with his hands. * She took no interest in the people and things around her.\n  possessions / equipment\n  3  (things) [pl.] objects, clothing or tools that belong to sb or are used for a particular purpose:\nShall I help you pack your things? * Bring your swimming things with you. * I’ll just clear away the breakfast things. * Put your things (= coat, etc.) on and let’s go.\n  anything\n  4  (a thing) [sing.] used with negatives to mean ’anything’ in order to emphasize what you are saying:\nI haven’t got a thing to wear! * She hasn’t had a thing to eat all day. * There wasn’t a thing we could do to help. * Ignore what he said-it doesn’t mean a thing.\n  fact / event / situation / action\n  5  [C] a fact, an event, a situation or an action; what sb says or thinks:\nThere are a lot of things she doesn’t know about me. * There’s another thing I’d like to ask you. * A terrible thing happened last night. * He found the whole thing very boring. * I’ve got loads of things to do today. * The main thing to remember is to switch off the burglar alarm. * I like camping, climbing and that sort of thing. * She said the first thing that came into her head. * ’Why did you tell her our secret?’ ’I did no such thing!’ * Let’s forget the whole thing (= everything).\n  6  (things) [pl.] the general situation, as it affects sb:\nThings haven’t gone entirely to plan. * (spoken) Hi, Jane! How are things? * Think things over before you decide. * As things stand at present, he seems certain to win. * All things considered (= considering all the difficulties or problems), she’s done very well. * Why do you make things so difficult for yourself?\n  what is needed / right\n  7  [C, usually sing.] what is needed or socially acceptable:\nYou need something to cheer you up-I know just the thing! * to do / say the right / wrong thing * The best thing to do is to apologize.\n  things of particular type\n  8  (things) [pl.] (formal) (followed by an adjective) all that can be described in a particular way:\nShe loves all things Japanese.\n  creature\n  9  [C] (used with an adjective) a living creature:\nAll living things are composed of cells.\n  person / animal\n  10  [C] (with an adjective) (spoken) used to talk to or about a person or an animal, to show how you feel about them:\nYou silly thing! * You must be starving, you poor things. * The cat’s very ill, poor old thing.\n IDIOMS \n  A is one thing, B is another | it’s one thing to do A, it’s another thing to do B B is very different from A, for example it is more difficult, serious or important:\nRomance is one thing, marriage is quite another. * It’s one thing to tease your sister, but it’s another to hit her.\n  all / other things being equal if the conditions stay the same; if other conditions are the same:\nAll things being equal, we should finish the job tomorrow.\n  and things (like that) (spoken, informal) used when you do not want to complete a list:\nShe likes nice clothes and things like that. * I’ve been busy shopping and things.\n  be all things to all men / people\n1 (of people) to please everyone by changing your attitudes or opinions to suit different people\n2 (of things) to be understood or used in different ways by different people\n  come to / be the same thing to have the same result or meaning\n  be a good thing (that) ... to be lucky that ...:\nIt’s a good thing we got here early.\n  be no bad thing (that) ... used to say that although sth seems to be bad, it could have good results:\nWe didn’t want the press to get hold of the story, but it might be no bad thing.\n  be onto a good thing to have found a job, situation or style of life that is pleasant or easy\n  the best thing since sliced bread (spoken, informal) if you say that sth is the best thing since sliced bread, you think it is extremely good, interesting, etc.\n  do things to sb (informal) to have a powerful emotional effect on sb:\nThat song just does things to me.\n  do your own thing (informal) to do what you want to do or what interests you, without thinking about other people; to be independent\n  first / last thing ... early in the morning/late in the evening:\nI need the report on my desk first thing Monday morning. * I took the dog for a walk last thing before going to bed.\n  first things first (often humorous) the most important matters must be dealt with first:\nWe have a lot to discuss, but, first things first, let’s have a cup of coffee!\n  for one thing used to introduce one of two or more reasons for doing sth:\n’Why don’t you get a car?’ ’Well, for one thing, I can’t drive!’\n  have a thing about sb/sth (informal) to have a strong like or dislike of sb/sth in a way that seems strange or unreasonable:\nShe has a thing about men with beards.\n  it isn’t my, his, etc. thing it isn’t sth that you really enjoy or are interested in\n  it’s a ...thing (informal) it is sth that only a particular group understands:\nYou wouldn’t know what it means-it’s a girl thing.\n  know / tell sb a thing or two (about sb/sth) (informal) to know/tell sb some useful, interesting or surprising information about sb/sth:\nShe’s been married five times, so she knows a thing or two about men!\n  make a (big) thing of / about sth (informal) to make sth seem more important than it really is\n  not know, etc. the first thing about sth/sb to know nothing at all about sth/sb:\nWe’ve lived next to him for years, but we still don’t know the first thing about him.\n  not quite the thing\n1 not considered socially acceptable:\nIt wouldn’t be quite the thing to turn up in running gear.\n2 (old-fashioned) not healthy or normal\n  (just) one of those things used to say that you do not want to discuss or think about sth bad or unpleasant that has happened, but just accept it:\nIt wasn’t your fault. It was just one of those things.\n  one (damned / damn) thing after another (spoken) used to complain that a lot of unpleasant things keep happening to you\n  one thing leads to another used to suggest that the way one event or action leads to others is so obvious that it does not need to be stated:\nHe offered me a ride home one night, and, well, one thing led to another and now we’re married!\n  seeing / hearing things (informal) to imagine that you can see or hear sth that is in fact not there: (humorous) Tom’s washing the dishes-I must be seeing things!\n  there’s only one thing for it there is only one possible course of action\n  the thing is (spoken) used to introduce an important fact, reason or explanation:\nI’m sorry my assignment isn’t finished. The thing is, I’ve had a lot of other work this week.\n  the thing (about / with sth/sb) is used to introduce a problem about sth/sb:\nThe thing with Karl is, he’s always late.\n  the (whole) ...thing (informal) a situation or an activity of the type mentioned:\nShe really didn’t want to be involved in the whole family thing.\n  things that go bump in the night (informal, humorous) used to refer to ghosts and other SUPERNATURAL things that cannot be explained:\nThere are mysterious lights in the sky and things that go bump in the night.\n  too much of a good thing used to say that, although sth is pleasant, you do not want to have too much of it\n  (what) with one thing and another (informal) because you have been busy with various problems, events or things you had to do:\nI completely forgot her birthday, what with one thing and another.\nmore at CHANCE n., CLOSE adj., CLOSE adv., DAY, DECENT, DONE, EASY adv., NATURE, NEAR adj., ONLY adj., OVERDO, PUSH v., REAL, SCHEME n., SHAPE n., SURE adj., TURN v., WAY n., WORK v.\n______________________________\n VOCABULARY BUILDING \nother words for ’thing’\nInstead of using the word thing, try to use more precise and interesting words, especially in formal written English.\naspect That was the most puzzling aspect of the situation. (...the most puzzling thing about...)\nattribute Curiosity is an essential attribute for a journalist. (...an essential thing for a journalist to have.)\ncharacteristic This bird has several interesting characteristics. (There are several interesting things about this bird.)\ndetail I want to know every detail of what happened. (...everything about...)\nfeature Noise is a familiar feature of city life. (...a familiar thing in city life.)\nissue She has campaigned on many controversial issues. (...many controversial things.)\nmatter We have several important matters to deal with at this meeting. (...several important things...)\npoint That’s a very interesting point you made. (...a very interesting thing you said.)\nsubject The book covers a number of subjects. (...a number of things.)\ntopic We discussed a wide range of topics. (...a wide range of things.)\ntrait Her generosity is one of her most attractive traits. (...one of the most attractive things about her.)\nDon’t use thing after an adjective when the adjective can be used on its own: Having your own computer is very useful. * _H_a_v_i_n_g_ _y_o_u_r_ _o_w_n_ _c_o_m_p_u_t_e_r_ _i_s_ _a_ _v_e_r_y_ _u_s_e_f_u_l_ _t_h_i_n_g.\nIt is often more natural to use words like something, anything, etc. instead of thing: I have something important to tell you. * _I_ _h_a_v_e_ _a_n_ _i_m_p_o_r_t_a_n_t_ _t_h_i_n_g_ _t_o_ _t_e_l_l_ _y_o_u. * Do you want anything else? * _D_o_ _y_o_u_ _w_a_n_t_ _a_n_y_ _o_t_h_e_r_ _t_h_i_n_g_?\nIt is more natural to say a lot, a great deal, much, etc. rather than many things: I have so much to tell you. * _I_ _h_a_v_e_ _s_o_ _m_a_n_y_ _t_h_i_n_g_s_ _t_o_ _t_e_l_l_ _y_o_u. * She knows a lot about basketball. * _S_h_e_ _k_n_o_w_s_ _m_a_n_y_ _t_h_i_n_g_s_ _a_b_o_u_t_ _b_a_s_k_e_t_b_a_l_l.\n______________________________


Words: thingummy
Meaning:
noun\n(plural thingummies) (also thingumabob  thingy) (informal, spoken) used to refer to a person or thing whose name you do not know or have forgotten, or which you do not want to mention:\nIt’s one of those thingummies for keeping papers together. * Is thingummy going to be there? You know, that woman from the Sales Department?


Words: think
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb (thought, thought )\n  have opinion / belief\n  1  ~ (about sth) (not used in the progressive tenses) to have a particular idea or opinion about sth/sb; to believe sth:\n[V (that)] Do you think (that) they’ll come? * I thought I heard a scream. * I didn’t think you liked sports. * Am I right in thinking that you used to live here? * I think this is their house, but I’m not sure. * He ought to resign, I think. * We’ll need about 20 chairs, I should think. * [VN (that)] It was once thought that the sun travelled around the earth. * [VN] What did you think about the idea? * Well, I like it. What do you think? * [V] ’Will we make it in time?’ ’I think so.’ * ’Is he any good?’ ’I don’t think so.’ * [VN-ADJ] I think it highly unlikely that I’ll get the job. * She thought him kind and generous. * [VN to inf] He’s thought to be one of the richest men in Europe.\n HELP NOTE  This pattern is not usually used unless think is in the passive.\n  use mind\n  2  ~ (about sth) to use your mind to consider sth, to form connected ideas, to try to solve problems, etc:\n[V] Are animals able to think? * Let me think (= give me time before I answer). * I can’t tell you now-I’ll have to think about it. * She had thought very deeply about this problem. * All he ever thinks about is money. * I’m sorry, I wasn’t thinking (= said when you have upset or offended sb accidentally). * [V wh-] He was trying to think what to do.\n  3  (usually used in the progressive tenses) to have ideas, words or images in your mind:\n[VN] You’re very quiet. What are you thinking? * [V wh-] I was just thinking what a long way it is. * [V speech] ’I must be crazy,’ she thought.\n  imagine\n  4  [no passive] to form an idea of sth; to imagine sth:\n[V wh-] We couldn’t think where you’d gone. * Just think how nice it would be to see them again. * [V (that)] I can’t think (that) he would be so stupid. * [V] Just think-we’ll be lying on the beach this time tomorrow. * [VN] If I’m late home, my mother always thinks the worst. * Try to think yourself into the role.\n  expect\n  5  to expect sth:\n[V (that)] I never thought (that) I’d see her again. * The job took longer than we thought. * You’d think she’d have been grateful for my help (= but she wasn’t). * [V to inf] (formal) Who would have thought to find you here?\n  in a particular way\n  6  (informal) [no passive] to think in a particular way or on a particular subject:\n[V-ADJ] Let’s think positive. * You need to think big (= aim to achieve a lot). * [VN] If you want to make money, you’ve got to think money.\n  showing anger / surprise\n  7  [V (that)] (spoken) used in questions to show that you are angry or surprised:\nWhat do you think you’re doing?\n  being less definite / more polite\n  8  (spoken) used to make sth you say sound less definite or more polite:\n[V (that)] I thought we could go out tonight. * Twenty guests are enough, I would have thought. * Do you think you could open the window? * [V] ’You’ve made a mistake.’ ’I don’t think so / I think not.’\n  intend\n  9  to intend sth; to have a plan about sth:\n[V (that)] I think I’ll go for a swim. * [V] I’m thinking in terms of about 70 guests at the wedding.\n  remember\n  10  to remember sth; to have sth come into your mind:\n[V to inf] I didn’t think (= it did not OCCUR to me) to tell her. * [V wh-] I can’t think where I put the keys.\n IDIOMS \n  come to think of it used when you suddenly remember sth or realize that it might be important:\nCome to think of it, he did mention seeing you.\n  I don’t think so (spoken) used to say very strongly that you do not agree with sth, or that sth is not possible:\nMe? Fail? I don’t think so.\n  if / when you think about it used to draw attention to a fact that is not obvious or has not previously been mentioned:\nThey do have a big house, when you think about it.\n  I thought as much that is what I expected or suspected:\n’He said he’d forgotten.’ ’I thought as much.’\n  think again to consider a situation again and perhaps change your idea or intention\n  think aloud to say what your thoughts are as you have them\n  think better of it / of doing sth to decide not to do sth after thinking further about it:\nRosie was about to protest but thought better of it.\n  think (the) better of sb to have a higher opinion of sb:\nShe has behaved appallingly-I must say I thought better of her.\n  think nothing of it (formal) used as a polite response when sb has said sorry to you or thanked you\n  think nothing of sth / of doing sth to consider an activity to be normal and not particularly unusual or difficult:\nShe thinks nothing of walking thirty miles a day.\n  think on your feet to be able to think and react to things very quickly and effectively without any preparation\n  think straight to think in a clear or logical way\n  think twice about sth / about doing sth to think carefully before deciding to do sth:\nYou should think twice about employing someone you’ve never met.\n  think the world, highly, a lot, not much, poorly, little, etc. of sb/sth to have a very good, poor, etc. opinion of sb/sth:\nHe thinks the world of his daughter. * I don’t think much of her idea.\n  to think (that ...) used to show that you are surprised or shocked by something:\nTo think that my mother wrote all those books and I never knew!\nmore at FIT adj., ILL adv., LET v., LIKE v., OWN v.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  think about / of sb/sth\n1 to consider sb/sth when you are doing or planning sth:\nDon’t you ever think about other people?\n2 to consider doing sth\nSYN CONTEMPLATE [+ -ing]:\nShe’s thinking of changing her job.\n  think ahead (to sth) to think about a future event or situation and plan for it\n  think back (to sth) to think about sth that happened in the past:\nI keep thinking back to the day I arrived here.\n  think for yourself to form your own opinions and make decisions without depending on others\n  think of sth/sb\n1 to have an image or idea of sth/sb in your mind:\nWhen I said that I wasn’t thinking of anyone in particular.\n2 to create an idea in your imagination:\nCan anybody think of a way to raise money? * ’What shall we do now?’ ’I’ll think of something.’ * Have you thought of a name for the baby yet?\n3 [no passive] (used especially with can) to remember sth/sb:\nI can think of at least three occasions when he arrived late. * I can’t think of her name at the moment.\n  think of sb/sth as sb/sth to consider sb/sth in a particular way:\nI think of this place as my home. * She is thought of as a possible future director.\nsee also THOUGHT-OF\n  think of sth to imagine an actual or a possible situation:\nJust think of the expense! * [+ -ing] I couldn’t think of letting you take the blame (= I would not allow that to happen).\n  think sth<->out to consider or plan sth carefully:\nIt’s a very well thought out plan.\n  think sth<->over to consider sth carefully, especially before reaching a decision:\nHe’d like more time to think things over. * I’ve been thinking over what you said.\n  think sth<->through to consider a problem or a possible course of action fully\n  think sth<->up (informal) to create sth in your mind\nSYN INVENT, DEVISE:\nCan’t you think up a better excuse than that?\n    noun [sing.]\n IDIOMS \n  have a think (about sth) (informal) to think carefully about sth in order to make a decision about it:\nI’ll have a think and let you know tomorrow.\n  you’ve got another think coming (informal) used to tell sb that they are wrong about sth and must change their plans or opinions:\nIf you think I’m going to pay all your bills you’ve got another think coming.


Words: think tank
Meaning:
noun\na group of experts who provide advice and ideas on political, social or economic issues:\na study published by a leading economic think tank


Words: thinkable
Meaning:
adjective\n[not before noun] that you can imagine as a possibility:\nSuch an idea was scarcely thinkable ten years ago.\nOPP UNTHINKABLE


Words: thinker
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a person who thinks seriously, and often writes about important things, such as philosophy or science:\nEinstein was one of the greatest thinkers of the 20th century.\n  2  a person who thinks in a particular way:\na clear / quick / creative thinker


Words: thinking
Meaning:
noun, adjective \n    noun [U]\n  1  the process of thinking about sth:\nI had to do some quick thinking.\nsee also LATERAL THINKING, WISHFUL THINKING\n  2  ideas or opinions about sth:\nWhat is the current thinking on this question? * She explained the thinking behind the campaign.\n IDIOMS  see WAY n.\n    adjective [only before noun] intelligent and able to think seriously about things:\nthe thinking woman’s magazine * Thinking people agreed on the need for radical reform.


Words: thinking cap
Meaning:
noun\n IDIOMS \n  put your thinking cap on (informal) to try to solve a problem by thinking about it


Words: thinly
Meaning:
adverb\n  1  in a way that produces a thin piece or layer of sth:\nSlice the potatoes thinly. * The ointment should be spread thinly on the bruised areas.\n  2  with very few things or people close together in one place:\na thinly populated area * For best results, sow the seeds thinly in early March.\n  3  in a way that is not sincere or enthusiastic:\nShe smiled thinly.\n  4  in a way that does not hide the truth very well:\nThe novel is a thinly disguised autobiography. * thinly veiled contempt


Words: third
Meaning:
ordinal number, noun \n    ordinal number 3rd\n HELP NOTE  There are examples of how to use ordinal numbers at the entry for fifth.\n IDIOMS \n  third time lucky (AmE also third time is the charm) used when you have failed to do sth twice and hope that you will succeed the third time\n    noun\n  1  each of three equal parts of sth\n  2  ~ (in sth) a level of university degree at British universities, that is lower than average\ncompare FIRST n. (4), SECOND n. (7)


Words: third class
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [U, sing.] (especially in the past) the cheapest and least comfortable part of a train, ship, etc.\n  2  [U] (in the US) the class of mail used for sending advertisements, etc.\n  3  [U, sing.] the lowest standard of degree given by a British university


Words: third degree
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.]\n IDIOMS \n  give sb the third degree (informal) to question sb for a long time and in a thorough way; to use threats or violence to get information from sb


Words: third party
Meaning:
noun\n(formal or law) a person who is involved in a situation in addition to the two main people involved:\nThe assistance of a skilled, sympathetic third party is of great help when marriage conflict gets out of hand.


Words: third-class
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  (especially in the past) connected with the cheapest and least comfortable way of travelling on a train, ship, etc.\n  2  (in the US) connected with the class of mail used to send advertisements, etc.\n  3  [only before noun] used to describe the lowest standard of degree given by a British university\n  4  (disapproving) (of people) less important than other people:\nThey are treated as third-class citizens.\n    third-class adverb:\nto travel third-class


Words: third-degree
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  ~ burns burns of the most serious kind, affecting tissue below the skin\n  2  (AmE) ~ murder, assault, robbery, etc. murder, etc. of the least serious of three kinds\ncompare FIRST-DEGREE, SECOND-DEGREE


Words: thirdly
Meaning:
adverb\nused to introduce the third of a list of points you want to make in a speech or piece of writing:\nThirdly, I would like to say that ...


Words: thirst
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  1  [U, sing.] the feeling of needing or wanting a drink:\nHe quenched his thirst with a long drink of cold water. * She woke up with a raging thirst and a pounding headache.\n  2  [U] the state of not having enough water to drink:\nThousands are dying of thirst.\n  3  [sing.] ~ (for sth) a strong desire for sth:\na thirst for knowledge\n    verb [V] (old use) to be thirsty\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  thirst for sth (literary) to feel a strong desire for sth:\nShe thirsted for power.


Words: thirsty
Meaning:
adjective (thirstier, thirstiest)\n  1  needing or wanting to drink:\nWe were hungry and thirsty. * Digging is thirsty work (= makes you thirsty).\n  2  ~ for sth having a strong desire for sth:\nHe is thirsty for power.\n  3  (of plants, fields, etc.) dry; in need of water\n    thirstily  adverb:\nPaul drank thirstily.


Words: thirty
Meaning:
number\n  1  30\n  2  (the thirties) [pl.] numbers, years or temperatures from 30 to 39\n    thirtieth  ordinal number\n IDIOMS \n  in your thirties between the ages of 30 and 39


Words: this
Meaning:
determiner, pronoun, adverb \n    determiner, pronoun (plural these )\n  1  used to refer to a particular person, thing or event that is close to you, especially compared with another:\nHow long have you been living in this country? * Well, make up your mind. Which do you want? This one or that one? * I think you’ll find these more comfortable than those. * Is this your bag?\n  2  used to refer to sth/sb that has already been mentioned:\nThere was a court case resulting from this incident. * The boy was afraid and the dog had sensed this. * What’s this I hear about you getting married?\n  3  used for introducing sb or showing sth to sb:\nHello, this is Maria Diaz (= on the telephone). * Jo, this is Kate (= when you are introducing them). * This is the captain speaking. * Listen to this. * Do it like this (= in the way I am showing you).\n  4  used with periods of time related to the present:\nthis week / month / year * I saw her this morning (= today in the morning). * Do you want me to come this Tuesday (= Tuesday of this week) or next Tuesday? * Do it this minute (= now). * He never comes to see me these days (= now, as compared with the past).\n  5  ~ sth of sb’s (informal) used to refer to sb/sth that is connected with a person, especially when you have a particular attitude towards it or them:\nThese new friends of hers are supposed to be very rich.\n  6  (informal) used when you are telling a story or telling sb about sth:\nThere was this strange man sitting next to me on the plane. * I’ve been getting these pains in my chest.\n IDIOMS \n  this and that | this, that and the other (spoken) various things or activities:\n’What did you talk about?’ ’Oh, this and that.’\n    adverb to this degree; so:\nIt’s about this high (= as high as I am showing you with my hands). * I didn’t think we’d get this far.


Words: thistle
Meaning:
noun\na wild plant with prickly leaves and purple, yellow or white flowers made up of a mass of narrow PETALS pointing upwards. The thistle is the national symbol of Scotland.


Words: thistledown
Meaning:
noun\n[U] a very light soft substance that contains THISTLE seeds and is blown from THISTLES by the wind:\nas light as thistledown


Words: thong
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  a narrow strip of leather that is used to fasten sth or as a whip\n \n  2  a pair of women’s KNICKERS or men’s UNDERPANTS that has only a very narrow strip of fabric, like a string, at the back\n \n  3  (AmE) = FLIP-FLOP


Words: thorax
Meaning:
1  (anatomy) the part of the body that is enclosed by the RIBS, between the neck and the waist\n  2  the middle section of an insect’s body, to which the legs and wings are attached\n    thoracic  adjective [only before noun]


Words: thorn
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [C] a small sharp pointed part on the stem of some plants, such as roses\n  2  [C, U] a tree or bush that has thorns:\nan old hedge of thorns * a thorn tree\nsee also BLACKTHORN, HAWTHORN\n IDIOMS \n  a thorn in sb’s flesh / side a person or thing that repeatedly annoys sb or stops them from doing sth


Words: thorny
Meaning:
adjective (thornier, thorniest)\n  1  [usually before noun] causing difficulty or disagreement:\na thorny question / issue / problem\n  2  having thorns:\na thorny bush


Words: thorough
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  done completely; with great attention to detail:\na thorough knowledge of the subject * The police carried out a thorough investigation.\n  2  [not usually before noun] (of a person) doing things very carefully and with great attention to detail:\nShe’s very thorough and conscientious. * He was determined to be thorough in his research.\n  3  (BrE, informal) used to emphasize how bad or annoying sb/sth is:\nEverything was in a thorough mess.\n    thoroughness noun [U]:\nI was impressed by the thoroughness of the report. * I admire his thoroughness.


Words: thoroughbred
Meaning:
noun\nan animal, especially a horse, of high quality, that has parents that are both of the same breed\n    thoroughbred adjective:\na thoroughbred mare


Words: thoroughfare
Meaning:
noun\na public road or street used by traffic, especially a main road in a city or town:\nWe walked down Patrick Street, Cork’s main thoroughfare.


Words: thoroughgoing
Meaning:
adjective [only before noun] (written)\n  1  very thorough; looking at every detail:\na thoroughgoing revision of the text\n  2  complete:\na thoroughgoing commitment to change


Words: thoroughly
Meaning:
adverb\n  1  very much; completely:\nWe thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. * I’m thoroughly confused. * a thoroughly professional performance * I can thoroughly recommend it.\n  2  completely and with great attention to detail:\nWash the fruit thoroughly before use. * The work had not been done very thoroughly.


Words: thou
Meaning:
pronoun\n(old use or dialect) a word meaning ’you’, used when talking to only one person who is the subject of the verb:\nThou art indeed just, Lord.\ncompare THEE


Words: though
Meaning:
conjunction, adverb \n    conjunction\n  1  in spite of the fact that\nSYN ALTHOUGH:\nAnne was fond of Tim, though he often annoyed her. * Though she gave no sign, I was sure she had seen me. * His clothes, though old and worn, looked clean and of good quality. * Strange though it may sound, I was pleased it was over.\n  2  used to add a fact or an opinion that makes the previous statement less strong or less important:\nThey’re very different, though they did seem to get on well when they met. * He’ll probably say no, though it’s worth asking. -> ALTHOUGH\n IDIOMS  see AS conj., EVEN adv.\n    adverb (especially spoken) used especially at the end of a sentence to add a fact or an opinion that makes the previous statement less strong or less important:\nOur team lost. It was a good game though. * ’Have you ever been to Australia?’ ’No. I’d like to, though.’ -> ALTHOUGH


Words: thought
Meaning:
noun\n  sth you think\n  1  [C] ~ (of sth / of doing sth) | ~ (that ...) something that you think of or remember:\nI don’t like the thought of you walking home alone. * She was struck by the sudden thought that he might already have left. * The very thought of it makes me feel sick. * I’ve just had a thought (= an idea). * Would Mark be able to help? It’s just a thought. * ’Why don’t you try the other key?’ ’That’s a thought!’ * All kinds of thoughts raced through my mind. * I’d like to hear your thoughts on the subject.\n  mind / ideas\n  2  (thoughts) [pl.] a person’s mind and all the ideas that they have in it when they are thinking:\nMy thoughts turned to home. * You are always in my thoughts.\n  process / act of thinking\n  3  [U] the power or process of thinking:\nA good teacher encourages independence of thought. * She was lost in thought (= concentrating so much on her thoughts that she was not aware of her surroundings).\n  4  [U] the act of thinking seriously and carefully about sth:\nI’ve given the matter careful thought. * Not enough thought has gone into this essay.\n  care / worry\n  5  [C] ~ (for sb/sth) a feeling of care or worry:\nSpare a thought for those without enough to eat this winter. * Don’t give it another thought (= to tell sb not to worry after they have said they are sorry). * It’s the thought that counts (= used to say that sb has been very kind even if they have only done sth small or unimportant).\n  intention\n  6  [U, C] ~ (of sth / of doing sth) an intention or a hope of doing sth:\nShe had given up all thought of changing her job. * He acted with no thoughts of personal gain.\n  in politics / science, etc.\n  7  [U] ideas in politics, science, etc. connected with a particular person, group or period of history:\nfeminist / twentieth century thought\nsee also THINK v.\n IDIOMS \n  have second thoughts to change your opinion after thinking about sth again:\nYou’re not having second thoughts about it, are you?\n  on second thoughts (BrE) (AmE on second thought) used to say that you have changed your opinion:\nI’ll wait here. No, on second thoughts, I’ll come with you.\n  without a second thought immediately; without stopping to think about sth further:\nHe dived in after her without a second thought.\nmore at COLLECT v., FOOD, PAUSE n., PENNY, PERISH, SCHOOL n., TRAIN n.


Words: thought-provoking
Meaning:
adjective\nmaking people think seriously about a particular subject or issue:\na brilliant and thought-provoking play


Words: thoughtful
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  quiet, because you are thinking:\nHe looked thoughtful. * They sat in thoughtful silence.\n  2  (approving) showing that you think about and care for other people:\nIt was very thoughtful of you to send the flowers.\n  3  showing signs of careful thought:\na player who has a thoughtful approach to the game\n    thoughtfully  adverb:\nMartin looked at her thoughtfully. * She wrote down a few ideas on the paper thoughtfully provided by her host.\n    thoughtfulness noun [U]:\na state of thoughtfulness * his thoughtfulness for others


Words: thoughtless
Meaning:
adjective\n(disapproving) not caring about the possible effects of your words or actions on other people:\na thoughtless remark\n    thoughtlessly adverb:\nHe had behaved thoughtlessly and selfishly.\n    thoughtlessness noun [U]:\nI was hurt by her thoughtlessness.


Words: thousand
Meaning:
number (plural verb) (abbreviation K)\n  1  1 000\n HELP NOTE  You say a, one, two, etc. thousand without a final ’s’ on ’thousand’. Thousands (of ...) can be used if there is no number or quantity before it. Always use a plural verb with thousand or thousands.\n  2  a thousand or thousands (of ...) (usually informal) a large number:\nThere were thousands of people there.\n  3  (the thousands) the numbers from 1 000 to 9 999:\nThe cost ran into the thousands.\n HELP NOTE  There are more examples of how to use numbers at the entry for hundred.\n IDIOMS  see BAT v.


Words: thousandth
Meaning:
ordinal number, noun \n    ordinal number 1 000th:\nthe city’s thousandth anniversary\n    noun each of one thousand parts of sth:\na / one thousandth of a second


Words: thrall
Meaning:
noun\n IDIOMS \n  in (sb’s / sth’s) thrall | in thrall to sb/sth (literary) controlled or strongly influenced by sb/sth:\nHis gaze held her in thrall. * She was in thrall to her emotions.


Words: thrash
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb\n  1  [VN] to hit a person or an animal many times with a stick, etc. as a punishment\nSYN BEAT\n  2  ~ (sth) (about / around) to move or make sth move in a violent or uncontrolled way:\n[V] Someone was thrashing around in the water, obviously in trouble. * The animal thrashed about in pain. * [VN] A whale was thrashing the water with its tail. * She thrashed her head from side to side.\n  3  [VN] (informal, especially BrE) to defeat sb very easily in a game:\nScotland thrashed England 51.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  thrash sth<->out to discuss a situation or problem thoroughly in order to decide sth:\nThe details have not been thrashed out yet.\n    noun\n  1  [U] a type of loud ROCK music\n  2  [C] (old-fashioned, informal) a party with music and dancing


Words: thrashing
Meaning:
noun\n  1  an act of hitting sb very hard, especially with a stick:\nto give sb / get a thrashing\n  2  (informal) a severe defeat in a game


Words: thread
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n\n \n  1  [U, C] a thin string of cotton, wool, silk, etc. used for sewing or making fabric:\na needle and thread * a robe embroidered with gold thread * the delicate threads of a spider’s web\n \n  2  [C] an idea or a feature that is part of sth greater; an idea that connects the different parts of sth:\nA common thread runs through these discussions. * The author skilfully draws together the different threads of the plot. * I lost the thread of the argument (= I could no longer follow it).\n \n  3  [VN] [C] ~ (of sth) a long thin line of sth:\nA thread of light emerged from the keyhole. * a silvery thread of water\n \n  4  [C] the raised line that runs around the length of a screw and that allows it to be fixed in place by twisting\n  5  (threads) [pl.] (old-fashioned, AmE, slang) clothes\n IDIOMS  see HANG v., PICK v.\n    verb\n  1  [VN]   [usually +adv./prep.] to pass sth long and thin, especially thread, through a narrow opening or hole:\nto thread a needle (with cotton) * to thread cotton through a needle * A tiny wire is threaded through a vein to the heart.\n  2  [+adv./prep.] to move or make sth move through a narrow space, avoiding things that are in the way:\n[V] The waiters threaded between the crowded tables. * [VN] It took me a long time to thread my way through the crowd.\n  3  to join two or more objects together by passing sth long and thin through them:\nto thread beads (onto a string) * Thread the cubes of meat and vegetables onto metal skewers.\n  4  [VN] to pass film, tape, string, through parts of a piece of equipment so that it is ready to use\n  5  [VN] [usually passive] to sew or weave a particular type of thread into sth:\na robe threaded with gold and silver


Words: threadbare
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  (of fabric, clothing, etc.) old and thin because it has been used a lot:\na threadbare carpet / coat\n  2  (of an argument, excuse, etc.) that does not have much effect, especially because it has been used too much:\nan explanation that is becoming increasingly threadbare


Words: threat
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [C, U] ~ (to do sth) a statement in which you tell sb that you will punish or harm them, especially if they do not do what you want:\nto make threats against sb * She is prepared to carry out her threat to resign. * He received death threats from right-wing groups. * crimes involving violence or the threat of violence\n  2  [U, C, usually sing.] the possibility of trouble, danger or disaster:\nThese ancient woodlands are under threat from new road developments. * There is a real threat of war. * The forecast is for rain with the threat of thunderstorms.\n  3  [C, usually sing.] ~ (to sth) a person or thing that is likely to cause trouble, danger, etc:\nHe is unlikely to be a threat to the Spanish player in the final. * Drug abuse poses a major threat to the fabric of our society.


Words: threaten
Meaning:
verb\n  1  ~ sb (with sth) to say that you will cause trouble, hurt sb, etc. if you do not get what you want:\n[VN] They broke my windows and threatened me. * The attacker threatened them with a gun. * He was threatened with dismissal if he continued to turn up late for work. * The threatened strike has been called off. * [V to inf] The hijackers threatened to kill one passenger every hour if their demands were not met. [also V that]\n  2  to seem likely to happen or cause sth unpleasant:\n[V] A storm was threatening. * When war threatens, people act irrationally. * [V to inf] This dispute threatens to split the party. * [VN] The clouds threatened rain.\n  3  [VN] to be a danger to sth:\nPollution along the coastline is threatening marine life.


Words: threatening
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  expressing a threat of harm or violence:\nthreatening letters * threatening behaviour * The house seemed less threatening in the cold light of day.\n  2  (of the sky, clouds, etc.) showing that bad weather is likely:\nThe sky was dark and threatening.\n    threateningly adverb:\nHe glared at her threateningly.


Words: three
Meaning:
number\n3\n HELP NOTE  There are examples of how to use numbers at the entry for five.\n IDIOMS \n  the three Rs (old-fashioned) reading, writing and ARITHMETIC, thought to be the most important parts of a child’s education\nmore at TWO


Words: three quarters
Meaning:
(AmE also three fourths) noun\n~ (of sth) three of the four equal parts into which sth may be divided:\nthree quarters of an hour


Words: three-cornered
Meaning:
adjective [usually before noun]\n  1  having three corners:\na three-cornered hat\n  2  involving three people or groups:\na three-cornered contest


Words: three-D
Meaning:
(also 3-D) noun\n[U] the quality of having, or appearing to have, length, width and depth (= three DIMENSIONS):\nThese glasses allow you to see the film in three-D. * a three-D image


Words: three-dimensional
Meaning:
adjective\nhaving, or appearing to have, length, width and depth:\nthree-dimensional objects / forms / graphics


Words: three-legged race
Meaning:
noun\na race in which competitors run in pairs, the right leg of one runner being tied to the left leg of the other


Words: three-line whip
Meaning:
noun\n(in Britain) a written notice to Members of Parliament from their party leaders telling them that they must be present at a particular vote and must vote in a particular way


Words: three-piece
Meaning:
adjective\n[only before noun] consisting of three separate parts or pieces:\na three-piece suit (= a set of clothes consisting of trousers / pants, a jacket and a WAISTCOAT / VEST) * (BrE) a three-piece suite (= a set of three pieces of furniture, usually a SOFA and two ARMCHAIRS)


Words: three-point turn
Meaning:
noun\na method of turning a car in a small space by driving forwards, then backwards, then forwards again, in a series of curves


Words: three-quarter
Meaning:
adjective\n[only before noun] used to describe sth which is three quarters of the usual size:\na three-quarter length coat


Words: three-ring circus
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] (AmE, informal) a place or situation with a lot of confusing or amusing activity:\nHis attempt at a dignified resignation had turned into a three-ring circus.


Words: three-way
Meaning:
adjective\n[only before noun] happening or working in three ways or directions, or between three people:\na three-way switch * a three-way discussion


Words: thresh
Meaning:
verb\n  1  [VN] to separate grains of corn, rice, etc. from the rest of the plant using a machine or, especially in the past, by hitting it with a special tool\n  2  [V, VN] to make, or cause sth to make, uncontrolled movements\nSYN THRASH\n    threshing noun [U]:\na threshing machine


Words: threshold
Meaning:
noun\n  1  the floor or ground at the bottom of a DOORWAY, considered as the entrance to a building or room:\nShe stood hesitating on the threshold. * He stepped across the threshold.\n  2  the level at which sth starts to happen:\nHe has a low boredom threshold (= he gets bored easily). * I have a high pain threshold (= I can suffer a lot of pain before I start to react). * My earnings are just above the tax threshold (= more than the amount at which you start paying tax).\n  3  [usually sing.] the point just before a new situation, period of life, etc. begins:\nShe felt as though she was on the threshold of a new life.


Words: thrift
Meaning:
noun [U]\n  1  (approving) the habit of saving money and spending it carefully so that none is wasted\nsee also SPENDTHRIFT\n  2  a wild plant with bright pink flowers that grows by the sea/ocean


Words: thrifty
Meaning:
adjective\n(approving) careful about spending money and not wasting things:\nHe was brought up to be thrifty and never to get into debt.


Words: thrill
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  1  ~ (to do sth) | ~ (of doing sth) a strong feeling of excitement or pleasure; an experience that gives you this feeling:\nIt gave me a big thrill to meet my favourite author in person. * the thrill of catching a really big fish * She gets an obvious thrill out of performing. * They were just in search of cheap thrills (= excitement that has no real value).\n  2  a sudden strong feeling that produces a physical effect:\nA thrill of alarm ran through him.\n IDIOMS \n  (the) thrills and spills (informal) the excitement that is involved in dangerous activities, especially sports:\nExperience the thrills and spills of surfing!\n    verb [VN] to excite or please sb very much:\nThis band has thrilled audiences all over the world. * I was thrilled by your news.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  thrill to sth (formal) to feel very excited at sth:\nAudiences still thrill to the sound of The Rolling Stones.


Words: thrilled
Meaning:
adjective\n~ (about / at / with sth) | ~ (to do sth) | ~ (that ...) very excited and pleased:\nHe was thrilled at the prospect of seeing them again. * I was thrilled to be invited. * (BrE) She was thrilled to bits (= extremely pleased) that he’d been offered the job. * ’Are you pleased?’ ’I’m thrilled.’


Words: thriller
Meaning:
noun\na book, play or film/movie with an exciting story, especially one about crime or SPYING:\na spy thriller * a thriller writer


Words: thrilling
Meaning:
adjective\nexciting and enjoyable:\na thrilling experience / finish / victory\n    thrillingly adverb


Words: thrive
Meaning:
verb\n[V] to become, and continue to be, successful, strong, healthy, etc:\nNew businesses thrive in this area. * These animals rarely thrive in captivity.\n    thriving adjective:\na thriving industry / city / garden\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  thrive on sth to enjoy sth or be successful at sth, especially sth that other people would not like:\nHe thrives on hard work.


Words: throat
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  the tube in the neck that takes food and air into the body; the front part of the neck:\na sore throat * A sob caught in his throat. * He held the knife to her throat. * Their throats had been cut.\n \n  2  (-throated) (in adjectives) having the type of throat mentioned:\na deep-throated roar * a red-throated diver\nsee also CUTTHROAT\n \n IDIOMS \n \n  be at each other’s throats (of two or more people, groups, etc.) to be fighting or arguing with each other\n  cut your own throat to do sth that is likely to harm you, especially when you are angry and trying to harm sb else\n  force / thrust / ram sth down sb’s throat (informal) to try to force sb to listen to and accept your opinions in a way that they find annoying\nmore at CLEAR v., FROG, JUMP v., LUMP n., STICK v.


Words: throaty
Meaning:
adjective\nsounding low and rough:\na throaty growl / laugh / voice * the throaty roar of the engines\n    throatily  adverb:\nThe engine roared throatily into life.


Words: throb
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb (-bb-) [V] ~ (with sth)\n  1  (of a part of the body) to feel a series of regular painful movements:\nHis head throbbed painfully. * My feet were throbbing after the long walk home.\n  2  to beat or sound with a strong, regular rhythm:\nThe ship’s engines throbbed quietly. * a throbbing pain / drumbeat * The blood was throbbing in my veins. * (figurative) His voice was throbbing with emotion. * The club was throbbing to the beat of the music.\n    noun (also throbbing) [sing.] a strong regular beat; a feeling of pain that you experience as a series of strong beats:\nthe throb of the machines * My headache faded to a dull throbbing.\nsee also HEART-THROB


Words: throes
Meaning:
noun\n[pl.] violent pains, especially at the moment of death:\nThe creature went into its death throes.\n IDIOMS \n  in the throes of sth / of doing sth in the middle of an activity, especially a difficult or complicated one:\nThe country was in the throes of revolutionary change. * We’re in the throes of moving to a new office, so the place is in chaos at the moment.


Words: thrombosis
Meaning:
noun\n[C, U] (plural thromboses ) (medical) a serious condition caused by a blood CLOT (= a thick mass of blood) forming in a blood VESSEL (= tube) or in the heart\nsee also CORONARY THROMBOSIS


Words: throne
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [C] a special chair used by a king or queen to sit on at ceremonies\n  2  (the throne) [sing.] the position of being a king or queen:\nQueen Elizabeth came / succeeded to the throne in 1952. * when Henry VIII was on the throne (= was king) * Prince Charles is next in line to the British throne.\n IDIOMS  see POWER n.


Words: throng
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun (written) a crowd of people:\nWe pushed our way through the throng. * He was met by a throng of journalists and photographers.\n    verb (written) to go somewhere or be present somewhere in large numbers: [V +adv./prep.] The children thronged into the hall. * [V to inf] People are thronging to see his new play. * [VN] Crowds thronged the stores.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  throng with sb/sth | be thronged with sb/sth to be full of people, cars, etc:\nThe cafes were thronging with students. * The streets were thronged with people.


Words: throttle
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb [VN] to attack or kill sb by squeezing their throat in order to stop them from breathing\nSYN STRANGLE:\nHe throttled the guard with his bare hands. * (humorous) I like her, although I could cheerfully throttle her at times (= because she is annoying). * (figurative) The city is being throttled by traffic.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  throttle (sth) back / down / up to control the supply of fuel or power to an engine in order to reduce/increase the speed of a vehicle:\nI throttled back as we approached the runway.\n    noun\n a device that controls the amount of fuel that goes into the engine of a vehicle, for example the ACCELERATOR in a car:\nHe drove along at full throttle (= as fast as possible). * open (up) / close the throttle (= increase / decrease the speed) * (figurative) The campaign is continuing to run at full throttle.


Words: through
Meaning:
preposition, adverb, adjective \n    preposition\n HELP NOTE  For the special uses of through in phrasal verbs, look at the entries for the verbs. For example get through sth is in the phrasal verb section at get.\n  1  from one end or side of sth/sb to the other:\nThe burglar got in through the window. * The bullet went straight through him. * Her knees had gone through (= made holes in) her jeans. * The sand ran through (= between) my fingers. * The path led through the trees to the river. * The doctor pushed his way through the crowd. * The Charles River flows through Boston.\n  2  see, hear, etc. ~ sth to see, hear, etc. sth from the other side of an object or a substance:\nI couldn’t hear their conversation through the wall. * He could just make out three people through the mist.\n  3  from the beginning to the end of an activity, a situation or a period of time:\nThe children are too young to sit through a concert. * He will not live through the night. * I’m halfway through (= reading) her second novel.\n  4  past a barrier, stage or test:\nGo through this gate, and you’ll see the house on your left. * He drove through a red light (= passed it when he should have stopped). * First I have to get through the exams. * The bill had a difficult passage through Parliament. * I’d never have got through it all (= a difficult situation) without you.\n  5  (also informal thru) (both AmE) until, and including:\nWe’ll be in New York Tuesday through Friday. -> INCLUSIVE\n  6  by means of; because of:\nYou can only achieve success through hard work. * It was through him (= as a result of his help) that I got the job. * The accident happened through no fault of mine.\n    adverb\n HELP NOTE  For the special uses of through in phrasal verbs, look at the entries for the verbs. For example carry sth through is in the phrasal verb section at carry.\n  1  from one end or side of sth to the other:\nPut the coffee in the filter and let the water run through. * The tyre’s flat-the nail has gone right through. * The onlookers stood aside to let the paramedics through. * The flood was too deep to drive through.\n  2  from the beginning to the end of a thing or period of time:\nDon’t tell me how it ends-I haven’t read it all the way through yet. * I expect I’ll struggle through until pay day.\n  3  past a barrier, stage or test:\nThe lights were red but he drove straight through. * Our team is through to (= has reached) the semi-finals.\n  4  travelling through a place without stopping or without people having to get off one train and onto another:\n’Did you stop in Oxford on the way?’ ’No, we drove straight through.’ * This train goes straight through to York.\n  5  connected by telephone:\nAsk to be put through to me personally. * I tried to call you but I couldn’t get through.\n  6  used after an adjective to mean ’completely’:\nWe got wet through.\n IDIOMS \n  through and through completely; in every way:\nHe’s British through and through.\n    adjective\n  1  [only before noun] through traffic travels from one side of a place to the other without stopping\n  2  [only before noun] a through train takes you to the final place you want to get to and you do not have to get off and get on another train\n  3  [only before noun] a through road or route is open at both ends and allows traffic to travel from one end to the other:\nThe village lies on a busy through road. * No through road (= the road is closed at one end).\n  4  [not before noun] ~ (with sth/sb) (especially AmE) used to show that you have finished using sth or have ended a relationship with sb:\nAre you through with that newspaper? * Todd and I are through.


Words: throughout
Meaning:
preposition\n  1  in or into every part of sth:\nThey export their products to markets throughout the world.\n  2  during the whole period of time of sth:\nThe museum is open daily throughout the year.\n    throughout adverb:\nThe house was painted white throughout. * The ceremony lasted two hours and we had to stand throughout.


Words: throughput
Meaning:
noun\n[U, C, usually sing.] (technical) the amount of work that is done, or the number of people that are dealt with, in a particular period of time:\nhigh / low rates of throughput * The centre has a weekly throughput of 200 000 shoppers.


Words: throw
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb\n (threw )\n \n  with hand\n \n  1  to send sth from your hand through the air by moving your hand or arm quickly:\n[VN] Stop throwing stones at the window! * She threw the ball up and caught it again. * Don’t throw it to him, give it to him! * [VNN] Can you throw me that towel? * [V] They had a competition to see who could throw the furthest.\n \n  put carelessly\n \n  2  [VN +adv./prep.] to put sth in a particular place quickly and carelessly:\nJust throw your bag down over there. * Don’t throw litter on the ground.\n \n  move with force\n  3  [+adv./prep.] to move sth suddenly and forcefully:\n[VN] The boat was thrown onto the rocks. * The sea throws up all sorts of debris on the beach. * [VN-ADJ] I threw open the windows to let the smoke out.\n  part of body\n  4  [VN] to move your body or part of it quickly or suddenly:\nHe threw back his head and roared with laughter. * I ran up and threw my arms around him. * Jenny threw herself onto the bed.\n  make sb fall\n  5  [VN] to make sb fall quickly or violently to the ground:\nTwo riders were thrown (= off their horses) in the second race.\n  into particular state\n  6  [VN +adv./prep.] [usually passive] to make sb/sth be in a particular state:\nHundreds were thrown out of work. * We were thrown into confusion by the news. * The problem was suddenly thrown into sharp focus.\n  direct sth at sb / sth\n  7  [VN] to direct sth at sb/sth:\nto throw doubt on the verdict * to throw the blame on someone * to throw threats / insults / accusations at someone * He threw the question back at me (= expected me to answer it myself).\n  upset\n  8  [VN] ~ sb (off) (informal) to make sb feel upset, confused, or surprised:\nThe news of her death really threw me. * The speaker was completely thrown off by the interruption.\n  dice\n  9  [VN] to roll a DICE or let it fall after shaking it; to obtain a particular number in this way:\nThrow the dice! * He threw three sixes in a row.\n  clay pot\n  10  [VN] (technical) to make a clay pot, dish, etc. on a POTTER’S wheel:\na hand-thrown vase\n  light / shade\n  11  [VN] (written) to send light or shade onto sth:\nThe trees threw long shadows across the lawn.\n  your voice\n  12  [VN] ~ your voice to make your voice sound as if it is coming from another person or place\n  a punch\n  13  [VN] ~ a punch to hit sb with your FIST\n  switch / handle\n  14  [VN] to move a switch, handle, etc. to operate sth\n  bad temper\n  15  [VN] to have a sudden period of bad temper, violent emotion, etc:\nShe’ll throw a fit if she finds out. * Children often throw tantrums at this age.\n  a party\n  16  [VN] ~ a party (informal) to give a party\n  in sports / competitions\n  17  [VN] (informal) to deliberately lose a game or contest that you should have won:\nHe was accused of having thrown the game.\n IDIOMS \n  Idioms containing throw are at the entries for the nouns and adjectives in the idioms, for example throw your hat into the ring is at hat.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  throw sth<->aside to reject sth such as an attitude, a way of life, etc.\n  throw yourself at sth/sb\n1 to rush violently at sth/sb\n2 (informal, disapproving) (usually of a woman) to be too enthusiastic in trying to attract a sexual partner\n  throw sth<->away\n1 (also throw sth<->out) to get rid of sth that you no longer want:\nI don’t need that-you can throw it away. * That old chair should be thrown away.\n2 to fail to make use of sth; to waste sth:\nto throw away an opportunity / advantage * You must take the exam-you can’t throw away all that work!\nsee also THROWAWAY\n  throw sth back at sb to remind sb of sth they have said or done in the past, especially to upset or annoy them:\nHis unwise remark was frequently thrown back at him by his colleagues.\n  throw sb back on sth [usually passive] to force sb to rely on sth because nothing else is available:\nThere was no TV so we were thrown back on our own resources (= had to entertain ourselves).\n  throw sth<->in\n1 to include sth with what you are selling or offering, without increasing the price:\nYou can have the piano for $200, and I’ll throw in the stool as well.\n2 to add a remark to a conversation:\nJack threw in the odd encouraging comment.\n  throw yourself / sth into sth to begin to do sth with energy and enthusiasm\n  throw sth/sb<->off\n1 to manage to get rid of sth/sb that is making you suffer, annoying you, etc:\nto throw off a cold / your worries / your pursuers\n2 to take off a piece of clothing quickly and carelessly:\nShe entered the room and threw off her wet coat.\n  throw sth<->on to put on a piece of clothing quickly and carelessly:\nShe just threw on the first skirt she found.\n  throw sth<->open (to sb)\n1 to allow people to enter or visit a place where they could not go before\n2 to allow people to discuss sth, take part in a competition, etc:\nThe debate will be thrown open to the audience. * The organizers are throwing the contest open to under 21s for the first time.\n  throw sb<->out (of ...) to force sb to leave a place:\nYou’ll be thrown out if you don’t pay the rent.\n  throw sth<->out\n1 to say sth in a way that suggests you have not given it a lot of thought:\nto throw out a hint / a suggestion / an idea\n2 to decide not to accept a proposal, an idea, etc.\n3 = THROW STH AWAY\n4 to produce smoke, light, heat, etc:\na small fire that threw out a lot of heat\n5 to confuse sth or make it wrong:\nOur calculations of the cost of our trip were thrown out by changes in the exchange rate.\n  throw sb over (old-fashioned) to stop being friends with sb or having a romantic relationship with them\n  throw sb<->together [often passive] to bring people into contact with each other, often unexpectedly:\nFate had thrown them together.\n  throw sth<->together to make or produce sth in a hurry:\nI threw together a quick meal.\n  throw up to VOMIT:\nThe smell made me want to throw up.\n  throw sth<->up\n1 to VOMIT food:\nThe baby’s thrown up her dinner.\n2 to make people notice sth:\nHer research has thrown up some interesting facts.\n3 to build sth suddenly or in a hurry:\nThey’re throwing up new housing estates all over the place.\n4 to leave your job:\nto throw up your job / career\n    noun\n  1  the act of throwing sth, especially a ball or DICE:\na well-aimed throw * It’s your throw (= it’s your turn to throw the dice). * He threw me to the ground with a judo throw.\n  2  the distance which sth is thrown:\na javelin throw of 57 metres\n  3  a loose fabric cover that can be thrown over a SOFA, etc.\n IDIOMS \n  $100, ｣50, etc. a throw (informal) used to say how much items cost each:\nThe tickets for the dinner were ｣50 a throw.\nmore at STONE n.


Words: throw-in
Meaning:
noun\n(in football and rugby) the act of throwing the ball back onto the playing field after it has gone outside the area


Words: throwaway
Meaning:
adjective [only before noun]\n  1  ~ line / remark / comment something you say quickly without careful thought, sometimes in order to be funny:\nShe was very upset at what to him was just a throwaway remark.\n  2  (of goods, etc.) produced cheaply and intended to be thrown away after use:\nthrowaway products * We live in a throwaway society (= a society in which things are not made to last a long time).


Words: throwback
Meaning:
noun\n[usually sing.] ~ (to sth) a person or thing that is similar to sb/sth that existed in the past:\nThe car’s design is a throwback to the 1960s.


Words: thrush
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  [C] a bird with a brown back and brown spots on its chest:\na song thrush\n \n  2  [U] an infectious disease that affects the mouth and throat\n \n  3  [U] (BrE) (AmE yeast infection) an infectious disease that affects the VAGINA


Words: thrust
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb (thrust, thrust)\n  1  [usually +adv./prep.] to push sth/sb suddenly or violently in a particular direction; to move quickly and suddenly in a particular direction:\n[VN] He thrust the baby into my arms and ran off. * She thrust her hands deep into her pockets. * (figurative) He tends to thrust himself forward too much. * Her chin was thrust forward aggressively. * [V] She thrust past him angrily and left.\n  2  ~ (at sb) (with sth) | ~ (sth at sb) to make a sudden strong forward movement at sb with a weapon, etc:\n[V] He thrust at me with a knife. * a thrusting movement [also VN]\n IDIOMS  see THROAT\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  thrust sth<->aside to refuse to listen to sb’s complaints, comments, etc:\nAll our objections were thrust aside.\n  thrust sth/sb on / upon sb to force sb to accept or deal with sth/sb that they do not want:\nShe was annoyed at having three extra guests suddenly thrust on her. * Children of famous people have fame thrust upon them.\n    noun\n  1  (the thrust) [sing.] the main point of an argument, a policy, etc:\nThe thrust of his argument was that change was needed.\n  2  [C] a sudden strong movement that pushes sth/sb forward:\nHe killed her with a thrust of the knife.\n  3  [U] (technical) the force that is produced by an engine to push a plane, rocket, etc. forward\n IDIOMS  see CUT v.


Words: thruway
Meaning:
noun\n(AmE) used in the names of some FREEWAYS (= important roads across or between states):\nthe New York State Thruway


Words: thud
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun a sound like the one which is made when a heavy object hits sth else:\nHis head hit the floor with a dull thud. * She could hear the thud of her own heartbeat sounding heavily in her ears.\n    verb (-dd-)\n  1  to fall or hit sth with a low dull sound: [V, +adv./prep.] His arrow thudded into the target. * We heard him thudding up the stairs. [also VN]\n  2  [V] (literary) (especially of the heart) to beat strongly:\nShe felt her heart thud wildly with fear.


Words: thug
Meaning:
noun\na violent person, especially a criminal:\na gang of thugs\n    thuggish  adjective:\nthuggish brutality


Words: thuggery
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (written) violent, usually criminal, behaviour:\nshoplifting, vandalism and petty thuggery


Words: thumb
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n\n \n  1  the short thick finger at the side of the hand, slightly apart from the other four:\nShe still sucks her thumb when she’s worried.\nsee also GREEN THUMB\n \n  2  the part of a glove that covers the thumb:\nThere’s a hole in the thumb.\n \n IDIOMS \n \n  be all (fingers and) thumbs to be awkward with your hands so that you drop things or are unable to do sth\n  thumbs up / down used to show that sth has been accepted/rejected or that it is/is not a success:\nTheir proposals were given the thumbs down. * It looks like it’s thumbs up for their latest album.\n  under sb’s thumb (of a person) completely controlled by sb:\nShe’s got him under her thumb.\nmore at RULE n., SORE adj., TWIDDLE v.\n    verb\n  1  to make a signal with your thumb to passing drivers to ask them to stop and take you somewhere: [V, +adv./prep.] He had thumbed all across Europe. * [VN] We managed to thumb a lift / ride with a truck driver.\n  2  [VN]   [often +adv./prep.] to touch or move sth with your thumb:\nShe thumbed off the safety catch of her pistol.\nsee also WELL THUMBED\n IDIOMS \n  thumb your nose at sb/sth to make a rude sign with your thumb on your nose; to show that you have no respect for sb/sth:\nThe company just thumbs its nose at the legislation on pollution.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  thumb through sth to turn the pages of a book quickly in order to get a general idea of what is in it:\nI was thumbing through my address book to see who we could invite.


Words: thumb index
Meaning:
noun\na series of cuts in the edge of a book, with letters of the alphabet on them, to help you to find the section that you want more easily


Words: thumbnail sketch
Meaning:
noun\na short description of sth, giving only the main details:\nThe first chapter provides a thumbnail sketch of the social and political climate of the US in the 1960s.


Words: thump
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb\n  1  [usually +adv./prep.] to hit sb/sth hard, especially with your closed hand:\n[VN] He thumped the table angrily. * She couldn’t get her breath and had to be thumped on the back. * (informal) I’ll thump you if you say that again. * (figurative) He thumped out a tune (= played it very loudly) on the piano. [also V]\n  2  [+adv./prep.] to fall on or hit a surface hard, with a loud dull sound; to make sth do this:\n[V] A bird thumped against the window. * [VN] He thumped the report down on my desk.\n  3  [V] to beat strongly:\nMy heart was thumping with excitement.\nsee also TUB-THUMPING\n    noun\n  1  the sound of sth heavy hitting the ground or another object:\nThere was a thump as the truck hit the bank.\n  2  (BrE, informal) an act of hitting sb/sth hard:\nShe gave him a thump on the back.


Words: thumping
Meaning:
adjective\n[only before noun] (informal) very big:\na thumping defeat / majority\n    thumping adverb (BrE):\nHe told us a thumping great lie.


Words: thunder
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun [U]\n  1  the loud noise that you hear after a flash of LIGHTNING, during a storm:\nthe rumble of distant thunder * a clap / crash / roll of thunder * Thunder crashed in the sky.\n  2  a loud noise like thunder:\nthe thunder of gunfire / hooves\n IDIOMS  see FACE n., STEAL v.\n    verb\n  1  [V] when it thunders, there is a loud noise in the sky during a storm:\nIt was thundering all night but there was no rain.\n  2  [V] to make a very loud deep noise:\nA voice thundered in my ear. * thundering traffic / hooves / machinery\n  3  [V +adv./prep.] to move very fast and with a loud deep noise:\nHeavy trucks kept thundering past.\n  4  [VN +adv./prep.] (informal) to make sth move somewhere very fast:\nOwen thundered the ball past the goalie.\n  5  (written) to shout, complain, etc. very loudly and angrily:\n[V] He thundered against the evils of television. * [V speech] ’Sit still!’ she thundered. [also VN]


Words: thunderbolt
Meaning:
noun\n(written) a flash of LIGHTNING that comes at the same time as the noise of THUNDER and that hits sth:\nThe news hit them like a thunderbolt (= was very shocking).


Words: thunderous
Meaning:
adjective (written)\n  1  very loud:\nthunderous applause\n  2  looking very angry:\nhis thunderous expression\n    thunderously adverb


Words: thundery
Meaning:
adjective\n(of weather) with THUNDER; suggesting that THUNDER is likely:\nthundery rain * a thundery sky


Words: Thursday
Meaning:
noun\n[C, U] (abbreviation Thur., Thurs.) the day of the week after Wednesday and before Friday\n HELP NOTE  To see how Thursday is used, look at the examples at Monday.\n ORIGIN  From the Old English for ’day of thunder’, translated from Latin Jovis dies ’Jupiter’s day’. Jupiter was the god associated with thunder.


Words: thus
Meaning:
adverb (formal)\n  1  in this way; like this:\nMany scholars have argued thus. * The universities have expanded, thus allowing many more people the chance of higher education.\n  2  as a result of sth just mentioned\nSYN THEREFORE, HENCE:\nHe is the eldest son and thus heir to the title. * We do not own the building. Thus, it would be impossible for us to make any major changes to it.\n IDIOMS  see FAR adv.


Words: thwack
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] to hit sb/sth hard, making a short loud sound\n    thwack noun:\nthe thwack of bat on ball


Words: thwart
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] [often passive] ~ sth | ~ sb (in sth) to prevent sb from doing what they want to do:\nto thwart sb’s plans / ambitions / efforts * She was thwarted in her attempt to take control of the party.


Words: thy
Meaning:
before a vowel) determiner\n(old use) a word meaning ’your’, used when talking to only one person:\nHonour thy father and thy mother.


Words: thyroid
Meaning:
(also thyroid gland) noun\na small organ at the front of the neck that produces HORMONES that control the way in which the body grows and functions:\nan underactive / overactive thyroid


Words: thyself
Meaning:
pronoun\n(old use or dialect) a word meaning ’yourself’, used when talking to only one person:\nThou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.


Words: tiara
Meaning:
noun\na piece of jewellery like a small CROWN decorated with precious stones, worn by a woman, for example a princess, on formal occasions


Words: tic
Meaning:
noun\na sudden quick movement of a muscle, especially in your face or head, that you cannot control:\na nervous tic


Words: tick
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb\n  1  [V] ~ (away) (of a clock, etc.) to make short, light, regular repeated sounds to mark time passing:\nIn the silence we could hear the clock ticking. * While we waited the taxi’s meter kept ticking away. * a ticking clock / bomb\n  2  [VN] (BrE) (AmE check) to put a mark ({check}) next to an item on a list, an answer, etc:\nPlease tick the appropriate box. * Tick ’yes’ or ’no’ to each question. * I’ve ticked the names of the people who have paid.\n IDIOMS \n  what makes sb tick what makes sb behave in the way that they do:\nI’ve never really understood what makes her tick.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  tick away / by / past (of time) to pass:\nI had to get to the airport by two, and the minutes were ticking away.\n  tick sth<->away (of a clock, etc.) to mark the time as it passes:\nThe clock ticked away the minutes.\n  tick sb<->off\n1 (BrE, informal) to speak angrily to sb, especially a child, because they have done sth wrong:\nI was always being ticked off for messy work.\nrelated noun TICKING OFF\n2 (AmE, informal) to make sb angry or annoyed:\nI was really ticked off when she was so late.\n  tick sb/sth off (BrE) (AmE check sb/sth off) to put a mark ({check}) beside a name or an item on a list to show that sth has been dealt with:\nI’ve ticked off the names of all those present. * It’s a good idea to tick off the jobs on the list as you do them.\n  tick over (BrE) (usually used in the progressive tenses)\n1 (of an engine) to run slowly while the vehicle is not moving:\nThe cab was waiting outside, the engine ticking over.\n2 (of a business, a system, an activity, etc.) to keep working slowly without producing or achieving much:\nJust keep things ticking over while I’m away.\n    noun\n  1  [C] (BrE) (AmE check mark, check) a mark ({check}) put beside a sum or an item on a list, usually to show that it has been checked or done or is correct:\nPut a tick in the appropriate box if you would like further information about any of our products.\ncompare CROSS, X (4)\n  2  [C] a small insect that bites humans and animals and sucks their blood. There are several types of tick, some of which can carry diseases:\na tick bite\n  3  (also ticking) [U] a short, light, regularly repeated sound, especially that of a clock or watch:\nThe only sound was the soft tick of the clock.\n  4  [C] (BrE, informal) a moment:\nHang on a tick! * I’ll be with you in two ticks.\n  5  [U] (old-fashioned, BrE, informal) permission to delay paying for sth that you have bought\nSYN CREDIT:\nCan I have these on tick?


Words: ticker
Meaning:
noun\n(old-fashioned, informal) a person’s heart:\n’There’s nothing wrong with the old ticker,’ he said.


Words: ticker tape
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (especially AmE) long narrow strips of paper with information, for example STOCK MARKET prices, printed on them by a special TELEGRAPH machine:\na ticker-tape parade in the streets of New York (= an occasion when people throw pieces of paper as part of a celebration, for example in honour of a famous person)


Words: ticket
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n\n \n  1  ~ (for / to sth) a printed piece of paper that gives you the right to travel on a particular bus, train, etc. or to go into a theatre, etc:\na bus / theatre / plane ticket * free tickets to the show * Tickets are available from the Arts Centre at ｣2.50. * a ticket office / machine / collector * (figurative) She hoped that getting this job would finally be her ticket to success.\nsee also MEAL TICKET, RETURN TICKET, SEASON TICKET\n \n  2  a label that is attached to sth in a shop/store giving details of its price, size, etc.\n \n  3  an official notice that orders you to pay a FINE because you have done sth illegal while driving or parking your car:\na parking / speeding ticket\n \n  4  [usually sing.] (especially AmE) a list of candidates that are supported by a particular political party in an election:\nShe ran for office on the Democratic ticket.\nsee also DREAM TICKET\n IDIOMS \n  just the ticket = just the job at JOB\n  that’s the ticket (old-fashioned, BrE, informal) used to say that sth is just what is needed or that everything is just right:\nAre we all packed and ready to go? That’s the ticket.\nmore at SPLIT v.\n    verb [VN] \n  1  (technical) to produce and sell tickets for an event, a trip, etc.; to give sb a ticket:\nThe museum holds both free and ticketed exhibitions. * Passengers can now be ticketed electronically.\n  2  [usually passive] (especially AmE) to give sb an official notice that orders them to pay a FINE because they have done sth illegal while driving or parking a car:\nPark illegally, and you’re likely to be ticketed.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  be ticketed for sth (especially AmE) to be intended for a particular purpose


Words: ticking
Meaning:
noun\n[U] a strong cotton fabric that is often STRIPED, used especially for making MATTRESS and PILLOW covers


Words: ticking off
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] (old-fashioned, BrE, informal) the act of telling sb that they have done sth to make you angry:\nShe gave the boys a severe ticking off.


Words: tickle
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb\n  1  to move your fingers on a sensitive part of sb’s body in a way that makes them laugh:\n[VN] The bigger girls used to chase me and tickle me. * I tickled his feet with a feather. * [V] Stop tickling!\n  2  to produce a slightly uncomfortable feeling in a sensitive part of the body; to have a feeling like this:\n[VN] His beard was tickling her cheek. * [V] My throat tickles. * a tickling cough\n  3  to amuse and interest sb:\n[VN] to tickle sb’s imagination / curiosity / sense of humour * [VN to inf] I was tickled to discover that we’d both done the same thing.\n IDIOMS \n  be tickled pink (informal) to be very pleased or amused:\nShe was tickled pink to be given flowers.\n  tickle sb’s fancy (informal) to please or amuse sb:\nSee if any of these tickle your fancy. * If you see something that tickles your fancy, I’ll buy it for you.\n    noun [usually sing.]\n  1  an act of tickling sb:\nShe gave the child a little tickle.\n  2  a slightly uncomfortable feeling in a part of your body:\nto have a tickle in your throat (= that makes you want to cough)\n IDIOMS  see SLAP n.


Words: ticklish
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  (of a person) sensitive to being tickled:\nAre you ticklish?\n  2  (informal) (of a situation or problem) difficult to deal with, and possibly embarrassing\n  3  (of a cough) that irritates your throat:\na dry ticklish cough


Words: ticky-tacky
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (AmE, informal) building material that is cheap and of low quality\n    ticky-tacky adjective


Words: tidal
Meaning:
adjective\nconnected with TIDES (= the regular rise and fall of the sea):\ntidal forces * a tidal river


Words: tidal wave
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a very large ocean wave that is caused by a storm or an earthquake, and that destroys things when it reaches the land\n  2  ~ (of sth) a sudden increase in a particular feeling, activity or type of behaviour:\na tidal wave of crime / change / emotion


Words: tiddly
Meaning:
adjective (BrE, informal)\n  1  slightly drunk:\nI feel a bit tiddly.\n  2  very small:\nAll I got to eat was a tiddly little biscuit.


Words: tiddlywinks
Meaning:
noun\n[U] a game in which players try to make small plastic discs jump into a cup by pressing them on the edge with a larger disc


Words: tide
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  1  [C, U] a regular rise and fall in the level of the sea, caused by the pull of the moon and sun; the flow of water that happens as the sea rises and falls:\nthe ebb and flow of the tide * The tide is in / out. * Is the tide coming in or going out? * The body was washed up on the beach by the tide.\nsee also HIGH TIDE, LOW TIDE, NEAP TIDE, SPRING TIDE\n  2  [C, usually sing.] the direction in which the opinion of a large number of people seems to be moving:\nIt takes courage to speak out against the tide of opinion. * There is a growing tide of opposition to the idea. * a tide of optimism\n  3  [C, usually sing.] a large amount of sth unpleasant that is increasing and is difficult to control:\nThere is anxiety about the rising tide of crime. * Measures have been taken to stem the tide of pornography (= stop it from getting worse).\n  4  [sing.] ~ of sth a feeling that you suddenly have that gets stronger and stronger:\nA tide of rage surged through her.\n  5  [sing.] (old use) (in compounds) a time or season of the year:\nChristmastide\n IDIOMS \n  go, swim, etc. with / against the tide to agree with/oppose the attitudes or opinions that most other people have\n  the tide turned | turn the tide used to say that there is a change in sb’s luck or in how successful they are being:\nThe tide turned for Hingis at the start of the second set. * This contract is probably our last chance to turn the tide.\n    verb\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  tide sb over (sth) [no passive] to help sb during a difficult period by providing what they need:\nCan you lend me some money to tide me over until I get paid?


Words: tidemark
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a line that is made by the sea on a beach at the highest point that the sea reaches\n  2  (BrE, informal) a line that is left around the inside of a bath by dirty water


Words: tidewater
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [C] (AmE) an area of land at or near the coast\n  2  [U, C] water that is brought by the TIDE


Words: tidings
Meaning:
noun\n[pl.] (old-fashioned or humorous) news:\nI am the bearer of good tidings. * He brought glad tidings. * Even worse tidings were to follow.


Words: tidy
Meaning:
adjective, verb, noun \n    adjective (tidier, tidiest)\n  1  (especially BrE) arranged neatly and with everything in order:\na tidy room / desk * She keeps her flat very tidy. * I like everything to be neat and tidy.\nOPP UNTIDY\n  2  (especially BrE) keeping things neat and in order:\nI’m a tidy person. * tidy habits\n  3  [only before noun] (informal) a tidy amount of money is fairly large:\nIt must have cost a tidy sum. * a tidy profit\nOPP UNTIDY\n    tidily adverb:\nThe room was very tidily arranged.\n    tidiness noun [U] \n    verb (tidies, tidying, tidied, tidied) ~ (sth) (up) (especially BrE) to make sth look neat by putting things in the place where they belong:\n[V] I spent all morning cleaning and tidying. * When you cook, could you please tidy up after yourself. * [VN] to tidy (up) a room / a cupboard / papers / your hair\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  tidy sth<->away (BrE) to put things in the place where they belong, especially where they cannot be seen, so that a room appears tidy:\nCan you tidy away your clothes, please?\n  tidy sth<->up to arrange or deal with sth so that it is well or correctly finished:\nI tidied up the report before handing it in.\n    noun\n (plural tidies) (BrE) (especially in compounds) a container for putting small objects in, in order to keep a place tidy:\na desk tidy


Words: tie
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb (ties, tying, tied, tied)\n  fasten with string / rope\n  1  [VN]   [usually +adv./prep.] to attach or hold two or more things together using string, rope, etc.; to fasten sb/sth with string, rope, etc:\nShe tied the newspapers in a bundle. * He had to tie her hands together. * They tied him to a chair with cable. * Shall I tie the package or tape it? * I tie back my hair when I’m cooking.\n  2  [VN +adv./prep.] to fasten sth to or around sth else:\nShe tied a label on to the suitcase. * He tied an apron on and got down to work.\n  3  [VN] to make a knot in a piece of string, rope, etc:\nto tie a ribbon / tie * Tie up your shoelaces! * She tied her hair in a knot at the back of her head. * I tied a knot in the rope.\n  4  [V]   [usually +adv./prep.] to be closed or fastened with a knot, etc:\nThe skirt ties at the waist.\n  connect / link\n  5  [VN] [usually passive] ~ sb/sth (to sth/sb) to connect or link sb/sth closely with sb/sth else:\nPay increases are tied to inflation. * The house is tied to the job, so we’ll have to move when I retire.\n  restrict\n  6  [VN] [usually passive] ~ sb (to sth / to doing sth) to restrict sb and make them unable to do everything they want to:\nto be tied by a contract / promise * I want to work but I’m tied to the house with the baby. * I don’t want to be tied to coming home at a particular time.\n  in game / competition\n  7  (of two teams, etc.) to have the same number of points:\n[V] England tied 22 with Germany in the first round. * They tied for second place. * [VN] The scores are tied at 33. * Last night’s vote was tied.\n  music\n  8  to join notes with a tie\nsee also TONGUE-TIED\n IDIOMS \n  tie sb / yourself (up) in knots to become or make sb very confused:\nI got myself tied up in knots when I tried to explain the legal system to them.\n  tie one on (old-fashioned, AmE, slang) to get very drunk\n  tie the knot (informal) to get married\nmore at APRON, HAND n.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  tie sb down (to sth / to doing sth) to restrict sb’s freedom, for example by making them accept particular conditions or by keeping them busy:\nKids tie you down, don’t they? * I don’t want to tie myself down to coming back on a particular date.\n  tie in (with sth) to match or agree with sth:\nThis evidence ties in closely with what we already know.\n  tie in (with sth) | tie sth<->in (with sth) to link sth or be linked to sth; to happen, or arrange for sth to happen, at the same time as sth else:\nThe concert will tie in with the festival of dance taking place the same weekend.\nrelated noun TIE-IN\n  tie sth<->off to put a knot in the end of sth; to close sth with string, thread, etc:\nto tie off a rope * to tie off an artery\n  tie up | tie sth<->up\n1 to attach a boat to a fixed object with a rope:\nWe tied up alongside the quay. * We tied the boat up.\n2 to close sth with a knot; to be closed or fastened with a knot:\nto tie up a garbage bag * I’m so fat my bathrobe won’t tie up!\n  tie sb<->up\n1 to tie sb’s arms and legs tightly so that they cannot move or escape:\nThe gang tied up a security guard.\n2 [usually passive] to keep sb busy so that they have no time for other things:\nI’m tied up in a meeting until 3.\n  tie sth<->up\n1 to attach an animal to sth with a rope, chain, etc:\nHe left his dog tied up to a tree.\n2 [usually passive] to connect or link sth to sth else:\nHer behaviour is tied up with her feelings of guilt.\nrelated noun TIE-UP\n3 [often passive] to invest money so that it is not easily available for use:\nMost of the capital is tied up in property.\n4 to deal with all the remaining details of sth:\nWe are hoping to tie up the deal by tomorrow. * I went into the office for an hour to tie up any loose ends (= finish remaining small jobs).\n    noun\n  clothes\n \n  1  (AmE also necktie) a long narrow piece of fabric worn around the neck, especially by men, with a knot in front:\na collar and tie * a striped silk tie\nsee also BLACK TIE, BOW TIE, OLD SCHOOL TIE, WHITE TIE\n \n  for fastening\n \n  2  a piece of string or wire used for fastening or tying sth:\nties for closing plastic bags\n \n  connection\n  3  [usually pl.] a strong connection between people or organizations:\nfamily ties * the ties of friendship * economic / diplomatic ties * The firm has close ties with an American corporation. * personal / emotional ties * Both sides agreed to strengthen political ties. * Although he was raised as a Roman Catholic, he has cut his ties with the Church.\n  restriction\n  4  a thing that limits sb’s freedom of action:\nHe was still a young man and he did not want any ties.\n  in game / competition\n  5  a situation in a game or competition when two or more players have the same score:\nThe match ended in a tie.\ncompare DRAW n. (2)\n  6  (BrE) a sports match, especially a football match, that is part of a larger competition:\nthe first leg of the Cup tie between Leeds and Roma\n  music\n  7  a curved line written over two notes of the same PITCH (how high or low a note is) to show that they are to be played or sung as one note\n  on railway\n  8  (AmE) = SLEEPER (5)


Words: tie-dye
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] to make patterns on fabric by tying knots in it or tying string around it before you put it in a DYE, so that some parts receive more colour than others


Words: tie-in
Meaning:
noun\na product such as a book or toy that is connected with a new film/movie, television programme, etc.


Words: tie-up
Meaning:
noun\n  1  ~ (with sb/sth) (BrE) an agreement between two companies to join together:\nThey’re negotiating a tie-up with Ford.\n  2  ~ (between A and B) (BrE) a connection between two or more things:\na tie-up between politics and economics\n  3  (especially AmE) a situation in which sth stops working or moving forward:\na traffic tie-up


Words: tiebreak
Meaning:
(BrE) (AmE tiebreaker) noun\n(in tennis) a period of extra play to decide who is the winner of a SET when both players have won six games:\nThe first set was won on a tiebreak. * Sampras won the tiebreak 7-5.


Words: tiebreaker
Meaning:
noun\n  1  (AmE) = TIEBREAK\n  2  an extra question in a competition to decide who is the winner when two or more competitors have equal scores:\nWrite a tiebreaker slogan saying why you would like to visit New York.


Words: tied
Meaning:
adjective\n[only before noun] (BrE) (of a house) rented to sb on the condition that they work for the owner:\na tied cottage on a farm


Words: tied house
Meaning:
noun\n(BrE) a pub that is owned by a particular BREWERY (= a company that produces beer) and that sells only the beer which that brewery produces\ncompare FREE HOUSE


Words: tier
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  a row or layer of sth that has several rows or layers placed one above the other:\na wedding cake with three tiers * The seating is arranged in tiers.\n \n  2  one of several levels in an organization or a system:\nWe have introduced an extra tier of administration. * a two-tier system of management


Words: tiered
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  arranged in tiers:\ntiered seating * a tiered wedding cake * a tiered interest rate structure\n  2  (-tiered) (in compounds) having the number of tiers mentioned:\na two-tiered system


Words: tiger
Meaning:
noun\na large wild animal of the cat family, that has yellowish fur with black lines (= STRIPES) and lives in parts of Asia:\nShe fought like a tiger to be able to keep her children.\ncompare TIGRESS\nsee also PAPER TIGER


Words: tigerish
Meaning:
adjective\nlike a tiger, especially in being fierce or showing great energy:\nShe continued her tigerish pacing of the room.


Words: tight
Meaning:
adjective, adverb \n \n    adjective (tighter, tightest)\n \n  fixed firmly\n \n  1  held or fixed in position firmly; difficult to move or undo:\nHe kept a tight grip on her arm. * She twisted her hair into a tight knot. * The screw was so tight that it wouldn’t move.\n \n  clothes\n \n  2  fitting closely to your body and sometimes uncomfortable:\nShe was wearing a tight pair of jeans. * These shoes are much too tight. * The new sweater was a tight fit.\nOPP LOOSE\nsee also SKINTIGHT\n  control\n  3  very strict and firm:\nto exercise / keep tight control over sb/sth * We need tighter security at the airport.\n  stretched\n  4  stretched or pulled so that it cannot stretch much further:\nThe rope was stretched tight.\n  close together\n  5  [usually before noun] with things or people packed closely together, leaving little space between them:\nThere was a tight group of people around the speaker. * With six of us in the car it was a tight squeeze.\n  money / time\n  6  difficult to manage with because there is not enough:\nWe have a very tight budget. * The president has a tight schedule today. * The deadline for finishing the project is too tight (= too soon).\n  expression / voice\n  7  looking or sounding anxious, upset, angry, etc:\n’I’m sorry,’ she said, with a tight smile.\nsee also UPTIGHT\n  part of body\n  8  feeling painful or uncomfortable because of illness or emotion:\nHe complained of having a tight chest. * Her throat felt tight, just looking at her baby.\n  relationship\n  9  having a close relationship with sb else or with other people:\nIt was a tight community and newcomers were not welcome.\nsee also TIGHT-KNIT\n  bend / curve\n  10  curving suddenly rather than gradually:\nThe driver slowed down at a tight bend in the road. * The plane flew around in a tight circle.\n  contest / race\n  11  with competitors or teams that seem to be equally good\nSYN CLOSE:\na tight race / game\n  not generous\n  12  (BrE, informal, disapproving) not wanting to spend much money; not generous:\nHe’s very tight with his money.\n  drunk\n  13  [not usually before noun] (old-fashioned, BrE, informal) drunk\n  -tight\n  14  (in compounds) not allowing the substance mentioned to enter:\nmeasures to make your home weathertight\nsee also AIRTIGHT, WATERTIGHT\n    tightness noun [U] \n IDIOMS \n  to keep a tight rein on sb/sth to control sb/sth carefully or strictly:\nIt’s essential to keep a tight rein on public spending.\n  run a tight ship to organize sth in a very efficient way, controlling other people very closely\n  a tight spot / corner a very difficult or dangerous situation:\nShe’ll always help if you’re in a tight spot.\n    adverb (tighter, tightest) closely and firmly; tightly:\nHold tight! * My suitcase was packed tight. * His fists were clenched tight.\n IDIOMS  see SIT, SLEEP v.\n______________________________\n WHICH WORD? \ntight / tightly\nTight and tightly are both adverbs that come from the adjective tight. They have the same meaning, but tight is often used instead of tightly after a verb, especially in informal language, and in compounds: packed tight * a tight-fitting lid. Before a past participle tightly is used: clusters of tightly packed flowers.\n______________________________


Words: tight-fitting
Meaning:
adjective\nthat fits very tightly or closely:\na tight-fitting skirt * Cover the dish with a tight-fitting lid and cook for 1 hour.


Words: tight-knit
Meaning:
(also tightly-knit) adjective\n(of a family or community) with all the members having strong friendly relationships with one another:\na tight-knit mining community


Words: tight-lipped
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  not willing to talk about sth:\nDespite the rumours, government officials remained tight-lipped today.\n  2  keeping your lips pressed firmly together, especially because you are angry about sth:\nHe marched out of the room tight-lipped and white-faced. * a tight-lipped reply


Words: tighten
Meaning:
verb ~ (sth) (up)\n  1  to become or make sth become tight or tighter:\n[V] The rope holding the boat suddenly tightened and broke. * His mouth tightened into a thin line. * [VN] to tighten a lid / screw / rope / knot * The nuts weren’t properly tightened and the wheel came off. * She tightened her grip on his arm. * The brake cable needs tightening up.\n  2  [VN] to make sth become stricter:\nto tighten security / regulations / rules * The government is to tighten controls on the sale of alcohol.\nOPP LOOSEN\n IDIOMS \n  tighten your belt to spend less money because there is less available:\nWith price increases on most goods, everyone is having to tighten their belt. * There is a need for further belt-tightening.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  tighten up (on sth) to become stricter or more careful:\nLaws on gambling have tightened up recently. * The police are tightening up on under-age drinking.


Words: tightly
Meaning:
adverb\nclosely and firmly; in a tight manner:\nHer eyes were tightly closed. * He held on tightly to her arm. * a tightly packed crowd of tourists -> TIGHT


Words: tightrope
Meaning:
noun\na rope or wire that is stretched tightly high above the ground and that performers walk along, especially in a CIRCUS:\na tightrope walker\n IDIOMS \n  tread / walk a tightrope to be in a difficult situation in which you do not have much freedom of action and need to be extremely careful about what you do:\nThe government is walking a difficult tightrope in wanting to reduce interest rates without pushing up inflation.


Words: tights
Meaning:
noun [pl.]\n \n  1  (BrE) (AmE pantyhose) a piece of clothing made of very thin fabric that fits closely over a woman’s hips, legs and feet:\na pair of tights\ncompare STOCKING\n \n  2  a piece of clothing similar to tights but made of thicker fabric, worn especially by dancers


Words: tilde
Meaning:
noun\n  1  the mark (  ) placed over letters in some languages and some vowels in the International Phonetic Alphabet to show how they should be pronounced, as in Espana, Sao Paulo and penchant  \ncompare ACUTE ACCENT, CIRCUMFLEX, GRAVE, UMLAUT\n  2  the mark (  ) used in this dictionary in some parts of an entry to represent the word in dark type at the top of the entry


Words: tile
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n\n \n  1  a flat, usually square, piece of baked clay, carpet or other material that is used in rows for covering walls and floors:\nceramic floor tiles * carpet tiles\n \n  2  a piece of baked clay that is used in rows for covering roofs:\nWe lost a few tiles in the storm.\n \n  3  any of the small flat pieces that are used in particular board games\n \n IDIOMS  see NIGHT\n    verb [VN] \n  1  to cover a surface with tiles:\na tiled bathroom / roof\n  2  (computing) to arrange several windows on a computer screen so that they fill the screen but do not cover each other


Words: till
Meaning:
conjunction, preposition, noun, verb \n    conjunction, preposition = UNTIL:\nWe’re open till 6 o’clock. * Can’t you wait till we get home? * Just wait till you see it. It’s great.\n HELP NOTE  Till is generally felt to be more informal than until and is used much less often in writing. At the beginning of a sentence, until is usually used.\n    noun\n\n \n  1  (BrE) = CASH REGISTER\n \n  2  (BrE, informal) the place where you pay for goods in a large shop/store:\nPlease pay at the till. * a long queue at the till\n \n  3  (especially AmE) the drawer where the money is put in a CASH REGISTER\n \n IDIOMS  see FINGER n.\n    verb [VN] (old use) to prepare and use land for growing crops


Words: tillage
Meaning:
noun [U] (old-fashioned)\n  1  the process of preparing and using land for growing crops\n  2  land that is used for growing crops


Words: tilt
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb\n  1  [usually +adv./prep.] to move, or make sth move, into a position with one side or end higher than the other:\n[V] Suddenly the boat tilted to one side * The seat tilts forward, when you press this lever. * [VN] His hat was tilted slightly at an angle. * She tilted her head back and looked up at me with a smile.\n  2  to make sth/sb change slightly so that one particular opinion, person, etc. is preferred or more likely to succeed than another; to change in this way:\n[VN] The hot conditions may tilt the balance in favour of the Kenyan runners. * [V] Popular opinion has tilted in favour of the socialists.\n IDIOMS \n  tilt at windmills to waste your energy attacking imaginary enemies\n ORIGIN  From Cervantes’ Don Quixote, in which the hero thought that the windmills he saw were giants and tried to fight them.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  tilt at sb/sth (BrE) to attack sb/sth in speech or writing:\na satirical magazine tilting at public figures\n  tilt at sth (BrE) to try to win sth:\nHe was tilting at the top prize.\n    noun\n  1  a position in which one end or side of sth is higher than the other; an act of tilting sth to one side:\nThe table is at a slight tilt. * He answered with a tilt of his head.\n  2  an attempt to win sth or defeat sb:\nShe aims to have a tilt at the world championship next year.\n IDIOMS \n  (at) full tilt / pelt as fast as possible


Words: timber
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [U] trees that are grown to be used in building or for making things:\nthe timber industry\n  2  [U] (especially BrE) (AmE usually lumber) wood that is prepared for use in building, etc:\nhouses built of timber\n  3  [C, usually pl.] a wooden beam used in building a house or ship:\nroof timbers\n  4  (timber!) used to warn people that a tree that has been cut is about to fall


Words: timbered
Meaning:
adjective\nbuilt of wooden beams; with a FRAMEWORK of wooden beams:\na timbered cottage\nsee also HALF-TIMBERED


Words: timbre
Meaning:
noun\n(formal) the quality of sound that is produced by a particular voice or musical instrument:\nthe deep timbre of his voice


Words: time
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun-see also TIMES\n  minutes / hours / years, etc.\n  1  [U] what is measured in minutes, hours, days, etc:\nThe changing seasons mark the passing of time. * A visit to the museum will take you back in time to the 1930s. * time and space * As time went by we saw less and less of each other. * Perceptions change over time (= as time passes). * They say that time heals all wounds.\n  2  [U] the time shown on a clock in minutes and hours:\nWhat time is it / What’s the time? * (BrE) What time do you make it? * (AmE) What time do you have? * Do you have the time? * The time is now half past ten. * (BrE) Can she tell the time yet (= say what time it is by looking at a clock)? * (AmE) Can she tell time yet? * My watch keeps perfect time (= always shows the correct time). * Look at the time! We’ll be late. * This time tomorrow I’ll be in Canada.\n  3  [U] the time measured in a particular part of the world:\nGreenwich Mean Time * 6 o’clock local time\nsee also STANDARD TIME, SUMMER TIME\n  4  [U, C] ~ (to do sth) | ~ (for sth) the time when sth happens or when sth should happen:\nWhat time do you finish work? * The baby loves bath time. * I think it’s time to go to bed. * It’s time the kids were in bed. * It’s time for lunch. * A computer screen shows arrival and departure times. * The train arrived right on time (= at exactly the correct time). * By the time you get there the meeting will be over. * You’ll feel differently about it when the time comes (= when it happens). * Have I called at a bad time? Shall I call back later? * This is hardly the time to discuss politics. * The promotion came at just the right time for me. * We stock six different beers at any one time.\nsee also ANY TIME, CLOSING TIME, NIGHT-TIME, OPENING TIME\n  period\n  5  [U] ~ to do sth an amount of time; the amount of time available to work, rest, etc:\nAllow plenty of time to get to the airport. * He spends most of his time working. * She doesn’t have much free / spare time. * I can probably make the time to see them. * Sorry, I can’t spare the time. * What a waste of time! * We have no time to lose (= we must hurry). * It takes time to make changes in the law. * I didn’t finish the test-I ran out of time. * Time’s up-have you worked out the answer yet? * He never takes any time off (= time spent not working). * Jane’s worked here for some time (= for a fairly long period of time). * Do you take time out for yourself at least once a day? * Do it now please-not in three hours’ time (= three hours from now). * The journey time is two hours. * I don’t want to take up too much of your precious time. * What’s the hurry? We have all the time in the world. * We got to the airport with time to spare.\n  6  (a time) [sing.] a period of time, either long or short, during which you do sth or sth happens:\nHis injuries will take a long time to heal. * Did you have to wait a long time to see the doctor? * I lived in Egypt for a time. * The early morning is the best time of day. * Her parents died a long time ago. * At one time (= at a period of time in the past) Emily was my best friend. * Mr Curtis was the manager in my time (= when I was working there).\n  7  [U, pl.] a period of history connected with particular events or experiences in people’s lives:\nThe movie is set at the time of the Russian revolution. * in ancient / Victorian times * the violent times we live in (= the present period of history) * the politician who promised ’peace in our time’ * Times are hard for the unemployed. * Times have changed since Grandma was young. * At some time in the future there will be a cure for Aids.\nsee also OLD-TIME\n  occasion / event\n  8  [C] an occasion when you do sth or when sth happens:\nEvery time I hear that song I feel happy. * It doesn’t matter if you don’t win every time (= every time you play). * Next time you’re here let’s have lunch together. * He failed his driving test three times. * He’s determined to pass this time. * When was the last time you saw her? * (spoken) How many times (= how often) do I have to tell you not to do that? * (especially AmE) I remember one time (= once) we had to abandon our car in the snow. * (formal) At no time did I give my consent to the plan.\n HELP NOTE  To talk about the first or the last time you do sth, use the first / last time (that) I ...: This is the first time (that) I’ve been to London. * _T_h_i_s_ _i_s_ _t_h_e_ _f_i_r_s_t_ _t_i_m_e_ _f_o_r_ _m_e_ _t_o_ _g_o_ _t_o_ _L_o_n_d_o_n_. * That was the last time (that) I saw her.\n  9  [C] an event or occasion that you experience in a particular way:\nDid you have a good time in Spain? * I had an awful time in the hospital. * Mike and I shared some really good times.\n  for race\n  10  [C, U] how long sb takes to run a race or complete an event:\nThe winner’s time was 11.6 seconds. * She completed the 500 metres in record time (= faster than any previous runner). * one of the fastest times this year\n  in music\n  11  [U] the number of BEATS in a BAR of music:\nThis piece is in four-four time. * a slow waltz time * The conductor beat time with a baton.\n  12  [U] the correct speed and rhythm of a piece of music:\nTry and dance in time to the music (= with the same speed and rhythm). * Clap your hands to keep time (= sing or play with the correct speed and rhythm). * to play in / out of time (= follow / not follow the correct speed and rhythm) * He always plays in perfect time.\nsee also BIG TIME, SMALL-TIME\n IDIOMS \n  (and) about time (too) | (and) not before time (spoken) used to say that sth should have happened before now\n  against time if you do sth against time, you do it as fast as you can because you do not have much time:\nThey’re working against time to try and get people out of the rubble alive.\n  ahead of / behind time earlier/later than was expected:\nWe finished 15 minutes ahead of time.\n  ahead of your time having advanced or new ideas that other people use or copy later\n  all the time | the whole time\n1 during the whole of a particular period of time:\nThe letter was in my pocket all the time (= while I was looking for it).\n2 very often; repeatedly:\nShe leaves the lights on all the time.\n  at all times always:\nOur representatives are ready to help you at all times.\n  at the best of times even when the circumstances are very good:\nHe’s never very happy at the best of times-he’ll be much worse now!\n  at the same time\n1 at one time; together:\nShe was laughing and crying at the same time.\n2 used to introduce a contrasting fact, etc. that must be considered:\nYou have to be firm, but at the same time you should try and be sympathetic.\n  at a time separately or in groups of two, three, etc. on each occasion:\nWe had to go and see the principal one at a time. * She ran up the stairs two at a time.\n  at my, your, his, etc. time of life at the age you are (especially when you are not young):\nEyesight doesn’t get any better at my time of life.\n  at times sometimes:\nHe can be really bad-tempered at times. * The rain will become heavy at times in the afternoon.\n  before my, your, his, etc. time\n1 happening before you were born or can remember or before you lived, worked, etc. somewhere:\n’Were you taught by Professor Pascal?’ ’No, he was before my time.’\n2 before the usual time in sb’s life when sth happens:\nShe got old before her time.\n  behind the times old-fashioned in your ideas, methods, etc.\n  do time (informal) to spend time in prison\n  every time whenever there is a choice:\nI don’t really like cities-give me the countryside every time.\n  for the time being for a short period of time but not permanently:\nYou can leave your suitcase here for the time being.\n  from time to time occasionally but not regularly:\nShe has to work at weekends from time to time.\n  have a lot of time for sb/sth (informal, especially BrE) to like and be interested in sb/sth:\nI’ve always had a lot of time for Mary.\n  have no time for sb/sth | not have much time for sb/sth (informal) to dislike sb/sth:\nI have no time for lazy people like Steve.\n  have the time of your life (informal) to enjoy yourself very much\n  have time on your hands | have time to kill (informal) to have nothing to do or not be busy\n  in good time early; with enough time so that you are not in a hurry\n  (all) in good time (spoken) used to say that sth will be done or will happen at the appropriate time and not before:\nBe patient, Emily! All in good time.\n  in (less than / next to) no time so soon or so quickly that it is surprising:\nThe kids will be leaving home in no time.\n  in time after a period of time when a situation has changed:\nThey learned to accept their stepmother in time.\n  in time (for sth / to do sth) not late; with enough time to be able to do sth:\nWill we be in time for the six o’clock train? * The ambulance got there just in time (= to save sb’s life).\n  in your own (good) time (informal) when you are ready and not sooner:\nDon’t hassle him! He’ll do it in his own good time.\n  in your own time in your free time and not when you usually work or study\n  it’s about / high time (spoken) used to say that you think sb should do sth soon:\nIt’s about time you cleaned your room!\n  keep up / move with the times to change and develop your ideas, way of working, etc. so that you do what is modern and what is expected\n  make good, etc. time to complete a journey quickly:\nWe made excellent time and arrived in Spain in two days.\n  many a time | many’s the time (that) ... (old-fashioned) many times; frequently\n  nine times out of ten | ninety-nine times out of a hundred used to say that sth is usually true or almost always happens:\nNine times out of ten she gives the right answer.\n  (and) not before time = (AND) ABOUT TIME (TOO)\n  (there is) no time like the present (saying) now is the best time to do sth, not in the future\n  of all time that has ever existed:\nMany rated him the best singer of all time.\nsee also ALL-TIME\n  take your time (over sth) | take your time to do sth / doing sth\n1 to use as much time as you need without hurrying:\nThere’s no rush-take your time.\n2 used to say you think sb is late or is too slow in doing sth:\nYou certainly took your time getting here!\n  time after time | time and (time) again often; on many or all occasions:\nYou will get a perfect result time after time if you follow these instructions.\n  time and a half one and a half times the usual rate of pay:\nWe get time and a half on Sundays.\nsee also DOUBLE TIME\n  time is on your side used to say that sb can wait for sth to happen or can wait before doing sth\n  (the) next, first, second, etc. time round on the next, first, etc. occasion that the same thing happens:\nHe repeated none of the errors he’d made first time round. * This time round it was not so easy.\n  time was (when) ... (old-fashioned) used to say that sth used to happen in the past:\nTime was when you could go for a walk in the country and not see another person for miles.\n  time (alone) will tell | only time will tell used to say that you will have to wait for some time to find out the result of a situation:\nOnly time will tell if the treatment has been successful.\n  the whole time = ALL THE TIME\nmore at BEAT v., BIDE, BORROW, BUY v., CALL v., COURSE n., DAY, DEVIL, EASY adj., FORTH, FULLNESS, GAIN v., GIVE v., HARD adj., HIGH adj., KILL v., LONG adj., LOST adj., LUCK n., MARK v., MATTER n., MOVE v., NICK n., OLD, ONCE adv., PASS v., RACE n., SIGN n., STITCH n., SWEET adj., THIN adj., THIRD, WHALE\n    verb\n  arrange time\n  1  [often passive] to arrange to do sth or arrange for sth to happen at a particular time:\n[VN] She timed her arrival for shortly after 3. * Their request was badly timed (= it was made at the wrong time). * ’I hope we’re not too early.’ ’You couldn’t have timed it better!’ * [VN to inf] Publication of his biography was timed to coincide with his 70th birthday celebrations.\n  measure time\n  2  to measure how long it takes for sth to happen or for sb to do sth:\n[VN] The winner was timed at 20.4 seconds. * ’How long does it take to get to Leeds from here?’ ’I don’t know, I’ve never timed it.’ * [V wh-] Time how long it takes you to answer the questions.\n  in sport\n  3  [VN] to hit or kick a ball at a particular moment in a sports game:\nShe timed the pass perfectly. * a beautifully timed shot\nsee also ILL-TIMED, MISTIME, TIMING, WELL TIMED


Words: time bomb
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a bomb that can be set to explode at a particular time\n  2  a situation that is likely to cause serious problems in the future:\nRising unemployment is a political time bomb for the government.


Words: time capsule
Meaning:
noun\na container that is filled with objects that people think are typical of the time they are living in. It is buried so that it can be discovered by people in the future.


Words: time card
Meaning:
noun\n(especially AmE) a piece of card on which the number of hours that sb has worked are recorded, usually by a machine


Words: time frame
Meaning:
noun\nthe length of time that is used or available for sth:\nWe expect to complete the project within a fairly short time frame.


Words: time lag
Meaning:
(also lag, time lapse) noun\nthe period of time between two connected events:\nThere is a long time lag between when I do the work and when I get paid.


Words: time limit
Meaning:
noun\nthe length of time within which you must do or complete sth:\nWe have to set a time limit for the work. * The work must be completed within a certain time limit.


Words: time machine
Meaning:
noun\n(in SCIENCE FICTION stories) a machine that enables you to travel in time to the past or the future


Words: time signal
Meaning:
noun\na sound or sounds that show the exact time of day, especially a series of short high sounds that are broadcast on the radio


Words: time signature
Meaning:
noun\n(music) a sign at the start of a piece of music, usually in the form of numbers, showing the number of beats in each BAR/MEASURE


Words: time switch
Meaning:
noun\na switch that can be set to start and stop working automatically at a particular time:\nThe heating is on a time switch.


Words: time trial
Meaning:
noun\n(in CYCLE RACING and some other sports) a race in which competitors race on their own in as fast a time as possible, instead of racing against each other at the same time


Words: time warp
Meaning:
noun\nan imaginary situation, described, for example, in SCIENCE FICTION, in which it is possible for people or things from the past or the future to move to the present\n IDIOMS \n  be (stuck) in a time warp not having changed at all from a time in the past although everything else has:\nHer whole house seems to be stuck in a time warp. It’s like something out of the 1950s.


Words: time zone
Meaning:
noun\none of the 24 areas that the world is divided into, each with its own time that is one hour earlier than that of the time zone immediately to the east:\na flight crossing several time zones


Words: time-honoured
Meaning:
(BrE) (AmE time-honored) adjective\n(written) respected because it has been used or done for a long time:\nThey showed their approval in the time-honoured way (= by cheering, for example).


Words: time-lapse
Meaning:
adjective\n[only before noun] (of photography) using a method in which a series of individual pictures of a process are shown together so that sth that really happens very slowly is shown as happening very quickly:\na time-lapse sequence of a flower opening


Words: time-saving
Meaning:
adjective\n[usually before noun] that reduces the amount of time it takes to do sth:\ntime-saving devices


Words: time-server
Meaning:
noun\n(disapproving) a person who does as little work as possible in their job because they are just waiting until they leave for another job or RETIRE (= finish work completely)\n    time-serving adjective, noun:\ntime-serving bureaucrats


Words: timekeeper
Meaning:
noun\na person who records the time that is spent doing sth, for example at work or at a sports event\n IDIOMS \n  be a good / bad timekeeper to be regularly on time/late for work


Words: timekeeping
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a person’s ability to arrive in time for things, especially work:\nPoor timekeeping and absenteeism will not be tolerated.\n  2  the activity of recording the time sth takes:\nIn 1967 the rotation of the earth was abandoned as the basic source of timekeeping.


Words: timeless
Meaning:
adjective (formal or written)\n  1  not appearing to be affected by the passing of time or by changes in fashion:\nher timeless beauty * His work has a timeless quality. * The whole valley seemed to be under a spell, in a timeless past unaffected by world events.\n  2  existing or continuing for ever:\ntimeless eternity\n    timelessly adverb\n    timelessness noun [U]


Words: timely
Meaning:
adjective\nhappening at exactly the right time:\nA nasty incident was prevented by the timely arrival of the police. * This has been a timely reminder to us all. * I was grateful for your timely intervention.\nOPP UNTIMELY\n    timeliness noun [U]


Words: timer
Meaning:
noun\n(often in compounds) a device that is used to measure the time that sth takes; a device that starts or stops a machine working at a particular time:\nan oven timer\nsee also EGG TIMER, OLD-TIMER


Words: times
Meaning:
1  preposition (informal) multiplied by:\nFive times two is / equals ten (= 5 ﾗ 2 = 10).\n  2  noun [pl.] used in comparisons to show how much more, better, etc. sth is than sth else:\nthree times as long as sth * three times longer than sth * three times the length of sth


Words: timescale
Meaning:
noun\nthe period of time that it takes for sth to happen or be completed:\nWhat’s the timescale for the project? * a tight / short timescale * We hope the negotiations will be completed within a six-month timescale.


Words: timeshare
Meaning:
noun\n  1  (also time-sharing) [U] an arrangement in which several people own a holiday/vacation home together and each uses it at a different time of the year:\ntimeshare apartments\n  2  [C] a holiday/vacation home that you own in this way:\nThey have a timeshare in Spain.


Words: timetable
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n\n \n  1  (especially BrE) (AmE usually schedule) a list showing the times at which particular events will happen:\na bus / train timetable (= when they arrive and leave) * We have a new timetable each term (= showing the times of each class in school). * Sport is no longer so important in the school timetable (= all the subjects that are taught at schools).\n \n  2  a plan of when you expect or hope particular events to happen\nSYN SCHEDULE:\nI have a busy timetable this week (= I have planned to do many things). * The government has set out its timetable for the peace talks. -> AGENDA\n    verb [VN] [usually passive] (especially BrE) to arrange for sth to take place at a particular time\nSYN SCHEDULE:\nA series of discussion groups have been timetabled for the afternoons. * Arts students have fewer timetabled hours (= classes arranged with a teacher) than science students.\n    timetabling noun [U]:\nEach head of department is responsible for the timetabling of courses.


Words: timid
Meaning:
adjective\nshy and nervous; not brave:\nHe stopped in the doorway, too timid to go in. * They’ve been rather timid in the changes they’ve made (= they’ve been afraid to make any big changes). * ’May I come in?’ she asked in a timid voice. * Deer are naturally timid creatures.\n    timidity  noun [U]\n    timidly adverb


Words: timing
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [U, C] the act of choosing when sth happens; a particular point or period of time when sth happens or is planned:\nThe timing of the decision was a complete surprise. * (written) Please check your flight timings carefully.\n  2  [U] the skill of doing sth at exactly the right time:\nan actor with a great sense of comic timing * Your timing is perfect. I was just about to call you.\n  3  [U] the repeated rhythm of sth; the skill of producing this:\nShe played the piano confidently but her timing was not good.\n  4  [U] (technical) the rate at which an electric SPARK is produced in a vehicle’s engine in order to make it work


Words: timorous
Meaning:
adjective\n(formal or literary) nervous and easily frightened:\n’Who’s that?’ asked a timorous voice.\n    timorously adverb


Words: timpani
Meaning:
noun\n[pl.] a set of large metal drums (also called KETTLEDRUMS) in an orchestra\n    timpanist noun


Words: tin
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  [U] (Symbol Sn) a chemical element. Tin is a soft silver-white metal that is often mixed with other metals or used to cover them to prevent them from RUSTING:\na tin mine * a tin box\n \n  2  [C] (also tin can) (both BrE) (also can AmE, BrE) ~ (of sth) a metal container in which food and drink is sold; the contents of one of these containers:\na tin of beans / soup * Next, add two tins of tomatoes.\n \n  3  [C] (BrE) (also can AmE, BrE) ~ (of sth) a metal container with circular ends, straight sides and a lid in which paint, glue, etc. is sold and stored; the contents of one of these containers:\na tin of varnish * The bedroom needed three tins of paint (= in order to paint it).\n \n  4  [C] a metal container with a lid used for keeping food in:\na biscuit / cake / cookie tin\n  5  [C] (BrE) (AmE pan) a metal container used for cooking food in:\na roasting / cake tin


Words: tin whistle
Meaning:
(also penny whistle) noun\na simple musical instrument like a short pipe with six holes, that you play by blowing


Words: tincture
Meaning:
noun\n[C, U] (technical) a substance dissolved in alcohol for use as a medicine:\na tincture of morphine * medicine given in powder or tincture form


Words: tinder
Meaning:
noun\n[U] dry material, especially wood or grass, that burns easily and can be used to light a fire:\nThe fire started late Saturday in tinder-dry grass near the Snake River.


Words: tinderbox
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a box containing dry material, used in the past for lighting a fire\n  2  (written) a situation that is likely to become dangerous:\nIt was clearly a tinderbox situation with demonstrators likely to become violent at any moment.


Words: tinfoil
Meaning:
noun\n[U] metal made into very thin sheets, that is used for wrapping food, etc:\nCover with tinfoil and bake for 20 minutes.


Words: tinge
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb [VN] [usually passive] ~ sth (with sth)\n  1  to add a small amount of colour to sth:\nwhite petals tinged with blue * Pink tinged her pale cheeks.\n  2  to add a small amount of a particular emotion or quality to sth:\na look of surprise tinged with disapproval * Sadness tinged his voice.\n    noun [usually sing.] a small amount of a colour, feeling or quality:\nto feel a tinge of envy / regret / sadness * There was a faint pink tinge to the sky.


Words: tingle
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb [V] \n  1  (of a part of your body) to feel as if a lot of small sharp points are pushing into it:\nThe cold air made her face tingle. * a tingling sensation\n  2  ~ with sth to feel an emotion strongly:\nShe was still tingling with excitement.\n    noun [usually sing.]\n  1  a slight stinging or uncomfortable feeling in a part of your body:\nAs she warmed her hands by the fire, she felt a tingle in her fingers.\n  2  an exciting or uncomfortable feeling of emotion:\nto feel a tingle of anticipation / excitement / fear


Words: tinker
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun (in the past) a person who travelled from place to place, selling or repairing things\n IDIOMS \n  not give a tinker’s cuss (BrE) (AmE not give a tinker’s damn) (slang) to not care about sth at all\n    verb [V] ~ (with sth) to make small changes to sth in order to repair or improve it, especially in a way that may not be helpful:\nHe’s in the garage tinkering with his bike. * The password will prevent others from tinkering with your data. * The government is merely tinkering at the edges of a much wider problem.


Words: tinkle
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun [usually sing.]\n  1  (also tinkling [sing., U]) a light high ringing sound:\nthe tinkle of glass breaking\n  2  (old-fashioned, BrE, informal) a telephone call\n  3  (BrE, informal) an act of URINATING:\nto have a tinkle\n    verb to make a series of light high ringing sounds; to make sth produce this sound: [V] A bell tinkled as the door opened. * Water tinkled in the fountains. * tinkling laughter [also VN]


Words: tinned
Meaning:
(BrE) (also canned AmE, BrE) adjective\n[usually before noun] (of food) preserved in a can:\ntinned fruit / soup


Words: tinny
Meaning:
adjective\n(disapproving, especially BrE) having a high thin sound like small pieces of metal hitting each other:\ntinny music * a tinny voice / radio


Words: tinpot
Meaning:
adjective\n[only before noun] (BrE, disapproving) (especially of a leader or government) not important and of little worth or use:\na tinpot dictator


Words: Tinseltown
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (informal) a way of referring to Hollywood in California, the centre of the US movie industry


Words: tint
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  1  a shade or small amount of a particular colour; a faint colour covering a surface:\nleaves with red and gold autumn tints * the brownish tint of an old photo\n  2  an artificial colour used to change the colour of your hair; the act of COLOURING the hair with a tint:\na blond tint * to have a tint\n    verb [VN] [usually passive] ~ sth (with sth) to add a small amount of colour to sth:\nShe’s had her eyelashes tinted.\n    tinted adjective [usually before noun]:\ntinted glasses / lenses


Words: tiny
Meaning:
adjective\n(tinier, tiniest) very small in size or amount:\na tiny baby * Only a tiny minority hold such extreme views.\n IDIOMS  see PATTER n.


Words: tip
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  end of sth\n  1  the thin pointed end of sth:\nthe tips of your fingers / toes * the tip of your nose * the northern tip of the island\nsee also FINGERTIP\n  2  a small part that fits on or over the end of sth:\na walking stick with a rubber tip\nsee also FELT-TIP PEN, FILTER TIP\n  advice\n  3  ~ (on / for sth) | ~ (on / for doing sth) a small piece of advice about sth practical:\nhandy tips for buying a computer * useful tips on how to save money\n  4  (informal) a secret or expert piece of advice about what the result of a competition, etc. is likely to be, especially about which horse is likely to win a race:\na hot tip for the big race\n  extra money\n  5  a small amount of extra money that you give to sb, for example sb who serves you in a restaurant:\nto leave a tip * He gave the waiter a generous tip.\n  for rubbish\n  6  (BrE) a place where you can take rubbish/garbage and leave it\n  untidy place\n  7  (BrE, informal, disapproving) an untidy place:\nTheir flat is a tip!\n IDIOMS \n  on the tip of your tongue if a word or name is on the tip of your tongue, you are sure that you know it but you cannot remember it\n  the tip of the iceberg only a small part of a much larger problem:\nThis figure represents only the tip of the iceberg, since as many as 90% of cases go unreported.\n    verb (-pp-)\n  lean / pour / push at an angle\n  1  [usually +adv./prep.] to move so that one end or side is higher than the other; to move sth into this position:\n[V] The boat tipped to one side. * The seat tips forward to allow passengers into the back. * [VN] She tipped her head back and laughed loudly. * His hat was tipped over his forehead. * He tipped the wheelbarrow on its side.\n  2  [VN +adv./prep.] to make sth/sb come out of a container or its/their position by holding or lifting it/them at an angle:\nShe tipped the dirty water down the drain. * The bus stopped abruptly, nearly tipping me out of my seat.\n  3  [VN +adv./prep.] to touch sth lightly so that it moves in a particular direction:\nThe goalkeeper just managed to tip the ball over the crossbar.\n  leave rubbish\n  4  (BrE) to leave rubbish/garbage somewhere outdoors in order to get rid of it:\n[V] ’No tipping.’ (= for example, on a notice) [also VN]\n  give extra money\n  5  to give sb an extra amount of money to thank them for sth they have done for you as part of their job:\n[V] Americans were always welcome because they tended to tip heavily. * [VN] Did you remember to tip the waiter? * [VNN] She tipped the porter a pound.\n  predict success\n  6  ~ sb/sth (as / for sth) to say in advance that sb/sth will be successful:\n[VN] The band is being tipped for the top. * The senator has been tipped by many as a future president. * [VN to inf] The actor is tipped to win an Oscar for his performance.\n  cover end\n  7  [VN] [usually passive] ~ sth (with sth) to cover the end or edge of sth with a colour, a substance, etc:\nThe wings are tipped with yellow.\n IDIOMS \n  it is / was tipping (it) down (BrE, informal) it is/was raining heavily\n  tip the balance / scales (also swing the balance) to affect the result of sth in one way rather than another:\nIn an interview, smart presentation can tip the scales in your favour. * New evidence tipped the balance against the prosecution.\n  tip your hand (AmE) = show your hand / cards at SHOW v.\n  tip the scales at sth to weigh a particular amount:\nHe tipped the scales at just over 80 kilos.\n  tip sb the wink | tip the wink to sb (BrE, informal) to give sb secret information that they can use to gain an advantage for themselves:\nThere’s no way he would have bought those shares if someone in the company hadn’t tipped him the wink.\nmore at HAT n.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  tip sb<->off (about sth) (informal) to warn sb about sth that is going to happen, especially sth illegal:\nThree men were arrested after police were tipped off about the raid. * [+ that] They were tipped off that he might be living in Wales.\nrelated noun TIP-OFF\n  tip up / over | tip sth<->up / over to fall or turn over; to make sth do this:\nThe mug tipped over, spilling hot coffee everywhere. * We’ll have to tip the sofa up to get it through the door.


Words: tip-off
Meaning:
noun\n(informal) secret information that sb gives, for example to the police, to warn them about an illegal activity that is going to happen:\nThe man was arrested after an anonymous tip-off.


Words: Tipp-Ex
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (BrE) a liquid, usually white, that you use to cover mistakes that you make when you are writing or typing, and that you can write on top of; a type of CORRECTION FLUID\nSYN WITEOUT\n    tippex verb [VN] ~ sth (out):\nI tippexed out the mistakes.


Words: tippet
Meaning:
noun\na long piece of fur worn in the past by a woman around the neck and shoulders, with the ends hanging down in front; a similar piece of clothing worn by judges, priests, etc.


Words: tipple
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun [usually sing.] (informal, especially BrE) an alcoholic drink:\nHis favourite tipple was rum and lemon.\n    verb [V, VN] (informal, especially BrE) to drink alcohol\n    tippler  noun


Words: tipster
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a person who tells you, often in exchange for money, which horse is likely to win a race, so that you can bet on it and win money\n  2  (especially AmE) a person who gives information to the police about a crime or criminal


Words: tiptoe
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n IDIOMS \n  on tiptoe / tiptoes standing or walking on the front part of your foot, with your heels off the ground, in order to make yourself taller or to move very quietly or lightly:\nShe had to stand on tiptoe to reach the top shelf. * We crept around on tiptoes so as not to disturb him.\n    verb [V]   [usually +adv./prep.] to walk using the front parts of your feet only, so that other people cannot hear you:\nI tiptoed over to the window.


Words: tirade
Meaning:
noun\n~ (against sb/sth) a long angry speech criticizing sb/sth or accusing sb of sth:\nShe launched into a tirade of abuse against politicians.


Words: tire
Meaning:
verb, noun \n \n    verb to become tired and feel as if you want to sleep or rest; to make sb feel this way:\n[V] Her legs were beginning to tire. * He has made a good recovery but still tires easily. [also VN] \n \n IDIOMS \n \n  never tire of doing sth to do sth a lot, especially in a way that annoys people:\nHe went to Harvard-as he never tires of reminding us.\n \n PHRASAL VERBS \n \n  tire of sth/sb to become bored with sth/sb or begin to enjoy it/them less:\nThey soon tired of the beach and went for a walk. * She was sure that he would soon tire of her. * There are plenty of restaurants for those who tire of shopping.\n  tire sb / yourself out to make sb/yourself feel very tired:\nThat walk has tired me out. * Pace yourself or you’ll tire yourself out in the first half of the race.\nsee also TIRED\n    noun (AmE) = TYRE


Words: tired
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  feeling that you would like to sleep or rest; needing rest:\nto be / look / feel tired * I’m too tired even to think. * They were cold, hungry and tired out (= very tired). * tired eyes / feet / muscles\n  2  ~ of sb/sth | ~ of doing sth feeling that you have had enough of sb/sth because you no longer find it/them interesting or because they make you angry or unhappy:\nI’m sick and tired of all the arguments. * She was tired of hearing about their trip to India.\n  3  boring because it is too familiar or has been used too much:\nHe always comes out with the same tired old jokes.\n    tiredly adverb:\nHe shook his head tiredly.\n    tiredness noun [U]:\nShe pleaded tiredness and went to bed early.\nsee also DOG-TIRED


Words: tireless
Meaning:
adjective\n(approving) putting a lot of hard work and energy into sth over a long period of time:\na tireless campaigner for human rights * to have tireless energy * She was tireless in her efforts on our behalf.\n    tirelessly adverb:\nHe has worked tirelessly for peace.


Words: tiresome
Meaning:
adjective\nmaking you feel annoyed:\nBuying a house can be a very tiresome business. * The children were being very tiresome. * I developed a tiresome cough that kept me awake all night.\n    tiresomely adverb


Words: tiring
Meaning:
adjective\nmaking you feel the need to sleep or rest:\nIt had been a long tiring day. * Shopping can be very tiring.


Words: tissue
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  [U] (also tissues [pl.]) a mass of cells that form the different parts of humans, animals and plants:\nmuscle / brain / nerve / scar tissue\n \n  2  [C] a piece of soft paper that absorbs liquids, used especially as a HANDKERCHIEF:\na box of tissues\n \n  3  (also tissue paper) [U] very thin paper used for wrapping and packing things that break easily\n \n IDIOMS \n \n  a tissue of lies (literary) a story, an excuse, etc. that is full of lies


Words: tit
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  [usually pl.] (also titty) (!!!, slang) a woman’s breast or NIPPLE\n \n  2  (BrE, slang) a stupid person\n \n  3  a small European bird that eats insects and seeds. There are several types of tit:\na great tit\nsee also BLUE TIT


Words: tit for tat
Meaning:
noun\n[U] a situation in which you do sth bad to sb because they have done the same to you:\nthe routine tit for tat when countries expel each other’s envoys * tit-for-tat assassinations by rival gangs


Words: Titan
Meaning:
(also titan)  noun\n(written) a person who is very large, strong, intelligent or important:\na battle between the titans of American football\n ORIGIN  From the Titans, who in Greek myth were the older gods who were defeated in a battle with Zeus.


Words: titanic
Meaning:
adjective\n(written) very large, important, strong or difficult:\na titanic struggle between good and evil * He has set himself a titanic task: to revive the country’s economy.


Words: titanium
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (Symbol Ti) a chemical element. Titanium is a silver-white metal used in making various strong light materials.


Words: titbit
Meaning:
(BrE) (AmE tidbit) noun\n  1  a small special piece of food:\nShe had saved a few titbits for her cat.\n  2  a small but interesting piece of news:\ntitbits of gossip / information / news


Words: titch
Meaning:
noun\n(BrE, informal often humorous) used as a way of talking about or addressing a very small person


Words: tithe
Meaning:
noun\n(especially in the past) a TENTH or other fixed part of the goods that sb produces or the money that they earn, that they give regularly to help support the Church


Words: titillate
Meaning:
verb\n(often disapproving) to interest or excite sb, especially in a sexual way:\n[V] titillating details / pictures * [VN] a story intended to titillate the imagination of the public * a selection of dishes to titillate your palate\n    titillation  noun [U]:\nnewspaper stories that are intended for titillation, not information


Words: title
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  1  [C] the name of a book, poem, painting, piece of music, etc:\nHis poems were published under the title of ’Love and Reason’. * the title track from their latest CD (= the song with the same title as the disc) * She has sung the title role in ’Carmen’ (= the role of Carmen in that opera).\n  2  [C] a particular book or magazine:\nThe company publishes twenty new titles a year.\n  3  [C] a word in front of a person’s name to show their rank or profession, whether or not they are married, etc:\nThe present duke inherited the title from his father. * Give your name and title (= Mr, Miss, Ms, Dr, etc.). -> NAME\n  4  [C] a name that describes a job:\nThe official title of the job is ’Administrative Assistant’.\n  5  [C] the position of being the winner of a competition, especially a sports competition:\nthe world heavyweight title * a title fight (= in boxing) * She has three world titles.\n  6  [U, C] ~ (to sth / to do sth) (law) the legal right to own sth, especially land or property; the document that shows you have this right:\nHe claims he has title to the land.\n    verb [VN-N] [usually passive] to give a book, piece of music, etc. a particular name:\nTheir first album was titled ’Ocean Drive’.


Words: title-holder
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a person or team that has defeated all the other competitors in an important competition:\nthe current Olympic title-holder\n  2  (AmE, technical) the legal owner of sth


Words: titter
Meaning:
verb\n[V] to laugh quietly, especially in a nervous or embarrassed way\nSYN GIGGLE:\nThere was an embarrassing pause on stage and the audience began to titter.\n    titter noun:\nHis comments raised a titter.


Words: tittle-tattle
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (informal, disapproving) unimportant talk, usually not true, about other people and their lives\nSYN GOSSIP:\nThe story was nothing more than idle tittle-tattle.


Words: titular
Meaning:
adjective\n[only before noun] (formal) having a particular title or status but no real power or authority\nSYN NOMINAL:\nthe titular head of state


Words: tizzy
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] (informal) a state of nervous excitement or confusion:\nShe was in a real tizzy before the meeting.


Words: TLC
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the abbreviation for ’tender loving care’ (care that you give sb to make them feel better):\nWhat he needs now is just rest and a lot of TLC.


Words: TM
Meaning:
abbreviation, noun \n    abbreviation TRADEMARK\n    noun (BrE) (AmE T.M.) [U] the abbreviation for TRANSCENDENTAL MEDITATION


Words: to
Meaning:
preposition, infinitive marker, adverb \n    preposition\n HELP NOTE  For the special uses of to in phrasal verbs, look at the entries for the verbs. For example see to sth is in the phrasal verb section at see.\n  1  in the direction of sth; towards sth:\nI walked to the office. * It fell to the ground. * It was on the way to the station. * He’s going to Paris. * my first visit to Africa * He pointed to something on the opposite bank. * Her childhood was spent travelling from place to place.\n  2  ~ the sth (of sth) situated in the direction mentioned from sth:\nPlace the cursor to the left of the first word. * There are mountains to the north.\n  3  as far as sth:\nThe meadows lead down to the river. * Her hair fell to her waist.\n  4  reaching a particular state:\nThe vegetables were cooked to perfection. * He tore the letter to pieces. * She sang the baby to sleep. * The letter reduced her to tears (= made her cry). * His expression changed from amazement to joy.\n  5  used to show the end or limit of a range or period of time:\na drop in profits from $105 million to around $75 million * I’d say he was 25 to 30 years old (= approximately 25 or 30 years old). * I like all kinds of music from opera to reggae. * We only work from Monday to Friday. * I watched the programme from beginning to end.\n  6  before the start of sth:\nHow long is it to lunch? * (especially BrE) It’s five to ten (= five minutes before ten o’clock).\n  7  used to show the person or thing that receives sth:\nHe gave it to his sister. * I’ll explain to you where everything goes. * I am deeply grateful to my parents. * Who did she address the letter to? * (formal) To whom did she address the letter?\n  8  used to show the person or thing that is affected by an action:\nShe is devoted to her family. * What have you done to your hair?\n  9  used to show that two things are attached or connected:\nAttach this rope to the front of the car.\n  10  used to show a relationship between one person or thing and another:\nShe’s married to an Italian. * the Japanese ambassador to France * the key to the door * the solution to this problem\n  11  directed towards; concerning:\nIt was a threat to world peace. * She made a reference to her recent book.\n  12  used to introduce the second part of a comparison or RATIO:\nI prefer walking to climbing. * The industry today is nothing to what it once was. * We won by six goals to three.\n  13  used to show a quantity or rate:\nThere are 2.54 centimetres to an inch. * This car does 30 miles to the gallon.\ncompare PER\n  14  in honour of sb/sth:\na monument to the soldiers who died in the war * Let’s drink to Julia and her new job.\n  15  while sth else is happening or being done:\nHe left the stage to prolonged applause.\n  16  used after verbs of movement to mean ’with the intention of giving sth’:\nPeople rushed to her rescue and picked her up.\n  17  used to show sb’s attitude or reaction to sth:\nHis music isn’t really to my taste. * To her astonishment, he smiled.\n  18  used to show what sb’s opinion or feeling about sth is:\nIt sounded like crying to me.\n    infinitive marker\n HELP NOTE  To is often used before the base form of a verb to show that the verb is in the infinitive. The infinitive is used after many verbs and also after many nouns and adjectives.\n  1  used to show purpose or intention:\nI set out to buy food. * I am going to tell you a story. * She was determined to do well. * His aim was to become president. * To be honest with you, I don’t remember what he said.\n  2  used to show the result of sth:\nShe managed to escape. * It was too hot to go out. * He couldn’t get close enough to see.\n  3  used to show the cause of sth:\nI’m sorry to hear that.\n  4  used to show an action that you want or are advised to do:\nI’d love to go to France this summer. * The leaflet explains how to apply for a place. * I don’t know what to say.\n HELP NOTE  To can also be used without a verb following when the missing verb is easy to understand: He asked her to come but she said she didn’t want to.\n  5  used to show sth that is known or reported about a particular person or thing:\nThe house was said to be haunted.\n  6  used to show that one action immediately follows another:\nI reached the station only to find that my train had already left.\n  7  am, is, are, was, were ~ used to show that you must or should do sth:\nYou are not to talk during the exam. * She was to be here at 8.30 but she didn’t arrive.\n    adverb (usually of a door) in or into a closed position:\nPush the door to.\nsee also TOING\n IDIOMS \n  to and fro backwards and forwards:\nShe rocked the baby to and fro.\n HELP NOTE  For the special uses of to in phrasal verbs, look at the entries for the verbs. For example set to is in the phrasal verb section at set.


Words: to-do
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] (informal, becoming old-fashioned) unnecessary excitement or anger about sth\nSYN FUSS:\nWhat a to-do! * He made a great to-do about being left off the guest list.


Words: toad
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  a small animal like a FROG but with a drier and less smooth skin, that lives on land but breeds in water (= is an AMPHIBIAN)\n \n  2  (informal, disapproving) an unpleasant person:\nYou repulsive little toad!


Words: toadstool
Meaning:
noun\na FUNGUS with a round flat or curved head and a short stem. Many types of toadstool are poisonous.\ncompare MUSHROOM


Words: toady
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun (plural toadies) (disapproving) a person who treats sb more important with special kindness or respect in order to gain their favour or help\n    verb (toadies, toadying, toadied, toadied) [V] ~ (to sb) (disapproving) to treat sb more important with special kindness or respect in order to gain their favour or help:\nI’m not prepared to toady to him just to save my job.


Words: toast
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n\n \n  1  [U] slices of bread that have been made brown and crisp by heating them on both sides in a toaster or under a GRILL:\ncheese on toast * a piece of toast * two slices / rounds of toast\nsee also FRENCH TOAST\n \n  2  [C] ~ (to sb/sth) the act of a group of people wishing sb happiness, success, etc. by drinking a glass of sth, especially alcohol, at the same time:\nI’d like to propose a toast to the bride and groom. * The committee drank a toast to the new project.\n \n  3  [sing.] the ~ of ... a person who is praised by a lot of people in a particular place because of sth that they have done well:\nThe performance made her the toast of the festival.\n    verb\n  1  [VN] to lift a glass of wine, etc. in the air and drink it at the same time as other people in order to wish sb/sth success, happiness, etc:\nThe happy couple were toasted in champagne. * We toasted the success of the new company.\n  2  to make sth, especially bread, turn brown by heating it in a toaster or close to heat; to turn brown in this way:\n[VN] The buns should be served lightly toasted. * a toasted sandwich * [V] Place under a hot grill until the nuts have toasted.\n  3  [VN] to warm a part of your body by placing it near a fire:\nHe sat toasting his feet in front of the fire.


Words: toastmaster
Meaning:
noun\na person who introduces the speakers at a formal dinner and calls for people to drink sth together in honour of a particular person (= proposes the toast)


Words: tobacco
Meaning:
noun\n[U, C] (plural tobaccos) the dried leaves of the tobacco plant that are used for making cigarettes, smoking in a pipe or chewing:\ntobacco smoke * The government imposed a ban on tobacco advertising (= the advertising of cigarettes and all other forms of tobacco). * Several different tobaccos are grown on the land.


Words: tobacconist
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a person who owns, manages or works in a shop/store selling cigarettes, tobacco for pipes, etc.\n  2  (tobacconist’s) (plural tobacconists) a shop/store that sells cigarettes, tobacco, etc:\nThere’s a tobacconist’s on the corner.


Words: toboggan
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun a long light narrow SLEDGE (= a vehicle that slides over snow) sometimes curved up in front, used for sliding down slopes\n    verb [V] to travel down a slope on snow or ice using a toboggan\n    tobogganing noun [U]


Words: toccata
Meaning:
noun\na piece of music for ORGAN or HARPSICHORD which includes difficult passages designed to show the player’s skill


Words: today
Meaning:
adverb, noun \n    adverb\n  1  on this day:\nI’ve got a piano lesson later today. * The exams start a week today / today week (= one week from now).\n  2  at the present period\nSYN NOWADAYS:\nYoung people today face a very difficult future at work.\n    noun [U]\n  1  this day:\nToday is her tenth birthday. * The review is in today’s paper. * I’m leaving a week from today.\n  2  the present period of time:\ntoday’s young people


Words: toddle
Meaning:
verb [V] \n  1  when a young child who has just learnt to walk toddles, it walks with short, unsteady steps:\nI have to watch him all the time now that he’s toddling.\n  2  [+adv./prep.] (informal) to walk or go somewhere:\nShe toddles down to the park most afternoons.


Words: toddy
Meaning:
noun\n[C, U] (plural toddies) a drink made with strong alcohol, sugar, hot water and sometimes spices


Words: toe
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n\n \n  1  one of the five small parts that stick out from the foot:\nthe big / little toe (= the largest / smallest toe) * I stubbed my toe on the step. * Can you touch your toes? (= by bending over while keeping your legs straight)\n \n  2  the part of a sock, shoe, etc. that covers the toes:\nHe kicked the earth with the toe of his boot.\n \n  3  (-toed) (in adjectives) having the type or number of toes mentioned:\nopen-toed sandals * a three-toed sloth\nsee also PIGEON-TOED\n IDIOMS \n  keep sb on their toes to make sure that sb is ready to deal with anything that might happen by doing things that they are not expecting:\nRegular surprise visits help to keep the staff on their toes.\n  make sb’s toes curl to make sb feel embarrassed or uncomfortable about sth\nmore at DIG v., DIP v., HEAD n., STEP v., TOP n., TREAD v.\n    verb\n IDIOMS \n  toe the line (AmE also toe the mark) to say or do what sb in authority tells you to say or do, even if you do not share the same opinions, etc:\nOne or two of them refused to toe the line. * to toe the company / party line


Words: TOEFL
Meaning:
abbreviation\nTest of English as a Foreign Language (a test of a person’s level of English that is taken in order to go to a university in the US)


Words: toehold
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a position in a place or an activity which you hope will lead to more power or success:\nThe firm is anxious to gain a toehold in the North American market.\n  2  a very small hole or space on a cliff, just big enough to put your foot in when you are climbing


Words: toerag
Meaning:
noun\n(BrE, slang) used as a rude and offensive way of addressing sb you do not like or that you are angry with


Words: toffee
Meaning:
noun\n[U, C] a hard sticky sweet/candy made by heating sugar, butter and water together and allowing it to cool\n IDIOMS \n  can’t do sth for toffee (old-fashioned, BrE, informal) if sb can’t do sth for toffee, they are very bad at doing it:\nHe can’t dance for toffee!


Words: toffee apple
Meaning:
(BrE) (AmE candy apple) noun\nan apple covered with a thin layer of hard toffee and fixed on a stick


Words: toffee-nosed
Meaning:
adjective\n(BrE, informal, becoming old-fashioned) behaving as if you are better than other people, especially those of a lower social class\nSYN SNOBBISH


Words: tofu
Meaning:
(also bean curd) noun\n[U] a soft white substance like cheese, made from SOYA and used in cooking, often instead of meat


Words: tog
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun (BrE)\n  1  (togs) [pl.] (informal, becoming old-fashioned) clothes, especially ones that you wear for a particular purpose:\ntennis / swimming / running togs\n  2  a unit for measuring the warmth of DUVETS, etc.\n    verb (-gg-)\n IDIOMS \n  be togged out / up (in sth) (informal) to be wearing clothes for a particular activity or occasion:\nThey were all togged up in their skiing gear.


Words: together
Meaning:
adverb, adjective \n    adverb\n HELP NOTE  For the special uses of together in phrasal verbs, look at the entries for the verbs. For example pull yourself together is in the phrasal verb section at pull.\n  1  with or near to sb/sth else; with each other:\nWe grew up together. * Together they climbed the dark stairs. * Get all the ingredients together before you start cooking. * Stay close together-I don’t want anyone to get lost.\n  2  so that two or more things touch or are joined to or combined with each other:\nHe rubbed his hands together in satisfaction. * She nailed the two boards together. * Mix the sand and cement together. * Taken together, these factors are highly significant. * He has more money than the rest of us put together.\n  3  (of two people) in a close relationship, for example a marriage:\nThey split up after ten years together.\n  4  in or into agreement:\nAfter the meeting the two sides in the dispute were no closer together.\n  5  at the same time:\nThey both spoke together. * (spoken) All together now: ’Happy birthday to you ...’\n  6  for hours, days, etc. ~ (written) for hours, days, etc. without stopping:\nShe sat for hours together just staring into space.\n IDIOMS \n  together with\n1 including:\nTogether with the Johnsons, there were 12 of us in the villa.\n2 in addition to; as well as:\nI sent them my order, together with a cheque for ｣40.\n    adjective (informal, approving) (of a person) well organized and confident:\nHe’s incredibly together for someone so young.


Words: togetherness
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the happy feeling you have when you are with people you like, especially family and friends:\nBy the end of the week, there was a tremendous feeling of togetherness in the group.


Words: toggle
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n\n \n  1  a short piece of wood, plastic, etc. that is put through a LOOP of thread to fasten sth, such as a coat or bag, instead of a button\n \n  2  (also toggle switch) (computing) a key on a computer that you press to change from one style or operation to another, and back again\n    verb (computing) to press a key or set of keys on a computer keyboard in order to turn a feature on or off, or to move from one program, etc. to another:\n[V] He toggled between the two windows. * [VN] This key toggles various views of the data.


Words: toggle switch
Meaning:
noun\n  1  an electrical switch which you move up and down or backwards and forwards\n  2  (computing) = TOGGLE


Words: toil
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb [V] (formal)\n  1  ~ (away) (at / over sth) to work very hard and/or for a long time:\nHundreds of men toiled for years at building the pyramid. * She toils tirelessly for various charities.\n  2  [+adv./prep.] to move slowly and with difficulty:\nThey toiled up the hill in the blazing sun.\n    toiler noun \n    noun [U] (formal or literary) hard unpleasant work that makes you very tired:\na life of hardship and toil


Words: toilet
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  [C] a large bowl attached to a pipe that you sit on or stand over when you get rid of waste matter from your body:\nHave you flushed the toilet? * (BrE) I need to go to the toilet (= use the toilet). * a toilet seat * toilet facilities\n \n  2  (BrE) (AmE bathroom) [C] a room containing a toilet:\nEvery flat has its own bathroom and toilet. * Who’s in the toilet?\n \n  3  (BrE) [C] (also toilets [pl.]) a room or small building containing several toilets, each in a separate smaller room:\npublic toilets * Could you tell me where the ladies’ toilet is, please?\n \n  4  [U] (old-fashioned) the process of washing and dressing yourself, arranging your hair, etc.\n______________________________\n BRITISH / AMERICAN \ntoilet / bathroom\nIn BrE, but not in AmE, the room that has a toilet in it is usually referred to as a toilet. This room in people’s houses can also be called the lavatory, or informally, the loo. An extra downstairs toilet in a house can be called the cloakroom. In public places, especially on signs, the words toilets, Gents (for men’s toilets) or Ladies (for women’s toilets) are used for a room or small building containing several toilets. You might also see WC or Public Conveniences on some signs.\nIn AmE the room that contains a toilet is usually called the bathroom, never the toilet. A room with a toilet in a public place can also be called a restroom, ladies’ room, women’s room or men’s room. Washroom is an old-fashioned word.\n______________________________


Words: toilet paper
Meaning:
(also toilet tissue) noun\n[U] thin soft paper used for cleaning your bottom after you have used the toilet:\na roll of toilet paper


Words: toilet water
Meaning:
noun\n[U, C] a kind of PERFUME (= a pleasant smelling liquid for the skin) that has water added to it and is not very expensive


Words: toilet-train
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] [usually passive] to teach a small child to use the toilet\n    toilet-trained adjective\n    toilet-training noun [U]


Words: toils
Meaning:
noun\n[pl.] (formal or literary) if you are caught in the toils of an unpleasant feeling or situation, you cannot escape from it\nSYN SNARE


Words: toing
Meaning:
noun\n IDIOMS \n  toing and froing\n1 movement or travel backwards and forwards between two or more places:\nAll this toing and froing between London and New York takes it out of him.\n2 a lot of unnecessary or repeated activity or discussion:\nAfter a great deal of toing and froing, I decided not to change jobs after all.


Words: token
Meaning:
noun, adjective \n    noun\n  1  a round piece of metal or plastic used instead of money to operate some machines or as a form of payment:\na parking token\n  2  (BrE) a piece of paper that you pay for and that sb can exchange for sth in a shop/store:\na ｣20 book / record / gift token -> VOUCHER\n  3  a piece of paper that you can collect when you buy a particular product and then exchange for sth:\nCollect six tokens for a free T-shirt.\n  4  something that is a symbol of a feeling, a fact, an event, etc:\nPlease accept this small gift as a token of our gratitude.\n IDIOMS \n  by the same token for the same reasons:\nThe penalty for failure will be high. But, by the same token, the rewards for success will be great.\n    adjective [only before noun]\n  1  involving very little effort or feeling and intended only as a way of showing other people that you think sb/sth is important, when really you are not sincere:\nThe government has only made a token gesture towards helping the unemployed. * There was one token woman on the committee (= a woman who is included in the group to make it look as if women are always included, although that is not true). * When he suggested going into business on their own, she put up only a token resistance.\n  2  done as a symbol to show that you are serious about sth and will keep a promise or an agreement or do more later:\nThe government agreed to send a small token force to the area. * a one-day token strike\n  3  (of a small amount of money) that you pay or charge sb only as a symbol, because a payment is expected:\nWe charge only a token fee for use of the facilities.


Words: tokenism
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (disapproving) the fact of doing sth only in order to do what the law requires or to satisfy a particular group of people, but not in a way that is really sincere:\nAppointing one woman to the otherwise all-male staff could look like tokenism.


Words: tolerable
Meaning:
adjective (written)\n  1  fairly good, but not of the best quality\nSYN REASONABLE:\nWe have had a tolerable degree of success in recruiting good staff.\n  2  that you can accept or bear, although unpleasant or painful:\nAt times, the heat was barely tolerable. * The doctors manage to keep the pain at a tolerable level.\nOPP INTOLERABLE\n    tolerably  adverb:\nHe plays the piano tolerably (well). * The operation is tolerably safe today.


Words: tolerance
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [U] ~ (of / for sb/sth) the willingness to accept or TOLERATE sb/sth, especially opinions or behaviour that you may not agree with, or people who are not like you:\nShe had no tolerance for jokes of any kind. * religious / racial tolerance * a reputation for tolerance towards refugees\nsee also ZERO TOLERANCE\nOPP INTOLERANCE\n  2  [C, U] ~ (to sth) the ability to suffer sth, especially pain, difficult conditions, etc. without being harmed:\ntolerance to antibiotics / cold * Tolerance to alcohol decreases with age.\n  3  [C, U] (technical) the amount by which the measurement of a value can vary without causing problems:\nThey were working to a tolerance of 0.0001 of a centimetre.


Words: tolerant
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  ~ (of / towards sb/sth) able to accept what other people say or do even if you do not agree with it:\nHe has a very tolerant attitude towards other religions.\n  2  ~ (of sth) (of plants, animals or machines) able to survive or operate in difficult conditions:\nThe plants are tolerant of frost.\nOPP INTOLERANT\n    tolerantly adverb


Words: tolerate
Meaning:
verb\n  1  to allow sb to do sth that you do not agree with or like\nSYN PUT UP WITH:\n[VN] Their relationship was tolerated but not encouraged. * This sort of behaviour will not be tolerated. * [V -ing] She refused to tolerate being called a liar. [also VN -ing]\n  2  [VN] to accept sb/sth that is annoying, unpleasant, etc. without complaining\nSYN PUT UP WITH:\nThere is a limit to what one person can tolerate. * I don’t know how you tolerate that noise!\n  3  [VN] to be able to be affected by a drug, difficult conditions, etc. without being harmed:\nShe tolerated the chemotherapy well. * Few plants will tolerate sudden changes in temperature.


Words: toleration
Meaning:
noun\n[U] a willingness to allow sth that you do not like or agree with to happen or continue:\nreligious toleration * the toleration of difference


Words: toll
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  1  [C] money that you pay to use a particular road or bridge:\nmotorway tolls * a toll road / bridge\n  2  [C, usually sing.] the amount of damage or the number of deaths and injuries that are caused in a particular war, disaster, etc:\nThe official death toll has now reached 7 000. * the war’s growing casualty toll * Every hour, the news bulletin reported the mounting toll of casualties.\n  3  [sing.] the sound of a bell ringing with slow regular strokes\n  4  [C] (AmE) a charge for a telephone call that is calculated at a higher rate than a local call\n IDIOMS \n  take a heavy toll (on sb/sth) | take its toll (on sb/sth) to have a bad effect on sb/sth; to cause a lot of damage, deaths, suffering, etc:\nIllness had taken a heavy toll on her. * The recession is taking its toll on the housing markets.\n    verb when a bell tolls or sb tolls it, it is rung slowly many times, especially as a sign that sb has died: [V] The Abbey bell tolled for those killed in the war. * Ask not for whom the bell tolls; it tolls for thee. * [VN] The bell tolled the hour. * (figurative) The revolution tolled the death knell (= signalled the end) for the Russian monarchy.


Words: toll-free
Meaning:
adjective\n(AmE) (of a telephone call to an organization or a service) that you do not have to pay for:\na toll-free number * Call our toll-free number and speak to a customer service representative.\nsee also FREEPHONE


Words: tollbooth
Meaning:
noun\na small building by the side of a road where you pay to drive on a road, go over a bridge, etc.


Words: Tom
Meaning:
noun\n IDIOMS \n  any / every Tom, Dick and Harry (usually disapproving) any ordinary person rather than the people you know or people who have special skills or qualities:\nWe don’t want any Tom, Dick, or Harry using the club bar.


Words: tomato
Meaning:
noun\n[C, U] (plural tomatoes) a soft fruit with a lot of juice and shiny red skin that is eaten as a vegetable either raw or cooked:\na bacon, lettuce and tomato sandwich * sliced tomatoes * tomato plants


Words: tomb
Meaning:
noun\na large grave, especially one built of stone above or below the ground:\nthe tombs of the Pharaohs


Words: tombola
Meaning:
noun\n[U, C] (BrE) a game in which you buy tickets with numbers on them. If the number on your ticket is the same as the number on one of the prizes, you win the prize.


Words: tombstone
Meaning:
noun\na large, flat stone that lies over a grave or stands at one end, that shows the name, age, etc. of the person buried there\ncompare HEADSTONE, GRAVESTONE


Words: tome
Meaning:
noun\n(formal) a large heavy book, especially one dealing with a serious topic:\na heavy / weighty tome


Words: tomorrow
Meaning:
adverb, noun \n    adverb on or during the day after today:\nI’m off now. See you tomorrow. * She’s leaving tomorrow. * (especially BrE) They arrive a week tomorrow.\n IDIOMS  see JAM n.\n    noun [U]\n  1  the day after today:\nToday is Tuesday, so tomorrow is Wednesday. * tomorrow afternoon / morning / night / evening * I’ll see you the day after tomorrow. * The announcement will appear in tomorrow’s newspapers. * I want it done by tomorrow. * Tomorrow will be fine and dry according to the weather forecast.\n  2  the future:\nWho knows what changes tomorrow may bring? * Tomorrow’s workers will have to be more adaptable.\n IDIOMS \n  do sth as if / like there’s no tomorrow to do sth a lot or as though you do not care what effects it will have:\nI ate as if there was no tomorrow. * She was spending money like there’s no tomorrow.


Words: ton
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [C] (plural tons or ton) a unit for measuring weight, in Britain 2 240 pounds (long ton) and in the US 2 000 pounds (short ton): (informal) What have you got in this bag? It weighs a ton!\ncompare TONNE\n  2  [C] a unit for measuring the size of a ship. 1 ton is equal to 100 CUBIC feet.\n  3  (tons) [pl.] (informal) a lot:\nThey’ve got tons of money. * I’ve still got tons to do.\n  4  (a / the ton) (BrE, informal) 100, especially when connected with a speed of 100 miles per hour:\nHe was caught doing a ton.\n IDIOMS \n  like a ton of bricks (informal) very heavily; very severely:\nDisappointment hit her like a ton of bricks. * They came down on him like a ton of bricks (= criticized him very severely).


Words: tonal
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  (technical) relating to tones of sound or colour\n  2  (music) having a particular KEY\nOPP ATONAL\n    tonally adjective


Words: tonality
Meaning:
noun\n[U, C] (plural tonalities) (music) the quality of a piece of music that depends on the KEY in which it is written


Words: tone
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  of voice\n  1  [C] the quality of sb’s voice, especially expressing a particular emotion:\nspeaking in hushed / low / clipped / measured tones * a light / dry / sharp / conversational tone * a tone of bitterness / command / surprise * Don’t speak to me in that tone of voice (= in that unpleasant or critical way). * There’s no need to take that tone with me-it’s not my fault we’re late.\n  character / atmosphere\n  2  [sing.] the general character and attitude of sth such as a piece of writing, or the atmosphere of an event:\nThe overall tone of the book is gently nostalgic. * She set the tone for the meeting with a firm statement of company policy. * Trust you to lower the tone of the conversation (= for example by telling a rude joke). * The article was moderate in tone and presented both sides of the case. * The newspaper said voters had been turned off by the negative tone of the campaign.\n  of sound\n  3  [C] the quality of a sound, especially the sound of a musical instrument or one produced by electronic equipment:\nthe full, rich, tone of the trumpet * the volume and tone controls on a car stereo\n  colour\n  4  [C] a shade of a colour:\na carpet in warm tones of brown and orange\n  of muscles / skin\n  5  [U] how strong and firm your muscles or skin are:\nhow to improve your muscle / skin tone\n  on telephone\n  6  [C] a sound heard on a telephone line: (BrE) the dialling tone * (AmE) the dial tone * Please speak after the tone (= for example as an instruction on an answering machine).\n  in music\n  7  (BrE) (AmE whole step) [C] one of the five longer INTERVALS in a musical scale, for example the INTERVAL between C and D or between E and F{sharp}\ncompare SEMITONE, STEP n. (10)\n  phonetics\n  8  [C] the PITCH (= how high or low a sound is) of a syllable in speaking:\na rising / falling tone\n  -toned\n  9  (in adjectives) having the type of tone mentioned:\na bright-toned soprano * olive-toned skin\n    verb\n  muscles / skin\n  1  [VN] ~ sth (up) to make your muscles, skin, etc. firmer and stronger:\nMassage will help to tone up loose skin under the chin. * a beautifully toned body\n  colour\n  2  [V] ~ (in) (with sth) (BrE) to match the colour of sth:\nThe beige of his jacket toned (in) with the cream shirt.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  tone sth<->down\n1 to make a speech, an opinion, etc. less extreme or offensive:\nThe language of the article will have to be toned down for the mass market.\n2 to make a colour less bright


Words: toneless
Meaning:
adjective\n(of a voice, etc.) dull or flat; not expressing any emotion or interest\n    tonelessly adverb


Words: toner
Meaning:
noun [U, C]\n  1  a type of ink used in machines that print or PHOTOCOPY\n  2  a liquid or cream used for making the skin on your face firm and smooth


Words: tongs
Meaning:
noun [pl.]\n \n  1  a tool with two long parts that are joined at one end, used for picking up and holding things:\na pair of tongs\n \n  2  a tool that is heated and used for curling hair\n \n IDIOMS  see HAMMER n.


Words: tongue
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n\n \n  1  [C] the soft part in the mouth that moves around, used for tasting, swallowing, speaking, etc:\nHe clicked his tongue to attract their attention. * She ran her tongue over her lips. * It’s very rude to stick your tongue out at people.\n \n  2  [U, C] the tongue of some animals, cooked and eaten:\na slice of ox tongue\n \n  3  [C] (formal or literary) a language:\nNone of the tribes speak the same tongue. * I tried speaking to her in her native tongue.\nsee also MOTHER TONGUE\n  4  [sing.] a particular way of speaking:\nHe has a sharp tongue. * (formal) I’ll thank you to keep a civil tongue in your head (= speak politely).\nsee also SILVER TONGUE\n  5  (-tongued) (in adjectives) speaking in the way mentioned:\nsharp-tongued\n  6  [C] a long narrow piece of leather under the LACES on a shoe\n  7  [C] ~ (of sth) (literary) something that is long and narrow and shaped like a tongue:\na tongue of flame / land\n IDIOMS \n  get your tongue around / round sth to pronounce a difficult word correctly:\nHe was having trouble getting his tongue around my name.\n  hold your tongue / peace (old-fashioned) to remain silent although you would like to give your opinion\n  roll / slip / trip off the tongue to be easy to say or pronounce:\nIt’s not a name that exactly trips off the tongue, is it?\n  set tongues wagging (informal) to cause people to start talking about sb’s private affairs:\nHis sudden resignation set tongues wagging.\n  with your tongue in your cheek | with tongue in cheek if you say sth with your tongue in your cheek, you are not being serious and mean it as a joke\nmore at BITE v., CAT, FIND v., LOOSE adj., LOOSEN v., SLIP n., TIP n., WATCH v.\n    verb [VN] \n  1  to stop the flow of air into a wind instrument with your tongue in order to make a note\n  2  to LICK sth with your tongue


Words: tongue-in-cheek
Meaning:
adjective\nnot intended seriously; done or said as a joke:\na tongue-in-cheek remark\n    tongue-in-cheek adverb:\nThe offer was made almost tongue-in-cheek.


Words: tongue-twister
Meaning:
noun\na word or phrase that is difficult to say quickly or correctly, such as ’She sells sea shells on the sea shore.’


Words: tonic
Meaning:
noun\n  1  (also tonic water) [U, C] a clear FIZZY drink (= with bubbles in it) with a slightly bitter taste, that is often mixed with a strong alcoholic drink, especially GIN or VODKA:\na gin and tonic\n  2  [C] a medicine that makes you feel stronger and healthier, taken especially when you feel tired:\nherbal tonics\n  3  [C, U] a liquid that you put on your hair or skin in order to make it healthier:\nhair / skin tonic\n  4  [C, usually sing.] (old-fashioned) anything that makes people feel healthier or happier:\nThe weekend break was just the tonic I needed.\n  5  [C] (music) the first note of a SCALE of eight notes


Words: tonight
Meaning:
adverb, noun \n    adverb on or during the evening or night of today:\nWill you have dinner with me tonight? * It’s cold tonight.\n    noun [U] the evening or night of today:\nHere are tonight’s football results. * Tonight will be cloudy.


Words: tonnage
Meaning:
noun [U, C]\n  1  the size of a ship or the amount it can carry, expressed in TONS\n  2  the total amount that sth weighs:\nthe total tonnage of bombs dropped in the war


Words: tonne
Meaning:
(plural tonnes or tonne) noun\n= METRIC TON:\na record grain harvest of 236m tonnes * a 17-tonne truck\ncompare TON


Words: tonsil
Meaning:
noun\neither of the two small organs at the sides of the throat, near the base of the tongue:\nI’ve had my tonsils out (= removed).


Words: tony
Meaning:
adjective\n(AmE, informal, becoming old-fashioned) fashionable and expensive:\na fashionable avenue lined with tony boutiques


Words: too
Meaning:
adverb\n  1  used before adjectives and adverbs to say that sth is more than is good, necessary, possible, etc:\nHe’s far too young to go on his own. * This is too large a helping for me / This helping is too large for me. * Is it too much to ask for a little quiet? * The dress was too tight for me. * It’s too late to do anything about it now. * Accidents like this happen all too (= much too) often. * It’s too soon to say if he’ll survive. * It’s only too easy for them to deny responsibility.\n  2  (usually placed at the end of a clause) also; as well:\nCan I come too? * When I’ve finished painting the bathroom, I’m going to do the kitchen too. -> ALSO\n  3  used to comment on sth that makes a situation worse:\nShe broke her leg last week-and on her birthday too!\n  4  very:\nI’m not too sure if this is right. * I’m just going out-I won’t be too long. * She’s none too (= not very) clever.\n  5  used to emphasize sth, especially your anger, surprise or agreement with sth:\n’He did apologize eventually.’ ’I should think so too!’ * ’She gave me the money.’ ’About time too!’\n IDIOMS \n  be too much (for sb) to need more skill or strength than you have; to be more difficult, annoying, etc. than you can bear


Words: tool
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n\n \n  1  an instrument such as a hammer, SCREWDRIVER, SAW, etc. that you hold in your hand and use for making things, repairing things, etc:\ngarden tools * a cutting tool * a tool kit (= a set of tools in a box or bag) * power tools (= using electricity) * Always select the right tool for the job.\n \n  2  a thing that helps you to do your job or to achieve sth:\nresearch tools like questionnaires * The computer is now an invaluable tool for the family doctor. * Some of them carried the guns which were the tools of their trade (= the things they needed to do their job). * the effectiveness of interest rates as an economic tool\n \n  3  a person who is used or controlled by another person or group:\nThe prime minister was an unwitting tool of the president.\n \n  4  (!!!, slang) a PENIS\n IDIOMS  see DOWN v.\n    verb [V +adv./prep.] (AmE, informal) to drive around in a vehicle\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  tool up | tool sb/sth<->up (BrE, technical) to get or provide sb/sth with the equipment, etc. that is necessary to do or produce sth:\nThe factory is not tooled up to produce this type of engine.


Words: toot
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun a short high sound made by a car horn or a whistle:\nShe gave a sharp toot on her horn.\n    verb (especially BrE) when a car horn toots or you toot it, it makes a short high sound: [V] the sound of horns tooting * [VN] Toot your horn to let them know we’re here.\n IDIOMS  see HORN


Words: tooth
Meaning:
1  any of the hard white objects in the mouth used for biting and chewing food:\nI’ve just had a tooth out at the dentist’s. * to brush / clean your teeth * tooth decay * false teeth * She answered through clenched teeth (= opening her mouth only a little because of anger). * The cat sank its teeth into his finger.\nsee also BUCK-TEETH, MILK TOOTH, WISDOM TOOTH\n \n  2  a narrow pointed part that sticks out of an object:\nthe teeth on a saw * The teeth of the cog should fit into these grooves.\nsee also FINE-TOOTH COMB\n \n IDIOMS \n  cut your teeth on sth to do sth that gives you your first experience of a particular type of work:\nShe cut her teeth on local radio.\n  cut a tooth (of a baby) to grow a new tooth\n  get your teeth into sth (informal) to put a lot of effort and enthusiasm into sth that is difficult enough to keep you interested:\nChoose an essay topic that you can really get your teeth into.\n  have teeth (BrE, informal) (of an organization, a law, etc.) to be powerful and effective\n  in the teeth of sth\n1 in spite of problems, opposition, etc:\nThe new policy was adopted in the teeth of fierce criticism.\n2 in the direction that a strong wind is coming from:\nThey crossed the bay in the teeth of a howling gale.\n  set sb’s teeth on edge (of a sound or taste) to make sb feel physically uncomfortable:\nJust the sound of her voice sets my teeth on edge.\nmore at ARM v., BARE v., BIT, EYE n., EYE TEETH, FIGHT v., GNASH, GRIT v., HELL, KICK v., KICK n., LIEҠv., LONG adj., RED adj., SKIN n., SWEET adj.


Words: toothache
Meaning:
noun\n[U, C, usually sing.] a pain in your teeth or in one tooth: (BrE) I’ve got toothache. * (AmE, BrE) I’ve got a toothache.


Words: toothed
Meaning:
adjective [only before noun]\n  1  (technical) having teeth:\na toothed whale * The motor was driven by a toothed belt.\n  2  (-toothed) (in compounds) having the type of teeth mentioned:\na saw-toothed wheel * His face broke into a gap-toothed smile.


Words: toothless
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  having no teeth:\na toothless old man * She gave us a toothless grin.\n  2  (written) having no power or authority


Words: toothpick
Meaning:
noun\na short pointed piece of wood or plastic used for removing bits of food from between the teeth


Words: tootle
Meaning:
verb (BrE, informal)\n  1  [V +adv./prep.] to walk, drive, etc. somewhere without hurrying\n  2  [V, VN] to produce a series of notes by blowing into a musical instrument


Words: top
Meaning:
noun, adjective, verb \n    noun\n  highest point\n \n  1  [C] the highest part or point of sth:\nShe was standing at the top of the stairs. * Write your name at the top. * He filled my glass to the top. * Snow was falling on the mountain tops. * (BrE) the top of the milk (= the cream that rises to the top of a bottle of milk) * The wind was blowing in the tops of the trees.\nsee also ROOFTOP, TREETOP\n \n  upper surface\n \n  2  [C] the upper flat surface of sth:\nCan you polish the top of the table? * a desk / bench top\nsee also HARDTOP, ROLL-TOP DESK, TABLE TOP\n  highest rank\n  3  [sing.] the highest or most important rank or position:\nHe’s at the top of his profession. * She is determined to make it to the top (= achieve fame or success). * They finished the season at the top of the league. * We have a lot of things to do, but packing is at the top of the list. * This printer is a top of the range model (= the best it is possible to buy). * This decision came from the top.\n  farthest point\n  4  [sing.] the ~ of sth the end of a street, table, etc. that is farthest away from you or from where you usually come to it:\nI’ll meet you at the top of Thorpe Street.\n  of pen / bottle\n  5  [C] a thing that you put on the end of sth to close it:\nWhere’s the top of this pen? * a bottle with a screw top\n  clothing\n  6  [C] a piece of clothing worn on the upper part of the body:\nI need a top to go with this skirt. * a tracksuit / pyjama / bikini top\nsee also CROP TOP\n  leaves of plant\n  7  [C, usually pl.] the leaves of a plant that is grown mainly for its root:\nRemove the green tops from the carrots.\n  amount of money\n  8  (tops) [pl.] (BrE, spoken) used after an amount of money to show that it is the highest possible:\nIt couldn’t have cost more than ｣50, tops.\n  best\n  9  (tops) [pl.] (old-fashioned, informal) a person or thing of the best quality:\nAmong sports superstars she’s (the) tops. * In the survey the Brits come out tops for humour.\n  toy\n  10  [C] a child’s toy that spins on a point when it is turned round very quickly by hand or by a string:\nShe was so confused-her mind was spinning like a top.\nsee also BIG TOP\n IDIOMS \n  at the top of the tree in the highest position or rank in a profession or career\n  at the top of your voice as loudly as possible:\nShe was screaming at the top of her voice.\n  come out on top to win a contest or an argument:\nIn most boardroom disputes he tends to come out on top.\n  from top to bottom going to every part of a place in a very thorough way:\nWe cleaned the house from top to bottom.\n  from top to toe completely; all over:\nShe was dressed in green from top to toe.\n  get on top of sb to be too much for sb to manage or deal with:\nAll this extra work is getting on top of him.\n  get on top of sth to manage to control or deal with sth:\nHow will I ever get on top of all this work?\n  off the top of your head (informal) just guessing or using your memory, without taking time to think carefully or check the facts:\nI can’t remember the name off the top of my head, but I can look it up for you.\n  on top\n1 on the highest point or surface:\na cake with cream on top * Stand on top and look down. * He’s going bald on top (= on the top of his head).\n2 in a leading position or in control:\nShe remained on top for the rest of the match.\n3 in addition:\nLook, here’s 30 dollars, and I’ll buy you lunch on top.\n  on top of sth/sb\n1 on, over or covering sth/sb:\nBooks were piled on top of one another. * Many people were crushed when the building collapsed on top of them.\n2 in addition to sth:\nHe gets commission on top of his salary. * On top of everything else, my car’s been stolen.\n3 very close to sth/sb:\nWe were all living on top of each other in that tiny apartment.\n4 in control of a situation:\nDo you think he’s really on top of his job? * Work tends to pile up if I don’t keep on top of it.\n  on top of the world very happy or proud\n  over the top (abbreviation OTT) (informal, especially BrE) done to an exaggerated degree and with too much effort:\nHis performance in the movie is completely over the top.\n  take sth from the top (informal) to go back to the beginning of a song, piece of music, speech, etc. and repeat it:\nOK, everybody, let’s take it from the top.\n  up top (BrE, informal) used to talk about a person’s intelligence:\nHe hasn’t got much up top (= He isn’t very intelligent). * It’s what’s up top (= how intelligent you are) that matters.\nmore at BLOW v., HEAP n., PILE n., THIN adj.\n    adjective [usually before noun] highest in position, rank or degree:\nHe lives on the top floor. * She kept his passport in the top drawer. * He’s one of the top players in the country. * She got the top job. * He finished top in the exam. * She got top marks for her essay. * They’re top of the league. * The athletes are all on top form (= performing their best). * Welfare reform is a top priority for the government. * The car was travelling at top speed. * Prices at the top end of the market are coming down. * top quality silk\n    verb (-pp-) [VN]\n  be more\n  1  to be higher than a particular amount:\nWorldwide sales look set to top $1 billion.\n  be the best\n  2  to be in the highest position on a list because you are the most successful, important, etc:\nThe band topped the charts for five weeks with their first single.\n  put on top\n  3  [usually passive] ~ sth (with sth) to put sth on the top of sth else:\nfruit salad topped with cream * The chapel was topped by a dome of white marble.\n  say / do sth better\n  4  to say or do sth that is better, funnier, more impressive, etc. than sth that sb else has said or done in the past:\nI’m afraid the other company has topped your offer (= offered more money). * He has a house in five European capitals-how do you top that?\n  kill yourself\n  5  ~ yourself (BrE, informal) to kill yourself deliberately\n  climb hill\n  6  (literary) to reach the highest point of a hill, etc.\n IDIOMS \n  to top / cap it all (spoken) used to introduce the final piece of information that is worse than the other bad things that you have just mentioned:\nAnd then, to top it all, it started to rain!\n  top and tail sth (BrE) to cut the top and bottom parts off fruit and vegetables to prepare them to be cooked or eaten\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  top sth<->off (with sth) to complete sth successfully by doing or adding one final thing:\nThe outfit was topped off with a large black hat.\n  top out (at sth) if sth tops out at a particular price, speed, etc. it does not rise any higher:\nInflation topped out at 12%.\n  top sth<->up (especially BrE)\n1 to fill a container that already has some liquid in it with more liquid:\nI want to top the car up with oil before we set off. * I want to top the oil up before we set off. * Can I top your glass up (= give you some more to drink)? * Fill the glass half full with beer and top it up with lemonade.\n2 to increase the amount of sth to the level you want or need:\nShe relies on tips to top up her wages. * Sunbeds are the ideal way to keep your tan topped up.\nrelated noun TOP-UP\n  top sb up (especially BrE) to fill sb’s glass or cup with sth more to drink:\nCan I top you up?\nrelated noun TOP-UP


Words: top brass
Meaning:
(BrE) (also brass AmE, BrE) noun\n[sing.+sing./pl. v.] (informal) the people who are in the most important positions in a company, an organization, etc:\nAll the top brass was / were at the ceremony.


Words: top dog
Meaning:
noun\n[usually sing.] (informal) a person, group or country that is better than all the others, especially in a situation that involves competition


Words: top drawer
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] if sb/sth is out of the top drawer, they are of the highest social class or of the highest quality\n    top-drawer adjective:\na top-drawer performance


Words: top gear
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (BrE) the highest GEAR in a motor vehicle:\nThey cruised along in top gear. * (figurative) Her career is moving into top gear.


Words: top hat
Meaning:
(also informal topper) noun\na man’s tall black or grey hat, worn with formal clothes on very formal occasions


Words: top secret
Meaning:
adjective\nthat must be kept completely secret, especially from other governments:\nThis information has been classified top secret. * top-secret documents


Words: top-flight
Meaning:
adjective\nof the highest quality; the best or most successful:\nThey have scored seven top-flight goals in ten games. * We need to hire a top-flight salesperson.


Words: top-grossing
Meaning:
adjective\n[only before noun] earning more money than other similar things or people:\nthe top-grossing movie of 1999


Words: top-heavy
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  too heavy at the top and therefore likely to fall\n  2  (of an organization) having too many senior staff or managers compared to the number of workers:\ntop-heavy bureaucracy * a top-heavy management structure


Words: top-level
Meaning:
adjective\n[only before noun] involving the most important or best people in a company, an organization or a sport:\na top-level meeting * top-level tennis * a top-level inquiry / investigation


Words: top-of-the-range
Meaning:
adjective\n[usually before noun] used to describe the most expensive of a group of similar products:\nLet me show you our top-of-the-range model.


Words: top-ranking
Meaning:
adjective\n[only before noun] of the highest rank, status or importance in an organization, a sport, etc:\ntop-ranking officials / players


Words: top-up
Meaning:
noun (BrE)\n  1  a sum of money that is added to what you already have in order to increase it to the amount that you need\n  2  an amount of a drink that you add to a cup or glass in order to fill it again:\nCan I give anyone a top-up?


Words: topcoat
Meaning:
noun\n  1  the last layer of paint put on a surface\ncompare UNDERCOAT\n  2  (old-fashioned) an OVERCOAT


Words: topic
Meaning:
noun\na subject that you talk, write or learn about:\nThe main topic of conversation was Tom’s new girlfriend. * The article covered a wide range of topics. * The topic for tonight’s discussion is ...


Words: topical
Meaning:
adjective\nconnected with sth that is happening or of interest at the present time:\na topical joke / reference * topical crimes / events\n    topicality  noun [U, sing.]:\nBecause of recent events, the programme has taken on an unexpected topicality.


Words: topless
Meaning:
adjective\n(of a woman) not wearing any clothes on the upper part of the body so that her breasts are not covered:\na topless model * a topless bar (= where the female staff are topless)\n    topless adverb:\nto sunbathe / go topless


Words: topmost
Meaning:
adjective\n[only before noun] (written) highest:\nA bird was singing in the topmost branches of the tree.


Words: topography
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (technical) the physical features of an area of land, especially the position of its rivers, mountains, etc.; the study of these features:\na map showing the topography of the island\n    topographical  adjective:\na topographical map / feature * You can rely on the topographical accuracy of these maps.\n    topographically  adverb:\ntopographically distinct regions


Words: topping
Meaning:
noun\n[C, U] a layer of food that you put on top of a dish, cake, etc. to add flavour or to make it look nice:\nbaked vegetables with a cheese topping * The basic pizza is ｣6 and then each extra topping is 75p.


Words: topple
Meaning:
verb\n  1  [+adv./prep.] to become unsteady and fall down; to make sth do this:\n[V] The pile of books toppled over. * He toppled backwards into the river. * [VN] He brushed past, toppling her from her stool.\n  2  [VN] to make sb lose their position of power or authority\nSYN OVERTHROW:\na plot to topple the President


Words: topspin
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (sport) the fast forward spinning movement that a player can give to a ball by hitting or throwing it in a special way


Words: topsy-turvy
Meaning:
adjective\n(informal) in a state of great confusion:\nEverything’s topsy-turvy in my life at the moment. * Her books take you into a topsy-turvy world where you can be sure of nothing.


Words: Torah
Meaning:
noun\n(usually the Torah) (in Judaism) the law of God as given to Moses and recorded in the first five books of the Bible


Words: torch
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n\n \n  1  (BrE) (also flashlight AmE, BrE) a small electric lamp that uses batteries and that you can hold in your hand:\nShine the torch on the lock while I try to get the key in.\n \n  2  (AmE) = BLOWLAMP\n \n  3  a long piece of wood that has material at one end that is set on fire and that people carry to give light:\na flaming torch * the Olympic torch * (figurative) They struggled to keep the torch of idealism and hope alive.\n \n IDIOMS \n \n  put sth to the torch (literary) to set fire to sth deliberately\nmore at CARRY\n    verb [VN] to set fire to a building or vehicle deliberately in order to destroy it:\nThe houses had been looted and then torched.


Words: torchlight
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the light that is produced by an electric torch or by burning torches:\nShe read in bed at night by torchlight. * a torchlight procession (= one in which people carry burning torches)


Words: toreador
Meaning:
noun\na man, especially one riding a horse, who fights BULLS to entertain people, for example in Spain


Words: torment
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun  [U, C] (written) extreme suffering, especially mental suffering; a person or thing that causes this:\nthe cries of a man in torment * She suffered years of mental torment after her son’s death. * The flies were a terrible torment.\n    verb  [VN] \n  1  (written) to make sb suffer very much:\nHe was tormented by feelings of insecurity.\n  2  to annoy a person or an animal in a cruel way because you think it is amusing


Words: tornado
Meaning:
noun\n(plural tornadoes or tornados) a violent storm with very strong winds which move in a circle. There is often also a long cloud which is narrower at the bottom than the top:\nTornadoes ripped into the southern United States yesterday. * She burst in to the room like a tornado.


Words: torpedo
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun (plural torpedoes) a long narrow bomb that is fired under the water from a ship or SUBMARINE and that explodes when it hits a ship, etc.\n    verb (torpedoes, torpedoing, torpedoed, torpedoed) [VN] \n  1  to attack a ship or make it sink using a torpedo:\nThe destroyer was torpedoed off the coast of Africa.\n  2  to completely destroy the possibility that sth could succeed:\nHer comments had torpedoed the deal.


Words: torpor
Meaning:
noun\n[U, sing.] (formal) the state of not being active and having no energy or enthusiasm:\nIn the heat they sank into a state of torpor.


Words: torque
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (technical) a twisting force that causes machinery, etc. to ROTATE (= turn round):\nThe more torque an engine has, the bigger the load it can pull in the same gear.


Words: torrent
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a large amount of water moving very quickly:\nAfter the winter rains, the stream becomes a raging torrent. * The rain was coming down in torrents.\n  2  a large amount of sth that comes suddenly and violently:\na torrent of abuse / criticism / words


Words: torrid
Meaning:
adjective [usually before noun]\n  1  full of strong emotions, especially connected with sex and love:\na torrid love affair\n  2  (formal) (of a climate or country) very hot or dry:\na torrid summer\n  3  (BrE) very difficult:\nThey face a torrid time in tonight’s game.


Words: torso
Meaning:
noun (plural torsos)\n  1  the main part of the body, not including the head, arms or legs\nSYN TRUNK\n  2  a statue of a torso


Words: tort
Meaning:
noun\n[C, U] (law) something wrong that sb does to sb else that is not criminal, but that can lead to action in a CIVIL court of law


Words: tortilla
Meaning:
noun\n(from Spanish) a thin Mexican PANCAKE made with eggs and corn flour, usually eaten hot and filled with meat, cheese, etc.


Words: tortoise
Meaning:
noun\na reptile with a hard round shell, that lives on land and moves very slowly. It can pull its head and legs into its shell.\ncompare TERRAPIN, TURTLE


Words: tortoiseshell
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [U] the hard shell of a TURTLE, especially the type with orange and brown marks, used for making combs and small ornaments\n  2  (AmE also calico cat) [C] a cat with black, brown, orange and white fur\n  3  [C] a BUTTERFLY with orange and brown marks on its wings


Words: tortuous
Meaning:
adjective [usually before noun] (written)\n  1  (usually disapproving) not simple and direct; long, complicated and difficult to understand:\ntortuous language / laws * the long, tortuous process of negotiating peace\n  2  (of a road, path, etc.) full of bends:\na tortuous mountain track\n    tortuously adverb:\na tortuously slow system


Words: torture
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun [U, C]\n  1  the act of causing sb severe pain in order to punish them or make them say or do sth:\nMany of the refugees have suffered torture. * the use of torture * terrible instruments of torture * His confessions were made under torture. * I heard stories of gruesome tortures in prisons.\n  2  (informal) mental or physical suffering; sth that causes this:\nThe interview was sheer torture from start to finish.\n    verb [VN] [often passive]\n  1  to hurt sb physically or mentally in order to punish them or make them tell you sth:\nMany of the rebels were captured and tortured by secret police. * He was tortured into giving them the information.\n  2  to make sb feel extremely unhappy or anxious\nSYN TORMENT:\nHe spent his life tortured by the memories of his childhood.\n    torturer  noun


Words: tortured
Meaning:
adjective\n[only before noun] suffering severely; involving a lot of suffering and difficulty:\na tortured mind * She fell into a tortured sleep.


Words: Tory
Meaning:
noun\n(plural Tories) (informal) a member of the British Conservative party:\nThe Tories (= the Tory party) lost the election.\n    Tory adjective [usually before noun]:\nthe Tory party * Tory policies\n    Toryism noun [U]


Words: toss
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb\n  throw\n  1  to throw sth lightly or carelessly: [VN, +adv./prep.] I tossed the book aside and got up. * [VN +adv./prep., VNN] He tossed the ball to Anna. * He tossed Anna the ball.\n  your head\n  2  [VN] to move your head suddenly upwards, especially to show that you are annoyed or impatient:\nShe just tossed her head and walked off.\n  side to side / up and down\n  3  to move or make sb/sth move from side to side or up and down:\n[V] Branches were tossing in the wind. * I couldn’t sleep but kept tossing and turning in bed all night. * [VN] Our boat was being tossed by the huge waves.\n  in cooking\n  4  [VN] to shake or turn food in order to cover it with oil, butter, etc:\nDrain the pasta and toss it in melted butter. * Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss well.\n  5  [VN] ~ a pancake (BrE) to throw a PANCAKE upwards so that it turns over in the air and you can fry the other side\n  coin\n  6  ~ (sb) for sth (especially BrE) (BrE also toss up (for sth)) to throw a coin in the air in order to decide sth, especially by guessing which side is facing upwards when it lands\nSYN FLIP:\n[VN] There’s only one ticket left-I’ll toss you for it. * Let’s toss a coin. * [V] We tossed up to see who went first. * (figurative) He had to toss up between (= decide between) paying the rent or buying food.\nrelated noun TOSS-UP\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  toss off | toss sb / yourself off (BrE, !!!, slang) to give yourself sexual pleasure by rubbing your sex organs; to give sb sexual pleasure by rubbing their sex organs\nSYN MASTURBATE\n  toss sth<->off (BrE) to produce sth quickly and without much thought or effort:\nI tossed off my article in half an hour.\n    noun [usually sing.]\n  of coin\n  1  an act of throwing a coin in the air in order to decide sth:\nThe final result was decided on / by the toss of a coin. * to win / lose the toss (= to guess correctly / wrongly which side of a coin will face upwards when it lands on the ground after it has been thrown in the air)\n  of head (slang)\n  2  ~ of your head an act of moving your head suddenly upwards, especially to show that you are annoyed or impatient:\nShe dismissed the question with a toss of her head.\n  throw\n  3  an act of throwing sth, especially in a competition or game:\na toss of 10 metres\n IDIOMS \n  not give a toss (about sb/sth) (BrE, slang) to not care at all about sb/sth:\nNobody gives a toss what you think!\nmore at ARGUE


Words: toss-up
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] (informal) a situation in which either of two choices, results, etc. is equally possible:\n’Have you decided on the colour yet?’ ’It’s a toss-up between the blue and the green.’


Words: tot
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  1  (informal) a very young child:\nTV programmes for tiny tots\n  2  (especially BrE) a small amount of a strong alcoholic drink in a glass:\na tot of whisky\n    verb (-tt-)\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  tot sth<->up (informal, especially BrE) to add together several numbers or amounts in order to calculate the total:\nThe trip isn’t really that cheap when you tot everything up.


Words: total
Meaning:
adjective, noun, verb \n    adjective [usually before noun]\n  1  being the amount or number after everyone or everything is counted or added together:\nthe total profit * This brought the total number of accidents so far this year to 113. * The club has a total membership of about 300.\n  2  complete; including everything:\nThe room was in total darkness. * They demanded a total ban on handguns. * The evening was a total disaster! * I can’t believe you’d tell a total stranger about it! * These comments indicate a total lack of understanding.\n    noun the amount you get when you add several numbers or amounts together; the final number of people or things when they have all been counted:\nYou got 47 points on the written examination and 18 on the oral, making a total of 65. * His businesses are worth a combined total of $3 billion. * Out of a total of 15 games, they only won 2. * The repairs came to over ｣500 in total (= including everything).\nsee also GRAND TOTAL, RUNNING TOTAL, SUM TOTAL\n    verb (-ll-, AmE also -l-)\n  1  [V-N] to reach a particular total:\nImports totalled $1.5 billion last year.\n  2  [VN] ~ sth/sb (up) to add up the numbers of sth/sb and get a total:\nEach student’s points were totalled and entered in a list.\n  3  [VN] (informal, especially AmE) to damage a car very badly, so that is not worth repairing it\nsee also WRITE STH OFF


Words: totalitarian
Meaning:
adjective\n(disapproving) (of a country or system of government) in which there is only one political party that has complete power and control over the people:\na totalitarian state / regime\n    totalitarianism  noun [U]:\nto oppose dictatorship and totalitarianism


Words: totality
Meaning:
noun\n[C, U] (formal) the state of being complete or whole; the whole number or amount:\nThe seriousness of the situation is difficult to appreciate in its totality. * The totality of English grammar is too great to be studied in detail.


Words: totally
Meaning:
adverb\ncompletely:\nThey come from totally different cultures. * I’m still not totally convinced that he knows what he’s doing. * This behaviour is totally unacceptable. * (AmE, spoken) ’She’s so cute!’ ’Totally!’ (= I agree) * (AmE, spoken) It’s a totally awesome experience. * He totally ignored us.


Words: tote
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  1  (also the Tote) [sing.] a system of betting on horses in which the total amount of money that is bet on each race is divided among the people who bet on the winners\n  2  (also tote bag) [C] (AmE) a large bag for carrying things with you\n    verb [VN] (informal, especially AmE)\n  1  to carry sth, especially sth heavy:\nWe arrived, toting our bags and suitcases.\n  2  (-toting) (in adjectives) carrying the thing mentioned:\ngun-toting soldiers


Words: totem
Meaning:
noun\nan animal or other natural object that is chosen and respected as a special symbol of a tribe or family, especially among Native Americans; an image of this animal, etc.\n    totemic  adjective:\ntotemic animals * a totemic culture / religion


Words: totem pole
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a tall wooden pole that has symbols and pictures (called TOTEMS) carved or painted on it, traditionally made by Native Americans\n  2  (AmE, informal) a range of different levels or ranks in an organization, etc:\nI didn’t want to be low man on the totem pole for ever.


Words: totter
Meaning:
verb [V] \n  1  [usually +adv./prep.] to walk or move with weak unsteady steps, especially because you are drunk or ill/sick:\nShe managed to totter back to her seat.\n  2  to be weak and seem likely to fall:\nthe tottering walls of the castle * (figurative) a failed attempt to salvage a tottering dictatorship


Words: totty
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (BrE, slang) sexually attractive women (an expression used by men, and usually offensive to women)


Words: touch
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb\n  with hands / fingers\n  1  [VN] to put your hands or fingers onto sb/sth:\nDon’t touch that plate-it’s hot! * Can you touch your toes (= bend and reach them with your hands)? * I touched him lightly on the arm. * (figurative) I must do some more work on that article-I haven’t touched it all week.\n  no space between\n  2  (of two or more things, surfaces, etc.) to be or come so close together that there is no space between:\n[V] Make sure the wires don’t touch. * [VN] Don’t let your coat touch the wet paint. * His coat was so long it was almost touching the floor. * The dancer’s feet hardly seemed to touch the ground.\n  move sth / hit sb\n  3  [VN] (often in negative sentences) to move sth, especially in such a way that you damage it; to hit or harm sb:\nI told you not to touch my things. * He said I kicked him, but I never touched him!\n  eat / drink / use\n  4  [VN] (usually in negative sentences) to eat, drink or use sth:\nYou’ve hardly touched your food. * He hasn’t touched the money his aunt left him.\n  affect sb / sth\n  5  to make sb feel upset or sympathetic:\n[VN] Her story touched us all deeply. * What he said really touched my heart. [also VN to inf]\n  6  [VN] (old-fashioned or formal) to affect or concern sb/sth:\nThese are issues that touch us all.\n  equal sb\n  7  [VN] (usually in negative sentences) to be as good as sb in skill, quality, etc:\nNo one can touch him when it comes to interior design.\n  reach level\n  8  [VN] to reach a particular level, etc:\nThe speedometer was touching 90.\n  be involved with\n  9  [VN] to become connected with or work with a situation or person:\nEverything she touches turns to disaster. * His last two movies have been complete flops and now no studio will touch him.\n  of smile\n  10  [VN] to be seen on sb’s face for a short time:\nA smile touched the corners of his mouth.\n IDIOMS \n  be touched with sth to have a small amount of a particular quality:\nHis hair was touched with grey. * Some of her poems are touched with real genius.\n  not touch sb/sth with a bargepole (BrE) (AmE not touch sb/sth with a ten-foot pole) (informal) to refuse to get involved with sb/sth or in a particular situation:\nPersonally, I wouldn’t touch him or his business with a bargepole.\n  touch base (with sb) (informal) to make contact with sb again\n  touch bottom\n1 to reach the ground at the bottom of an area of water:\nI put my feet down and touched bottom.\n2 (BrE) to reach the worst possible state or condition:\nHer career really touched bottom with that movie.\n  touch wood (BrE) (AmE knock on wood) (saying) used when you have just mentioned some way in which you have been lucky in the past, to avoid bringing bad luck:\nI’ve been driving for over 20 years and never had an accident-touch wood!\nmore at CHORD, FORELOCK, HAIR, NERVE n., RAW n.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  touch down\n1 (of a plane, spacecraft, etc.) to land\nrelated noun TOUCHDOWN\n2 (in rugby) to score a TRY by putting the ball on the ground behind the other team’s goal line\nrelated noun TOUCHDOWN\n  touch sb for sth (informal) to persuade sb to give or lend you sth, especially money:\nHe tried to touch me for 50 bucks.\n  touch sth<->off to make sth begin, especially a difficult or violent situation:\nThe blaze was touched off by lightning. * Her comments touched off a wave of protests.\n  touch on / upon sth to mention or deal with a subject in only a few words, without going into detail:\nIn his speech he was only able to touch on a few aspects of the problem. * The central issue of the debate was hardly touched on in his speech.\n  touch sb<->up (BrE, informal) to touch sb sexually, usually in a way that is not expected or welcome\n  touch sth<->up to improve sth by changing or adding to it slightly:\nShe was busy touching up her make-up in the mirror.\n    noun\n  sense\n  1  [U] the sense that enables you to be aware of things and what they are like when you put your hands and fingers on them:\nthe sense of touch * to read Braille by touch\n  with hands / fingers\n  2  [C, usually sing.] an act of putting your hands and fingers onto sb/sth:\nThe gentle touch of his hand on her shoulder made her jump. * All this information is readily available at the touch of a button (= by simply pressing a button). * This type of engraving requires a delicate touch. * She played the piano with a light touch.\n  way sth feels\n  3  [sing.] the way that sth feels when you put your hand or fingers on it or when it comes into contact with your body:\nThe body was cold to the touch. * material with a smooth silky touch * He could not bear the touch of clothing on his sunburnt skin.\n  small detail\n  4  [C] a small detail that is added to sth in order to improve it or make it complete:\nI spent the morning putting the finishing touches to the report. * Meeting them at the airport was a nice touch. * Bright cushions add a decorative touch to a room.\n  way of doing sth\n  5  [sing.] a way or style of doing sth:\nShe prefers to answer any fan mail herself for a more personal touch. * Computer graphics will give your presentation the professional touch. * He couldn’t find his magic touch with the ball today (= he didn’t play well). * This meal is awful. I think I’m losing my touch (= my ability to do sth).\n  small amount\n  6  [C, often sing.] ~ of sth a very small amount\nSYN TRACE:\nThere was a touch of sarcasm in her voice. * There could be a touch of frost tonight.\n  slightly\n  7  (a touch) [sing.] slightly; a little:\nThe music was a touch too loud for my liking.\n  in football / rugby\n  8  [U] the area outside the lines that mark the sides of the playing field:\nHe kicked the ball into touch.\n IDIOMS \n  be, get, keep, etc. in touch (with sb) to communicate with sb, especially by writing to them or telephoning them:\nAre you still in touch with your friends from college? * Thanks for showing us your products-we’ll be in touch. * I’m trying to get in touch with Jane. Do you have her number? * Let’s keep in touch. * I’ll put you in touch with someone in your area.\n  be, keep, etc. in touch (with sth) to know what is happening in a particular subject or area:\nIt is important to keep in touch with the latest research.\n  be out of touch (with sb) to no longer communicate with sb, so that you no longer know what is happening to them:\nWe’ve been out of touch for a couple of years.\n  be, become, etc. out of touch (with sth) to not know or understand what is happening in a particular subject or area:\nUnfortunately, the people making the decisions are out of touch with the real world.\n  an easy / a soft touch (informal) a person that you can easily persuade to do sth, especially to give you money:\nUnfortunately, my father is no soft touch.\n  lose touch (with sb/sth)\n1 to no longer have any contact with sb/sth:\nI’ve lost touch with all my old friends.\n2 to no longer understand sth, especially how ordinary people feel\nmore at COMMON adj., LIGHT adj.


Words: touch football
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (AmE) a type of American football in which touching is used instead of TACKLING\ncompare FLAG FOOTBALL


Words: touch-and-go
Meaning:
adjective\n[not usually before noun] (informal) used to say that the result of a situation is uncertain and that there is a possibility that sth bad or unpleasant will happen:\nShe’s fine now, but it was touch-and-go for a while (= there was a possibility that she might die). * It was touch-and-go whether they’d allow him into the country or not.


Words: Touch-Tone
Meaning:
adjective\n(of a telephone or telephone system) producing different sounds when different numbers are pushed


Words: touchdown
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [C, U] the moment when a plane or spacecraft lands\nSYN LANDING:\na smooth touchdown * The plane swerved on touchdown.\n  2  [C] (in rugby) an act of scoring points by putting the ball down on the area of ground behind the other team’s GOAL LINE\n  3  [C] (in American football) an act of scoring points by crossing the other team’s GOAL LINE while carrying the ball, or receiving the ball when you are over the other team’s GOAL LINE


Words: touche
Meaning:
exclamation\n(from French) used during an argument or a discussion to show that you accept that sb has answered your comment in a clever way and has gained an advantage by making a good point


Words: touched
Meaning:
adjective [not before noun]\n  1  ~ (by sth) | ~ (that ...) feeling happy and grateful because of sth kind that sb has done; feeling emotional about sth:\nShe was touched by their warm welcome. * I was touched that he still remembered me. * She was touched by the plight of the refugees.\n  2  (old-fashioned, informal) slightly crazy


Words: touching
Meaning:
adjective\ncausing feelings of pity or sympathy; making you feel emotional:\nIt was a touching story that moved many of us to tears. * I find his devotion to her rather touching.\n    touchingly adverb


Words: touchpaper
Meaning:
noun\na piece of paper that burns slowly, that you light in order to start a FIREWORK burning:\nLight the blue touchpaper and retire immediately to a safe distance.


Words: touchstone
Meaning:
noun\n[usually sing.] ~ (of / for sth) (written) something that provides a standard against which other things are compared and/or judged:\nthe touchstone for quality


Words: touchy
Meaning:
adjective (touchier, touchiest)\n  1  [not usually before noun] ~ (about sth) (of a person) easily upset or offended\nSYN SENSITIVE:\nHe’s a little touchy about his weight. * She gets very touchy if you mention the divorce.\n  2  [usually before noun] (of a subject) that may upset or offend people and should therefore be dealt with carefully\nSYN DELICATE, SENSITIVE:\nI can’t understand why her resignation is still such a touchy subject.\n    touchiness noun [U]


Words: touchy-feely
Meaning:
adjective\n(informal, usually disapproving) expressing emotions too openly, especially through physical contact:\nHe was one of those touchy-feely guys who’s always calling home to speak to the kids.


Words: tough
Meaning:
adjective, noun, verb \n    adjective (tougher, toughest)\n  difficult\n  1  having or causing problems or difficulties:\na tough childhood / match * It was a tough decision to make. * She’s been having a tough time of it (= a lot of problems) lately. * He faces the toughest test of his leadership so far. * It can be tough trying to juggle a career and a family.\n  strict / firm\n  2  ~ (on / with sb/sth) demanding that particular rules be obeyed and showing a lack of sympathy for any problems or suffering that this may cause:\nDon’t be too tough on him-he was only trying to help. * It’s about time teachers started to get tough with bullies. * The school takes a tough line on (= punishes severely) cheating. * Local traders are calling for tougher action against vandals.\nOPP SOFT\n  strong\n  3  strong enough to deal successfully with difficult conditions or situations:\na tough breed of cattle * He’s not tough enough for a career in sales. * She’s a tough cookie / customer (= sb who knows what they want and is not easily influenced by other people).\n  4  (of a person) physically strong and likely to be violent:\nYou think you’re so tough, don’t you? * He plays the tough guy in the movie.\n  meat\n  5  difficult to cut or chew\nOPP TENDER\n  not easily damaged\n  6  not easily cut, broken, torn, etc:\na tough pair of shoes * The reptile’s skin is tough and scaly.\n  unfortunate\n  7  ~ (on sb) (informal) unfortunate for sb in a way that seems unfair:\nIt was tough on her being dropped from the team like that. * (ironic) ’I can’t get it finished in time.’ ’Tough!’ (= I don’t feel sorry about it.)\n    toughly adverb\n    toughness noun [U]:\nHer background had given her the physical and mental toughness that enabled her to fight for what she wanted.\n IDIOMS \n  (as) tough as old boots | (as) tough as nails (informal)\n1 very strong and able to deal successfully with difficult conditions or situations:\nShe’s almost 90 but she’s still as tough as old boots.\n2 not feeling or showing any emotion\n  tough luck (informal)\n1 (BrE) used to show sympathy for sth unfortunate that has happened to sb:\n’I failed by one point.’ ’That’s tough luck.’\n2 (ironic) used to show that you do not feel sorry for sb who has a problem:\n’If you take the car, I won’t be able to go out.’ ’Tough luck!’\nmore at GOING n., HANG v., NUT n., TALK v.\n    noun (old-fashioned, informal) a person who regularly uses violence against other people\n    verb\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  tough sth<->out to stay firm and determined in a difficult situation:\nYou’re just going to have to tough it out.


Words: tough-minded
Meaning:
adjective\ndealing with problems and situations in a determined way without being influenced by emotions\nSYN HARD-HEADED:\na tough-minded young woman


Words: toughen
Meaning:
(sb) (up)\n  1  to become or make sth stronger, so that it is not easily cut, broken, etc:\n[VN] toughened glass [also V]\n  2  [VN] to make sth such as laws or rules stricter:\nThe government is considering toughening up the law on censorship.\n  3  [VN] to make sb stronger and more able to deal with difficult situations:\nHis parents sent him away to school to toughen him up.


Words: toupee
Meaning:
noun\na small section of artificial hair, worn by a man to cover an area of his head where hair no longer grows


Words: tour
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  1  ~ (of / round / around sth) a journey made for pleasure during which several different towns, countries, etc. are visited:\na walking / sightseeing tour * a coach tour of / around Northern France * a tour operator (= a person or company that organizes tours)\nsee also PACKAGE TOUR, WHISTLE-STOP\n  2  an act of walking around a town, building, etc. in order to visit it:\nWe were given a guided tour (= by sb who knows about the place) of the palace. * a tour guide * a tour of inspection (= an official visit of a factory, classroom, etc. made by sb whose job is to check that everything is working as expected)\n  3  an official series of visits made to different places by a sports team, an orchestra, an important person, etc:\nThe band is currently on a nine-day tour of France. * The band is on tour in France. * a concert / cricket tour * The Prince will visit Boston on the last leg (= part) of his American tour. * The soldiers all do a six-month tour of duty in Northern Ireland.\n    verb to travel around a place, for example to perform, to advertise sth, etc: [VN] He toured America with his one-man show. * She toured the country promoting her book. * [V] We spent four weeks touring around Europe.


Words: tour de force
Meaning:
noun\n(plural tours de force ) (from French) an extremely skilful performance or achievement:\na literary / cinematic tour de force


Words: Tourette’s syndrome
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (medical) a disorder of the nerves in which a person makes a lot of small movements and sounds that they cannot control, including using swear words


Words: tourism
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the business activity connected with providing accommodation, services and entertainment for people who are visiting a place for pleasure:\nWe hope that this investment will lead to increased tourism in the area.


Words: tourist
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a person who is travelling or visiting a place for pleasure:\nbusloads of foreign tourists * a popular tourist attraction / destination / resort * the tourist industry / sector * Further information is available from the local tourist office.\n  2  (BrE) a member of a sports team that is playing a series of official games in a foreign country


Words: tourist class
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the cheapest type of ticket or accommodation that is available on a plane or ship or in a hotel


Words: tourist trap
Meaning:
noun\n(informal, disapproving) a place that attracts a lot of tourists and where food, drink, entertainment, etc. is more expensive than normal


Words: touristy
Meaning:
adjective\n(informal, disapproving) attracting or designed to attract a lot of tourists:\nBali is the most touristy of the islands. * a shop full of touristy souvenirs


Words: tournament
Meaning:
noun\n  1  (AmE less frequent tourney) a sports competition involving a number of teams or players who take part in different games and must leave the competition if they lose. The competition continues until there is only the winner left:\na golf / squash / tennis tournament\n  2  a competition in the Middle Ages between soldiers on HORSEBACK fighting to show courage and skill:\na medieval jousting tournament


Words: tourniquet
Meaning:
noun\na piece of fabric, etc. that is tied tightly around an arm or a leg to stop a wound from bleeding


Words: tousle
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] [usually passive] to make sb’s hair untidy\n    tousled adjective:\na boy with blue eyes and tousled hair


Words: tout
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb\n  1  [VN] ~ sb/sth (as sth) to try to persuade people that sb/sth is important or valuable by praising them/it:\nShe’s being touted as the next leader of the party. * Their much-touted expansion plans have come to nothing.\n  2  ~ (for sth) (especially BrE) to try to persuade people to buy your goods or services, especially by going to them and asking them directly:\n[V] the problem of unlicensed taxi drivers touting for business at airports * [VN] He’s busy touting his client’s latest book around London’s literary agents.\n  3  [V, VN] (BrE) (AmE scalp) to sell tickets that you have bought at one price at a higher price, especially outside a theatre, STADIUM, etc.\n    noun (also ticket tout) (both BrE) (AmE scalper) a person who buys tickets for concerts, sports events, etc. and then sells them to other people at a higher price


Words: tow
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb [VN] to pull a car or boat behind another vehicle, using a rope or chain:\nOur car was towed away by the police.\nsee also TOW BAR, TOW ROPE\n    noun [sing.] an act of one vehicle pulling another vehicle using a rope or chain:\nThe car broke down and we had to get somebody to give us a tow. * a tow truck\n IDIOMS \n  in tow\n1 (informal) if you have sb in tow, they are with you and following closely behind:\nShe turned up with her mother in tow.\n2 if a ship is taken in tow, it is pulled by another ship


Words: towards
Meaning:
especially in AmE) preposition\n  1  in the direction of sb/sth:\nThey were heading towards the German border. * She had her back towards me.\n  2  getting closer to achieving sth:\nThis is a first step towards political union.\n  3  close or closer to a point in time:\ntowards the end of April\n  4  in relation to sb/sth:\nHe was warm and tender towards her. * our attitude towards death\n  5  with the aim of obtaining sth, or helping sb to obtain sth:\nThe money will go towards a new school building (= will help pay for it).


Words: towel
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n a piece of fabric or paper used for drying things, especially your body:\nHelp yourself to a clean towel. * a hand / bath towel (= a small / large towel) * a beach towel (= a large towel used for lying on in the sun) * a kitchen towel (= a piece of paper from a roll that you use to wipe up liquid, etc. in the kitchen)\nsee also PAPER TOWEL, SANITARY TOWEL, TEA TOWEL\n \n IDIOMS \n \n  throw in the towel (informal) to admit that you have been defeated and stop trying:\nWe’re not going to throw in the towel just because we lost one game.\n    verb (-ll-, AmE also -l-) [VN] ~ yourself / sb/sth (down) to dry yourself/sb/sth with a towel


Words: towel rail
Meaning:
(BrE) (AmE towel rack) noun\na bar or frame for hanging towels on in a bathroom:\na heated towel rail


Words: towelling
Meaning:
(BrE) (AmE toweling)  noun\n[U] a thick soft cotton fabric that absorbs liquids, used especially for making towels:\na towelling bathrobe


Words: tower
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n\n \n  1  a tall narrow building or part of a building, especially of a church or castle:\na clock / bell tower * the Tower of London * the Eiffel Tower\n \n  2  (often in compounds) a tall structure used for sending television or radio signals:\na television tower\n \n  3  (usually in compounds) a tall piece of furniture used for storing things:\na CD tower\nsee also CONTROL TOWER, COOLING TOWER, IVORY TOWER, WATCHTOWER, WATER TOWER\n IDIOMS \n  a tower of strength a person that you can rely on to help, protect and comfort you when you are in trouble\n    verb\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  tower over / above sb/sth\n1 to be much higher or taller than the people or things that are near:\nThe cliffs towered above them. * He towered over all his classmates.\n2 to be much better than others in ability, quality, fame, etc:\nShe towers over other dancers of her generation.


Words: towering
Meaning:
adjective [only before noun]\n  1  extremely tall or high and therefore impressive:\ntowering cliffs\n  2  of extremely high quality:\na towering performance\n  3  (of emotions) extremely strong:\nto be in a towering rage


Words: town
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [C, U] a place with many houses, shops/stores, etc. where people live and work. It is larger than a village but smaller than a city:\na university town * They live in a rough part of town. * The nearest town is ten miles away. * We spent a month in the French town of Le Puy. * When she retired, she moved back to her home town (= the town where she was born and spent her childhood).\nsee also SMALL-TOWN\n HELP NOTE  You will find other compounds ending in town at their place in the alphabet.\n  2  (the town) [sing.] the people who live in a particular town:\nI suppose the whole town is talking about it.\n  3  [U] the area of a town where most of the shops/stores and businesses are:\nCan you give me a lift into town?\nsee also DOWNTOWN, MIDTOWN, OUT-OF-TOWN, UPTOWN\n  4  [U] (especially AmE) a particular town where sb lives and works or one that has just been referred to:\nI’ll be in town next week if you want to meet for a drink. * He married a girl from out of town. * The gossips finally drove her out of town. * This restaurant serves the best steaks in town.\nsee also OUT-OF-TOWN\n  5  [sing., U] life in towns or cities as opposed to life in the country:\nPollution is just one of the disadvantages of living in the town.\n IDIOMS \n  go to town (on sth) (informal) to do sth with a lot of energy, enthusiasm, etc., especially by spending a lot of money:\nThey really went to town on the decorations for the party.\n  (out) on the town (informal) visiting restaurants, clubs, theatres, etc. for entertainment, especially at night:\na night on the town * How about going out on the town tonight?\nmore at MAN n., PAINT v.


Words: town crier
Meaning:
(also crier) noun\n(in the past) a person whose job was to walk through a town shouting news, official ANNOUNCEMENTS, etc.


Words: town hall
Meaning:
noun\na building containing local government offices and, in Britain, usually a hall for public meetings, concerts, etc.


Words: town house
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  (BrE) a house in a town owned by sb who also has a house in the country:\nthe Earl of Derby’s town house\n \n  2  (BrE) a tall narrow house in a town that is part of a row of similar houses:\nan elegant Georgian town house\n \n  3  (usually townhouse) (AmE) = TERRACED HOUSE


Words: town meeting
Meaning:
noun\n(AmE) a meeting when people in a town come together to discuss problems that affect the town and to give their opinions on various issues


Words: town planning
Meaning:
(also planning) noun\n[U] the control of the growth and development of towns and their buildings, roads, etc. so that they can be pleasant and convenient places for people to live in; the subject that studies this


Words: townie
Meaning:
(also townee)  noun (disapproving)\n  1  a person who lives in or comes from a town or city, especially sb who does not know much about life in the countryside:\nCountry life isn’t as idyllic as townies imagine.\n  2  (AmE) a person who lives in a town with a college or university but does not attend or work at it


Words: townscape
Meaning:
noun\n  1  what you see when you look at a town, for example from a distance:\na historical / industrial townscape\n  2  (technical) a picture of a town\ncompare LANDSCAPE, SEASCAPE


Words: township
Meaning:
noun\n  1  (in South Africa in the past) a town or part of a town that black people had to live in, and where only black people lived\n  2  (in the US or Canada) a division of a county that is a unit of local government


Words: townspeople
Meaning:
noun\n[pl.] people who live in towns, not in the countryside; the people who live in a particular town:\nThe farm holidays are for townspeople who would like a taste of the countryside. * Townspeople have flocked to the new shopping mall.


Words: towpath
Meaning:
noun\na path along the bank of a river or canal, that was used in the past by horses pulling boats (called BARGES)


Words: toxaemia
Meaning:
(BrE) (AmE toxemia)  noun\n[U] (medical) infection of the blood by harmful bacteria\nSYN BLOOD POISONING


Words: toxic
Meaning:
adjective\ncontaining poison; poisonous:\ntoxic chemicals / fumes / gases / substances * to dispose of toxic waste * Many pesticides are highly toxic.


Words: toxic shock syndrome
Meaning:
noun\n[U] a serious illness in women caused by harmful bacteria in the VAGINA, connected with the use of TAMPONS


Words: toxicity
Meaning:
noun (plural toxicities) (technical)\n  1  [U] the quality of being poisonous; the extent to which sth is poisonous:\nsubstances with high / low levels of toxicity\n  2  [C] the effect that a poisonous substance has:\nMinor toxicities of this drug include nausea and vomiting.


Words: toy
Meaning:
noun, adjective, verb \n    noun\n\n \n  1  an object for children to play with:\ncuddly / soft toys * The children were playing happily with their toys.\n \n  2  an object that you have for enjoyment or pleasure rather than for a serious purpose:\nexecutive toys * His latest toy is the electric drill he bought last week.\n    adjective [only before noun]\n  1  made as a copy of a particular thing and used for playing with:\na toy car / telephone * toy soldiers\n  2  (of a dog) of a very small breed:\na toy poodle\n    verb\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  toy with sth\n1 to consider an idea or a plan, but not very seriously and not for a long time:\nI did briefly toy with the idea of living in France.\n2 to play with sth and move it around carelessly or without thinking:\nHe kept toying nervously with his pen. * She hardly ate a thing, just toyed with a piece of cheese on her plate. * (figurative) He accused the young man of toying with his daughter’s affections.


Words: trace
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb [VN] \n  1  ~ sb/sth (to sth) to find or discover sb/sth by looking carefully for them/it:\nWe finally traced him to an address in Chicago. * I have been unable to trace the letter you mentioned.\n  2  ~ sth (back) (to sth) to find the origin or cause of sth:\nShe could trace her family tree back to the 16th century. * The leak was eventually traced to a broken seal. * The police traced the call (= used special electronic equipment to find out who made the telephone call) to her ex-husband’s number.\n  3  to describe a process or the development of sth:\nHer book traces the town’s history from Saxon times to the present day.\n  4  ~ sth (out) to draw a line or lines on a surface:\nShe traced a line in the sand.\n  5  to follow the shape or outline of sth:\nHe traced the route on the map. * A tear traced a path down her cheek.\n  6  to copy a map, drawing, etc. by drawing on transparent paper (= TRACING PAPER) placed over it\n    noun\n  1  [C, U] a mark, an object or a sign that shows that sb/sth existed or was present:\nIt’s exciting to discover traces of earlier civilizations. * Police searched the area but found no trace of the escaped prisoners. * Years of living in England had eliminated all trace of her American accent. * The ship had vanished without (a) trace.\n  2  [C] ~ of sth a very small amount of sth:\nThe post-mortem revealed traces of poison in his stomach. * She spoke without a trace of bitterness.\n  3  [C] (technical) a line or pattern on paper or a screen that shows information that is found by a machine:\nThe trace showed a normal heart rhythm.\n  4  [C, usually pl.] one of the two long pieces of leather that fasten a carriage or CART to the horse that pulls it\n IDIOMS  see KICK v.


Words: trace element
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a chemical substance that is found in very small amounts\n  2  a chemical substance that living things, especially plants, need only in very small amounts to be able to grow well


Words: traceable
Meaning:
adjective\n~ (to sb/sth) if sth is traceable, you can find out where it came from, where it has gone, when it began or what its cause was:\nMost telephone calls are traceable. * a tradition that is traceable back to the 15th century


Words: tracer
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a bullet or SHELL (= a kind of bomb) that leaves a line of smoke or flame behind it:\ntracer bullets\n  2  (technical) a RADIOACTIVE substance that can be seen in the human body and is used to find out what is happening inside the body:\nRadioactive tracers have been used to map the metabolic activity of the brain.


Words: tracery
Meaning:
noun (plural traceries)\n \n  1  [U] (technical) a pattern of lines and curves in stone on the top part of some church windows\n \n  2  [U, C, usually sing.] (literary) an attractive pattern of lines and curves:\nthe delicate tracery of ice on the window


Words: trachea
Meaning:
noun\n(plural tracheas or tracheae ) (anatomy) the tube in the throat that carries air to the lungs\nSYN WINDPIPE


Words: tracheotomy
Meaning:
noun\n(plural tracheotomies) (medical) a medical operation to cut a hole in sb’s trachea so that they can breathe


Words: tracing
Meaning:
noun\na copy of a map, drawing, etc. that you make by drawing on a piece of transparent paper placed on top of it


Words: tracing paper
Meaning:
noun\n[U] strong transparent paper that is placed on top of a map, drawing, etc. so that you can follow the lines with a pen or pencil in order to make a copy of it


Words: track
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  rough path\n \n  1  [C] a rough path or road, usually one that has not been built but that has been made by people walking there:\na muddy track through the forest\nsee also CART TRACK\n \n  marks on ground\n \n  2  [C, usually pl.] marks left by a person, an animal or a moving vehicle:\nWe followed the bear’s tracks in the snow. * There were two sets of fresh tyre tracks outside.\n \n  for train\n  3  [C, U] rails that a train moves along:\nrailway / railroad tracks * India has thousands of miles of track.\n  4  [C] (AmE) a track with a number at a train station that a train arrives at or leaves from:\nThe train for Chicago is on track 9. -> PLATFORM\n  for races\n  5  [C] a piece of ground with a special surface for people, cars, etc. to have races on:\na running track * a Formula One Grand Prix track (= for motor racing)\nsee also DIRT TRACK (2), TRACK AND FIELD\n  direction / course\n  6  [C] the path or direction that sb/sth is moving in:\nPolice are on the track of (= searching for) the thieves. * She is on the fast track to promotion (= will get it quickly).\nsee also ONE-TRACK MIND\n  on tape / cd\n  7  [C] a piece of music or song on a record, tape or CD:\na track from their latest album\n  8  [C] part of a tape or computer disk that music or information can be recorded on:\na sixteen track recording studio * She sang on the backing track.\nsee also SOUNDTRACK\n  for curtain\n  9  [C] a pole or rail that a curtain moves along\n  on large vehicle\n  10  [C] a continuous belt of metal plates around the wheels of a large vehicle such as a BULLDOZER that allows it to move over the ground\n IDIOMS \n  back on track going in the right direction again after a mistake, failure, etc:\nI tried to get my life back on track after my divorce.\n  be on track to be doing the right thing in order to achieve a particular result:\nCurtis is on track for the gold medal.\n  keep / lose track of sb/sth to have/not have information about what is happening or where sb/sth is:\nBank statements help you keep track of where your money is going. * I lost all track of time (= forgot what time it was).\n  make tracks (spoken) to leave a place, especially to go home:\nIt’s getting late-I’d better make tracks.\n  on the right / wrong track thinking or behaving in the right/wrong way:\nWe haven’t found a cure yet-but we are on the right track.\n  stop / halt sb in their tracks | stop / halt / freeze in your tracks to suddenly make sb stop by frightening or surprising them; to suddenly stop because sth has frightened or surprised you:\nThe question stopped Alice in her tracks. * The horse stopped dead in its tracks and refused to move.\nmore at BEAT v., COVER v., HOT adj., WRONG adj.\n    verb\n  follow\n  1  to find sb/sth by following the marks, signs, information, etc., that they have left behind them:\n[VN] hunters tracking and shooting bears [also V]\n  2  to follow the movements of sb/sth, especially by using special electronic equipment:\n[VN] We continued tracking the plane on our radar. [also V wh-]\n  3  to follow the progress or development of sb/sth:\n[VN] The research project involves tracking the careers of 400 law school graduates. [also V wh-]\n  of camera\n  4  [V +adv./prep.] to move in relation to the thing that is being filmed:\nThe camera eventually tracked away.\n  school students\n  5  [VN] (AmE) = STREAM (4)\n  leave marks\n  6  [VN] (especially AmE) to leave dirty marks behind you as you walk:\nDon’t track mud on my clean floor.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  track sb/sth<->down to find sb/sth after searching in several different places:\nThe police have so far failed to track down the attacker. * I finally tracked the reference down in a book of quotations.


Words: track event
Meaning:
noun\n[usually pl.] a sports event that is a race run on a track, rather than jumping or throwing sth\ncompare FIELD EVENT


Words: track record
Meaning:
noun\n[sing.] all the past achievements, successes or failures of a person or an organization:\nHe has a proven track record in marketing.


Words: tracker
Meaning:
noun\na person who can find people or wild animals by following the marks that they leave on the ground:\nThe trackers located the rhino and darted it with tranquillizing drugs.


Words: tracker dog
Meaning:
noun\na dog that has been trained to help the police find people or explosives:\nPolice searched the area with a helicopter and tracker dogs.


Words: tracksuit
Meaning:
(also jogging suit) noun\n(BrE) a warm loose pair of trousers/pants and matching jacket worn for sports practice or as informal clothes\ncompare SHELL SUIT


Words: tract
Meaning:
noun\n  1  (technical) a system of organs or tubes in the body that are connected and that have a particular purpose:\nthe digestive / urinary tract\n  2  an area of land, especially a large one:\nvast tracts of forest * They bought a 40-acre tract of land for development.\n  3  (sometimes disapproving) a short piece of writing, especially on a religious, moral or political subject, that is intended to influence people’s ideas:\nsocialist / feminist tracts * He wrote several tracts on the dangers of alcohol.


Words: tract house
Meaning:
(also tract home) noun\n(AmE) a modern house built on an area of land where a lot of other similar houses have also been built


Words: tractable
Meaning:
adjective\n(formal) easy to deal with or control:\nThis approach helps to make the issues more tractable.\nOPP INTRACTABLE\n    tractability  noun [U]


Words: traction
Meaning:
noun [U]\n  1  the action of pulling sth along a surface; the power that is used for doing this:\ndiesel / electric / steam traction\n  2  a way of treating a broken bone in your body that involves using special equipment to pull the bone gradually back into its correct place:\nHe spent six weeks in traction after he broke his leg.\n  3  the force that stops sth, for example the wheels of a vehicle, from sliding on the ground


Words: tractor
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  a powerful motor vehicle with two large and two smaller wheels, used especially for pulling farm machinery\n \n  2  (AmE) the front part of a tractor-trailer, where the driver sits


Words: tractor-trailer
Meaning:
noun\n(AmE) a large lorry/truck with two sections, one in front where the driver sits and one behind for carrying goods. The sections are connected by a FLEXIBLE joint so that the tractor-trailer can turn corners more easily.\nsee also ARTICULATED


Words: trad
Meaning:
(also less frequent trad jazz) (both BrE) noun\n[U] traditional jazz in the style of the 1920s, with free playing (= IMPROVISATION) against a background of fixed rhythms and combinations of notes\nsee also DIXIELAND


Words: tradable
Meaning:
(also tradeable)  adjective\n(technical) that you can easily buy and sell or exchange for money or goods \nSYN MARKETABLE:\ntradable assets * tradable goods


Words: trade
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  1  [U] the activity of buying and selling or of exchanging goods or services between people or countries:\ninternational / foreign trade * Trade between the two countries has increased. * the international trade in oil * the arms trade\nsee also BALANCE OF TRADE, FREE TRADE\n  2  [C] a particular type of business:\nthe building / food / tourist trade * He works in the retail trade (= selling goods in shops / stores).\nsee also RAG TRADE\n  3  (the trade) [sing.+sing./pl. v.] a particular area of business and the people or companies that are connected with it:\nThey offer discounts to the trade (= to people who are working in the same business). * a trade magazine / journal * Their company is respected and well known in the trade.\nsee also STOCK-IN-TRADE\n  4  [U, C] the amount of goods or services that you sell:\nTrade was very good last month.\n  5  [U, C] a job, especially one that involves working with your hands and that requires special training and skills:\nHe was a carpenter by trade. * When she leaves school, she wants to learn a trade. * She was surrounded by the tools of her trade (= everything she needs to do her job).\n IDIOMS  see JACK n., PLY v., ROARING, TRICK n.\n    verb\n  1  ~ (in sth) (with sb) to buy and sell things:\n[V] The firm openly traded in arms. * Early explorers traded directly with the Indians. * trading partners (= countries that you trade with) * [VN] Our products are now traded worldwide.\n  2  [V] ~ (as sb/sth) to exist and operate as a business or company:\nThe firm has now ceased trading. * They traded as ’Walker and Son’.\n  3  to be bought and sold, or to buy and sell sth, on a STOCK EXCHANGE:\n[V] Shares were trading at under half their usual value. [also VN]\n  4  to exchange sth that you have for sth that sb else has:\n[VN] to trade secrets / insults / jokes * She traded her posters for his CD. * I wouldn’t mind trading places with her for a day. [also VNN]\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  trade at sth (AmE) to buy goods or shop at a particular store\n  trade down to spend less money on things than you used to:\nShoppers are trading down and looking for bargains.\n  trade sth<->in (to sth) to give sth used as part of the payment for sth new:\nHe traded in his old car for a new Mercedes.\nrelated noun TRADE-IN\n  trade sth<->off (against / for sth) to balance two things or situations that are opposed to each other:\nThey were attempting to trade off inflation against unemployment.\nrelated noun TRADE-OFF\n  trade on sth (disapproving) to use sth to your own advantage, especially in an unfair way:\nThey trade on people’s insecurity to sell them insurance.\n  trade up (for sth)\n1 to sell sth in order to buy sth more expensive:\nWe’re going to trade up to a larger house.\n2 to give sth you have used as part of the payment for sth more expensive


Words: trade deficit
Meaning:
(also trade gap) noun\n[usually sing.] the difference between the value of a country’s imports and the value of its exports:\na widening / worsening trade deficit


Words: trade name
Meaning:
noun\n  1  = BRAND NAME:\nCoffee is sold under a wide range of trade names.\n  2  a name that is taken and used by a company for business purposes


Words: trade secret
Meaning:
noun\na piece of information, for example about how a particular product is made, that is known only to the company that makes it:\nto give away / reveal trade secrets * The recipe for their health drink is a closely guarded trade secret.


Words: trade union
Meaning:
(also trades union) (both BrE) (AmE labor union) (also union BrE, AmE) noun\nan organization of workers, usually in a particular industry, that exists to protect their interests, improve conditions of work, etc.\n    trade-unionism noun [U]:\nthe history of trade unionism


Words: trade-in
Meaning:
noun\na method of buying sth by giving a used item as part of the payment for a new one; the used item itself:\nthe trade-in value of a car * Do you have a trade-in?\nsee also PART EXCHANGE


Words: trade-off
Meaning:
noun\n~ (between sth and sth) the act of balancing two things that you need or want but which are opposed to each other:\nThere is a trade-off between the benefits of the drug and the risk of side effects.


Words: trademark
Meaning:
noun (abbreviation TM)\n  1  a name, symbol or design that a company uses for its products and that cannot be used by anyone else:\n’Big Mac’ is McDonald’s best-known trademark.\n  2  a special way of behaving or dressing that is typical of sb and that makes them easily recognized:\nAttention to detail is Anthea’s trademark. * The artist uses her trademark swirls of paint to good effect in her latest exhibition.


Words: trader
Meaning:
noun\na person who buys and sells things as a job:\nsmall / independent / local traders * bond / currency traders * Being a sole trader (= a person who runs a business on their own) is a risky venture.


Words: tradesman
Meaning:
1  a person whose job involves going to people’s houses to sell or deliver goods\n  2  (especially BrE) a person who buys and sells goods, especially in a shop/store\nSYN SHOPKEEPER\n  3  (especially AmE) a skilled person, especially one who makes beautiful things by hand


Words: tradespeople
Meaning:
noun [pl.]\n  1  people whose job involves selling goods or services, especially people who own a shop/store\n  2  people whose job involves training and special skills, for example CARPENTERS


Words: trading
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the activity of buying and selling things:\nnew laws on Sunday trading (= shops being open on Sundays) * Supermarkets everywhere reported excellent trading in the run-up to Christmas. * Shares worth $8 million changed hands during a day of hectic trading.


Words: trading estate
Meaning:
noun\n(BrE) an area of land, often on the edge of a city or town, where there are a number of businesses and small factories\ncompare INDUSTRIAL ESTATE


Words: trading post
Meaning:
noun\na small place in an area that is a long way from any town, used as a centre for buying and selling goods (especially in N America in the past)


Words: tradition
Meaning:
noun\n[C, U] a belief, custom or way of doing sth that has existed for a long time among a particular group of people; a set of these beliefs or customs:\nreligious / cultural / literary traditions * This region is steeped in folklore and tradition. * The company has a long tradition of fine design. * The British are said to love tradition (= to want to do things in the way they have always been done). * They broke with tradition (= did things differently) and got married quietly. * By tradition, children play tricks on 1 April. * There’s a tradition in our family that we have a party on New Year’s Eve. * He’s a politician in the tradition of (= similar in style to) Kennedy.


Words: traditional
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  being part of the beliefs, customs or way of life of a particular group of people, that have not changed for a long time:\ntraditional dress / music * It’s traditional in America to eat turkey on Thanksgiving Day. * traditional values\n  2  (sometimes disapproving) following older methods and ideas rather than modern or different ones\nSYN CONVENTIONAL:\ntraditional methods of teaching * Their marriage is very traditional.\n    traditionally  adverb:\nThe festival is traditionally held in May. * Housework has traditionally been regarded as women’s work.


Words: traditionalist
Meaning:
noun\na person who prefers tradition to modern ideas or ways of doing things\n    traditionalist adjective


Words: traffic
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n [U]\n \n  1  the vehicles that are on a road at a particular time:\nheavy / rush-hour traffic * local / through traffic * There’s always a lot of traffic at this time of day. * They were stuck in traffic and missed their flight. * a plan to reduce traffic congestion * traffic police (= who control traffic on a road or stop drivers who are breaking the law) * We got used to the constant noise of the traffic.\n \n  2  the movement of ships, trains, aircraft, etc. along a particular route:\ntransatlantic traffic * air traffic control / controllers\n \n  3  the movement of people or goods from one place to another:\ncommuter / freight / passenger traffic * the traffic of goods between one country and another\n \n  4  ~ (in sth) illegal trade in sth:\nthe traffic in drugs / firearms\n    verb (-ck-)\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  traffic in sth to buy and sell sth illegally:\nto traffic in drugs / arms\n    trafficker noun:\na drugs trafficker\n    trafficking noun [U]:\nto be accused of drug trafficking


Words: traffic calming
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (BrE) ways of making roads safer, especially for people who are walking or riding bicycles, by building raised areas, etc. to make cars go more slowly


Words: traffic island
Meaning:
(also island, refuge) (all BrE) (AmE safety island) noun\n  1  an area in the middle of a road where you can stand and wait for cars to go past until it is safe for you to cross\n  2  (AmE) an area of road with a raised surface, for example at a JUNCTION or between two LANES of traffic, that vehicles must not drive on


Words: traffic jam
Meaning:
noun\na long line of vehicles on a road that cannot move or that can only move very slowly:\nWe were stuck in a traffic jam.


Words: traffic light
Meaning:
noun\n[C] (also traffic lights [pl.]) (AmE also stoplights [pl.]) a signal that controls the traffic on a road, by means of red, orange and green lights that show when you must stop and when you can go:\nTurn left at the traffic lights.


Words: traffic warden
Meaning:
noun\n(BrE) a person whose job is to check that people do not park their cars in the wrong place or for longer than is allowed, and to report on those who do or tell them that they have to pay a FINE


Words: tragedy
Meaning:
noun [C, U] (plural tragedies)\n  1  a very sad event or situation, especially one that involves death:\nIt’s a tragedy that she died so young. * Tragedy struck the family when their three-year-old son was hit by a car and killed. * The whole affair ended in tragedy. * Investigators are searching the wreckage of the plane to try to find the cause of the tragedy.\n  2  a serious play with a sad ending, especially one in which the main character dies; plays of this type:\nShakespeare’s tragedies * Greek tragedy\ncompare COMEDY


Words: tragic
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  making you feel very sad, usually because sb has died or suffered a lot:\nHe was killed in a tragic accident at the age of 24. * Cuts in the health service could have tragic consequences for patients. * It would be tragic if her talent remained unrecognized.\n  2  [only before noun] connected with tragedy (= the style of literature):\na tragic actor / hero\n    tragically  adverb:\nTragically, his wife was killed in a car accident. * He died tragically young.


Words: tragicomedy
Meaning:
noun [C, U] (plural tragicomedies)\n  1  a play that is both funny and sad; plays of this type\n  2  an event or a situation that is both funny and sad\n    tragicomic  adjective


Words: trail
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  1  a long line or series of marks that is left by sth as it moves and that shows where it has been:\na trail of blood / footprints * tourists who leave a trail of litter everywhere they go * The hurricane left a a trail of destruction behind it.\n  2  a track, sign or smell that is left behind and that can be followed, especially in hunting:\nThe hounds were following the fox’s trail. * The police are still on the trail of the escaped prisoner. * Fortunately the trail was still warm (= clear and easy to follow). * The trail had gone cold.\n  3  a path through the countryside:\na trail through the forest\nsee also NATURE TRAIL\n  4  a route that is followed for a particular purpose:\na tourist trail (= of famous buildings) * politicians on the campaign trail (= travelling around to attract support)\n IDIOMS  see BLAZE v., HIT v., HOT adj.\n    verb\n  1  to pull sth behind sb/sth, usually along the ground; to be pulled along in this way:\n[VN] A jeep trailing a cloud of dust was speeding in my direction. * I trailed my hand in the water as the boat moved along. * [V]   [usually +adv./prep.] The bride’s dress trailed behind her.\n  2  [V +adv./prep.] to walk slowly because you are tired or bored, especially behind sb else:\nThe kids trailed around after us while we shopped for clothes.\n  3  ~ (by / in sth) (used especially in the progressive tenses) to be losing a game or other contest:\n[V] United were trailing 20 at half-time. * We were trailing by five points. * This country is still trailing badly in scientific research. * [VN] The Conservatives are trailing Labour in the opinion polls.\n  4  [VN] to follow sb/sth by looking for signs that show you where they have been:\nThe police trailed Dale for days. * We could smell the scent of a fox as we trailed paw marks through the wood.\n  5  [V] (especially of plants) to grow or hang downwards over sth or along the ground:\ntrailing plants * Computer wires were trailing all over the floor.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  trail away / off (of sb’s speech) to become gradually quieter and then stop:\nHis voice trailed away to nothing. * [+ speech] ’I only hope ...’ She trailed off.


Words: trailblazer
Meaning:
noun\na person who is the first to do or discover sth and so makes it possible for others to follow:\na trailblazer in the field of genetic engineering\ncompare blaze a trail at BLAZE\n    trailblazing adjective [usually before noun]:\ntrailblazing scientific research


Words: trailer
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  a truck, or a container with wheels, that is pulled by another vehicle:\na car towing a trailer with a boat on it\nsee also TRACTOR-TRAILER\n \n  2  (AmE) a vehicle without an engine, that can be pulled by a car or truck or used as a home or an office when it is parked:\na trailer park (= an area where trailers are parked and used as homes)\n \n  3  (especially BrE) a series of short scenes from a film/movie or television programme, shown in advance to advertise it


Words: train
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n\n \n  1  a railway/railroad engine pulling a number of carriages or trucks, taking people and goods from one place to another:\nto get on / off a train * I like travelling by train. * a passenger / commuter / goods / freight train * to catch / take / get the next train to London * a train journey / driver * You have to change trains at Reading. * There are regular train services to Edinburgh and Glasgow.\nsee also GRAVY TRAIN\n \n  2  a number of people or animals moving in a line:\na camel train * a wagon train\n \n  3  [usually sing.] a series of events or actions that are connected:\nHis death set in motion a train of events that led to the outbreak of war.\n  4  the part of a long formal dress that spreads out on the floor behind the person wearing it\n IDIOMS \n  bring sth in its train (written) to have sth as a result:\nUnemployment brings great difficulties in its train.\n  in sb’s train (written) following behind sb:\nIn the train of the rich and famous came the journalists.\n  set sth in train (formal) to prepare or start sth:\nThat telephone call set in train a whole series of events.\n  a train of thought the connected series of thoughts that are in your head at a particular time:\nThe phone ringing interrupted my train of thought.\n    verb\n  1  ~ (sb) (as / in / for sth) to teach a person or an animal the skills for a particular job or activity; to be taught in this way:\n[VN] well / badly trained staff * Steve can’t get a job, he’s not trained in anything. * [VN to inf] They train dogs to sniff out drugs. * [V] He trained as a teacher before becoming an actor. * All members of the team have trained in first aid. * [V to inf] Sue is training to be a doctor.\n  2  ~ (sb) (for / in sth) to prepare yourself/sb for a particular activity, especially a sport, by doing a lot of exercise; to prepare a person or an animal in this way:\n[V] athletes training for the Olympics * I train in the gym for two hours a day. * [VN] She trains horses. * He trains the Olympic team.\n  3  to develop a natural ability or quality so that it improves:\n[VN] An expert with a trained eye will spot the difference immediately. * [VN to inf] You can train your mind to think positively.\n  4  [VN] ~ sth (around / along / up, etc.) to make a plant grow in a particular direction:\nRoses had been trained around the door.\n PHRASAL VERBS \n  train sth at / on sb/sth (written) to aim a gun, camera, light, etc. at sb/sth:\nHe carefully trained his gun on the suspect.


Words: trainee
Meaning:
noun\na person who is being taught how to do a particular job:\na management trainee * a trainee salesman / teacher


Words: trainer
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  (also training shoe) (both BrE) (AmE sneaker) [usually pl.] a shoe that you wear for sports or as a piece of informal clothing:\na pair of trainers\n \n  2  a person who teaches people or animals to perform a particular job or skill well, or to do a particular sport:\nteacher trainers * a racehorse trainer * Her trainer had decided she shouldn’t run in the race.


Words: training
Meaning:
noun [U]\n  1  ~ (in sth / in doing sth) the process of learning the skills that you need to do a job:\nstaff training * Few candidates had received any training in management. * a training course\n  2  the process of preparing to take part in a sports competition by doing physical exercises:\nto be in training for a race * pre-season training


Words: trainspotter
Meaning:
noun (BrE)\n  1  a person who collects the numbers of railway engines as a hobby\n  2  (disapproving) a person who is interested in the details of a subject that other people think are boring\n    trainspotting noun [U]:\nThere’s an element of trainspotting in any specialist field.


Words: traipse
Meaning:
verb\n[V +adv./prep.] (informal) to walk somewhere slowly when you are tired and unwilling:\nWe spent the afternoon traipsing around the town.


Words: trait
Meaning:
noun\na particular quality in your personality:\npersonality traits * Awareness of class is a typically British trait.


Words: traitor
Meaning:
noun\n~ (to sb/sth) a person who betrays their friends, their country, etc:\nHe was seen as a traitor to the socialist cause. * She denied that she had turned traitor (= become a traitor).


Words: traitorous
Meaning:
adjective\n(rare, formal) betraying your friends, your country, etc:\ntraitorous behaviour * a traitorous thought\n    traitorously adverb


Words: trajectory
Meaning:
(plural trajectories) noun\n(technical) the curved path of sth that has been fired, hit or thrown into the air:\na missile’s trajectory * (figurative, written) My career seemed to be on a downward trajectory.


Words: tram
Meaning:
(also tramcar) (both BrE) (AmE streetcar, trolley) noun\na vehicle driven by electricity, that runs on rails along the streets of a town and carries passengers:\na tram route / track / service / stop


Words: tramlines
Meaning:
noun [pl.]\n \n  1  the rails in the street that trams run on\n \n  2  (BrE) (AmE alley) (informal) the pair of parallel lines on a tennis or badminton court that mark the extra area that is used when four people are playing


Words: trammel
Meaning:
verb\n(-ll-, AmE -l-) [VN] [often passive] (rare, formal) to restrict or limit sb’s freedom of movement or activity:\nHe felt himself trammelled by convention.\ncompare UNTRAMMELLED


Words: tramp
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  1  (also hobo) [C] a person with no home or job who travels from place to place, usually asking people in the street for food or money\n  2  [sing.] the ~ of sb/sth the sound of sb’s heavy steps:\nthe tramp of marching feet\n  3  [C, usually sing.] a long walk:\nWe had a long tramp home.\n  4  (old-fashioned, AmE, disapproving) a woman who has many sexual partners\n    verb (also AmE informal tromp) to walk with heavy or noisy steps, especially for a long time:\n[V] We tramped across the wet grass to look at the statue. * the sound of tramping feet * [VN] She’s been tramping the streets looking for a job.


Words: trample
Meaning:
verb\n  1  ~ sb/sth (down) | ~ on / over sth to step heavily on sb/sth so that you crush or harm them/it with your feet:\n[VN] People were trampled underfoot in the rush for the exit. * He was trampled to death (= killed) by a runaway horse. * The campers had trampled the corn down. * [V] Don’t trample on the flowers!\n  2  ~ (on / over) sb/sth to ignore sb’s feelings or rights and treat them as if they are not important:\n[V] The government is trampling on the views of ordinary people. * She would not let him trample over her any longer. [also VN]


Words: trampoline
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n a piece of equipment that is used in GYMNASTICS for doing jumps in the air. It consists of a sheet of strong material that is attached by springs to a frame.\n    verb [V] to jump on a trampoline\n    trampolining noun [U]


Words: trance
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a state in which sb seems to be asleep but is aware of what is said to them, for example if they are HYPNOTIZED:\nto go / fall into a trance\n  2  a state in which you are thinking so much about sth that you do not notice what is happening around you:\nShe drove, gripping the wheel in a trance, hardly aware of her surroundings.


Words: tranche
Meaning:
noun\n(BrE, finance) one of the parts into which an amount of money or a number of SHARES in a company is divided:\nthe first tranche of the company’s new share issue


Words: tranquil
Meaning:
adjective\n(written) quiet and peaceful:\na tranquil scene / place * the tranquil waters of the lake * She lead a tranquil life in the country.\n    tranquillity (BrE) (AmE also tranquility)  noun [U]:\nan atmosphere of peace and tranquillity\n    tranquilly adverb


Words: tranquillize
Meaning:
(BrE also tranquillise) (AmE tranquilize)  verb\n[VN] to make person or an animal calm or unconscious, especially by giving them a drug (= a TRANQUILLIZER):\na fast-acting tranquillizing drug * A gamekeeper tranquillized the rhinoceros with a drugged dart.


Words: tranquillizer
Meaning:
(BrE also tranquilliser)  noun\na drug used to reduce anxiety:\nShe’s on (= is taking) tranquillizers.


Words: trans-
Meaning:
prefix\n  1  (in adjectives) across; beyond:\ntransatlantic * transcontinental\n  2  (in verbs) into another place or state:\ntransplant * transform


Words: transact
Meaning:
verb\n~ (sth) (with sb) (formal) to do business with a person or an organization:\n[VN] buyers and sellers transacting business [also V]


Words: transaction
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [C] ~ (between A and B) a piece of business that is done between people, especially an act of buying or selling:\nfinancial transactions between companies * commercial transactions\n  2  [U] ~ of sth (formal) the process of doing sth:\nthe transaction of government business


Words: transatlantic
Meaning:
adjective [only before noun]\n  1  crossing the Atlantic Ocean:\na transatlantic flight\n  2  connected with countries on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean:\na transatlantic alliance\n  3  on or from the other side of the Atlantic Ocean:\nto speak with a transatlantic accent * transatlantic (= American) visitors to Europe


Words: transcendent
Meaning:
adjective\n(formal) going beyond the usual limits; extremely great:\na writer of transcendent genius\n    transcendence  noun [U]:\nthe transcendence of God


Words: transcendental
Meaning:
adjective\n[usually before noun] going beyond the limits of human knowledge, experience or reason, especially in a religious or spiritual way:\na transcendental experience


Words: transcendental meditation
Meaning:
(BrE) (AmE Transcendental Meditation) noun\n[U] (abbreviation TM) a method of making yourself calm by thinking deeply in silence and repeating a special phrase to yourself many times


Words: transcribe
Meaning:
verb [VN] \n  1  ~ sth (into sth) to record thoughts, speech or data in a written form, or in a different written form from the original:\nClerks transcribe everything that is said in court. * The interview was recorded and then transcribed. * How many official documents have been transcribed into Braille for blind people?\n  2  (technical) to show the sounds of speech using a special PHONETIC alphabet\n  3  ~ sth (for sth) to write a piece of music in a different form so that it can be played by another musical instrument or sung by another voice:\na piano piece transcribed for the guitar


Words: transcript
Meaning:
noun\n  1  (also transcription) a written or printed copy of words that have been spoken:\na transcript of the interview / speech / trial\n  2  (especially AmE) an official record of a student’s work that shows the courses they have taken and the marks/grades they have achieved


Words: transcription
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [U] the act or process of representing sth in a written or printed form:\nerrors made in transcription * phonetic transcription\n  2  [C] = TRANSCRIPT:\nThe full transcription of the interview is attached.\n  3  [C] something that is represented in writing:\nThis dictionary gives phonetic transcriptions of all headwords.\n  4  [C] a change in the written form of a piece of music so that it can be played on a different instrument or sung by a different voice


Words: transducer
Meaning:
noun\n(technical) a device for producing an electrical signal from another form of energy such as pressure


Words: transept
Meaning:
noun\n(architecture) either of the two wide parts of a church shaped like a cross, that are built at RIGHT ANGLES to the main central part:\nthe north / south transept of the cathedral\ncompare NAVE


Words: transfer
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb  (-rr-)\n  to new place\n  1  ~ (sth/sb) (from ...) (to ...) to move from one place to another; to move sth/sb from one place to another:\n[V] The film studio is transferring to Hollywood. * [VN] How can I transfer money from my bank account to his? * The patient was transferred to another hospital. * [VN, V] (especially AmE) I couldn’t transfer all my credits from junior college. * (especially AmE) If I spend a semester in Madrid, will my credits transfer?\n  to new job / school / situation\n  2  ~ (sb) (from ...) (to ...) to move from one job, school, situation, etc. to another; to arrange for sb to move:\n[V] Children usually transfer to secondary school at 11 or 12. * He transferred to UCLA after his freshman year. * [VN] Ten employees are being transferred from the sales department.\n  feeling / disease / power\n  3  if you transfer a feeling, a disease, or power, etc., or if it transfers from one person to another, the second person has it, often instead of the first:\n[VN] Joe had already transferred his affections from Lisa to Cleo. * I decided to transfer my loyalty to my local team. * This disease is rarely transferred from mother to baby (= so that the baby has it as well as the mother). [also V]\n  property\n  4  [VN] ~ sth (to sb) to officially arrange for sth to belong to sb else or for sb else to control sth:\nHe transferred the property to his son.\n  in sport\n  5  ~ (sb) (from ...) (to ...) (especially BrE) to move, or to move sb, to a different sports team, especially a professional football team:\n[V] He transferred to Everton for ｣6 million. * [VN] He was transferred from Spurs to Arsenal for a huge fee.\n  to new vehicle\n  6  ~ (sb) (from ...) (to ...) to change to a different vehicle during a journey; to arrange for sb to change to a different vehicle during a journey:\n[V] I transferred at Bahrain for a flight to Singapore. * [VN] Passengers are transferred from the airport to the hotel by taxi.\n  information / music, etc.\n  7  ~ (sth) (from sth) (to sth) to copy information, music, an idea, etc. from one method of recording or presenting it to another; to be recorded or presented in a different way:\n[VN] You can transfer data to a disk in a few seconds. * [V] The novel does not transfer well to the movies.\n    noun \n  change of place / job / situation\n  1  [U, C] the act of moving sb/sth from one place, group or job to another; an occasion when this happens:\ndata / information transfer * the transfer of currency from one country to another * He has asked for a transfer to the company’s Paris branch. * After the election there was a swift transfer of power.\n  in sport\n  2  [U, C] the act of moving a sports player from one club or team to another:\nIt was the first goal he had scored since his transfer from Chelsea. * a transfer fee / request * to be on the transfer list (= available to join another club)\n  change of vehicle\n  3  [U, C] an act of changing to a different place, vehicle or route when you are travelling:\nThe transfer from the airport to the hotel is included in the price.\n  train / bus ticket\n  4  [C] (AmE) a ticket that allows a passenger to continue their journey on another bus or train\n  picture\n  5  [C] (especially BrE) (AmE usually decal) a picture or design that can be removed from a piece of paper and stuck onto a surface, for example by being pressed or heated


Words: transferable
Meaning:
adjective\nthat can be moved from one place, person or use to another:\nThis ticket is not transferable (= it may only be used by the person who has bought it). * We aim to provide our students with transferable skills (= that can be used in different jobs).\n    transferability  noun [U]


Words: transference
Meaning:
noun\n[U] (technical or formal) the process of moving sth from one place, person or use to another:\nthe transference of heat from the liquid to the container * the transference of ideas / information / wealth


Words: transfigure
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] [often passive] (literary) to change the appearance of a person or thing so that they look more beautiful:\nAnn’s whole face was transfigured by the early morning light.\n    transfiguration  noun [U]


Words: transfix
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] [usually passive] to be unable to move because sth has all your attention, or because you are afraid, surprised, etc:\nLuisa stood transfixed with shock.


Words: transform sb
Meaning:
(from sth) (into sth)\n  1  to change the form of sth\nSYN CONVERT:\nThe photochemical reactions transform the light into electrical impulses.\n  2  to completely change the appearance or character of sth, especially so that it is better:\nA new colour scheme will transform your bedroom. * It was an event that would transform my life. * The company has been transformed from a family business to a multi-million-pound operation.


Words: transformation
Meaning:
noun\n[C, U] ~ (from sth) (to / into sth) a complete change in sb/sth:\nThe way in which we work has undergone a complete transformation in the past decade. * the country’s transformation from dictatorship to democracy * What a transformation! You look great. * the transformation of the barge into a floating restaurant


Words: transformer
Meaning:
noun\na device for reducing or increasing the VOLTAGE of an electric power supply, usually to allow a particular piece of electrical equipment to be used


Words: transfusion
Meaning:
noun [C, U]\n  1  = BLOOD TRANSFUSION\n  2  ~ of sth the act of investing extra money in a place or an activity that needs it:\nThe project badly needs a transfusion of cash.\n    transfuse verb:\n[VN] to transfuse blood to / into a patient


Words: transgenic
Meaning:
adjective\n(biology) (of an animal or a plant) having GENETIC material introduced from another type of animal or plant


Words: transgress
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] (formal) to go beyond the limit of what is morally or legally acceptable:\nThey had transgressed the bounds of decency.\n    transgression  noun [C, U]\n    transgressor noun


Words: transient
Meaning:
adjective, noun \n    adjective (formal)\n  1  continuing for only a short time\nSYN TEMPORARY:\nthe transient nature of speech\n  2  staying or working in a place for only a short time, before moving on:\na city with a large transient population (= of students, temporary workers, etc.)\n    transience  noun [U]:\nthe transience of human life\n    noun (especially AmE) a person who stays or works in a place for only a short time, before moving on:\nMost of the farm workers are transients.


Words: transistor
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a small electronic device used in computers, radios, televisions, etc. for controlling an electric current as it passes along a CIRCUIT\n  2  (also transistor radio) a small radio with transistors


Words: transit
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [U] the process of being moved or carried from one place to another:\nThe cost includes transit. * goods damaged or lost in transit * transit times\n  2  [U, C, usually sing.] the act of going through a place on the way to somewhere else:\nthe transit lounge at Vienna airport * a transit visa (= one that allows a person to pass through a country but not to stay there)


Words: transition
Meaning:
noun\n[U, C] ~ (from sth) (to sth) | ~ (between A and B) the process or a period of changing from one state or condition to another:\nthe transition from school to full-time work * We need to ensure a smooth transition between the old system and the new one. * He will remain head of state during the period of transition to democracy. * This course is useful for students who are in transition (= in the process of changing) from one training programme to another.\n    transitional  adjective:\na transitional period * a transitional government


Words: transitive
Meaning:
adjective\n(grammar) (of verbs) used with a DIRECT OBJECT:\nIn ’She wrote a letter’, the verb ’wrote’ is transitive and the word ’letter’ is the direct object.\nOPP INTRANSITIVE\n    transitively adverb:\nThe verb is being used transitively.


Words: transitory
Meaning:
adjective\n(formal) continuing for only a short time\nSYN TEMPORARY:\nthe transitory nature of his happiness * These feelings tend to be transitory.


Words: translate
Meaning:
verb\n  1  ~ (sth) (from sth) (into sth) | ~ sth (as sth) to express the meaning of speech or writing in a different language:\n[VN] He translated the letter into English. * Her books have been translated into 24 languages. * ’Suisse’ had been wrongly translated as ’Sweden’. * Can you help me translate this legal jargon into plain English? * [V] I don’t speak Greek so Dina offered to translate for me. * My work involves translating from German.\n  2  [V] ~ (as sth) to be changed from one language to another:\nMost poetry does not translate well. * The Welsh name translates as ’Land’s End’.\n  3  ~ (sth) (into sth) to change sth, or to be changed, into a different form:\n[VN] It’s time to translate words into action. * [V] I hope all the hard work will translate into profits. * Most attempts to translate Shakespeare to the small screen (= television) are not successful.\n  4  ~ (sth) (as sth) to understand sth in a particular way or give sth a particular meaning:\n[VN] the various words and gestures that we translate as love [also V]


Words: translation
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [U] ~ (of sth) (into sth) | ~ (from sth) (into sth) the process of changing sth that is written or spoken into another language:\nan error in translation * He specializes in translation from Danish into English. * The book loses something in translation.\n  2  [C, U] a text or work that has been changed from one language into another:\nto make / do a translation of a document * The usual translation of ’glasnost’ is ’openness’. * a rough / a literal / an exact translation * I have only read Tolstoy in translation. * a copy of Dryden’s translation of the Aeneid\n  3  [U] ~ (of sth) into sth the process of changing sth into a different form:\nthe translation of theory into practice * the translation of sporting potential into Olympic gold medals


Words: translator
Meaning:
noun\na person who translates writing or speech into a different language, especially as a job:\nShe works as a translator of technical texts.\ncompare INTERPRETER


Words: transliterate
Meaning:
verb\n[VN] ~ sth (into / as sth) (formal) to write words or letters using letters of a different alphabet or language\n    transliteration  noun [C, U]


Words: translucent
Meaning:
adjective\n(written) allowing light to pass through but not transparent:\nThe sky was a pale translucent blue. * His skin was translucent with age.\n    translucence ) noun [U]:\nHer skin had the papery-thin translucence of great age.


Words: transmission
Meaning:
noun (formal)\n  1  [U] the act or process of passing sth from one person, place or thing to another:\nthe transmission of the disease / virus * the risk of transmission\n  2  [U] the act or process of sending out an electronic signal or message or of broadcasting a radio or television programme:\nthe transmission of computer data along telephone lines * a break in transmission (= of a radio or television broadcast) due to a technical fault * Do you know the date of transmission?\n  3  [C] a radio or television message or broadcast:\na live transmission from Sydney\n  4  [U, C] the system in a motor vehicle by which power is passed from the engine to the wheels


Words: transmit
Meaning:
verb (-tt-)\n  1  ~ (sth) (from ...) (to ...) to send an electronic signal, radio or television broadcast, etc: [VN, usually +adv./prep.] signals transmitted from a satellite * The ceremony was transmitted live by satellite to over fifty countries. * [V] a short-wave radio that can transmit as well as receive\n  2  [VN] to pass sth from one person to another:\nsexually transmitted diseases * Parents can unwittingly transmit their own fears to their children.\n  3  [VN] (technical) to allow heat, light, sound, etc. to pass through


Words: transmitter
Meaning:
noun\n  1  a piece of equipment used for sending electronic signals, especially radio or television signals\ncompare RECEIVER\n  2  ~ of sth (formal) a person or thing that transmits sth from one person or thing to another:\nEmphasis was placed on the school as a transmitter of moral values.


Words: transmogrify
Meaning:
verb\n(transmogrifies, transmogrifying, transmogrified, transmogrified) [VN] [often passive] (often humorous) to change sb/sth completely, especially in a surprising way\n    transmogrification  noun [U]


Words: transmute
Meaning:
verb\n~ (sth) (into sth) (formal) to change, or make sth change, into sth different: [VN, +adv./prep.] It was once thought that lead could be transmuted into gold. [also V]\n    transmutation  noun [C, U]


Words: transnational
Meaning:
adjective\n(especially business) operating in or between many different countries, without being based in any particular one:\ntransnational corporations


Words: transparency
Meaning:
noun (plural transparencies)\n  1  [C] a picture printed on a piece of photographic film, usually in a frame, that can be shown on a screen by shining light through the film\nSYN SLIDE:\nan overhead transparency (= used with an OVERHEAD PROJECTOR)\n  2  [U] the quality of sth, such as glass, that allows you to see through it\n  3  [U] the quality of sth, such as an excuse or a lie, that allows sb to see the truth easily:\nThey were shocked by the transparency of his lies.\n  4  [U] the quality of sth, such as a situation or an argument, that makes it easy to understand:\na need for greater transparency in legal documents


Words: transparent
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  (of glass, plastic, etc.) allowing you to see through it:\nThe insect’s wings are almost transparent.\nOPP OPAQUE\n  2  (of an excuse, a lie, etc.) allowing you to see the truth easily\nSYN OBVIOUS:\na man of transparent honesty * a transparent attempt to buy votes * Am I that transparent (= are my intentions that obvious)?\n  3  (of language, information, etc.) easy to understand:\na campaign to make official documents more transparent\nOPP OPAQUE\n    transparently adverb:\ntransparently clear / honest / obvious


Words: transpire
Meaning:
verb (formal)\n  1  [V that] (not usually used in the progressive tenses) if it transpires that sth has happened or is true, it is known or has been shown to be true:\nIt transpired that the gang had had a contact inside the bank. * This story, it later transpired, was untrue.\n  2  [V] to happen:\nYou’re meeting him tomorrow? Let me know what transpires.\n  3  [V, VN] (biology) when plants or leaves transpire, water passes out from their surface


Words: transplant
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb  [VN] \n  1  ~ sth (from sb/sth) (into sb/sth) to take an organ, skin, etc. from one person, animal, part of the body, etc. and put it into or onto another:\nSurgeons have successfully transplanted a liver into a four-year-old boy. * Patients often reject transplanted organs.\ncompare IMPLANT\n  2  to move a growing plant and plant it somewhere else\n  3  (formal) ~ sb/sth (from ...) (to ...) to move sb/sth to a different place or environment:\nJapanese production methods have been transplanted into some British factories.\n    transplantation  noun [U]:\nliver transplantation * the transplantation of entire communities overseas\n    noun \n  1  [C, U] a medical operation in which a damaged organ, etc. is replaced with one from another person:\nto have a heart transplant * a transplant operation / patient * a shortage of suitable kidneys for transplant\n  2  [C] an organ, etc. that is used in a transplant operation:\nThere is always a chance that the body will reject the transplant.\ncompare IMPLANT


Words: transponder
Meaning:
noun\n(technical) a piece of equipment that receives radio signals and automatically sends out another signal in reply


Words: transport
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun \n  1  (especially BrE) (AmE usually transportation) [U] a system for carrying people or goods from one place to another using vehicles, roads, etc:\nair / freight / road transport * to travel on / by public transport (= by train, bus, etc.) * the government’s transport policy\n  2  (BrE) (AmE transportation) [U] a vehicle or method of travel:\nApplicants must have their own transport. * Transport to and from the airport is included in the price. * His bike is his only means of transport.\n  3  [U] (especially BrE) (also transportation AmE, BrE) the activity or business of carrying goods from one place to another using lorries/trucks, trains, etc:\nThe goods were damaged during transport. * controls on the transport of nuclear waste\n  4  [C] a ship, plane or lorry/truck used for carrying soldiers, supplies, etc. from one place to another:\nSeveral transports were sent to convey them to the camp. * a transport helicopter\n  5  (transports) [pl.] ~ of sth (literary) strong feelings and emotions:\nto be in transports of joy / delight / grief\n    verb prep.] \n  1  to take sth/sb from one place to another in a vehicle:\nto transport goods / passengers / cattle * Most of our luggage was transported by sea.\n  2  to move sth somewhere by means of a natural process:\nThe seeds are transported by the wind. * Blood transports oxygen around the body.\n  3  to make sb feel that they are in a different place, time or situation:\nThe book transports you to another world.\n  4  (in the past) to send sb to a far away place as a punishment:\nBritish convicts were transported to Australia for life.


Words: transport cafe
Meaning:
(BrE) (AmE truck stop) noun\na cafe at the side of a main road that serves cheap food and is used mainly by lorry/truck drivers


Words: transportable
Meaning:
adjective\n[not usually before noun] that can be carried or moved from one place to another, especially by vehicle


Words: transportation
Meaning:
noun [U]\n  1  (especially AmE) = TRANSPORT:\nthe transportation industry * public transportation * The city is providing free transportation to the stadium from downtown. * the transportation of heavy loads * transportation costs\n  2  (in the past) the act of sending criminals to a place that is far away as a form of punishment


Words: transporter
Meaning:
noun\na large vehicle used for carrying heavy objects, for example other vehicles:\na car transporter


Words: transpose
Meaning:
verb [VN] [often passive]\n  1  (formal) to change the order of two or more things\nSYN REVERSE:\nTwo letters were accidentally transposed and ’gun’ got printed as ’gnu’.\n  2  (formal) to move or change sth to a different place or environment or into a different form\nSYN TRANSFER:\nThe director transposes Shakespeare’s play from 16th century Venice to present-day England.\n  3  (music) to write or play a piece of music or a series of notes in a different key\n    transposition  noun [C, U]


Words: transsexual
Meaning:
noun\na person who feels emotionally that they want to live, dress, etc. as a member of the opposite sex, especially one who has a medical operation to change their sexual organs


Words: transubstantiation
Meaning:
noun\n[U] the belief that the bread and wine of the COMMUNION service become the actual body and blood of Jesus Christ after they have been BLESSED, even though they still look like bread and wine


Words: transverse
Meaning:
adjective\n[usually before noun] (technical) situated across sth:\nA transverse bar joins the two posts.


Words: transvestite
Meaning:
noun\na person, especially a man, who enjoys dressing as a member of the opposite sex\n    transvestism  noun [U]


Words: trap
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  for animals\n \n  1  a piece of equipment for catching animals:\na fox with its leg in a trap * A trap was laid, with fresh bait.\nsee also MOUSETRAP\n \n  trick\n \n  2  a clever plan designed to trick sb, either by capturing them or by making them do or say sth that they did not mean to do or say:\nShe had set a trap for him and he had walked straight into it.\nsee also BOOBY TRAP, RADAR TRAP, SAND TRAP, TOURIST TRAP\n  bad situation\n  3  [usually sing.] an unpleasant situation from which it is hard to escape:\nthe unemployment trap * Some women see marriage as a trap.\nsee also DEATH TRAP, POVERTY TRAP\n  carriage\n  4  a light carriage with two wheels, pulled by a horse:\na pony and trap\n  mouth\n  5  (slang) mouth:\nShut your trap! (= a rude way of telling sb to be quiet) * to keep your trap shut (= to not tell a secret)\n  for racing dog\n  6  a cage from which a GREYHOUND (= a type of dog) is let out at the start of a race\n  in golf\n  7  (AmE) = BUNKER\n IDIOMS \n  to fall into / avoid the trap of doing sth to do/avoid doing sth that is a mistake but which seems at first to be a good idea:\nParents often fall into the trap of trying to do everything for their children.\nmore at SPRING v.\n    verb (-pp-) [VN]\n  in dangerous / bad situation\n  1  [often passive] to keep sb in a dangerous place or bad situation that they want to get out of but cannot:\nHelp! I’m trapped! * They were trapped in the burning building. * We became trapped by the rising flood water. * He was trapped in an unhappy marriage. * I feel trapped in my job.\n  part of body / clothing\n  2  [usually +adv./prep.] to have part of your body, your clothing, etc. held in a place so tightly that you cannot remove it and it may be injured or damaged:\nI trapped my coat in the car door. * The pain was caused by a trapped nerve.\n  catch\n  3  to catch or keep sth in a place and prevent it from escaping, especially so that you can use it:\nSolar panels trap energy from the sun.\n  4  to force sb/sth into a place or situation that they cannot escape from, especially in order to catch them:\nThe escaped prisoners were eventually trapped in an underground garage and recaptured. * Police believe the fingerprints could help trap the killer.\n  5  to catch an animal in a trap:\nRaccoons used to be trapped for their fur.\n  trick\n  6  ~ sb (into sth / into doing sth) to trick sb into sth:\nHe felt he had been trapped into accepting the terms of the contract. * The police managed to trap him into revealing his true identity.


Words: trapeze
Meaning:
noun\na wooden or metal bar hanging from two pieces of rope high above the ground, used especially by CIRCUS performers:\na trapeze artist


Words: trapezium
Meaning:
(geometry)\n \n  1  (BrE) (AmE trapezoid) a flat shape with four straight sides, one pair of opposite sides being parallel and the other pair not parallel\n \n  2  (AmE) = TRAPEZOID


Words: trapezoid
Meaning:
noun (geometry)\n \n  1  (BrE) (AmE trapezium) a flat shape with four straight sides, none of which are parallel\n \n  2  (AmE) = TRAPEZIUM


Words: trappings
Meaning:
noun\n[pl.] ~ (of sth) (written, especially disapproving) the possessions, clothes, etc. that are connected with a particular situation, job or social position:\nThey enjoyed all the trappings of wealth.


Words: trash
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun [U]\n  1  (AmE) things that you throw away because you no longer want or need them -> RUBBISH\n  2  (BrE, informal, disapproving) objects, writing, ideas, etc. that you think are of poor quality:\nWhat’s this trash you’re watching? * He’s talking trash (= nonsense).\n  3  (AmE, informal) an offensive word used to describe people that you do not respect:\nwhite trash (= poor white people, especially those living in the southern US)\n    verb [VN] (informal)\n  1  to damage or destroy sth:\nThe band was famous for trashing hotel rooms.\n  2  to criticize sth/sb very strongly\n  3  (AmE) to throw away sth that you do not want:\nI’m leaving my old toys here-if you don’t want them, just trash them.


Words: trauma
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [U] (psychology) a mental condition caused by severe shock, especially when the harmful effects last for a long time:\nthe effects of trauma and stress on the body * The children showed no signs of trauma after their ordeal.\n  2  [C, U] an unpleasant experience that makes you feel upset and/or anxious:\nShe felt exhausted after the traumas of recent weeks.\n  3  [U, C] (medical) an injury:\nThe patient suffered severe brain trauma.


Words: traumatic
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  extremely unpleasant and causing you to feel upset and/or anxious:\na traumatic childhood / experience * Divorce can be traumatic for everyone involved.\n  2  [only before noun] (psychology or medical) connected with or caused by trauma:\ntraumatic amnesia\nsee also POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER\n    traumatically  adverb


Words: traumatize
Meaning:
(BrE also traumatise)  verb\n[VN] [usually passive] to shock and upset sb very much, often making them unable to think or work normally:\nHe was so traumatized by the attack that he could not work for a year.


Words: travail
Meaning:
noun\n[U, pl.] (old use or literary) an unpleasant experience or situation that involves a lot of hard work, difficulties and/or suffering:\nthe travails of life in post-war Britain


Words: travel
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb\n (-ll-, AmE usually -l-)\n \n  1  to go from one place to another, especially over a long distance:\n[V] to travel abroad / across Africa / around the world * I go to bed early if I’m travelling the next day. * I love travelling by train. * We always travel first class. * We travelled to California for the wedding. * When I finished college I went travelling for six months (= spent time visiting different places). * [VN] He travelled the length of the Nile in a canoe. * I travel 40 miles to work every day. -> JOURNEY\n \n  2  [V] to go or move at a particular speed, in a particular direction, or a particular distance:\nto travel at 50 miles an hour / at twice the speed of sound * Messages travel along the spine from the nerve endings to the brain. * News travels fast these days.\n \n  3  [V] (of food, wine, an object, etc.) to be still in good condition after a long journey:\nSome wines do not travel well.\n \n  4  [V] (of a book, an idea, etc.) to be equally successful in another place and not just where it began:\nSome writing travels badly in translation.\n  5  [V] to go fast:\nTheir car can really travel!\n  6  [V] (in basketball) to move while you are holding the ball, in a way that is not allowed\n IDIOMS \n  travel light to take very little with you when you go on a trip\n    noun\n  1  [U] the act or activity of travelling:\nair / rail / space travel * travel expenses / arrangements * The post involves a considerable amount of foreign travel. * the travel industry * travel sickness * a travel bag / clock (= for use when travelling) * The pass allows unlimited travel on all public transport in the city.\n  2  (travels) [pl.] time spent travelling, especially in foreign countries and for pleasure:\nThe novel is based on his travels in India. * When are you off on your travels (= going travelling)? -> JOURNEY


Words: travel agency
Meaning:
noun\na company that arranges travel and/or accommodation for people going on a holiday/vacation or journey


Words: travel agent
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  a person or business whose job is to make arrangements for people wanting to travel, for example, buying tickets or arranging hotel rooms\n \n  2  (travel agent’s) (plural travel agents) a shop/store where you can go to arrange a holiday/vacation, etc:\nHe works in a travel agent’s.\nsee also TRAVEL AGENCY


Words: travelled
Meaning:
(especially BrE) (AmE usually traveled)  adjective (usually in compounds) (written)\n  1  (of a person) having travelled the amount mentioned:\na much-travelled man\n  2  (of a road, etc.) used the amount mentioned:\nThe path was steeper and less travelled than the previous one.


Words: traveller
Meaning:
(especially BrE) (AmE usually traveler)  noun\n  1  a person who is travelling or who often travels:\nShe is a frequent traveller to Belgium. * He passed the time chatting with fellow travellers.\nsee also COMMERCIAL TRAVELLER\n  2  (BrE) a person who does not live in one place but travels around, especially as part of a group (often used as a word for a GYPSY):\nNew Age travellers


Words: traveller’s cheque
Meaning:
(BrE) (AmE traveler’s check) noun\na cheque for a fixed amount, sold by a bank or TRAVEL AGENT, that can be exchanged for cash in foreign countries


Words: travelling
Meaning:
(especially BrE) (AmE usually traveling)  adjective, noun \n    adjective [only before noun]\n  1  going from place to place:\na travelling circus / exhibition / performer * the travelling public * (BrE) travelling people (= people who have no fixed home, especially those living in a community that moves from place to place, also known as ’travellers’)\n  2  used when you travel:\na travelling clock\n    noun [U] the act of travelling:\nThe job requires a lot of travelling. * travelling expenses * a travelling companion


Words: traverse
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb  [VN] (formal or technical) to cross an area of land or water:\nskiers traversing the slopes * The region is traversed by several roads.\n    noun  (in mountain climbing) an act of moving sideways or walking across a steep slope, not climbing up or down it; a place where this is possible or necessary:\nWe began a traverse across the rock face.


Words: travesty
Meaning:
noun\n(plural travesties) ~ (of sth) something that does not have the qualities or values that it should have, and as a result is often shocking or offensive:\nThe trial was a travesty of justice. * His claim is a travesty of the facts. * a travesty of a marriage


Words: trawl
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb\n  1  ~ (through sth) (for sth/sb) | ~ sth (for sth/sb) to search through a large amount of information or a large number of people, places, etc. looking for a particular thing or person:\n[VN] She trawled the shops for bargains. * Major companies trawl the universities for potential graduate trainees. * [V] The police are trawling through their files for similar cases.\n  2  [V] ~ (for sth) to fish for sth by pulling a large net with a wide opening through the water\n    noun\n  1  a search through a large amount of information, documents, etc:\nA quick trawl through the newspapers yielded five suitable job adverts.\n  2  (also trawl net) a large net with a wide opening, that is dragged along the bottom of the sea by a boat in order to catch fish


Words: tray
Meaning:
noun\n \n  1  a flat piece of wood, metal or plastic with raised edges, used for carrying or holding things, especially food:\nHe brought her breakfast in bed on a tray. * She came in with a tray of drinks. * a tea tray\n \n  2  (especially BrE) (often in compounds) a shallow plastic box, used for various purposes:\na seed tray (= for planting seeds in) * a cat’s litter tray\nsee also BAKING TRAY, IN TRAY, OUT TRAY


Words: treacherous
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  that cannot be trusted; intending to harm you:\nHe was weak, cowardly and treacherous. * lying, treacherous words\n  2  dangerous, especially when seeming safe:\nThe ice on the roads made driving conditions treacherous.\n    treacherously adverb


Words: treachery
Meaning:
noun\n[U, C] (plural treacheries) behaviour that involves betraying sb who trusts you; an example of this:\nan act of treachery * He was punished for his treacheries.


Words: treacle
Meaning:
(BrE)\n  1  (AmE molasses) a thick black sweet sticky liquid produced when sugar is REFINED (= made pure), used in cooking\n  2  = GOLDEN SYRUP:\na treacle tart


Words: treacly
Meaning:
adjective\n  1  (BrE) like treacle:\na treacly brown liquid\n  2  expressing feelings of love in a way that seems false or exaggerated:\ntreacly music


Words: tread
Meaning:
verb, noun \n    verb (trod  or trod)\n  1  [V] ~ (on / in / over sth/sb) (especially BrE) to put your foot down while you are stepping or walking:\nOuch! You trod on my toe! * Careful you don’t tread in that puddle.\n  2  [VN]   [usually +adv./prep.] to crush or press sth with your feet:\nDon’t tread ash into the carpet! * The wine is still made by treading grapes in the traditional way.\n  3  (formal or literary) to walk somewhere:\n[VN] Few people had trod this path before. * [V] He was treading quietly and cautiously.\n IDIOMS \n  tread carefully, warily, etc. to be very careful about what you do or say:\nThe government will have to tread very carefully in handling this issue.\n  tread a difficult, dangerous, solitary, etc. path to choose and follow a particular way of life, way of doing sth, etc:\nA restaurant has to tread the tricky path between maintaining quality and keeping prices down.\n  tread on sb’s heels to follow sb closely\n  tread on sb’s toes (especially BrE) (AmE usually step on sb’s toes) (informal) to offend or annoy sb, especially by getting involved in sth that is their responsibility:\nI don’t want to tread on anybody’s toes so I’ll keep quiet.\n  tread water\n1 to keep yourself upright in deep water by moving your arms and legs\n2 to make no progress while you are waiting for sth to happen:\nI decided to tread water until a better job came along.\nmore at LINE n., TIGHTROPE\n    noun\n  1  [sing.] the way that sb walks; the sound that sb makes when they walk:\nI heard his heavy tread on the stairs.\n  2  [C, U] the raised pattern on the surface of a tyre on a vehicle:\nThe tyres were worn below the legal limit of 1.6 mm of tread.\n  3  [C] the upper surface of a step or STAIR\ncompare RISER


Words: treadle
Meaning:
noun\n(especially in the past) a device worked by the foot to operate a machine:\na treadle sewing machine


Words: treadmill
Meaning:
noun\n  1  [sing.] work or a way of life that is boring or tiring because it involves always doing the same things:\nI’d like to escape the office treadmill.\n  2  [C] (especially in the past) a large wheel turned by the weight of people or animals walking on steps around its inside edge, and used to operate machinery\n  3  [C] an exercise machine that has a moving surface that you can walk or run on while remaining in the same place:\nI try to do half an hour’s exercise on the treadmill every morning.


Words: treason
Meaning:
(also high treason) noun\n[U] the crime of doing sth that could cause danger to your country, such as helping its enemies during a war\n    treasonable  adjective:\na treasonable act / offence


Words: treasure
Meaning:
noun, verb \n    noun\n  1  [U] a collection of valuable things such as gold, silver and jewellery:\nburied treasure * a pirate’s treasure chest\n  2  [C, usually pl.] a highly valued object:\nthe priceless art treasures of the Uffizi gallery\n  3  [sing.] a person who is much loved or valued:\nLiz is an absolute treasure-I couldn’t do without her.\n    verb [VN] to have or keep sth that you love and that is extremely valuable to you:\nI treasure his friendship. * This ring is my most treasured possession. * I shall always treasure the memory of our time together.


