pa n. an informal term for a father; probably derived from baby talk
pablum n. a diet that does not require chewing; advised for those with intestinal disorders; worthless or oversimplified ideas
pabulum n. any substance that can be used as food; intellectual sustenance
paca n. large burrowing rodent of South and Central America; highly esteemed as food
pace v. walk with slow or fast paces; go at a pace, as of a horse; measure by pacing, as of distances@n. the rate of moving (especially walking or running); the distance covered by a step; the relative speed of progress or change
pacemaker n. a specialized bit of heart tissue that controls the heartbeat; an implanted electronic device that takes over the function of the natural cardiac pacemaker; a horse used to set the pace in racing
pacer n. a horse used to set the pace in racing; a horse trained to a special gait in which both feet on one side leave the ground together
pacesetter n. a horse used to set the pace in racing
pacha n. a civil or military authority in Turkey or Egypt
pachinko n. a Japanese pinball game played on a vertical board
pachisi n. an ancient board game resembling backgammon; played on a cross-shaped board
pachouli n. small East Indian shrubby mint; fragrant oil from its leaves is used in perfumes
pachuco n. a Mexican-American teenager who belongs to a neighborhood gang and who dresses in showy clothes
pachyderm n. any of various nonruminant hoofed mammals having very thick skin: elephant; rhinoceros; hippopotamus
pachyderma n. thickening of the skin (usually unilateral on an extremity) caused by congenital enlargement of lymph vessel and lymph vessel obstruction
pachysandra n. any plant of the genus Pachysandra; low-growing evergreen herbs or subshrubs having dentate leaves and used as ground cover
pachytene n. the third stage of the prophase of meiosis
pacific adj. promoting peace; the result of this pacific policy was that no troops were called up; disposed to peace or of a peaceful nature; the pacific temper seeks to settle disputes on grounds of justice rather than by force
pacifically adv. in a peaceable manner
pacification n. the act of pacifying
pacificist n. someone opposed to violence as a means of settling disputes
pacifier n. someone who tries to bring peace; used for an infant to suck or bite on
pacifism n. the doctrine that all violence in unjustifiable; the belief that all international disputes can be settled by arbitration
pacifist n. someone opposed to violence as a means of settling disputes@adj. opposed to war
pacifistic adj. opposed to war
pacifistically adv. in a pacifistic manner; the pacifistically inclined liberals
pacify v. cause to be more favorably inclined; gain the good will of
pacifying adj. freeing from fear and anxiety
pacing n. the speed at which a composition is to be played; walking with slow regular strides
pack v. arrange in a container; pack the books into the boxes; fill to capacity; compress into a wad@n. a large indefinite number; a complete collection of similar things; a small parcel (as of cigarettes or film); an association of criminals
package v. put into a box@n. a collection of things wrapped or boxed together; a wrapped container
packaged adj. enclosed in a package or protective covering; packaged cereals
packaging n. the business of packaging
packed adj. filled to capacity; stands jam-packed with fans; pressed together or compressed; packed snow
packer n. a worker who packs things into containers
packet n. a collection of things wrapped or boxed together; a small package or bundle; a boat for carrying mail
packhorse n. a horse used as a pack animal
packing n. any material used especially to protect something; the enclosure of something in a box; carrying something in a pack on the back; the backpacking of oxygen is essential for astronauts
packinghouse n. a place where foodstuffs are processed and packed; they came from an apple packinghouse; a plant where livestock are slaughtered and processed and packed as meat products
packrat n. any of several bushy-tailed rodents of the genus Neotoma of western North America; hoards food and other objects
packsaddle n. a saddle to which loads can be attached
packthread n. a strong three-ply twine used to sew or tie packages
pact n. a written agreement between two states or sovereigns
pad n. a number of sheets of paper fastened together along one edge; a block of absorbent material saturated with ink@v. add details to; walk heavily, as when weary, or through mud; D.H. Lawrence; line or stuff with soft material; pad a bra
padauk n. tree native to southeastern Asia having reddish wood with a mottled or striped black grain
padded adj. softened by the addition of cushions or padding
padding n. soft or resilient material used to fill or give shape or protect or add comfort
paddle n. the racket used in paddle tennis or table tennis; a blade of a paddle wheel or water wheel@v. propel with a paddle; play in or as if in water, as of small children; swim like a dog; in shallow water; walk unsteadily, as of small children
paddlebox n. a wooden covering for the upper part of a paddlewheel
paddlefish n. primitive fish of the Mississippi valley having a long paddle-shaped snout
paddler n. someone paddling a canoe
paddlewheel n. a large wheel fitted with paddles and driven by an engine in order to propel a boat
paddock n. an enclosure where racehorses are saddled and paraded before a race
paddy n. an irrigated or flooded field where rice is grown; rice in the husk either gathered or still in the field
paddymelon n. small reddish-brown wallabies of scrubby areas of Australia and New Guinea
pademelon n. small reddish-brown wallabies of scrubby areas of Australia and New Guinea
padlock v. fasten with a padlock@n. a detachable lock; has a hinged shackle that can be passed through the staple of a hasp or the links in a chain and then snapped shut
padouk n. tree native to southeastern Asia having reddish wood with a mottled or striped black grain
padre n. a chaplain in one of the military services
padrone n. an owner or proprietor of an inn in Italy; an employer who exploits Italian immigrants in the U.S.
paean n. a formal expression of praise; a hymn of praise (especially one sung in ancient Greece to invoke or thank a deity)
paederast n. a man who has sex with a boy
paederastic adj. of homosexuality between a man and a boy
paederasty n. intercourse between a man and a boy
paediatric adj. of or relating to the medical care of children
paediatrician n. a specialist in the care of babies
paediatrics n. the branch of medicine concerned with the treatment of infants and children
paella n. (Spanish) saffron-flavored dish made of rice with shellfish and chicken
paeony n. any of numerous plants widely cultivated for their showy single or double red or pink or white flowers
pagan n. a person who does not acknowledge your God@adj. not acknowledging the God of Christianity and Judaism and Islam
paganism n. any of various religions other than Christianity or Judaism or Islamism
page v. call out somebody's name over a P.A. system; work as a page@n. especially one side of a leaf; a boy who is employed to run errands; a youthful attendant at official functions or ceremonies such as legislative functions and weddings
pageant n. an elaborate representation of scenes from history etc; usually involves a parade with rich costumes; a rich and spectacular ceremony
pageantry n. a rich and spectacular ceremony; an elaborate representation of scenes from history etc; usually involves a parade with rich costumes
pageboy n. a boy who is employed to run errands; a smooth hair style with the ends of the hair curled inward
paginate v. number the pages of a book or manuscript
pagination n. the system of numbering pages
paging n. calling out the name of a person (especially by a loudspeaker system); the public address system in the hospital was used for paging
pagoda n. an Asian temple; usually a pyramidal tower with an upward curving roof
pahautea n. evergreen tree of New Zealand resembling the kawaka
paid adj. marked by the reception of pay; paid work; involving gainful employment in something often done as a hobby; yielding a fair profit
paigle n. Eurasian primrose with yellow flowers clustered in a one-sided umbel; early spring flower common in British isles having fragrant yellow or sometimes purple flowers
pail n. an open-topped and roughly cylindrical vessel; the quantity contained in a pail
pailful n. the quantity contained in a pail
paillasse n. a thin pad filled with straw or sawdust and used as a mattress
pain v. cause bodily suffering to; cause anguish;, make miserable@n. a symptom of some physical hurt or disorder; the patient developed severe pain and distension; emotional distress; a fundamental feeling that people try to avoid
pained adj. hurt or upset; face had a pained and puzzled expression
painful adj. causing physical or psychological pain; worked with painful slowness; causing misery or pain or distress; the painful process of growing up; exceptionally bad or displeasing; a painful performance
painfully adv. unpleasantly; his ignorance was painfully obvious; in or as if in pain; she moved painfully forward
painfulness n. emotional distress; a fundamental feeling that people try to avoid
painkiller n. a medicine used in to relieve pain
painless adj. requiring little hard work or exertion; a painless solution to the problem; not causing physical or psychological pain; painless dentistry; with as little pain as possible; a humanely painless killing
painlessly adv. without pain; after the surgery, she could move her arms painlessly
pains n. an effortful attempt to attain a goal
painstaking adj. characterized by extreme care and great effort; painstaking research
painstakingly adv. in a fastidious and painstaking manner; it is almost a waste of time painstakingly to learn the routines of selling
painstakingness n. the trait of being painstaking and careful
paint n. a substance used as a coating to protect or decorate a surface (especially a mixture of pigment suspended in a liquid); dries to form a hard coating@v. make a painting; apply paint to; coat with paint; make a painting of; apply a liquid to
paintable adj. lending itself to being painted; a highly paintable landscape
paintbox n. a box containing a collection of cubes or tubes of artists' paint
paintbrush n. a brush used to apply paint
painted adj. represented in a painting; as idle as a painted ship upon a painted ocean; coated with paint; freshly painted lawn furniture; lacking substance or vitality as if produced by painting; in public he wore a painted smile
painter n. an artist who paints; a worker who is employed to cover objects with paint; large American feline resembling a lion
painterly adj. (fine arts) having qualities unique to the art of painting
painting n. an artistic composition made by applying paints to a surface; a small painting by Picasso; making a picture with paints; he studied painting and sculpture for many years
pair v. form a pair or pairs; bring two objects, ideas, or people together; make love@n. a set of two similar things considered as a unit; two items of the same kind; two people considered as a unit; a poker hand with 2 cards of the same value
paired adj. used of gloves, socks, etc.; (botany) of leaves etc; growing in pairs on either side of a stem; mated sexually
pairing n. the act of pairing a male and female for reproductive purposes
paisa n. a fractional monetary unit in Bangladesh and India and Nepal and Pakistan
paisley n. a soft wool fabric with a colorful swirled pattern of curved shapes
pajama n. trousers worn in various Eastern countries; loose-fitting nightclothes; have a jacket top and trousers
pajamas n. loose-fitting nightclothes; have a jacket top and trousers
pakchoi n. Asiatic plant grown for its cluster of edible white stalks with dark green leaves
pal n. a close friend who accompanies his buddies in their activities@v. become friends; act friendly towards
palace n. a large and stately mansion; the governing group of a kingdom; the palace issued an order binding on all subjects; a large ornate exhibition hall; official residence of an exalted person (as a sovereign)
paladin n. someone who fights for a cause
palaeobiology n. a branch of paleontology that deals with the origin and growth and structure of fossil animals and plants as living organisms
palaeobotany n. the study of fossil plants
palaeogeography n. the study of the geography of ancient times or ancient epochs
palaeogeology n. the study of geologic features once at the surface of the earth but now buried beneath rocks
palaeolithic adj. of or relating to the second period of the Stone Age (following the eolithic)
palaeology n. the study of (especially prehistoric) antiquities
palaeontologist n. a specialist in paleontology
palaeontology n. the branch of archeology that studies fossil organisms and related remains
palaeopathology n. the study of disease of former times (as inferred from fossil evidence)
palaeozoology n. the study of fossil animals
palaestra n. pl. -trae; a school in ancient Greece or Rome for sports (as wrestling)
palaetiology n. the explanation of past events in terms of scientific causes (as geological causes)
palanquin n. a closed litter carried on the shoulders of four bearers
palas n. East Indian tree bearing a profusion of intense vermilion velvet-textured blooms and yielding a yellow dye
palatability n. the property of being acceptable to the taste
palatable adj. acceptable to the taste or mind; palatable food
palatableness n. the property of being acceptable to the taste
palatably adv. in a palatable way
palatal n. a semivowel produced with the tongue near the palate (like the initial sound in the English word `yeast')@adj. relating to or lying near the palate; palatal index
palatalise v. pronounce a consonant with the tongue against the palate
palatalize v. pronounce a consonant with the tongue against the palate
palatalized adj. produced with the front of the tongue near or touching the hard palate (as `y') or with the blade of the tongue near the hard palate (as `ch' in `chin' or `j' in `gin')
palate n. the upper surface of the mouth that separates the oral and nasal cavities
palatial adj. relating to or being a palace; the palatial residence; suitable for or like a palace; palatial furnishings
palatinate n. the territory of a palatine
palatine n. any of various important officials in ancient Rome@adj. relating to or lying near the palate; the palatine tonsils; of or relating to a count palatine and his royal prerogatives
palaver v. speak (about unimportant matters) rapidly and incessantly; influence or urge by gentle urging, caressing, or flattering; have a lengthy discussion, usually between people of different backgrounds@n. flattery intended to persuade
pale adj. very light colored; highly diluted with white; pale seagreen; (of light) lacking in intensity or brightness; dim or feeble; the pale light of a half moon@n. a wooden strip forming part of a fence@v. turn pale, as if in fear
paleencephalon n. the more primitive parts of the brain phylogenetically; most structures other than the cerebral cortex
paleface n. a derogatory term for a white person (said to have been used by North American Indians)
palely adv. in a manner lacking interest or vitality; a palely entertaining show; in a pale manner; without physical or emotional color; his wife, always palely appealing
paleness n. unnatural lack of color in the skin (as from bruising or sickness or emotional distress); the property of having a naturally light complexion
paleobiology n. a branch of paleontology that deals with the origin and growth and structure of fossil animals and plants as living organisms
paleobotany n. the study of fossil plants
paleocortex n. the olfactory cortex of the cerebrum
paleocortical adj. of or relating to the olfactory cortex of the cerebrum
paleodendrology n. the branch of paleobotany that studies fossil trees
paleoencephalon n. the more primitive parts of the brain phylogenetically; most structures other than the cerebral cortex
paleogeography n. the study of the geography of ancient times or ancient epochs
paleogeology n. the study of geologic features once at the surface of the earth but now buried beneath rocks
paleography n. the study of ancient forms of writing (and the deciphering of them)
paleolith n. a stone tool from the Paleolithic age
paleolithic adj. of or relating to the second period of the Stone Age (following the eolithic); paleolithic artifacts
paleology n. the study of (especially prehistoric) antiquities
paleomammalogy n. the paleobiology of ancient mammals
paleontological adj. or or relating to paleontology
paleontologist n. a specialist in paleontology
paleontology n. the branch of archeology that studies fossil organisms and related remains
paleopathology n. the study of disease of former times (as inferred from fossil evidence)
paleornithology n. the paleobiology of birds
paleozoology n. the study of fossil animals
paletiology n. the explanation of past events in terms of scientific causes (as geological causes)
palette n. the range of colour characteristic of a particular artist or painting or school of art; a flat surface on which artists mix paints and the range of colors used; one of the rounded plates at the armpits of a suit of armor
palfrey n. (archaic) especially a light saddle horse for a woman
palimony n. support paid by one half of an unmarried partnership after the relationship ends
palimpsest n. a manuscript (usually written on papyrus or parchment) on which more than one text has been written with the earlier writing incompletely erased and still visible
palindrome n. a word or phrase that reads the same backward as forward
paling n. a fence made of upright pickets@adj. losing color; the paling photographs
palingenesis n. emergence during embryonic development of various characters or structures that appeared during the evolutionary history of the strain or species
palingenetic adj. (biology) of or relating to palingenesis
palinode n. an ode or song of recantation or retraction
palisade n. a strong fence made of stakes driven into the ground; for defence@v. surround with a wall in order to fortify
palish adj. slightly pale
pall v. become less interesting or attractive; cause to lose courage; cover with a pall; cause surfeit through excess, of something that was initially pleasing@n. a sudden numbing dread; something in which a corpse is wrapped
palladium n. a sliver-white metallic element of the platinum group that resembles platinum; occurs in some copper and nickel ores; does not tarnish at ordinary temperatures and is used (alloyed with gold) in jewelry
pallbearer n. one of the mourners carrying the coffin at a funeral
pallet n. the range of colour characteristic of a particular artist or painting or school of art; a mattress filled with straw or a pad made of quilts; used as a bed; a flat surface on which artists mix paints and the range of colors used
pallette n. one of the rounded plates at the armpits of a suit of armor
palliasse n. a thin pad filled with straw or sawdust and used as a mattress
palliate v. lessen or to try to lessen the seriousness or extent of; provide physical relief, as from pain
palliation n. easing the severity of a pain or a disease without removing the cause; to act in such a way as to cause an offense to seem less serious
palliative n. alleviates pain without curing@adj. moderating pain or sorrow by making it easier to bear
pallid adj. abnormally deficient in color as suggesting physical or emotional distress; the pallid face of the invalid; (of light) lacking in intensity or brightness; dim or feeble; a pallid sky
pallidly adv. in a manner lacking interest or vitality
pallidness n. unnatural lack of color in the skin (as from bruising or sickness or emotional distress)
pallium n. the layer of unmyelinated neurons (the gray matter) forming the cortex of the cerebrum; (zoology) a protective layer of epidermis in mollusks or brachiopods that secretes a substance forming the shell
pallone n. an Italian game similar to tennis
pallor n. unnatural lack of color in the skin (as from bruising or sickness or emotional distress)
pally adj. (used colloquially) having the relationship of friends or pals
palm n. the inner surface of the hand from the wrist to the base of the fingers; a linear unit based on the length or width of the human hand; any plant of the family Palmae; an award for winning a championship@v. touch, lift, or hold with the hands
palmar adj. of or relating to the palm of the hand
palmate adj. (of the feet of water birds) having three toes connected by a thin fold of skin; of a leaf shape; having leaflets or lobes radiating from a common point
palmately adv. in a palmate manner; palmately cleft
palmatifid adj. of a leaf shape; palmately cleft rather than lobed
palmer n. journeys in foreign lands
palmetto n. any of several low-growing palms with fan-shaped leaves
palmist n. someone who predicts your future by the lines on your palms
palmistry n. telling fortunes by lines on the palm of the hand
palmitin n. an ester of glycerol and palmitic acid
palmy adj. very lively and profitable; a palmy time for stockbrokers
palmyra n. tall fan palm of Africa and India and Malaysia yielding a hard wood and sweet sap that is a source of palm wine and sugar; leaves used for thatching and weaving
palometa n. smaller than Florida pompano; common in West Indies
palomino n. a horse of light tan or golden color with cream or white mane and tail
palooka n. a second-rate prize fighter
palpability n. the quality of being perceivable by touch
palpable adj. capable of being perceived by the senses or the mind; especially capable of being handled or touched or felt; a barely palpable dust; (medicine) can be felt by palpation; a palpable tumor
palpably adv. so as to be palpable; she was palpably nervous
palpate v. examine by palpation for medical purposes; as of body parts
palpation n. a method of examination in which the examiner feels the size or shape or firmness or location of something (of body parts when the examiner is a health professional)
palpitant adj. having a slight and rapid trembling motion; palpitant movements rather than violent eruptions
palpitate v. beat rapidly, of the heart
palpitating adj. having a slight and rapid trembling motion; my palpitating heart
palpitation n. a rapid and irregular heart beat; a shaky motion
palsgrave n. (medieval) the lord of a palatinate who exercised sovereign powers over his lands
palsied adj. affected with palsy or uncontrollable tremor; hands weak and palsied
palsy v. affect with palsy@n. loss of the ability to move a body part; a condition marked by uncontrollable tremor
palter v. be deliberately ambiguous or unclear in order to mislead or withhold information
paltering n. a trivial act of lying
paltriness n. worthlessness due to insignificance
paltry adj. not worth considering; he considered the prize too paltry for the lives it must cost; contemptibly small in amount; a paltry wage
pampa n. a large grassy South American plain
pampas n. the vast grassy plains of northern Argentina
pamper v. treat with excessive indulgence; grandparents often pamper the children
pampered adj. treated with excessive indulgence; pampered from earliest childhood, he believed the world had been invented for his entertainment
pampering n. the act of indulging or gratifying a desire@adj. overly indulgent; pampering parents often have spoilt children
pamphlet n. a small book usually having a paper cover; a brief treatise on a subject of interest; published in the form of a booklet
pamphleteer n. a writer of pamphlets (usually taking a partisan stand on public issues)
pan v. make a sweeping movement; wash dirt in a pan to separate out the precious minerals; express a totally negative opinion of@n. wide metal vessel used in cooking; shallow container made of metal
panacea n. a remedy for all ills or diseases
panache n. distinctive and stylish elegance; a feathered plume on a helmet
panama n. a stiff straw hat with a flat crown
panamica n. low stingless nettle of Central and South America having velvety brownish-green toothed leaves and clusters of small green flowers
panamiga n. low stingless nettle of Central and South America having velvety brownish-green toothed leaves and clusters of small green flowers
panatela n. a long slender cigar
pancake n. a flat cake of thin batter fried on both sides on a griddle
panchromatic adj. sensitive to all colors; panchromatic film
pancreas n. a large elongated exocrine gland located behind the stomach; secretes pancreatic juice and insulin
pancreatic adj. of or involving the pancreas; pancreatic cancer
pancreatitis n. inflammation of the pancreas
pancytopenia n. a disorder characterized by an abnormal reduction in the blood of erythrocytes and leukocytes and blood platelets
panda n. large black-and-white herbivorous mammal of bamboo forests of China and Tibet; in some classifications considered a member of the bear family or of a separate family Ailuropodidae
pandanus n. fiber from leaves of the pandanus tree; used for woven articles (such as mats); any of various Old World tropical palmlike trees having huge prop roots and pineapplelike leaves and edible conelike fruits
pandar n. someone who procures customers for whores (in England they call a pimp a ponce)
pandemic adj. epidemic over a wide geographical area; a pandemic outbreak of malaria; existing everywhere; pandemic fear of nuclear war@n. an epidemic that is geographically widespread; occurring throughout a region or even throughout the world
pandemonium n. a state of extreme confusion and disorder
pander v. yield (to); give satisfaction to; act as a go-between for prostitutes@n. someone who procures customers for whores (in England they call a pimp a ponce)
panderer n. someone who procures customers for whores (in England they call a pimp a ponce)
pandowdy n. deep-dish apple dessert covered with a rich crust
pandurate adj. of a leaf shape
panduriform adj. of a leaf shape
pane n. a sheet of glass in a window or door; a panel or section of panels in a wall or door
panegyric n. a formal expression of praise@adj. formal expression of praise
panegyrical adj. formal expression of praise
panegyrist n. an orator who delivers eulogies or panegyrics
panel v. decorate with panels, as of walls or ceilings; select from a list, as of prospective jurors@n. a distinct (usually flat) section or component of something; a committee appointed to judge a competition
paneled adj. used of walls; decorated with panels or wainscoting
paneling n. a panel or section of panels in a wall or door
panelist n. a member of a panel
panelling n. a panel or section of panels in a wall or door
panencephalitis n. inflammation of the entire brain
panetela n. a long slender cigar
panetella n. a long slender cigar
panfish n. any of numerous small food fishes; especially those caught with hook and line and not available on the market; any of numerous small food fishes taken with hook and line
pang n. sudden sharp painful emotion; or; a mental pain or distress; a pang of conscience; a sharp spasm of pain
panga n. a large heavy knife used in Central and South America as a weapon or for cutting vegetation
pangolin n. toothless mammal of southern Africa and Asia having a body covered with horny scales and a long snout for feeding on ants and termites
panhandle n. a relatively narrow strip of land projecting from some larger area; Wheeling is located in the northern panhandle of West Virginia; the handle of a pan@v. beg by accosting people in the street and asking for money
panhandler n. a beggar who approaches strangers asking for money
panhysterectomy n. surgical removal of the uterus and the ovaries and oviducts and cervix and related lymph nodes
panic v. feel panic; cause panic in; fill with panic@n. an overwhelming feeling of fear and anxiety; sudden mass fear and anxiety over anticipated events; panic in the stock market
panicked adj. thrown into a state of intense fear or desperation; felt panicked before each exam
panicky adj. thrown into a state of intense fear or desperation; became panicky as the snow deepened
panicle n. compound raceme or branched cluster of flowers
panicled adj. (botany) having panicles; occurring in panicles; a panicled inflorescence
paniculate adj. (botany) having a panicle
panjandrum n. an important or influential person
pannier n. a large wicker basket (usually one of a pair); set of small hoops used to add fullness over the hips
pannikin n. (British) a small pan or cup (usually of tin)
panoplied adj. equipped with the complete arms and armor of a warrior; in ceremonial attire and paraphernalia
panoply n. a complete and impressive array
panoptic adj. including everything visible in one view; a panoptic aerial photograph of the missile base; broad in scope or content
panoptical adj. including everything visible in one view
panorama n. the visual percept of a region; a picture (or series of pictures) representing a continuous scene
panoramic adj. as from an altitude or distance; a panoramic view
panpipe n. a primitive wind instrument consisting of several parallel pipes bound together
pansy n. large-flowered garden plant derived chiefly from the wild pansy of Europe and having velvety petals of various colors; a timid man or boy considered childish or unassertive; a disparaging term for an openly homosexual man
pant n. the noise made by a short puff of steam (as from an engine); a short labored intake of breath with the mouth open@v. breathe noisily, as when one is exhausted; utter while panting, as if out of breath
pantaloon n. trousers worn in former times
pantalooned adj. dressed in trousers
pantaloons n. pl. trousers
pantechnicon n. (British) a large moving van (especially one used for moving furniture)
pantheism n. belief in multiple Gods
pantheist adj. of or relating to pantheism@n. someone who believes that God and the universe are the same
pantheistic adj. of or relating to pantheism
pantheon n. all the gods of a religion; a monument commemorating a nation's dead heroes; (ancient Greece or Rome) a temple to all the gods
panther n. a large spotted feline of tropical America similar to the leopard; in some classifications considered a member of the genus Felis; a leopard in the black color phase; large American feline resembling a lion
pantie n. short underpants for women or children (usually used in the plural)
pantile n. a roofing tile with a S-shape; laid so that curves overlap
panting adj. breathing laboriously or convulsively@n. breathing heavily (as after exertion); any fabric used to make trousers
pantingly adv. as someone winded and out of breath; he came running after us pantingly
panto n. (British) an abbreviation of pantomime
pantograph n. copies a figure or plan on a different scale
pantomime v. play charades@n. a performance using gestures and body movements without words
pantomimer n. an actor who communicates entirely by gesture and facial expression
pantomimist n. an actor who communicates entirely by gesture and facial expression
pantothen n. a vitamin of the vitamin B complex that performs an important role in the oxidation of fats and carbohydrates and certain amino acids; occurs in many foods
pantropic adj. distributed throughout the tropics
pantropical adj. distributed throughout the tropics
pantry n. a small room for storing foods or wines
pantryman n. a manservant (usually the head servant of a household) who has charge of wines and the table
pants n. (usually in the plural) a garment extending from the waist to the knee or ankle, covering each leg separately; (usually in the plural) underpants worn by women
panty n. short underpants for women or children (usually used in the plural)
pantyhose n. a woman's one-piece undergarment consisting of underpants and stockings
pantywaist n. a timid man or boy considered childish or unassertive
panzer adj. (German) equipped with armored vehicles; a panzer division@n. a German tank of the kind used in World War II
pap n. worthless or oversimplified ideas; a diet that does not require chewing; advised for those with intestinal disorders; the small projection of a mammary gland
papa n. an informal term for a father; probably derived from baby talk
papacy n. the government of the Roman Catholic Church
papaia n. tropical American shrub or small tree having huge deeply palmately cleft leaves and large oblong yellow fruit
papain n. a proteolytic enzyme obtained from the unripe papaya; used as a meat tenderizer
papal adj. proceeding from or ordered by or subject to a pope or the papacy regarded as the successor of the Apostles; papal dispensation
papaverine n. an alkaloid medicine obtained from opium; used to relax smooth muscles; it is nonaddictive
papaw n. small tree native to the eastern United States having oblong leaves and fleshy fruit; yellow-fleshed fruit related to custard apples
papaya n. tropical American shrub or small tree having huge deeply palmately cleft leaves and large oblong yellow fruit; large oval melon-like tropical fruit with yellowish flesh
paper v. cover with paper; paper the box; cover with wallpaper@n. a material made of cellulose pulp derived mainly from wood or rags or certain grasses; an essay (especially one written as an assignment)
paperback adj. (of books) having a flexible binding@n. a book with paper covers
paperbacked adj. (of books) having a flexible binding
paperboard n. a cardboard suitable for making posters
paperboy n. a boy who sells or delivers newspapers
paperclip n. a wire or plastic clip for holding sheets of paper together
paperer n. one whose occupation is decorating walls with wallpaper
paperhanger n. one whose occupation is decorating walls with wallpaper
paperhanging n. the application of wallpaper
papering n. the application of wallpaper
paperknife n. a dull knife used to cut open the envelopes in which letters are mailed or to slit uncut pages of books
paperlike adj. of or like paper
papers n. writing that provides information (especially information of an official nature)
paperweight n. a weight used to hold down a stack of papers
paperwork n. work that involves handling papers: forms or letters or reports etc.
papery adj. thin and paperlike; papery leaves; of or like paper
papilla n. a small nipple-shaped protuberance concerned with taste, touch, or smell; a small projection of tissue at the base of a hair, tooth, or feather
papillary adj. of or relating to or resembling papilla
papillate adj. resembling or covered with papillae
papilloma n. a benign epithelial tumor forming a rounded mass
papillon n. small slender toy spaniel with erect ears and a black-spotted brown to white coat
papillose adj. of or relating to or resembling papilla
papillote n. a greased paper wrapper in which food is cooked
papist n. a Roman Catholic who is a strong advocate of the papacy@adj. of or relating to or supporting Romanism
papistic adj. of or relating to or supporting Romanism
papistical adj. of or relating to or supporting Romanism
papoose n. an American Indian infant
papooseroot n. tall herb of eastern North America and Asia having blue berrylike fruit and a thick knotty rootstock formerly used medicinally
papovavirus n. any of a group of animal viruses associated with or causing papillomas or polyomas
pappa n. an informal term for a father; probably derived from baby talk
pappoose n. an American Indian infant
pappose adj. (of plants such as dandelions and thistles) having pappi or tufts of featherlike hairs or delicate bristles
pappus n. calyx composed of scales or bristles or featherlike hairs in plants of the Compositae such as thistles and dandelions
paprika n. plant bearing large mild thick-walled usually bell-shaped fruits; the principal salad peppers; a mild powdered seasoning made from dried pimientos
papule n. a small inflamed elevation of skin that is nonsuppurative
papyrus n. paper made from the papyrus plant by cutting it in strips and pressing it flat; used by ancient Egyptians and Greeks and Romans; tall sedge of the Nile valley yielding fiber that served many purposes in historic times
par n. (in golf) the standard number of strokes set for each hole on a golf course, or for the entire course; a par-5 hole; a state of essential equality or equivalence: on a par with the best@v. make a score (on a hole) equal to par; in golf
para n. 100 para equal 1 dinar; a soldier in the paratroops
parable n. a short moral story (often with animal characters); (New Testament) any of the stories told by Jesus to convey his religious message; the parable of the prodigal son
parabola n. a plane curve formed by the intersection of a right circular cone and a plane parallel to an element of the curve
parabolic adj. resembling or expressed by parables; having the form of a parabola
parabolical adj. resembling or expressed by parables; having the form of a parabola
paraboloid n. a surface having parabolic sections parallel to a single coordinate axis and elliptic sections perpendicular to that axis
paraboloidal adj. having the shape of a paraboloid
paracentesis n. centesis of the belly to remove fluid for diagnosis
parachute n. a device that fills with air and retards your fall@v. drop from an airplane and descend with a parachute
parachuter n. a person who jumps from aircraft using a parachute
parachuting n. descent with a parachute
parachutist n. a person who jumps from aircraft using a parachute
parade n. a ceremonial procession including people marching; an extended (often showy) succession of persons or things: a parade of strollers on the mall; a visible display; she made a parade of her sorrows@v. walk ostentatiously
parader n. walks with regular or stately step
paradiddle n. the sound of a drum (especially a snare drum) beaten rapidly and continuously
paradigm n. systematic arrangement of all the inflected forms of a word; a standard or typical example; the generally accepted perspective of a particular discipline at a given time; he framed the problem within the psychoanalytic paradigm
paradigmatic adj. of or relating to a grammatical paradigm; paradigmatic inflection; of or relating to a typical example; paradigmatic learning
paradisaic adj. relating to or befitting paradise; resembling paradise; causing happiness
paradisaical adj. relating to or befitting paradise; resembling paradise; causing happiness
paradisal adj. relating to or befitting paradise; together in that paradisal place; resembling paradise; causing happiness; a paradisal place without work or struggle
paradise n. any place of complete bliss and delight and peace; a heavenly place--preaceful and beautiful--where those who are favored by the gods can go when they die
paradisiac adj. relating to or befitting paradise; resembling paradise; causing happiness
paradisiacal adj. relating to or befitting paradise; paradisiacal innocense; resembling paradise; causing happiness; an age of paradisiacal happiness
paradisial adj. resembling paradise; causing happiness; paradisial isles
paradox n. (in logic) a self-contradiction
paradoxical adj. seemingly contradictory but nonetheless possibly true; it is paradoxical that standing is more tiring than walking
paradoxically adv. in a paradoxical manner; paradoxically, ice ages seem to occur when the sun gets hotter
paraesthesia n. abnormal skin sensations (as tingling or tickling or itching or burning) usually associated with peripheral nerve damage
paraffin n. from crude petroleum; used for candles and for preservative or waterproof coatings; British usage; a non-aromatic saturated hydrocarbon with the general formula CnH(2n+2)
paragon n. an ideal instance; a perfect embodiment of a concept; model of excellence or perfection of a kind; one having no equal
paragonite n. a colorless or pale brown mica with sodium
paragraph n. one of several distinct subdivisions of a text intended to separate ideas; the beginning is usually marked by a new indented line@v. divide into paragraphs, as of text; write about in a paragraph; write paragraphs; work as a paragrapher
paragrapher n. a writer of paragraphs (as for publication on the editorial page of a newspaper)
parakeet n. any of numerous small slender long-tailed parrots
paralanguage n. the use of manner of speaking to communicate particular meanings
paralegal n. a person with specialized training who assists lawyers
paraleipsis n. suggesting by deliberately concise treatment that much of significance is omitted
paralepsis n. suggesting by deliberately concise treatment that much of significance is omitted
paralipsis n. suggesting by deliberately concise treatment that much of significance is omitted
parallax n. the apparent displacement of an object as seen from two different points that are not on a line with the object
parallel adj. being everywhere equidistant and not intersecting; parallel lines never converge@n. something having the property of being analogous to something else; an imaginary line around the Earth parallel to the equator@v. be parallel to
parallelepiped n. a prism whose bases are parallelograms
parallelism n. similarity by virtue of correspondence
parallelize v. place parallel to one another
parallelogram n. a quadrilateral whose opposite sides are both parallel and equal in length
parallelopiped n. a prism whose bases are parallelograms
paralogism n. an unintentionally invalid argument
paralyse v. cause to be paralyzed and immobile
paralysis n. loss of the ability to move a body part
paralytic n. a person suffering from paralysis@adj. relating to or of the nature of paralysis; paralytic symptoms; affected or subject to with paralysis
paralytical adj. relating to or of the nature of paralysis
paralyze v. make powerless and unable to function; cause to be paralyzed and immobile
paralyzed adj. affected or subject to with paralysis
paramagnet n. a substance whose magnetization is proportional to the strength of the magnetic field applied to it
paramagnetic adj. of or relating to a paramagnet
paramagnetism n. materials like aluminum or platinum become magnetized in a magnetic field but it disappears when the field is removed
paramecia n. any member of the genus Paramecium
paramecium n. any member of the genus Paramecium
paramedic n. a person trained to assist medical professionals and to given emergency medical treatment
parameter n. a constant in the equation of a curve that can be varied to yield a family of similar curves; any factor that defines a system and determines (or limits) its performance
parametric adj. of or relating to or in terms of a parameter; parametric equation
paramilitary n. a group of civilians organized in a military fashion (especially to operate in place of or to assist regular army troops)@adj. of or relating to a group of civilians organized to function like (or in aid of) a military unit
paramnesia n. (psychiatry) a disorder of memory in which dreams or fantasies are confused with reality
paramount adj. having superior power and influence
paramountcy n. the state of being paramount; the highest rank or authority
paramour n. a woman's lover; a woman who cohabits with an important man
paramyxovirus n. a group of viruses including those causing mumps and measles
parang n. a stout strait-edged knife used in Malaysia and Indonesia
paranoia n. a psychological disorder characterized by delusions of persecution or grandeur
paranoiac n. a person afflicted with paranoia
paranoid adj. suffering from paranoia@n. a person afflicted with paranoia
paranormal adj. seemingly outside normal sensory channels; not in accordance with scientific laws; what seemed to be paranormal manifestations
parapet n. a low wall
paraphernalia n. miscellaneous articles needed for a particular operation or sport etc.
paraphrase v. express the same message in different words@n. rewording for the purpose of clarification
paraphrasis n. rewording for the purpose of clarification
paraphrenia n. a form of schizophrenia characterized by delusions (of persecution or grandeur or jealousy); symptoms may include anger and anxiety and aloofness and doubts about gender identity
paraphysis n. a sterile simple or branched filament or hair borne among sporangia; may be pointed or clubbed
paraplegia n. paralysis of the lower half of the body
paraplegic n. a person who has paraplegia (is paralyzed from the waist down)@adj. suffering complete paralysis of the lower half of the body usually resulting from damage to the spinal cord
parapodium n. one of a pair of fleshy appendages of a polychete annelid that functions in locomotion and breathing
parapsychology n. phenomena that appear to contradict physical laws and suggest the possibility of causation by mental processes
paraquet n. any of numerous small slender long-tailed parrots
parasail n. a kind of parachute that will lift a person up into the air when it is towed by a motorboat or a car
parasailing n. gliding in a parasail
parasite n. an animal or plant that lives in or on another and from which it obtains nourishment; a follower who hangs around in hope of gain or advantage
parasitic adj. of plants or persons; having the nature or habits of a parasite or leech; living off another; a wealthy class parasitic upon the labor of the masses
parasitical adj. of plants or persons; having the nature or habits of a parasite or leech; living off another
parasitically adv. in a parasitic manner
parasiticidal adj. capable of expelling or destroying parasitic worms
parasitism n. the relation between two different kinds of organisms in which one receives benefits from the other by causing damage to it (usually not fatal damage)
parasol n. a handheld collapsible source of shade
parasympathetic n. originates in the brain stem and lower part of the spinal cord; opposes physiological effects of the sympathetic nervous system: stimulates digestive secretions; slows the heart@adj. of or relating to the parasympathetic nervous system
parathion n. an extremely toxic insecticide
parathyroid n. situated near or within the thyroid gland
paratrooper n. a soldier in the paratroops
paratroops n. infantry trained and equipped to parachute
paratyphoid n. any of a variety of infectious intestinal diseases resembling typhoid fever
parazoan n. primitive multicellular marine animal whose porous body is supported by a fibrous skeletal framework; usually occurs in sessile colonies
parboil v. cook briefly; as of vegetables
parcel n. a wrapped container; the result of parcelling out or sharing; an extended area of land; a collection of things wrapped or boxed together@v. divide into parts; cover with canvas, as of rope; make into a parcel
parceling n. the act of distributing by allotting or apportioning
parcelling n. the act of distributing by allotting or apportioning
parch v. cause to wither or parch from exposure to heat
parched adj. dried out by heat or excessive exposure to sunlight; parched soil; toasted or roasted slightly; parched corn was a staple of the Indian diet
parchment n. a superior paper resembling sheepskin; skin of a sheep or goat prepared for writing on
pard n. archaic; leopard
pardner n. an associate who works with others toward a common goal
pardon v. accept an excuse for; grant a pardon to@n. the act of excusing a mistake or offense; a warrant granting release from punishment for an offense; the formal act of liberating someone
pardonable adj. admitting of being pardoned
pardonably adv. in an excusable manner or to an excusable degree
pardoner n. a medieval cleric who raised money for the church by selling papal indulgences
pare v. decrease gradually or bit by bit; cut small bits or pare shavings from; strip the skin off (fruit, for example); remove the edges from
paregmenon n. juxtaposing words having a common derivation (as in `sense and sensibility')
paregoric n. used to treat diarrhea
parenchyma n. animal tissue that constitutes the essential part of an organ as contrasted with e.g. connective tissue and blood vessels
parent v. bring up@n. a father or mother; one who begets or one who gives birth to or nurtures and raises a child; a relative who plays the role of guardian
parentage n. the kinship relation of an offspring to the parents; the descendants of one individual
parental adj. (genetics) designating the generation of organisms from which hybrid offspring are produced; relating to or characteristic of or befitting a parent; parental guidance
parentally adv. in a parental manner
parented adj. having a parent or parents or cared for by parent surrogates
parenteral adj. (medicine) administered by means other than through the alimentary tract (as by intramuscular or intravenous injection); (physiology) located outside the alimentary tract
parenterally adv. by parenteral means; the drug is intended to be administered parenterally
parenthesis n. either of two punctuation marks ( or ) used to enclose textual material; a message that departs from the main subject
parenthetic adj. as if using parentheses; qualifying or explaining; placed or as if placed in parentheses
parenthetical adj. as if using parentheses; a parenthetical style; qualifying or explaining; placed or as if placed in parentheses; parenthetical remarks
parenthetically adv. in a parenthetical manner; he added parenthetically that he would not attend the wedding ceremony
parenthood n. the state of being a parent
parentless adj. having no parent or parents or not cared for by parent surrogates
parer n. a small sharp knife used in paring fruits or vegetables
paresis n. a slight or partial paralysis
paresthesia n. abnormal skin sensations (as tingling or tickling or itching or burning) usually associated with peripheral nerve damage
paretic n. a person afflicted with paresis (partial paralysis)
parfait n. layers of ice cream and syrup and whipped cream
parget v. apply ornamental plaster to@n. used to coat outer walls and line chimneys
pargeting n. used to coat outer walls and line chimneys
parhelion n. a bright spot on the parhelic circle; caused by diffraction by ice crystals
pariah n. a person who is rejected (from society or home)
paries n. (anatomy) a layer (a lining or membrane) that encloses a structure
parietal adj. (anatomy) of or relating to or associated with the parietal bones in the cranium; parietal lobe
parimutuel n. betting where winners share the total amount wagered
paring n. a thin fragment or slice (especially of wood) that has been shaved from something; a part that is pared or cut off; especially skin or peel
parings n. a part that is pared or cut off; especially skin or peel
paripinnate adj. of a leaf shape; pinnate with a pair of leaflets at the apex
parish n. a local church community; the local subdivision of a diocese committed to one pastor
parishioner n. a member of a parish
parisology n. the use of ambiguous words
parity n. (mathematics) a relation between a pair of integers: if both integers are odd or both are even they have the same parity; if one is odd and the other is even they have different parity
park n. a large area of land preserved in its natural state as public property; there are laws that protect the wildlife in this park; a piece of open land for recreational use in an urban area@v. place temporarily; park the car in the yard
parka n. `windcheater' is a British term
parked adj. that have been left; there were four parked cars across the street
parking n. space in which a vehicle can be parked; there is plenty of parking behind the store; the act of maneuvering a vehicle into a location where it can be left temporarily
parkway n. a wide scenic road planted with trees
parky adj. pleasantly cold and invigorating; (`parky' is a British term)
parlance n. a manner of speaking that is natural to native speakers of a language
parlay v. stake winnings from one bet on a subsequent wager
parley n. a negotiation between enemies@v. discuss, as between enemies
parliament n. a legislative assembly in certain countries (e.g., Great Britain); a card game in which you play your sevens and other cards in sequence in the same suit as their sevens; you win if you are the first to use all your cards
parliamentarian n. an expert in parliamentary rules and procedures
parliamentary adj. relating to or having the nature of a parliament; parliamentary reform
parlor n. a room in an inn or club where visitors can be received; a room in a private house where people can sit and talk and relax
parlormaid n. a maid in a private home whose duties are to care for the parlor and the table and to answer the door
parlour n. a room in an inn or club where visitors can be received; a room in a private house where people can sit and talk and relax
parlourmaid n. a maid in a private home whose duties are to care for the parlor and the table and to answer the door
parlous adj. fraught with danger; a parlous journey on stormy seas
parnassia n. any of various usually evergreen bog plants of the genus Parnassia having broad smooth basal leaves and a single pale flower resembling a buttercup
parochial adj. relating to or supported by or located in a parish; parochial schools; narrowly restricted in outlook or scope
parochialism n. a limitation of views or interests like that defined by a local parish
parochially adv. in a parochial manner; parochially narrow in his outlook
parodist n. mimics literary or musical style for comic effect
parody v. make a spoof of; make fun of; make a parody of@n. a composition that imitates somebody's style in a humorous way; humorous or satirical mimicry
parole n. a promise; a secret word or phrase known only to a restricted group@v. release a criminal from detention and place him on parole
parolee n. someone released on probation or on parole
paroquet n. any of numerous small slender long-tailed parrots
parotid adj. relating to or located near the parotid gland
parotitis n. inflammation of one or both parotid glands
paroxysm n. a sudden uncontrollable attack; a paroxysm of giggling
paroxysmal adj. accompanied by or of the nature of paroxysms
parquet n. a floor made of parquetry; the main floor between the orchestra and the parquet_circle
parqueterie n. a patterned wood inlay used to cover a floor
parquetry n. a patterned wood inlay used to cover a floor
parr n. a young salmon up to 2 years old; the young of various fishes
parrakeet n. any of numerous small slender long-tailed parrots
parricide n. someone who kills his or her parent; murder of your own parents
parroket n. any of numerous small slender long-tailed parrots
parroquet n. any of numerous small slender long-tailed parrots
parrot v. repeat mindlessly@n. usually brightly colored zygodactyl tropical birds with short hooked beaks and the ability to mimic sounds; a copycat who does not understand the words or acts being imitated
parrotfish n. gaudy tropical fishes with parrotlike beaks formed by fusion of teeth
parrotlike adj. mechanically imitated or repeated without thought or understanding; a mere parrotlike word-calling process
parry v. impede the movement of (an opponent or a ball), as in sports or fights; avoid or try to avoid, as of duties, questions and issues@n. a return punch
parse v. analyze syntactically by assigning a constituent structure to (a sentence)
parsec n. a unit of astronomical length based on the distance from Earth at which stellar parallax is 1 second of arc; equivalent to 3.262 light years
parsimonious adj. excessively unwilling to spend; parsimonious thrift relieved by few generous impulses
parsimony n. extreme care in spending money; reluctance to spend money unnecessarily; extreme stinginess
parsley n. annual or perennial herb with aromatic finely-cut leaves; aromatic herb with flat or curly leaves
parsnip n. the whitish root of cultivated parsnip; a strong-scented plant cultivated for its edible root; whitish edible root; eaten cooked
parson n. a person authorized to conduct religious worship
parsonage n. an official residence provided by a church for its parson or vicar or rector
part n. something determined in relation to something that includes it@v. go one's own away; move apart; discontinue an association or relation; go different ways; leave; come apart@adv. in part@adj. relating to only part of a whole
partake v. have some of the qualities or attributes of something; have, give, or receive a share of; touch, as of food
partaker n. someone who takes a part or a share
parted adj. having a margin incised almost to the base so as to create distinct divisions or lobes
parterre n. an ornamental flower garden; beds and paths are arranged to form a pattern; at the rear of the main floor (beneath the balconies)
parthenogenesis n. process in which an unfertilized egg develops into a new individual; common among insects and some other arthropods; human conception without fertilization by a man
parthenogenetic adj. (of reproduction) not involving the fusion of male and female gametes reproduction
parthenogeny n. process in which an unfertilized egg develops into a new individual; common among insects and some other arthropods; human conception without fertilization by a man
parthian adj. delivered at the moment of parting as if in flight or retreat
partial adj. being or affecting only a part; not total; a partial description of the suspect; showing favoritism; (followed by `of' or `to') having a strong preference or liking for; partial to horror movies
partiality n. a predisposition to like something; an inclination to favor one group or view or opinion over alternatives
partially adv. in part; in some degree; not wholly; He was partially paralyzed
partialness n. the state of being only a part; not total; incomplete
partible adj. (of e.g. property) can be parted or divided; a partible estate
participant n. takes part in an activity; a person who participates in or is skilled at some game
participate v. be involved in something; become a participant; be involved in
participating adj. taking part in an activity; the participating organizations
participation n. sharing the activities of a group
participatory adj. affording the opportunity for individual participation; participatory democracy
participial adj. (grammar) relating to participles; participial inflections
participle n. a non-finite form of the verb; in English it is used adjectivally and to form compound tenses
particle n. (nontechnical usage) a tiny piece of anything; a body having finite mass and internal structure but negligible dimensions; a function word having different uses in different languages
particolored adj. having sections or patches colored differently and usually brightly; a particolored dress
particoloured adj. having sections or patches colored differently and usually brightly
particular n. a fact about some part (as opposed to general); he always reasons from the particular to the general@adj. unique or specific to a person or thing or category; the particular demands of the job; separate and distinct from others
particularised adj. directed toward a specific object
particularism n. a focus on something particular
particularistic adj. relating to particularism (exclusive interest in one group or class or sect etc.); a particularistic-seeming statement
particularity n. the quality of being particular and pertaining to a specific case or instance; the particularity of human situations
particularize v. be specific about
particularized adj. directed toward a specific object; particularized thinking as distinct from stereotyped sloganeering
particularly adv. to a distinctly greater extent or degree than is common; he was particularly fussy about spelling; specifically or especially distinguished from others; loves Bach, particularly his partitas; uniquely or characteristically
particulate adj. composed of distinct particles
parting adj. delivered at the moment of parting as if in flight or retreat; paused to deliver a parting shot at the door@n. the act of departing politely
partisan adj. affiliated with one party or faction; devoted to a cause or party@n. a fervent and even militant proponent of something; an ardent and enthusiastic supporter of some person or activity
partisanship n. an inclination to favor one group or view or opinion over alternatives
partition v. divide into parts, pieces, or sections; separate or apportion into sections; partition a room off@n. a vertical structure that divides or separates (as a wall divides one room from another)
partitioned adj. divided by partitions
partitioning n. an analysis into mutually exclusive categories; separation by the creation of a boundary that divides or keeps apart
partitionist n. an advocate of partitioning a country
partitive adj. (Romance languages) relating to or denoting a part of a whole or a quantity that is less than the whole; a partitive construction@n. a word (such a `some' or `less') that is used to indicate a part as distinct from a whole
partizan adj. devoted to a cause or party@n. an ardent and enthusiastic supporter of some person or activity; a pike with a long tapering double-edged blade with lateral projections; 16th and 17th centuries
partly adv. in part; in some degree; not wholly; I felt partly to blame
partner v. provide with a partner; act as a partner@n. a person's partner in marriage; an associate who works with others toward a common goal
partnership n. the members of a business venture created by contract; a contract between two or more persons who agree to pool talent and money and share profits or losses
partridge n. (US usage) flesh of either quail or grouse; heavy-bodied small-winged South American game bird resembling a gallinaceous bird but related to the ratite birds; small Old World gallinaceous game birds
partridgeberry n. creeping woody plant of eastern North America with shiny evergreen leaves and scarlet berries
parts n. the local environment; he hasn't been seen around these parts in years
partsong n. a song with two or more voice parts
parturiency n. concluding state of pregnancy; from the onset of labor to the birth of a child
parturient adj. of or relating to or giving birth; parturient pangs; giving birth; a parturient heifer
parturition n. the process of giving birth
party v. have a party@n. an organization to gain political power; in 1992 Perot tried to organize a third party at the national level@adj. based upon or representing political parties
partygoer n. someone who is attending a party
parvenu adj. characteristic of someone who has risen economically or socially but lacks the social skills appropriate for this new position@n. a person who has suddenly risen to a higher economic status but has not gained social acceptance
parvenue adj. characteristic of someone who has risen economically or socially but lacks the social skills appropriate for this new position; of or characteristic of a parvenu
parvis n. a courtyard or portico in front of a building (especially a cathedral)
parvo n. any of a group of viruses containing DNA in an icosahedral protein shell and causing disease in dogs and cattle; not known to be associated with any human disease
parvovirus n. any of a group of viruses containing DNA in an icosahedral protein shell and causing disease in dogs and cattle; not known to be associated with any human disease
pas n. pl. pas; a dance step or combination of steps
pasang n. large African antelope with long straight nearly upright horns; wild goat of Iran and adjacent regions
pascal n. a unit of pressure equal to one newton per square meter
paschal adj. of or relating to Passover or Easter; paschal lamb
paseo n. a path set aside for walking
pasha n. a civil or military authority in Turkey or Egypt
paspalum n. tall tufted perennial tropical American grass naturalized as pasture and forage grass in southern United States
pasqueflower n. any plant of the genus Pulsatilla; sometimes included in genus Anemone
pasquinade n. a composition that imitates somebody's style in a humorous way
pass adj. (football) of advancing the ball by throwing it@n. (baseball) an advance to first base by a batter who receives four balls; (military) a written leave of absence@v. go across or through; pass by; make laws, bills, etc.; pass by, as of time
passable adj. able to be passed or traversed or crossed; the road is passable; about average; acceptable; neither good nor bad; her work at the office is passable
passably adv. to a moderately sufficient extent or degree
passage n. the act of passing from one stage to the next; particularly a section of medium length; a path or channel through or along which someone or something may pass; the passing of a law by a legislative body
passageway n. a passage between rooms or between buildings; a path or channel or duct through or along which something may pass
passant adj. (heraldry) in walking position with right foreleg raised
passbook n. a record of deposits and withdrawals and interest held by depositors at certain banks
passe adj. out of fashion
passee adj. out of fashion
passel n. a large number; group
passementerie n. a decoration or adornment on a garment; or
passenger n. a person traveling in a vehicle (a boat or bus or car or plane or train etc) who is not operating it
passer n. a football player who throws a forward pass
passerby n. a person who passes by casually or by chance
passerine adj. relating to or characteristic of the passeriform birds@n. perching birds mostly small and living near the ground with feet having 4 toes arranged to allow for gripping the perch; most are songbirds; hatchlings are helpless
passim adv. used to refer to cited works
passing n. a football play that involves one player throwing the ball to a teammate; the coach sent in a passing play on third and long@adv. to an extreme degree or extent@adj. enduring a very short time; a passing fancy; moving by or going past
passion n. strong feeling or emotion; intense passion or emotion; something that is desired intensely; an irrational but irresistible motive for a belief or action; a feeling of strong sexual desire
passionate adj. having or expressing strong emotions
passionately adv. with passion; she kissed him passionately; in a stormy or violent manner
passionateness n. strong feeling or emotion
passionflower n. any of various chiefly tropical American vines some bearing edible fruit
passionless adj. not passionate; passionless observation of human nature; unmoved by feeling
passive adj. lacking in energy or will; peacefully resistant in response to injustice; passive resistance@n. the voice used to indicate that the subject of the verb is the recipient (not the source) of the action denoted by the verb
passively adv. in a passive manner; he listened passively
passiveness n. submission to others or to outside influences; the trait of remaining inactive; a lack of initiative
passivism n. the doctrine that all violence in unjustifiable
passivity n. the trait of remaining inactive; a lack of initiative; submission to others or to outside influences
passkey n. secures entrance everywhere
passport n. any authorization to pass or go somewhere; a document issued by a country to a citizen allowing that person to travel abroad and re-enter the home country
password n. a secret word or phrase known only to a restricted group; he forgot the password
past n. the time that has elapsed; forget the past; a earlier period in someone's life (especially one that they have reason to keep secret)@adj. earlier than the present time; no longer current; time past@adv. so as to pass a given point
pasta n. shaped and dried dough made from flour and water and sometimes egg
paste v. join or attach with glue; hit with the fists; cover the surface of; paste the wall with burlap@n. any mixture of a soft and malleable consistency; an adhesive made from water and flour or starch; used on paper and paperboard
pasteboard n. stiff cardboard made by pasting together layers of paper
pasted adj. affixed or as if affixed with glue or paste; pieces of pasted paper
pastel adj. lacking in body or vigor; faded pastel charms of the naive music; delicate and pale in color; pastel pink@n. any of various pale or light colors
pastelike adj. resembling paste in color; pallid; a complexion that had been pastelike was now chalky white
pastern n. the part between the fetlock and the hoof
pasteurellosis n. an acute infectious disease characterized by pneumonia and blood infection
pasteurization n. partial sterilization of foods at a temperature that destroys harmful microorganisms without major changes in the chemistry of the food
pasteurize v. heat food in order to kill harmful microorganisms; pasteurize milk
pasteurized adj. having been subjected to pasteurization in order to halt fermentation
pastiche n. a musical composition consisting of a series of songs or other musical pieces from various sources; a work of art that imitates the style of some previous work
pasties n. a pair of adhesive patches worn to cover the nipples of exotic dancers and striptease performers
pastil n. a medicated lozenge used to soothe the throat
pastille n. a medicated lozenge used to soothe the throat
pastime n. a subject or pursuit that occupies one's time and thoughts (usually pleasantly): sailing is her favorite pastime
pastis n. similar to absinthe but containing no wormwood
pastness n. the quality of being past
pastor n. a person authorized to conduct religious worship
pastoral n. a musical composition that evokes rural life; a letter from a pastor to the congregation@adj. of or relating to a pastor; pastoral work; relating to shepherds or herdsmen or devoted to raising sheep or cattle; pastoral seminomadic people
pastorale n. a musical composition that evokes rural life
pastorate n. pastors collectively; the position of pastor
pastorship n. the position of pastor
pastrami n. highly seasoned cut of smoked beef
pastry n. a dough of flour and water and shortening; any of various baked foods made of dough or batter
pasturage n. succulent herbaceous vegetation of pasture land; animal food for browsing or grazing
pasture n. a field covered with grass or herbage and suitable for grazing by livestock; animal food for browsing or grazing@v. let (animals) feed in a field or pasture or meadow; feed as in a meadow or pasture
pastureland n. a field covered with grass or herbage and suitable for grazing by livestock
pasty n. small meat pie or turnover@adj. resembling paste in color; pallid; the looked pasty and red-eyed; having the properties of glue
pat adv. completely or perfectly@n. the sound made by a gentle blow; a light touch or stroke@adj. having only superficial plausibility; exactly suited to the occasion; a pat reply@v. pat or squeeze fondly or playfully, esp. under the chin
pataca n. the basic unit of money in Macao
patas n. reddish long-tailed monkey of west Africa
patch n. a small contrasting part of something; a patch of clouds; a small area of planted ground; a cabbage patch@v. to join or unite the pieces of; patch the skirt; provide with a patch; also used metaphorically; mend or supply with a patch
patchboard n. telephone central where circuits are completed with patchcords
patchcord n. has plug at each end; used to make connections at a patchboard
patched adj. mended usually clumsily by covering a hole with a patch; patched jeans; having spots or patches (small areas of contrasting color or texture); a field patched with ice and snow
patchily adv. in spots
patchiness n. unevenness in quality or performance
patching n. the act of mending a hole in a garment by sewing a patch over it
patchouli n. small East Indian shrubby mint; fragrant oil from its leaves is used in perfumes; a heavy perfume made from the patchouli plant
patchouly n. small East Indian shrubby mint; fragrant oil from its leaves is used in perfumes; a heavy perfume made from the patchouli plant
patchwork n. a theory or argument made up of miscellaneous or incongruous ideas; a quilt made by sew patches of different materials together; pieces of different materials sewn together in a pattern
patchy adj. irregular or uneven in quality, texture, etc.; a patchy essay
pate n. liver or meat or fowl finely minced or ground and variously seasoned; the top of the head
patella n. a small flat triangular bone in front of the knee that protects the knee joint
patellar adj. near or relating to the patella or kneecap; patellar tendon
paten n. plate; especially one of precious metal for the eucharistic bread; a thin disk
patent v. obtain a patent for; Should I patent this invention?; grant rights to; grant a patent for@adj. clearly apparent or obvious to the mind or senses; patent advantages@n. a document granting an inventor sole rights to an invention
patented adj. (of devices and processes) protected by patent; patented inventions
patentee n. the inventor to whom a patent is issued
patently adv. unmistakably; it is all patently nonsense; (`plain' is often used informally for `plainly' as in )
pater n. an informal term for a father; probably derived from baby talk
paterfamilias n. the head of family or tribe
paternal adj. belonging to or inherited from one's father; spent his childhood on the paternal farm; characteristic of a father; relating to or characteristic of or befitting a parent; related on the father's side; a paternal aunt
paternalism n. the attitude (of a person or a government) that subordinates should be controlled in a fatherly way for their own good
paternalistic adj. benevolent but sometimes intrusive
paternally adv. in a paternal manner; he behaves very paternally toward his young bride
paternity n. the kinship relation between an offspring and the father
paternoster n. (British) a type of lift having a chain of open compartments that move continually in a loop so that (agile) passengers can step on or off at each floor
path n. a course of conduct; the path of virtue; a way especially designed for a particular use; an established line of travel or access; a line or route along which something travels or moves: the hurricane demolished houses in its path
pathetic adj. deserving or inciting pity; inspiring mixed contempt and pity; their efforts were pathetic; inspiring scornful pity
pathetically adv. in a manner arousing sympathy and compassion; the sick child cried pathetically; arousing scornful pity; they had pathetically little money
pathfinder n. someone who can find paths through unexplored territory
pathless adj. lacking pathways
pathogen n. any disease-producing agent esp. a virus or bacterium or other microorganism
pathogenesis n. the origination and development of a disease
pathogenic adj. able to cause disease; pathogenic bacteria
pathogenically adv. in a pathogenic manner
pathologic adj. caused by or altered by or manifesting disease or pathology; pathologic tissue; of or relating to the practice of pathology
pathological adj. of or relating to the practice of pathology; pathological laboratory; caused by or evidencing a mentally disturbed condition; a pathological liar
pathologically adv. with respect to pathology; pathologically interesting results
pathologist n. a doctor who specializes in medical diagnosis
pathology n. the branch of medical science that studies the causes and nature and effects of diseases; any deviation from a healthy or normal condition
pathos n. a quality that arouses emotions (especially pity or sorrow); the film captured all the pathos of their situation; a feeling of sympathy and sorrow for the misfortunes of others; a style that has the power to evoke feelings
pathway n. a bundle of nerve fibers following a path through the brain; a trodden path
patience n. good-natured tolerance of delay or incompetence; a card game played by one person
patient n. a person who requires medical care@adj. enduring trying circumstances with even temper or characterized by such endurance; a patient smile; enduring without protest or complaint
patiently adv. in a patient manner; he patiently played with the child
patina n. a fine layer of oxide on the surface of a metal
patinate v. coat with a patina
patinize v. coat with a patina
patio n. usually paved outdoor area adjoining a residence
patisserie n. a bakery specializing in French pastry
patness n. timely convenience
patois n. a characteristic language of a particular group (as among thieves); a regional dialect of a language (especially French); usually considered substandard
patrial n. (British) a person who has the right to be considered legally a British citizen (by virtue of the birth of a parent or grandparent)
patriarch n. the head of family or tribe; any of the early Biblical characters regarded as fathers of the human race; a man who is older and higher in rank than yourself
patriarchal adj. characteristic of a patriarchy
patriarchate n. the jurisdiction of a patriarch; a form of social organization in which a male is the family head and title is traced through the male line
patriarchic adj. (of societies) being ruled by or having descent traced through the male line
patriarchy n. a form of social organization in which a male is the family head and title is traced through the male line
patricentric adj. centered upon the father
patrician n. a person of refined upbringing and manners@adj. of the hereditary aristocracy or ruling class of ancient Rome or medieval Europe; of honorary nobility in the Byzantine empire; belonging to or characteristic of the nobility or aristocracy
patricide n. a person who murders their father; murder of your father
patrikin n. one related on the father's side
patrilineage n. line of descent traced through the paternal side of the family
patrilineal adj. based on or tracing descent through the male line; a patrilineal society
patrilineally adv. by descent through the male line
patrilinear adj. based on or tracing descent through the male line
patrimonial adj. inherited or inheritable by established rules (usually legal rules) of descent; patrimonial estate
patrimony n. a church endowment; an inheritance coming by right of birth (especially by primogeniture)
patriot n. one who loves and defends his or her country
patriotic adj. inspired by love for your country
patriotically adv. in a patriotic manner; patriotically, he buys only U.S.-made products
patriotism n. love of country and willingness to sacrifice for it
patrisib n. one related on the father's side
patristic adj. of or relating to the writings of the early church fathers
patristical adj. of or relating to the writings of the early church fathers
patrol n. a detachment used for security or reconnaissance; the activity of going around or through an area at regular intervals for security purposes@v. maintain the security of by carrying out a control
patroller n. an individual or a member of a group that patrols an area
patrolling n. the activity of going around or through an area at regular intervals for security purposes
patrolman n. a policeman who patrols a given region
patron n. a regular customer; (Italian) the proprietor of an inn; someone who supports or champions something
patronage v. support by being a patron of; be a customer or client of@n. the act of providing approval and support; customers collectively; a communication that indicates lack of respect by patronizing the recipient
patroness n. a woman who is a patron
patronising adj. (used of behavior or attitude) characteristic of those who treat others with condescension
patronize v. assume sponsorship of; do one's shopping at; do business with; be a customer or client of; treat condescendingly; be a customer or client of; We patronize this store
patronized adj. having patronage or clients; street full of flourishing well-patronized shops
patronizing adj. (used of behavior or attitude) characteristic of those who treat others with condescension
patronizingly adv. with condescension
patronless adj. having little patronage or few clients
patronne n. (Italian) the proprietor of an inn
patronymic adj. of a patronymic name@n. a name derived with an affix (such as -son in English or O'- in Irish) from the name of your father or a paternal ancestor
patroon n. the proprietor of a manorial estate especially in New York under Dutch rule
patsy n. a person who is gullible and easy to take advantage of
patten n. footwear usually with wooden soles
patter v. rain gently; make light, rapid and repeated sounds, as of rain@n. plausible glib talk (especially useful to a salesperson)
pattern v. plan or create according to a model or models; form a pattern@n. a perceptual structure; a visual pattern must include not only objects but the spaces between them; a customary way of operation or behavior
patterned adj. having patterns especially colorful patterns
patternmaker n. someone who makes patterns (as for sewing or carpentry or metalworking)
patty n. small flat mass of chopped food; small pie or pasty; round flat candy
patzer n. a poor chess player
paucity n. an insufficient quantity or number
paunch n. a protruding abdomen
paunchiness n. the bodily property of a protruding belly
paunchy adj. having a large belly
pauper n. a person who is very poor
pauperism n. a state of extreme poverty or destitution
pauperization n. the act of making poor
pauperize v. reduce to beggary
pause v. interrupt temporarily an activity before continuing; cease an action temporarily; We pause for station identification@n. a time interval during which there is a temporary cessation of something; temporary inactivity
pavage n. a tax toward paving streets
pavane n. music composed for dancing the pavane; a stately court dance of the 16th and 17th centuries
pave v. of roads
paved adj. covered with a firm surface
pavement n. the paved surface of a thoroughfare; material used to pave an area; paved area for pedestrians; beside a street or roadway
pavilion n. large and often sumptuous tent
paving n. material used to pave an area; the paved surface of a thoroughfare; the application of paving materials to an area
pavior n. a machine for laying pavement
paviour n. a machine for laying pavement
pavis n. (medieval) a large heavy oblong shield protecting the whole body; originally carried but sometimes set up in permanent position
pavise n. (medieval) a large heavy oblong shield protecting the whole body; originally carried but sometimes set up in permanent position
pavonia n. any of various evergreen plants of the genus Pavonia having white or yellow or purple flowers
paw n. a clawed foot of an animal especially a quadruped; the (prehensile) extremity of the superior limb@v. scrape with the paws; touch clumsily; The man tried to paw her
pawky adj. (British) cunning and sly
pawl n. a hinged device that fits into a notch of a ratchet to move a wheel forward or prevent it from moving backward
pawn v. give as a guarantee@n. an article deposited as security; a person used by another to gain an end; the least powerful chessman; moves only forward and captures only to the side; can be promoted if it reaches the 8th rank
pawnbroker n. a person who lends money at interest in exchange for personal property that is deposited as security
pawning n. borrowing and leaving an article as security for repayment of the loan
pawnshop n. a shop where loans are made with personal property as security
pawpaw n. tropical American shrub or small tree having huge deeply palmately cleft leaves and large oblong yellow fruit; small tree native to the eastern United States having oblong leaves and fleshy fruit
pax n. (Roman Catholic) a greeting signifying Christian love for those assisting at the Eucharist
pay v. give money in exchange for goods or services; convey, as of a compliment, regards, attention, etc.; bestow; Don't pay him any mind; cancel or discharge a debt; pay up, please!@n. something that remunerates; he wasted his pay on drink
payable adj. subject to or requiring payment especially as specified; a note payable on demand
payables n. money that you currently expect to pay on notes and accounts
paycheck n. a check issued in payment of wages or salary
payday n. the day on which you receive pay for your work
payee n. a person to whom money is paid
payer n. a person who pays money for something
paygrade n. rank in a military organization
paying n. the act of paying money@adj. yielding a fair profit; for which money is paid; a paying job
payload n. the part of a missile or torpedo that carries the explosive charge; goods carried by a large vehicle
paymaster n. a person in charge of paying wages
payment n. a sum of money paid; the act of paying money
paynim n. a heathen (especially a Muslim)
payoff n. the final payment of a debt; payment made to a person in a position of trust to corrupt his judgment; the income arising from land or other property; a recompense for worthy acts or retribution for wrongdoing
payola n. a bribe given to a disc jockey to induce him to promote a particular record
payroll n. a list of employees and their salaries; the company had a long payroll; the total amount of money paid in wages; the company had a large payroll
paysheet n. the total amount of money paid in wages; a list of employees and their salaries
payslip n. a slip of paper included with your pay that records how much money you have earned and how much tax or insurance etc. has been taken out
pe n. the 17th letter of the Hebrew alphabet
pea n. seed of a pea plant; the fruit or seed of a pea plant; a leguminous plant of the genus Pisum
peace n. the state prevailing during the absence of war; harmonious relations; freedom from disputes; the roommates lived in peace together; the absence of mental stress or anxiety
peaceable adj. inclined or disposed to peace; they met in a peaceable spirit; disposed to peace or of a peaceful nature; a quiet and peaceable person
peaceableness n. a state that is calm and tranquil
peaceably adv. in a peaceable manner; the tenant paying the rent hereby reserved and performing the several covenants herein on his part contained shall peaceably hold and enjoy the demised premises
peaceful adj. not disturbed by strife or turmoil or war; a peaceful nation; peacefully resistant in response to injustice; (of groups) not violent or disorderly; the right of peaceful assembly
peacefully adv. in a peaceful manner; the hen settled herself on the nest most peacefully
peacefulness n. a state that is calm and tranquil; the absence of mental stress or anxiety
peacekeeper n. a member of a military force that is assigned (often with international sanction) to preserve peace in a trouble area; someone who keeps peace; she's the peacekeeper in that family; the pistol of a law officer in the old West
peacemaker n. someone who tries to bring peace
peacenik n. someone who prefers negotiations to armed conflict in the conduct of foreign relations
peacetime n. a period of time during which there is no war
peach v. divulge information or secrets; spill the beans; give away information about somebody@n. cultivated in temperate regions; a very attractive or seductive looking woman; downy juicy fruit with sweet yellowish or whitish flesh
peachick n. a young peafowl
peachwood n. tropical tree with prickly trunk; its heavy red wood yields a red dye and is used for cabinetry
peachy adj. (informal) very good
peacoat n. a sailor's heavy woolen double-breasted jacket
peacock n. European butterfly having reddish-brown wings each marked with a purple eyespot; male peafowl; having a crested head and very large fanlike tail marked with iridescent eyes or spots
peafowl n. very large terrestrial southeast Asian pheasant often raised as an ornamental bird
peag n. small beads made from polished shells and formerly used as money by native Americans
peahen n. female peafowl
peak n. the most extreme possible amount or value; voltage peak; the period of greatest prosperity or productivity@adj. of a period of maximal use or demand or activity; at peak hours the streets traffic is unbelievable@v. to reach the highest point
peaked adj. somewhat ill or prone to illness; you look a little peaked; having or rising to a peak; the peaked ceiling
peaky adj. having or as if having especially high-pitched spots; absence of peaky highs and beefed-up bass
peal v. ring recurrently; of bells; make a ringing sound@n. a deep prolonged sound (as of thunder)
pealing n. a deep prolonged sound (as of thunder)
pean n. a hymn of praise (especially one sung in ancient Greece to invoke or thank a deity); a formal expression of praise
peanut adj. of little importance or influence or power; of minor status; peanut politicians@n. underground pod of of the peanut vine; widely cultivated American plant cultivated in tropical and warm regions
pear n. sweet juicy gritty-textured fruit available in many varieties; Old World tree having sweet gritty-textured juicy fruit; widely cultivated in many varieties
pearl n. a smooth lustrous round structure inside the shell of a clam or oyster; much valued as a jewel@v. gather pearls, from oysters in the ocean@adj. relating to or resembling or made of or adorned with pearls or mother-of-pearl
pearler n. a diver who searches for molluscs containing pearls
pearlescent adj. having a play of lustrous rainbow-like colors; nacreous (or pearlescent) clouds looking like mother-of-pearl
pearlfish n. found living within the alimentary canals of e.g. sea cucumbers or between the shells of pearl oysters in or near shallow seagrass beds
pearlite n. a lamellar mixture of cementite and ferrite formed during the cooling of austenite; a micro-constituent of steel and cast iron
pearlweed n. any of various low-growing plants of the genus Sagina having small spherical flowers resembling pearls
pearlwort n. any of various low-growing plants of the genus Sagina having small spherical flowers resembling pearls
pearly n. informal terms for a human `tooth'@adj. a white the color of pearls
peasant n. a country person; one of a (chiefly European) class of agricultural laborers; a crude uncouth ill-bred person lacking culture or refinement
peasanthood n. an uncleanliness characteristic of peasants
peasantry n. the class of peasants
peasecod n. husk of a pea; edible in some garden peas
peashooter n. a toy blowgun for shooting peas
peat n. partially carbonized vegetable matter saturated with water; used as a fuel when dried
peaty adj. like peat; rich in combustible carbonized vegetable matter
peavey n. a stout lever with a sharp spike; used for handling logs
peavy n. a stout lever with a sharp spike; used for handling logs
peba n. having nine hinged bands of bony plates; ranges from Texas to Paraguay
pebble n. a small smooth rounded rock
pebbly adj. abounding in small stones
pecan n. wood of a pecan tree; tree of southern United States and Mexico cultivated for its nuts; smooth brown oval nut of south central United States
peccable adj. liable to sin
peccadillo n. a petty misdeed
peccant adj. liable to sin
peccary n. nocturnal gregarious pig-like wild animals of North and South America
peccavi n. an acknowledgment of sin
peck n. (often followed by `of') a large number or amount or extent; a British imperial capacity measure (liquid or dry) equal to 2 gallons@v. hit lightly with a picking motion; eat by pecking at; of birds; kiss lightly; eat like a bird
pecker n. obscene terms for penis
peckish adj. (British) somewhat hungry; easily irritated or annoyed
pecopteris n. Carboniferous fossil fern characterized by a regular arrangement of the leaflets resembling a comb
pecs n. either of two large muscles of the chest
pectic adj. of or relating to or derived from pectin; pectic acid
pectin n. any of various water-soluble colloidal carbohydrates that occur in ripe fruit and vegetables; used in making fruit jellies and jams
pectinate adj. like a comb
pectoral adj. of or relating to the chest or thorax; pectoral organ@n. either of two large muscles of the chest; an adornment worn on the chest or breast
pectoralis n. either of two large muscles of the chest
pectus n. the part of the human body between the neck and the diaphragm or the corresponding part in other vertebrates
peculate v. appropriate (as property entrusted to one's care) fraudulently to one's own use
peculation n. the fraudulent appropriation of funds or property entrusted to your care but actually owned by someone else
peculator n. someone who violates a trust by taking (money) for their own use
peculiar adj. beyond or deviating from the usual or expected; the peculiar aromatic odor of cloves; unique or specific to a person or thing or category; a peculiar bond of sympathy between them
peculiarity n. an odd or unusual characteristic; a distinguishing trait; something unusual -- perhaps worthy of collecting
peculiarly adv. uniquely or characteristically; these peculiarly cinematic elements; in a manner differing from the usual or expected; he's behaving rather peculiarly
pecuniary adj. relating to or involving money; he received thanks but no pecuniary compensation for his services
pedagogic adj. of or relating to pedagogy
pedagogical adj. of or relating to pedagogy; pedagogical significance
pedagogically adv. in a didactic manner
pedagogue n. someone who educates
pedagogy n. the profession of a teacher; pedagogy is recognized as an important profession; activities that impart knowledge
pedal v. ride a bicycle; operate the pedals on a keyboard instrument@n. a sustained bass note; a lever that is operated with the foot@adj. of or relating to the feet; the word for a pedal extremity is `foot'
pedaler n. a person who rides a pedal-driven vehicle
pedaller n. a person who rides a pedal-driven vehicle
pedant n. a person who pays more attention to formal rules and book learning than they merit
pedantic adj. marked by a narrow focus on or display of learning especially its trivial aspects
pedantically adv. in a pedantic manner; these interpretations are called `schemas' or, more pedantically, `schemata'
pedantry n. a ostentatious and inappropriate display of learning
pedate adj. of a leaf shape; having radiating lobes, each deeply cleft or divided; (zoology) having or resembling a foot
peddle v. sell or offer for sale from place to place
peddler n. someone who travels about selling his wares; someone who sells illegal drugs
peddling n. selling goods for a living
pederast n. a man who has sex with a boy
pederastic adj. of homosexuality between a man and a boy
pederasty n. intercourse between a man and a boy
pedesis n. the random motion of small particles suspended in a gas or liquid
pedestal n. a support or foundation; a position of great esteem (and supposed superiority); they put him on a pedestal; an architectural support or base (as for a column or statue)
pedestrian n. a person who travels by foot@adj. lacking wit or imagination; a pedestrian movie plot
pediatric adj. of or relating to the medical care of children; pediatric dentist
pediatrician n. a specialist in the care of babies
pediatrics n. the branch of medicine concerned with the treatment of infants and children
pediatrist n. a specialist in the care of babies
pedicab n. a tricycle (usually propelled by pedalling); used in the Orient for transporting passengers for hire
pedicel n. a small stalk bearing a single flower of an inflorescence; an ultimate division of a common peduncle
pediculosis n. infestation with lice (Pediculus humanus) resulting in severe itching
pedicure n. professional care for the feet and toenails@v. care for one's feet by cutting and shaping the nails, etc.
pedigree n. the descendants of one individual; line of descent of a pure-bred animal; ancestry of a purebred animal@adj. having a list of ancestors as proof of being a purebred animal
pedigreed adj. having a list of ancestors as proof of being a purebred animal
pediment n. a triangular gable between a horizontal entablature and a sloping roof
pedlar n. someone who travels about selling his wares
pedodontist n. a dentist who specializes in the care of children's teeth
pedofile n. an adult who is sexually attracted to children
pedometer n. for recording the number of steps taken in walking
peduncle n. the thin process of tissue that attaches a polyp to the body; stalk bearing an inflorescence or solitary flower; a bundle of myelinated neurons joining different parts of the brain
pedunculate adj. (biology) having or growing on or from a peduncle or stalk; a pedunculate flower
pedwood n. European deciduous shrub turning red in autumn having dull white flowers
pee n. liquid excretory product; informal terms for urination; he took a pee@v. eliminate urine
peeing n. informal terms for urination
peek v. look furtively; throw a glance at; take a brief look at; is archaic@n. a secret look
peekaboo n. a game played with young children; you hide your face and suddenly reveal it as you say Boo!
peel v. strip the skin off (fruit, for example); come off in flakes or thin small pieces@n. the rind of a fruit
peeled adj. (used informally) completely unclothed
peeler n. a performer who provides erotic entertainment by undressing to music; a worker who peels the skins from fruits and vegetables
peeling adj. having the paint loose and peeling away; a dilapidated house with peeling paint
peen n. the usually hemispherical or wedge-shaped end of the head of a hammer opposite the face
peep v. look furtively@n. the short weak cry of a young bird; a secret look
peeper n. a viewer who enjoys seeing the sex acts or sex organs of others; the organ of sight (`peeper' is an informal term for `eye')
peephole n. a hole (in a door or an oven etc) through which you can peep
peepshow n. an exhibition of pictures or objects viewed through a small hole or magnifying glass; a short pornographic film shown in a small coin-operated booth
peepul n. fig tree of India noted for great size and longevity; lacks the prop roots of the banyan
peer n. a person who is of equal standing with another in a group; (British) a nobleman (duke or marquis or earl or viscount or baron) who is a member of the British peerage@v. look searchingly
peerage n. the peers of a kingdom considered as a group
peeress n. a woman of aristocratic family
peerless adj. eminent beyond or above comparison; a peerless scholar
peeve v. cause to be annoyed, irritated, or resentful
peeved adj. aroused to impatience or anger; peeved about being left out
peevish adj. easily irritated or annoyed
peevishly adv. in a peevish manner
peevishness n. an irritable petulant feeling; a disposition to exhibit uncontrolled anger
peewee n. disparaging terms for small people; small olive-colored woodland flycatchers of eastern North America
peewit n. large crested Old World plover having wattles and spurs; small olive-colored woodland flycatchers of eastern North America
peg n. a wooden pin pushed or driven into a surface; small markers inserted into a surface to mark scores or define locations etc.; informal terms of the leg@v. succeed in obtaining a position; pierce with a peg; knock or thrust a peg into
pegboard n. a board perforated with regularly spaced holes into which pegs can be fitted
pegleg n. a prosthesis that replaces a missing leg
pegmatite n. a form of igneous rock consisting of extremely coarse granite resulting from the crystallization of magma rich in rare elements
peignoir n. a loose dressing gown for women
pejorative adj. expressing disapproval
pejoratively adv. in a pejorative manner; I am not using the word pejoratively
pekan n. large dark brown North American arboreal carnivorous mammal
pekoe n. a superior grade of black tea; grown in India and Sri Lanka and Java
pel n. (computer science) the smallest discrete element of an image or picture on a CRT screen (usually a single-colored dot)
pelage n. the hairy covering of a mammal
pelagic adj. relating to or occurring or living in or frequenting the open ocean; pelagic organisms
pelecypod n. marine or freshwater mollusks having a soft body with platelike gills enclosed within two shells hinged together@adj. bivalve
pelecypodous adj. bivalve
pelf n. informal terms for money
pelican n. large long-winged warm-water seabird having a large bill with a distensible pouch for fish
peliosis n. any of several blood diseases causing subcutaneous bleeding
pelisse n. a sleeveless cloak that is lined or trimmed with fur
pellagra n. caused by deficiency of niacin (vitamin B3; nicotinic acid) and protein
pellet n. a small sphere; a solid missile discharged from a firearm
pellicle n. thin protective membrane in some protozoa
pellitory n. herb that grows in crevices having long narrow leaves and small pink apetalous flowers; small Mediterranean plant containing a volatile oil once used to relieve toothache
pellucid adj. transmitting light; able to be seen through with clarity; a pellucid brook; (of language) transparently clear; easily understandable; pellucid prose
pellucidity n. free from obscurity and easy to understand; the comprehensibility of clear expression; passing light without diffusion or distortion
pellucidly adv. in a clear and lucid manner
pellucidness n. passing light without diffusion or distortion
pelmet n. a decorative heading to conceal curtain fixtures at the top of a window casing
pelota n. a Basque or Spanish game played in a court with a ball and a wickerwork racket
pelt n. the dressed hairy coat of a mammal; body covering of a living animal@v. cast, hurl, or throw repeatedly with some missile; attack with missiles or questions; rain heavily
peltate adj. of a leaf shape; round, with the stem attached near the center of the lower surface rather than the margin, as a nasturtium leaf e.g.
pelting n. anything happening rapidly or in quick successive; a pelting of insults
peludo n. Argentine armadillo with six movable bands and hairy underparts
pelvic adj. of or relating to the pelvis; pelvic exam
pelvis n. the structure supporting the lower limbs in humans and the hind limbs or corresponding parts in other vertebrates; a structure shaped like a funnel in the outlet of the kidney into which urine is discharged before passing into the ureter
pelycosaur n. large primitive reptile having a tall spinal sail; of the Permian or late Paleozoic in Europe and North America
pemmican n. lean dried meat pounded fine and mixed with melted fat; used especially by North American Indians
pemphigus n. a skin disease characterized by large thin-walled blisters (bullae) arising from normal skin or mucous membrane
pen n. a writing implement with a point from which ink flows; an enclosure for confining livestock; a portable enclosure in which babies may be left to play; a correctional institution for those convicted of major crimes@v. produce a literary work
penal adj. of or relating to punishment; penal reform; serving as or designed to impose punishment; penal servitude; subject to punishment by law; a penal offense
penalization n. the act of punishing
penalize v. impose a penalty on; inflict punishment on
penalized adj. punished by the imposition of a penalty
penally adv. in a punishing manner
penalty n. the act of punishing; a payment required for not fulfilling a contract; the disadvantage or painful consequences of an action or condition: neglected his health and paid the penalty
penance n. remorse for your past conduct; a Catholic sacrament; repentance and confession and satisfaction and absolution; voluntary self-punishment in order to atone for some wrongdoing
penates n. pl. the Roman gods of the household
pence pl. of penny
penchant n. a strong liking; the Irish have a penchant for blarney
pencil n. a thin cylindrical pointed implement for writing; a rod of marking substance encased in wood@v. write, draw, or trace with a pencil
penciled adj. drawn or written with a pencil; a penciled sketch
pencilled adj. drawn or written with a pencil
pendant adj. supported from above@n. an adornment that hangs from a piece of jewelry (necklace or earring); branched; often ornate; hangs from the ceiling
pendent adj. supported from above; pendent bunches of grapes
pending adj. awaiting conclusion or confirmation; business still pending
pendragon n. the supreme war chief of the ancient Britons
pendulous adj. (biology) having branches or flower heads that bend downward; the pendulous branches of a weeping willow
pendulum n. an apparatus consisting of an object mounted so that it swings freely under the influence of gravity
penetrability n. the permeability of something that can be penetrated by a liquid
penetrable adj. admitting of penetration or passage into or through; a penetrable wall; capable of being penetrated; penetrable defenses
penetrate v. pass into or through, often by overcoming resistance; come to understand; become clear suddenly
penetrating adj. having or demonstrating ability to recognize or draw fine distinctions; penetrating insight
penetratingly adv. with ability to see into deeply; the author treats his subject penetratingly
penetration n. an attack that penetrates into enemy territory; clear or deep perception of a situation; the act of forcing a way into or through something; the penetration of upper management by women
penetrative adj. having or demonstrating ability to recognize or draw fine distinctions; frequent penetrative observations; tending to penetrate; a toxic penetrative spray applied to the bark
penetratively adv. with ability to see into deeply
pengo n. formerly the basic unit of money in Hungary until it was replaced by the forint in 1946
penguin n. short-legged flightless birds of cold southern esp. Antarctic regions having webbed feet and wings modified as flippers
penholder n. a holder or handle for a pen
penial adj. of or relating to the penis
penicillin n. any of various antibiotics obtained from penicillium molds (or produced synthetically) and used in the treatment of various infections and diseases
penile adj. of or relating to the penis; penile erection
peninsula n. a large mass of land projecting into a body of water
peninsular adj. of or forming or resembling a peninsula; peninsular isolation
penis n. the male organ of copulation (`member' is a euphemism)
penitence n. remorse for your past conduct
penitent adj. feeling or expressing remorse for misdeeds@n. a person who repents for wrongdoing (a Roman Catholic may be admitted to penance under the direction of a confessor)
penitential adj. of or relating to penitence or penance; the Day of Atonement is the great penitential day of the Hebrew calendar; showing or constituting penance; penitential tears
penitentially adv. showing remorse
penitentiary n. a correctional institution for those convicted of major crimes@adj. used for punishment or reform of criminals or wrongdoers; penitentiary institutions
penitently adv. showing remorse
penknife n. a small pocketknife; originally used to cut quill pens
penlight n. a small flashlight resembling a fountain pen
penman n. informal terms for journalists
penmanship n. beautiful handwriting
pennant n. the award given to the champion; a flag longer than it is wide (and often tapering); a long flag; often tapering
pennate adj. having feathered wings
penned adj. enclosed by a confining fence
penni n. 100 penni equal 1 markka
penniless adj. not having enough money to pay for necessities
pennilessness n. a state of lacking money
penning n. the act of creating written works
pennon n. a long flag; often tapering; wing of a bird
pennoncel n. a small pennon borne on a lance
pennoncelle n. a small pennon borne on a lance
penny n. a fractional monetary unit of Ireland and the United Kingdom; equal to one hundredth of a pound@adj. (used in combination) priced as indicated; `penny' is a combining form in such expressions as `sixpenny cakes'; priced at 1 cent
pennycress n. any of several plants of the genus Thlaspi
pennyroyal n. Eurasian perennial mint have small lilac-blue flowers and ovate leaves; yields an aromatic oil
pennyweight n. a unit of apothecary weight equal to 24 grains
pennywhistle n. an inexpensive fipple flute
pennywise adj. wise or prudent only in small matters
pennyworth n. the amount that can be bought for a penny
penocha n. made with brown sugar
penologist n. a person who studies the theory and practice of prison management
penology n. the branch of criminology concerned with prison management and prisoner rehabilitation
penoncel n. a small pennon borne on a lance
penpusher n. a clerk who does boring paperwork
pension v. grant a pension to@n. a monthly payment to someone who is retired from work
pensionable adj. entitled to receive a pension; a pensionable employee
pensionary n. the beneficiary of a pension fund; a person who works only for money
pensioner n. the beneficiary of a pension fund
pensive adj. persistently or morbidly thoughtful; showing pensive sadness
pensively adv. in a pensive manner; pensively he stared at the painting
pensiveness n. persistent morbid meditation on a problem; deep serious thoughtfulness
penstock n. valve or gate that controls rate of water flow through a sluice; carries a rapid flow of water controlled by a sluicegate
pent adj. closely confined
pentacle n. a star with 5 points; formed by 5 straight lines between the vertices of a pentagon and enclosing another pentagon
pentad n. the cardinal number that is the sum of four and one
pentagon n. a five-sided polygon
pentagonal adj. of or relating to or shaped like a pentagon
pentagram n. a star with 5 points; formed by 5 straight lines between the vertices of a pentagon and enclosing another pentagon
pentahedron n. any polyhedron having five plane faces
pentail n. brown tree shrew having a naked tail bilaterally fringed with long stiff hairs on the distal third; of Malaysia
pentamerous adj. (botany) divided into five parts; specifically, having each floral whorl consist of five (or a multiple of five) members; pentamerous flowers
pentameter n. a verse line having five metrical feet
pentangular adj. of or relating to or shaped like a pentagon
pentastomid n. wormlike arthropod having two pairs of hooks at the sides of the mouth; parasitic in nasal sinuses of mammals
pentasyllabic adj. having or characterized by or consisting of five syllables
pentathlete n. an athlete who competes in a pentathlon
pentathlon n. an athletic contest consisting of five different events
pentatonic adj. relating to a pentatonic scale
pentavalent adj. (chemistry) having a valence of five
pentecostal adj. of or relating to or characteristic of any of various Pentecostal religious bodies or their members; of or relating to or occurring at Pentecost
pentecostalism n. the principles and practices of Pentecostal religious groups; characterized by religious excitement and talking in tongues
penthouse n. an apartment located on the top floors of a building
pentlandite n. a mineral (iron-nickel sulphide) that is the chief ore of nickel
pentobarbital n. a barbiturate (trade name Nembutal) used as a sedative and hypnotic and anti-spasmodic
pentode n. a thermionic tube having five electrodes
pentomic adj. made up of five battle groups; pentomic division; organized into pentomic divisions; pentomic army
pentose n. any monosaccharide sugar containing five atoms of carbon per molecule
pentoxide n. an oxide containing five atoms of oxygen in the molecule
penuche n. made with brown sugar
penult n. the next to last syllable in a word
penultima n. the next to last syllable in a word
penultimate adj. next to the last; the author inadvertently reveals the murderer in the penultimate chapter@n. the next to last syllable in a word
penumbra n. a fringe region of partial shadow around an umbra
penurious adj. not having enough money to pay for necessities; excessively unwilling to spend; lived in a most penurious manner--denying himself every indulgence
penuriously adv. in a penurious manner; they lived penuriously
penuriousness n. a state of lacking money; a disposition to be niggardly with money
penury n. a state of extreme poverty or destitution
peon n. a laborer who is obliged to do menial work
peonage n. the condition of a peon; the practice of making a debtor work for his creditor until the debt is discharged
peony n. any of numerous plants widely cultivated for their showy single or double red or pink or white flowers
people n. (plural) any group of human beings (men or women or children) collectively; old people; the body of citizens of a state or country; the Spanish people; the common people generally@v. fill with people; people a room
peopled adj. furnished with people; sparsely peopled arctic regions
pep n. liveliness and energy; this tonic is guaranteed to give you more pep
peperomia n. any of various plants of the genus Peperomia; grown primarily for their often succulent foliage
pepper n. climber having dark red berries (peppercorns) when fully ripe; southern India and Sri Lanka; naturalized in North Burma and Assam; any of various tropical plants of the genus Capsicum bearing peppers@v. add pepper to
peppercorn n. pungent seasoning from the berry of the common pepper plant of East India; use whole or ground
pepperidge n. columnar tree of eastern North America having horizontal limbs and small leaves that emerge late in spring and have brilliant color in early fall
pepperiness n. a hot spiciness
peppermint n. herb with downy leaves and small purple or white flowers that yields a pungent oil used as a flavoring; red gum tree of Tasmania; a candy flavored with peppermint oil
pepperoni n. a pork and beef sausage (or a thin slice of this sausage)
peppershaker n. a shaker with a perforated top for sprinkling ground pepper
pepperwood n. Pacific coast tree having aromatic foliage and small umbellate flowers followed by olivelike fruit; yields a hard tough wood
pepperwort n. any of several water ferns of the genus Marsilea having four leaflets; annual herb used as salad green and garnish
peppery adj. having a piquant burning taste of spices or peppers; corn chips with peppery salsa
peppiness n. liveliness and energy
peppy adj. marked by lively action; the peppy and interesting talk
pepsin n. an enzyme produced in the stomach; when activated by acid it splits proteins into peptones
peptic adj. relating to or promoting digestion; peptic juices
peptidase n. any enzyme that catalyzes the splitting of proteins into smaller peptide fractions and amino acids by a process known as proteolysis
peptide n. two or more amino acids held together by peptide bonds
peptization n. the process of converting to a sol; bringing to a colloidal solution
peptize v. disperse in a medium into a colloidal state; of chemical substances
peptizing adj. causing to disperse into a colloidal state; acting...as peptizing agents@n. the process of converting to a sol; bringing to a colloidal solution
peptone n. any of various water-soluble compounds that form by hydrolysis in the digestion of proteins to amino acids
per prep. by means of; through; to or for each; according to
peradventure adv. by chance; it may peradventure be thought that there never was such a time
perambulate v. make an official inspection on foot of (the bounds of a property); Selectmen are required by law to perambulate the bounds every five years; stroll
perambulating adj. strolling or walking around; perambulating nursemaids with their charges
perambulation n. a leisurely walk (usually in some public place)
perambulator n. a small carriage in which a baby or child is pushed around
percale n. a fine closely woven cotton fabric
perceivable adj. capable of being perceived especially by sight or hearing; perceivable through the mist; capable of being apprehended or understood
perceive v. to become aware of through the senses; I could perceive the ship coming over the horizon; become conscious of
perceived adj. detected by instinct or inference rather than by recognized perceptual cues; a perceived threat; detected by means of the senses; a perceived difference in temperature
perceiver n. a person who becomes aware of through the senses
perceiving n. becoming aware of something via the senses
percent n. a proportion multiplied by 100
percentage n. a proportion multiplied by 100; an asset belonging to or due to or contributed by an individual person or group
percentile n. a statistical measure expressing an individual's standing (as in a test) in terms of the percentage of individuals falling below him
percept n. the representation of what is perceived; basic component in the formation of a concept
perceptibility n. the property of being perceptible
perceptible adj. capable of being perceived by the mind or senses; easily perceptible sounds; easily perceived by the senses or grasped by the mind; a perceptible sense of expectation in the court
perceptibly adv. in a noticeable manner
perception n. the representation of what is perceived; basic component in the formation of a concept; a way of conceiving something; Luther had a new perception of the Bible; the process of perceiving
perceptive adj. of or relating to perception; perceptive faculties; having the ability to perceive or understand; keen in discernment; a perceptive eye
perceptively adv. in a perceptive manner
perceptiveness n. a feeling of understanding; delicate discrimination (especially of aesthetic values); perception of that which is obscure; the quality of insight and sympathetic understanding
perceptivity n. a feeling of understanding
perceptual adj. of or relating to the act of perceiving; perceptual stimulus
perceptually adv. with regard to perception; this task is perceptually very difficult
perch n. a branch or rod that serves as a resting place; (British) a linear measure of 16.5 feet; a square rod of land; an elevated place serving as a seat@v. sit, as on a branch; to come to rest, settle
perchance adv. (archaic) through chance, To sleep, perchance to dream..; by chance
perched adj. (especially of ears) quickly lifted up or out in attention; `perched' is obsolete
perchlorate n. a salt of perchloric acid
percipient adj. characterized by ease and quickness in perceiving; a percipient author
percoid n. any of numerous spiny-finned fishes of the order Perciformes
percoidean n. any of numerous spiny-finned fishes of the order Perciformes
percolate v. permeate; penetrate gradually; of liquids; spread gradually; prepare in a percolator, of coffee; cause to pass through a permeable substance in order to extract a soluble constituent, as of solvents; pass through
percolator n. a coffeepot in which boiling water ascends through a central tube and filters back down through a basket of ground coffee beans
percussion n. the act of playing drums; the act of exploding a percussion cap; tapping a part of the body for diagnostic purposes
percussionist n. a musician who plays percussion instruments
percussive adj. involving percussion or featuring percussive instruments; percussive music
perdition n. (Christianity) the abode of Satan and the forces of evil; where sinners suffer eternal punishment
perdurability n. the property of being extremely durable
perdurable adj. very long lasting; the perdurable granite of the ancient Appalachian spine of the continent
peregrinate v. travel around, esp. on foot
peregrination n. travel (especially by foot)
peregrine adj. (of groups of people) tending to travel and change settlements frequently; believed the profession of a peregrine typist would have a happy future@n. a widely distributed falcon formerly used in falconry
peremptorily adv. in an imperative and commanding manner
peremptory adj. offensively self-assured or given to exercising usually unwarranted power; a swaggering peremptory manner; not allowing contradiction or refusal; spoke in commanding (or peremptory) tones
perennate v. survive from season to season, of plants
perennial n. a plant lasting for three seasons or more@adj. (botany) lasting three seasons or more; the common buttercup is a popular perennial plant; lasting an indefinitely long time; suggesting self-renewal; perennial happiness
perennially adv. in a perennial manner; repeatedly
perfect n. a tense of verbs used in describing action that has been completed (sometimes regarded as perfective aspect)@adj. being complete of its kind and without defect or blemish; a perfect circle; without qualification@v. make perfect or complete
perfecta n. a bet that you can pick the first and second finishers in the right order
perfectability n. the capability of becoming perfect; he believes in the ultimate perfectability of man
perfected adj. (of plans, ideas, etc.) perfectly formed; a graceful but not yet fully perfected literary style
perfectibility n. the capability of becoming perfect
perfectible adj. capable of becoming or being made perfect
perfection n. the state of being without a flaw or defect; an ideal instance; a perfect embodiment of a concept; the act of making something perfect
perfectionism n. a disposition to feel that anything less than perfect is unacceptable; his perfectionism seemed excessive to his students
perfectionist n. a person is displeased by anything that does not meet very high standards
perfective n. a tense of verbs used in describing action that has been completed (sometimes regarded as perfective aspect); the aspect of a verb that expresses a completed completed action
perfectly adv. completely and without qualification; used informally as intensifiers; a perfectly idiotic idea; in a perfect or faultless way; She performed perfectly on the balance beam
perfecto n. a cigar that is thick in the middle and tapers almost to a point at each end
perfervid adj. characterized by intense emotion
perfidious adj. tending to betray; especially having a treacherous character as attributed to the Carthaginians by the Romans; the perfidious Judas
perfidiously adv. in a perfidious manner; he was playing perfidiously one side against the other
perfidiousness n. betrayal of a trust
perfidy n. betrayal of a trust; an act of deliberate betrayal
perfoliate adj. of a leaf having the base united around, and apparently pierced by, the stem
perforate adj. having a hole cut through@v. make a hole into
perforated adj. having a hole cut through; a perforated eardrum; having a number or series of holes; a perforated steel plate
perforation n. a line of small holes for tearing at a particular place; one of a series of small holes (especially such a series for separating a sheet into parts); the act of punching a role of holes (as for ease of separation)
perforce adv. by necessity; by force of circumstance
perform v. to act or perform an action; perform a function; Who will perform the wedding?; give a performance; get (something) done
performance n. a dramatic or musical entertainment; or; the act of presenting a play or a piece of music or other entertainment; we congratulated him on his performance at the recital
performer n. an entertainer who performs a dramatic or musical work for an audience
performing n. the performance of a part or role in a drama
perfume v. fill or impregnate with an odor; apply perfume to@n. a distinctive odor that is pleasant; a toiletry that emits and diffuses a fragrant odor
perfumed adj. filled or impregnated with perfume; perfumed boudoir; having a natural fragrance; the perfumed air of June
perfumer n. a person who makes (and sells) perfumes
perfumery n. where perfumes are sold; an establishment where perfumes are made
perfunctorily adv. in a set manner without serious attention; he kissed her cheek perfunctorily
perfunctory adj. hasty and without attention to detail; not thorough; perfunctory courtesy; as a formality only
perfuse v. force a fluid through (a body part or tissue); perfuse a liver with a salt solution; cause to spread or flush or flood through, over, or across; also of liquids
perfusion n. pumping a liquid into an organ or tissue (especially by way of blood vessels)
pergola n. supports climbing plants
perhaps adv. by chance; perhaps she will call tomorrow
peri n. a beautiful and graceful girl; (Persian folklore) a supernatural being descended from fallen angels and excluded from paradise until penance is done
perianth n. collective term for the outer parts of a flower consisting of the calyx and corolla and enclosing the stamen and carpel
periapsis n. (astronomy) the point in as orbit closest to the body being orbited
pericardiac adj. located around the heart or relating to or affecting the pericardium
pericardial adj. located around the heart or relating to or affecting the pericardium; pericardial space
pericarditis n. inflammation of the pericardium
pericardium n. a double-layered serous membrane that surrounds the heart
pericarp n. the ripened and variously modified walls of a plant ovary
periclase n. a white solid mineral that occurs naturally as periclase; a source of magnesium
peridinian n. flagellate with a thick test composed of plates
peridium n. outer layer of the spore-bearing organ in many fungi
peridot n. a pale green variety of chrysolite; used as a gemstone
perigee n. periapsis in Earth orbit; the point in its orbit where a satellite is nearest to the Earth
perigon n. an angle of 360 degrees
perihelion n. periapsis in solar orbit; the point in the orbit of a planet or comet where it is nearest to the sun
perijove n. periapsis in orbit around Jupiter
peril n. a source of danger; a state of danger involving risk; a venture undertaken without regard to possible loss or injury@v. pose a threat to; present a danger to; put in a dangerous, disadvantageous, or difficult position
perilous adj. fraught with danger; a perilous voyage across the Atlantic in a small boat
perilously adv. in a dangerous manner
perilousness n. the state of being dangerous
perilune n. periapsis in orbit around the moon
perimeter n. the boundary line or the area immediately inside the boundary; a line enclosing a plane areas; the size of something as given by the distance around it
perinatal adj. near the nose; occurring during the period around birth (5 months before and 1 month after); perinatal mortality
perineal adj. of or relating to the perineum; perineal pains
perineum n. the general region between the anus and the genital organs
period n. an indefinite length of time; a time period of 30 years; a stage in the history of a culture having a definable place in space and time; a novel from the Victorian period
periodic adj. happening or recurring at regular intervals; recurring at regular intervals; recurring or reappearing from time to time; periodic feelings of anxiety
periodical n. a publication that appears at fixed intervals@adj. happening or recurring at regular intervals
periodically adv. in a sporadic manner
periodicity n. the quality of recurring at intervals
periodontal adj. of or relating to or involving or practicing periodontics; periodontal disease
periodontia n. the branch of dentistry dealing with diseases of the gums and other structures around the teeth
periodontic adj. of or relating to or involving or practicing periodontics
periodontics n. the branch of dentistry dealing with diseases of the gums and other structures around the teeth
periodontist n. a dentist specializing in diseases of the gums and other structure surrounding the teeth
periodontitis n. a disease that attacks the gum and bone and around the teeth
periosteum n. a dense fibrous membrane covering the surface of bones (except at their extremities) and serving as an attachment for tendons and muscles; contains nerves and blood vessels that nourish the enclosed bone
peripatetic n. a person who walks from place to place@adj. traveling especially on foot; peripatetic country preachers
peripatus n. any of numerous velvety-skinned wormlike carnivorous animals common in tropical forests having characteristics of both arthropods and annelid worms
peripheral n. (computer science) devices connected by cable to the CPU of a computer@adj. of or relating to or of the nature of a periphery; peripheral vision; on or near an edge or constituting an outer boundary; russia's peripheral provinces
peripherally adv. in or at or near a periphery or according to a peripheral role or function or relationship
periphery n. the outside boundary or surface of something
periphrasis n. a style that involves indirect ways of expressing things
periphrastic adj. roundabout and unnecessarily wordy; (`ambagious' is archaic)
peripteral adj. having columns on all sides
perique n. a strong-flavored Louisiana tobacco used in smoking mixtures
perirhinal adj. near the nose
periscope n. an optical instrument that provides a view of an otherwise obstructed field
periselene n. periapsis in orbit around the moon
perish v. pass from physical life and lose all all bodily attributes and functions necessary to sustain life
perishable adj. liable to perish; subject destruction or death or decay; this minute and perishable planet
perishables n. foods that will decay rapidly if not refrigerated
perisher n. (Australian) bounder
perissodactyl n. placental mammals having hooves with an odd number of toes on each foot
peristalsis n. the process of wave-like muscle contractions of the alimentary tract that moves food along
peristome n. (botany) fringe of toothlike appendages surrounding the mouth of a moss capsule; region around the mouth in various invertebrates
peristylar adj. having columniation completely circling an area of the structure
peristyle n. a colonnade surrounding a building or enclosing a court
perithecium n. flask-shaped ascocarp
peritoneal adj. of or relating to or affecting the peritoneum; peritoneal cancer
peritoneum n. a transparent membrane that lines the abdominal cavity in mammals and covers most of the viscera
peritonitis n. inflammation of the peritoneum
periwig n. wig for men fashionable in 17th-l8th centuries
periwigged adj. wearing a wig popular for men in the 17th and 18th centuries
periwinkle n. chiefly trailing poisonous plants with blue flowers; commonly cultivated Old World woody herb having large pinkish to red flowers; small edible marine snail; steamed in wine or baked; edible marine gastropod
perjure v. knowingly tell an untruth in a legal court and render oneself guilty of perjury
perjurer n. a person who deliberately gives false testimony
perjury n. criminal offense of making false statements under oath
perk n. an incidental benefit awarded for certain types of employment (especially if it is regarded as a right)@v. gain or regain energy
perked adj. (especially of ears) quickly lifted up or out in attention; `perched' is obsolete; a dog with perked ears
perkily adv. in a perky manner; stuck perkily, like a bustle on a woman's skirt
perkiness n. cheerfulness that bubbles to the surface; inappropriate playfulness
perky adj. characterized by liveliness and light-heartedness; a perky little widow in her 70s
perliche n. a disorder of the lips marked by scaling and fissures at the corners of the mouth; caused by a deficiency of riboflavin
perm n. a series of waves in the hair made by applying heat and chemicals@v. give a permanent wave to; of hair
permafrost n. ground that is permanently frozen
permanence n. the property of being able to exist for an indefinite duration
permanency n. the property of being able to exist for an indefinite duration
permanent adj. continuing or enduring without marked change in status or condition or place; permanent secretary to the president@n. a series of waves in the hair made by applying heat and chemicals
permanently adv. for a long time without essential change; he is permanently disabled
permanganate n. a dark purple salt of permanganic acid; in water solution it is used as a disinfectant and antiseptic
permeability n. the property of something that can be pervaded by a liquid (as by osmosis or diffusion)
permeable adj. allowing (especially liquids) to pass or diffuse through; permeable membranes
permeableness n. the property of something that can be pervaded by a liquid (as by osmosis or diffusion)
permeant adj. spreading throughout
permeate v. spread or diffuse through; pass through; penetrate mutually or be interlocked
permeated adj. occurring throughout; her poems are permeated with sorrow
permeating adj. spreading throughout
permeation n. the process of permeating or infusing
permeative adj. spreading throughout; armed with permeative irony...he punctures affectations
permed adj. treated with chemicals to make it curly; permed hair
permissibility n. admissibility as a consequence of being permitted
permissible adj. that may be permitted especially as according to rule; permissible behavior in school; that may be accepted or conceded; a kind of speculation that was permissible in cosmology but inadmissible in medicine
permissibly adv. in a permissible manner
permission n. approval to do something; he asked permission to leave; the act of giving a formal (usually written) authorization
permissive adj. not preventive; granting or inclined or able to grant permission; not strict in discipline; direct primary legislation is largely permissive rather than prescriptive
permissively adv. in a permissive manner
permissiveness n. a disposition to allow freedom of choice and behavior
permit v. give permission; make it possible through lack of action for something to happen; allow the presence of@n. a legal document giving official permission to do something; the act of giving a formal (usually written) authorization; large game fish
permitted adj. possible to allow
permutability n. ability to change sequence
permutableness n. ability to change sequence
permutation n. an event in which one thing is substituted for another; the act of changing the arrangement of a given number of elements; complete change in character or condition; act of changing the lineal order of objects in a group
permute v. change the order or arrangement of
pernicious adj. exceedingly harmful; working or spreading in a hidden and usually injurious way
perniciously adv. in a harmfully insidious manner; in a noxiously baneful way
perniciousness n. grave harmfulness or deadliness
pernickety adj. characterized by excessive precision and attention to trivial details
pernio n. inflammation of the hands and feet caused by exposure to cold and moisture
peroneal adj. of or relating to the fibula or the outer part of the leg below the knee
perorate v. deliver an oration in grandiloquent style
peroration n. (rhetoric) the concluding section of an oration; he summarized his main points in his peroration
peroxide n. a viscous liquid with strong oxidizing properties; a powerful bleaching agent; also used as a disinfectant and (in strong concentrations) as an oxidant in rocket fuels@v. bleach with peroxide, as of hair
perpendicular n. a straight line at right angles to another line; a Gothic style in 14th and 15th century England@adj. intersecting at or forming right angles; the axes are perpendicular to each other
perpendicularly adv. straight up or down without a break; in a perpendicular manner; this red line runs perpendicularly to the green line
perpetrate v. perform an act, usually with a negative connotation: perpetrate a crime
perpetration n. the act of committing a crime
perpetrator n. someone who perpetrates wrongdoing
perpetual adj. continuing forever or indefinitely; hell's perpetual fires; uninterrupted in time and indefinitely long continuing; the perpetual struggle to maintain standards in a democracy
perpetually adv. seemingly uninterrupted; was perpetually answering the doorbell; everlastingly; for all time
perpetuate v. cause to continue or prevail; perpetuate a myth
perpetuation n. the act of prolonging something
perpetuity n. the property of being perpetual (seemingly ceaseless)
perplex v. be a mystery or bewildering to; make more complicated
perplexed adj. full or difficulty or confusion or bewilderment; perplexed language
perplexedly adv. in a perplexed manner; he looked at his professor perplexedly
perplexing adj. lacking clarity of meaning; causing confusion or perplexity; perplexing to someone who knew nothing about it
perplexity n. trouble or confusion resulting from complexity
perquisite n. an incidental benefit awarded for certain types of employment (especially if it is regarded as a right); a right reserved exclusively by a particular person or group (especially a hereditary or official right)
perry n. a fermented and often effervescent beverage made from juice of pears; similar in taste to hard cider
persecute v. cause to suffer
persecuted adj. wrongfully subjugated and oppressed
persecution n. the act of persecuting (especially on the basis of race or religion)
persecutor n. someone who torments
perseverance n. the act of persevering
perseveration n. the act of persevering
persevere v. be persistent, refuse to stop
perseverence n. persistent determination
persevering adj. quietly and steadily persevering especially in detail or exactness; with persevering (or patient) industry she revived the failing business
perseveringly adv. with perseverance
persiflage n. light teasing
persimmon n. any of several tropical trees of the genus Diospyros; orange fruit resembling a plum; edible when fully ripe
persist v. cease to exist after resistance or a struggle; be persistent, refuse to stop; stay behind
persistence n. the property of a continuous and connected period of time; persistent determination; the act of persevering
persistency n. persistent determination
persistent adj. never-ceasing; continually recurring to the mind; (biology) retained; not shed; persistent leaves remain attached past maturity
persistently adv. in a persistent manner; he was asking questions, unavoidable questions, persistently...; with persistence
persisting adj. relentless and indefatigable in pursuit or as if in pursuit
persnickety adj. used colloquially of one who is overly conceited or arrogant; they're snobs--stuck-up and uppity and persnickety; characterized by excessive precision and attention to trivial details; a persnickety job
person n. a human being; there was too much for one person to do; a person's body (usually including their clothing); a weapon was hidden on his person
persona n. an actor's portrayal of someone in a play; (Jungian psychology) a personal facade one presents to the world
personable adj. (of persons) pleasant in appearance and personality
personableness n. the complex of attributes that make a person socially attractive
personage n. another word for person; a person not meriting identification; a strange personage appeared at the door; a person whose actions and opinions strongly influence the course of events
personal adj. concerning or affecting a particular person or his or her private life and personality; a personal favor; particular to a given individual; of or arising from personality@n. a short newspaper article about a particular person or group
personality n. the complex of all the attributes--behavioral, temperamental, emotional and mental--that characterize a unique individual; a person of considerable prominence; she is a Hollywood personality
personalize v. make personal or more personal
personalized adj. made for or directed or adjusted to a particular individual; personalized luggage
personally adv. as oneself; speaking personally, I would not want to go; as a person; he is personally repulsive; in a personal way; he took her comments personally; in the flesh; without involving anyone else; I went there personally
personalty n. movable property (as distinguished from real estate)
personate v. pretend to be someone you are not; with fraudulent intentions; attribute human qualities to something
personation n. imitating the mannerisms of another person
personhood n. being a person: finding her own personhood as a campus activist
personification n. one who personifies an abstract quality; representing an abstract quality or idea as a person or creature; the act of attributing human characteristics to abstract ideas etc.
personify v. invest with or as with a body; represent, as of a character on stage; attribute human qualities to something
personnel n. group of people willing to obey orders
perspective n. a way of regarding situations or topics etc.; the appearance of things relative to one another as determined by their distance from the viewer
perspicacious adj. acutely insightful and wise; much too perspicacious to be taken in by such a spurious argument; mentally acute or penetratingly discerning; much too perspicacious to be taken in by so spurious an argument
perspicacity n. intelligence manifested by being astute (as in business dealings); the capacity to assess situations or circumstances shrewdly and to draw sound conclusions
perspicuity n. clarity as a consequence of being perspicuous
perspicuous adj. (of language) transparently clear; easily understandable; a perspicuous argument
perspicuously adv. in a clear and lucid manner
perspicuousness n. clarity as a consequence of being perspicuous
perspiration n. salty fluid secreted by sweat glands
perspire v. excrete perspiration through the pores in the skin
perspiring adj. being wet with perspiration; the perspiring runners@n. the process of secreting perspiration
persuadable adj. being susceptible to persuasion
persuade v. win approval or support for; cause somebody to adopt a certain position, belief, or course of action; twist somebody's arm; You can't persuade me to buy this ugly vase!
persuader n. someone who tries to persuade
persuasible adj. being susceptible to persuasion
persuasion n. the act of persuading (or attempting to persuade); a personal belief that is not founded on proof or certainty; inducement by argument or reasoning or entreaty; changing a person's beliefs by argument or reasoning or entreaty
persuasive adj. tending or intended or having the power to induce action or belief; persuasive eloquence; capable of convincing; a persuasive argument
persuasively adv. in a persuasive manner; this essay argues so persuasively...
persuasiveness n. the power to induce the taking of a course of action or the embracing of a point of view by means of argument or entreaty
pert adj. characterized by a lightly pert and exuberant quality
pertain v. be about; have to do with; be relevant to; refer, pertain, or relate to; be a part or attribute of
pertainym n. (informal) meaning relating to or pertaining to
pertinacious adj. stubbornly unyielding; the most vocal and pertinacious of all the critics
pertinaciously adv. in a dogged and pertinacious manner; he struggled pertinaciously for the new resolution
pertinacity n. persistent determination
pertinence n. relevance by virtue of being applicable to the matter at hand
pertinency n. relevance by virtue of being applicable to the matter at hand
pertinent adj. having precise or logical relevance to the matter at hand; a list of articles pertinent to the duscussion; being of striking appropriateness and pertinence
pertinently adv. in a pertinent way; what is singular about his use of them is that no other artist, of his time or any other, has painted them so directly, intimately and pertinently
pertly adv. in an impudent or impertinent manner
pertness n. inappropriate playfulness
perturb v. disturb in mind or make uneasy or cause to be worried or alarmed; disturb or interfere with the usual path of an electron or atom
perturbation n. an unhappy and worried mental state; activity that is an intrusion or interruption; a disposition that is confused or nervous and upset; the act of causing disorder
perturbed adj. thrown into a state of agitated confusion; (`rattled' is an informal term)
perturbing adj. causing distress or worry or anxiety; a revelation that was most perturbing
pertussis n. a disease of the respiratory mucous membrane
peruke n. wig for men fashionable in 17th-l8th centuries
peruked adj. wearing a wig popular for men in the 17th and 18th centuries
perusal n. reading carefully with intent to remember
peruse v. examine or consider with attention and in detail; Please peruse this report at your leisure
perusing n. reading carefully with intent to remember
pervade v. spread or diffuse through
pervading adj. spread throughout
pervaporation n. the concentration of a colloidal solution whose colloid will not pass through a semipermeable membrane; solution is placed in a bag of the membrane and the solvent is evaporated off
pervasion n. the process of permeating or infusing
pervasive adj. spread throughout; a pervasive anxiety overshadows the triumphs of individuals; spreading throughout; the pervasive odor of garlic
pervasively adv. in a pervasive manner
pervasiveness n. the quality of filling or spreading throughout: the pervasiveness of the odor of cabbage in tenement hallways
perverse adj. marked by a disposition to oppose and contradict; took perverse satisfaction in foiling her plans; resistant to guidance or discipline; a perverse mood; marked by immorality; deviating from what is considered right or proper or good
perversely adv. deliberately deviant; his perversely erotic notions; in a contrary disobedient manner
perverseness n. deliberate unruliness
perversion n. an aberrant sexual practice that is preferred to normal intercourse; the action of perverting something (turning it to a wrong use); it was a perversion of justice
perversity n. deliberate unruliness; deliberately deviating from what is good
perversive adj. tending to corrupt or pervert
pervert v. corrupt morally; change the meaning of; change the inherent purpose or function of something@n. a person whose behavior deviates from what is acceptable especially in sexual behavior
perverted adj. (used of sexual behavior); perverted practices; having an intended meaning altered or misrepresented; a perverted translation of the poem
pervious adj. admitting of passage or entrance; pervious soil
perviousness n. the permeability of something that can be penetrated by a liquid
peseta n. the basic unit of money in Spain; equal to 100 centimos
pesewa n. 100 pesewas equal 1 cedi
pesky adj. causing irritation or annoyance; a pesky mosquito
peso n. the basic unit of money in Uruguay; equal to 100 centesimos; the basic unit of money in the Philippines; equal to 100 centavos; the basic unit of money in Mexico; equal to 100 centavos
pessary n. a contraceptive device consisting of a flexible dome-shaped cup made of rubber or plastic; it is filled with spermicide and fitted over the uterine cervix
pessimal adj. of an organism's environment; least favorable for survival
pessimism n. the feeling that things will turn out badly; a general disposition to look on the dark side and to expect the worst in all things
pessimist n. a person who expects the worst
pessimistic adj. expecting the worst in this worst of all possible worlds
pessimistically adv. with pessimism; in a pessimistic manner; he evaluated his chances for survival rather pessimistically
pessimum adj. of an organism's environment; least favorable for survival
pest n. a persistently annoying person
pester v. annoy persistently
pestered adj. troubled persistently especially with petty annoyances; her poor pestered father had to endure her constant interruptions
pesterer n. a persistently annoying person
pestering adj. causing irritation or annoyance; swarms of pestering gnats
pesthole n. a breeding ground for epidemic disease
pesthouse n. a hospital for persons with infectious diseases (especially leprosy)
pesticide n. a chemical used to kill pests (as rodents or insects)
pestiferous adj. causing irritation or annoyance
pestilence n. a serious (sometimes fatal) infection transmitted by the bite of an infected rat flea (especially bubonic plague); a pernicious evil influence
pestilent adj. exceedingly harmful; likely to spread and cause an epidemic disease
pestilential adj. likely to spread and cause an epidemic disease
pestle v. grind or pulverize in a pestle@n. a heavy bar that moves vertically for crushing ores; a club-shaped hand tool for grinding substances in a mortar
pet adj. preferred above all others and treated with partiality@n. a domesticated animal kept for companionship or amusement; a special loved one@v. stroke or caress gently; pet the lamb
petal n. part of the perianth that is usually brightly colored
petaled adj. of flowers; having petals
petalled adj. of flowers; having petals
petalless adj. of flowers; having no petals
petalous adj. of flowers; having petals
petard n. a explosive device used to break down a gate or wall
petchary n. a kingbird that breeds in the southeastern United States and winters in tropical America; similar to but larger than the eastern kingbird
petcock n. a small cock or faucet or valve for letting out air or releasing compression or draining
peter n. obscene terms for penis
petfood n. food prepared for pets
petiole n. the slender stem that supports the blade of a leaf
petite n. a garment size for short or slender women@adj. very small; her petite figure
petiteness n. the property of being very small in size
petitio n. the fallacy of assuming the conclusion in the premises; begging the question
petition n. a formal message requesting something submitted to an authority; reverent petition to a deity@v. write a petition for something to somebody; request formally and in writing
petitionary adj. of the nature of or expressing a petition; the petitionary procedure had a quality of indecisiveness
petitioner n. one praying humbly for something
petrel n. relatively small long-winged tube-nosed bird that flies far from land
petrifaction n. the process of turning some plant material into stone by infiltration with water carrying mineral particles without changing the original shape
petrification n. the process of turning some plant material into stone by infiltration with water carrying mineral particles without changing the original shape
petrified adj. converted into stone; converted into a mineral; petrified wood; so frightened as to be unable to move; stunned or paralyzed with terror; petrified with fear
petrify v. cause to become stone-like or stiff; change into stone
petrifying adj. paralyzing with terror
petrochemical n. any compound obtained from petroleum or natural gas
petrol n. a volatile flammable mixture of hydrocarbons (hexane and heptane and octane etc.) derived from petroleum; used mainly as a fuel in internal-combustion engines
petrolatum n. a semisolid mixture of hydrocarbons obtained from petroleum; used in medicinal ointment and for lubrication
petroleum n. a dark oil consisting mainly of hydrocarbons
petrology n. the branch of geology that studies rocks: their origin and formation and composition
petrous adj. (of bone especially the temporal bone) resembling stone in hardness
petticoat n. a undergarment worn under a skirt
petticoated adj. wearing or furnished with a petticoat; petticoated ladies
pettifog v. argue over petty things
pettifogger n. a person (especially a lawyer or politician) who uses unscrupulous or unethical methods; a disputant who quibbles
pettifogging adj. quibbling over insignificant details; a pettifogging lawyer's mind
pettily adv. in a petty way
pettiness n. narrowness of mind or ideas or views; the quality of being unimportant and petty or frivolous; lack of generosity in trifling matters
petting n. foreplay without contact with the genital organs
pettish adj. easily irritated or annoyed
pettishly adv. in a petulant manner
pettishness n. a disposition to exhibit uncontrolled anger
petty adj. inferior in rank or status; petty officialdom; (informal terms) small and of little importance; limited to petty enterprises; contemptibly narrow in outlook; petty little comments
petulance n. an irritable petulant feeling
petulant adj. easily irritated or annoyed
petulantly adv. in a petulant manner
petunia n. any of numerous tropical herbs having fluted funnel-shaped flowers
pew n. long bench with backs; used in church by the congregation
pewee n. small olive-colored woodland flycatchers of eastern North America
pewit n. small black-headed European gull; large crested Old World plover having wattles and spurs; small olive-colored woodland flycatchers of eastern North America
pewter n. any of various alloys of tin with small amounts of other metals (especially lead)
peyote n. a small spineless globe-shaped cactus; source of mescal buttons; the hallucinatory alkaloid that is the active agent in mescal buttons
pfannkuchen n. puffy mildly sweet lemon-flavored egg mixture sprinkled with confectioners' sugar and served with jam or a wine or fruit sauce
pfennig n. 100 pfennigs equal 1 Deutsche Mark
phacelia n. any plant of the genus Phacelia
phaeton n. large open car seating four with folding top
phage n. virus parasitic in bacteria; multiplies within its host
phagocyte n. a cell that engulfs and digests debris and invading microorganisms
phagocytic adj. capable of functioning as a phagocyte
phaius n. an orchid of the genus Phaius having large plicate leaves and racemes of showy flowers
phalacrosis n. the condition of having no hair (especially on the top of the head)
phalanger n. small furry Australian arboreal marsupials having long usually prehensile tails
phalangitis n. inflammation of a finger or toe
phalanx n. any of the bones (or phalanges) of the fingers or toes; any closely ranked crowd of people; a body of troops in close array
phalarope n. small sandpiper-like shorebird having lobate toes and being good swimmers; breed in the arctic and winter in the tropics
phallic adj. relating to a phallus especially as an embodiment of generative power; a phallic cult; resembling or being a phallus; a phallic symbol
phallus n. the male organ of copulation (`member' is a euphemism)
phalsa n. drought-resistant Asiatic treelike shrub bearing pleasantly acid small red edible fruits commonly used in sherbets
phanerogam n. plant that reproduces by means of seeds not spores
phaneromania n. an irresistible desire to pick a superficial body parts (as in obsessive nail-biting)
phantasm n. a product of the imagination; illusion, apparition
phantasmagoria n. a constantly changing medley or real or imagined images (as in a dream)
phantasmagoric adj. characterized by fantastic imagery and incongruous juxtapositions
phantasmal adj. like or being a phantom; a phantasmal presence in the room
phantasy n. something many people believe that is false; fiction with a large amount of fantasy in it; imagination unrestricted by reality
phantom n. an unusual appearing ghostly figure; something existing in perception only@adj. something apparently sensed but having no physical reality; seemed to hear faint phantom bells
pharaoh n. a ruler of ancient Egypt
pharisaic adj. excessively or hypocritically pious
pharisaical adj. excessively or hypocritically pious
pharisee n. a self-righteous or sanctimonious person
pharmaceutic adj. of or relating to pharmacy or pharmacists
pharmaceutical adj. of or relating to pharmacy or pharmacists; the pharmaceutical industry@n. a pharmaceutical product
pharmaceutics n. the art and science of preparing and dispensing drugs and medicines,
pharmacist n. a health professional trained in the art of preparing and dispensing drugs
pharmacologic adj. of or relating to pharmacology
pharmacological adj. of or relating to pharmacology
pharmacologist n. someone trained in the science of drugs (their composition and uses and effects)
pharmacology n. the science or study of drugs
pharmacopoeia n. a collection or stock of drugs
pharmacy n. the art and science of preparing and dispensing drugs and medicines,; a retail shop where medicine and other articles are sold
pharos n. a tower with a light that gives warning of shoals to passing ships
pharyngeal adj. pharyngeal fricatives
pharyngitis n. inflammation of the fauces and pharynx
pharynx n. the passage to the stomach and lungs; in the front part of the neck below the chin and above the collarbone
phase n. any distinct time period in a sequence of events@v. arrange in phases or stages: phase a withdrawal; adjust so as to be in a synchronized condition
phasianid n. a kind of game bird in the family Phasianidae
phasmid n. large cylindrical or flattened mostly tropical insects with long strong legs that feed on plants; walking sticks and leaf insects
pheasant n. large long-tailed gallinaceous bird native to the Old World but introduced elsewhere; (game bird) flesh of a pheasant; usually braised
phellem n. (botany) outer tissue of bark; a protective layer of dead cells
phenacetin n. a white crystalline compound used as an analgesic and also as an antipyretic
phenacomys n. any of several vole-like terrestrial or arboreal rodents of cold forested regions of Canada and western United States
phenobarbital n. a long-acting barbiturate used as a sedative
phenobarbitone n. a long-acting barbiturate used as a sedative
phenol n. any of a class of weakly acidic organic compounds; molecule contains one or more hydroxyl groups; a toxic white soluble crystalline acidic derivative of benzene; used in manufacturing and as a disinfectant and antiseptic
phenolic n. a thermosetting resin
phenomenal adj. of or relating to a phenomenon; phenomenal science; exceedingly or unbelievably great; phenomenal feats of memory
phenomenally adv. to a phenomenal degree; his reaction was phenomenally quick
phenomenon n. any state or process known through the senses rather than by intuition or reasoning; a remarkable development
phenoplast n. a thermosetting resin
phenothiazine n. a compound used primarily in veterinary medicine to rid farm animals of internal parasites
phenotype n. the constitution of an organism as determined by the interaction of its genetic constitution and the environment
phenotypic adj. of or relating to or constituting a phenotype
phenotypical adj. of or relating to or constituting a phenotype; phenotypical profile
phenylacetamide n. a white crystalline compound used as an analgesic and also as an antipyretic
phenylalanine n. an essential amino acid needed for growth of children and for protein metabolism in children and adults; abundant in milk and eggs; it is normally converted to tyrosine in the human body
phenylamine n. oily poisonous liquid amine obtained from nitrobenzene and used to make dyes and plastics and medicines
phenylbutazone n. Butazolidin is a trade name for this anti-inflammatory drug
phenylethylene n. a colorless oily liquid; the monomer for polystyrene
phi n. the 21st letter of the Greek alphabet
phial n. a bottle that contains a drug (especially a sealed sterile container for injection by needle)
philadelphus n. any of various chiefly deciduous ornamental shrubs of the genus Philadelphus having white sweet-scented flowers, single or in clusters; widely grown in temperate regions
philander v. have amorous affairs; of men; talk amorously
philanderer n. a man who likes many women and has short sexual relationships with them
philanthropic adj. generous in assistance to the poor; philanthropic contributions; of or relating to or characterized by philanthropy; a philanthropic society
philanthropist n. someone who makes charitable donations intended to increase human well-being
philanthropy n. voluntary promotion of human welfare
philatelic adj. of or relating to philately or of interest to philatelists
philatelist n. a collector and student of postage stamps
philately n. the collection and study of postage stamps
philharmonic adj. composing or characteristic of an orchestral group; philharmonic players; devoted to or appreciative of music; the most philharmonic ear is at times deeply affected by a simple air
philhellene adj. characterized by a love of Greece and Grecian things@n. an admirer of Greece and everything Greek
philhellenic adj. characterized by a love of Greece and Grecian things
philhellinist n. an admirer of Greece and everything Greek
philippic n. a violent denunciation
philistine adj. smug and ignorant and indifferent or hostile to artistic and cultural values@n. a person who is uninterested in intellectual pursuits
philistinism n. a desire for wealth and material possessions with little interest in ethical or spiritual matters
philodendron n. often grown as a houseplant
philological adj. of or relating to or dealing with philology
philologist n. a humanist specializing in classical scholarship
philologue n. a humanist specializing in classical scholarship
philology n. the humanistic study of language and literature
philosopher n. a specialist in philosophy; a wise person who is calm and rational; someone who lives a life of reason with equanimity
philosophic adj. of or relating to philosophy or philosophers; characteristic of or imbued with the attitude of a philosopher or based on philosophy; that breadth of outlook that distinguishes the philosophic mind
philosophical adj. of or relating to philosophy or philosophers; philosophical writing; characterized by the attitude of a philosopher; meeting trouble with level-headed detachment; philosophical resignation
philosophically adv. in a philosophic manner; she took it philosophically; with respect to philosophy
philosophise v. reason philosophically
philosophize v. reason philosophically
philosophizing n. the exposition (often superficially) of a particular philosophy
philosophy n. a belief (or system of beliefs) accepted as authoritative by some group or school; the rational investigation of questions about existence and knowledge and ethics
philter n. a drink credited with magical power; can make the one who takes it love the one who gave it
philtre n. a drink credited with magical power; can make the one who takes it love the one who gave it
phiz n. face
phlebitis n. inflammation of a vein
phlebogram n. an X ray of a vein injected with a radiopaque contrast medium
phlebotomize v. draw blood
phlebotomus n. a mild viral disease transmitted by the bite of the sand fly Phlebotomus papatasii
phlebotomy n. surgical incision into a vein
phlegm n. calm and unruffled self-assurance; apathy demonstrated by an absence of emotional reactions
phlegmatic adj. showing little emotion; a phlegmatic...and certainly undemonstrative man
phlegmatical adj. showing little emotion
phlegmatically adv. in a phlegmatic manner; he accepted the decision phlegmatically
phlegmy adj. characterized by phlegm; a phlegmy discharge
phloem n. (botany) tissue that conducts synthesized food substances (e.g., from leaves) to parts where needed; consists primarily of sieve tubes
phlogopite n. a brown form of mica consisting of hydrous silicate of potassium and magnesium and aluminum
phlomis n. any of various plants of the genus Phlomis; grown primarily for their dense whorls of lipped flowers and attractive foliage
phlox n. any polemoniaceous plant of the genus Phlox; chiefly North American; cultivated for their clusters of flowers
phobia n. a general term for all phobias
phobic adj. suffering from irrational fears
phobophobia n. a morbid fear of developing a phobia
phocine adj. of or relating to seals
phocomelia n. an abnormality of development in which the upper part of an arm or leg is missing so the hands or feet are attached to the body like stumps; rare condition that results from taking thalidomide during pregnancy
phoebe n. small dun-colored North American flycatcher
phoenix n. a legendary bird held to live for centuries and then to burn itself to death and rise fresh and young from its ashes
phon n. a unit of subjective loudness
phone v. get or try to get into communication by telephone@n. an instrument that converts sound into signals that can be transmitted over distances and then converts received signals back into sounds; I talked to him on the telephone
phonebook n. a directory containing an alphabetical list of telephone subscribers and their telephone numbers
phoneme n. (linguistics) one of a small set of speech sounds that are distinguished by the speakers of a particular language
phonemic adj. of or relating to phonemes of a particular language; phonemic analysis@adv. by phonemics
phonemics n. the study of the sound system of a given language and the analysis and classification of its phonemes
phoner n. the person initiating a telephone call
phonetic adj. of or relating to speech sounds; phonetic transcription; of or relating to the scientific study of speech sounds; phonetic analysis
phonetically adv. by phonetics; phonetically realized
phonetician n. a specialist in phonetics
phonetics n. the branch of acoustics concerned with speech processes including its production and perception and acoustic analysis
phoney n. a person who professes beliefs and opinions that they do not hold@adj. fraudulent; having a misleading appearance
phonic adj. pertaining to the phonic method of teaching reading; relating to speech; pertaining to phones or speech sounds
phonics n. teaching reading by training beginners to associate letters with their sound values
phonogram n. any written symbol standing for a sound or syllable or morpheme or word
phonogramic adj. of or relating to a phonogram
phonograph n. rotating records cause a stylus to vibrate and the vibrations are amplified acoustically or electronically
phonologic adj. of or relating to phonology
phonological adj. of or relating to phonology; the phonological component of language
phonologist n. a specialist in phonology
phonology n. the study of the sound system of a given language and the analysis and classification of its phonemes
phony n. a person who professes beliefs and opinions that they do not hold@adj. fraudulent; having a misleading appearance
phoronid n. hermaphrodite wormlike animal living in mud of the sea bottom
phorrhoea n. chronic periodontitis; purulent inflammation of the teeth sockets
phosgene n. a colorless poisonous gas that smells like new-mown hay; used in chemical warfare
phosphate n. a salt of phosphoric acid; carbonated drink with fruit syrup and a little phosphoric acid
phosphine n. a colorless gas with a strong fishy smell; used as a pesticide
phospholipid n. any of various comounds composed of fatty acids and phosphoric acid and a nitrogenous base; an important constituent of membranes
phosphoprotein n. containing chemically bound phosphoric acid
phosphorescence n. a fluorescence that persists after the bombarding radiation has ceased
phosphorescent adj. emitting light without appreciable heat as by slow oxidation of phosphorous; the phosphorescent glow of decaying wood
phosphoric adj. containing or characteristic of phosphorus; phosphoric acid
phosphorous adj. containing or characteristic of phosphorus
phosphorus n. a multivalent nonmetallic element of the nitrogen family that occurs commonly in inorganic phosphate rocks and as organic phosphates in all living cells; is highly reactive and occurs in several allotropic forms
phot n. a unit of illumination equal to 1 lumen per square centimeter; 10,000 phots equal 1 lux
photic adj. of or relating to or caused by light
photo n. a picture of a person or scene in the form of a print or transparent slide; recorded by a camera on light-sensitive material
photocathode n. a cathode that emits electrons when illuminated
photocell n. a device used to detect and measure light and other radiations
photochemical adj. of or relating to or produced by the effects of light on chemical systems
photochemistry n. branch of chemistry that deals with the chemical action of light
photoconduction n. change in the electrical conductivity of a substance as a result of absorbing electromagnetic radiation
photoconductive adj. of or relating to photoconductivity; selenium is a photoconductive substance
photocopier n. a copier that uses photographic methods of making copies
photocopy n. a photographic reproduction of written or printed or graphic work@v. reproduce by xerography
photoelectric adj. of or pertaining to electric effects caused by light; the photoelectric effect
photoelectrical adj. of or pertaining to electric effects caused by light
photoelectron n. a electron that is emited from an atom or molecule by an incident photon
photoemission n. emission of photoelectrons (especially from a metallic surface)
photoemissive adj. of or relating to photoemission
photoengrave v. to make a photoengraving of
photoengraving n. the etched plate used to reproduce an illustration
photoflash n. a lamp for providing momentary light to take a photograph
photoflood n. a source of artificial illumination having a broad beam; used in photography
photogenic adj. looking attractive in photographs
photograph n. a picture of a person or scene in the form of a print or transparent slide; recorded by a camera on light-sensitive material@v. record on photographic film; undergo being photographed in a certain way; Children photograph well
photographer n. someone who takes photographs professionally
photographic adj. relating to photography or obtained by using photography; photographic equipment; representing people or nature with the exactness and fidelity of a photograph
photography n. the act of taking and printing photographs; the process of producing images of objects on photosensitive surfaces; the occupation of taking and printing photographs or making movies
photogravure n. printing from an intaglio plate prepared by photographic methods; a print produced by gravure; using photography to produce a plate for printing
photojournalism n. journalism that presents a story primarily through the use of pictures
photolithograph n. a lithograph produced by photographically produced plates
photomechanical adj. of or relating to or involving various methods of using photography the make plates for printing
photometer n. for measuring the luminous intensity of a source by comparing it (visually or photoelectrically) with a standard source; equipment that measures the intensity of light
photomicrograph n. a photograph taken with the help of a microscope
photomontage n. a montage that uses photographic images
photomural n. an enlarged photograph usually several yards long used on walls especially as decoration
photon n. a quantum of electromagnetic radiation; an elementary particle that is its own antiparticle
photoplay n. motion picture
photosensitive adj. sensitive to visible light
photosensitize v. make sensitive to the influence of radiant energy and esp. light, as of an organism or a substance
photostat v. make a copy by means of a Photostat device@n. a photocopy made on a Photostat machine
photosynthesis n. synthesis of compounds with the aid of radiant energy (especially in plants)
photosynthetic adj. relating to or using or formed by photosynthesis
phototropism n. an orienting response to light
photovoltaic adj. producing a voltage when exposed to radiant energy (especially light)
phragmacone n. the thin conical chambered internal shell (either straight or curved) of a belemnite
phragmocone n. the thin conical chambered internal shell (either straight or curved) of a belemnite
phrasal adj. of or relating to or functioning as a phrase; phrasal verb
phrase n. an expression forming a grammatical constituent of a sentence but not containing a finite verb; a short musical passage two to four measures long@v. put into words or an expression
phraseology n. the manner in which something is expressed in words
phrasing n. the grouping of musical phrases in a melodic line; the manner in which something is expressed in words
phratry n. people descended from a common ancestor
phrenetic adj. excessively agitated; transported with rage or other violent emotion
phrenic adj. of or relating to the diaphragm; phrenic nerve
phrenologist n. someone who claims to read your character from the shape of your skull
phrenology n. a now abandoned study of the shape of skull as indicative of the strengths of different faculties
phthisis n. involving the lungs with progressive wasting of the body
phycobilin n. water-soluble proteinaceous pigments found in red algae and cyanobacteria
phycocyanin n. blue pigment in algae
phycoerythrin n. red pigment in red algae
phylactery n. (Judaism) a small leather case containing religious texts; worn by Jewish men during morning prayer
phyle n. a tribe of ancient Athenians
phyletic adj. of or relating to the evolutionary development of organisms
phylliform adj. having the shape of a leaf
phyllo n. tissue thin sheets of pastry used especially in Greek dishes
phylloclad n. a flattened stem resembling and functioning as a leaf
phylloclade n. a flattened stem resembling and functioning as a leaf
phyllode n. an expanded petiole taking on the function of a leaf blade
phyllodial adj. (botany) having a phyllode
phylloquinone n. a form of vitamin K
phylogenesis n. the sequence of events involved in the evolutionary development of a species or taxonomic group of organisms
phylogenetic adj. of or relating to the evolutionary development of organisms; phylogenetic development
phylogeny n. the sequence of events involved in the evolutionary development of a species or taxonomic group of organisms
phylum n. (linguistics) a large group of languages that are historically related; (biology) the major taxonomic group of animals and plants; contains classes
physa n. any member of the genus Physa
physchometrika n. any branch of psychology concerned with psychological measurements
physiatrics n. therapy that uses physical agents: exercise and massage and other modalities
physic n. a purging medicine; stimulates evacuation of the bowels
physical adj. involving the body as distinguished from the mind or spirit; physical exercise; relating to the sciences dealing with matter and energy; especially physics; physical sciences
physicalism n. the doctrine that matter is the only reality
physicality n. preoccupation with satisfaction of physical drives and appetites
physically adv. in accord with physical laws; it is physically impossible
physicalness n. the quality of being physical; consisting of matter
physician n. a licensed medical practitioner
physicist n. a scientist trained in physics
physicochemical adj. relating to physical chemistry
physics n. the science of matter and energy and their interactions
physiognomy n. the human face (`kisser' and `smiler' and `mug' are informal terms for `face')
physiography n. the study of physical features of the earth's surface
physiologic adj. of or relating to the biological study of physiology; of or consistent with an organism's normal functioning
physiological adj. of or relating to the biological study of physiology; physiological psychology; of or consistent with an organism's normal functioning; physiological functions
physiologically adv. of or relating to physiological processes; with respect to physiology; physiologically ready
physiologist n. a biologist specializing in physiology
physiology n. the branch of the biological sciences dealing with the functioning of organisms; processes and functions of an organism
physiotherapy n. therapy that uses physical agents: exercise and massage and other modalities
physique n. constitution of the human body; alternative names for the body of a human being; he has a strong physique
physostegia n. any of various plants of the genus Physostegia having sessile linear to oblong leaves and showy white or rose or lavender flowers
physostigmine n. used in treatment of Alzheimer's disease and glaucoma
phytohormone n. a hormone-like plant product
phytologist n. a biologist specializing in the study of plants
phytology n. the branch of biology that studies plants
phytonadione n. a form of vitamin K
phytophagic adj. (of animals) feeding on plants
phytophagous adj. (of animals) feeding on plants
phytophilous adj. (of animals) feeding on plants
phytoplankton n. photosynthetic or plant constituent of plankton; mainly unicellular algae
pi n. the ratio of the circumference to the diameter of a circle; the 16th letter of the Greek alphabet
pia n. perennial herb of East India to Polynesia and Australia cultivated for its large edible root yielding otaheite arrowroot starch
piaffe n. a cadenced trot executed by the horse in one spot
pianism n. performance by or technique of a pianist; a program of pianism
pianissimo n. (music) low loudness@adv. a direction in music; to be played very softly@adj. chiefly a direction or description in music; very soft
pianist n. a person who plays the piano
pianistic adj. skilled at or adapted for the piano; pianistic abilities; of or relating to the piano
piano adv. used as a direction in music@adj. used chiefly as a direction or description in music@n. a stringed instrument that is played by depressing keys that cause hammers to strike tuned strings and produce sounds
pianoforte n. a stringed instrument that is played by depressing keys that cause hammers to strike tuned strings and produce sounds
piaster n. a fractional monetary unit in Egypt and Lebanon and Sudan and Syria; 100 kurus equal 1 lira
piastre n. a fractional monetary unit in Egypt and Lebanon and Sudan and Syria; 100 kurus equal 1 lira
piazza n. a public square with room for pedestrians
pibgorn n. an ancient (now obsolete) single-reed woodwind; usually made of bone
pibroch n. martial music with variations; for the Scottish Highlands bagpipe
pica n. a linear unit (1/6 inch) used in printing
picador n. the horseman who pricks the bull with a lance early in the bullfight to goad the bull and to make it keep its head low
picaninny n. (offensive) a Black child
picaresque adj. involving clever rogues or adventurers especially as in a type of fiction; picaresque novels
picayune adj. (informal terms) small and of little importance; giving a police officer a free meal may be against the law, but it seems to be a picayune infraction
piccalilli n. relish of chopped pickled cucumbers and green peppers and onion
piccaninny n. (offensive) a Black child
piccolo n. a small flute; pitched an octave above the standard flute
pice n. pl. pice -- unit of currency
pichi n. Peruvian shrub with small pink to lavender tubular flowers; leaves yield a tonic and diuretic
pichiciago n. very small Argentine armadillo with pale silky hair and pink plates on head and neck
pichiciego n. very small Argentine armadillo with pale silky hair and pink plates on head and neck
pick n. the person or thing chosen or selected; he was my pick for mayor; the quantity of a crop that is harvested@v. select carefully from a group:; We had to pick through a lot of data; look for and gather; pick mushrooms
pickaback adv. on a railroad flatcar; on the back or shoulder or astraddle on the hip
pickaninny n. (offensive) a Black child
pickax n. a heavy wooden-handled iron tool with a curved head that is pointed on both ends
pickaxe n. a heavy wooden-handled iron tool with a curved head that is pointed on both ends
pickelhaube n. a spiked helmet worn by German soldiers
picker n. someone who gathers crops or fruits etc.
pickerel n. flesh of young or small pike; any of several North American species of small pike
pickerelweed n. American plant having spikes of blue flowers and growing in shallow water of streams and ponds
picket n. a person employed to watch for something to happen; a detachment of troops guarding an army from surprise attack@v. serve as pickets or post pickets; picket a business to protest the lay-offs
picking n. the act of someone who picks up or takes something; the quantity of a crop that is harvested; he sent the first picking of berries to the market; the act of picking (crops or fruit or hops etc.)
pickings n. pl. gleanable or eatable fragments; scraps; yield for effort expended; return; share of spoils
pickle n. vegetables (especially cucumbers) preserved in brine or vinegar; informal terms for a difficult situation@v. preserve in a pickling liquid; as of vegetables
pickled adj. (used of foods) preserved in a pickling liquid
picklepuss n. (informal) someone with a habitually sullen or gloomy expression
picklock n. a tool for picking locks; burglar, thief
picknicker n. a person who is picnicking
pickpocket n. a thief who steals from the pockets or purses of others in public places
pickup n. a light truck with an open body and low sides and a tailboard; (informal) a warrant to take someone into custody; put out a pickup on that man; anything with restorative powers; she needed the pickup that coffee always gave her
picky adj. fussy, finicky
picnic n. a day devoted to an outdoor social gathering; any activity that is easy to do; marketing this product will be no picnic; any informal meal eaten outside or on an excursion@v. eat alfresco, in the open air
picnicker n. a person who is picnicking
picofarad n. a unit of capacitance equal to one trillionth of a farad
picometer n. a metric unit of length equal to one trillionth of a meter
picometre n. a metric unit of length equal to one trillionth of a meter
picornavirus n. a group of single-strand RNA viruses with a protein coat
picosecond n. one trillionth of a second; one thousandth of a nanosecond
picot n. an edging of small loops, as on lace or ribbon
pictograph n. a graphic character used in picture writing
pictographic adj. consisting of or characterized by the use of pictographs; a pictographic script
pictorial adj. pertaining to or consisting of pictures; pictorial perspective; evoking lifelike images within the mind; pictorial poetry and prose; illustrated with pictures@n. a periodical (magazine or newspaper) containing many pictures
pictorially adv. in a pictorial manner; depth is established pictorially
pictural adj. pertaining to or consisting of pictures
picture n. a visual representation of an object or scene or person produced on a surface; an artistic composition made by applying paints to a surface; a clear and telling mental image@v. imagine; see in one's mind
pictured adj. seen in the mind as a mental image; the snow-covered Alps pictured in her imagination; represented graphically by sketch or design or lines
picturesque adj. suggesting or suitable for a picture; pretty as a picture; a picturesque village; strikingly expressive; a picturesque description of the rainforest
picturesquely adv. in a picturesque manner; in the building trade such a trader is picturesquely described as a `brass plate' merchant
picturesqueness n. visually vivid and pleasing
picturing n. visual imagery; visual representation as by photography or painting
picul n. a unit of weight used in some parts of Asia; approximately equal to 133 pounds (the load a grown man can carry)
piculet n. small woodpeckers of South America and Africa and East Indies having soft rounded tail feathers
piddle n. liquid excretory product@v. waste time; spend one's time idly or inefficiently; eliminate urine
piddling adj. (informal terms) small and of little importance
piddock n. marine bivalve that bores into rock or clay or wood by means of saw-like shells
pidgin n. an artificial language used for trade between speakers of different languages
pie n. dish baked in pastry-lined pan often with a pastry top
piebald adj. having sections or patches colored differently and usually brightly; a piebald horse
piece v. to join or unite the pieces of; make by putting pieces together; join during spinning, as of broken pieces of thread, slivers, or rovings; eat intermittently@n. a separate part of a whole: and important piece of the evidence
piecemeal adv. a little bit at a time; the research structure has developed piecemeal@adj. one thing at a time
piecework n. work paid for according to the quantity produced
pied adj. having sections or patches colored differently and usually brightly; pied daisies
pieplant n. long pinkish sour leafstalks usually eaten cooked and sweetened
pier n. a landing built out into the water; (architecture) a vertical supporting structure (as a portion of wall between two doors or windows); a support for two adjacent bridge spans
pierce v. cut or make a way through; move or affect (a person's emotions, bodily feelings, etc.) deeply or sharply; sound sharply or shrilly; penetrate or cut through with a sharp instrument; make a hole into
pierced adj. having a hole cut through; pierced ears
piercing adj. having or demonstrating ability to recognize or draw fine distinctions; high-pitched and sharp; piercing screams; as physically painful as if caused by a sharp instrument; piercing knifelike pains
piercingly adv. extremely and sharply; in a shrill voice
pierid n. any of numerous pale-colored butterflies having three pairs of well-developed legs
pieta n. a representation of the Virgin Mary mourning over the dead body of Jesus
pietism n. exaggerated or affected piety
pietistic adj. of or relating to Pietism; excessively or hypocritically pious
pietistical adj. of or relating to Pietism; excessively or hypocritically pious
piety n. righteousness by virtue of being pious
piezoelectric adj. relating to or involving piezoelectricity; piezoelectric plates
piezometer n. an instrument for measuring high pressures
piffle n. trivial nonsense@v. speak (about unimportant matters) rapidly and incessantly; act in a trivial or ineffective way
piffling adj. (informal terms) small and of little importance; piffling efforts
pig n. domestic swine; a coarse obnoxious person; a person regarded as greedy and pig-like; (informal) uncomplimentary terms for a policeman; a bed of sand in which pig iron is cast@v. live like a pig, in squalor; eat greedily; birthe
pigboat n. a submersible warship usually armed with torpedos
pigeon n. wild and domesticated birds having a heavy body and short legs
pigeonhole n. a small compartment@v. treat or classify according to a mental stereotype
pigeonholing n. a system for classifying things into groups
pigfish n. found around the Great Barrier Reef; found from Long Island southward
piggery n. a pig farm; a place where pigs are raised or kept
piggish adj. resembling swine; coarsely gluttonous or greedy; piggish table manners
piggishly adv. in a piggish manner; piggishly, he took two pieces of cake
piggishness n. an excessive desire for food
piggy n. a young pig@adj. resembling swine; coarsely gluttonous or greedy; the piggy fat-cheeked little boy and his porcine pot-bellied father
piggyback v. ride on someone's shoulders or back; haul truck trailers loaded with commodities on railroad cars; haul by railroad car; carry on the back or shoulders@adv. on a railroad flatcar; the trailer rode piggyback across the country
pigheaded adj. obstinate and stupid
pigheadedness n. resolute adherence to your own ideas or desires
piglet n. a young pig
pigman n. a herder or swine
pigment n. dry coloring matter (especially an insoluble powder to be mixed with a liquid to produce paint etc)@v. acquire pigment; become colored or imbued; color or dye with a pigment; pigment a photograph
pigmentation n. coloration of living tissues by pigment
pigmy n. an unusually small individual
pignolia n. edible seed of any of several nut pines especially some pinons of southwestern North America
pignut n. an American hickory tree having bitter nuts
pigpen n. an enclosure for swine
pigskin n. leather from the skin of swine
pigsticking n. the sport of hunting wild boar with spears
pigsty n. an enclosure for swine
pigswill n. wet feed (especially for pigs) consisting of mostly kitchen waste mixed with water or skimmed or sour milk
pigtail n. a braid of hair on either side of the face
pigwash n. wet feed (especially for pigs) consisting of mostly kitchen waste mixed with water or skimmed or sour milk
pigweed n. common weedy European plant introduced into North America; often used as a potherb; leaves sometimes used as potherbs; seeds used as cereal; southern United States to Central America; India and China; leaves collected from the wild
pika n. small short-eared burrowing mammal of rocky uplands of Asia and western North America
pike n. a broad highway designed for high-speed traffic; highly valued lean-fleshed northern fish; a sharp point (as on the end of a spear); medieval weapon consisting of a spearhead attached to a long pole or pikestaff; superseded by the bayonet
pikeblenny n. tropical American fishes; males are aggressively defensive of their territory
pikeperch n. any of several pike-like fishes of the perch family
piker n. one who does things in a small way or on a small scale; tightwad, cheapskate
pikestaff n. the staff of a pike
pilaf n. rice cooked in well-seasoned broth with onions or celery and usually poultry or game or shellfish and sometimes tomatoes
pilaff n. rice cooked in well-seasoned broth with onions or celery and usually poultry or game or shellfish and sometimes tomatoes
pilaster n. a rectangular column that usually projects about a third of its width from the wall to which it is attached
pilau n. rice cooked in well-seasoned broth with onions or celery and usually poultry or game or shellfish and sometimes tomatoes
pilaw n. rice cooked in well-seasoned broth with onions or celery and usually poultry or game or shellfish and sometimes tomatoes
pilchard n. small fatty fish usually canned; small fishes found in great schools along coasts of Europe; smaller and rounder than herring
pile v. arrange in stacks; press tightly together or cram@n. a collection of objects laid on top of each other; (often followed by `of') a large number or amount or extent; informal: a large sum of money
piled adj. thrown together in a pile; ungraded papers piled high
piles n. a large number or amount
pileup n. multiple collisions of vehicles
pileus n. umbrellalike fruiting structure forming the top of a stalked fleshy fungus such as a mushroom
pilewort n. perennial herb native to Europe but naturalized elsewhere having heart-shaped leaves and yellow flowers resembling buttercups; its tuberous roots have been used as a poultice to relieve piles
pilfer v. make off with belongings of others
pilferage n. the act of stealing small amounts or small articles
pilferer n. a thief who steals without using violence
pilgrim n. journeys in foreign lands; one who journeys to a sacred place
pilgrimage n. a journey to a sacred place
piling n. a column of wood or steel or concrete that is driven into the ground to provide support for a structure
pill n. something that resembles a pill in shape or size; a dose of medicine in the form of a small pellet; a pill containing estrogen and progestin to inhibit ovulation and so prevent conception
pillage n. goods or money obtained illegally; the act of stealing valuable things from a place@v. steal goods; take as spoils
pillaged adj. wrongfully emptied or stripped of anything of value; having been robbed and destroyed by force and violence
pillager n. someone who takes spoils or plunder (as in war)
pillaging n. the act of stealing valuable things from a place
pillar n. a fundamental principle or practice; anything tall and thin approximating the shape of a column or tower; a thin pillar of smoke betrayed their campsite; a prominent supporter; he is a pillar of the community
pillared adj. having pillars; the pillared portico
pillbox n. a small round hat worn by women; a small case for holding pills; a small enclosed emplacement (usually of fortified concrete)
pillion n. a seat behind the rider of a horse or motorbike etc.
pillory n. a wooden instrument on a post with holes for the neck and hands; offenders were locked in and so exposed to public scorn@v. expose to ridicule or public scorn; punish by putting in a pillory
pillow n. a cushion to support the head of a sleeping person@v. rest on or as if on a pillow, of one's head
pillowcase n. a cover for a pillow; the burglar carried his loot in a pillowcase
pillwort n. European water fern found around margins of bodies of water or in wet acid soil having small globose sporocarps
pilose adj. (biology) covered with hairs especially fine soft ones
pilot adj. of the nature of or undergoing an experiment@v. fly a plane@n. someone who is licensed to operate an aircraft in flight; a person qualified to guide ships through difficult waters going into or out of a harbor
pilotage n. the guidance of ships or airplanes from place to place
pilotfish n. small pelagic fish often accompanying sharks or mantas
pilothouse n. an enclosed structure from which a vessel can be navigated
piloting n. the guidance of ships or airplanes from place to place
pilotless adj. lacking a pilot; a drone is a pilotless aircraft
pilous adj. (biology) covered with hairs especially fine soft ones
pilsener n. pale beer with strong flavor of hops; especially a Bohemian beer
pilsner n. pale beer with strong flavor of hops; especially a Bohemian beer
pilus n. hairlike structure especially on the surface of a cell or microorganism
pimento n. plant bearing large mild thick-walled usually bell-shaped fruits; the principal salad peppers; fully ripened sweet red pepper; usually cooked
pimiento n. plant bearing large mild thick-walled usually bell-shaped fruits; the principal salad peppers; fully ripened sweet red pepper; usually cooked
pimp v. act as a go-between for prostitutes@n. someone who procures customers for whores (in England they call a pimp a ponce)
pimpernel n. European garden herb with purple-tinged flowers and leaves that are sometimes used for salads; any of several plants of the genus Anagallis
pimple n. a small inflamed elevation of the skin; a pustule or papule; common symptom in acne
pimpled adj. (of complexion) blemished by imperfections of the skin
pimply adj. (of complexion) blemished by imperfections of the skin
pimproll v. do the pimproll
pin n. a piece of jewelry that is pinned onto the wearer's garment; when a wrestler's shoulders are forced to the mat@v. attach with or as if with a pin; to hold fast or prevent from moving; attach or fasten with pins; pierce with a pin
pinafore n. a sleeveless apronlike dress; worn over other clothing
pinata n. a container filled with toys and candy; suspended from a height for blindfolded children to break with sticks
pinball n. a game played on a sloping board; the object is to propel marbles against pins or into pockets
pincer n. a holding tool consisting of a compound lever; a structure like a pincer on the limb of a crustacean or other arthropods
pinch n. a painful or straitened circumstance: the pinch of the recession; an injury resulting from getting some body part squeezed; a small but appreciable amount@v. squeeze tightly between the fingers; make ridges into by pinching together
pinchbeck n. an alloy of copper and zinc that is used in cheap jewelry to imitate gold@adj. serving as an imitation or substitute; pinchbeck heroism
pinche n. South American tamarin with a tufted head
pinched adj. sounding as if the nose were pinched; very thin especially from disease or hunger or cold; small pinched faces; not having enough money to pay for necessities
pinchgut n. a niggardly person who starves himself (and others)
pincushion n. a small stiff cushion into which pins are stuck ready for use
pine n. a coniferous tree; straight-grained durable and often resinous white to yellowish timber of any of numerous trees of the genus Pinus@v. have a yen for
pineal adj. relating to the pineal body; pineal hormone; having the form of a pine cone
pineapple n. a tropical American plant bearing a large fleshy edible fruit with a terminal tuft of stiff leaves; widely cultivated in the tropics; large sweet fleshy tropical fruit with a terminal tuft of stiff leaves; widely cultivated
pinecone n. the seed-producing cone of a pine tree
pinesap n. fleshy tawny or reddish saprophytic herb resembling the Indian pipe and growing in woodland humus of eastern North America; in some classifications placed in a separate genus Hypopitys
pinetum n. an area planted with pine trees or related conifers
pineweed n. annual wiry-stemmed North American weed with minute scalelike leaves and small yellow flowers
pinfeather n. a new feather just coming through the skin
pinfish n. similar to sea bream; small spiny-finned fish found in bays along the southeastern coast of the United States
pinfold n. a pen where stray animals are confined
ping v. hit with a pinging noise; of car engines, when firing too early; make a short high-pitched sound, as of a bullet striking metal@n. a sharp high-pitched metallic sound
pinguecula n. a slightly elevated elastic tissue deposit in the conjunctiva that may extend to the cornea but does not cover it
pinhead n. an ignorant or foolish person; the head of a pin
pinhole n. a small hole made by a pin
pining n. a feeling of deep longing
pinion v. bind the arms of; cut the wings off (of birds)@n. a gear with a small number of teeth designed to mesh with a larger wheel or rack; any of the larger wing or tail feathers of a bird; wing of a bird
pinioned adj. (of birds) especially having the flight feathers; bound fast especially having the arms restrained
pink adj. similar to the natural color of pinks@n. a light shade of red; any of various flowers of plants of the genus Dianthus cultivated for their fragrant flowers@v. make light, repeated taps on a surface
pinkeye n. inflammation of the conjunctiva of the eye
pinkie n. the finger farthest from the thumb
pinkify v. make pink
pinkish adj. similar to the natural color of pinks
pinko n. emotionally charged terms used to refer to extreme radicals
pinkroot n. a fungal disease of onions
pinky n. the finger farthest from the thumb
pinna n. division of a usually pinnately divided leaf; the externally visible cartilaginous structure of the external ear
pinnace n. a boat for communication between ship and shore
pinnacle v. set on or as if on a pinnacle; pinnacle a pediment@n. (architecture) a slender upright spire at the top of a buttress of tower; the highest level or degree attainable:; ...catapulted Einstein to the pinnacle of fame
pinnate adj. of a leaf shape; featherlike; having leaflets on each side of a common axis
pinnated adj. of a leaf shape; featherlike; having leaflets on each side of a common axis
pinnately adv. having a pinnate shape; a pinnately compoud leaf
pinnatifid adj. cleft nearly to the midrib in broad divisions not separated into distinct leaflets
pinnatiped n. aquatic carnivorous mammal having a streamlined body specialized for swimming with limbs modified as flippers
pinnatisect adj. cleft nearly to the midrib in narrow divisions not separated into distinct leaflets
pinned adj. fastened with a pin or staple
pinner n. a woman's cap with two long flaps pinned on
pinning n. a mutual promise of a couple not to date anyone else; on college campuses it is signaled by the giving of a fraternity pin
pinniped n. aquatic carnivorous mammal having a streamlined body specialized for swimming with limbs modified as flippers
pinnule n. division of a usually pinnately divided leaf
pinny n. a sleeveless apronlike dress; worn over other clothing
pinochle n. a card game played with a 48-card pack (two of each suit for high cards); play resembles whist
pinon n. any of several low-growing pines of western North America
pinpoint n. a very brief moment; they were strangers sharing a pinpoint of time together; a very small spot; the sharp point of a pin@v. locate exactly; can you pinpoint the position of the enemy?@adj. meticulously precise; pinpoint accuracy
pinprick n. a minor annoyance; small puncture (as if made by a pin)
pinscher n. any of three breeds of dogs whose ears and tail are usually cropped
pinstripe adj. having very thin stripes
pinstriped adj. having very thin stripes
pint n. a British imperial capacity measure (liquid or dry) equal to 4 gills or 568.26 cubic centimeters; a United States dry unit equal to 0.5 quart or 33.6 cubic inches; a United States liquid unit equal to 16 fluid ounces; two pints equal one quart
pintado n. large edible mackerel of temperate United States coastal Atlantic waters
pintail n. long-necked river duck of the Old and New Worlds having elongated central tail feathers
pintle n. a pin or bolt forming the pivot of a hinge
pinto n. a spotted or calico horse or pony
pinup adj. suitable for pinning up on an admirer's wall; pinup photo; suited (as by beauty) to be the subject of a pinup photograph; pinup girl
pinwheel n. perennial subshrub of Tenerife having leaves in pinwheellike rosettes
pinworm n. small threadlike worm infesting human intestines and rectum esp. in children
pinyon n. any of several low-growing pines of western North America
pion n. a meson produced as the result of high-energy particle collision
pioneer v. open up an area or prepare a way; take the lead or initiative in; participate in the development of@n. someone who helps to open up a new line of research or technology or art; one the first colonists or settler in a new territory
pious adj. having or showing or expressing reverence for a deity; pious readings; devoutly religious; H.L.Mencken
piously adv. in a pious manner; this received opinion is piously affirmed; in a devout and pious manner
piousness n. righteousness by virtue of being pious
pip n. a disease of poultry; a minor nonspecific ailment; a mark on a playing card (shape depending on the suit)@v. kill by firing a missile; hit with a missile from a weapon; colloquial usage; defeat thoroughly
pipage n. a fee charged for the use of pipes; a long tube made of metal or plastic that is used to carry water or oil or gas etc.
pipal n. fig tree of India noted for great size and longevity; lacks the prop roots of the banyan
pipe v. utter a shrill cry; transport by pipeline; of oil, water, gas, etc.@n. a tube with a small bowl at one end; used for smoking tobacco; a long tube made of metal or plastic that is used to carry water or oil or gas etc.; a hollow cylindrical shape
pipeclay n. fine white clay used in making tobacco pipes and pottery and in whitening leather
pipefish n. fish with long tubular snout and slim body covered with bony plates
pipefitting n. threaded pieces of pipe for joining pipes together
pipeful n. the quantity of tobacco that can be smoked in a pipe at one time
pipeline n. gossip spread by spoken communication; a pipe used to transport liquids or gases; a pipeline runs from the wells to the seaport
piper n. someone who plays the bagpipe
piperin n. derived from pepper (especially black pepper); source of the hotness of black and white pepper
piperine n. derived from pepper (especially black pepper); source of the hotness of black and white pepper
piperocaine n. a compound used in the form of its hydrochloride as a local or spinal anesthetic
pipes n. blow air into a bag and squeeze it out through pipes
pipette n. a graduated glass tube used to transfer definite volumes of a liquid
pipework n. the flues and stops on a pipe organ
pipewort n. aquatic perennial of North America and Ireland and Hebrides having translucent green leaves in a basal spiral and dense buttonlike racemes of minute white flowers
piping adj. resembling the music of a pipe; the piping voices of children@n. a long tube made of metal or plastic that is used to carry water or oil or gas etc.@adv. (used of heat) extremely; the casserole was piping hot
pipistrel n. small European brown bat
pipistrelle n. small European brown bat
pipit n. small songbirds resembling larks
pipkin n. a small earthenware or metal pot
pippin n. any of several yellowish apples
pipsissewa n. any of several plants of the genus Chimaphila
pipul n. fig tree of India noted for great size and longevity; lacks the prop roots of the banyan
piquance n. a tart spiciness
piquancy n. a tart spiciness
piquant adj. having an agreeably pungent taste; engagingly stimulating or provocative; a piquant wit; attracting or delighting; a piquant face with large appealing eyes
piquantly adv. with strong spices; in a spicy manner
pique adj. of textiles; having parallel raised lines@n. tightly woven fabric with raised cords; a sudden outburst of anger@v. cause to feel resentment or indignation
piquet n. a card game for two players using a reduced pack of 32 cards
piracy n. robbery on the high seas; taking a ship away from the control of those who are legally entitled to it; the act of falsely representing the ideas or work of others as your own
pirana n. small voraciously carnivorous freshwater fishes of South America that attack and destroy living animals
piranha n. small voraciously carnivorous freshwater fishes of South America that attack and destroy living animals
pirate n. someone who uses another person's words or ideas is they were his own; someone who robs at sea or plunders the land from the sea without having a commission from any sovereign nation@v. copy illegally; of published material
piratical adj. characteristic of pirates; piratical attackers; characteristic of piracy; piratical editions of my book
piratically adv. in a piratical manner; the piratically published edition of his book
pirogi n. (Russian) small fruit or meat turnover baked or fried
pirogue n. a canoe made by hollowing out and shaping a large log
piroplasm n. minute parasite of red blood cells of mammals transmitted by a tick and causing diseases of domestic animals
piroshki n. (Russian) small fruit or meat turnover baked or fried
pirouette n. a rapid spin of the body (especially on the toes as in ballet)@v. do a pirouette, usually as part of a dance
piroxicam n. Feldene is a trade name for this nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug
pirozhki n. (Russian) small fruit or meat turnover baked or fried
pisanosaur n. primitive dinosaur found in Argentina
pisanosaurus n. primitive dinosaur found in Argentina
piscary n. a place where fish are caught and processed and sold
piscatorial adj. relating to or characteristic of the activity of fishing
piscatory adj. relating to or characteristic of the activity of fishing; a piscatory life
piscine adj. of or relating to fish
piscivorous adj. feeding on fishes
pisiform n. a small wrist bone that articulates only with the triquetral
pismire n. social insect living in organized colonies; characteristically the males and fertile queen have wings during breeding season; wingless sterile females are the workers
piss v. eliminate urine@n. liquid excretory product; informal terms for urination
pissed adj. aroused to impatience or anger; felt really pissed at her snootiness; slang for `drunk'
pissing n. informal terms for urination
pistachio n. small tree of southern Europe and Asia Minor bearing small hard-shelled nuts; nut of Mediterranean trees having an edible green kernel
pistia n. pantropical floating plant forming a rosette of wedge-shaped leaves; a widespread weed in rivers and lakes
pistil n. the female ovule-bearing part of a flower composed of ovary and style and stigma
pistillate adj. (botany) bearing or consisting of carpels; (botany) having gynoecia, or pistils, the ovule-bearing organ of a seed plant
pistol n. a firearm that is held and fired with one hand
pistoleer n. someone armed with a pistol (especially a soldier so armed)
piston n. a part of a machine that has a plunging or thrusting motion
pit v. set into opposition or rivalry; mark with a scar@n. a sizeable hole (usually in the ground); they dug a pit to bury the body; a concavity in a surface (especially an anatomical depression)
pita n. (Middle East) usually small round bread that can open into a pocket for filling
pitahaya n. cactus of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico having edible juicy fruit; highly colored edible fruit of pitahaya cactus having bright red juice; often as large as a peach
pitanga n. Brazilian tree with spicy red fruit; often cultivated in California and Florida
pitch v. throw or toss with a light motion; move abruptly; fall forwards; set to a certain pitch, as of an instrument or one's voice@n. the property of sound that varies with variation in the frequency of vibration
pitchblende n. a mineral consisting of uranium oxide and trace amounts of radium and thorium and polonium and lead and helium; uraninite in massive form is called pitchblende which is the chief uranium ore
pitched adj. (of sound) set to a certain pitch or key; usually used as a combining form: high-pitched; set at a slant; a pitched rather than a flat roof
pitcher n. (baseball or softball) the person who does the pitching; our pitcher has a sore arm; an open vessel with a handle and a spout for pouring; the quantity contained in a pitcher
pitcherful n. the quantity contained in a pitcher
pitchfork n. a long-handled tool with sharp widely spaced prongs for lifting and pitching hay@v. lift with a pitchfork; pitchfork hay
pitching n. playing the position of pitcher on a baseball team; abrupt up-and-down motion (as caused by a ship or other conveyance); the pitching and tossing was quite exciting
pitchman n. salesman; especially one who vends novelties on the streets or from a concession
pitchstone n. dark acid granitic glass
pitchy adj. of the blackest black; similar to the color of jet or coal; having the characteristics of pitch or tar
piteous adj. deserving or inciting pity; piteous appeals for help
piteously adv. in a piteous manner
pitfall n. an unforeseen or unexpected difficulty; a trap in the form of a concealed hole
pith n. soft spongelike central cylinder of the stems of most flowering plants; the choicest or most essential or most vital part of some idea or experience
pithead n. the entrance to a coal mine
pithecanthropus n. pl. -thropi; any of several primitive extinct men from Java
pithiness n. terseness achieved by expressing a great deal in just a few words
pithy adj. concise and full of meaning; welcomed her pithy comments@adv. in a pithy sententious manner
pitiable adj. inspiring mixed contempt and pity; pitiable lack of character; deserving or inciting pity; pitiable homeless children
pitiably adv. in a manner arousing sympathy and compassion
pitiful adj. inspiring mixed contempt and pity; pitiful exhibition of cowardice; very bad; deserving or inciting pity; a pitiful fate
pitifully adv. to a pitiful degree; wages were pitifully low, particularly the wages of women
pitiless adj. without mercy or pity; deficient in humane and kindly feelings
pitilessly adv. without pity; in a merciless manner
pitilessness n. feelings of extreme heartlessness; mercilessness characterized by a lack of pity
pitman n. someone who works in a coal mine
piton n. a metal spike with a hole for a rope; mountaineers drive it into ice or rock to use as a hold
pitprop n. a wooden prop used to support the roof of a mine
pitsaw n. a large two-handed saw formerly used to cut logs into planks; one man stood above the log and the other in a pit below
pitta n. any bird of the genus Pitta; brilliantly colored chiefly terrestrial birds with short wings and tail and stout bills
pittance n. an inadequate payment; they work all day for a mere pittance
pitted adj. pitted with cell-like cavities (as a honeycomb)
pitting n. the formation of small pits in a surface as a consequence of corrosion
pituitary adj. of or relating to the pituitary gland; pituitary hormone; having abnormal size with overgrown extremities resulting from abnormal pituitary secretion; a pituitary dwarf@n. the master gland of the endocrine system
pity v. share the suffering of@n. a feeling of sympathy and sorrow for the misfortunes of others; the blind are too often objects of pity; an unfortunate development; it's a pity he couldn't do it
pitying adj. feeling or expressing sorrow or pity; a pitying observer threw his coat around her shoulders
pityingly adv. in a compassionate manner; the nurse looked at him pityingly
pivot v. turn on a pivot@n. the person in a line around whom the others wheel and maneuver; a short shaft that supports something that turns
pivotal adj. being of crucial importance; a pivotal event
pix n. a chest in which coins from the mint are held to await assay; any receptacle in which wafers for the Eucharist are kept
pixel n. (computer science) the smallest discrete element of an image or picture on a CRT screen (usually a single-colored dot)
pixie n. (folklore) fairies that are somewhat mischievous; creeping evergreen shrub having narrow overlapping leaves and early white star-shaped flowers; of pine barrens of NJ and the Carolinas
pixilated adj. naughtily or annoyingly playful; slang for `drunk'
pixy n. creeping evergreen shrub having narrow overlapping leaves and early white star-shaped flowers; of pine barrens of NJ and the Carolinas; (folklore) fairies that are somewhat mischievous
pizza n. Italian open pie made of thin bread dough spread with a spiced mixture of e.g. tomato sauce and cheese
pizzaz n. a activeness of an energetic personality
pizzazz n. a activeness of an energetic personality
pizzeria n. a shop where pizzas are made and sold
pizzicato adj. (of instruments in the violin family) to be plucked with the finger@adv. (music) with a light plucking staccato sound
placable adj. easily calmed or pacified
placard n. a sign posted in a public place as an advertisement@v. post in a public place; publicize or announce by placards
placate v. cause to be more favorably inclined; gain the good will of
placating adj. tending or intended to pacify by acceding to demands or granting concessions; placating (or placative) gestures
placatingly adv. in a placating manner; Jenny smiled placatingly
placation n. the act of placating
placative adj. tending or intended to pacify by acceding to demands or granting concessions; placating (or placative) gestures
placatory adj. tending or intended to pacify by acceding to demands or granting concessions; an astonishingly placatory speech
place v. put into a certain place:; also with abstract objects and locations; place somebody in a particular situation or location@n. a point located with respect to surface features of some region; this is a nice place for a picnic
placeable adj. possible to recognize
placebo n. an innocuous or inert medication; given as a pacifier or to the control group in experiments on the efficacy of a drug; Roman Catholic Church: vespers of the office for the dead
placed adj. situated in a particular spot or position; strategically placed artillery; put in position in relation to other things; end tables placed conveniently
placeman n. (British) a disparaging term for an appointee
placement n. the spatial property of the way in which something is placed:; the placement of the chairs; contact established between applicants and prospective employees; the agency provided placement services
placenta n. that part of the ovary of a flowering plant where the ovules form; the vascular structure in the uterus of most mammals providing oxygen and nutrients for and transferring wastes from the developing fetus
placental n. mammals having a placenta; all mammals except monotremes and marsupials@adj. of or having or occurring by means of a placenta; all mammals except monotremes and marsupials are placental mammals
placentation n. the formation of the placenta in the uterus; arrangement of the ovules in the placenta and of the placentas in the ovary
placer n. an alluvial deposit that contains particles of some valuable mineral
placeseeker n. (British) a disparaging term for an appointee
placid adj. free from disturbance; a ribbon of sand between the angry sea and the placid bay; not easily irritated; not everyone shared his placid temperament; without untoward incident or disruption; a placid existence
placidity n. a feeling of calmness; a quiet and undisturbed feeling; a disposition free from stress or emotion
placidly adv. in a quiet and tranquil manner; the sea now shimmered placidly before our eyes; in a placid and good-natured manner; I put the questions, and she answered them placidly
placidness n. a feeling of calmness; a quiet and undisturbed feeling
placket n. a piece of cloth sewn under an opening
placoderm n. fishlike vertebrate with bony plates on head and upper body; dominant in seas and rivers during the Devonian; considered the earliest vertebrate with jaws
placoid adj. as the hard flattened scales of e.g. sharks
plage n. the beach at a seaside resort
plagiarisation n. the act of falsely representing the ideas or work of others as your own
plagiarise v. take without referencing from someone else's writing or speech; of intellectual property
plagiarism n. a piece of writing that has been copied from someone else and is presented as being your own work; the act of plagiarizing; taking someone's words or ideas as if they were your own
plagiarist n. someone who uses another person's words or ideas is they were his own
plagiaristic adj. copied and passed off as your own
plagiarization n. the act of falsely representing the ideas or work of others as your own
plagiarize v. take without referencing from someone else's writing or speech; of intellectual property
plagiarized adj. copied and passed off as your own; used plagiarized data in his thesis
plagioclase n. any of a rock-forming series of triclinic feldspars
plagioclastic adj. of or relating to plagioclase
plague v. cause to suffer a blight; annoy continually or chronically@n. a serious (sometimes fatal) infection transmitted by the bite of an infected rat flea (especially bubonic plague)
plagued adj. (often followed by `with' or used in combination) troubled by or encroached upon in large numbers; drug-plagued streets
plaguelike adj. likely to spread and cause an epidemic disease; plaguelike diseases
plaguey adv. in a disagreeable manner; it's so plaguey cold!@adj. likely to spread and cause an epidemic disease; plaguey fevers; causing irritation or annoyance; a plaguey newfangled safety catch
plaguily adv. in a disagreeable manner
plaguy adj. causing irritation or annoyance@adv. in a disagreeable manner
plaice n. flesh of large European flatfish; large European food fish
plaid n. a cloth having a crisscross design
plain adj. clearly apparent or obvious to the mind or senses; made his meaning plain; free from pomp or affectation@adv. unmistakably@n. extensive tract of level open land@v. express complaints, discontent, displeasure, or unhappiness
plainchant n. a liturgical chant of the Roman Catholic Church
plainclothesman n. a detective who wears civilian clothes on duty
plainly adv. unmistakably; You are plainly wrong; (`plain' is often used informally for `plainly' as in ); in a simple manner; without extravagance or embellishment; she was dressed plainly
plainness n. the state of being unmixed with other material; clarity as a consequence of being perspicuous; the appearance of being plain and unpretentious; an appearance that is not attractive or beautiful
plainsman n. an inhabitant of a plains region (especially the Great Plains of North America)
plainsong n. a liturgical chant of the Roman Catholic Church
plainspoken adj. using simple and direct language; a plainspoken country doctor; characterized by disconcerting directness in manner or speech; without subtlety or evasion; plainspoken and to the point
plaint n. a written statement of the grounds of complaint made to court law asking for the grievance to be redressed; a cry of sorrow and grief
plaintiff n. a person who brings an action in a court of law
plaintive adj. expressing sorrow
plaintively adv. in a plaintive manner; the last note of the song rang out plaintively
plaintiveness n. expressing sorrowfulness
plait v. make by braiding; weave into plaits; plait hair@n. a hairdo formed by braiding or twisting the hair; any of various types of fold formed by doubling fabric back upon itself and then pressing or stitching into shape
plan v. have the will and intention to carry out some action; make plans for something; make or work out a plan for; devise; plan an attack@n. a series of steps to be carried out or goals to be accomplished; they drew up a six-step plan
planakeen n. a closed litter carried on the shoulders of four bearers
planar adj. involving two dimensions
planaria n. free-swimming mostly freshwater flatworms; popular in laboratory studies for the ability to regenerate lost parts
planarian n. free-swimming mostly freshwater flatworms; popular in laboratory studies for the ability to regenerate lost parts
planate adj. having been flattened
planation n. the process of erosion whereby a level surface is produced
planchet n. a flat metal disk ready for stamping as a coin
planchette n. a triangular board supported on casters; when lightly touched with the fingertips it is supposed to spell out supernatural (or unconscious) messages
plane v. cut slices from@adj. having a horizontal surface in which no part is higher or lower than another@n. an aircraft that has fixed a wing and is powered by propellers or jets; the flight was delayed due to trouble with the airplane
planeness n. the property of having two dimensions
planer n. a power tool for smoothing or shaping wood
planet n. any of the celestial bodies (other than comets or satellites) that revolve around the sun in the solar system; a person who follows or serves another
planetal adj. of or relating to or resembling the physical or orbital characteristics of a planet or the planets
planetarium n. a building housing an instrument for projecting the positions of the planets onto a domed ceiling; an optical device for projecting images of celestial bodies and other astronomical phenomena onto the inner surface of a hemispherical dome
planetary adj. of or relating to or resembling the physical or orbital characteristics of a planet or the planets; planetary motion; of or relating to or characteristic of the planet Earth or its inhabitants; the planetary tilt
planetesimal n. one of many small solid celestial bodies thought to have existed at an early stage in the development of the solar system
planetoid n. any of numerous small celestial bodies composed of rock and metal that move around the sun (mainly between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter)
plangency n. having the character of a loud deep sound
plangent adj. loud and resounding; plangent bells
planimeter n. for measuring the area of an irregular plane figure
plank v. cover with planks, as of a wall or a floor; set down; cook and serve on a plank@n. a stout length of sawn timber; made in a wide variety of sizes and used for many purposes; an endorsed policy in the platform of a political party
planking n. the work of covering an area with planks
plankton n. the aggregate of small plant and animal organisms that float or drift in great numbers in fresh or salt water
planktonic adj. of or relating to plankton
planless adj. aimlessly drifting
planned adj. designed or carried out according to a plan; the planned outlays for new equipment; planned in advance
planner n. a person who makes plans
planning n. an act of formulating a program for a definite course of action; the planning was more fun than the trip itself; the act or process of drawing up plans or layouts for some project or enterprise
planoconcave adj. flat on one side and concave on the other
planoconvex adj. flat on one side and convex on the other
planographic adj. of or relating to or involving planography
planography n. the process of printing from a surface on which the printing areas are not raised but are ink-receptive (as opposed to ink repellent)
plant n. buildings for carrying on industrial labor@v. put or set (seeds or seedlings) into the ground; Let's plant flowers in the garden; to fix or set securely or deeply; set up or lay the groundwork for; place into a river
plantain n. any of numerous plants of the genus Plantago; mostly small roadside or dooryard weeds with elliptic leaves and small spikes of very small flowers; seeds of some used medicinally
plantal adj. of or relating to plants
plantar adj. relating to or occurring on the undersurface of the foot; plantar warts can be very painful
plantation n. an estate where cash crops are grown on a large scale (especially in tropical areas)
planted adj. (used especially of ideas or principles) deeply rooted; firmly fixed or held; implanted convictions; set in the soil for growth
planter n. the owner or manager of a plantation; a decorative pot for house plants
planthopper n. related to the leafhoppers and spittlebugs but rarely damages cultivated plants
plantigrade adj. (of mammals) walking on the whole sole of the foot
planting n. the act of fixing firmly in place; she resented his planting himself in the doorway; putting seeds in the ground to grow; the planting of corn is hard work
plaque n. a small abnormal patch on or inside the body; a memorial tablet made of brass
plash v. interlace the shoots of; dash a liquid upon or against@n. the sound like water splashing
plasm n. the protoplasm of the germ cells that contains chromosomes and genes; any watery animal fluid
plasma n. an electrically neutral ionized gas in an electric discharge; distinctly different from solids and liquids and normal gases; any watery animal fluid; a green slightly translucent variety of chalcedony used as a gemstone
plasmablast n. the precursor of a plasma cell
plasmacyte n. a lymphocyte-like cell that develops from a B lymphocyte in reaction to a specific antigen; found in bone marrow and sometimes in the blood
plasmapheresis n. a procedure for removing plasma from the blood; blood is drawn and the cellular elements are separated and transfused back to the donor
plasmin n. an enzyme that dissolves the fibrin of blood clots
plasminogen n. an inactive form of plasmin that occurs in plasma and is converted to plasmin by organic solvents
plasmodium n. multinucleate sheet of cytoplasm characteristic of some stages of such organisms as slime molds; parasitic protozoan of the genus Plasmodium that causes malaria in humans
plaster n. a mixture of lime or gypsum with sand and water; hardens into a smooth solid@v. cover conspicuously, as by pasting something on; affix conspicuously; apply a plaster cast to; plaster the broken arm; apply a heavy coat to; coat with plaster
plasterboard n. wallboard with a gypsum plaster core bounded to layers of paper or fiberboard; used instead of plaster or wallboard to make interior walls
plastered adj. (of hair) made smooth by applying a sticky or glossy substance; black hair plastered with pomade; (of walls) covered with a coat of plaster; slang for `drunk'
plasterer n. a worker skilled in applying plaster
plastering n. the application of plaster
plastic n. generic name for certain synthetic or semisynthetic materials that can be molded or extruded into objects or films or filaments or used for making e.g. coatings and adhesives@adj. used of the imagination
plastically adv. in a plastic manner; he used the clay plastically
plasticity n. the property of being physically malleable; the property of something that can be worked or hammered or shaped under pressure without breaking
plasticizer n. a substance added to plastics or other materials to make them more pliable
plastid n. any of various small particles in the cytoplasm of the cells of plants and some animals containing pigments or starch or oil or protein
plastique n. an explosive material that is easily molded around the object it is intended to destroy
plat v. make a plat of
platan n. any of several trees of the genus Platanus having thin pale bark that scales off in small plates and lobed leaves and ball-shaped heads of fruits
plate v. coat with a layer of metal@n. (baseball) a rubber slab that must be touched by a base runner in order to score; a sheet of metal or wood or glass or plastic; a full-page illustration (usually on slick paper)
plateau n. a flat highland
plateful n. the quantity contained in a plate
platelayer n. a workman who lays and repairs railroad tracks
platelet n. tiny bits of protoplasm found in vertebrate blood; essential for blood clotting
platelike adj. as the hard flattened scales of e.g. sharks
platen n. the bed of a machine tool to which the work is clamped; the flat plate of a printing press that presses the paper against the type; the roller on a typewriter against which the keys strike
platform n. a raised horizontal surface; the speaker mounted the platform; a document stating the aims and principles of a political party; their candidate simply ignored the party platform; any military structure or vehicle bearing weapons
platforms n. a woman's shoe with a very high thick sole
plating n. a thin coating of metal deposited on a surface; the application of a thin coat of metal (as by electrolysis)
platinum n. a heavy precious metallic element; gray-white and resistant to corroding; occurs in some nickel and copper ores and is also found native in some deposits
platitude n. a trite or obvious remark
platitudinal adj. dull and tiresome but with pretensions of significance or originality
platitudinous adj. dull and tiresome but with pretensions of significance or originality
platonic adj. free from physical desire; platonic love
platoon n. a military unit that is a subdivision of a company; usually has a headquarters and two or more squads; usually commanded by a lieutenant; a team of policemen working under the military platoon system
platter n. a large shallow dish used for serving food; a disc with continuous grooves; formerly used to reproduce music by rotating as a phonograph needle tracked in the grooves
platy n. small stocky Mexican fish; popular aquarium fish
platyctenean n. ctenophore have long tentacles and flattened body
platyhelminth n. parasitic or free-living worms having a flattened body
platypus n. small densely furred aquatic monotreme of Australia and Tasmania having a broad bill and tail and webbed feet; only species in the family Ornithorhynchidae
platyrhine adj. having a broad flat-bridged nose
platyrhinian adj. having a broad flat-bridged nose
platyrrhine adj. having a broad flat-bridged nose
platyrrhinian adj. having a broad flat-bridged nose
platyrrhinic adj. having a broad flat-bridged nose
plaudit n. enthusiastic approval
plaudits n. enthusiastic approval; he acknowledged the plaudits of the crowd
plausibility n. apparent validity
plausible adj. apparently reasonable and valid; likely but not certain to be or become true or real; within the realm of credibility; a plausible story; appearing to merit belief or acceptance; a plausible story
plausibleness n. apparent validity
plausibly adv. easy to believe on the basis of available evidence; he talked plausibly before the committee
play adj. imagined as in a play@v. play games, play sports; play cards; act in a specified way; play (music) on an instrument; play a role or part; be at play@n. a dramatic work intended for performance by actors on a stage
playable adj. capable of or suitable for being played or played on; a playable lie in golf
playact v. perform on a stage or theater; Julius CaesarI played in
playacting n. the performance of a part or role in a drama
playactor n. an actor who travels around the country presenting plays
playback n. the act of reproducing recorded sound; he was allowed to hear the playback of his testimony; the part of a tape recorder that reproduces the recorded material
playbill n. a theatrical program; he couldn't find her name on the playbill
playbox n. (British) a box for a child's toys and personal things (especially at a boarding school)
playboy n. a man devoted to the pursuit of pleasure
playday n. time for play or diversion
played adj. (of games) engaged in; the loosely played game
player n. a person who participates in or is skilled at some game; someone who plays a musical instrument (as a profession); a theatrical performer
playfellow n. a companion at play
playful adj. full of fun and high spirits; playful children just let loose from school
playfully adv. in a playful manner; she loosened the half-hoop of diamonds on her left hand third finger and held it out to him playfully
playfulness n. a festive merry feeling; a disposition to find (or make) causes for amusement; her playfulness surprised me; activities that are enjoyable or amusing
playgoer n. someone who attends the theater
playground n. an area where many people go for recreation; an outdoor area for children's play
playhouse n. a small model of house that children can play inside of
playing n. the act of playing a musical instrument; taking part in a game or sport or other recreation; the performance of a part or role in a drama@adj. occupied in play or playful activities; heard the laughter of playing children
playlet n. a short play
playmate n. a companion at play
playoff n. any final competition to determine a championship
playpen n. a portable enclosure in which babies may be left to play
playroom n. a recreation room for noisy activities (parties or children's play etc)
playschool n. a small informal nursery group meeting for half-day sessions
playscript n. a written version of a play or other dramatic composition; used in preparing for a performance
playsuit n. a sports outfit for women or children; usually consists of shorts and a blouse
plaything n. an artifact designed to be played with
playtime n. time for play or diversion
playwright n. someone who writes plays
plaza n. a public square with room for pedestrians; a modern complex of shops; a good plaza should have a movie house
plea n. humble request for help; (law) a defendant's answer by a factual matter (as distinguished from a demurrer); an answer indicating why a suit should be dismissed
pleach v. form or weave into a braid or braids; interlace the shoots of; pleach a hedge
plead v. appeal or request earnestly; offer as an excuse or plea; enter a plea, as in courts of law
pleading n. (law) an allegation in legal form stating something on behalf of a party to a legal proceeding@adj. expressing earnest entreaty; a pleading note in her voice
pleadingly adv. in a beseeching manner
pleasance n. a pleasant and secluded part of a garden; usually attached to a mansion; a fundamental feeling that is hard to define but that people desire to experience
pleasant adj. affording pleasure; being in harmony with your taste or likings; a pleasant person to be around; pleasant in manner or behavior; I didn`t enjoy it and probably wasn't a pleasant person to be around
pleasantly adv. in a cheerful manner; `I'll do the dishes,' he said pleasantly; in an enjoyable manner; we spent a pleasantly lazy afternoon
pleasantness n. the feeling caused by agreeable stimuli; one pole of a continuum of states of feeling; the quality of giving pleasure; the pleasantness of a cool breeze on a hot summer day
pleasantry n. an agreeable or amusing remark
please v. give pleasure to; be pleasing to; be the will of or have the will (to)
pleased adj. experiencing or manifesting pleasure; feeling pleasurable satisfaction over something by which you measures your self-worth; experiencing pleasure or joy; pleased with the good news
pleasing adj. giving pleasure and satisfaction; a pleasing piece of news; aesthetically pleasing; giving pleasure or satisfaction; able to please or win approval@n. the act of indulging or gratifying a desire
pleasingly adv. in a pleasing manner; the room was pleasingly large
pleasingness n. pleasant palatability; a likeable beauty
pleasurable adj. affording satisfaction or pleasure; full of happiness and pleasurable excitement
pleasurably adv. in a very pleasurable manner
pleasure n. a fundamental feeling that is hard to define but that people desire to experience; he was tingling with pleasure; something or someone that provides pleasure; a source of happiness; the pleasure of his company
pleasureful adj. highly pleasing; pleasureful relaxation
pleat v. pleat or gather into a ruffle@n. any of various types of fold formed by doubling fabric back upon itself and then pressing or stitching into shape
pleated adj. folded into pleats
pleating n. folding in parallel folds
pleb n. one of the common people
plebe n. a military trainee (as at a military academy)
plebeian n. one of the common people@adj. of the common people of ancient Rome; a plebeian magistrate; of or associated with the great masses of people; his square plebeian nose
plebiscite n. a vote by the electorate determining public opinion on a question of national importance
plebs n. pl. plebes; the common people of ancient Rome; the general populace
plecopteran n. primitive winged insect with a flattened body; used as bait by fishermen; aquatic gilled larvae are carnivorous and live beneath stones
plectognath n. tropical marine fishes having the teeth fused into a beak and thick skin covered with bony plates or spines
plectranthus n. any of various ornamental plants of the genus Plectranthus
plectron n. a small thin device (of metal or plastic or ivory) used to pluck a stringed instrument
plectrum n. a small thin device (of metal or plastic or ivory) used to pluck a stringed instrument
pledge n. a deposit of personal property as security for a debt; his saxophone was in pledge; someone accepted for membership but not yet fully admitted to the group@v. promise solemnly and formally; propose a toast to; give as a guarantee
pledged adj. bound by or as if by an oath; pledged to be married
plenarily adv. in a plenary manner; an empire destined to enter the Commonwealth plenarily
plenary adj. full in all respects; a plenary session of the legislature
plenipotentiary n. a diplomat who is fully authorized to represent his or her government
plenitude n. a full supply
plenteous adj. affording an abundant supply; a plenteous grape harvest
plenteously adv. in a bountiful manner
plenteousness n. a full supply
plentiful adj. existing in great number or quantity; rhinoceroses were once plentiful here; affording an abundant supply; food is plentiful; producing in abundance; a plentiful year
plentifully adv. in a bountiful manner
plentifulness n. a full supply
plentitude n. a full supply
plenty adv. as much as necessary; (`plenty' is nonstandard) I've had plenty, thanks@n. a full supply; there was plenty of food for everyone; (often followed by `of') a large number or amount or extent:; it must have cost plenty
plenum n. an enclosed space in which the air pressure is higher than outside
pleochroic adj. of or relating to or having pleochroism
pleochroism n. the phenomenon of different colors appearing when certain crystals are viewed from different directions
pleomorphic adj. relating to or characterized by pleomorphism
pleomorphism n. (chemistry) the existence of different kinds of crystal of the same chemical compound; (biology) the appearance of two or more distinctly different forms in the life cycle of some organisms
pleonasm n. using more words than necessary
pleonaste n. a dark-colored spinel containing iron
pleonastic adj. repetition of same sense in different words; `a true fact' and `a free gift' are pleonastic expressions
pleopod n. one of the paired abdominal appendages of certain aquatic crustaceans that function primarily for carrying the eggs in females and are usually adapted for swimming
plesiosaur n. extinct marine reptile with a small head on a long neck a short tail and four paddle-shaped limbs; of the Jurassic and Cretaceous
plesiosaurus n. extinct marine reptile with a small head on a long neck a short tail and four paddle-shaped limbs; of the Jurassic and Cretaceous
plethodont n. mostly terrestrial salamanders that breathe through their thin moist skin; lay eggs in moist places on land; rarely enter water
plethora n. extreme excess
plethoric adj. excessively abundant
pleura n. the thin membrane around the lungs
pleural adj. of or relating to the pleura or the walls of the thorax; pleural muscles
pleuralgia n. pain in the chest caused by inflammation of the muscles between the ribs
pleurisy n. inflammation of the pleura (especially the parietal layer)
pleurocarp n. a moss having the archegonium or antheridium on a short side branch rather than the main stalk
pleurocarpous adj. (of mosses) having the archegonia on short lateral branches
pleurodont n. an animal having teeth consolidate with the inner surface of the alveolar ridge without sockets
pleurodynia n. pain in the chest caused by inflammation of the muscles between the ribs
pleurothallis n. any of numerous small tufted orchids of the genus Pleurothallis having leathery to fleshy leaves and racemes of 1 to many small flowers
plexiglass n. (trademark) a light transparent weather resistant thermoplastic
plexor n. (medicine) a small hammer with a rubber head used in percussive examinations of the chest and in testing reflexes
plexus n. a network of intersecting blood vessels or intersecting nerves or intersecting lymph vessels
pliability n. the property of being easily bent without breaking; the quality of being easily adaptable
pliable adj. susceptible to being led or directed; able to adjust readily to different conditions; capable of being bent or flexed or twisted without breaking; capable of being shaped or bent or drawn out; they soaked the leather to made it pliable
pliancy n. the property of being pliant; the quality of being easily adaptable
pliant adj. capable of being influenced or formed; a pliant nature; able to adjust readily to different conditions; capable of being bent or flexed or twisted without breaking; a pliant young tree
pliantly adv. in a pliant manner
pliantness n. the property of being pliant; the quality of being easily adaptable
plica n. a folded part (as a fold of skin or muscle)
plicate adj. arranged in parallel folds; plicate leaves
plication n. an angular shape made by folding; folding in parallel folds
pliers n. a gripping tool with two hinged arms and (usually) serrated jaws
plight v. give to, in marriage; promise solemnly and formally@n. a situation from which extrication is difficult especially an unpleasant or trying one:; the woeful plight of homeless people; a solemn pledge of fidelity
plimsoll n. (British) a light shoe with a rubber sole and a canvas top
plinth n. an architectural support or base (as for a column or statue)
ploce n. repetition to gain special emphasis or extend meaning
plod v. walk heavily, as when weary, or through mud; D.H. Lawrence
plodder n. someone who works slowly and monotonously; someone who moves slowly
plodding adj. (of movement) slow and laborious@n. hard monotonous routine work; the act of walking with a sow heavy gait
ploddingly adv. in a plodding manner; this writer ploddingly accumulates detail after detail
plonk v. set down@n. (British and Australian) a cheap wine of inferior quality; the noise of something dropping (as into liquid)
plop v. drop something with a plopping sound; drop with the sound of something falling into water; set down@n. the noise of a rounded object dropping into a liquid without a splash@adv. (informal) with a short hollow thud
plosion n. the terminal forced release of pressure built up during the occlusive phase of a stop consonant
plosive adj. produced by complete closure of the oral passage and subsequent release with a burst of air (as `p' and `d' in `pit' or `dog')@n. a consonant produced by stopping air at some point and suddenly releasing it
plot v. plan secretly, usually something illegal; make a schematic or technical drawing of; make a diagram of@n. a secret scheme to do something (especially something underhand or illegal); they concocted a plot to discredit the governor
plotted adj. planned in advance
plotter n. a planner who draws up a personal scheme of action; a clerk who marks data on a chart; a member of a conspiracy
plough v. move in a way resembling that of a plow cutting into or going through the soil; to break and turn over earth esp. with a plow@n. a farm tool having one or more heavy blades to break the soil and cut a furrow prior to sowing
ploughboy n. a boy who leads the animals that draw a plow
ploughed adj. (of farmland) broken and turned over with a plow
ploughing n. tilling the land with a plow
ploughman n. a man who plows
ploughshare n. a sharp steel wedge that cuts loose the top layer of soil
ploughwright n. a workman who makes and repairs plows
plover n. any of numerous chiefly shorebirds of relatively compact build having straight bills and large pointed wings; closely related to the sandpipers
plow n. a farm tool having one or more heavy blades to break the soil and cut a furrow prior to sowing@v. to break and turn over earth esp. with a plow; deal with verbally or in some form of artistic expression
plowboy n. a boy who leads the animals that draw a plow
plowed adj. (of farmland) broken and turned over with a plow; plowed fields
plowing n. tilling the land with a plow; he hired someone to do the plowing for him
plowman n. a man who plows
plowshare n. a sharp steel wedge that cuts loose the top layer of soil
plowwright n. a workman who makes and repairs plows
ploy n. an opening remark intended to secure an advantage for the speaker; a maneuver in a game or conversation
ployurethan n. any of various polymers containing the urethane radical; a wide variety of synthetic forms are made and used as adhesives or plastics or paints or rubber
pluck v. pull or pull out sharply; pluck the flowers off the bush; sell something to or obtain something from by energetic and esp. underhanded activity; rip off@n. the trait of showing courage and determination in spite of possible loss or injury
plucked adj. (music) of a stringed instrument; sounded with the fingers or a plectrum; having the feathers removed, as from a pelt or a fowl; a plucked chicken
pluckily adv. in a plucky manner; he was Brentford's defensive star in pluckily holding out the determined Reading raids for long periods
pluckiness n. the trait of showing courage and determination in spite of possible loss or injury
plucky adj. showing courage; showing courage in the face of danger; a plucky lampooner of the administration
plug v. fill or close tightly with or as if with a plug; plug the hole; persist in working hard; Students must plug away at this problem; deliver a punch to@n. a object designed to fill a hole tightly; a wad of something chewable as tobacco
plugboard n. telephone central where circuits are completed with patchcords
plugger n. someone who is an active supporter and advocate
plughole n. (British) a hole into which a plug fits (especially a hole where water drains away)
plum adv. (informal) exactly; (slang) completely; used as intensifiers; I'm plumb (or plum) tuckered out@n. any of several trees producing edible oval smooth-skinned fruit with a single hard stone
plumage n. the light horny waterproof structure forming the external covering of birds
plumaged adj. often used as combining forms; fully plumaged young bird
plumate adj. (biology) having an ornamental plume or feathery tuft
plumb n. the metal bob of a plumb line@adv. (slang) completely; used as intensifiers; I'm plumb (or plum) tuckered out; conforming to the direction of a plumb line@v. measure the depth of something; weight with lead@adj. exactly vertical
plumbable adj. possible to determine the depth of
plumbaginaceous adj. of or pertaining to or characteristic of plants of the family Plumbaginaceae
plumbago n. used as a lubricant and as a moderator in nuclear reactors; any plumbaginaceous plant of the genus Plumbago
plumbed adj. (of water depth) measured by a line and plumb
plumber n. a craftsman who installs and repairs pipes and fixtures and appliances
plumbery n. the occupation of a plumber (installing and repairing pipes and fixtures for water or gas or sewage in a building)
plumbic adj. relating to or consisting of lead
plumbing n. the apparatus of pipes and fixtures for the distribution of water or gas in a building and for the disposal of sewage; the occupation of a plumber (installing and repairing pipes and fixtures for water or gas or sewage in a building)
plumbism n. toxic condition produced by the absorption of excessive lead into the system
plumbous adj. relating to or consisting of lead
plumcot n. hybrid produced by crossing Prunus domestica and Prunus armeniaca; hybrid between plum and apricot
plume n. a feather or cluster of feathers worn as an ornament@v. rip off; ask an unreasonable price; be proud of; deck with a plume, as of a helmet; clean with one's bill, of birds; form a plume
plumed adj. having or covered with or abounding in plumes; the plumed serpent; (biology) having an ornamental plume or feathery tuft; (of a knight's helmet) having a decorative plume
plumelike adj. resembling a plume
plummet v. drop sharply@n. the metal bob of a plumb line
plummy adj. (informal) a plummy leading role; of a voice; affectedly mellow and rich; the radio announcer's plummy voice
plumose adj. (biology) having an ornamental plume or feathery tuft
plump adv. (informal) straight down especially heavily or abruptly@v. drop sharply; set down; make fat or plump; We will plump out that poor starving child@n. the sound of a sudden heavy fall@adj. euphemisms for slightly fat
plumping adj. very large; of exceptional size for its kind; won by a plumping majority
plumpness n. the bodily property of being well rounded
plumy adj. resembling a plume; the dog's plumy tail; having or covered with or abounding in plumes; adorned with feathers or plumes
plunder n. goods or money obtained illegally@v. take illegally; of intellectual property; plunder after capture, as of a town; steal goods; take as spoils; destroy and strip of its possession
plunderage n. a act of plundering (especially the embezzlement of goods on shipboard)
plundered adj. wrongfully emptied or stripped of anything of value; people returned to the plundered village
plunderer n. someone who takes spoils or plunder (as in war)
plundering n. the act of stealing valuable things from a place; the plundering of Rome@adj. given to taking by force what is desired
plunge v. Thrust or throw into; drop steeply; dash violently or with great speed or impetuosity; begin with vigor; cause to be immersed; fall abruptly; immerse into a liquid; engross (oneself) fully@n. a brief swim in water; a steep drop
plunger n. someone who risks losses for the possibility of considerable gains; someone who gambles extravagantly; a part of a machine that has a plunging or thrusting motion
plunk adv. (informal) with a short hollow thud@v. make or move along with a sound as of a horse's hooves striking the ground; set down; drop steeply; pull lightly but sharply with a plucking motion, as of guitar strings@n. a hollow twanging sound
plunker n. the act of hitting a baseball so that it drops suddenly
pluperfect adj. (linguistics) of or relating to the pat perfect tense of verbs; pluperfect endings; more than perfect; he spoke with pluperfect precision@n. a perfective tense used to express action completed in the past
plural adj. grammatical number category referring to two or more items or units@n. the form of a word that is used to denote more than one
pluralism n. the doctrine that reality consists of several basic substances or elements
pluralist n. a philosopher who believes that no single explanation can account for all the phenomena of nature; someone who believes that distinct ethnic or cultural or religious groups can exist together in society
pluralistic adj. of or relating to the philosophical doctrine of pluralism; a pluralistic culture
plurality n. (in an election with more than 2 options) the number of votes for the candidate or party receiving the greatest number (but less that half of the votes)
pluralize v. to make plural or express in the plural form -- pluralization n.
plus n. a useful or valuable quality; the arithmetic operation of summing; calculating the sum of two or more numbers; four plus three equals seven@adj. on the positive side or higher end of a scale; a plus value; involving advantage or good
plush n. a fabric with a nap that is longer and softer than velvet@adj. characterized by extravagance and profusion
plushy adj. characterized by extravagance and profusion
plutocracy n. a political system governed by the wealthy people
plutocrat n. someone who exercises power by virtue of wealth
plutocratic adj. of or relating to or characteristic of a plutocrat
plutocratical adj. of or relating to or characteristic of a plutocrat
pluton n. large mass of intrusive igneous rock believed to have solidified deep within the earth
plutonic adj. igneous rock that has solidified beneath the earth's surface; granite or diorite or gabbro
plutonium n. a radioactive transuranic element that is similar to uranium; found in minute quantities in uranium ores but is usually synthesized in nuclear reactors; 13 isotopes are known with the most important being plutonium 239
pluvial adj. of or relating to rain; characterized by abundant rain
ply n. one of the strands twisted together to make yarn or rope or thread@v. provide what is desired or needed, esp. support, food or sustenance; apply oneself diligently; travel a route regularly; Ships ply the waters near the coast; wield vigorously
plyboard n. a laminate made of thin layers of wood
plyers n. a gripping tool with two hinged arms and (usually) serrated jaws
plywood n. a laminate made of thin layers of wood
pneumatic adj. of or relating to or using air (or a similar gas); pneumatic drill
pneumatically adv. in a pneumatic manner; at the present time the transmission is very often done hydraulically or pneumatically
pneumatics n. the branch of mechanics that deals with the mechanical properties of gases
pneumococcus n. bacteria causing pneumonia
pneumoconiosis n. chronic disease caused by inhaling metallic or mineral particles
pneumocystosis n. an opportunistic infection causing a serious form of pneumonia
pneumogastric adj. (neurology) of or relating to the vagus nerve; of or relating to or involving the lungs and stomach@n. a mixed nerve that supplies the pharynx, larynx, lungs, heart, esophagus, stomach, and most of the abdominal viscera
pneumonectomy n. surgical removal of a lung (usually to treat lung cancer)
pneumonia n. inflammation of the lungs with congestion caused by viruses or bacteria or irritants
pneumonic adj. relating to or affecting the lungs
pneumonitis n. inflammation of the lungs; caused by a virus or an allergic reaction
poach v. hunt illegally; cook in a simmering liquid
poached adj. cooked in hot water
poacher n. someone who hunts or fishes illegally on the property of another; small slender fish (to 8 inches) with body covered by bony plates; chiefly of deeper north Pacific waters
poaching n. cooking in simmering water
pochard n. heavy-bodied Old World diving duck having a gray-and-black body and reddish head
pock n. a pustule in an eruptive disease@v. mark with a scar
pocked adj. used of paved surfaces having holes or pits; marked by or as if by smallpox or acne or other eruptive skin disease
pocket n. a small pouch in a garment for carrying small articles; an enclosed space; a supply of money; a hollow concave shape made by removing something; a saclike structure in any of various animals@v. put in one's pocket; take unlawfully
pocketbook n. a bag used for carrying money and small personal items or accessories (especially by women)
pocketcomb n. a small comb suitable for carrying in a pocket
pocketful n. the quantity a pocket will hold
pocketknife n. a knife with a blade that folds into the handle; suitable for carrying in the pocket
pockmark v. mark wit pockmarks
pockmarked adj. used of paved surfaces having holes or pits; marked by or as if by smallpox or acne or other eruptive skin disease
pocosin n. an upland swamp of the coastal plain of the southeastern U.S.
pod v. take something out of its shell or pod, such as peas or beans@n. the vessel that contains the seeds of a plant (not the seeds themselves); a several-seeded dehiscent fruit as e.g. of a leguminous plant; a group of aquatic mammals
podetium n. an organ or body resembling a stalk especially the stalklike outgrowth of the thallus of certain lichens on which the ascocarp is borne
podgy adj. short and fat
podiatrist n. a specialist in care for the feet
podiatry n. the branch of medicine concerned with the feet
podium n. a platform raised above the surrounding level to give prominence to the person on it
podocarp n. any S-hemisphere evergreen of the genus Podocarpus having a pulpy fruit with one hard seed
podsol n. a soil that develops in temperate to cold moist climates under coniferous or heath vegetation; an organic mat over a gray leached layer
podzol n. a soil that develops in temperate to cold moist climates under coniferous or heath vegetation; an organic mat over a gray leached layer
poeciliid n. small usually brightly-colored viviparous surface-feeding fishes of fresh or brackish warm waters; often used in mosquito control
poem n. a composition written in metrical feet forming rhythmical lines
poenology n. the branch of criminology concerned with prison management and prisoner rehabilitation
poesy n. literature in metrical form
poet n. a writer of poems
poetaster n. an inferior poet
poetess n. a woman poet
poetic adj. of or relating to poetry; poetic works; characterized by romantic imagery; Turner's vision of the rainbow...was poetic; of or relating to poets; poetic insight; characteristic of or befitting poetry; poetic diction
poetical adj. of or relating to poetry; characteristic of or befitting poetry
poetically adv. in a poetic manner; poetically expressed
poetics n. study of poetic works
poetize v. compose verses; put into verse
poetry n. literature in metrical form; any communication resembling poetry in beauty or the evocation of feeling
pogey n. (Great Britain) money received from the state
pogge n. North Atlantic sea poacher
pogonia n. any hardy bog orchid of the genus Pogonia: terrestrial orchids having slender rootstocks and erect stems bearing one or a few leaves and a solitary terminal flower
pogonophoran n. slender animal with tentacles and a tubelike outer covering; lives on the deep ocean bottom
pogrom n. organized persecution of an ethnic group (especially Jews)
pogy n. (Great Britain) money received from the state
poi n. Hawaiian dish of taro root pounded to a paste and often allowed to ferment
poignance n. a state of deeply felt distress or sorrow
poignancy n. a state of deeply felt distress or sorrow: a moment of extraordinary poignancy; a quality that arouses emotions (especially pity or sorrow)
poignant adj. arousing affect; poignant grief cannot endure forever; keenly distressing to the mind or feelings; poignant anxiety
poignantly adv. in a poignant or touching manner; she spoke poignantly
poikilothermic adj. of animals except birds and mammals; having body temperature that varies with the environment
poikilothermous adj. of animals except birds and mammals; having body temperature that varies with the environment
poilu n. thick stew made of rice and chicken and small game; southern U.S.
poinciana n. a tropical flowering shrub having bright orange or red flowers; sometimes placed in genus Poinciana
poinsettia n. tropical American plant having poisonous milk and showy tapering usually scarlet petallike leaves surrounding small yellow flowers
point n. a geometric element that has position but no extension; a point is defined by its coordinates@v. indicate a place, direction, person, or thing; either spatially or figuratively; be oriented; direct into a position for use; point a gun
pointed adj. having a point; having the foot stretched out in line with the leg and the toes forming a point; keep the legs straight and the toes pointed; direct and obvious in meaning or reference; often unpleasant; a pointed critique
pointedly adv. in such a manner as to make something clearly evident; he pointedly ignored the question
pointedness n. the property of a shape that tapers to a sharp point
pointer n. a mark to indicate a direction or relation; an indicator as on a dial; (computer science) a movable spot of light (an icon) on a visual display; moving the cursor allows the user to point to commands or screen positions
pointing adj. that points
pointless adj. not having a point especially a sharp point; my pencils are all pointless; serving no useful purpose; having no excuse for being; lacking import; a pointless remark
pointlessly adv. in a pointless manner; he spent his life in pointlessly tiresome drudgery
pointlessness n. total lack of meaning or ideas
pointsman n. (British) a policeman stationed at an intersection to direct traffic
poise v. be motionless, in suspension; prepare (oneself) for something unpleasant or difficult; cause to be balanced or suspended; hold or carry in equilibrium@n. a cgs unit of dynamic viscosity equal to one dyne-second per square centimeter
poised adj. marked by balance or equilibrium and readiness for action; a gull in poised flight; in full control of your faculties; perfectly poised and sure of himself
poison v. spoil as if by poison; poison someone's mind; kill with poison; add poison to; kill by its poison; administer poison to@n. any substance that causes injury or illness or death of a living organism; anything that harms or destroys
poisonberry n. Eurasian herb naturalized in America having white flowers and poisonous hairy foliage and bearing black berries that are sometimes poisonous but sometimes edible
poisoner n. someone who kills with poison
poisoning n. the physiological state produced by a poison or a toxic substance; killing by the administration of poison
poisonous adj. having the qualities or effects of a poison; not safe to eat; marked by deep ill will; deliberately harmful
poisonously adv. in a very malevolent manner
poke n. tall coarse perennial American herb having small white flowers followed by blackish-red berries on long drooping racemes@v. poke or thrust abruptly; search or inquire in a meddlesome way; stir by poking; poke the embers in the fireplace
poker n. a metal rod with a handle; used to stir a fire; any of various card games in which players bet that they hold the highest-ranking hand
pokeweed n. perennial of the genus Phytolacca
pokey n. a slang term for jail@adj. wasting time; small and remote and insignificant
poking n. a sharp hand gesture (resembling a blow)
poky adj. wasting time; small and remote and insignificant; passed a series of poky little one-horse towns
pol n. a person active in party politics
polack n. a person of Polish descent
polar adj. having a pair of equal and opposite charges; characterized by opposite extremes; completely opposed; extreme and indefensible polar positions; located at or near or coming from the earth's poles; polar diameter
polarimeter n. an apparatus to measure the rotation of the plane of vibration of polarized light
polarisation n. the phenomenon in which waves of light or other radiation are restricted in direction of vibration
polariscope n. an apparatus to measure the rotation of the plane of vibration of polarized light
polarity n. a relation between two opposite attributes or tendencies; he viewed it as a balanced polarity between good and evil
polarization n. the phenomenon in which waves of light or other radiation are restricted in direction of vibration; the condition of having or giving polarity
polarize v. cause to vibrate in a definite pattern; polarize light waves; cause to concentrate about two conflicting or contrasting positions; become polarized in a conflict or contrasting situation
pole v. propel with a pole; of barges on rivers, for example; support on poles, of climbing plants, such as beans@n. a long (usually round) rod of wood or metal or plastic; one of two divergent or mutually exclusive opinions; or
poleax n. an ax used to slaughter cattle; has a hammer opposite the blade; a battle ax used in the Middle Ages; a long handled ax and a pick@v. fell with or as if with a poleax
poleaxe v. fell with or as if with a poleax@n. an ax used to slaughter cattle; has a hammer opposite the blade; a battle ax used in the Middle Ages; a long handled ax and a pick
polecat n. American musteline mammal typically ejecting an intensely malodorous fluid when startled; in some classifications put in a separate subfamily Mephitinae
polemic n. a controversy (especially over a belief or dogma)@adj. of or involving dispute or controversy
polemical adj. of or involving dispute or controversy
polemically adv. involving controversy; criticism too polemically stated
polemicise v. engage in a controversy
polemicize v. engage in a controversy
polemize v. engage in a controversy
polemoniaceous adj. of or pertaining to or characteristic of plants of the family Polemoniaceae
polemonium n. any plant of the genus Polemonium; most are low-growing often foul-smelling plants of temperate to arctic regions
poler n. a horse harnessed alongside the shaft or pole of a vehicle
polestar n. the brightest star in Ursa Minor; at the end of the handle of the little dipper; the northern axis of the earth points toward it
police n. the force of policemen and officers@v. maintain the security of by carrying out a control
policeman n. a member of a police force
policemen n. pl. of policeman
policewoman n. a woman policeman
policy n. a line of argument rationalizing the course of action of a government; they debated the policy or impolicy of the proposed legislation; a plan of action adopted by an individual or social group; it was a policy of retribution
policyholder n. an insured person; the client in whose name an insurance policy is written
polio n. an acute viral disease marked by inflammation of nerve cells of the brain stem and spinal cord
poliomyelitis n. an acute viral disease marked by inflammation of nerve cells of the brain stem and spinal cord
poliovirus n. the virus causing poliomyelitis
polish v. of surfaces; improve or perfect by pruning or polishing; make shiny; bring to a highly developed, finished, or refined state@n. the property of being smooth and shiny; a highly developed state; they performed with great polish
polished adj. perfected or made shiny and smooth; his polished prose; showing a high degree of refinement and the assurance that comes from wide social experience; his polished manner
polisher n. a power tool used to buff surfaces
polishing n. the work of making something shine by polishing it
politburo n. the chief executive and political committee of the Communist Party
polite adj. showing regard for others in manners, speech, behavior, etc.; marked by refinement in taste and manners; polite society
politely adv. in a polite manner; the policeman answered politely, `Now look here, lady...'
politeness n. a courteous manner that respects accepted social usage; the act of showing regard for others
politesse n. courtesy towards women
politic adj. marked by artful prudence, expedience, and shrewdness; it is neither polite nor politic to get into other people's quarrels
political adj. involving or characteristic of politics or parties or politicians; political pressure; of or relating to your views about social relationships involving authority or power; political opinions
politically adv. with regard to social relationships involving authority; politically correct clothing; with regard to government; politically organized units
politician n. a leader engaged in civil administration; a person active in party politics; a schemer who tries to gain advantage in an organization in sly or underhanded ways
politicize v. give a political character to; politicize the discussion
politick v. engage in political activities
politico n. a person active in party politics
politics n. social relations involving authority or power; the study of government of states and other political units; the profession devoted to governing and to political affairs; the opinion you hold with respect to political questions
polity n. the form of government of a social organization; a politically organized unit; shrewd or crafty management of public affairs; we was innocent of stratagems and polity
polka n. music performed for dancing the polka; a Bohemian dance with 3 steps and a hop in fast time
poll n. an inquiry into public opinion conducted by interviewing a random sample of people; the top of the head; the part of the head between the ears; a tame parrot@v. get the opinions of people, for example; vote in an election at a polling station
pollack n. lean white flesh of North Atlantic fish; similar to codfish; important food and game fish of northern seas especially North Atlantic; related to cod
pollard v. convert into a pollard, as of trees@n. a tree with limbs cut back to promote a more bushy growth of foliage; a usually horned animal that as either shed its horns or had them removed
pollen n. a fine powder produced by the anthers of seed-bearing plants; fine grains contain male gametes
pollenation n. transfer of pollen from the anther to the stigma of a plant
pollex n. the thick short innermost digit of the forelimb
pollinate v. fertilize by transfering pollen
pollination n. transfer of pollen from the anther to the stigma of a plant
pollinator n. an insect that carries pollen from one flower to another
pollinosis n. a seasonal rhinitis resulting from an allergic reaction to pollen
polliwog n. a larval frog or toad
pollock n. lean white flesh of North Atlantic fish; similar to codfish; important food and game fish of northern seas especially North Atlantic; related to cod
polls n. the place where people vote
pollster n. someone who conducts surveys of public opinion
pollucite n. a rare mineral that is an important source of cesium
pollutant n. waste matter that contaminates the water or air or soil
pollute v. make impure
polluted adj. rendered unwholesome by contaminants and pollution; polluted lakes and streams
pollution n. the state of being contaminated with harmful substances; the state of being polluted; the act of contaminating or polluting; including (either intentionally or accidentally) unwanted substances or factors
pollyannaish adj. pleasantly (even unrealistically) optimistic
pollyfish n. gaudy tropical fishes with parrotlike beaks formed by fusion of teeth
pollywog n. a larval frog or toad
polo n. a game similar to field hockey but played on horseback using long-handled mallets and a wooden ball
polonaise n. a woman's costume with a tight bodice and an overskirt drawn back to reveal a colorful underskirt
polonium n. a radioactive metallic_element that is similar to tellurium and bismuth; occurs in uranium ores but can be produced by bombarding bismuth with neutrons in a nuclear reactor
polony n. (British) another name for Bologna sausage
poltergeist n. a ghost that announces its presence with rapping and the creation of disorder
poltroon adj. characterized by complete cowardliness@n. an abject coward
poltroonery n. abject pusillanimity
polyamide n. a polymer containing repeated amide groups
polyandrist n. a woman with two or more husbands
polyandrous adj. having more than one husband at a time
polyandry n. having more than one husband at a time
polyanthus n. florists' primroses; considered a complex hybrid derived from oxlip, cowslip, and common primrose
polybutene n. a polymer of butylene; used in lubricants and synthetic rubber
polybutylene n. a polymer of butylene; used in lubricants and synthetic rubber
polychaete n. chiefly marine annelids possessing both sexes and having paired appendages (parapodia) bearing bristles
polychete n. chiefly marine annelids possessing both sexes and having paired appendages (parapodia) bearing bristles
polychromatic adj. (of light or other electromagnetic radiation) composed of more than one wavelength; polychromatic light; having or exhibiting many colors
polychrome v. color with many colors; make polychrome@adj. having or exhibiting many colors
polychromic adj. having or exhibiting many colors
polychromize v. color with many colors; make polychrome
polyclinic n. a clinic or hospital treating diseases of many sorts
polycrystalline adj. composed of aggregates of crystals; polycrystalline metals
polycythemia n. a disorder characterized by an abnormal increase in the number of red blood cells in the blood
polyelectrolyte n. an electrolyte of high molecular weight
polyester n. any of numerous synthetic resins; they are light and strong and weather resistant; a complex ester used for making fibers or resins or plastics or as a plasticizer; any of a large class of synthetic fabrics
polyestrous adj. having more than one period of estrus per year
polyethylene n. a lightweight thermoplastic; used especially in packaging and insulation
polyfoam n. a foam made by adding water to polyurethane plastics
polygamist n. someone who is married to two or more people at the same time
polygamous adj. having more than one mate at a time; used of relationships and individuals
polygamy n. having more than one wife at a time
polyglot adj. having a command of or composed in many languages; a polyglot traveler@n. a person who speaks more than one language
polygon n. a closed plane figure bounded by straight sides
polygonal adj. having many sides or relating to a surface marked by polygons; polygonal structure
polygonally adv. in a polygonal manner
polygynist n. a man with two or more wives
polygynous adj. having more than one wife at a time
polygyny n. having more than one wife at a time
polyhedral adj. of or relating to or resembling a polyhedron
polyhedron n. a solid figure bounded by plane polygons or faces
polymastigote n. flagellates with several flagella
polymath n. a person of encyclopedic learning
polymer n. naturally occurring or synthetic; consisting of large molecules made up of a linked series of repeated simple monomers
polymerase n. an enzyme that catalyzes the formation of DNA and RNA from an existing strand of DNA or RNA
polymeric adj. of or relating to or consisting of a polymer; a polymeric compound
polymerisation n. a process of combining several molecules to form a polymer or polymeric compound
polymerization n. a process of combining several molecules to form a polymer or polymeric compound
polymerize v. cause to polymerize, as of a chemical compound; undergo polymerization, of a chemical compound
polymorph n. an organism that can assume more than one adult form as in the castes of ants or termites
polymorphemic adj. consisting of two or more morphemes
polymorphic adj. (chemistry) relating to the crystallization of a compound in two or more different forms
polymorphism n. (chemistry) the existence of different kinds of crystal of the same chemical compound; the existence of two or more forms of individuals within the same species (independent of sex differences)
polymorphous adj. (chemistry) relating to the crystallization of a compound in two or more different forms; polymorphous crystalzation
polymyositis n. inflammation of many muscles
polymyxin n. any of several toxic antibiotics obtained from a particular soil bacterium
polyneuritis n. inflammation of many or all of the peripheral nerves
polynomial n. a mathematical expression that is the sum of a number of terms@adj. having the character of a polynomial; a polynomial expression
polyoestrous adj. having more than one period of estrus per year
polyoma n. a virus the can initiate various kinds of tumors in mice
polyose n. any of a class of carbohydrates whose molecules contain chains of monosaccharide molecules
polyp n. a small vascular growth on the surface of a mucous membrane; one of two forms that coelenterates take e.g. a hydra or coral: usually sedentary and has a hollow cylindrical body usually with a ring of tentacles around the mouth
polypeptide n. a peptide containing 10 to more than 100 amino acids
polypetalous adj. having a corolla composed of many separated or distinct petals
polyphone n. a letter that has two or more pronunciations; `c' is a polyphone because it is pronounced like `k' in `car' but like `s' in `cell'
polyphonic adj. (linguistics) having two or more phonetic values; polyphonic letters such as `a'; (music) polyphonic traditions of the baroque; (music) having two or more independent but harmonically related melodic parts sounding together
polyphonically adv. in a polyphonic manner; polyphonically composed
polyphonous adj. (music)
polyphony n. music arranged in parts for several voices or instruments
polyphosphate n. a salt or ester of polyphosphoric acid
polyplacophore n. primitive elongated bilaterally symmetrical marine mollusk having a mantle covered with eight calcareous plates
polyploid adj. (genetics; of a cell or organism) having more than twice the haploid number of chromosomes; a polyploid cell@n. an organism or cell having more than twice the haploid number of chromosomes
polypody n. any of numerous ferns of the genus Polypodium
polypore n. woody pore fungi; any fungus of the family Polyporaceae or family Boletaceae having the spore-bearing surface within tubes or pores; the fruiting bodies are usually woody at maturity and persistent
polypropene n. a polymer of propylene used as a thermoplastic molding material
polypropylene n. a polymer of propylene used as a thermoplastic molding material
polyptoton n. repetition of a word in a different case or inflection in the same sentence
polypus n. a small vascular growth on the surface of a mucous membrane
polysaccharide n. any of a class of carbohydrates whose molecules contain chains of monosaccharide molecules
polysemous adj. of words; having many meanings
polysemy n. the ambiguity of an individual word or phrase that can be used (in different contexts) to express two or more different meanings
polystyrene n. a polymer of styrene; a rigid transparent thermoplastic; expanded polystyrene looks like a rigid white foam and is used as packing or insulation
polysyllabic adj. having or characterized by words of more than three syllables; (of words) long and ponderous; having many syllables
polysyllable n. a word of more than three syllables
polysyndeton n. using several conjunctions in close succession, especially where some might be omitted (as in `he ran and jumped and laughed for joy')
polysynthetic adj. forming derivative or compound words by putting together constituents each of which expresses a single definite meaning
polytechnic n. a technical school offering instruction in many industrial arts and applied sciences
polytheism n. belief in multiple Gods
polytheistic adj. worshipping or believing in more than one god
polythene n. a lightweight thermoplastic; used especially in packaging and insulation
polytonal adj. using more than one key or tonality simultaneously; exciting rhythms and polytonal harmonies
polytonalism n. music that uses two or more different keys at the same time
polytonality n. music that uses two or more different keys at the same time
polyunsaturated adj. (of long-chain carbon compounds especially fats) having many unsaturated bonds
polyurethane n. any of various polymers containing the urethane radical; a wide variety of synthetic forms are made and used as adhesives or plastics or paints or rubber
polyvalent adj. (immunology) containing several antibodies each capable of counteracting a specific antigen; a polyvalent vaccine; (chemistry) having more than one valence, or having a valence of 3 or higher
polyzoa n. marine or freshwater animals that form colonies of zooids
polyzoan n. sessile aquatic animal forming mosslike colonies of small polyps each having a curved or circular ridge bearing tentacles; attach to stones or seaweed and reproduce by budding
pom n. (Australian and New Zealand) a disparaging term for English immigrants to Australia or New Zealand
pomade v. apply pomade to, of hair@n. a perfumed oil or ointment for the hair
pomaded adj. (of hair) groomed with pomade; pomaded hair
pomatum n. a perfumed oil or ointment for the hair
pome n. a fleshy fruit (apple or pear or related fruits) having seed chambers and an outer fleshy part
pomegranate n. shrub or small tree native to southwestern Asia having large red many-seeded fruit; large globular fruit having many seeds with juicy red pulp in a tough brownish-red rind
pomelo n. southeastern Asian tree producing large fruits resembling grapefruits; large pear-shaped fruit similar to grapefruit but with coarse dry pulp
pomfret n. deep-bodied sooty-black pelagic spiny-finned fish of North Atlantic and North Pacific; valued for food
pommel n. raised front part of a saddle; an ornament in the shape of a ball on the hilt of a sword or dagger@v. strike with the fist
pommy n. (Australian and New Zealand) a disparaging term for English immigrants to Australia or New Zealand
pomology n. the branch of botany that studies and cultivates fruits
pomp n. ceremonial elegance and splendor
pompadour v. style women's hair in a pompadour@n. a hair style in which the front hair is swept up from the forehead
pompano n. flesh of pompano; warm-water fatty fish; any of several deep-bodied food fishes of western Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico
pompon n. a ball of tufted wool or silk worn on a hat for decoration; dusky gray food fish found from Louisiana and Florida southward
pomposity n. lack of elegance as a consequence of pomposity
pompous adj. puffed up with vanity; a pompous speech
pompously adv. in a pompous manner; he pompously described his achievements
pompousness n. lack of elegance as a consequence of pomposity
ponce n. someone who procures customers for whores (in England they call a pimp a ponce)
poncho n. a blanket-like cloak with a hole in the center for the head
pond n. a small lake; the pond was too small for sailing
ponder v. think about at length and in depth
ponderable adj. capable of being weighed or considered; possible to ponder
pondering adj. persistently or morbidly thoughtful
ponderosa n. common and widely distributed tall timber pine of western North America having dark green needles in bunches of 2 to 5 and thick bark with dark brown plates when mature
ponderosity n. the property of being large in mass
ponderous adj. slow and laborious because of weight; ponderous prehistoric beasts; having great mass and weight and unwieldiness; a ponderous stone; labored and dull; a ponderous speech
ponderously adv. in an uninterestingly ponderous manner; the play was staged with ponderously realistic sets; in a heavy ponderous manner; he moves ponderously
ponderousness n. the property of being large in mass
pondweed n. any of several submerged or floating freshwater perennial aquatic weeds belonging to the family Potamogetonaceae; submerged freshwater perennials
pone n. often made without milk or eggs and baked or fried (Southern)
pongee n. a soft thin cloth woven from raw silk (or an imitation)
pongid n. any of the large anthropoid apes of the family Pongidae
poniard n. a dagger with a slender blade@v. stab with a poniard
pons n. a band of nerve fibers linking the medulla oblongata and the cerebellum with the midbrain
pontiff n. the head of the Roman Catholic Church
pontifical adj. puffed up with vanity
pontificals n. pl. the insignia worn by a bishop when celebrating a pontifical mass
pontificate v. talk in a dogmatic and pompous manner@n. the government of the Roman Catholic Church
pontoon n. a floating structure (as a flat-bottomed boat) that serves as a dock or to support a bridge; a float supporting a seaplane
pony n. a range horse of the western United States; an informal term for a racehorse; a literal translation used in studying a foreign language (often used illicitly); a small glass adequate to hold a single swallow of whiskey
ponycart n. a cart with an underslung axle and two seats
ponytail n. a hair style that draws the hair back so that it hangs down in back of the head like a pony's tail
pooch v. round one's lips as if intending to kiss@n. informal terms
pood n. a Russian unit of weight equal to approximately 36 pounds
poodle n. an intelligent dog with a heavy curly solid-colored coat that is usually clipped; an old breed sometimes trained as sporting dogs or as performing dogs
poof n. a disparaging term for an openly homosexual man
pool n. a hole that is (usually) filled with water; a small lake; an organization of people or resources that can be shared; a car pool; an association of companies for some definite purpose@v. combine into a common fund; add together, as of resources
poolroom n. a room with pool tables where pool is played
poon n. wood of any poon tree; used for masts and spars; any of several East Indian trees of the genus Calophyllum having shiny leathery leaves and lightweight hard wood
poop n. obscene terms for feces; a stupid foolish person; slang terms for inside information; the rear part of a ship
poor adj. moderate to inferior in quality; he would make a poor spy; deserving or inciting pity; couldn't rescue the poor fellow; having little money or few possessions; deplored the gap between rich and poor countries
poorest adj. the lowest rank
poorhouse n. an establishment maintained at public expense in order to provide housing for the poor and homeless
poorly adv. (`ill' is often used as a combining form) in a poor or improper or unsatisfactory manner; not well; the team played poorly@adj. somewhat ill or prone to illness; feeling poorly
poorness n. the state of having little or no money and few or no material possessions; less than adequate; the relative poorness of New England farmland; the quality of being meager
poorwill n. goatsucker of western North America
poove n. a disparaging term for an openly homosexual man
pop n. an informal term for a father; probably derived from baby talk@adj. (of music or art) new and of general appeal (especially among young people)@adv. like a pop or with a pop; everything went pop@v. bulge outward; hit a pop-fly, in baseball
popcorn n. corn having small ears and kernels that burst when exposed to dry heat; small kernels of corn exploded by heat
pope n. the head of the Roman Catholic Church
popery n. an offensive term for the practices and rituals of the Roman Catholic Church
popeyed adj. (colloq) with eyes or mouth open in surprise; having bulging eyes
popgun n. a toy gun that makes a popping sound
popinjay n. a vain and talkative person (chatters like a parrot); archaic
popish adj. of or relating to or supporting Romanism
popishly adv. like the Pope; in a popish manner
poplar n. soft light-colored nondurable wood of the poplar; any of numerous trees of north temperate regions having light soft wood and flowers borne in catkins
poplin n. a ribbed fabric used in clothing and upholstery
popliteal adj. of or relating to the area behind the knee joint
popover n. light hollow muffin made of a puff batter (individual Yorkshire pudding) baked in a deep muffin cup
poppet n. a mushroom-shaped valve that rises perpendicular from its seat; commonly used in internal-combustion engines
popping n. a sharp explosive sound as from a gunshot or drawing a cork
poppy n. annual or biennial or perennial herbs having showy flowers
poppycock n. senseless talk
popsicle n. ice cream or water ice on a small wooden stick; in England a popsicle is called an ice lolly
populace n. people in general considered as a whole
popular adj. regarded with great favor, approval, or affection especially by the general public; a popular tourist attraction; carried on by or for the people (or citizens) at large; the popular vote
popularisation n. the act of making something attractive to the general public
popularism n. music adapted to the understanding and taste of the majority
popularity n. the quality of being widely admired or accepted or sought after: his charm soon won him affection and popularity
popularization n. an interpretation that easily understandable and acceptable; the act of making something attractive to the general public
popularize v. cater to popular taste to make popular and present to the general public
popularly adv. among the people; this topic was popularly discussed
populate v. make one's home or live in
populated adj. furnished with inhabitants; the area is well populated
populating n. the act of populating (causing to live in a place)
population n. the people who inhabit a territory or state; the population seemd to be well fed and clothed; a group of organisms of the same species populating a given area; they hired hunters to keep down the deer population
populism n. the political doctrine that supports the rights and powers of the common people in their struggle with the privileged elite
populist n. an advocate of democratic principles
populous adj. densely populated
porbeagle n. voracious pointed-nose shark of northern Atlantic and Pacific
porc n. meat from a domestic hog or pig
porcelain n. made of a more or less translucent ceramic
porch n. a structure attached to the exterior of a building often forming a covered entrance
porcine adj. relating to or suggesting swine; comparison between human and porcine pleasures; repellently fat; a bald porcine old man
porcupine n. relatively large rodents with sharp erectile bristles mingled with the fur
porcupinefish n. spines become erect when the body is inflated; worldwide in warm waters
porcupines n. meat patties rolled in rice and simmered in a tomato sauce
pore n. any tiny hole admitting passage of a liquid (fluid or gas); any small opening in the skin or outer surface of an animal; a minute epidermal pore in a leaf or stem@v. focus one's attention on something
porgy n. lean flesh of fish found in warm waters of southern Atlantic coast of the United States; important deep-bodied food and sport fish of warm and tropical coastal waters; found worldwide
poriferan n. primitive multicellular marine animal whose porous body is supported by a fibrous skeletal framework; usually occurs in sessile colonies
poriferous adj. full of pores or vessels or holes
pork n. meat from a domestic hog or pig; a legislative appropriation designed to ingratiate legislators with their constituents
porkchop n. chop cut from a hog
porker n. a pig fattened to provide meat
porkfish n. black and gold grunt found from Bermuda to Caribbean to Brazil
porkholt n. made of lamb or pork
porkpie n. man's hat with a low, flat crown and a snap brim
porn n. illegal activities designed to stimulate sexual desire
porno n. illegal activities designed to stimulate sexual desire
pornographer n. someone who presents shows or sells writing or pictures that are sexually explicit in violation of the community mores
pornographic adj. designed to arouse lust; pornographic films and magazines
pornography n. illegal activities designed to stimulate sexual desire
poroporo n. Australian annual sometimes cultivated for its racemes of purple flowers and edible yellow egg-shaped fruit
porose adj. forming a continuous series of pores; a porose hymenium
porosity n. the property of being porous; being able to absorb fluids
porous adj. able to absorb fluids; the partly porous walls of our digestive system; full of pores or vessels or holes; allowing passage in and out; our unfenced and largely unpoliced border inevitably has been very porous
porousness n. the property of being porous; being able to absorb fluids
porphyria n. a genetic abnormality of metabolism causing abdominal pains and mental confusion
porphyritic adj. (of rocks) consisting of porphyry or containing large crystals in a fine groundmass of minerals
porphyry n. any igneous rock with crystals embedded in a finer groundmass of minerals
porpoise n. any of several small gregarious cetacean mammals having a blunt snout and many teeth
porridge n. soft food made by boiling oatmeal or other meal or legumes in water or milk until thick
porringer n. a shallow metal bowl (usually with a handle) from which children eat
port n. a place (seaport or airport) where people and merchandise can enter or leave a country@adj. on the left-hand side of a vessel or aircraft when facing forward@v. carry diagonally across the body
portability n. the quality of being light enough to be carried
portable n. a small light typewriter@adj. easily or conveniently transported; a portable television set; of a motor designed to be attached to the outside of a boat's hull; a portable outboard motor
portage n. the cost of carrying or transporting; overland route between navigable waterways; carrying boats and supplies overland
portal n. an grand and imposing entrance (often extended metaphorically)
portcullis n. an iron or wooden grating that hangs in the entry to a castle or fortified town; can be lowered to prevent passage
portend v. indicate by signs
portent n. a sign of something about to happen
portentous adj. of momentous or ominous significance; of ominous significance; puffed up with vanity
portentously adv. in a portentous manner; portentously, the engines began to roll
porter n. a person employed to carry luggage and supplies; someone who guards the entrance to a building; a railroad employee who assists passengers (especially on sleeping cars); dark sweet ale brewed from black malt
porterage n. the charge for carrying burdens by porters; the transportation of burdens by porters
porterhouse n. large steak from the thick end of the short loin containing a T-shaped bone and large piece of tenderloin
portfolio n. a case for carrying papers or drawings or maps; usually leather
porthole n. a window in a ship or airplane; an opening (in a wall or ship or armored vehicle) for firing through
portico n. a covered often columned area serving as a porch or entrance to a building
porticoed adj. marked by columniation having free columns in porticoes either at both ends or at both sides of a structure
portiere n. a heavy curtain hung across a doorway
portion n. something determined in relation to something that includes it; I read a portion of the manuscript; something less than the whole of a human artifact; the result of parcelling out or sharing@v. give out
portionless adj. having no portion
portly adj. euphemisms for `fat'; men are portly and women are stout
portmanteau n. a word formed by joining two others (e.g., `smog' is a blend of `smoke' and `fog'); a large travelling bag made of stiff leather
portrait n. a painting of a person's face; a word picture of a person's appearance and character; any likeness of a person
portraitist n. a painter of portraits
portraiture n. a word picture of a person's appearance and character; the activity of making portraits
portray v. portray in words; make a portrait of; assume or act the character of; represent in a painting, drawing, sculpture, or verbally
portrayal n. a word picture of a person's appearance and character; acting the part of a character on stage; a representation by picture or portraiture; any likeness of a person; representation by drawing or painting etc
portrayed adj. represented graphically by sketch or design or lines
portraying n. a representation by picture or portraiture
portulaca n. a plant of the genus Portulaca having pink or red or purple or white ephemeral flowers
portwatcher n. a watchman on a wharf
pose n. affected manners intended to impress others@v. introduce; as for artistic purposes; pretend to be someone you are not; with fraudulent intentions; behave affectedly in order to impress others; pretend to be someone or something else; place firmly
poser n. a person who habitually pretends to be something he is not; a person who poses for a photographer or painter or sculptor; a particularly difficult or baffling question or problem
poseur n. a person who habitually pretends to be something he is not
poseuse n. a woman poseur
posh adj. (informal) elegant and fashionable; a posh restaurant
posing n. the act of assuming a certain position (as for a photograph or portrait)
posit v. place firmly; take as a given; assume as a postulate or axiom
position v. cause to be in an appropriate place, state, or relation; put into a certain place:@n. the particular portion of space occupied by a physical object; a point occupied by troops for tactical reasons; a way of regarding situations or topics etc.
positionable adj. capable of being positioned
positional adj. of or relating to or determined by position
positioner n. (computer science) the actuator that moves a read/write head to the proper data track
positioning adj. causing to fall into line or into position@n. the act of putting something in a certain place or location
positive n. a film showing a photographic image whose tones correspond to those of the original subject@adj. characterized by or displaying affirmation or acceptance or certainty etc.; a positive attitude; involving advantage or good
positively adv. (intensifier) extremely; it was positively monumental; so as to be positive; in a positive manner; she intended her remarks to be interpreted positively
positiveness n. characterized by dogmatic assertiveness
positivism n. the form of empiricism that bases knowledge on perceptual experience; a quality or state characterized by certainty or acceptance or affirmation
positivist n. someone who emphasizes observable facts and excludes metaphysical speculation about origins or ultimate causes@adj. of or relating to positivism; positivist thinkers
positivistic adj. of or relating to positivism
positivity n. a quality or state characterized by certainty or acceptance or affirmation
positron n. an elementary particle with positive charge; interaction of a positron and an electron results in annihilation
posology n. the pharmacological determination of appropriate doses of drugs and medicines
posse n. a temporary police force
posseman n. an able-bodied man serving as a member of a posse
possess v. have as an attribute, knowledge, or skill; have ownership or possession of; enter into and control, as of emotions or ideas
possessed adj. influenced or controlled by a powerful force such as a strong emotion; by love possessed; in a murderous frenzy as if possessed by a demon
possession n. the act of possessing; they took possession of the ball; anything owned or possessed; being controlled by passion or the supernatural; a mania restricted to one thing or idea
possessive adj. (grammar) serving to express or indicate possession; possessive pronouns; desirous of owning; small children are so possessive they will not let others play with their toys
possessively adv. in a possessive manner; he was sleeping, one arm flung possessively across his wife
possessiveness n. excessive desire to possess or dominate
possessor n. a person who owns something
posset n. sweet spiced hot milk curdled with ale or beer
possibility n. a future prospect or potential; capability of existing or happening or being true; there is a possibility that his sense of smell has been impaired
possible n. something that can be done; politics is the art of the possible@adj. capable of happening or existing; a breakthrough may be possible next year; existing in possibility; possible uses of nuclear poser; possible to conceive or imagine
possibleness n. capability of existing or happening or being true
possibly adv. by chance; we may possibly run into them at the concert; with a possibility of becoming actual; introducing possibly dangerous innovations; in a manner or to a degree possible of conceiving; is it possibly true?
possum n. nocturnal arboreal marsupial having a naked prehensile tail found from southern North America to northern South America; small furry Australian arboreal marsupials having long usually prehensile tails
possumwood n. medium-sized tree of dry woodlands in the southern and eastern United States bearing yellow or orange very astringent fruit that is edible when fully ripe
post v. affix in a public place or for public notice; post a warning; publicize with, or as it with, a poster@n. the position where something or someone (as a guard or sentry) stands or is assigned to stand@adj. (prefix) coming after
postage n. a token that postal fees have been paid
postal adj. of or relating to the system for delivering mail; postal delivery
postbag n. letter carrier's shoulder bag; in England they call a mailbag a postbag
postbox n. public box for deposit of mail
postboy n. postilion
postcard n. a card for sending messages by post without an envelope
postcava n. receives blood from lower limbs and abdominal organs and empties into the posterior part of the right atrium of the heart; formed from the union of the two iliac veins
postcode n. a code of letters and digits added to a postal address to aid in the sorting of mail
postconsonantal adj. immediately following a consonant
postdate v. be later in time; establish something as being later relative to something else
postdoctoral adj. of, relating to, or engaged in advanced academic or professional work beyond a doctor's degree; postdoctoral students
poster n. a sign posted in a public place as an advertisement; a poster advertised the coming attractions; a horse kept at an inn or post house for use by mail carriers or for rent to travelers
posterboard n. a cardboard suitable for making posters
posterior n. the fleshy part of the human body that you sit on; a tooth situated at the back of the mouth@adj. (zoology) at or near the hind end in quadrupeds or toward the spine in primates
posteriority n. the quality of being toward the back or (in quadrupeds) toward the rear end; following in time
posterity n. all of the offspring of a given progenitor; we must secure the benefits of freedom for ourselves and our posterity; all future generations
postern n. a small gate in the rear of a fort or castle
postganglionic adj. beyond or distal to a ganglion (referring especially to the unmyelinated fibers that originate from cells in autonomic ganglia)
postgraduate n. a student who continues studies after graduation@adj. of or relating to studies beyond a bachelor's degree
posthaste n. speed in traveling; great haste -- posthaste adj. or adv.
posthitis n. inflammation of the foreskin of the penis; usually caused by bacterial infection
posthole n. a hole dug in the ground to hold a fence post
posthumous adj. occurring after a person's death; (in the case of a child) born after the father's death; a posthumous award
posthumously adv. after death; these piano pieces were published posthumously
postiche n. a covering or bunch of human or artificial hair used for disguise or adornment; something false; not what it seems to be
postilion n. someone who rides the near horse of a pair in order to guide the horses pulling a carriage (especially a carriage without a coachman)
postillion n. someone who rides the near horse of a pair in order to guide the horses pulling a carriage (especially a carriage without a coachman)
posting n. the transmission of a letter
postlude n. an organ solo played at the end of a church service
postman n. a man who delivers the mail
postmark v. stamp with a postmark to indicate date and time of mailing@n. a cancellation mark stamped on mail by postal officials; indicates the post office and date of mailing
postmaster n. the person in charge of a post office
postmen n. pl. of postman
postmenopausal adj. subsequent to menopause
postmeridian adj. after noon
postmillennial adj. relating to or coming after the millennium
postmistress n. a woman postmaster
postmodern adj. of or relating to postmodernism
postmodernism n. art and literature and especially architecture in reaction against principles and practices of established modernism
postmodernist adj. of or relating to postmodernism; postmodernist architecture
postmortal adj. occurring or done after death; postmortal wounds
postmortem n. discussion of an event after it has occurred@adj. occurring or done after death; postmortem changes; after death or after an event
postnasal adj. lying or occurring posterior to the nose; postnasal drip
postnatal adj. occurring immediately after birth; postnatal development
postnuptial adj. relating to events after a marriage
postoperative adj. happening or done after a surgical operation; postoperative complications
postoperatively adv. after the operation; remove postoperatively
postpaid adj. used especially of mail; paid in advance
postpartum adj. following childbirth; postpartum depression
postpone v. hold back to a later time; let's postpone the exam
postponed adj. put off to later; our postponed trip
postponement n. time during which some action is awaited; act of putting off to a future time
postponer n. someone who postpones work (especially out of laziness or habitual carelessness)
postposition n. the placing of a modifier after the word that it modifies in a sentence
postpositive adj. (of a modifier) placed after another word
postprandial adj. following a meal (especially dinner); his postprandial cigar
postscript n. a note appended to a letter after the signature; textual matter that is added onto a publication; usually at the end
postulant n. one submitting a request or application especially one seeking admission into a religious order
postulate n. in logic: a proposition that is accepted as true in order to provide a basis for logical reasoning@v. maintain or assert; take as a given; assume as a postulate or axiom
postulation n. a declaration of something self-evident; something that can be assumed as the basis for argument
postulational adj. of or relating to or derived from axioms
postural adj. of or relating to or involving posture; postural exercises
posture v. as for artistic purposes@n. position or arrangement of the body and its limbs; characteristic way of bearing one's body: stood with good posture; a rationalized mental attitude
posturing n. adopting a vain conceited posture
postwar adj. belonging to the period after a war; postwar resettlement
posy n. an arrangement of flowers that is usually given as a present
pot v. plant in a pot@n. metal or earthenware cooking vessel that is usually round and deep; often has a handle and lid; a plumbing fixture for defecation and urination; the quantity contained in a pot; a container in which plants are cultivated
potable n. any liquid suitable for drinking@adj. of alcoholic beverages that are suitable for drinking; it's an impudent young wine but I think you will find it quite potable
potage n. thick (often creamy) soup
potamogale n. amphibious African insectivorous mammal that resembles an otter
potash n. a potassium compound often used in agriculture and industry
potassium n. a light soft silver-white metallic element of the alkali metal group; oxidizes rapidly in air and reacts violently with water; is abundant in nature in combined forms occurring in sea water and in carnallite and kainite and sylvite
potation n. a serving of drink (usually alcoholic); the act of drinking (especially an alcoholic drink)
potato n. an edible tuber native to South America; a staple food of Ireland; annual native to South America having underground stolons bearing edible starchy tubers; widely cultivated as a garden vegetable; vines are poisonous
potbellied adj. having a large belly
potbelly n. (informal) slang terms for a paunch; a bulbous stove in which wood or coal is burned
potboiler n. a literary composition of poor quality that was written quickly to make money (to boil the pot)
potbound adj. of a potted plant; grown too large for its container resulting in matting or tangling of the roots
potboy n. (British) a worker in an inn or public house who serves customers and does various chores
poteen n. unlawfully distilled Irish whiskey
potency n. possession of controlling influence; capacity to produce strong physiological or chemical effects: the toxin's potency; the inherent capacity for coming into being; the state of being potent; a male's capacity to have sexual intercourse
potent adj. having the power to influence or convince; potent arguments; having or wielding force or authority; providing the ground soldier with increasingly potent weapons; having a strong physiological or chemical effect; a potent toxin
potentate n. someone who rules unconstrained by law
potential adj. existing in possibility; a potential problem; expected to become or be; in prospect; potential clients@n. the inherent capacity for coming into being
potentiality n. the inherent capacity for coming into being; an aptitude that may be developed
potentially adv. with a possibility of becoming actual; he is potentially dangerous
potentiometer n. an instrument for measuring direct current electromotive forces; a 3-terminal resistor with an adjustable center terminal; used to adjust voltages in radios and TV sets
potently adv. in a manner having a powerful influence; Clytemnestra's ghost crying in the night for vengeance remained most potently in the audience's mind
potful n. the quantity contained in a pot
pothead n. someone who smokes marijuana habitually
pother n. an excited state of agitation@v. make upset or troubled; make a fuss; be agitated
potherb n. any of various herbaceous plants whose leaves or stems or flowers are cooked and used for food or seasoning
potholder n. an insulated pad for holding hot pots
pothole n. a pit or hole produced by wear or weathering (especially in a road surface)
potholed adj. used of paved surfaces having holes or pits
potholer n. a person who explores caves
pothook n. an S-shaped hook to suspend a pot over a fire
pothos n. any of various tropical lianas of the genus Scindapsus; evergreen liana widely cultivated for its variegated foliage
pothouse n. (British) a building with a bar and public rooms; often provides light meals
pothunter n. a nonprofessional archeologist; someone who participates in contests in order to collect trophies; someone who hunts for food (not for sport)
potion n. a medicinal or magical or poisonous beverage
potluck n. whatever happens to be available especially when offered to an unexpected guest or when brought by guests and shared by all: having arrived unannounced we had to take potluck
potman n. (British) a worker in an inn or public house who serves customers and does various chores
potomania n. an intense persistent desire to drink alcoholic beverages to excess
potoroo n. Australian rat kangaroos
potpie n. deep-dish meat and vegetable pie or a meat stew with dumplings
potpourri n. a collection containing a variety of sorts of things; a musical composition consisting of a series of songs or other musical pieces from various sources; a jar of mixed flower petals and spices used as perfume
potsherd n. a broken piece of pottery
potshot n. a shot taken at an easy or casual target (as by a pothunter); criticism aimed at an easy target and made without careful consideration
pottage n. a stew of vegetables and (sometimes) meat
potted adj. of plants; planted or grown in a pot; potted geraniums; preserved in a pot or can or jar; potted meat; (British informal) summarized or abridged; a potted version of a novel
potter n. a craftsman who makes pottery@v. do random, unplanned work or activities; work lightly; move around aimlessly
potterer n. a person who putters about
pottery n. made from clay and baked in a kiln; the craft of making earthenware
pottle n. a pot that holds 2 quarts
potto n. arboreal fruit-eating mammal of tropical America with a long prehensile tail; a kind of lemur
potty n. a plumbing fixture for defecation and urination; a receptacle for urination or defecation in the bedroom@adj. (British informal) trivial; potty little details; slang for `drunk'; stupid and confused; used especially of persons
pouch n. small or medium-sized baglike container for holding or carrying things; an enclosed space; a saclike structure in any of various animals@v. put into a pouch; send by pouch; swell or protrude outwards
poudrin n. small crystals of ice
pouf n. a disparaging term for an openly homosexual man; thick cushion used as a seat
pouffe n. thick cushion used as a seat
poulet n. the flesh of a chicken used for food
poulette n. allemande sauce with chopped parsley
poult n. a young fowl; especially a young turkey
poulterer n. a dealer in poultry and poultry products
poultice n. a soft heated mass of meal or clay that is spread on a cloth and applied to the skin to treat inflamed areas or improve circulation etc.@v. dress by covering with a therapeutic substance
poultry n. a domesticated gallinaceous bird though to be descended from the red jungle fowl; flesh of chickens or turkeys or ducks or geese raised for food
poultryman n. a dealer in poultry and poultry products
pounce v. move down on as if in an attack@n. the act of pouncing
pound n. 16 ounces; the basic unit of money in Great Britain; equal to 100 pence; the basic unit of money in Syria; equal to 100 piasters@v. hit hard; strike or drive against with a heavy impact; move heavily or clumsily
poundage n. placing private property in the custody of an officer of the law
poundal n. a unit of force equal to the force that imparts an acceleration of 1 foot/sec/sec to a mass of 1 pound; equal to 0.1382 newtons
pounder n. something weighing a given number of pounds; the fisherman caught a 10-pounder or
pounding n. repeated heavy blows; an instance of rapid strong pulsation (of the heart); the act of pounding (delivering repeated heavy blows); the pounding of feet on the hallway
pour v. cause to run; of liquids; move in large numbers; pour out; of wines or sherry; flow in a spurt; of liquids; supply in large amounts or quantities; rain heavily
pourboire n. tip, gratuity
pouring n. the act of baptizing someone by pouring water on their head@adj. flowing profusely; pouring flood waters
pourparler n. a discussion preliminary to negotiations
pout v. be in a huff; make a sad face@n. a disdainful pouting grimace; marine eellike mostly bottom-dwelling fishes of northern seas; catfish common in eastern United States
poutingly adv. with a pout or in a pouting manner
poverty n. the state of having little or no money and few or no material possessions
powder v. reduce to powder; apply powder to, as of one's nose or other body parts@n. a solid substance in the form of tiny loose particles
powdered adj. consisting of fine particles; powdered cellulose
powderiness n. having a very fine texture
powderize v. make into a powder by breaking up; reduce to powder; powderize the herb
powderpuff n. a fluffy pad for applying powder to the skin
powdery adj. consisting of fine particles; powdery snow; as if dulled in color with a sprinkling of powder; a powdery blue
power v. supply the force or power for the functioning of@n. possession of controlling influence; the deterrent power of nuclear weapons; (physics) the rate of doing work@adj. supplementing or replacing manual effort
powerboat n. a boat propelled by an internal-combustion engine
powered adj. having or using or propelled by means of power or power of a specified kind; often used in combination; powered flight
powerful adv. (Southern regional intensive) very; it is powerful humid@adj. having great power or force or potency or effect; the most powerful government in western Europe; strong enough to knock down or overwhelm
powerfully adv. in a powerful manner; the federal government replaced the powerfully pro-settler Sir Godfrey Huggins with the even tougher and more determined ex-trade unionist; in a manner having a powerful influence
powerfulness n. possession of controlling influence
powerhouse n. a highly energetic and indefatigable person; a team considered to be the best of its class; an electrical generating station
powerless adj. lacking power
powerlessly adv. in a powerless manner
powerlessness n. the quality of lacking strength or power; being weak and feeble
powerwash v. of buildings, before painting
powwow v. hold a powwow, talk, conference or meeting@n. (informal) a quick private conference
pox n. a common venereal disease caused by the Treponema pallidum spirochete; symptoms change through progressive stages; can be congenital (transmitted through the placenta)
poxvirus n. any of a group of viruses that can cause pox diseases in vertebrates
poyou n. Argentine armadillo with six movable bands and hairy underparts
practicability n. the quality of being usable
practicable adj. usable for a specific purpose; a practicable solution; capable of being done with means at hand and circumstances as they are
practicableness n. the quality of being usable
practicably adv. in a practicable manner; so as to be feasible
practical adj. concerned with actual use or practice; he is a very practical person; guided by practical experience and observation rather than theory; completely practical in his approach to business
practicality n. concerned with actual use rather than theoretical possibilities
practically adv. almost; he was practically the only guest at the party; (degree adverb used before a noun phrase) for all practical purposes but not completely
practice v. carry out or practice; as of jobs and professions: practice law; learn by repetition@n. a customary way of operation or behavior; it is their practice to give annual raises; systematic training by multiple repetitions
practiced adj. having or showing knowledge and skill and aptitude; a practiced marksman; skillful after much practice
practician n. someone who practices a learned profession
practicing adj. actively engaged in a career or way of life; a practicing physician
practise v. engage in a rehearsal (of); carry out or practice; as of jobs and professions; learn by repetition
practised adj. skillful after much practice
practitioner n. someone who practices a learned profession
praenomen n. the first name of a citizen of ancient Rome
praesidium n. a permanent executive committee in socialist countries that has all the powers of some larger legislative body and that acts for it when it is not in session
praetor n. an annually elected magistrate of the ancient Roman Republic
praetorial adj. of or relating to a Roman praetor; praetorial powers
praetorian adj. of or relating to a Roman praetor; characteristic of Praetorian soldiers in respect to corruption or political venality
praetorium n. the tent of an ancient Roman general
praetorship n. the office of praetor
pragmatic adj. concerned with practical matters; a matter-of-fact (or pragmatic) approach to the problem; of or concerning the theory of pragmatism
pragmatical adj. of or concerning the theory of pragmatism; concerned with practical matters
pragmatically adv. in a realistic manner; we want to build a democratic society, but we must act pragmatically
pragmatics n. the study of language use
pragmatism n. the doctrine that practical consequences are the criteria of knowledge and meaning and value
pragmatist n. a person who takes a practical approach to problems
prairie n. a treeless grassy plain
praise v. express praise for@n. an expression of approval and commendation; he always appreciated praise for his work; offering words of homage as an act of worship; they sang a hymn of praise to God
praiseful adj. full of or giving praise
praiseworthily adv. in an admirable manner
praiseworthy adj. worthy of high praise; a significant and praiseworthy increase in computer intelligence
praising adj. full of or giving praise
praisworthiness n. the property of deserving praise
praline n. cookie-sized candy made of brown sugar and butter and pecans
pram n. a small carriage in which a baby or child is pushed around
prance v. to walk with a lofty proud gait, often in an attempt to impress others@n. a proud stiff pompous gait
prancer n. a mettlesome or fiery horse
prandial adj. of or relating to a meal
prank n. acting like a clown or buffoon; a ludicrous or grotesque act done for fun and amusement@v. dress or decorate showily or gaudily; dress up showily
prankish adj. naughtily or annoyingly playful
prankishness n. the trait of indulging in disreputable pranks
prankster n. someone who plays practical jokes on others
praseodymium n. a soft yellowish-white trivalent metallic element of the rare earth group; can be recovered from bastnasite or monazite by an ion-exchange process
prat n. the fleshy part of the human body that you sit on
prate v. speak (about unimportant matters) rapidly and incessantly@n. idle or foolish talk
pratfall n. a fall on the buttocks
pratincole n. Old World shorebird with long pointed wings and short legs; closely related to the coursers
pratique n. clearance given an incoming ship by the health authority of a port
prattle n. idle or foolish talk@v. speak (about unimportant matters) rapidly and incessantly
prattler n. someone who speaks in a childish way
prattling adj. talking foolishly; prattling children
prawn n. any of various edible decapod crustaceans; shrimp-like decapod crustacean having two pairs of pincers; most are edible@v. fish for prawns
pray v. address God; say a prayer; call upon in supplication; entreat
praya n. colonial siphonophore of up to 130 ft long
prayer n. the act of communicating with a deity (especially as a petition or in adoration or contrition or thanksgiving); reverent petition to a deity; earnest or urgent request; a fixed text used in praying; someone who prays to God
prayerful adj. disposed to pray or appearing to pray
pre adj. (prefix) coming before or being preliminary or preparatory; `pre' is a prefix in `prehistoric' and `premedical' and `prepaid'
preach v. deliver a sermon; speak, plead, or argue in favour of
preacher n. someone who occupation is preaching the gospel
preachify v. speak as if delivering a sermon
preaching n. an address of a religious nature (usually delivered during a church service); a moralistic rebuke; your preaching is wasted on him
preachment n. a sermon on a moral or religious topic
preadolescence n. the period of human development just preceding adolescence -- preadolescent adj. or n.
preamble v. make a preamble@n. a preliminary introduction to a statute or constitution (usually explaining its purpose)
preanal adj. situated in front of the anus
prearrange v. arrange beforehand
prearranged adj. planned beforehand; a prearranged signal
prearrangement n. an arrangement in advance
preassemble v. to manufacture sections of (a building), esp. in a factory, so that they can be easily transported to and rapidly assembled on a building site of buildings
preassigned adj. assigned beforehand
prebend n. the stipend assigned by a cathedral to a canon
prebendary n. a canon who receives a prebend for serving the church
precancel v. to cancel (a postage stamp) in advance of use -- precancellation n.
precancerous adj. likely to become cancerous
precarious adj. affording no ease or reassurance; a precarious truce; fraught with danger; the precarious life of an undersea diver; dangerously insecure; a precarious footing on the ladder; not secure; beset with difficulties
precariously adv. in a precarious manner; being a precariously dominant minority is a difficult position for human nature to cope with
precariousness n. extreme dangerousness
precast adj. of structural members especially of concrete; cast into form before being transported to the site of installation
precative adj. expressing entreaty or supplication
precatory adj. expressing entreaty or supplication; precatory overtures
precaution n. warding off an impending threat; the trait of practicing caution in advance; judiciousness in avoiding harm or danger
precautional adj. taken in advance to protect against possible danger or failure
precautionary adj. taken in advance to protect against possible danger or failure; gave precautionary advice
precava n. receives blood from the head and arms and chest and empties into the right atrium of the heart; formed from the azygos and both brachiocephalic veins
precede v. be earlier in time; go back further; come before; Most English adjectives precede the noun they modify; be the predecessor of; move ahead (of others) in time or space
precedence n. status established in order of importance or urgency: ...its precedence as the world's leading manufacturer of pharmaceuticals; preceding in time; the act of preceding
precedency n. status established in order of importance or urgency
precedent n. an example that is used to justify similar occurrences at a later time; (civil law) a law established by following earlier judicial decisions@adj. preceding in time, order, or significance
precedented adj. having or supported or justified by a precedent
precedentedly adv. with precedent
precedential adj. having precedence (especially because of longer service); precedential treatment for senior members of the firm
preceding adj. existing or coming before; preceding in time or order; of a person who has held and relinquished a position or office
precentor n. the musical director of a choir
precentorship n. the position of precentor
precept n. rule of personal conduct; a doctrine that is taught
preceptor n. (British) teacher at a university of college (especially at Cambridge or Oxford)
preceptorship n. the position of preceptor
precess v. move in a gyrating fashion; the poles of the Earth precess at a right angle to the force that is applied
precession n. the motion of a spinning body (as a top) in which it wobbles so that the axis of rotation sweeps out a cone; the act of preceding
prechlorination n. chlorination prior to another chemical process
precinct n. a district of a city or town marked out for administrative purposes
preciosity n. the quality of being fastidious or excessively refined
precious adj. characterized by feeling or showing fond affection for; children are precious; of high worth or cost; diamonds, sapphires, rubies, and emeralds are precious stones; obviously contrived to charm@adv. (intensifier) extremely
preciously adv. in a precious manner; his preciously valuable collection; (intensifier) extremely
preciousness n. the positive quality of being precious and beyond value
precipice n. a very steep cliff
precipitance n. the quality of happening with headlong haste or without warning
precipitancy n. the quality of happening with headlong haste or without warning
precipitant n. a substance that causes a precipitate to form@adj. done with very great haste and without due deliberation
precipitate adj. done with very great haste and without due deliberation@v. bring about abruptly; separate from solution as a fine suspension of solid particles, in chemistry@n. a precipitated solid substance in suspension or after settling or filtering
precipitately adv. at breakneck speed
precipitateness n. the quality of happening with headlong haste or without warning
precipitating adj. bringing on suddenly or abruptly; the completion of the railroad was the precipitating cause in the extinction of water-borne commerce
precipitation n. the process of forming a chemical precipitate; the falling to earth of rain or snow or hail or sleet or mist; an unexpected acceleration or hastening: he is responsible for the precipitation of his own demise
precipitator n. removes dust particles from gases by electrostatic precipitation
precipitin n. an antibody that causes precipitation when it unites with its antigen
precipitous adj. characterized by precipices; a precipitous bluff; extremely steep; the precipitous rapids of the upper river
precipitously adv. very suddenly and to a great degree; conditions that precipitously increase the birthrate; abruptly; in a precipitous manner; the mountains rose precipitously from the shore
precipitousness n. the property possessed by a slope that is very steep
precis n. a summary of the main points of an argument or theory@v. make a precis (of)
precise adj. sharply exact or accurate or delimited; a precise mind; exact in performance or amount; strictly correct; a precise instrument
precisely adv. indicating exactness or preciseness; he was doing precisely (or exactly) what she had told him to do; in a precise manner; she always expressed herself precisely; just as it should be
preciseness n. clarity as a consequence of precision; the quality of being precise in amount or performance; he handled it with the preciseness of an automaton
precisian n. a person who stresses or practices scrupulous adherence to a strict standard especially of religious observance or morality
precision n. the quality of being precise in amount or performance; note the meticulous precision of his measurements
preclude v. keep from happening of arising; have the effect of preventing; make impossible, esp. beforehand
preclusion n. the act of preventing something by anticipating and disposing of it effectively
preclusive adj. made impossible
precocial adj. (of hatchlings) covered with down and having eyes open; capable of leaving the nest within a few days
precocious adj. characterized by or characteristic of exceptionally early development or maturity (especially in mental aptitude); a precocious child
precociously adv. in a precocious manner; her child behaves precociously
precociousness n. intelligence achieved far ahead of normal developmental schedules
precocity n. intelligence achieved far ahead of normal developmental schedules
precognition n. knowledge of an event before it occurs
precognitive adj. foreseeing the future
preconceive v. conceive beforehand
preconceived adj. (of an idea or opinion) formed beforehand; especially without evidence or through prejudice: certain preconceived notions
preconception n. an opinion formed without adequate evidence
preconcerted adj. previously arranged or agreed on; following preconcerted plans
precondition v. put into the required condition beforehand@n. an assumption on which rests the validity or effect of something else; an assumption that is taken for granted; a condition that is a prerequisite
preconditioned adj. having already been put into a suitable condition; a surface preconditioned to receive paint
precook v. cook beforehand so that the actual preparation won't take long; precook the rice
precooked adj. cooked partially or completely beforehand; frozen precooked meals from the supermarket
precooled adj. cooled in advance
precursor n. a person who goes before or announces the coming of another; an indication of the approach of something or someone
precursory adj. warning of future misfortune
predaceous adj. living by or given to victimizing others for personal gain
predacious adj. hunting and killing other animals for food; living by or given to victimizing others for personal gain
predate v. be earlier in time; go back further; come before; establish something as being earlier relative to something else
predation n. an act of plundering
predator n. someone who attacks in search of booty; any animal that lives by preying on other animals
predatory adj. characterized by plundering or pillaging or marauding; predatory warfare; living by preying on other animals especially by catching living prey; a predatory bird
predecease v. die before; die earlier than
predecessor n. one who precedes you in time (as in holding a position or office)
predesignate v. to designate beforehand
predestinate v. in theology@adj. established or prearranged unalterably; a sense of predestinate inevitability about it
predestination n. (theology) the doctrine (usually associated with Calvin) that God has foreordained every event throughout eternity (including the final salvation of mankind)
predestine v. decree or determine beforehand; in theology; foreordain or determine beforehand
predestined adj. established or prearranged unalterably; it seemed predestined since the beginning of the world
predetermine v. determine beforehand; cause to be biased
predetermined adj. set in advance; at a predetermined time
predicable adj. capable of being predicated or affirmed
predicament n. a situation from which extrication is difficult especially an unpleasant or trying one: finds himself in a most awkward predicament
predicate n. a phrase that functions as a verb@v. affirm or declare; involve as a necessary condition of consequence; in logic@adj. (grammar) of adjectives; relating to or occurring within the predicate of a sentence
predication n. a declaration of something self-evident; something that can be assumed as the basis for argument
predicative adj. (grammar) of adjectives; relating to or occurring within the predicate of a sentence; `red' is a predicative adjective in `the apple is red'
predicatively adv. occuring within the predicate phrase; predicatively used adjectives
predicator n. an expression that predicates
predict v. make a prediction about; tell in advance; indicate by signs
predictability n. the quality of being predictable
predictable adj. possible to foretell
predictably adv. in a predictable manner or to a predictable degree; predictably, he did not like the news
predicted adj. known beforehand
prediction n. reasoning about the future; a statement about the future
predictive adj. of or relating to prediction; having value for making predictions
predictor n. someone who makes predictions of the future
predigest v. digest (food) beforehand, as of ruminants
predigested adj. artificially partially digested as by enzymatic action; predigested foods are a boon for those who are ill or have impaired digestion
predigestion n. artificial partial digestion of food especially for use in illness -- predigest v.
predilection n. a predisposition in favor of something; a strong liking
predispose v. make susceptible
predisposed adj. made susceptible; because of conditions in the mine, miners are predisposed to lung disease
predisposition n. susceptibility to a pathogen; an inclination beforehand to interpret statements in a particular way; a disposition in advance to react in a particular way
prednisone n. a dehydrogenated analogue of cortisol; used as an anti-inflammatory drug in the treatment of arthritis and as an immunosuppressant
predominance n. the state of being predominant over others; the quality of being more noticeable than anything else
predominant adj. most frequent or common; having superior power and influence; the predominant mood among policy-makers is optimism
predominantly adv. much greater in number or influence; the patients are predominantly indigenous
predominate adj. having superior power and influence@v. be larger in number, quantity, or importance; Hispanics predominate in this neighborhood
predomination n. the state of being predominant over others; the quality of being more noticeable than anything else; the predomination of blues gave the painting a quiet tone
preeclampsia n. characterized by hypertension and fluid retention and albuminuria; can lead to eclampsia if untreated
preemie n. an infant that is born prematurely
preeminence n. high status importance owing to marked superiority
preeminent adj. greatest in importance or degree or significance or achievement; a preeminent archeologist
preeminently adv. to a preeminent degree
preempt v. acquire by preemption; make a preemptive bid; in bridge
preemption n. the judicial principle asserting the supremacy of federal over state legislation on the same subject; the right of a government to seize or appropriate something (as property); the right to purchase something in advance of others
preemptive adj. designed or having the power to deter or prevent an anticipated situation or occurrence; a preemptive business offer
preen v. clean with one's bill, of birds; pride or congratulate (oneself) for an achievement; dress or groom with elaborate care
preexist v. exist beforehand or prior to a certain point in time
preexistence n. existing in a former state or previous to something else
preexistent adj. existing previously or before something
prefab n. a prefabricated structure@adj. manufactured in standard sizes to be shipped and assembled elsewhere
prefabricate v. to manufacture sections of (a building), esp. in a factory, so that they can be easily transported to and rapidly assembled on a building site of buildings
prefabricated adj. manufactured in standard sizes to be shipped and assembled elsewhere; a prefabricated structure
prefabrication n. the manufacture of sections of a building at the factory so they can be easily and rapidly assembled at the building site
preface n. a short introductory essay preceding the text of a book@v. furnish with a preface
prefatorial adj. serving as an introduction or preface
prefatory adj. serving as an introduction or preface
prefect n. a chief officer or chief magistrate; the prefect of Paris police
prefectural adj. of or relating to a prefecture; a prefectural museum
prefecture n. the district administered by a prefect (as in France or Japan or the Roman Empire); the office of prefect
prefer v. like better; value more highly; Some people prefer camping to staying in hotels; select as an alternative; choose instead; prefer as an alternative; promote over another; give preference to one creditor over another; in law
preferable adj. more desirable than another; coffee is preferable to tea
preferably adv. more readily or willingly; clean it well, preferably with warm water
preference n. a strong liking; my own preference is for good literature; a predisposition in favor of something; the right or chance to choose
preferential adj. manifesting partiality; preferential tariff rates
preferentially adv. in a preferential manner; he was treated preferentially
preferment n. the act of preferring; the preferment went to the younger candidate; the act of making accusations; preferment of charges
preferred adj. more desirable than another; Danny's preferred name is 'Dan'; preferred above all others and treated with partiality
prefiguration n. providing advance indications
prefigurative adj. indistinctly prophetic
prefigure v. indicate by signs
prefix v. attach a prefix to@n. an affix that added in front of the word
preflight adj. preparing for or preliminary to airplane flight; preflight training
preform v. to form or shape beforehand
prefrontal adj. anterior to a frontal structure; a prefrontal bone
pregnancy n. the state of being pregnant
pregnant adj. carrying developing offspring within the body or being about to produce new life; rich in significance or implication; pregnant with meaning; filled with or attended with; a silence pregnant with suspense
preheat v. heat beforehand
prehend v. take hold of; also metaphorically
prehensile adj. adapted for grasping especially by wrapping around an object; a monkey's prehensile tail; having a keen intellect; immoderately desirous of acquiring e.g. wealth; prehensile employers stingy with raises for their employees
prehension n. the act of gripping something firmly with the hands
prehistoric adj. belonging to or existing in times before recorded history; prehistoric settlements; of or relating to times before written history; prehistoric archeology; (informal) my mother has these prehistoric ideas about proper clothes
prehistorical adj. belonging to or existing in times before recorded history
prehistory n. the time during human development before the appearance of the written word
preisolate v. isolate beforehand; in chemistry
prejudge v. judge beforehand, esp. without sufficient evidence
prejudgement n. a judgment reached before the evidence is available
prejudgment n. a judgment reached before the evidence is available
prejudice v. disadvantage by prejudice; in law; influence (somebody's) opinion in advance@n. a partiality that prevents objective consideration of an issue or situation; an opinion that is preconceived and (usually) unfavorable
prejudiced adj. emanating from a person's emotions and prejudices; being biased or having a belief or attitude formed beforehand; a prejudiced judge
prejudicial adj. (sometimes followed by `to') causing harm or injury; the reporter's coverage resulted in prejudicial publicity for the defendant
prejudicious adj. (sometimes followed by `to') causing harm or injury
prelacy n. prelates collectively; the office or station of a prelate
prelate n. a senior clergyman
prelature n. prelates collectively; the office or station of a prelate
prelim n. a minor match preceding the main event; an examination taken by graduate students to determine their fitness to continue
preliminary adj. designed to orient or acquaint with the a situation before proceeding; a preliminary investigation@n. a minor match preceding the main event; something that serves as a preceding event or introduces what follows
prelims n. written matter preceding the main text of a book
preliterate adj. not yet having acquired the ability to read and write; used of a society that has not developed writing
prelude v. serve as a prelude to; play as a prelude, of musical pieces@n. something that serves as a preceding event or introduces what follows; music that precedes a fugue or introduces an act in an opera
premarital adj. relating to events before a marriage
premature adj. born after a gestation period of less than the normal time; a premature infant; too soon or too hasty; a premature judgment; uncommonly early or before the expected time; illness led to his premature death
prematurely adv. (of childbirth) before the end of the normal period of gestation; the child was born prematurely; too soon; in a premature manner; I spoke prematurely
prematureness n. the state of being premature
prematurity n. the state of being premature
premed adj. premedical -- premed n.
premedical adj. preparing for the study of medicine; premedical students; preceding and preparing for the study of medicine; premedical courses
premeditate v. consider beforehand
premeditated adj. characterized by deliberate purpose and some degree of planning; a premeditated crime
premeditation n. planning or plotting in advance of acting
premenopausal adj. prior to menopause
premie n. an infant that is born prematurely
premier v. be performed for the first time@n. the person who holds the position of head of state in England; the person who is head of state (in several countries)@adj. first in rank or degree
premiere adj. preceding all others in time; the premiere showing@v. be performed for the first time; of a play, ballet, or composition; perform a work for the first time@n. the first public performance of a play or movie
premiership n. the office of premier
premise v. set forth beforehand, often as an explanation; furnish with a preface; take something as preexisting@n. a statement that is assumed to be true and from which a conclusion can be drawn
premises n. land and buildings together considered as a place of business; bread is baked on the premises
premiss n. a statement that is assumed to be true and from which a conclusion can be drawn@v. take something as preexisting
premium adj. having or reflecting superior quality or value; premium gasoline at a premium price@n. payment for insurance; a fee charged for exchanging currencies
premix n. a commercially prepared mixture of dry ingredients
premolar n. a tooth having two cusps or points; located between the incisors and the molars
premonition n. a feeling of evil to come; an early warning about a future event
premonitory adj. warning of future misfortune
prenatal adj. occurring or existing before birth; the prenatal period
prenominal adj. (grammar) of adjectives; placed before the nouns they modify
prentice n. works for an expert to learn a trade
prenuptial adj. relating to events before a marriage; prenuptial agreement
preoccupancy n. the mental state of being preoccupied by something; the act of taking occupancy before someone else does
preoccupation n. an idea that preoccupies the mind and holds the attention; the mental state of being preoccupied by something
preoccupied adj. deeply absorbed in thought; a preoccupied frown; having or showing excessive or compulsive concern with something; got no help from his wife who was preoccupied with the children
preoccupy v. occupy urgently or obsessively; engage or engross the interest or attention of beforehand
preoperative adj. occurring during the period preceding a surgical operation
preordain v. foreordain or determine beforehand
preordination n. (theology) the doctrine (usually associated with Calvin) that God has foreordained every event throughout eternity (including the final salvation of mankind)
prep n. preparatory school work done outside school (especially at home)
prepackaged adj. prepared and wraped beforehand and ready for sale; prepackaged foods
prepacked adj. prepared and wraped beforehand and ready for sale
prepaid adj. used especially of mail; paid in advance
preparation n. the activity of preparing; a substance prepared according to a formula; the cognitive process of thinking about what you will do in the event of something happening; activity leading to skilled behavior
preparative adj. preceding and preparing for something
preparatory adj. preceding and preparing for something; preparatory steps
prepare v. make ready or suitable in advance for a particular purpose or for some use, event, etc; prepare for war; prepare for eating by applying heat; to prepare verbally, either for written or spoken delivery; prepare a report
prepared adj. made ready or fit or suitable beforehand; a prepared statement; having made preparations; prepared to take risks; equipped or prepared with necessary intellectual resources
preparedness n. the state of being ready or prepared for use or action (especially military action)
prepay v. pay for something before receiving it
prepayment n. payment in advance
preponderance n. a superiority in numbers
preponderant adj. having superior power and influence
preponderantly adv. much greater in number or influence
preponderate v. weigh more heavily
preponderating adj. having superior power and influence
preposition n. a function word that combines with a noun or pronoun or noun phrase to form a prepositional phrase that can have an adverbial or adjectival relation to some other word
prepositional adj. (linguistics) of or relating to or formed with a preposition; prepositional phrase
prepositionally adv. as a preposition
prepossess v. possess beforehand; cause to be preoccupied; make a positive impression (on someone) beforehand; influence (somebody's) opinion in advance
prepossessing adj. creating a favorable impression; strong and vigorous and of prepossessing appearance
prepossession n. an opinion formed without adequate evidence
preposterous adj. so devoid of wisdom or good sense as to be laughable; a preposterous attempt to turn back the pages of history
preposterously adv. so as to arouse or deserve laughter
preprandial adj. preceding a meal (especially dinner); a preprandial drink
prepubertal adj. (especially of human beings) at the age immediately before puberty; often marked by accelerated growth
prepubescent adj. (especially of human beings) at the age immediately before puberty; often marked by accelerated growth
prepuce n. a fold of skin covering the tip of the clitoris; a fold of skin covering the tip of the penis
prepupal adj. of an inactive stage in the development of some insects, between the larval and the pupal stages; the prepupal stage
prerecord v. record before presentation, as of a broadcast
prerecorded adj. recorded at one time for transmission later
prerequisite adj. required as a prior condition or course of study@n. something that is required in advance; Latin was a prerequisite for admission
prerogative n. a right reserved exclusively by a particular person or group (especially a hereditary or official right); suffrage was the prerogative of white adult males
presage v. indicate by signs@n. a foreboding about what is about to happen; a sign of something about to happen
presbyope n. a person with presbyopia; someone who is farsighted resulting from the progressive loss with aging of the elasticity of the crystalline lens
presbyopia n. reduced ability to focus caused by loss of elasticity of crystalline lens with age
presbyopic adj. visual impairment resulting from faulty refraction of light rays in the eye
presbyter n. an elder in the Presbyterian Church
presbytery n. reserved for the officiating clergy
preschool n. an educational institution for children too young for elementary school
prescience n. the power to foresee the future
prescient adj. perceiving the significance of events before they occur
presciently adv. with foresight; more presciently than they superiors, these workers grasped the economic situation
prescribe v. issue commands or orders for
prescribed adj. set down as a rule or guide; fixed or established especially by order or command; ); conforming to set usage, procedure, or discipline; in prescribed order; formally laid down or imposed
prescript n. prescribed guide for conduct or action
prescription adj. (of medicinal drugs) available only with a doctor's written prescription; a prescription drug@n. directions for achieving a therapeutic effect; a drug that is available only with a prescription from a doctor or dentist
prescriptive adj. (grammar) giving directives or rules; prescriptive grammar is concerned with norms of or rules for correct usage; based on or prescribing a norm or standard
preseason n. a period prior to the beginning of the regular season which is devoted to training and preparation
presence n. the state of being present; current existence; he tested for the presence of radon; the immediate proximity of someone or something; she blushed in his presence; an invisible spiritual being felt to be nearby
present adj. temporal sense@v. show or demonstrate something to an interested audience; bring forward; perform (a play), esp. on a stage; hand over formally; introduce@n. any continuous stretch of time including the moment of speech
presentable adj. fit to be seen; presentable clothes
presentably adv. in a presentable manner; years ago in her white-painted infancy it must have hung presentably on the deck of some luxury liner
presentation n. the activity of presenting something; the act of making something publicly available; presenting news or other information by broadcasting or printing it; he prepared his presentation carefully in advance
presentational adj. of or relating to a presentation (especially in psychology or philosophy); what Whitehead calls `perception in the presentational immediacy'
presented adj. given formally or officially
presenter n. person who makes a gift of property
presentiment n. a feeling of evil to come:; the lawyer had a presentiment that the judge would dismiss the case
presently adv. in the near future; she will arrive presently; at this time or period; now; he is presently our ambassador to the United Nations
presentment n. an accusation of crime made by a grand jury on its own initiative; a document that must be accepted and paid by another person; the act of presenting something
presentness n. the quality of being the present
preservable adj. capable of being preserved
preservation n. the activity of protecting something from loss or danger; an occurrence of improvement by virtue of preventing loss or injury or other change
preservative adj. tending or having the power to preserve; the timbers should be treated with a preservative@n. a chemical compound that is added to protect against decay or decomposition
preserve v. keep or maintain in unaltered condition; cause to remain or last; preserve the peace in the family; keep in perfect or unaltered condition@n. a domain that seems to be specially reserved for someone; medicine is no longer a male preserve
preserved adj. prevented from decaying or spoiling and prepared for future use; kept intact or in a particular condition
preserver n. a skilled worker who is employed to restore or refinish antique furniture
preserves n. fruit preserved by cooking with sugar
preserving adj. saving from harm or loss@n. the activity of protecting something from loss or danger
preset adj. set in advance; a preset plan of action
preshrunk adj. of, relating to, or constituting a fabric subjected to a shrinking process during manufacture usually to reduce later shrinking
preside v. of meetings; act as president: preside over companies and corporations
presidency n. the tenure of a president; the office and function of president
president n. an executive officer of a firm or corporation; the chief executive of a republic; the officer who presides at the meetings of an organization; the head administrative officer of a college or university
presidential adj. relating to a president or presidency; presidential aides; befitting a president; criticized the candidate for not looking presidential
presidentship n. the office and function of president
presidio n. a garrisoned place; especially a military post or fortified settlement in areas currently or originally under Spanish control
presidium n. a permanent executive committee in socialist countries that has all the powers of some larger legislative body and that acts for it when it is not in session
press n. newspaper writers and photographers; the state of urgently demanding notice or attention; the press of business matters@v. exert pressure or force to or upon; press your thumb on this spot; force or impel in an indicated direction
pressed adj. compacted by ironing
pressing adj. compelling immediate action; too pressing to permit of longer delay@n. the act of pressing
pressingly adv. in a pressing manner
pressman n. someone whose occupation is printing; a journalist employed to provide news stories for newspapers or broadcast media
pressmark n. a mark consisting of characters written on a book; used to indicate shelf location
pressroom n. a room in a printing plant containing the printing presses; a room for the use of reporters
pressure n. the force applied to a unit area of surface; measured in pascals (SI unit) or in dynes (cgs unit); the compressed gas exerts an increased pressure@v. to cause to do through pressure or necessity, by physical, moral or intellectual means 
pressurize v. increase the pressure on a gas or liquid; maintain a certain pressure; pressurize a space suit; increase the pressure, as of airplane cabins; The captain will pressurize the cabin for the passengers' comfort
pressurized adj. maintained at a certain atmospheric pressure; in a pressurized cabin the air pressure is comfortable for breathing
prestidigitation n. sleight of hand
prestidigitator n. someone who performs magic tricks to amuse an audience
prestige n. a high standing achieved through success or influence or wealth etc.; he wanted to achieve power and prestige
prestigious adj. having an illustrious reputation; respected; a prestigious author; exerting influence by reason of high status or prestige; a prestigious professor at a prestigious university
prestigiousness n. a high standing achieved through success or influence or wealth etc.
prestissimo adj. (of tempo) as fast as possible@adv. (music) extremely fast; as fast as possible; this passage should be played prestissimo
presto adv. suddenly; (music) at a very fast tempo (faster than allegro)@adj. (of tempo) very fast
presumable adj. able to be inferred on slight grounds
presumably adv. by reasonable assumption; presumably, he missed the train
presume v. take to be the case or to be true; accept without verification or proof
presumed adj. presumed to be true in the absence of proof to the contrary; the presumed reason for his anger
presumption n. an assumption that is taken for granted; audacious (even arrogant) behavior that you have no right to
presumptive adj. having a reasonable basis for belief or acceptance; the presumptive heir (or heir apparent); affording reasonable grounds for belief or acceptance; presumptive evidence
presumptively adv. by reasonable assumption
presumptuous adj. excessively forward; the duchess would not put up with presumptuous servants
presumptuously adv. in a presumptuous manner; he presumptuously overstepped the doctor's orders
presuppose v. take for granted or as a given; suppose beforehand; I presuppose that you have done your work; require as a necessary antecedent or precondition; in logic
presupposition n. an assumption that is taken for granted
pretence n. a false or unsupportable quality; an artful or simulated semblance; the act of pretending
pretend adj. imagined as in a play; dangling their legs in the water to catch pretend fish@v. make believe; behave unnaturally or affectedly
pretended adj. adopted in order to deceive; a pretended interest
pretender n. a person who makes deceitful pretenses
pretending n. the act of pretending
pretense n. the act of pretending; pretending with intention to deceive; an imaginative pretence; a false or unsupportable quality
pretension n. a false or unsupportable quality; the quality of being pretentious (creating a false appearance of great importance or worth)
pretentious adj. making claim to or creating an appearance of (often undeserved) importance or distinction; a pretentious country house; intended to attract notice and impress others; of a display that is tawdry or vulgar
pretentiously adv. in a pretentious manner; this author writes pretentiously
pretentiousness n. lack of elegance as a consequence of pomposity; the quality of being pretentious (creating a false appearance of great importance or worth)
preterist n. a theologian who believes that the prophecies of the Apocalypse have already been fulfilled
preterit adj. (grammar) a verb tense used to relate past action@n. a term formerly used to refer to the simple past tense
preterite adj. (grammar) a verb tense used to relate past action; the preterite tense@n. a term formerly used to refer to the simple past tense
preterition n. suggesting by deliberately concise treatment that much of significance is omitted
preterminal adj. occurring before death
pretermission n. letting pass without notice
preternatural adj. surpassing the ordinary or normal; existing outside of or not in accordance with nature
pretext n. something serving to conceal plans; a fictitious reason that is concocted in order to conceal the real reason; an artful or simulated semblance
pretor n. an annually elected magistrate of the ancient Roman Republic
pretorial adj. of or relating to a Roman praetor
pretorian adj. of or relating to a Roman praetor; characteristic of Praetorian soldiers in respect to corruption or political venality
pretorium n. the tent of an ancient Roman general
pretrial n. (law) a conference held before the trial begins to bring the parties together to outline discovery proceedings and to define the issues to be tried; more useful in civil than in criminal cases@adj. preceding an official trial
prettify v. make more beautiful
prettily adv. in a pretty manner; all this is most prettily done
prettiness n. the quality of being appealing in a delicate or graceful way (of a girl or young woman)
pretty adj. pleasing by delicacy or grace; not imposing; pretty girl; used ironically; a pretty kettle of fish@adv. intensifier, as in pretty big; pretty bad; (`jolly' is used informally in Britain as in )
pretzel n. glazed and salted cracker typically in the shape of a loose knot
prevail v. be larger in number, quantity, or importance; be valid, applicable, or true; cease to exist after resistance or a struggle; prove superior; use persuasion successfully
prevailing adj. encountered generally especially at the present time; the prevailing opinion was that a trade war could be averted; most frequent or common; prevailing winds
prevalence n. the quality of prevailing generally; being widespread; the prevalence of dysentery is horrible; a superiority in numbers
prevalent adj. encountered generally especially at the present time; the most prevalent religion in our area
prevaricate v. be deliberately ambiguous or unclear in order to mislead or withhold information
prevarication n. a statement that deviates from or perverts the truth; intentionally vague or ambiguous; the deliberate act of deviating from the truth
prevaricator n. a person who has lied or who lies repeatedly
prevenient adj. in anticipation
prevent v. keep from happening of arising; have the effect of preventing; prevent from doing something or being in a certain state; We must prevent the cancer from spreading
preventable adj. capable of being prevented
preventative adj. tending to prevent or hinder; preventing or contributing to the prevention of disease@n. something that prevents or slows the course of an illness or disease; something that impedes or is burdensome
prevention n. the act of preventing; control by preventing the occurrence of something; money was allocated to study the cause and prevention of influenza
preventive n. something that prevents or slows the course of an illness or disease; something that impedes or is burdensome@adj. preventing or contributing to the prevention of disease; preventive medicine; tending to prevent or hinder
preview n. an advertisement consisting of short scenes from a motion picture that will appear in the near future@v. watch a movie or play before it is released to the general public
previous adj. (used especially of persons) of to the immediate past; the previous occupant of the White House; too soon or too hasty; our condemnation of him was a bit previous; just preceding something else in time or order; the previous owner
previously adv. at an earlier time or formerly; she had previously lived in Chicago
prevision n. a prophetic vision (as in a dream); the power to foresee the future
prevue n. an advertisement consisting of short scenes from a motion picture that will appear in the near future
prewar adj. existing or belonging to a time before a war; prewar levels of industrial production
prey n. a person who is the victim of ridicule or exploitation by some hostile person or influence; he fell prey to muggers; animal hunted or caught for food@v. profit from in an exploitatory manner; prey on or hunt for
preying n. an act of plundering
priapic adj. overly concerned with masculinity and male sexuality; priapic episodes; resembling or being a phallus; priapic figurines
price n. the amount of money needed to purchase something; the price of gasoline; the property of having material worth (often indicated by the amount of money something would bring if sold):@v. determine the price of
priced adj. having a price assigned or having a price as specified; often used in combination; a high-priced line
priceless adj. having incalculable monetary worth
pricelessness n. the positive quality of being precious and beyond value
pricey adj. having a high price; a pricey restaurant
pricing n. the evaluation of something in terms of its price
prick v. make a small hole into; cause a stinging pain; of the ears of an animal, for example; prod or urge as if with a log stick; cause a prickling sensation; to cause a sharp emotional pain@n. (obscene) insulting terms of address
pricker n. an awl for making small holes for brads or small screws
pricket n. a sharp metal spike to hold a candle; male deer in his second year
pricking n. the act of puncturing with a small point
prickle v. cause a prickling sensation; cause a tingling sensation@n. a sharp-pointed tip on a stem or leaf
prickleback n. small elongate fishes of shallow northern seas; a long dorsal fin consists entirely of spines
prickling n. a pricking somatic sensation@adj. causing or experiencing a painful shivering feeling as from many tiny pricks; a prickling blush of embarrassment
prickly adj. very irritable; he became prickly and spiteful; having or covered with protective barbs or quills or spines or thorns etc.
prickteaser n. a seductive woman who uses her sex appeal to exploit men
pricy adj. having a high price
pride n. a feeling of self-respect and personal worth; satisfaction with your (or another's) achievements; he takes pride in his son's success; the trait of being spurred on by a dislike of falling below your standards@v. be proud of; be proud of
prideful adj. having or showing arrogant superiority to and disdain of those one views as unworthy; walked with a prideful swagger; joyful and proud especially because of triumph or success
pridefulness n. a feeling of self-respect and personal worth
priest n. a clergyman in many Christian churches who has the authority to perform or administer various religious rites; a spiritual leader in a non-Christian religion
priestcraft n. a derogatory reference to priests who use their influence to control secular or political affairs; the skills involved in the work of a priest
priestess n. a woman priest
priesthood n. the body of ordained religious practitioners
priestlike adj. befitting or characteristic of a priest or the priesthood
priestly adj. associated with the priesthood or priests; priestly (or sacerdotal) vestments; befitting or characteristic of a priest or the priesthood; priestly dedication to the people of his parish
prig n. a person regarded as arrogant and annoying
priggish adj. exaggeratedly proper
priggishly adv. in a priggish manner; this professor acts so priggishly--like a moderator with a gavel!
priggishness n. exaggerated and arrogant properness
prim adj. affectedly dainty or refined; exaggeratedly proper@v. assume a prim appearance: They mince and prim; contract one's lips; dress primly
prima adj. indicating the most important performer or role; prima ballerina
primacy n. the state of being first in importance
primaeval adj. having existed from the beginning; in an earliest or original stage or state
primal adj. serving as an essential component; having existed from the beginning; in an earliest or original stage or state; primal eras before the appearance of life on earth
primarily adv. for the most part; of primary import; this is primarily a question of economics
primary n. a preliminary election where delegates or nominees are chosen@adj. of first rank or importance or value; direct and immediate rather than secondhand; primary goals; not derived from or reducible to something else; basic; a primary instinct
primate n. a senior clergyman; any placental mammal of the order Primates; has good eyesight and flexible hands and feet
primateship n. the office of primate
primatology n. the branch of zoology that studies primates
prime v. insert a primer into (a gun, mine, charge, etc.) preparatory to detonation or firing@adj. first in rank or degree; the prime minister; used of the first or originating agent; prime mover@n. a quantity that has no factor but itself and 1
primed adj. (usually followed by `to' or `for') on the point of or strongly disposed; primed for a fight
primer n. an introductory textbook; any device by which an explosive charge is ignited; the first coat of paint applied to a surface
primeval adj. having existed from the beginning; in an earliest or original stage or state; the forest primeval
primigravida n. a woman who is pregnant for the first time
priming n. the act of making something ready
primitive adj. belonging to an early stage of technical development; characterized by simplicity and (often) crudeness; primitive movies of the 1890s; being or resembling a force of nature@n. a person who belongs to early stage of civilization
primitively adv. with reference to the origin or beginning; in a primitive style or manner; rather primitively operated foundries
primitiveness n. a natural or unrefined state
primitivism n. a natural or unrefined state; a style characteristic of a primitive artist
primly adv. in a prissy manner
primness n. excessive or affected modesty; exaggerated and arrogant properness
primogenitor n. an ancestor in the direct line
primogeniture n. right of inheritance belongs exclusively to the eldest son
primordial adj. having existed from the beginning; in an earliest or original stage or state; primordial matter
primordium n. an organ in its earliest stage of development; the foundation for subsequent development
primp v. dress or groom with elaborate care
primping n. careful or finicky grooming; the boss didn't want them to waste time primping
primrose n. any of numerous short-stemmed plants of the genus Primula having tufted basal leaves and showy flowers clustered in umbels or heads
primula n. any of numerous short-stemmed plants of the genus Primula having tufted basal leaves and showy flowers clustered in umbels or heads
primus n. the presiding bishop of the Episcopal Church of Scotland
prince n. a male member of a royal family other than the sovereign (especially the son of a sovereign)
princedom n. the dignity or rank or position of a prince; territory ruled by a prince
princeling n. a petty prince
princely adj. rich and superior in quality; a princely sum; having the rank of or befitting a prince; a princely bearing
princess n. a female member of a royal family other than the queen (especially the daughter of a sovereign)
princewood n. tropical American timber tree; large tropical American tree of the genus Cordia grown for its abundant creamy white flowers and valuable wood
principal n. the original amount of a debt on which interest is calculated; the educator who has executive authority for a school; she sent unruly pupils to see the principal; an actor who plays a principal role@adj. most important element
principality n. territory ruled by a prince
principally adv. for the most part
principalship n. the post of principal
principle n. a basic generalization that is accepted as true and that can be used as a basis for reasoning or conduct; a rule or standard especially of good behavior: a man of principle; a basic truth or law or assumption
principled adj. based on or manifesting objectively defined standards of rightness or morality; principled pragmatism and unprincipled expediency
prink v. dress very carefully and in a finicky manner; put on special clothes to appear particularly appealing and attractive
print n. the result of the printing process; a picture or design printed from an engraving@adj. written in print characters or produced by means of e.g. a printing press@v. put into print; write as if with print; not cursive
printable adj. fit for publication because free of material that is morally or legally objectionable; printable language
printed adj. written in print characters or produced by means of e.g. a printing press
printer n. someone whose occupation is printing; (computer science) an output device that prints the results of data processing; a machine that prints
printing n. text written in the style of printed matter; the business of printing; reproduction by applying ink to paper as for publication; all the copies of a work printed at one time; they ran off an initial printing of 2000 copies
printmaker n. an artist who designs and makes prints
printmaking n. artistic design and manufacture of prints as woodcuts or silkscreens
printout n. the output of a computer in printed form
prior n. the head of a religious order; in an abbey the prior is next below the abbot@adj. earlier in time
prioress n. the superior of a group of nuns
prioritize v. assign a priority to
priority n. status established in order of importance or urgency:; national independence takes priority over class struggle; preceding in time
priorship n. the office of prior
priory n. a monastery governed by a prior or a convent governed by a prioress
prise v. to move or force, esp. in an effort to get something open; ,; make an uninvited or presumptuous inquiry; regard highly; think much of
prism n. a polyhedron with two congruent and parallel faces (the bases) and whose lateral faces are parallelograms; triangular shape and made of glass or quartz; used to deviate a beam or invert an image
prismatic adj. of or relating to or resembling or constituting a prism; prismatic form; exhibiting spectral colors formed by refraction of light through a prism; prismatic light
prismatoid n. a polyhedron whose vertices all lie in one or the other of two parallel planes; the faces that lie in those planes are the bases of the prismatoid
prismoid n. a prismatoid whose bases are polygons having the same number of sides and whose other faces are trapezoids or parallelograms
prison n. a building where persons are confined while on trial or for punishment; a prisonlike situation; a place of seeming confinement
prisonbreak n. an escape from jail
prisoner n. a person who is confined; especially a prisoner of war
prisonlike adj. resembling a prison
prissily adv. in a prissy manner; the new teacher alienates the children by behaving prissily
prissy adj. exaggeratedly proper; excessively fastidious and easily disgusted
pristine adj. completely free from dirt or contamination; pristine mountain snow; immaculately clean and unused; handed her his pristine white handkerchief
prithee interj. archaic -- used to express a wish or request
privacy n. the quality of being secluded from the presence or view of others; the condition of being concealed or hidden
private n. an enlisted man of the lowest rank@adj. confined to particular persons or groups or providing privacy; a private place; concerning things deeply private and personal; private correspondence; concerning one person exclusively
privateer n. an officer or crew member of a privateer; a privately owned warship commissioned to prey on the commercial shipping or warships of an enemy nation
privateersman n. an officer or crew member of a privateer
privately adv. kept private or confined to those intimately concerned; it was discussed privately between the two men; by a private person or interest; a privately financed campaign
privateness n. the condition of being concealed or hidden; the quality of being secluded from the presence or view of others
privates n. external sex organ
privation n. a state of extreme poverty; act of depriving
privatize v. change (industry or business) from governmental to private control or ownership
privet n. any of various Old World shrubs having smooth entire leaves and terminal panicles of small white flowers followed by small black berries; many used for hedges
privilege v. grant a privilege to; bestow a privilege upon@n. a special advantage or immunity or benefit not enjoyed by all; a right reserved exclusively by a particular person or group (especially a hereditary or official right)
privileged adj. blessed with privileges; the privileged few; not subject to usual rules or penalties; a privileged statement; confined to an exclusive or group; privileged information
privily adv. (archaic) confidentially or in secret; told her friend privily that she was planning to be married
privy adj. hidden from general view or use; a privy place to rest and think; (followed by `to') informed about something secret or not generally known; privy to the details of the conspiracy@n. a room equipped with washing and toilet facilities
prize n. something given for victory or superiority in a contest or competition; the prize was a free trip to Europe@v. hold dear; I prize these old phtographs; to move or force, esp. in an effort to get something open; ,@adj. of superior grade
prizefight n. a boxing match between professional boxers for a cash prize@v. box for a prize or money
prizefighter n. a professional boxer
prizewinner n. a winner of a prize -- prize-winning adj.
prizewinning adj. holding first place in a contest; a prizewinning wine
pro adj. in favor of (an action or proposal etc.); a pro vote@n. an athlete who plays for pay; an argument in favor of a proposal@adv. on the affirmative side
probabilism n. a Roman Catholic system of casuistry that when expert opinions differ an actor can follow any solidly probable opinion that he wishes even though some different opinion might be more probable
probabilistic adj. of or relating to the Roman Catholic philosophy of probabilism; of or relating to or based on probability; probabilistic quantum theory
probability n. a measure of how likely it is that some event will occur; what is the probability of rain?; the quality of being probable
probable adj. likely but not certain to be or become true or real; he foresaw a probable loss; apparently destined; the probable consequences of going ahead with the scheme@n. an applicant likely to be chosen
probably adv. with considerable certainty; without much doubt; He is probably out of the country; easy to believe on the basis of available evidence; he will probably win the election
probate v. put a convicted person on probation by suspending his sentence; establish the legal validity of; as of a will, etc.@n. a judicial certificate saying that a will is genuine and conferring on the executors the power to administer the estate
probation n. the act of liberating on probation
probationary adj. under terms not final or fully worked out or agreed upon; probationary employees
probationer n. a nurse in training who is undergoing a trial period; someone released on probation or on parole
probative adj. serving to test or try; serving to prove
probe n. an inquiry into unfamiliar or questionable activities; there was a congressional probe into the scandal; a flexible slender surgical instrument used to explore wounds or body cavities@v. question or examine thoroughly and closely
probing n. an inquiry into unfamiliar or questionable activities@adj. diligent and thorough in inquiry or investigation; a probing inquiry
probity n. complete and confirmed integrity
problem n. a state of difficulty that needs to be resolved; a source of difficulty:; what's the problem?; a question raised for consideration or solution
problematic adj. open to doubt or debate; If you ever get married, which seems to be extremely problematic; making great mental demands; hard to comprehend or solve; a problematic situation at home
problematical adj. open to doubt or debate; making great mental demands; hard to comprehend or solve
problematically adv. in such a way as to pose a problem
proboscidean n. massive herbivorous mammals having tusks and a long trunk
proboscidian n. massive herbivorous mammals having tusks and a long trunk
proboscis n. (informal) the human nose (especially when it is large); a long flexible snout as of an elephant
procaine n. a white crystalline powder administered near nerves as a local anesthetic in dentistry and medicine
procaryote n. a unicellular organism having cells lacking membrane-bound nuclei; bacteria are the prime example but also included are blue-green algae and actinomycetes and mycoplasma
procaryotic adj. having cells that lack membrane-bound nuclei
procathedral n. a parish church used as a cathedral
procedural adj. of or relating to procedure; a procedural violation; (law) applying to methods of enforcement and rules of procedure
procedure n. a particular course of action intended to achieve a results; the procedure of obtaining a driver's license; a process or series of acts especially of a practical or mechanical nature involved in a particular form of work
proceed v. continue to speak: he continued,; move ahead; travel onward; can also be used in the temporal sense; follow a procedure or take a course; follow a certain course; continue a certain state, condition, or activity
proceeding n. the institution of a sequence of steps by which legal judgments are invoked
proceedings n. the institution of a sequence of steps by which legal judgments are invoked; a written account of what transpired at a meeting
proceeds n. the income arising from land or other property
process v. deal with in a routine way:; process a loan; subject to a process or treatment, often with the aim of readying for some purpose@n. a particular course of action intended to achieve a results; it was a process of trial and error
processed adj. subjected to a special process or treatment; processed cheeses are easy to spread; freed from impurities by processing; prepared or converted from a natural state by subjecting to a special process; processed ores
processing n. preparing or putting through a prescribed procedure: the processing of newly arrived immigrants
procession n. a collection of things moving ahead in an orderly manner
processional n. religious music used in a procession@adj. intended for use in a procession; processional music; of or relating to or characteristic of a procession; in good processional order
processor n. a business engaged in processing agricultural products and preparing them for market; someone who processes things (foods or photographs or applicants etc.)
proclaim v. declare formally; declare someone to be something; of titles; state or announce; he exclaimed; The King will proclaim an amnesty; affirm or declare; praise, glorify, or honor
proclaimed adj. declared publicly; made widely known; the newspaper's proclaimed adherence to the government's policy
proclamation n. a formal public statement
proclivity n. a natural inclination; he has a proclivity for exaggeration
proconsul n. an official in a modern colony who has considerable administrative power; a provincial governor of consular rank in the Roman Republic and Roman Empire; an anthropoid ape of the genus Proconsul
proconsular adj. of or relating to or typical of a proconsul; proconsular offices
proconsulate n. the position of proconsul
proconsulship n. the position of proconsul
procrastinate v. postpone doing what one should be doing
procrastination n. the act of procrastinating; slowness as a consequence of not getting around to it
procrastinator n. someone who postpones work (especially out of laziness or habitual carelessness)
procreate v. have offspring or young
procreation n. the activity of conceiving and bearing offspring
procreative adj. producing new life or offspring
proctitis n. inflammation of the rectum; marked by bloody stools and a frequent urge to defecate; frequently associated with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis
proctologist n. a doctor specializing in diseases of the rectum and anus
proctology n. the branch of medicine dealing with the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the colon or rectum or anus
proctor n. someone who supervises (an examination)@v. as of students taking an exam, to prevent cheating
proctorship n. the position of proctor
proctoscope n. an endoscope for examining the rectum
procurable adj. capable of being obtained
procural n. the act of getting possession of something
procurance n. the act of getting possession of something
procurator n. a person authorized to act for another; (ancient Rome) someone employed by the Roman emperor to manage finance and taxes
procure v. get by special effort
procurement n. the act of getting possession of something; he was responsible for the procurement of materials and supplies
procurer n. someone who procures customers for whores (in England they call a pimp a ponce)
procuress n. a woman procurer
procyonid n. plantigrade carnivorous mammals
prod n. a verbalization that encourages you to attempt something; a pointed instrument used to prod into motion@v. to push against gently; urge on; cause to act; poke or thrust abruptly
prodding n. a verbalization that encourages you to attempt something
prodigal n. a recklessly extravagant consumer@adj. very generous; prodigal praise; recklessly wasteful; prodigal in their expenditures; marked by rash extravagance; led a prodigal life
prodigality n. the trait of spending extravagantly; excessive spending
prodigally adv. in a prodigal manner; he spent prodigally; to a wasteful manner or to a wasteful degree; we are still prodigally rich compared to others
prodigious adj. so great in size or force or extent as to elicit awe; a prodigious storm; of momentous or ominous significance; a prodigious vision; far beyond what is usual in magnitude or degree; the young Mozart's prodigious talents
prodigiously adv. to a prodigious degree; the prices of farms rose prodigiously
prodigy n. an unusually talented or intelligent child
prodrome n. an early symptom that a disease is developing or that an attack is about to occur
produce v. bring forth or yield: The tree would not produce fruit; create or manufacture a man-made product: We produce more cars than we can sell; cause to occur or exist:@n. fresh fruits and vegetable grown for the market
produced adj. that is caused by; if...such a change is produced by...insulin comas or electroshocks
producer n. someone who manufactures something; someone who finds financing for and supervises the making and presentation of a show (play or film or program or similar work)
product n. commodities offered for sale; the amount of an artifact that has been produced by someone or some process; they improve their product every year
production n. (economics) manufacturing or mining or growing something (usually in large quantities) for sale; he introduced more efficient methods of production
productive adj. producing or capable of producing (especially abundantly); productive farmland; having the ability to produce or originate; yielding positive results; marked by great fruitfulness; a productive vineyard
productively adv. in a productive way; they worked together productively for two years
productiveness n. the quality of being productive or having the power to produce
productivity n. the quality of being productive or having the power to produce; (economics) the ratio of the quantity and quality of units produced to the labor per unit of time
proem n. preliminary comment; preface; prelude
profanation n. blasphemous behavior
profanatory adj. profaning or tending to desecrate
profane v. corrupt morally; violate the sacred character of a place, such as a graveyard@adj. characterized by profanity or cursing; profane words; not sacred or concerned with religion; sacred and profane music
profaned adj. treated irreverently or sacrilegiously
profanely adv. with curses; muttering profanely; in an irreverent or profane manner; he kept wondering profanely why everything bad happened to him
profaneness n. an attitude of irreverence or contempt for a divinity; unholiness by virtue of being profane
profanity n. vulgar or irreverent speech or action
profess v. claim to be proficient; confess one's faith in, or allegiance to; make a clean breast of; as in religious orders; take a vow
professed adj. professing to be qualified; a professed philosopher; claimed with intent to deceive; his professed intentions; openly declared as such; her professed love of everything about that country
professedly adv. with pretense or intention to deceive; is only professedly poor; by open declaration; Susan Smith was professedly guilty of the murders
professing n. an open avowal (true or false) of some belief or opinion
profession n. the body of people in a learned occupation; an occupation requiring special education (especially in the liberal arts or sciences); an open avowal (true or false) of some belief or opinion; a profession of disagreement
professional adj. engaged in a profession or engaging in as a profession or means of livelihood; the professional man or woman possesses distinctive qualifications@n. a person engaged in one of the learned professions
professionalism n. the expertness characteristic of a professional person
professionalize v. to give a professional character to
professionally adv. in a professional manner; professionally trained staff
professor n. someone who is a member of the faculty at a college or university
professorial adj. relating to or characteristic of professors; professorial demeanor
professorially adv. in a professorial manner; she behaved very professorially
professorship n. the position of professor
proffer v. present for acceptance or rejection@n. a proposal offered for acceptance or rejection
proficiency n. the quality of having great facility and competence; skillfulness in the command of fundamentals deriving from practice and familiarity; practice greatly improves proficiency
proficient adj. having or showing knowledge and skill and aptitude; a proficient engineer
proficiently adv. in a proficient manner; he dealt proficiently with the problem
profile v. write about; represent in profile, by drawing or painting@n. a graph representing the extent to which something exhibits various characteristics; a side view representation of an object (especially a human face); biographical sketch
profit v. derive benefit from; make a profit; gain money or materially@n. the excess of revenues over outlays in a given period of time; the advantageous quality of being beneficial
profitability n. the quality of affording gain or benefit or profit
profitable adj. yielding material gain or profit; profitable speculation on the stock market; promoting benefit or gain; a profitable meeting to resolve difficulties; providing profit; a profitable conversation
profitableness n. the quality of affording gain or benefit or profit
profitably adv. in a productive way
profiteer n. someone who makes excessive profit (especially on goods in short supply)@v. make an unreasonable profit, as on the sale of difficult to obtain goods
profitless adj. without profit or reward
profitlessly adv. without gain or profit
profits n. the excess of revenues over outlays in a given period of time; something won (especially money)
profligacy n. the trait of spending extravagantly; dissolute indulgence in sensual pleasure
profligate adj. recklessly wasteful; unrestrained by convention or morality@n. a dissolute man in fashionable society; a recklessly extravagant consumer
profligately adv. in a dissolute way
profound adj. showing intellectual penetration or emotional depths; from the depths of your being; the differences are profound; of the greatest intensity; complete; a profound silence
profoundly adv. to a great depth psychologically
profoundness n. wisdom that is recondite and abstruse and profound; the intellectual ability to penetrate deeply into ideas; the quality of being physically deep
profundity n. wisdom that is recondite and abstruse and profound; intellectual depth; penetrating knowledge; keen insight; etc; the intellectual ability to penetrate deeply into ideas
profuse adj. produced or growing in extreme abundance
profusely adv. in an abundant manner; he thanked her profusely
profuseness n. the property of being extremely abundant
profusion n. the property of being extremely abundant
progenitor n. an ancestor in the direct line
progeny n. the immediate descendants of a person
progestational adj. of or relating to progesterone (or to a drug with progesterone-like effects); preceding and favoring gestation; of or relating to physiological changes associated with ovulation and formation of the corpus luteum
progesterone n. a steroid hormone produced in the ovary; prepares and maintains the uterus for pregnancy
progestin n. any of a group of steroid hormones that exhibit progesterone-like activity
prognathic adj. having a projecting lower jaw
prognathous adj. having a projecting lower jaw
prognosis n. a prediction about how something (as the weather) will develop; a prediction of the course of a disease
prognostic adj. of or relating to prediction; having value for making predictions@n. a sign of something about to happen
prognosticate v. make a prediction about; tell in advance; indicate by signs
prognostication n. knowledge of the future (usually obtained from a divine source)
prognosticative adj. of or relating to prediction; having value for making predictions
prognosticator n. someone who makes predictions of the future
program v. arrange a program of or for; write a computer program@n. a system of projects or services intended to meet a public need; he proposed an elaborate program of public works; a series of steps to be carried out or goals to be accomplished
programma n. an edict that has been publicly posted
programme v. write a computer program; arrange a program of or for@n. an announcement of the events that will occur as part of a theatrical or sporting event; a radio or television show
programmer n. a person who designs and writes and tests computer programs
programming n. setting an order and time for planned events; creating a sequence of instructions to enable the computer to do something
progress n. gradual improvement or growth or development:; great progress in the arts; the act of moving forward toward a goal; a movement forward@v. make progress; move forward, also in the metaphorical sense
progression n. a series with a definite pattern of advance; a movement forward; the act of moving forward toward a goal
progressive adj. favoring or promoting progress; progressive schools; favoring or promoting reform (often by government action)@n. a tense of verbs used in describing action that is on-going
progressively adv. advancing in amount or intensity
progressiveness n. advancement toward better conditions or policies or methods
progressivism n. the political orientation of those who favor progress toward better conditions in government and society
progressivity n. advancement toward better conditions or policies or methods
progymnosperm n. an ancestral fossil type from which modern gymnosperms are thought to have derived
prohibit v. command against
prohibited adj. excluded from use or mention; forbidden by law
prohibition n. a law forbidding the sale of alcoholic beverages; in 1920 the 18th amendment to the Constitution established prohibition in the US; a decree that prohibits something
prohibitionist n. opposes intoxicating beverages
prohibitive adj. tending to discourage (especially of prices); the price was prohibitive
prohibitively adv. to a prohibitive degree; it is prohibitively expensive
prohibitory adj. tending to discourage (especially of prices)
project n. any piece of work; a planned undertaking@v. communicate vividly; jut out or project in space; transfer from one domain into another, as of ideas and principles; project on a screen; cause to be heard; draw a projection of
projected adj. planned for the future; extending out above or beyond a surface or boundary; massive projected buttresses
projectile adj. impelling or impelled forward; a projectile force@n. a body that is thrown or projected
projecting adj. extending out above or beyond a surface or boundary
projection n. a prediction made by extrapolating from past observations; the projection of an image from a film onto a screen; a planned undertaking; anything that branches out from a central support
projectionist n. the person who operates the projector in a movie house
projector n. a device for projecting a beam of light; an optical instrument that projects an enlarged image onto a screen
prokaryote n. a unicellular organism having cells lacking membrane-bound nuclei; bacteria are the prime example but also included are blue-green algae and actinomycetes and mycoplasma
prokaryotic adj. having cells that lack membrane-bound nuclei
prolamine n. a simple protein found in plants
prolapse n. the slipping or falling out of place of an organ (as the uterus)@v. of body parts
prolapsus n. the slipping or falling out of place of an organ (as the uterus)
prolate adj. having the polar diameter greater than the equatorial diameter; a prolate spheroid is generated by revolving an ellipse about its major axis; rounded like an egg
prole n. a member of the working class (not necessarily employed)
prolegomenon n. pl. -na; prefatory remarks
prolepsis n. anticipating and answering objections in advance
proletarian adj. the lowest class of citizens of ancient Rome who had no property; belonging to or characteristic of the proletariat@n. a member of the working class (not necessarily employed)
proletariat n. a social class comprising those who do manual labor or work for wages
proliferate v. grow rapidly; Pizza parlors proliferate in this area; grow or reproduce rapidly; Health food shops proliferate in this region
proliferation n. growth by the rapid multiplication of parts
prolific adj. intellectually productive; a prolific writer; bearing in abundance especially offspring; flying foxes are extremely prolific
prolificacy n. the property of producing abundantly and sustaining growth
proline n. an amino acid that is found in many proteins (especially collagen)
prolix adj. tediously prolonged or tending to speak or write at great length; editing a prolix manuscript
prolixity n. boring verboseness
prolixness n. boring verboseness
prologize v. write or speak a prologue
prologue n. an introduction to a play
prolong v. lengthen in time; cause to be or last longer; lengthen or extend in duration or space
prolongation n. the act of prolonging something; there was an indefinite prolongation of the peace talks; amount or degree or range to which something extends; the consequence of being lengthened in duration
prolonged adj. relatively long in duration; tediously protracted; a prolonged and bitter struggle; drawn out or made longer spatially; a prolonged black line across the page; of illness; developing slowly or of long duration
prolusion n. a short introductory essay preceding the text of a book; exercising in preparation for strenuous activity
prolusory adj. of or relating to or having the character of a prolusion
prom n. a formal dance held for a school class toward the end of the academic year
promenade v. march in a procession; take a walk@n. a formal dance held for a school class toward the end of the academic year; a public area set aside as a pedestrian walk; a square dance figure; couples march counterclockwise in a circle
promethium n. a soft silvery metallic element of the rare earth group having no stable isotope; was discovered in radioactive form as a fission product of uranium
prominence n. the state of being prominent: widely known or eminent; relative importance; something that protrudes
prominent adj. having a quality that thrusts itself into attention; a new theory is the most prominent feature of the book; conspicuous in position or importance; a prominent citizen
prominently adv. in a prominent way; the new car was prominently displayed in the driveway
promiscuity n. promiscuous sexual relations
promiscuous adj. not selective of a single class or person; Clinton was criticized for his promiscuous solicitation of campaign money; casual and unrestrained in sexual behavior
promiscuously adv. in an indiscriminate manner; she reads promiscuously; in a licentious and promiscuous manner; this young girl has to share a room with her mother who lives promiscuously
promiscuousness n. promiscuous sexual relations
promise n. a verbal commitment by one person to another agreeing to do (or not to do) something in the future@v. make a promise or commitment; promise to undertake or give; I promise you my best effort; make a prediction about
promised adj. assured by (usually) spoken agreement; the promised toy
promisee n. a person to whom a promise is made
promiser n. a person who makes a promise
promising adj. showing possibility of achievement or excellence; a promising young man; full or promise; the scandal threatened an abrupt end to a promising political career
promisingly adv. in an auspicious manner; the afternoon had begun so promisingly
promisor n. a person who makes a promise
promissary adj. relating to or having the character of a promise; promissary note
promissory adj. containing or involving or having the nature of a promise; promissory oath
promontory n. a natural elevation (especially a rocky one that just out into the sea)
promote v. contribute to the progress or growth of; give a promotion to; assign to a higher position; make publicity for; try to sell
promoter n. someone who is an active supporter and advocate; a sponsor who books and stages public entertainments
promotion n. a message issued in behalf of some product or cause or institution; act of raising in rank or position; encouragement of the progress or growth or acceptance of something; the advancement of some enterprise
promotional adj. of or relating to serving as publicity; promotional fares; of or relating to advancement; promotional exams
promotive adj. tending to further or encourage
prompt n. a cue given to a performer (usually the beginning of the next line to be spoken)@adj. according to schedule or without delay; a prompt reply; characterized by speed and efficiency; quick in apprehending or reacting@v. give an incentive
promptbook n. the copy of the playscript used by the prompter
prompter n. someone who assists a performer by providing the next words of a forgotten speech; a device that displays words for people to read on tv
prompting n. the act of suggesting
promptitude n. the characteristic of doing things without delay
promptly adv. with little or no delay; the rescue squad arrived promptly; in a punctual manner; he did his homework promptly; at once (usually modifies an undesirable occurrence); he promptly forgot the address
promptness n. the characteristic of doing things without delay; the quality or habit of adhering to an appointed time
promulgate v. state or announce; he exclaimed; put a law into effect by formal declaration
promulgated adj. formally made public
promulgation n. a formal public statement
promulgator n. one who promulgates laws (announces a law as a way of putting it into execution)
pronate v. turn the forearm or the hand so that the palm is directed downwards
pronation n. rotation of the hands and forearms so that the palms face downward
prone adj. lying face downward; having a tendency (to); often used in combination; a child prone to mischief
proneness n. being disposed to do something; accident proneness
prong n. a pointed projection
prongbuck n. fleet antelope-like ruminant of western North American plains with small branched horns
pronged adj. having prongs or tines; usually used in combination; resembling a fork; divided or separated into two branches
pronghorn n. fleet antelope-like ruminant of western North American plains with small branched horns
prongy adj. resembling a fork; divided or separated into two branches; horseradish grown in poor soil may develop prongy roots
pronk v. jump straight up, as of kangaroos
pronominal adj. relating to pronouns; pronominal reference
pronoun n. a function word that is used in place of a noun or noun phrase
pronounce v. speak, pronounce, or utter in a certain way; pronounce judgment on
pronounceable adj. capable of being uttered or pronounced; a pronounceable group of letters
pronounced adj. strongly marked; easily noticeable; a pronounced flavor of cinnamon; produced by the organs of speech
pronouncement n. an authoritative declaration
pronto adv. in a punctual manner
pronunciamento n. a public declaration of intentions (as issued by a political party or government)
pronunciation n. the manner of uttering a word
proof adj. (used in combination or as a suffix) able to withstand@n. any factual evidence that helps to establish the truth of something@v. make or take a proof of, such as a photographic negative, an etching, or typeset; read for errors
proofed adj. treated so as to become resistant; rust-proofed automobiles
proofread v. read for errors
proofreader n. someone who reads proof in order to find errors and mark corrections
prop n. a support placed beneath or against something to keep it from shaking or falling; any movable articles or objects used on the set of a play or movie; rotates to push against air@v. support by placing against something solid or rigid
propaganda n. information that is spread for the purpose of promoting some cause
propagandist n. a person who disseminates messages calculated to assist some cause or some government@adj. of or relating to or characterized by propaganda
propagandistic adj. of or relating to or characterized by propaganda
propagandize v. subject to propaganda; spread by propaganda
propagate v. transmit from one generation to the next, of characteristics; travel through the air, of sound or light; transmit, as in physics; propagate sound or light through air, for example; transmit; as of information
propagation n. the spreading of something (a belief or practice) into new regions; the act of propagating; the movement of a wave through a medium
propagator n. someone who propagates plants (as under glass); someone who spreads the news
propanal n. a colorless liquid aldehyde
propanamide n. the amide of propionic acid (C2H5CONH2)
propane n. colorless gas found in natural gas and petroleum; used as a fuel
propanol n. a clear colorless volatile liquid (alcohol) used as a solvent and antiseptic
propanone n. a highly inflammable liquid ketone widely used as an organic solvent and as material for making plastics
propel v. cause to move forward with force; give an incentive
propellant adj. tending to or capable of propelling; propellant fuel for submarines@n. fuel that propels a rocket
propellent n. fuel that propels a rocket@adj. tending to or capable of propelling
propeller n. a device that rotates to push against air or water
propelling adj. tending to or capable of propelling
propellor n. a device that rotates to push against air or water
propenal n. a pungent colorless unsaturated liquid aldehyde made from propene
propene n. a flammable gas obtained by cracking petroleum; used in organic synthesis
propenoate n. a salt or ester of propenoic acid
propenonitrile n. a colorless liquid unsaturated nitrile made from propene
propensity n. an inclination to do something; a natural inclination; a disposition to behave in a certain way; the propensity of disease to spread
proper adj. marked by suitability or rightness or appropriateness; proper medical treatment; limited to the thing specified; the city proper; appropriate for a condition or occasion; everything in its proper place
properly adv. in the right manner; please do your job properly!; with reason or justice
properness n. correct or appropriate behavior
propertied adj. owning land or securities as a principal source of revenue
property n. any tangible possession that is owned by someone; that hat is my property; a basic or essential attribute shared by all members of a class; any area set aside for a particular purpose
propertyless adj. the lowest class of citizens of ancient Rome who had no property; of those who work for wages especially manual or industrial laborers
prophase n. the first stage of mitosis; the first stage of meiosis
prophecy n. knowledge of the future (usually obtained from a divine source); a prediction uttered under divine inspiration
prophesy v. predict or reveal through, or as if through, divine inspiration; foretell by divine inspiration; deliver a sermon
prophet n. an authoritative person who divines the future; someone who speaks by divine inspiration; someone who is an interpreter of the will of God
prophetess n. a woman prophet
prophetic adj. foretelling events as if by supernatural intervention; prophetic writings
prophetical adj. foretelling events as if by supernatural intervention
prophetically adv. in a prophetic manner; he prophetically anticipated the disaster
prophylactic n. something that prevents or slows the course of an illness or disease@adj. capable of preventing conception or impregnation; tending to ward off; preventing or contributing to the prevention of disease
prophylaxis n. the prevention of disease
propinquity n. the property of being close together
propionaldehyde n. a colorless liquid aldehyde
propitiate v. make peace with
propitiation n. the act of placating; the act of atoning for sin or wrongdoing
propitiative adj. intended to reconcile or appease
propitiatory adj. having power to atone for or offered by way of expiation or propitiation; expiatory (or propitiatory) sacrifice; intended to reconcile or appease; sent flowers as a propitiatory gesture
propitious adj. presenting favorable circumstances; propitious omens
propitiously adv. in an auspicious manner
propitiousness n. the favorable quality of strongly indicating a successful result
propjet n. an airplane with an external propeller that is driven by a turbojet engine
propman n. member of the stage crew in charge of properties
proponent n. a person who pleads for a cause or idea
proportion n. the quotient obtained when the magnitude of a part is divided by the magnitude of the whole; magnitude or extent; balance among the parts of something@v. give pleasant proportions to; adjust in size relative to other things
proportionable adj. (archaic) proportionate
proportional n. one of the quantities in a mathematical proportion@adj. properly related in size or degree or other measurable characteristics; usually followed by `to'; punishment oughtt to be proportional to the crime
proportionality n. the quotient obtained when the magnitude of a part is divided by the magnitude of the whole
proportionally adv. to a proportionate degree
proportionate adj. being in due proportion; agreeing in amount, magnitude, or degree; exhibiting equivalence or correspondence among constituents of an entity or between different entities
proportionately adv. to a proportionate degree; your salary will rise proportionately to your workload; to a proportionate degree; the height of this wall must be reduced proportionately to give the room pleasant dimensions; in proportion
proposal n. something proposed (as a plan); an offer of marriage; the act of making a proposal; they listened to her proposal
propose v. make a proposal, declare a plan for something; present for consideration; propose or intend; put forward; nominate for appointment to an office; ask (someone) to marry you
proposed adj. planned for the future; the first volume of a proposed series
proposer n. (parliamentary procedure) someone who makes a formal motion
proposition n. (logic) a statement that affirms or denies something and is either true or false; a proposal offered for acceptance or rejection@v. suggest sex to
propositus n. the person immediately affected by or concerned with an action
propound v. put forward, as of an idea
propoxyphene n. a mildly narcotic analgesic drug (trade name Darvon) related to methadone but less addictive
propranolol n. a beta blocker (trade name Inderal) used in treating hypertension and angina pectoris
proprietary adj. protected by trademark or patent or copyright; made or produced or distributed by one having exclusive rights@n. an unincorporated business owned by a single person who is responsible for its liabilities and entitled to its profits
proprietor n. someone who owns (is legal possessor of) a business
proprietorship n. an unincorporated business owned by a single person who is responsible for its liabilities and entitled to its profits
proprietress n. a woman proprietor
propriety n. correct or appropriate behavior
proprioception n. the ability to sense the position and location and orientation and movement of the body and its parts
proprioceptive adj. of or relating to proprioception
proprionamide n. the amide of propionic acid (C2H5CONH2)
propulsion n. a propelling force; the act of propelling
propulsive adj. having the power to propel; propulsive coefficient; tending to or capable of propelling; the faster a jet plane goes the greater its propulsive efficiency
propyl n. the monovalent organic group C3H7- obtained from propane
propylene n. a flammable gas obtained by cracking petroleum; used in organic synthesis
prorate v. divide or assess proportionally
proration n. the proproportional limitation of production or distribution of something (e.g. crude oil or natural gas) to some fractional part of the total capacity of each producer
prorogation n. discontinuing the meetings (of a legislative body) without dissolving it
prorogue v. adjourn by royal prerogative; without dissolving the legislative body
prosaic adj. not fanciful or imaginative; a prosaic and unimaginative essay; lacking wit or imagination; not challenging; dull and lacking excitement
prosaically adv. in a matter-of-fact manner; I applied my attention prosaically to my routine
prosaicness n. commonplaceness as a consequence of being humdrum and not exciting
proscenium n. the part of a modern theater stage between the curtain and the orchestra (ie, in front of the curtain); the wall that separates the stage from the auditorium in a modern theater
prosciuto n. Italian salt-cured ham usually sliced paper thin
proscribe v. command against
proscribed adj. excluded from use or mention
proscription n. a decree that prohibits something; the act of banishing someone
prose n. ordinary writing as distinguished from verse; matter_of_fact, commonplace, or dull expression
prosecute v. conduct a prosecution in a court of law; bring a criminal action against (in a trial); carry out or participate in an activity; be involved in
prosecution n. the institution and conduct of legal proceedings against a defendant; the lawyers acting for the state to put the case against the defendant; the continuance of something begun with a view to its completion
prosecutor n. a lawyer who conducts criminal prosecutions on behalf of the state
proselyte n. a new convert; especially a gentile converted to Judaism
proselytism n. conversion resulting from the zeal of crusading advocacy of the gospel
proselytize v. convert to another faith or religion
prosencephalon n. the anterior portion of the brain
prosily adv. in a prosy manner; somewhat prosily and repetitively expounded
prosimian n. primitive primates having large ears and eyes and characterized by nocturnal habits
prosiness n. commonplaceness as a consequence of being humdrum and not exciting
prosodic adj. of or relating to the rhythmic aspect of language or to the suprasegmental phonemes of pitch and stress and juncture and nasalization and voicing
prosodion n. religious music used in a procession
prosody n. the patterns of stress and intonation in a language; a system of versification; the study of poetic meter and the art of versification
prosopopoeia n. representing an abstract quality or idea as a person or creature
prospect v. prospect for valuable minerals@n. the possibility of future success; belief about (or mental picture of) the future; someone who is considered for something (for an office or prize or honor etc.); the visual percept of a region
prospective adj. concerned with or related to the future; prospective earnings; anticipated for the near future; the prospective students
prospector n. someone who explores an area for mineral deposits
prospectus n. a catalog listing the courses offered by a college or university
prosper v. grow stronger; gain in wealth
prospering adj. very lively and profitable
prosperity n. an economic state of growth with rising profits and full employment; the condition of prospering; having good fortune
prosperous adj. in fortunate circumstances financially; moderately rich; a prosperous family; very lively and profitable; a prosperous new business; marked by peace and prosperity
prosperously adv. in the manner of prosperous people
prostaglandin n. hormone-like substance that may affect blood pressure and metabolism and smooth muscle activity
prostate adj. relating to the prostate gland@n. a firm partly muscular chestnut sized gland in males at the neck of the urethra; produces a viscid secretion that is the fluid part of semen
prostatectomy n. surgical removal of part or all of the prostate gland
prostatic adj. relating to the prostate gland
prostatitis n. inflammation of the prostate gland characterized by perineal pain and irregular urination and (if severe) chills and fever
prosthesis n. a replacement for a part of the body
prostitute v. sell one's body; exchange sex for money@n. a woman who engages in sexual intercourse for money
prostitution n. offering sexual intercourse for pay
prostrate adj. stretched out and lying at full length along the ground; lying face downward@v. get into a prostrate position, as in submission; render helpless or defenseless; throw down flat, as on the ground
prostration n. the act of prostrating yourself
prostyle adj. marked by columniation having free columns in a portico only across the opening to the structure
prosy adj. lacking wit or imagination
protactinium n. a short-lived radioactive metallic element formed from uranium and disintegrating into actinium and then into lead
protagonist n. a person who backs a politician or a team etc.; the principal character in a work of fiction
protamine n. a simple protein found in fish sperm; rich in arginine; simpler in composition than globulin or albumin; counteracts the anticoagulant effect of heparin
protanopia n. inability to distinguish red and purplish blue
protanopic adj. inability to see the color red or to distinguish red and bluish-green
protea n. any tropical African shrub of the genus Protea having alternate rigid leaves and dense colorful flower heads resembling cones
protean adj. taking on different forms; eyes...of that baffling protean gray which is never twice the same
protease n. any enzyme that catalyzes the splitting of proteins into smaller peptide fractions and amino acids by a process known as proteolysis
protect v. shield from danger, injury, destruction, or damage; use tariffs to favor domestic industry, in international trade
protected adj. kept safe or defended from danger or injury or loss; the most protected spot I could find; guarded from injury or destruction
protecting n. the activity of protecting someone or something@adj. shielding (or designed to shield) against harm or discomfort; the protecting blanket of snow
protection n. the activity of protecting someone or something; the witnesses demanded police protection; a covering that is intend to protect from damage or injury; they had no protection from the fallout
protectionism n. the policy of imposing duties or quotas on imports in order to protect home industries from overseas competition
protectionist n. an advocate of protectionism
protective adj. intended or adapted to afford protection of some kind; a protective covering; showing a care; (usually followed by `of') solicitously caring or mindful; protective of his reputation
protectively adv. in a protective manner; he bent protectively over the woman
protectiveness n. a feeling of protective affection
protector n. a person who cares for persons or property
protectorate n. a territory controlled by (but not a possession of) a stronger state
protectorship n. the position of protector
protege n. a person who receives support and protection from an influential patron who furthers the protege's career
protegee n. a woman protege
protein n. any of a large group of nitrogenous organic compounds that are essential constituents of living cells; consist of long strings of amino acids
proteinaceous adj. relating to or of the nature of protein
proteinase n. any enzyme that catalyzes the splitting of proteins into smaller peptide fractions and amino acids by a process known as proteolysis
proteinuria n. the presence of excessive protein (chiefly albumin but also globulin) in the urine; usually a symptom of kidney disorder
proteolysis n. the hydrolysis of proteins into peptides and amino acids by cleavage of their peptide bonds
proteolytic adj. of or relating to proteolysis
proterozoic adj. (geology) formed in the later of two divisions of the Precambrian era; proterozoic life forms
protest n. a formal and solemn declaration of objection; they finished the game under protest to the league prsident; the act of protesting@v. utter words of protest; protest, as against a policy; also metaphorically
protestant adj. making a protest
protestation n. a formal and solemn declaration of objection; a strong declaration of protest
protester n. a person who dissents from some established policy; someone who participates in a public display of group feeling
protesting adj. making a protest
protestingly adv. in a protesting manner; the bed creaked protestingly when the fat man sat down
prothalamion n. pl. -mia; a song in celebration of a marriage
prothalamium n. pl. -mia; a song in celebration of a marriage
prothorax n. the anterior part of an insect's thorax; bears the first pair of legs
prothrombin n. a protein in blood plasma that is the inactive precursor of thrombin
protist n. free-living or colonial organisms with diverse nutritional and reproductive modes
protistan n. free-living or colonial organisms with diverse nutritional and reproductive modes
proto adj. (combining form) indicating the first or earliest or original; `proto' is a combining form in a word like `protolanguage' that refers to the hypothetical ancestor of another language or group of languages
protoactinium n. a short-lived radioactive metallic element formed from uranium and disintegrating into actinium and then into lead
protoarcheology n. the study of prehistoric human artifacts and human fossils
protoavis n. most primitive avian type known; extinct bird of the Triassic having birdlike jaw and hollow limbs and breastbone with dinosaur-like tail and hind limbs
protoceratops n. small horned dinosaur
protocol n. (computer science) rules determining the format and transmission of data; forms of ceremony and etiquette observed by diplomats and heads of state; code of correct conduct:; academic protocol
protoctist n. any of the unicellular protists
protogeometric adj. characteristic of the earliest phase of geometric art especially in Greece
protohippus n. Pliocene horse approaching donkeys in size
protohistory n. the study humans prior to the invention of writing
protomammal n. probably warm-blooded; considered direct ancestor of mammals
protomartyr n. the first martyr in a cause or region
proton n. a stable particle with positive charge equal to the negative charge of an electron
protoplasm n. the living substance of a cell
protoplast n. a biological unit consisting of a nucleus and the body of cytoplasm with which it interacts
prototherian n. primitive oviparous mammals found only in Australia Tasmania and New Guinea
prototypal adj. representing or constituting an original type after which other similar things are patterned; she was the prototypal student activist
prototype n. a standard or typical example; he is the prototype of good breeding
prototypic adj. representing or constituting an original type after which other similar things are patterned
prototypical adj. representing or constituting an original type after which other similar things are patterned
protozoal adj. of or relating to the Protozoa
protozoan adj. of or relating to the Protozoa@n. any of diverse minute acellular or unicellular organisms usually nonphotosynthetic
protozoic adj. of or relating to the Protozoa
protozoological adj. concerning the branch of zoology that studies protozoans
protozoologist n. a zoologist who studies protozoans
protozoology n. the branch of zoology that studies protozoans
protozoon n. any of diverse minute acellular or unicellular organisms usually nonphotosynthetic
protract v. lengthen in time; cause to be or last longer
protracted adj. relatively long in duration; tediously protracted; protracted negotiations
protractedly adv. in a slow, leisurely or prolonged way
protractible adj. able to be extended
protractile adj. able to be extended; protractile muscle
protraction n. the consequence of being lengthened in duration; the act of prolonging something
protractor n. used to draw or measure angles
protrude v. jut out or project in space; bulge outward; swell or protrude outwards
protruding adj. extending out above or beyond a surface or boundary; his protruding ribs
protrusible adj. capable of being thrust forward, as the tongue
protrusile adj. capable of being thrust forward, as the tongue
protrusion n. something that protrudes; the act of projecting out from something
protrusive adj. thrusting outward
protuberance n. something that protrudes; anything that branches out from a central support
protuberant adj. curving outward
proturan n. any of several minute primitive wingless and eyeless insects having a cone-shaped head; inhabit damp soil or decaying organic matter
proud adj. feeling self-respect or pleasure in something by which you measure's your self-worth; or being a reason for pride; proud parents; having or displaying great dignity or nobility; proud alpine peaks
proudly adv. in a proud manner; he walked proudly into town
provability n. capability of being demonstrated or logically proved
provable adj. capable of being demonstrated or proved
provably adv. in an obvious and provable manner
prove v. be shown or be found to be; establish the validity of something; provide evidence for; prove formally; demonstrate by a mathematical, formal proof; put to the test, as for its quality, or give experimental use to
proved adj. established beyond doubt
proven adj. established beyond doubt; a proven liar
provenance n. where something originated or was nurtured in its early existence
provender n. food for domestic livestock; a stock or supply of foods
provenience n. origin, source
proverb n. a condensed but memorable saying embodying some important fact of experience that is taken as true by many people
proverbial adj. of or relating to or resembling or expressed in a proverb; he kicked the proverbial bucket; widely known and spoken of; her proverbial lateness
proverbially adv. in the manner of something that has become a byword; this proverbially bitter plant, wormwood
provide v. provide or furnish with; provide what is desired or needed, esp. support, food or sustenance; determine (what is to happen in certain contingencies), esp. by including a proviso condition; mount or put up
providence n. the guardianship and control exercised by a deity; divine providence; a manifestation of God's foresightful care for His creatures; the prudence and care exercised by someone in the management of resources
provident adj. providing carefully for the future; wild squirrels are provident; careful in regard to your own interests; wild squirrels are provident
providential adj. peculiarly fortunate or appropriate; as if by divine intervention; a providential recovery; relating to or characteristic of providence; resulting from divine providence; providential care
providentially adv. in a fortunately providential manner; providentially the weather remained good; in a providential manner; as determined by providence; his providentially destined role; in a prudent manner
providently adv. in a provident manner; providently, he had saved up some money for emergencies
provider n. someone whose business is to supply a particular service or commodity; someone who provides the means for subsistence
providing n. the activity of supplying or providing something
province n. the territory occupied by one of the constituent administrative districts of a nation; the proper sphere or extent of your activities; it was his province to take care of himself; a territorial possession controlled by a ruling state
provincial adj. of or associated with a province; provincial government; characteristic of the provinces or their people; deeply provincial and conformist@n. a country person
provincialism n. a lack of sophistication; a partiality for some particular place
provincially adv. by the province; through the province; provincially controlled
proving n. the act of finding or testing the truth of something
provision n. a stipulated condition; he accepted subject to one provision; the activity of supplying or providing something; the cognitive process of thinking about what you will do in the event of something happening@v. supply with provisions
provisional adj. under terms not final or fully worked out or agreed upon; a provisional government
provisionally adv. temporarily and conditionally; they have agreed provisionally
provisionary adj. under terms not final or fully worked out or agreed upon
provisioner n. a supplier of victuals or supplies to an army
provisions n. a stock or supply of foods; a store or supply (especially of food or clothing or arms)
proviso n. a stipulated condition
provisory adj. subject to a proviso; a provisory clause
provocation n. unfriendly behavior that aggravates or irritates someone; a means of arousing or stirring to action; needed encouragement; the result was a provocation of vigorous investigation
provocative adj. serving or tending to provoke, excite, or stimulate; a provocative remark; stimulating discussion or exciting controversy; a provocative novel; exciting sexual desire; her gestures and postures became more wanton and provocative
provocatively adv. in a provocative manner; `Try it,' he said provocatively
provoke v. call forth; of emotions, feelings, and responses; call forth; provide the needed stimulus for; annoy continually or chronically
provoked adj. incited, especially deliberately, to anger; the provoked animal attacked the child
provoker n. someone who deliberately foments trouble
provoking adj. causing or tending to cause anger or resentment; a provoking delay at the airport
provokingly adv. in a provocative manner
provost n. a high-ranking university administrator
prow n. front part of a vessel or aircraft
prowess n. the superior ability that is attained by study and practice and observation
prowl v. move stealthily; loiter about, with no apparent aim@n. the act of prowling (walking about in a stealthy manner)
prowler n. someone who prowls or sneaks about; usually with unlawful intentions
prox adj. in or of the next month after the present; scheduled for the 6th prox
proxemics n. the study of spatial distances between individuals in different cultures and situations
proximal adj. (anatomy) situated nearest to point of attachment or origin; the proximal end of a bone
proximate adj. closest in degree or order (space or time) especially in a chain of causes and effects; news of his proximate arrival; very close in space or time; proximate words
proximity n. the property of being close together; the region close around a person or thing
proximo adj. in or of the next month after the present
proxy n. a person authorized to act for another; a power of attorney document given by shareholders of a corporation authorizing a specific vote on their behalf at a corporate meeting@adj. acting as substitute for another
prude n. a person excessively concerned about propriety and decorum
prudence n. discretion in practical affairs; knowing how to avoid embarrassment or distress
prudent adj. careful and sensible; marked by sound judgment; a prudent manager; showing wise self-restraint in speech and behavior especially in preserving prudent silence; maintained a prudent silence
prudential adj. arising from or characterized by prudence especially in business matters; he abstained partly for prudential reasons
prudently adv. in a prudent manner; I had allotted my own bedroom for necking, prudently removing both the bed and the key, and taken both myself and my typewriter into my son's bedroom.
prudery n. excessive or affected modesty
prudish adj. exaggeratedly proper
prudishly adv. in a prudish manner; she acts prudishly, but I wonder whether she is really all that chaste
prudishness n. excessive or affected modesty
prune v. cut back the growth of, of bushes and trees; weed out unwanted or unnecessary things@n. dried plum
pruned adj. (of plants or trees) shaped by having superfluous branches or shoots trimmed back or cut off; abundant fruit from properly pruned vines and fruit trees
pruner n. a long-handled tool with a curved blade at the end and sometimes a clipper; used to prune small trees
pruning n. something that has been pruned off of a plant; the act of trimming a plant
prurience n. feeling morbid sexual desire
pruriency n. feeling morbid sexual desire
prurient adj. characterized by lust; prurient literature
pruriently adv. in a prurient manner
pruritus n. an intense itching sensation that can have various causes (as by allergies or infection or lymphoma or jaundice etc.)
pry v. to move or force, esp. in an effort to get something open; , Raccoons managed to pry the lid off the garbage pail; be nosey; Don't pry into my personal matters!@n. a heavy iron lever with one end forged into a wedge
prying adj. offensively curious or inquisitive; prying eyes@n. offensive inquisitiveness
pryingly adv. in a curious and prying manner; `Do you have a boyfriend,' she asked her prospective tenant pryingly
psalm n. any sacred song used to praise the Deity
psalmist n. a composer of sacred songs
psalmody n. the act of singing psalms or hymns
psalterium n. the third compartment of the stomach of a ruminant
psaltery n. an ancient stringed instrument similar to the lyre or zither but having a trapezoidal sounding board under the strings
psammoma n. a tumor derived from fibrous tissue of the meninges or choroid plexus or certain other structures associated with the brain; characterized by sand-like particles
psephologist n. a sociologist who studies election trends
psephology n. the branch of sociology that studies election trends (as by opinion polls)
pseud n. a person who makes deceitful pretenses
pseudo adj. (often used in combination) not genuine but having the appearance of; a pseudo esthete@n. a person who makes deceitful pretenses
pseudocarp n. fruit containing much fleshy tissue besides that of the ripened ovary; as apple or strawberry
pseudoephedrine n. poisonous crystalline alkaloid occurring with ephedrine and isomorphic with it
pseudomonad n. bacteria usually producing greenish fluorescent water-soluble pigment; some pathogenic for plants and animals
pseudonym n. a fictitious name used when the person performs a particular social role
pseudonymous adj. bearing or identified by an assumed (often pen) name; the writings of Mark Twain are pseudonymous
pseudophloem n. false phloem
pseudopod n. temporary outgrowth used by some microorganisms as an organ of feeding or locomotion
pseudopodium n. temporary outgrowth used by some microorganisms as an organ of feeding or locomotion
pseudoprostyle adj. marked by columniation having free columns in a portico only across the opening to the structure
pseudoscience n. an activity resembling science but based on fallacious assumptions
pseudoscorpion n. small nonvenomous arachnid resembling a tailless scorpion
psi n. a unit of pressure; the 23rd letter of the Greek alphabet
psilocin n. a hallucinogenic compound obtained from a mushroom
psilocybin n. a hallucinogenic compound obtained from a mushroom
psilomelane n. a mineral consisting of hydrated basic oxide of manganese and barium; a source of manganese
psilophyte n. any plant of the order Psilophytales: a savannah plant
psilophyton n. any plant or fossil of the genus Psilophyton
psittacosaur n. primitive dinosaur actually lacking horns and having only the beginning of a frill; long hind and short front limbs; may have been bipedal
psittacosaurus n. primitive dinosaur actually lacking horns and having only the beginning of a frill; long hind and short front limbs; may have been bipedal
psittacosis n. infectious disease of birds; an atypical pneumonia caused by a rickettsia microorganism and transmitted to humans from infected birds
psocid n. small winged insect living on the bark and leaves of trees and feeding on e.g. fungi and decaying plant matter
psoriasis n. a chronic skin disease characterized by dry red patches covered with scales; occurs especially on the scalp and ears and genitalia and the skin over bony prominences
psyche n. that which is responsible for one's thoughts and feelings; the seat of the faculty of reason; the immaterial part of a person; the actuating cause of an individual life
psychedelia n. the subculture of users of psychedelic drugs
psychedelic adj. producing distorted sensory perceptions and feelings or altered states of awareness or sometimes states resembling psychosis; psychedelic drugs like psilocybin and mescaline
psychiatric adj. relating to or used in or engaged in the practice of psychiatry; psychiatric disorder
psychiatrical adj. relating to or used in or engaged in the practice of psychiatry
psychiatrist n. a physician who specializes in psychiatry
psychiatry n. the branch of medicine dealing with the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders
psychic adj. pertaining to forces or mental processes outside the possibilities defined by natural or scientific laws; psychic reader@n. a person apparently sensitive to things beyond the natural range of perception
psychical adj. affecting or influenced by the human mind; pertaining to forces or mental processes outside the possibilities defined by natural or scientific laws; psychical research; outside the sphere of physical science
psychically adv. from a psychic point of view; he was psychically blind
psycho n. a person afflicted with psychosis
psychoactive adj. affecting the mind or mood or other mental processes; psychoactive drugs
psychoanalyse v. subject to psychoanalytic treatment
psychoanalysis n. a set of techniques for exploring underlying motives and a method of treating various mental disorders; his physician recommended psychoanalysis
psychoanalyst n. a licensed practitioner of psychoanalysis
psychoanalytic adj. of or relating to or incorporating the methods and theory of psychiatric treatment originated by Sigmund Freud; psychoanalytic treatment
psychoanalyze v. subject to psychoanalytic treatment
psychobabble n. using language loaded with psychological terminology
psychodid n. a fly of the family Psychodidae
psychogenic adj. mental or emotional rather than physiological in origin; a psychogenic disorder
psychokinesis n. a the power to move something by thinking about it without the application of physical force
psychokinetic adj. moving an object without apparent use of physical means
psychological adj. mental or emotional as opposed to physical in nature; give psychological support; of or relating to or determined by psychology; psychological theories
psychologically adv. with regard to psychology; war that caught them in its toils either psychologically or physically; in terms of psychology; classify poetry psychologically
psychologist n. a scientist trained in psychology
psychology n. the science of mental life
psychometric adj. of or relating to psychometrics; psychometric journals
psychometrics n. any branch of psychology concerned with psychological measurements
psychometry n. any branch of psychology concerned with psychological measurements
psychoneurosis n. a mental or personality disturbance not attributable to any known neurological or organic dysfunction
psychoneurotic n. a person suffering from neurosis@adj. affected with emotional disorder
psychonomics n. the branch of psychology that uses experimental methods to study psychological issues
psychopath n. someone with a sociopathic personality; a person with an antisocial personality disorder (`psychopath' was once widely used but has now been superseded by `sociopath')
psychopathic adj. suffering from an undiagnosed mental disorder
psychopathology n. the branch of medicine dealing with the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders
psychophysics n. the branch of psychology concerned with quantitative relations between physical stimuli and their psychological effects
psychopomp n. a conductor of souls to the afterworld; Hermes was their psychopomp
psychosexual adj. of or relating to the mental or emotional attitudes about sexuality
psychosexuality n. the mental representation of sexual activities
psychosis n. any severe mental disorder in which contact with reality is lost or highly distorted
psychosomatic adj. used of illness or symptoms resulting from neurosis
psychotherapist n. a therapist who deals with mental and emotional disorders
psychotherapy n. the branch of psychiatry concerned with psychological methods; the treatment of mental or emotional problems by psychological means
psychotic n. a person afflicted with psychosis@adj. (medicine) suffering from psychosis
psychotropic adj. affecting the mind or mood or other mental processes
psychrometer n. a hygrometer consisting of a dry-bulb and a wet-bulb thermometer; their difference indicates the dryness of the surrounding air
psylla n. small active cicada-like insect with hind legs adapted for leaping; feeds on plant juices
psyllid n. small active cicada-like insect with hind legs adapted for leaping; feeds on plant juices
psyllium n. plantain of Mediterranean regions whose seeds swell and become gelatinous when moist and are used as a mild laxative
ptarmigan n. large arctic and subarctic grouse with feathered feet and usually white winter plumage
pteridophyte n. plants having vascular tissue and reproducing by spores
pteridosperm n. an extinct seed-producing fernlike plant of the order Cycadofilicales (or group Pteridospermae)
pterodactyl n. extinct flying reptile
pteropogon n. southern Australian plant having feathery hairs surrounding the fruit
pterosaur n. extinct flying reptile of the Jurassic and Cretaceous having a birdlike beak and membranous wings supported by the very long fourth digit of each forelimb
pterygium n. a thickened triangular layer of conjunctiva extending from the nasal edge of the eye to the cornea; pterygia arise from irritation of the pinguecula
ptomain n. any of various amines (such as putrescine or cadaverine) formed by the action of putrefactive bacteria
ptomaine n. any of various amines (such as putrescine or cadaverine) formed by the action of putrefactive bacteria; illness caused by poisonous or contaminated food
ptosis n. drooping of the upper eyelid caused by muscle paralysis and weakness
ptyalin n. an amylase secreted in saliva
ptyalism n. excessive flow of saliva
ptyalize v. expel or eject from the mouth
pub n. (British) a building with a bar and public rooms; often provides light meals
puberty n. the time of life when sex glands become functional
puberulent adj. (biology) covered with fine soft hairs or down
pubes n. the lower part of the abdomen just above the external genital organs
pubescence n. the time of life when sex glands become functional
pubescent adj. (of animals especially human beings) having arrived at the onset of puberty (the age at which sex glands become functional) but not yet fully mature; the budding breasts of a pubescent girl and the downy chin of pubescent boy
pubic adj. relating or near the pubis; pubic bones
pubis n. one of the three sections of the hipbone; together the two pubic bones form the front of the pelvis
public n. people in general considered as a whole; he is a hero in the eyes of the public; a body of people sharing some common interest@adj. not private; open to or concerning the people as a whole; the public good
publically adv. in a manner accessible to or observable by the public; openly
publican n. (British) the keeper of a public house
publication n. a printed work offered for distribution; the act of issuing printed materials; the business of publishing
publicise v. make public
publicist n. someone who publicizes
publicity n. a message issued in behalf of some product or cause or institution
publicize v. make public; call attention to
publicized adj. made known; especially made widely known
publicizer n. someone who publicizes
publicizing n. the business of drawing public attention to goods and services
publicly adv. in a manner accessible to or observable by the public; openly; she admitted publicly to being a communist; by the public or the people generally; publicly provided medical care
publish v. put into print; publish a magazine or newspaper, for example; have (one's written work) issued for publication
publishable adj. suitable for publication
published adj. prepared and printed for distribution and sale; the complete published works Dickens; formally made public; published accounts
publisher n. a firm in the publishing business; a person engaged in publishing periodicals or books or music; the proprietor of a newspaper
publishing n. the business of publishing
puccoon n. perennial plant of eastern North America having hairy foliage yielding a red or yellow pigment
puce n. a color varying from dark purplish brown to dark red
puck n. a mischievous sprite; a vulcanized rubber disk 3 inches in diameter that is used instead of a ball in ice hockey
pucka adj. (India) absolutely first class and genuine
pucker n. an irregular fold in an otherwise even surface@v. to gather something into small wrinkles or folds; draw fabric together and sew it tightly; become puckered
puckerbush n. evergreen aromatic shrubby tree of southeastern United States having small hard berries thickly coated with white wax used for candles
puckered adj. used especially of fabrics; having puckers; (used of the skin of the face) contracted into wrinkles; a puckered-up mouth waiting to be kissed
puckish adj. naughtily or annoyingly playful
puckishly adv. in an appealing but bold manner
puckishness n. the trait of behaving like an imp
pud n. (British) the dessert course of a meal (`pud' is used informally)
pudding n. (British) the dessert course of a meal (`pud' is used informally); any of various soft thick unsweetened baked dishes: corn pudding; any of various soft sweet desserts thickened usually with flour and baked or boiled or steamed
puddingface n. a large fat human face
puddingheaded adj. stupid and confused; used especially of persons
puddingwife n. bluish and bronze wrasse; found from Florida keys to Brazil
puddle n. a mixture of wet clay and sand that can be used to line a pond and that is impervious to water when dry@v. wade or dabble in a puddle, as of ducks or geese; subject to puddling, as of iron; form by puddling, as of metal
puddler n. a worker who turns pig iron into wrought iron by puddling
puddling n. the process of converting pig iron into wrought iron by subjecting it to heat and stirring in the presence of oxidizing substances
pudendal adj. of or relating to or near the pudendum; pudendal nerve
pudendum n. human external genital organs collectively especially of a female
pudginess n. the property of having a plump and round body
pudgy adj. short and fat
pueblo n. a communal village built by Indians in the southwestern U.S.
puerile adj. of or characteristic of a child; puerile breathing; displaying or suggesting a lack of maturity; puerile jokes
puerility n. the state of a child between infancy and adolescence; a property characteristic of a child
puerperal adj. relating to or connected with or occurring at the time of childbirth; puerperal infection
puff n. a short light gust of air@adj. gathered for protruding fullness; puff sleeves@v. smoke with puffs; puff a cigar; suck in or take, as of air; breathe noisily, as when one is exhausted; make proud or conceited
puffball n. any of various fungi of the family Lycoperdaceae whose round fruiting body discharges a cloud of spores when mature; any of various fungi of the genus Scleroderma having hard-skinned subterranean trufflelike fruiting bodies
puffbird n. brownish tropical American bird having a large head with fluffed out feathers
puffed adj. abnormally distended especially by fluids or gas; eyes with puffed (or puffy) lids; gathered for protruding fullness
puffer n. delicacy that is highly dangerous because of a potent nerve poison in ovaries and liver
puffin n. any of two genera of northern seabirds having short necks and brightly colored compressed bills
puffiness n. abnormal protuberance or localized enlargement
puffing adj. breathing heavily@n. blowing tobacco smoke out into the air; they smoked up the room with their ceaseless puffing
puffingl n. an act of forcible exhalation
puffy adj. being puffed out; used of hair style or clothing; abnormally distended especially by fluids or gas; eyes with puffed (or puffy) lids; breathing heavily
pug n. small compact smooth-coated breed of Asiatic origin having a tightly curled tail and broad flat wrinkled muzzle
pugilism n. fighting with the fists
pugilist n. someone who fights with his fists for sport
pugilistic adj. of or relating to pugilism or pugilists; a pugilistic career
pugnacious adj. tough and callous by virtue of experience; ready and able to resort to force or violence
pugnaciously adv. in a pugnacious manner
pugnacity n. a disposition to fight
puissance n. power to influence or coerce; the puissance of the labor vote
puissant adj. (archaic) powerful
puka n. South American shrub or small tree having long shining evergreen leaves and panicles of green or yellow flowers; small round-headed New Zealand tree having large resinous leaves and panicles of green-white flowers
puke n. a person who is deemed to be despicable or contemptible; the matter ejected in vomiting@v. eject the contents of the stomach through the mouth
puking n. the act of ejecting the contents of the stomach through the mouth
pukka adj. (India) absolutely first class and genuine; pukka sahib
puku n. an African antelope closely related to the waterbuck
pul n. 100 puls equal 1 afghani
pula n. the basic unit of money in Botswana
pulasan n. East Indian fruit tree bearing fruit similar to but sweeter than that of the rambutan; fruit of an East Indian tree similar to the rambutan but sweeter
pulassan n. East Indian fruit tree bearing fruit similar to but sweeter than that of the rambutan; fruit of an East Indian tree similar to the rambutan but sweeter
pulchritude n. physical beauty (especially of a woman)
pulchritudinous adj. used of persons only; having great physical beauty; pulchritudinous movie stars
pule v. cry weakly or softly
pull v. cause to move along the ground by pulling; pull a sled; direct toward itself or oneself; move into a certain direction@n. the act of pulling; applying force to move something toward or with you; the pull up the hill had him breathing harder
pulled adj. drawn toward the source of the force; this exercise must be done with the arms pulled back
pullet n. flesh of a medium-sized young chicken suitable for frying; young hen usually less than a year old
pulley n. a simple machine consisting of a wheel with a groove in which a rope can run to change the direction or point of application of a force applied to the rope
pulling n. the act of pulling; applying force to move something toward or with you; his strenuous pulling strained his back
pullout n. to break off a military action with an enemy
pullover n. a sweater that is put on by pulling it over the head
pullulate v. produce buds, branches, or germinate; of plants; become abundant; increase rapidly; breed freely and abundantly
pullulation n. rapid increase
pulmonary adj. relating to or affecting the lungs; pulmonary disease
pulmonic adj. relating to or affecting the lungs
pulmotor n. an apparatus for pumping oxygen or air into and out of the lungs (as of an asphyxiated person)
pulp n. any soft or soggy mass; he pounded it to a pulp; a soft moist part of a fruit; a mixture of cellulose fibers; an inexpensive magazine printed on poor quality paper@v. remove the pulp from, as from a fruit; reduce to pulp
pulpit n. a platform raised above the surrounding level to give prominence to the person on it
pulpwood n. softwood used to make paper
pulpy adj. like a pulp; not having stiffness
pulque n. fermented Mexican drink from juice of various agave plants especially the maguey
pulsar n. a degenerate neutron star; small and extremely dense; rotates very fast and emits regular pulses of polarized radiation
pulsate v. expand and contract rhythmically; beat rhythmically; produce or modulate (as electromagnetic waves) in the form of short bursts or pulses; or cause an apparatus to produce pulses
pulsating adj. expanding and contracting rhythmically as to the beating of the heart; felt the pulsating artery
pulsation n. (electronics) a sharp transient wave in the normal electrical state (or a series of such transients); the rhythmic contraction and expansion of the arteries with each beat of the heart
pulse v. expand and contract rhythmically; beat rhythmically; produce or modulate (as electromagnetic waves) in the form of short bursts or pulses@n. (electronics) a sharp transient wave in the normal electrical state (or a series of such transients)
pulsed adj. produced or transmitted or modulated in short bursts or pulses; pulsed electromagnetic waves
pulseless adj. appearing dead; not breathing or having no perceptible pulse; pulseless and dead
pulsing n. (electronics) a sharp transient wave in the normal electrical state (or a series of such transients)@adj. expanding and contracting rhythmically as to the beating of the heart
pulverisation n. the act of grinding; annihilation by pulverizing something
pulverization n. the act of grinding; annihilation by pulverizing something
pulverize v. make into a powder by breaking up; pulverize the grains; reduce to powder
pulverized adj. consisting of fine particles; pulverized sugar is prepared from granulated sugar by grinding
puma n. large American feline resembling a lion
pumice n. a light glass formed on the surface of some lavas; used as an abrasive
pummel v. strike with the fist
pummelo n. southeastern Asian tree producing large fruits resembling grapefruits
pump v. operate like a pump; move up and down, like a handle or a pedal; deliver forth; pump bullets into the dummy; draw or pour with a pump; supply in great quantities; flow intermittently@n. a device that moves fluid or gas by pressure or suction
pumpernickel n. bread made of coarse rye flour
pumpkin n. a coarse vine widely cultivated for its non-keeping large pulpy round orange fruit with firm orange skin and numerous seeds; subspecies of Cucurbita pepo include the summer squashes and a few autumn squashes
pumpkinseed n. small brilliantly colored North American sunfish
pumps n. a low-cut shoe without fastenings
pun v. make a play on words; Japanese like to pun--their language is well suited to punning@n. a humorous play on words; I do it for the pun of it
punch v. deliver a punch to; drive forcibly as if by a punch; make a hole into@n. (boxing) a blow with the fist; an iced mixed drink usually containing alcohol and prepared for multiple servings; normally served in a punch bowl
punchball n. an inflated ball or bag that is suspended and punched for training in boxing
puncheon n. a large cask
puncher n. a hired hand who tends cattle and performs other duties on horseback
punctilio n. a fine point of etiquette or petty formality; strict observance of formalities
punctilious adj. marked by precise accordance with details; punctilious in his attention to rules of etiquette
punctiliously adv. in a punctilious manner; he launched into a long history of the birth of communism, giving credit punctiliously to the work of Marx and Engels
punctiliousness n. strict attention to minute details
punctual adj. acting or arriving or performed exactly at the time appointed; she expected guests to be punctual at meals
punctuality n. the quality or habit of adhering to an appointed time
punctually adv. at the proper time
punctuate v. insert punctuation marks into; to stress, single out as important; interrupt periodically
punctuation n. the marks used to clarify meaning by indicating separation of words into sentences and clauses and phrases
puncturable adj. capable of being punctured
puncture n. loss of air pressure in a tire when a hole is made by some sharp object@v. pierce with a pointed object; make a hole into; puncture a tire; make by piercing; puncture a hole; reduce or lessen the size or importance of
punctured adj. having a hole cut through; a punctured balloon
punctureless adj. being without punctures or incapable of being punctured
puncturing n. the act of puncturing or perforating
pundit n. someone who has been admitted to membership in a scholarly field
pung n. a low one-horse box sleigh
pungapung n. putrid-smelling aroid of southeastern Asia (especially the Philippines) grown for its edible tuber
pungency n. having a sharp bitter flavor; having an acrid smell; a sharp bitter taste property
pungent adj. sharp biting or acrid especially in taste or smell; tasting the pungent wood sorrel; capable of wounding; pungent satire
pungently adv. with pungency; in a pungent manner; he wrote pungently about his contemporaries; with a pungent taste or smell; the soup was pungently flavored
punic adj. tending to betray; especially having a treacherous character as attributed to the Carthaginians by the Romans
punily adv. in a puny manner
puniness n. smallness of stature
punish v. impose a penalty on; inflict punishment on
punishable adj. liable to or deserving punishment; punishable offenses; subject to punishment by law
punished adj. subjected to a penalty (as pain or shame or restraint or loss) for an offense or fault or in order to coerce some behavior (as a confession or obedience)
punishing adj. resulting in punishment; the king imposed a punishing tax; characterized by toilsome effort to the point of exhaustion; especially physical effort; set a punishing pace
punishingly adv. in a punishing manner
punishment n. the act of punishing
punitive adj. inflicting punishment; punitive justice
punitively adv. in a punishing manner
punitorily adv. in a punishing manner
punitory adj. inflicting punishment
punk n. an aggressive young criminal; substance that smolders when ignited; used to light fuses (especially fireworks); material for starting a fire; a performer (or enthuiast) of punk rock@adj. (informal) of very poor quality
punkah n. a large fan (a canvas-covered frame suspended from the ceiling) used in India for circulating air in a room
punkey n. minute two-winged insect that sucks the blood of mammals and birds and other insects
punkie n. minute two-winged insect that sucks the blood of mammals and birds and other insects
punkin variant of pumpkin
punky n. minute two-winged insect that sucks the blood of mammals and birds and other insects
punnet n. (British) a small light basket used as a measure for fruits
punning n. a humorous play on words
punster n. someone overly fond of making puns
punt n. the basic unit of money in Ireland; equal to 100 pence; an open flat-bottomed boat used in shallow waters and propelled by a long pole@v. kick the ball; in certain kinds of sports; propel with a pole; of barges on rivers, for example
punter n. someone who propels a boat with a pole; (football) a person who kicks the football by dropping it from the hands and contacting it with the foot before it hits the ground; someone who bets
punting n. kicking in which the football is dropped from the hands and kicked before it touches the ground
puny adj. inferior in strength or significance; a puny physique; (used especially of persons) of inferior size
pup n. young of any of various canines such as a dog or wolf; an inexperienced young person@v. birthe; of dogs
pupa n. an insect in the inactive stage of development (when it is not feeding) intermediate between larva and adult
pupal adj. of the insects in the chrysalis (cocoon) or post larval stage; the pupal stage
pupate v. develop into a pupa, of insect larva
pupil n. a learner who is enrolled in an educational institution; contractile aperture in the iris of the eye; a child attending school
puppet n. a small figure of a person operated from above with strings by a puppeteer; a person who is used to perform unpleasant or dishonest tasks for someone else
puppeteer n. one who operates puppets or marionettes
puppetry n. the art of making puppets and presenting puppet shows; a stilted dramatic performance (as if by puppets)
puppy n. young dog; an inexperienced young person
puppyish adj. characteristic of a puppy
puppylike adj. characteristic of a puppy
purau n. shrubby tree widely distributed along tropical shores; yields a light tough wood used for canoe outriggers and a fiber used for cordage and caulk; often cultivated for ornament
purblind adj. having greatly reduced vision; lacking in insight or discernment
purchasable adj. capable of being corrupted; a purchasable senator; available for purchase; purchasable goods
purchase v. obtain by purchase; acquire by means of a financial transaction@n. the acquisition of something for payment; they closed the purchase with a handshake; something acquired by purchase; a means of exerting influence or gaining advantage
purchaser n. a person who buys
purchasing n. the act of buying
purdah n. a state of social isolation; the Hindu or Moslem system of keeping women secluded; a screen used in India to separate women from men or strangers
pure adj. free of extraneous elements of any kind; pure air and water; without qualification; used informally as (often pejorative) intensifiers; pure folly; (of color) being chromatically pure; not diluted with white or gray or black
pureblood adj. having a list of ancestors as proof of being a purebred animal@n. a pedigreed animal of unmixed lineage; used especially of horses
pureblooded adj. having a list of ancestors as proof of being a purebred animal
purebred adj. bred for many generation from member of a recognized breed or strain@n. a pedigreed animal of unmixed lineage; used especially of horses
puree n. food prepared by cooking and straining or processed in a blender@v. rub through a strainer or process in an electric blender; puree the vegetables for the baby
purely adv. restricted to something
pureness n. being undiluted or unmixed with extraneous material
purgation n. the act of clearing yourself (or another) from some stigma or charge; an act of removing by cleansing; ridding of sediment or other other undesired elements
purgative adj. strongly laxative@n. a purging medicine; stimulates evacuation of the bowels
purgatorial adj. serving to purge or rid of sin; purgatorial rites; of or resembling purgatory; purgatorial fires
purgatory n. a temporary condition of torment or suffering: a purgatory of drug abuse; (theology) a place where Roman Catholics think those who have died in a state of grace undergo limited torment to expiate their sins
purge v. oust politically; clear of a charge; rid of impurities; purge your mind; cause to excrete or evacuate, as of the bowels@n. the act of clearing yourself (or another) from some stigma or charge; an act of removing by cleansing
purging adj. serving to purge or rid of sin@n. an act of removing by cleansing; ridding of sediment or other other undesired elements; the act of clearing yourself (or another) from some stigma or charge
purification n. cleaning by getting rid of impurities; the act of purging of sin or guilt; purification through repentance
purified adj. made pure
purifier n. an apparatus for removing impurities
purify v. remove impurities from; purify the water; declare holy or pure or free from sin
purifying adj. serving to purge or rid of sin; freeing from noxious matter; filtration is a purifying agent; acting like an antiseptic
purine n. any of several bases that are derivatives of purine; a colorless crystalline organic base; the parent compound of various biologically important substances
purism n. rigid adherence to or insistence on purity or nicety especially in use of words -- purist n.
purist n. someone who insists on great precision and correctness (especially in the use of words)
puritan n. adheres to strict religious principles; opposed to sensual pleasures; a person excessively concerned about propriety and decorum@adj. morally rigorous and strict; the puritan work ethic
puritanic adj. morally rigorous and strict; puritanic distaste for alcohol
puritanical adj. exaggeratedly proper; morally rigorous and strict; she was anything but puritanical in her behavior
puritanically adv. in a prudish manner
purity n. being undiluted or unmixed with extraneous material; the state of being free from sin or moral wrong; lacking a knowledge of evil; a woman's virtue or chastity
purl n. gold or silver wire thread; a basic knitting stitch@v. flow in a circular current, of liquids; make a murmuring sound; knit with a purl stitch; edge or border with gold or silver embroidery; embroider with gold or silver thread
purlieu n. an outlying district; suburb; pl: environs, neighborhood
purloin v. make off with belongings of others
purloined adj. taken dishonestly; the purloined letter
purloo n. thick stew made of rice and chicken and small game; southern U.S.
purple adj. of a color midway between red and blue; excessively elaborate or showily expressed; many purple passages; belonging to or befitting a supreme ruler@n. a chromatic color between red and blue; of imperial status@v. become purple
purpleness n. a chromatic color between red and blue
purplish adj. of a color midway between red and blue
purport v. have the often specious appearance of being, intending, or claiming; propose or intend@n. the intended meaning of a communication; general meaning or tenor
purported adj. commonly put forth or accepted as true on inconclusive grounds; the reputed (or purported) author of the book
purportedly adv. believed or reputed to be the case
purpose n. an anticipated outcome that is intended or guides your planned actions; what something is used for; the quality of being determined to do or achieve something; he is a man of purpose@v. propose or intend; reach a decision
purposeful adj. serving as or indicating the existence of a purpose or goal; having meaning through having an aim; led a happy purposeful life
purposefully adv. in a purposeful manner; he caught the motorcycles in the full glare of his headlights, braked and slipped purposefully out of the car
purposefulness n. the quality of having a definite purpose
purposeless adj. not evidencing any purpose of goal; lacking import; a life essentially purposeless
purposelessly adv. without a clear purpose; let's not purposelessly dispense the aid
purposelessness n. the quality of lacking any definite purpose
purposely adv. with intention; in an intentional manner
purposive adj. having or showing or acting with a purpose or design; purposive behavior; having a purpose; purposive behavior
purpura n. any of several blood diseases causing subcutaneous bleeding
purpurate v. color purple
purr n. a low vibrating sound typical of a contented cat@v. make a soft swishing sound, as of a motor working or wings flapping; indicate pleasure by purring; characteristic of cats
purse v. contract one's lips into a rounded shape; gather or contract into wrinkles or folds; pucker@n. a bag used for carrying money and small personal items or accessories (especially by women); a sum of money spoken of as the contents of a money purse
purser n. an officer aboard a ship who keeps accounts and attends to the passengers' welfare
purslane n. a plant of the family Portulacaceae having fleshy succulent obovate leaves often grown as a potherb or salad herb; a weed in some areas
pursuance n. the continuance of something begun with a view to its completion
pursuant adj. (followed by `to') in conformance to or agreement with; pursuant to our agreement
pursue v. carry out or participate in an activity; be involved in; follow in or as if in pursuit; go in search of or hunt for; pursue a hobby; carry further or advance
pursued adj. followed with enmity as if to harm: running and leaping like a herd of pursued antelopes@n. a person who is being chased; the film jumped back and forth from the pursuer to the pursued
pursuer n. the person who is pursuing and trying to overtake someone
pursuing adj. following in order to overtake or capture or as accompaniment to such pursuit; the fox fled from the pursuing hounds
pursuit n. the act of pursuing; a search for an alternative that meets cognitive criteria
pursy adj. breathing laboriously or convulsively
purulence n. the state of being purulent (containing or forming pus); a fluid product of inflammation
purulency n. the state of being purulent (containing or forming pus)
purulent adj. having undergone infection
purvey v. supply with provisions
purveyance n. the act of supplying something
purveyor n. someone who supplies provisions (especially food)
purview n. the range of interest or activity that can be anticipated
pus n. a fluid product of inflammation
push v. move with force,; press, drive, or impel to action; make publicity for; try to sell; exert oneself; press against forcefully without being able to move@n. the act of applying force in order to move something away; he gave the door a hard push
pushball n. a game using a leather-covered ball 6 feet in diameter; the two side try to push it across the opponents' goal
pushcart n. pushed by a person; may have one or two or four wheels; their pushcart was piled high with groceries
pushchair n. a small carriage in which a baby or child is pushed around
pusher n. one who intrudes or pushes himself forward; someone who sells illegal drugs; a sandal attached to the foot by a thong over the toes; a small carriage in which a baby or child is pushed around
pushful adj. marked by aggressive ambition and energy and initiative; a pushful insurance agent
pushiness n. offensive assertiveness
pushing n. the act of applying force in order to move something away; the pushing is good exercise@adj. marked by aggressive ambition and energy and initiative; a pushing youth intent on getting on in the world
pushover n. someone who is easily taken advantage of; any activity that is easy to do
pushpin n. a tack for attaching papers to a bulletin board or drawing board
pushup n. an arm exercise performed lying face to the floor and pushing the body up and down with the arms
pushy adj. marked by aggressive ambition and energy and initiative
pusillanimity n. contemptible fearfulness
pusillanimous adj. lacking in courage and manly strength and resolution; contemptibly fearful
pusillanimously adv. with a lack of courage and determination
pusly n. weedy trailing mat-forming herb with bright yellow flowers cultivated for its edible mildly acid leaves eaten raw or cooked especially in Indian and Greek and Middle Eastern cuisine; cosmopolitan
puss n. obscene terms for female genitals; informal terms
pussley n. weedy trailing mat-forming herb with bright yellow flowers cultivated for its edible mildly acid leaves eaten raw or cooked especially in Indian and Greek and Middle Eastern cuisine; cosmopolitan
pussy n. obscene terms for female genitals; informal terms@adj. having undergone infection
pussycat n. a person who is regarded as easygoing and agreeable; informal terms
pussyfoot v. to go stealthily or furtively
pussytoes n. low-growing perennial herb having leaves with whitish down and clusters of small white flowers
pustulate adj. (of complexion) blemished by imperfections of the skin
pustule n. a small inflamed elevation of skin containing pus
put v. put into a certain place:; also with abstract objects and locations; cause to be in a certain state; cause to be in a certain relation@n. the option to sell a given stock (or stock index or commodity future) at a given price before a given date
putative adj. commonly put forth or accepted as true on inconclusive grounds; the foundling's putative father
putdownable adj. (of a book) so poorly written and unentertaining as to be easily put down
putout n. an out resulting from a fielding play (not a strikeout)
putrefacient adj. causing or promoting bacterial putrefaction
putrefaction n. decay usually accompanied by an offensive odor; decaying caused by bacterial or fungal action
putrefactive adj. causing or promoting bacterial putrefaction
putrefiable adj. liable to decay or spoil or become putrid
putrefied adj. in an advanced state of decomposition and having a foul odor
putrefy v. become putrid; decay with an offensive smell
putrescence n. in a state of progressive putrefaction; the quality of rotting and becoming putrid
putrescent adj. becoming putrid; a trail lined by putrescent carcasses
putrescible adj. liable to decay or spoil or become putrid
putrescine n. a colorless crystalline ptomaine with a foul odor that is produced in decaying animal matter
putrid adj. of or relating to or attended by putrefaction; putrid decomposition; having undergone infection; in an advanced state of decomposition and having a foul odor; offensively malodorous; a putrid smell
putridity n. the state of being putrid
putridness n. in a state of progressive putrefaction
putrified adj. in an advanced state of decomposition and having a foul odor
putsch n. a sudden and decisive change of government illegally or by force
putt n. hitting a golf ball on the putting surface with a putter@v. strike in playing a putt, as of a golf ball; play a putt, in golf
puttee n. a strip of cloth wound around the leg to form legging; used by soldiers in World War I
puttees n. a strip of cloth wound around the leg to form legging; used by soldiers in World War I
putter n. a golfer who is putting; the golf club used on the putting green@v. work lightly; do random, unplanned work or activities; move around aimlessly
putterer n. a person who putters about
putting n. hitting a golf ball on the putting surface with a putter
putty n. a dough-like mixture of whiting and boiled linseed oil; used especially to patch woodwork or secure panes of glass@v. apply putty in order to fix or fill, as of a window sash, for example
puttyroot n. North American orchid bearing a single leaf and yellowish-brown flowers
puzzle n. a particularly baffling problem; a toy that tests your ingenuity@v. be a mystery or bewildering to
puzzled adj. filled with bewilderment; puzzled that she left without saying goodbye
puzzlement n. confusion resulting from failure to understand
puzzler n. a particularly baffling problem; That's a real puzzler
puzzling adj. not clear to the understanding; lacking clarity of meaning; causing confusion or perplexity; a puzzling statement
pya n. 100 pyas equal 1 kyat
pycnidium n. flask-shaped asexual structure containing conidia
pycnodysostosis n. a form of dwarfism accompanied by fragile bones and bad teeth
pycnogonid n. any of various small spider-like marine arthropods having small thin bodies and long slender legs
pycnosis n. a degenerative state of the cell nucleus
pycnotic adj. of or relating to or exhibiting pyknosis
pyelonephritis n. inflammation of the kidney and its pelvis caused by bacterial infection
pygmy n. an unusually small individual
pyinma n. relatively hard durable timber from the Queen's crape myrtle; light reddish brown, smooth and lustrous
pyjama n. trousers worn in various Eastern countries; loose-fitting nightclothes; have a jacket top and trousers
pyjamas n. loose-fitting nightclothes; have a jacket top and trousers
pyknic adj. having a squat and fleshy build; a pyknic practical joke
pyknosis n. a degenerative state of the cell nucleus
pyknotic adj. of or relating to or exhibiting pyknosis
pylon n. a tower for guiding pilots or marking the turning point in a race; a large vertical steel tower supporting high-tension wires
pyloric adj. relating to or near the pylorus
pylorus n. a small circular opening between the stomach and the duodenum
pyocyanase n. a yellow-green mixture of antibiotics obtained from the bacillus of green pus
pyocyanin n. a toxic blue crystalline antibiotic found in green pus
pyorrhea n. discharge of pus; chronic periodontitis; purulent inflammation of the teeth sockets
pyorrhoea n. discharge of pus
pyracanth n. any of various thorny shrubs of the genus Pyracantha bearing small white flowers followed by hard red or orange-red berries
pyralid n. usually tropical slender-bodied long-legged moth whose larvae are crop pests
pyramid n. a polyhedron having a polygonal base and triangular sides with a common vertex@v. enlarge one's holdings on an exchange on a continued rise by using paper profits as margin to buy additional amounts
pyramidal adj. resembling a pyramid
pyre n. wood heaped for burning a dead body as a funeral rite
pyrethrum n. made of dried flower heads of pyrethrum plants; white-flowered pyrethrum of Balkan area whose pinnate leaves are white and silky-hairy below; source of an insecticide; sometimes placed in genus Chrysanthemum
pyretic adj. causing fever
pyrexia n. a rise in the temperature of the body; frequently a symptom of infection
pyridine n. a toxic colorless flammable liquid organic base with a disagreeable odor; usually derived from coal
pyridoxal n. a B vitamin that is essential for metabolism of amino acids and starch
pyridoxamine n. a B vitamin that is essential for metabolism of amino acids and starch
pyridoxine n. a B vitamin that is essential for metabolism of amino acids and starch
pyrimidine n. a heterocyclic organic compound with a penetrating odor
pyrite n. a common mineral (iron disulfide) that has a pale yellow color
pyrites n. any of various metallic-looking sulfides (of which pyrite is the commonest)
pyrogenic adj. produced under conditions involving intense heat; pyrogenic strata
pyrola n. any of several evergreen perennials of the genus Pyrola
pyrolatry n. worship of fire
pyrolusite n. a mineral consisting of manganese dioxide; an important source of manganese
pyromania n. a desire to set fire to things
pyromaniac n. a person with a mania for setting things on fire
pyrometer n. a thermometer designed to measure high temperatures
pyrophobia n. a morbid fear of fire
pyroscope n. a pyrometer that uses the color of the light emitted by a hot object
pyrosis n. a painful burning sensation in the chest caused by acidic backflow from the stomach irritating the esophagus; symptomatic of an ulcer or other disorder
pyrostat n. a thermostat that operates at very high temperatures
pyrotechnic adj. of or relating to the draft of making fireworks; pyrotechnic smokes; suggestive of fireworks; pyrotechnic keyboard virtuosity
pyrotechnical adj. of or relating to the draft of making fireworks
pyrotechnics n. brilliance of display (as in the performance of music); burns with colored flames; the craft of making fireworks
pyrotechny n. the craft of making fireworks
pyroxene n. any of a group of crystalline silicate mineral common in igneous and metamorphic rocks
pyrrhic n. a metrical unit with unstressed-unstressed syllables@adj. of or relating to a war dance of ancient Greece; pyrrhic dance movements; of or relating to or containing a metrical foot of two unstressed syllables
pyrrhuloxia n. crested gray-and-red bird of southwest United States and Mexico
pythium n. any fungus of the genus Pythium
python n. large Old World boas
pythoness n. a witch with powers of divination
pyx n. a chest in which coins from the mint are held to await assay; any receptacle in which wafers for the Eucharist are kept
pyxie n. creeping evergreen shrub having narrow overlapping leaves and early white star-shaped flowers; of pine barrens of NJ and the Carolinas
pyxis n. a small box used by ancient Greeks to hold medicines
