Homonyms

Homonyms matter because clarity depends on choosing words precisely and understanding how listeners or readers may interpret them. A misplaced homonym can confuse a sentence, weaken your point, or even create an unintended joke, so using them well is an important part of sounding natural and accurate. This page helps you learn the differences between commonly confused words, recognise their meanings from context, and build confidence in selecting the right one each time. As you read through the examples, you can compare spellings, pronunciations, and sample sentences to see how each word behaves in real use. With a little practice, homonyms become less of a trap and more of a useful feature of English.

2,630 entries in this category

Actions & Verbs

139
bearSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to carry or support

    "Can you bear this heavy box for me?"

  2. 2.to endure or tolerate

    "I cannot bear such loud music anymore."

  3. 3.to give birth to

    "The mare may bear foals in spring."

boltSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to fasten with a bolt

    "Please bolt the gate before you leave."

  2. 2.to run away suddenly

    "The horse tried to bolt at the noise."

  3. 3.to swallow food quickly

    "He would bolt his lunch in five minutes."

boundSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to leap or jump

    "The horse began to bound across the field."

  2. 2.to be destined for

    "This child seems bound for great success."

  3. 3.to be tied or confined

    "The prisoners were bound with heavy ropes."

bowSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to bend forward

    "She bowed politely before entering the room."

  2. 2.to play a string instrument with a bow

    "He learned to bow the violin beautifully."

  3. 3.to front a ship

    "The harbor pilot will bow the ship into port."

clipSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to cut or trim

    "Please clip the coupon from the newspaper."

  2. 2.to attach with a clip

    "She will clip the notes to the report."

  3. 3.to move quickly

    "We had to clip along to catch the train."

closeSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to shut

    "Please close the window before it rains."

  2. 2.to come near

    "The cyclist could close on the leader quickly."

  3. 3.to end or finish

    "The concert will close with a quiet song."

dustSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to remove dust

    "Dust the shelves before the guests arrive."

  2. 2.to sprinkle lightly

    "She will dust the cake with sugar."

  3. 3.to wipe out or defeat

    "Our team managed to dust their rivals in seconds."

drawSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to pull or drag

    "He tried to draw the heavy cart uphill."

  2. 2.to sketch or make a picture

    "Please draw a map of the neighborhood."

  3. 3.to attract attention

    "Her kindness will draw many volunteers."

dropSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to let fall

    "Do not drop the glass on the floor."

  2. 2.to decrease

    "Sales may drop after the holiday rush."

  3. 3.to visit briefly

    "We will drop by for coffee later."

dumpSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to throw away

    "Please dump the old boxes behind the house."

  2. 2.to unload cargo

    "They will dump the gravel at the site."

  3. 3.to end a relationship

    "He decided to dump his girlfriend after months."

fineSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to make thinner or smaller

    "The pharmacist will fine the powder before mixing."

  2. 2.to penalize with money

    "The city may fine drivers for parking there."

  3. 3.to improve

    "Warm weather should fine the weathered metal soon."

flounderSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to struggle helplessly

    "He began to flounder under the pressure of exams."

  2. 2.to move clumsily in mud or water

    "The fish flounder in shallow water near shore."

flushSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to become red in the face

    "She began to flush when everyone stared at her."

  2. 2.to wash with water

    "Please flush the sink with plenty of clean water."

  3. 3.to drive out

    "The soldiers will flush the foxes out of cover."

gallopSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to run fast on a horse

    "The horse began to gallop across the open field."

  2. 2.to move or progress rapidly

    "The company will gallop ahead after the new funding."

glowSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to shine steadily

    "The candle will glow softly all through the night."

  2. 2.to feel warm with emotion

    "She glowed with pride after hearing the good news."

  3. 3.to look healthy

    "His face began to glow after weeks of rest."

grindSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to crush into particles

    "Please grind the coffee beans before brewing them."

  2. 2.to operate by turning

    "Turn the handle to grind the pepper fresh."

  3. 3.to work hard

    "He must grind through homework every night after school."

groundSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to punish by restricting movement

    "Their parents will ground him for breaking curfew again."

  2. 2.to connect electrically to earth

    "The technician will ground the wire for safety."

  3. 3.to stop a plane from flying

    "Heavy snow may ground all flights this afternoon."

jamSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to squeeze in tightly

    "We can jam three more chairs into the room."

  2. 2.to block or clog

    "Leaves can jam the drain during heavy rain."

  3. 3.to improvise music

    "They will jam together at the jazz club tonight."

kickSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to strike with the foot

    "He tried to kick the ball into the net."

  2. 2.to remove forcefully

    "They will kick the intruder out immediately."

  3. 3.to react strongly

    "She kicked at the criticism and spoke angrily."

laySame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to place down

    "Please lay the books on the table."

  2. 2.to set eggs

    "Hens lay eggs almost every morning in spring."

  3. 3.to prepare a surface

    "We must lay a fresh coat of paint first."

leadSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to guide or direct

    "She will lead the hikers through the forest."

  2. 2.to be in front

    "Our team will lead by two points at halftime."

  3. 3.to conduct an orchestra

    "He will lead the orchestra during the concert."

lieSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to recline

    "After dinner, he likes to lie on the sofa."

  2. 2.to tell an untruth

    "Do not lie about where you were last night."

  3. 3.to be situated

    "The town will lie beyond the river bend."

noteSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to record

    "Please note the date on your calendar."

  2. 2.to observe carefully

    "I note the sudden change in her voice."

  3. 3.to make a musical sound

    "The violinist will note the final melody softly."

objectSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to express disagreement

    "I object to the noisy construction next door."

  2. 2.to put forward an objection

    "Please object before the committee votes on the plan."

playSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to engage in a game

    "Children play in the park after school."

  2. 2.to perform music or drama

    "The actors will play Shakespeare tonight on stage."

  3. 3.to act lightly or jokingly

    "He likes to play the fool at parties."

plotSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to plan secretly

    "They plot to steal the diamond at midnight."

  2. 2.to map or diagram

    "Use this graph to plot the survey results."

  3. 3.to divide land

    "Farmers will plot the field before planting corn."

presentSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to show or introduce

    "Please present your ID at the entrance."

  2. 2.to give as a gift

    "We will present her with flowers and chocolate."

  3. 3.to be in attendance

    "The doctor will present during the afternoon clinic."

punchSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to strike with a fist

    "He punched the wall in anger after the argument."

  2. 2.to make a hole

    "The carpenter used a drill to punch neat holes."

  3. 3.to serve a drink

    "She will punch fruit juice for the neighborhood party."

raceSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to compete in speed

    "They race each summer to win the town trophy."

  2. 2.to move quickly

    "Children race down the hill after school ends."

  3. 3.to rush madly

    "The fire crew race to the warehouse when alarms sound."

rangeSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to extend over an area

    "The cattle range across miles of open prairie."

  2. 2.to place in order

    "Please range the books by author and year."

  3. 3.to roam or move around

    "At dusk, wolves range through the forest edge."

rootSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to dig with the snout

    "The pig will root in the mud for truffles."

  2. 2.to cheer for

    "Fans root for their team every Saturday night."

  3. 3.to take hold and grow

    "Those seeds root quickly in warm, moist soil."

rowSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to propel a boat with oars

    "We row the canoe across the quiet lake."

  2. 2.to arrange in lines

    "Please row the chairs in straight lines."

  3. 3.to argue noisily

    "Neighbors row loudly about the parking spaces again."

tapSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to strike lightly

    "He tapped her shoulder to get attention."

  2. 2.to draw liquid from a container

    "She will tap maple syrup from the barrel."

  3. 3.to use or access

    "The app can tap your contacts for suggestions."

runSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.move swiftly on foot

    "We run every morning before breakfast."

  2. 2.operate or function

    "This engine will run smoothly all winter."

  3. 3.manage or control

    "She runs the bakery with remarkable patience."

setSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.put in a fixed place

    "Please set the vase on the shelf."

  2. 2.prepare or arrange

    "We set the table before guests arrived."

  3. 3.hardening stage of a material

    "The concrete is still in its initial set."

turnSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.rotate or spin

    "The wheels turn slowly on the old cart."

  2. 2.change direction

    "Turn left at the next traffic light."

  3. 3.become or change into

    "The soup will turn sour if left out."

fallSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.move downward by gravity

    "Leaves fall from the tree in autumn."

  2. 2.decline or decrease

    "Sales fall sharply during the winter months."

  3. 3.be defeated or captured

    "The fortress will fall by sunrise tomorrow."

passSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.move past or beyond

    "We pass the museum on our way home."

  2. 2.be accepted or approved

    "Your application did pass the final review."

  3. 3.transfer to another person

    "She will pass the salt to the next table."

holdSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.grasp with the hand

    "Please hold my hand while we cross."

  2. 2.contain or keep

    "The jar can hold two liters of water."

  3. 3.organize or conduct

    "They hold a festival every July downtown."

sinkSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.go down below a surface

    "The stone began to sink beneath the pond."

  2. 2.become lower or weaker

    "His confidence started to sink after the loss."

  3. 3.embed deeply

    "Her concern sank deeply into his thoughts."

skipSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.move lightly with hops

    "The child will skip along the sidewalk happily."

  2. 2.omit or leave out

    "Please skip the last question on the test."

  3. 3.become excited or restless

    "She grew too excited to skip dinner."

walkSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.move on foot

    "We walk to school when the weather is nice."

  2. 2.guide someone somewhere

    "Please walk him to the clinic entrance."

  3. 3.go around casually

    "They walk the market every Sunday morning."

driftSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.be carried slowly by wind or water

    "The leaves drift slowly down the river at dusk."

  2. 2.wander without purpose

    "He drifted through town without any real destination."

  3. 3.gradual change

    "Opinions drift over time as new facts emerge."

flowSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.move like a liquid

    "The creek begins to flow after the spring rains."

  2. 2.move smoothly onward

    "Her thoughts flow smoothly from one topic to another."

  3. 3.issue or come forth

    "Tears flow when she hears that old song."

splitSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.divide into parts

    "Please split the orange into four equal pieces."

  2. 2.break apart suddenly

    "The branch will split if the wind keeps rising."

  3. 3.share equally

    "We split the costs equally between our two teams."

gatherSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.collect together

    "Please gather the tools before we leave."

  2. 2.come together

    "Neighbors gather in the square every Saturday evening."

  3. 3.infer from evidence

    "From the clues, I gather she left early."

foldSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.bend over onto itself

    "She will fold the letter into a small square."

  2. 2.close or shut up

    "Please fold the tent and pack it away."

  3. 3.join together neatly

    "Fold the napkins neatly beside each plate."

drillSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.make a hole with a tool

    "The mechanic will drill a hole in the board."

  2. 2.practice repeatedly

    "We drill the steps until everyone knows them."

  3. 3.give strict instruction

    "The coach will drill discipline into the recruits."

burnSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.be consumed by fire

    "Dry leaves burn quickly in the backyard fire."

  2. 2.cause pain like heat

    "That spicy sauce burn my tongue for minutes."

  3. 3.shine or feel hot

    "The lanterns burn softly along the dark path."

hurlSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.throw with force

    "He will hurl the ball across the yard."

  2. 2.utter angrily

    "She began to hurl insults during the argument."

  3. 3.move violently

    "The cart will hurl downhill if the brake fails."

dieSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.stop living

    "The old dog may die soon, sadly."

  2. 2.cease or end

    "Without water, the flowers die by noon."

  3. 3.pass out or fade away

    "The bright colors die after too much sunlight."

swingSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.move back and forth

    "The fan blades swing from side to side."

  2. 2.hang and move freely

    "A lantern can swing from the porch beam."

  3. 3.change between options

    "Voters swing between candidates before election day."

stripSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.remove clothing

    "She will strip before changing into pajamas."

  2. 2.take off a layer

    "Please strip the old paint from the door."

  3. 3.make bare or clear

    "Strip the table bare before the inspection."

stampSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.bring the foot down heavily

    "He will stamp his foot when he is angry."

  2. 2.mark with an impression

    "The clerk will stamp your passport at entry."

  3. 3.crush forcefully

    "The crusher can stamp the can flat."

trainSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.teach or coach

    "Teachers train students to solve problems carefully."

  2. 2.prepare by practice

    "We train every morning for the marathon."

  3. 3.move in a line behind

    "The cars train behind the locomotive through the tunnel."

crossSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.go from one side to another

    "We cross the bridge before sunset."

  2. 2.make a cross mark

    "Please cross the mistake out with a pen."

  3. 3.be angry or annoyed

    "He grew cross after waiting all afternoon."

tieSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.fasten with a knot

    "Please tie your shoes before running outside."

  2. 2.bind or connect

    "Wires tie the sensors to the main unit."

  3. 3.end in a draw

    "Neither team could win, so the game ended in a tie."

brushSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.clean or smooth with bristles

    "She brushed the dust away with a soft brush."

  2. 2.touch lightly against

    "His sleeve did brush my arm in the crowd."

  3. 3.move past quickly

    "We had to brush past the guards quickly."

crashSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.collide violently

    "The cars crash at the icy intersection."

  2. 2.break noisily

    "The vase will crash if you drop it."

  3. 3.fail suddenly

    "The company may crash after losing its biggest client."

marchSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.walk in step

    "The soldiers march in perfect formation."

  2. 2.advance steadily

    "Prices march steadily upward every summer."

  3. 3.formal procession

    "We watched the wedding march from the balcony."

boomSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.make a deep loud sound

    "The cannon could boom across the valley."

  2. 2.grow or expand rapidly

    "Sales boom when the holiday season begins."

  3. 3.a period of great prosperity

    "The city enjoyed a boom after the new factory opened."

liftSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.raise upward

    "Please lift the box onto the high shelf."

  2. 2.steal from a shop

    "He tried to lift a wallet from her bag."

  3. 3.remove or cancel

    "The city will lift the curfew tonight."

packSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.put into a container

    "She began to pack her suitcase for Tokyo."

  2. 2.fill tightly

    "The truck can pack twelve crates tightly."

  3. 3.travel with a group

    "They pack with the mountain rescue team today."

markSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.make a sign on

    "Please mark the date on your calendar."

  2. 2.show or indicate

    "Those clouds mark the start of rain."

  3. 3.assign a score or grade

    "The teacher will mark our essays tonight."

roundSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.go around or encircle

    "The river curves round the hill."

  2. 2.make more rounded

    "Please round the corners for safety."

  3. 3.a series or cycle

    "That was the second round of voting."

changeSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.become different

    "Children change as they grow older."

  2. 2.money given back

    "She handed back the change from twenty dollars."

countSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.determine the number

    "Can you count the apples in this basket?"

  2. 2.noble title

    "The count hosted a lavish banquet last night."

faceSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.front of the head

    "He wiped mud from his face."

  2. 2.confront

    "I must face my fear of flying."

faxSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to send a document electronically

    "Please fax the signed contract before noon."

  2. 2.a faxed message

    "The office received a fax from headquarters today."

fliesSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.plural of fly, the insect

    "Flies buzzed around the picnic table all afternoon."

  2. 2.third-person singular of fly, to move through air

    "Birds flies south when the weather turns cold."

knockSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to strike with a sharp blow

    "She used a hammer to knock the nail in."

  2. 2.to criticize harshly

    "Critics knock the film for its weak ending."

lampsSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.plural of lamp, a light source

    "Two lamps lit the reading corner softly."

  2. 2.to hit hard; to slam

    "He could lamps the ball across the field."

rollSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to move by turning over and over

    "The tire began to roll downhill very quickly."

  2. 2.a small loaf of bread

    "She ate a fresh roll with dinner."

shapeSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.form or outline

    "The artist sketched the shape of the mountain."

  2. 2.to mold or influence

    "Teachers shape young minds through patient guidance."

shiftSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to move position

    "Please shift the boxes closer to the wall."

  2. 2.a work period

    "I work the night shift at the hospital."

slideSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.move smoothly

    "Children slide down the hill on cardboard."

  2. 2.a sloping surface

    "The playground slide was too hot to use."

cutSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.make an opening with a sharp tool

    "Use a knife to cut the rope cleanly."

  2. 2.reduce or shorten

    "We need to cut costs before winter."

landSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.come down to the ground

    "The plane will land at dawn tomorrow."

  2. 2.country territory

    "This land belongs to our family now."

openSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.not closed

    "The door stayed open all night during the storm."

  2. 2.begin or start

    "We open the meeting with a brief welcome."

levelSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.flat and even

    "The table must be level before we pour concrete."

  2. 2.a stage or rank

    "She reached a higher level after years of training."

cookSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to prepare food by heat

    "Please cook the rice until it turns tender."

  2. 2.to become altered by heat or pressure

    "The heat will cook the paint into the metal."

  3. 3.to tamper with dishonestly

    "He tried to cook the books before the audit."

duckingSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a quick lowering of the head

    "Her ducking under the branch saved her hat."

  2. 2.avoiding or evading

    "They kept ducking questions about the missing funds."

freeSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.not costing money

    "Admission to the museum is free on Sundays."

  2. 2.not confined or controlled

    "The dog ran free across the empty field."

  3. 3.to release

    "Please free the bird before sunset."

jumpSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to leap off the ground

    "He can jump the fence in one motion."

  2. 2.a sudden increase

    "Sales took a sharp jump after the ad."

  3. 3.to move suddenly or abruptly

    "She had to jump aside when the car skidded."

labelSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a tag identifying something

    "Attach a label to each suitcase."

  2. 2.to classify or categorize

    "We label these samples by temperature."

  3. 3.to describe someone in a fixed way

    "Don’t label every quiet child as shy."

muteSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.silent or unable to speak

    "After the shock, he remained mute for hours."

  2. 2.to silence a device

    "Please mute the television during the call."

  3. 3.not expressed or softened

    "Her mute anger filled the room."

saveSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to rescue or preserve

    "Firefighters save hikers trapped on the ridge."

  2. 2.to keep money for later

    "I save a little each month for rent."

  3. 3.in sports, to stop a goal

    "The goalkeeper made a brilliant save at the end."

chopSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to cut into pieces

    "Please chop the onions into small pieces."

  2. 2.a thick slice of meat

    "He ordered a chop with vegetables and rice."

fireSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.burning flames

    "Smoke rose from the fire in the backyard."

  2. 2.to dismiss from a job

    "They decided to fire the manager after complaints."

knotSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a fastening in rope

    "Tie a knot so the rope will not slip."

  2. 2.a small hard swelling

    "A knot formed on his wrist after the bite."

loomSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to appear large and threatening

    "Storm clouds loom over the harbor tonight."

  2. 2.a weaving machine

    "Grandma still uses a wooden loom for scarves."

shipSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a large sea vessel

    "The ship crossed the ocean in three days."

  2. 2.to send goods or goods being sent

    "We ship fresh flowers every Monday morning."

skateSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.an ice shoe with a blade

    "My skate needs a sharper blade before practice."

  2. 2.to move on skates

    "Children skate on the frozen pond after school."

trimSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to cut neatly
  2. 2.to decoration or edging

"Please trim the hedge and fix the trim."

yarnSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.thread for weaving or knitting
  2. 2.a long story or tale

"He spun a yarn while winding the yarn."

smackSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to strike sharply
  2. 2.a distinct flavor or scent

"He gave a smack and tasted a smack of salt."

conductSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to lead or manage
  2. 2.to transmit or carry

"She will conduct the meeting and conduct electricity through the cable."

dialSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to call by phone
  2. 2.to turn a dial

"I will dial her number and then dial the radio to a new station."

fastSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to abstain from food
  2. 2.to make secure

"She may fast for a day and fast the package shut."

flockSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to gather in a crowd
  2. 2.to move together like birds

"Fans flock to the store and flock across the square."

growSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to increase in size
  2. 2.to cultivate plants

"Children grow quickly and farmers grow wheat."

jogSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to run slowly
  2. 2.to nudge lightly

"I jog every morning and jog his memory with a hint."

peelSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to remove the skin of fruit
  2. 2.to come off in layers

"Peel the orange and watch the paint peel from the wall."

raiseSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to lift up
  2. 2.to rear or bring up

"Raise your glass and raise the children well."

screwSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to fasten with a screw
  2. 2.to twist tightly

"He will screw the panel on and screw the lid shut."

wrapSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to cover or enclose
  2. 2.to finish up or conclude

"Wrap the gift and wrap up the meeting."

fenceSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.enclose with a barrier

    "They fence the yard to keep the dogs inside."

  2. 2.sell stolen goods

    "Police arrested him for trying to fence stolen jewelry."

  3. 3.a barrier around a property

    "A tall fence blocked the view of the garden."

lockstepSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.walk in tight formation

    "The soldiers marched in lockstep across the square."

  2. 2.rigidly synchronized movement

    "Their decisions changed in lockstep with the economy."

  3. 3.a marching gait

    "The recruits learned to move with a steady lockstep."

clapSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.strike the hands together

    "They clap after every brilliant performance."

  2. 2.a sudden sound or pat

    "A clap of thunder woke the entire neighborhood."

  3. 3.infect with a venereal disease

    "The rumor claimed he could clap a crowd with disease."

thrustSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.push forcefully

    "She will thrust the spear forward in practice."

  2. 2.a sudden push

    "A sudden thrust sent the door wide open."

  3. 3.the main idea or point

    "His main thrust was reducing waste and saving money."

plySame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.work steadily at a trade

    "He learned to ply the trade from his father."

  2. 2.layer or thickness

    "The quilt had one extra ply for warmth."

  3. 3.prompt or request repeatedly

    "They ply him with questions during every interview."

rowelSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.spurred to urge a horse

    "The rider rowel'd the horse toward the finish line."

  2. 2.a pointed wheel on a spur

    "His boot had a sharp rowel that caught the cloth."

  3. 3.provoke or stir up

    "Those remarks only rowel old arguments among neighbors."

quickenSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.make faster

    "We must quicken the pace before sunset."

  2. 2.come to life or become active

    "At dawn, the sleepy town began to quicken."

  3. 3.stir or arouse

    "Her praise could quicken his interest in science."

treadSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.step or walk

    "Careful where you tread on the icy path."

  2. 2.the top surface of a step

    "The staircase tread was worn smooth by years."

  3. 3.go on or proceed

    "We must tread carefully and go on with the plan."

sailSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.travel by boat

    "They sail across the bay every summer."

  2. 2.a sheet of fabric for wind power

    "The ship lost its sail in the storm."

  3. 3.move smoothly along

    "The skateboard seemed to sail over the smooth pavement."

railSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.metal track

    "The train rolled along the rail beside the station."

  2. 2.scold sharply

    "She began to rail at the unfair decision loudly."

bendSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.curve or turn

    "The road will bend sharply after the bridge."

  2. 2.a bend in a road

    "We stopped beside a bend overlooking the river."

  3. 3.yield or stoop

    "She had to bend to enter the low doorway."

permitSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.official document of permission

    "He showed the permit before entering the construction site."

  2. 2.allow

    "Please permit extra time for traffic this morning."

  3. 3.tolerate or admit

    "I can permit a little noise during the parade."

escapeSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.get away from

    "The prisoner tried to escape through the back gate."

  2. 2.issue of air or liquid

    "Steam began to escape from the cracked pipe."

  3. 3.wire used to regulate a clock

    "The clockmaker replaced the worn escape in the mechanism."

spraySame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.fine mist

    "A sea spray covered the rocks at dawn."

  2. 2.branchy sea plant

    "We studied the green spray growing on the tidepool wall."

  3. 3.scatter liquid in droplets

    "She will spray the plants with water every evening."

fastenSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.secure firmly

    "Please fasten your seat belt before takeoff."

  2. 2.make or become quick

    "The cyclist began to fasten after the steep hill."

  3. 3.conclude or settle

    "They fasten the contract tomorrow after final approval."

yawnSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to open the mouth in tiredness

    "She began to yawn during the long lecture."

  2. 2.to gape widely

    "The cave mouth seemed to yawn above us."

combineSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to join together

    "Farmers combine grain and fruit harvests for market."

  2. 2.a harvesting machine

    "The combine rumbled across the wheat field at dusk."

coverSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to place over

    "Please cover the bowl with foil before baking."

  2. 2.a protective lid or top layer

    "The phone's cover protected it from scratches and dust."

desertSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.dry sandy region

    "Camels crossed the desert under a blazing noon sun."

  2. 2.to abandon

    "He will desert his post if the alarm sounds."

digestSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to absorb food

    "Babies digest milk more easily than solid food."

  2. 2.to understand and process

    "She can digest complex data quickly after a brief review."

diveSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to plunge into water

    "Olympians dive into the pool with perfect form."

  2. 2.a steep downward movement

    "The stock's dive startled investors after the announcement."

insultSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to offend

    "Do not insult her by laughing at her work."

  2. 2.a rude remark

    "His insult about my accent was deeply hurtful."

edgeSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.border or rim

    "The knife had a sharp edge along the blade."

  2. 2.gain a slight advantage

    "Our team gained the edge after the timeout."

filmSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.motion picture

    "We watched a film last night at the cinema."

  2. 2.thin layer

    "A film of dust covered the old table."

foundSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.establish

    "They found a school to serve the neighborhood."

  2. 2.past tense of find

    "I found my keys under the sofa."

joinSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.connect together

    "The cables join cleanly at the junction box."

  2. 2.become a member of

    "She wants to join the chess club this semester."

pruneSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.trim a plant

    "Please prune the rose bush before spring arrives."

  2. 2.dried plum

    "He spread prune on toast for a sweet breakfast."

shakeSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to move rapidly back and forth

    "The banner began to shake in the wind."

  2. 2.a drink made with ice cream and milk

    "She ordered a chocolate shake with whipped cream."

snareSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a trap for catching animals

    "The rabbit escaped the snare hidden in grass."

  2. 2.to catch or trap

    "Police snare suspects with cameras and undercover work."

weighSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to measure mass

    "Weigh the package before you seal the box."

  2. 2.to consider carefully

    "I must weigh both offers before deciding."

foilSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.metal thin sheet

    "Wrap the leftovers in foil before refrigerating them."

  2. 2.to prevent or frustrate

    "The rain may foil our picnic plans."

slamSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.shut forcefully

    "He could slam the door during an argument."

  2. 2.criticize harshly

    "Her review tried to slam the new restaurant unfairly."

stainSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.mark with color

    "She managed to stain the silk dress with coffee."

  2. 2.disgrace or blemish

    "That scandal will stain his reputation for years."

Body & Health

183
bandageSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.strip for covering wounds

    "She wrapped the cut with a clean bandage."

  2. 2.cloth wrap for support

    "A bandage supported his sprained wrist during practice."

castSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.hard shell for broken bone

    "The doctor removed the cast after six weeks."

  2. 2.to throw or fling

    "He will cast the stone into the river."

clinicSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.small medical facility

    "The clinic treated patients throughout the morning."

  2. 2.teaching session in a skill

    "She attended a guitar clinic to improve her technique."

doseSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.amount of medicine

    "The nurse gave him a dose of cough syrup."

  2. 2.brief quantity or share

    "He had only a dose of luck that day."

fitSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.sudden seizure

    "He had a fit during the fever."

  2. 2.suitable or proper

    "That jacket is a fit choice for winter."

germSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.microbe causing disease

    "The germ spread quickly through the crowded classroom."

  2. 2.seed or origin

    "The idea was the germ of a great novel."

growthSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.increase in size

    "The plant showed remarkable growth after spring rains."

  2. 2.abnormal bodily lump

    "The doctor found a small growth on her arm."

ironSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.metal element

    "Iron is used widely in bridges and tools."

  2. 2.to press clothes flat

    "She will iron the shirt before dinner."

lashSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.eyelid hair

    "A single lash brushed her cheek in the wind."

  2. 2.to strike with a whip

    "The rider began to lash the runaway horse."

medicineSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.drug for treatment

    "The medicine eased his headache within an hour."

  2. 2.study of healing

    "She decided to study medicine at university."

plasterSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.bandage material

    "He applied plaster over the cracked wall."

  2. 2.coat walls with plaster

    "The plaster held the broken finger in place."

pulseSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.heartbeat felt in an artery

    "The nurse checked his pulse after the run."

  2. 2.rhythmic beat or impulse

    "Music can pulse through a room late at night."

rashSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.skin eruption

    "The rash spread across her arms after the picnic."

  2. 2.hasty or reckless act

    "His rash decision cost the company thousands."

shuntSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.medical surgical connection

    "The surgeon used a shunt to bypass the blocked artery."

  2. 2.to push aside or divert

    "They shunt noisy students to the back row."

shotSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.injection of medicine

    "The nurse gave me a flu shot yesterday."

  2. 2.a firing of a gun

    "One shot cracked the window from across the street."

spellSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.words of magic power

    "The wizard cast a spell over the sleeping guard."

  2. 2.period of time

    "We stayed for a spell before catching the train."

stapleSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.fastening pin

    "She fastened the papers with a metal staple."

  2. 2.basic food item

    "Rice is a staple in many households worldwide."

strainSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.injury from overuse

    "He felt a strain in his shoulder after lifting."

  2. 2.to filter or stretch

    "Strain the soup to remove the vegetable pieces."

sutureSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.stitch in a wound

    "The doctor placed a suture across the cut."

  2. 2.medical closure with stitches

    "She needed several suture stitches after the fall."

tabletSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.pill of medicine

    "Take one tablet with water after breakfast."

  2. 2.flat slab or plate

    "The ancient tablet was carved from dark stone."

toneSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.quality of sound

    "Her voice had a warm tone tonight."

  2. 2.muscle firmness

    "Yoga improved the tone of his abdominal muscles."

virusSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.disease-causing agent

    "The virus spread quickly through the crowded office."

  2. 2.harmful computer program

    "A virus infected the computer and encrypted files."

woundSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.injury to the body

    "The broken glass wound his hand badly."

  2. 2.to hurt deeply

    "Her harsh words would wound him for years."

bruiseSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.injury under the skin

    "A dark bruise formed on his shin."

  2. 2.to injure feelings

    "The public insult did bruise her pride."

coldSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.low temperature

    "The wind brought cold air through the window."

  2. 2.common viral illness

    "He stayed home with a bad cold."

crampSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.sudden muscle pain

    "A cramp seized my calf during the race."

  2. 2.to restrict or hinder

    "Bureaucracy can cramp innovation in small businesses."

cureSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.remedy for an illness

    "This herb can cure a mild headache."

  2. 2.to preserve or dry

    "They cure the meat with salt and smoke."

draftSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.air current

    "A cold draft blew through the cracked window."

  2. 2.first written version

    "She submitted the first draft of her essay yesterday."

feverSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.high body temperature

    "The fever kept him in bed all weekend."

  2. 2.excited state of mind

    "Election fever gripped the city after the announcement."

gashSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.deep cut

    "A deep gash ran across his forearm."

  2. 2.to make a deep cut

    "The blade can gash the metal if forced."

grainSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.small seed of cereal

    "Each grain of rice was perfectly cooked."

  2. 2.tiny particle

    "Dust specks formed a grain on the tabletop."

graftSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.transplanted tissue

    "The surgeon used graft to repair the damaged skin."

  2. 2.unfair gain by corruption

    "They accepted graft in exchange for the contract."

humSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.low continuous sound

    "We heard the hum of the refrigerator at night."

  2. 2.to sing softly

    "She began to hum the tune while cooking."

lumpSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.small swelling

    "A painful lump formed under her jaw."

  2. 2.unshaped mass

    "He shaped the clay into one rough lump."

organSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.body part with a function

    "The heart is a vital organ that pumps blood."

  2. 2.keyboard instrument

    "He played the organ during the wedding ceremony."

patchSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.small area or piece

    "She placed a patch over the torn sleeve."

  2. 2.to mend or cover

    "We will patch the hole before the rain starts."

pallSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.cloth over a coffin

    "The pall covered the coffin at the funeral."

  2. 2.something that dulls interest

    "A pall of silence settled over the room."

quackSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.duck sound

    "The duck let out a loud quack by the pond."

  2. 2.fake doctor

    "That quack sold useless remedies to desperate patients."

rackSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.framework for holding items

    "He hung the tools on the rack in the garage."

  2. 2.to torment or torture

    "The prosecutor tried to rack him with harsh questioning."

saltSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.mineral seasoning

    "Please add salt to the soup before serving."

  2. 2.to cure or preserve

    "They used salt to preserve the fish for winter."

shockSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.sudden medical collapse

    "The patient went into shock after losing blood."

  2. 2.strong surprise

    "Her sudden arrival caused shock among the guests."

soreSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.painful place on the body

    "A sore on his foot made walking difficult."

  2. 2.irritated or angry

    "She was sore after the unfair criticism."

spotSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.small mark or blemish

    "There was a small spot on the clean shirt."

  2. 2.to see or notice

    "I could spot the lighthouse through the fog."

springSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.coil that bounces

    "The old spring still bounced when I sat down."

  2. 2.source of water

    "A clear spring flowed beside the mountain trail."

stingSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.sharp pain from a bite

    "The bee's sting hurt my arm for hours."

  2. 2.to pain emotionally

    "Her cruel comment really did sting him."

veinSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.blood vessel

    "The doctor checked the vein on her wrist."

  2. 2.distinct style or manner

    "His writing has a playful vein of humor."

armSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.upper limb

    "He broke his arm skiing last winter."

  2. 2.branch of a tree

    "A robin nested on the arm of the oak."

  3. 3.side section of a machine

    "The machine's arm lifted the heavy crate."

backSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.rear part of the body

    "He lay on his back under the stars."

  2. 2.supporting rear surface

    "The chair's back gave excellent support."

  3. 3.to move backward

    "He had to back the car out slowly."

fingerSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.one digit of the hand

    "She cut her finger on the paper."

  2. 2.a pointer or indicator on a dial

    "The clock's finger pointed to noon."

jawSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.lower part of the face

    "He hit his jaw during the hockey game."

  2. 2.a harsh speech or talk

    "Stop your jaw and listen for once."

kidneySame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.bean-shaped organ

    "The doctor examined his kidney for stones."

  2. 2.bean-shaped seat cushion

    "The chair had a soft kidney for comfort."

liverSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.organ that processes blood

    "Her liver was damaged by years of drinking."

  2. 2.a person who lives somewhere

    "He is a lifelong liver in this town."

mouthSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.opening in the face

    "She wiped her mouth after eating soup."

  2. 2.opening of a river

    "The river's mouth opens into a wide bay."

  3. 3.the act of speaking

    "He opened his mouth to answer quickly."

nailSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.hard plate on a finger or toe

    "She painted each nail a bright red."

  2. 2.metal fastener

    "He hammered a nail into the board."

  3. 3.to catch or pin down

    "The evidence will nail him to the truth."

palmSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.inner part of the hand

    "She rubbed lotion into her dry palm."

  2. 2.tropical tree

    "A palm swayed outside the hotel window."

pupilSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.student

    "The teacher asked each pupil to read aloud."

  2. 2.dark center of the eye

    "Bright light made her pupil shrink instantly."

ribSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.curved bone in the chest

    "One rib was cracked in the collision."

  2. 2.a jest or tease

    "He made a rib about my old hat."

soleSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.bottom of the foot

    "The sand stuck to the sole of her shoe."

  2. 2.only one; single

    "She was the sole survivor of the crash."

spineSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.backbone

    "An injury to his spine left him in pain."

  2. 2.sharp point on a plant

    "Cactus spine punctured my finger through the glove."

  3. 3.a stiff book cover

    "The old spine of the book was cracked and loose."

throatSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.front passage of the neck

    "A lump in his throat made speaking difficult."

  2. 2.narrow opening of a container

    "Pour the syrup into the narrow throat of the bottle."

bileSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.digestive fluid from the liver

    "Bile helps the body digest fats in the intestine."

  2. 2.bitterness or ill temper

    "His bile rose when he heard the unfair accusation."

boneSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.hard part of the skeleton

    "She broke the bone cleanly during the basketball collision."

  2. 2.to remove the bones from food

    "He learned to bone the fish before cooking it."

breastSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.front part of the chest

    "She held her breast as the cold wind blew."

  2. 2.meat from a bird or animal

    "The chef served roasted breast with herbs and lemon."

compoundSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a substance made of two or more parts

    "The chemist studied a compound with two linked elements."

  2. 2.a fenced area of buildings

    "We parked inside the embassy compound behind high walls."

fatSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.body tissue stored as energy

    "Body fat insulates people against the bitter winter."

  2. 2.rich in fat; oily

    "The recipe called for fat tuna, full of flavor."

glandSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.organ that secretes substances

    "The salivary gland swelled after the infection spread."

  2. 2.a lump-like bodily structure

    "The doctor felt a small gland under the skin."

goutSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a painful joint disease

    "His gout flared after a rich, purine-heavy dinner."

  2. 2.a rich or luxurious taste

    "The dessert had a gout of chocolate and cream."

headSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.part of the body above the neck

    "She rested her head on the pillow."

  2. 2.leader or chief

    "He was chosen head of the committee."

hipSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.body part at the side of the pelvis

    "She cracked her hip while slipping on ice."

  2. 2.part of a roof where slopes meet

    "The house needs repairs to its hip roof."

limbSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.arm or leg

    "He broke his left limb in the fall."

  2. 2.large branch of a tree

    "A squirrel leaped from limb to limb overhead."

marrowSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.soft tissue inside bones

    "The surgeon examined the marrow inside the bone."

  2. 2.essence or core

    "The marrow of the novel is moral courage."

measlesSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.infectious childhood disease

    "The child missed school because of measles."

  2. 2.small speckled markings

    "The fabric had measles of red and blue thread."

mucousSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.relating to mucus

    "This mucous membrane lines the nose."

  2. 2.slimy, covered with mucus

    "The fish was mucous and slippery to touch."

refluxSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.backflow of body fluid

    "Acid reflux can cause burning after meals."

  2. 2.returning of a substance to a previous place

    "The current reflux brought saltwater back upstream."

scarSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.mark left by healed skin

    "A scar crossed his cheek from childhood."

  2. 2.damage left by a wound or event

    "The scandal left a scar on the company."

swellSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to become enlarged

    "His ankle began to swell after the twist."

  2. 2.excellent or impressive

    "That was a swell performance by the orchestra."

tendonSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.band connecting muscle to bone

    "The tendon in her wrist was inflamed."

  2. 2.cord or strip of tissue

    "He tied the fabric with a tendon of sinew."

toothSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.hard structure in the mouth

    "She brushed her tooth before bed."

  2. 2.a projecting part on a tool or gear

    "The gear has one missing tooth near the edge."

chinSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.front part of the lower face

    "He rested his chin in his hands."

  2. 2.to talk idly or at length

    "They chin about old times for hours."

  3. 3.to pull or lift with the chin

    "The boxer tried to chin the bar twice."

gutSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.intestines or belly

    "He felt a cramp in his gut."

  2. 2.strong instinct

    "She had the gut to jump first."

  3. 3.to remove the insides of

    "The butcher will gut the fish now."

kidSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a child

    "The kid laughed at the silly magic trick."

  2. 2.a young goat

    "A kid followed its mother across the field."

  3. 3.to joke or tease

    "Don't kid me; I heard the whole story."

noseSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.part of the face used for smelling

    "My nose started itching near the dusty attic."

  2. 2.to pry into others' affairs

    "Reporters should not nose around private family matters."

  3. 3.the front part of a vehicle or object

    "The car's nose crumpled after the collision."

sackSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a large bag

    "He packed clothes into a heavy sack for camping."

  2. 2.to dismiss from a job

    "The manager had to sack two employees after complaints."

  3. 3.to plunder or loot

    "Raiders arrived to sack the village at dawn."

templeSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.side of the forehead

    "He rubbed his temple after reading the long report."

  2. 2.a place of worship

    "The candlelit temple welcomed pilgrims from across the valley."

  3. 3.the arm of a pair of glasses

    "Her new glasses pinched behind the temple."

thighSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.upper part of the leg

    "She bruised her thigh during the soccer match."

  2. 2.the corresponding cut of poultry

    "We roasted a chicken thigh with rosemary."

  3. 3.the upper limb segment in some animals

    "The horse's thigh muscles strained on the hill."

tongueSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.muscular organ in the mouth

    "He bit his tongue before answering angrily."

  2. 2.a language

    "French is the tongue spoken in that region."

  3. 3.to speak in a certain manner

    "She can tongue the warning very sharply."

wristSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.joint between hand and forearm

    "She twisted her wrist while opening the jar."

  2. 2.the action of turning the wrist

    "A quick wrist of the bat sent it flying."

  3. 3.a strap or band around the wrist

    "He wore a leather wrist to track his pulse."

archSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.curved structure

    "The stone arch framed the garden entrance."

  2. 2.the instep of the foot

    "The doctor checked the arch of his foot."

  3. 3.to curve over

    "The bridge arches over the river gorge."

claspSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a fastening device

    "She fastened the scarf with a silver clasp."

  2. 2.a tight grip

    "He held her hand in a warm clasp."

  3. 3.to hold tightly

    "She clasped the railing during the rough train ride."

coilSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.something wound in rings

    "A coil of rope lay beside the boat."

  2. 2.an electrical winding

    "The transformer contains a copper coil inside."

  3. 3.to wind into loops

    "Please coil the hose neatly after watering."

flapSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a loose fold or cover

    "A loose flap covered the broken mailbox slot."

  2. 2.to move up and down

    "The flag began to flap in the strong wind."

  3. 3.to panic or fuss

    "Don't flap over one missed appointment."

gripSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.firm hold

    "The climber kept a firm grip on the rock."

  2. 2.a handle or part to hold

    "Use this grip for better control on the hammer."

  3. 3.to hold tightly

    "She tried to grip the railing with wet hands."

pitSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a hole or hollow

    "We dug a pit behind the garden shed."

  2. 2.the hard seed of some fruits

    "He spit the olive pit onto his plate."

  3. 3.to set in opposition

    "The debate was meant to pit rivals against each other."

probeSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.instrument for examining

    "The doctor inserted a probe to inspect the wound."

  2. 2.careful investigation

    "Police began a probe into the billing scandal."

  3. 3.to examine closely

    "Scientists probe the ocean floor with a robot."

traceSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.small amount or sign

    "There was a trace of sugar on the table."

  2. 2.to follow a path or origin

    "Researchers trace the disease to contaminated water."

  3. 3.to draw over a line

    "Trace the pencil line before cutting the wood."

calfSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.young cow

    "A calf followed its mother across the field."

  2. 2.back of the lower leg

    "He strained his calf during the marathon."

fluSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.influenza illness

    "She missed work all week with a terrible flu."

  2. 2.flowing or spreading movement

    "Warm air can flu through the valley at dawn."

heartSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.organ that pumps blood

    "The doctor listened carefully to her heart."

  2. 2.center of emotion or courage

    "She had the heart to stand up alone."

jointSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.place where bones meet

    "The surgeon examined the joint for swelling and pain."

  2. 2.food cooked with a large cut of meat

    "We served a joint of beef for dinner."

massSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.large body or quantity

    "A mass of clouds covered the mountain by noon."

  2. 2.religious service in some churches

    "The choir gathered for mass at sunrise."

painSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.physical suffering

    "His broken arm caused pain whenever he moved it."

  2. 2.person or thing that causes trouble

    "That noisy neighbor is a real pain at night."

scrubSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to clean hard with friction

    "Please scrub the pan until every stain disappears."

  2. 2.rough low-growing vegetation

    "Deer hid in the scrub along the dry road."

sprainSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.injury to a joint

    "The player wore a brace after the sprain."

  2. 2.to twist or injure a joint

    "I sprain my ankle every time I misstep."

stressSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.mental or physical strain

    "Her new job caused stress throughout the whole summer."

  2. 2.special emphasis on a word or syllable

    "Put stress on the second syllable of permit."

ointmentSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.medicated cream for skin

    "Apply ointment to the rash twice a day."

  2. 2.substance used to polish or smooth

    "Use a soft ointment to polish the silver."

depressedSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.feeling very sad

    "He felt depressed after hearing the bad news."

  2. 2.pushed down below the surface

    "The button was depressed below the panel surface."

ulcerSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.open sore on the skin or inside the body

    "The patient needed treatment for an ulcer on his stomach."

  2. 2.damaging wound or erosion in something

    "Years of rubbing caused an ulcer in the metal."

nauseaSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.feeling of sickness and urge to vomit

    "The smell of gasoline gave her nausea instantly."

  2. 2.strong disgust

    "The crude joke caused nausea among the audience."

vetSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.veterinarian

    "We asked the vet to examine the injured puppy."

  2. 2.to examine or check carefully

    "They vet every applicant before offering a contract."

eyeSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.the organ of sight

    "She blinked when dust got in her eye."

  2. 2.a small loop or hole

    "Thread the ribbon through the eye of the needle."

bedSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a place to sleep

    "He slept on a narrow bed beside the window."

  2. 2.the bottom of a river or sea

    "Fish lay motionless on the river bed below."

brewSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to make a drink by boiling

    "She brewed tea by boiling fresh leaves carefully."

  2. 2.a mixture or concoction

    "The chef invented a strange brew of herbs and fruit."

drugSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a medicine or narcotic

    "The doctor prescribed a drug for the infection."

  2. 2.to administer a medicine

    "Nurses drug the patient before the painful procedure."

gumSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.the flesh around teeth

    "Her gum was sore after the dentist cleaned."

  2. 2.a sticky substance

    "The label held with gum until it dried."

hurtSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to cause pain

    "The noisy alarm can hurt your ears quickly."

  2. 2.to damage or injure

    "He fell and hurt his knee on rocks."

itchSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.an uncomfortable skin sensation

    "A mosquito bite left an itch on my arm."

  2. 2.a strong desire

    "I have an itch to travel this summer."

stitchSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a loop of thread in sewing

    "She dropped a stitch and had to fix it."

  2. 2.a unit of knitting

    "This scarf pattern uses a simple rib stitch throughout."

  3. 3.a sharp side pain during exercise

    "A sharp stitch in his side forced him to stop."

cheekSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.either side of the face

    "She kissed each cheek before leaving."

  2. 2.rude boldness

    "He had the cheek to interrupt the meeting."

bloodSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.red bodily fluid

    "The nurse drew blood for the lab test."

  2. 2.family ancestry or descent

    "She traced her bloodline back to Scotland."

  3. 3.to stain with blood

    "The hunters blood the meat before cooking it."

brainSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.organ of thought in the skull

    "A doctor examined the brain after the injury."

  2. 2.intelligence or mental power

    "She has the brain to solve difficult puzzles."

  3. 3.to hit in the head

    "The blow might brain a careless boxer."

deadSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.no longer alive

    "The flowers looked dead after the frost."

  2. 2.without movement or activity

    "The street was dead at midnight."

  3. 3.exact or complete

    "She wanted dead center on the target."

goreSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.blood from a wound

    "The wound leaked dark gore onto his shirt."

  2. 2.to stab or pierce violently

    "The outlaw vowed to gore anyone who interfered."

  3. 3.a triangular piece of fabric

    "She used a gore of fabric to widen the skirt."

groinSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.area where thigh meets torso

    "He groinched at the tackle, clutching his injured groin."

  2. 2.to make a low grunting sound

    "He began to groin softly while sleeping beside her."

  3. 3.to search or rummage

    "She groin through the attic boxes for old letters."

heelSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.back part of the foot

    "The nurse checked the bruise on his heel after running."

  2. 2.to tilt or lean

    "The boat began to heel sharply in the rough wind."

  3. 3.a contemptible person

    "No heel would admit cheating during the card tournament."

kissSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.touch with the lips

    "She gave her son a kiss before bedtime."

  2. 2.small amount or touch

    "Just a kiss of salt improved the soup."

  3. 3.to barely graze

    "The branch managed to kiss the car roof lightly."

lungSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.organ for breathing

    "The doctor showed an X-ray of her lung."

  2. 2.a natural inlet or extension

    "The cove formed a narrow lung along the coast."

  3. 3.to speak or shout loudly

    "He lunged? loudly across the field, calling everyone home."

stomachSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.organ of digestion

    "His stomach hurt after eating too much cake."

  2. 2.capacity to tolerate

    "She has no stomach for cruelty or deceit."

  3. 3.to endure or accept

    "They stomach the changes without complaining to anyone."

tailSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.rear part of an animal

    "The horse swished its tail at the flies."

  2. 2.to follow closely

    "Reporters tail the mayor wherever he travels publicly."

  3. 3.part of a garment or object

    "Her coat has a long tail that drags behind."

tissueSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.material made of fibers

    "She wiped the spill with a soft tissue."

  2. 2.group of similar cells in an organism

    "The biologist examined the damaged tissue under a microscope."

  3. 3.paper used for wiping

    "Please pass me a tissue; my nose is running."

muscleSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a body tissue that moves parts

    "A muscle in his arm tightened after lifting."

  2. 2.physical strength or force

    "She had the muscle to win every contest."

  3. 3.a strong or influential person

    "That politician has muscle with the city council."

nerveSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a fiber carrying signals in the body

    "The doctor checked a nerve in her leg."

  2. 2.courage or boldness

    "He had the nerve to speak to the crowd."

  3. 3.irritation or annoyance

    "Her constant questions really got on my nerve."

fitzSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.an old term for an illegitimate son

    "He was called a fitz in old records."

  2. 2.a surname element in some names

    "The surname fitz appears in many medieval family names."

  3. 3.a rare historical title

    "The king granted him the rare title of fitz."

healSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to recover from injury or illness

    "Her broken arm will heal after several weeks."

  2. 2.to make whole or repair

    "The carpenter will heal the cracked chair with glue."

  3. 3.to lessen pain or trouble

    "That vacation should heal their stress and frustration."

plaqueSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a flat commemorative tablet

    "The town unveiled a plaque honoring the fallen soldiers."

  2. 2.a film of bacteria on teeth

    "Careful brushing removes plaque from teeth before it hardens."

  3. 3.a deposit on artery walls

    "Doctors found plaque narrowing the patient’s arteries significantly."

retinaSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.light-sensitive layer in the eye

    "The doctor examined the retina after the injury."

  2. 2.a camera's image sensor

    "Digital cameras rely on a sensor similar to the retina."

corneaSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.the clear front surface of the eye

    "Dust irritated the cornea and made her eyes sting."

  2. 2.a genus of snails

    "That tiny cornea belongs to a rare freshwater snail."

cystSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a closed sac in the body

    "The doctor removed a cyst from her ovary yesterday."

  2. 2.a blister-like growth in plants

    "A cyst formed on the tomato leaf after infection."

lesionSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.damaged tissue area

    "The biopsy showed a lesion on the liver tissue."

  2. 2.injury to the body

    "She suffered a head lesion in the crash."

  3. 3.a harmful change in a structure

    "Pollution can cause lesion in the river ecosystem."

fractureSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a broken bone

    "X-rays confirmed a fracture in his left ankle."

  2. 2.to break or weaken

    "Cold weather can fracture the brittle plastic frame."

sprueSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.intestinal disorder

    "Doctors diagnosed sprue after months of digestive pain."

  2. 2.a casting channel in metalwork

    "Molten metal flowed through the sprue into the mold."

plagueSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a serious disease outbreak

    "The plague swept through the crowded city in months."

  2. 2.to pester or trouble

    "Don't plague me with endless questions tonight."

tumorSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.an abnormal growth

    "The scan revealed a tumor near her lung."

  2. 2.swelling or lump

    "The swelling looked like a tumor under the skin."

semenSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.male reproductive fluid

    "The lab analyzed semen samples for fertility testing."

  2. 2.seeds or offspring collectively

    "In spring, the plant's semen helps disperse new growth."

serumSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.blood fluid after clotting

    "The serum was separated from the blood after clotting."

  2. 2.a cosmetic or medicinal liquid

    "She applied a vitamin serum before bedtime last night."

pillSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a small tablet of medicine

    "He swallowed a pill with a glass of water."

  2. 2.a round small ball

    "The children carved a pill from the wooden toy."

lotionSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a liquid skin preparation

    "Apply the lotion gently to your dry hands tonight."

  2. 2.an act of anointing

    "The priest used lotion during the ancient purification rite."

salveSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a healing ointment

    "The nurse spread salve over the burn carefully."

  2. 2.to soothe or relieve

    "Music can salve my nerves after a hard day."

browSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.forehead

    "She frowned, and a crease formed across her brow."

  2. 2.edge of a hill or cliff

    "At the brow of the hill, they stopped for lunch."

  3. 3.expression or demeanor

    "His calm brow hid all his private worries."

elbowSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.joint between upper arm and forearm

    "She injured her elbow during the tennis match."

  2. 2.bend in a pipe or road

    "The road makes an elbow before the bridge."

  3. 3.to push with an elbow

    "He elbowed through the crowd to reach the front."

neckSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.part connecting head and body

    "He held his hand against his neck."

  2. 2.narrow connecting part

    "The bottle had a narrow neck near the top."

  3. 3.to kiss or embrace passionately

    "They necked in the parked car after midnight."

wartSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.rough skin growth

    "A wart grew slowly on his finger."

  2. 2.an objectionable feature or flaw

    "That traffic law was the wart in an otherwise good plan."

  3. 3.an old term for a minor irritant

    "In older speech, wart meant a small nagging annoyance."

plumbSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.perfectly vertical

    "The fence stood plumb beside the driveway."

  2. 2.to test depth with a plumb line

    "They plumbed the well before drilling deeper."

  3. 3.to explore or examine deeply

    "She plumbed the issue in her final report."

pressureSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.force applied on something

    "The pressure on the pipe was too high."

  2. 2.blood pressure in the body

    "Her blood pressure dropped after the medication."

  3. 3.stress or coercion

    "He quit under pressure from his friends."

fitlySame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.in a suitable way

    "She fitly placed the vase on the narrow shelf."

  2. 2.appropriately

    "He answered fitly, with words that suited the moment."

  3. 3.aptly or properly

    "The witness spoke fitly and without hesitation."

fitterSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.one who fits clothing or parts

    "The fitter adjusted my jacket sleeves perfectly."

  2. 2.a person who makes something fit

    "A skilled fitter can make the door close flush."

  3. 3.not a homonym by itself

    "not a homonym by itself"

pulsebeatSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.heartbeat; pulse

    "The doctor checked his pulsebeat after the run."

  2. 2.rhythmic beating sound

    "We heard a steady pulsebeat from the drum."

  3. 3.not a standard dictionary homonym

    "not a standard dictionary homonym"

bandedSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.marked with bands

    "The bird's feathers were banded with black and gold."

  2. 2.joined in a group

    "Neighbors banded together to clean the flooded street."

  3. 3.past tense of band

    "She banded the package before mailing it overseas."

veilSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.covering for the face or head

    "The bride wore a white veil over her face."

  2. 2.to hide or obscure

    "Fog began to veil the mountains at dusk."

  3. 3.thin curtain-like covering

    "A sheer veil covered the lamps and softened their light."

paleSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.light in color

    "His pale shirt matched the cloudy morning sky."

  2. 2.unhealthy-looking and lacking color

    "She looked pale after standing in the hot sun."

  3. 3.to become less intense

    "The candlelight seemed to pale beside the bright moon."

ventSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.opening for air

    "Fresh air entered through the vent above the stove."

  2. 2.to release feelings

    "He used the meeting to vent his frustration calmly."

  3. 3.an opening in the body or structure

    "The surgeon made a small vent to release pressure."

pulsewaveSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.heartbeat wave

    "The monitor displayed a pulsewave from his heartbeat."

  2. 2.signal wave

    "Engineers measured a pulsewave sent through the cable."

  3. 3.not a standard homonym

    "That term is unusual, but pulsewave appears in the report."

strainproofSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.resistant to strain

    "This strainproof cable holds under heavy industrial loads."

  2. 2.not a standard homonym

    "The second meaning is not standard for strainproof."

  3. 3.not a standard homonym

    "The third meaning is not standard for strainproof."

fitfulsSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.plural of fitful, irregular spells

    "After surgery, she had fitfuls of sleep all night."

  2. 2.not a standard homonym

    "The second meaning is not standard for fitfuls."

  3. 3.not a standard homonym

    "The third meaning is not standard for fitfuls."

pulseoxSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.pulse oximeter shorthand

    "The nurse checked the pulseox before surgery."

  2. 2.not a standard word

    "The second meaning is not standard for pulseox."

  3. 3.not a standard homonym

    "The third meaning is not standard for pulseox."

muskSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.strong animal scent

    "The deer left a musky trail near the creek."

  2. 2.a type of perfumery note

    "She liked the musk note in the perfume blend."

  3. 3.to smell of musk

    "After handling the antlers, his coat began to musk."

blindSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.unable to see

    "After the accident, he was blind and needed help."

  2. 2.window covering

    "She drew the blind to block the afternoon sun."

  3. 3.not noticing something obvious

    "He was blind to the warning signs around him."

spleenSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.an abdominal organ near the stomach

    "The doctor examined her spleen after the injury."

  2. 2.a feeling of ill temper or spite

    "His spleen made him snap at everyone."

jawboneSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.the bone of the lower face

    "The doctor checked the swollen jawbone carefully."

  2. 2.to talk insincerely or at length

    "He will jawbone for hours about nothing important."

stiffSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.rigid or not flexible

    "The old chair felt stiff after years of storage."

  2. 2.unfriendly or formal

    "Her stiff reply ended the conversation quickly."

  3. 3.a dead body, slang

    "The morgue tagged the stiff before burial."

salivaSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.spit in the mouth

    "Saliva helps break down food in your mouth."

  2. 2.something to be expected to aid chewing

    "Chewing gum makes your mouth produce more saliva."

mucusSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.slippery bodily secretion

    "A thick mucus made his nose feel blocked."

  2. 2.the thin protective layer in passages

    "The mucus lining protects the airway from germs."

flaskSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a small bottle for liquids

    "He carried water in a small flask on hikes."

  2. 2.a field instrument container for samples

    "The scientist sealed the flask before collecting river samples."

smotherSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to suffocate

    "Smoke can smother anyone trapped in a closed room."

  2. 2.to cover thickly

    "She smothered the cake with warm chocolate icing."

  3. 3.to overwhelm with excessive affection

    "Grandma can smother a child with kisses sometimes."

biteSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to cut with the teeth

    "The dog may bite strangers at the gate."

  2. 2.a small amount of food

    "Just a bite of bread was enough for breakfast."

  3. 3.a sharp, painful sting or effect

    "That cold wind can bite your skin painfully."

hiveSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a bees’ nest

    "The hive buzzed loudly beneath the old tree."

  2. 2.a bustling place full of activity

    "The train station was a hive of activity."

  3. 3.a swollen, itchy skin rash

    "Her arm broke out in a painful hive rash."

sickSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.ill or unwell

    "He stayed home because he felt sick."

  2. 2.tired of something

    "I'm sick of waiting in this endless line."

  3. 3.morbidly unpleasant

    "The movie's sick violence upset everyone in the theater."

sinusSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a hollow cavity in the skull

    "The doctor found a sinus cavity infected behind her cheek."

  2. 2.a medical opening or channel

    "A tiny sinus connected the abscess to the skin."

  3. 3.the recess of a curve

    "The curve held a quiet sinus where the river bent."

skinSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.the outer covering of the body

    "Dry winter air cracked the skin on his hands."

  2. 2.to remove the skin from

    "Workers skin the fish before packing them on ice."

  3. 3.a very slight margin or amount

    "We were skin away from meeting the deadline."

shinSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.front part of the lower leg

    "He rubbed his shin after the fall."

  2. 2.long narrow strip of wood

    "Carpenters used a shin to brace the frame."

fitmentSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.piece added to complete something

    "We need one more fitment to finish the machine."

  2. 2.equipment installed in a space

    "The kitchen fitment includes a sink and oven."

eyeletSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.small hole for threading

    "Thread the ribbon through each eyelet carefully."

  2. 2.small metal ring in a fabric hole

    "A brass eyelet reinforced the leather boot's hole."

cuffSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.the folded edge of a sleeve

    "The shirt had a torn cuff at the wrist."

  2. 2.to strike with the hand or a cuffing blow

    "He tried to cuff the thief before police arrived."

snoreSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to breathe noisily during sleep

    "My grandfather will snore loudly after midnight."

  2. 2.a rough or noisy sound

    "The old engine made a terrible snore all morning."

Common Short Words

28
handSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.part of the body

    "She broke her hand while playing basketball yesterday."

  2. 2.a person who helps

    "We need an extra hand to carry these boxes."

  3. 3.to give over

    "Please hand the report to the teacher now."

missSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to fail to hit

    "Don't miss the target when you throw."

  2. 2.to feel the absence of

    "I miss my grandparents during the holidays."

  3. 3.an unmarried girl or young woman

    "The young miss thanked everyone politely."

stoneSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.hard rock

    "This stone came from the riverbed."

  2. 2.a unit of weight

    "He weighs twelve stone and six pounds."

  3. 3.to pelt with stones

    "Villagers stone the wall with rounded pebbles."

baseSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.bottom part

    "The book's base cracked after it fell."

  2. 2.military station

    "The soldiers returned to base before dawn."

limeSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.citrus fruit

    "She squeezed lime over the grilled fish."

  2. 2.calcium-containing substance

    "The builder added lime to the mortar mixture."

  3. 3.sticky bird trap

    "Bird trappers once used lime on branches."

tanSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.brown color

    "She chose a warm tan for the living room."

  2. 2.to darken by sun exposure

    "He tan in the sun every weekend."

suitSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.set of clothes

    "He wore a gray suit to the interview."

  2. 2.lawsuit or legal action

    "The suit against the company ended last month."

yardarmSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.ship's mast arm

    "A gull perched on the yardarm during the storm."

  2. 2.measure on a sailing ship

    "The sailor climbed the yardarm to trim the sail."

yardstickSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.measuring stick

    "Use a yardstick to mark the board accurately."

  2. 2.standard for judgment

    "Honesty should be the yardstick for all decisions."

sumSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a total amount

    "The sum of the bills was surprisingly high."

  2. 2.a brief statement of the main points

    "In sum, the plan saves money and time."

leftoverSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.remaining food

    "She heated the leftover soup for lunch."

  2. 2.something remaining after use

    "The leftover from the project was stored carefully."

buffSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.polish with cloth

    "Please buff the silver until it shines brightly."

  2. 2.enthusiast

    "Every jazz buff in town came to the concert."

lipSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.edge of a container

    "The soup had dried on the lip of the pot."

  2. 2.mouth part

    "She bit her lip to keep from laughing aloud."

standSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to be upright

    "Please stand while the anthem is played."

  2. 2.a booth or stall

    "We bought flowers from a stand near the station."

vanSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.delivery vehicle

    "The van delivered our furniture before noon."

  2. 2.front part of a blade

    "The knife broke near the van of the blade."

zincSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.chemical element

    "Zinc is often used to protect steel from rust."

  2. 2.galvanized metal coating

    "The roof has a zinc coating that prevents corrosion."

flagSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a piece of cloth as a symbol

    "He waved the flag proudly during the parade."

  2. 2.to become tired or weak

    "I began to flag after running for two hours."

graceSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.elegance in movement

    "She moved with grace across the polished ballroom floor."

  2. 2.a short prayer before a meal

    "We said grace before eating the holiday meal."

zoomSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to move very fast

    "The cyclist can zoom downhill in seconds."

  2. 2.a close-up camera view

    "Use the camera zoom to frame her face closely."

gainSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.increase; obtain

    "I hope to gain experience during this internship."

  2. 2.gear setting

    "Turn the knob to low gain for clearer sound."

swearSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.take an oath

    "Before trial, she had to swear to tell the truth."

  2. 2.use rude language

    "He began to swear after stubbing his toe hard."

gagSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.device to stop speech

    "The gag kept him from shouting during surgery."

  2. 2.a joke or prank

    "His harmless gag made the whole room laugh."

coastSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.shoreline
  2. 2.to move without effort
  3. 3.a region near the sea

"We drove along the coast and let the car coast downhill."

steerSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.young male cattle

    "The rancher bought a young steer yesterday."

  2. 2.guide a course

    "Steer left to avoid the fallen tree."

leftsSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.turns to the left

    "The map showed two lefts before the bridge."

  2. 2.instances of leaving

    "After three lefts, we finally reached the bakery."

moreSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.greater amount

    "I need more water after that run."

  2. 2.additional things

    "Take these more with you on the trip."

bitSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.small piece

    "Please cut a bit of bread for me."

  2. 2.past tense of bite

    "The dog bit my glove but missed my hand."

springingSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.seasonal rising

    "River springing from the hills feeds this valley."

  2. 2.jumping up

    "The rabbit was springing across the field with ease."

Emotions & Mind

133
moodSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.temporary state of feeling

    "His mood improved after hearing the good news."

  2. 2.tone or atmosphere

    "The room had a cheerful mood despite the rain."

spiritSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.nonphysical soul or ghost

    "The spirit of the old sailor haunted the attic."

  2. 2.lively energy or enthusiasm

    "Her spirit lifted the whole team during practice."

graveSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.serious or severe

    "The doctor described his condition as grave."

  2. 2.a burial place

    "We placed flowers at the grave after sunset."

brightSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.giving off much light

    "The bright lamp lit the entire kitchen."

  2. 2.intelligent or quick to learn

    "She is bright and learns new languages quickly."

coolSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.slightly cold

    "The water felt cool against my wrists."

  2. 2.calm and unruffled

    "He stayed cool during the heated argument."

gladSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.pleased or happy

    "I was glad to hear your safe arrival."

  2. 2.willing or eager

    "She was glad to help with the cleanup."

sternSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.strict and severe

    "The stern teacher rarely smiled at mistakes."

  2. 2.rear part of a boat

    "The captain stood near the stern as we docked."

patientSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.able to wait calmly

    "Please be patient while the line moves forward."

  2. 2.person receiving medical care

    "The patient slept peacefully after surgery."

graveyardSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.burial ground

    "We left the wreath in the graveyard."

  2. 2.a place where old things are left

    "That lot became a graveyard for broken bicycles."

stareSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.look fixedly

    "She would stare at the stars for hours."

  2. 2.a fixed, long look

    "He gave me a long stare across the room."

smileSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a facial expression of pleasure

    "His smile brightened the whole breakfast table."

  2. 2.to smile briefly or warmly

    "She smile whenever the baby reached for her."

crySame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.shed tears

    "The child began to cry after the loud noise."

  2. 2.a shouted call or outcry

    "A cry rose from the crowd at once."

wishSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.hope for something

    "I wish for peace in our neighborhood."

  2. 2.a spoken desire or prayer

    "She offered a wish for health and safe travels."

dreadSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.great fear

    "He felt dread before the final exam."

  2. 2.anticipate with fear

    "I dread the traffic jam every Monday."

angerSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.strong feeling of irritation

    "His anger grew when the meeting ran late."

  2. 2.to make angry

    "Don't anger your sister with that joke."

calmSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.peaceful and not agitated

    "The room stayed calm after the storm passed."

  2. 2.to make peaceful or quiet

    "Soft music helped calm the nervous crowd."

startleSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to frighten suddenly

    "The sudden thunderclap startled the sleeping baby."

  2. 2.a sudden shock or surprise

    "Her loud gasp caused a startle in the dark room."

distressSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.severe anxiety or suffering

    "He felt distress after hearing the terrible diagnosis."

  2. 2.to cause worry or pain

    "The noisy construction work will distress nearby residents."

comfortSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.relief from pain or worry

    "Her friends gave comfort after the long ordeal."

  2. 2.to soothe or console

    "The nurse tried to comfort the frightened child."

alertSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.watchful and ready

    "Stay alert while crossing the busy intersection."

  2. 2.a warning signal or notice

    "The storm alert warned everyone to leave immediately."

careSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.serious attention or concern

    "Please take great care with those fragile glass ornaments."

  2. 2.to be concerned about

    "I care deeply about your happiness and safety."

fretSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.worry unnecessarily

    "Don't fret over one small mistake at work."

  2. 2.to make rough by rubbing

    "The carpenter will fret the wood until it fits."

restlessSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.unable to relax or stay still

    "She felt restless and paced the hallway all night."

  2. 2.needing movement or action

    "The restless horse needed a long run outdoors."

tenderSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.gentle and caring

    "The tender nurse spoke softly to the patient."

  2. 2.painful when touched

    "My tender shoulder hurts when I lift anything."

proudSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.feeling pleased with oneself

    "He felt proud after finishing the difficult marathon."

  2. 2.having a dignified or lofty appearance

    "The proud castle stood high above the valley."

graveleSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.serious in manner

    "The judge remained gravele during the difficult testimony."

  2. 2.grave?

    "The word gravele sounds unusual in modern English."

fairwaySame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.the mown area of a golf course

    "He sliced a perfect approach shot onto the fairway."

  2. 2.a clear route or path

    "The fairway through the forest led to the river."

kindleSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to start a fire

    "Dry twigs can kindle a campfire very quickly."

  2. 2.to arouse feelings or interest

    "That story can kindle hope in weary listeners."

mindSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.the faculty of thought

    "She kept the problem in mind during the meeting."

  2. 2.to object or care about

    "I do not mind waiting if the line moves."

roughSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.not smooth

    "The path was rough and covered with loose stones."

  2. 2.harsh or difficult

    "It was a rough winter, full of long power outages."

  3. 3.approximate or unfinished

    "This is only a rough draft for review."

matchstickSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a small stick for fire

    "She lit the candle with a single matchstick."

  2. 2.a slender person

    "The skinny model looked like a matchstick on stage."

matterSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.physical substance

    "Water is the main matter in this experiment."

  2. 2.an issue or topic

    "We must discuss this matter at tomorrow's meeting."

  3. 3.to be important

    "Her kindness will matter when the decision is made."

poleSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a long rod

    "He leaned the ladder against a tall pole."

  2. 2.a person from Poland

    "The pole from Poland won the chess championship."

rageSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.violent anger

    "Her rage startled everyone in the room."

  2. 2.to move or spread fiercely

    "The wildfire began to rage across the hills."

fearSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.anxiety about danger

    "Children often fear the dark during storms."

  2. 2.to respect or be afraid of

    "We fear change, but also respect experience."

despairSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.utter hopelessness

    "Her despair grew after months of failed searches."

  2. 2.to lose all hope

    "He began to despair when no answers came."

touchSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.light contact

    "A gentle touch woke the sleeping baby."

  2. 2.a small amount

    "Add a touch of salt to the soup."

cheerSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a shout of encouragement

    "The crowd let out a loud cheer for the runner."

  2. 2.to make happier

    "Her kind words cheer me during hard days."

reliefSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.release from stress or pain

    "Medication brought relief from the throbbing pain."

  2. 2.help given in an emergency

    "Relief arrived quickly after the floodwaters rose."

faithSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.strong belief

    "Her faith kept her steady through uncertainty."

  2. 2.loyalty or trust

    "I place great faith in her careful judgment."

hopeSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.expectation of good

    "We hope for sunny weather tomorrow morning."

  2. 2.to wish for

    "I hope to finish the report by noon."

sparkSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a tiny flash of light

    "A spark flashed when the wires touched."

  2. 2.to trigger an emotion or idea

    "Her question sparked a new idea in class."

deepSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.extending far down

    "The lake is deep near the rocky shore."

  2. 2.intense or profound

    "His deep grief lasted for many weeks."

smartSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.intelligent

    "She's smart enough to solve the puzzle quickly."

  2. 2.causing a sharp pain

    "That belt is too smart; it pinches painfully."

senseSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.perception or judgment

    "The judge used common sense before ruling."

  2. 2.a meaning or purpose

    "The old song has no sense to me."

brideSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a woman on her wedding day

    "The bride smiled as she walked down the aisle."

  2. 2.a person's slang for a new spouse

    "My brother's bride moved in last Friday."

tasteSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.sense of flavor

    "My taste in music changed after college."

  2. 2.a small sample

    "Would you like a taste of this sauce?"

  3. 3.good judgment in style

    "He showed excellent taste in choosing furniture."

solemnSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.serious and formal

    "The meeting began with a solemn statement."

  2. 2.religiously sacred

    "They entered the solemn chapel in silence."

dearSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.beloved or cherished

    "My dear grandmother still writes every week."

  2. 2.expensive

    "That antique chair was surprisingly dear."

hopSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to leap on one foot

    "The child can hop across the puddles easily."

  2. 2.a short jump

    "Give the box a quick hop to the left."

practiceSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.repeated exercise or training

    "Daily piano practice improved her timing and accuracy."

  2. 2.a doctor's or lawyer's business

    "Her practice specializes in pediatric dentistry downtown."

reasonSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a cause or explanation

    "The main reason for delays was heavy snow."

  2. 2.the power of logical thought

    "She reasoned through the puzzle without any help."

thoughtSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.an idea

    "A fresh thought crossed her mind during lunch."

  2. 2.the act of thinking

    "He thought carefully before answering the difficult question."

memorySame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.recollection

    "The smell brought back a childhood memory instantly."

  2. 2.computer storage

    "This phone has enough memory for thousands of photos."

imageSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a picture or likeness

    "The painting is a perfect image of the harbor."

  2. 2.a mental impression

    "Her tired face left an image of exhaustion."

temperSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a person's mood or anger

    "His temper flared when the train was delayed."

  2. 2.to moderate or soften

    "Add honey to temper the lemon's sharp flavor."

cool-headedSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.calm in a crisis

    "She stayed cool-headed during the chaotic evacuation."

  2. 2.slightly cold

    "A cool-headed breeze drifted through the open window."

kindredSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.similar or related by nature

    "Their ambitions are kindred, both driven by curiosity."

  2. 2.family relation

    "He visited his kindred in the old village."

delightSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.great pleasure

    "The concert was a delight from start to finish."

  2. 2.to please greatly

    "Your thoughtful gift will delight her greatly."

temperateSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.moderate in behavior or climate

    "The region has a temperate climate with mild winters."

  2. 2.self-controlled

    "She gave a temperate response to the criticism."

lucidSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.clear and easy to understand

    "His lucid explanation made the rules easy to follow."

  2. 2.mentally clear

    "After the fever passed, she felt lucid again."

reflectSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to think carefully

    "Please reflect on your choices before signing anything."

  2. 2.to throw back light or image

    "The lake can reflect the mountains at sunrise."

consciousSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.aware and awake

    "She remained conscious after the minor accident."

  2. 2.deliberate or intentional

    "The joke was a conscious attempt to break tension."

graveeSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.serious; solemn

    "He delivered a gravee warning about the storm ahead."

  2. 2.an obsolete or dialect term for a grave or tomb

    "They placed flowers beside the old gravee at dusk."

madSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.angry

    "She was mad when the meeting started late again."

  2. 2.crazy; mentally ill

    "Doctors treated the mad patient with great care."

saneSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.mentally sound

    "After the examination, the doctor said she was completely sane."

  2. 2.reasonable; sensible

    "His sane suggestion saved everyone from a costly mistake."

glumSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.sad and gloomy

    "The glum child sat alone after losing the game."

  2. 2.sullenly silent

    "He remained glum, answering every question with one-word replies."

dreamSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a series of images during sleep

    "Last night I had a dream about flying over mountains."

  2. 2.a cherished ambition

    "Her dream is to become a marine biologist someday."

resentSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.feel bitter about

    "She will resent the unfair accusation for years."

  2. 2.send back

    "Please resent the parcel if the address is wrong."

resentfulSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.feeling bitter

    "He felt resentful after being passed over for promotion."

  2. 2.showing anger from hurt pride

    "Her resentful tone made the apology seem insincere."

fitfulSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.irregular; spasmodic

    "The fitful rain stopped and started all afternoon."

  2. 2.restless and uneven

    "He slept in fitful bursts, waking often through the night."

depressionSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a state of deep sadness

    "She fell into depression after losing her job."

  2. 2.a low area or hollow

    "A depression in the road collected rainwater."

panicSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.sudden intense fear

    "He felt panic when the room suddenly went dark."

  2. 2.a wide, uncontrollable alarm

    "The citywide panic spread after the false alarm."

tensionSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.mental unease or strain

    "Her voice showed tension before the final exam."

  2. 2.tightness between opposing forces

    "The rope was under tension as we pulled."

gloomSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.darkness or dimness

    "Fog and gloom covered the valley before sunrise."

  2. 2.a mood of sadness

    "His gloom returned whenever he read the letter."

melancholySame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.sadness or pensiveness

    "A melancholy settled over her after the farewell."

  2. 2.a person given to sadness

    "He was a melancholy, speaking softly at dinner."

maniaSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.extreme enthusiasm or obsession

    "Her mania for rare books filled every shelf."

  2. 2.a mental state of abnormally high energy

    "During mania, he stayed awake for days."

deliriumSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.wild confusion or excitement

    "Delirium made the campfire songs wild and loud."

  2. 2.a disturbed mental state with hallucinations

    "The fever caused delirium and strange whispered conversations."

euphoriaSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.intense happiness

    "She felt euphoria after hearing the winning announcement."

  2. 2.a mood of excessive well-being

    "The medicine caused euphoria, leaving him oddly cheerful and relaxed."

apathySame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.lack of interest

    "His apathy toward politics surprised even his closest friends."

  2. 2.an indifferent condition or attitude

    "The committee's apathy blocked every attempt at reform."

anguishSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.severe mental suffering

    "She hid her anguish after receiving the devastating news."

  2. 2.a cause of painful distress

    "Debt became an anguish for the struggling family."

griefSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.deep sorrow

    "He spoke with grief after losing his childhood friend."

  2. 2.a source of sorrow

    "The abandoned house was a grief to the whole neighborhood."

worrySame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.anxiety about something

    "I worry about her when she drives in snow."

  2. 2.a troublesome concern or matter

    "That loose wire is a worry for the electrician."

terrorSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.extreme fear

    "The storm filled us with terror all night long."

  2. 2.a person or thing that inspires fear

    "That masked figure is a terror in the neighborhood."

humorSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.the quality of being funny

    "His humor made the entire classroom laugh loudly."

  2. 2.a person's mood or temperament

    "Her humor was foul after the long delay."

beliefSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.an accepted conviction

    "Their belief in fairness guided every decision they made."

  2. 2.something believed

    "The old belief that owls bring luck persisted here."

ideaSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a mental concept

    "The idea of moving abroad kept returning to him."

  2. 2.a plan or suggestion

    "My idea is to start early and avoid traffic."

notionSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a vague idea

    "I had a vague notion that he'd already left."

  2. 2.a fanciful opinion

    "His notion that money solves everything was absurd."

visionSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.the ability to see

    "Her vision blurred after she removed her glasses."

  2. 2.a mental image or dream

    "He described a vision of cities floating above clouds."

urgeSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a strong desire

    "She felt an urge to call her mother immediately."

  2. 2.to persuade strongly

    "I urge you to read the instructions before assembly."

passionSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.strong emotion or enthusiasm

    "His passion for jazz kept him practicing every night."

  2. 2.a love affair or intense attachment

    "Their secret passion lasted only one summer."

affectionSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.fond feeling

    "She felt great affection for the stray dog."

  2. 2.a disease or condition

    "The lotion relieved the skin affection quickly."

esteemSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.respect or admiration

    "The professor held the novelist in high esteem."

  2. 2.to regard or judge

    "We esteem the proposal as impractical and costly."

confidenceSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.self-assurance

    "She spoke with confidence during the tense interview."

  2. 2.trust in someone or something

    "I trust your confidence in the new medication."

soberSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.not drunk

    "He was sober after dinner and drove home safely."

  2. 2.serious or solemn

    "Her sober tone made everyone reconsider the plan."

wildSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.uncontrolled or frenzied

    "The crowd went wild when the singer appeared."

  2. 2.a state of nature or wilderness

    "Deer still roam wild in the forest reserve."

fancySame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a whimsical liking or desire

    "I had a fancy for strawberries all winter."

  2. 2.elaborate decoration or style

    "She wore a fancy dress with silver embroidery."

cleverSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.smart

    "She is clever and solves puzzles quickly."

  2. 2.skillful at deception

    "The clever thief tricked the guard easily."

dullSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.boring

    "The lecture was dull and put everyone to sleep."

  2. 2.not sharp

    "The knife is dull and won't cut bread."

  3. 3.low in brightness
settleSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to resolve or conclude

    "They will settle the argument tonight."

  2. 2.to make a home in a place

    "They decided to settle in Oregon after graduation."

  3. 3.to sink or come to rest

    "The dust will settle after the truck passes."

blankSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.empty or unfilled

    "He handed me a blank sheet of paper."

  2. 2.expressionless or without emotion

    "Her blank stare gave no hint of surprise."

sentimentSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.thought colored by feeling

    "Her sentimental tone revealed a deep sentiment about home."

  2. 2.an opinion expressed emotionally

    "He voiced a sentiment many voters quietly shared."

humourSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a person's mood

    "She's in a bad humour after the long delay."

  2. 2.the quality of being amusing

    "His humour kept the whole room laughing."

furySame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.violent anger

    "His fury erupted after the unfair verdict."

  2. 2.a strong storm or force

    "The hurricane's fury smashed boats against the pier."

bluesSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a sad mood

    "She felt the blues after hearing the bad news."

  2. 2.a style of music

    "The blues band played all night in the club."

aweSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.wonder mixed with respect

    "The ancient cathedral filled us with awe."

  2. 2.to inspire that feeling

    "Her courage can awe even skeptical judges."

prideSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.self-respect or satisfaction

    "Winning the championship filled her with pride."

  2. 2.a feeling of superiority

    "His pride made him ignore everyone else's advice."

shameSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.painful sense of guilt

    "He felt shame after lying to his friends."

  2. 2.something disgraceful

    "That public cheating scandal was a shame."

sanitySame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.soundness of mind

    "After the injury, doctors tested his sanity."

  2. 2.reasonableness

    "That's a sane plan; it preserves everyone's sanity."

soulSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.spiritual essence of a person

    "She believes the soul lives beyond death."

  2. 2.a lively or sensitive person

    "He is a soul who always comforts strangers."

gaySame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.cheerful or lively

    "The children were gay during the parade."

  2. 2.homosexual

    "The law protects gay couples from discrimination."

charmSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a pleasing quality

    "Her warm smile gave the room a special charm."

  2. 2.a small object believed to bring luck

    "He carried a rabbit-foot charm on his keychain."

sentenceSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a group of words expressing a thought

    "Please write a complete sentence with a clear subject."

  2. 2.a punishment given by a court

    "The judge imposed a harsh sentence for the theft."

perfectSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.flawless

    "Her answer was perfect in every way."

  2. 2.fully complete

    "We need a perfect copy before noon."

gentleSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.mild and tender

    "She gave the puppy a gentle pat."

  2. 2.not rough or forceful

    "Please be gentle with the old guitar."

meanerSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.more unkind

    "He sounded meaner than usual after the argument."

  2. 2.more average

    "The sample became meaner when the outlier was removed."

oddSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.strange or unusual

    "Her odd laugh startled everyone in the quiet room."

  2. 2.not even

    "Seven odd cookies remained after the children ate."

graveletSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.small grave

    "The tiny gravelet sat beneath the old oak tree."

  2. 2.a type of groove or trench

    "Rainwater collected in a shallow gravelet beside the road."

tearingSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.rending or ripping

    "The tearing paper woke the baby."

  2. 2.very intense or fierce

    "A tearing wind battered the harbor all night."

frankSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.open and honest

    "She gave a frank answer about the accident."

  2. 2.a male pig

    "The frank snuffled happily in the muddy yard."

grave-diggerSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.person who digs graves

    "The grave-digger worked silently beside the churchyard chapel."

  2. 2.a type of insect larva

    "A grave-digger emerged from the log to feed."

solelySame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.only

    "I came solely to deliver your forgotten keys."

  2. 2.in a sad or desolate manner

    "She walked solely through the empty streets at dusk."

sternlySame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.in a strict way

    "The teacher spoke sternly to the noisy class."

  2. 2.from the rear of a boat

    "The sternly of the boat was damaged in the storm."

presentlySame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.soon

    "The doctor said the swelling would fade presently."

  2. 2.at the present time

    "I am presently reading a book by the window."

graveledSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.covered with gravel

    "The driveway was graveled to prevent muddy puddles."

  2. 2.made annoyed or worried

    "The delay graveled him, but he stayed patient."

tidySame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.neat and orderly

    "Your room looks tidy after the cleanup."

  2. 2.considerable in amount

    "A tidy sum was donated to the shelter."

shockedSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.deeply surprised

    "She was shocked by the sudden sad news."

  2. 2.given an electric shock

    "He was shocked when he touched the live wire."

soberlySame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.in a serious manner

    "He soberly explained the consequences of the mistake."

  2. 2.while not intoxicated

    "She soberly drove home after the party ended."

tearfulSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.full of tears

    "The tearful child hugged her mother tightly."

  2. 2.causing tears

    "That tearful movie scene moved everyone deeply."

starkSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.severe or bare

    "They crossed the stark desert without water."

  2. 2.complete and obvious

    "The evidence was stark and impossible to ignore."

soundlySame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.in a deep or thorough way

    "He slept soundly through the thunderstorm."

  2. 2.well or firmly

    "The lid fit soundly onto the jar."

meanwhileSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.in the intervening time

    "Meanwhile, the soup simmered on the stove."

  2. 2.at the same time

    "She studied; meanwhile, her brother practiced piano."

kindnessSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.the quality of being kind

    "Her kindness calmed the frightened child instantly."

  2. 2.a benevolent act

    "He showed kindness by bringing soup to the sick neighbor."

Everyday Words

75
batSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.flying mammal

    "A bat swooped silently across the moonlit cave."

  2. 2.sports implement

    "He swung the bat and hit the baseball far."

  3. 3.to strike with the hand or object

    "She tried to bat the fly away gently."

bankSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.financial institution

    "I deposited my paycheck at the bank yesterday."

  2. 2.river edge

    "We sat by the bank and watched ducks."

  3. 3.a set of similar things

    "The recipe calls for a bank of fresh herbs."

matchSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.contest or game

    "Our team won the match after a tense overtime."

  2. 2.small fire starter

    "He struck a match and lit the candle."

  3. 3.a pair or corresponding thing

    "Her scarf was a perfect match for her coat."

barkSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.dog sound

    "The dog began to bark at the passing mailman."

  2. 2.outer covering of a tree

    "Rough bark covered the old oak tree trunk."

  3. 3.a sailing ship

    "The bark carried cargo across the stormy sea."

sealSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.marine animal

    "A seal balanced a ball during the aquarium show."

  2. 2.wax stamp or mark

    "The letter needs a wax seal before mailing."

  3. 3.to close tightly

    "Please seal the envelope before you leave."

ringSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.circular band

    "She wore a silver ring on her finger."

  2. 2.phone sound

    "The phone began to ring during dinner."

  3. 3.to surround

    "Troops ring the city to prevent anyone escaping."

lightSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.not heavy

    "This suitcase is light enough to carry alone."

  2. 2.illumination

    "Sunlight streamed through the window all morning."

  3. 3.to ignite

    "They light the fire before the camping trip."

dateSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.calendar day

    "We have a meeting on the first date of June."

  2. 2.sweet fruit

    "He ate a date with his afternoon tea."

  3. 3.romantic meeting

    "They went on a date to the new restaurant."

fileSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.folder for papers

    "Please put the receipts in the file on my desk."

  2. 2.tool for smoothing

    "He used a metal file to smooth the edge."

  3. 3.to submit officially

    "I will file the complaint with city officials tomorrow."

canSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.metal container

    "This can holds soup for lunch."

  2. 2.be able to

    "I can solve the puzzle without help."

  3. 3.to preserve in a can

    "They can peaches every summer at home."

dishSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.plate or bowl

    "Put the salad on a clean dish before serving."

  2. 2.prepared food

    "Grandma cooked a spicy dish for dinner."

  3. 3.to gossip or tell

    "She likes to dish about celebrities all afternoon."

watchSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.timepiece

    "My watch stopped after the battery died."

  2. 2.to look at attentively

    "We watch the stars from the dark hill."

  3. 3.to guard or monitor

    "Soldiers watch the border throughout the night."

keySame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.metal opener

    "Use the key to unlock the front door."

  2. 2.crucial

    "Trust is a key part of any marriage."

  3. 3.a legend or map guide

    "Check the map key to understand the symbols."

chargeSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.price or fee

    "The taxi charge was higher than expected tonight."

  2. 2.accusation

    "They filed a charge against the careless driver."

  3. 3.to power a device

    "Remember to charge your phone before bed."

fairSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.just or unbiased

    "The judge gave a fair ruling in court."

  2. 2.carnival or market

    "We visited the county fair last weekend."

  3. 3.light-colored

    "Her fair hair shone brightly in the sun."

wellSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.water source

    "A clear well provided water for the whole village."

  2. 2.in good health

    "After resting, she felt well and ready."

  3. 3.skillfully

    "The pianist played the passage well under pressure."

yardSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.unit of length

    "The table measured exactly one yard across."

  2. 2.area around a house

    "Children played in the yard behind the house."

  3. 3.railway storage area

    "Freight cars waited in the railway yard all night."

rightSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.correct

    "Your answer is right this time."

  2. 2.opposite of left

    "Turn right at the next traffic light."

  3. 3.legal entitlement

    "Every citizen has the right to vote."

seasonSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.part of the year

    "Winter is my favorite season of the year."

  2. 2.to add flavor

    "Season the soup with salt and pepper."

  3. 3.to make suitable through use

    "Years of practice season the leather nicely."

meanSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.intend

    "I mean to finish before noon."

  2. 2.unkind

    "He can be mean when he loses."

  3. 3.average

    "The mean of those scores was eighty."

soundSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.noise

    "We heard a strange sound outside the window."

  2. 2.water inlet

    "The boat entered a quiet sound between islands."

  3. 3.in good condition

    "Her report looked sound after careful review."

bowlSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.round dish

    "She served the fruit salad in a blue bowl."

  2. 2.to roll a ball in cricket

    "The bowler tried to bowl a perfect leg break."

  3. 3.a round playing field or stadium

    "The stadium's bowl filled with cheering fans."

clubSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.heavy stick

    "He swung the club to break the padlock."

  2. 2.social organization

    "She joined a chess club at school."

  3. 3.nightclub

    "The club was packed with dancers until dawn."

parkSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.public green space

    "They had a picnic in the park yesterday."

  2. 2.to leave a vehicle

    "Please park the car near the entrance."

  3. 3.to put aside

    "Let's park that idea until after lunch."

planeSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.aircraft

    "The plane landed smoothly at sunrise."

  2. 2.flat surface

    "Dust covered the plane of the wooden table."

  3. 3.carpenter's tool

    "He sharpened his plane before smoothing the board."

pitchSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.throw

    "Please pitch the tent before dark."

  2. 2.field or playing area

    "The pitcher will pitch inside again."

  3. 3.tone or degree of highness

    "Her voice rose to a high pitch during rehearsal."

poolSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.small body of water

    "A duck floated on the small pool."

  2. 2.combined supply of money

    "Workers created a pool of donations for relief."

  3. 3.to share resources

    "We can pool our tools for the project."

boreSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.make a hole

    "Drillers bore through the rock at dawn."

  2. 2.be dull

    "The lecture began to bore everyone quickly."

  3. 3.the inside diameter

    "Measure the bore before replacing the pipe."

tripSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.journey

    "Our trip to Boston took three hours."

  2. 2.stumble

    "He might trip on the loose cable."

  3. 3.a quick excursion

    "We took a quick trip downtown for coffee."

waveSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.moving hand gesture

    "She gave me a cheerful wave from the porch."

  2. 2.water movement

    "A wave lifted the boat onto the beach."

  3. 3.periodic fluctuation

    "Inflation showed a sudden wave in prices."

currentSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.flow of water or air

    "The river's current was too strong for our canoe."

  2. 2.present time

    "Current prices are lower than they were last month."

  3. 3.electric flow

    "The lamp needs a steady current to stay lit."

crateSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.large box

    "He stacked the books in a wooden crate."

  2. 2.to pack in a crate

    "We will crate the dishes before the move."

  3. 3.to ruin badly

    "That scandal could crate his reputation forever."

stumpSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.tree base left after cutting

    "A rabbit vanished behind the old stump."

  2. 2.to puzzle or baffle

    "The question seemed simple, but it stumped me completely."

  3. 3.a politician's speaking tour

    "She spent the week on the stump across Iowa."

moleSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.small burrowing animal

    "A mole dug tiny tunnels under the garden."

  2. 2.spot on the skin

    "She covered the mole on her cheek with makeup."

  3. 3.spy or undercover agent

    "The mole reported every meeting to the police."

duckSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.water bird

    "A duck waddled across the pond bank."

  2. 2.to lower quickly

    "Duck the camera lower so the picture stays level."

  3. 3.to avoid

    "He tried to duck the question at dinner."

coachSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.bus or carriage

    "Take the coach to the airport after midnight."

  2. 2.sports trainer

    "The coach drilled the team on defense today."

  3. 3.to instruct privately

    "She hired a coach to improve her presentation skills."

leftSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.past tense of leave

    "She left the restaurant before dessert was served."

  2. 2.opposite of right

    "Turn left at the next traffic light."

  3. 3.remaining

    "Two cookies were left on the plate."

rockSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.stone

    "He skipped a rock across the lake."

  2. 2.to sway gently

    "The boat began to rock in the storm."

  3. 3.a style of music

    "They played rock all night at the club."

glassSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.transparent material

    "This glass shatters more easily than plastic."

  2. 2.drinking vessel

    "She filled her glass with cold water."

  3. 3.a mirror or lens

    "The telescope lens and the rearview glass were foggy."

plateSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.flat dish

    "Please set the soup on the blue plate."

  2. 2.metal sheet

    "The worker lifted a steel plate with a crane."

  3. 3.a tectonic plate

    "A tectonic plate shifted during the earthquake."

craneSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.large wading bird

    "A crane stood motionless in the marsh."

  2. 2.machine for lifting

    "The crane lifted the concrete beam slowly."

  3. 3.to stretch the neck

    "She had to crane her neck to see over the crowd."

kindSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.type or sort

    "What kind of music do you like?"

  2. 2.friendly and generous

    "He was kind to every stray animal."

cleaveSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to split apart

    "The lightning seemed to cleave the oak in half."

  2. 2.to cling closely

    "She cleave to her beliefs despite criticism."

hailSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.frozen rain pellets

    "Hail struck the windshield during the storm."

  2. 2.to greet enthusiastically

    "We hail the volunteers for their hard work."

willSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.legal statement of wishes after death

    "Her will left the house to her niece."

  2. 2.future auxiliary verb

    "I will call you after the meeting ends."

recordSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.official account or document

    "The official record confirmed the council's decision."

  2. 2.to put down in writing or sound

    "Please record the interview before the batteries die."

minuteSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.sixty-second unit of time

    "Wait one minute before opening the oven."

  2. 2.extremely small

    "A minute crack ran across the glass pane."

strikeSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to hit

    "The boxer will strike hard with his left hand."

  2. 2.a work stoppage

    "Workers voted to strike after contract talks failed."

tearSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.drop from the eye

    "A tear rolled down her cheek during the speech."

  2. 2.rip apart

    "Be careful not to tear the paper in half."

rowerSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a person who rows

    "The rower pulled hard through the rough water."

  2. 2.a plant used in some regions

    "She planted rower along the garden fence last spring."

contentSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.what is inside

    "The box's content was carefully listed on the label."

  2. 2.satisfied or pleased

    "After dinner, I felt content and ready for bed."

addressSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.location details

    "Please print your address clearly on the envelope."

  2. 2.to speak to

    "I will address the audience after the introduction."

cleftSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a split or crack

    "A cleft in the rock caught the morning light."

  2. 2.past tense of cleave

    "The lumberjack cleft the log with one blow."

kindlySame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.in a kind manner

    "She smiled kindly at the nervous child."

  2. 2.a somewhat old-fashioned request word

    "Kindly close the door when you leave."

leafSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.part of a plant

    "Each leaf turned gold as autumn arrived."

  2. 2.to turn pages or foliage

    "He leafed through the atlas looking for Brazil."

poundSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to hit repeatedly

    "The sailor will pound the metal into shape."

  2. 2.a unit of weight or currency

    "That bag of rice weighs ten pound exactly."

penSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a writing instrument

    "She signed the letter with a fountain pen."

  2. 2.an enclosure for animals

    "The sheep rested safely inside the pen."

mintSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a place where coins are made

    "The coins were struck at the royal mint."

  2. 2.a herb with a fresh smell

    "Fresh mint scented the tea and dessert."

portSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a harbor for ships

    "Ships crowded the harbor's port after the storm."

  2. 2.the left side of a ship

    "The captain checked the port engine before docking."

pageSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.one side of a leaf in a book

    "Turn to page twelve for the full recipe."

  2. 2.a young servant

    "The page carried luggage and fetched water quickly."

flatSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.apartment

    "She moved into a small flat near the station."

  2. 2.level or even

    "Place the ruler flat against the paper."

letterSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.written message

    "He left a letter on my kitchen table."

  2. 2.character in an alphabet

    "The word begins with the letter B."

linkSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.connection

    "The bridge creates a link between the two towns."

  2. 2.one part of a chain

    "Add another link to the chain necklace."

whipSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.strap used to strike

    "The rancher carried a leather whip for training."

  2. 2.beat quickly until fluffy

    "Whip the cream until soft peaks form."

flameSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a tongue of fire

    "A flame flickered in the lantern all night."

  2. 2.a person one admires or dates

    "He introduced his flame to all his friends."

loanSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.money lent to someone

    "The bank approved her loan for a new car."

  2. 2.to lend for temporary use

    "Please loan me your screwdriver for ten minutes."

tapeSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a strip of sticky material

    "She sealed the box with a strip of tape."

  2. 2.a recording medium

    "We found the old concert tape in the attic."

airSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.the atmosphere

    "Fresh air filled the room after dawn."

  2. 2.a melody or tune

    "That song's opening air still stays in my head."

archiveSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.collection of historical records

    "The archive preserves letters from the city's founding years."

  2. 2.to store records

    "We archive the photos digitally after each project ends."

safeSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.protected from harm

    "The child felt safe walking home with her sister."

  2. 2.a secure box for valuables

    "He kept the deeds locked in a heavy safe."

dwarfSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.very small person or being

    "A dwarf guarded the tiny bridge in the tale."

  2. 2.stunt or hinder growth

    "Cold weather can dwarf the seedlings in spring."

foamSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.bubbly froth

    "White foam covered the waves after the storm."

  2. 2.light cellular material

    "The helmet used foam padding for extra protection."

  3. 3.to produce foam

    "The detergent began to foam in the hot water."

gallSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.bile

    "The doctor checked the gall in the patient's bladder."

  2. 2.bold insolence

    "His gall shocked everyone at the formal dinner."

  3. 3.to annoy or irritate

    "Her constant complaints gall me during long meetings."

joltSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.sharp shake

    "The cart hit a stone and gave a violent jolt."

  2. 2.sudden shock

    "The news sent her into a sudden jolt of fear."

  3. 3.to move with bumps

    "The train began to jolt over the uneven track."

stickleSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to argue over details

    "Stop trying to stickle over every tiny rule."

  2. 2.a small pointed spine

    "Those stickle spines make the fish hard to handle."

Food & Kitchen

154
toastSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.bread browned by heat

    "He buttered toast for breakfast."

  2. 2.an expression of goodwill before drinking

    "They raised a toast to the happy couple."

maySame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.the fifth month

    "May is usually warm and sunny here."

  2. 2.a type of hawthorn tree

    "The may blooms along the hedge attract bees."

berrySame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.small edible fruit

    "She picked a ripe berry from the bush."

  2. 2.seedlike fruit of some plants

    "The berry contained one hard seed inside."

orangeSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a citrus fruit

    "He peeled an orange after lunch."

  2. 2.orange color

    "She wore an orange scarf to the party."

turkeySame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a large bird eaten as meat

    "We roasted a turkey for Thanksgiving dinner."

  2. 2.a foolish person

    "Don't be a turkey and miss the warning."

nutSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.edible seed with shell

    "She cracked a walnut nut for dessert."

  2. 2.a foolish person

    "Stop acting like a nut in class."

peaSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.small green seed

    "He scattered a pea beside each carrot."

  2. 2.a person or thing shaped like one

    "The pea rolled under the table quickly."

cornSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.maize

    "Farmers planted corn across the whole field."

  2. 2.a hard callus on skin

    "He got a painful corn on his toe."

mustardSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.pungent yellow condiment

    "She spread mustard on the hot dog."

  2. 2.a mustard plant

    "The mustard bloomed bright yellow beside the road."

pickleSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.preserved cucumber in brine

    "He ate a pickle with his sandwich."

  2. 2.a troublesome situation

    "Losing the keys put us in a pickle."

sugarSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.sweet crystalline ingredient

    "Please add sugar to the tea."

  2. 2.to make more pleasant

    "Her kind words sugar the criticism nicely."

creamSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.fatty part of milk

    "She skimmed cream from the top of milk."

  2. 2.the best part

    "That dessert is the cream of the crop."

gravySame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.meat sauce

    "The roast came with rich gravy."

  2. 2.easy profit or benefit

    "His new job is pure gravy now."

dressingSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.salad sauce

    "She drizzled dressing over the salad."

  2. 2.a medical bandage covering

    "The nurse changed the dressing on his wound."

butterSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.dairy spread

    "He spread butter on warm toast."

  2. 2.to speak smoothly or flatter

    "He tried to butter the boss with compliments."

creamerySame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.dairy plant

    "Milk arrives fresh from the creamery each morning."

  2. 2.shop selling dairy goods

    "We bought cheese at the local creamery."

currySame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.spiced dish

    "The cook served curry with rice tonight."

  2. 2.to groom a horse

    "She will curry the horse before the show."

pickleballSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a paddle sport

    "We played pickleball at the community center yesterday."

  2. 2.a ball used in that sport

    "A stray pickleball rolled under the bleachers."

syrupSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.sweet liquid used in cooking

    "Grandma drizzled syrup over the pancakes."

  2. 2.a thick, overly sweet manner

    "His speech sounded syrup, sweet and cloying."

steakSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.slice of meat

    "She ordered a steak with roasted potatoes."

  2. 2.a stake or interest in something

    "I have a steak in this project's success."

grillSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.metal rack for cooking

    "He set the fish on the grill outside."

  2. 2.to question intensely

    "Police will grill the suspect for hours."

batterSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.thin mixing for frying

    "Dip the chicken in batter before frying."

  2. 2.to hit repeatedly

    "The waves batter the cliffs every winter."

crustSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.hard outer bread layer

    "The bread's crust was golden and crisp."

  2. 2.rough, hard outer covering

    "Salt crust covered the boat after months at sea."

maltSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.sprouted grain

    "The brewer used malt for the new ale."

  2. 2.to turn grain into malt

    "They malt the barley before fermentation begins."

truffleSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.edible fungus

    "We found a truffle growing beneath the oak."

  2. 2.a chocolate confection

    "She savored a truffle after dinner."

basilSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.an aromatic herb

    "I added fresh basil to the tomato sauce."

  2. 2.a male given name

    "Basil arrived late to the rehearsal tonight."

thymeSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.aromatic herb

    "Fresh thyme scented the soup beautifully."

  2. 2.an old spelling of time

    "In old poetry, thyme meant the passage of hours."

sageSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.aromatic herb

    "Sage brightened the roast chicken with its aroma."

  2. 2.a wise person

    "The village sage offered thoughtful advice."

spiceSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.aromatic seasoning

    "The spice gave the stew a warm flavor."

  2. 2.to make livelier

    "A joke can spice up a dull meeting."

caperSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a pickled flower bud

    "The chef garnished the plate with caper buds."

  2. 2.a playful trick or escapade

    "The boys planned a caper across the neighborhood."

crackSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a narrow split

    "A crack ran across the sidewalk after winter."

  2. 2.a sharp sound

    "We heard a crack when the branch snapped."

mashSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.soft food mixture

    "Stir the mash until the potatoes are smooth."

  2. 2.to press into a mush

    "He mash the berries into a sweet paste."

broilSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to cook with intense heat

    "She broil the chicken until the skin turned crisp."

  2. 2.a heated dispute

    "Their broil over the contract lasted all afternoon."

glazeSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.shiny coating

    "The vase had a glassy glaze that caught sunlight."

  2. 2.to stare with unfocused eyes

    "He would glaze during lectures, staring past everyone."

dripSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a falling drop

    "A drip of water echoed from the ceiling."

  2. 2.to become dull or unfashionable

    "That old slogan began to drip after the campaign."

picklewortSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a plant name

    "Picklewort grows wild beside the marsh in spring."

  2. 2.an old term for a pickled herb

    "Grandmother served picklewort with vinegar at supper."

mousseSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.light whipped dessert

    "She topped the cake with raspberry mousse."

  2. 2.soft texture or foam

    "The engine left a thin mousse on the river."

rouxSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.butter-and-flour cooking base

    "Melt butter, then add flour to make a roux."

  2. 2.a reddish-brown color

    "The painter mixed a warm roux for the shadows."

siftSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to strain fine particles

    "Sift the flour before mixing the batter."

  2. 2.to examine carefully

    "We must sift the evidence carefully before deciding."

marinadeSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.seasoning liquid for meat

    "Marinate the chicken overnight in garlic and lemon."

  2. 2.a long soak

    "He needed a long marinade before responding calmly."

creamhornSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a filled pastry

    "The bakery sold a creamhorn filled with custard."

  2. 2.a horn-shaped dairy treat

    "She wore a creamhorn shaped pendant from childhood."

oleoSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.margarine

    "Margarine replaced butter; we simply called it oleo."

  2. 2.an old photographic slide projection

    "The teacher projected slides with an old oleo."

basteSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to moisten meat while cooking

    "Baste the roast every twenty minutes with pan juices."

  2. 2.to sew loosely with long stitches

    "The tailor will baste the hem before final sewing."

fermentSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to undergo chemical change in food

    "Apples ferment quickly when left in a warm barrel."

  2. 2.to stir up strong emotion

    "The accusation began to ferment anger among the crowd."

grateSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to shred food into fine pieces

    "Please grate the cheese over the hot pasta."

  2. 2.to annoy intensely

    "His constant criticism began to grate on everyone."

marinateSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to soak food in seasoning

    "Marinate the lamb in herbs before grilling tonight."

  2. 2.to steep or immerse in a liquid

    "She will marinate in saline for the procedure."

skimSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to remove foam or fat from liquid

    "Skim the broth to remove the extra fat."

  2. 2.to move lightly over a surface

    "The canoe seemed to skim across the water."

blendSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to mix smoothly together

    "The cook will blend the sauces until perfectly smooth."

  2. 2.to fit in unobtrusively

    "She tried to blend into the crowd at school."

whiskSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a kitchen tool for beating

    "She used a whisk to beat the eggs quickly."

  2. 2.to move quickly away

    "Hearing footsteps, the thief whisked away into darkness."

coreSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.the central part of fruit or vegetable

    "She sliced out the core before serving the apple."

  2. 2.the central or most important part

    "Trust was the core of their friendship."

roastSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to cook with dry heat

    "We roast vegetables until they turn tender and caramelized."

  2. 2.to mock harshly

    "They roast the senator for every awkward speech."

sourSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.having an acidic taste

    "The lemon tasted sour on my tongue."

  2. 2.bad-tempered or unfriendly

    "He became sour after losing the final game."

sweetSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.pleasantly sugary

    "This candy is sweet and melts in your mouth."

  2. 2.kind or charming

    "Her sweet smile calmed the frightened child."

saladSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a cold mixed dish of vegetables

    "She packed a salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers."

  2. 2.a similar mixed food dish

    "The fruit salad included melon, grapes, and berries."

mixerSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a machine for blending ingredients

    "The baker poured batter into the mixer."

  2. 2.a social gathering for meeting people

    "We met at a mixer to make new friends."

oliveSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a small fruit used for oil or pickling

    "She added an olive to each cocktail glass."

  2. 2.a dull yellow-green color

    "He painted the bedroom a soft olive shade."

vanillaSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a flavoring from orchids

    "The cake was flavored with vanilla and cream."

  2. 2.plain or ordinary

    "The report used vanilla language and simple examples."

gingerSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a spicy root used in cooking

    "Add grated ginger to the soup for heat."

  2. 2.to encourage or urge on

    "The coach tried to ginger the team forward."

turmericSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a yellow spice

    "The curry gets its color from turmeric."

  2. 2.a plant of the ginger family

    "Turmeric grows as a tropical plant with broad leaves."

currantSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a small dried fruit or berry

    "She stirred currant into the muffin batter."

  2. 2.flowing electricity

    "The faulty wire carried too much currant and overheated."

cherrySame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a small red fruit

    "He ate a cherry after dinner."

  2. 2.fresh, new, or pristine

    "The car looked cherry after the full detailing."

plumSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a stone fruit

    "She split a plum and removed the pit."

  2. 2.a desirable or lucrative thing

    "Winning that contract would be a plum for us."

figSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a sweet fruit

    "She sliced a fresh fig for breakfast."

  2. 2.a move in fencing

    "In fencing, one fig can set up a touch."

jellySame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a fruit preserve

    "Grandma made strawberry jelly for the toast."

  2. 2.a wobbly gelatin dessert

    "The dessert was wobbly jelly with fruit on top."

custardSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a milk-and-egg dessert

    "She spooned warm custard into small bowls."

  2. 2.a pale yellow color

    "The walls were painted a soft custard color."

fudgeSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a soft candy

    "He bought fudge at the seaside candy shop."

  2. 2.to evade or dodge

    "She tried to fudge the numbers on her tax form."

brownieSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a chocolate dessert bar

    "She packed a brownie for dessert after dinner."

  2. 2.a helpful person or spirit

    "Grandma called him a brownie for helping without being asked."

salsaSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a spicy tomato-based sauce

    "We dipped chips into the salsa with dinner tonight."

  2. 2.a type of dance

    "They learned salsa for the wedding and loved the rhythm."

paellaSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a Spanish rice dish

    "We shared paella at the Spanish restaurant last night."

  2. 2.a large shallow pan used for it

    "She stirred the rice in a wide paella before serving."

ketchupSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a tomato condiment

    "He put ketchup on his fries and burger."

  2. 2.to catch up or overtake

    "Run faster, or they'll ketchup you before the finish."

batchSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a quantity made at one time

    "This batch of cookies came out perfectly golden today."

  2. 2.a group of people or things

    "A batch of students waited outside the auditorium quietly."

serviceSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.the act of serving food

    "The service included salad, bread, and coffee afterward."

  2. 2.work performed for others

    "Her service to the shelter earned praise from everyone."

trifleSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a layered dessert

    "For dessert, we served a trifle with berries and cream."

  2. 2.a thing of little importance

    "Missing one sock is a trifle compared with losing your keys."

platterSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a large serving dish

    "She carried the sandwiches on a silver platter."

  2. 2.a flat rock or slab

    "Ancient carvings were found on the flat platter of stone."

potSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a cooking vessel

    "He stirred soup in a heavy cast-iron pot."

  2. 2.a large amount of money

    "Winning the lawsuit could mean a pot of money."

drumstickSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.the lower part of a chicken leg

    "The roasted drumstick was the best part of dinner."

  2. 2.a stick used to play drums

    "The drummer snapped the drumstick during the final song."

sauceSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.flavored liquid for food

    "The pasta needed more sauce before serving."

  2. 2.impudent talk or attitude

    "His rude sauce made everyone stare at him."

sliceSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a thin cut piece

    "Please take a slice of pie for yourself."

  2. 2.to cut into thin pieces

    "Slice the bread thinly for the sandwiches."

crispSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.firm and brittle texture

    "The apple stayed crisp even after hours in the fridge."

  2. 2.fresh and cool weather

    "Morning air felt crisp on the mountain trail."

drainSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a pipe or channel for water

    "The sink drain was clogged with hair and soap."

  2. 2.to remove liquid from food

    "Drain the pasta well before adding the sauce."

kettleSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a metal pot for boiling water

    "She boiled water in a shiny kettle."

  2. 2.a flock or group of hawks

    "A kettle of hawks circled above the canyon."

tinSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a thin steel can

    "She opened a tin of peaches for dessert."

  2. 2.a dull gray-white metal

    "Tin is a dull gray-white metal used in alloys."

brineSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.saltwater used in pickling

    "The pickles sat overnight in brine for flavor."

  2. 2.to soak in saltwater

    "He will brine the chicken before smoking it."

leavenSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to make dough rise

    "Yeast helps leaven the dough until it doubles."

  2. 2.something that lightens or enlivens

    "Her cheerful joke was a leaven for the meeting."

frySame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to cook in hot fat

    "She will fry the eggs in butter."

  2. 2.to become very hot in the sun

    "The pavement can fry your feet at noon."

boilSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to cook in bubbling water

    "Please boil the potatoes until they turn tender."

  2. 2.a painful skin swelling

    "A boil on his neck kept getting larger."

charSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.burnt food or residue

    "The pan was covered with black char after dinner."

  2. 2.to blacken by burning

    "The explosion charred the wood around the doorway."

griddleSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a flat cooking plate

    "The pancakes cooked evenly on the hot griddle."

  2. 2.to make something severe or harsh

    "They griddle the debate with relentless criticism."

steepSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to soak in liquid

    "Steep the tea bags for five minutes."

  2. 2.very steep or sharply rising

    "We climbed a steep hill beside the river."

crumbSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a tiny piece of bread

    "A crumb stuck to his shirt after lunch."

  2. 2.a person, especially a worthless one

    "Don't be such a crumb to your sister."

troughSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a long open container for food or water

    "The horse drank from the wooden trough."

  2. 2.the low point in a wave or economic cycle

    "Sales hit a trough before recovering in spring."

doughSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.unbaked bread mixture

    "She kneaded the dough until it felt smooth."

  2. 2.slang for money

    "He earned enough dough to buy a car."

ladleSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a large spoon for soup

    "She filled a ladle with hot chicken soup."

  2. 2.to serve or give out in large amounts

    "They ladle praise onto every new employee."

mortarSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a bowl used for grinding food or spices

    "The mortar crushed the garlic into paste."

  2. 2.an artillery weapon

    "Enemy mortar fire shook the outpost all night."

sausageSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.seasoned ground meat in a casing

    "He grilled a sausage over the campfire."

  2. 2.a humorous or affectionate term for a person or pet

    "Come here, you little sausage, and have a cuddle."

bunSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a small round bread roll

    "She ate a bun with her coffee."

  2. 2.a hairstyle with the hair tied up

    "Her hair was pinned into a neat bun."

grapeSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a small fruit used for wine or eating

    "He picked a ripe grape from the vine."

  2. 2.a dark purple color

    "The designer chose a deep grape for the curtains."

pieSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a baked dish with filling and crust

    "She baked a cherry pie for the family."

  2. 2.a pie chart or simple share of something

    "The pie showed how the budget was divided."

hamSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.cured meat from a pig

    "He fried ham with eggs for breakfast."

  2. 2.an overacting performer

    "The actor was such a ham onstage last night."

  3. 3.to overdo a performance

    "She tends to ham every line in the play."

squashSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a soft-fleshed vegetable

    "We roasted squash with olive oil and herbs."

  2. 2.to crush flat

    "The machine can squash a can completely flat."

  3. 3.a game played with rackets

    "She practices squash at the downtown athletic club."

teaSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a drink made from leaves in hot water

    "She poured tea into a delicate porcelain cup."

  2. 2.a meal or snack taken in the afternoon

    "We usually have tea after school with biscuits."

  3. 3.the letter T

    "Please write the letter T on the board."

kneadSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to work dough with the hands

    "She will knead the dough until it feels smooth."

  2. 2.to massage deeply

    "After hiking, the therapist knead my sore shoulders gently."

pumpkinSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a large orange squash

    "She sliced the pumpkin into pieces for soup."

  2. 2.a term of endearment

    "Come here, pumpkin, and let me hug you."

stewSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a dish of slowly cooked meat and vegetables

    "The stew simmered all afternoon with carrots and beef."

  2. 2.to remain in worry or agitation

    "He would stew over the mistake for days afterward."

bowlfulSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.the amount held by a bowl

    "He ate a bowlful of cereal before school."

  2. 2.an amount of a bowl-shaped object

    "A bowlful of apples sat beside the sink."

spreadSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a food paste or topping

    "I like toast with strawberry spread in the morning."

  2. 2.to extend over an area

    "Fog can spread quickly across the valley at dawn."

mouldSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a fungus growth

    "Green mould spread across the forgotten bread."

  2. 2.a form used to shape food

    "The batter set neatly in the mould."

yeastSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a leavening fungus

    "The baker added yeast to help the dough rise."

  2. 2.to ferment or rise

    "Warm conditions let the dough yeast overnight."

biscuitSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a small baked bread item

    "She buttered a warm biscuit for breakfast."

  2. 2.a type of hard serving plate

    "The dessert was served on a blue biscuit."

crockSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a stoneware pot

    "Grandma stored pickles in a heavy crock."

  2. 2.to break down or decay

    "Without care, those plans will crock over time."

graterSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a tool for shredding food

    "He used a grater to shred the carrots."

  2. 2.something or someone that irritates

    "Her constant complaints made her a grater at work."

shellacSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a protective coating

    "The wood received a clear shellac for protection."

  2. 2.to defeat decisively

    "Our team shellac'd the champions in straight sets."

filletSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a boneless cut of meat or fish

    "I ordered a salmon fillet for dinner."

  2. 2.to remove bones or skin

    "Please fillet the trout before cooking it."

loafSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a block-shaped bread
  2. 2.to idle or shirk work

"He bought a loaf, then chose to loaf by the stove."

pepperSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a spicy seasoning
  2. 2.to sprinkle with small items

"He likes pepper on eggs, and she peppered the salad with herbs."

onionSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a layered vegetable
  2. 2.an edible plant bulb

"She chopped an onion for soup and stored another onion on the rack."

beanSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.an edible seed or pod
  2. 2.a person's head

"He cooked the bean, then tapped his bean to think."

sagebrushSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a shrubby plant
  2. 2.a dull gray-brown color

"The sagebrush grew near the path, and his coat was sagebrush in tone."

candySame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.sweet confection
  2. 2.to become crystallized with sugar

"The candy was sticky, and the fruit began to candy in syrup."

slawSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.shredded salad, often with dressing
  2. 2.a loose mixture or hodgepodge

"The slaw was crisp, and the recipe became a slaw of leftovers."

beetSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a root vegetable
  2. 2.a type of red dye color

"She roasted beet for dinner and chose a beet apron."

raisinSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a dried grape
  2. 2.something that causes irritation

"She added a raisin to the cereal and called the delay a raisin in her day."

ciderSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.fermented apple drink
  2. 2.apple juice used for cooking

"They drank cider and simmered cider for the glaze."

wheySame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.the watery part of milk
  2. 2.a byproduct left after curdling

"The cheese curds released whey, and the whey was strained off."

cobSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.the core of an ear of corn
  2. 2.a sturdy horse

"She husked the cob while the cob pulled the cart."

crumbleSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a baked fruit dessert with a crumb topping
  2. 2.to break into small pieces

"We shared a crumble after the cake began to crumble."

pastrySame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.sweet dough baked with filling or topping
  2. 2.a dough product made for pies and tarts

"The pastry was warm, and the pastry sheet was ready on the table."

turnipSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a root vegetable

    "We roasted a turnip with carrots for dinner."

  2. 2.a bulbous storage organ

    "The tulip bulb stores food underground like a turnip."

morselSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a small bite of food

    "She took a morsel of bread and smiled."

  2. 2.a small amount or piece

    "He offered a morsel of advice before leaving."

stoveSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a kitchen heating appliance

    "The stove warmed the whole kitchen on winter nights."

  2. 2.to bathe in steam

    "After the hike, we stove in the sauna."

hashSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.chopped food mixture

    "Mom made a hash of potatoes and onions."

  2. 2.a confused mess

    "The paperwork became a hash after the merger."

stuffSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.materials used for filling

    "We packed the boxes with soft stuff for shipping."

  2. 2.things or matter in general

    "There was stuff everywhere after the garage cleanup."

  3. 3.to fill tightly

    "Please stuff the pillow until it feels firm."

smashSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to break violently

    "One hard blow can smash the glass instantly."

  2. 2.a crushed food mixture

    "She served a smash of bananas and cream."

yolkSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.the yellow center of an egg

    "The yolk was bright gold in the fried egg."

  2. 2.the part of an egg used in cooking

    "Use only the yolk for this custard recipe."

curdSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.coagulated milk

    "Warm milk began to curd after adding lemon."

  2. 2.to form curds

    "The cream will curd if heated too quickly."

starterSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.an appetizer

    "We started with soup as the starter tonight."

  2. 2.a device that starts a machine

    "The lawnmower needs a new starter before it runs again."

toastieSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a toasted sandwich

    "She made a toastie for lunch with cheese and tomato."

  2. 2.warm and cozy, informal

    "After the fire, they felt toastie by the hearth."

brothSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a thin soup stock

    "The broth simmered gently with herbs and vegetables."

  2. 2.a family or social group

    "That argument split the broth into two rival camps."

carveSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to cut meat into slices

    "Carve the roast before serving everyone at dinner."

  2. 2.to shape by cutting

    "He can carve intricate birds from oak wood."

juiceSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.liquid from fruit or meat

    "Fresh orange juice dripped onto the kitchen counter."

  2. 2.energy or power

    "That old engine still has enough juice to climb hills."

patSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a light tap

    "She gave the dog a gentle pat on the head."

  2. 2.a small piece or lump

    "The sauce had a pat of butter melting on top."

tartSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a small open fruit pie

    "We shared a warm apple tart after dinner."

  2. 2.sharp or sour in taste

    "The lemon was too tart for my taste."

vinegarSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.sour liquid made from alcohol

    "He splashed vinegar into the salad dressing."

  2. 2.a sharp-tongued person

    "Don't be a vinegar; everyone is already nervous."

mealSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.food eaten at a time

    "We ate a hearty meal after the concert."

  2. 2.coarsely ground grain

    "He ground the meal into flour for bread."

pantrySame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a room for storing food

    "Please put the milk back in the pantry."

  2. 2.the office of a pantryman

    "The pantry held canned soup, flour, and pasta."

soupSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a liquid food dish

    "He ordered chicken soup for lunch."

  2. 2.to increase engine power informally

    "The mechanic decided to soup the engine for racing."

  3. 3.to denature a photograph chemically

    "The lab will soup the photo to darken the image."

cellarSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.underground storage room

    "We kept the jam in the cool cellar."

  2. 2.to store in a cellar

    "They cellar the wine every autumn."

  3. 3.to sell at a low price

    "The store will cellar the jackets this weekend."

riceSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.edible grain

    "Rice is served with curry at dinner."

  2. 2.to force someone to do something by pressure

    "The boss tried to rice him into resigning."

  3. 3.to praise excessively

    "She kept trying to rice the committee with compliments."

pourSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to flow out

    "Water began to pour from the cracked pipe."

  2. 2.to serve a drink

    "Please pour the tea into my cup."

  3. 3.to rain heavily

    "It will pour all afternoon, so bring an umbrella."

lardSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.rendered pig fat

    "The stew tasted richer with a spoonful of lard."

  2. 2.to smear with lard

    "She would lard the pan before baking."

  3. 3.to fill or stuff heavily

    "He tried to lard the report with too many details."

bakeSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to cook with dry heat

    "She will bake bread every Sunday morning."

  2. 2.a baked dish

    "The cook made a savory bake for supper."

  3. 3.to become hot under the sun

    "We sat there and began to bake in the sun."

jarredSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.put into a jar

    "She jarred the peaches with cinnamon and sugar."

  2. 2.shaken abruptly

    "The truck jarred violently over the broken bridge."

rindSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.the outer skin of fruit or cheese

    "The orange rind was bitter, so she peeled it."

  2. 2.the hard outer layer of something

    "The tree bark had a hard rind after winter."

stockpotSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a large cooking pot

    "She lifted the soup in a heavy stockpot."

  2. 2.a pot used for making stock

    "The chef simmered bones all day in one stockpot."

Homonyms beginning with A

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affectSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to influence

    "Cold weather can affect how quickly cars start."

  2. 2.to pretend to feel

    "She tried to affect sadness, but smiled too soon."

  3. 3.an outward emotional display

    "His affect was flat during the interview."

alightSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to descend and settle

    "The bird will alight on the branch at dusk."

  2. 2.to be on fire

    "The dry grass began to alight after the lightning strike."

allySame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a partner or supporter

    "Canada became a wartime ally of Britain."

  2. 2.to join or connect

    "A small metal ring can ally two chains together."

anchorSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a device that holds a ship in place

    "The anchor kept the boat steady in the harbor."

  2. 2.a trusted news presenter

    "The anchor delivered the evening news calmly tonight."

  3. 3.to secure firmly

    "Workers anchor the cabinet to the wall."

angelSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a heavenly being

    "The statue looked like an angel in the sunlight."

  2. 2.a very kind person

    "You were an angel to stay and help me."

  3. 3.a large financial supporter

    "The museum thanked its angel with a special plaque."

angleSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.the space between two lines

    "A right angle measures ninety degrees exactly."

  2. 2.a viewpoint or approach

    "We need a fresh angle for this advertising campaign."

  3. 3.to fish with a hook and line

    "They angle for trout along the rocky stream."

appealSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a request for help or support

    "She sent an appeal for donations after the fire."

  2. 2.a quality of being attractive

    "The mural's bright colors gave the cafe real appeal."

  3. 3.to challenge a decision

    "They decided to appeal the verdict next month."

artSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.creative skill or work

    "Painting and sculpture are forms of art."

  2. 2.a practical method or knack

    "He has the art of calming angry customers."

asideSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.speech to the audience

    "She made an aside to the audience about fate."

  2. 2.something set apart or reserved

    "The velvet chair was kept aside for guests."

  3. 3.to put to one side

    "Please set the boxes aside until tomorrow."

assaySame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a test for metal content

    "The lab performed an assay to measure the ore's gold content."

  2. 2.an analysis or examination

    "Her essay was an assay of modern urban loneliness."

  3. 3.to attempt or try

    "They will assay to cross the river before dusk."

asylumSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.protection granted to refugees

    "The country offered asylum to families fleeing the war."

  2. 2.a hospital for the mentally ill

    "The old asylum closed after new treatments replaced it."

atlasSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a book of maps

    "I packed an atlas for our cross-country road trip."

  2. 2.the top vertebra of the spine

    "He fractured the atlas vertebra during the accident."

  3. 3.a supporting pillar

    "The marble atlas held up the balcony above."

atomSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.the smallest unit of an element

    "A carbon atom is the smallest unit of that element."

  2. 2.a tiny amount

    "Only an atom of salt remained in the bowl."

atticSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a room under a roof

    "We stored old photographs in the dusty attic."

  2. 2.relating to ancient Athens

    "The historian studied attic pottery and sculpture styles."

auspiceSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.an omen or sign

    "The rainbow was taken as an auspice of good weather."

  2. 2.protection or sponsorship

    "Under the university's auspice, the festival became annual."

averageSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a typical amount

    "His average salary barely covered the rent."

  2. 2.the arithmetic mean

    "The teacher calculated the average of three quiz scores."

  3. 3.to work out a mean

    "Researchers average the data before publishing the results."

awardSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a prize or honor

    "She received an award for community service."

  2. 2.to grant legally or officially

    "The court will award custody to the mother."

axelSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a jump in skating

    "He landed a clean axel in the skating routine."

  2. 2.a vehicle axle

    "The mechanic replaced the broken axel on the truck."

axisSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.an imaginary line of rotation

    "Earth spins around its axis once every twenty-four hours."

  2. 2.a central or main line of organization

    "The river valley formed the axis of the region's trade."

ayeSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.yes

    "Aye, I'll help you move on Saturday."

  2. 2.a vote in favor

    "The committee passed the motion by a loud aye."

axeSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a tool for chopping

    "He swung the axe to split the oak logs."

  2. 2.to cut or cancel

    "Managers will axe three departments next month."

argueSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to present reasons in debate

    "I argue that public transit should be expanded."

  2. 2.to show by reasoning

    "The size of the library argues its importance to town life."

armadaSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a fleet of warships

    "An armada of warships blocked the harbor at dawn."

  2. 2.a large organized group

    "An armada of volunteers cleaned the beach after sunrise."

arseSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.the buttocks

    "He fell hard on his arse after slipping."

  2. 2.a foolish person

    "Don't be such an arse in meetings."

artfulSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.skillful and clever

    "She gave an artful answer that solved everything."

  2. 2.cunning or sly

    "His artful remarks hid a much meaner plan."

ascribeSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to attribute to a source

    "Critics ascribe the novel's success to its vivid dialogue."

  2. 2.to credit as caused by

    "She ascribe her recovery to the new treatment."

aspectSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a particular part or feature

    "One important aspect of asthma is careful inhaler use."

  2. 2.a way of viewing something

    "From a historical aspect, the war changed everything."

asternSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.toward the rear of a ship or aircraft

    "The cargo shifted astern as the ship hit waves."

  2. 2.behind

    "The dog trotted astern of us on the path."

atomizeSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to break into tiny particles

    "The blast can atomize the metal into fine dust."

  2. 2.to reduce to small separate units

    "Policy changes atomize the workforce into isolated contractors."

atriaSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.upper chambers of the heart

    "The atria pump blood into the heart's lower chambers."

  2. 2.entrance halls or courtyards

    "We met in the atria beneath the glass roof."

auraSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a distinctive atmosphere

    "The town has an aura of sleepy seaside calm."

  2. 2.a supposed glow around a person or thing

    "Witnesses claimed a faint aura surrounded the statue."

avianSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.relating to birds

    "Avian influenza spreads quickly among wild birds."

  2. 2.a birdlike creature in fiction

    "The novel featured an avian guiding the hero home."

awardedSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.granted as a prize

    "She was awarded a scholarship for her research."

  2. 2.decided in favor of

    "The court awarded custody to the mother yesterday."

availSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.use or benefit

    "There is little avail in arguing with him."

  2. 2.to help or serve

    "The ladder will avail you during the inspection."

ambleSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a slow relaxed walk

    "They took an evening amble along the river."

  2. 2.to move at an easy pace

    "We amble home after dinner whenever the weather is warm."

aptSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.likely or inclined

    "He is apt to forget names in crowds."

  2. 2.quick to learn

    "She is apt for chemistry and learns fast."

  3. 3.appropriate or fitting

    "Blue curtains are apt for this small room."

arborSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a shady garden shelter

    "They sat under the arbor to escape the sun."

  2. 2.a porch or leafy bower

    "The arbor dripped with roses beside the porch."

agateSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a banded gemstone

    "The ring held a blue agate set in gold."

  2. 2.a type of print size in old typography

    "Printers once used agate for tiny classified advertisements."

ableSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.having the ability

    "She is able to lift the box alone."

  2. 2.having a tilted back

    "The chair is able at the back for reclining."

aboutSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.concerning a topic

    "We're talking about your travel plans tonight."

  2. 2.moving around

    "The dog ran about the yard until sunset."

accentSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.pronunciation feature

    "Her accent marked her as being from Dublin."

  2. 2.emphasis mark or stress

    "Add an accent over the final letter here."

addSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to combine numerically

    "If you add three and four, you get seven."

  2. 2.to attach or include

    "Please add your signature to the bottom line."

adviceSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.guidance or counsel

    "My advice is to bring water on the hike."

  2. 2.a business notice or statement

    "The newspaper printed advice about the new tax rule."

alarmSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a warning signal

    "The smoke alarm woke everyone before dawn."

  2. 2.sudden fear or concern

    "Her alarm grew as the storm clouds thickened."

alienSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a foreigner

    "As a legal alien, she renewed her visa yearly."

  2. 2.an extraterrestrial being

    "The comic claims an alien landed behind the barn."

alloySame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a metallic mixture

    "Copper and nickel form a durable alloy for coins."

  2. 2.to lessen purity or quality

    "That rumor could alloy his reputation and honesty."

alterSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to change

    "Plans may alter after new evidence arrives."

  2. 2.to tailor clothes

    "The tailor can alter your jacket sleeves quickly."

amuseSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to entertain

    "The clown will amuse the children with tricks."

  2. 2.to occupy pleasantly

    "Reading novels can amuse her on rainy afternoons."

associateSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to connect in thought

    "People often associate rain clouds with storms."

  2. 2.a colleague or companion

    "She is a trusted associate in the firm."

atSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.indicating location

    "We met at the station before dawn."

  2. 2.indicating a target or state

    "He stared at the goal with determination."

auditSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.an official examination of accounts

    "The university will audit last year's spending carefully."

  2. 2.to attend a class without credit

    "She chose to audit chemistry without earning credit."

authorSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a writer

    "Shakespeare is a famous author of tragedies."

  2. 2.to originate or create

    "The committee can author new safety rules today."

asterSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a flower in the daisy family

    "Purple asters bloomed along the garden fence."

  2. 2.a star-shaped symbol

    "Place an aster beside the typo in your draft."

  3. 3.a star in astronomy

    "The aster shone faintly in the night sky."

ateSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.consumed food

    "She ate lunch quickly before the meeting started."

  2. 2.destroyed or used up

    "The fire ate through the dry wooden shed."

  3. 3.the past tense of 'eat'

    "He ate the apple after school yesterday."

aukSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a seabird

    "The auk nested on the rocky coastal ledge."

  2. 2.a fool or simpleton

    "Everyone called him an auk after that silly mistake."

  3. 3.a prank or hoax

    "The auction turned into a cruel auk on buyers."

awlSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a pointed tool for making holes

    "Use an awl to punch holes in the leather."

  2. 2.a small furrow or scratch

    "The horse's flank had a tiny awl from brushing the fence."

  3. 3.to pierce with an awl

    "He awl-ed the canvas carefully before stitching it."

axleSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a rod on which wheels turn

    "The broken axle kept the cart from moving."

  2. 2.a central supporting axis

    "The axle of command ran through the entire company."

  3. 3.a pivot point

    "The dancer used the stage as an axle for turns."

aidSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.help or assistance

    "The shelter offered aid after the storm."

  2. 2.to assist or support

    "Three volunteers aid the rescue crew every weekend."

  3. 3.an assistant or helper

    "She was the doctor's best aid in surgery."

almsSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.money given to the poor

    "She handed alms to the beggar outside church."

  2. 2.charitable gifts

    "The village collected alms for flood victims."

  3. 3.a donation for relief

    "His alms helped buy blankets for displaced families."

amberSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.fossilized tree resin

    "Amber preserved the insect perfectly for scientists."

  2. 2.a yellow-brown color

    "Her amber necklace caught the light beautifully."

  3. 3.a traffic signal meaning caution

    "The light turned amber, so drivers slowed down."

anteSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a stake put up before a game

    "The poker game began with a ten-dollar ante."

  2. 2.to contribute beforehand

    "Players ante before each round starts tonight."

  3. 3.something paid in advance

    "He paid the ante for tomorrow's tournament."

arcSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a part of a circle

    "Draw a sharp arc between the two points."

  2. 2.a lightning discharge

    "The storm sent a blue arc across the sky."

  3. 3.a curved movement or path

    "Her arm traced an arc through the air."

areSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.exist; be

    "Living in peace and freedom, all people are equal."

  2. 2.a unit of area

    "This garden covers an area of two are."

  3. 3.plural present tense of 'be'

    "They are ready for dinner after school."

aseSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a variant of 'ace' in some dialects

    "In some dialects, ase means ace at cards."

  2. 2.a very small quantity

    "Add only a tiny ase of salt."

  3. 3.to wither or diminish

    "The flowers ase quickly in the hot wind."

assSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a donkey

    "The farmer led the ass back to the stable."

  2. 2.a foolish person

    "Stop acting like an ass in front of everyone."

  3. 3.the buttocks

    "He fell and landed hard on his ass."

agoSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.in the past

    "That happened many years ago, long before I was born."

  2. 2.before now; earlier

    "I finished dinner ago before the movie started."

  3. 3.a former state or period

    "In his ago, the village had no paved roads."

allaySame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to calm or reduce

    "The coach's words allay the team's worries before kickoff."

  2. 2.to soothe fear or pain

    "Her gentle voice allay the child's fear of needles."

  3. 3.to lessen intensity

    "Cool water can allay the burn's intense pain."

altarSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a sacred table in worship

    "Candles burned quietly beside the altar during prayer."

  2. 2.a place of sacrifice

    "Ancient tribes used the altar for offerings to gods."

  3. 3.a focal point of ritual

    "The altar became the focus of the wedding ritual."

antiqueSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.an old collectible object

    "She found an antique at the flea market today."

  2. 2.belonging to an earlier period

    "That antique clock still works after a century."

  3. 3.to give something an aged appearance

    "The designer tried to antique the cabinet with paint."

asSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.in the role of

    "She worked as a nurse in a busy clinic."

  2. 2.while or when

    "As the sun set, the birds grew silent."

  3. 3.because

    "He left early as he felt suddenly ill."

aniseSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a sweet aromatic herb

    "Anise grows well in warm gardens."

  2. 2.a flavoring seed used in cooking

    "She added anise to the cookies for extra flavor."

  3. 3.the taste or scent of the plant

    "The tea had a sweet anise scent."

abateSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.decrease in intensity

    "The pain began to abate after midnight."

  2. 2.make less severe

    "Warm tea can abate the soreness."

  3. 3.to weaken

    "The winds abate as the storm moves east."

abdicateSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.give up a throne

    "The king decided to abdicate the throne."

  2. 2.formally renounce power

    "Under pressure, she chose to abdicate power."

  3. 3.step down from rule

    "The monarch will abdicate next spring."

abductSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.kidnap

    "The kidnappers planned to abduct the diplomat at dawn."

  2. 2.carry off by force

    "Bandits abduct travelers from the mountain road by force."

  3. 3.take away illegally

    "The clerk tried to abduct office funds from the accounts."

absentSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.not present

    "She was absent from school all week."

  2. 2.away from a place

    "He stayed absent from the office during the storm."

  3. 3.missing

    "The report is absent a crucial signature."

abstractSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.existing in thought only

    "Her fear of ghosts was purely abstract, not real."

  2. 2.a summary of a document

    "I read the abstract before tackling the full article."

  3. 3.theoretical and not concrete

    "The professor discussed abstract ideas about justice and freedom."

accessSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.the ability to enter

    "Her key card gives her access to the lab."

  2. 2.a way in

    "A hidden tunnel provided access into the castle."

  3. 3.permission to use

    "Only engineers have access to the control software."

accordSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.agreement

    "The two neighbors reached accord after long talks."

  2. 2.a formal treaty

    "They signed a peace accord ending the border conflict."

  3. 3.to give as a favor

    "He would accord her special treatment on her birthday."

Homonyms beginning with B

10
bunchSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a cluster of things tied together

    "She tied the flowers into a neat bunch."

  2. 2.a group of people

    "A bunch of students gathered after class."

balmSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a soothing ointment

    "She applied balm to soothe the dry skin."

  2. 2.comfort or relief

    "His kind words brought balm after the bad news."

bugleSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a brass horn

    "The bugle sounded at sunrise across camp."

  2. 2.a plant in the mint family

    "Blue bugle grows beautifully in the shaded garden."

burstSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to break open suddenly

    "The balloon burst when it hit the nail."

  2. 2.a sudden short period

    "We had a burst of laughter during dinner."

bailSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.money for temporary release from custody

    "They paid bail and left the courthouse."

  2. 2.to scoop water out of a boat

    "He bailed water from the leaking rowboat."

bassinetSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a baby's small bed

    "The newborn slept peacefully in the bassinet."

  2. 2.a light boat's cradle?

    "We secured the small boat in the bassinet."

bushSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a low woody plant

    "A bush grew beside the garden gate."

  2. 2.pubic hair

    "He felt embarrassed to find a bush there."

barrowSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.a wheelbarrow

    "He hauled soil in a rusty barrow."

  2. 2.a burial mound

    "Ancient bones lay beneath the old barrow."

beanerSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.an offensive slur

    "That slur is hateful, so don't say beaner."

  2. 2.a bean-shaped object?

    "The beaner rolled off the counter and cracked."

bawlSame spelling, different meanings
  1. 1.to cry loudly

    "The child began to bawl after falling."

  2. 2.to shout

    "He will bawl orders across the noisy yard."

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