A Alphabet Letter With Meaning

1.
abash [ uh'-BASH ]
[transitive verb]
MEANING :
to disconcert, embarrass or make queasy
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
He was abashed by her candid questions.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
I moved on, abashed, angry, and confused.
Telegraph, Auld acquaintance – or a new con trick? , By Michael Simkins , 02 Jan 2009
2. abate [ uh'-BEYT ]
[intransitive verb,transitive verb]
MEANING :
1. (tr.v.) to decrease, lessen or diminish
2. (tr.v.) to end, nullify or terminate
3. (intr.v.) to decrease or reduce in intensity
4. (intr.v.) to become void
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The tide abated and the people stuck on the cove were rescued.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Traffic was flowing freely after the rush hour traffic had abated.
CNN, How to combat drowsy driving, by Craig Howie, October 29, 2008
3. abattoir [ AB-uh'-twahr, ab-uh'-TWAHR ]
[noun]
MEANING :
slaughterhouse or A building where animals are butchered
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The abattoir was a fearsome place for the children of York.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Workers at an abattoir on Anglesey were among the first in Wales to feel the impact of the ban.
BBC, Abattoir lay-offs after outbreak, 6 August 2007

4. abdicate [ AB-di-keyt ]
MEANING :
1. (intr.v.) to resign, relinquish or renounce one's responsibility, office, power or authority
2. (tr.v.) to renounce, surrender or give up one's authority and power
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
He abdicated the throne in favour of his younger brother.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
King Jigme Singye Wangchuck made a historic announcement two weeks ago to abdicate the throne and
hand over power to the crown prince who would then become only a constitutional monarch.
The Times of India, Bhutans 'uncertain future' in democracy, 30 Dec 2005

5. abet [ uh'-BET ]
[verb]
MEANING :
to assist, encourage or support an activity or plan esp. some wrongdoing
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
To abet a criminal in any wrongdoing is a punishable offence in all the countries of the world.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
We believe it is crucial to have an open discussion about whether it is legitimate to aid and abet criminal
activities – and the theft of data certainly qualifies as a criminal activity – by using substantial public
resources to purchase stolen goods from a thief.
The Financial Times,Tax claims against this state are out of place, Otmar Hasler, February 19 2008
6. abeyance [ uh'-BEY-uh'ns ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. suspension, cessation or postponement
2. (law) a condition or state where ownership of an estate isn't established or determined
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Abeyance of his death sentence was seen in a negative light.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
With Saturday's crucial match looming, both sides have put the dispute in abeyance for 48 hours.
Telegraph, Wasps' players in contract stand-off, by Brendan Gallagher, 19 Dec 2008
7. abhor [ ab-HAWR ]
[transitive verb]
MEANING :
to loathe, detest, abominate or hate
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
She abhorred people who gossiped.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
There are little bands of pilgrims who not only abhor violence but form organisations like Dignity
Foundation, join PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals), learn karate for self-defence and
lock doors with a double bolt at night.
The Times of India, Are we insensitive to violence on the streets?, 25 Aug 2002
8. abject [ AB-jekt, ab-JEKT ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
1. sunk low in status or condition
2. shamelessly servile; contemptible
3. being of the most hopeless or miserable kind
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The abject misery of his life was often depicted in his paintings.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
An independent investigation confirmed what most already knew - 10 years of chronic underfunding
had left the Vale hospital in a state of abject misery.
BBC, Death on the wards, By Samantha Poling, 19 November 2008

9. abjure [ ab-joo'r, -JUR ]
[transitive verb]
MEANING :
1. to renounce, give up, repudiate or forswear
2. to shun, avoid or abstain from
3. to reject, recant or retract esp. under oath
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
He abjured all of his worldly possessions and embraced a monastic life.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Jacob stops shaving, tapes the 10 Commandments to his wrists, abjures shellfish and tries to think of
some way he can stone an adulterer without being arrested.
Telegraph, Living by the Bible's rules, by Marcus Berkmann, 29 Feb 2008

10. ablution [ uh'-BLOO-shuh'n ]
[noun]
MEANING :
a washing or cleansing of the body, especially for religious reasons
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The Hindu religion lays great stress on performing ablutions.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
In the Sikh holy city of Amritsar, where thousands of devotees gathered to celebrate the birthday of one
of the religion's most important gurus, there was not enough water available for the pre-prayer
ablutions.
CNN, Workers aim to restore power after massive India blackout, January 3, 2001
11. abnegate [ AB-ni-geyt ]
[transitive verb]
MEANING :
1. to renounce or deny oneself
2. to give up or surrender
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The Police, in recent years, have developed a pathetic tendency to totally abnegate their responsibilities
for law enforcement during any large scale riot.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The ATP and the WTA are too gutless to do anything about it, and the umpires almost totally abnegate
any responsibility for enforcement.
Guardian, Sharapova wins in variety show but slips on banana, Steve Bierley,September 11, 2006
12. abnegation [ AB-ni-gey-shuh'n ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. self denial in favour of the interests of others
2.the denial and rejection of a doctrine or belief; "abnegation of the Holy Trinity"
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The children were taught the value of abnegation from a young age.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
First-half goals from Danny Invincibile and Gary Wales went unanswered and, in an abnegation of
responsibility, home manager Valdas Ivanauskas refused to attend the post-match press conference.
Telegraph, Novo notches a rare winner for weary Rangers, by Ewing Grahame, 23 Oct 2006
13. abominate [ uh'-BOM-uh'-neyt ]
[transitive verb]
MEANING :
to abhor, detest, hate or loathe
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Her irrational behaviour showed that she abominated people of a different race.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Jeremy Paxman on the extraordinary achievement of Wilfred Owen, who abominated war yet died a
great warrior.
Telegraph, Wilfred Owen: The soldiers' poet, by Jeremy Paxman, 03 Nov 2007
14. abomination [ uh'-bom-uh'-NEY-shuh'n ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. abhorrence, detestation or disgust
2. the cause of abhorrence or wickedness
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The corruption among the police forces who are supposedly the guardians and protectors of citizens of
our country is an abomination.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
There was the abomination of rights-abusing countries such as Zimbabwe, Saudi Arabia and Cuba
gaining leadership positions on the Human Rights Commission.
CNN, Bush should use recess appointment power carefully, Noah S. Leavitt, July 4, 2005
15. aboriginal [ ab-uh'-RIJ-uh'-nl ]

[noun,adjective]
MEANING :
1. (adj.) indigenous or inhabiting or native from the beginning
2. (adj.) relating or pertaining to the aborigines
3. (n.) aborigine
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The aboriginal residents of the island were feared by the new settlers.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Aboriginal tribes believe their remains must be returned to their people.
BBC, Museum returns Aboriginal skulls, 21 May 2009
16. abortive [ uh'-BAWR-tiv ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
1. unsuccessful, fruitless or unable to succeed
2. imperfectly formed or developed
3. born prematurely
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The project was abandoned after several abortive trails.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Even with this new legislation, there are still costs involved and we do not want to carry out abortive
work or needlessly spend money.
BBC, Views sought on Stray cycle plan, 5 November 2008
17. abracadabra [ ab-ruh'-kuh'-DAB-ruh' ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. a magical charm or incantation recited for the purpose of warding off disease or disaster
2. foolish or meaningless talk; gibberish; nonsense
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The word, 'abracadabra' is a favourite among magicians.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
We hope the international community are finally realising that you can't just say 'Abracadabra' and
produce peace out of a hat.
Telegraph, Powell heads east to face Arab wrath, By David Wastell in Washington, Tom Gross in
Jerusalem and Philip Smucker in Cairo, 20 Jun 2001
18. abrade [ uh'-BREYD ]
MEANING :
1. (tr.v.) to wear away by scrubbing or rubbing
2. (tr.v.) wear down spiritually
3.(intr.v.) to scrape off
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The shirt was abraded around the collar due to a rough scrubbing.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
At some point in the history of a bronze statue of Uma dated 1012, the face became abraded by the
daily ritual of bathing and anointing, so the temple sent it back to the sculptor's workshop for renewal.
Telegraph, Encounters with the divine, by Richard Dorment, 16 Nov 2006

19. abrogate [ AB-ruh'-geyt ]
[transitive verb]
MEANING :
to abolish by formal or official means; annul by an authoritative act; repeal
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The CPI(M) party's plea to the Congress to abrogate the India-US nuclear deal fell on deaf ears.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Demanding unilateral changes and threatening to abrogate an agreement that has increased trade and
prosperity is nothing more than retreating behind protectionist walls.
CNN, McCain speech on relationship between U.S. and Canada, June 27, 2008
20. abscess [ AB-ses ]
[noun]
MEANING :
a localized collection of pus surrounded by inflamed tissue which is frequently caused by bacteria
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
If the wound is not cleaned in time, it might result in an abscess.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
If untreated, infected lymph nodes may progress to an abscess (pus collection) or spread bacteria to the
overlying skin or into the bloodstream.
CNN, How serious is a swollen lymph node?, January 19, 2009
21. abscond [ ab-SKOND ]

[intransitive verb]
MEANING :
to depart quickly in a sudden and secret manner; especially to avoid arrest or legal prosecution
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
It is difficult to catch criminals who successfully abscond from a high security prison.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Police are hunting a prisoner who has absconded from Hollesley Bay open prison in Suffolk.
BBC, Latest inmate absconds from jail, 10 December 2007
22. absolve [ ab-ZOLV, -SOLV ]
[transitive verb]
MEANING :
1. to acquit, set free or pronounce as free of blame or guilt
2. to forgive, pardon or remit
3. to release from responsibility or duty
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
He was absolved of all wrongdoing.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
All of which doesn't absolve Yahoo of its failure to notify your fiance of his flight changes.
CNN, Spirit is gone -- and so is my money, By Christopher Elliott, December 11, 2008
23. abstemious [ ab-STEE-mee-uh's ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. moderate or sparing esp. in eating and drinking
2. characterised by abstinence
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The secret to a long life may very well lie in being abstemious.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Until recently you would associate gout with boozing and rich food, but there are plenty of other
patients who are quite abstemious. This might be a genetic marker for gout risk.
BBC News, Gene 'linked to higher gout risk'
24. abstinence [ AB-stuh'-nuh'ns ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. voluntary forbearance from any indulgence of appetite, particularly from the use of alcoholic
beverages
2. any self-denial, forbearance or self-restraint
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Abstinence is often required to balance the body equilibrium.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
On each subsequent day, they were instructed to add an additional hour of abstinence and an additional
piece of gum.
abcNews, Chewing Through a Smoking Habit, By JOHN G. SPANGLER, M.D., Jan. 31, 2009
25. abstract [ AB-strakt, ab-STRAKT ]

[noun,adjective,transitive verb]
MEANING :
1. (adj.) considered apart from concrete realities, specific objects or actual instances
2. (adj.) depending solely on intrinsic form rather than on narrative content or pictorial representation
3. (n.) a statement summarizing the important points of a text, scientific article, document, speech etc
4. (tr.v.) to take away or remove without permission
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Abstract art is often misunderstood as it falls beyond the norms of traditional art.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
These include famous portraits of Byron, Mary Queen of Scots and Winston Churchill alongside
unfamiliar landscapes, abstract works and specially commissioned pieces.
Telegraph, BBC to put all 200,000 publicly owned paintings online, By Urmee Khan, Digital and Media
Correspondent, 28 Jan 2009
26. abstruse [ ab-STROOS ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
1. recondite, ambiguous, esoteric or very difficult to understand or comprehend
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
His abstruse speech confused everyone.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The assembly is often engaged in discussing fairly abstruse issues, then suddenly comes alive when a
riveting personal testimony is made.
The Herald, Riveting personal testimony lends life to assembly, RON FERGUSON, May 23 2007
27. abut [ uh'-BUHT ]

MEANING :
1. (tr.v.) to touch, be adjacent to, end at or border on
2. (tr.v.) to support
3. (intr.v.) to terminate, border or be adjacent to
4. (intr.v.) to lean on so as to get supported
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
His property abuts the only lake in the area.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
It will abut eight Albert Street to the annoyance of the occupants.
Telegraph, Narrowest house in Britain will be just 9ft wide, By Sarah Knapton, 23 Dec 2008
28. abysmal [ uh'-BIZ-muh'l ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
1.very bad,
2.severe or wretched unfathomable, profound or bottomless
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The abysmal performance of the team was criticised.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
A leading Aslef official claimed trains travelling through the main line tunnel into Wales had to slow
down, signals were worse and tracks were "abysmal".
BBC, MPs told Severn Tunnel is 'hole', 25 November 2008

29. abyss [ uh'-BIS ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. an immeasurably deep chasm, space or cavity
2. the region of evil spirits; hell
3. anything infinite, unfathomable or profound
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Severely depressed people often have a feeling of being trapped in a deep abyss.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Rather than presenting an obstacle, House Republicans intend to use the full force of our ideas to help
Democrats produce a better package to help pull the country back from the economic abyss.
CNN, Commentary: Big risk in Obama's economic stimulus plan, By Rep. Eric Cantor, January 18, 2009
30. accede [ ak-SEED ]
[transitive verb]
MEANING :
1. to concede, assent or approve
2. to assume attain or take up a position or an office
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
He acceded to the throne after the death of his father.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Even Romania and Bulgaria can be considered relatively successful since they are due to accede to the
EU next year.
CNN, Children of the revolution, By Paul Sussman for CNN, October 23, 2006
31. accessory [ ak-SES-uh'-ree ]
[noun,adjective]
MEANING :
1. (n.) a subordinate or supplementary item, object or the like used mainly for convenience,
attractiveness, safety etc
2. (n.) something that is not essential but desirable that contributes to completeness, convenience,
attractiveness
3. (adj.) one who aids or abets a lawbreaker in the commission of a crime but is not present at the time
of the crime
4. (adj.) something that is supplementary, secondary or subordinate in function
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The mask is kept as an accessory rather than as a principal prop.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Trainers made from recycled bus seat covers and tyres have proved an unusual fashion accessory.
BBC, Trainers made from old bus parts, 7 January 2009
32. acclaimed [ uh'-KLEYM ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
celebrated, acknowledged, renowned or praised

USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
He was an acclaimed writer who had won many prestigious awards.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
A globally acclaimed folk artist from Northumberland is to be given a prestigious music award.
BBC, Folk artist awarded Queen's Medal, 26 January 2009
33. acclimate [ AK-luh'-meyt, uh'-KLAHY-mit ]

MEANING :
1. (tr.v.) to adapt or get accustomed to
2. (intr.v.) to conform, adjust or adapt to
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
It took some time to get acclimated to the climate.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Michelle Obama is bucking that mind-set in deciding to take time off from her career to focus on getting
her children acclimated to life in the White House.
CNN, Commentary: Michelle Obama is reinventing the stay-at-home mom, By Jolene Ivey, November 25,
2008
34. accolade [ AK-uh'-leyd, -lahd; ak-uh'-LEYD, -LAHD ]
[noun,transitive verb]
MEANING :
1. (n.) award, honour or special acknowledgement
2. (n.) a ceremonial embrace or a touch with the flat side of a sword on the shoulder that is used to
confer knighthood
3. (tr.v.) to honour or shower praises on
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Accolades were plentiful once his role in the freedom struggle became known.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Mr Jones received his accolade at the Evening Herald Gold Star Awards.
BBC, Accolade for gas explosion hero, 25 March 2008

35. accomplice [ uh'-KOM-plis ]
[noun]
MEANING :
a person who knowingly helps another in wrongdoing, either as a principal or an accessory
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
An accomplice who is an accessory to murder often receives a lesser sentence than the main accused.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
In 1829, George Wilson and an accomplice received death sentences for murder and robbing mail trains.
CNN, 11 notable presidential pardons, By Ethan Trex, January 5, 2009

36. accost [ uh'-KAWST, uh'-KOST ]
MEANING :
1. (tr.v.) to confront or speak boldly or aggressively to
2. (tr.v.) to solicit for sexual gratification
3. (n.) a greeting
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
He was accosted by the thief and asked to hand over his money.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
They accost or harass women who aren't wearing the traditional robe and head scarf known as the
hijab.
abcNews, Iraqi Women Targeted by Campaign of Violence, By TROY MCMULLEN, Nov. 15, 2007
37. accouter [ uh'-KOO-ter ]
[transitive verb]
MEANING :
to equip furnish or outfit esp. with military ammunition
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The property was accoutered with a variety of celebrity paraphernalia.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
One look around neighboring Teton Mountain Lodge and you know that DesLauriers used his experience
as a world ski traveler to accouter the place.
CNN, Where Now: Jackson Hole, Wyoming, By Chris Solomon, March 19, 2004
38. accretion [ uh'-KREE-shuh'n ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. growth or increase in size by gradual external addition
2. slow increase to land by action of natural forces
3. something contributing to this process
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Accretion in the company size showed that the company was making a profit.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
In the core accretion model, planets form little by little, as material slowly congeals within the disc over
millions of years.
BBC, Water pours on young star system, 30 August 2007

39. accrue [ uh'-KROO ]
MEANING :
1. (intr.v.) to increase or accumulate as a result or outcome of growth
2. (intr.v.) to become legally enforceable as a claim
3. (intr.v.) to result due to increment
4. (tr.v.) to accumulate or collect over time
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
His wealth had accrued as a result of careful investments.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Employees on long-term sick leave are entitled to take all holiday they have accrued when they return to
work, the European Court of Justice has ruled.
BBC, Sick leave staff win holiday case, 20 January 2009

40. acerbity [ uh'-SUR-bi-tee ]
[noun]
MEANING :
harshness of speech, expression or temper
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Nani Palkiwala's budget speeches- which were laced with wit and acerbity- attracted large audiences.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
But ultimately House of Cards is chez Richardson, with his wit, acerbity and slyness making this an ideal
political thriller, even for those left cold by politics.
BBC, House of cards, Paul Seed, BBC TV, 1990

41. acidulous [ uh'-SIJ-uh'-luh's ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
1. somewhat sour in taste or manner
2. moderately tart or caustic
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The drink was acidulous and was pink in colour.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The Nose is a blast of acidulous fun, with a superb libretto (Gogol's story), begging for a British staging.
Telegraph, London dances to Russia's tunes, Ismene Brown, 14 Jul 2006

42. acolyte [ AK-uh'-lahyt ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. a devoted follower or attendant of an important person
2. one who assists a member of the clergy in liturgical rites by performing minor functions
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The minister is often accompanied by an entourage of acolytes when he sees to his official duties.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
An acolyte of the historian and political philosopher Michael Oakeshott, Jack Greenleaf (as he was
known to all) was Professor of Political Theory and Government at University College, Swansea, from
1967 to 1982.
Telegraph, Professor WH Greenleaf, 12 Jun 2008

43. acoustics [ uh'-KOO-stiks ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. the characteristics or quality of a room to reflect sound waves in such a way as to produce distinct
learning
2. the branch of physics that deals with the production, control, transmission, reception and effects of
sound
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
It was a pleasure to listen to the London Philharmonic Orchestra on account of the superb acoustics of
the Opera house
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Although considered an architectural masterpiece, the Sydney Opera House has been criticized for poor
acoustics in the Concert Hall and a lack of performance and backstage space in the Opera Theater.
abcNews, Sydney Opera House Designer Joern Utzon Dies at 90, By JAN M. OLSEN Associated Press
Writer, November 29, 2008
44. acquiesce [ ak-wee-ES ]
[verb]
MEANING :
to agree without protest; to consent or comply tacitly
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The essence of military training is for a young cadet to be able to acquiesce to commands made by a
superior officer.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Though adhering to that ideal brought the roof crashing down during the team's Spanish period,
McLaren were delighted to acquiesce.
The Telegraph, Heikki Kovalainen to be a McLaren team player, By Kevin Garside, 09 Jan 2008
45. acquiescent [ ak-wee-ES-uh'nt ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
willing to consent and carry out the orders or wishes of another without protest
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
An acquiescent proletariat is often downtrodden and taken advantage of by the gentry.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The changed composition of the House will also mean that Bush will no longer have an acquiescent
Congress to work with.
The Times of India, House Repair, 9 Nov 2006
46. acrid [ AK-rid ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
1. bitterly pungent, irritating or stinging to inhale or taste
2. caustic, bitter or acrimonious
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The detergent has an acrid smell.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Another eyewitness David Buik, who was watching the blaze from his offices in Canary Wharf, said the
fire was producing acrid smoke.
CNN, Olympic site blaze clouds London, November 12, 2007
47. acrimonious [ ak-ruh'-MOH-nee-uh's ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
bitter, caustic, or sharply resentful in language, behaviour or nature
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The acrimonious debate between the two candidates kept the viewers glued to their television sets.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The prolonged and often acrimonious discussions over Barry's move are still developing on Wednesday.
CNN, Goalkeeper Cavalieri on way to Liverpool, July 9, 2008
48. acronym [ AK-ruh'-nim ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. a word formed from the initial letters or groups of letters of a name in a set phrase or series of words
2. an acrostic
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Acronyms are often used because they are convenient and easy to remember.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The initials are the acronym for the movement he leads - Tanora malaGasy Vonona (Young Malagasies
Determined).
BBC, Madagascar's 'militant mayor', By Jonny Hogg, 3 February 2009
49. activism [ AK-tuh'-viz-uh'm ]
[noun]
MEANING :
the use of direct, often confrontational action such as demonstrations or strikes as a means of achieving
political or social goals
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Activism is often the sought after tool of change during times of hardships.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Mr Obama, who was elected on a slogan of "change" and whose campaign was built on grassroots
activism, will be sworn in as the 44th President of the United States.
Telegraph, Barack Obama inauguration: President-Elect invokes spirit of Martin Luther King , By Toby
Harnden in Washington, 20 Jan 2009
50. actuarial [ AK-choo-AIR-ee-uh'l ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
1. of or relating to the work of an actuary
2. relating to statistical calculations of life expectancy
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Actuarial science is fast becoming a popular subject with foreign students.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Spaniards also know that the social-security system has been saved from actuarial insolvency by the
contributions of young immigrants.
Economist, A cooler welcome, Nov 6th 2008
51. actuate [ AK-choo-eyt ]
[transitive verb]
MEANING :
1. to bring about, incite, induce or activate
2. to start or set into action
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
He actuated the riot by pelting the police with stones.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The Radio Authority, which has recently repeated its opposition to religious broadcasting, cannot
possibly be actuated by such fears.
Telegraph, For heaven's sake, why do they ban Christian radio?, By Boris Johnson, 23 Aug 2001
52. acuity [ uh'-KYOO-i-tee ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. to be sharp, acute or keen especially of thought or perception
2. acuteness or keenness of vision
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
His acuity gained him respect in the financial world.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Rees's quick mind and financial acuity made him a handy Treasury and trade minister.
Telegraph, Lord Rees, Pugnacious Chief Secretary to the Treasury who drove down public spending in
the 1980s, 02 Dec 2008
53. acumen [ uh'-KYOO-muh'n, AK-yuh'- ]
[noun]
MEANING :
accuracy, keenness, discernment or shrewdness
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
His acumen made him a superb strategist.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
It got to the point before Christmas where if you didn't make redundancies, people would start
questioning your business acumen.
BBC, Architect sees public works relief, By Maryam Moshiri, 23 January 2009
54. ad nauseam [ ad NAW-zee-uh'm, -am ]
[adverb]
MEANING :
to a sickening or disgusting degree; to the point of nausea
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
All news channels showed the capture of the terrorist ad nauseam.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Through the haze of Bud Light and Stoli, the authentic Russian vodka, the sickening images of the second
plane slicing through the World Trade Centre were played ad infinitum and ad nauseam.
The Telegraph, Gordonstoun head 'drank to blot it out', By Auslan Cramb, Scottish Correspondent, 9 Sep
2001
55. ad valorem [ ad vuh'-LAWR-uh'm, -LOHR- ]
[adjective,adverb]
MEANING :
1. (adj.) in proportion to the value, used especially of taxes on goods that are fixed at a percentage of
the value
2. (adv.) in proportion to the estimated value of the goods taxed
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
An ad valorem tax is the need of the hour.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The specific excise duty, which would be in addition to the existing ad valorem duty of 24 per cent,
would come into force with immediate effect.
The Times of India, Govt slaps additional duty on fuel guzzling cars, 13 Jun 2008
56. adage [ AD-ij ]
[noun]
MEANING :
a saying often in metaphorical form that speaks of a general truth and that has gained credibility
through long use
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Adages often serve as warnings to help prevent repeating past mistakes.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
A new national poll appears to validate the adage that time heals all wounds, at least when it comes to
two former presidents of the United States.
CNN, Views soften on 2 former presidents, CNN poll finds, By Paul Steinhauser
57. adamant [ AD-uh'-muh'nt, -mant ]
[noun,adjective]
MEANING :
1. (adj.) unyielding, stubborn or unrelenting
2. (adj.) inflexible or unshakable
3 (n.) a substance (like a diamond) that is so hard that it is impenetrable or unyielding.
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
His adamant attitude cost him his job.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Mark Thompson, the BBC director-general, remained adamant against the showing the advertisement.
abcNews, Religious Leaders Call on BBC to Show Gaza Ad, By JENNIFER QUINN Associated Press Writer,
January 25, 2009
58. addle [ AD-l ]
[adjective,intransitive verb,transitive verb]
MEANING :
1. (adj.) rotten, mentally confused
2. (tr.v.) to muddle or confuse
3. (intr.v.) to become confused, to become rotten, as eggs
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Decision should not be made when your mind is addled.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
For those times when your mind is addled, and your center is shaky -- open this little black bag of cures
and find your beautiful balance!
CNN, Seven ways to restart your day, By Kathryn Matthews, December 24, 2007
59. adduce [ uh'-DOOS, uh'-DYOOS ]
[transitive verb]
MEANING :
to offer or cite as a reason, example or proof
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
He adduced a convincing argument to explain his absence.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The trial court had discredited the procedure of fingerprinting not on the basis of evidence adduced by
the defence but on the basis of some literature the judge concerned had apparently come across during
his research.
The Times of India, Mattoo case got focus again, Bhadra Sinha, 18 October 2006
60. adept [ adj. uh'-DEPT; n. AD-ept, uh'-DEPT ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
highly skilled; very proficient in something requiring skill; expert
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
An adept artisan has been hired to restore a priceless Ming dynasty vase.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
For a man who picked up a tidy international reputation with the instrument, John Wallace is not always
adept at blowing his own trumpet.
The Herald, Let’s blow the trumpet for our artistic jewel, RUTH WISHART, February 20 2008
61. adipose [ AD-uh'-pohs ]
[noun,adjective]
MEANING :
1. (adj.) composed of, or relating to animal fat
2. (n.) the animal fat stored in adipose tissue
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The animal fat stored in adipose tissues is often considered unhealthy for consumption.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
If fat isn't stored in the adipose tissue, it ends up in the liver and muscles.
abcNews, Obesity Doesn't Always Equal Diabetes, By Steven Reinberg HealthDay Reporter, Mar. 23
62. adjunct [ AJ-uh'ngkt ]
[noun,adjective]
MEANING :
1. (n.) an appendage or one that is added as an auxiliary or secondary addition
2. (n.) an assistant, subordinate or a person in a secondary or auxiliary position
3. (n.) a secondary or auxiliary word
4. (adj.) attached, joined or connected in an auxiliary or secondary manner

USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
All the adjuncts in his will were read out.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Food should be part and parcel of education and not just an adjunct to it
BBC, School meals 'task force' created, 11 December 2008

63. admonish [ ad-MON-ish ]
[transitive verb]
MEANING :
1. to caution, warn or gently reprove
2. to counsel or gently advise against something
3. to remind or urge to fulfil a duty
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
HE was admonished by his mother about his duty towards his family.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Narayana reportedly used to admonish Ravi, an idler and alcoholic.
The Times of India, Murderer played the innocent, 23 Jan 2008

64. admonitory [ ad-MON-i-tawr-ee, -tohr-ee ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
expressing a warning
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
His admonitory words fell on deaf years.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The Football Association are to have a quiet, admonitory word with Chelsea about the pursuit of Steven
Gerrard while the Liverpool midfielder was away on England duty at Euro 2004.
Telegraph, Chelsea warned for overtures, By Henry Winter and Mihir Bose, 01 Jul 2004
65. adorn [ uh'-DAWRN ]
[transitive verb]
MEANING :
1. to beautify, ornament, embellish or add beauty to
2. to decorate or enhance with ornaments
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Her room was adorned with fresh flowers in various colours and settings.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Wealthy ancient Romans were the first to adorn their homes and public buildings with coloured
marbles.
BBC, Roman 'marbles' go on display, By David Willey Rome correspondent, 3 October, 2002
66. adroit [ uh'-DROIT ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
1. dextrous; agile
2. skilful; resourceful
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
His adroit debating skills helped our college secure the first rank in the debating competition.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Mr Sullivan become the third “Spitzer boss” to fall, joining two lawyers, Mr Prince and Mr Cherkasky,
both of whom were considerably less adroit at running companies than they were at cosying up to Mr
Spitzer.
The Economist, Trigger-happy boards, Jun 17th 2008

67. adulation [ AJ-uh'-ley shuh'n ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. slavish praise, devotion, flattery or applause
2. intense admiration
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The actor loved to receive the adulation of his fans.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
As soon as Sachin Tendulkar makes eye contact with one, they will all expect it, and he will be trapped in
adulation.
Telegraph, Sachin Tendulkar, the gracious god who lifts his people out of pit of despair, by Simon
Hughes, 18 Dec 2008
68. adulteration [ uh'-duhl-tuh'-REY-shuh'n ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. the process of making something impure by adding something inferior or extraneous or spurious to it
2. one that is impure or adulterated
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Adulteration of food products is a punishable offence.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The U.S. attorney's office announced Robert Ray Courtney, 48, of Kansas City, and the pharmacy he
owns, Research Medical Tower Pharmacy, were each charged with eight counts of tampering with
consumer products, six counts of adulteration of a drug and six counts of misbranding of a drug.
CNN, Pharmacist faces 20 counts of drug tampering, By Terry Frieden CNN Washington Bureau, August
24, 2001
69. adumbrate [ a-DUHM-breyt, AD-uh'm-breyt ]
[transitive verb]
MEANING :
1. to sketch, partially disclose or outline
2. to foreshadow or intimate
3. to overshadow or obscure
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The detective adumbrated the life of the serial killer.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Paul says "I hope that technology has cut the TV correspondent's working day a bit by 2207 - in fact if
you bear in mind that the way we work adumbrates the way most people will work in future, with work
seeping into life and life into work, the whole concept of work hours will break down."
BBC, My One Day In History - 0600-2359, by Paul Mason, 17 Oct 06

70. advent [ AD-vent ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. the arrival or coming
2. the period before Christmas, that includes four Sundays preceding it, which is considered by
Christians as a time to pray and fast
3. the coming or birth of Jesus Christ at the incarnation
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The advent of the information age was welcomed by the developing world.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
In all the days of advent until Christmas day and from then on until 12th night - the season wherein his
birth is celebrated - I have been giving him, and will yet give him, much thought. says Clive James
BBC, Lest we forget, Jesus the man, 26 December 2008

71. adventitious [ ad-vuh' n-TISH-uh' s ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
1. accidental, extrinsic or not inherent

2. appearing or developing in unusual places
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Her adventitious inclusion into the group turned to be blessing in disguise.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
These varieties prefer limey soil, and they have tiny, clinging (or adventitious) roots.
Telegraph, Ivy league, Val Bourne, 03 Dec 2004
72. adversary [ AD-ver-ser-ee ]
[noun]
MEANING :
a person or group that is an opponent or enemy in a contest
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Past adversaries can be future friends to serve mutual commitments.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
He reportedly views his Israeli counterpart with suspicion, seeing him still as a military adversary rather
than a negotiating partner.
BBC, Adversaries fail to bond, By Richard Miron in Jerusalem, 18 July, 2000
73. aegis [ EE-jis ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. protection; support: under the imperial aegis

2. Classical Mythology. the shield or breastplate of Zeus or Athena, bearing at its centre the head of the
Gorgon.
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The GATT talks, held under the aegis of the WTO, promises the world a more equitable trading regime
between the developing and developed countries.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Kirsti Paakkanen, a stalwart of Finland's advertising world, was persuaded out of retirement to buy
Marimekko from Amer for a song and under her aegis the company prospered, tapping new export
markets.
The Independent, How to dress like Jackie O, Susie Mesure, 23 March 2008
aeon [ EE-uh'n, EE-on ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. an indefinitely or immeasurably long period of time; an age
2. the longest division of geological time, containing to or more eras
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Mythological stories often span aeons during which the plot thickens and evolves.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
He was the astronaut in the original Planet of the Apes (1968) who discovers that the gorilla-dominated
world in which he has landed is actually Earth aeons after a nuclear holocaust.
Telegraph, Charlton Heston, 07 Apr 2008
aesthetic [ es-THET-ik or, especially Brit., ees- ]
[noun,adjective]
MEANING :
1. (adj.) of pleasing in appearance or concerning the appreciation of beauty or good taste
2. (n.) a philosophical theory or idea that serves as a guiding principle in matters of artistic beauty and
taste; artistic sensibility
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The aesthetic beauty of the pagoda was unmatched.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Architects will be sharpening their pencils in anticipation of the aesthetic possibilities.
CNN, A light bulb moment, By Matthew Knight for CNN, December 15, 2007
74. affable [ AF-uh'-buh' l ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
approachable; friendly; pleasant and polite
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
His affable temperament won him many friends.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The affable host thrives on the adrenaline rush of anything-can-happen live TV — and he can handle
anything that comes his way.
ABC News, Reality Sets in for Seacrest, Bergeron, Others, By ERIN CARLSON, Associated Press Writer,
July 18, 2008
75. affectation [ af-ek-TEY-shuh'n ]
[noun]
MEANING :
behaviour that is artificial rather than natural; an effort to attract notice by pretence or any assumed
peculiarity
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Affectations are often employed by people in social gatherings.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
It seems a growing awareness of the damage caused by the sun has helped make an old-fashioned
affectation hip again.
abcNews, Sun Block: Parasols As Modern Accessory, By SAMANTHA CRITCHELL AP Fashion Writer, April
7, 2008
76. affiliate [ v. uh'-FIL-ee-eyt; n. uh'-FIL-ee-it, -eyt ]
[noun]
MEANING :
a branch organization or a subsidiary
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The college in our town is affiliated to the biggest university in the country.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Wal-Mart's Japanese affiliate, Seiyu, has reported growing losses and revealed that it may use Wal-Mart
branding for new store openings.
BBC, Wal-Mart affiliate Seiyu suffers, 18 August 2005
77. affinity [ uh'-FIN-i-tee ]

[noun]
MEANING :
1. a natural attraction to a person, thing, idea etc
2. an inherent likeness or agreement between persons and things
3. relationship by marriage or by other ties
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
He had an affinity towards people who shared his love for antique hunting.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Obama demonstrates an easy affinity with pop culture that suggests music is actually important to him.
Telegraph, Barack Obama had all the best tunes, 06 Nov 2008
78. affluence [ AF-loo-uh'ns or, often, uh'-FLOO-uh'ns ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. an abundance of money or property
2. a flowing to or towards a point
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The general affluence of the elite ensures that their homes are well taken care of.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The island's relative affluence represents a dramatic turnaround from where things were heading in the
early 1990s.
National Geographic, Thai Village Trades Illegal Fishers for Ecotourists, Stefan Lovgren in Koh Yao Noi,
Thailand, December 19, 2005
79. affray [ uh'-FREY ]
MEANING :
1. (n.) a public fray, brawl or fight
2. (tr.v.) to scare or frighten
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The police were called to put an end to the affray.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Police have registered a case under IPC section 160, which refers to affray, a public fight that causes
disturbance.
The Times of India,Family claims black magic used on them, 12 Jan 2009
80. affront [ uh'-FRUHNT ]
MEANING :
1. (tr.v.) to insult intentionally and openly
2. (n.) an offence to one's dignity
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
It does not take much to be affronted by the vicious gossip that is being spread around.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The judge said Nifong's withholding of DNA evidence from defense attorneys was an affront to the
integrity of the judicial system.
CNN, Nifong held in criminal contempt by judge, sentenced to day in jail

81. aficionado [ uh'-fish-yuh-NAH-doh; Sp. ah-fee-thyaw-NAH-th'aw, ah-fee-syaw- ]
[noun]
MEANING :
an enthusiastic admirer of a sport or interest; a fan
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Celebrities are often hounded by aficionados for autographs.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Bayh, a sports aficionado just like his sons, is planning on hitting some tennis balls with them before
returning home later today, where he will find the lost bag safe and sound.
abcNews, Bayh's Drive-By Gym Bag Drop-Off Incident, August 20, 2008
82. agape [ uh'-GEYP, uh'-GAP ]
[noun,adjective,adverb]
MEANING :
1. (n.) love or love feast
2. (adj.) wide open
3. (adv.) in a surprised or open mouthed manner
4.(adj.) open mouthed, surprised
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
His assumptions left her agape with wrath.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Every child born is of God and worthy of dignity, respect and agape.
Telegraph, Letters: The sacrifices of soldiers deserve greater recognition, 21 Dec 2008
83. aggrandize [ uh'-GRAN-dahyz, AG-ruh'n-dahyz ]
[transitive verb]
MEANING :
1. to extend, increase or enlarge
2. to make more powerful, great or rich
3. to exaggerate or praise highly
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
His position in society was aggrandized by his marriage.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
His purpose in collecting multiples was not just to aggrandize supplies of the most decorative species for
sale
National Geographic, Alfred Russel Wallace, By David Quammen, December 2008

84. aggravate [ AG-ruh'-veyt ]
[transitive verb]
MEANING :
1. to make matters worse or more troublesome
2. to rouse to anger or exasperation
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
A thoughtless word or action aggravates a potentially volatile situation.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Major loss of land and other property would aggravate poverty and hardship in the region.
National Geographic, Melting Himalayan Glaciers May Doom Towns, Pallava Bagla, May 7, 2002
85. aggregate [ adj., n. AG-ri-git, -geyt; v. AG-ri-geyt ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
collection of units or particles into a whole; total
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The aggregate number has to be taken into account for the calculation to be correct.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
For a start, as far as aggregate demand is concerned, it will run into a headwind from the public sector.
Telegraph, We must prepare for the recovery - whenever it comes, By Roger Bootle, 02 Feb 2009
86. aghast [ uh'-GAST, uh'-GAHST ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
shocked, amazed, terrified or horrified
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Her aghast expression indicated she did not know about the accident.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The court was so aghast by the fact that NHAI has seen five chairmen in the past two-and-a-half years
that it recommended that a law be enacted to ensure that heads of public enterprises have fixed
tenures of 3 to 5 years.
The Times of India, Ministry delaying highways: HC, Abhinav Garg & Dipak Kumar Dash, 19 December
2008
87. agile [ AJ-uh' l, AJ-ahyl ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
1. nimble or marked by swift, easy grace
2. acute, sharp or swift mentally
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
He was well known for his agile mind and fast reflexes.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The distinctive swimming technique of a bony fish is being used to develop agile, propellerless
submarines.
BBC, Robot fins to propel submarines, 31 July 2007
88. agnostic [ ag-NOS-tik ]
[noun,adjective]
MEANING :
1. (n.) a person who believes it is impossible to know whether there is a God
2. (n.) one who is doubtful or noncommittal about ultimate knowledge in some area of study
3. (adj.) pertaining to agnostics
4. (adj.) doubtful and uncertain of all claims to knowledge
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Agnostics form a minor percentage of the world population.

USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Darwin himself quietly renounced Christianity during his middle age, and later described himself as an
agnostic.
National Geographic, Was Darwin Wrong?, By David Quammen
89. agog [ uh'-GOG ]
[adjective,adverb]
MEANING :
1. (adj.) highly excited or eager
2. (adv.) in a state of keen desire; excitedly
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
His agog chatter soon became annoying.

USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Winehouse had not walked the red carpet at the start of the evening and journalists were later agog as
the singer, wearing a denim pinafore, walked up to collect her prize.
BBC, MTV awards feel Winehouse effect, By Emma Jones, 2 November 2007
90. agoraphobia [ ag-er-uh'-FOH-bee-uh' ]
[noun]
MEANING :
an abnormal fear of crowds, public places or open areas

USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
People who suffer from agoraphobia require clinical intervention to live a full life.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
It has the potential to be useful for people whose first language is not English and it's good for particular
things such as agoraphobia.
BBC, Can online therapy ease depression?, By Emma Wilkinson, 5 April 2007
91. aisle [ ahyl ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. a passageway between or along sections of seats in a theatre, auditorium, airplane or the like
2. longitudinal divisions in a church
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Passengers were outraged to learn that the airline had reduced the width of aisles in long distance
airplanes.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Their reactions are putting pressure on Congress and benefiting watchdog groups on both sides of the
political aisle.
CNN, Unhappy voters jam Capitol Hill phone lines, By Lisa Desjardins, February 4, 2009
92. akimbo [ uh'-KIM-boh ]
[adjective,adverb]
MEANING :
1. (adv.) in a position in which the hands are on the hips and elbows extend outwards
2. (adj.) placed in a way such that the hands are on the hips and the elbows extend outward
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
He stood by the doorway and together with his height, his muscular build and arms akimbo- he made for
an imposing and intimidating figure.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Sitting in his small house near Mann's compound on the town's outskirts, annu devotedly dips his hands
into the mound of clay as he shapes out various postures of Ganesha --standing with hands akimbo,
nataraja-style and what not.
The Times of India, Creating god is their job, 9 Aug 2001, TNN
93. alacrity [ uh'-LAK-ri-tee ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. promptness, eagerness or cheerful readiness
2. briskness, celerity or liveliness
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The alacrity with which the decision was taken was surprising.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
America's long-drawn-out presidential contest, diplomats believe, has given Putin an opportunity he has
seized with alacrity.
CNN, Putin seeks a role on world stage, By Robin Oakley, European political editor, November 29, 2000
94. alchemy [ AL-kuh'-mee ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. a medieval chemical science and speculative philosophy having as its aims, transmuting baser metals
into gold, the discovery of a universal cure for disease and an elixir of longevity
2. any magical power or process by which a common substance can be transmuted into a substance of
great value
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The art of alchemy was subtle and often misunderstood.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Obama was elected as a visionary, presenting voters with a somewhat mysterious but winning alchemy
of youth, fresh ideas, modernity and the promise of a new era.
abcNews, Analysis: Team Obama Preoccupied With Bush

95. alcove [ AL-kohv ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. a nook, niche or partly enclosed or recession section of a room
2. a summerhouse
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The wardrobe had been fitted into an alcove.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The 100-year-old statue of St Methodius had been in an alcove on the outside of Exeter Cathedral.
BBC, Vandals target cathedral statue, 21 August 2008

96. ale [ eyl ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. a beverage like beer that is made by fermenting malt and hops with yeast
2. an English country festival where ale is served as the primary beverage
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
He preferred ale to beer.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
According to TNS, a market-research firm, the volume of real-ale sales has grown by 3% over the past
year, whereas total beer sales were flat.
Economist, Live liquid, Aug 14th 2008

97. alias [ EY-lee-uh' s ]
[noun,adverb]
MEANING :
1. (n.) an assumed name used to conceal one's identity
2. (adv.) otherwise known as; also known as
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
An alias is used by spies to protect their true identity.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Disney first flew over central Florida in an airplane chartered under an alias to keep his mission secret.
National Geographic, Beyond Disney, By T. D. Allman, March 2007

98. alibi [ AL-uh'-bahy ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. a form of defence where a person attempts to prove that he or she was elsewhere when the crime in
question was committed
2. explanation given to avoid blame or justify an action; an excuse.
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
An alibi is often of essence while proving one's innocence.

USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
A lawyer who provided a 'serious criminal' with a false alibi for his High Court trial has been jailed for
five years.
The Herald, False alibi lawyer jailed for five years
99. alimony [ AL-uh'-moh-nee ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. money paid to a spouse as support or maintenance by the other after divorce or while action is
pending as suggested by a court of law
2. maintenance or means of livelihood

USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The alimony amounted to a few million dollars.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Terms of the divorce, including alimony, were not made public, according to Spears' attorney, Laura
Wasser.
CNN, Police investigated possible threat against Federline, September 18, 2007
100. allay [ uh'-LEY ]

MEANING :
1. (tr.v.) to end or lay to rest or to make quiet
2. (tr.v.) to relieve, alleviate or mitigate
3. (intr.v.) to subside
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
All his doubts were allayed by the Governor.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Sheila Bair, chairman of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp., sought to allay those worries Wednesday
in an interview with The Associated Press.
abcNews, As Banks Teeter Again, Wall St. Looks for Answers, By STEVENSON JACOBS AP Business Writer,
January 21, 2009
101. allege [ uh'-LEJ ]
[transitive verb]
MEANING :
1. to assert or declare without any proof
2. to offer or cite as a reason or excuse
3. (archaic) to quote or cite in confirmation as an authority
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The man was alleged to have stolen the painting.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Police did not allege a motive.
abcNews, Australian Charged With Daughter's Death Plunge, By DENNIS PASSA Associated Press Writer,
January 29, 2009
102. allegiance [ uh'-LEE-juh' ns ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. the obligation of loyalty or fidelity to a vassal, feudal lord, sovereign or country
2. loyalty or devotion to a person or cause
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
He promised allegiance to the Nawab.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
School-leavers should be encouraged to swear an oath of allegiance to Queen and country, says a report
commissioned by Gordon Brown on British citizenship.
BBC, Pupils 'to take allegiance oath', 11 March 2008

103. allegory [ AL-uh'-gawr-ee, -gohr-ee ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. figurative representation of an abstract idea by means of concrete characters, events or symbols
2. an emblem or symbolic representation
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
His books were famous for the way in which the allegory of mysticism was depicted.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The environment is merely an allegory for how the U.S. will achieve this revival.
CNN, Green pragmatism from Thomas Friedman, By Constance Cheng, December 19, 2008
104. allergic [ uh'-LUR-jik ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
1. having an aversion or dislike to
2. of, characterized by, pertaining to allergy
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
An allergic reaction should be treated as soon as possible to prevent it turning fatal.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Mrs Mitchell, a grandmother, suffered a serious allergic reaction to the bite and within seconds she was
gasping for breath and losing consciousness.
Telegraph, False widow spider spreading across Britain puts woman in intensive care, By Nigel Bunyan,
28 Jan 2009
105. alleviate [ uh'-LEE-vee-eyt ]
[transitive verb]
MEANING :
to relieve, assuage or mitigate esp. pain
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Headaches are alleviated by painkillers.

USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
A therapy that boosts the creation of neurons may alleviate some memory problems.
CNN, How memories form, fade, and persist over time, By Elizabeth Landau CNN, January 28, 2009
106. alliteration [ uh'-lit-uh'-REY-shuh' n ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. a repetition of the same sounds or syllables in neighbouring words
2. an instance of two or more neighbouring words in a sentence beginning with the same letter
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The verse was full of garbled alliterations.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
That album title is beginning to seem less like a clever piece of alliteration and more like a mission
statement.
BBC, Pussycats, where have you been?, By Mark Savage, 29 July 2008
107. alloy [ n. AL-oi, uh'-LOI; v. Uh'-LOI ]
MEANING :
1. (n.) a mixture or two or more metals that is homogenous in nature
2. (n.) the degree or fineness of gold or silver
3. (tr.v.) to moderate, debase or temper by mixing with something that is inferior
4. (tr.v.) to mix two or more metallic elements and make an alloy
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The alloy was incorrectly perceived to be the strongest metal.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The nickel-tungsten alloy can be extremely bright and shiny, and even made to become harder than
chrome.
Economist, Shine on me, Jun 4th 2009

108. allude [ uh'-LOOD ]
[transitive verb]
MEANING :
1. to refer to indirectly or casually
2. to contain an indirect or casual reference to something
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
She alluded the fact that she was related to the CEO.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
As in Philadelphia, Obama alluded to, but did not name, the president who inspired his train journey.
CNN, Obama to crowds: 'I love you back', January 17, 2009
109. allusion [ uh'-LOO-zhuh'n ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. of passing or casual reference, an instance of implied or indirect reference
2. the act of alluding or hinting at something
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Her allusion to the fact that she knew him was in doubt.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Love songs predominate, with themes of unrequited love and frequent allusion to the Leyla and
Majnoon story being very important.
National Geographic, Afghanistan

110. aloof [ uh'-LOOF ]
[adjective,adverb]
MEANING :
1. (adj.) reticent, reserved, remote or distant
2. (adv.) apart or at a distance
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Her aloof attitude did not make conversation easy.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Many people think of scientists as an aloof bunch, but get them talking about their subject and you can
see their eyes light up.
Telegraph, Let's inspire the next generation of scientists, By Maggie Aderin-Pocock, 13 Mar 2009
111. alter ego [ AWL-ter EE-goh, eg-oh, AL- ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. another aspect of one's self; a second self
2. an inseparable friend or a constant companion
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Sydney Sheldon used the concept of alter ego in a few of his novels.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Batman's alter ego Bruce Wayne has apparently been killed off in the latest issue of the superhero
comic.
BBC, Comic Batman reaches end of road, 28 November 2008

112. altercation [ awl-ter-KEY-shuh' n ]
[noun]
MEANING :
a heated or noisy argument
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
An altercation between friends can strain their relationship and lead to distrust.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Frazer Wright said yesterday he believes his controversial altercation with Shunsuke Nakamura has been
made to appear more serious than it actually was.
The Herald, Wright: slap was blown out of proportion, MARTIN McMILLAN, October 04 2008
113. altruism [ AL-troo-iz-uh' m ]
[noun]
MEANING :
unselfish regard or devotion to the welfare of others; selflessness.
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Altruism may not always be well received.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Recent research includes work on gestures and language as well as selfishness versus altruism in
chimpanzees.
National Geographic, The Thinking Chimp: How to Help, March 2008
114. amalgamate [ uh'-MAL-guh'-meyt ]
MEANING :
1. (tr.v.) to mix, combine or blend together
2. (tr.v.) to mix with mercury
3. (intr.v.) to coalesce, merge or unite

USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
All data has to be amalgamated, then studied, to reach a valid conclusion.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The Australian institute has just completed an atlas of sea temperatures over the past decade and
amalgamated it with historical data to show 2002 was the warmest year for water temperatures off
northeast Australia since 1870.
CNN, Global warming threat to Barrier Reef, July 25, 2002

115. ambidextrous [ am-bi-DEK-struh' s ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
1. able to skilfully use both hands
2. unusually skilful; versatile; adroit
3. double-dealing; hypocritical or deceitful
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Being an ambidextrous violinist, Yehudi Menuhin attracted large audiences during his hey day.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
He's also pianistically ambidextrous these days, a big deal for a brilliant artist who lost the use of his
right hand in 1965 and only regained it - to a limited degree - about 10 years ago.
The Sun, Fleisher celebrates 80 years of music, By Tim Smith, Sun Music Critic, July 20, 2008
116. ambience [ AM-bee-uh' ns; Fr. ahn*-BYAHN*S ]
[noun]
MEANING :
atmosphere, feeling or mood associated with a place, person or thing
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The ambience of the restaurant is designed to make it more welcoming and cosy.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
A bigger audience, a warmer ambience - Napier University's Sonic Fusion Festival, whatever its earlier
shortcomings, ended with a flourish.
The Herald, Research Ensemble, Canongate Kirk, Edinburgh, CONRAD WILSON, October 01 2008
117. ambiguous [ am-BIG-yoo-uh' s ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
1. open to various interpretations

2. vague, inexplicable or uncertain
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The psychologist showed ambiguous pictures and asked some questions.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Mozart's lighter instrumental pieces are an ambiguous and varied group of works.
The Herald, Scottish Chamber Orchestra, Great Hall, Stirling Castle, ROWENA SMITH, June 10 2008
118. ambivalence [ am-BIV-uh'-luh' ns ]
[noun]
MEANING :
simultaneously desire or feel two conflicting emotions at the same time
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The ambivalence often experienced by people leads to indecision.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Investors' ambivalence about earnings reports gave Wall Street a mixed performance Friday.
abcNews, Dow struggles with weak profits, but Google lifts tech, By Stephen Bernard And Tim Paradis,
AP Business Writer
119. ambivalent [ am-BIV-uh'-luh' nt ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
exhibiting simultaneous, contradictory emotions, attitudes or feelings
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Her ambivalent reactions confused everyone.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The Russian president Dmitry Medvedev had given ambivalent indications about his country's intentions
at the G8 summit in Japan earlier this week.
Telegraph, Zimbabwe: China justifies sanctions veto, By Sebastian Berger in Johannesburg, 12 Jul 2008
120. ambrosial [ am-BROH-zhuh' l ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
1. divine or fit for worthy of the Gods
2. extremely pleasant, delicious or fragrant
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The critics praised the ambrosial food.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Go and plunge yourself into the calm sea of spiritual solitude, and wash your soul in the nectar of
ambrosial meditation.
The Times of India, SACRED SPACE: Spiritual Solace, 24 Mar 2005

121. ameliorate [ uh'-MEEL-yuh'-reyt, uh'-MEE-lee-uh'- ]
MEANING :
1. (tr.v.) to make better; improve
2. (intr.v.) to grow better; meliorate
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Obama's new road map is specifically structured to help ameliorate the critical economic conditions in
USA.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
American financiers and impersonal global forces are now responsible, in ministerial rhetoric, for the
limited effect of measures designed to ameliorate the recession, as well as for causing it in the first
place.
Economist, Year of judgment, Jan 8th 2009

122. amenable [ uh'-MEE-nuh'-buh' l, uh'-MEN-uh'- ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
1. responsible, accountable or answerable to a higher authority
2. submissive, willing or ready to yield easily
3. open to criticism or testing
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
His amenable disposition made his superiors like him.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
With unemployment rising, the new Democratic-controlled Congress is expected to be less amenable to
new trade agreements than was its predecessor.
abcNews, Formerly soaring global trade suddenly comes to a halt, By David J. Lynch, USA TODAY,
December 28, 2008
123. amicable [ AM-i-kuh'-buh' l ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
characterized by goodwill or friendliness
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Amicable relations with one's neighbours are of essence to improve international relations.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
President Lee Myung-bak has been at pains to present an amicable face to foreign business since his
election.
Economist, A game of patience, Jul 31st 2008

124. amiss [ uh'-MIS ]
[adjective,adverb]
MEANING :
1. (adj.) out of order, faulty, improper or imperfect
2. (adv.) wrongly, faultily, imperfectly or in a mistaken manner
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The amiss setting of the cutlery angered her.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
There were ample warnings that something was amiss, a long time before the banks collapsed.
BBC, Waking up to reality in Iceland, By Jon Danielsson, 26 January 2009

125. amity [ AM-i-tee ]
[noun]
MEANING :
friendship, accord, harmony or peaceful relations esp. between nations or countries
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The amity displayed brought about hope for a better tomorrow.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The issue cited by Sheng and other Chinese officials most dangerous to Sino-American amity is the
Taiwan question.
CNN, Is China a threat?, October 27, 2005

126. amoral [ ey-MAWR-uh' l, a-MAWR-, ey-MOR-, a-MOR- ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
1. one who is neither moral nor immoral
2. unaware of, or not caring about right or wrong
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
His amoral nature made him a good mercenary.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Bishop Nazir-Ali blamed the turmoil in the world’s financial markets on amoral forces and warned that
one of the "great disparities" of our age was the gap between rich and poor.
Telegraph, Archbishop of Canterbury attacks Western 'greed' in Easter sermon, By Jonathan Petre,
Religion Correspondent, 24 Mar 2008
127. amorous [ AM-er-uh' s ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
1. strongly disposed, attracted to or fond of love esp. making love
2. enamoured or being in love
3. suggestive of, indicating or expressing love
4. associated with or pertaining to love
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
She ridiculed his amorous intentions towards her.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
A group that helps hundreds of amorous toads to cross busy roads in the New Forest is appealing for
volunteers.
BBC, Appeal for toad patrol volunteers, 10 February 2008
128. amortize [ AM-er-tahyz, uh'-MAWR-tahyz ]
[transitive verb]
MEANING :
1. to liquidate or pay on by means of small instalments
2. to gradually write off the value or cost of something
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The court ordered the man to amortize as he wasn’t able to pay up the loan he had received, owing to
dire circumstances.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Avoid overdependence on highly fluctuating seasonal tourism numbers, as well as avoiding heavy
investment into equipment that cannot be amortized under global warming scenarios.
BBC, The slippery slope of winter sports, by Carmen de Jong, 6 August 2007
129. amphibian [ am-FIB-ee-uh' n ]
[noun,adjective]
MEANING :
1. (n.) an organism belonging to class amphibia which consists of cold-blooded vertebrates that can live
on land as well as in water
2. (n.) a vehicle which can be used on the land as well as in water
3. (adj.) pertaining to or an organism of class amphibia
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The organism resembled an amphibian.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
A team of Indian and UK based zoologists has discovered a rare amphibian in Maharashtra that does not
lay eggs, but actually gives birth to young ones.
The Times of India, Rare Amphibian found in state, 13 September, 2008
130. amplify [ AM-pluh'-fahy ]

MEANING :
1. (tr.v.) to enlarge, extend or increase
2. (tr.v.) to develop, exaggerate or expand with illustrations and ideas
3. (tr.v.) (electronics) to boost the amplitude of a signal
4. (intr.v.) to expand or expatiate one's thoughts with illustrations
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The sound was amplified so it could be heard all over the campus.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Hedge funds are mostly not to blame for the mess of the markets but their access to leverage (surely a
thing of the past now) has amplified the problem.
Telegraph, Fresh ideas in investment analysis include finding 'known unknowns', By Tim Steer, 27 Nov
2008
131. amplitude [ AM-pli-tood, -tyood ]
[noun]
MEANING :
the state or quality of being ample, especially to breadth and width; largeness, greatness of extent or
abundant
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
It was the very amplitude of the furnace which ensured heating for the entire village.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
If you run that back in time to the 17th century using sunspot records, you'll find that this amplitude
variance is negligible for climate.
National Geographic, Don't Blame Sun for Global Warming, Study Says, Brian Handwerk, September 13,
2006
132. amuck [ uh'-muh'k ]
[adjective,adverb]
MEANING :
1. (adv.) in a murderously violent or frenzied manner
2. (adj.) crazed, mad or possessed with a violent or murderous frenzy
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The stable hand ran amuck through the pastures disturbing the grazing cows.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
In an instance of a family feud that went out of control at New Perungalathur (near Tambaram) on
Saturday night, one person ran amuck, injuring three of his relatives with a knife.
The Times of India, Man runs amuck, injures his relatives, by Sibi Arasu, 24 Nov 2008
133. anachronism [ uh'-NAK-ruh'-niz-uh' m ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. an error in chronology when a person or event in history is placed at a wrong period of time
2. something that is incorrect in a historical or chronological order
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The committee set out to find the reason behind the anachronism.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown has dismissed the old policy as an "anachronism" based on an
"outdated concept".
The Times of India, India & the Tibet card, Shobhana Saxena, 23 November, 2008
134. anarchist [ AN-er-kist ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. an advocate of anarchy or anarchism
2. a rebel, renegade or one who can cause an upheaval or revolt
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The anarchist succeeded in his aim to lead the labourers to revolt against the land lords.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Young Israelis, some of them self-described anarchists, also take part in the protests.
CNN, Palestinian despair deepens ahead of elections, February 10, 2009
135. anchorite [ ang-kuh'-rahyt ]
[noun]
MEANING :
a person who has retired to a secluded place for religious reasons
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
A Naga sadhu- who lives in seclusion in the Himalayas for many years- is the perfect example of an
anchorite.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The earliest form of Christian monasticism was, probably, that of the anchorites or hermits; a later
development is found in the pillar saints, called Stylites, who spent most of their time on the tops of
pillars in order to separate themselves from the world and to mortify the flesh.
MNS encarta, Monasticism
136. ancilliary [ an-SIL-uh'-ree, AN-suh'-ler-ee ]
[noun,adjective]
MEANING :
1. (adj.)subordinate, subsidiary or being of secondary or minor importance
2. (adj.)auxiliary, supplementary or assisting
3. (n.) something that supplements something else

4. (n.) (archaic) a slave or servant
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The ancillary problem was ignored and never corrected.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Even the effects of disruption to ancilliary services such as cleaning and catering can be pronounced.
BBC, Fuel: how the NHS could suffer, 12 September, 2000

137. anecdote [ AN-ik-doht ]
[noun]
MEANING :
a usually short narrative of a particular incident or event of an interesting or amusing nature, often
biographical.
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Comedians should be in possession of an assortment of anecdotes.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Mankind becomes a mere anecdote against that staggering canvas; we see ourselves as we really are—
bound to the natural world around us.
National Geographic, Through the Eyes of the Condor, By Marie Arana

138. angst [ ahngkst ]
[noun]
MEANING :
a feeling of dread, anxiety or apprehension
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Feelings of angst are a common occurrence during teenage years.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Cup competitions have been a particular source of angst to the Rangers attacker.
The Herald, Naismith hopes for change of fortunes in cup competition, DARRYL BROADFOOT, Chief
Football Writer, January 27 2009
139. anguish [ ANG-gwish ]
[noun,intransitive verb,transitive verb]
MEANING :
1. (n.) intense suffering or pain
2. (tr.v.) to inflict with or cause distress or extreme pain
3. (intr.v.) to suffer from or endure intense sorrow or pain
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The mental anguish suffered by the POWs continued even after their release.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
New Delhi has warned the Australian government of the "deep anguish" over the attacks, and stated
that the lucrative Indian education market could suffer.
Telegraph, Bollywood star turns down honorary degree after attacks, By Barney Henderson in Mumbai,
31 May 2009
140. angular [ ANG-gyuh'-ler ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
1. having, consisting of or forming an angle
2. bony, gaunt or lean
3. stiff, unyielding or rigid
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The angular section in the otherwise circular room was a misfit.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Tall and angular, dressed in purple and red checks and armed with simple spears, the Maasai warriors of
the Ngorongoro highlands maintain a steady gaze as we slow past them in the Land Cruiser.
Telegraph, Year of Discovery competition: walking with the Maasai, By Stuart Heaver, 19 Dec 2008
141. animadversion [ an-uh'-mad-VUR-zhuh' n, -shuh' n ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. negative criticism
2. a censorious or critical comment or remark
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Mr. Darcy often made animadversions on the conduct of Elizabeth's family.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
In an introduction to a book, Mr Eagleton likened Mr Amis's animadversions to “the ramblings of a

British National Party thug”.
Economist, A telling outbreak of controversies, Oct 25th 2007

142. animosity [ an-uh'-MOS-i-tee ]
[noun]
MEANING :
enmity, hostility or bitter hatred
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The animosity between the two warring clans has cost the lives of many people.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Traditional animosity towards ethnic Vietnamese has reached fever pitch during Cambodia's election
campaign.
BBC, Playing the Vietnamese card, 25 July, 1998
143. animus [ AN-uh'-muh' s ]

[noun]
MEANING :
1. hatred, enmity or animosity
2. intention, disposition, animating spirit or purpose
3. (as per psychology of G.C. Jung) the masculine component that is present in a female's personality
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The animus seen throughout the novel between the major characters is nerve-racking.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
A personal animus between Putin and Saakashvili is believed to have contributed to increasing tension
that erupted into war between Russia and Georgia in August.
abcNEWS, Putin Makes Crude Outburst About Georgian Leader, December 4, 2008
144. annals [ AN-lz ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. yearly chronological record of events
2. chronicles or historical account or record
3. record or journal that contains reports of the activities transpiring in an organisation
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The annals of the war were very well documented.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
January 30 1972 - forever Bloody Sunday in the annals of the Troubles in Northern Ireland - was not the
bloodiest day, but perhaps the most significant in helping to decide the direction and progress of the
bitter conflict in the decades that followed.
BBC, Long wait for Bloody Sunday report, by John Thorne, 7 November 2008
145. annihilate [ uh'-NAHY-uh'-leyt ]
[verb]
MEANING :
to do away with something; destroy completely
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The U.S. department of defence is building a new generation of high-tech weapons which will enable it
to annihilate its enemies.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
You must use missiles and annihilate them.
BBC News, Rabbi calls for annihilation of Arabs, Tuesday, 10 April, 2001
146. anomaly [ uh'-NOM-uh'-lee ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. divergence or deviation from a rule or form
2. something that is strange odd or peculiar
3. (astronomy) the angular deviation of a planet orbiting the Sun from its perihelion (as observed from
the Sun)
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The case was termed as an anomaly and filed for future reference.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The Ten Thousand Things model remains something of an anomaly in the theater world – a well-
respected organization, staffed by a rotating cast of professional actors, that eschews traditional stages
altogether.
abcNEWS, Theater for an unlikely audience, By Matthew Shaer

147. anosmia [ an-OZ-mee-uh', -OS- ]
[noun]
MEANING :
loss or absence of the sense of smell
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Certain intranasal gels marketed as remedies for the common cold can also be a cause of anosmia.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The likelihood of recovery from anosmia depends on what has caused it, as well as any treatment.
BBC News, Sense and scent ability, By Claire Heald

148. antecedent [ an-tuh'-SEED-nt ]
[noun]
MEANING :
preceding events that affect later developments
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Iraq's invasion of Kuwait in 1990 served as an antecedent to the allied forces launching “Operation
Desert Storm” a year later.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
When I heard it yesterday, while trolling for Carlin fodder, I realized that this is a clear antecedent to The
Googlenope, a concept I created.
The Washington Post, Chatological Humor, Gene Weingarten, Washington Post Staff Writer, Tuesday,
June 24, 2008
149. antediluvian [ an-tee-di-LOO-vee-uh' n ]
[noun,adjective]
MEANING :
1. (adj.) of or pertaining to the era before the biblical flood
2. (adj.) antiquated; very old or primitive; belonging to an earlier time
3. (n.) a person who lived before the flood
4. (n.) a very old person; a person or a thing who is very old-fashioned
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The crocodile is one of the very few animals that has survived from antediluvian times.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
It now appears likely that this version of the king-list tradition also contains the name of nine
antediluvian kings and a narrative account of the flood, although only a few hints of it remain in the very
fragmentary text.
Prologue to History: The Yahwist as Historian in Genesis, By John Van Seters

150. antidote [ AN-ti-doht ]
MEANING :
1. (n.) a remedy that can be used to counteract or neutralize the harmful effects of poison
2. (n.) one that relieves or neutralizes the harmful effects of another
3. (tr.v.) to counteract or neutralise by means of an antidote
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Bezoar is considered to be an antidote to most poisons.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
People's lives are so complicated, driven and busy; gardens are an excellent antidote and should be
celebrated as such.
Telegraph, Garden visiting does us all a power of good., Ursula Buchan, 02 Jun 2009
151. apartheid [ uh'-PAHRT-heyt, -hahyt ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. a policy that was earlier practised in the republic of south africa to separate the non-white community
from the white community
2. segregation or separation
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The practice of apartheid should be abolished.

USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Millions of South Africans braved autumnal weather to go to the polls in the most competitive election
since the end of apartheid.
BBC, As it happened: South Africa election, By Lucy Fleming, 22 April 2009
152. apathetic [ ap-uh'-THET-ik ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
1. having or showing a lack of emotion

2. having or showing a lack of interest or concern
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Many are of the opinion that the rich in this country are apathetic towards the sufferings of the poor.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Most all of them were dull and apathetic, went to sleep no matter where they were -- on litters while
being carried into the hospital, on chairs, or in doorjambs, before being put to bed.
The Sun, View from Fort McHenry, Memoirs from head nurse show suffering of soldiers at Fort McHenry
153. apiary [ EY-pee-er-ee ]
[noun]
MEANING :
a place in which bees or bee hives are kept and raised for honey
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The apiary in Marine lines has the capacity to supply honey to all of South Mumbai.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The honey in their popular Pooh Beer is from a bee keeper whose apiary is just up the road from them in
Ridge Lane.
BBC, Nuneaton brewery rises to the taste challenge, 10 February 2003
154. aplomb [ uh'-PLOM, uh'-PLUHM ]
[noun]
MEANING :
poise, confidence or self-assurance
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
She made the presentation with aplomb.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Flash is popular because it works on any operating system and on many mobile devices, and because it
handles media and graphics with aplomb.
abcNews, How Adobe Air Apps Work, By Adam Pash, PC World, April 17, 2009
155. apocalyptic [ uh'-pok-uh'-LIP-tik ]
[noun,adjective]
MEANING :
1. (adj.) pertaining to or of an apocalypse
2. (adj.) prophetic, revelatory or ominous or suggestive of a disastrous outcome
3. (adj.) pertaining to or suggestive of a final doom or turbulent end of the world
4. (n.) a system where it is believed that the world will end or be doomed in a violent or disastrous way
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The apocalyptic vision of Nostradamus has managed to scare people for centuries.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
I thought it was kind of apocalyptic, like it was the end of the world, said Shogren
abcNEWS, Old-Timers Brace for Possible Eruption, by RACHEL D'ORO, February 3, 2009
156. apocryphal [ uh'-POK-ruh'-fuh' l ]

[adjective]
MEANING :
1. spurious; of doubtful authenticity
2. (often capitalised) of or pertaining to the apocrypha
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The parable of “the Prodigal son,” although probably apocryphal teaches us a wonderful lesson of the
power of forgiveness.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The story may or may not be apocryphal but it reminds us that countries are created in the hearts and
minds of men and women.
BBC, History, Wales: A Culture Preserved, By Professor Rees Davies

157. apogee [ Ap-uh'-jee ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. the point in the orbit of the moon or of an artificial satellite at which it is farthest from the earth
2. the farthest or highest point, the apex
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
There was a static in communications as the satellite neared the apogee.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Chinese tea culture has reached its apogee.
National Geographic, Sky Show Friday: Biggest, Brightest Full Moon of 2008, Andrew Fazekas, December
11, 2008
158. apoplexy [ AP-uh'-plek-see ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. a stroke or cerebral accident
2. haemorrhage or sudden effusion of blood into a tissue or organ
3. an impairment or loss of bodily esp. neurological function caused by the breakage or rupture of a
blood vessel
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Losing his temper caused him to suffer an apoplexy.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
If the replacement of the old cast iron columns with what David derides as "motorway lights" was not
galling in itself, the fate of the removed lights is enough to propel him into apoplexy.
BBC, 'Stop nicking my street furniture', by Finlo Rohrer, 27 June 2008

159. apostate [ uh'-POS-teyt, -tit ]
[noun,adjective]
MEANING :
1. (n.) one who has forsaken or abandoned one's religion, faith, party or cause
2. (adj.) pertaining to or characterised by apostasy
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
He was termed an apostate, for having forsaken his religion and his family in order to remarry.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The attacks began Saturday after a prominent Egyptian media commentator denounced a Baha'i activist
in a television appearance as an "apostate" and called for her to be killed.
abcNews, Groups: Villagers Attack Homes of Baha'is in Egypt, By MAGGIE MICHAEL Associated Press
Writer, April 2, 2009
160. apothegm [ AP-uh'-them ]
[noun]
MEANING :
a pithy or short saying that is instructive in nature
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
His stories are full of apothegms.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The acquittal of Manu Sharma proves the apothegm, 'the rich and powerful can get away with murder.'
The Times of India, Hometown shuns Manu, his nightclub, Jaspreet Nijher & Ankur Batra, TNN, 27 Feb
2006
161. apotheosis [ uh'-poth-ee-Oh-sis, ap-uh'-Thee-uh'-sis ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. deification or elevation or exaltation to a divine stature
2. quintessence, epitome or glorified example
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Their love story became the apotheosis for generations to come.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The policy reached its apotheosis in the scandal that became known as the Iran-Contra affair.
BBC, Critics question Reagan legacy, By Richard Allen Greene BBC News Online, 9 June, 2004
162. appal [ uh'-PAWL ]
MEANING :
1. (tr.v.) to horrify, dismay, shock or scandalize
2. (intr.v.) to enfeeble, fail or weaken
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The news about the shooting has appalled the country as a whole.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The entire experience was extremely disappointing, and I am utterly disgusted and appalled at the
organization and preparation of this event
CNN, Disappointed inaugural ticket holders turned away, January 22, 2009
163. apparition [ ap-uh'-RISH-uh' n ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. a spectre, wraith, phantom or supernatural appearance
2. a manifestation or sudden appearance
3. an unusual appearance or sight
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The ghostly apparition appeared only at midnight.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The faithful insist that miracles really do happen in the French mountains of Lourdes on the spot where,
150 years ago, a local girl called Bernadette said she saw an apparition in a cave.
abcNEWS, Miracle in the Mountains, by NICK WATT, June 24, 2008
164. appease [ uh'-PEEZ ]
[transitive verb]
MEANING :
1. to pacify, soothe or calm by giving in to one's demands
2. to assuage, allay, satisfy or relieve
3. to concede in a conciliatory effort
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
He appeased his boss by working on weekends.

USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Congress is slightly more focused on rural and social issues, but both are constrained by the need to
appease local interests.
Telegraph, India's election delivers investors much needed stability, By Una Galani, breakingviews.com,
18 May 2009
165. appellation [ ap-uh'-LEY-shuh' n ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. title, name, designation or an identifier

2. an instance or act of naming
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The appellation was befitting his rank.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Up to one-third of wines marketed under France's regional "appellation" system do not deserve the
label, a leading French consumer group says.
BBC, Doubt over quality of French wine,5 September 2007
166. apposite [ AP-uh'-zit, uh'-POZ-it ]

[adjective]
MEANING :
highly suitable and appropriate
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
It would be considered apposite to reply to matrimonial proposals.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
It is apposite to note from the onset that the title of the present article is not only ambitious, but also
somewhat restrictive.
University of Oxford, On The Study of Ethnicity in Nigeria, By Ukoha Ukiwo
167. appraise [ uh'-PREYZ ]
[transitive verb]
MEANING :
1. to evaluate or estimate the worth or value of
2. to estimate or judge the quality or nature of

USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
He appraised the situation before submitting the report.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
SPACE.com asked prominent leaders in various space fields to appraise Bigelow's down payment on the
future.
CNN, Bigelow gambles on private space station, By Leonard David, July 26, 2006
168. apprehensive [ ap-ri-HEN-siv ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
1. anxious, afraid, uneasy or fearful
2. discerning or cognizant
3. quick to understand, learn or apprehend

USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
She was an apprehensive child, prone to panic attacks.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The first anniversary of 11th September finds many New Yorkers feeling apprehensive.
BBC, New York's mixed emotions, By Peter Gould, BBC News Online in New York, 10 September, 2002
169. apprise [ uh'-PRAHYZ ]
[transitive verb]
MEANING :
to inform, tell, notify or advise

USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
He was apprised about the developing political crisis.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
ICE spokeswoman Nicole Navas said in an e-mail to the Associated Press, "We have contacted interested
members of Congress to apprise them of the reinstituted removals".
abcNEWS, Deportations to Storm-Crippled Haiti Resume, by KELLI KENNEDY, December 8, 2008

170. approbation [ ap-ruh'-BEY-shuh' n ]
[noun]
MEANING :
approval, commendation or praise
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
His approbation was necessary for the wedding to take place.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Meeting with top members of President Barack Obama's Cabinet, Biden warned that he plans to use
"the moral approbation of this office" to make sure the huge fund of stimulus money is put to use
creating jobs and rebuilding the nation's infrastructure.
abcNews, Biden: Use Stimulus Money Wisely or Lose It, By STEVEN R. HURST Associated Press Writer,
February 25, 2009
171. apropos [ ap-ruh'-POH ]
[adjective,adverb]
MEANING :
1. (adj.) apt, appropriate, opportune or relevant
2. (adv.) opportunely, seasonably or at the appropriate or right time
3. (adv.) incidentally or by the way
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The coup must be timed at the apropos juncture.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
I saw one where the D had been painted over and the message seemed more apropos.
abcNews, Heat, Flat Tires and Bullets in Iraq, By MIKE TUGGLE, June 28, 2006
172. apt [ apt ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
1. prone, likely or inclined
2. appropriate, suitable or fitting
3. intelligent or quick to understand, apprehend or learn
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
It is an apt conclusion to the crisis.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The Wat Pa Laung Ta Bua Yannasampanno Forest Monastary, also known by the apt nickname Tiger
Temple, in Kanchanburi, Thailand, is home to 34 tigers.
abcNEWS, Tiger Temple of Thailand, December 17, 2008

173. aquiline [ AK-wuh'-lahyn, -lin ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
1. (of the nose) curved or hooked like an eagle's beak
2. of, relating to, characteristics of or resembling an eagle
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
His aquiline nose gave his face a distinctive look.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The mummies’ funerary masks, with their curls, long aquiline noses, and wide eyes, reflect the influence
of Greek sculpture.
National Geographic, Valley of the Mummies, By Donovan Webster

174. arabesque [ ar-uh'-BESK ]
[noun,adjective]
MEANING :
1. (n.) a posture in ballet where the dancer bends forward with one arm and leg extended forward and
the other arm and leg extended backwards
2. (n.) an ornate, complex design with intricate geometric, floral and foliate figures
3. (n.) a whimsical, fanciful musical piece esp. one for the piano
4. (adj.) elaborate or like or characterised by an arabesque
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The ballerina was asked to finish the ballet with an arabesque.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The second album with then new guitar virtuoso Mick Taylor, Sticky Fingers absolutely soars with
bricklayer-beat drums, arabesque leads and a tight rhythm and bass that holds it all together.
The Times of India, For those about to rock..., 30 Jul 2007

175. arable [ AR-uh'-buh' l ]
[noun,adjective]
MEANING :
1. (adj.) cultivable, fit to grow crops or capable of being used for farming
2. (n.) land that is fit for agriculture
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The arable land was not for sale.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Growing the plant does not create pressure on supplies of arable land and water in the way that
agricultural crop biofuels does.
Telegraph, Scientists to investigate how to make green fuel from seaweed, By Simon Johnson, 17 Dec
2008
176. arbiter [ AHR-bi-ter ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. umpire, judge or arbitrator
2. one with an authoritative and absolute power to judge
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The President is the chief arbiter of justice with the power of issuing pardons to criminals facing death
rows.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The judgment subjected parliamentary action to judicial review and held that the Supreme Court was
the final arbiter for testing the legality of any action
The Times of India, Judicial activism a need of the hour, by Umesh Kumar Singh, 9 Apr 2007
177. arboreal [ ahr-BAWR-ee-uh' l, -BOHR- ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
1. treelike or pertaining to trees
2. living in or inhabiting trees
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
He preferred arboreal living and hence preferred to live in a tree-house.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
A 121-million-year-old baby arboreal bird, fossilised while still curled in its egg, has been found in China,
Science magazine reports this week.
BBC, Feathered embryo found in China, 21 October, 2004

178. archetype [ AHR-ki-tahyp ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. prototype or original model
2. quintessence or ideal representative
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
It was of essence to get the archetype right to avoid further complications.

USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The comedy comes from the interaction of the three archetypes – though they all like to play the drums.
Telegraph, Blue Man Group: the whole world gets the blue, by Jasper Rees, 28 Jan 2009
179. ardor [ AHR-der ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. passion, fervour or fiery intensity

2. zeal or enthusiasm
3. fiery glow
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The ardour of the UEFA fans is unmatched.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Los Angeles is historically friendly to incumbents, but Hahn's supporters have less ardor than his
opponents, so a high turn-out election should benefit them, not him.
abcNews, The Note: 'Both Hopeful and Precarious', By MARK HALPERIN, MARC AMBINDER and LISA
TODOROVICH, March 8, 2005
180. arduous [ Brit., ahr-dyoo-uh's, ahr-joo-uh' s ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
1. onerous, laborious, strenuous or difficult
2. steep or difficult to climb
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
It was an arduous journey.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Twelve polling personnel had to undertake an arduous trek of over 45 km through knee-deep snow to
reach two polling stations in the Ladakh Parliamentary seat where votes will be cast on Friday.
The Times of India, 12 poll officials trek treacherous terrain for 37 voters, 13 May 2009
181. argot [ AHR-goh, -guh' t ]
[noun]
MEANING :
dialect, slang or a secret vocabulary used by a group
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The narrative was rich in pirates' argot leading to interesting read.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
A 'domestic' in the argot that they use in Delhi and in other purlieus of the Indian subcontinent is a term
used to describe a person who resides within a household and performs menial functions for monetary
recompense Jeeves said.
The Times of India, Jeeves to the rescue, by Jug Suraiya, 23 Jun 2008
182. aria [ Ahr-ee-uh', Air-ee-uh' ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. a melody, air, tune, oratorio or a cantata
2. a striking melody that is sung solo with accompaniment
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
He is an expert at singing arias often haunting in nature.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
A great, distant ship's horn, like a one-note aria.
National Geographic, Online Extra, by Kevin Krajick, September 2003

183. armistice [ AHR-muh'-stis ]
[noun]
MEANING :
a mutual decision to stop fighting temporarily
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The armistice announced between the rebel group and government forces enabled civilians to relocate
to safe areas.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The Koreas are still formally at war because their 1950-53 Korean War ended in an armistice, not a
peace treaty.
The Morning Call, SKorean president says North Korea mountain tour to be suspended until Pyongyang
allows probe, By HYUNG-JIN KIM, Associated Press Writer, July 16, 2008
184. arrant [ AR-uh' nt ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
without moderation, unmitigated, extreme
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
His arrant lifestyle caused his downfall.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Nicola Sturgeon, the deputy first minister, rejected the Treasury's claims as "arrant nonsense"
Telegraph, Experts warn Alex Salmond over tax, by Simon Johnson, 14 Apr 2008
185. array [ uh'-REY ]
MEANING :
1. (tr.v.) to marshal, arrange or place in a desired manner
2. (tr.v.) to adorn, deck up or clothe with ornamental or showy garments
3. (n.) an ordered arrangement, distribution or grouping
4. (n.) finery or splendid attire
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The general arrayed his troops for battle.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Funded by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, the finished array will have 350 six-metre antennas and will
be one of the world's largest.
BBC, Skies to be swept for alien life, 12 October 2007

186. arrogance [ AR-uh'-guh' ns ]
[noun]
MEANING :
self-importance or overbearing pride
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
His arrogance lost him his employee's respect.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez has accused Spain's King Juan Carlos of "arrogance" after he told Mr
Chavez to shut up during a summit in Chile.
BBC, Spain king 'arrogant' says Chavez, 14 November 2007

187. arroyo [ uh'-ROI-oh ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. a dry gulch, gully or channel esp. in an arid region
2. a creek, stream, rivulet or brook
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The hard push sent him sprawling face down into the arroyo.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
There are 80 miles [129 kilometers] of singletrack running through Cottonwood Valley and many more
miles of trail in the surrounding purlieus, but this little arroyo is among the most interesting sections.
National Geographic, destination - Vegas Rocks, by Steve Casimiro

188. articulate [ adj., n. ahr-TIK-yuh’-lit; v. ahr-TIK-yuh’-leyt ]
MEANING :
1. (adj.) intelligible or uttered in a clear, effective manner by using distinct syllables
2. (adj.) jointed or consisting of various segments that have been put together using joints
3. (tr.v.) to enunciate or speak in a clear manner using distinct syllables
4. (intr.v.) to pronounce in a clear, effective way
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
It was no surprise that the articulate little boy won the competition.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Derived from the words "gyro" (spiral) and "tonic" (tone), Gyrotonic promises to enhance range of
motion, balance and coordination, to stretch and strengthen muscles and tendons, and to articulate and
mobilize joints.
abcNews, Gyrotonic: It's Not Torture, It's Good for You, By Dorene Internicola, April 6, 2009
189. artifact [ AHR-tuh'-fakt ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. an object made by humans that could be of historical interest
2. an article or structure that has been archaeologically excavated
3. an object that reflects contemporary culture
4. something that becomes apparent after extraneous (esp. human) activity
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The artefacts were stolen from the museum.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The artifacts were part of a dagger buried with a warrior chief, near Stonehenge, nearly 4,000 years ago.
Telegraph, Britain's 'most important archeological' discovery found in desk drawer, By Urmee Khan, 23
Oct 2008
190. artifice [ AHR-tuh-fis ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. wile, stratagem, or a sly trick
2. trickery, cunningness or craftiness
3. ingenuity, skill or inventiveness
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The high school drama was his directional debut, full of artifice and panache.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The world is already full of visual artifice, and we aren't running the International Photography Contest
to add to it.
National Geographic, A message from the Director of Photography of National Geographic

191. ascend [ uh'-SEND ]
MEANING :
1. (tr.v.) to move upwards, rise or mount
2. (tr.v.) to rise or move upwards to a higher level or degree
3. (intr.v.) to climb or go up
4. (intr.v.) to succeed, assume or occupy
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The climber ascended to a height of 10,000 feet.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
A memorial service has been held in Edinburgh to remember the life of a veteran climber who died
while trying to ascend Mount Everest.
BBC, Service remembers Everest climber, 20 June, 2005

192. ascertain [ as-er-TEYN ]
[transitive verb]
MEANING :
1. to determine, find out or discover with utmost certainty
2. (archaic) to make certain or precise
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
It has been ascertained that the death was caused by a blow to the head by a blunt object.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Brit Insurance swung between gains and losses as traders tried to ascertain whether the Lloyd's of
London insurer is going to tap shareholders for fresh funds to finance a bid for Chaucer.
Telegraph, Market report: China trade sanction fears drive down BHP, By Ben Harrington, 11 Jun 2009
193. ascetic [ uh'-SET-ik ]
[noun,adjective]
MEANING :
1. (n.) a person who, in order to achieve spiritual discipline, forgoes material comforts and leads a life of
rigorous self-denial and contemplation
2. (adj.) austere or self-denying
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
He gave up everyday comforts to live life as an ascetic.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Mr Chamlong - an ascetic Buddhist and retired military general - urged supporters not to abandon the
site if he were arrested.
BBC, Thailand PM vows not to use force, 28 August 2008

194. ascribe [ uh'-SKRAHYB ]
[transitive verb]
MEANING :
1. to attribute, credit, assign or impute
2. to attribute someone or something as a source
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The entire success of the project was ascribed to his efforts.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Fewer Democrats ascribe positive qualities to Obama than they did so a month ago, with white working-
class Democrats, in particular, expressing more skeptical views of the Illinois senator.
CNN, Analysis: The Wright effect on presidential race, By John King CNN Chief National Correspondent,
May 3, 2008
195. aseptic [ uh'-SEP-tik, ey-SEP- ]
[noun,adjective]
MEANING :
1. (adj.) sterile or free of pathogenic microbes

2. (adj.) lacking, warmth, animation or emotion
3. (n.) a commodity sold in an aseptic container
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Aseptic conditions are important in a medicinal laboratory.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The culled birds are buried in pits with lime, potassium permanganate and ordinary salt for creating
aseptic conditions
The Times of India, Bird flu: 80,000 birds to be culled today, 21 Feb 2006.
196. asinine [ AS-uh'-nahyn ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
1. foolish, silly or stupid
2. pertaining to an ass
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
His asinine statements embarrassed the audience.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Well, that's why he's not going to win, because everybody understands that's an asinine attitude.
CNN, Prison pointer for Traficant: Go quietly, August 1, 2002

197. askance [ uh'-SKANS ]
[adverb]
MEANING :
1. glance obliquely or sideways
2. to observe suspiciously
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
He looked askance at the man approaching him.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
No longer does society look askance at single parents who might be so as they never married, or are
divorced or lost a partner.
The Times Of India, Parent Parochialism, 19 Sep 2008

198. asperity [ uh'-SPER-i-tee ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. ruggedness, harshness or roughness
2. difficulty, rigor or hardship
3. rudeness or acrimony
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The asperity of her answer stunned everyone.

USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The caption notes with some asperity that they thought it was closing but the information turned out to
be "a stunt" by a rival party.
BBC, Something new to say, By Mark Mardell, 5 April, 2005
199. aspersion [ uh'-SPUR-zhuh' n, -shuh' n ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. spraying of holy water during religious practices
2. a potentially harmful remark made with the intention to defame
3. an act of defamation or derogation
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
US Olympic gold medallist Marion Jones' admission that she had taken steroids prior to the Sydney
Olympics cast an aspersion on the sport of athletics.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
It is not casting an aspersion on the sport, it just shows they are living in the real world.
Telegraph, Samples to be frozen next year, Marcus Armytage, 26 Nov 2004

200. assail [ uh'-SEYL ]
[transitive verb]
MEANING :
1. to assault or attack using violent blows
2. to attacks with words, abuse or criticism
3. to beset or impinge upon
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The accused was assailed by the angry crowd as soon as he stepped out of the court room.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Senator John Kerry has assailed the president over the issue, citing it as evidence of the Bush
administration's poor handling of the war.
BBC, Weapons row: Who said what, 29 October, 2004

201. assay [ v. a-SEY; n. AS-ey, a-SEY ]
[noun,intransitive verb,transitive verb]
MEANING :
1. (tr.v.) to examine, assess or analyse
2. (intr.v.) to be shown or displayed after conduction of an analysis
3. (n.) an assessment or examination or a report of such an analysis
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The evidence was assayed by the police.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Towards the end of his life, Sir Arthur Eddington, who died in 1944, assayed a "theory of everything".
Experimental evidence ran counter to his work, which today generates only intermittent interest.
Telegraph, Maths into English, Simon Ing, 27 Sep 2007

202. assiduous [ uh'-SIJ-oo-uh' s ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
showing constant attention and application; persistent
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Assiduous preparation is essential to crack the CAT examination.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
He is always assiduous in preparation and is simply never casual in his approach to anything to with
work – and that is the same for his chat show too.
BBC, Michael Parkinson - Journalist and Broadcaster, 19th February 2008

203. assuage [ uh'-SWEYJ, uh'-SWEYZH ]
[transitive verb]
MEANING :
1. to ease or reduce the severity of something
2. to mollify, calm, soothe or pacify
3. to quench or appease
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Applying the ointment assuaged the pain.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
News that the U.S. government could increase its stake in troubled banking giant Citigroup to spare it
from insolvency have helped assuage some market fears.
CNN, Markets head to crisis lows as rout continues, February 24, 2009
204. astringent [ uh'-STRIN-juh' nt ]
[noun,adjective]
MEANING :
1. (adj.) styptic or constrictive
2. (adj.) caustic or pungent
3. (adj.) austere or severe
4. (n.) a substance like alum that is an astringent and helps constrict body tissues in order to stop blood
flow
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
She hated the astringent like odour normally associated with hospitals.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The crunchy beans squeak with freshness, although the astringent pickle of the mushrooms puckers and
ultimately overwhelms.
Telegraph, Are you ready to order? This week: Le Cercle, Jan Moir, 08 May 2004
205. astute [ uh'-STOOT, uh'-STYOOT ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
crafty, shrewd, cunning or wily
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
His astute decision-making skills have benefited the organization.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The 63-year-old admiral, known as Fox - his call sign when he was a Navy fighter pilot - is highly regarded
as an astute commander.
BBC, Profile: William Fallon, 12 March 2008
206. atelier [ AT-l-yey, at-l-YEY; Fr. Atuh*-LYEY ]
[noun]
MEANING :
a workshop, workroom or studio esp. one that is used by a designer or artist
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
An atelier should be well lit with natural light.

USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
In 1955, with brothers Piero and Milan, Crommelynck founded his own atelier in the 14th
arrondissement.
Telegraph, Aldo Crommelynck, 31 Jan 2009
207. athwart [ uh'-THWAWRT ]
[adverb]
MEANING :
1. (adv.) to oppose or obstruct perversely or wrongly

2. (adv.) from side to side, crosswise or transversely
3. (pre.) across
4. (pre.) contrary to
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
She was furious with the decision and worked athwart to overthrow it.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The Pinedale mesa not only sits athwart the migration corridor but also overlies the Pinedale anticline, a
sandstone formation containing trillions of cubic feet of natural gas.
National Geographical, Demand for natural gas and the resulting land-use pressures are pitting
America's Old West against the New, by John G. Mitchell
208. atonement [ uh’-TOHN-muh’nt ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. amends, satisfaction or reparation for offence
2. reconciliation between god and man that was brought about by the redemptive life and death of
Jesus Christ
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The atonement of his sins was to correct the wrongs that he had done.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The five Sikh high priests pronounced religious atonement upon Mahant Jagmohan Singh Sewapanthi of
Dera Nischal Singh , Yamunanagar for reciting Garud Puran at their dera, refusing to appear before Akal
Takht , breaking promise of meeting Singh Sahib and using objectionable language against high priests.
The Times of India, Priests pronounce religious atonement, Yudhvir Rana TNN, 17 Jan 2004
209. attenuate [ v. Uh’-TEN-yoo-eyt; adj. uh’-TEN-yoo-it, -eyt ]
MEANING :
1. (adj.) weakened or having reduced intensity
2. (tr.v.) to make thin or slender
3. (tr.v.) to weaken or reduce in intensity
4. (intr.v.) to become thin or reduce
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The attenuate levels of the hormone in her body are a cause for concern.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
A high fat diet can attenuate the body’s sensitivity to insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar
levels, and can lead to type II diabetes.
The Times of India, Diet, exercise controls type II diabetes, 4 Feb 2009
210. attune [ uh'-TOON, uh'-TYOON ]
[transitive verb]
MEANING :
1. to tune or bring into harmony or accord
2. to make responsive, alert or aware
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The music composer was attuned to the various nuances of classical music.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
As one of the world's largest exporters, Germany's growth prospects are particularly attuned to the
economic health of key trading partners in Europe, North America and Asia.
BBC, Robust trade aids German economy, 9 June 2008
211. audacious [ aw-DEY-shuh' s ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
1. adventurous, fearless, rash or bold
2. brazen, insolent or unrestrained by shame

3. inventive or original
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
His audacious behaviour caused a lot of embarrassment to his family.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
In the first century B.C., a self-absorbed kind named Antiochus I, ruler of the ancient land of
Commagene, built an audacious tomb and monument to himself on top of a 7,000-foot-high (2,134-
meter-high) mountain called Nemrud Dagh.
National Geographic, Anatolia—A History Forged by Disaster, Republished from the pages of National
Geographic magazine, Written by Rick Gore, July 2000
212. augury [ AW-gyuh'-ree ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. divination or a rite performed while divinating
2. an indication or omen
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
She believed in the practice of augury for a better future.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
BBC business editor Robert Peston warned that the 70% fall in profits was a worrying possible augury of
the problems other UK banks may disclose as they report their results.
BBC, Sharp profit fall for Lloyds TSB, 30 July 2008

213. auspicious [ aw-SPISH-uh' s ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
1. propitious, favourable or of good omen
2. fortunate, successful or prosperous
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Today is considered as an auspicious day.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The acting secretary general of the New Politics Party (NPP), Suriyasai Katasila, said the registration
papers were submitted to the Election Commission at 0909 Thursday - nine being considered an
auspicious number in Thailand.
BBC, Thai 'yellow shirts' form party, 4 June 2009

214. austere [ aw-STEER ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
1. stern, strict or ascetic
2. grave or serious
3. bare or unadorned
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
His austere appearance managed to scare the new students.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Photographer Samantha Appleton treks through the adventure travel classic to experience the austere
natural beauty coexisting with the harsh political reality.
National Geographic, Nepal on the Brink, By Rachel Scheer

215. authoritarian [ uh'-thawr-i-TAIR-ee-uh' n, uh'-thor- ]
[noun,adjective]
MEANING :
1. (adj.) favouring total compliance or submission to authority
2. (adj.) exerting total control over others and their activities
3. (n.) one who enforces or exerts authority; a dictator
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The authoritarian rule of the General faced a lot of criticism from the Western world.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Still, a recent survey of various Russian elites, including business and media people, lawyers and doctors,
showed that some 45% disagree with the current authoritarian system.
Economist, Handle with care, Nov 27th 2008

216. autocrat [ AW-tuh'-krat ]
[noun]
MEANING :
a monarch who has absolute power or authority, a despot or dictator
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
He wielded power like an autocrat.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Members see the head of their church as a servant leader who puts his lives at the disposal of others.
Outsiders see him as an autocrat.
BBC, Religion & Ethics - Christainity, Leadership

217. auxiliary [ awg-Zil-yuh'-ree, -Zil-uh'- ]
[noun,adjective]
MEANING :
1. (adj.) assisting or supporting
2. (adj.) supplementary or subsidiary
3. (n.) a helper or assistant
4. (n.) a person or thing that is supplementary
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
There are many people vying for the auxiliary position.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Bishop Tong was appointed auxiliary bishop of Hong Kong in 1996 at the same time as the cardinal, and
has always expressed his support for what he calls Cardinal Zen's "excellent" work.
Telegraph, Vatican appoints new bishop to Hong Kong, By Malcolm Moore in Shanghai, 16 Apr 2009
218. avant-garde [ uh'-vahnt-GAHRD, uh'-vant-, av-ahnt-, ah-vahnt-; Fr. a-vahn*-GA*R*D ]
[noun,adjective]
MEANING :
1. (n.) a radical or advanced group esp. belonging to the art forms that come up with the most
innovative and experimental ideas
2. (adj.) pertaining or belonging to the avant-garde
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The avant-garde Burj Arab hotel with it's sky high helipad is a must-see sight if you happen to visit Dubai.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The Royal Bank Plaza is the most eye-catching of the many avant-garde commercial buildings in the city -
coated with real gold it provides wonderful reflections and is stunning at sunset.
SKY News, Tribute To Toronto's Winning Sport, October 15, 2003

219. avenge [ uh'-VENJ ]
[verb]
MEANING :
to inflict punishment in return for some offence or injury
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Being a vindictive person, he wanted to avenge the snide remarks heaped upon him by his colleagues.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Colin Dalgleish, the Great Britain and Ireland Walker Cup team captain, hopes to be given the chance to
avenge the 121/2-111/2 defeat at Royal County Down in the 2009 match at Merion, Pennsylvania.
The Herald, Dalgleish has revenge on his mind, DOUGLAS LOWE, Golf Correspondent, September 11
2007
220. aver [ uh'-VUR ]
[transitive verb]
MEANING :
1. to assert, declare, state or affirm as the truth or fact
2. (law) to declare or state formally
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
He averred that he would win the game.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Now, there will be some who will aver that there is a "Scottish dimension" to the issue of compulsory ID
cards.
Telegraph, Scottish Parliament must do the math before its next ID cards crisis, By Alan Cochrane, 19
Dec 2008
221. aversion [ uh'-VUR-zhuh' n, -shuh' n ]
[noun]
MEANING :
1. a deep repugnance, dislike or antipathy
2. the cause of repugnance or dislike
3. an evasion or dodging of something unpleasant
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
She had a deep seated aversion towards sea food.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Kids like that have extreme aversion to any changes.
CNN, Looking for hope in the ashes, By Madison Park, November 19, 2008
222. aviary [ EY-vee-er-ee ]
[noun]
MEANING :
a place, cage or enclosure that is used to confine birds
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The aviary was a place of tourist interest.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
The thieves climbed over a wall into the victim's back garden and disabled the special alarm on the
aviary by cutting its wires.
BBC, Parrots stolen from garden aviary, 11 September 2007

223. avid [ AV-id ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
1. ardent, fervent or enthusiastic
2. greedy or having a keen desire
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
He was an avid reader and had a wide range of interests which included Machiavelli and Blyton.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Obama, an avid basketball player who enjoys the occasional round of golf, will fulfill the role when the
biennial team competition takes place at San Francisco's Harding Park Golf Course from October 8-11.
abcNews, Obama to Serve as Honorary Cup Chairman, June 1, 2009

224. avow [ uh'VOU ]
[transitive verb]
MEANING :
to boldly acknowledge, own up, confess or admit
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
He avowed that he was not the best captain but would strive in the future to be so.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Critics from the left have complained about its merchandising; critics from the right disliked its avowed
commitment to diversity.
CNN, How do you get to 'Sesame Street'? Todd Leopold, 11 February 2009.
225. avuncular [ uh'-vuhng-kyuh'-ler ]
[adjective]
MEANING :
1. of or something related to an uncle
2. having the characteristics of an uncle
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
Although he had been a mediocre student in college, his avuncular, bedside manner ensured for him a
flourishing medical practice.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
According to Sigurður Arnalds, the spokesman for Landsvirkjun, the national power company—an
avuncular engineer everyone calls “Siggi,” whose hooded eyes and white-fringed balding head give him
the same soft appeal as Mr. Magoo—the grand idea was to “export electrical power on ships in the form
of aluminum.”
National Geographical, Iceland-Power struggle, March 2008
226. azure [ AZH-er ]
[noun,adjective]
MEANING :
1. (adj.) sky-blue or like the tinge of the sky when it is unclouded
2. (n.) the light, purplish blue tinge that is characteristic of an unclouded sky
USAGE EXAMPLE 1:
The beauty of the azure skies is often mentioned in Wordsworth's poetry.
USAGE EXAMPLE 2:
Police say the stolen azure blue Nissan and the dark-coloured Mondeo were seen heading towards
junction one of the M55 motorway.
BBC, Police hunt fake crash carjackers, 1 September 2008.

A Alphabet Letter With Meaning

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Description:

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

A Alphabet Letter With Meaning

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

1.

to disconcert, embarrass or make queasy

He was abashed by her candid questions.

I moved on, abashed, angry, and confused.

[intransitive verb,transitive verb]

1. (tr.v.) to decrease, lessen or diminish

2. (tr.v.) to end, nullify or terminate

3. (intr.v.) to decrease or reduce in intensity

4. (intr.v.) to become void

3. abattoir [ AB-uh'-twahr, ab-uh'-TWAHR ]

slaughterhouse or A building where animals are butchered

The abattoir was a fearsome place for the children of York.

BBC, Abattoir lay-offs after outbreak, 6 August 2007

[intransitive verb,transitive verb]

1. (intr.v.) to resign, relinquish or renounce one's responsibility, office, power or authority

2. (tr.v.) to renounce, surrender or give up one's authority and power

He abdicated the throne in favour of his younger brother.

The Times of India, Bhutans 'uncertain future' in democracy, 30 Dec 2005

to assist, encourage or support an activity or plan esp. some wrongdoing

1. suspension, cessation or postponement

2. (law) a condition or state where ownership of an estate isn't established or determined

Telegraph, Wasps' players in contract stand-off, by Brendan Gallagher, 19 Dec 2008

to loathe, detest, abominate or hate

She abhorred people who gossiped.

1. sunk low in status or condition

2. shamelessly servile; contemptible

3. being of the most hopeless or miserable kind

BBC, Death on the wards, By Samantha Poling, 19 November 2008

1. to renounce, give up, repudiate or forswear

2. to shun, avoid or abstain from

3. to reject, recant or retract esp. under oath

He abjured all of his worldly possessions and embraced a monastic life.

Telegraph, Living by the Bible's rules, by Marcus Berkmann, 29 Feb 2008

a washing or cleansing of the body, especially for religious reasons

The Hindu religion lays great stress on performing ablutions.

11. abnegate [ AB-ni-geyt ]

12. abnegation [ AB-ni-gey-shuh'n ]

1. self denial in favour of the interests of others

13. abominate [ uh'-BOM-uh'-neyt ]

to abhor, detest, hate or loathe

1. abhorrence, detestation or disgust

2. the cause of abhorrence or wickedness

15. aboriginal [ ab-uh'-RIJ-uh'-nl ]

1. (adj.) indigenous or inhabiting or native from the beginning

2. (adj.) relating or pertaining to the aborigines

Aboriginal tribes believe their remains must be returned to their people.

BBC, Museum returns Aboriginal skulls, 21 May 2009

16. abortive [ uh'-BAWR-tiv ]

1. unsuccessful, fruitless or unable to succeed

2. imperfectly formed or developed

The project was abandoned after several abortive trails.

BBC, Views sought on Stray cycle plan, 5 November 2008

17. abracadabra [ ab-ruh'-kuh'-DAB-ruh' ]

2. foolish or meaningless talk; gibberish; nonsense

The word, 'abracadabra' is a favourite among magicians.

18. abrade [ uh'-BREYD ]

[intransitive verb,transitive verb]

1. (tr.v.) to wear away by scrubbing or rubbing

2. (tr.v.) wear down spiritually

3.(intr.v.) to scrape off

Telegraph, Encounters with the divine, by Richard Dorment, 16 Nov 2006

to abolish by formal or official means; annul by an authoritative act; repeal