# entries

word: Atavism
wordtype: n.
definition:
The recurrence of any peculiarity or disease of an
   ancestor in a subsequent generation, after an intermission for a
   generation or two.


word: Ataxic
wordtype: a.
definition:
Characterized by ataxy, that is, (a) by great irregularity
   of functions or symptoms, or (b) by a want of coordinating power in
   movements.


word: -ate
definition:
As an ending of participles or participial adjectives it is
   equivalent to -ed; as, situate or situated; animate or animated.


word: -ate
definition:
As the ending of a verb, it means to make, to cause, to act,
   etc.; as, to propitiate (to make propitious); to animate (to give life
   to).


word: -ate
definition:
As a noun suffix, it marks the agent; as, curate, delegate. It
   also sometimes marks the office or dignity; as, tribunate.


word: -ate
definition:
In chemistry it is used to denote the salts formed from those
   acids whose names end -ic (excepting binary or halogen acids); as,
   sulphate from sulphuric acid, nitrate from nitric acid, etc. It is also
   used in the case of certain basic salts.


word: Ateles
wordtype: n.
definition:
A genus of American monkeys with prehensile tails, and
   having the thumb wanting or rudimentary. See Spider monkey, and Coaita.


word: Athanor
wordtype: n.
definition:
A digesting furnace, formerly used by alchemists. It was
   so constructed as to maintain uniform and durable heat.


word: Athecata
wordtype: n. pl.
definition:
A division of Hydroidea in which the zooids are
   naked, or not inclosed in a capsule. See Tubularian.


word: Atheistical
wordtype: a.
definition:
Pertaining to, implying, or containing, atheism; --
   applied to things; as, atheistic doctrines, opinions, or books.


word: Atheistical
wordtype: a.
definition:
Disbelieving the existence of a God; impious; godless;
   -- applied to persons; as, an atheistic writer.


word: Athenaeum
wordtype: n.
definition:
A temple of Athene, at Athens, in which scholars and
   poets were accustomed to read their works and instruct students.


word: Atherine
wordtype: n.
definition:
A small marine fish of the family Atherinidae, having a
   silvery stripe along the sides. The European species (Atherina
   presbyter) is used as food. The American species (Menidia notata) is
   called silversides and sand smelt. See Silversides.


word: Athlete
wordtype: n.
definition:
Any one trained to contend in exercises requiring great
   physical agility and strength; one who has great activity and strength;
   a champion.


word: Athletic
wordtype: a.
definition:
Of or pertaining to athletes or to the exercises
   practiced by them; as, athletic games or sports.


word: Atilt
wordtype: adv.
definition:
In the position of a cask tilted, or with one end raised.
   [In this sense sometimes used as an adjective.]


word: -ation
definition:
A suffix forming nouns of action, and often equivalent to the
   verbal substantive in -ing. It sometimes has the further meanings of
   state, and that which results from the action. Many of these nouns have
   verbs in -ate; as, alliterate -ation, narrate -ation; many are derived
   through the French; as, alteration, visitation; and many are formed on
   verbs ending in the Greek formative -ize (Fr. -ise); as, civilization,
   demoralization.


word: Atlanta
wordtype: n.
definition:
A genus of small glassy heteropod mollusks found swimming
   at the surface in mid ocean. See Heteropod.


word: Atlantean
wordtype: a.
definition:
Of or pertaining to the isle Atlantis, which the
   ancients allege was sunk, and overwhelmed by the ocean.


word: Atlantes
wordtype: n. pl.
definition:
Figures or half figures of men, used as columns to
   support an entablature; -- called also telamones. See Caryatides.


word: Atlantic
wordtype: a.
definition:
Of or pertaining to Mt. Atlas in Libya, and hence applied
   to the ocean which lies between Europe and Africa on the east and
   America on the west; as, the Atlantic Ocean (called also the Atlantic);
   the Atlantic basin; the Atlantic telegraph.


word: Atlas
wordtype: n.
definition:
The first vertebra of the neck, articulating immediately
   with the skull, thus sustaining the globe of the head, whence the name.


word: Atlas
wordtype: n.
definition:
A work in which subjects are exhibited in a tabular from or
   arrangement; as, an historical atlas.


word: Atmo
wordtype: n.
definition:
The standard atmospheric pressure used in certain physical
   measurements calculations; conventionally, that pressure under which
   the barometer stands at 760 millimeters, at a temperature of 0¡
   Centigrade, at the level of the sea, and in the latitude of Paris.


word: Atmolysis
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act or process of separating mingled gases of
   unequal diffusibility by transmission through porous substances.


word: Atmosphere
wordtype: n.
definition:
The whole mass of aeriform fluid surrounding the earth;
   -- applied also to the gaseous envelope of any celestial orb, or other
   body; as, the atmosphere of Mars.


word: Atmosphere
wordtype: n.
definition:
A supposed medium around various bodies; as, electrical
   atmosphere, a medium formerly supposed to surround electrical bodies.


word: Atmosphere
wordtype: n.
definition:
The pressure or weight of the air at the sea level, on
   a unit of surface, or about 14.7 Ibs. to the sq. inch.


word: Atmosphere
wordtype: n.
definition:
The portion of air in any locality, or affected by a
   special physical or sanitary condition; as, the atmosphere of the room;
   a moist or noxious atmosphere.


word: Atmospherical
wordtype: a.
definition:
Of or pertaining to the atmosphere; of the nature
   of, or resembling, the atmosphere; as, atmospheric air; the atmospheric
   envelope of the earth.


word: Atoll
wordtype: n.
definition:
A coral island or islands, consisting of a belt of coral
   reef, partly submerged, surrounding a central lagoon or depression; a
   lagoon island.


word: Atom
wordtype: n.
definition:
The smallest particle of matter that can enter into
   combination; one of the elementary constituents of a molecule.


word: Atomicity
wordtype: n.
definition:
Degree of atomic attraction; equivalence; valence; also
   (a later use) the number of atoms in an elementary molecule. See
   Valence.


word: Atomizer
wordtype: n.
definition:
One who, or that which, atomizes; esp., an instrument for
   reducing a liquid to spray for disinfecting, cooling, or perfuming.


word: At one
definition:
In concord or friendship; in agreement (with each other); as,
   to be, bring, make, or set, at one, i. e., to be or bring in or to a
   state of agreement or reconciliation.


word: Atone
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To stand as an equivalent; to make reparation,
   compensation, or amends, for an offense or a crime.


word: Atonement
wordtype: n.
definition:
Satisfaction or reparation made by giving an equivalent
   for an injury, or by doing of suffering that which will be received in
   satisfaction for an offense or injury; expiation; amends; -- with for.
   Specifically, in theology: The expiation of sin made by the obedience,
   personal suffering, and death of Christ.


word: Atonic
wordtype: n.
definition:
An element of speech entirely destitute of vocality, or
   produced by the breath alone; a nonvocal or surd consonant; a
   breathing.


word: Atrabiliary
wordtype: a.
definition:
Of or pertaining to atra bilis or black bile, a fluid
   formerly supposed to be produced by the kidneys.


word: Atrabiliary
wordtype: a.
definition:
Melancholic or hypohondriac; atrabilious; -- from the
   supposed predominance of black bile, to the influence of which the
   ancients attributed hypochondria, melancholy, and mania.


word: Atramentarious
wordtype: a.
definition:
Like ink; suitable for making ink. Sulphate of iron
   (copperas, green vitriol) is called atramentarious, as being used in
   making ink.


word: Atrium
wordtype: n.
definition:
An open court with a porch or gallery around three or more
   sides; especially at the entrance of a basilica or other church. The
   name was extended in the Middle Ages to the open churchyard or
   cemetery.


word: Atrium
wordtype: n.
definition:
The main part of either auricle of the heart as distinct
   from the auricular appendix. Also, the whole articular portion of the
   heart.


word: Atrium
wordtype: n.
definition:
A cavity in ascidians into which the intestine and
   generative ducts open, and which also receives the water from the
   gills. See Ascidioidea.


word: Atrophied
wordtype: p. a.
definition:
Affected with atrophy, as a tissue or organ; arrested
   in development at a very early stage; rudimentary.


word: Atrophy
wordtype: n.
definition:
A wasting away from want of nourishment; diminution in
   bulk or slow emaciation of the body or of any part.


word: Atropine
wordtype: n.
definition:
A poisonous, white, crystallizable alkaloid, extracted
   from the Atropa belladonna, or deadly nightshade, and the Datura
   Stramonium, or thorn apple. It is remarkable for its power in dilating
   the pupil of the eye. Called also daturine.


word: Attacca
definition:
Attack at once; -- a direction at the end of a movement to
   show that the next is to follow immediately, without any pause.


word: Attach
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To bind, fasten, tie, or connect; to make fast or join;
   as, to attach one thing to another by a string, by glue, or the like.


word: Attach
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To connect; to place so as to belong; to assign by
   authority; to appoint; as, an officer is attached to a certain
   regiment, company, or ship.


word: Attach
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To win the heart of; to connect by ties of love or
   self-interest; to attract; to fasten or bind by moral influence; --
   with to; as, attached to a friend; attaching others to us by wealth or
   flattery.


word: Attach
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To connect, in a figurative sense; to ascribe or
   attribute; to affix; -- with to; as, to attach great importance to a
   particular circumstance.


word: Attach
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To take by legal authority: (a) To arrest by writ, and
   bring before a court, as to answer for a debt, or a contempt; --
   applied to a taking of the person by a civil process; being now rarely
   used for the arrest of a criminal. (b) To seize or take (goods or real
   estate) by virtue of a writ or precept to hold the same to satisfy a
   judgment which may be rendered in the suit. See Attachment, 4.


word: Attache
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
One attached to another person or thing, as a part of a
   suite or staff. Specifically: One attached to an embassy.


word: Attachment
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act attaching, or state of being attached; close
   adherence or affection; fidelity; regard; an/ passion of affection that
   binds a person; as, an attachment to a friend, or to a party.


word: Attachment
wordtype: n.
definition:
That by which one thing is attached to another;
   connection; as, to cut the attachments of a muscle.


word: Attachment
wordtype: n.
definition:
Something attached; some adjunct attached to an
   instrument, machine, or other object; as, a sewing machine attachment
   (i. e., a device attached to a sewing machine to enable it to do
   special work, as tucking, etc.).


word: Attack
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To assail with unfriendly speech or writing; to begin a
   controversy with; to attempt to overthrow or bring into disrepute, by
   criticism or satire; to censure; as, to attack a man, or his opinions,
   in a pamphlet.


word: Attack
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To begin to affect; to begin to act upon, injuriously or
   destructively; to begin to decompose or waste.


word: Attack
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of attacking, or falling on with force or violence;
   an onset; an assault; -- opposed to defense.


word: Attain
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To come or arrive, by motion, growth, bodily exertion,
   or efforts toward a place, object, state, etc.; to reach.


word: Attainable
wordtype: a.
definition:
Capable of being attained or reached by efforts of the
   mind or body; capable of being compassed or accomplished by efforts
   directed to the object.


word: Attainder
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of attainting, or the state of being attainted;
   the extinction of the civil rights and capacities of a person,
   consequent upon sentence of death or outlawry; as, an act of attainder.


word: Attainment
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of attaining; the act of arriving at or
   reaching; hence, the act of obtaining by efforts.


word: Attainment
wordtype: n.
definition:
That which is attained to, or obtained by exertion;
   acquirement; acquisition; (pl.), mental acquirements; knowledge; as,
   literary and scientific attainments.


word: Attaint
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To subject (a person) to the legal condition formerly
   resulting from a sentence of death or outlawry, pronounced in respect
   of treason or felony; to affect by attainder.


word: Attaint
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To affect or infect, as with physical or mental disease
   or with moral contagion; to taint or corrupt.


word: Attaint
wordtype: v.
definition:
A writ which lies after judgment, to inquire whether a
   jury has given a false verdict in any court of record; also, the
   convicting of the jury so tried.


word: Attar
wordtype: n.
definition:
A fragrant essential oil; esp., a volatile and highly
   fragrant essential oil obtained from the petals of roses.


word: Attemper
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To soften, mollify, or moderate; to soothe; to temper;
   as, to attemper rigid justice with clemency.


word: Attempt
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To make trial or experiment of; to try; to endeavor to
   do or perform (some action); to assay; as, to attempt to sing; to
   attempt a bold flight.


word: Attempt
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To attack; to make an effort or attack upon; to try to
   take by force; as, to attempt the enemy's camp.


word: Attempt
wordtype: n.
definition:
A essay, trial, or endeavor; an undertaking; an attack, or
   an effort to gain a point; esp. an unsuccessful, as contrasted with a
   successful, effort.


word: Attend
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To go or stay with, as a companion, nurse, or servant;
   to visit professionally, as a physician; to accompany or follow in
   order to do service; to escort; to wait on; to serve.


word: Attend
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To be present with; to accompany; to be united or
   consequent to; as, a measure attended with ill effects.


word: Attend
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To apply the mind, or pay attention, with a view to
   perceive, understand, or comply; to pay regard; to heed; to listen; --
   usually followed by to.


word: Attend
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To accompany or be present or near at hand, in pursuance
   of duty; to be ready for service; to wait or be in waiting; -- often
   followed by on or upon.


word: Attendance
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
The act of attending; state of being in waiting;
   service; ministry; the fact of being present; presence.


word: Attendant
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
Accompanying, connected with, or immediately
   following, as consequential; consequent; as, intemperance with all its
   attendant evils.


word: Attendant
wordtype: n.
definition:
One who attends or accompanies in any character
   whatever, as a friend, companion, servant, agent, or suitor.


word: Attention
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act or state of attending or heeding; the
   application of the mind to any object of sense, representation, or
   thought; notice; exclusive or special consideration; earnest
   consideration, thought, or regard; obedient or affectionate heed; the
   supposed power or faculty of attending.


word: Attention
wordtype: n.
definition:
An act of civility or courtesy; care for the comfort and
   pleasure of others; as, attentions paid to a stranger.


word: Attenuate
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To make thin or slender, as by mechanical or chemical
   action upon inanimate objects, or by the effects of starvation,
   disease, etc., upon living bodies.


word: Attenuate
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To make thin or less consistent; to render less
   viscid or dense; to rarefy. Specifically: To subtilize, as the humors
   of the body, or to break them into finer parts.


word: Attenuation
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of attenuating; the act of making thin or less
   dense, or of rarefying, as fluids or gases.


word: Attest
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To bear witness to; to certify; to affirm to be true or
   genuine; as, to attest the truth of a writing, a copy of record.


word: Attestation
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of attesting; testimony; witness; a solemn or
   official declaration, verbal or written, in support of a fact;
   evidence. The truth appears from the attestation of witnesses, or of
   the proper officer. The subscription of a name to a writing as a
   witness, is an attestation.


word: Attic
wordtype: a.
definition:
Of or pertaining to Attica, in Greece, or to Athens, its
   principal city; marked by such qualities as were characteristic of the
   Athenians; classical; refined.


word: Attic
wordtype: a.
definition:
A low story above the main order or orders of a facade, in
   the classical styles; -- a term introduced in the 17th century. Hence:


word: Atticism
wordtype: n.
definition:
The style and idiom of the Greek language, used by the
   Athenians; a concise and elegant expression.


word: Attitude
wordtype: n.
definition:
The posture or position of a person or an animal, or the
   manner in which the parts of his body are disposed; position assumed or
   studied to serve a purpose; as, a threatening attitude; an attitude of
   entreaty.


word: Attitude
wordtype: n.
definition:
Fig.: Position as indicating action, feeling, or mood;
   as, in times of trouble let a nation preserve a firm attitude; one's
   mental attitude in respect to religion.


word: Attorn
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To turn, or transfer homage and service, from one lord
   to another. This is the act of feudatories, vassals, or tenants, upon
   the alienation of the estate.


word: Attorney
wordtype: n.
definition:
A legal agent qualified to act for suitors and defendants
   in legal proceedings; an attorney at law.


word: Attorney-general
wordtype: n.
definition:
The chief law officer of the state, empowered to
   act in all litigation in which the law-executing power is a party, and
   to advise this supreme executive whenever required.


word: Attornment
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of a feudatory, vassal, or tenant, by which he
   consents, upon the alienation of an estate, to receive a new lord or
   superior, and transfers to him his homage and service; the agreement of
   a tenant to acknowledge the purchaser of the estate as his landlord.


word: Attract
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To draw to, or cause to tend to; esp. to cause to
   approach, adhere, or combine; or to cause to resist divulsion,
   separation, or decomposition.


word: Attract
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To draw by influence of a moral or emotional kind; to
   engage or fix, as the mind, attention, etc.; to invite or allure; as,
   to attract admirers.


word: Attraction
wordtype: n.
definition:
An invisible power in a body by which it draws anything
   to itself; the power in nature acting mutually between bodies or
   ultimate particles, tending to draw them together, or to produce their
   cohesion or combination, and conversely resisting separation.


word: Attraction
wordtype: n.
definition:
The power or act of alluring, drawing to, inviting, or
   engaging; an attractive quality; as, the attraction of beauty or
   eloquence.


word: Attrahent
wordtype: n.
definition:
A substance which, by irritating the surface, excites
   action in the part to which it is applied, as a blister, an epispastic,
   a sinapism.


word: Attribute
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To ascribe; to consider (something) as due or
   appropriate (to); to refer, as an effect to a cause; to impute; to
   assign; to consider as belonging (to).


word: Attribute
wordtype: n.
definition:
That which is attributed; a quality which is considered
   as belonging to, or inherent in, a person or thing; an essential or
   necessary property or characteristic.


word: Attribute
wordtype: n.
definition:
A conventional symbol of office, character, or identity,
   added to any particular figure; as, a club is the attribute of
   Hercules.


word: Attribution
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of attributing or ascribing, as a quality,
   character, or function, to a thing or person, an effect to a cause.


word: Attributive
wordtype: a.
definition:
Attributing; pertaining to, expressing, or assigning
   an attribute; of the nature of an attribute.


word: Attributive
wordtype: n.
definition:
A word that denotes an attribute; esp. a modifying
   word joined to a noun; an adjective or adjective phrase.


word: Attrition
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of rubbing together; friction; the act of
   wearing by friction, or by rubbing substances together; abrasion.


word: Attune
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To tune or put in tune; to make melodious; to adjust, as
   one sound or musical instrument to another; as, to attune the voice to
   a harp.


word: Aubade
wordtype: n.
definition:
An open air concert in the morning, as distinguished from
   an evening serenade; also, a pianoforte composition suggestive of
   morning.


word: Auction
wordtype: n.
definition:
A public sale of property to the highest bidder, esp. by a
   person licensed and authorized for the purpose; a vendue.


word: Auctioneer
wordtype: n.
definition:
A person who sells by auction; a person whose business
   it is to dispose of goods or lands by public sale to the highest or
   best bidder.


word: Audacious
wordtype: a.
definition:
Contemning the restraints of law, religion, or decorum;
   bold in wickedness; presumptuous; impudent; insolent.


word: Audible
wordtype: a.
definition:
Capable of being heard; loud enough to be heard; actually
   heard; as, an audible voice or whisper.


word: Audience
wordtype: a.
definition:
Admittance to a hearing; a formal interview, esp. with a
   sovereign or the head of a government, for conference or the
   transaction of business.


word: Audiphone
wordtype: n.
definition:
An instrument which, placed against the teeth, conveys
   sound to the auditory nerve and enables the deaf to hear more or less
   distinctly; a dentiphone.


word: Audit
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To examine and adjust, as an account or accounts; as, to
   audit the accounts of a treasure, or of parties who have a suit
   depending in court.


word: Audita querela
definition:
A writ which lies for a party against whom judgment
   is recovered, but to whom good matter of discharge has subsequently
   accrued which could not have been availed of to prevent such judgment.


word: Auditor
wordtype: a.
definition:
A person appointed and authorized to audit or examine an
   account or accounts, compare the charges with the vouchers, examine the
   parties and witnesses, allow or reject charges, and state the balance.


word: Auditory
wordtype: a.
definition:
Of or pertaining to hearing, or to the sense or organs of
   hearing; as, the auditory nerve. See Ear.


word: Auf
wordtype: n.
definition:
A changeling or elf child, -- that is, one left by fairies; a
   deformed or foolish child; a simpleton; an oaf.


word: Augean
wordtype: a.
definition:
Of or pertaining to Augeus, king of Elis, whose stable
   contained 3000 oxen, and had not been cleaned for 30 years. Hercules
   cleansed it in a single day.


word: Auger
wordtype: n.
definition:
A carpenter's tool for boring holes larger than those bored
   by a gimlet. It has a handle placed crosswise by which it is turned
   with both hands. A pod auger is one with a straight channel or groove,
   like the half of a bean pod. A screw auger has a twisted blade, by the
   spiral groove of which the chips are discharge.


word: Auger
wordtype: n.
definition:
An instrument for boring or perforating soils or rocks, for
   determining the quality of soils, or the nature of the rocks or strata
   upon which they lie, and for obtaining water.


word: Auget
wordtype: n.
definition:
A priming tube connecting the charge chamber with the
   gallery, or place where the slow match is applied.


word: Augite
wordtype: n.
definition:
A variety of pyroxene, usually of a black or dark green
   color, occurring in igneous rocks, such as basalt; -- also used instead
   of the general term pyroxene.


word: Augment
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To enlarge or increase in size, amount, or degree; to
   swell; to make bigger; as, to augment an army by reeforcements; rain
   augments a stream; impatience augments an evil.


word: Augment
wordtype: n.
definition:
A vowel prefixed, or a lengthening of the initial vowel,
   to mark past time, as in Greek and Sanskrit verbs.


word: Augmentation
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act or process of augmenting, or making larger,
   by addition, expansion, or dilation; increase.


word: Augmentative
wordtype: n.
definition:
A word which expresses with augmented force the idea
   or the properties of the term from which it is derived; as, dullard,
   one very dull. Opposed to diminutive.


word: Augur
wordtype: n.
definition:
An official diviner who foretold events by the singing,
   chattering, flight, and feeding of birds, or by signs or omens derived
   from celestial phenomena, certain appearances of quadrupeds, or unusual
   occurrences.


word: Augur
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To anticipate, to foretell, or to indicate a favorable or
   an unfavorable issue; as, to augur well or ill.


word: Augural
wordtype: a.
definition:
Of or pertaining to augurs or to augury; betokening;
   ominous; significant; as, an augural staff; augural books.


word: August
wordtype: a.
definition:
Of a quality inspiring mingled admiration and reverence;
   having an aspect of solemn dignity or grandeur; sublime; majestic;
   having exalted birth, character, state, or authority.


word: Augustinian
wordtype: a.
definition:
Of or pertaining to St. Augustine, bishop of Hippo in
   Northern Africa (b. 354 -- d. 430), or to his doctrines.


word: Augustinian
wordtype: n.
definition:
One of a class of divines, who, following St.
   Augustine, maintain that grace by its nature is effectual absolutely
   and creatively, not relatively and conditionally.


word: Auk
wordtype: n.
definition:
A name given to various species of arctic sea birds of the
   family Alcidae. The great auk, now extinct, is Alca (/ Plautus)
   impennis. The razor-billed auk is A. torda. See Puffin, Guillemot, and
   Murre.


word: Aulic
wordtype: n.
definition:
The ceremony observed in conferring the degree of doctor of
   divinity in some European universities. It begins by a harangue of the
   chancellor addressed to the young doctor, who then receives the cap,
   and presides at the disputation (also called the aulic).


word: Aune
wordtype: n.
definition:
A French cloth measure, of different parts of the country (at
   Paris, 0.95 of an English ell); -- now superseded by the meter.


word: Aunt
wordtype: n.
definition:
The sister of one's father or mother; -- correlative to
   nephew or niece. Also applied to an uncle's wife.


word: Aunty
wordtype: n.
definition:
A familiar name for an aunt. In the southern United States a
   familiar term applied to aged negro women.


word: Aura
wordtype: n.
definition:
Any subtile, invisible emanation, effluvium, or exhalation
   from a substance, as the aroma of flowers, the odor of the blood, a
   supposed fertilizing emanation from the pollen of flowers, etc.


word: Aura
wordtype: n.
definition:
The peculiar sensation, as of a light vapor, or cold air,
   rising from the trunk or limbs towards the head, a premonitory symptom
   of epilepsy or hysterics.


word: Aurantiaceous
wordtype: a.
definition:
Pertaining to, or resembling, the Aurantiaceae, an
   order of plants (formerly considered natural), of which the orange is
   the type.


word: Aurelia
wordtype: n.
definition:
The chrysalis, or pupa of an insect, esp. when reflecting
   a brilliant golden color, as that of some of the butterflies.


word: Aureole
wordtype: n.
definition:
A celestial crown or accidental glory added to the bliss
   of heaven, as a reward to those (as virgins, martyrs, preachers, etc.)
   who have overcome the world, the flesh, and the devil.


word: Aureole
wordtype: n.
definition:
The circle of rays, or halo of light, with which painters
   surround the figure and represent the glory of Christ, saints, and
   others held in special reverence.


word: Auric
wordtype: a.
definition:
Pertaining to, or derived from, gold; -- said of those
   compounds of gold in which this element has its higher valence; as,
   auric oxide; auric chloride.


word: Aurichalcite
wordtype: n.
definition:
A hydrous carbonate of copper and zinc, found in pale
   green or blue crystalline aggregations. It yields a kind of brass on
   reduction.


word: Auricle
wordtype: n.
definition:
The chamber, or one of the two chambers, of the heart, by
   which the blood is received and transmitted to the ventricle or
   ventricles; -- so called from its resemblance to the auricle or
   external ear of some quadrupeds. See Heart.


word: Auricula
wordtype: n.
definition:
A species of Hirneola (H. auricula), a membranaceous
   fungus, called also auricula Judae, or Jew's-ear.


word: Auriculated
wordtype: a.
definition:
Having ears or appendages like ears; eared. Esp.: (a)
   (Bot.) Having lobes or appendages like the ear; shaped like the ear;
   auricled. (b) (Zool.) Having an angular projection on one or both
   sides, as in certain bivalve shells, the foot of some gastropods, etc.


word: Auriga
wordtype: n.
definition:
The Charioteer, or Wagoner, a constellation in the northern
   hemisphere, situated between Perseus and Gemini. It contains the bright
   star Capella.


word: Aurochloride
wordtype: n.
definition:
The trichloride of gold combination with the chloride
   of another metal, forming a double chloride; -- called also
   chloraurate.


word: Aurochs
wordtype: n.
definition:
The European bison (Bison bonasus, / Europaeus), once
   widely distributed, but now nearly extinct, except where protected in
   the Lithuanian forests, and perhaps in the Caucasus. It is distinct
   from the Urus of Caesar, with which it has often been confused.


word: Aurora
wordtype: n.
definition:
The rising light of the morning; the dawn of day; the
   redness of the sky just before the sun rises.


word: Aurora
wordtype: n.
definition:
The Roman personification of the dawn of day; the goddess
   of the morning. The poets represented her a rising out of the ocean, in
   a chariot, with rosy fingers dropping gentle dew.


word: Aurous
wordtype: a.
definition:
Pertaining to, or derived from, gold; -- said of those
   compounds of gold in which this element has its lower valence; as,
   aurous oxide.


word: Auscultation
wordtype: n.
definition:
An examination by listening either directly with the
   ear (immediate auscultation) applied to parts of the body, as the
   abdomen; or with the stethoscope (mediate auscultation), in order to
   distinguish sounds recognized as a sign of health or of disease.


word: Auspicate
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To give a favorable turn to in commencing; to
   inaugurate; -- a sense derived from the Roman practice of taking the
   auspicium, or inspection of birds, before undertaking any important
   business.


word: Auspice
wordtype: a.
definition:
A divining or taking of omens by observing birds; an omen
   as to an undertaking, drawn from birds; an augury; an omen or sign in
   general; an indication as to the future.


word: Auspicious
wordtype: a.
definition:
Having omens or tokens of a favorable issue; giving
   promise of success, prosperity, or happiness; predicting good; as, an
   auspicious beginning.


word: Austere
definition:
Sour and astringent; rough to the state; having acerbity;
   as, an austere crab apple; austere wine.


word: Austere
definition:
Severe in modes of judging, or living, or acting; rigid;
   rigorous; stern; as, an austere man, look, life.


word: Authentic
wordtype: n.
definition:
Having a genuine original or authority, in opposition to
   that which is false, fictitious, counterfeit, or apocryphal; being what
   it purports to be; genuine; not of doubtful origin; real; as, an
   authentic paper or register.


word: Authentic
wordtype: n.
definition:
Of approved authority; true; trustworthy; credible; as,
   an authentic writer; an authentic portrait; authentic information.


word: Authentic
wordtype: n.
definition:
Having as immediate relation to the tonic, in
   distinction from plagal, which has a correspondent relation to the
   dominant in the octave below the tonic.


word: Authenticate
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To render authentic; to give authority to, by the
   proof, attestation, or formalities required by law, or sufficient to
   entitle to credit.


word: Authentics
wordtype: n.
definition:
A collection of the Novels or New Constitutions of
   Justinian, by an anonymous author; -- so called on account of its
   authenticity.


word: Author
wordtype: n.
definition:
The beginner, former, or first mover of anything; hence,
   the efficient cause of a thing; a creator; an originator.


word: Author
wordtype: n.
definition:
One who composes or writes a book; a composer, as
   distinguished from an editor, translator, or compiler.


word: Cyanotic
wordtype: a.
definition:
Relating to cyanosis; affected with cyanosis; as, a
   cyanotic patient; having the hue caused by cyanosis; as, a cyanotic
   skin.


word: Cyanuric acid
definition:
an organic acid, C3O3N3H3, first obtained by heating
   uric acid or urea, and called pyrouric acid; afterwards obtained from
   isocyanic acid. It is a white crystalline substance, odorless and
   almost tasteless; -- called also tricarbimide.


word: Cyatholith
wordtype: n.
definition:
A kind of coccolith, which in shape resembles a minute
   cup widened at the top, and varies in size from / to / of an inch.


word: Cyathophylloid
wordtype: n.
definition:
A fossil coral of the family Cyathophyllidae;
   sometimes extended to fossil corals of other related families belonging
   to the group Rugosa; -- also called cup corals. Thay are found in
   paleozoic rocks.


word: Cycadaceous
wordtype: a.
definition:
Pertaining to, or resembling, an order of plants like
   the palms, but having exogenous wood. The sago palm is an example.


word: Cycas
wordtype: n.
definition:
A genus of trees, intermediate in character between the
   palms and the pines. The pith of the trunk of some species furnishes a
   valuable kind of sago.


word: Cyclamen
wordtype: n.
definition:
A genus of plants of the Primrose family, having
   depressed rounded corms, and pretty nodding flowers with the petals so
   reflexed as to point upwards, whence it is called rabbits' ears. It is
   also called sow bread, because hogs are said to eat the corms.


word: Cyclamin
wordtype: n.
definition:
A white amorphous substance, regarded as a glucoside,
   extracted from the corm of Cyclamen Europaeum.


word: Cyclas
wordtype: n.
definition:
A long gown or surcoat (cut off in front), worn in the
   Middle Ages. It was sometimes embroidered or interwoven with gold.
   Also, a rich stuff from which the gown was made.


word: Cycle
wordtype: n.
definition:
An interval of time in which a certain succession of events
   or phenomena is completed, and then returns again and again, uniformly
   and continually in the same order; a periodical space of time marked by
   the recurrence of something peculiar; as, the cycle of the seasons, or
   of the year.


word: Cycle
wordtype: n.
definition:
The circle of subjects connected with the exploits of the
   hero or heroes of some particular period which have served as a popular
   theme for poetry, as the legend of Arthur and the knights of the Round
   Table, and that of Charlemagne and his paladins.


word: Cyclide
wordtype: n.
definition:
A surface of the fourth degree, having certain special
   relations to spherical surfaces. The tore or anchor ring is one of the
   cyclides.


word: Cycloid
wordtype: n.
definition:
A curve generated by a point in the plane of a circle when
   the circle is rolled along a straight line, keeping always in the same
   plane.


word: Cycloidal
wordtype: a.
definition:
Pertaining to, or resembling, a cycloid; as, the
   cycloidal space is the space contained between a cycloid and its base.


word: Cycloidei
wordtype: n. pl.
definition:
An order of fishes, formerly proposed by Agassiz,
   for those with thin, smooth scales, destitute of marginal spines, as
   the herring and salmon. The group is now regarded as artificial.


word: Cyclone
wordtype: n.
definition:
A violent storm, often of vast extent, characterized by
   high winds rotating about a calm center of low atmospheric pressure.
   This center moves onward, often with a velocity of twenty or thirty
   miles an hour.


word: Cyclopean
wordtype: a.
definition:
Pertaining to the Cyclops; characteristic of the
   Cyclops; huge; gigantic; vast and rough; massive; as, Cyclopean labors;
   Cyclopean architecture.


word: Cyclopaedia
wordtype: n.
definition:
The circle or compass of the arts and sciences
   (originally, of the seven so-called liberal arts and sciences); circle
   of human knowledge. Hence, a work containing, in alphabetical order,
   information in all departments of knowledge, or on a particular
   department or branch; as, a cyclopedia of the physical sciences, or of
   mechanics. See Encyclopedia.


word: Cyclopedic
wordtype: a.
definition:
Belonging to the circle of the sciences, or to a
   cyclopedia; of the nature of a cyclopedia; hence, of great range,
   extent, or amount; as, a man of cyclopedic knowledge.


word: Cyclops
wordtype: n. sing. & pl.
definition:
One of a race of giants, sons of Neptune and
   Amphitrite, having but one eye, and that in the middle of the forehead.
   They were fabled to inhabit Sicily, and to assist in the workshops of
   Vulcan, under Mt. Etna.


word: Cyclorama
wordtype: n.
definition:
A pictorial view which is extended circularly, so that
   the spectator is surrounded by the objects represented as by things in
   nature. The realistic effect is increased by putting, in the space
   between the spectator and the picture, things adapted to the scene
   represented, and in some places only parts of these objects, the
   completion of them being carried out pictorially.


word: Cyclostylar
wordtype: a.
definition:
Relating to a structure composed of a circular range
   of columns, without a core or building within.


word: Cyclostyle
wordtype: n.
definition:
A contrivance for producing manifold copies of writing
   or drawing. The writing or drawing is done with a style carrying a
   small wheel at the end which makes minute punctures in the paper, thus
   converting it into a stencil. Copies are transferred with an inked
   roller.


word: Cydonin
wordtype: n.
definition:
A peculiar mucilaginous substance extracted from the seeds
   of the quince (Cydonia vulgaris), and regarded as a variety of amylose.


word: Cylinder
wordtype: n.
definition:
A solid body which may be generated by the rotation of a
   parallelogram round one its sides; or a body of rollerlike form, of
   which the longitudinal section is oblong, and the cross section is
   circular.


word: Cylinder
wordtype: n.
definition:
The revolving platen or bed which produces the impression
   or carries the type in a cylinder press.


word: Cylindrical
wordtype: a.
definition:
Having the form of a cylinder, or of a section of its
   convex surface; partaking of the properties of the cylinder.


word: Cylindroid
wordtype: n.
definition:
A certain surface of the third degree, described by a
   moving straight line; -- used to illustrate the motions of a rigid body
   and also the forces acting on the body.


word: Cymbal
wordtype: n.
definition:
A musical instrument used by the ancients. It is supposed
   to have been similar to the modern kettle drum, though perhaps smaller.


word: Cymbal
wordtype: n.
definition:
A musical instrument of brass, shaped like a circular dish
   or a flat plate, with a handle at the back; -- used in pairs to produce
   a sharp ringing sound by clashing them together.


word: Cymbal
wordtype: n.
definition:
A musical instrument used by gypsies and others, made of
   steel wire, in a triangular form, on which are movable rings.


word: Cymbiform
wordtype: a.
definition:
Shaped like a boat; (Bot.) elongated and having the
   upper surface decidedly concave, as the glumes of many grasses.


word: Cyme
wordtype: n.
definition:
A flattish or convex flower cluster, of the centrifugal or
   determinate type, differing from a corymb chiefly in the order of the
   opening of the blossoms.


word: Cymene
wordtype: n.
definition:
A colorless, liquid, combustible hydrocarbon,
   CH3.C6H4.C3H7, of pleasant odor, obtained from oil of cumin, oil of
   caraway, carvacrol, camphor, etc.; -- called also paracymene, and
   formerly camphogen.


word: Cymogene
wordtype: n.
definition:
A highly volatile liquid, condensed by cold and pressure
   from the first products of the distillation of petroleum; -- used for
   producing low temperatures.


word: Cynanche
wordtype: n.
definition:
Any disease of the tonsils, throat, or windpipe, attended
   with inflammation, swelling, and difficulty of breathing and
   swallowing.


word: Cynanthropy
wordtype: n.
definition:
A kind of madness in which men fancy themselves
   changed into dogs, and imitate the voice and habits of that animal.


word: Cynarrhodium
wordtype: n.
definition:
A fruit like that of the rose, consisting of a cup
   formed of the calyx tube and receptacle, and containing achenes.


word: Cynical
wordtype: a.
definition:
Belonging to the sect of philosophers called cynics;
   having the qualities of a cynic; pertaining to, or resembling, the
   doctrines of the cynics.


word: Cynical
wordtype: a.
definition:
Given to sneering at rectitude and the conduct of life by
   moral principles; disbelieving in the reality of any human purposes
   which are not suggested or directed by self-interest or
   self-indulgence; as, a cynical man who scoffs at pretensions of
   integrity; characterized by such opinions; as, cynical views of human
   nature.


word: Cynic
wordtype: n.
definition:
One of a sect or school of philosophers founded by
   Antisthenes, and of whom Diogenes was a disciple. The first Cynics were
   noted for austere lives and their scorn for social customs and current
   philosophical opinions. Hence the term Cynic symbolized, in the popular
   judgment, moroseness, and contempt for the views of others.


word: Cynic
wordtype: n.
definition:
One who holds views resembling those of the Cynics; a
   snarler; a misanthrope; particularly, a person who believes that human
   conduct is directed, either consciously or unconsciously, wholly by
   self-interest or self-indulgence, and that appearances to the contrary
   are superficial and untrustworthy.


word: Cynicism
wordtype: n.
definition:
The doctrine of the Cynics; the quality of being cynical;
   the mental state, opinions, or conduct, of a cynic; morose and
   contemptuous views and opinions.


word: Cynosure
wordtype: n.
definition:
The constellation of the Lesser Bear, to which, as
   containing the polar star, the eyes of mariners and travelers were
   often directed.


word: Cyperus
wordtype: n.
definition:
A large genus of plants belonging to the Sedge family, and
   including the species called galingale, several bulrushes, and the
   Egyptian papyrus.


word: Cyphonism
wordtype: n.
definition:
A punishment sometimes used by the ancients, consisting
   in the besmearing of the criminal with honey, and exposing him to
   insects. It is still in use among some Oriental nations.


word: Cypres
wordtype: n.
definition:
A rule for construing written instruments so as to conform
   as nearly to the intention of the parties as is consistent with law.


word: Cypress
wordtype: n.
definition:
A coniferous tree of the genus Cupressus. The species are
   mostly evergreen, and have wood remarkable for its durability.


word: Cypris
wordtype: n.
definition:
A genus of small, bivalve, fresh-water Crustacea, belonging
   to the Ostracoda; also, a member of this genus.


word: Cyprus
wordtype: n.
definition:
A thin, transparent stuff, the same as, or corresponding
   to, crape. It was either white or black, the latter being most common,
   and used for mourning.


word: Cyrenaic
wordtype: a.
definition:
Pertaining to Cyrenaica, an ancient country of northern
   Africa, and to Cyrene, its principal city; also, to a school of
   philosophy founded by Aristippus, a native of Cyrene.


word: Cyrenian
wordtype: n.
definition:
One of a school of philosophers, established at Cyrene by
   Aristippus, a disciple of Socrates. Their doctrines were nearly the
   same as those of the Epicureans.


word: Cyst
wordtype: n.
definition:
A pouch or sac without opening, usually membranous and
   containing morbid matter, which is accidentally developed in one of the
   natural cavities or in the substance of an organ.


word: Cyst
wordtype: n.
definition:
One of the bladders or air vessels of certain algae, as of
   the great kelp of the Pacific, and common rockweeds (Fuci) of our
   shores.


word: Cyst
wordtype: n.
definition:
A small capsule or sac of the kind in which many immature
   entozoans exist in the tissues of living animals; also, a similar form
   in Rotifera, etc.


word: Cyst
wordtype: n.
definition:
A form assumed by Protozoa in which they become saclike and
   quiescent. It generally precedes the production of germs. See
   Encystment.


word: Cystic
wordtype: a.
definition:
Pertaining to, or contained in, a cyst; esp., pertaining
   to, or contained in, either the urinary bladder or the gall bladder.


word: Cysticercus
wordtype: n.
definition:
The larval form of a tapeworm, having the head and
   neck of a tapeworm attached to a saclike body filled with fluid; --
   called also bladder worm, hydatid, and measle (as, pork measle).


word: Cystidea
wordtype: n. pl.
definition:
An order of Crinoidea, mostly fossils of the
   Paleozoic rocks. They were usually roundish or egg-shaped, and often
   unsymmetrical; some were sessile, others had short stems.


word: Cystine
wordtype: n.
definition:
A white crystalline substance, C3H7NSO2, containing
   sulphur, occuring as a constituent of certain rare urinary calculi, and
   occasionally found as a sediment in urine.


word: Cystoplast
wordtype: n.
definition:
A nucleated cell having an envelope or cell wall, as a
   red blood corpuscle or an epithelial cell; a cell concerned in growth.


word: Cystotomy
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act or practice of opening cysts; esp., the
   operation of cutting into the bladder, as for the extraction of a
   calculus.


word: Cytoblast
wordtype: n.
definition:
The nucleus of a cell; the germinal or active spot of a
   cellule, through or in which cell development takes place.


word: Cytode
wordtype: n.
definition:
A nonnucleated mass of protoplasm, the supposed simplest
   form of independent life differing from the amoeba, in which nuclei are
   present.


word: Cytogenesis
wordtype: n.
definition:
Development of cells in animal and vegetable
   organisms. See Gemmation, Budding, Karyokinesis; also Cell development,
   under Cell.


word: Cytoplasm
wordtype: n.
definition:
The substance of the body of a cell, as distinguished
   from the karyoplasma, or substance of the nucleus.


word: Cytula
wordtype: n.
definition:
The fertilized egg cell or parent cell, from the
   development of which the child or other organism is formed.


word: Czech
wordtype: n.
definition:
The language of the Czechs (often called Bohemian), the
   harshest and richest of the Slavic languages.


word: Czechs
wordtype: n. pl.
definition:
The most westerly branch of the great Slavic family of
   nations, numbering now more than 6,000,000, and found principally in
   Bohemia and Moravia.
   D () The fourth letter of the English alphabet, and a vocal consonant.
   The English letter is from Latin, which is from Greek, which took it
   from Ph/nician, the probable ultimate origin being Egyptian. It is
   related most nearly to t and th; as, Eng. deep, G. tief; Eng. daughter,
   G. tochter, Gr. qyga`thr, Skr. duhitr. See Guide to Pronunciation,
   Ã178, 179, 229.


word: D
definition:
The nominal of the second tone in the model major scale (that in
   C), or of the fourth tone in the relative minor scale of C (that in A
   minor), or of the key tone in the relative minor of F.


word: D
definition:
As a numeral D stands for 500. in this use it is not the initial
   of any word, or even strictly a letter, but one half of the sign / (or
   / ) the original Tuscan numeral for 1000.


word: Dab
wordtype: n.
definition:
A name given to several species of flounders, esp. to the
   European species, Pleuronectes limanda. The American rough dab is
   Hippoglossoides platessoides.


word: Dab
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To strike or touch gently, as with a soft or moist
   substance; to tap; hence, to besmear with a dabber.


word: Dabb
wordtype: n.
definition:
A large, spine-tailed lizard (Uromastix spinipes), found in
   Egypt, Arabia, and Palestine; -- called also dhobb, and dhabb.


word: Dabber
wordtype: n.
definition:
That with which one dabs; hence, a pad or other device used
   by printers, engravers, etc., as for dabbing type or engraved plates
   with ink.


word: Dabchick
wordtype: n.
definition:
A small water bird (Podilymbus podiceps), allied to the
   grebes, remarkable for its quickness in diving; -- called also
   dapchick, dobchick, dipchick, didapper, dobber, devil-diver,
   hell-diver, and pied-billed grebe.


word: Dacapo
definition:
From the beginning; a direction to return to, and end with,
   the first strain; -- indicated by the letters D. C. Also, the strain so
   repeated.


word: Dachshund
wordtype: n.
definition:
One of a breed of small dogs with short crooked legs,
   and long body; -- called also badger dog. There are two kinds, the
   rough-haired and the smooth-haired.


word: Dactyl
wordtype: n.
definition:
A poetical foot of three sylables (-- ~ ~), one long
   followed by two short, or one accented followed by two unaccented; as,
   L. tegm/n/, E. mer\b6ciful; -- so called from the similarity of its
   arrangement to that of the joints of a finger.


word: Dactylology
wordtype: n.
definition:
The art of communicating ideas by certain movements
   and positions of the fingers; -- a method of conversing practiced by
   the deaf and dumb.


word: Dactylozooid
wordtype: n.
definition:
A kind of zooid of Siphonophora which has an
   elongated or even vermiform body, with one tentacle, but no mouth. See
   Siphonophora.


word: Dadle
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To toddle; to walk unsteadily, like a child or an old
   man; hence, to do anything slowly or feebly.


word: Daddy longlegs
definition:
An arachnidan of the genus Phalangium, and allied
   genera, having a small body and four pairs of long legs; -- called also
   harvestman, carter, and grandfather longlegs.


word: Daddy longlegs
definition:
A name applied to many species of dipterous insects
   of the genus Tipula, and allied genera, with slender bodies, and very
   long, slender legs; the crane fly; -- called also father longlegs.


word: Dado
wordtype: n.
definition:
That part of a pedestal included between the base and the
   cornice (or surbase); the die. See Illust. of Column.


word: Dado
wordtype: n.
definition:
In any wall, that part of the basement included between the
   base and the base course. See Base course, under Base.


word: Dado
wordtype: n.
definition:
In interior decoration, the lower part of the wall of an
   apartment when adorned with moldings, or otherwise specially decorated.


word: Daffodil
wordtype: n.
definition:
A plant of the genus Narcissus (N. Pseudo-narcissus). It
   has a bulbous root and beautiful flowers, usually of a yellow hue.
   Called also daffodilly, daffadilly, daffadowndilly, daffydowndilly,
   etc.


word: Dagger
wordtype: n.
definition:
A short weapon used for stabbing. This is the general term:
   cf. Poniard, Stiletto, Bowie knife, Dirk, Misericorde, Anlace.


word: Dagger
wordtype: n.
definition:
A mark of reference in the form of a dagger [/]. It is the
   second in order when more than one reference occurs on a page; --
   called also obelisk.


word: Dagges
wordtype: n. pl.
definition:
An ornamental cutting of the edges of garments,
   introduced about a. d. 1346, according to the Chronicles of St Albans.


word: Dagon
definition:
The national god of the Philistines, represented with the face
   and hands and upper part of a man, and the tail of a fish.


word: Daguerreotype
wordtype: n.
definition:
An early variety of photograph, produced on a silver
   plate, or copper plate covered with silver, and rendered sensitive by
   the action of iodine, or iodine and bromine, on which, after exposure
   in the camera, the latent image is developed by the vapor of mercury.


word: Dahlia
wordtype: n.
definition:
A genus of plants native to Mexico and Central America, of
   the order Compositae; also, any plant or flower of the genus. The
   numerous varieties of cultivated dahlias bear conspicuous flowers which
   differ in color.


word: Daintiness
wordtype: n.
definition:
The quality of being dainty; nicety; niceness;
   elegance; delicacy; deliciousness; fastidiousness; squeamishness.


word: Dainty
wordtype: superl.
definition:
Requiring dainties. Hence: Overnice; hard to please;
   fastidious; squeamish; scrupulous; ceremonious.


word: Dairy
wordtype: n.
definition:
That department of farming which is concerned in the
   production of milk, and its conversion into butter and cheese.


word: Dais
wordtype: n.
definition:
The high or principal table, at the end of a hall, at which
   the chief guests were seated; also, the chief seat at the high table.


word: Dais
wordtype: n.
definition:
A platform slightly raised above the floor of a hall or large
   room, giving distinction to the table and seats placed upon it for the
   chief guests.


word: Daisy
wordtype: n.
definition:
A genus of low herbs (Bellis), belonging to the family
   Compositae. The common English and classical daisy is B. prennis, which
   has a yellow disk and white or pinkish rays.


word: Daisy
wordtype: n.
definition:
The whiteweed (Chrysanthemum Leucanthemum), the plant
   commonly called daisy in North America; -- called also oxeye daisy. See
   Whiteweed.


word: Dakir
wordtype: n.
definition:
A measure of certain commodities by number, usually ten or
   twelve, but sometimes twenty; as, a daker of hides consisted of ten
   skins; a daker of gloves of ten pairs.


word: Dakota group
definition:
A subdivision at the base of the cretaceous formation
   in Western North America; -- so named from the region where the strata
   were first studied.


word: Dakotas
wordtype: n. pl
definition:
An extensive race or stock of Indians, including many
   tribes, mostly dwelling west of the Mississippi River; -- also, in
   part, called Sioux.


word: Dalesman
wordtype: n.
definition:
One living in a dale; -- a term applied particularly to
   the inhabitants of the valleys in the north of England, Norway, etc.


word: Dally
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To waste time in effeminate or voluptuous pleasures, or
   in idleness; to fool away time; to delay unnecessarily; to tarry; to
   trifle.


word: Dally
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To interchange caresses, especially with one of the
   opposite sex; to use fondling; to wanton; to sport.


word: Dalmatic
wordtype: n.
definition:
A vestment with wide sleeves, and with two stripes, worn
   at Mass by deacons, and by bishops at pontifical Mass; -- imitated from
   a dress originally worn in Dalmatia.


word: Daltonism
wordtype: n.
definition:
Inability to perceive or distinguish certain colors,
   esp. red; color blindness. It has various forms and degrees. So called
   from the chemist Dalton, who had this infirmity.


word: Dam
wordtype: n.
definition:
A female parent; -- used of beasts, especially of quadrupeds;
   sometimes applied in contempt to a human mother.


word: Dam
wordtype: n.
definition:
A barrier to prevent the flow of a liquid; esp., a bank of
   earth, or wall of any kind, as of masonry or wood, built across a water
   course, to confine and keep back flowing water.


word: Dam
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To obstruct or restrain the flow of, by a dam; to confine
   by constructing a dam, as a stream of water; -- generally used with in
   or up.


word: Damage
wordtype: n.
definition:
Injury or harm to person, property, or reputation; an
   inflicted loss of value; detriment; hurt; mischief.


word: Damage
wordtype: n.
definition:
The estimated reparation in money for detriment or injury
   sustained; a compensation, recompense, or satisfaction to one party,
   for a wrong or injury actually done to him by another.


word: Damage
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To receive damage or harm; to be injured or impaired in
   soudness or value; as. some colors in /oth damage in sunlight.


word: Damageable
wordtype: a.
definition:
Capable of being injured or impaired; liable to, or
   susceptible of, damage; as, a damageable cargo.


word: Daman
wordtype: n.
definition:
A small herbivorous mammal of the genus Hyrax. The species
   found in Palestine and Syria is Hyrax Syriacus; that of Northern Africa
   is H. Brucei; -- called also ashkoko, dassy, and rock rabbit. See Cony,
   and Hyrax.


word: Damask
wordtype: n.
definition:
Linen so woven that a pattern in produced by the different
   directions of the thread, without contrast of color.


word: Damask
wordtype: n.
definition:
A heavy woolen or worsted stuff with a pattern woven in the
   same way as the linen damask; -- made for furniture covering and
   hangings.


word: Damask
wordtype: a.
definition:
Pertaining to, or originating at, the city of Damascus;
   resembling the products or manufactures of Damascus.


word: Damask
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To decorate in a way peculiar to Damascus or attributed
   to Damascus; particularly: (a) with flowers and rich designs, as silk;
   (b) with inlaid lines of gold, etc., or with a peculiar marking or
   "water," as metal. See Damaskeen.


word: Damasken
wordtype: v.
definition:
To decorate, as iron, steel, etc., with a peculiar
   marking or "water" produced in the process of manufacture, or with
   designs produced by inlaying or incrusting with another metal, as
   silver or gold, or by etching, etc., to damask.


word: Dame
wordtype: n.
definition:
The mistress of a family in common life, or the mistress of a
   common school; as, a dame's school.


word: Damewort
wordtype: n.
definition:
A cruciferrous plant (Hesperis matronalis), remarkable
   for its fragrance, especially toward the close of the day; -- called
   also rocket and dame's violet.


word: Damianist
wordtype: n.
definition:
A follower of Damian, patriarch of Alexandria in the 6th
   century, who held heretical opinions on the doctrine of the Holy
   Trinity.


word: Dammara
wordtype: n.
definition:
An oleoresin used in making varnishes; dammar gum; dammara
   resin. It is obtained from certain resin trees indigenous to the East
   Indies, esp. Shorea robusta and the dammar pine.


word: Dammara
wordtype: n.
definition:
A large tree of the order Coniferae, indigenous to the
   East Indies and Australasia; -- called also Agathis. There are several
   species.


word: Damp
wordtype: n.
definition:
To put out, as fire; to depress or deject; to deaden; to
   cloud; to check or restrain, as action or vigor; to make dull; to
   weaken; to discourage.


word: Damper
wordtype: n.
definition:
That which damps or checks; as: (a) A valve or movable
   plate in the flue or other part of a stove, furnace, etc., used to
   check or regulate the draught of air. (b) A contrivance, as in a
   pianoforte, to deaden vibrations; or, as in other pieces of mechanism,
   to check some action at a particular time.


word: Damsel
wordtype: n.
definition:
A young person, either male or female, of noble or gentle
   extraction; as, Damsel Pepin; Damsel Richard, Prince of Wales.


word: Damson
wordtype: n.
definition:
A small oval plum of a blue color, the fruit of a variety
   of the Prunus domestica; -- called also damask plum.


word: Danaide
wordtype: n.
definition:
A water wheel having a vertical axis, and an inner and
   outer tapering shell, between which are vanes or floats attached
   usually to both shells, but sometimes only to one.


word: Danalite
wordtype: n.
definition:
A mineral occuring in octahedral crystals, also massive,
   of a reddish color. It is a silicate of iron, zinc manganese, and
   glucinum, containing sulphur.


word: Dance
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To move with measured steps, or to a musical
   accompaniment; to go through, either alone or in company with others,
   with a regulated succession of movements, (commonly) to the sound of
   music; to trip or leap rhythmically.


word: Dance
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
The leaping, tripping, or measured stepping of one who
   dances; an amusement, in which the movements of the persons are
   regulated by art, in figures and in accord with music.


word: Dancette
wordtype: a.
definition:
Deeply indented; having large teeth; thus, a fess
   dancette has only three teeth in the whole width of the escutcheon.


word: Dandelion
wordtype: n.
definition:
A well-known plant of the genus Taraxacum (T.
   officinale, formerly called T. Dens-leonis and Leontodos Taraxacum)
   bearing large, yellow, compound flowers, and deeply notched leaves.


word: Danegelt
wordtype: n.
definition:
An annual tax formerly laid on the English nation to buy
   off the ravages of Danish invaders, or to maintain forces to oppose
   them. It afterward became a permanent tax, raised by an assessment, at
   first of one shilling, afterward of two shillings, upon every hide of
   land throughout the realm.


word: Danewort
wordtype: n.
definition:
A fetid European species of elder (Sambucus Ebulus);
   dwarf elder; wallwort; elderwort; -- called also Daneweed, Dane's weed,
   and Dane's-blood. [Said to grow on spots where battles were fought
   against the Danes.]


word: Dangleberry
wordtype: n.
definition:
A dark blue, edible berry with a white bloom, and its
   shrub (Gaylussacia frondosa) closely allied to the common huckleberry.
   The bush is also called blue tangle, and is found from New England to
   Kentucky, and southward.


word: Daniel
wordtype: n.
definition:
A Hebrew prophet distinguished for sagacity and ripeness of
   judgment in youth; hence, a sagacious and upright judge.


word: Danite
wordtype: n.
definition:
One of a secret association of Mormons, bound by an oath to
   obey the heads of the church in all things.


word: Daphnin
wordtype: n.
definition:
A dark green bitter resin extracted from the mezereon
   (Daphne mezereum) and regarded as the essential principle of the plant.


word: Daphnin
wordtype: n.
definition:
A white, crystalline, bitter substance, regarded as a
   glucoside, and extracted from Daphne mezereum and D. alpina.


word: Dapifer
wordtype: n.
definition:
One who brings meat to the table; hence, in some
   countries, the official title of the grand master or steward of the
   king's or a nobleman's household.


word: Darbyite
wordtype: n.
definition:
One of the Plymouth Brethren, or of a sect among them; --
   so called from John N. Darby, one of the leaders of the Brethren.


word: Dare
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To have adequate or sufficient courage for any purpose; to
   be bold or venturesome; not to be afraid; to venture.


word: Daric
wordtype: n.
definition:
A gold coin of ancient Persia, weighing usually a little
   more than 128 grains, and bearing on one side the figure of an archer.


word: Add
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To join or unite, as one thing to another, or as several
   particulars, so as to increase the number, augment the quantity,
   enlarge the magnitude, or so as to form into one aggregate. Hence: To
   sum up; to put together mentally; as, to add numbers; to add up a
   column.


word: Adder
wordtype: n.
definition:
A small venomous serpent of the genus Vipera. The common
   European adder is the Vipera (/ Pelias) berus. The puff adders of
   Africa are species of Clotho.


word: Adder
wordtype: n.
definition:
In America, the term is commonly applied to several harmless
   snakes, as the milk adder, puffing adder, etc.


word: Adder's-tongue
wordtype: n.
definition:
A genus of ferns (Ophioglossum), whose seeds are
   produced on a spike resembling a serpent's tongue.


word: Addison's disease
definition:
A morbid condition causing a peculiar brownish
   discoloration of the skin, and thought, at one time, to be due to
   disease of the suprarenal capsules (two flat triangular bodies covering
   the upper part of the kidneys), but now known not to be dependent upon
   this causes exclusively. It is usually fatal.


word: Addition
wordtype: n.
definition:
A title annexed to a man's name, to identify him more
   precisely; as, John Doe, Esq.; Richard Roe, Gent.; Robert Dale, Mason;
   Thomas Way, of New York; a mark of distinction; a title.


word: Addle
wordtype: a.
definition:
Having lost the power of development, and become rotten, as
   eggs; putrid. Hence: Unfruitful or confused, as brains; muddled.


word: Address
wordtype: v.
definition:
Reflexively: To prepare one's self; to apply one's skill
   or energies (to some object); to betake.


word: Address
wordtype: v.
definition:
To direct, as words (to any one or any thing); to make, as
   a speech, petition, etc. (to any one, an audience).


word: Address
wordtype: v.
definition:
To direct speech to; to make a communication to, whether
   spoken or written; to apply to by words, as by a speech, petition,
   etc., to speak to; to accost.


word: Address
wordtype: v.
definition:
To direct in writing, as a letter; to superscribe, or to
   direct and transmit; as, he addressed a letter.


word: Address
wordtype: v.
definition:
To consign or intrust to the care of another, as agent or
   factor; as, the ship was addressed to a merchant in Baltimore.


word: Address
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
A formal communication, either written or spoken; a
   discourse; a speech; a formal application to any one; a petition; a
   formal statement on some subject or special occasion; as, an address of
   thanks, an address to the voters.


word: Address
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
Direction or superscription of a letter, or the name,
   title, and place of residence of the person addressed.


word: Adduce
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To bring forward or offer, as an argument, passage, or
   consideration which bears on a statement or case; to cite; to allege.


word: Adducent
wordtype: a.
definition:
Bringing together or towards a given point; -- a word
   applied to those muscles of the body which pull one part towards
   another. Opposed to abducent.


word: Adductor
wordtype: n.
definition:
A muscle which draws a limb or part of the body toward
   the middle line of the body, or closes extended parts of the body; --
   opposed to abductor; as, the adductor of the eye, which turns the eye
   toward the nose.


word: Adelaster
wordtype: n.
definition:
A provisional name for a plant which has not had its
   flowers botanically examined, and therefore has not been referred to
   its proper genus.


word: Adelocodonic
wordtype: a.
definition:
Applied to sexual zooids of hydroids, that have a
   saclike form and do not become free; -- opposed to phanerocodonic.


word: Adelphia
wordtype: n.
definition:
A "brotherhood," or collection of stamens in a bundle; --
   used in composition, as in the class names, Monadelphia, Diadelphia,
   etc.


word: Adelphous
wordtype: a.
definition:
Having coalescent or clustered filaments; -- said of
   stamens; as, adelphous stamens. Usually in composition; as,
   monadelphous.


word: Adeno-
definition:
Combining forms of the Greek word for gland; -- used in words
   relating to the structure, diseases, etc., of the glands.


word: Adequacy
wordtype: n.
definition:
The state or quality of being adequate, proportionate, or
   sufficient; a sufficiency for a particular purpose; as, the adequacy of
   supply to the expenditure.


word: Adequate
wordtype: a.
definition:
Equal to some requirement; proportionate, or
   correspondent; fully sufficient; as, powers adequate to a great work;
   an adequate definition.


word: Adhere
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To stick fast or cleave, as a glutinous substance does;
   to become joined or united; as, wax to the finger; the lungs sometimes
   adhere to the pleura.


word: Adhere
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To hold, be attached, or devoted; to remain fixed,
   either by personal union or conformity of faith, principle, or opinion;
   as, men adhere to a party, a cause, a leader, a church.


word: Adherence
wordtype: n.
definition:
The state of being fixed in attachment; fidelity; steady
   attachment; adhesion; as, adherence to a party or to opinions.


word: Adherent
wordtype: n.
definition:
One who adheres; one who adheres; one who follows a
   leader, party, or profession; a follower, or partisan; a believer in a
   particular faith or church.


word: Adhesion
wordtype: n.
definition:
The action of sticking; the state of being attached;
   intimate union; as, the adhesion of glue, or of parts united by growth,
   cement, or the like.


word: Adhesion
wordtype: n.
definition:
Union of surface, normally separate, by the formation of
   new tissue resulting from an inflammatory process.


word: Ad hominem
definition:
A phrase applied to an appeal or argument addressed to
   the principles, interests, or passions of a man.


word: Adiantum
wordtype: n.
definition:
A genus of ferns, the leaves of which shed water;
   maidenhair. Also, the black maidenhair, a species of spleenwort.


word: Adiaphorist
wordtype: n.
definition:
One of the German Protestants who, with Melanchthon,
   held some opinions and ceremonies to be indifferent or nonessential,
   which Luther condemned as sinful or heretical.


word: Adipic
wordtype: a.
definition:
Pertaining to, or derived from, fatty or oily substances;
   -- applied to certain acids obtained from fats by the action of nitric
   acid.


word: Adipocere
wordtype: n.
definition:
A soft, unctuous, or waxy substance, of a light brown
   color, into which the fat and muscle tissue of dead bodies sometimes
   are converted, by long immersion in water or by burial in moist places.
   It is a result of fatty degeneration.


word: Adit
wordtype: n.
definition:
An entrance or passage. Specifically: The nearly horizontal
   opening by which a mine is entered, or by which water and ores are
   carried away; -- called also drift and tunnel.


word: Adjacent
wordtype: a.
definition:
Lying near, close, or contiguous; neighboring; bordering
   on; as, a field adjacent to the highway.


word: Adjective
wordtype: n.
definition:
Added to a substantive as an attribute; of the nature of
   an adjunct; as, an adjective word or sentence.


word: Adjective
wordtype: n.
definition:
A word used with a noun, or substantive, to express a
   quality of the thing named, or something attributed to it, or to limit
   or define it, or to specify or describe a thing, as distinct from
   something else. Thus, in phrase, "a wise ruler," wise is the adjective,
   expressing a property of ruler.


word: Adjourn
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To put off or defer to another day, or indefinitely; to
   postpone; to close or suspend for the day; -- commonly said of the
   meeting, or the action, of convened body; as, to adjourn the meeting;
   to adjourn a debate.


word: Adjourn
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To suspend business for a time, as from one day to
   another, or for a longer period, or indefinitely; usually, to suspend
   public business, as of legislatures and courts, or other convened
   bodies; as, congress adjourned at four o'clock; the court adjourned
   without day.


word: Adjudge
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To award judicially in the case of a controverted
   question; as, the prize was adjudged to the victor.


word: Adjudge
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To determine in the exercise of judicial power; to
   decide or award judicially; to adjudicate; as, the case was adjudged in
   the November term.


word: Adjunct
wordtype: n.
definition:
A word or words added to quality or amplify the force of
   other words; as, the History of the American Revolution, where the
   words in italics are the adjunct or adjuncts of "History."


word: Adjunct
wordtype: n.
definition:
A quality or property of the body or the mind, whether
   natural or acquired; as, color, in the body, judgment in the mind.


word: Adjunct
wordtype: n.
definition:
A key or scale closely related to another as principal; a
   relative or attendant key. [R.] See Attendant keys, under Attendant, a.


word: Adjuration
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of adjuring; a solemn charging on oath, or
   under the penalty of a curse; an earnest appeal.


word: Adjure
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To charge, bind, or command, solemnly, as if under oath,
   or under the penalty of a curse; to appeal to in the most solemn or
   impressive manner; to entreat earnestly.


word: Adjust
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To make exact; to fit; to make correspondent or
   conformable; to bring into proper relations; as, to adjust a garment to
   the body, or things to a standard.


word: Adjust
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To settle or bring to a satisfactory state, so that
   parties are agreed in the result; as, to adjust accounts; the
   differences are adjusted.


word: Adjust
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To bring to a true relative position, as the parts of an
   instrument; to regulate for use; as, to adjust a telescope or
   microscope.


word: Adjustment
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of adjusting, or condition of being adjusted;
   act of bringing into proper relations; regulation.


word: Adjustment
wordtype: n.
definition:
Settlement of claims; an equitable arrangement of
   conflicting claims, as in set-off, contribution, exoneration,
   subrogation, and marshaling.


word: Adjustment
wordtype: n.
definition:
The operation of bringing all the parts of an
   instrument, as a microscope or telescope, into their proper relative
   position for use; the condition of being thus adjusted; as, to get a
   good adjustment; to be in or out of adjustment.


word: Adjutant
wordtype: n.
definition:
A regimental staff officer, who assists the colonel, or
   commanding officer of a garrison or regiment, in the details of
   regimental and garrison duty.


word: Adjutant
wordtype: n.
definition:
A species of very large stork (Ciconia argala), a native
   of India; -- called also the gigantic crane, and by the native name
   argala. It is noted for its serpent-destroying habits.


word: Adlegation
wordtype: n.
definition:
A right formerly claimed by the states of the German
   Empire of joining their own ministers with those of the emperor in
   public treaties and negotiations to the common interest of the empire.


word: Admeasure
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To determine the proper share of, or the proper
   apportionment; as, to admeasure dower; to admeasure common of pasture.


word: Admeasure
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
Formerly, the adjustment of proportion, or
   ascertainment of shares, as of dower or pasture held in common. This
   was by writ of admeasurement, directed to the sheriff.


word: Administer
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To manage or conduct, as public affairs; to direct
   or superintend the execution, application, or conduct of; as, to
   administer the government or the state.


word: Administer
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To dispense; to serve out; to supply; execute; as,
   to administer relief, to administer the sacrament.


word: Administer
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To apply, as medicine or a remedy; to give, as a
   dose or something beneficial or suitable. Extended to a blow, a
   reproof, etc.


word: Administer
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To perform the office of administrator; to act
   officially; as, A administers upon the estate of B.


word: Administration
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of administering; government of public
   affairs; the service rendered, or duties assumed, in conducting
   affairs; the conducting of any office or employment; direction;
   management.


word: Administration
wordtype: n.
definition:
The executive part of government; the persons
   collectively who are intrusted with the execution of laws and the
   superintendence of public affairs; the chief magistrate and his cabinet
   or council; or the council, or ministry, alone, as in Great Britain.


word: Administration
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of administering, or tendering something to
   another; dispensation; as, the administration of a medicine, of an
   oath, of justice, or of the sacrament.


word: Administration
wordtype: n.
definition:
The management and disposal, under legal authority,
   of the estate of an intestate, or of a testator having no competent
   executor.


word: Administration
wordtype: n.
definition:
The management of an estate of a deceased person by
   an executor, the strictly corresponding term execution not being in
   use.


word: Administrative
wordtype: a.
definition:
Pertaining to administration; administering;
   executive; as, an administrative body, ability, or energy.


word: Administrator
wordtype: n.
definition:
One who administers affairs; one who directs,
   manages, executes, or dispenses, whether in civil, judicial, political,
   or ecclesiastical affairs; a manager.


word: Administrator
wordtype: n.
definition:
A man who manages or settles the estate of an
   intestate, or of a testator when there is no competent executor; one to
   whom the right of administration has been committed by competent
   authority.


word: Administratrix
wordtype: n.
definition:
A woman who administers; esp., one who administers
   the estate of an intestate, or to whom letters of administration have
   been granted; a female administrator.


word: Admirable
wordtype: a.
definition:
Having qualities to excite wonder united with
   approbation; deserving the highest praise; most excellent; -- used of
   persons or things.


word: Admiral
wordtype: n.
definition:
A naval officer of the highest rank; a naval officer of
   high rank, of which there are different grades. The chief gradations in
   rank are admiral, vice admiral, and rear admiral. The admiral is the
   commander in chief of a fleet or of fleets.


word: Admiration
wordtype: n.
definition:
Wonder mingled with approbation or delight; an emotion
   excited by a person or thing possessed of wonderful or high excellence;
   as, admiration of a beautiful woman, of a landscape, of virtue.


word: Admire
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To regard with wonder and delight; to look upon with an
   elevated feeling of pleasure, as something which calls out approbation,
   esteem, love, or reverence; to estimate or prize highly; as, to admire
   a person of high moral worth, to admire a landscape.


word: Admissible
wordtype: a.
definition:
Entitled to be admitted, or worthy of being admitted;
   that may be allowed or conceded; allowable; as, the supposition is
   hardly admissible.


word: Admission
wordtype: n.
definition:
The granting of an argument or position not fully
   proved; the act of acknowledging something /serted; acknowledgment;
   concession.


word: Admission
wordtype: n.
definition:
Acquiescence or concurrence in a statement made by
   another, and distinguishable from a confession in that an admission
   presupposes prior inquiry by another, but a confession may be made
   without such inquiry.


word: Admission
wordtype: n.
definition:
Declaration of the bishop that he approves of the
   presentee as a fit person to serve the cure of the church to which he
   is presented.


word: Admit
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To suffer to enter; to grant entrance, whether into a
   place, or into the mind, or consideration; to receive; to take; as,
   they were into his house; to admit a serious thought into the mind; to
   admit evidence in the trial of a cause.


word: Admit
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To allow (one) to enter on an office or to enjoy a
   privilege; to recognize as qualified for a franchise; as, to admit an
   attorney to practice law; the prisoner was admitted to bail.


word: Admit
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To concede as true; to acknowledge or assent to, as an
   allegation which it is impossible to deny; to own or confess; as, the
   argument or fact is admitted; he admitted his guilt.


word: Admit
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To be capable of; to permit; as, the words do not admit
   such a construction. In this sense, of may be used after the verb, or
   may be omitted.


word: Admonish
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To counsel against wrong practices; to cation or
   advise; to warn against danger or an offense; -- followed by of,
   against, or a subordinate clause.


word: Admonition
wordtype: n.
definition:
Gentle or friendly reproof; counseling against a fault
   or error; expression of authoritative advice; friendly caution or
   warning.


word: Adnate
wordtype: a.
definition:
Growing with one side adherent to a stem; -- a term applied
   to the lateral zooids of corals and other compound animals.


word: Ado
wordtype: n.
definition:
Doing; trouble; difficulty; troublesome business; fuss;
   bustle; as, to make a great ado about trifles.


word: Adobe
wordtype: n.
definition:
An unburnt brick dried in the sun; also used as an
   adjective, as, an adobe house, in Texas or New Mexico.


word: Adolescence
wordtype: n.
definition:
The state of growing up from childhood to manhood or
   womanhood; youth, or the period of life between puberty and maturity,
   generally considered to be, in the male sex, from fourteen to
   twenty-one. Sometimes used with reference to the lower animals.


word: Adonis
wordtype: n.
definition:
A genus of plants of the family Ranunculaceae, containing
   the pheasant's eye (Adonis autumnalis); -- named from Adonis, whose
   blood was fabled to have stained the flower.


word: Adonist
wordtype: n.
definition:
One who maintains that points of the Hebrew word
   translated "Jehovah" are really the vowel points of the word "Adonai."
   See Jehovist.


word: Adopt
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To take by choice into relationship, as, child, heir,
   friend, citizen, etc.; esp. to take voluntarily (a child of other
   parents) to be in the place of, or as, one's own child.


word: Adopt
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To take or receive as one's own what is not so naturally;
   to select and take or approve; as, to adopt the view or policy of
   another; these resolutions were adopted.


word: Adopter
wordtype: n.
definition:
A receiver, with two necks, opposite to each other, one of
   which admits the neck of a retort, and the other is joined to another
   receiver. It is used in distillations, to give more space to elastic
   vapors, to increase the length of the neck of a retort, or to unite two
   vessels whose openings have different diameters.


word: Adoption
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of adopting, or state of being adopted; voluntary
   acceptance of a child of other parents to be the same as one's own
   child.


word: Adoption
wordtype: n.
definition:
Admission to a more intimate relation; reception; as, the
   adoption of persons into hospitals or monasteries, or of one society
   into another.


word: Adoption
wordtype: n.
definition:
The choosing and making that to be one's own which
   originally was not so; acceptance; as, the adoption of opinions.


word: Adoptive
wordtype: a.
definition:
Pertaining to adoption; made or acquired by adoption;
   fitted to adopt; as, an adoptive father, an child; an adoptive
   language.


word: Adoration
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of playing honor to a divine being; the worship
   paid to God; the act of addressing as a god.


word: Adoration
wordtype: n.
definition:
Homage paid to one in high esteem; profound veneration;
   intense regard and love; fervent devotion.


word: Adorn
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To deck or dress with ornaments; to embellish; to set off
   to advantage; to render pleasing or attractive.


word: Adriatic
wordtype: a.
definition:
Of or pertaining to a sea so named, the northwestern part
   of which is known as the Gulf of Venice.


word: Adroit
wordtype: a.
definition:
Dexterous in the use of the hands or in the exercise of the
   mental faculties; exhibiting skill and readiness in avoiding danger or
   escaping difficulty; ready in invention or execution; -- applied to
   persons and to acts; as, an adroit mechanic, an adroit reply.


word: Adularia
wordtype: n.
definition:
A transparent or translucent variety of common feldspar,
   or orthoclase, which often shows pearly opalescent reflections; --
   called by lapidaries moonstone.


word: Adulatory
wordtype: a.
definition:
Containing excessive praise or compliment; servilely
   praising; flattering; as, an adulatory address.


word: Adult
wordtype: a.
definition:
Having arrived at maturity, or to full size and strength;
   matured; as, an adult person or plant; an adult ape; an adult age.


word: Adulterate
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To corrupt, debase, or make impure by an admixture
   of a foreign or a baser substance; as, to adulterate food, drink,
   drugs, coin, etc.


word: Adultery
wordtype: n.
definition:
The unfaithfulness of a married person to the marriage
   bed; sexual intercourse by a married man with another than his wife, or
   voluntary sexual intercourse by a married woman with another than her
   husband.


word: Adust
wordtype: a.
definition:
Having much heat in the constitution and little serum in the
   blood. [Obs.] Hence: Atrabilious; sallow; gloomy.


word: Ad valorem
definition:
A term used to denote a duty or charge laid upon goods,
   at a certain rate per cent upon their value, as stated in their
   invoice, -- in opposition to a specific sum upon a given quantity or
   number; as, an ad valorem duty of twenty per cent.


word: Advance
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To accelerate the growth or progress; to further; to
   forward; to help on; to aid; to heighten; as, to advance the ripening
   of fruit; to advance one's interests.


word: Advance
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To furnish, as money or other value, before it becomes
   due, or in aid of an enterprise; to supply beforehand; as, a merchant
   advances money on a contract or on goods consigned to him.


word: Advance
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To increase or make progress in any respect; as, to
   advance in knowledge, in stature, in years, in price.


word: Advance
wordtype: v.
definition:
Improvement or progression, physically, mentally, morally,
   or socially; as, an advance in health, knowledge, or religion; an
   advance in rank or office.


word: Advance
wordtype: v.
definition:
The first step towards the attainment of a result;
   approach made to gain favor, to form an acquaintance, to adjust a
   difference, etc.; an overture; a tender; an offer; -- usually in the
   plural.


word: Advance
wordtype: v.
definition:
A furnishing of something before an equivalent is received
   (as money or goods), towards a capital or stock, or on loan; payment
   beforehand; the money or goods thus furnished; money or value supplied
   beforehand.


word: Advance
wordtype: a.
definition:
Before in place, or beforehand in time; -- used for
   advanced; as, an advance guard, or that before the main guard or body
   of an army; advance payment, or that made before it is due; advance
   proofs, advance sheets, pages of a forthcoming volume, received in
   advance of the time of publication.


word: Advanced
wordtype: a.
definition:
In the front or before others, as regards progress or
   ideas; as, advanced opinions, advanced thinkers.


word: Advancement
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
The act of advancing, or the state of being
   advanced; progression; improvement; furtherance; promotion to a higher
   place or dignity; as, the advancement of learning.


word: Advantage
wordtype: n.
definition:
Any condition, circumstance, opportunity, or means,
   particularly favorable to success, or to any desired end; benefit; as,
   the enemy had the advantage of a more elevated position.


word: Advantage
wordtype: n.
definition:
Superiority of state, or that which gives it; benefit;
   gain; profit; as, the advantage of a good constitution.


word: Advantageous
wordtype: a.
definition:
Being of advantage; conferring advantage; gainful;
   profitable; useful; beneficial; as, an advantageous position; trade is
   advantageous to a nation.


word: Adventist
wordtype: n.
definition:
One of a religious body, embracing several branches, who
   look for the proximate personal coming of Christ; -- called also Second
   Adventists.


word: Adventitious
wordtype: a.
definition:
Added extrinsically; not essentially inherent;
   accidental or causal; additional; supervenient; foreign.


word: Adventitious
wordtype: a.
definition:
Accidentally or sparingly spontaneous in a country or
   district; not fully naturalized; adventive; -- applied to foreign
   plants.


word: Adventure
wordtype: n.
definition:
The encountering of risks; hazardous and striking
   enterprise; a bold undertaking, in which hazards are to be encountered,
   and the issue is staked upon unforeseen events; a daring feat.


word: Adventure
wordtype: n.
definition:
A remarkable occurrence; a striking event; a stirring
   incident; as, the adventures of one's life.


word: Adventure
wordtype: n.
definition:
A mercantile or speculative enterprise of hazard; a
   venture; a shipment by a merchant on his own account.


word: Adventurer
wordtype: n.
definition:
One who adventures; as, the merchant adventurers; one
   who seeks his fortune in new and hazardous or perilous enterprises.


word: Adventurous
wordtype: n.
definition:
Inclined to adventure; willing to incur hazard; prone
   to embark in hazardous enterprise; rashly daring; -- applied to
   persons.


word: Adventurous
wordtype: n.
definition:
Full of hazard; attended with risk; exposing to
   danger; requiring courage; rash; -- applied to acts; as, an adventurous
   undertaking, deed, song.


word: Adverb
wordtype: n.
definition:
A word used to modify the sense of a verb, participle,
   adjective, or other adverb, and usually placed near it; as, he writes
   well; paper extremely white.


word: Adversaria
wordtype: n. pl.
definition:
A miscellaneous collection of notes, remarks, or
   selections; a commonplace book; also, commentaries or notes.


word: Adversary
wordtype: n.
definition:
One who is turned against another or others with a
   design to oppose or resist them; a member of an opposing or hostile
   party; an opponent; an antagonist; an enemy; a foe.


word: Adversative
wordtype: a.
definition:
Expressing contrariety, opposition, or antithesis; as,
   an adversative conjunction (but, however, yet, etc. ); an adversative
   force.


word: Adverse
wordtype: a.
definition:
Acting against, or in a contrary direction; opposed;
   contrary; opposite; conflicting; as, adverse winds; an adverse party; a
   spirit adverse to distinctions of caste.


word: Adverse
wordtype: a.
definition:
In hostile opposition to; unfavorable; unpropitious;
   contrary to one's wishes; unfortunate; calamitous; afflictive; hurtful;
   as, adverse fates, adverse circumstances, things adverse.


word: Advert
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To turn the mind or attention; to refer; to take heed or
   notice; -- with to; as, he adverted to what was said.


word: Advertise
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To give notice to; to inform or apprise; to notify;
   to make known; hence, to warn; -- often followed by of before the
   subject of information; as, to advertise a man of his loss.


word: Advertise
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To give public notice of; to announce publicly, esp.
   by a printed notice; as, to advertise goods for sale, a lost article,
   the sailing day of a vessel, a political meeting.


word: Advertisement
wordtype: n.
definition:
A public notice, especially a paid notice in some
   public print; anything that advertises; as, a newspaper containing many
   advertisements.


word: Advice
wordtype: n.
definition:
Information or notice given; intelligence; as, late advices
   from France; -- commonly in the plural.


word: Advise
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To give advice to; to offer an opinion, as worthy or
   expedient to be followed; to counsel; to warn.


word: Advise
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To give information or notice to; to inform; -- with of
   before the thing communicated; as, we were advised of the risk.


word: Advisory
wordtype: a.
definition:
Having power to advise; containing advice; as, an
   advisory council; their opinion is merely advisory.


word: Advocate
wordtype: n.
definition:
One who pleads the cause of another. Specifically: One
   who pleads the cause of another before a tribunal or judicial court; a
   counselor.


word: Advocate
wordtype: n.
definition:
One who defends, vindicates, or espouses any cause by
   argument; a pleader; as, an advocate of free trade, an advocate of
   truth.


word: Advocate
wordtype: n.
definition:
To plead in favor of; to defend by argument, before a
   tribunal or the public; to support, vindicate, or recommend publicly.


word: Advowson
wordtype: n.
definition:
The right of presenting to a vacant benefice or living in
   the church. [Originally, the relation of a patron (advocatus) or
   protector of a benefice, and thus privileged to nominate or present to
   it.]


word: Adytum
wordtype: n.
definition:
The innermost sanctuary or shrine in ancient temples,
   whence oracles were given. Hence: A private chamber; a sanctum.


word: Adze
wordtype: n.
definition:
A carpenter's or cooper's tool, formed with a thin arching
   blade set at right angles to the handle. It is used for chipping or
   slicing away the surface of wood.


word: Ae
definition:
A diphthong in the Latin language; used also by the Saxon
   writers. It answers to the Gr. ai. The Anglo-Saxon short ae was
   generally replaced by a, the long / by e or ee. In derivatives from
   Latin words with ae, it is mostly superseded by e. For most words found
   with this initial combination, the reader will therefore search under
   the letter E.


word: Aecidium
wordtype: n.
definition:
A form of fruit in the cycle of development of the Rusts
   or Brands, an order of fungi, formerly considered independent plants.


word: Aedile
wordtype: n.
definition:
A magistrate in ancient Rome, who had the superintendence
   of public buildings, highways, shows, etc.; hence, a municipal officer.


word: Aegis
wordtype: n.
definition:
A shield or protective armor; -- applied in mythology to the
   shield of Jupiter which he gave to Minerva. Also fig.: A shield; a
   protection.


word: Aeolian
wordtype: a.
definition:
Of or pertaining to Aeolia or Aeolis, in Asia Minor,
   colonized by the Greeks, or to its inhabitants; aeolic; as, the Aeolian
   dialect.


word: Aeolian
wordtype: a.
definition:
Pertaining to Aeolus, the mythic god of the winds;
   pertaining to, or produced by, the wind; aerial.


word: Aeolipyle
wordtype: n.
definition:
An apparatus consisting chiefly of a closed vessel (as a
   globe or cylinder) with one or more projecting bent tubes, through
   which steam is made to pass from the vessel, causing it to revolve.


word: Aerate
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To expose to the chemical action of air; to oxygenate
   (the blood) by respiration; to arterialize.


word: Aeration
wordtype: n.
definition:
A change produced in the blood by exposure to the air in
   respiration; oxygenation of the blood in respiration; arterialization.


word: Aerator
wordtype: n.
definition:
That which supplies with air; esp. an apparatus used for
   charging mineral waters with gas and in making soda water.


word: Aerial
wordtype: a.
definition:
Of or pertaining to the air, or atmosphere; inhabiting or
   frequenting the air; produced by or found in the air; performed in the
   air; as, aerial regions or currents.


word: Aerial
wordtype: a.
definition:
Growing, forming, or existing in the air, as opposed to
   growing or existing in earth or water, or underground; as, aerial
   rootlets, aerial plants.


word: Aerie
wordtype: n.
definition:
The nest of a bird of prey, as of an eagle or hawk; also a
   brood of such birds; eyrie. Shak. Also fig.: A human residence or
   resting place perched like an eagle's nest.


word: Aerification
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of becoming aerified, or of changing from a
   solid or liquid form into an aeriform state; the state of being
   aeriform.


word: Aerobies
wordtype: n. pl.
definition:
Microorganisms which live in contact with the air and
   need oxygen for their growth; as the microbacteria which form on the
   surface of putrefactive fluids.


word: Aerobiotic
wordtype: a.
definition:
Related to, or of the nature of, aerobies; as,
   aerobiotic plants, which live only when supplied with free oxygen.


word: Aerodynamics
wordtype: n.
definition:
The science which treats of the air and other gaseous
   bodies under the action of force, and of their mechanical effects.


word: Aerolite
wordtype: n.
definition:
A stone, or metallic mass, which has fallen to the earth
   from distant space; a meteorite; a meteoric stone.


word: Aeromancy
wordtype: n.
definition:
Divination from the state of the air or from atmospheric
   substances; also, forecasting changes in the weather.


word: Aerometry
wordtype: n.
definition:
The science of measuring the air, including the doctrine
   of its pressure, elasticity, rarefaction, and condensation; pneumatics.


word: Aeronautics
wordtype: n.
definition:
The science or art of ascending and sailing in the
   air, as by means of a balloon; aerial navigation; ballooning.


word: Aerophyte
wordtype: n.
definition:
A plant growing entirely in the air, and receiving its
   nourishment from it; an air plant or epiphyte.


word: Aeroplane
wordtype: n.
definition:
A flying machine, or a small plane for experiments on
   flying, which floats in the air only when propelled through it.


word: Aerostatics
wordtype: n.
definition:
The science that treats of the equilibrium of elastic
   fluids, or that of bodies sustained in them. Hence it includes
   aeronautics.


word: Esthesiometer
wordtype: n.
definition:
An instrument to measure the degree of sensation, by
   determining at how short a distance two impressions upon the skin can
   be distinguished, and thus to determine whether the condition of
   tactile sensibility is normal or altered.


word: Aesthetical
wordtype: a.
definition:
Of or Pertaining to aesthetics; versed in aesthetics;
   as, aesthetic studies, emotions, ideas, persons, etc.


word: Esthetics
wordtype: n.
definition:
The theory or philosophy of taste; the science of the
   beautiful in nature and art; esp. that which treats of the expression
   and embodiment of beauty by art.


word: Aestivation
wordtype: n.
definition:
The state of torpidity induced by the heat and dryness
   of summer, as in certain snails; -- opposed to hibernation.


word: Aethogen
wordtype: n.
definition:
A compound of nitrogen and boro/, which, when heated
   before the blowpipe, gives a brilliant phosphorescent; boric nitride.


word: Aethrioscope
wordtype: n.
definition:
An instrument consisting in part of a differential
   thermometer. It is used for measuring changes of temperature produced
   by different conditions of the sky, as when clear or clouded.


word: Aetiology
wordtype: n.
definition:
The science, doctrine, or demonstration of causes; esp.,
   the investigation of the causes of any disease; the science of the
   origin and development of things.


word: Afar
wordtype: adv.
definition:
At, to, or from a great distance; far away; -- often used
   with from preceding, or off following; as, he was seen from afar; I saw
   him afar off.


word: Affability
wordtype: n.
definition:
The quality of being affable; readiness to converse;
   courteousness in receiving others and in conversation; complaisant
   behavior.


word: Affable
wordtype: a.
definition:
Easy to be spoken to or addressed; receiving others kindly
   and conversing with them in a free and friendly manner; courteous;
   sociable.


word: Affair
wordtype: n.
definition:
That which is done or is to be done; matter; concern; as, a
   difficult affair to manage; business of any kind, commercial,
   professional, or public; -- often in the plural. "At the head of
   affairs." Junius.


word: Affair
wordtype: n.
definition:
Any proceeding or action which it is wished to refer to or
   characterize vaguely; as, an affair of honor, i. e., a duel; an affair
   of love, i. e., an intrigue.


word: Affected
wordtype: p. p. & a.
definition:
Made up of terms involving different powers of
   the unknown quantity; adfected; as, an affected equation.


word: Affecting
wordtype: a.
definition:
Moving the emotions; fitted to excite the emotions;
   pathetic; touching; as, an affecting address; an affecting sight.


word: Affection
wordtype: n.
definition:
An attribute; a quality or property; a condition; a
   bodily state; as, figure, weight, etc. , are affections of bodies.


word: Affection
wordtype: n.
definition:
Bent of mind; a feeling or natural impulse or natural
   impulse acting upon and swaying the mind; any emotion; as, the
   benevolent affections, esteem, gratitude, etc.; the malevolent
   affections, hatred, envy, etc.; inclination; disposition; propensity;
   tendency.


word: Affection
wordtype: n.
definition:
A settled good will; kind feeling; love; zealous or
   tender attachment; -- often in the pl. Formerly followed by to, but now
   more generally by for or towards; as, filial, social, or conjugal
   affections; to have an affection for or towards children.


word: Affectionate
wordtype: a.
definition:
Proceeding from affection; indicating love; tender;
   as, the affectionate care of a parent; affectionate countenance,
   message, language.


word: Afferent
wordtype: a.
definition:
Bearing or conducting inwards to a part or organ; --
   opposed to efferent; as, afferent vessels; afferent nerves, which
   convey sensations from the external organs to the brain.


word: Affiance
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To betroth; to pledge one's faith to for marriage, or
   solemnly promise (one's self or another) in marriage.


word: Affidavit
wordtype: n.
definition:
A sworn statement in writing; a declaration in writing,
   signed and made upon oath before an authorized magistrate.


word: Affiliate
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To adopt; to receive into a family as a son; hence,
   to bring or receive into close connection; to ally.


word: Affiliate
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To fix the paternity of; -- said of an illegitimate
   child; as, to affiliate the child to (or on or upon) one man rather
   than another.


word: Affiliate
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To attach (to) or unite (with); to receive into a
   society as a member, and initiate into its mysteries, plans, etc.; --
   followed by to or with.


word: Affiliation
wordtype: n.
definition:
The establishment or ascertaining of parentage; the
   assignment of a child, as a bastard, to its father; filiation.


word: Affinity
wordtype: n.
definition:
Relationship by marriage (as between a husband and his
   wife's blood relations, or between a wife and her husband's blood
   relations); -- in contradistinction to consanguinity, or relationship
   by blood; -- followed by with, to, or between.


word: Affinity
wordtype: n.
definition:
Kinship generally; close agreement; relation; conformity;
   resemblance; connection; as, the affinity of sounds, of colors, or of
   languages.


word: Affinity
wordtype: n.
definition:
That attraction which takes place, at an insensible
   distance, between the heterogeneous particles of bodies, and unites
   them to form chemical compounds; chemism; chemical or elective affinity
   or attraction.


word: Affinity
wordtype: n.
definition:
A relation between species or highe/ groups dependent on
   resemblance in the whole plan of structure, and indicating community of
   origin.


word: Affinity
wordtype: n.
definition:
A superior spiritual relationship or attraction held to
   exist sometimes between persons, esp. persons of the opposite sex;
   also, the man or woman who exerts such psychical or spiritual
   attraction.


word: Braid
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To weave, interlace, or entwine together, as three or
   more strands or threads; to form into a braid; to plait.


word: Braid
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To mingle, or to bring to a uniformly soft consistence,
   by beating, rubbing, or straining, as in some culinary operations.


word: Braid
wordtype: n.
definition:
A narrow fabric, as of wool, silk, or linen, used for
   binding, trimming, or ornamenting dresses, etc.


word: Brail
wordtype: n.
definition:
Ropes passing through pulleys, and used to haul in or up the
   leeches, bottoms, or corners of sails, preparatory to furling.


word: Brain
wordtype: n.
definition:
The whitish mass of soft matter (the center of the nervous
   system, and the seat of consciousness and volition) which is inclosed
   in the cartilaginous or bony cranium of vertebrate animals. It is
   simply the anterior termination of the spinal cord, and is developed
   from three embryonic vesicles, whose cavities are connected with the
   central canal of the cord; the cavities of the vesicles become the
   central cavities, or ventricles, and the walls thicken unequally and
   become the three segments, the fore-, mid-, and hind-brain.


word: Brain
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To dash out the brains of; to kill by beating out the
   brains. Hence, Fig.: To destroy; to put an end to; to defeat.


word: Braize
wordtype: n.
definition:
A European marine fish (Pagrus vulgaris) allied to the
   American scup; the becker. The name is sometimes applied to the related
   species.


word: Brake
wordtype: n.
definition:
A fern of the genus Pteris, esp. the P. aquilina, common in
   almost all countries. It has solitary stems dividing into three
   principal branches. Less properly: Any fern.


word: Brake
wordtype: n.
definition:
A thicket; a place overgrown with shrubs and brambles, with
   undergrowth and ferns, or with canes.


word: Brake
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
An instrument or machine to break or bruise the woody
   part of flax or hemp so that it may be separated from the fiber.


word: Brake
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
An extended handle by means of which a number of men can
   unite in working a pump, as in a fire engine.


word: Brake
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
A frame for confining a refractory horse while the smith
   is shoeing him; also, an inclosure to restrain cattle, horses, etc.


word: Brake
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
A piece of mechanism for retarding or stopping motion by
   friction, as of a carriage or railway car, by the pressure of rubbers
   against the wheels, or of clogs or ratchets against the track or
   roadway, or of a pivoted lever against a wheel or drum in a machine.


word: Brake
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
An apparatus for testing the power of a steam engine, or
   other motor, by weighing the amount of friction that the motor will
   overcome; a friction brake.


word: Bramah press
definition:
A hydrostatic press of immense power, invented by
   Joseph Bramah of London. See under Hydrostatic.


word: Bramble
wordtype: n.
definition:
Any plant of the genus Rubus, including the raspberry and
   blackberry. Hence: Any rough, prickly shrub.


word: Brambling
wordtype: n.
definition:
The European mountain finch (Fringilla montifringilla);
   -- called also bramble finch and bramble.


word: Bran
wordtype: n.
definition:
The broken coat of the seed of wheat, rye, or other cereal
   grain, separated from the flour or meal by sifting or bolting; the
   coarse, chaffy part of ground grain.


word: Branch
wordtype: n.
definition:
A shoot or secondary stem growing from the main stem, or
   from a principal limb or bough of a tree or other plant.


word: Branch
wordtype: n.
definition:
Any division extending like a branch; any arm or part
   connected with the main body of thing; ramification; as, the branch of
   an antler; the branch of a chandelier; a branch of a river; a branch of
   a railway.


word: Branch
wordtype: n.
definition:
Any member or part of a body or system; a distinct article;
   a section or subdivision; a department.


word: Branch
wordtype: n.
definition:
One of the portions of a curve that extends outwards to an
   indefinitely great distance; as, the branches of an hyperbola.


word: Branch
wordtype: n.
definition:
A line of family descent, in distinction from some other
   line or lines from the same stock; any descendant in such a line; as,
   the English branch of a family.


word: Branch
wordtype: a.
definition:
Diverging from, or tributary to, a main stock, line, way,
   theme, etc.; as, a branch vein; a branch road or line; a branch topic;
   a branch store.


word: Branchia
wordtype: n.
definition:
A gill; a respiratory organ for breathing the air
   contained in water, such as many aquatic and semiaquatic animals have.


word: Branchiopoda
wordtype: n. pl.
definition:
An order of Entomostraca; -- so named from the
   feet of branchiopods having been supposed to perform the function of
   gills. It includes the fresh-water genera Branchipus, Apus, and
   Limnadia, and the genus Artemia found in salt lakes. It is also called
   Phyllopoda. See Phyllopoda, Cladocera. It is sometimes used in a
   broader sense.


word: Branchiura
wordtype: n. pl.
definition:
A group of Entomostraca, with suctorial mouths,
   including species parasitic on fishes, as the carp lice (Argulus).


word: Brand
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
A burning piece of wood; or a stick or piece of wood
   partly burnt, whether burning or after the fire is extinct.


word: Brand
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
A mark made by burning with a hot iron, as upon a cask,
   to designate the quality, manufacturer, etc., of the contents, or upon
   an animal, to designate ownership; -- also, a mark for a similar
   purpose made in any other way, as with a stencil. Hence, figurately:
   Quality; kind; grade; as, a good brand of flour.


word: Brand
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
Any minute fungus which produces a burnt appearance in
   plants. The brands are of many species and several genera of the order
   Pucciniaei.


word: Brand
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To burn a distinctive mark into or upon with a hot iron,
   to indicate quality, ownership, etc., or to mark as infamous (as a
   convict).


word: Brand
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To put an actual distinctive mark upon in any other way,
   as with a stencil, to show quality of contents, name of manufacture,
   etc.


word: Brandied
wordtype: a.
definition:
Mingled with brandy; made stronger by the addition of
   brandy; flavored or treated with brandy; as, brandied peaches.


word: Brand spore
definition:
One of several spores growing in a series or chain, and
   produced by one of the fungi called brand.


word: Brandy
wordtype: n.
definition:
A strong alcoholic liquor distilled from wine. The name is
   also given to spirit distilled from other liquors, and in the United
   States to that distilled from cider and peaches. In northern Europe, it
   is also applied to a spirit obtained from grain.


word: Branks
wordtype: n.
definition:
A scolding bridle, an instrument formerly used for
   correcting scolding women. It was an iron frame surrounding the head
   and having a triangular piece entering the mouth of the scold.


word: Branlin
wordtype: n.
definition:
A young salmon or parr, in the stage in which it has
   transverse black bands, as if burned by a gridiron.


word: Branlin
wordtype: n.
definition:
A small red worm or larva, used as bait for small
   fresh-water fish; -- so called from its red color.


word: Brant
wordtype: n.
definition:
A species of wild goose (Branta bernicla) -- called also
   brent and brand goose. The name is also applied to other related
   species.


word: Brant-fox
wordtype: n.
definition:
A kind of fox found in Sweden (Vulpes alopex), smaller
   than the common fox (V. vulgaris), but probably a variety of it.


word: Brass
wordtype: n.
definition:
An alloy (usually yellow) of copper and zinc, in variable
   proportion, but often containing two parts of copper to one part of
   zinc. It sometimes contains tin, and rarely other metals.


word: Brass
wordtype: n.
definition:
A journal bearing, so called because frequently made of
   brass. A brass is often lined with a softer metal, when the latter is
   generally called a white metal lining. See Axle box, Journal Box, and
   Bearing.


word: Brass
wordtype: n.
definition:
A brass plate engraved with a figure or device.
   Specifically, one used as a memorial to the dead, and generally having
   the portrait, coat of arms, etc.


word: Brassart
wordtype: n.
definition:
Armor for the arm; -- generally used for the whole arm
   from the shoulder to the wrist, and consisting, in the 15th and 16th
   centuries, of many parts.


word: Brassica
wordtype: n.
definition:
A genus of plants embracing several species and varieties
   differing much in appearance and qualities: such as the common cabbage
   (B. oleracea), broccoli, cauliflowers, etc.; the wild turnip (B.
   campestris); the common turnip (B. rapa); the rape or coleseed (B.
   napus), etc.


word: Brat
wordtype: n.
definition:
A child; an offspring; -- formerly used in a good sense, but
   now usually in a contemptuous sense.


word: Braunite
wordtype: n.
definition:
A native oxide of manganese, of dark brownish black
   color. It was named from a Mr. Braun of Gotha.


word: Bravura
wordtype: n.
definition:
A florid, brilliant style of music, written for effect, to
   show the range and flexibility of a singer's voice, or the technical
   force and skill of a performer; virtuoso music.


word: Brawn
wordtype: n.
definition:
Full, strong muscles, esp. of the arm or leg, muscular
   strength; a protuberant muscular part of the body; sometimes, the arm.


word: Braze
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To solder with hard solder, esp. with an alloy of copper
   and zinc; as, to braze the seams of a copper pipe.


word: Brazilin
wordtype: n.
definition:
A substance contained in both Brazil wood and Sapan wood,
   from which it is extracted as a yellow crystalline substance which is
   white when pure. It is colored intensely red by alkalies.


word: Brazil wood
definition:
A very heavy wood of a reddish color, imported from
   Brazil and other tropical countries, for cabinet-work, and for dyeing.
   The best is the heartwood of Caesalpinia echinata, a leguminous tree;
   but other trees also yield it. An inferior sort comes from Jamaica, the
   timber of C. Braziliensis and C. crista. This is often distinguished as
   Braziletto , but the better kind is also frequently so named.


word: Breach
wordtype: n.
definition:
Specifically: A breaking or infraction of a law, or of any
   obligation or tie; violation; non-fulfillment; as, a breach of
   contract; a breach of promise.


word: Breach
wordtype: n.
definition:
A gap or opening made made by breaking or battering, as in
   a wall or fortification; the space between the parts of a solid body
   rent by violence; a break; a rupture.


word: Breadfruit
wordtype: n.
definition:
The fruit of a tree (Artocarpus incisa) found in the
   islands of the Pacific, esp. the South Sea islands. It is of a roundish
   form, from four to six or seven inches in diameter, and, when baked,
   somewhat resembles bread, and is eaten as food, whence the name.


word: Breadfruit
wordtype: n.
definition:
The tree itself, which is one of considerable size,
   with large, lobed leaves. Cloth is made from the bark, and the timber
   is used for many purposes. Called also breadfruit tree and bread tree.


word: Breadroot
wordtype: n.
definition:
The root of a leguminous plant (Psoralea esculenta),
   found near the Rocky Mountains. It is usually oval in form, and abounds
   in farinaceous matter, affording sweet and palatable food.


word: Breadth
wordtype: a.
definition:
Distance from side to side of any surface or thing;
   measure across, or at right angles to the length; width.


word: Breadthwinner
wordtype: n.
definition:
The member of a family whose labor supplies the food
   of the family; one who works for his living.


word: Break
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To strain apart; to sever by fracture; to divide with
   violence; as, to break a rope or chain; to break a seal; to break an
   axle; to break rocks or coal; to break a lock.


word: Break
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To interrupt; to destroy the continuity of; to dissolve
   or terminate; as, to break silence; to break one's sleep; to break
   one's journey.


word: Break
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To destroy the arrangement of; to throw into disorder; to
   pierce; as, the cavalry were not able to break the British squares.


word: Break
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To exchange for other money or currency of smaller
   denomination; as, to break a five dollar bill.


word: Break
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To impart, as news or information; to broach; -- with to,
   and often with a modified word implying some reserve; as, to break the
   news gently to the widow; to break a purpose cautiously to a friend.


word: Break
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To tame; to reduce to subjection; to make tractable; to
   discipline; as, to break a horse to the harness or saddle.


word: Break
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To come apart or divide into two or more pieces, usually
   with suddenness and violence; to part; to burst asunder.


word: Break
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To fail in musical quality; as, a singer's voice breaks
   when it is strained beyond its compass and a tone or note is not
   completed, but degenerates into an unmusical sound instead. Also, to
   change in tone, as a boy's voice at puberty.


word: Break
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
An interruption of continuity; change of direction; as, a
   break in a wall; a break in the deck of a ship.


word: Break
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
An interruption in continuity in writing or printing, as
   where there is an omission, an unfilled line, etc.


word: Break
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
The first appearing, as of light in the morning; the
   dawn; as, the break of day; the break of dawn.


word: Break
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
A large four-wheeled carriage, having a straight body and
   calash top, with the driver's seat in front and the footman's behind.


word: Breakdown
wordtype: n.
definition:
A noisy, rapid, shuffling dance engaged in competitively
   by a number of persons or pairs in succession, as among the colored
   people of the Southern United States, and so called, perhaps, because
   the exercise is continued until most of those who take part in it break
   down.


word: Breaker
wordtype: n.
definition:
Specifically: A machine for breaking rocks, or for
   breaking coal at the mines; also, the building in which such a machine
   is placed.


word: Breaker
wordtype: n.
definition:
A wave breaking into foam against the shore, or against a
   sand bank, or a rock or reef near the surface.


word: Break-up
wordtype: n.
definition:
Disruption; a separation and dispersion of the parts or
   members; as, a break-up of an assembly or dinner party; a break-up of
   the government.


word: Breakwater
wordtype: n.
definition:
Any structure or contrivance, as a mole, or a wall at
   the mouth of a harbor, to break the force of waves, and afford
   protection from their violence.


word: Bream
wordtype: n.
definition:
A European fresh-water cyprinoid fish of the genus Abramis,
   little valued as food. Several species are known.


word: Bream
wordtype: n.
definition:
An American fresh-water fish, of various species of Pomotis
   and allied genera, which are also called sunfishes and pondfishes. See
   Pondfish.


word: Bream
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To clean, as a ship's bottom of adherent shells, seaweed,
   etc., by the application of fire and scraping.


word: Breast
wordtype: n.
definition:
The fore part of the body, between the neck and the belly;
   the chest; as, the breast of a man or of a horse.


word: Breast
wordtype: n.
definition:
Either one of the protuberant glands, situated on the front
   of the chest or thorax in the female of man and of some other mammalia,
   in which milk is secreted for the nourishment of the young; a mamma; a
   teat.


word: Breast
wordtype: n.
definition:
Anything resembling the human breast, or bosom; the front
   or forward part of anything; as, a chimney breast; a plow breast; the
   breast of a hill.


word: Breast
wordtype: n.
definition:
The seat of consciousness; the repository of thought and
   self-consciousness, or of secrets; the seat of the affections and
   passions; the heart.


word: Breast
wordtype: n.
definition:
The power of singing; a musical voice; -- so called,
   probably, from the connection of the voice with the lungs, which lie
   within the breast.


word: Breastband
wordtype: n.
definition:
A band for the breast. Specifically: (Naut.) A band of
   canvas, or a rope, fastened at both ends to the rigging, to support the
   man who heaves the lead in sounding.


word: Breasted
wordtype: a.
definition:
Having a breast; -- used in composition with qualifying
   words, in either a literal or a metaphorical sense; as, a
   single-breasted coat.


word: Breasthook
wordtype: n.
definition:
A thick piece of timber in the form of a knee, placed
   across the stem of a ship to strengthen the fore part and unite the
   bows on each side.


word: Breasting
wordtype: n.
definition:
The curved channel in which a breast wheel turns. It is
   closely adapted to the curve of the wheel through about a quarter of
   its circumference, and prevents the escape of the water until it has
   spent its force upon the wheel. See Breast wheel.


word: Breastplate
wordtype: n.
definition:
A piece against which the workman presses his breast
   in operating a breast drill, or other similar tool.


word: Breastplate
wordtype: n.
definition:
A part of the vestment of the high priest, worn upon
   the front of the ephod. It was a double piece of richly embroidered
   stuff, a span square, set with twelve precious stones, on which were
   engraved the names of the twelve tribes of Israel. See Ephod.


word: Breastrail
wordtype: n.
definition:
The upper rail of any parapet of ordinary height, as of
   a balcony; the railing of a quarter-deck, etc.


word: Breastsummer
wordtype: n.
definition:
A summer or girder extending across a building flush
   with, and supporting, the upper part of a front or external wall; a
   long lintel; a girder; -- used principally above shop windows.


word: Breastwheel
wordtype: n.
definition:
A water wheel, on which the stream of water strikes
   neither so high as in the overshot wheel, nor so low as in the
   undershot, but generally at about half the height of the wheel, being
   kept in contact with it by the breasting. The water acts on the float
   boards partly by impulse, partly by its weight.


word: Breath
wordtype: n.
definition:
The air inhaled and exhaled in respiration; air which, in
   the process of respiration, has parted with oxygen and has received
   carbonic acid, aqueous vapor, warmth, etc.


word: Breath
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of breathing naturally or freely; the power or
   capacity to breathe freely; as, I am out of breath.


word: Breathing
wordtype: n.
definition:
Also, in a wider sense, the sound caused by the friction
   of the outgoing breath in the throat, mouth, etc., when the glottis is
   wide open; aspiration; the sound expressed by the letter h.


word: Breathless
wordtype: a.
definition:
Not breathing; holding the breath, on account of fear,
   expectation, or intense interest; attended with a holding of the
   breath; as, breathless attention.


word: Breccia
wordtype: n.
definition:
A rock composed of angular fragments either of the same
   mineral or of different minerals, etc., united by a cement, and
   commonly presenting a variety of colors.


word: Breechblock
wordtype: n.
definition:
The movable piece which closes the breech of a
   breech-loading firearm, and resists the backward force of the
   discharge. It is withdrawn for the insertion of a cartridge, and closed
   again before the gun is fired.


word: Breeching
wordtype: n.
definition:
That part of a harness which passes round the breech of
   a horse, enabling him to hold back a vehicle.


word: Breeching
wordtype: n.
definition:
A strong rope rove through the cascabel of a cannon and
   secured to ringbolts in the ship's side, to limit the recoil of the gun
   when it is discharged.


word: Breeching
wordtype: n.
definition:
The sheet iron casing at the end of boilers to convey
   the smoke from the flues to the smokestack.


word: Breech screw
definition:
A strong iron or steel plug screwed into the breech of
   a musket or other firearm, to close the bottom of the bore.


word: Breech sight
definition:
A device attached to the breech of a firearm, to guide
   the eye, in conjunction with the front sight, in taking aim.


word: Breed
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To engender; to cause; to occasion; to originate; to
   produce; as, to breed a storm; to breed disease.


word: Breed
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To give birth to; to be the native place of; as, a pond
   breeds fish; a northern country breeds stout men.


word: Breed
wordtype: n.
definition:
A race or variety of men or other animals (or of plants),
   perpetuating its special or distinctive characteristics by inheritance.


word: Breeding
wordtype: n.
definition:
The raising or improving of any kind of domestic animals;
   as, farmers should pay attention to breeding.


word: Breeding
wordtype: n.
definition:
Deportment or behavior in the external offices and
   decorums of social life; manners; knowledge of, or training in, the
   ceremonies, or polite observances of society.


word: Breeze fly
wordtype: n.
definition:
A fly of various species, of the family Tabanidae,
   noted for buzzing about animals, and tormenting them by sucking their
   blood; -- called also horsefly, and gadfly. They are among the largest
   of two-winged or dipterous insects. The name is also given to different
   species of botflies.


word: Breeze
wordtype: n.
definition:
An excited or ruffed state of feeling; a flurry of
   excitement; a disturbance; a quarrel; as, the discovery produced a
   breeze.


word: Brennage
wordtype: n.
definition:
A tribute which tenants paid to their lord, in lieu of
   bran, which they were obliged to furnish for his hounds.


word: Breton
wordtype: n.
definition:
A native or inhabitant of Brittany, or Bretagne, in France;
   also, the ancient language of Brittany; Armorican.


word: Bretwalda
wordtype: n.
definition:
The official title applied to that one of the
   Anglo-Saxon chieftains who was chosen by the other chiefs to lead them
   in their warfare against the British tribes.


word: Breve
wordtype: n.
definition:
A note or character of time, equivalent to two semibreves or
   four minims. When dotted, it is equal to three semibreves. It was
   formerly of a square figure (as thus: / ), but is now made oval, with a
   line perpendicular to the staff on each of its sides; -- formerly much
   used for choir service.


word: Brevet
wordtype: n.
definition:
A commission giving an officer higher rank than that for
   which he receives pay; an honorary promotion of an officer.


word: Breviary
wordtype: n.
definition:
A book containing the daily public or canonical prayers
   of the Roman Catholic or of the Greek Church for the seven canonical
   hours, namely, matins and lauds, the first, third, sixth, and ninth
   hours, vespers, and compline; -- distinguished from the missal.


word: Brevipennate
wordtype: a.
definition:
Short-winged; -- applied to birds which can not fly,
   owing to their short wings, as the ostrich, cassowary, and emu.


word: Brew
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To prepare, as beer or other liquor, from malt and hops,
   or from other materials, by steeping, boiling, and fermentation.


word: Brew
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To foment or prepare, as by brewing; to contrive; to plot;
   to concoct; to hatch; as, to brew mischief.


word: Brew
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To be in a state of preparation; to be mixing, forming, or
   gathering; as, a storm brews in the west.


word: Brewsterite
wordtype: n.
definition:
A rare zeolitic mineral occurring in white monoclinic
   crystals with pearly luster. It is a hydrous silicate of aluminia,
   baryta, and strontia.


word: Briarean
wordtype: a.
definition:
Pertaining to, or resembling, Briareus, a giant fabled to
   have a hundred hands; hence, hundred-handed or many-handed.


word: Bribe
wordtype: n.
definition:
A price, reward, gift, or favor bestowed or promised with a
   view to prevent the judgment or corrupt the conduct of a judge,
   witness, voter, or other person in a position of trust.


word: Bribe
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To give or promise a reward or consideration to (a judge,
   juror, legislator, voter, or other person in a position of trust) with
   a view to prevent the judgment or corrupt the conduct; to induce or
   influence by a bribe; to give a bribe to.


word: Bribe
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To give a bribe to a person; to pervert the judgment or
   corrupt the action of a person in a position of trust, by some gift or
   promise.


word: Bribery
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act or practice of giving or taking bribes; the act of
   influencing the official or political action of another by corrupt
   inducements.


word: Brick
wordtype: n.
definition:
A block or clay tempered with water, sand, etc., molded into
   a regular form, usually rectangular, and sun-dried, or burnt in a kiln,
   or in a heap or stack called a clamp.


word: Brick
wordtype: n.
definition:
Bricks, collectively, as designating that kind of material;
   as, a load of brick; a thousand of brick.


word: Brick
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To imitate or counterfeit a brick wall on, as by smearing
   plaster with red ocher, making the joints with an edge tool, and
   pointing them.


word: Brickkiln
wordtype: n.
definition:
A kiln, or furnace, in which bricks are baked or burnt;
   or a pile of green bricks, laid loose, with arches underneath to
   receive the wood or fuel for burning them.


word: Bricklaying
wordtype: n.
definition:
The art of building with bricks, or of uniting them by
   cement or mortar into various forms; the act or occupation of laying
   bricks.


word: Bricole
wordtype: n.
definition:
A kind of traces with hooks and rings, with which men drag
   and maneuver guns where horses can not be used.


word: Bridal
wordtype: n.
definition:
Of or pertaining to a bride, or to wedding; nuptial; as,
   bridal ornaments; a bridal outfit; a bridal chamber.


word: Bridecake
wordtype: n.
definition:
Rich or highly ornamented cake, to be distributed to the
   guests at a wedding, or sent to friends after the wedding.


word: Bridewell
wordtype: n.
definition:
A house of correction for the confinement of disorderly
   persons; -- so called from a hospital built in 1553 near St. Bride's
   (or Bridget's) well, in London, which was subsequently a penal
   workhouse.


word: Bridge
wordtype: n.
definition:
A structure, usually of wood, stone, brick, or iron,
   erected over a river or other water course, or over a chasm, railroad,
   etc., to make a passageway from one bank to the other.


word: Bridge
wordtype: n.
definition:
Anything supported at the ends, which serves to keep some
   other thing from resting upon the object spanned, as in engraving,
   watchmaking, etc., or which forms a platform or staging over which
   something passes or is conveyed.


word: Bridge
wordtype: n.
definition:
The small arch or bar at right angles to the strings of a
   violin, guitar, etc., serving of raise them and transmit their
   vibrations to the body of the instrument.


word: Bridge
wordtype: n.
definition:
A device to measure the resistance of a wire or other
   conductor forming part of an electric circuit.


word: Bridge
wordtype: n.
definition:
A low wall or vertical partition in the fire chamber of a
   furnace, for deflecting flame, etc.; -- usually called a bridge wall.


word: Bridgehead
wordtype: n.
definition:
A fortification commanding the extremity of a bridge
   nearest the enemy, to insure the preservation and usefulness of the
   bridge, and prevent the enemy from crossing; a tete-de-pont.


word: Bridle
wordtype: n.
definition:
The head gear with which a horse is governed and
   restrained, consisting of a headstall, a bit, and reins, with other
   appendages.


word: Bridle
wordtype: n.
definition:
A span of rope, line, or chain made fast as both ends, so
   that another rope, line, or chain may be attached to its middle.


word: Bridle
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To restrain, guide, or govern, with, or as with, a
   bridle; to check, curb, or control; as, to bridle the passions; to
   bridle a muse.


word: Bridle
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To hold up the head, and draw in the chin, as an
   expression of pride, scorn, or resentment; to assume a lofty manner; --
   usually with up.


word: Bridle iron
definition:
A strong flat bar of iron, so bent as to support, as in
   a stirrup, one end of a floor timber, etc., where no sufficient bearing
   can be had; -- called also stirrup and hanger.


word: Bridoon
wordtype: n.
definition:
The snaffle and rein of a military bridle, which acts
   independently of the bit, at the pleasure of the rider. It is used in
   connection with a curb bit, which has its own rein.


word: Brief
wordtype: a.
definition:
An abridgment or concise statement of a client's case, made
   out for the instruction of counsel in a trial at law. This word is
   applied also to a statement of the heads or points of a law argument.


word: Brief
wordtype: n.
definition:
A writ issuing from the chancery, directed to any judge
   ordinary, commanding and authorizing that judge to call a jury to
   inquire into the case, and upon their verdict to pronounce sentence.


word: Brief
wordtype: n.
definition:
A letter patent, from proper authority, authorizing a
   collection or charitable contribution of money in churches, for any
   public or private purpose.


word: Briar
wordtype: n.
definition:
A plant with a slender woody stem bearing stout prickles;
   especially, species of Rosa, Rubus, and Smilax.


word: Brigade
wordtype: n.
definition:
A body of troops, whether cavalry, artillery, infantry, or
   mixed, consisting of two or more regiments, under the command of a
   brigadier general.


word: Brigade
wordtype: n.
definition:
Any body of persons organized for acting or marching
   together under authority; as, a fire brigade.


word: Brigadier general
definition:
An officer in rank next above a colonel, and below
   a major general. He commands a brigade, and is sometimes called, by a
   shortening of his title, simple a brigadier.


word: Brigand
wordtype: n.
definition:
A lawless fellow who lives by plunder; one of a band of
   robbers; especially, one of a gang living in mountain retreats; a
   highwayman; a freebooter.


word: Brigandine
wordtype: n.
definition:
A coast of armor for the body, consisting of scales or
   plates, sometimes overlapping each other, generally of metal, and sewed
   to linen or other material. It was worn in the Middle Ages.


word: Brigantine
wordtype: n.
definition:
A two-masted, square-rigged vessel, differing from a
   brig in that she does not carry a square mainsail.


word: Bright
wordtype: a.
definition:
Having qualities that render conspicuous or attractive, or
   that affect the mind as light does the eye; resplendent with charms;
   as, bright beauty.


word: Brighten
wordtype: a.
definition:
To make bright or brighter; to make to shine; to increase
   the luster of; to give a brighter hue to.


word: Brighten
wordtype: a.
definition:
To improve or relieve by dispelling gloom or removing
   that which obscures and darkens; to shed light upon; to make cheerful;
   as, to brighten one's prospects.


word: Brighten
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To grow bright, or more bright; to become less dark or
   gloomy; to clear up; to become bright or cheerful.


word: Bright's disease
definition:
An affection of the kidneys, usually inflammatory
   in character, and distinguished by the occurrence of albumin and renal
   casts in the urine. Several varieties of Bright's disease are now
   recognized, differing in the part of the kidney involved, and in the
   intensity and course of the morbid process.


word: Brill
wordtype: n.
definition:
A fish allied to the turbot (Rhombus levis), much esteemed
   in England for food; -- called also bret, pearl, prill. See Bret.


word: Brillancy
wordtype: n.
definition:
The quality of being brilliant; splendor; glitter; great
   brightness, whether in a literal or figurative sense.


word: Brilliant
wordtype: a.
definition:
A diamond or other gem of the finest cut, formed into
   faces and facets, so as to reflect and refract the light, by which it
   is rendered more brilliant. It has at the middle, or top, a principal
   face, called the table, which is surrounded by a number of sloping
   facets forming a bizet; below, it has a small face or collet, parallel
   to the table, connected with the girdle by a pavilion of elongated
   facets. It is thus distinguished from the rose diamond, which is
   entirely covered with facets on the surface, and is flat below.


word: Brin
wordtype: n.
definition:
One of the radiating sticks of a fan. The outermost are
   larger and longer, and are called panaches.


word: Brine
wordtype: n.
definition:
Water saturated or strongly impregnated with salt; pickle;
   hence, any strong saline solution; also, the saline residue or strong
   mother liquor resulting from the evaporation of natural or artificial
   waters.


word: Bring
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To convey to the place where the speaker is or is to be;
   to bear from a more distant to a nearer place; to fetch.


word: Brink
wordtype: n.
definition:
The edge, margin, or border of a steep place, as of a
   precipice; a bank or edge, as of a river or pit; a verge; a border; as,
   the brink of a chasm. Also Fig.


word: Briny
wordtype: a.
definition:
Of or pertaining to brine, or to the sea; partaking of the
   nature of brine; salt; as, a briny taste; the briny flood.


word: Brisk
wordtype: a.
definition:
Full of liveliness and activity; characterized by quickness
   of motion or action; lively; spirited; quick.


word: Brisk
wordtype: v. t. & i.
definition:
To make or become lively; to enliven; to animate; to
   take, or cause to take, an erect or bold attitude; -- usually with up.


word: Brisket
wordtype: n.
definition:
That part of the breast of an animal which extends from
   the fore legs back beneath the ribs; also applied to the fore part of a
   horse, from the shoulders to the bottom of the chest.


word: Bristle
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To erect the bristles of; to cause to stand up, as the
   bristles of an angry hog; -- sometimes with up.


word: Britannia
wordtype: n.
definition:
A white-metal alloy of tin, antimony, bismuth, copper,
   etc. It somewhat resembles silver, and is used for table ware. Called
   also Britannia metal.


word: Briticism
wordtype: n.
definition:
A word, phrase, or idiom peculiar to Great Britain; any
   manner of using a word or words that is peculiar to Great Britain.


word: British
wordtype: a.
definition:
Of or pertaining to Great Britain or to its inhabitants;
   -- sometimes restricted to the original inhabitants.


word: Britisher
wordtype: n.
definition:
An Englishman; a subject or inhabitant of Great Britain,
   esp. one in the British military or naval service.


word: Britzska
wordtype: n.
definition:
A long carriage, with a calash top, so constructed as to
   give space for reclining at night, when used on a journey.


word: Broach
wordtype: n.
definition:
A tool of steel, generally tapering, and of a polygonal
   form, with from four to eight cutting edges, for smoothing or enlarging
   holes in metal; sometimes made smooth or without edges, as for
   burnishing pivot holes in watches; a reamer. The broach for gun barrels
   is commonly square and without taper.


word: Broach
wordtype: n.
definition:
A straight tool with file teeth, made of steel, to be
   pressed through irregular holes in metal that cannot be dressed by
   revolving tools; a drift.


word: Broach
wordtype: n.
definition:
To make public; to utter; to publish first; to put forth;
   to introduce as a topic of conversation.


word: Broad
wordtype: superl.
definition:
Wide; extend in breadth, or from side to side; --
   opposed to narrow; as, a broad street, a broad table; an inch broad.


word: Broad
wordtype: superl.
definition:
Fig.: Having a large measure of any thing or quality;
   not limited; not restrained; -- applied to any subject, and retaining
   the literal idea more or less clearly, the precise meaning depending
   largely on the substantive.


word: Broadbill
wordtype: n.
definition:
A wild duck (Aythya, / Fuligula, marila), which appears
   in large numbers on the eastern coast of the United States, in autumn;
   -- called also bluebill, blackhead, raft duck, and scaup duck. See
   Scaup duck.


word: Broadcast
wordtype: adv.
definition:
So as to scatter or be scattered in all directions; so
   as to spread widely, as seed from the hand in sowing, or news from the
   press.


word: Broad Church
definition:
A portion of the Church of England, consisting of
   persons who claim to hold a position, in respect to doctrine and
   fellowship, intermediate between the High Church party and the Low
   Church, or evangelical, party. The term has been applied to other
   bodies of men holding liberal or comprehensive views of Christian
   doctrine and fellowship.


word: Broadcloth
wordtype: n.
definition:
A fine smooth-faced woolen cloth for men's garments,
   usually of double width (i.e., a yard and a half); -- so called in
   distinction from woolens three quarters of a yard wide.


word: Broad gauge
definition:
A wider distance between the rails than the "standard"
   gauge of four feet eight inches and a half. See Gauge.


word: Broadleaf
wordtype: n.
definition:
A tree (Terminalia latifolia) of Jamaica, the wood of
   which is used for boards, scantling, shingles, etc; -- sometimes called
   the almond tree, from the shape of its fruit.


word: Broadside
wordtype: n.
definition:
A sheet of paper containing one large page, or printed
   on one side only; -- called also broadsheet.


word: Brob
wordtype: n.
definition:
A peculiar brad-shaped spike, to be driven alongside the end
   of an abutting timber to prevent its slipping.


word: Brocade
wordtype: n.
definition:
Silk stuff, woven with gold and silver threads, or
   ornamented with raised flowers, foliage, etc.; -- also applied to other
   stuffs thus wrought and enriched.


word: Brocatel
wordtype: n.
definition:
A kind of coarse brocade, or figured fabric, used chiefly
   for tapestry, linings for carriages, etc.


word: Brocatel
wordtype: n.
definition:
A marble, clouded and veined with white, gray, yellow,
   and red, in which the yellow usually prevails. It is also called Siena
   marble, from its locality.


word: Broccoli
wordtype: n.
definition:
A plant of the Cabbage species (Brassica oleracea) of
   many varieties, resembling the cauliflower. The "curd," or flowering
   head, is the part used for food.


word: Brocket
wordtype: n.
definition:
A small South American deer, of several species (Coassus
   superciliaris, C. rufus, and C. auritus).


word: Daric
wordtype: n.
definition:
A silver coin of about 86 grains, having the figure of an
   archer, and hence, in modern times, called a daric.


word: Dark
wordtype: a.
definition:
Destitute, or partially destitute, of light; not receiving,
   reflecting, or radiating light; wholly or partially black, or of some
   deep shade of color; not light-colored; as, a dark room; a dark day;
   dark cloth; dark paint; a dark complexion.


word: Dark
wordtype: a.
definition:
Evincing black or foul traits of character; vile; wicked;
   atrocious; as, a dark villain; a dark deed.


word: Dark
wordtype: n.
definition:
A dark shade or dark passage in a painting, engraving, or the
   like; as, the light and darks are well contrasted.


word: Darkness
wordtype: n.
definition:
A state of ignorance or error, especially on moral or
   religious subjects; hence, wickedness; impurity.


word: Darlingtonia
wordtype: n.
definition:
A genus of California pitcher plants consisting of a
   single species. The long tubular leaves are hooded at the top, and
   frequently contain many insects drowned in the secretion of the leaves.


word: Darn
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To mend as a rent or hole, with interlacing stitches of
   yarn or thread by means of a needle; to sew together with yarn or
   thread.


word: Darnel
wordtype: n.
definition:
Any grass of the genus Lolium, esp. the Lolium temulentum
   (bearded darnel), the grains of which have been reputed poisonous.
   Other species, as Lolium perenne (rye grass or ray grass), and its
   variety L. Italicum (Italian rye grass), are highly esteemed for
   pasture and for making hay.


word: Dart
wordtype: n.
definition:
A pointed missile weapon, intended to be thrown by the hand;
   a short lance; a javelin; hence, any sharp-pointed missile weapon, as
   an arrow.


word: Dart
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To throw suddenly or rapidly; to send forth; to emit; to
   shoot; as, the sun darts forth his beams.


word: Darter
wordtype: n.
definition:
The snakebird, a water bird of the genus Plotus; -- so
   called because it darts out its long, snakelike neck at its prey. See
   Snakebird.


word: Darter
wordtype: n.
definition:
A small fresh-water etheostomoid fish. The group includes
   numerous genera and species, all of them American. See Etheostomoid.


word: Darwinian
wordtype: a.
definition:
Pertaining to Darwin; as, the Darwinian theory, a theory
   of the manner and cause of the supposed development of living things
   from certain original forms or elements.


word: Dash
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To throw with violence or haste; to cause to strike
   violently or hastily; -- often used with against.


word: Dash
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To throw in or on in a rapid, careless manner; to mix,
   reduce, or adulterate, by throwing in something of an inferior quality;
   to overspread partially; to bespatter; to touch here and there; as, to
   dash wine with water; to dash paint upon a picture.


word: Dash
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To form or sketch rapidly or carelessly; to execute
   rapidly, or with careless haste; -- with off; as, to dash off a review
   or sermon.


word: Dash
wordtype: n.
definition:
A slight admixture, infusion, or adulteration; a partial
   overspreading; as, wine with a dash of water; red with a dash of
   purple.


word: Dash
wordtype: n.
definition:
A rapid movement, esp. one of short duration; a quick stroke
   or blow; a sudden onset or rush; as, a bold dash at the enemy; a dash
   of rain.


word: Dash
wordtype: n.
definition:
A mark or line [--], in writing or printing, denoting a
   sudden break, stop, or transition in a sentence, or an abrupt change in
   its construction, a long or significant pause, or an unexpected or
   epigrammatic turn of sentiment. Dashes are also sometimes used instead
   of marks or parenthesis.


word: Dash
wordtype: n.
definition:
The sign of staccato, a small mark [/] denoting that the note
   over which it is placed is to be performed in a short, distinct manner.


word: Dash
wordtype: n.
definition:
The line drawn through a figure in the thorough bass, as a
   direction to raise the interval a semitone.


word: Dash
wordtype: n.
definition:
A short, spirited effort or trial of speed upon a race
   course; -- used in horse racing, when a single trial constitutes the
   race.


word: Dashboard
wordtype: n.
definition:
A board placed on the fore part of a carriage, sleigh,
   or other vehicle, to intercept water, mud, or snow, thrown up by the
   heels of the horses; -- in England commonly called splashboard.


word: Dashpot
wordtype: n.
definition:
A pneumatic or hydraulic cushion for a falling weight, as
   in the valve gear of a steam engine, to prevent shock.


word: Dasymeter
wordtype: n.
definition:
An instrument for testing the density of gases,
   consisting of a thin glass globe, which is weighed in the gas or gases,
   and then in an atmosphere of known density.


word: Dasyure
wordtype: n.
definition:
A carnivorous marsupial quadruped of Australia, belonging
   to the genus Dasyurus. There are several species.


word: Dataria
wordtype: n.
definition:
Formerly, a part of the Roman chancery; now, a separate
   office from which are sent graces or favors, cognizable in foro
   externo, such as appointments to benefices. The name is derived from
   the word datum, given or dated (with the indications of the time and
   place of granting the gift or favor).


word: Date
wordtype: n.
definition:
That addition to a writing, inscription, coin, etc., which
   specifies the time (as day, month, and year) when the writing or
   inscription was given, or executed, or made; as, the date of a letter,
   of a will, of a deed, of a coin. etc.


word: Date
wordtype: n.
definition:
The point of time at which a transaction or event takes
   place, or is appointed to take place; a given point of time; epoch; as,
   the date of a battle.


word: Date
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To note the time of writing or executing; to express in an
   instrument the time of its execution; as, to date a letter, a bond, a
   deed, or a charter.


word: Date
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To note or fix the time of, as of an event; to give the
   date of; as, to date the building of the pyramids.


word: Dative
wordtype: a.
definition:
Noting the case of a noun which expresses the remoter
   object, and is generally indicated in English by to or for with the
   objective.


word: Datum
wordtype: n.
definition:
Something given or admitted; a fact or principle granted;
   that upon which an inference or an argument is based; -- used chiefly
   in the plural.


word: Datura
wordtype: n.
definition:
A genus of solanaceous plants, with large funnel-shaped
   flowers and a four-celled, capsular fruit.


word: Daub
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To smear with soft, adhesive matter, as pitch, slime, mud,
   etc.; to plaster; to bedaub; to besmear.


word: Daughter
wordtype: n.
definition:
The female offspring of the human species; a female child
   of any age; -- applied also to the lower animals.


word: Daunt
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To repress or subdue the courage of; to check by fear of
   danger; to cow; to intimidate; to dishearten.


word: Dauphin
wordtype: n.
definition:
The title of the eldest son of the king of France, and
   heir to the crown. Since the revolution of 1830, the title has been
   discontinued.


word: Dauw
wordtype: n.
definition:
The striped quagga, or Burchell's zebra, of South Africa
   (Asinus Burchellii); -- called also peechi, or peetsi.


word: Davenport
wordtype: n.
definition:
A kind of small writing table, generally somewhat
   ornamental, and forming a piece of furniture for the parlor or boudoir.


word: Davit
wordtype: n.
definition:
A spar formerly used on board of ships, as a crane to hoist
   the flukes of the anchor to the top of the bow, without injuring the
   sides of the ship; -- called also the fish davit.


word: Davit
wordtype: n.
definition:
Curved arms of timber or iron, projecting over a ship's side
   of stern, having tackle to raise or lower a boat, swing it in on deck,
   rig it out for lowering, etc.; -- called also boat davits.


word: Davyum
wordtype: n.
definition:
A rare metallic element found in platinum ore. It is a
   white malleable substance. Symbol Da. Atomic weight 154.


word: Daw
wordtype: n.
definition:
A European bird of the Crow family (Corvus monedula), often
   nesting in church towers and ruins; a jackdaw.


word: Dawn
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To begin to grow light in the morning; to grow light; to
   break, or begin to appear; as, the day dawns; the morning dawns.


word: Day
wordtype: n.
definition:
The time of light, or interval between one night and the next;
   the time between sunrise and sunset, or from dawn to darkness; hence,
   the light; sunshine.


word: Day
wordtype: n.
definition:
The period of the earth's revolution on its axis. --
   ordinarily divided into twenty-four hours. It is measured by the
   interval between two successive transits of a celestial body over the
   same meridian, and takes a specific name from that of the body. Thus,
   if this is the sun, the day (the interval between two successive
   transits of the sun's center over the same meridian) is called a solar
   day; if it is a star, a sidereal day; if it is the moon, a lunar day.
   See Civil day, Sidereal day, below.


word: Day
wordtype: n.
definition:
A specified time or period; time, considered with reference to
   the existence or prominence of a person or thing; age; time.


word: Daybook
wordtype: n.
definition:
A journal of accounts; a primary record book in which are
   recorded the debts and credits, or accounts of the day, in their order,
   and from which they are transferred to the journal.


word: Dayfly
wordtype: n.
definition:
A neuropterous insect of the genus Ephemera and related
   genera, of many species, and inhabiting fresh water in the larval
   state; the ephemeral fly; -- so called because it commonly lives but
   one day in the winged or adult state. See Ephemeral fly, under
   Ephemeral.


word: Day-laborer
wordtype: n.
definition:
One who works by the day; -- usually applied to a farm
   laborer, or to a workman who does not work at any particular trade.


word: Daylight
wordtype: n.
definition:
The light of day as opposed to the darkness of night; the
   light of the sun, as opposed to that of the moon or to artificial
   light.


word: Day lily
definition:
A genus of plants (Hemerocallis) closely resembling true
   lilies, but having tuberous rootstocks instead of bulbs. The common
   species have long narrow leaves and either yellow or tawny-orange
   flowers.


word: Day lily
definition:
A genus of plants (Funkia) differing from the last in
   having ovate veiny leaves, and large white or blue flowers.


word: Daymare
wordtype: n.
definition:
A kind of incubus which occurs during wakefulness,
   attended by the peculiar pressure on the chest which characterizes
   nightmare.


word: De-
definition:
A prefix from Latin de down, from, away; as in debark, decline,
   decease, deduct, decamp. In words from the French it is equivalent to
   Latin dis-apart, away; or sometimes to de. Cf. Dis-. It is negative and
   opposite in derange, deform, destroy, etc. It is intensive in deprave,
   despoil, declare, desolate, etc.


word: Deacon
wordtype: n.
definition:
An officer in Christian churches appointed to perform
   certain subordinate duties varying in different communions. In the
   Roman Catholic and Episcopal churches, a person admitted to the lowest
   order in the ministry, subordinate to the bishops and priests. In
   Presbyterian churches, he is subordinate to the minister and elders,
   and has charge of certain duties connected with the communion service
   and the care of the poor. In Congregational churches, he is subordinate
   to the pastor, and has duties as in the Presbyterian church.


word: Dead
wordtype: a.
definition:
Deprived of life; -- opposed to alive and living; reduced to
   that state of a being in which the organs of motion and life have
   irrevocably ceased to perform their functions; as, a dead tree; a dead
   man.


word: Dead
wordtype: a.
definition:
Cut off from the rights of a citizen; deprived of the power
   of enjoying the rights of property; as, one banished or becoming a monk
   is civilly dead.


word: Dead
wordtype: n.
definition:
The most quiet or deathlike time; the period of profoundest
   repose, inertness, or gloom; as, the dead of winter.


word: Deadbeat
wordtype: a.
definition:
Making a beat without recoil; giving indications by a
   single beat or excursion; -- said of galvanometers and other
   instruments in which the needle or index moves to the extent of its
   deflection and stops with little or no further oscillation.


word: Deaden
wordtype: a.
definition:
To make as dead; to impair in vigor, force, activity, or
   sensation; to lessen the force or acuteness of; to blunt; as, to deaden
   the natural powers or feelings; to deaden a sound.


word: Dead-eye
wordtype: n.
definition:
A round, flattish, wooden block, encircled by a rope, or
   an iron band, and pierced with three holes to receive the lanyard; --
   used to extend the shrouds and stays, and for other purposes. Called
   also deadman's eye.


word: Deadlatch
wordtype: n.
definition:
A kind of latch whose bolt may be so locked by a detent
   that it can not be opened from the inside by the handle, or from the
   outside by the latch key.


word: Deadly
wordtype: a.
definition:
Capable of causing death; mortal; fatal; destructive;
   certain or likely to cause death; as, a deadly blow or wound.


word: Claret
wordtype: n.
definition:
The name first given in England to the red wines of Medoc,
   in France, and afterwards extended to all the red Bordeaux wines. The
   name is also given to similar wines made in the United States.


word: Clarichord
wordtype: n.
definition:
A musical instrument, formerly in use, in form of a
   spinet; -- called also manichord and clavichord.


word: Clarification
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act or process of making clear or transparent,
   by freeing visible impurities; as, the clarification of wine.


word: Clarify
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To make clear or bright by freeing from feculent
   matter; to defecate; to fine; -- said of liquids, as wine or sirup.


word: Clarify
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To grow or become clear or transparent; to become free
   from feculent impurities, as wine or other liquid under clarification.


word: Clarinet
wordtype: n.
definition:
A wind instrument, blown by a single reed, of richer and
   fuller tone than the oboe, which has a double reed. It is the leading
   instrument in a military band.


word: Clasp
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To shut or fasten together with, or as with, a clasp; to
   shut or fasten (a clasp, or that which fastens with a clasp).


word: Clasp
wordtype: n.
definition:
An adjustable catch, bent plate, or hook, for holding
   together two objects or the parts of anything, as the ends of a belt,
   the covers of a book, etc.


word: Clasper
wordtype: n.
definition:
One of a pair of male copulatory organs, developed on the
   anterior side of the ventral fins of sharks and other elasmobranchs.
   See Illust. of Chimaera.


word: Class
wordtype: n.
definition:
A group of individuals ranked together as possessing common
   characteristics; as, the different classes of society; the educated
   class; the lower classes.


word: Class
wordtype: n.
definition:
A comprehensive division of animate or inanimate objects,
   grouped together on account of their common characteristics, in any
   classification in natural science, and subdivided into orders,
   families, tribes, genera, etc.


word: Class
wordtype: n.
definition:
One of the sections into which a church or congregation is
   divided, and which is under the supervision of a class leader.


word: Classical
wordtype: n.
definition:
Of or pertaining to the ancient Greeks and Romans, esp.
   to Greek or Roman authors of the highest rank, or of the period when
   their best literature was produced; of or pertaining to places
   inhabited by the ancient Greeks and Romans, or rendered famous by their
   deeds.


word: Classical
wordtype: n.
definition:
Conforming to the best authority in literature and art;
   chaste; pure; refined; as, a classical style.


word: Classic
wordtype: n.
definition:
A work of acknowledged excellence and authority, or its
   author; -- originally used of Greek and Latin works or authors, but now
   applied to authors and works of a like character in any language.


word: Classification
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of forming into a class or classes; a
   distibution into groups, as classes, orders, families, etc., according
   to some common relations or affinities.


word: Classify
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To distribute into classes; to arrange according to a
   system; to arrange in sets according to some method founded on common
   properties or characters.


word: Classis
wordtype: n.
definition:
An ecclesiastical body or judicatory in certain churches,
   as the Reformed Dutch. It is intermediate between the consistory and
   the synod, and corresponds to the presbytery in the Presbyterian
   church.


word: Classman
wordtype: n.
definition:
A candidate for graduation in arts who is placed in an
   honor class, as opposed to a passman, who is not classified.


word: Clatter
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To make a rattling sound by striking hard bodies
   together; to make a succession of abrupt, rattling sounds.


word: Clatter
wordtype: n.
definition:
A rattling noise, esp. that made by the collision of hard
   bodies; also, any loud, abrupt sound; a repetition of abrupt sounds.


word: Claude Lorraine glass
definition:
A slightly convex mirror, commonly of black
   glass, used as a toy for viewing the reflected landscape.


word: Clause
wordtype: n.
definition:
A separate portion of a written paper, paragraph, or
   sentence; an article, stipulation, or proviso, in a legal document.


word: Clavated
wordtype: a.
definition:
Club-shaped; having the form of a club; growing gradually
   thicker toward the top. [See Illust. of Antennae.]


word: Clavellated
wordtype: a.
definition:
Said of potash, probably in reference to its having
   been obtained from billets of wood by burning.


word: Clavicle
wordtype: n.
definition:
The collar bone, which is joined at one end to the
   scapula, or shoulder blade, and at the other to the sternum, or
   breastbone. In man each clavicle is shaped like the letter /, and is
   situated just above the first rib on either side of the neck. In birds
   the two clavicles are united ventrally, forming the merrythought, or
   wishbone.


word: Claw
wordtype: n.
definition:
Anything resembling the claw of an animal, as the curved and
   forked end of a hammer for drawing nails.


word: Clay
wordtype: n.
definition:
A soft earth, which is plastic, or may be molded with the
   hands, consisting of hydrous silicate of aluminium. It is the result of
   the wearing down and decomposition, in part, of rocks containing
   aluminous minerals, as granite. Lime, magnesia, oxide of iron, and
   other ingredients, are often present as impurities.


word: Clay
wordtype: n.
definition:
Earth in general, as representing the elementary particles of
   the human body; hence, the human body as formed from such particles.


word: Cleading
wordtype: n.
definition:
A jacket or outer covering of wood, etc., to prevent
   radiation of heat, as from the boiler, cylinder. etc., of a steam
   engine.


word: Clean
wordtype: superl.
definition:
Free from awkwardness; not bungling; adroit; dexterous;
   as, aclean trick; a clean leap over a fence.


word: Clear
wordtype: superl.
definition:
Free from ambiguity or indistinctness; lucid;
   perspicuous; plain; evident; manifest; indubitable.


word: Clear
wordtype: superl.
definition:
Able to perceive clearly; keen; acute; penetrating;
   discriminating; as, a clear intellect; a clear head.


word: Clear
wordtype: n.
definition:
Full extent; distance between extreme limits; especially;
   the distance between the nearest surfaces of two bodies, or the space
   between walls; as, a room ten feet square in the clear.


word: Clear
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To free from impediment or incumbrance, from defilement,
   or from anything injurious, useless, or offensive; as, to clear land of
   trees or brushwood, or from stones; to clear the sight or the voice; to
   clear one's self from debt; -- often used with of, off, away, or out.


word: Clear
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To free from the imputation of guilt; to justify,
   vindicate, or acquit; -- often used with from before the thing imputed.


word: Clearance
wordtype: n.
definition:
The distance by which one object clears another, as the
   distance between the piston and cylinder head at the end of a stroke in
   a steam engine, or the least distance between the point of a cogwheel
   tooth and the bottom of a space between teeth of a wheel with which it
   engages.


word: Clearing
wordtype: n.
definition:
A method adopted by banks and bankers for making an
   exchange of checks held by each against the others, and settling
   differences of accounts.


word: Clearstarch
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To stiffen with starch, and then make clear by
   clapping with the hands; as, to clearstarch muslin.


word: Clearwing
wordtype: n.
definition:
A lepidopterous insect with partially transparent wings,
   of the family Aegeriadae, of which the currant and peach-tree borers
   are examples.


word: Cleat
wordtype: n.
definition:
A strip of wood or iron fastened on transversely to
   something in order to give strength, prevent warping, hold position,
   etc.


word: Cleat
wordtype: n.
definition:
A device made of wood or metal, having two arms, around
   which turns may be taken with a line or rope so as to hold securely and
   yet be readily released. It is bolted by the middle to a deck or mast,
   etc., or it may be lashed to a rope.


word: Cleavage
wordtype: n.
definition:
The quality possessed by many crystallized substances of
   splitting readily in one or more definite directions, in which the
   cohesive attraction is a minimum, affording more or less smooth
   surfaces; the direction of the dividing plane; a fragment obtained by
   cleaving, as of a diamond. See Parting.


word: Cleavage
wordtype: n.
definition:
Division into laminae, like slate, with the lamination
   not necessarily parallel to the plane of deposition; -- usually
   produced by pressure.


word: Cleaver
wordtype: n.
definition:
One who cleaves, or that which cleaves; especially, a
   butcher's instrument for cutting animal bodies into joints or pieces.


word: Cleavers
wordtype: n.
definition:
A species of Galium (G. Aparine), having a fruit set with
   hooked bristles, which adhere to whatever they come in contact with; --
   called also, goose grass, catchweed, etc.


word: Cleche
wordtype: a.
definition:
Charged with another bearing of the same figure, and of the
   color of the field, so large that only a narrow border of the first
   bearing remains visible; -- said of any heraldic bearing. Compare
   Voided.


word: Clef
wordtype: n.
definition:
A character used in musical notation to determine the
   position and pitch of the scale as represented on the staff.


word: Cleistogamous
wordtype: a.
definition:
Having, beside the usual flowers, other minute,
   closed flowers, without petals or with minute petals; -- said of
   certain species of plants which possess flowers of two or more kinds,
   the closed ones being so constituted as to insure self-fertilization.


word: Clematis
wordtype: n.
definition:
A genus of flowering plants, of many species, mostly
   climbers, having feathery styles, which greatly enlarge in the fruit;
   -- called also virgin's bower.


word: Clemency
wordtype: n.
definition:
Disposition to forgive and spare, as offenders; mildness
   of temper; gentleness; tenderness; mercy.


word: Clementine
wordtype: a.
definition:
Of or pertaining to Clement, esp. to St. Clement of
   Rome and the spurious homilies attributed to him, or to Pope Clement V.
   and his compilations of canon law.


word: Clepsydra
wordtype: n.
definition:
A water clock; a contrivance for measuring time by the
   graduated flow of a liquid, as of water, through a small aperture. See
   Illust. in Appendix.


word: Clergy
wordtype: n.
definition:
The body of men set apart, by due ordination, to the
   service of God, in the Christian church, in distinction from the laity;
   in England, usually restricted to the ministers of the Established
   Church.


word: Clergyman
wordtype: n.
definition:
An ordained minister; a man regularly authorized to
   preach the gospel, and administer its ordinances; in England usually
   restricted to a minister of the Established Church.


word: Clericalism
wordtype: n.
definition:
An excessive devotion to the interests of the
   sacerdotal order; undue influence of the clergy; sacerdotalism.


word: Clerk
wordtype: n.
definition:
A parish officer, being a layman who leads in reading the
   responses of the Episcopal church service, and otherwise assists in it.


word: Clerk
wordtype: n.
definition:
One employed to keep records or accounts; a scribe; an
   accountant; as, the clerk of a court; a town clerk.


word: Clevis
wordtype: n.
definition:
A piece of metal bent in the form of an oxbow, with the two
   ends perforated to receive a pin, used on the end of the tongue of a
   plow, wagen, etc., to attach it to a draft chain, whiffletree, etc.; --
   called also clavel, clevy.


word: Clue
wordtype: n.
definition:
That which guides or directs one in anything of a doubtful or
   intricate nature; that which gives a hint in the solution of a mystery.


word: Clew
wordtype: n.
definition:
To move of draw (a sail or yard) by means of the clew
   garnets, clew lines, etc.; esp. to draw up the clews of a square sail
   to the yard.


word: Click
wordtype: n.
definition:
A kind of articulation used by the natives of Southern
   Africa, consisting in a sudden withdrawal of the end or some other
   portion of the tongue from a part of the mouth with which it is in
   contact, whereby a sharp, clicking sound is produced. The sounds are
   four in number, and are called cerebral, palatal, dental, and lateral
   clicks or clucks, the latter being the noise ordinarily used in urging
   a horse forward.


word: Click
wordtype: n.
definition:
A detent, pawl, or ratchet, as that which catches the cogs
   of a ratchet wheel to prevent backward motion. See Illust. of Ratched
   wheel.


word: Client
wordtype: n.
definition:
A citizen who put himself under the protection of a man of
   distinction and influence, who was called his patron.


word: Clientele
wordtype: n.
definition:
The persons who make habitual use of the services of
   another person; one's clients, collectively; as, the clientele of a
   lawyer, doctor, notary, etc.


word: Cliff limestone
definition:
A series of limestone strata found in Ohio and
   farther west, presenting bluffs along the rivers and valleys, formerly
   supposed to be of one formation, but now known to be partly Silurian
   and partly Devonian.


word: Climacteric
wordtype: n.
definition:
A period in human life in which some great change is
   supposed to take place in the constitution. The critical periods are
   thought by some to be the years produced by multiplying 7 into the odd
   numbers 3, 5, 7, and 9; to which others add the 81st year.


word: Climate
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
One of thirty regions or zones, parallel to the
   equator, into which the surface of the earth from the equator to the
   pole was divided, according to the successive increase of the length of
   the midsummer day.


word: Climate
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
The condition of a place in relation to various
   phenomena of the atmosphere, as temperature, moisture, etc., especially
   as they affect animal or vegetable life.


word: Climax
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
A figure in which the parts of a sentence or paragraph
   are so arranged that each succeeding one rises above its predecessor in
   impressiveness.


word: Climb
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To ascend or creep upward by twining about a support, or
   by attaching itself by tendrils, rootlets, etc., to a support or
   upright surface.


word: Clinch
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To bend or turn over the point of (something that has
   been driven through an object), so that it will hold fast; as, to
   clinch a nail.


word: Clinch
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act or process of holding fast; that which serves to
   hold fast; a grip; a grasp; a clamp; a holdfast; as, to get a good
   clinch of an antagonist, or of a weapon; to secure anything by a
   clinch.


word: Clinch
wordtype: n.
definition:
A hitch or bend by which a rope is made fast to the ring of
   an anchor, or the breeching of a ship's gun to the ringbolts.


word: Cling
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To adhere closely; to stick; to hold fast, especially by
   twining round or embracing; as, the tendril of a vine clings to its
   support; -- usually followed by to or together.


word: Clinic
wordtype: n.
definition:
A school, or a session of a school or class, in which
   medicine or surgery is taught by the examination and treatment of
   patients in the presence of the pupils.


word: Clink
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To cause to give out a slight, sharp, tinkling, sound, as
   by striking metallic or other sonorous bodies together.


word: Clinker
wordtype: n.
definition:
Scoria or vitrified incombustible matter, formed in a
   grate or furnace where anthracite coal in used; vitrified or burnt
   matter ejected from a volcano; slag.


word: Clinker-built
wordtype: a.
definition:
Having the side planks (af a boat) so arranged that
   the lower edge of each overlaps the upper edge of the plank next below
   it like clapboards on a house. See Lapstreak.


word: Clinkstone
wordtype: n.
definition:
An igneous rock of feldspathic composition, lamellar in
   structure, and clinking under the hammer. See Phonolite.


word: Clinodiagonal
wordtype: n.
definition:
That diagonal or lateral axis in a monoclinic
   crystal which makes an oblique angle with the vertical axis. See
   Crystallization.


word: Clinographic
wordtype: a.
definition:
Pertaining to that mode of projection in drawing in
   which the rays of light are supposed to fall obliquely on the plane of
   projection.


word: Clinometer
wordtype: n.
definition:
An instrument for determining the dip of beds or
   strata, pr the slope of an embankment or cutting; a kind of plumb
   level.


word: Clinometric
wordtype: a.
definition:
Pertaining to the oblique crystalline forms, or to
   solids which have oblique angles between the axes; as, the clinometric
   systems.


word: Clinopinacoid
wordtype: n.
definition:
The plane in crystals of the monoclinic system which
   is parallel to the vertical and the inclined lateral (clinidiagonal)
   axes.


word: Clione
wordtype: n.
definition:
A genus of naked pteropods. One species (Clione
   papilonacea), abundant in the Arctic Ocean, constitutes a part of the
   food of the Greenland whale. It is sometimes incorrectly called Clio.


word: Clip
wordtype: n.
definition:
An embracing strap for holding parts together; the iron
   strap, with loop, at the ends of a whiffletree.


word: Clip
wordtype: n.
definition:
A projecting flange on the upper edge of a horseshoe, turned
   up so as to embrace the lower part of the hoof; -- called also toe clip
   and beak.


word: Clipping
wordtype: n.
definition:
That which is clipped off or out of something; a piece
   separated by clipping; as, newspaper clippings.


word: Clique
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
A narrow circle of persons associated by common
   interests or for the accomplishment of a common purpose; -- generally
   used in a bad sense.


word: Clique
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To To associate together in a clannish way; to act with
   others secretly to gain a desired end; to plot; -- used with together.


word: Clitellus
wordtype: n.
definition:
A thickened glandular portion of the body of the adult
   earthworm, consisting of several united segments modified for
   reproductive purposes.


word: Cloaca
wordtype: n.
definition:
The common chamber into which the intestinal, urinary, and
   generative canals discharge in birds, reptiles, amphibians, and many
   fishes.


word: Cloak
wordtype: n.
definition:
A loose outer garment, extending from the neck downwards,
   and commonly without sleeves. It is longer than a cape, and is worn
   both by men and by women.


word: Cloakroom
wordtype: n.
definition:
A room, attached to any place of public resort, where
   cloaks, overcoats, etc., may be deposited for a time.


word: Clock
wordtype: n.
definition:
A machine for measuring time, indicating the hour and other
   divisions by means of hands moving on a dial plate. Its works are moved
   by a weight or a spring, and it is often so constructed as to tell the
   hour by the stroke of a hammer on a bell. It is not adapted, like the
   watch, to be carried on the person.


word: Clockwork
wordtype: n.
definition:
The machinery of a clock, or machinery resembling that
   of a clock; machinery which produces regularity of movement.


word: Clod
wordtype: n.
definition:
That which is earthy and of little relative value, as the
   body of man in comparison with the soul.


word: Clod
wordtype: n.
definition:
A part of the shoulder of a beef creature, or of the neck
   piece near the shoulder. See Illust. of Beef.


word: Cloff
wordtype: n.
definition:
Formerly an allowance of two pounds in every three hundred
   weight after the tare and tret are subtracted; now used only in a
   general sense, of small deductions from the original weight.


word: Clog
wordtype: v.
definition:
That which hinders or impedes motion; hence, an encumbrance,
   restraint, or impediment, of any kind.


word: Clog
wordtype: v.
definition:
A shoe, or sandal, intended to protect the feet from wet, or
   to increase the apparent stature, and having, therefore, a very thick
   sole. Cf. Chopine.


word: Cloisonne
wordtype: a.
definition:
Inlaid between partitions: -- said of enamel when the
   lines which divide the different patches of fields are composed of a
   kind of metal wire secured to the ground; as distinguished from
   champleve enamel, in which the ground is engraved or scooped out to
   receive the enamel.


word: Cloister
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
the series of such passages on the different sides of
   any court, esp. that of a monastery or a college.


word: Close
wordtype: n.
definition:
To bring together the parts of; to consolidate; as, to close
   the ranks of an army; -- often used with up.


word: Close
wordtype: n.
definition:
To bring to an end or period; to conclude; to complete; to
   finish; to end; to consummate; as, to close a bargain; to close a
   course of instruction.


word: Close
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
An inclosed place; especially, a small field or piece of
   land surrounded by a wall, hedge, or fence of any kind; --
   specifically, the precinct of a cathedral or abbey.


word: Close
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
Oppressive; without motion or ventilation; causing a
   feeling of lassitude; -- said of the air, weather, etc.


word: Close
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
Having the parts near each other; dense; solid; compact;
   as applied to bodies; viscous; tenacious; not volatile, as applied to
   liquids.


word: Close
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
Accurate; careful; precise; also, attentive; undeviating;
   strict; not wandering; as, a close observer.


word: Close
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
Uttered with a relatively contracted opening of the
   mouth, as certain sounds of e and o in French, Italian, and German; --
   opposed to open.


word: Close-fights
wordtype: n. pl.
definition:
Barriers with loopholes, formerly erected on the
   deck of a vessel to shelter the men in a close engagement with an
   enemy's boarders; -- called also close quarters.


word: Closehauled
wordtype: a.
definition:
Under way and moving as nearly as possible toward the
   direction from which the wind blows; -- said of a sailing vessel.


word: Closer
wordtype: n.
definition:
The last stone in a horizontal course, if of a less size
   than the others, or a piece of brick finishing a course.


word: Close-stool
wordtype: n.
definition:
A utensil to hold a chamber vessel, for the use of the
   sick and infirm. It is usually in the form of a box, with a seat and
   tight cover.


word: Closure
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
A method of putting an end to debate and securing an
   immediate vote upon a measure before a legislative body. It is similar
   in effect to the previous question. It was first introduced into the
   British House of Commons in 1882. The French word cloture was
   originally applied to this proceeding.


word: Clot
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To concrete, coagulate, or thicken, as soft or fluid
   matter by evaporation; to become a cot or clod.


word: Cloth
wordtype: n.
definition:
A fabric made of fibrous material (or sometimes of wire, as
   in wire cloth); commonly, a woven fabric of cotton, woolen, or linen,
   adapted to be made into garments; specifically, woolen fabrics, as
   distinguished from all others.


word: Cloth
wordtype: n.
definition:
The distinctive dress of any profession, especially of the
   clergy; hence, the clerical profession.


word: Clothes
wordtype: n. pl.
definition:
Covering for the human body; dress; vestments;
   vesture; -- a general term for whatever covering is worn, or is made to
   be worn, for decency or comfort.


word: Clothing
wordtype: n.
definition:
A covering of non-conducting material on the outside of a
   boiler, or steam chamber, to prevent radiation of heat.


word: Cloud
wordtype: n.
definition:
A dark vein or spot on a lighter material, as in marble;
   hence, a blemish or defect; as, a cloud upon one's reputation; a cloud
   on a title.


word: Cloud
wordtype: n.
definition:
That which has a dark, lowering, or threatening aspect; that
   which temporarily overshadows, obscures, or depresses; as, a cloud of
   sorrow; a cloud of war; a cloud upon the intellect.


word: Cloud
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To darken or obscure, as if by hiding or enveloping with
   a cloud; hence, to render gloomy or sullen.


word: Cloudberry
wordtype: n.
definition:
A species of raspberry (Rubus Chamaemerous) growing in
   the northern regions, and bearing edible, amber-colored fruit.


word: Clout
wordtype: n.
definition:
The center of the butt at which archers shoot; -- probably
   once a piece of white cloth or a nail head.


word: Clove
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
A cleft; a gap; a ravine; -- rarely used except as part
   of a proper name; as, Kaaterskill Clove; Stone Clove.


word: Clove
wordtype: n.
definition:
A very pungent aromatic spice, the unexpanded flower bud of
   the clove tree (Eugenia, / Caryophullus, aromatica), a native of the
   Molucca Isles.


word: Clove
wordtype: n.
definition:
One of the small bulbs developed in the axils of the scales
   of a large bulb, as in the case of garlic.


word: Clover
wordtype: n.
definition:
A plant of different species of the genus Trifolium; as the
   common red clover, T. pratense, the white, T. repens, and the hare's
   foot, T. arvense.


word: Club
wordtype: n.
definition:
Any card of the suit of cards having a figure like the
   trefoil or clover leaf. (pl.) The suit of cards having such figure.


word: Club
wordtype: n.
definition:
An association of persons for the promotion of some common
   object, as literature, science, politics, good fellowship, etc.; esp.
   an association supported by equal assessments or contributions of the
   members.


word: Club
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To pay on equal or proportionate share of a common charge
   or expense; to pay for something by contribution.


word: Clubfoot
wordtype: n.
definition:
A short, variously distorted foot; also, the deformity,
   usually congenital, which such a foot exhibits; talipes.


word: Clubhaul
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To put on the other tack by dropping the lee anchor as
   soon as the wind is out of the sails (which brings the vessel's head to
   the wind), and by cutting the cable as soon as she pays off on the
   other tack. Clubhauling is attempted only in an exigency.


word: Clumber
wordtype: n.
definition:
A kind of field spaniel, with short legs and stout body,
   which, unlike other spaniels, hunts silently.


word: Clumps
wordtype: n.
definition:
A game in which questions are asked for the purpose of
   enabling the questioners to discover a word or thing previously
   selected by two persons who answer the questions; -- so called because
   the players take sides in two "clumps" or groups, the "clump" which
   guesses the word winning the game.


word: Clumsy
wordtype: superl.
definition:
Without skill or grace; wanting dexterity, nimbleness,
   or readiness; stiff; awkward, as if benumbed; unwieldy; unhandy; hence;
   ill-made, misshapen, or inappropriate; as, a clumsy person; a clumsy
   workman; clumsy fingers; a clumsy gesture; a clumsy excuse.


word: Cluniac
wordtype: n.
definition:
A monk of the reformed branch of the Benedictine Order,
   founded in 912 at Cluny (or Clugny) in France. -- Also used as a.


word: Cluster
wordtype: n.
definition:
A number of similar things collected together or lying
   contiguous; a group; as, a cluster of islands.


word: Clutch
wordtype: n.
definition:
The hands, claws, or talons, in the act of grasping firmly;
   -- often figuratively, for power, rapacity, or cruelty; as, to fall
   into the clutches of an adversary.


word: Clutch
wordtype: n.
definition:
A device which is used for coupling shafting, etc., so as
   to transmit motion, and which may be disengaged at pleasure.


word: Clutch
wordtype: n.
definition:
To seize, clasp, or gripe with the hand, hands, or claws;
   -- often figuratively; as, to clutch power.


word: Clutter
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To crowd together in disorder; to fill or cover with
   things in disorder; to throw into disorder; to disarrange; as, to
   clutter a room.


word: Clypeastroid
wordtype: a.
definition:
Like or related to the genus Clupeaster; -- applied
   to a group of flattened sea urchins, with a rosette of pores on the
   upper side.


word: Cnidaria
wordtype: n. pl.
definition:
A comprehensive group equivalent to the true
   Coelenterata, i. e., exclusive of the sponges. They are so named from
   presence of stinging cells (cnidae) in the tissues. See Coelenterata.


word: Co-
definition:
A form of the prefix com-, signifying with, together, in
   conjunction, joint. It is used before vowels and some consonants. See
   Com-.


word: Coach
wordtype: n.
definition:
A large, closed, four-wheeled carriage, having doors in the
   sides, and generally a front and back seat inside, each for two
   persons, and an elevated outside seat in front for the driver.


word: Coach
wordtype: n.
definition:
A special tutor who assists in preparing a student for
   examination; a trainer; esp. one who trains a boat's crew for a race.


word: Coach
wordtype: n.
definition:
A first-class passenger car, as distinguished from a
   drawing-room car, sleeping car, etc. It is sometimes loosely applied to
   any passenger car.


word: Coachman
wordtype: n.
definition:
A tropical fish of the Atlantic ocean (Dutes auriga); --
   called also charioteer. The name refers to a long, lashlike spine of
   the dorsal fin.


word: Coagulate
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To cause (a liquid) to change into a curdlike or
   semisolid state, not by evaporation but by some kind of chemical
   reaction; to curdle; as, rennet coagulates milk; heat coagulates the
   white of an egg.


word: Coagulation
wordtype: n.
definition:
The change from a liquid to a thickened, curdlike,
   insoluble state, not by evaporation, but by some kind of chemical
   reaction; as, the spontaneous coagulation of freshly drawn blood; the
   coagulation of milk by rennet, or acid, and the coagulation of egg
   albumin by heat. Coagulation is generally the change of an albuminous
   body into an insoluble modification.


word: Coagulum
wordtype: a.
definition:
The thick, curdy precipitate formed by the coagulation of
   albuminous matter; any mass of coagulated matter, as a clot of blood.


word: Coaita
wordtype: n.
definition:
The native name of certain South American monkeys of the
   genus Ateles, esp. A. paniscus. The black-faced coaita is Ateles ater.
   See Illustration in Appendix.


word: Coak
wordtype: n.
definition:
A kind of tenon connecting the face of a scarfed timber with
   the face of another timber, or a dowel or pin of hard wood or iron
   uniting timbers.


word: Coal
wordtype: n.
definition:
A thoroughly charred, and extinguished or still ignited,
   fragment from wood or other combustible substance; charcoal.


word: Coal
wordtype: n.
definition:
A black, or brownish black, solid, combustible substance, dug
   from beds or veins in the earth to be used for fuel, and consisting,
   like charcoal, mainly of carbon, but more compact, and often affording,
   when heated, a large amount of volatile matter.


word: Decrescendo
wordtype: a. & adv.
definition:
With decreasing volume of sound; -- a direction
   to performers, either written upon the staff (abbreviated Dec., or
   Decresc.), or indicated by the sign.


word: Decretal
wordtype: a.
definition:
An authoritative order or decree; especially, a letter of
   the pope, determining some point or question in ecclesiastical law. The
   decretals form the second part of the canon law.


word: Decretal
wordtype: a.
definition:
The collection of ecclesiastical decrees and decisions
   made, by order of Gregory IX., in 1234, by St. Raymond of Pennafort.


word: Decry
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To cry down; to censure as faulty, mean, or worthless; to
   clamor against; to blame clamorously; to discredit; to disparage.


word: Decuman
wordtype: a.
definition:
Large; chief; -- applied to an extraordinary billow,
   supposed by some to be every tenth in order. [R.] Also used
   substantively.


word: Decumbent
wordtype: a.
definition:
Reclining on the ground, as if too weak to stand, and
   tending to rise at the summit or apex; as, a decumbent stem.


word: Decumbiture
wordtype: n.
definition:
Aspect of the heavens at the time of taking to one's
   sick bed, by which the prognostics of recovery or death were made.


word: Decurrent
wordtype: a.
definition:
Extending downward; -- said of a leaf whose base extends
   downward and forms a wing along the stem.


word: Decussate
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To cross at an acute angle; to cut or divide in the
   form of X; to intersect; -- said of lines in geometrical figures, rays
   of light, nerves, etc.


word: Decussated
wordtype: a.
definition:
Growing in pairs, each of which is at right angles to
   the next pair above or below; as, decussated leaves or branches.


word: Decussated
wordtype: a.
definition:
Consisting of two rising and two falling clauses,
   placed in alternate opposition to each other; as, a decussated period.


word: Decussation
wordtype: n.
definition:
Act of crossing at an acute angle, or state of being
   thus crossed; an intersection in the form of an X; as, the decussation
   of lines, nerves, etc.


word: Decyl
wordtype: n.
definition:
A hydrocarbon radical, C10H21, never existing alone, but
   regarded as the characteristic constituent of a number of compounds of
   the paraffin series.


word: Dedicate
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To set apart and consecrate, as to a divinity, or for
   sacred uses; to devote formally and solemnly; as, to dedicate vessels,
   treasures, a temple, or a church, to a religious use.


word: Dedication
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of setting apart or consecrating to a divine
   Being, or to a sacred use, often with religious solemnities; solemn
   appropriation; as, the dedication of Solomon's temple.


word: Dedication
wordtype: n.
definition:
An address to a patron or friend, prefixed to a book,
   testifying respect, and often recommending the work to his special
   protection and favor.


word: Dedicator
wordtype: n.
definition:
One who dedicates; more especially, one who inscribes a
   book to the favor of a patron, or to one whom he desires to compliment.


word: Dedimus
wordtype: n.
definition:
A writ to commission private persons to do some act in
   place of a judge, as to examine a witness, etc.


word: Deduce
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To derive or draw; to derive by logical process; to
   obtain or arrive at as the result of reasoning; to gather, as a truth
   or opinion, from what precedes or from premises; to infer; -- with from
   or out of.


word: Deduct
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To take away, separate, or remove, in numbering,
   estimating, or calculating; to subtract; -- often with from or out of.


word: Deduction
wordtype: n.
definition:
Act of deducting or taking away; subtraction; as, the
   deduction of the subtrahend from the minuend.


word: Deduction
wordtype: n.
definition:
That which is deduced or drawn from premises by a
   process of reasoning; an inference; a conclusion.


word: Deduplication
wordtype: n.
definition:
The division of that which is morphologically one
   organ into two or more, as the division of an organ of a plant into a
   pair or cluster.


word: Deed
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
That which is done or effected by a responsible agent; an
   act; an action; a thing done; -- a word of extensive application,
   including, whatever is done, good or bad, great or small.


word: Deed
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
A sealed instrument in writing, on paper or parchment,
   duly executed and delivered, containing some transfer, bargain, or
   contract.


word: Deed poll
definition:
A deed of one part, or executed by only one party, and
   distinguished from an indenture by having the edge of the parchment or
   paper cut even, or polled as it was anciently termed, instead of being
   indented.


word: Deep
wordtype: superl.
definition:
Extending far below the surface; of great perpendicular
   dimension (measured from the surface downward, and distinguished from
   high, which is measured upward); far to the bottom; having a certain
   depth; as, a deep sea.


word: Deep
wordtype: superl.
definition:
Extending far back from the front or outer part; of
   great horizontal dimension (measured backward from the front or nearer
   part, mouth, etc.); as, a deep cave or recess or wound; a gallery ten
   seats deep; a company of soldiers six files deep.


word: Deep
wordtype: superl.
definition:
Hard to penetrate or comprehend; profound; -- opposed to
   shallow or superficial; intricate; mysterious; not obvious; obscure;
   as, a deep subject or plot.


word: Deep
wordtype: superl.
definition:
Of penetrating or far-reaching intellect; not
   superficial; thoroughly skilled; sagacious; cunning.


word: Deep
wordtype: superl.
definition:
Profound; thorough; complete; unmixed; intense; heavy;
   heartfelt; as, deep distress; deep melancholy; deep horror.


word: Deep
wordtype: n.
definition:
That which is profound, not easily fathomed, or
   incomprehensible; a moral or spiritual depth or abyss.


word: Deepen
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To make deep or deeper; to increase the depth of; to
   sink lower; as, to deepen a well or a channel.


word: Deeply
wordtype: adv.
definition:
Profoundly; thoroughly; not superficially; in a high
   degree; intensely; as, deeply skilled in ethics.


word: Deepness
wordtype: n.
definition:
The state or quality of being deep, profound, mysterious,
   secretive, etc.; depth; profundity; -- opposed to shallowness.


word: Deep-sea
wordtype: a.
definition:
Of or pertaining to the deeper parts of the sea; as, a
   deep-sea line (i. e., a line to take soundings at a great depth);
   deep-sea lead; deep-sea soundings, explorations, etc.


word: Deep-waisted
wordtype: a.
definition:
Having a deep waist, as when, in a ship, the poop and
   forecastle are much elevated above the deck.


word: Deer
wordtype: n. sing. & pl.
definition:
A ruminant of the genus Cervus, of many species,
   and of related genera of the family Cervidae. The males, and in some
   species the females, have solid antlers, often much branched, which are
   shed annually. Their flesh, for which they are hunted, is called
   venison.


word: Deerberry
wordtype: n.
definition:
A shrub of the blueberry group (Vaccinium stamineum);
   also, its bitter, greenish white berry; -- called also squaw
   huckleberry.


word: Deergrass
wordtype: n.
definition:
An American genus (Rhexia) of perennial herbs, with
   opposite leaves, and showy flowers (usually bright purple), with four
   petals and eight stamens, -- the only genus of the order Melastomaceae
   inhabiting a temperate clime.


word: Deface
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To destroy or mar the face or external appearance of; to
   disfigure; to injure, spoil, or mar, by effacing or obliterating
   important features or portions of; as, to deface a monument; to deface
   an edifice; to deface writing; to deface a note, deed, or bond; to
   deface a record.


word: Defacement
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of defacing, or the condition of being defaced;
   injury to the surface or exterior; obliteration.


word: De facto
definition:
Actually; in fact; in reality; as, a king de facto, --
   distinguished from a king de jure, or by right.


word: Defalcate
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To cut off; to take away or deduct a part of; -- used
   chiefly of money, accounts, rents, income, etc.


word: Defalcation
wordtype: n.
definition:
A lopping off; a diminution; abatement; deficit.
   Specifically: Reduction of a claim by deducting a counterclaim; set-
   off.


word: Defamation
wordtype: n.
definition:
Act of injuring another's reputation by any slanderous
   communication, written or oral; the wrong of maliciously injuring the
   good name of another; slander; detraction; calumny; aspersion.


word: Defamatory
wordtype: a.
definition:
Containing defamation; injurious to reputation;
   calumnious; slanderous; as, defamatory words; defamatory writings.


word: Defame
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To harm or destroy the good fame or reputation of; to
   disgrace; especially, to speak evil of maliciously; to dishonor by
   slanderous reports; to calumniate; to asperse.


word: Default
wordtype: n.
definition:
A failing or failure; omission of that which ought to be
   done; neglect to do what duty or law requires; as, this evil has
   happened through the governor's default.


word: Default
wordtype: n.
definition:
A neglect of, or failure to take, some step necessary to
   secure the benefit of law, as a failure to appear in court at a day
   assigned, especially of the defendant in a suit when called to make
   answer; also of jurors, witnesses, etc.


word: Default
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To call a defendant or other party whose duty it is to
   be present in court, and make entry of his default, if he fails to
   appear; to enter a default against.


word: Defaulter
wordtype: n.
definition:
One who fails to perform a duty; a delinquent;
   particularly, one who fails to account for public money intrusted to
   his care; a peculator; a defalcator.


word: Defeasance
wordtype: n.
definition:
A condition, relating to a deed, which being performed,
   the deed is defeated or rendered void; or a collateral deed, made at
   the same time with a feoffment, or other conveyance, containing
   conditions, on the performance of which the estate then created may be
   defeated.


word: Defeat
wordtype: v.
definition:
Frustration by rendering null and void, or by prevention of
   success; as, the defeat of a plan or design.


word: Defeat
wordtype: v.
definition:
An overthrow, as of an army in battle; loss of a battle;
   repulse suffered; discomfiture; -- opposed to victory.


word: Defecate
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To free from extraneous or polluting matter; to clear;
   to purify, as from that which materializes.


word: Defecator
wordtype: n.
definition:
That which cleanses or purifies; esp., an apparatus for
   removing the feculencies of juices and sirups.


word: Defect
wordtype: n.
definition:
Want or absence of something necessary for completeness or
   perfection; deficiency; -- opposed to superfluity.


word: Defect
wordtype: n.
definition:
Failing; fault; imperfection, whether physical or moral;
   blemish; as, a defect in the ear or eye; a defect in timber or iron; a
   defect of memory or judgment.


word: Defection
wordtype: n.
definition:
Act of abandoning a person or cause to which one is
   bound by allegiance or duty, or to which one has attached himself;
   desertion; failure in duty; a falling away; apostasy; backsliding.


word: Defective
wordtype: a.
definition:
Wanting in something; incomplete; lacking a part;
   deficient; imperfect; faulty; -- applied either to natural or moral
   qualities; as, a defective limb; defective timber; a defective copy or
   account; a defective character; defective rules.


word: Defend
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To repel danger or harm from; to protect; to secure
   against; attack; to maintain against force or argument; to uphold; to
   guard; as, to defend a town; to defend a cause; to defend character; to
   defend the absent; -- sometimes followed by from or against; as, to
   defend one's self from, or against, one's enemies.


word: Defend
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To deny the right of the plaintiff in regard to (the
   suit, or the wrong charged); to oppose or resist, as a claim at law; to
   contest, as a suit.


word: Defender
wordtype: n.
definition:
One who defends; one who maintains, supports, protects,
   or vindicates; a champion; an advocate; a vindicator.


word: Defence
wordtype: n.
definition:
That which defends or protects; anything employed to
   oppose attack, ward off violence or danger, or maintain security; a
   guard; a protection.


word: Defence
wordtype: n.
definition:
The defendant's answer or plea; an opposing or denial of
   the truth or validity of the plaintiff's or prosecutor's case; the
   method of proceeding adopted by the defendant to protect himself
   against the plaintiff's action.


word: Defence
wordtype: n.
definition:
Act or skill in making defense; defensive plan or policy;
   practice in self defense, as in fencing, boxing, etc.


word: Defer
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To yield deference to the wishes of another; to submit to
   the opinion of another, or to authority; -- with to.


word: Deference
wordtype: n.
definition:
A yielding of judgment or preference from respect to the
   wishes or opinion of another; submission in opinion; regard; respect;
   complaisance.


word: Deferent
wordtype: n.
definition:
An imaginary circle surrounding the earth, in whose
   periphery either the heavenly body or the center of the heavenly body's
   epicycle was supposed to be carried round.


word: Crust
wordtype: n.
definition:
An incrustation on the interior of wine bottles, the result
   of the ripening of the wine; a deposit of tartar, etc. See Beeswing.


word: Crustacea
wordtype: n. pl.
definition:
One of the classes of the arthropods, including
   lobsters and crabs; -- so called from the crustlike shell with which
   they are covered.


word: Crusty
wordtype: a.
definition:
Having the nature of crust; pertaining to a hard covering;
   as, a crusty coat; a crusty surface or substance.


word: Crusty
wordtype: a.
definition:
Having a hard exterior, or a short, rough manner, though
   kind at heart; snappish; peevish; surly.


word: Crutch
wordtype: n.
definition:
A staff with a crosspiece at the head, to be placed under
   the arm or shoulder, to support the lame or infirm in walking.


word: Cry
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To make a loud call or cry; to call or exclaim vehemently
   or earnestly; to shout; to vociferate; to proclaim; to pray; to
   implore.


word: Cry
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To utter lamentations; to lament audibly; to express pain,
   grief, or distress, by weeping and sobbing; to shed tears; to bawl, as
   a child.


word: Cry
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To cause to do something, or bring to some state, by crying
   or weeping; as, to cry one's self to sleep.


word: Cry
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To make oral and public proclamation of; to declare
   publicly; to notify or advertise by outcry, especially things lost or
   found, goods to be sold, ets.; as, to cry goods, etc.


word: Cry
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
A loud utterance; especially, the inarticulate sound
   produced by one of the lower animals; as, the cry of hounds; the cry of
   wolves.


word: Cry
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
Any expression of grief, distress, etc., accompanied with
   tears or sobs; a loud sound, uttered in lamentation.


word: Cry
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
A word or phrase caught up by a party or faction and
   repeated for effect; as, the party cry of the Tories.


word: Cryohydrate
wordtype: n.
definition:
A substance, as salt, ammonium chloride, etc., which
   crystallizes with water of crystallization only at low temperatures, or
   below the freezing point of water.


word: Cryolite
wordtype: n.
definition:
A fluoride of sodium and aluminum, found in Greenland, in
   white cleavable masses; -- used as a source of soda and alumina.


word: Cryophorus
wordtype: n.
definition:
An instrument used to illustrate the freezing of water
   by its own evaporation. The ordinary form consists of two glass bulbs,
   connected by a tube of the same material, and containing only a
   quantity of water and its vapor, devoid of air. The water is in one of
   the bulbs, and freezes when the other is cooled below 32¡ Fahr.


word: Crypt
wordtype: n.
definition:
A vault wholly or partly under ground; especially, a vault
   under a church, whether used for burial purposes or for a subterranean
   chapel or oratory.


word: Crypt
wordtype: n.
definition:
A simple gland, glandular cavity, or tube; a follicle; as,
   the crypts of Lieberk/hn, the simple tubular glands of the small
   intestines.


word: Cryptidine
wordtype: n.
definition:
One of the quinoline bases, obtained from coal tar as
   an oily liquid, C11H11N; also, any one of several substances metameric
   with, and resembling, cryptidine proper.


word: Cryptocrystalline
wordtype: a.
definition:
Indistinctly crystalline; -- applied to rocks
   and minerals, whose state of aggregation is so fine that no distinct
   particles are visible, even under the microscope.


word: Cryptogamia
wordtype: n.
definition:
The series or division of flowerless plants, or those
   never having true stamens and pistils, but propagated by spores of
   various kinds.


word: Crystal
wordtype: n.
definition:
The regular form which a substance tends to assume in
   solidifying, through the inherent power of cohesive attraction. It is
   bounded by plane surfaces, symmetrically arranged, and each species of
   crystal has fixed axial ratios. See Crystallization.


word: Crystal
wordtype: n.
definition:
The material of quartz, in crystallization transparent or
   nearly so, and either colorless or slightly tinged with gray, or the
   like; -- called also rock crystal. Ornamental vessels are made of it.
   Cf. Smoky quartz, Pebble; also Brazilian pebble, under Brazilian.


word: Crystal
wordtype: n.
definition:
A species of glass, more perfect in its composition and
   manufacture than common glass, and often cut into ornamental forms. See
   Flint glass.


word: Crystalline
wordtype: a.
definition:
Imperfectly crystallized; as, granite is only
   crystalline, while quartz crystal is perfectly crystallized.


word: Crystallite
wordtype: n.
definition:
A minute mineral form like those common in glassy
   volcanic rocks and some slags, not having a definite crystalline
   outline and not referable to any mineral species, but marking the first
   step in the crystallization process. According to their form
   crystallites are called trichites, belonites, globulites, etc.


word: Crystallization
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act or process by which a substance in
   solidifying assumes the form and structure of a crystal, or becomes
   crystallized.


word: Crystallization
wordtype: n.
definition:
The body formed by crystallizing; as, silver on
   precipitation forms arborescent crystallizations.


word: Crystallize
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To be converted into a crystal; to take on a
   crystalline form, through the action of crystallogenic or cohesive
   attraction.


word: Crystallography
wordtype: n.
definition:
The doctrine or science of crystallization,
   teaching the system of forms among crystals, their structure, and their
   methods of formation.


word: Crystalloid
wordtype: n.
definition:
A body which, in solution, diffuses readily through
   animal membranes, and generally is capable of being crystallized; --
   opposed to colloid.


word: Crystalloid
wordtype: n.
definition:
One of the microscopic particles resembling crystals,
   consisting of protein matter, which occur in certain plant cells; --
   called also protein crystal.


word: Ctenoidei
wordtype: n. pl.
definition:
A group of fishes, established by Agassiz,
   characterized by having scales with a pectinated margin, as in the
   perch. The group is now generally regarded as artificial.


word: Ctenophora
wordtype: n. pl.
definition:
A class of Coelenterata, commonly ellipsoidal in
   shape, swimming by means of eight longitudinal rows of paddles. The
   separate paddles somewhat resemble combs.


word: Cube
wordtype: n.
definition:
The product obtained by taking a number or quantity three
   times as a factor; as, 4x4=16, and 16x4=64, the cube of 4.


word: Cubeb
wordtype: n.
definition:
The small, spicy berry of a species of pepper (Piper Cubeba;
   in med., Cubeba officinalis), native in Java and Borneo, but now
   cultivated in various tropical countries. The dried unripe fruit is
   much used in medicine as a stimulant and purgative.


word: Cubebic
wordtype: a.
definition:
Pertaining to, or derived from, cubebs; as, cubebic acid
   (a soft olive-green resin extracted from cubebs).


word: Cubilose
wordtype: n.
definition:
A mucilagenous secretion of certain birds found as the
   characteristic ingredient of edible bird's-nests.


word: Cubital
wordtype: a.
definition:
Of or pertaining to the cubit or ulna; as, the cubital
   nerve; the cubital artery; the cubital muscle.


word: Cuboid
wordtype: n.
definition:
The bone of the tarsus, which, in man and most mammals,
   supports the metatarsals of the fourth and fifth toes.


word: Cubo-octahedron
wordtype: n.
definition:
A combination of a cube and octahedron, esp. one
   in which the octahedral faces meet at the middle of the cubic edges.


word: Cucking stool
definition:
A kind of chair formerly used for punishing scolds,
   and also dishonest tradesmen, by fastening them in it, usually in front
   of their doors, to be pelted and hooted at by the mob, but sometimes to
   be taken to the water and ducked; -- called also a castigatory, a
   tumbrel, and a trebuchet; and often, but not so correctly, a ducking
   stool.


word: Cuckold's knot
definition:
A hitch or knot, by which a rope is secured to a
   spar, the two parts of the rope being crossed and seized together; --
   called also cuckold's neck.


word: Cuckooflower
wordtype: n.
definition:
A species of Cardamine (C. pratensis), or lady's
   smock. Its leaves are used in salads. Also, the ragged robin (Lychnis
   Flos-cuculi).


word: Cucullated
wordtype: a.
definition:
Having the edges toward the base rolled inward, as the
   leaf of the commonest American blue violet.


word: Cucullated
wordtype: a.
definition:
Having the prothorax elevated so as to form a sort of
   hood, receiving the head, as in certain insects.


word: Cucumber
wordtype: n.
definition:
A creeping plant, and its fruit, of several species of
   the genus Cucumis, esp. Cucumis sativus, the unripe fruit of which is
   eaten either fresh or picked. Also, similar plants or fruits of several
   other genera. See below.


word: Cucumiform
wordtype: a.
definition:
Having the form of a cucumber; having the form of a
   cylinder tapered and rounded at the ends, and either straight or
   curved.


word: Cucurbite
wordtype: n.
definition:
A vessel or flask for distillation, used with, or
   forming part of, an alembic; a matrass; -- originally in the shape of a
   gourd, with a wide mouth. See Alembic.


word: Cucurbitaceous
wordtype: a.
definition:
Of, pertaining to, or resembling, a family of
   plants of which the cucumber, melon, and gourd are common examples.


word: Cud
wordtype: n.
definition:
That portion of food which is brought up into the mouth by
   ruminating animals from their first stomach, to be chewed a second
   time.


word: Cudbear
wordtype: n.
definition:
A powder of a violet red color, difficult to moisten with
   water, used for making violet or purple dye. It is prepared from
   certain species of lichen, especially Lecanora tartarea.


word: Cudgel
wordtype: n.
definition:
A staff used in cudgel play, shorter than the quarterstaff,
   and wielded with one hand; hence, any heavy stick used as a weapon.


word: Cudweed
wordtype: n.
definition:
A small composite plant with cottony or silky stem and
   leaves, primarily a species of Gnaphalium, but the name is now given to
   many plants of different genera, as Filago, Antennaria, etc.;
   cottonweed.


word: Cue
wordtype: n.
definition:
The tail; the end of a thing; especially, a tail-like twist of
   hair worn at the back of the head; a queue.


word: Cue
wordtype: n.
definition:
The last words of a play actor's speech, serving as an
   intimation for the next succeeding player to speak; any word or words
   which serve to remind a player to speak or to do something; a
   catchword.


word: Cuff
wordtype: n.
definition:
Any ornamental appendage at the wrist, whether attached to
   the sleeve of the garment or separate; especially, in modern times,
   such an appendage of starched linen, or a substitute for it of paper,
   or the like.


word: Culinary
wordtype: a.
definition:
Relating to the kitchen, or to the art of cookery; used
   in kitchens; as, a culinary vessel; the culinary art.


word: Culm
wordtype: n.
definition:
The waste of the Pennsylvania anthracite mines, consisting of
   fine coal, dust, etc., and used as fuel.


word: Culminate
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To reach its highest point of altitude; to come to
   the meridian; to be vertical or directly overhead.


word: Culmination
wordtype: n.
definition:
The attainment of the highest point of altitude
   reached by a heavently body; passage across the meridian; transit.


word: Culpa
wordtype: n.
definition:
Negligence or fault, as distinguishable from dolus (deceit,
   fraud), which implies intent, culpa being imputable to defect of
   intellect, dolus to defect of heart.


word: Cultch
wordtype: n.
definition:
Empty oyster shells and other substances laid down on
   oyster grounds to furnish points for the attachment of the spawn of the
   oyster.


word: Cultivate
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To bestow attention, care, and labor upon, with a
   view to valuable returns; to till; to fertilize; as, to cultivate soil.


word: Cultivation
wordtype: n.
definition:
The art or act of cultivating; improvement for
   agricultural purposes or by agricultural processes; tillage; production
   by tillage.


word: Cultivation
wordtype: n.
definition:
The state of being cultivated; advancement in
   physical, intellectual, or moral condition; refinement; culture.


word: Cultivator
wordtype: n.
definition:
An agricultural implement used in the tillage of
   growing crops, to loosen the surface of the earth and kill the weeds;
   esp., a triangular frame set with small shares, drawn by a horse and by
   handles.


word: Cultrivorous
wordtype: a.
definition:
Devouring knives; swallowing, or pretending to
   swallow, knives; -- applied to persons who have swallowed, or have
   seemed to swallow, knives with impunity.


word: Culture
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act or practice of cultivating, or of preparing the
   earth for seed and raising crops by tillage; as, the culture of the
   soil.


word: Culture
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of, or any labor or means employed for, training,
   disciplining, or refining the moral and intellectual nature of man; as,
   the culture of the mind.


word: Culture
wordtype: n.
definition:
The state of being cultivated; result of cultivation;
   physical improvement; enlightenment and discipline acquired by mental
   and moral training; civilization; refinement in manners and taste.


word: Cultus
wordtype: n. sing. & pl.
definition:
Established or accepted religious rites or
   usages of worship; state of religious development. Cf. Cult, 2.


word: Cumber
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To rest upon as a troublesome or useless weight or load;
   to be burdensome or oppressive to; to hinder or embarrass in attaining
   an object, to obstruct or occupy uselessly; to embarrass; to trouble.


word: Cumbrous
wordtype: a.
definition:
Rendering action or motion difficult or toilsome; serving
   to obstruct or hinder; burdensome; clogging.


word: Cumene
wordtype: n.
definition:
A colorless oily hydrocarbon, C6H5.C3H7, obtained by the
   distillation of cuminic acid; -- called also cumol.


word: Cumin
wordtype: n.
definition:
A dwarf umbelliferous plant, somewhat resembling fennel
   (Cuminum Cyminum), cultivated for its seeds, which have a bitterish,
   warm taste, with an aromatic flavor, and are used like those of anise
   and caraway.


word: Cumshaw
wordtype: n.
definition:
A present or bonus; -- originally applied to that paid on
   ships which entered the port of Canton.


word: Cumulative
wordtype: a.
definition:
Augmenting, gaining, or giving force, by successive
   additions; as, a cumulative argument, i. e., one whose force increases
   as the statement proceeds.


word: Cunabula
wordtype: n. pl.
definition:
The extant copies of the first or earliest printed
   books, or of such as were printed in the 15th century.


word: Cundurango
wordtype: n.
definition:
The bark of a South American vine (Gonolobus
   Condurango) of the Milkweed family. It has been supposed, but
   erroneously, to be a cure for cancer.


word: Cuniform
wordtype: a.
definition:
Wedge-shaped; as, a cuneiform bone; -- especially applied
   to the wedge-shaped or arrowheaded characters of ancient Persian and
   Assyrian inscriptions. See Arrowheaded.


word: Cuniform
wordtype: n.
definition:
One of the three tarsal bones supporting the first,
   second third metatarsals. They are usually designated as external,
   middle, and internal, or ectocuniform, mesocuniform, and entocuniform,
   respectively.


word: Cunner
wordtype: n.
definition:
A small edible fish of the Atlantic coast (Ctenolabrus
   adspersus); -- called also chogset, burgall, blue perch, and bait
   stealer.


word: Cunning
wordtype: a.
definition:
The faculty or act of using stratagem to accomplish a
   purpose; fraudulent skill or dexterity; deceit; craft.


word: Cup
wordtype: n.
definition:
A small vessel, used commonly to drink from; as, a tin cup, a
   silver cup, a wine cup; especially, in modern times, the pottery or
   porcelain vessel, commonly with a handle, used with a saucer in
   drinking tea, coffee, and the like.


word: Cupbearer
wordtype: n.
definition:
One of the attendants of a prince or noble, permanently
   charged with the performance of this office for his master.


word: Cupboard
wordtype: n.
definition:
A small closet in a room, with shelves to receive cups,
   dishes, food, etc.; hence, any small closet.


word: Cupel
wordtype: n.
definition:
A shallow porous cup, used in refining precious metals,
   commonly made of bone ashes (phosphate of lime).


word: Cupola
wordtype: n.
definition:
A roof having a rounded form, hemispherical or nearly so;
   also, a ceiling having the same form. When on a large scale it is
   usually called dome.


word: Cupola
wordtype: n.
definition:
A furnace for melting iron or other metals in large
   quantity, -- used chiefly in foundries and steel works.


word: Cupping
wordtype: n.
definition:
The operation of drawing blood to or from the surface of
   the person by forming a partial vacuum over the spot. Also, sometimes,
   a similar operation for drawing pus from an abscess.


word: Cupric
wordtype: a.
definition:
Of, pertaining to, or derived from, copper; containing
   copper; -- said of those compounds of copper in which this element is
   present in its lowest proportion.


word: Cuprite
wordtype: n.
definition:
The red oxide of copper; red copper; an important ore of
   copper, occurring massive and in isometric crystals.


word: Cuprous
wordtype: a.
definition:
Of, pertaining to, or derived from, copper; containing
   copper; -- said of those compounds of copper in which this element is
   present in its highest proportion.


word: Cupuliferous
wordtype: a.
definition:
Of, pertaining to, or resembling, the family of
   plants of which the oak and the chestnut are examples, -- trees bearing
   a smooth, solid nut inclosed in some kind of cup or bur; bearing, or
   furnished with, a cupule.


word: Curacoa
wordtype: n.
definition:
A liqueur, or cordial, flavored with orange peel,
   cinnamon, and mace; -- first made at the island of Curaccao.


word: Curari
wordtype: n.
definition:
A black resinoid extract prepared by the South American
   Indians from the bark of several species of Strychnos (S. toxifera,
   etc.). It sometimes has little effect when taken internally, but is
   quickly fatal when introduced into the blood, and used by the Indians
   as an arrow poison.


word: Curarine
wordtype: n.
definition:
A deadly alkaloid extracted from the curare poison and
   from the Strychnos toxifera. It is obtained in crystalline colorless
   salts.


word: Curate
wordtype: n.
definition:
One who has the cure of souls; originally, any clergyman,
   but now usually limited to one who assists a rector or vicar.


word: Curator
wordtype: n.
definition:
One appointed to act as guardian of the estate of a person
   not legally competent to manage it, or of an absentee; a trustee; a
   guardian.


word: Curb
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To guide and manage, or restrain, as with a curb; to bend
   to one's will; to subject; to subdue; to restrain; to confine; to keep
   in check.


word: Curb
wordtype: n.
definition:
That which curbs, restrains, or subdues; a check or
   hindrance; esp., a chain or strap attached to the upper part of the
   branches of a bit, and capable of being drawn tightly against the lower
   jaw of the horse.


word: Curb
wordtype: n.
definition:
An assemblage of three or more pieces of timber, or a metal
   member, forming a frame around an opening, and serving to maintain the
   integrity of that opening; also, a ring of stone serving a similar
   purpose, as at the eye of a dome.


word: Curb
wordtype: n.
definition:
A frame or wall round the mouth of a well; also, a frame
   within a well to prevent the earth caving in.


word: Curb
wordtype: n.
definition:
A swelling on the back part of the hind leg of a horse, just
   behind the lowest part of the hock joint, generally causing lameness.


word: Curb roof
definition:
A roof having a double slope, or composed, on each side,
   of two parts which have unequal inclination; a gambrel roof.


word: Curbstone
wordtype: n.
definition:
A stone /et along a margin as a and protection, as along
   the edge of a sidewalk next the roadway; an edge stone.


word: Curculio
wordtype: n.
definition:
One of a large group of beetles (Rhynchophora) of many
   genera; -- called also weevils, snout beetles, billbeetles, and
   billbugs. Many of the species are very destructive, as the plum
   curculio, the corn, grain, and rice weevils, etc.


word: Curcumin
wordtype: n.
definition:
The coloring principle of turmeric, or curcuma root,
   extracted as an orange yellow crystalline substance, C14H14O4, with a
   green fluorescence.


word: Curd
wordtype: n.
definition:
The coagulated or thickened part of milk, as distinguished
   from the whey, or watery part. It is eaten as food, especially when
   made into cheese.


word: Cure
wordtype: n.
definition:
Spiritual charge; care of soul; the office of a parish priest
   or of a curate; hence, that which is committed to the charge of a
   parish priest or of a curate; a curacy; as, to resign a cure; to obtain
   a cure.


word: Cure
wordtype: n.
definition:
Medical or hygienic care; remedial treatment of disease; a
   method of medical treatment; as, to use the water cure.


word: Cure
wordtype: n.
definition:
Act of healing or state of being healed; restoration to
   health from disease, or to soundness after injury.


word: Cure
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To prepare for preservation or permanent keeping; to
   preserve, as by drying, salting, etc.; as, to cure beef or fish; to
   cure hay.


word: Curette
wordtype: n.
definition:
A scoop or ring with either a blunt or a cutting edge, for
   removing substances from the walls of a cavity, as from the eye, ear,
   or womb.


word: Curfew
wordtype: n.
definition:
The ringing of an evening bell, originally a signal to the
   inhabitants to cover fires, extinguish lights, and retire to rest, --
   instituted by William the Conqueror; also, the bell itself.


word: Curia
wordtype: n.
definition:
The Roman See in its temporal aspects, including all the
   machinery of administration; -- called also curia Romana.


word: Curiologic
wordtype: a.
definition:
Pertaining to a rude kind of hieroglyphics, in which a
   thing is represented by its picture instead of by a symbol.


word: Curiosity
wordtype: n.
definition:
Disposition to inquire, investigate, or seek after
   knowledge; a desire to gratify the mind with new information or objects
   of interest; inquisitiveness.


word: Curious
wordtype: a.
definition:
Careful or anxious to learn; eager for knowledge; given to
   research or inquiry; habitually inquisitive; prying; -- sometimes with
   after or of.


word: Curious
wordtype: a.
definition:
Exciting attention or inquiry; awakening surprise;
   inviting and rewarding inquisitiveness; not simple or plain; strange;
   rare.


word: Curl
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To contract or bend into curls or ringlets, as hair; to
   grow in curls or spirals, as a vine; to be crinkled or contorted; to
   have a curly appearance; as, leaves lie curled on the ground.


word: Curl
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To move in curves, spirals, or undulations; to contract in
   curving outlines; to bend in a curved form; to make a curl or curls.


word: Curl
wordtype: v.
definition:
An undulating or waving line or streak in any substance, as
   wood, glass, etc.; flexure; sinuosity.


word: Curled
wordtype: a.
definition:
Having curls; curly; sinuous; wavy; as, curled maple (maple
   having fibers which take a sinuous course).


word: Curling
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act or state of that which curls; as, the curling of
   smoke when it rises; the curling of a ringlet; also, the act or process
   of one who curls something, as hair, or the brim of hats.


word: Curling
wordtype: n.
definition:
A scottish game in which heavy weights of stone or iron
   are propelled by hand over the ice towards a mark.


word: Curlycue
wordtype: n.
definition:
Some thing curled or spiral,, as a flourish made with a
   pen on paper, or with skates on the ice; a trick; a frolicsome caper.


word: Curmurring
wordtype: n.
definition:
Murmuring; grumbling; -- sometimes applied to the
   rumbling produced by a slight attack of the gripes.


word: Currant
wordtype: n.
definition:
A small kind of seedless raisin, imported from the Levant,
   chiefly from Zante and Cephalonia; -- used in cookery.


word: Currant
wordtype: n.
definition:
The acid fruit or berry of the Ribes rubrum or common red
   currant, or of its variety, the white currant.


word: Currant
wordtype: n.
definition:
A shrub or bush of several species of the genus Ribes (a
   genus also including the gooseberry); esp., the Ribes rubrum.


word: Currency
wordtype: n.
definition:
The state or quality of being current; general acceptance
   or reception; a passing from person to person, or from hand to hand;
   circulation; as, a report has had a long or general currency; the
   currency of bank notes.


word: Currency
wordtype: n.
definition:
That which is in circulation, or is given and taken as
   having or representing value; as, the currency of a country; a specie
   currency; esp., government or bank notes circulating as a substitute
   for metallic money.


word: Current
wordtype: a.
definition:
Passing from person to person, or from hand to hand;
   circulating through the community; generally received; common; as, a
   current coin; a current report; current history.


word: Current
wordtype: a.
definition:
A flowing or passing; onward motion. Hence: A body of
   fluid moving continuously in a certain direction; a stream; esp., the
   swiftest part of it; as, a current of water or of air; that which
   resembles a stream in motion; as, a current of electricity.


word: Current
wordtype: a.
definition:
General course; ordinary procedure; progressive and
   connected movement; as, the current of time, of events, of opinion,
   etc.


word: Currish
wordtype: a.
definition:
Having the qualities, or exhibiting the characteristics,
   of a cur; snarling; quarrelsome; snappish; churlish; hence, also
   malicious; malignant; brutal.


word: Curry
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To dress or prepare for use by a process of scraping,
   cleansing, beating, smoothing, and coloring; -- said of leather.


word: Curry
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To dress the hair or coat of (a horse, ox, or the like)
   with a currycomb and brush; to comb, as a horse, in order to make
   clean.


word: Currycomb
wordtype: n.
definition:
A kind of card or comb having rows of metallic teeth or
   serrated ridges, used in currying a horse.


word: Curse
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To call upon divine or supernatural power to send injury
   upon; to imprecate evil upon; to execrate.


word: Curse
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To bring great evil upon; to be the cause of serious harm
   or unhappiness to; to furnish with that which will be a cause of deep
   trouble; to afflict or injure grievously; to harass or torment.


word: Curse
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
Evil pronounced or invoked upon another, solemnly, or in
   passion; subjection to, or sentence of, divine condemnation.


word: Curse
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
The cause of great harm, evil, or misfortune; that which
   brings evil or severe affliction; torment.


word: Cursive
wordtype: n.
definition:
A manuscript, especially of the New Testament, written in
   small, connected characters or in a running hand; -- opposed to uncial.


word: Cursor
wordtype: n.
definition:
Any part of a mathematical instrument that moves or slides
   backward and forward upon another part.


word: Cursorial
wordtype: a.
definition:
Adapted to running or walking, and not to prehension;
   as, the limbs of the horse are cursorial. See Illust. of Aves.


word: Curtail dog
definition:
A dog with a docked tail; formerly, the dog of a person
   not qualified to course, which, by the forest laws, must have its tail
   cut short, partly as a mark, and partly from a notion that the tail is
   necessary to a dog in running; hence, a dog not fit for sporting.


word: Curtain
wordtype: n.
definition:
A hanging screen intended to darken or conceal, and
   admitting of being drawn back or up, and reclosed at pleasure; esp.,
   drapery of cloth or lace hanging round a bed or at a window; in
   theaters, and like places, a movable screen for concealing the stage.


word: Curtain
wordtype: n.
definition:
That part of the rampart and parapet which is between two
   bastions or two gates. See Illustrations of Ravelin and Bastion.


word: Curtana
wordtype: n.
definition:
The pointless sword carried before English monarchs at
   their coronation, and emblematically considered as the sword of mercy;
   -- also called the sword of Edward the Confessor.


word: Curtate
wordtype: a.
definition:
Shortened or reduced; -- said of the distance of a planet
   from the sun or earth, as measured in the plane of the ecliptic, or the
   distance from the sun or earth to that point where a perpendicular, let
   fall from the planet upon the plane of the ecliptic, meets the
   ecliptic.


word: Curtesy
wordtype: n.
definition:
the life estate which a husband has in the lands of his
   deceased wife, which by the common law takes effect where he has had
   issue by her, born alive, and capable of inheriting the lands.


word: Curule
wordtype: a.
definition:
Of or pertaining to a kind of chair appropriated to Roman
   magistrates and dignitaries; pertaining to, having, or conferring, the
   right to sit in the curule chair; hence, official.


word: Curvature
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of curving, or the state of being bent or
   curved; a curving or bending, normal or abnormal, as of a line or
   surface from a rectilinear direction; a bend; a curve.


word: Curvature
wordtype: n.
definition:
The amount of degree of bending of a mathematical curve,
   or the tendency at any point to depart from a tangent drawn to the
   curve at that point.


word: Curve
wordtype: a.
definition:
To bend; to crook; as, to curve a line; to curve a pipe; to
   cause to swerve from a straight course; as, to curve a ball in pitching
   it.


word: Curvet
wordtype: n.
definition:
A particular leap of a horse, when he raises both his fore
   legs at once, equally advanced, and, as his fore legs are falling,
   raises his hind legs, so that all his legs are in the air at once.


word: Cushion
wordtype: n.
definition:
A case or bag stuffed with some soft and elastic material,
   and used to sit or recline upon; a soft pillow or pad.


word: Cusk
wordtype: n.
definition:
A large, edible, marine fish (Brosmius brosme), allied to the
   cod, common on the northern coasts of Europe and America; -- called
   also tusk and torsk.


word: Cuspidated
wordtype: a.
definition:
Having a sharp end, like the point of a spear;
   terminating in a hard point; as, a cuspidate leaf.


word: Cuspidor
wordtype: n.
definition:
Any ornamental vessel used as a spittoon; hence, to avoid
   the common term, a spittoon of any sort.


word: Custody
wordtype: n.
definition:
State of being guarded and watched to prevent escape;
   restraint of liberty; confinement; imprisonment.


word: Custom
wordtype: n.
definition:
Frequent repetition of the same act; way of acting common
   to many; ordinary manner; habitual practice; usage; method of doing or
   living.


word: Custom
wordtype: n.
definition:
Habitual buying of goods; practice of frequenting, as a
   shop, manufactory, etc., for making purchases or giving orders;
   business support.


word: Custom
wordtype: n.
definition:
Long-established practice, considered as unwritten law, and
   resting for authority on long consent; usage. See Usage, and
   Prescription.


word: Cut
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To separate the parts of with, or as with, a sharp
   instrument; to make an incision in; to gash; to sever; to divide.


word: Cut
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To wound or hurt deeply the sensibilities of; to pierce; to
   lacerate; as, sarcasm cuts to the quick.


word: Cut
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To perform the operation of dividing, severing, incising,
   intersecting, etc.; to use a cutting instrument.


word: Cut
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To divide a pack of cards into two portion to decide the
   deal or trump, or to change the order of the cards to be dealt.


word: Cut
wordtype: n.
definition:
An opening made with an edged instrument; a cleft; a gash; a
   slash; a wound made by cutting; as, a sword cut.


word: Cut
wordtype: n.
definition:
That which wounds the feelings, as a harsh remark or
   criticism, or a sarcasm; personal discourtesy, as neglecting to
   recognize an acquaintance when meeting him; a slight.


word: Cut
wordtype: n.
definition:
A notch, passage, or channel made by cutting or digging; a
   furrow; a groove; as, a cut for a railroad.


word: Cut
wordtype: n.
definition:
An engraved block or plate; the impression from such an
   engraving; as, a book illustrated with fine cuts.


word: Cutaneous
wordtype: a.
definition:
Of pertaining to the skin; existing on, or affecting,
   the skin; as, a cutaneous disease; cutaneous absorption; cutaneous
   respiration.


word: Cutgrass
definition:
A grass with leaves having edges furnished with very minute
   hooked prickles, which form a cutting edge; one or more species of
   Leersia.


word: Cut-off
wordtype: n.
definition:
The valve gearing or mechanism by which steam is cut off
   from entering the cylinder of a steam engine after a definite point in
   a stroke, so as to allow the remainder of the stroke to be made by the
   expansive force of the steam already let in. See Expansion gear, under
   Expansion.


word: Cutose
wordtype: n.
definition:
A variety of cellulose, occuring as a fine transparent
   membrane covering the aerial organs of plants, and forming an essential
   ingredient of cork; by oxidation it passes to suberic acid.


word: Cut-out
wordtype: n.
definition:
A species of switch for changing the current from one
   circuit to another, or for shortening a circuit.


word: Cutpurse
wordtype: n.
definition:
One who cuts purses for the sake of stealing them or
   their contents (an act common when men wore purses fastened by a string
   to their girdles); one who steals from the person; a pickpocket


word: Cutter
wordtype: n.
definition:
That which cuts; a machine or part of a machine, or a tool
   or instrument used for cutting, as that part of a mower which severs
   the stalk, or as a paper cutter.


word: Cutter
wordtype: n.
definition:
A fast sailing vessel with one mast, rigged in most
   essentials like a sloop. A cutter is narrower end deeper than a sloop
   of the same length, and depends for stability on a deep keel, often
   heavily weighted with lead.


word: Cutter
wordtype: n.
definition:
A small armed vessel, usually a steamer, in the revenue
   marine service; -- also called revenue cutter.


word: Cutter
wordtype: n.
definition:
A kind of soft yellow brick, used for facework; -- so
   called from the facility with which it can be cut.


word: Cutting
wordtype: n.
definition:
Something cut, cut off, or cut out, as a twig or scion cut
   off from a stock for the purpose of grafting or of rooting as an
   independent plant; something cut out of a newspaper; an excavation cut
   through a hill or elsewhere to make a way for a railroad, canal, etc.;
   a cut.


word: Cuttlefish
wordtype: n.
definition:
A cephalopod of the genus Sepia, having an internal
   shell, large eyes, and ten arms furnished with denticulated suckers, by
   means of which it secures its prey. The name is sometimes applied to
   dibranchiate cephalopods generally.


word: Cuttle bone
definition:
The shell or bone of cuttlefishes, used for various
   purposes, as for making polishing powder, etc.


word: Cuttystool
wordtype: n.
definition:
A seat in old Scottish churches, where offenders were
   made to sit, for public rebuke by the minister.


word: Cutwater
wordtype: n.
definition:
A starling or other structure attached to the pier of a
   bridge, with an angle or edge directed up stream, in order better to
   resist the action of water, ice, etc.; the sharpened upper end of the
   pier itself.


word: Cutwater
wordtype: n.
definition:
A sea bird of the Atlantic (Rhynchops nigra); -- called
   also black skimmer, scissorsbill, and razorbill. See Skimmer.


word: Cutwork
wordtype: n.
definition:
An ancient term for embroidery, esp. applied to the
   earliest form of lace, or to that early embroidery on linen and the
   like, from which the manufacture of lace was developed.


word: Cutworm
wordtype: n.
definition:
A caterpillar which at night eats off young plants of
   cabbage, corn, etc., usually at the ground. Some kinds ascend fruit
   trees and eat off the flower buds. During the day, they conceal
   themselves in the earth. The common cutworms are the larvae of various
   species of Agrotis and related genera of noctuid moths.


word: Cuvette
wordtype: n.
definition:
A pot, bucket, or basin, in which molten plate glass is
   carried from the melting pot to the casting table.


word: Cuvette
wordtype: n.
definition:
A small vessel with at least two flat and transparent
   sides, used to hold a liquid sample to be analysed in the light path of
   a spectrometer.


word: Cyamellone
wordtype: n.
definition:
A complex derivative of cyanogen, regarded as an acid,
   and known chiefly in its salts; -- called also hydromellonic acid.


word: Cyanine
wordtype: n.
definition:
One of a series of artificial blue or red dyes obtained
   from quinoline and lepidine and used in calico printing.


word: Cyanite
wordtype: n.
definition:
A mineral occuring in thin-bladed crystals and crystalline
   aggregates, of a sky-blue color. It is a silicate of aluminium.


word: Cyanogen
wordtype: n.
definition:
A colorless, inflammable, poisonous gas, C2N2, with a
   peach-blossom odor, so called from its tendency to form blue compounds;
   obtained by heating ammonium oxalate, mercuric cyanide, etc. It is
   obtained in combination, forming an alkaline cyanide when nitrogen or a
   nitrogenous compound is strongly ignited with carbon and soda or
   potash. It conducts itself like a member of the halogen group of
   elements, and shows a tendency to form complex compounds. The name is
   also applied to the univalent radical, CN (the half molecule of
   cyanogen proper), which was one of the first compound radicals
   recognized.


word: Cyanopathy
wordtype: n.
definition:
A disease in which the body is colored blue in its
   surface, arising usually from a malformation of the heart, which causes
   an imperfect arterialization of the blood; blue jaundice.


word: Cyanosis
wordtype: n.
definition:
A condition in which, from insufficient a/ration of the
   blood, the surface of the body becomes blue. See Cyanopathy.


word: Arrange
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To put in proper order; to dispose (persons, or parts)
   in the manner intended, or best suited for the purpose; as, troops
   arranged for battle.


word: Arrange
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To adjust or settle; to prepare; to determine; as, to
   arrange the preliminaries of an undertaking.


word: Arrangement
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of arranging or putting in an orderly
   condition; the state of being arranged or put in order; disposition in
   suitable form.


word: Arrangement
wordtype: n.
definition:
The manner or result of arranging; system of parts
   disposed in due order; regular and systematic classification; as,
   arrangement of one's dress; the Linnaean arrangement of plants.


word: Arrangement
wordtype: n.
definition:
Preparatory proceeding or measure; preparation; as, we
   have made arrangement for receiving company.


word: Arrangement
wordtype: n.
definition:
Settlement; adjustment by agreement; as, the parties
   have made an arrangement between themselves concerning their disputes;
   a satisfactory arrangement.


word: Arrangement
wordtype: n.
definition:
The adaptation of a composition to voices or
   instruments for which it was not originally written.


word: Arrangement
wordtype: n.
definition:
A piece so adapted; a transcription; as, a pianoforte
   arrangement of Beethoven's symphonies; an orchestral arrangement of a
   song, an opera, or the like.


word: Arrant
wordtype: a.
definition:
Notoriously or preeminently bad; thorough or downright, in
   a bad sense; shameless; unmitigated; as, an arrant rogue or coward.


word: Arras
wordtype: n.
definition:
Tapestry; a rich figured fabric; especially, a screen or
   hangings of heavy cloth with interwoven figures.


word: Arrasways
wordtype: adv.
definition:
Placed in such a position as to exhibit the top and
   two sides, the corner being in front; -- said of a rectangular form.


word: Array
wordtype: n.
definition:
Order; a regular and imposing arrangement; disposition in
   regular lines; hence, order of battle; as, drawn up in battle array.


word: Array
wordtype: n.
definition:
The whole body of persons thus placed in order; an orderly
   collection; hence, a body of soldiers.


word: Array
wordtype: n.
definition:
To deck or dress; to adorn with dress; to cloth to envelop;
   -- applied esp. to dress of a splendid kind.


word: Arrayer
wordtype: n.
definition:
One who arrays. In some early English statutes, applied to
   an officer who had care of the soldiers' armor, and who saw them duly
   accoutered.


word: Arrear
wordtype: n.
definition:
That which is behind in payment, or which remains unpaid,
   though due; esp. a remainder, or balance which remains due when some
   part has been paid; arrearage; -- commonly used in the plural, as,
   arrears of rent, wages, or taxes.


word: Arrentation
definition:
A letting or renting, esp. a license to inclose land in
   a forest with a low hedge and a ditch, under a yearly rent.


word: Arrest
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To stop; to check or hinder the motion or action of; as,
   to arrest the current of a river; to arrest the senses.


word: Arrest
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
The act of stopping, or restraining from further motion,
   etc.; stoppage; hindrance; restraint; as, an arrest of development.


word: Arrest
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
The taking or apprehending of a person by authority of
   law; legal restraint; custody. Also, a decree, mandate, or warrant.


word: Arrestment
wordtype: n.
definition:
The arrest of a person, or the seizure of his effects;
   esp., a process by which money or movables in the possession of a third
   party are attached.


word: Arriere
wordtype: n.
definition:
"That which is behind"; the rear; -- chiefly used as an
   adjective in the sense of behind, rear, subordinate.


word: Arriere-ban
wordtype: n.
definition:
A proclamation, as of the French kings, calling not
   only their immediate feudatories, but the vassals of these feudatories,
   to take the field for war; also, the body of vassals called or liable
   to be called to arms, as in ancient France.


word: Arris
wordtype: n.
definition:
The sharp edge or salient angle formed by two surfaces
   meeting each other, whether plane or curved; -- applied particularly to
   the edges in moldings, and to the raised edges which separate the
   flutings in a Doric column.


word: Arrival
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of arriving, or coming; the act of reaching a
   place from a distance, whether by water (as in its original sense) or
   by land.


word: Arrival
wordtype: n.
definition:
The attainment or reaching of any object, by effort, or in
   natural course; as, our arrival at this conclusion was wholly
   unexpected.


word: Arrive
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To come to the shore or bank. In present usage: To come
   in progress by water, or by traveling on land; to reach by water or by
   land; -- followed by at (formerly sometimes by to), also by in and
   from.


word: Arrive
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To reach a point by progressive motion; to gain or
   compass an object by effort, practice, study, inquiry, reasoning, or
   experiment.


word: Arroba
wordtype: n.
definition:
A Spanish weight used in Mexico and South America = 25.36
   lbs. avoir.; also, an old Portuguese weight, used in Brazil = 32.38
   lbs. avoir.


word: Arrogance
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act or habit of arrogating, or making undue claims
   in an overbearing manner; that species of pride which consists in
   exorbitant claims of rank, dignity, estimation, or power, or which
   exalts the worth or importance of the person to an undue degree; proud
   contempt of others; lordliness; haughtiness; self-assumption;
   presumption.


word: Arrogant
wordtype: a.
definition:
Making, or having the disposition to make, exorbitant
   claims of rank or estimation; giving one's self an undue degree of
   importance; assuming; haughty; -- applied to persons.


word: Arrogant
wordtype: a.
definition:
Containing arrogance; marked with arrogance; proceeding
   from undue claims or self-importance; -- applied to things; as,
   arrogant pretensions or behavior.


word: Arrogate
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To assume, or claim as one's own, unduly, proudly, or
   presumptuously; to make undue claims to, from vanity or baseless
   pretensions to right or merit; as, the pope arrogated dominion over
   kings.


word: Arrogation
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of arrogating, or making exorbitant claims; the
   act of taking more than one is justly entitled to.


word: Arrow
wordtype: n.
definition:
A missile weapon of offense, slender, pointed, and usually
   feathered and barbed, to be shot from a bow.


word: Arrow grass
wordtype: n.
definition:
An herbaceous grasslike plant (Triglochin palustre,
   and other species) with pods opening so as to suggest barbed
   arrowheads.


word: Arrowhead
wordtype: n.
definition:
An aquatic plant of the genus Sagittaria, esp. S.
   sagittifolia, -- named from the shape of the leaves.


word: Arrowroot
wordtype: n.
definition:
A west Indian plant of the genus Maranta, esp. M.
   arundinacea, now cultivated in many hot countries. It said that the
   Indians used the roots to neutralize the venom in wounds made by
   poisoned arrows.


word: Arrowroot
wordtype: n.
definition:
A nutritive starch obtained from the rootstocks of
   Maranta arundinacea, and used as food, esp. for children an invalids;
   also, a similar starch obtained from other plants, as various species
   of Maranta and Curcuma.


word: Arrowwood
wordtype: n.
definition:
A shrub (Viburnum dentatum) growing in damp woods and
   thickets; -- so called from the long, straight, slender shoots.


word: Arsenal
wordtype: n.
definition:
A public establishment for the storage, or for the
   manufacture and storage, of arms and all military equipments, whether
   for land or naval service.


word: Arsenic
wordtype: n.
definition:
One of the elements, a solid substance resembling a metal
   in its physical properties, but in its chemical relations ranking with
   the nonmetals. It is of a steel-gray color and brilliant luster, though
   usually dull from tarnish. It is very brittle, and sublimes at 356¡
   Fahrenheit. It is sometimes found native, but usually combined with
   silver, cobalt, nickel, iron, antimony, or sulphur. Orpiment and
   realgar are two of its sulphur compounds, the first of which is the
   true arsenicum of the ancients. The element and its compounds are
   active poisons. Specific gravity from 5.7 to 5.9. Atomic weight 75.
   Symbol As.


word: Arsenic
wordtype: n.
definition:
Arsenious oxide or arsenious anhydride; -- called also
   arsenious acid, white arsenic, and ratsbane.


word: Arsenic
wordtype: a.
definition:
Pertaining to, or derived from, arsenic; -- said of those
   compounds of arsenic in which this element has its highest equivalence;
   as, arsenic acid.


word: Arsenide
wordtype: n.
definition:
A compound of arsenic with a metal, or positive element
   or radical; -- formerly called arseniuret.


word: Arsenious
wordtype: a.
definition:
Pertaining to, or derived from, arsenic, when having an
   equivalence next lower than the highest; as, arsenious acid.


word: Arseniureted
wordtype: a.
definition:
Combined with arsenic; -- said some elementary
   substances or radicals; as, arseniureted hydrogen.


word: Arsenopyrite
wordtype: n.
definition:
A mineral of a tin-white color and metallic luster,
   containing arsenic, sulphur, and iron; -- also called arsenical pyrites
   and mispickel.


word: Arsine
wordtype: n.
definition:
A compound of arsenic and hydrogen, AsH3, a colorless and
   exceedingly poisonous gas, having an odor like garlic; arseniureted
   hydrogen.


word: Arsis
wordtype: n.
definition:
That part of a foot where the ictus is put, or which is
   distinguished from the rest (known as the thesis) of the foot by a
   greater stress of voice.


word: Arsis
wordtype: n.
definition:
The elevation of the hand, or that part of the bar at which
   it is raised, in beating time; the weak or unaccented part of the bar;
   -- opposed to thesis.


word: Arson
wordtype: n.
definition:
The malicious burning of a dwelling house or outhouse of
   another man, which by the common law is felony; the malicious and
   voluntary firing of a building or ship.


word: Art
definition:
The second person singular, indicative mode, present tense, of
   the substantive verb Be; but formed after the analogy of the plural
   are, with the ending -t, as in thou shalt, wilt, orig. an ending of the
   second person sing. pret. Cf. Be. Now used only in solemn or poetical
   style.


word: Art
wordtype: n.
definition:
The employment of means to accomplish some desired end; the
   adaptation of things in the natural world to the uses of life; the
   application of knowledge or power to practical purposes.


word: Art
wordtype: n.
definition:
A system of rules serving to facilitate the performance of
   certain actions; a system of principles and rules for attaining a
   desired end; method of doing well some special work; -- often
   contradistinguished from science or speculative principles; as, the art
   of building or engraving; the art of war; the art of navigation.


word: Art
wordtype: n.
definition:
The systematic application of knowledge or skill in effecting
   a desired result. Also, an occupation or business requiring such
   knowledge or skill.


word: Art
wordtype: n.
definition:
The application of skill to the production of the beautiful by
   imitation or design, or an occupation in which skill is so employed, as
   in painting and sculpture; one of the fine arts; as, he prefers art to
   literature.


word: Art
wordtype: n.
definition:
Those branches of learning which are taught in the academical
   course of colleges; as, master of arts.


word: Art
wordtype: n.
definition:
Skill, dexterity, or the power of performing certain actions,
   acquired by experience, study, or observation; knack; as, a man has the
   art of managing his business to advantage.


word: Artemia
wordtype: n.
definition:
A genus of phyllopod Crustacea found in salt lakes and
   brines; the brine shrimp. See Brine shrimp.


word: Artemisia
wordtype: n.
definition:
A genus of plants including the plants called mugwort,
   southernwood, and wormwood. Of these A. absinthium, or common wormwood,
   is well known, and A. tridentata is the sage brush of the Rocky
   Mountain region.


word: Arterialization
wordtype: n.
definition:
The process of converting venous blood into
   arterial blood during its passage through the lungs, oxygen being
   absorbed and carbonic acid evolved; -- called also aeration and
   hematosis.


word: Arterialize
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To transform, as the venous blood, into arterial
   blood by exposure to oxygen in the lungs; to make arterial.


word: Artery
wordtype: n.
definition:
One of the vessels or tubes which carry either venous or
   arterial blood from the heart. They have tricker and more muscular
   walls than veins, and are connected with them by capillaries.


word: Artful
wordtype: a.
definition:
Cunning; disposed to cunning indirectness of dealing;
   crafty; as, an artful boy. [The usual sense.]


word: Arthrodia
wordtype: n.
definition:
A form of diarthrodial articulation in which the
   articular surfaces are nearly flat, so that they form only an imperfect
   ball and socket.


word: Arthrogastra
wordtype: n. pl.
definition:
A division of the Arachnida, having the abdomen
   annulated, including the scorpions, harvestmen, etc.; pedipalpi.


word: Arthropoda
wordtype: n. pl.
definition:
A large division of Articulata, embracing all those
   that have jointed legs. It includes Insects, Arachnida, Pychnogonida,
   and Crustacea.


word: Arthrostraca
wordtype: n. pl.
definition:
One of the larger divisions of Crustacea, so
   called because the thorax and abdomen are both segmented;
   Tetradecapoda. It includes the Amphipoda and Isopoda.


word: Artiad
wordtype: a.
definition:
Even; not odd; -- said of elementary substances and of
   radicals the valence of which is divisible by two without a remainder.


word: Artichoke
wordtype: n.
definition:
The Cynara scolymus, a plant somewhat resembling a
   thistle, with a dilated, imbricated, and prickly involucre. The head
   (to which the name is also applied) is composed of numerous oval
   scales, inclosing the florets, sitting on a broad receptacle, which,
   with the fleshy base of the scales, is much esteemed as an article of
   food.


word: Article
wordtype: n.
definition:
A distinct portion of an instrument, discourse, literary
   work, or any other writing, consisting of two or more particulars, or
   treating of various topics; as, an article in the Constitution. Hence:
   A clause in a contract, system of regulations, treaty, or the like; a
   term, condition, or stipulation in a contract; a concise statement; as,
   articles of agreement.


word: Article
wordtype: n.
definition:
One of the three words, a, an, the, used before nouns to
   limit or define their application. A (or an) is called the indefinite
   article, the the definite article.


word: Articulata
wordtype: v.
definition:
One of the four subkingdoms in the classification of
   Cuvier. It has been much modified by later writers.


word: Articulata
wordtype: v.
definition:
One of the subdivisions of the Brachiopoda, including
   those that have the shells united by a hinge.


word: Articulate
wordtype: a.
definition:
Jointed; formed with joints; consisting of segments
   united by joints; as, articulate animals or plants.


word: Articulate
wordtype: a.
definition:
Distinctly uttered; spoken so as to be intelligible;
   characterized by division into words and syllables; as, articulate
   speech, sounds, words.


word: Articulate
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To utter articulate sounds; to utter the elementary
   sounds of a language; to enunciate; to speak distinctly.


word: Articulate
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To form, as the elementary sounds; to utter in
   distinct syllables or words; to enunciate; as, to articulate letters or
   language.


word: Articulation
wordtype: n.
definition:
One of the parts intercepted between the joints;
   also, a subdivision into parts at regular or irregular intervals as a
   result of serial intermission in growth, as in the cane, grasses, etc.


word: Articulation
wordtype: n.
definition:
The utterance of the elementary sounds of a language
   by the appropriate movements of the organs, as in pronunciation; as, a
   distinct articulation.


word: Articulation
wordtype: n.
definition:
A sound made by the vocal organs; an articulate
   utterance or an elementary sound, esp. a consonant.


word: Articulator
wordtype: n.
definition:
One who, or that which, articulates; as: (a) One who
   enunciates distinctly. (b) One who prepares and mounts skeletons. (c)
   An instrument to cure stammering.


word: Artificer
wordtype: n.
definition:
An artistic worker; a mechanic or manufacturer; one
   whose occupation requires skill or knowledge of a particular kind, as a
   silversmith.


word: Artificer
wordtype: n.
definition:
A military mechanic, as a blacksmith, carpenter, etc.;
   also, one who prepares the shells, fuses, grenades, etc., in a military
   laboratory.


word: Artificial
wordtype: a.
definition:
Made or contrived by art; produced or modified by human
   skill and labor, in opposition to natural; as, artificial heat or
   light, gems, salts, minerals, fountains, flowers.


word: Artillery
wordtype: n.
definition:
Cannon; great guns; ordnance, including guns, mortars,
   howitzers, etc., with their equipment of carriages, balls, bombs, and
   shot of all kinds.


word: Artillery
wordtype: n.
definition:
The men and officers of that branch of the army to which
   the care and management of artillery are confided.


word: Artiodactyla
wordtype: n. pl.
definition:
One of the divisions of the ungulate animals. The
   functional toes of the hind foot are even in number, and the third
   digit of each foot (corresponding to the middle finger in man) is
   asymmetrical and paired with the fourth digit, as in the hog, the
   sheep, and the ox; -- opposed to Perissodactyla.


word: Artist
wordtype: n.
definition:
One who professes and practices an art in which science and
   taste preside over the manual execution.


word: Artiste
wordtype: n.
definition:
One peculiarly dexterous and tasteful in almost any
   employment, as an opera dancer, a hairdresser, a cook.


word: Artistical
wordtype: a.
definition:
Of or pertaining to art or to artists; made in the
   manner of an artist; conformable to art; characterized by art; showing
   taste or skill.


word: Artless
wordtype: a.
definition:
Free from guile, art, craft, or stratagem; characterized
   by simplicity and sincerity; sincere; guileless; ingenuous; honest; as,
   an artless mind; an artless tale.


word: Artotyrite
wordtype: n.
definition:
One of a sect in the primitive church, who celebrated
   the Lord's Supper with bread and cheese, alleging that the first
   oblations of men not only of the fruit of the earth, but of their
   flocks. [Gen. iv. 3, 4.]


word: Arum
wordtype: n.
definition:
A genus of plants found in central Europe and about the
   Mediterranean, having flowers on a spadix inclosed in a spathe. The
   cuckoopint of the English is an example.


word: Arundelian
wordtype: a.
definition:
Pertaining to an Earl of Arundel; as, Arundel or
   Arundelian marbles, marbles from ancient Greece, bought by the Earl of
   Arundel in 1624.


word: Aruspex
wordtype: n.
definition:
One of the class of diviners among the Etruscans and
   Romans, who foretold events by the inspection of the entrails of
   victims offered on the altars of the gods.


word: Aryan
wordtype: n.
definition:
One of a primitive people supposed to have lived in
   prehistoric times, in Central Asia, east of the Caspian Sea, and north
   of the Hindoo Koosh and Paropamisan Mountains, and to have been the
   stock from which sprang the Hindoo, Persian, Greek, Latin, Celtic,
   Teutonic, Slavonic, and other races; one of that ethnological division
   of mankind called also Indo-European or Indo-Germanic.


word: Aryan
wordtype: a.
definition:
Of or pertaining to the people called Aryans; Indo-European;
   Indo-Germanic; as, the Aryan stock, the Aryan languages.


word: Arytenoid
wordtype: a.
definition:
Ladle-shaped; -- applied to two small cartilages of the
   larynx, and also to the glands, muscles, etc., connected with them. The
   cartilages are attached to the cricoid cartilage and connected with the
   vocal cords.


word: As
wordtype: adv. & conj.
definition:
Denoting equality or likeness in kind, degree, or
   manner; like; similar to; in the same manner with or in which; in
   accordance with; in proportion to; to the extent or degree in which or
   to which; equally; no less than; as, ye shall be as gods, knowing good
   and evil; you will reap as you sow; do as you are bidden.


word: As
wordtype: adv. & conj.
definition:
In the idea, character, or condition of, -- limiting
   the view to certain attributes or relations; as, virtue considered as
   virtue; this actor will appear as Hamlet.


word: As
wordtype: adv. & conj.
definition:
For instance; by way of example; thus; -- used to
   introduce illustrative phrases, sentences, or citations.


word: As
wordtype: n.
definition:
A Roman weight, answering to the libra or pound, equal to
   nearly eleven ounces Troy weight. It was divided into twelve ounces.


word: As
wordtype: n.
definition:
A Roman copper coin, originally of a pound weight (12 oz.); but
   reduced, after the first Punic war, to two ounces; in the second Punic
   war, to one ounce; and afterwards to half an ounce.


word: Asafoetida
wordtype: n.
definition:
The fetid gum resin or inspissated juice of a large
   umbelliferous plant (Ferula asafoetida) of Persia and the East Indies.
   It is used in medicine as an antispasmodic.


word: Asarabacca
wordtype: n.
definition:
An acrid herbaceous plant (Asarum Europaeum), the
   leaves and roots of which are emetic and cathartic. It is principally
   used in cephalic snuffs.


word: Asarone
wordtype: n.
definition:
A crystallized substance, resembling camphor, obtained
   from the Asarum Europaeum; -- called also camphor of asarum.


word: Asbestos
wordtype: n.
definition:
A variety of amphibole or of pyroxene, occurring in long
   and delicate fibers, or in fibrous masses or seams, usually of a white,
   gray, or green-gray color. The name is also given to a similar variety
   of serpentine.


word: Ascarid
wordtype: n.
definition:
A parasitic nematoid worm, espec. the roundworm, Ascaris
   lumbricoides, often occurring in the human intestine, and allied
   species found in domestic animals; also commonly applied to the pinworm
   (Oxyuris), often troublesome to children and aged persons.


word: Ascend
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To rise, in a figurative sense; to proceed from an
   inferior to a superior degree, from mean to noble objects, from
   particulars to generals, from modern to ancient times, from one note to
   another more acute, etc.; as, our inquiries ascend to the remotest
   antiquity; to ascend to our first progenitor.


word: Ascend
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To go or move upward upon or along; to climb; to mount;
   to go up the top of; as, to ascend a hill, a ladder, a tree, a river, a
   throne.


word: Ascendant
wordtype: n.
definition:
The horoscope, or that degree of the ecliptic which
   rises above the horizon at the moment of one's birth; supposed to have
   a commanding influence on a person's life and fortune.


word: Ascendant
wordtype: n.
definition:
An ancestor, or one who precedes in genealogy or degrees
   of kindred; a relative in the ascending line; a progenitor; -- opposed
   to descendant.


word: Ascension
wordtype: n.
definition:
Specifically: The visible ascent of our Savior on the
   fortieth day after his resurrection. (Acts i. 9.) Also, Ascension Day.


word: Ascensional
wordtype: a.
definition:
Relating to ascension; connected with ascent;
   ascensive; tending upward; as, the ascensional power of a balloon.


word: Ascent
definition:
The act of rising; motion upward; rise; a mounting upward;
   as, he made a tedious ascent; the ascent of vapors from the earth.


word: Ascent
definition:
The degree of elevation of an object, or the angle it makes
   with a horizontal line; inclination; rising grade; as, a road has an
   ascent of five degrees.


word: Ascertain
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To render (a person) certain; to cause to feel
   certain; to make confident; to assure; to apprise.


word: Ascertain
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To make (a thing) certain to the mind; to free from
   obscurity, doubt, or change; to make sure of; to fix; to determine.


word: Ascertain
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To find out or learn for a certainty, by trial,
   examination, or experiment; to get to know; as, to ascertain the weight
   of a commodity, or the purity of a metal.


word: Ascetic
wordtype: n.
definition:
In the early church, one who devoted himself to a solitary
   and contemplative life, characterized by devotion, extreme self-denial,
   and self-mortification; a hermit; a recluse; hence, one who practices
   extreme rigor and self-denial in religious things.


word: Ascidioidea
wordtype: n. pl.
definition:
A group of Tunicata, often shaped like a
   two-necked bottle. The group includes, social, and compound species.
   The gill is a netlike structure within the oral aperture. The
   integument is usually leathery in texture. See Illustration in
   Appendix.


word: Ascidium
wordtype: n.
definition:
A pitcher-shaped, or flask-shaped, organ or appendage of
   a plant, as the leaves of the pitcher plant, or the little bladderlike
   traps of the bladderwort (Utricularia).


word: Ascidium
wordtype: n.
definition:
A genus of simple ascidians, which formerly included most
   of the known species. It is sometimes used as a name for the
   Ascidioidea, or for all the Tunicata.


word: Ascians
wordtype: n. pl.
definition:
Persons who, at certain times of the year, have no
   shadow at noon; -- applied to the inhabitants of the torrid zone, who
   have, twice a year, a vertical sun.


word: Asclepiad
wordtype: n.
definition:
A choriambic verse, first used by the Greek poet
   Asclepias, consisting of four feet, viz., a spondee, two choriambi, and
   an iambus.


word: Asclepias
wordtype: n.
definition:
A genus of plants including the milkweed, swallowwort,
   and some other species having medicinal properties.


word: Ascococcus
wordtype: n.
definition:
A form of micrococcus, found in putrid meat infusions,
   occurring in peculiar masses, each of which is inclosed in a hyaline
   capsule and contains a large number of spherical micrococci.


word: Ascribe
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To attribute, impute, or refer, as to a cause; as, his
   death was ascribed to a poison; to ascribe an effect to the right
   cause; to ascribe such a book to such an author.


word: Ascus
wordtype: n.
definition:
A small membranous bladder or tube in which are inclosed the
   seedlike reproductive particles or sporules of lichens and certain
   fungi.


word: Asexual
wordtype: a.
definition:
Having no distinct sex; without sexual action; as, asexual
   reproduction. See Fission and Gemmation.


word: Ash
wordtype: n.
definition:
A genus of trees of the Olive family, having opposite pinnate
   leaves, many of the species furnishing valuable timber, as the European
   ash (Fraxinus excelsior) and the white ash (F. Americana).


word: Ashamed
wordtype: a.
definition:
Affected by shame; abashed or confused by guilt, or a
   conviction or consciousness of some wrong action or impropriety.


word: Ashes
wordtype: n. pl.
definition:
The earthy or mineral particles of combustible
   substances remaining after combustion, as of wood or coal.


word: Ashes
wordtype: n. pl.
definition:
Specifically: The remains of the human body when burnt,
   or when "returned to dust" by natural decay.


word: Ashler
wordtype: n.
definition:
In the United States especially, a thin facing of squared
   and dressed stone upon a wall of rubble or brick.


word: Ashore
wordtype: adv.
definition:
On shore or on land; on the land adjacent to water; to
   the shore; to the land; aground (when applied to a ship); -- sometimes
   opposed to aboard or afloat.


word: Ash Wednesday
definition:
The first day of Lent; -- so called from a custom in
   the Roman Catholic church of putting ashes, on that day, upon the
   foreheads of penitents.


word: Asiarch
wordtype: n.
definition:
One of the chiefs or pontiffs of the Roman province of
   Asia, who had the superintendence of the public games and religious
   rites.


word: Aside
wordtype: adv.
definition:
On, or to, one side; out of a straight line, course, or
   direction; at a little distance from the rest; out of the way; apart.


word: Aside
wordtype: n.
definition:
Something spoken aside; as, a remark made by a stageplayer
   which the other players are not supposed to hear.


word: Ask
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To request; to seek to obtain by words; to petition; to
   solicit; -- often with of, in the sense of from, before the person
   addressed.


word: Ask
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To require, demand, claim, or expect, whether by way of
   remuneration or return, or as a matter of necessity; as, what price do
   you ask?


word: Askew
wordtype: adv. & a.
definition:
Awry; askance; asquint; oblique or obliquely; --
   sometimes indicating scorn, or contempt, or entry.


word: Asmonean
wordtype: a.
definition:
Of or pertaining to the patriotic Jewish family to which
   the Maccabees belonged; Maccabean; as, the Asmonean dynasty.


word: Asmonean
wordtype: n.
definition:
One of the Asmonean family. The Asmoneans were leaders
   and rulers of the Jews from 168 to 35 b. c.


word: Asp
wordtype: n.
definition:
A small, hooded, poisonous serpent of Egypt and adjacent
   countries, whose bite is often fatal. It is the Naja haje. The name is
   also applied to other poisonous serpents, esp. to Vipera aspis of
   southern Europe. See Haje.


word: Aspalathus
wordtype: n.
definition:
A genus of plants of the natural order Leguminosae. The
   species are chiefly natives of the Cape of Good Hope.


word: Asparagine
wordtype: n.
definition:
A white, nitrogenous, crystallizable substance,
   C4H8N2O3+H2O, found in many plants, and first obtained from asparagus.
   It is believed to aid in the disposition of nitrogenous matter
   throughout the plant; -- called also altheine.


word: Asparaginous
wordtype: a.
definition:
Pertaining or allied to, or resembling, asparagus;
   having shoots which are eaten like asparagus; as, asparaginous
   vegetables.


word: Asparagus
wordtype: n.
definition:
A genus of perennial plants belonging to the natural
   order Liliaceae, and having erect much branched stems, and very slender
   branchlets which are sometimes mistaken for leaves. Asparagus racemosus
   is a shrubby climbing plant with fragrant flowers. Specifically: The
   Asparagus officinalis, a species cultivated in gardens.


word: Asparagus
wordtype: n.
definition:
The young and tender shoots of A. officinalis, which
   form a valuable and well-known article of food.


word: Aspect
wordtype: n.
definition:
Position or situation with regard to seeing; that position
   which enables one to look in a particular direction; position in
   relation to the points of the compass; as, a house has a southern
   aspect, that is, a position which faces the south.


word: Aspect
wordtype: n.
definition:
The situation of planets or stars with respect to one
   another, or the angle formed by the rays of light proceeding from them
   and meeting at the eye; the joint look of planets or stars upon each
   other or upon the earth.


word: Asp
wordtype: n.
definition:
One of several species of poplar bearing this name, especially
   the Populus tremula, so called from the trembling of its leaves, which
   move with the slightest impulse of the air.


word: Asper
wordtype: n.
definition:
The rough breathing; a mark (/) placed over an initial vowel
   sound or over / to show that it is aspirated, that is, pronounced with
   h before it; thus "ws, pronounced h/s, "rh`twr, pronounced hra"t/r.


word: Asperse
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To sprinkle, as water or dust, upon anybody or
   anything, or to besprinkle any one with a liquid or with dust.


word: Asperse
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To bespatter with foul reports or false and injurious
   charges; to tarnish in point of reputation or good name; to slander or
   calumniate; as, to asperse a poet or his writings; to asperse a man's
   character.


word: Aspersion
wordtype: n.
definition:
The spreading of calumniations reports or charges which
   tarnish reputation, like the bespattering of a body with foul water;
   calumny.


word: Asphaltum
wordtype: n.
definition:
Mineral pitch, Jews' pitch, or compact native bitumen.
   It is brittle, of a black or brown color and high luster on a surface
   of fracture; it melts and burns when heated, leaving no residue. It
   occurs on the surface and shores of the Dead Sea, which is therefore
   called Asphaltites, or the Asphaltic Lake. It is found also in many
   parts of Asia, Europe, and America. See Bitumen.


word: Asphaltum
wordtype: n.
definition:
A composition of bitumen, pitch, lime, and gravel, used
   for forming pavements, and as a water-proof cement for bridges, roofs,
   etc.; asphaltic cement. Artificial asphalt is prepared from coal tar,
   lime, sand, etc.


word: Asphodel
wordtype: n.
definition:
A general name for a plant of the genus Asphodelus. The
   asphodels are hardy perennial plants, several species of which are
   cultivated for the beauty of their flowers.


word: Asphyxy
wordtype: n.
definition:
Apparent death, or suspended animation; the condition
   which results from interruption of respiration, as in suffocation or
   drowning, or the inhalation of irrespirable gases.


word: Accept
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
In a deliberate body, to receive in acquittance of a
   duty imposed; as, to accept the report of a committee. [This makes it
   the property of the body, and the question is then on its adoption.]


word: Acceptable
wordtype: a.
definition:
Capable, worthy, or sure of being accepted or received
   with pleasure; pleasing to a receiver; gratifying; agreeable; welcome;
   as, an acceptable present, one acceptable to us.


word: Acceptance
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of accepting; a receiving what is offered, with
   approbation, satisfaction, or acquiescence; esp., favorable reception;
   approval; as, the acceptance of a gift, office, doctrine, etc.


word: Acceptance
wordtype: n.
definition:
An assent and engagement by the person on whom a bill
   of exchange is drawn, to pay it when due according to the terms of the
   acceptance.


word: Acceptance
wordtype: n.
definition:
An agreeing to terms or proposals by which a bargain is
   concluded and the parties are bound; the reception or taking of a thing
   bought as that for which it was bought, or as that agreed to be
   delivered, or the taking possession as owner.


word: Acceptation
wordtype: n.
definition:
The meaning in which a word or expression is
   understood, or generally received; as, term is to be used according to
   its usual acceptation.


word: Access
wordtype: n.
definition:
A coming to, or near approach; admittance; admission;
   accessibility; as, to gain access to a prince.


word: Access
wordtype: n.
definition:
The means, place, or way by which a thing may be
   approached; passage way; as, the access is by a neck of land.


word: Access
wordtype: n.
definition:
Increase by something added; addition; as, an access of
   territory. [In this sense accession is more generally used.]


word: Accessary
wordtype: a.
definition:
Accompanying, as a subordinate; additional; accessory;
   esp., uniting in, or contributing to, a crime, but not as chief actor.
   See Accessory.


word: Accessary
wordtype: n.
definition:
One who, not being present, contributes as an assistant
   or instigator to the commission of an offense.


word: Accessible
wordtype: a.
definition:
Easy of access or approach; approachable; as, an
   accessible town or mountain, an accessible person.


word: Accession
wordtype: n.
definition:
Increase by something added; that which is added;
   augmentation from without; as, an accession of wealth or territory.


word: Accession
wordtype: n.
definition:
A mode of acquiring property, by which the owner of a
   corporeal substance which receives an addition by growth, or by labor,
   has a right to the part or thing added, or the improvement (provided
   the thing is not changed into a different species). Thus, the owner of
   a cow becomes the owner of her calf.


word: Accession
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of coming to or reaching a throne, an office, or
   dignity; as, the accession of the house of Stuart; -- applied
   especially to the epoch of a new dynasty.


word: Accessory
wordtype: a.
definition:
Accompanying as a subordinate; aiding in a secondary
   way; additional; connected as an incident or subordinate to a
   principal; contributing or contributory; said of persons and things,
   and, when of persons, usually in a bad sense; as, he was accessory to
   the riot; accessory sounds in music.


word: Accessory
wordtype: n.
definition:
Anything that enters into a work of art without being
   indispensably necessary, as mere ornamental parts.


word: Acciaccatura
wordtype: n.
definition:
A short grace note, one semitone below the note to
   which it is prefixed; -- used especially in organ music. Now used as
   equivalent to the short appoggiatura.


word: Accident
wordtype: n.
definition:
Literally, a befalling; an event that takes place without
   one's foresight or expectation; an undesigned, sudden, and unexpected
   event; chance; contingency; often, an undesigned and unforeseen
   occurrence of an afflictive or unfortunate character; a casualty; a
   mishap; as, to die by an accident.


word: Accident
wordtype: n.
definition:
A property or quality of a thing which is not essential
   to it, as whiteness in paper; an attribute.


word: Accident
wordtype: n.
definition:
Any accidental property, fact, or relation; an accidental
   or nonessential; as, beauty is an accident.


word: Accidental
wordtype: a.
definition:
Happening by chance, or unexpectedly; taking place not
   according to the usual course of things; casual; fortuitous; as, an
   accidental visit.


word: Accidental
wordtype: n.
definition:
Those fortuitous effects produced by luminous rays
   falling on certain objects so that some parts stand forth in abnormal
   brightness and other parts are cast into a deep shadow.


word: Accidental
wordtype: n.
definition:
A sharp, flat, or natural, occurring not at the
   commencement of a piece of music as the signature, but before a
   particular note.


word: Accidentally
wordtype: adv.
definition:
In an accidental manner; unexpectedly; by chance;
   unintentionally; casually; fortuitously; not essentially.


word: Accipitres
wordtype: n. pl.
definition:
The order that includes rapacious birds. They have
   a hooked bill, and sharp, strongly curved talons. There are three
   families, represented by the vultures, the falcons or hawks, and the
   owls.


word: Acclimation
wordtype: n.
definition:
The process of becoming, or the state of being,
   acclimated, or habituated to a new climate; acclimatization.


word: Acclimatization
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of acclimatizing; the process of inuring
   to a new climate, or the state of being so inured.


word: Acclimatize
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To inure or habituate to a climate different from
   that which is natural; to adapt to the peculiarities of a foreign or
   strange climate; said of man, the inferior animals, or plants.


word: Acclivity
wordtype: n.
definition:
A slope or inclination of the earth, as the side of a
   hill, considered as ascending, in opposition to declivity, or
   descending; an upward slope; ascent.


word: Accolade
wordtype: n.
definition:
A ceremony formerly used in conferring knighthood,
   consisting am embrace, and a slight blow on the shoulders with the flat
   blade of a sword.


word: Accommodate
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To render fit, suitable, or correspondent; to
   adapt; to conform; as, to accommodate ourselves to circumstances.


word: Accommodate
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To bring into agreement or harmony; to reconcile;
   to compose; to adjust; to settle; as, to accommodate differences, a
   dispute, etc.


word: Accommodate
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To furnish with something desired, needed, or
   convenient; to favor; to oblige; as, to accommodate a friend with a
   loan or with lodgings.


word: Accommodate
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To show the correspondence of; to apply or make
   suit by analogy; to adapt or fit, as teachings to accidental
   circumstances, statements to facts, etc.; as, to accommodate prophecy
   to events.


word: Accommodating
wordtype: a.
definition:
Affording, or disposed to afford, accommodation;
   obliging; as an accommodating man, spirit, arrangement.


word: Accommodation
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of fitting or adapting, or the state of
   being fitted or adapted; adaptation; adjustment; -- followed by to.


word: Accommodation
wordtype: n.
definition:
Whatever supplies a want or affords ease,
   refreshment, or convenience; anything furnished which is desired or
   needful; -- often in the plural; as, the accommodations -- that is,
   lodgings and food -- at an inn.


word: Accommodation
wordtype: n.
definition:
The application of a writer's language, on the
   ground of analogy, to something not originally referred to or intended.


word: Accompaniment
wordtype: n.
definition:
That which accompanies; something that attends as a
   circumstance, or which is added to give greater completeness to the
   principal thing, or by way of ornament, or for the sake of symmetry.


word: Accompaniment
wordtype: n.
definition:
A part performed by instruments, accompanying
   another part or parts performed by voices; the subordinate part, or
   parts, accompanying the voice or a principal instrument; also, the
   harmony of a figured bass.


word: Accompany
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To go with or attend as a companion or associate; to
   keep company with; to go along with; -- followed by with or by; as, he
   accompanied his speech with a bow.


word: Accomplice
wordtype: n.
definition:
An associate in the commission of a crime; a
   participator in an offense, whether a principal or an accessory.


word: Accomplish
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To bring to an issue of full success; to effect; to
   perform; to execute fully; to fulfill; as, to accomplish a design, an
   object, a promise.


word: Accomplish
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To equip or furnish thoroughly; hence, to complete
   in acquirements; to render accomplished; to polish.


word: Accomplished
wordtype: a.
definition:
Complete in acquirements as the result usually of
   training; -- commonly in a good sense; as, an accomplished scholar, an
   accomplished villain.


word: Accomplishment
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of accomplishing; entire performance;
   completion; fulfillment; as, the accomplishment of an enterprise, of a
   prophecy, etc.


word: Accomplishment
wordtype: n.
definition:
That which completes, perfects, or equips
   thoroughly; acquirement; attainment; that which constitutes excellence
   of mind, or elegance of manners, acquired by education or training.


word: Accord
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
Agreement, harmony, or just correspondence of things;
   as, the accord of light and shade in painting.


word: Accord
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
An agreement between parties in controversy, by which
   satisfaction for an injury is stipulated, and which, when executed,
   bars a suit.


word: Accord
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To bring to an agreement, as persons; to reconcile; to
   settle, adjust, harmonize, or compose, as things; as, to accord suits
   or controversies.


word: Accord
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To agree; to correspond; to be in harmony; -- followed
   by with, formerly also by to; as, his disposition accords with his
   looks.


word: Accordion
wordtype: n.
definition:
A small, portable, keyed wind instrument, whose tones
   are generated by play of the wind upon free metallic reeds.


word: Account
wordtype: n.
definition:
A reckoning; computation; calculation; enumeration; a
   record of some reckoning; as, the Julian account of time.


word: Account
wordtype: n.
definition:
A registry of pecuniary transactions; a written or printed
   statement of business dealings or debts and credits, and also of other
   things subjected to a reckoning or review; as, to keep one's account at
   the bank.


word: Account
wordtype: n.
definition:
A statement in general of reasons, causes, grounds, etc.,
   explanatory of some event; as, no satisfactory account has been given
   of these phenomena. Hence, the word is often used simply for reason,
   ground, consideration, motive, etc.; as, on no account, on every
   account, on all accounts.


word: Account
wordtype: n.
definition:
A statement of facts or occurrences; recital of
   transactions; a relation or narrative; a report; a description; as, an
   account of a battle.


word: Account
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To render or receive an account or relation of
   particulars; as, an officer must account with or to the treasurer for
   money received.


word: Account
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To render an account; to answer in judgment; -- with
   for; as, we must account for the use of our opportunities.


word: Account
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To give a satisfactory reason; to tell the cause of; to
   explain; -- with for; as, idleness accounts for poverty.


word: Accountable
wordtype: a.
definition:
Liable to be called on to render an account;
   answerable; as, every man is accountable to God for his conduct.


word: Accountant
wordtype: n.
definition:
One who is skilled in, keeps, or adjusts, accounts; an
   officer in a public office, who has charge of the accounts.


word: Accoutre
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To furnish with dress, or equipments, esp. those for
   military service; to equip; to attire; to array.


word: Accredit
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To send with letters credential, as an ambassador,
   envoy, or diplomatic agent; to authorize, as a messenger or delegate.


word: Accredit
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To credit; to vouch for or consider (some one) as
   doing something, or (something) as belonging to some one.


word: Accrementition
wordtype: n.
definition:
The process of generation by development of
   blastema, or fission of cells, in which the new formation is in all
   respect like the individual from which it proceeds.


word: Accretion
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of increasing by natural growth; esp. the
   increase of organic bodies by the internal accession of parts; organic
   growth.


word: Accretion
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of increasing, or the matter added, by an
   accession of parts externally; an extraneous addition; as, an accretion
   of earth.


word: Accretion
wordtype: n.
definition:
Concretion; coherence of separate particles; as, the
   accretion of particles so as to form a solid mass.


word: Accretion
wordtype: n.
definition:
The adhering of property to something else, by which the
   owner of one thing becomes possessed of a right to another; generally,
   gain of land by the washing up of sand or sail from the sea or a river,
   or by a gradual recession of the water from the usual watermark.


word: Accretion
wordtype: n.
definition:
Gain to an heir or legatee, failure of a coheir to the
   same succession, or a co-legatee of the same thing, to take his share.


word: Accrue
wordtype: n.
definition:
To come to by way of increase; to arise or spring as a
   growth or result; to be added as increase, profit, or damage,
   especially as the produce of money lent.


word: Accumulate
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To heap up in a mass; to pile up; to collect or
   bring together; to amass; as, to accumulate a sum of money.


word: Accumulation
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of accumulating, the state of being
   accumulated, or that which is accumulated; as, an accumulation of
   earth, of sand, of evils, of wealth, of honors.


word: Accumulator
wordtype: n.
definition:
An apparatus by means of which energy or power can be
   stored, such as the cylinder or tank for storing water for hydraulic
   elevators, the secondary or storage battery used for accumulating the
   energy of electrical charges, etc.


word: Accuracy
wordtype: n.
definition:
The state of being accurate; freedom from mistakes, this
   exemption arising from carefulness; exact conformity to truth, or to a
   rule or model; precision; exactness; nicety; correctness; as, the value
   of testimony depends on its accuracy.


word: Accurate
wordtype: a.
definition:
In exact or careful conformity to truth, or to some
   standard of requirement, the result of care or pains; free from
   failure, error, or defect; exact; as, an accurate calculator; an
   accurate measure; accurate expression, knowledge, etc.


word: Accurse
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To devote to destruction; to imprecate misery or evil
   upon; to curse; to execrate; to anathematize.


word: Accurst
wordtype: p. p. & a.
definition:
Doomed to destruction or misery; cursed; hence,
   bad enough to be under the curse; execrable; detestable; exceedingly
   hateful; -- as, an accursed deed.


word: Accusation
wordtype: n.
definition:
That of which one is accused; the charge of an offense
   or crime, or the declaration containing the charge.


word: Accusative
wordtype: a.
definition:
Applied to the case (as the fourth case of Latin and
   Greek nouns) which expresses the immediate object on which the action
   or influence of a transitive verb terminates, or the immediate object
   of motion or tendency to, expressed by a preposition. It corresponds to
   the objective case in English.


word: Accuse
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
to charge with an offense, judicially or by a public
   process; -- with of; as, to accuse one of a high crime or misdemeanor.


word: Ace
wordtype: n.
definition:
A unit; a single point or spot on a card or die; the card or
   die so marked; as, the ace of diamonds.


word: Aceldama
wordtype: n.
definition:
The potter's field, said to have lain south of Jerusalem,
   purchased with the bribe which Judas took for betraying his Master, and
   therefore called the field of blood. Fig.: A field of bloodshed.


word: Acephala
wordtype: n. pl.
definition:
That division of the Mollusca which includes the
   bivalve shells, like the clams and oysters; -- so called because they
   have no evident head. Formerly the group included the Tunicata,
   Brachiopoda, and sometimes the Bryozoa. See Mollusca.


word: Acephalocyst
wordtype: n.
definition:
A larval entozoon in the form of a subglobular or
   oval vesicle, or hydatid, filled with fluid, sometimes found in the
   tissues of man and the lower animals; -- so called from the absence of
   a head or visible organs on the vesicle. These cysts are the immature
   stages of certain tapeworms. Also applied to similar cysts of different
   origin.


word: Acephalous
wordtype: a.
definition:
Having the style spring from the base, instead of from
   the apex, as is the case in certain ovaries.


word: Acescency
wordtype: n.
definition:
The quality of being acescent; the process of acetous
   fermentation; a moderate degree of sourness.


word: Acetabulifera
wordtype: n. pl.
definition:
The division of Cephalopoda in which the arms
   are furnished with cup-shaped suckers, as the cuttlefishes, squids, and
   octopus; the Dibranchiata. See Cephalopoda.


word: Acetal
wordtype: n.
definition:
A limpid, colorless, inflammable liquid from the slow
   oxidation of alcohol under the influence of platinum black.


word: Acetate
wordtype: n.
definition:
A salt formed by the union of acetic acid with a base or
   positive radical; as, acetate of lead, acetate of potash.


word: Acetic
wordtype: a.
definition:
Pertaining to, containing, or derived from, acetyl, as
   acetic ether, acetic acid. The latter is the acid to which the sour
   taste of vinegar is due.


word: Acetification
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of making acetous or sour; the process of
   converting, or of becoming converted, into vinegar.


word: Acetimeter
wordtype: n.
definition:
An instrument for estimating the amount of acetic acid
   in vinegar or in any liquid containing acetic acid.


word: Acetimetry
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act or method of ascertaining the strength of
   vinegar, or the proportion of acetic acid contained in it.


word: Acetone
wordtype: n.
definition:
A volatile liquid consisting of three parts of carbon, six
   of hydrogen, and one of oxygen; pyroacetic spirit, -- obtained by the
   distillation of certain acetates, or by the destructive distillation of
   citric acid, starch, sugar, or gum, with quicklime.


word: Acetyl
wordtype: n.
definition:
A complex, hypothetical radical, composed of two parts of
   carbon to three of hydrogen and one of oxygen. Its hydroxide is acetic
   acid.


word: Acetylene
wordtype: n.
definition:
A gaseous compound of carbon and hydrogen, in the
   proportion of two atoms of the former to two of the latter. It is a
   colorless gas, with a peculiar, unpleasant odor, and is produced for
   use as an illuminating gas in a number of ways, but chiefly by the
   action of water on calcium carbide. Its light is very brilliant.


word: Ache
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
Continued pain, as distinguished from sudden twinges, or
   spasmodic pain. "Such an ache in my bones."


word: Achenium
wordtype: n.
definition:
A small, dry, indehiscent fruit, containing a single
   seed, as in the buttercup; -- called a naked seed by the earlier
   botanists.


word: Acheron
wordtype: n.
definition:
A river in the Nether World or infernal regions; also, the
   infernal regions themselves. By some of the English poets it was
   supposed to be a flaming lake or gulf.


word: Achieve
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To carry on to a final close; to bring out into a
   perfected state; to accomplish; to perform; -- as, to achieve a feat,
   an exploit, an enterprise.


word: Achievement
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of achieving or performing; an obtaining by
   exertion; successful performance; accomplishment; as, the achievement
   of his object.


word: Achievement
wordtype: n.
definition:
A great or heroic deed; something accomplished by
   valor, boldness, or praiseworthy exertion; a feat.


word: Achievement
wordtype: n.
definition:
An escutcheon or ensign armorial; now generally
   applied to the funeral shield commonly called hatchment.


word: Achilles' tendon
wordtype: n.
definition:
The strong tendon formed of the united tendons of
   the large muscles in the calf of the leg, an inserted into the bone of
   the heel; -- so called from the mythological account of Achilles being
   held by the heel when dipped in the River Styx.


word: Acicula
wordtype: n.
definition:
One of the needlelike or bristlelike spines or prickles of
   some animals and plants; also, a needlelike crystal.


word: Acicular
wordtype: a.
definition:
Needle-shaped; slender like a needle or bristle, as some
   leaves or crystals; also, having sharp points like needless.


word: Acid
wordtype: a.
definition:
Sour, sharp, or biting to the taste; tart; having the taste
   of vinegar: as, acid fruits or liquors. Also fig.: Sour-tempered.


word: Acid
wordtype: n.
definition:
One of a class of compounds, generally but not always
   distinguished by their sour taste, solubility in water, and reddening
   of vegetable blue or violet colors. They are also characterized by the
   power of destroying the distinctive properties of alkalies or bases,
   combining with them to form salts, at the same time losing their own
   peculiar properties. They all contain hydrogen, united with a more
   negative element or radical, either alone, or more generally with
   oxygen, and take their names from this negative element or radical.
   Those which contain no oxygen are sometimes called hydracids in
   distinction from the others which are called oxygen acids or oxacids.


word: Acidifier
wordtype: n.
definition:
A simple or compound principle, whose presence is
   necessary to produce acidity, as oxygen, chlorine, bromine, iodine,
   etc.


word: Acidimetry
wordtype: n.
definition:
The measurement of the strength of acids, especially by
   a chemical process based on the law of chemical combinations, or the
   fact that, to produce a complete reaction, a certain definite weight of
   reagent is required.


word: Acidity
wordtype: n.
definition:
The quality of being sour; sourness; tartness; sharpness
   to the taste; as, the acidity of lemon juice.


word: Acierage
wordtype: n.
definition:
The process of coating the surface of a metal plate (as a
   stereotype plate) with steellike iron by means of voltaic electricity;
   steeling.


word: Acinus
wordtype: n.
definition:
One of the small grains or drupelets which make up some
   kinds of fruit, as the blackberry, raspberry, etc.


word: Acinus
wordtype: n.
definition:
One of the granular masses which constitute a racemose or
   compound gland, as the pancreas; also, one of the saccular recesses in
   the lobules of a racemose gland.


word: Acipenser
wordtype: n.
definition:
A genus of ganoid fishes, including the sturgeons,
   having the body armed with bony scales, and the mouth on the under side
   of the head. See Sturgeon.


word: Acknowledge
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To of or admit the knowledge of; to recognize as a
   fact or truth; to declare one's belief in; as, to acknowledge the being
   of a God.


word: Acknowledge
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To own or recognize in a particular character or
   relationship; to admit the claims or authority of; to give recognition
   to.


word: Acknowledge
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To own with gratitude or as a benefit or an
   obligation; as, to acknowledge a favor, the receipt of a letter.


word: Acknowledge
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To own as genuine; to assent to, as a legal
   instrument, to give it validity; to avow or admit in legal form; as, to
   acknowledgea deed.


word: Acknowledgment
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of owning or recognized in a particular
   character or relationship; recognition as regards the existence,
   authority, truth, or genuineness.


word: Acknowledgment
wordtype: n.
definition:
A declaration or avowal of one's own act, to give
   it legal validity; as, the acknowledgment of a deed before a proper
   officer. Also, the certificate of the officer attesting such
   declaration.


word: Aclinic
wordtype: a.
definition:
Without inclination or dipping; -- said the magnetic
   needle balances itself horizontally, having no dip. The aclinic line is
   also termed the magnetic equator.


word: Acnode
wordtype: n.
definition:
An isolated point not upon a curve, but whose coordinates
   satisfy the equation of the curve so that it is considered as belonging
   to the curve.


word: Acolyte
wordtype: n.
definition:
One who has received the highest of the four minor orders
   in the Catholic church, being ordained to carry the wine and water and
   the lights at the Mass.


word: Aconite
wordtype: n.
definition:
The herb wolfsbane, or monkshood; -- applied to any plant
   of the genus Aconitum (tribe Hellebore), all the species of which are
   poisonous.


word: Acontia
wordtype: n. pl.
definition:
Threadlike defensive organs, composed largely of
   nettling cells (cnidae), thrown out of the mouth or special pores of
   certain Actiniae when irritated.


word: Acontias
wordtype: n.
definition:
Anciently, a snake, called dart snake; now, one of a
   genus of reptiles closely allied to the lizards.


word: Acotyledonous
wordtype: a.
definition:
Having no seed lobes, as the dodder; also applied to
   plants which have no true seeds, as ferns, mosses, etc.


word: Acquaint
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To furnish or give experimental knowledge of; to make
   (one) to know; to make familiar; -- followed by with.


word: Acquaint
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To communicate notice to; to inform; to make
   cognizant; -- followed by with (formerly, also, by of), or by that,
   introducing the intelligence; as, to acquaint a friend with the
   particulars of an act.


word: Acquaintance
wordtype: n.
definition:
A state of being acquainted, or of having intimate,
   or more than slight or superficial, knowledge; personal knowledge
   gained by intercourse short of that of friendship or intimacy; as, I
   know the man; but have no acquaintance with him.


word: Acquiesce
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To rest satisfied, or apparently satisfied, or to
   rest without opposition and discontent (usually implying previous
   opposition or discontent); to accept or consent by silence or by
   omitting to object; -- followed by in, formerly also by with and to.


word: Acquiesce
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To concur upon conviction; as, to acquiesce in an
   opinion; to assent to; usually, to concur, not heartily but so far as
   to forbear opposition.


word: Acquiescence
wordtype: n.
definition:
A silent or passive assent or submission, or a
   submission with apparent content; -- distinguished from avowed consent
   on the one hand, and on the other, from opposition or open discontent;
   quiet satisfaction.


word: Acquiescent
wordtype: a.
definition:
Resting satisfied or submissive; disposed tacitly to
   submit; assentive; as, an acquiescent policy.


word: Acquire
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To gain, usually by one's own exertions; to get as
   one's own; as, to acquire a title, riches, knowledge, skill, good or
   bad habits.


word: Acquit
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To set free, release or discharge from an obligation,
   duty, liability, burden, or from an accusation or charge; -- now
   followed by of before the charge, formerly by from; as, the jury
   acquitted the prisoner; we acquit a man of evil intentions.


word: Acquit
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To bear or conduct one's self; to perform one's part;
   as, the soldier acquitted himself well in battle; the orator acquitted
   himself very poorly.


word: Acquittal
wordtype: n.
definition:
A setting free, or deliverance from the charge of an
   offense, by verdict of a jury or sentence of a court.


word: Acre
wordtype: n.
definition:
A piece of land, containing 160 square rods, or 4,840 square
   yards, or 43,560 square feet. This is the English statute acre. That of
   the United States is the same. The Scotch acre was about 1.26 of the
   English, and the Irish 1.62 of the English.


word: Acridness
wordtype: n.
definition:
The quality of being acrid or pungent; irritant
   bitterness; acrimony; as, the acridity of a plant, of a speech.


word: Acrimony
wordtype: n.
definition:
A quality of bodies which corrodes or destroys others;
   also, a harsh or biting sharpness; as, the acrimony of the juices of
   certain plants.


word: Acrimony
wordtype: n.
definition:
Sharpness or severity, as of language or temper;
   irritating bitterness of disposition or manners.


word: Acritical
wordtype: a.
definition:
Having no crisis; giving no indications of a crisis; as,
   acritical symptoms, an acritical abscess.


word: Acroamatical
wordtype: a.
definition:
Communicated orally; oral; -- applied to the esoteric
   teachings of Aristotle, those intended for his genuine disciples, in
   distinction from his exoteric doctrines, which were adapted to
   outsiders or the public generally. Hence: Abstruse; profound.


word: Acroceraunian
wordtype: a.
definition:
Of or pertaining to the high mountain range of
   "thunder-smitten" peaks (now Kimara), between Epirus and Macedonia.


word: Acrolein
wordtype: n.
definition:
A limpid, colorless, highly volatile liquid, obtained by
   the dehydration of glycerin, or the destructive distillation of neutral
   fats containing glycerin. Its vapors are intensely irritating.


word: Acropetal
wordtype: a.
definition:
Developing from below towards the apex, or from the
   circumference towards the center; centripetal; -- said of certain
   inflorescence.


word: Acrophony
wordtype: n.
definition:
The use of a picture symbol of an object to represent
   phonetically the initial sound of the name of the object.


word: Acrospire
wordtype: n.
definition:
The sprout at the end of a seed when it begins to
   germinate; the plumule in germination; -- so called from its spiral
   form.


word: Across
wordtype: n.
definition:
From side to side; athwart; crosswise, or in a direction
   opposed to the length; quite over; as, a bridge laid across a river.


word: Acrostic
wordtype: n.
definition:
A composition, usually in verse, in which the first or
   the last letters of the lines, or certain other letters, taken in
   order, form a name, word, phrase, or motto.


word: Acrostic
wordtype: n.
definition:
A Hebrew poem in which the lines or stanzas begin with
   the letters of the alphabet in regular order (as Psalm cxix.). See
   Abecedarian.


word: Acroteleutic
wordtype: n.
definition:
The end of a verse or psalm, or something added
   thereto, to be sung by the people, by way of a response.


word: Acroterium
wordtype: n.
definition:
One of the small pedestals, for statues or other
   ornaments, placed on the apex and at the basal angles of a pediment.
   Acroteria are also sometimes placed upon the gables in Gothic
   architecture.


word: Acrylic
wordtype: a.
definition:
Of or containing acryl, the hypothetical radical of which
   acrolein is the hydride; as, acrylic acid.


word: Act
wordtype: n.
definition:
That which is done or doing; the exercise of power, or the
   effect, of which power exerted is the cause; a performance; a deed.


word: Act
wordtype: n.
definition:
The result of public deliberation; the decision or
   determination of a legislative body, council, court of justice, etc.; a
   decree, edit, law, judgment, resolve, award; as, an act of Parliament,
   or of Congress.


word: Act
wordtype: n.
definition:
A performance of part of a play; one of the principal
   divisions of a play or dramatic work in which a certain definite part
   of the action is completed.


word: Act
wordtype: n.
definition:
A thesis maintained in public, in some English universities,
   by a candidate for a degree, or to show the proficiency of a student.


word: Act
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To perform actions; to fulfill functions; to put forth
   energy; to move, as opposed to remaining at rest; to carry into effect
   a determination of the will.


word: Act
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To behave or conduct, as in morals, private duties, or
   public offices; to bear or deport one's self; as, we know not why he
   has acted so.


word: Actinaria
wordtype: n. pl.
definition:
A large division of Anthozoa, including those which
   have simple tentacles and do not form stony corals. Sometimes, in a
   wider sense, applied to all the Anthozoa, expert the Alcyonaria,
   whether forming corals or not.


word: Actinia
wordtype: n.
definition:
An animal of the class Anthozoa, and family Actinidae.
   From a resemblance to flowers in form and color, they are often called
   animal flowers and sea anemones. [See Polyp.].


word: Actinism
wordtype: n.
definition:
The property of radiant energy (found chiefly in solar or
   electric light) by which chemical changes are produced, as in
   photography.


word: Actinium
wordtype: n.
definition:
A supposed metal, said by Phipson to be contained in
   commercial zinc; -- so called because certain of its compounds are
   darkened by exposure to light.


word: Actinograph
wordtype: n.
definition:
An instrument for measuring and recording the
   variations in the actinic or chemical force of rays of light.


word: Actinometric
wordtype: a.
definition:
Pertaining to the measurement of the intensity of the
   solar rays, either (a) heating, or (b) actinic.


word: Actinotrocha
wordtype: n. pl.
definition:
A peculiar larval form of Phoronis, a genus of
   marine worms, having a circle of ciliated tentacles.


word: Actinozoa
wordtype: n. pl.
definition:
A group of Coelenterata, comprising the Anthozoa and
   Ctenophora. The sea anemone, or actinia, is a familiar example.


word: Action
wordtype: n.
definition:
A process or condition of acting or moving, as opposed to
   rest; the doing of something; exertion of power or force, as when one
   body acts on another; the effect of power exerted on one body by
   another; agency; activity; operation; as, the action of heat; a man of
   action.


word: Action
wordtype: n.
definition:
An act; a thing done; a deed; an enterprise. (pl.):
   Habitual deeds; hence, conduct; behavior; demeanor.


word: Action
wordtype: n.
definition:
The event or connected series of events, either real or
   imaginary, forming the subject of a play, poem, or other composition;
   the unfolding of the drama of events.


word: Action
wordtype: n.
definition:
Any one of the active processes going on in an organism;
   the performance of a function; as, the action of the heart, the
   muscles, or the gastric juice.


word: Action
wordtype: n.
definition:
Gesticulation; the external deportment of the speaker, or
   the suiting of his attitude, voice, gestures, and countenance, to the
   subject, or to the feelings.


word: Action
wordtype: n.
definition:
The attitude or position of the several parts of the body
   as expressive of the sentiment or passion depicted.


word: Action
wordtype: n.
definition:
A suit or process, by which a demand is made of a right in
   a court of justice; in a broad sense, a judicial proceeding for the
   enforcement or protection of a right, the redress or prevention of a
   wrong, or the punishment of a public offense.


word: Action
wordtype: n.
definition:
A share in the capital stock of a joint-stock company, or
   in the public funds; hence, in the plural, equivalent to stocks.


word: Action
wordtype: n.
definition:
An engagement between troops in war, whether on land or
   water; a battle; a fight; as, a general action, a partial action.


word: Action
wordtype: n.
definition:
The mechanical contrivance by means of which the impulse of
   the player's finger is transmitted to the strings of a pianoforte or to
   the valve of an organ pipe.


word: Active
wordtype: a.
definition:
Having the power or quality of acting; causing change;
   communicating action or motion; acting; -- opposed to passive, that
   receives; as, certain active principles; the powers of the mind.


word: Active
wordtype: a.
definition:
Quick in physical movement; of an agile and vigorous body;
   nimble; as, an active child or animal.


word: Active
wordtype: a.
definition:
In action; actually proceeding; working; in force; --
   opposed to quiescent, dormant, or extinct; as, active laws; active
   hostilities; an active volcano.


word: Active
wordtype: a.
definition:
Given to action; constantly engaged in action; energetic;
   diligent; busy; -- opposed to dull, sluggish, indolent, or inert; as,
   an active man of business; active mind; active zeal.


word: Active
wordtype: a.
definition:
Requiring or implying action or exertion; -- opposed to
   sedentary or to tranquil; as, active employment or service; active
   scenes.


word: Active
wordtype: a.
definition:
Given to action rather than contemplation; practical;
   operative; -- opposed to speculative or theoretical; as, an active
   rather than a speculative statesman.


word: Actively
wordtype: adv.
definition:
In an active manner; nimbly; briskly; energetically;
   also, by one's own action; voluntarily, not passively.


word: Activity
wordtype: n.
definition:
The state or quality of being active; nimbleness;
   agility; vigorous action or operation; energy; active force; as, an
   increasing variety of human activities.


word: Actual
wordtype: a.
definition:
Existing in act or reality; really acted or acting; in
   fact; real; -- opposed to potential, possible, virtual, speculative,
   conceivable, theoretical, or nominal; as, the actual cost of goods; the
   actual case under discussion.


word: Actualist
wordtype: n.
definition:
One who deals with or considers actually existing facts
   and conditions, rather than fancies or theories; -- opposed to
   idealist.


word: Actuary
wordtype: n.
definition:
A registrar or clerk; -- used originally in courts of
   civil law jurisdiction, but in Europe used for a clerk or registrar
   generally.


word: Actuary
wordtype: n.
definition:
The computing official of an insurance company; one whose
   profession it is to calculate for insurance companies the risks and
   premiums for life, fire, and other insurances.


word: Actuate
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To put into action or motion; to move or incite to
   action; to influence actively; to move as motives do; -- more commonly
   used of persons.


word: Acupressure
wordtype: n.
definition:
A mode of arresting hemorrhage resulting from wounds
   or surgical operations, by passing under the divided vessel a needle,
   the ends of which are left exposed externally on the cutaneous surface.


word: Acute
wordtype: a.
definition:
Sharp at the end; ending in a sharp point; pointed; --
   opposed to blunt or obtuse; as, an acute angle; an acute leaf.


word: Acute
wordtype: a.
definition:
Having nice discernment; perceiving or using minute
   distinctions; penetrating; clever; shrewd; -- opposed to dull or
   stupid; as, an acute observer; acute remarks, or reasoning.


word: Acute
wordtype: a.
definition:
Having nice or quick sensibility; susceptible to slight
   impressions; acting keenly on the senses; sharp; keen; intense; as, a
   man of acute eyesight, hearing, or feeling; acute pain or pleasure.


word: Acute
wordtype: a.
definition:
High, or shrill, in respect to some other sound; -- opposed
   to grave or low; as, an acute tone or accent.


word: Acute
wordtype: a.
definition:
Attended with symptoms of some degree of severity, and
   coming speedily to a crisis; -- opposed to chronic; as, an acute
   disease.


word: Acute-angled
wordtype: a.
definition:
Having acute angles; as, an acute-angled triangle, a
   triangle with every one of its angles less than a right angle.


word: Acuteness
wordtype: n.
definition:
The faculty of nice discernment or perception; acumen;
   keenness; sharpness; sensitiveness; -- applied to the senses, or the
   understanding. By acuteness of feeling, we perceive small objects or
   slight impressions: by acuteness of intellect, we discern nice
   distinctions.


word: Ad-
definition:
As a prefix ad- assumes the forms ac-, af-, ag-, al-, an-, ap-,
   ar-, as-, at-, assimilating the d with the first letter of the word to
   which ad- is prefixed. It remains unchanged before vowels, and before
   d, h, j, m, v. Examples: adduce, adhere, adjacent, admit, advent,
   accord, affect, aggregate, allude, annex, appear, etc. It becomes ac-
   before qu, as in acquiesce.


word: Adagio
wordtype: a. & adv.
definition:
Slow; slowly, leisurely, and gracefully. When
   repeated, adagio, adagio, it directs the movement to be very slow.


word: Adamant
wordtype: n.
definition:
A stone imagined by some to be of impenetrable hardness; a
   name given to the diamond and other substances of extreme hardness; but
   in modern mineralogy it has no technical signification. It is now a
   rhetorical or poetical name for the embodiment of impenetrable
   hardness.


word: Adamantine
wordtype: a.
definition:
Made of adamant, or having the qualities of adamant;
   incapable of being broken, dissolved, or penetrated; as, adamantine
   bonds or chains.


word: Adamite
wordtype: n.
definition:
One of a sect of visionaries, who, professing to imitate
   the state of Adam, discarded the use of dress in their assemblies.


word: Adansonia
wordtype: n.
definition:
A genus of great trees related to the Bombax. There are
   two species, A. digitata, the baobab or monkey-bread of Africa and
   India, and A. Gregorii, the sour gourd or cream-of-tartar tree of
   Australia. Both have a trunk of moderate height, but of enormous
   diameter, and a wide-spreading head. The fruit is oblong, and filled
   with pleasantly acid pulp. The wood is very soft, and the bark is used
   by the natives for making ropes and cloth.


word: Adapt
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To make suitable; to fit, or suit; to adjust; to alter so
   as to fit for a new use; -- sometimes followed by to or for.


word: Adar
wordtype: n.
definition:
The twelfth month of the Hebrew ecclesiastical year, and the
   sixth of the civil. It corresponded nearly with March.


word: Adarce
wordtype: n.
definition:
A saltish concretion on reeds and grass in marshy grounds
   in Galatia. It is soft and porous, and was formerly used for cleansing
   the skin from freckles and tetters, and also in leprosy.


word: Aspirate
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To pronounce with a breathing, an aspirate, or an h
   sound; as, we aspirate the words horse and house; to aspirate a vowel
   or a liquid consonant.


word: Aspirate
wordtype: n.
definition:
A sound consisting of, or characterized by, a breath like
   the sound of h; the breathing h or a character representing such a
   sound; an aspirated sound.


word: Aspirate
wordtype: n.
definition:
An elementary sound produced by the breath alone; a surd,
   or nonvocal consonant; as, f, th in thin, etc.


word: Aspiration
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of aspirating; the pronunciation of a letter
   with a full or strong emission of breath; an aspirated sound.


word: Aspirator
wordtype: n.
definition:
An apparatus for passing air or gases through or over
   certain liquids or solids, or for exhausting a closed vessel, by means
   of suction.


word: Aspire
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To desire with eagerness; to seek to attain something
   high or great; to pant; to long; -- followed by to or after, and rarely
   by at; as, to aspire to a crown; to aspire after immorality.


word: Asquint
wordtype: adv.
definition:
With the eye directed to one side; not in the straight
   line of vision; obliquely; awry, so as to see distortedly; as, to look
   asquint.


word: Ass
wordtype: n.
definition:
A quadruped of the genus Equus (E. asinus), smaller than the
   horse, and having a peculiarly harsh bray and long ears. The tame or
   domestic ass is patient, slow, and sure-footed, and has become the type
   of obstinacy and stupidity. There are several species of wild asses
   which are swift-footed.


word: Assail
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To attack with violence, or in a vehement and hostile
   manner; to assault; to molest; as, to assail a man with blows; to
   assail a city with artillery.


word: Assail
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To encounter or meet purposely with the view of
   mastering, as an obstacle, difficulty, or the like.


word: Assail
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To attack morally, or with a view to produce changes in
   the feelings, character, conduct, existing usages, institutions; to
   attack by words, hostile influence, etc.; as, to assail one with
   appeals, arguments, abuse, ridicule, and the like.


word: Assamar
wordtype: n.
definition:
The peculiar bitter substance, soft or liquid, and of a
   yellow color, produced when meat, bread, gum, sugar, starch, and the
   like, are roasted till they turn brown.


word: Assart
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act or offense of grubbing up trees and bushes, and
   thus destroying the thickets or coverts of a forest.


word: Assassin
wordtype: n.
definition:
One who kills, or attempts to kill, by surprise or secret
   assault; one who treacherously murders any one unprepared for defense.


word: Assault
wordtype: n.
definition:
A violent onset or attack with physical means, as blows,
   weapons, etc.; an onslaught; the rush or charge of an attacking force;
   onset; as, to make assault upon a man, a house, or a town.


word: Assault
wordtype: n.
definition:
A violent onset or attack with moral weapons, as words,
   arguments, appeals, and the like; as, to make an assault on the
   prerogatives of a prince, or on the constitution of a government.


word: Assault
wordtype: n.
definition:
An apparently violent attempt, or willful offer with force
   or violence, to do hurt to another; an attempt or offer to beat
   another, accompanied by a degree of violence, but without touching his
   person, as by lifting the fist, or a cane, in a threatening manner, or
   by striking at him, and missing him. If the blow aimed takes effect, it
   is a battery.


word: Assault
wordtype: n.
definition:
To make an assault upon, as by a sudden rush of armed men;
   to attack with unlawful or insulting physical violence or menaces.


word: Assault
wordtype: n.
definition:
To attack with moral means, or with a view of producing
   moral effects; to attack by words, arguments, or unfriendly measures;
   to assail; as, to assault a reputation or an administration.


word: Assay
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act or process of ascertaining the proportion of a
   particular metal in an ore or alloy; especially, the determination of
   the proportion of gold or silver in bullion or coin.


word: Assay
wordtype: v.
definition:
To subject, as an ore, alloy, or other metallic compound, to
   chemical or metallurgical examination, in order to determine the amount
   of a particular metal contained in it, or to ascertain its composition.


word: Assayer
wordtype: n.
definition:
One who assays. Specifically: One who examines metallic
   ores or compounds, for the purpose of determining the amount of any
   particular metal in the same, especially of gold or silver.


word: Assaying
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act or process of testing, esp. of analyzing or
   examining metals and ores, to determine the proportion of pure metal.


word: Assemblage
wordtype: n.
definition:
A collection of individuals, or of individuals, or of
   particular things; as, a political assemblage; an assemblage of ideas.


word: Assembly
wordtype: n.
definition:
A company of persons collected together in one place, and
   usually for some common purpose, esp. for deliberation and legislation,
   for worship, or for social entertainment.


word: Assent
wordtype: v.
definition:
The act of assenting; the act of the mind in admitting or
   agreeing to anything; concurrence with approval; consent; agreement;
   acquiescence.


word: Assert
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To affirm; to declare with assurance, or plainly and
   strongly; to state positively; to aver; to asseverate.


word: Assert
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To maintain or defend, as a cause or a claim, by words
   or measures; to vindicate a claim or title to; as, to assert our rights
   and liberties.


word: Assertion
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of asserting, or that which is asserted;
   positive declaration or averment; affirmation; statement asserted;
   position advanced.


word: Assertor
wordtype: n.
definition:
One who asserts or avers; one who maintains or vindicates
   a claim or a right; an affirmer, supporter, or vindicator; a defender;
   an asserter.


word: Assess
wordtype: v.
definition:
To apportion a sum to be paid by (a person, a community, or
   an estate), in the nature of a tax, fine, etc.; to impose a tax upon (a
   person, an estate, or an income) according to a rate or apportionment.


word: Assess
wordtype: v.
definition:
To determine and impose a tax or fine upon (a person,
   community, estate, or income); to tax; as, the club assessed each
   member twenty-five cents.


word: Assessment
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of assessing; the act of determining an amount
   to be paid; as, an assessment of damages, or of taxes; an assessment of
   the members of a club.


word: Assessment
wordtype: n.
definition:
A valuation of property or profits of business, for the
   purpose of taxation; such valuation and an adjudging of the proper sum
   to be levied on the property; as, an assessment of property or an
   assessment on property.


word: Assessment
wordtype: n.
definition:
An apportionment of a subscription for stock into
   successive installments; also, one of these installments (in England
   termed a "call").


word: Assessor
wordtype: v.
definition:
One appointed or elected to assist a judge or magistrate
   with his special knowledge of the subject to be decided; as legal
   assessors, nautical assessors.


word: Assessor
wordtype: v.
definition:
One who sits by another, as next in dignity, or as an
   assistant and adviser; an associate in office.


word: Assets
wordtype: n. pl.
definition:
Property of a deceased person, subject by law to the
   payment of his debts and legacies; -- called assets because sufficient
   to render the executor or administrator liable to the creditors and
   legatees, so far as such goods or estate may extend.


word: Assets
wordtype: n. pl.
definition:
The entire property of all sorts, belonging to a
   person, a corporation, or an estate; as, the assets of a merchant or a
   trading association; -- opposed to liabilities.


word: Asseveration
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of asseverating, or that which is
   asseverated; positive affirmation or assertion; solemn declaration.


word: Assiduity
wordtype: n.
definition:
Constant or close application or attention, particularly
   to some business or enterprise; diligence.


word: Assiento
wordtype: n.
definition:
A contract or convention between Spain and other powers
   for furnishing negro slaves for the Spanish dominions in America, esp.
   the contract made with Great Britain in 1713.


word: Assign
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To fix, specify, select, or designate; to point out
   authoritatively or exactly; as, to assign a limit; to assign counsel
   for a prisoner; to assign a day for trial.


word: Assign
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To transfer, or make over to another, esp. to transfer
   to, and vest in, certain persons, called assignees, for the benefit of
   creditors.


word: Assign
wordtype: n.
definition:
A person to whom property or an interest is transferred;
   as, a deed to a man and his heirs and assigns.


word: Assignable
wordtype: a.
definition:
Capable of being assigned, allotted, specified, or
   designated; as, an assignable note or bill; an assignable reason; an
   assignable quantity.


word: Assignat
wordtype: n.
definition:
One of the notes, bills, or bonds, issued as currency by
   the revolutionary government of France (1790-1796), and based on the
   security of the lands of the church and of nobles which had been
   appropriated by the state.


word: Assignation
wordtype: n.
definition:
An appointment of time and place for meeting or
   interview; -- used chiefly of love interviews, and now commonly in a
   bad sense.


word: Assignee
wordtype: v.
definition:
A person to whom an assignment is made; a person
   appointed or deputed by another to do some act, perform some business,
   or enjoy some right, privilege, or property; as, an assignee of a
   bankrupt. See Assignment (c). An assignee may be by special appointment
   or deed, or be created by jaw; as an executor.


word: Assignee
wordtype: v.
definition:
In England, the persons appointed, under a commission of
   bankruptcy, to manage the estate of a bankrupt for the benefit of his
   creditors.


word: Assignment
wordtype: n.
definition:
An allotting or an appointment to a particular person
   or use; or for a particular time, as of a cause or causes in court.


word: Assignment
wordtype: n.
definition:
A transfer of title or interest by writing, as of
   lease, bond, note, or bill of exchange; a transfer of the whole of some
   particular estate or interest in lands.


word: Assignment
wordtype: n.
definition:
The transfer of the property of a bankrupt to certain
   persons called assignees, in whom it is vested for the benefit of
   creditors.


word: Assignor
wordtype: n.
definition:
An assigner; a person who assigns or transfers an
   interest; as, the assignor of a debt or other chose in action.


word: Assimilate
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To appropriate and transform or incorporate into the
   substance of the assimilating body; to absorb or appropriate, as
   nourishment; as, food is assimilated and converted into organic tissue.


word: Assimilate
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To change and appropriate nourishment so as to make
   it a part of the substance of the assimilating body.


word: Assimilate
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To be converted into the substance of the
   assimilating body; to become incorporated; as, some kinds of food
   assimilate more readily than others.


word: Assimilation
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act or process of assimilating or bringing to a
   resemblance, likeness, or identity; also, the state of being so
   assimilated; as, the assimilation of one sound to another.


word: Assimilation
wordtype: n.
definition:
The conversion of nutriment into the fluid or solid
   substance of the body, by the processes of digestion and absorption,
   whether in plants or animals.


word: Assimilative
wordtype: a.
definition:
Tending to, or characterized by, assimilation; that
   assimilates or causes assimilation; as, an assimilative process or
   substance.


word: Assist
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To give support to in some undertaking or effort, or in
   time of distress; to help; to aid; to succor.


word: Assize
wordtype: n.
definition:
An assembly of knights and other substantial men, with a
   bailiff or justice, in a certain place and at a certain time, for
   public business.


word: Assize
wordtype: n.
definition:
A statute or ordinance in general. Specifically: (1) A
   statute regulating the weight, measure, and proportions of ingredients
   and the price of articles sold in the market; as, the assize of bread
   and other provisions; (2) A statute fixing the standard of weights and
   measures.


word: Assize
wordtype: n.
definition:
Anything fixed or reduced to a certainty in point of time,
   number, quantity, quality, weight, measure, etc.; as, rent of assize.


word: Assize
wordtype: n.
definition:
A court, the sitting or session of a court, for the trial
   of processes, whether civil or criminal, by a judge and jury.


word: Assize
wordtype: n.
definition:
The periodical sessions of the judges of the superior
   courts in every county of England for the purpose of administering
   justice in the trial and determination of civil and criminal cases; --
   usually in the plural.


word: Associate
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To join with one, as a friend, companion, partner, or
   confederate; as, to associate others with us in business, or in an
   enterprise.


word: Associate
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To join or connect; to combine in acting; as,
   particles of gold associated with other substances.


word: Associate
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To unite in company; to keep company, implying
   intimacy; as, congenial minds are disposed to associate.


word: Associate
wordtype: a.
definition:
Closely connected or joined with some other, as in
   interest, purpose, employment, or office; sharing responsibility or
   authority; as, an associate judge.


word: Associate
wordtype: a.
definition:
Connected by habit or sympathy; as, associate motions,
   such as occur sympathetically, in consequence of preceding motions.


word: Associate
wordtype: n.
definition:
A companion; one frequently in company with another,
   implying intimacy or equality; a mate; a fellow.


word: Associate
wordtype: n.
definition:
One connected with an association or institution without
   the full rights or privileges of a regular member; as, an associate of
   the Royal Academy.


word: Association
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of associating, or state of being associated;
   union; connection, whether of persons of things.


word: Association
wordtype: n.
definition:
Union of persons in a company or society for some
   particular purpose; as, the American Association for the Advancement of
   Science; a benevolent association. Specifically, as among the
   Congregationalists, a society, consisting of a number of ministers,
   generally the pastors of neighboring churches, united for promoting the
   interests of religion and the harmony of the churches.


word: Associationist
wordtype: n.
definition:
One who explains the higher functions and relations
   of the soul by the association of ideas; e. g., Hartley, J. C. Mill.


word: Associative
wordtype: a.
definition:
Having the quality of associating; tending or leading
   to association; as, the associative faculty.


word: Assonance
wordtype: n.
definition:
A peculiar species of rhyme, in which the last acce`ted
   vow`l and tnose whioh follow it in one word correspond in sound with
   the vowels of another word, while the consonants of the two words are
   unlike in sound; as, calamo and platano, baby and chary.


word: Assort
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To separate and distribute into classes, as things of a
   like kind, nature, or quality, or which are suited to a like purpose;
   to classify; as, to assort goods. [Rarely applied to persons.]


word: Assortment
wordtype: n.
definition:
A collection containing a variety of sorts or kinds
   adapted to various wants, demands, or purposes; as, an assortment of
   goods.


word: Assuage
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To soften, in a figurative sense; to allay, mitigate,
   ease, or lessen, as heat, pain, or grief; to appease or pacify, as
   passion or tumult; to satisfy, as appetite or desire.


word: Assume
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To take to or upon one's self; to take formally and
   demonstratively; sometimes, to appropriate or take unjustly.


word: Assume
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To take for granted, or without proof; to suppose as a
   fact; to suppose or take arbitrarily or tentatively.


word: Assumpsit
wordtype: n.
definition:
A promise or undertaking, founded on a consideration.
   This promise may be oral or in writing not under seal. It may be
   express or implied.


word: Assumpsit
wordtype: n.
definition:
An action to recover damages for a breach or
   nonperformance of a contract or promise, express or implied, oral or in
   writing not under seal. Common or indebitatus assumpsit is brought for
   the most part on an implied promise. Special assumpsit is founded on an
   express promise or undertaking.


word: Assumption
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of taking for granted, or supposing a thing
   without proof; supposition; unwarrantable claim.


word: Assurance
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of assuring; a declaration tending to inspire
   full confidence; that which is designed to give confidence.


word: Assurance
wordtype: n.
definition:
The state of being assured; firm persuasion; full
   confidence or trust; freedom from doubt; certainty.


word: Assure
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To declare to, solemnly; to assert to (any one) with the
   design of inspiring belief or confidence.


word: Dornock
wordtype: n.
definition:
A coarse sort of damask, originally made at Tournay (in
   Flemish, Doornick), Belgium, and used for hangings, carpets, etc. Also,
   a stout figured linen manufactured in Scotland.


word: Dorsal
wordtype: a.
definition:
Pertaining to, or situated near, the back, or dorsum, of an
   animal or of one of its parts; notal; tergal; neural; as, the dorsal
   fin of a fish; the dorsal artery of the tongue; -- opposed to ventral.


word: Dorsal
wordtype: a.
definition:
A hanging, usually of rich stuff, at the back of a throne,
   or of an altar, or in any similar position.


word: Dorse
wordtype: n.
definition:
The Baltic or variable cod (Gadus callarias), by some
   believed to be the young of the common codfish.


word: dorsibranchiata
wordtype: n. pl.
definition:
A division of chaetopod annelids in which the
   branchiae are along the back, on each side, or on the parapodia. [See
   Illusts. under Annelida and Chaetopoda.]


word: Dorsiferous
definition:
Bearing, or producing, on the back; -- applied to ferns
   which produce seeds on the back of the leaf, and to certain Batrachia,
   the ova of which become attached to the skin of the back of the parent,
   where they develop; dorsiparous.


word: Dorsiventral
wordtype: a.
definition:
Having distinct upper and lower surfaces, as most
   common leaves. The leaves of the iris are not dorsiventral.


word: Dorsum
wordtype: n.
definition:
The back or dorsal region of an animal; the upper side of
   an appendage or part; as, the dorsum of the tongue.


word: Doryphoros
wordtype: n.
definition:
A spear bearer; a statue of a man holding a spear or in
   the attitude of a spear bearer. Several important sculptures of this
   subject existed in antiquity, copies of which remain to us.


word: Dose
wordtype: n.
definition:
To proportion properly (a medicine), with reference to the
   patient or the disease; to form into suitable doses.


word: Dossil
wordtype: n.
definition:
A small ovoid or cylindrical roil or pledget of lint, for
   keeping a sore, wound, etc., open; a tent.


word: Dot
wordtype: n.
definition:
Anything small and like a speck comparatively; a small portion
   or specimen; as, a dot of a child.


word: Dotage
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
Feebleness or imbecility of understanding or mind,
   particularly in old age; the childishness of old age; senility; as, a
   venerable man, now in his dotage.


word: Dote
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To be weak-minded, silly, or idiotic; to have the
   intellect impaired, especially by age, so that the mind wanders or
   wavers; to drivel.


word: Dote
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To be excessively or foolishly fond; to love to excess; to
   be weakly affectionate; -- with on or upon; as, the mother dotes on her
   child.


word: Dotterel
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
A European bird of the Plover family (Eudromias, /
   Charadrius, morinellus). It is tame and easily taken, and is popularly
   believed to imitate the movements of the fowler.


word: Douay Bible
definition:
A translation of the Scriptures into the English
   language for the use of English-speaking Roman Catholics; -- done from
   the Latin Vulgate by English scholars resident in France. The New
   Testament portion was published at Rheims, A. D. 1582, the Old
   Testament at Douai, A. D. 1609-10. Various revised editions have since
   been published.


word: Double
wordtype: a.
definition:
Divided into two; acting two parts, one openly and the
   other secretly; equivocal; deceitful; insincere.


word: Double
wordtype: a.
definition:
Having the petals in a flower considerably increased beyond
   the natural number, usually as the result of cultivation and the
   expense of the stamens, or stamens and pistils. The white water lily
   and some other plants have their blossoms naturally double.


word: Double
wordtype: a.
definition:
To increase by adding an equal number, quantity, length,
   value, or the like; multiply by two; to double a sum of money; to
   double a number, or length.


word: Double
wordtype: a.
definition:
To make of two thicknesses or folds by turning or bending
   together in the middle; to fold one part upon another part of; as, to
   double the leaf of a book, and the like; to clinch, as the fist; --
   often followed by up; as, to double up a sheet of paper or cloth.


word: Double
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To be increased to twice the sum, number, quantity,
   length, or value; to increase or grow to twice as much.


word: Double
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To return upon one's track; to turn and go back over the
   same ground, or in an opposite direction.


word: Double
wordtype: n.
definition:
Among compositors, a doublet (see Doublet, 2.); among
   pressmen, a sheet that is twice pulled, and blurred.


word: Double
wordtype: n.
definition:
A feast in which the antiphon is doubled, hat is, said
   twice, before and after the Psalms, instead of only half being said, as
   in simple feasts.


word: Double-acting
wordtype: a.
definition:
Acting or operating in two directions or with both
   motions; producing a twofold result; as, a double-acting engine or
   pump.


word: Double-banked
wordtype: a.
definition:
Applied to a kind of rowing in which the rowers sit
   side by side in twos, a pair of oars being worked from each bank or
   thwart.


word: Double-breasted
wordtype: a.
definition:
Folding or lapping over on the breast, with a row
   of buttons and buttonholes on each side; as, a double-breasted coat.


word: Double-dyed
wordtype: a.
definition:
Dyed twice; thoroughly or intensely colored; hence;
   firmly fixed in opinions or habits; as, a double-dyed villain.


word: Double-entendre
wordtype: n.
definition:
A word or expression admitting of a double
   interpretation, one of which is often obscure or indelicate.


word: Double-milled
wordtype: a.
definition:
Twice milled or fulled, to render more compact or
   fine; -- said of cloth; as, double-milled kerseymere.


word: Double-quick
wordtype: a.
definition:
Of, or performed in, the fastest time or step in
   marching, next to the run; as, a double-quick step or march.


word: Doubler
wordtype: n.
definition:
An instrument for augmenting a very small quantity of
   electricity, so as to render it manifest by sparks or the electroscope.


word: Doublet
wordtype: a.
definition:
A close-fitting garment for men, covering the body from
   the neck to the waist or a little below. It was worn in Western Europe
   from the 15th to the 17th century.


word: Doublet
wordtype: a.
definition:
A counterfeit gem, composed of two pieces of crystal, with
   a color them, and thus giving the appearance of a naturally colored
   gem. Also, a piece of paste or glass covered by a veneer of real stone.


word: Doublet
wordtype: a.
definition:
An arrangement of two lenses for a microscope, designed to
   correct spherical aberration and chromatic dispersion, thus rendering
   the image of an object more clear and distinct.


word: Doublet
wordtype: a.
definition:
Two dice, each of which, when thrown, has the same number
   of spots on the face lying uppermost; as, to throw doublets.


word: Doublet
wordtype: a.
definition:
One of two or more words in the same language derived by
   different courses from the same original from; as, crypt and grot are
   doublets; also, guard and ward; yard and garden; abridge and
   abbreviate, etc.


word: Doublethreaded
wordtype: a.
definition:
Having two screw threads instead of one; -- said of
   a screw in which the pitch is equal to twice the distance between the
   centers of adjacent threads.


word: Double-tonguing
wordtype: n.
definition:
A peculiar action of the tongue by flute players
   in articulating staccato notes; also, the rapid repetition of notes in
   cornet playing.


word: Doubloon
wordtype: a.
definition:
A Spanish gold coin, no longer issued, varying in value
   at different times from over fifteen dollars to about five. See Doblon
   in Sup.


word: Doubly
wordtype: adv.
definition:
In twice the quantity; to twice the degree; as, doubly
   wise or good; to be doubly sensible of an obligation.


word: Doubt
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To waver in opinion or judgment; to be in uncertainty as
   to belief respecting anything; to hesitate in belief; to be undecided
   as to the truth of the negative or the affirmative proposition; to b e
   undetermined.


word: Doubt
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To question or hold questionable; to withhold assent to;
   to hesitate to believe, or to be inclined not to believe; to withhold
   confidence from; to distrust; as, I have heard the story, but I doubt
   the truth of it.


word: Doubt
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
A fluctuation of mind arising from defect of knowledge or
   evidence; uncertainty of judgment or mind; unsettled state of opinion
   concerning the reality of an event, or the truth of an assertion, etc.;
   hesitation.


word: Doubtful
wordtype: a.
definition:
Not settled in opinion; undetermined; wavering;
   hesitating in belief; also used, metaphorically, of the body when its
   action is affected by such a state of mind; as, we are doubtful of a
   fact, or of the propriety of a measure.


word: Doubtful
wordtype: a.
definition:
Admitting of doubt; not obvious, clear, or certain;
   questionable; not decided; not easy to be defined, classed, or named;
   as, a doubtful case, hue, claim, title, species, and the like.


word: Douc
wordtype: n.
definition:
A monkey (Semnopithecus nemaeus), remarkable for its varied
   and brilliant colors. It is a native of Cochin China.


word: Douche
wordtype: n.
definition:
A jet or current of water or vapor directed upon some part
   of the body to benefit it medicinally; a douche bath.


word: Dough
wordtype: n.
definition:
Paste of bread; a soft mass of moistened flour or meal,
   kneaded or unkneaded, but not yet baked; as, to knead dough.


word: Dough-baked
wordtype: a.
definition:
Imperfectly baked; hence, not brought to perfection;
   unfinished; also, of weak or dull understanding.


word: Dousing-chock
wordtype: n.
definition:
One of several pieces fayed across the apron and
   lapped in the knightheads, or inside planking above the upper deck.


word: Dovecote
wordtype: n.
definition:
A small house or box, raised to a considerable height
   above the ground, and having compartments, in which domestic pigeons
   breed; a dove house.


word: Dovekie
wordtype: n.
definition:
A guillemot (Uria grylle), of the arctic regions. Also
   applied to the little auk or sea dove. See under Dove.


word: Dove plant
definition:
A Central American orchid (Peristeria elata), having a
   flower stem five or six feet high, with numerous globose white fragrant
   flowers. The column in the center of the flower resembles a dove; --
   called also Holy Spirit plant.


word: Dover's Powder
definition:
A powder of ipecac and opium, compounded, in the
   United States, with sugar of milk, but in England (as formerly in the
   United States) with sulphate of potash, and in France (as in Dr.
   Dover's original prescription) with nitrate and sulphate of potash and
   licorice. It is an anodyne diaphoretic.


word: Dovetail
wordtype: n.
definition:
A flaring tenon, or tongue (shaped like a bird's tail
   spread), and a mortise, or socket, into which it fits tightly, making
   an interlocking joint between two pieces which resists pulling a part
   in all directions except one.


word: Dowager
wordtype: n.
definition:
A widow endowed, or having a jointure; a widow who either
   enjoys a dower from her deceased husband, or has property of her own
   brought by her to her husband on marriage, and settled on her after his
   decease.


word: Dowager
wordtype: n.
definition:
A title given in England to a widow, to distinguish her
   from the wife of her husband's heir bearing the same name; -- chiefly
   applied to widows of personages of rank.


word: Dowel
wordtype: n.
definition:
A pin, or block, of wood or metal, fitting into holes in the
   abutting portions of two pieces, and being partly in one piece and
   partly in the other, to keep them in their proper relative position.


word: Dowel
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To fasten together by dowels; to furnish with dowels; as,
   a cooper dowels pieces for the head of a cask.


word: Dower
wordtype: n.
definition:
That portion of the real estate of a man which his widow
   enjoys during her life, or to which a woman is entitled after the death
   of her husband.


word: Dowlas
wordtype: n.
definition:
A coarse linen cloth made in the north of England and in
   Scotland, now nearly replaced by calico.


word: Down
wordtype: n.
definition:
Fine, soft, hairy outgrowth from the skin or surface of
   animals or plants, not matted and fleecy like wool


word: Down
wordtype: n.
definition:
The soft under feathers of birds. They have short stems with
   soft rachis and bards and long threadlike barbules, without hooklets.


word: Down
wordtype: n.
definition:
The pubescence of plants; the hairy crown or envelope of the
   seeds of certain plants, as of the thistle.


word: Down
wordtype: n.
definition:
That which is made of down, as a bed or pillow; that which
   affords ease and repose, like a bed of down


word: Down
wordtype: prep.
definition:
A bank or rounded hillock of sand thrown up by the wind
   along or near the shore; a flattish-topped hill; -- usually in the
   plural.


word: Down
wordtype: prep.
definition:
A tract of poor, sandy, undulating or hilly land near the
   sea, covered with fine turf which serves chiefly for the grazing of
   sheep; -- usually in the plural.


word: Down
wordtype: prep.
definition:
A road for shipping in the English Channel or Straits of
   Dover, near Deal, employed as a naval rendezvous in time of war.


word: Down
wordtype: adv.
definition:
In the direction of gravity or toward the center of the
   earth; toward or in a lower place or position; below; -- the opposite
   of up.


word: Down
wordtype: adv.
definition:
From a higher to a lower position, literally or
   figuratively; in a descending direction; from the top of an ascent;
   from an upright position; to the ground or floor; to or into a lower or
   an inferior condition; as, into a state of humility, disgrace, misery,
   and the like; into a state of rest; -- used with verbs indicating
   motion.


word: Down
wordtype: adv.
definition:
In a low or the lowest position, literally or figuratively;
   at the bottom of a decent; below the horizon; of the ground; in a
   condition of humility, dejection, misery, and the like; in a state of
   quiet.


word: Down
wordtype: adv.
definition:
From a greater to a less bulk, or from a thinner to a
   thicker consistence; as, to boil down in cookery, or in making
   decoctions.


word: Down
wordtype: adv.
definition:
In a descending direction along; from a higher to a lower
   place upon or within; at a lower place in or on; as, down a hill; down
   a well.


word: Down
wordtype: adv.
definition:
Hence: Towards the mouth of a river; towards the sea; as,
   to sail or swim down a stream; to sail down the sound.


word: Down
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To cause to go down; to make descend; to put down; to
   overthrow, as in wrestling; hence, to subdue; to bring down.


word: Downcome
wordtype: n.
definition:
A pipe for leading combustible gases downward from the
   top of the blast furnace to the hot-blast stoves, boilers, etc., where
   they are burned.


word: Downhaul
wordtype: n.
definition:
A rope to haul down, or to assist in hauling down, a
   sail; as, a staysail downhaul; a trysail downhaul.


word: Downwards
wordtype: adv.
definition:
From a higher place to a lower; in a descending
   course; as, to tend, move, roll, look, or take root, downward or
   downwards.


word: Downward
wordtype: a.
definition:
Moving or extending from a higher to a lower place;
   tending toward the earth or its center, or toward a lower level;
   declivous.


word: Dowry
wordtype: n.
definition:
The money, goods, or estate, which a woman brings to her
   husband in marriage; a bride's portion on her marriage. See Note under
   Dower.


word: Doxology
wordtype: n.
definition:
In Christian worship: A hymn expressing praise and honor
   to God; a form of praise to God designed to be sung or chanted by the
   choir or the congregation.


word: Doze
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To slumber; to sleep lightly; to be in a dull or stupefied
   condition, as if half asleep; to be drowsy.


word: Dozen
wordtype: n.
definition:
A collection of twelve objects; a tale or set of twelve;
   with or without of before the substantive which follows.


word: Drab
wordtype: n.
definition:
A kind of thick woolen cloth of a dun, or dull brownish
   yellow, or dull gray, color; -- called also drabcloth.


word: Drabbler
wordtype: n.
definition:
A piece of canvas fastened by lacing to the bonnet of a
   sail, to give it a greater depth, or more drop.


word: Drachma
wordtype: n.
definition:
A silver coin among the ancient Greeks, having a different
   value in different States and at different periods. The average value
   of the Attic drachma is computed to have been about 19 cents.


word: Drachma
wordtype: n.
definition:
Among the ancient Greeks, a weight of about 66.5 grains;
   among the modern Greeks, a weight equal to a gram.


word: Dracontic
wordtype: a.
definition:
Belonging to that space of time in which the moon
   performs one revolution, from ascending node to ascending node. See
   Dragon's head, under Dragon.


word: Draff
wordtype: n.
definition:
A selecting or detaching of soldiers from an army, or from
   any part of it, or from a military post; also from any district, or any
   company or collection of persons, or from the people at large; also,
   the body of men thus drafted.


word: Draff
wordtype: n.
definition:
An order from one person or party to another, directing the
   payment of money; a bill of exchange.


word: Draff
wordtype: n.
definition:
A drawing of lines for a plan; a plan delineated, or drawn
   in outline; a delineation. See Draught.


word: Draff
wordtype: n.
definition:
The form of any writing as first drawn up; the first rough
   sketch of written composition, to be filled in, or completed. See
   Draught.


word: Draff
wordtype: n.
definition:
A narrow border worked to a plane surface along the edge of
   a stone, or across its face, as a guide to the stone-cutter.


word: Draft
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To draw from a military band or post, or from any
   district, company, or society; to detach; to select.


word: Drag
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To draw slowly or heavily onward; to pull along the ground
   by main force; to haul; to trail; -- applied to drawing heavy or
   resisting bodies or those inapt for drawing, with labor, along the
   ground or other surface; as, to drag stone or timber; to drag a net in
   fishing.


word: Drag
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To break, as land, by drawing a drag or harrow over it; to
   harrow; to draw a drag along the bottom of, as a stream or other water;
   hence, to search, as by means of a drag.


word: Drag
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To be drawn along, as a rope or dress, on the ground; to
   trail; to be moved onward along the ground, or along the bottom of the
   sea, as an anchor that does not hold.


word: Drag
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To move onward heavily, laboriously, or slowly; to advance
   with weary effort; to go on lingeringly.


word: Drag
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
A net, or an apparatus, to be drawn along the bottom under
   water, as in fishing, searching for drowned persons, etc.


word: Drag
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
A kind of sledge for conveying heavy bodies; also, a kind
   of low car or handcart; as, a stone drag.


word: Drag
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
Anything towed in the water to retard a ship's progress,
   or to keep her head up to the wind; esp., a canvas bag with a hooped
   mouth, so used. See Drag sail (below).


word: Drag
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
The difference between the speed of a screw steamer under
   sail and that of the screw when the ship outruns the screw; or between
   the propulsive effects of the different floats of a paddle wheel. See
   Citation under Drag, v. i., 3.


word: Draggle
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To be dragged on the ground; to become wet or dirty by
   being dragged or trailed in the mud or wet grass.


word: Dragon
wordtype: n.
definition:
A fabulous animal, generally represented as a monstrous
   winged serpent or lizard, with a crested head and enormous claws, and
   regarded as very powerful and ferocious.


word: Dragon
wordtype: n.
definition:
A short musket hooked to a swivel attached to a soldier's
   belt; -- so called from a representation of a dragon's head at the
   muzzle.


word: Dragon
wordtype: n.
definition:
A small arboreal lizard of the genus Draco, of several
   species, found in the East Indies and Southern Asia. Five or six of the
   hind ribs, on each side, are prolonged and covered with weblike skin,
   forming a sort of wing. These prolongations aid them in making long
   leaps from tree to tree. Called also flying lizard.


word: Dragonnade
wordtype: n.
definition:
The severe persecution of French Protestants under
   Louis XIV., by an armed force, usually of dragoons; hence, a rapid and
   devastating incursion; dragoonade.


word: Dragoon
wordtype: n.
definition:
Formerly, a soldier who was taught and armed to serve
   either on horseback or on foot; now, a mounted soldier; a cavalry man.


word: Dragoon
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To harass or reduce to subjection by dragoons; to
   persecute by abandoning a place to the rage of soldiers.


word: Drain
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To draw off by degrees; to cause to flow gradually out or
   off; hence, to cause the exhaustion of.


word: Drain
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To exhaust of liquid contents by drawing them off; to
   make gradually dry or empty; to remove surface water, as from streets,
   by gutters, etc.; to deprive of moisture; hence, to exhaust; to empty
   of wealth, resources, or the like; as, to drain a country of its
   specie.


word: Drain
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of draining, or of drawing off; gradual and
   continuous outflow or withdrawal; as, the drain of specie from a
   country.


word: Drainage
wordtype: n.
definition:
The system of drains and their operation, by which
   superfluous water is removed from towns, railway beds, mines, and other
   works.


word: Drakestone
wordtype: n.
definition:
A flat stone so thrown along the surface of water as to
   skip from point to point before it sinks; also, the sport of so
   throwing stones; -- sometimes called ducks and drakes.


word: Dram
wordtype: n.
definition:
A weight; in Apothecaries' weight, one eighth part of an
   ounce, or sixty grains; in Avoirdupois weight, one sixteenth part of an
   ounce, or 27.34375 grains.


word: Dram
wordtype: n.
definition:
As much spirituous liquor as is usually drunk at once; as, a
   dram of brandy; hence, a potation or potion; as, a dram of poison.


word: Drama
wordtype: n.
definition:
A composition, in prose or poetry, accommodated to action,
   and intended to exhibit a picture of human life, or to depict a series
   of grave or humorous actions of more than ordinary interest, tending
   toward some striking result. It is commonly designed to be spoken and
   represented by actors on the stage.


word: Dramatical
wordtype: a.
definition:
Of or pertaining to the drama; appropriate to, or
   having the qualities of, a drama; theatrical; vivid.


word: Dramatize
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To compose in the form of the drama; to represent in
   a drama; to adapt to dramatic representation; as, to dramatize a novel,
   or an historical episode.


word: Drape
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To cover or adorn with drapery or folds of cloth, or as
   with drapery; as, to drape a bust, a building, etc.


word: Drapery
wordtype: n.
definition:
A textile fabric used for decorative purposes, especially
   when hung loosely and in folds carefully disturbed; as: (a) Garments or
   vestments of this character worn upon the body, or shown in the
   representations of the human figure in art. (b) Hangings of a room or
   hall, or about a bed.


word: Drastic
wordtype: a.
definition:
Acting rapidly and violently; efficacious; powerful; --
   opposed to bland; as, drastic purgatives.


word: Draught
wordtype: n.
definition:
The depth of water necessary to float a ship, or the depth
   a ship sinks in water, especially when laden; as, a ship of twelve feet
   draught.


word: Draught
wordtype: n.
definition:
The bevel given to the pattern for a casting, in order
   that it may be drawn from the sand without injury to the mold.


word: Draught
wordtype: a.
definition:
Drawn directly from the barrel, or other receptacle, in
   distinction from bottled; on draught; -- said of ale, cider, and the
   like.


word: Draught
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To draw in outline; to make a draught, sketch, or plan
   of, as in architectural and mechanical drawing.


word: Draughtsman
wordtype: n.
definition:
One who draws plans and sketches of machinery,
   structures, and places; also, more generally, one who makes drawings of
   any kind.


word: Dravida
wordtype: n. pl.
definition:
A race of Hindostan, believed to be the original
   people who occupied the land before the Hindoo or Aryan invasion.


word: Draw
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To cause to move continuously by force applied in advance
   of the thing moved; to pull along; to haul; to drag; to cause to
   follow.


word: Draw
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To influence to move or tend toward one's self; to
   exercise an attracting force upon; to call towards itself; to attract;
   hence, to entice; to allure; to induce.


word: Draw
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To cause to come out for one's use or benefit; to extract;
   to educe; to bring forth; as: (a) To bring or take out, or to let out,
   from some receptacle, as a stick or post from a hole, water from a cask
   or well, etc.


word: Draw
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To obtain from some cause or origin; to infer from
   evidence or reasons; to deduce from premises; to derive.


word: Draw
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To take or procure from a place of deposit; to call for
   and receive from a fund, or the like; as, to draw money from a bank.


word: Draw
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To take from a box or wheel, as a lottery ticket; to
   receive from a lottery by the drawing out of the numbers for prizes or
   blanks; hence, to obtain by good fortune; to win; to gain; as, he drew
   a prize.


word: Draw
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To extract the bowels of; to eviscerate; as, to draw a
   fowl; to hang, draw, and quarter a criminal.


word: Draw
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To take into the lungs; to inhale; to inspire; hence,
   also, to utter or produce by an inhalation; to heave.


word: Draw
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To extend in length; to lengthen; to protract; to stretch;
   to extend, as a mass of metal into wire.


word: Draw
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To run, extend, or produce, as a line on any surface;
   hence, also, to form by marking; to make by an instrument of
   delineation; to produce, as a sketch, figure, or picture.


word: Draw
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To represent by lines drawn; to form a sketch or a picture
   of; to represent by a picture; to delineate; hence, to represent by
   words; to depict; to describe.


word: Draw
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To write in due form; to prepare a draught of; as, to draw
   a memorial, a deed, or bill of exchange.


word: Draw
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To require (so great a depth, as of water) for floating;
   -- said of a vessel; to sink so deep in (water); as, a ship draws ten
   feet of water.


word: Draw
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To pull; to exert strength in drawing anything; to have
   force to move anything by pulling; as, a horse draws well; the sails of
   a ship draw well.


word: Boning
wordtype: n.
definition:
A method of leveling a line or surface by sighting along
   the tops of two or more straight edges, or a range of properly spaced
   poles. See 3d Bone, v. t.


word: Bonito
wordtype: n.
definition:
A large tropical fish (Orcynus pelamys) allied to the
   tunny. It is about three feet long, blue above, with four brown stripes
   on the sides. It is sometimes found on the American coast.


word: Bonito
wordtype: n.
definition:
The skipjack (Sarda Mediterranea) of the Atlantic, an
   important and abundant food fish on the coast of the United States, and
   (S. Chilensis) of the Pacific, and other related species. They are
   large and active fishes, of a blue color with black oblique stripes.


word: Bonito
wordtype: n.
definition:
The medregal (Seriola fasciata), an edible fish of the
   southern of the United States and the West Indies.


word: Bonito
wordtype: n.
definition:
The cobia or crab eater (Elacate canada), an edible fish of
   the Middle and Southern United States.


word: Bonnet
wordtype: n.
definition:
A soft, elastic, very durable cap, made of thick, seamless
   woolen stuff, and worn by men in Scotland.


word: Bonnet
wordtype: n.
definition:
A covering for the head, worn by women, usually protecting
   more or less the back and sides of the head, but no part of the
   forehead. The shape of the bonnet varies greatly at different times;
   formerly the front part projected, and spread outward, like the mouth
   of a funnel.


word: Bonnet
wordtype: n.
definition:
A small defense work at a salient angle; or a part of a
   parapet elevated to screen the other part from enfilade fire.


word: Bonnet
wordtype: n.
definition:
A metallic canopy, or projection, over an opening, as a
   fireplace, or a cowl or hood to increase the draught of a chimney, etc.


word: Bontebok
wordtype: n.
definition:
The pied antelope of South Africa (Alcelaphus pygarga).
   Its face and rump are white. Called also nunni.


word: Bonus
wordtype: n.
definition:
A premium given for a loan, or for a charter or other
   privilege granted to a company; as the bank paid a bonus for its
   charter.


word: Booby
wordtype: n.
definition:
A swimming bird (Sula fiber or S. sula) related to the
   common gannet, and found in the West Indies, nesting on the bare rocks.
   It is so called on account of its apparent stupidity. The name is also
   sometimes applied to other species of gannets; as, S. piscator, the
   red-footed booby.


word: Book
wordtype: n.
definition:
A collection of sheets of paper, or similar material, blank,
   written, or printed, bound together; commonly, many folded and bound
   sheets containing continuous printing or writing.


word: Book
wordtype: n.
definition:
A volume or collection of sheets in which accounts are kept;
   a register of debts and credits, receipts and expenditures, etc.


word: Book
wordtype: n.
definition:
Six tricks taken by one side, in the game of whist; in
   certain other games, two or more corresponding cards, forming a set.


word: Book
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To enter the name of (any one) in a book for the purpose
   of securing a passage, conveyance, or seat; as, to be booked for
   Southampton; to book a seat in a theater.


word: Booking clerk
definition:
A clerk who registers passengers, baggage, etc., for
   conveyance, as by railway or steamship, or who sells passage tickets at
   a booking office.


word: Booking office
definition:
An office where passengers, baggage, etc., are
   registered for conveyance, as by railway or steamship.


word: Bookish
wordtype: a.
definition:
Characterized by a method of expression generally found in
   books; formal; labored; pedantic; as, a bookish way of talking; bookish
   sentences.


word: Bookkeeping
wordtype: n.
definition:
The art of recording pecuniary or business
   transactions in a regular and systematic manner, so as to show their
   relation to each other, and the state of the business in which they
   occur; the art of keeping accounts. The books commonly used are a
   daybook, cashbook, journal, and ledger. See Daybook, Cashbook, Journal,
   and Ledger.


word: Bockland
wordtype: n.
definition:
Charter land held by deed under certain rents and free
   services, which differed in nothing from free socage lands. This
   species of tenure has given rise to the modern freeholds.


word: Bookmaker
wordtype: n.
definition:
One who writes and publishes books; especially, one who
   gathers his materials from other books; a compiler.


word: Bookmark
wordtype: n.
definition:
Something placed in a book to guide in finding a
   particular page or passage; also, a label in a book to designate the
   owner; a bookplate.


word: Bookwork
wordtype: n.
definition:
Work done upon a book or books (as in a printing office),
   in distinction from newspaper or job work.


word: Booly
wordtype: n.
definition:
A company of Irish herdsmen, or a single herdsman, wandering
   from place to place with flocks and herds, and living on their milk,
   like the Tartars; also, a place in the mountain pastures inclosed for
   the shelter of cattle or their keepers.


word: Boom
wordtype: n.
definition:
A long pole or spar, run out for the purpose of extending the
   bottom of a particular sail; as, the jib boom, the studding-sail boom,
   etc.


word: Boom
wordtype: n.
definition:
A long spar or beam, projecting from the mast of a derrick,
   from the outer end of which the body to be lifted is suspended.


word: Boom
wordtype: n.
definition:
A strong chain cable, or line of spars bound together,
   extended across a river or the mouth of a harbor, to obstruct
   navigation or passage.


word: Boom
wordtype: n.
definition:
A line of connected floating timbers stretched across a
   river, or inclosing an area of water, to keep saw logs, etc., from
   floating away.


word: Boom
wordtype: n.
definition:
A strong and extensive advance, with more or less noisy
   excitement; -- applied colloquially or humorously to market prices, the
   demand for stocks or commodities and to political chances of aspirants
   to office; as, a boom in the stock market; a boom in coffee.


word: Boom
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To cause to advance rapidly in price; as, to boom railroad
   or mining shares; to create a "boom" for; as to boom Mr. C. for
   senator.


word: Boomerang
wordtype: n.
definition:
A very singular missile weapon used by the natives of
   Australia and in some parts of India. It is usually a curved stick of
   hard wood, from twenty to thirty inches in length, from two to three
   inches wide, and half or three quarters of an inch thick. When thrown
   from the hand with a quick rotary motion, it describes very remarkable
   curves, according to the shape of the instrument and the manner of
   throwing it, often moving nearly horizontally a long distance, then
   curving upward to a considerable height, and finally taking a
   retrograde direction, so as to fall near the place from which it was
   thrown, or even far in the rear of it.


word: Booming
wordtype: a.
definition:
Rushing with violence; swelling with a hollow sound;
   making a hollow sound or note; roaring; resounding.


word: Booming
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of producing a hollow or roaring sound; a violent
   rushing with heavy roar; as, the booming of the sea; a deep, hollow
   sound; as, the booming of bitterns.


word: Boomslange
wordtype: n.
definition:
A large South African tree snake (Bucephalus Capensis).
   Although considered venomous by natives, it has no poison fangs.


word: Boon
wordtype: n.
definition:
The woody portion flax, which is separated from the fiber as
   refuse matter by retting, braking, and scutching.


word: Boor
wordtype: n.
definition:
A Dutch, German, or Russian peasant; esp. a Dutch colonist in
   South Africa, Guiana, etc.: a boer.


word: Boost
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To lift or push from behind (one who is endeavoring to
   climb); to push up; hence, to assist in overcoming obstacles, or in
   making advancement.


word: Boot
wordtype: n.
definition:
That which is given to make an exchange equal, or to make up
   for the deficiency of value in one of the things exchanged.


word: Boot
wordtype: n.
definition:
An instrument of torture for the leg, formerly used to extort
   confessions, particularly in Scotland.


word: Boot
wordtype: n.
definition:
A place at the side of a coach, where attendants rode; also,
   a low outside place before and behind the body of the coach.


word: Boot
wordtype: n.
definition:
An apron or cover (of leather or rubber cloth) for the
   driving seat of a vehicle, to protect from rain and mud.


word: Boottopping
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act or process of daubing a vessel's bottom near
   the surface of the water with a mixture of tallow, sulphur, and resin,
   as a temporary protection against worms, after the slime, shells, etc.,
   have been scraped off.


word: Boottree
wordtype: n.
definition:
An instrument to stretch and widen the leg of a boot,
   consisting of two pieces, together shaped like a leg, between which,
   when put into the boot, a wedge is driven.


word: Booty
wordtype: n.
definition:
That which is seized by violence or obtained by robbery,
   especially collective spoil taken in war; plunder; pillage.


word: Bopeep
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of looking out suddenly, as from behind a screen,
   so as to startle some one (as by children in play), or of looking out
   and drawing suddenly back, as if frightened.


word: Borachte
wordtype: n.
definition:
A large leather bottle for liquors, etc., made of the
   skin of a goat or other animal. Hence: A drunkard.


word: Boracite
wordtype: n.
definition:
A mineral of a white or gray color occurring massive and
   in isometric crystals; in composition it is a magnesium borate with
   magnesium chloride.


word: Borage
wordtype: n.
definition:
A mucilaginous plant of the genus Borago (B. officinalis),
   which is used, esp. in France, as a demulcent and diaphoretic.


word: Boraginaceous
wordtype: a.
definition:
Of, pertaining to, or resembling, a family of plants
   (Boraginaceae) which includes the borage, heliotrope, beggar's lice,
   and many pestiferous plants.


word: Borax
wordtype: n.
definition:
A white or gray crystalline salt, with a slight alkaline
   taste, used as a flux, in soldering metals, making enamels, fixing
   colors on porcelain, and as a soap. It occurs native in certain mineral
   springs, and is made from the boric acid of hot springs in Tuscany. It
   was originally obtained from a lake in Thibet, and was sent to Europe
   under the name of tincal. Borax is a pyroborate or tetraborate of
   sodium, Na2B4O7.10H2O.


word: Border
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To touch at the edge or boundary; to be contiguous or
   adjacent; -- with on or upon as, Connecticut borders on Massachusetts.


word: Border
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To make a border for; to furnish with a border, as for
   ornament; as, to border a garment or a garden.


word: Border
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To be, or to have, contiguous to; to touch, or be
   touched, as by a border; to be, or to have, near the limits or
   boundary; as, the region borders a forest, or is bordered on the north
   by a forest.


word: Borderer
wordtype: n.
definition:
One who dwells on a border, or at the extreme part or
   confines of a country, region, or tract of land; one who dwells near to
   a place or region.


word: Bordland
wordtype: n.
definition:
Either land held by a bordar, or the land which a lord
   kept for the maintenance of his board, or table.


word: Bordure
wordtype: n.
definition:
A border one fifth the width of the shield, surrounding
   the field. It is usually plain, but may be charged.


word: Bore
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To perforate or penetrate, as a solid body, by turning an
   auger, gimlet, drill, or other instrument; to make a round hole in or
   through; to pierce; as, to bore a plank.


word: Bore
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To form or enlarge by means of a boring instrument or
   apparatus; as, to bore a steam cylinder or a gun barrel; to bore a
   hole.


word: Bore
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To make (a passage) by laborious effort, as in boring; as,
   to bore one's way through a crowd; to force a narrow and difficult
   passage through.


word: Bore
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To make a hole or perforation with, or as with, a boring
   instrument; to cut a circular hole by the rotary motion of a tool; as,
   to bore for water or oil (i. e., to sink a well by boring for water or
   oil); to bore with a gimlet; to bore into a tree (as insects).


word: Bore
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To be pierced or penetrated by an instrument that cuts as
   it turns; as, this timber does not bore well, or is hard to bore.


word: Bore
wordtype: n.
definition:
The internal cylindrical cavity of a gun, cannon, pistol, or
   other firearm, or of a pipe or tube.


word: Bore
wordtype: n.
definition:
A person or thing that wearies by prolixity or dullness; a
   tiresome person or affair; any person or thing which causes ennui.


word: Bore
wordtype: n.
definition:
A tidal flood which regularly or occasionally rushes into
   certain rivers of peculiar configuration or location, in one or more
   waves which present a very abrupt front of considerable height,
   dangerous to shipping, as at the mouth of the Amazon, in South America,
   the Hoogly and Indus, in India, and the Tsien-tang, in China.


word: Bore
wordtype: n.
definition:
Less properly, a very high and rapid tidal flow, when not so
   abrupt, such as occurs at the Bay of Fundy and in the British Channel.


word: Borecole
wordtype: n.
definition:
A brassicaceous plant of many varieties, cultivated for
   its leaves, which are not formed into a compact head like the cabbage,
   but are loose, and are generally curled or wrinkled; kale.


word: Borer
wordtype: n.
definition:
Any bivalve mollusk (Saxicava, Lithodomus, etc.) which bores
   into limestone and similar substances.


word: Borer
wordtype: n.
definition:
One of the larvae of many species of insects, which
   penetrate trees, as the apple, peach, pine, etc. See Apple borer, under
   Apple.


word: Boride
wordtype: n.
definition:
A binary compound of boron with a more positive or basic
   element or radical; -- formerly called boruret.


word: Boring
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act or process of one who, or that which, bores; as,
   the boring of cannon; the boring of piles and ship timbers by certain
   marine mollusks.


word: Borneol
wordtype: n.
definition:
A rare variety of camphor, C10H17.OH, resembling ordinary
   camphor, from which it can be produced by reduction. It is said to
   occur in the camphor tree of Borneo and Sumatra (Dryobalanops
   camphora), but the natural borneol is rarely found in European or
   American commerce, being in great request by the Chinese. Called also
   Borneo camphor, Malay camphor, and camphol.


word: Bornite
wordtype: n.
definition:
A valuable ore of copper, containing copper, iron, and
   sulphur; -- also called purple copper ore (or erubescite), in allusion
   to the colors shown upon the slightly tarnished surface.


word: Borofluoride
wordtype: n.
definition:
A double fluoride of boron and hydrogen, or some
   other positive element, or radical; -- called also fluoboride, and
   formerly fluoborate.


word: Boron
wordtype: n.
definition:
A nonmetallic element occurring abundantly in borax. It is
   reduced with difficulty to the free state, when it can be obtained in
   several different forms; viz., as a substance of a deep olive color, in
   a semimetallic form, and in colorless quadratic crystals similar to the
   diamond in hardness and other properties. It occurs in nature also in
   boracite, datolite, tourmaline, and some other minerals. Atomic weight
   10.9. Symbol B.


word: Borough
wordtype: n.
definition:
In England, an incorporated town that is not a city; also,
   a town that sends members to parliament; in Scotland, a body corporate,
   consisting of the inhabitants of a certain district, erected by the
   sovereign, with a certain jurisdiction; in America, an incorporated
   town or village, as in Pennsylvania and Connecticut.


word: Borough
wordtype: n.
definition:
An association of men who gave pledges or sureties to the
   king for the good behavior of each other.


word: Borough-English
wordtype: n.
definition:
A custom, as in some ancient boroughs, by which
   lands and tenements descend to the youngest son, instead of the eldest;
   or, if the owner have no issue, to the youngest brother.


word: Borrow
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To receive from another as a loan, with the implied or
   expressed intention of returning the identical article or its
   equivalent in kind; -- the opposite of lend.


word: Borrow
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To take (one or more) from the next higher denomination
   in order to add it to the next lower; -- a term of subtraction when the
   figure of the subtrahend is larger than the corresponding one of the
   minuend.


word: Borsholder
wordtype: a.
definition:
The head or chief of a tithing, or borough (see 2d
   Borough); the headborough; a parish constable.


word: Bort
wordtype: n.
definition:
Imperfectly crystallized or coarse diamonds, or fragments
   made in cutting good diamonds which are reduced to powder and used in
   lapidary work.


word: Bos
wordtype: n.
definition:
A genus of ruminant quadrupeds, including the wild and
   domestic cattle, distinguished by a stout body, hollow horns, and a
   large fold of skin hanging from the neck.


word: Bosh
wordtype: n.
definition:
One of the sloping sides of the lower part of a blast
   furnace; also, one of the hollow iron or brick sides of the bed of a
   puddling or boiling furnace.


word: Bosh
wordtype: n.
definition:
The lower part of a blast furnace, which slopes inward, or
   the widest space at the top of this part.


word: Bosquet
wordtype: n.
definition:
A grove; a thicket; shrubbery; an inclosure formed by
   branches of trees, regularly or irregularly disposed.


word: Bosom
wordtype: n.
definition:
The breast of a human being; the part, between the arms, to
   which anything is pressed when embraced by them.


word: Bosom
wordtype: n.
definition:
The breast, considered as the seat of the passions,
   affections, and operations of the mind; consciousness; secret thoughts.


word: Bosom
wordtype: n.
definition:
Any thing or place resembling the breast; a supporting
   surface; an inner recess; the interior; as, the bosom of the earth.


word: Bosom
wordtype: n.
definition:
The part of the dress worn upon the breast; an article, or a
   portion of an article, of dress to be worn upon the breast; as, the
   bosom of a shirt; a linen bosom.


word: Bosporus
wordtype: n.
definition:
A strait or narrow sea between two seas, or a lake and a
   seas; as, the Bosporus (formerly the Thracian Bosporus) or Strait of
   Constantinople, between the Black Sea and Sea of Marmora; the Cimmerian
   Bosporus, between the Black Sea and Sea of Azof.


word: Boss
wordtype: n.
definition:
A protuberant ornament on any work, either of different
   material from that of the work or of the same, as upon a buckler or
   bridle; a stud; a knob; the central projection of a shield. See
   Umbilicus.


word: Boss
wordtype: n.
definition:
A projecting ornament placed at the intersection of the ribs
   of ceilings, whether vaulted or flat, and in other situations.


word: Boss
wordtype: n.
definition:
A wooden vessel for the mortar used in tiling or masonry,
   hung by a hook from the laths, or from the rounds of a ladder.


word: Boss
wordtype: n.
definition:
The enlarged part of a shaft, on which a wheel is keyed, or
   at the end, where it is coupled to another.


word: Bossage
wordtype: n.
definition:
Rustic work, consisting of stones which seem to advance
   beyond the level of the building, by reason of indentures or channels
   left in the joinings.


word: Boston
wordtype: n.
definition:
A game at cards, played by four persons, with two packs of
   fifty-two cards each; -- said to be so called from Boston,
   Massachusetts, and to have been invented by officers of the French army
   in America during the Revolutionary war.


word: Botanical
wordtype: a.
definition:
Of or pertaining to botany; relating to the study of
   plants; as, a botanical system, arrangement, textbook, expedition.


word: Botany
wordtype: a. & n.
definition:
The science which treats of the structure of plants,
   the functions of their parts, their places of growth, their
   classification, and the terms which are employed in their description
   and denomination. See Plant.


word: Botany Bay
definition:
A harbor on the east coast of Australia, and an English
   convict settlement there; -- so called from the number of new plants
   found on its shore at its discovery by Cook in 1770.


word: Botargo
wordtype: n.
definition:
A sort of cake or sausage, made of the salted roes of the
   mullet, much used on the coast of the Mediterranean as an incentive to
   drink.


word: Botch
wordtype: n.
definition:
Work done in a bungling manner; a clumsy performance; a
   piece of work, or a place in work, marred in the doing, or not properly
   finished; a bungle.


word: Botch
wordtype: n.
definition:
To repair; to mend; esp. to patch in a clumsy or imperfect
   manner, as a garment; -- sometimes with up.


word: Botch
wordtype: n.
definition:
To put together unsuitably or unskillfully; to express or
   perform in a bungling manner; to spoil or mar, as by unskillful work.


word: Botfly
wordtype: n.
definition:
A dipterous insect of the family (Estridae, of many
   different species, some of which are particularly troublesome to
   domestic animals, as the horse, ox, and sheep, on which they deposit
   their eggs. A common species is one of the botflies of the horse
   (Gastrophilus equi), the larvae of which (bots) are taken into the
   stomach of the animal, where they live several months and pass through
   their larval states. In tropical America one species sometimes lives
   under the human skin, and another in the stomach. See Gadfly.


word: Bother
wordtype: n.
definition:
One who, or that which, bothers; state of perplexity or
   annoyance; embarrassment; worry; disturbance; petty trouble; as, to be
   in a bother.


word: Botheration
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act of bothering, or state of being bothered;
   cause of trouble; perplexity; annoyance; vexation.


word: Bothnic
wordtype: a.
definition:
Of or pertaining to Bothnia, a country of northern Europe,
   or to a gulf of the same name which forms the northern part of the
   Baltic sea.


word: Boothy
wordtype: n.
definition:
A wooden hut or humble cot, esp. a rude hut or barrack for
   unmarried farm servants; a shepherd's or hunter's hut; a booth.


word: Bo tree
definition:
The peepul tree; esp., the very ancient tree standing at
   Anurajahpoora in Ceylon, grown from a slip of the tree under which
   Gautama is said to have received the heavenly light and so to have
   become Buddha.


word: Botryoidal
wordtype: a.
definition:
Having the form of a bunch of grapes; like a cluster of
   grapes, as a mineral presenting an aggregation of small spherical or
   spheroidal prominences.


word: Bots
wordtype: n. pl.
definition:
The larvae of several species of botfly, especially those
   larvae which infest the stomach, throat, or intestines of the horse,
   and are supposed to be the cause of various ailments.


word: Bottine
wordtype: n.
definition:
An appliance resembling a small boot furnished with
   straps, buckles, etc., used to correct or prevent distortions in the
   lower extremities of children.


word: Bottle
wordtype: n.
definition:
A hollow vessel, usually of glass or earthenware (but
   formerly of leather), with a narrow neck or mouth, for holding liquids.


word: Bottle
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To put into bottles; to inclose in, or as in, a bottle
   or bottles; to keep or restrain as in a bottle; as, to bottle wine or
   porter; to bottle up one's wrath.


word: Bottleholder
wordtype: n.
definition:
One who attends a pugilist in a prize fight; -- so
   called from the bottle of water of which he has charge.


word: Bottle-nose
wordtype: n.
definition:
A cetacean of the Dolphin family, of several species,
   as Delphinus Tursio and Lagenorhyncus leucopleurus, of Europe.


word: Bottling
wordtype: n.
definition:
The act or the process of putting anything into bottles
   (as beer, mineral water, etc.) and corking the bottles.


word: Bottom
wordtype: n.
definition:
The lowest part of anything; the foot; as, the bottom of a
   tree or well; the bottom of a hill, a lane, or a page.


word: Bottom
wordtype: n.
definition:
The part of anything which is beneath the contents and
   supports them, as the part of a chair on which a person sits, the
   circular base or lower head of a cask or tub, or the plank floor of a
   ship's hold; the under surface.


word: Bottom
wordtype: n.
definition:
That upon which anything rests or is founded, in a literal
   or a figurative sense; foundation; groundwork.


word: Bottom
wordtype: a.
definition:
Of or pertaining to the bottom; fundamental; lowest; under;
   as, bottom rock; the bottom board of a wagon box; bottom prices.


word: Bottom
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To reach or impinge against the bottom, so as to impede
   free action, as when the point of a cog strikes the bottom of a space
   between two other cogs, or a piston the end of a cylinder.


word: Bottomed
wordtype: a.
definition:
Having at the bottom, or as a bottom; resting upon a
   bottom; grounded; -- mostly, in composition; as, sharp-bottomed;
   well-bottomed.


word: Bottomry
wordtype: n.
definition:
A contract in the nature of a mortgage, by which the
   owner of a ship, or the master as his agent, hypothecates and binds the
   ship (and sometimes the accruing freight) as security for the repayment
   of money advanced or lent for the use of the ship, if she terminates
   her voyage successfully. If the ship is lost by perils of the sea, the
   lender loses the money; but if the ship arrives safe, he is to receive
   the money lent, with the interest or premium stipulated, although it
   may, and usually does, exceed the legal rate of interest. See
   Hypothecation.


word: Bouch
wordtype: n.
definition:
An allowance of meat and drink for the tables of inferior
   officers or servants in a nobleman's palace or at court.


word: Boudoir
wordtype: n.
definition:
A small room, esp. if pleasant, or elegantly furnished, to
   which a lady may retire to be alone, or to receive intimate friends; a
   lady's (or sometimes a gentleman's) private room.


word: Bougainvillaea
wordtype: n.
definition:
A genus of plants of the order Nyctoginaceae, from
   tropical South America, having the flowers surrounded by large bracts.


word: Bougie
wordtype: n.
definition:
A long slender rod consisting of gelatin or some other
   substance that melts at the temperature of the body. It is impregnated
   with medicine, and designed for introduction into urethra, etc.


word: Bouilli
wordtype: n.
definition:
Boiled or stewed meat; beef boiled with vegetables in
   water from which its gravy is to be made; beef from which bouillon or
   soup has been made.


word: Boulangerite
wordtype: n.
definition:
A mineral of a bluish gray color and metallic luster,
   usually in plumose masses, also compact. It is a sulphide of antimony
   and lead.


word: Boulevard
wordtype: n.
definition:
A public walk or street occupying the site of demolished
   fortifications. Hence: A broad avenue in or around a city.


word: Boultin
wordtype: n.
definition:
A molding, the convexity of which is one fourth of a
   circle, being a member just below the abacus in the Tuscan and Roman
   Doric capital; a torus; an ovolo.


word: Bound
wordtype: n.
definition:
The external or limiting line, either real or imaginary, of
   any object or space; that which limits or restrains, or within which
   something is limited or restrained; limit; confine; extent; boundary.


word: Bound
wordtype: v. t.
definition:
To limit; to terminate; to fix the furthest point of
   extension of; -- said of natural or of moral objects; to lie along, or
   form, a boundary of; to inclose; to circumscribe; to restrain; to
   confine.


word: Bound
wordtype: v. i.
definition:
To move with a sudden spring or leap, or with a
   succession of springs or leaps; as the beast bounded from his den; the
   herd bounded across the plain.


word: Bound
wordtype: p. p. & a.
definition:
Constrained or compelled; destined; certain; --
   followed by the infinitive; as, he is bound to succeed; he is bound to
   fail.


word: Bound
wordtype: v.
definition:
Ready or intending to go; on the way toward; going; -- with
   to or for, or with an adverb of motion; as, a ship is bound to Cadiz,
   or for Cadiz.


word: Boundary
wordtype: n.
definition:
That which indicates or fixes a limit or extent, or marks
   a bound, as of a territory; a bounding or separating line; a real or
   imaginary limit.


word: Bounteous
wordtype: a.
definition:
Liberal in charity; disposed to give freely; generously
   liberal; munificent; beneficent; free in bestowing gifts; as, bounteous
   production.


word: Bounty
wordtype: n.
definition:
A premium offered or given to induce men to enlist into the
   public service; or to encourage any branch of industry, as husbandry or
   manufactures.


word: Bourbon
wordtype: n.
definition:
A member of a family which has occupied several European
   thrones, and whose descendants still claim the throne of France.


word: Bourbon
wordtype: n.
definition:
A politician who is behind the age; a ruler or politician
   who neither forgets nor learns anything; an obstinate conservative.


word: Bournonite
wordtype: n.
definition:
A mineral of a steel-gray to black color and metallic
   luster, occurring crystallized, often in twin crystals shaped like
   cogwheels (wheel ore), also massive. It is a sulphide of antimony,
   lead, and copper.


word: Bourse
wordtype: n.
definition:
An exchange, or place where merchants, bankers, etc., meet
   for business at certain hours; esp., the Stock Exchange of Paris.


word: Boustrophedon
wordtype: n.
definition:
An ancient mode of writing, in alternate directions,
   one line from left to right, and the next from right to left (as fields
   are plowed), as in early Greek and Hittite.


word: Bout
wordtype: n.
definition:
As much of an action as is performed at one time; a going and
   returning, as of workmen in reaping, mowing, etc.; a turn; a round.


word: Bouts-rimes
wordtype: n. pl.
definition:
Words that rhyme, proposed as the ends of verses,
   to be filled out by the ingenuity of the person to whom they are
   offered.


word: Bovate
wordtype: n.
definition:
An oxgang, or as much land as an ox can plow in a year; an
   ancient measure of land, of indefinite quantity, but usually estimated
   at fifteen acres.


word: Bovey coal
definition:
A kind of mineral coal, or brown lignite, burning with a
   weak flame, and generally a disagreeable odor; -- found at Bovey
   Tracey, Devonshire, England. It is of geological age of the oolite, and
   not of the true coal era.


word: Bovine
wordtype: a.
definition:
Of or pertaining to the genus Bos; relating to, or
   resembling, the ox or cow; oxlike; as, the bovine genus; a bovine
   antelope.


