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- 1.to carry or support
"Can you bear this heavy box for me?"
- 2.to endure or tolerate
"I cannot bear such loud music anymore."
- 3.to give birth to
"The mare may bear foals in spring."
- 1.to fasten with a bolt
"Please bolt the gate before you leave."
- 2.to run away suddenly
"The horse tried to bolt at the noise."
- 3.to swallow food quickly
"He would bolt his lunch in five minutes."
- 1.to leap or jump
"The horse began to bound across the field."
- 2.to be destined for
"This child seems bound for great success."
- 3.to be tied or confined
"The prisoners were bound with heavy ropes."
- 1.to bend forward
"She bowed politely before entering the room."
- 2.to play a string instrument with a bow
"He learned to bow the violin beautifully."
- 3.to front a ship
"The harbor pilot will bow the ship into port."
- 1.to cut or trim
"Please clip the coupon from the newspaper."
- 2.to attach with a clip
"She will clip the notes to the report."
- 3.to move quickly
"We had to clip along to catch the train."
- 1.to shut
"Please close the window before it rains."
- 2.to come near
"The cyclist could close on the leader quickly."
- 3.to end or finish
"The concert will close with a quiet song."
- 1.to remove dust
"Dust the shelves before the guests arrive."
- 2.to sprinkle lightly
"She will dust the cake with sugar."
- 3.to wipe out or defeat
"Our team managed to dust their rivals in seconds."
- 1.to pull or drag
"He tried to draw the heavy cart uphill."
- 2.to sketch or make a picture
"Please draw a map of the neighborhood."
- 3.to attract attention
"Her kindness will draw many volunteers."
- 1.to let fall
"Do not drop the glass on the floor."
- 2.to decrease
"Sales may drop after the holiday rush."
- 3.to visit briefly
"We will drop by for coffee later."
- 1.to throw away
"Please dump the old boxes behind the house."
- 2.to unload cargo
"They will dump the gravel at the site."
- 3.to end a relationship
"He decided to dump his girlfriend after months."
- 1.to make thinner or smaller
"The pharmacist will fine the powder before mixing."
- 2.to penalize with money
"The city may fine drivers for parking there."
- 3.to improve
"Warm weather should fine the weathered metal soon."
- 1.to struggle helplessly
"He began to flounder under the pressure of exams."
- 2.to move clumsily in mud or water
"The fish flounder in shallow water near shore."
- 1.to become red in the face
"She began to flush when everyone stared at her."
- 2.to wash with water
"Please flush the sink with plenty of clean water."
- 3.to drive out
"The soldiers will flush the foxes out of cover."
- 1.to run fast on a horse
"The horse began to gallop across the open field."
- 2.to move or progress rapidly
"The company will gallop ahead after the new funding."
- 1.to shine steadily
"The candle will glow softly all through the night."
- 2.to feel warm with emotion
"She glowed with pride after hearing the good news."
- 3.to look healthy
"His face began to glow after weeks of rest."
- 1.to crush into particles
"Please grind the coffee beans before brewing them."
- 2.to operate by turning
"Turn the handle to grind the pepper fresh."
- 3.to work hard
"He must grind through homework every night after school."
- 1.to punish by restricting movement
"Their parents will ground him for breaking curfew again."
- 2.to connect electrically to earth
"The technician will ground the wire for safety."
- 3.to stop a plane from flying
"Heavy snow may ground all flights this afternoon."
- 1.to squeeze in tightly
"We can jam three more chairs into the room."
- 2.to block or clog
"Leaves can jam the drain during heavy rain."
- 3.to improvise music
"They will jam together at the jazz club tonight."
- 1.to strike with the foot
"He tried to kick the ball into the net."
- 2.to remove forcefully
"They will kick the intruder out immediately."
- 3.to react strongly
"She kicked at the criticism and spoke angrily."
- 1.to place down
"Please lay the books on the table."
- 2.to set eggs
"Hens lay eggs almost every morning in spring."
- 3.to prepare a surface
"We must lay a fresh coat of paint first."
- 1.to guide or direct
"She will lead the hikers through the forest."
- 2.to be in front
"Our team will lead by two points at halftime."
- 3.to conduct an orchestra
"He will lead the orchestra during the concert."
- 1.to recline
"After dinner, he likes to lie on the sofa."
- 2.to tell an untruth
"Do not lie about where you were last night."
- 3.to be situated
"The town will lie beyond the river bend."
- 1.to record
"Please note the date on your calendar."
- 2.to observe carefully
"I note the sudden change in her voice."
- 3.to make a musical sound
"The violinist will note the final melody softly."
- 1.to express disagreement
"I object to the noisy construction next door."
- 2.to put forward an objection
"Please object before the committee votes on the plan."
- 1.to engage in a game
"Children play in the park after school."
- 2.to perform music or drama
"The actors will play Shakespeare tonight on stage."
- 3.to act lightly or jokingly
"He likes to play the fool at parties."
- 1.to plan secretly
"They plot to steal the diamond at midnight."
- 2.to map or diagram
"Use this graph to plot the survey results."
- 3.to divide land
"Farmers will plot the field before planting corn."
- 1.to show or introduce
"Please present your ID at the entrance."
- 2.to give as a gift
"We will present her with flowers and chocolate."
- 3.to be in attendance
"The doctor will present during the afternoon clinic."
- 1.to strike with a fist
"He punched the wall in anger after the argument."
- 2.to make a hole
"The carpenter used a drill to punch neat holes."
- 3.to serve a drink
"She will punch fruit juice for the neighborhood party."
- 1.to compete in speed
"They race each summer to win the town trophy."
- 2.to move quickly
"Children race down the hill after school ends."
- 3.to rush madly
"The fire crew race to the warehouse when alarms sound."
- 1.to extend over an area
"The cattle range across miles of open prairie."
- 2.to place in order
"Please range the books by author and year."
- 3.to roam or move around
"At dusk, wolves range through the forest edge."
- 1.to dig with the snout
"The pig will root in the mud for truffles."
- 2.to cheer for
"Fans root for their team every Saturday night."
- 3.to take hold and grow
"Those seeds root quickly in warm, moist soil."
- 1.to propel a boat with oars
"We row the canoe across the quiet lake."
- 2.to arrange in lines
"Please row the chairs in straight lines."
- 3.to argue noisily
"Neighbors row loudly about the parking spaces again."
- 1.to strike lightly
"He tapped her shoulder to get attention."
- 2.to draw liquid from a container
"She will tap maple syrup from the barrel."
- 3.to use or access
"The app can tap your contacts for suggestions."
- 1.move swiftly on foot
"We run every morning before breakfast."
- 2.operate or function
"This engine will run smoothly all winter."
- 3.manage or control
"She runs the bakery with remarkable patience."
- 1.put in a fixed place
"Please set the vase on the shelf."
- 2.prepare or arrange
"We set the table before guests arrived."
- 3.hardening stage of a material
"The concrete is still in its initial set."
- 1.rotate or spin
"The wheels turn slowly on the old cart."
- 2.change direction
"Turn left at the next traffic light."
- 3.become or change into
"The soup will turn sour if left out."
- 1.move downward by gravity
"Leaves fall from the tree in autumn."
- 2.decline or decrease
"Sales fall sharply during the winter months."
- 3.be defeated or captured
"The fortress will fall by sunrise tomorrow."
- 1.move past or beyond
"We pass the museum on our way home."
- 2.be accepted or approved
"Your application did pass the final review."
- 3.transfer to another person
"She will pass the salt to the next table."
- 1.grasp with the hand
"Please hold my hand while we cross."
- 2.contain or keep
"The jar can hold two liters of water."
- 3.organize or conduct
"They hold a festival every July downtown."
- 1.go down below a surface
"The stone began to sink beneath the pond."
- 2.become lower or weaker
"His confidence started to sink after the loss."
- 3.embed deeply
"Her concern sank deeply into his thoughts."
- 1.move lightly with hops
"The child will skip along the sidewalk happily."
- 2.omit or leave out
"Please skip the last question on the test."
- 3.become excited or restless
"She grew too excited to skip dinner."
- 1.move on foot
"We walk to school when the weather is nice."
- 2.guide someone somewhere
"Please walk him to the clinic entrance."
- 3.go around casually
"They walk the market every Sunday morning."
- 1.be carried slowly by wind or water
"The leaves drift slowly down the river at dusk."
- 2.wander without purpose
"He drifted through town without any real destination."
- 3.gradual change
"Opinions drift over time as new facts emerge."
- 1.move like a liquid
"The creek begins to flow after the spring rains."
- 2.move smoothly onward
"Her thoughts flow smoothly from one topic to another."
- 3.issue or come forth
"Tears flow when she hears that old song."
- 1.divide into parts
"Please split the orange into four equal pieces."
- 2.break apart suddenly
"The branch will split if the wind keeps rising."
- 3.share equally
"We split the costs equally between our two teams."
- 1.collect together
"Please gather the tools before we leave."
- 2.come together
"Neighbors gather in the square every Saturday evening."
- 3.infer from evidence
"From the clues, I gather she left early."
- 1.bend over onto itself
"She will fold the letter into a small square."
- 2.close or shut up
"Please fold the tent and pack it away."
- 3.join together neatly
"Fold the napkins neatly beside each plate."
- 1.make a hole with a tool
"The mechanic will drill a hole in the board."
- 2.practice repeatedly
"We drill the steps until everyone knows them."
- 3.give strict instruction
"The coach will drill discipline into the recruits."
- 1.be consumed by fire
"Dry leaves burn quickly in the backyard fire."
- 2.cause pain like heat
"That spicy sauce burn my tongue for minutes."
- 3.shine or feel hot
"The lanterns burn softly along the dark path."
- 1.throw with force
"He will hurl the ball across the yard."
- 2.utter angrily
"She began to hurl insults during the argument."
- 3.move violently
"The cart will hurl downhill if the brake fails."
- 1.stop living
"The old dog may die soon, sadly."
- 2.cease or end
"Without water, the flowers die by noon."
- 3.pass out or fade away
"The bright colors die after too much sunlight."
- 1.move back and forth
"The fan blades swing from side to side."
- 2.hang and move freely
"A lantern can swing from the porch beam."
- 3.change between options
"Voters swing between candidates before election day."
- 1.remove clothing
"She will strip before changing into pajamas."
- 2.take off a layer
"Please strip the old paint from the door."
- 3.make bare or clear
"Strip the table bare before the inspection."
- 1.bring the foot down heavily
"He will stamp his foot when he is angry."
- 2.mark with an impression
"The clerk will stamp your passport at entry."
- 3.crush forcefully
"The crusher can stamp the can flat."
- 1.teach or coach
"Teachers train students to solve problems carefully."
- 2.prepare by practice
"We train every morning for the marathon."
- 3.move in a line behind
"The cars train behind the locomotive through the tunnel."
- 1.go from one side to another
"We cross the bridge before sunset."
- 2.make a cross mark
"Please cross the mistake out with a pen."
- 3.be angry or annoyed
"He grew cross after waiting all afternoon."
- 1.fasten with a knot
"Please tie your shoes before running outside."
- 2.bind or connect
"Wires tie the sensors to the main unit."
- 3.end in a draw
"Neither team could win, so the game ended in a tie."
- 1.clean or smooth with bristles
"She brushed the dust away with a soft brush."
- 2.touch lightly against
"His sleeve did brush my arm in the crowd."
- 3.move past quickly
"We had to brush past the guards quickly."
- 1.collide violently
"The cars crash at the icy intersection."
- 2.break noisily
"The vase will crash if you drop it."
- 3.fail suddenly
"The company may crash after losing its biggest client."
- 1.walk in step
"The soldiers march in perfect formation."
- 2.advance steadily
"Prices march steadily upward every summer."
- 3.formal procession
"We watched the wedding march from the balcony."
- 1.make a deep loud sound
"The cannon could boom across the valley."
- 2.grow or expand rapidly
"Sales boom when the holiday season begins."
- 3.a period of great prosperity
"The city enjoyed a boom after the new factory opened."
- 1.raise upward
"Please lift the box onto the high shelf."
- 2.steal from a shop
"He tried to lift a wallet from her bag."
- 3.remove or cancel
"The city will lift the curfew tonight."
- 1.put into a container
"She began to pack her suitcase for Tokyo."
- 2.fill tightly
"The truck can pack twelve crates tightly."
- 3.travel with a group
"They pack with the mountain rescue team today."
- 1.make a sign on
"Please mark the date on your calendar."
- 2.show or indicate
"Those clouds mark the start of rain."
- 3.assign a score or grade
"The teacher will mark our essays tonight."
- 1.go around or encircle
"The river curves round the hill."
- 2.make more rounded
"Please round the corners for safety."
- 3.a series or cycle
"That was the second round of voting."
- 1.become different
"Children change as they grow older."
- 2.money given back
"She handed back the change from twenty dollars."
- 1.determine the number
"Can you count the apples in this basket?"
- 2.noble title
"The count hosted a lavish banquet last night."
- 1.front of the head
"He wiped mud from his face."
- 2.confront
"I must face my fear of flying."
- 1.to send a document electronically
"Please fax the signed contract before noon."
- 2.a faxed message
"The office received a fax from headquarters today."
- 1.plural of fly, the insect
"Flies buzzed around the picnic table all afternoon."
- 2.third-person singular of fly, to move through air
"Birds flies south when the weather turns cold."
- 1.to strike with a sharp blow
"She used a hammer to knock the nail in."
- 2.to criticize harshly
"Critics knock the film for its weak ending."
- 1.plural of lamp, a light source
"Two lamps lit the reading corner softly."
- 2.to hit hard; to slam
"He could lamps the ball across the field."
- 1.to move by turning over and over
"The tire began to roll downhill very quickly."
- 2.a small loaf of bread
"She ate a fresh roll with dinner."
- 1.form or outline
"The artist sketched the shape of the mountain."
- 2.to mold or influence
"Teachers shape young minds through patient guidance."
- 1.to move position
"Please shift the boxes closer to the wall."
- 2.a work period
"I work the night shift at the hospital."
- 1.move smoothly
"Children slide down the hill on cardboard."
- 2.a sloping surface
"The playground slide was too hot to use."
- 1.make an opening with a sharp tool
"Use a knife to cut the rope cleanly."
- 2.reduce or shorten
"We need to cut costs before winter."
- 1.come down to the ground
"The plane will land at dawn tomorrow."
- 2.country territory
"This land belongs to our family now."
- 1.not closed
"The door stayed open all night during the storm."
- 2.begin or start
"We open the meeting with a brief welcome."
- 1.flat and even
"The table must be level before we pour concrete."
- 2.a stage or rank
"She reached a higher level after years of training."
- 1.to prepare food by heat
"Please cook the rice until it turns tender."
- 2.to become altered by heat or pressure
"The heat will cook the paint into the metal."
- 3.to tamper with dishonestly
"He tried to cook the books before the audit."
- 1.a quick lowering of the head
"Her ducking under the branch saved her hat."
- 2.avoiding or evading
"They kept ducking questions about the missing funds."
- 1.not costing money
"Admission to the museum is free on Sundays."
- 2.not confined or controlled
"The dog ran free across the empty field."
- 3.to release
"Please free the bird before sunset."
- 1.to leap off the ground
"He can jump the fence in one motion."
- 2.a sudden increase
"Sales took a sharp jump after the ad."
- 3.to move suddenly or abruptly
"She had to jump aside when the car skidded."
- 1.a tag identifying something
"Attach a label to each suitcase."
- 2.to classify or categorize
"We label these samples by temperature."
- 3.to describe someone in a fixed way
"Don’t label every quiet child as shy."
- 1.silent or unable to speak
"After the shock, he remained mute for hours."
- 2.to silence a device
"Please mute the television during the call."
- 3.not expressed or softened
"Her mute anger filled the room."
- 1.to rescue or preserve
"Firefighters save hikers trapped on the ridge."
- 2.to keep money for later
"I save a little each month for rent."
- 3.in sports, to stop a goal
"The goalkeeper made a brilliant save at the end."
- 1.to cut into pieces
"Please chop the onions into small pieces."
- 2.a thick slice of meat
"He ordered a chop with vegetables and rice."
- 1.burning flames
"Smoke rose from the fire in the backyard."
- 2.to dismiss from a job
"They decided to fire the manager after complaints."
- 1.a fastening in rope
"Tie a knot so the rope will not slip."
- 2.a small hard swelling
"A knot formed on his wrist after the bite."
- 1.to appear large and threatening
"Storm clouds loom over the harbor tonight."
- 2.a weaving machine
"Grandma still uses a wooden loom for scarves."
- 1.a large sea vessel
"The ship crossed the ocean in three days."
- 2.to send goods or goods being sent
"We ship fresh flowers every Monday morning."
- 1.an ice shoe with a blade
"My skate needs a sharper blade before practice."
- 2.to move on skates
"Children skate on the frozen pond after school."
- 1.to cut neatly
- 2.to decoration or edging
"Please trim the hedge and fix the trim."
- 1.thread for weaving or knitting
- 2.a long story or tale
"He spun a yarn while winding the yarn."
- 1.to strike sharply
- 2.a distinct flavor or scent
"He gave a smack and tasted a smack of salt."
- 1.to lead or manage
- 2.to transmit or carry
"She will conduct the meeting and conduct electricity through the cable."
- 1.to call by phone
- 2.to turn a dial
"I will dial her number and then dial the radio to a new station."
- 1.to abstain from food
- 2.to make secure
"She may fast for a day and fast the package shut."
- 1.to gather in a crowd
- 2.to move together like birds
"Fans flock to the store and flock across the square."
- 1.to increase in size
- 2.to cultivate plants
"Children grow quickly and farmers grow wheat."
- 1.to run slowly
- 2.to nudge lightly
"I jog every morning and jog his memory with a hint."
- 1.to remove the skin of fruit
- 2.to come off in layers
"Peel the orange and watch the paint peel from the wall."
- 1.to lift up
- 2.to rear or bring up
"Raise your glass and raise the children well."
- 1.to fasten with a screw
- 2.to twist tightly
"He will screw the panel on and screw the lid shut."
- 1.to cover or enclose
- 2.to finish up or conclude
"Wrap the gift and wrap up the meeting."
- 1.enclose with a barrier
"They fence the yard to keep the dogs inside."
- 2.sell stolen goods
"Police arrested him for trying to fence stolen jewelry."
- 3.a barrier around a property
"A tall fence blocked the view of the garden."
- 1.walk in tight formation
"The soldiers marched in lockstep across the square."
- 2.rigidly synchronized movement
"Their decisions changed in lockstep with the economy."
- 3.a marching gait
"The recruits learned to move with a steady lockstep."
- 1.strike the hands together
"They clap after every brilliant performance."
- 2.a sudden sound or pat
"A clap of thunder woke the entire neighborhood."
- 3.infect with a venereal disease
"The rumor claimed he could clap a crowd with disease."
- 1.push forcefully
"She will thrust the spear forward in practice."
- 2.a sudden push
"A sudden thrust sent the door wide open."
- 3.the main idea or point
"His main thrust was reducing waste and saving money."
- 1.work steadily at a trade
"He learned to ply the trade from his father."
- 2.layer or thickness
"The quilt had one extra ply for warmth."
- 3.prompt or request repeatedly
"They ply him with questions during every interview."
- 1.spurred to urge a horse
"The rider rowel'd the horse toward the finish line."
- 2.a pointed wheel on a spur
"His boot had a sharp rowel that caught the cloth."
- 3.provoke or stir up
"Those remarks only rowel old arguments among neighbors."
- 1.make faster
"We must quicken the pace before sunset."
- 2.come to life or become active
"At dawn, the sleepy town began to quicken."
- 3.stir or arouse
"Her praise could quicken his interest in science."
- 1.step or walk
"Careful where you tread on the icy path."
- 2.the top surface of a step
"The staircase tread was worn smooth by years."
- 3.go on or proceed
"We must tread carefully and go on with the plan."
- 1.travel by boat
"They sail across the bay every summer."
- 2.a sheet of fabric for wind power
"The ship lost its sail in the storm."
- 3.move smoothly along
"The skateboard seemed to sail over the smooth pavement."
- 1.metal track
"The train rolled along the rail beside the station."
- 2.scold sharply
"She began to rail at the unfair decision loudly."
- 1.curve or turn
"The road will bend sharply after the bridge."
- 2.a bend in a road
"We stopped beside a bend overlooking the river."
- 3.yield or stoop
"She had to bend to enter the low doorway."
- 1.official document of permission
"He showed the permit before entering the construction site."
- 2.allow
"Please permit extra time for traffic this morning."
- 3.tolerate or admit
"I can permit a little noise during the parade."
- 1.get away from
"The prisoner tried to escape through the back gate."
- 2.issue of air or liquid
"Steam began to escape from the cracked pipe."
- 3.wire used to regulate a clock
"The clockmaker replaced the worn escape in the mechanism."
- 1.fine mist
"A sea spray covered the rocks at dawn."
- 2.branchy sea plant
"We studied the green spray growing on the tidepool wall."
- 3.scatter liquid in droplets
"She will spray the plants with water every evening."
- 1.secure firmly
"Please fasten your seat belt before takeoff."
- 2.make or become quick
"The cyclist began to fasten after the steep hill."
- 3.conclude or settle
"They fasten the contract tomorrow after final approval."
- 1.to open the mouth in tiredness
"She began to yawn during the long lecture."
- 2.to gape widely
"The cave mouth seemed to yawn above us."
- 1.to join together
"Farmers combine grain and fruit harvests for market."
- 2.a harvesting machine
"The combine rumbled across the wheat field at dusk."
- 1.to place over
"Please cover the bowl with foil before baking."
- 2.a protective lid or top layer
"The phone's cover protected it from scratches and dust."
- 1.dry sandy region
"Camels crossed the desert under a blazing noon sun."
- 2.to abandon
"He will desert his post if the alarm sounds."
- 1.to absorb food
"Babies digest milk more easily than solid food."
- 2.to understand and process
"She can digest complex data quickly after a brief review."
- 1.to plunge into water
"Olympians dive into the pool with perfect form."
- 2.a steep downward movement
"The stock's dive startled investors after the announcement."
- 1.to offend
"Do not insult her by laughing at her work."
- 2.a rude remark
"His insult about my accent was deeply hurtful."
- 1.border or rim
"The knife had a sharp edge along the blade."
- 2.gain a slight advantage
"Our team gained the edge after the timeout."
- 1.motion picture
"We watched a film last night at the cinema."
- 2.thin layer
"A film of dust covered the old table."
- 1.establish
"They found a school to serve the neighborhood."
- 2.past tense of find
"I found my keys under the sofa."
- 1.connect together
"The cables join cleanly at the junction box."
- 2.become a member of
"She wants to join the chess club this semester."
- 1.trim a plant
"Please prune the rose bush before spring arrives."
- 2.dried plum
"He spread prune on toast for a sweet breakfast."
- 1.to move rapidly back and forth
"The banner began to shake in the wind."
- 2.a drink made with ice cream and milk
"She ordered a chocolate shake with whipped cream."
- 1.a trap for catching animals
"The rabbit escaped the snare hidden in grass."
- 2.to catch or trap
"Police snare suspects with cameras and undercover work."
- 1.to measure mass
"Weigh the package before you seal the box."
- 2.to consider carefully
"I must weigh both offers before deciding."
- 1.metal thin sheet
"Wrap the leftovers in foil before refrigerating them."
- 2.to prevent or frustrate
"The rain may foil our picnic plans."
- 1.shut forcefully
"He could slam the door during an argument."
- 2.criticize harshly
"Her review tried to slam the new restaurant unfairly."
- 1.mark with color
"She managed to stain the silk dress with coffee."
- 2.disgrace or blemish
"That scandal will stain his reputation for years."
Body & Health
183- 1.strip for covering wounds
"She wrapped the cut with a clean bandage."
- 2.cloth wrap for support
"A bandage supported his sprained wrist during practice."
- 1.hard shell for broken bone
"The doctor removed the cast after six weeks."
- 2.to throw or fling
"He will cast the stone into the river."
- 1.small medical facility
"The clinic treated patients throughout the morning."
- 2.teaching session in a skill
"She attended a guitar clinic to improve her technique."
- 1.amount of medicine
"The nurse gave him a dose of cough syrup."
- 2.brief quantity or share
"He had only a dose of luck that day."
- 1.sudden seizure
"He had a fit during the fever."
- 2.suitable or proper
"That jacket is a fit choice for winter."
- 1.microbe causing disease
"The germ spread quickly through the crowded classroom."
- 2.seed or origin
"The idea was the germ of a great novel."
- 1.increase in size
"The plant showed remarkable growth after spring rains."
- 2.abnormal bodily lump
"The doctor found a small growth on her arm."
- 1.metal element
"Iron is used widely in bridges and tools."
- 2.to press clothes flat
"She will iron the shirt before dinner."
- 1.eyelid hair
"A single lash brushed her cheek in the wind."
- 2.to strike with a whip
"The rider began to lash the runaway horse."
- 1.drug for treatment
"The medicine eased his headache within an hour."
- 2.study of healing
"She decided to study medicine at university."
- 1.bandage material
"He applied plaster over the cracked wall."
- 2.coat walls with plaster
"The plaster held the broken finger in place."
- 1.heartbeat felt in an artery
"The nurse checked his pulse after the run."
- 2.rhythmic beat or impulse
"Music can pulse through a room late at night."
- 1.skin eruption
"The rash spread across her arms after the picnic."
- 2.hasty or reckless act
"His rash decision cost the company thousands."
- 1.medical surgical connection
"The surgeon used a shunt to bypass the blocked artery."
- 2.to push aside or divert
"They shunt noisy students to the back row."
- 1.injection of medicine
"The nurse gave me a flu shot yesterday."
- 2.a firing of a gun
"One shot cracked the window from across the street."
- 1.words of magic power
"The wizard cast a spell over the sleeping guard."
- 2.period of time
"We stayed for a spell before catching the train."
- 1.fastening pin
"She fastened the papers with a metal staple."
- 2.basic food item
"Rice is a staple in many households worldwide."
- 1.injury from overuse
"He felt a strain in his shoulder after lifting."
- 2.to filter or stretch
"Strain the soup to remove the vegetable pieces."
- 1.stitch in a wound
"The doctor placed a suture across the cut."
- 2.medical closure with stitches
"She needed several suture stitches after the fall."
- 1.pill of medicine
"Take one tablet with water after breakfast."
- 2.flat slab or plate
"The ancient tablet was carved from dark stone."
- 1.quality of sound
"Her voice had a warm tone tonight."
- 2.muscle firmness
"Yoga improved the tone of his abdominal muscles."
- 1.disease-causing agent
"The virus spread quickly through the crowded office."
- 2.harmful computer program
"A virus infected the computer and encrypted files."
- 1.injury to the body
"The broken glass wound his hand badly."
- 2.to hurt deeply
"Her harsh words would wound him for years."
- 1.injury under the skin
"A dark bruise formed on his shin."
- 2.to injure feelings
"The public insult did bruise her pride."
- 1.low temperature
"The wind brought cold air through the window."
- 2.common viral illness
"He stayed home with a bad cold."
- 1.sudden muscle pain
"A cramp seized my calf during the race."
- 2.to restrict or hinder
"Bureaucracy can cramp innovation in small businesses."
- 1.remedy for an illness
"This herb can cure a mild headache."
- 2.to preserve or dry
"They cure the meat with salt and smoke."
- 1.air current
"A cold draft blew through the cracked window."
- 2.first written version
"She submitted the first draft of her essay yesterday."
- 1.high body temperature
"The fever kept him in bed all weekend."
- 2.excited state of mind
"Election fever gripped the city after the announcement."
- 1.deep cut
"A deep gash ran across his forearm."
- 2.to make a deep cut
"The blade can gash the metal if forced."
- 1.small seed of cereal
"Each grain of rice was perfectly cooked."
- 2.tiny particle
"Dust specks formed a grain on the tabletop."
- 1.transplanted tissue
"The surgeon used graft to repair the damaged skin."
- 2.unfair gain by corruption
"They accepted graft in exchange for the contract."
- 1.low continuous sound
"We heard the hum of the refrigerator at night."
- 2.to sing softly
"She began to hum the tune while cooking."
- 1.small swelling
"A painful lump formed under her jaw."
- 2.unshaped mass
"He shaped the clay into one rough lump."
- 1.body part with a function
"The heart is a vital organ that pumps blood."
- 2.keyboard instrument
"He played the organ during the wedding ceremony."
- 1.small area or piece
"She placed a patch over the torn sleeve."
- 2.to mend or cover
"We will patch the hole before the rain starts."
- 1.cloth over a coffin
"The pall covered the coffin at the funeral."
- 2.something that dulls interest
"A pall of silence settled over the room."
- 1.duck sound
"The duck let out a loud quack by the pond."
- 2.fake doctor
"That quack sold useless remedies to desperate patients."
- 1.framework for holding items
"He hung the tools on the rack in the garage."
- 2.to torment or torture
"The prosecutor tried to rack him with harsh questioning."
- 1.mineral seasoning
"Please add salt to the soup before serving."
- 2.to cure or preserve
"They used salt to preserve the fish for winter."
- 1.sudden medical collapse
"The patient went into shock after losing blood."
- 2.strong surprise
"Her sudden arrival caused shock among the guests."
- 1.painful place on the body
"A sore on his foot made walking difficult."
- 2.irritated or angry
"She was sore after the unfair criticism."
- 1.small mark or blemish
"There was a small spot on the clean shirt."
- 2.to see or notice
"I could spot the lighthouse through the fog."
- 1.coil that bounces
"The old spring still bounced when I sat down."
- 2.source of water
"A clear spring flowed beside the mountain trail."
- 1.sharp pain from a bite
"The bee's sting hurt my arm for hours."
- 2.to pain emotionally
"Her cruel comment really did sting him."
- 1.blood vessel
"The doctor checked the vein on her wrist."
- 2.distinct style or manner
"His writing has a playful vein of humor."
- 1.upper limb
"He broke his arm skiing last winter."
- 2.branch of a tree
"A robin nested on the arm of the oak."
- 3.side section of a machine
"The machine's arm lifted the heavy crate."
- 1.rear part of the body
"He lay on his back under the stars."
- 2.supporting rear surface
"The chair's back gave excellent support."
- 3.to move backward
"He had to back the car out slowly."
- 1.one digit of the hand
"She cut her finger on the paper."
- 2.a pointer or indicator on a dial
"The clock's finger pointed to noon."
- 1.lower part of the face
"He hit his jaw during the hockey game."
- 2.a harsh speech or talk
"Stop your jaw and listen for once."
- 1.bean-shaped organ
"The doctor examined his kidney for stones."
- 2.bean-shaped seat cushion
"The chair had a soft kidney for comfort."
- 1.organ that processes blood
"Her liver was damaged by years of drinking."
- 2.a person who lives somewhere
"He is a lifelong liver in this town."
- 1.opening in the face
"She wiped her mouth after eating soup."
- 2.opening of a river
"The river's mouth opens into a wide bay."
- 3.the act of speaking
"He opened his mouth to answer quickly."
- 1.hard plate on a finger or toe
"She painted each nail a bright red."
- 2.metal fastener
"He hammered a nail into the board."
- 3.to catch or pin down
"The evidence will nail him to the truth."
- 1.inner part of the hand
"She rubbed lotion into her dry palm."
- 2.tropical tree
"A palm swayed outside the hotel window."
- 1.student
"The teacher asked each pupil to read aloud."
- 2.dark center of the eye
"Bright light made her pupil shrink instantly."
- 1.curved bone in the chest
"One rib was cracked in the collision."
- 2.a jest or tease
"He made a rib about my old hat."
- 1.bottom of the foot
"The sand stuck to the sole of her shoe."
- 2.only one; single
"She was the sole survivor of the crash."
- 1.backbone
"An injury to his spine left him in pain."
- 2.sharp point on a plant
"Cactus spine punctured my finger through the glove."
- 3.a stiff book cover
"The old spine of the book was cracked and loose."
- 1.front passage of the neck
"A lump in his throat made speaking difficult."
- 2.narrow opening of a container
"Pour the syrup into the narrow throat of the bottle."
- 1.digestive fluid from the liver
"Bile helps the body digest fats in the intestine."
- 2.bitterness or ill temper
"His bile rose when he heard the unfair accusation."
- 1.hard part of the skeleton
"She broke the bone cleanly during the basketball collision."
- 2.to remove the bones from food
"He learned to bone the fish before cooking it."
- 1.front part of the chest
"She held her breast as the cold wind blew."
- 2.meat from a bird or animal
"The chef served roasted breast with herbs and lemon."
- 1.a substance made of two or more parts
"The chemist studied a compound with two linked elements."
- 2.a fenced area of buildings
"We parked inside the embassy compound behind high walls."
- 1.body tissue stored as energy
"Body fat insulates people against the bitter winter."
- 2.rich in fat; oily
"The recipe called for fat tuna, full of flavor."
- 1.organ that secretes substances
"The salivary gland swelled after the infection spread."
- 2.a lump-like bodily structure
"The doctor felt a small gland under the skin."
- 1.a painful joint disease
"His gout flared after a rich, purine-heavy dinner."
- 2.a rich or luxurious taste
"The dessert had a gout of chocolate and cream."
- 1.part of the body above the neck
"She rested her head on the pillow."
- 2.leader or chief
"He was chosen head of the committee."
- 1.body part at the side of the pelvis
"She cracked her hip while slipping on ice."
- 2.part of a roof where slopes meet
"The house needs repairs to its hip roof."
- 1.arm or leg
"He broke his left limb in the fall."
- 2.large branch of a tree
"A squirrel leaped from limb to limb overhead."
- 1.soft tissue inside bones
"The surgeon examined the marrow inside the bone."
- 2.essence or core
"The marrow of the novel is moral courage."
- 1.infectious childhood disease
"The child missed school because of measles."
- 2.small speckled markings
"The fabric had measles of red and blue thread."
- 1.relating to mucus
"This mucous membrane lines the nose."
- 2.slimy, covered with mucus
"The fish was mucous and slippery to touch."
- 1.backflow of body fluid
"Acid reflux can cause burning after meals."
- 2.returning of a substance to a previous place
"The current reflux brought saltwater back upstream."
- 1.mark left by healed skin
"A scar crossed his cheek from childhood."
- 2.damage left by a wound or event
"The scandal left a scar on the company."
- 1.to become enlarged
"His ankle began to swell after the twist."
- 2.excellent or impressive
"That was a swell performance by the orchestra."
- 1.band connecting muscle to bone
"The tendon in her wrist was inflamed."
- 2.cord or strip of tissue
"He tied the fabric with a tendon of sinew."
- 1.hard structure in the mouth
"She brushed her tooth before bed."
- 2.a projecting part on a tool or gear
"The gear has one missing tooth near the edge."
- 1.front part of the lower face
"He rested his chin in his hands."
- 2.to talk idly or at length
"They chin about old times for hours."
- 3.to pull or lift with the chin
"The boxer tried to chin the bar twice."
- 1.intestines or belly
"He felt a cramp in his gut."
- 2.strong instinct
"She had the gut to jump first."
- 3.to remove the insides of
"The butcher will gut the fish now."
- 1.a child
"The kid laughed at the silly magic trick."
- 2.a young goat
"A kid followed its mother across the field."
- 3.to joke or tease
"Don't kid me; I heard the whole story."
- 1.part of the face used for smelling
"My nose started itching near the dusty attic."
- 2.to pry into others' affairs
"Reporters should not nose around private family matters."
- 3.the front part of a vehicle or object
"The car's nose crumpled after the collision."
- 1.a large bag
"He packed clothes into a heavy sack for camping."
- 2.to dismiss from a job
"The manager had to sack two employees after complaints."
- 3.to plunder or loot
"Raiders arrived to sack the village at dawn."
- 1.side of the forehead
"He rubbed his temple after reading the long report."
- 2.a place of worship
"The candlelit temple welcomed pilgrims from across the valley."
- 3.the arm of a pair of glasses
"Her new glasses pinched behind the temple."
- 1.upper part of the leg
"She bruised her thigh during the soccer match."
- 2.the corresponding cut of poultry
"We roasted a chicken thigh with rosemary."
- 3.the upper limb segment in some animals
"The horse's thigh muscles strained on the hill."
- 1.muscular organ in the mouth
"He bit his tongue before answering angrily."
- 2.a language
"French is the tongue spoken in that region."
- 3.to speak in a certain manner
"She can tongue the warning very sharply."
- 1.joint between hand and forearm
"She twisted her wrist while opening the jar."
- 2.the action of turning the wrist
"A quick wrist of the bat sent it flying."
- 3.a strap or band around the wrist
"He wore a leather wrist to track his pulse."
- 1.curved structure
"The stone arch framed the garden entrance."
- 2.the instep of the foot
"The doctor checked the arch of his foot."
- 3.to curve over
"The bridge arches over the river gorge."
- 1.a fastening device
"She fastened the scarf with a silver clasp."
- 2.a tight grip
"He held her hand in a warm clasp."
- 3.to hold tightly
"She clasped the railing during the rough train ride."
- 1.something wound in rings
"A coil of rope lay beside the boat."
- 2.an electrical winding
"The transformer contains a copper coil inside."
- 3.to wind into loops
"Please coil the hose neatly after watering."
- 1.a loose fold or cover
"A loose flap covered the broken mailbox slot."
- 2.to move up and down
"The flag began to flap in the strong wind."
- 3.to panic or fuss
"Don't flap over one missed appointment."
- 1.firm hold
"The climber kept a firm grip on the rock."
- 2.a handle or part to hold
"Use this grip for better control on the hammer."
- 3.to hold tightly
"She tried to grip the railing with wet hands."
- 1.a hole or hollow
"We dug a pit behind the garden shed."
- 2.the hard seed of some fruits
"He spit the olive pit onto his plate."
- 3.to set in opposition
"The debate was meant to pit rivals against each other."
- 1.instrument for examining
"The doctor inserted a probe to inspect the wound."
- 2.careful investigation
"Police began a probe into the billing scandal."
- 3.to examine closely
"Scientists probe the ocean floor with a robot."
- 1.small amount or sign
"There was a trace of sugar on the table."
- 2.to follow a path or origin
"Researchers trace the disease to contaminated water."
- 3.to draw over a line
"Trace the pencil line before cutting the wood."
- 1.young cow
"A calf followed its mother across the field."
- 2.back of the lower leg
"He strained his calf during the marathon."
- 1.influenza illness
"She missed work all week with a terrible flu."
- 2.flowing or spreading movement
"Warm air can flu through the valley at dawn."
- 1.organ that pumps blood
"The doctor listened carefully to her heart."
- 2.center of emotion or courage
"She had the heart to stand up alone."
- 1.place where bones meet
"The surgeon examined the joint for swelling and pain."
- 2.food cooked with a large cut of meat
"We served a joint of beef for dinner."
- 1.large body or quantity
"A mass of clouds covered the mountain by noon."
- 2.religious service in some churches
"The choir gathered for mass at sunrise."
- 1.physical suffering
"His broken arm caused pain whenever he moved it."
- 2.person or thing that causes trouble
"That noisy neighbor is a real pain at night."
- 1.to clean hard with friction
"Please scrub the pan until every stain disappears."
- 2.rough low-growing vegetation
"Deer hid in the scrub along the dry road."
- 1.injury to a joint
"The player wore a brace after the sprain."
- 2.to twist or injure a joint
"I sprain my ankle every time I misstep."
- 1.mental or physical strain
"Her new job caused stress throughout the whole summer."
- 2.special emphasis on a word or syllable
"Put stress on the second syllable of permit."
- 1.medicated cream for skin
"Apply ointment to the rash twice a day."
- 2.substance used to polish or smooth
"Use a soft ointment to polish the silver."
- 1.feeling very sad
"He felt depressed after hearing the bad news."
- 2.pushed down below the surface
"The button was depressed below the panel surface."
- 1.open sore on the skin or inside the body
"The patient needed treatment for an ulcer on his stomach."
- 2.damaging wound or erosion in something
"Years of rubbing caused an ulcer in the metal."
- 1.feeling of sickness and urge to vomit
"The smell of gasoline gave her nausea instantly."
- 2.strong disgust
"The crude joke caused nausea among the audience."
- 1.veterinarian
"We asked the vet to examine the injured puppy."
- 2.to examine or check carefully
"They vet every applicant before offering a contract."
- 1.the organ of sight
"She blinked when dust got in her eye."
- 2.a small loop or hole
"Thread the ribbon through the eye of the needle."
- 1.a place to sleep
"He slept on a narrow bed beside the window."
- 2.the bottom of a river or sea
"Fish lay motionless on the river bed below."
- 1.to make a drink by boiling
"She brewed tea by boiling fresh leaves carefully."
- 2.a mixture or concoction
"The chef invented a strange brew of herbs and fruit."
- 1.a medicine or narcotic
"The doctor prescribed a drug for the infection."
- 2.to administer a medicine
"Nurses drug the patient before the painful procedure."
- 1.the flesh around teeth
"Her gum was sore after the dentist cleaned."
- 2.a sticky substance
"The label held with gum until it dried."
- 1.to cause pain
"The noisy alarm can hurt your ears quickly."
- 2.to damage or injure
"He fell and hurt his knee on rocks."
- 1.an uncomfortable skin sensation
"A mosquito bite left an itch on my arm."
- 2.a strong desire
"I have an itch to travel this summer."
- 1.a loop of thread in sewing
"She dropped a stitch and had to fix it."
- 2.a unit of knitting
"This scarf pattern uses a simple rib stitch throughout."
- 3.a sharp side pain during exercise
"A sharp stitch in his side forced him to stop."
- 1.either side of the face
"She kissed each cheek before leaving."
- 2.rude boldness
"He had the cheek to interrupt the meeting."
- 1.red bodily fluid
"The nurse drew blood for the lab test."
- 2.family ancestry or descent
"She traced her bloodline back to Scotland."
- 3.to stain with blood
"The hunters blood the meat before cooking it."
- 1.organ of thought in the skull
"A doctor examined the brain after the injury."
- 2.intelligence or mental power
"She has the brain to solve difficult puzzles."
- 3.to hit in the head
"The blow might brain a careless boxer."
- 1.no longer alive
"The flowers looked dead after the frost."
- 2.without movement or activity
"The street was dead at midnight."
- 3.exact or complete
"She wanted dead center on the target."
- 1.blood from a wound
"The wound leaked dark gore onto his shirt."
- 2.to stab or pierce violently
"The outlaw vowed to gore anyone who interfered."
- 3.a triangular piece of fabric
"She used a gore of fabric to widen the skirt."
- 1.area where thigh meets torso
"He groinched at the tackle, clutching his injured groin."
- 2.to make a low grunting sound
"He began to groin softly while sleeping beside her."
- 3.to search or rummage
"She groin through the attic boxes for old letters."
- 1.back part of the foot
"The nurse checked the bruise on his heel after running."
- 2.to tilt or lean
"The boat began to heel sharply in the rough wind."
- 3.a contemptible person
"No heel would admit cheating during the card tournament."
- 1.touch with the lips
"She gave her son a kiss before bedtime."
- 2.small amount or touch
"Just a kiss of salt improved the soup."
- 3.to barely graze
"The branch managed to kiss the car roof lightly."
- 1.organ for breathing
"The doctor showed an X-ray of her lung."
- 2.a natural inlet or extension
"The cove formed a narrow lung along the coast."
- 3.to speak or shout loudly
"He lunged? loudly across the field, calling everyone home."
- 1.organ of digestion
"His stomach hurt after eating too much cake."
- 2.capacity to tolerate
"She has no stomach for cruelty or deceit."
- 3.to endure or accept
"They stomach the changes without complaining to anyone."
- 1.rear part of an animal
"The horse swished its tail at the flies."
- 2.to follow closely
"Reporters tail the mayor wherever he travels publicly."
- 3.part of a garment or object
"Her coat has a long tail that drags behind."
- 1.material made of fibers
"She wiped the spill with a soft tissue."
- 2.group of similar cells in an organism
"The biologist examined the damaged tissue under a microscope."
- 3.paper used for wiping
"Please pass me a tissue; my nose is running."
- 1.a body tissue that moves parts
"A muscle in his arm tightened after lifting."
- 2.physical strength or force
"She had the muscle to win every contest."
- 3.a strong or influential person
"That politician has muscle with the city council."
- 1.a fiber carrying signals in the body
"The doctor checked a nerve in her leg."
- 2.courage or boldness
"He had the nerve to speak to the crowd."
- 3.irritation or annoyance
"Her constant questions really got on my nerve."
- 1.an old term for an illegitimate son
"He was called a fitz in old records."
- 2.a surname element in some names
"The surname fitz appears in many medieval family names."
- 3.a rare historical title
"The king granted him the rare title of fitz."
- 1.to recover from injury or illness
"Her broken arm will heal after several weeks."
- 2.to make whole or repair
"The carpenter will heal the cracked chair with glue."
- 3.to lessen pain or trouble
"That vacation should heal their stress and frustration."
- 1.a flat commemorative tablet
"The town unveiled a plaque honoring the fallen soldiers."
- 2.a film of bacteria on teeth
"Careful brushing removes plaque from teeth before it hardens."
- 3.a deposit on artery walls
"Doctors found plaque narrowing the patient’s arteries significantly."
- 1.light-sensitive layer in the eye
"The doctor examined the retina after the injury."
- 2.a camera's image sensor
"Digital cameras rely on a sensor similar to the retina."
- 1.the clear front surface of the eye
"Dust irritated the cornea and made her eyes sting."
- 2.a genus of snails
"That tiny cornea belongs to a rare freshwater snail."
- 1.a closed sac in the body
"The doctor removed a cyst from her ovary yesterday."
- 2.a blister-like growth in plants
"A cyst formed on the tomato leaf after infection."
- 1.damaged tissue area
"The biopsy showed a lesion on the liver tissue."
- 2.injury to the body
"She suffered a head lesion in the crash."
- 3.a harmful change in a structure
"Pollution can cause lesion in the river ecosystem."
- 1.a broken bone
"X-rays confirmed a fracture in his left ankle."
- 2.to break or weaken
"Cold weather can fracture the brittle plastic frame."
- 1.intestinal disorder
"Doctors diagnosed sprue after months of digestive pain."
- 2.a casting channel in metalwork
"Molten metal flowed through the sprue into the mold."
- 1.a serious disease outbreak
"The plague swept through the crowded city in months."
- 2.to pester or trouble
"Don't plague me with endless questions tonight."
- 1.an abnormal growth
"The scan revealed a tumor near her lung."
- 2.swelling or lump
"The swelling looked like a tumor under the skin."
- 1.male reproductive fluid
"The lab analyzed semen samples for fertility testing."
- 2.seeds or offspring collectively
"In spring, the plant's semen helps disperse new growth."
- 1.blood fluid after clotting
"The serum was separated from the blood after clotting."
- 2.a cosmetic or medicinal liquid
"She applied a vitamin serum before bedtime last night."
- 1.a small tablet of medicine
"He swallowed a pill with a glass of water."
- 2.a round small ball
"The children carved a pill from the wooden toy."
- 1.a liquid skin preparation
"Apply the lotion gently to your dry hands tonight."
- 2.an act of anointing
"The priest used lotion during the ancient purification rite."
- 1.a healing ointment
"The nurse spread salve over the burn carefully."
- 2.to soothe or relieve
"Music can salve my nerves after a hard day."
- 1.forehead
"She frowned, and a crease formed across her brow."
- 2.edge of a hill or cliff
"At the brow of the hill, they stopped for lunch."
- 3.expression or demeanor
"His calm brow hid all his private worries."
- 1.joint between upper arm and forearm
"She injured her elbow during the tennis match."
- 2.bend in a pipe or road
"The road makes an elbow before the bridge."
- 3.to push with an elbow
"He elbowed through the crowd to reach the front."
- 1.part connecting head and body
"He held his hand against his neck."
- 2.narrow connecting part
"The bottle had a narrow neck near the top."
- 3.to kiss or embrace passionately
"They necked in the parked car after midnight."
- 1.rough skin growth
"A wart grew slowly on his finger."
- 2.an objectionable feature or flaw
"That traffic law was the wart in an otherwise good plan."
- 3.an old term for a minor irritant
"In older speech, wart meant a small nagging annoyance."
- 1.perfectly vertical
"The fence stood plumb beside the driveway."
- 2.to test depth with a plumb line
"They plumbed the well before drilling deeper."
- 3.to explore or examine deeply
"She plumbed the issue in her final report."
- 1.force applied on something
"The pressure on the pipe was too high."
- 2.blood pressure in the body
"Her blood pressure dropped after the medication."
- 3.stress or coercion
"He quit under pressure from his friends."
- 1.in a suitable way
"She fitly placed the vase on the narrow shelf."
- 2.appropriately
"He answered fitly, with words that suited the moment."
- 3.aptly or properly
"The witness spoke fitly and without hesitation."
- 1.one who fits clothing or parts
"The fitter adjusted my jacket sleeves perfectly."
- 2.a person who makes something fit
"A skilled fitter can make the door close flush."
- 3.not a homonym by itself
"not a homonym by itself"
- 1.heartbeat; pulse
"The doctor checked his pulsebeat after the run."
- 2.rhythmic beating sound
"We heard a steady pulsebeat from the drum."
- 3.not a standard dictionary homonym
"not a standard dictionary homonym"
- 1.marked with bands
"The bird's feathers were banded with black and gold."
- 2.joined in a group
"Neighbors banded together to clean the flooded street."
- 3.past tense of band
"She banded the package before mailing it overseas."
- 1.covering for the face or head
"The bride wore a white veil over her face."
- 2.to hide or obscure
"Fog began to veil the mountains at dusk."
- 3.thin curtain-like covering
"A sheer veil covered the lamps and softened their light."
- 1.light in color
"His pale shirt matched the cloudy morning sky."
- 2.unhealthy-looking and lacking color
"She looked pale after standing in the hot sun."
- 3.to become less intense
"The candlelight seemed to pale beside the bright moon."
- 1.opening for air
"Fresh air entered through the vent above the stove."
- 2.to release feelings
"He used the meeting to vent his frustration calmly."
- 3.an opening in the body or structure
"The surgeon made a small vent to release pressure."
- 1.heartbeat wave
"The monitor displayed a pulsewave from his heartbeat."
- 2.signal wave
"Engineers measured a pulsewave sent through the cable."
- 3.not a standard homonym
"That term is unusual, but pulsewave appears in the report."
- 1.resistant to strain
"This strainproof cable holds under heavy industrial loads."
- 2.not a standard homonym
"The second meaning is not standard for strainproof."
- 3.not a standard homonym
"The third meaning is not standard for strainproof."
- 1.plural of fitful, irregular spells
"After surgery, she had fitfuls of sleep all night."
- 2.not a standard homonym
"The second meaning is not standard for fitfuls."
- 3.not a standard homonym
"The third meaning is not standard for fitfuls."
- 1.pulse oximeter shorthand
"The nurse checked the pulseox before surgery."
- 2.not a standard word
"The second meaning is not standard for pulseox."
- 3.not a standard homonym
"The third meaning is not standard for pulseox."
- 1.strong animal scent
"The deer left a musky trail near the creek."
- 2.a type of perfumery note
"She liked the musk note in the perfume blend."
- 3.to smell of musk
"After handling the antlers, his coat began to musk."
- 1.unable to see
"After the accident, he was blind and needed help."
- 2.window covering
"She drew the blind to block the afternoon sun."
- 3.not noticing something obvious
"He was blind to the warning signs around him."
- 1.an abdominal organ near the stomach
"The doctor examined her spleen after the injury."
- 2.a feeling of ill temper or spite
"His spleen made him snap at everyone."
- 1.the bone of the lower face
"The doctor checked the swollen jawbone carefully."
- 2.to talk insincerely or at length
"He will jawbone for hours about nothing important."
- 1.rigid or not flexible
"The old chair felt stiff after years of storage."
- 2.unfriendly or formal
"Her stiff reply ended the conversation quickly."
- 3.a dead body, slang
"The morgue tagged the stiff before burial."
- 1.spit in the mouth
"Saliva helps break down food in your mouth."
- 2.something to be expected to aid chewing
"Chewing gum makes your mouth produce more saliva."
- 1.slippery bodily secretion
"A thick mucus made his nose feel blocked."
- 2.the thin protective layer in passages
"The mucus lining protects the airway from germs."
- 1.a small bottle for liquids
"He carried water in a small flask on hikes."
- 2.a field instrument container for samples
"The scientist sealed the flask before collecting river samples."
- 1.to suffocate
"Smoke can smother anyone trapped in a closed room."
- 2.to cover thickly
"She smothered the cake with warm chocolate icing."
- 3.to overwhelm with excessive affection
"Grandma can smother a child with kisses sometimes."
- 1.to cut with the teeth
"The dog may bite strangers at the gate."
- 2.a small amount of food
"Just a bite of bread was enough for breakfast."
- 3.a sharp, painful sting or effect
"That cold wind can bite your skin painfully."
- 1.a bees’ nest
"The hive buzzed loudly beneath the old tree."
- 2.a bustling place full of activity
"The train station was a hive of activity."
- 3.a swollen, itchy skin rash
"Her arm broke out in a painful hive rash."
- 1.ill or unwell
"He stayed home because he felt sick."
- 2.tired of something
"I'm sick of waiting in this endless line."
- 3.morbidly unpleasant
"The movie's sick violence upset everyone in the theater."
- 1.a hollow cavity in the skull
"The doctor found a sinus cavity infected behind her cheek."
- 2.a medical opening or channel
"A tiny sinus connected the abscess to the skin."
- 3.the recess of a curve
"The curve held a quiet sinus where the river bent."
- 1.the outer covering of the body
"Dry winter air cracked the skin on his hands."
- 2.to remove the skin from
"Workers skin the fish before packing them on ice."
- 3.a very slight margin or amount
"We were skin away from meeting the deadline."
- 1.front part of the lower leg
"He rubbed his shin after the fall."
- 2.long narrow strip of wood
"Carpenters used a shin to brace the frame."
- 1.piece added to complete something
"We need one more fitment to finish the machine."
- 2.equipment installed in a space
"The kitchen fitment includes a sink and oven."
- 1.small hole for threading
"Thread the ribbon through each eyelet carefully."
- 2.small metal ring in a fabric hole
"A brass eyelet reinforced the leather boot's hole."
- 1.the folded edge of a sleeve
"The shirt had a torn cuff at the wrist."
- 2.to strike with the hand or a cuffing blow
"He tried to cuff the thief before police arrived."
- 1.to breathe noisily during sleep
"My grandfather will snore loudly after midnight."
- 2.a rough or noisy sound
"The old engine made a terrible snore all morning."
Common Short Words
28- 1.part of the body
"She broke her hand while playing basketball yesterday."
- 2.a person who helps
"We need an extra hand to carry these boxes."
- 3.to give over
"Please hand the report to the teacher now."
- 1.to fail to hit
"Don't miss the target when you throw."
- 2.to feel the absence of
"I miss my grandparents during the holidays."
- 3.an unmarried girl or young woman
"The young miss thanked everyone politely."
- 1.hard rock
"This stone came from the riverbed."
- 2.a unit of weight
"He weighs twelve stone and six pounds."
- 3.to pelt with stones
"Villagers stone the wall with rounded pebbles."
- 1.bottom part
"The book's base cracked after it fell."
- 2.military station
"The soldiers returned to base before dawn."
- 1.citrus fruit
"She squeezed lime over the grilled fish."
- 2.calcium-containing substance
"The builder added lime to the mortar mixture."
- 3.sticky bird trap
"Bird trappers once used lime on branches."
- 1.brown color
"She chose a warm tan for the living room."
- 2.to darken by sun exposure
"He tan in the sun every weekend."
- 1.set of clothes
"He wore a gray suit to the interview."
- 2.lawsuit or legal action
"The suit against the company ended last month."
- 1.ship's mast arm
"A gull perched on the yardarm during the storm."
- 2.measure on a sailing ship
"The sailor climbed the yardarm to trim the sail."
- 1.measuring stick
"Use a yardstick to mark the board accurately."
- 2.standard for judgment
"Honesty should be the yardstick for all decisions."
- 1.a total amount
"The sum of the bills was surprisingly high."
- 2.a brief statement of the main points
"In sum, the plan saves money and time."
- 1.remaining food
"She heated the leftover soup for lunch."
- 2.something remaining after use
"The leftover from the project was stored carefully."
- 1.polish with cloth
"Please buff the silver until it shines brightly."
- 2.enthusiast
"Every jazz buff in town came to the concert."
- 1.edge of a container
"The soup had dried on the lip of the pot."
- 2.mouth part
"She bit her lip to keep from laughing aloud."
- 1.to be upright
"Please stand while the anthem is played."
- 2.a booth or stall
"We bought flowers from a stand near the station."
- 1.delivery vehicle
"The van delivered our furniture before noon."
- 2.front part of a blade
"The knife broke near the van of the blade."
- 1.chemical element
"Zinc is often used to protect steel from rust."
- 2.galvanized metal coating
"The roof has a zinc coating that prevents corrosion."
- 1.a piece of cloth as a symbol
"He waved the flag proudly during the parade."
- 2.to become tired or weak
"I began to flag after running for two hours."
- 1.elegance in movement
"She moved with grace across the polished ballroom floor."
- 2.a short prayer before a meal
"We said grace before eating the holiday meal."
- 1.to move very fast
"The cyclist can zoom downhill in seconds."
- 2.a close-up camera view
"Use the camera zoom to frame her face closely."
- 1.increase; obtain
"I hope to gain experience during this internship."
- 2.gear setting
"Turn the knob to low gain for clearer sound."
- 1.take an oath
"Before trial, she had to swear to tell the truth."
- 2.use rude language
"He began to swear after stubbing his toe hard."
- 1.device to stop speech
"The gag kept him from shouting during surgery."
- 2.a joke or prank
"His harmless gag made the whole room laugh."
- 1.shoreline
- 2.to move without effort
- 3.a region near the sea
"We drove along the coast and let the car coast downhill."
- 1.young male cattle
"The rancher bought a young steer yesterday."
- 2.guide a course
"Steer left to avoid the fallen tree."
- 1.turns to the left
"The map showed two lefts before the bridge."
- 2.instances of leaving
"After three lefts, we finally reached the bakery."
- 1.greater amount
"I need more water after that run."
- 2.additional things
"Take these more with you on the trip."
- 1.small piece
"Please cut a bit of bread for me."
- 2.past tense of bite
"The dog bit my glove but missed my hand."
- 1.seasonal rising
"River springing from the hills feeds this valley."
- 2.jumping up
"The rabbit was springing across the field with ease."
Emotions & Mind
133- 1.temporary state of feeling
"His mood improved after hearing the good news."
- 2.tone or atmosphere
"The room had a cheerful mood despite the rain."
- 1.nonphysical soul or ghost
"The spirit of the old sailor haunted the attic."
- 2.lively energy or enthusiasm
"Her spirit lifted the whole team during practice."
- 1.serious or severe
"The doctor described his condition as grave."
- 2.a burial place
"We placed flowers at the grave after sunset."
- 1.giving off much light
"The bright lamp lit the entire kitchen."
- 2.intelligent or quick to learn
"She is bright and learns new languages quickly."
- 1.slightly cold
"The water felt cool against my wrists."
- 2.calm and unruffled
"He stayed cool during the heated argument."
- 1.pleased or happy
"I was glad to hear your safe arrival."
- 2.willing or eager
"She was glad to help with the cleanup."
- 1.strict and severe
"The stern teacher rarely smiled at mistakes."
- 2.rear part of a boat
"The captain stood near the stern as we docked."
- 1.able to wait calmly
"Please be patient while the line moves forward."
- 2.person receiving medical care
"The patient slept peacefully after surgery."
- 1.burial ground
"We left the wreath in the graveyard."
- 2.a place where old things are left
"That lot became a graveyard for broken bicycles."
- 1.look fixedly
"She would stare at the stars for hours."
- 2.a fixed, long look
"He gave me a long stare across the room."
- 1.a facial expression of pleasure
"His smile brightened the whole breakfast table."
- 2.to smile briefly or warmly
"She smile whenever the baby reached for her."
- 1.shed tears
"The child began to cry after the loud noise."
- 2.a shouted call or outcry
"A cry rose from the crowd at once."
- 1.hope for something
"I wish for peace in our neighborhood."
- 2.a spoken desire or prayer
"She offered a wish for health and safe travels."
- 1.great fear
"He felt dread before the final exam."
- 2.anticipate with fear
"I dread the traffic jam every Monday."
- 1.strong feeling of irritation
"His anger grew when the meeting ran late."
- 2.to make angry
"Don't anger your sister with that joke."
- 1.peaceful and not agitated
"The room stayed calm after the storm passed."
- 2.to make peaceful or quiet
"Soft music helped calm the nervous crowd."
- 1.to frighten suddenly
"The sudden thunderclap startled the sleeping baby."
- 2.a sudden shock or surprise
"Her loud gasp caused a startle in the dark room."
- 1.severe anxiety or suffering
"He felt distress after hearing the terrible diagnosis."
- 2.to cause worry or pain
"The noisy construction work will distress nearby residents."
- 1.relief from pain or worry
"Her friends gave comfort after the long ordeal."
- 2.to soothe or console
"The nurse tried to comfort the frightened child."
- 1.watchful and ready
"Stay alert while crossing the busy intersection."
- 2.a warning signal or notice
"The storm alert warned everyone to leave immediately."
- 1.serious attention or concern
"Please take great care with those fragile glass ornaments."
- 2.to be concerned about
"I care deeply about your happiness and safety."
- 1.worry unnecessarily
"Don't fret over one small mistake at work."
- 2.to make rough by rubbing
"The carpenter will fret the wood until it fits."
- 1.unable to relax or stay still
"She felt restless and paced the hallway all night."
- 2.needing movement or action
"The restless horse needed a long run outdoors."
- 1.gentle and caring
"The tender nurse spoke softly to the patient."
- 2.painful when touched
"My tender shoulder hurts when I lift anything."
- 1.feeling pleased with oneself
"He felt proud after finishing the difficult marathon."
- 2.having a dignified or lofty appearance
"The proud castle stood high above the valley."
- 1.serious in manner
"The judge remained gravele during the difficult testimony."
- 2.grave?
"The word gravele sounds unusual in modern English."
- 1.the mown area of a golf course
"He sliced a perfect approach shot onto the fairway."
- 2.a clear route or path
"The fairway through the forest led to the river."
- 1.to start a fire
"Dry twigs can kindle a campfire very quickly."
- 2.to arouse feelings or interest
"That story can kindle hope in weary listeners."
- 1.the faculty of thought
"She kept the problem in mind during the meeting."
- 2.to object or care about
"I do not mind waiting if the line moves."
- 1.not smooth
"The path was rough and covered with loose stones."
- 2.harsh or difficult
"It was a rough winter, full of long power outages."
- 3.approximate or unfinished
"This is only a rough draft for review."
- 1.a small stick for fire
"She lit the candle with a single matchstick."
- 2.a slender person
"The skinny model looked like a matchstick on stage."
- 1.physical substance
"Water is the main matter in this experiment."
- 2.an issue or topic
"We must discuss this matter at tomorrow's meeting."
- 3.to be important
"Her kindness will matter when the decision is made."
- 1.a long rod
"He leaned the ladder against a tall pole."
- 2.a person from Poland
"The pole from Poland won the chess championship."
- 1.violent anger
"Her rage startled everyone in the room."
- 2.to move or spread fiercely
"The wildfire began to rage across the hills."
- 1.anxiety about danger
"Children often fear the dark during storms."
- 2.to respect or be afraid of
"We fear change, but also respect experience."
- 1.utter hopelessness
"Her despair grew after months of failed searches."
- 2.to lose all hope
"He began to despair when no answers came."
- 1.light contact
"A gentle touch woke the sleeping baby."
- 2.a small amount
"Add a touch of salt to the soup."
- 1.a shout of encouragement
"The crowd let out a loud cheer for the runner."
- 2.to make happier
"Her kind words cheer me during hard days."
- 1.release from stress or pain
"Medication brought relief from the throbbing pain."
- 2.help given in an emergency
"Relief arrived quickly after the floodwaters rose."
- 1.strong belief
"Her faith kept her steady through uncertainty."
- 2.loyalty or trust
"I place great faith in her careful judgment."
- 1.expectation of good
"We hope for sunny weather tomorrow morning."
- 2.to wish for
"I hope to finish the report by noon."
- 1.a tiny flash of light
"A spark flashed when the wires touched."
- 2.to trigger an emotion or idea
"Her question sparked a new idea in class."
- 1.extending far down
"The lake is deep near the rocky shore."
- 2.intense or profound
"His deep grief lasted for many weeks."
- 1.intelligent
"She's smart enough to solve the puzzle quickly."
- 2.causing a sharp pain
"That belt is too smart; it pinches painfully."
- 1.perception or judgment
"The judge used common sense before ruling."
- 2.a meaning or purpose
"The old song has no sense to me."
- 1.a woman on her wedding day
"The bride smiled as she walked down the aisle."
- 2.a person's slang for a new spouse
"My brother's bride moved in last Friday."
- 1.sense of flavor
"My taste in music changed after college."
- 2.a small sample
"Would you like a taste of this sauce?"
- 3.good judgment in style
"He showed excellent taste in choosing furniture."
- 1.serious and formal
"The meeting began with a solemn statement."
- 2.religiously sacred
"They entered the solemn chapel in silence."
- 1.beloved or cherished
"My dear grandmother still writes every week."
- 2.expensive
"That antique chair was surprisingly dear."
- 1.to leap on one foot
"The child can hop across the puddles easily."
- 2.a short jump
"Give the box a quick hop to the left."
- 1.repeated exercise or training
"Daily piano practice improved her timing and accuracy."
- 2.a doctor's or lawyer's business
"Her practice specializes in pediatric dentistry downtown."
- 1.a cause or explanation
"The main reason for delays was heavy snow."
- 2.the power of logical thought
"She reasoned through the puzzle without any help."
- 1.an idea
"A fresh thought crossed her mind during lunch."
- 2.the act of thinking
"He thought carefully before answering the difficult question."
- 1.recollection
"The smell brought back a childhood memory instantly."
- 2.computer storage
"This phone has enough memory for thousands of photos."
- 1.a picture or likeness
"The painting is a perfect image of the harbor."
- 2.a mental impression
"Her tired face left an image of exhaustion."
- 1.a person's mood or anger
"His temper flared when the train was delayed."
- 2.to moderate or soften
"Add honey to temper the lemon's sharp flavor."
- 1.calm in a crisis
"She stayed cool-headed during the chaotic evacuation."
- 2.slightly cold
"A cool-headed breeze drifted through the open window."
- 1.similar or related by nature
"Their ambitions are kindred, both driven by curiosity."
- 2.family relation
"He visited his kindred in the old village."
- 1.great pleasure
"The concert was a delight from start to finish."
- 2.to please greatly
"Your thoughtful gift will delight her greatly."
- 1.moderate in behavior or climate
"The region has a temperate climate with mild winters."
- 2.self-controlled
"She gave a temperate response to the criticism."
- 1.clear and easy to understand
"His lucid explanation made the rules easy to follow."
- 2.mentally clear
"After the fever passed, she felt lucid again."
- 1.to think carefully
"Please reflect on your choices before signing anything."
- 2.to throw back light or image
"The lake can reflect the mountains at sunrise."
- 1.aware and awake
"She remained conscious after the minor accident."
- 2.deliberate or intentional
"The joke was a conscious attempt to break tension."
- 1.serious; solemn
"He delivered a gravee warning about the storm ahead."
- 2.an obsolete or dialect term for a grave or tomb
"They placed flowers beside the old gravee at dusk."
- 1.angry
"She was mad when the meeting started late again."
- 2.crazy; mentally ill
"Doctors treated the mad patient with great care."
- 1.mentally sound
"After the examination, the doctor said she was completely sane."
- 2.reasonable; sensible
"His sane suggestion saved everyone from a costly mistake."
- 1.sad and gloomy
"The glum child sat alone after losing the game."
- 2.sullenly silent
"He remained glum, answering every question with one-word replies."
- 1.a series of images during sleep
"Last night I had a dream about flying over mountains."
- 2.a cherished ambition
"Her dream is to become a marine biologist someday."
- 1.feel bitter about
"She will resent the unfair accusation for years."
- 2.send back
"Please resent the parcel if the address is wrong."
- 1.feeling bitter
"He felt resentful after being passed over for promotion."
- 2.showing anger from hurt pride
"Her resentful tone made the apology seem insincere."
- 1.irregular; spasmodic
"The fitful rain stopped and started all afternoon."
- 2.restless and uneven
"He slept in fitful bursts, waking often through the night."
- 1.a state of deep sadness
"She fell into depression after losing her job."
- 2.a low area or hollow
"A depression in the road collected rainwater."
- 1.sudden intense fear
"He felt panic when the room suddenly went dark."
- 2.a wide, uncontrollable alarm
"The citywide panic spread after the false alarm."
- 1.mental unease or strain
"Her voice showed tension before the final exam."
- 2.tightness between opposing forces
"The rope was under tension as we pulled."
- 1.darkness or dimness
"Fog and gloom covered the valley before sunrise."
- 2.a mood of sadness
"His gloom returned whenever he read the letter."
- 1.sadness or pensiveness
"A melancholy settled over her after the farewell."
- 2.a person given to sadness
"He was a melancholy, speaking softly at dinner."
- 1.extreme enthusiasm or obsession
"Her mania for rare books filled every shelf."
- 2.a mental state of abnormally high energy
"During mania, he stayed awake for days."
- 1.wild confusion or excitement
"Delirium made the campfire songs wild and loud."
- 2.a disturbed mental state with hallucinations
"The fever caused delirium and strange whispered conversations."
- 1.intense happiness
"She felt euphoria after hearing the winning announcement."
- 2.a mood of excessive well-being
"The medicine caused euphoria, leaving him oddly cheerful and relaxed."
- 1.lack of interest
"His apathy toward politics surprised even his closest friends."
- 2.an indifferent condition or attitude
"The committee's apathy blocked every attempt at reform."
- 1.severe mental suffering
"She hid her anguish after receiving the devastating news."
- 2.a cause of painful distress
"Debt became an anguish for the struggling family."
- 1.deep sorrow
"He spoke with grief after losing his childhood friend."
- 2.a source of sorrow
"The abandoned house was a grief to the whole neighborhood."
- 1.anxiety about something
"I worry about her when she drives in snow."
- 2.a troublesome concern or matter
"That loose wire is a worry for the electrician."
- 1.extreme fear
"The storm filled us with terror all night long."
- 2.a person or thing that inspires fear
"That masked figure is a terror in the neighborhood."
- 1.the quality of being funny
"His humor made the entire classroom laugh loudly."
- 2.a person's mood or temperament
"Her humor was foul after the long delay."
- 1.an accepted conviction
"Their belief in fairness guided every decision they made."
- 2.something believed
"The old belief that owls bring luck persisted here."
- 1.a mental concept
"The idea of moving abroad kept returning to him."
- 2.a plan or suggestion
"My idea is to start early and avoid traffic."
- 1.a vague idea
"I had a vague notion that he'd already left."
- 2.a fanciful opinion
"His notion that money solves everything was absurd."
- 1.the ability to see
"Her vision blurred after she removed her glasses."
- 2.a mental image or dream
"He described a vision of cities floating above clouds."
- 1.a strong desire
"She felt an urge to call her mother immediately."
- 2.to persuade strongly
"I urge you to read the instructions before assembly."
- 1.strong emotion or enthusiasm
"His passion for jazz kept him practicing every night."
- 2.a love affair or intense attachment
"Their secret passion lasted only one summer."
- 1.fond feeling
"She felt great affection for the stray dog."
- 2.a disease or condition
"The lotion relieved the skin affection quickly."
- 1.respect or admiration
"The professor held the novelist in high esteem."
- 2.to regard or judge
"We esteem the proposal as impractical and costly."
- 1.self-assurance
"She spoke with confidence during the tense interview."
- 2.trust in someone or something
"I trust your confidence in the new medication."
- 1.not drunk
"He was sober after dinner and drove home safely."
- 2.serious or solemn
"Her sober tone made everyone reconsider the plan."
- 1.uncontrolled or frenzied
"The crowd went wild when the singer appeared."
- 2.a state of nature or wilderness
"Deer still roam wild in the forest reserve."
- 1.a whimsical liking or desire
"I had a fancy for strawberries all winter."
- 2.elaborate decoration or style
"She wore a fancy dress with silver embroidery."
- 1.smart
"She is clever and solves puzzles quickly."
- 2.skillful at deception
"The clever thief tricked the guard easily."
- 1.boring
"The lecture was dull and put everyone to sleep."
- 2.not sharp
"The knife is dull and won't cut bread."
- 3.low in brightness
- 1.to resolve or conclude
"They will settle the argument tonight."
- 2.to make a home in a place
"They decided to settle in Oregon after graduation."
- 3.to sink or come to rest
"The dust will settle after the truck passes."
- 1.empty or unfilled
"He handed me a blank sheet of paper."
- 2.expressionless or without emotion
"Her blank stare gave no hint of surprise."
- 1.thought colored by feeling
"Her sentimental tone revealed a deep sentiment about home."
- 2.an opinion expressed emotionally
"He voiced a sentiment many voters quietly shared."
- 1.a person's mood
"She's in a bad humour after the long delay."
- 2.the quality of being amusing
"His humour kept the whole room laughing."
- 1.violent anger
"His fury erupted after the unfair verdict."
- 2.a strong storm or force
"The hurricane's fury smashed boats against the pier."
- 1.a sad mood
"She felt the blues after hearing the bad news."
- 2.a style of music
"The blues band played all night in the club."
- 1.wonder mixed with respect
"The ancient cathedral filled us with awe."
- 2.to inspire that feeling
"Her courage can awe even skeptical judges."
- 1.self-respect or satisfaction
"Winning the championship filled her with pride."
- 2.a feeling of superiority
"His pride made him ignore everyone else's advice."
- 1.painful sense of guilt
"He felt shame after lying to his friends."
- 2.something disgraceful
"That public cheating scandal was a shame."
- 1.soundness of mind
"After the injury, doctors tested his sanity."
- 2.reasonableness
"That's a sane plan; it preserves everyone's sanity."
- 1.spiritual essence of a person
"She believes the soul lives beyond death."
- 2.a lively or sensitive person
"He is a soul who always comforts strangers."
- 1.cheerful or lively
"The children were gay during the parade."
- 2.homosexual
"The law protects gay couples from discrimination."
- 1.a pleasing quality
"Her warm smile gave the room a special charm."
- 2.a small object believed to bring luck
"He carried a rabbit-foot charm on his keychain."
- 1.a group of words expressing a thought
"Please write a complete sentence with a clear subject."
- 2.a punishment given by a court
"The judge imposed a harsh sentence for the theft."
- 1.flawless
"Her answer was perfect in every way."
- 2.fully complete
"We need a perfect copy before noon."
- 1.mild and tender
"She gave the puppy a gentle pat."
- 2.not rough or forceful
"Please be gentle with the old guitar."
- 1.more unkind
"He sounded meaner than usual after the argument."
- 2.more average
"The sample became meaner when the outlier was removed."
- 1.strange or unusual
"Her odd laugh startled everyone in the quiet room."
- 2.not even
"Seven odd cookies remained after the children ate."
- 1.small grave
"The tiny gravelet sat beneath the old oak tree."
- 2.a type of groove or trench
"Rainwater collected in a shallow gravelet beside the road."
- 1.rending or ripping
"The tearing paper woke the baby."
- 2.very intense or fierce
"A tearing wind battered the harbor all night."
- 1.open and honest
"She gave a frank answer about the accident."
- 2.a male pig
"The frank snuffled happily in the muddy yard."
- 1.person who digs graves
"The grave-digger worked silently beside the churchyard chapel."
- 2.a type of insect larva
"A grave-digger emerged from the log to feed."
- 1.only
"I came solely to deliver your forgotten keys."
- 2.in a sad or desolate manner
"She walked solely through the empty streets at dusk."
- 1.in a strict way
"The teacher spoke sternly to the noisy class."
- 2.from the rear of a boat
"The sternly of the boat was damaged in the storm."
- 1.soon
"The doctor said the swelling would fade presently."
- 2.at the present time
"I am presently reading a book by the window."
- 1.covered with gravel
"The driveway was graveled to prevent muddy puddles."
- 2.made annoyed or worried
"The delay graveled him, but he stayed patient."
- 1.neat and orderly
"Your room looks tidy after the cleanup."
- 2.considerable in amount
"A tidy sum was donated to the shelter."
- 1.deeply surprised
"She was shocked by the sudden sad news."
- 2.given an electric shock
"He was shocked when he touched the live wire."
- 1.in a serious manner
"He soberly explained the consequences of the mistake."
- 2.while not intoxicated
"She soberly drove home after the party ended."
- 1.full of tears
"The tearful child hugged her mother tightly."
- 2.causing tears
"That tearful movie scene moved everyone deeply."
- 1.severe or bare
"They crossed the stark desert without water."
- 2.complete and obvious
"The evidence was stark and impossible to ignore."
- 1.in a deep or thorough way
"He slept soundly through the thunderstorm."
- 2.well or firmly
"The lid fit soundly onto the jar."
- 1.in the intervening time
"Meanwhile, the soup simmered on the stove."
- 2.at the same time
"She studied; meanwhile, her brother practiced piano."
- 1.the quality of being kind
"Her kindness calmed the frightened child instantly."
- 2.a benevolent act
"He showed kindness by bringing soup to the sick neighbor."
Everyday Words
75- 1.flying mammal
"A bat swooped silently across the moonlit cave."
- 2.sports implement
"He swung the bat and hit the baseball far."
- 3.to strike with the hand or object
"She tried to bat the fly away gently."
- 1.financial institution
"I deposited my paycheck at the bank yesterday."
- 2.river edge
"We sat by the bank and watched ducks."
- 3.a set of similar things
"The recipe calls for a bank of fresh herbs."
- 1.contest or game
"Our team won the match after a tense overtime."
- 2.small fire starter
"He struck a match and lit the candle."
- 3.a pair or corresponding thing
"Her scarf was a perfect match for her coat."
- 1.dog sound
"The dog began to bark at the passing mailman."
- 2.outer covering of a tree
"Rough bark covered the old oak tree trunk."
- 3.a sailing ship
"The bark carried cargo across the stormy sea."
- 1.marine animal
"A seal balanced a ball during the aquarium show."
- 2.wax stamp or mark
"The letter needs a wax seal before mailing."
- 3.to close tightly
"Please seal the envelope before you leave."
- 1.circular band
"She wore a silver ring on her finger."
- 2.phone sound
"The phone began to ring during dinner."
- 3.to surround
"Troops ring the city to prevent anyone escaping."
- 1.not heavy
"This suitcase is light enough to carry alone."
- 2.illumination
"Sunlight streamed through the window all morning."
- 3.to ignite
"They light the fire before the camping trip."
- 1.calendar day
"We have a meeting on the first date of June."
- 2.sweet fruit
"He ate a date with his afternoon tea."
- 3.romantic meeting
"They went on a date to the new restaurant."
- 1.folder for papers
"Please put the receipts in the file on my desk."
- 2.tool for smoothing
"He used a metal file to smooth the edge."
- 3.to submit officially
"I will file the complaint with city officials tomorrow."
- 1.metal container
"This can holds soup for lunch."
- 2.be able to
"I can solve the puzzle without help."
- 3.to preserve in a can
"They can peaches every summer at home."
- 1.plate or bowl
"Put the salad on a clean dish before serving."
- 2.prepared food
"Grandma cooked a spicy dish for dinner."
- 3.to gossip or tell
"She likes to dish about celebrities all afternoon."
- 1.timepiece
"My watch stopped after the battery died."
- 2.to look at attentively
"We watch the stars from the dark hill."
- 3.to guard or monitor
"Soldiers watch the border throughout the night."
- 1.metal opener
"Use the key to unlock the front door."
- 2.crucial
"Trust is a key part of any marriage."
- 3.a legend or map guide
"Check the map key to understand the symbols."
- 1.price or fee
"The taxi charge was higher than expected tonight."
- 2.accusation
"They filed a charge against the careless driver."
- 3.to power a device
"Remember to charge your phone before bed."
- 1.just or unbiased
"The judge gave a fair ruling in court."
- 2.carnival or market
"We visited the county fair last weekend."
- 3.light-colored
"Her fair hair shone brightly in the sun."
- 1.water source
"A clear well provided water for the whole village."
- 2.in good health
"After resting, she felt well and ready."
- 3.skillfully
"The pianist played the passage well under pressure."
- 1.unit of length
"The table measured exactly one yard across."
- 2.area around a house
"Children played in the yard behind the house."
- 3.railway storage area
"Freight cars waited in the railway yard all night."
- 1.correct
"Your answer is right this time."
- 2.opposite of left
"Turn right at the next traffic light."
- 3.legal entitlement
"Every citizen has the right to vote."
- 1.part of the year
"Winter is my favorite season of the year."
- 2.to add flavor
"Season the soup with salt and pepper."
- 3.to make suitable through use
"Years of practice season the leather nicely."
- 1.intend
"I mean to finish before noon."
- 2.unkind
"He can be mean when he loses."
- 3.average
"The mean of those scores was eighty."
- 1.noise
"We heard a strange sound outside the window."
- 2.water inlet
"The boat entered a quiet sound between islands."
- 3.in good condition
"Her report looked sound after careful review."
- 1.round dish
"She served the fruit salad in a blue bowl."
- 2.to roll a ball in cricket
"The bowler tried to bowl a perfect leg break."
- 3.a round playing field or stadium
"The stadium's bowl filled with cheering fans."
- 1.heavy stick
"He swung the club to break the padlock."
- 2.social organization
"She joined a chess club at school."
- 3.nightclub
"The club was packed with dancers until dawn."
- 1.public green space
"They had a picnic in the park yesterday."
- 2.to leave a vehicle
"Please park the car near the entrance."
- 3.to put aside
"Let's park that idea until after lunch."
- 1.aircraft
"The plane landed smoothly at sunrise."
- 2.flat surface
"Dust covered the plane of the wooden table."
- 3.carpenter's tool
"He sharpened his plane before smoothing the board."
- 1.throw
"Please pitch the tent before dark."
- 2.field or playing area
"The pitcher will pitch inside again."
- 3.tone or degree of highness
"Her voice rose to a high pitch during rehearsal."
- 1.small body of water
"A duck floated on the small pool."
- 2.combined supply of money
"Workers created a pool of donations for relief."
- 3.to share resources
"We can pool our tools for the project."
- 1.make a hole
"Drillers bore through the rock at dawn."
- 2.be dull
"The lecture began to bore everyone quickly."
- 3.the inside diameter
"Measure the bore before replacing the pipe."
- 1.journey
"Our trip to Boston took three hours."
- 2.stumble
"He might trip on the loose cable."
- 3.a quick excursion
"We took a quick trip downtown for coffee."
- 1.moving hand gesture
"She gave me a cheerful wave from the porch."
- 2.water movement
"A wave lifted the boat onto the beach."
- 3.periodic fluctuation
"Inflation showed a sudden wave in prices."
- 1.flow of water or air
"The river's current was too strong for our canoe."
- 2.present time
"Current prices are lower than they were last month."
- 3.electric flow
"The lamp needs a steady current to stay lit."
- 1.large box
"He stacked the books in a wooden crate."
- 2.to pack in a crate
"We will crate the dishes before the move."
- 3.to ruin badly
"That scandal could crate his reputation forever."
- 1.tree base left after cutting
"A rabbit vanished behind the old stump."
- 2.to puzzle or baffle
"The question seemed simple, but it stumped me completely."
- 3.a politician's speaking tour
"She spent the week on the stump across Iowa."
- 1.small burrowing animal
"A mole dug tiny tunnels under the garden."
- 2.spot on the skin
"She covered the mole on her cheek with makeup."
- 3.spy or undercover agent
"The mole reported every meeting to the police."
- 1.water bird
"A duck waddled across the pond bank."
- 2.to lower quickly
"Duck the camera lower so the picture stays level."
- 3.to avoid
"He tried to duck the question at dinner."
- 1.bus or carriage
"Take the coach to the airport after midnight."
- 2.sports trainer
"The coach drilled the team on defense today."
- 3.to instruct privately
"She hired a coach to improve her presentation skills."
- 1.past tense of leave
"She left the restaurant before dessert was served."
- 2.opposite of right
"Turn left at the next traffic light."
- 3.remaining
"Two cookies were left on the plate."
- 1.stone
"He skipped a rock across the lake."
- 2.to sway gently
"The boat began to rock in the storm."
- 3.a style of music
"They played rock all night at the club."
- 1.transparent material
"This glass shatters more easily than plastic."
- 2.drinking vessel
"She filled her glass with cold water."
- 3.a mirror or lens
"The telescope lens and the rearview glass were foggy."
- 1.flat dish
"Please set the soup on the blue plate."
- 2.metal sheet
"The worker lifted a steel plate with a crane."
- 3.a tectonic plate
"A tectonic plate shifted during the earthquake."
- 1.large wading bird
"A crane stood motionless in the marsh."
- 2.machine for lifting
"The crane lifted the concrete beam slowly."
- 3.to stretch the neck
"She had to crane her neck to see over the crowd."
- 1.type or sort
"What kind of music do you like?"
- 2.friendly and generous
"He was kind to every stray animal."
- 1.to split apart
"The lightning seemed to cleave the oak in half."
- 2.to cling closely
"She cleave to her beliefs despite criticism."
- 1.frozen rain pellets
"Hail struck the windshield during the storm."
- 2.to greet enthusiastically
"We hail the volunteers for their hard work."
- 1.legal statement of wishes after death
"Her will left the house to her niece."
- 2.future auxiliary verb
"I will call you after the meeting ends."
- 1.official account or document
"The official record confirmed the council's decision."
- 2.to put down in writing or sound
"Please record the interview before the batteries die."
- 1.sixty-second unit of time
"Wait one minute before opening the oven."
- 2.extremely small
"A minute crack ran across the glass pane."
- 1.to hit
"The boxer will strike hard with his left hand."
- 2.a work stoppage
"Workers voted to strike after contract talks failed."
- 1.drop from the eye
"A tear rolled down her cheek during the speech."
- 2.rip apart
"Be careful not to tear the paper in half."
- 1.a person who rows
"The rower pulled hard through the rough water."
- 2.a plant used in some regions
"She planted rower along the garden fence last spring."
- 1.what is inside
"The box's content was carefully listed on the label."
- 2.satisfied or pleased
"After dinner, I felt content and ready for bed."
- 1.location details
"Please print your address clearly on the envelope."
- 2.to speak to
"I will address the audience after the introduction."
- 1.a split or crack
"A cleft in the rock caught the morning light."
- 2.past tense of cleave
"The lumberjack cleft the log with one blow."
- 1.in a kind manner
"She smiled kindly at the nervous child."
- 2.a somewhat old-fashioned request word
"Kindly close the door when you leave."
- 1.part of a plant
"Each leaf turned gold as autumn arrived."
- 2.to turn pages or foliage
"He leafed through the atlas looking for Brazil."
- 1.to hit repeatedly
"The sailor will pound the metal into shape."
- 2.a unit of weight or currency
"That bag of rice weighs ten pound exactly."
- 1.a writing instrument
"She signed the letter with a fountain pen."
- 2.an enclosure for animals
"The sheep rested safely inside the pen."
- 1.a place where coins are made
"The coins were struck at the royal mint."
- 2.a herb with a fresh smell
"Fresh mint scented the tea and dessert."
- 1.a harbor for ships
"Ships crowded the harbor's port after the storm."
- 2.the left side of a ship
"The captain checked the port engine before docking."
- 1.one side of a leaf in a book
"Turn to page twelve for the full recipe."
- 2.a young servant
"The page carried luggage and fetched water quickly."
- 1.apartment
"She moved into a small flat near the station."
- 2.level or even
"Place the ruler flat against the paper."
- 1.written message
"He left a letter on my kitchen table."
- 2.character in an alphabet
"The word begins with the letter B."
- 1.connection
"The bridge creates a link between the two towns."
- 2.one part of a chain
"Add another link to the chain necklace."
- 1.strap used to strike
"The rancher carried a leather whip for training."
- 2.beat quickly until fluffy
"Whip the cream until soft peaks form."
- 1.a tongue of fire
"A flame flickered in the lantern all night."
- 2.a person one admires or dates
"He introduced his flame to all his friends."
- 1.money lent to someone
"The bank approved her loan for a new car."
- 2.to lend for temporary use
"Please loan me your screwdriver for ten minutes."
- 1.a strip of sticky material
"She sealed the box with a strip of tape."
- 2.a recording medium
"We found the old concert tape in the attic."
- 1.the atmosphere
"Fresh air filled the room after dawn."
- 2.a melody or tune
"That song's opening air still stays in my head."
- 1.collection of historical records
"The archive preserves letters from the city's founding years."
- 2.to store records
"We archive the photos digitally after each project ends."
- 1.protected from harm
"The child felt safe walking home with her sister."
- 2.a secure box for valuables
"He kept the deeds locked in a heavy safe."
- 1.very small person or being
"A dwarf guarded the tiny bridge in the tale."
- 2.stunt or hinder growth
"Cold weather can dwarf the seedlings in spring."
- 1.bubbly froth
"White foam covered the waves after the storm."
- 2.light cellular material
"The helmet used foam padding for extra protection."
- 3.to produce foam
"The detergent began to foam in the hot water."
- 1.bile
"The doctor checked the gall in the patient's bladder."
- 2.bold insolence
"His gall shocked everyone at the formal dinner."
- 3.to annoy or irritate
"Her constant complaints gall me during long meetings."
- 1.sharp shake
"The cart hit a stone and gave a violent jolt."
- 2.sudden shock
"The news sent her into a sudden jolt of fear."
- 3.to move with bumps
"The train began to jolt over the uneven track."
- 1.to argue over details
"Stop trying to stickle over every tiny rule."
- 2.a small pointed spine
"Those stickle spines make the fish hard to handle."
Food & Kitchen
154- 1.bread browned by heat
"He buttered toast for breakfast."
- 2.an expression of goodwill before drinking
"They raised a toast to the happy couple."
- 1.the fifth month
"May is usually warm and sunny here."
- 2.a type of hawthorn tree
"The may blooms along the hedge attract bees."
- 1.small edible fruit
"She picked a ripe berry from the bush."
- 2.seedlike fruit of some plants
"The berry contained one hard seed inside."
- 1.a citrus fruit
"He peeled an orange after lunch."
- 2.orange color
"She wore an orange scarf to the party."
- 1.a large bird eaten as meat
"We roasted a turkey for Thanksgiving dinner."
- 2.a foolish person
"Don't be a turkey and miss the warning."
- 1.edible seed with shell
"She cracked a walnut nut for dessert."
- 2.a foolish person
"Stop acting like a nut in class."
- 1.small green seed
"He scattered a pea beside each carrot."
- 2.a person or thing shaped like one
"The pea rolled under the table quickly."
- 1.maize
"Farmers planted corn across the whole field."
- 2.a hard callus on skin
"He got a painful corn on his toe."
- 1.pungent yellow condiment
"She spread mustard on the hot dog."
- 2.a mustard plant
"The mustard bloomed bright yellow beside the road."
- 1.preserved cucumber in brine
"He ate a pickle with his sandwich."
- 2.a troublesome situation
"Losing the keys put us in a pickle."
- 1.sweet crystalline ingredient
"Please add sugar to the tea."
- 2.to make more pleasant
"Her kind words sugar the criticism nicely."
- 1.fatty part of milk
"She skimmed cream from the top of milk."
- 2.the best part
"That dessert is the cream of the crop."
- 1.meat sauce
"The roast came with rich gravy."
- 2.easy profit or benefit
"His new job is pure gravy now."
- 1.salad sauce
"She drizzled dressing over the salad."
- 2.a medical bandage covering
"The nurse changed the dressing on his wound."
- 1.dairy spread
"He spread butter on warm toast."
- 2.to speak smoothly or flatter
"He tried to butter the boss with compliments."
- 1.dairy plant
"Milk arrives fresh from the creamery each morning."
- 2.shop selling dairy goods
"We bought cheese at the local creamery."
- 1.spiced dish
"The cook served curry with rice tonight."
- 2.to groom a horse
"She will curry the horse before the show."
- 1.a paddle sport
"We played pickleball at the community center yesterday."
- 2.a ball used in that sport
"A stray pickleball rolled under the bleachers."
- 1.sweet liquid used in cooking
"Grandma drizzled syrup over the pancakes."
- 2.a thick, overly sweet manner
"His speech sounded syrup, sweet and cloying."
- 1.slice of meat
"She ordered a steak with roasted potatoes."
- 2.a stake or interest in something
"I have a steak in this project's success."
- 1.metal rack for cooking
"He set the fish on the grill outside."
- 2.to question intensely
"Police will grill the suspect for hours."
- 1.thin mixing for frying
"Dip the chicken in batter before frying."
- 2.to hit repeatedly
"The waves batter the cliffs every winter."
- 1.hard outer bread layer
"The bread's crust was golden and crisp."
- 2.rough, hard outer covering
"Salt crust covered the boat after months at sea."
- 1.sprouted grain
"The brewer used malt for the new ale."
- 2.to turn grain into malt
"They malt the barley before fermentation begins."
- 1.edible fungus
"We found a truffle growing beneath the oak."
- 2.a chocolate confection
"She savored a truffle after dinner."
- 1.an aromatic herb
"I added fresh basil to the tomato sauce."
- 2.a male given name
"Basil arrived late to the rehearsal tonight."
- 1.aromatic herb
"Fresh thyme scented the soup beautifully."
- 2.an old spelling of time
"In old poetry, thyme meant the passage of hours."
- 1.aromatic herb
"Sage brightened the roast chicken with its aroma."
- 2.a wise person
"The village sage offered thoughtful advice."
- 1.aromatic seasoning
"The spice gave the stew a warm flavor."
- 2.to make livelier
"A joke can spice up a dull meeting."
- 1.a pickled flower bud
"The chef garnished the plate with caper buds."
- 2.a playful trick or escapade
"The boys planned a caper across the neighborhood."
- 1.a narrow split
"A crack ran across the sidewalk after winter."
- 2.a sharp sound
"We heard a crack when the branch snapped."
- 1.soft food mixture
"Stir the mash until the potatoes are smooth."
- 2.to press into a mush
"He mash the berries into a sweet paste."
- 1.to cook with intense heat
"She broil the chicken until the skin turned crisp."
- 2.a heated dispute
"Their broil over the contract lasted all afternoon."
- 1.shiny coating
"The vase had a glassy glaze that caught sunlight."
- 2.to stare with unfocused eyes
"He would glaze during lectures, staring past everyone."
- 1.a falling drop
"A drip of water echoed from the ceiling."
- 2.to become dull or unfashionable
"That old slogan began to drip after the campaign."
- 1.a plant name
"Picklewort grows wild beside the marsh in spring."
- 2.an old term for a pickled herb
"Grandmother served picklewort with vinegar at supper."
- 1.light whipped dessert
"She topped the cake with raspberry mousse."
- 2.soft texture or foam
"The engine left a thin mousse on the river."
- 1.butter-and-flour cooking base
"Melt butter, then add flour to make a roux."
- 2.a reddish-brown color
"The painter mixed a warm roux for the shadows."
- 1.to strain fine particles
"Sift the flour before mixing the batter."
- 2.to examine carefully
"We must sift the evidence carefully before deciding."
- 1.seasoning liquid for meat
"Marinate the chicken overnight in garlic and lemon."
- 2.a long soak
"He needed a long marinade before responding calmly."
- 1.a filled pastry
"The bakery sold a creamhorn filled with custard."
- 2.a horn-shaped dairy treat
"She wore a creamhorn shaped pendant from childhood."
- 1.margarine
"Margarine replaced butter; we simply called it oleo."
- 2.an old photographic slide projection
"The teacher projected slides with an old oleo."
- 1.to moisten meat while cooking
"Baste the roast every twenty minutes with pan juices."
- 2.to sew loosely with long stitches
"The tailor will baste the hem before final sewing."
- 1.to undergo chemical change in food
"Apples ferment quickly when left in a warm barrel."
- 2.to stir up strong emotion
"The accusation began to ferment anger among the crowd."
- 1.to shred food into fine pieces
"Please grate the cheese over the hot pasta."
- 2.to annoy intensely
"His constant criticism began to grate on everyone."
- 1.to soak food in seasoning
"Marinate the lamb in herbs before grilling tonight."
- 2.to steep or immerse in a liquid
"She will marinate in saline for the procedure."
- 1.to remove foam or fat from liquid
"Skim the broth to remove the extra fat."
- 2.to move lightly over a surface
"The canoe seemed to skim across the water."
- 1.to mix smoothly together
"The cook will blend the sauces until perfectly smooth."
- 2.to fit in unobtrusively
"She tried to blend into the crowd at school."
- 1.a kitchen tool for beating
"She used a whisk to beat the eggs quickly."
- 2.to move quickly away
"Hearing footsteps, the thief whisked away into darkness."
- 1.the central part of fruit or vegetable
"She sliced out the core before serving the apple."
- 2.the central or most important part
"Trust was the core of their friendship."
- 1.to cook with dry heat
"We roast vegetables until they turn tender and caramelized."
- 2.to mock harshly
"They roast the senator for every awkward speech."
- 1.having an acidic taste
"The lemon tasted sour on my tongue."
- 2.bad-tempered or unfriendly
"He became sour after losing the final game."
- 1.pleasantly sugary
"This candy is sweet and melts in your mouth."
- 2.kind or charming
"Her sweet smile calmed the frightened child."
- 1.a cold mixed dish of vegetables
"She packed a salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers."
- 2.a similar mixed food dish
"The fruit salad included melon, grapes, and berries."
- 1.a machine for blending ingredients
"The baker poured batter into the mixer."
- 2.a social gathering for meeting people
"We met at a mixer to make new friends."
- 1.a small fruit used for oil or pickling
"She added an olive to each cocktail glass."
- 2.a dull yellow-green color
"He painted the bedroom a soft olive shade."
- 1.a flavoring from orchids
"The cake was flavored with vanilla and cream."
- 2.plain or ordinary
"The report used vanilla language and simple examples."
- 1.a spicy root used in cooking
"Add grated ginger to the soup for heat."
- 2.to encourage or urge on
"The coach tried to ginger the team forward."
- 1.a yellow spice
"The curry gets its color from turmeric."
- 2.a plant of the ginger family
"Turmeric grows as a tropical plant with broad leaves."
- 1.a small dried fruit or berry
"She stirred currant into the muffin batter."
- 2.flowing electricity
"The faulty wire carried too much currant and overheated."
- 1.a small red fruit
"He ate a cherry after dinner."
- 2.fresh, new, or pristine
"The car looked cherry after the full detailing."
- 1.a stone fruit
"She split a plum and removed the pit."
- 2.a desirable or lucrative thing
"Winning that contract would be a plum for us."
- 1.a sweet fruit
"She sliced a fresh fig for breakfast."
- 2.a move in fencing
"In fencing, one fig can set up a touch."
- 1.a fruit preserve
"Grandma made strawberry jelly for the toast."
- 2.a wobbly gelatin dessert
"The dessert was wobbly jelly with fruit on top."
- 1.a milk-and-egg dessert
"She spooned warm custard into small bowls."
- 2.a pale yellow color
"The walls were painted a soft custard color."
- 1.a soft candy
"He bought fudge at the seaside candy shop."
- 2.to evade or dodge
"She tried to fudge the numbers on her tax form."
- 1.a chocolate dessert bar
"She packed a brownie for dessert after dinner."
- 2.a helpful person or spirit
"Grandma called him a brownie for helping without being asked."
- 1.a spicy tomato-based sauce
"We dipped chips into the salsa with dinner tonight."
- 2.a type of dance
"They learned salsa for the wedding and loved the rhythm."
- 1.a Spanish rice dish
"We shared paella at the Spanish restaurant last night."
- 2.a large shallow pan used for it
"She stirred the rice in a wide paella before serving."
- 1.a tomato condiment
"He put ketchup on his fries and burger."
- 2.to catch up or overtake
"Run faster, or they'll ketchup you before the finish."
- 1.a quantity made at one time
"This batch of cookies came out perfectly golden today."
- 2.a group of people or things
"A batch of students waited outside the auditorium quietly."
- 1.the act of serving food
"The service included salad, bread, and coffee afterward."
- 2.work performed for others
"Her service to the shelter earned praise from everyone."
- 1.a layered dessert
"For dessert, we served a trifle with berries and cream."
- 2.a thing of little importance
"Missing one sock is a trifle compared with losing your keys."
- 1.a large serving dish
"She carried the sandwiches on a silver platter."
- 2.a flat rock or slab
"Ancient carvings were found on the flat platter of stone."
- 1.a cooking vessel
"He stirred soup in a heavy cast-iron pot."
- 2.a large amount of money
"Winning the lawsuit could mean a pot of money."
- 1.the lower part of a chicken leg
"The roasted drumstick was the best part of dinner."
- 2.a stick used to play drums
"The drummer snapped the drumstick during the final song."
- 1.flavored liquid for food
"The pasta needed more sauce before serving."
- 2.impudent talk or attitude
"His rude sauce made everyone stare at him."
- 1.a thin cut piece
"Please take a slice of pie for yourself."
- 2.to cut into thin pieces
"Slice the bread thinly for the sandwiches."
- 1.firm and brittle texture
"The apple stayed crisp even after hours in the fridge."
- 2.fresh and cool weather
"Morning air felt crisp on the mountain trail."
- 1.a pipe or channel for water
"The sink drain was clogged with hair and soap."
- 2.to remove liquid from food
"Drain the pasta well before adding the sauce."
- 1.a metal pot for boiling water
"She boiled water in a shiny kettle."
- 2.a flock or group of hawks
"A kettle of hawks circled above the canyon."
- 1.a thin steel can
"She opened a tin of peaches for dessert."
- 2.a dull gray-white metal
"Tin is a dull gray-white metal used in alloys."
- 1.saltwater used in pickling
"The pickles sat overnight in brine for flavor."
- 2.to soak in saltwater
"He will brine the chicken before smoking it."
- 1.to make dough rise
"Yeast helps leaven the dough until it doubles."
- 2.something that lightens or enlivens
"Her cheerful joke was a leaven for the meeting."
- 1.to cook in hot fat
"She will fry the eggs in butter."
- 2.to become very hot in the sun
"The pavement can fry your feet at noon."
- 1.to cook in bubbling water
"Please boil the potatoes until they turn tender."
- 2.a painful skin swelling
"A boil on his neck kept getting larger."
- 1.burnt food or residue
"The pan was covered with black char after dinner."
- 2.to blacken by burning
"The explosion charred the wood around the doorway."
- 1.a flat cooking plate
"The pancakes cooked evenly on the hot griddle."
- 2.to make something severe or harsh
"They griddle the debate with relentless criticism."
- 1.to soak in liquid
"Steep the tea bags for five minutes."
- 2.very steep or sharply rising
"We climbed a steep hill beside the river."
- 1.a tiny piece of bread
"A crumb stuck to his shirt after lunch."
- 2.a person, especially a worthless one
"Don't be such a crumb to your sister."
- 1.a long open container for food or water
"The horse drank from the wooden trough."
- 2.the low point in a wave or economic cycle
"Sales hit a trough before recovering in spring."
- 1.unbaked bread mixture
"She kneaded the dough until it felt smooth."
- 2.slang for money
"He earned enough dough to buy a car."
- 1.a large spoon for soup
"She filled a ladle with hot chicken soup."
- 2.to serve or give out in large amounts
"They ladle praise onto every new employee."
- 1.a bowl used for grinding food or spices
"The mortar crushed the garlic into paste."
- 2.an artillery weapon
"Enemy mortar fire shook the outpost all night."
- 1.seasoned ground meat in a casing
"He grilled a sausage over the campfire."
- 2.a humorous or affectionate term for a person or pet
"Come here, you little sausage, and have a cuddle."
- 1.a small round bread roll
"She ate a bun with her coffee."
- 2.a hairstyle with the hair tied up
"Her hair was pinned into a neat bun."
- 1.a small fruit used for wine or eating
"He picked a ripe grape from the vine."
- 2.a dark purple color
"The designer chose a deep grape for the curtains."
- 1.a baked dish with filling and crust
"She baked a cherry pie for the family."
- 2.a pie chart or simple share of something
"The pie showed how the budget was divided."
- 1.cured meat from a pig
"He fried ham with eggs for breakfast."
- 2.an overacting performer
"The actor was such a ham onstage last night."
- 3.to overdo a performance
"She tends to ham every line in the play."
- 1.a soft-fleshed vegetable
"We roasted squash with olive oil and herbs."
- 2.to crush flat
"The machine can squash a can completely flat."
- 3.a game played with rackets
"She practices squash at the downtown athletic club."
- 1.a drink made from leaves in hot water
"She poured tea into a delicate porcelain cup."
- 2.a meal or snack taken in the afternoon
"We usually have tea after school with biscuits."
- 3.the letter T
"Please write the letter T on the board."
- 1.to work dough with the hands
"She will knead the dough until it feels smooth."
- 2.to massage deeply
"After hiking, the therapist knead my sore shoulders gently."
- 1.a large orange squash
"She sliced the pumpkin into pieces for soup."
- 2.a term of endearment
"Come here, pumpkin, and let me hug you."
- 1.a dish of slowly cooked meat and vegetables
"The stew simmered all afternoon with carrots and beef."
- 2.to remain in worry or agitation
"He would stew over the mistake for days afterward."
- 1.the amount held by a bowl
"He ate a bowlful of cereal before school."
- 2.an amount of a bowl-shaped object
"A bowlful of apples sat beside the sink."
- 1.a food paste or topping
"I like toast with strawberry spread in the morning."
- 2.to extend over an area
"Fog can spread quickly across the valley at dawn."
- 1.a fungus growth
"Green mould spread across the forgotten bread."
- 2.a form used to shape food
"The batter set neatly in the mould."
- 1.a leavening fungus
"The baker added yeast to help the dough rise."
- 2.to ferment or rise
"Warm conditions let the dough yeast overnight."
- 1.a small baked bread item
"She buttered a warm biscuit for breakfast."
- 2.a type of hard serving plate
"The dessert was served on a blue biscuit."
- 1.a stoneware pot
"Grandma stored pickles in a heavy crock."
- 2.to break down or decay
"Without care, those plans will crock over time."
- 1.a tool for shredding food
"He used a grater to shred the carrots."
- 2.something or someone that irritates
"Her constant complaints made her a grater at work."
- 1.a protective coating
"The wood received a clear shellac for protection."
- 2.to defeat decisively
"Our team shellac'd the champions in straight sets."
- 1.a boneless cut of meat or fish
"I ordered a salmon fillet for dinner."
- 2.to remove bones or skin
"Please fillet the trout before cooking it."
- 1.a block-shaped bread
- 2.to idle or shirk work
"He bought a loaf, then chose to loaf by the stove."
- 1.a spicy seasoning
- 2.to sprinkle with small items
"He likes pepper on eggs, and she peppered the salad with herbs."
- 1.a layered vegetable
- 2.an edible plant bulb
"She chopped an onion for soup and stored another onion on the rack."
- 1.an edible seed or pod
- 2.a person's head
"He cooked the bean, then tapped his bean to think."
- 1.a shrubby plant
- 2.a dull gray-brown color
"The sagebrush grew near the path, and his coat was sagebrush in tone."
- 1.sweet confection
- 2.to become crystallized with sugar
"The candy was sticky, and the fruit began to candy in syrup."
- 1.shredded salad, often with dressing
- 2.a loose mixture or hodgepodge
"The slaw was crisp, and the recipe became a slaw of leftovers."
- 1.a root vegetable
- 2.a type of red dye color
"She roasted beet for dinner and chose a beet apron."
- 1.a dried grape
- 2.something that causes irritation
"She added a raisin to the cereal and called the delay a raisin in her day."
- 1.fermented apple drink
- 2.apple juice used for cooking
"They drank cider and simmered cider for the glaze."
- 1.the watery part of milk
- 2.a byproduct left after curdling
"The cheese curds released whey, and the whey was strained off."
- 1.the core of an ear of corn
- 2.a sturdy horse
"She husked the cob while the cob pulled the cart."
- 1.a baked fruit dessert with a crumb topping
- 2.to break into small pieces
"We shared a crumble after the cake began to crumble."
- 1.sweet dough baked with filling or topping
- 2.a dough product made for pies and tarts
"The pastry was warm, and the pastry sheet was ready on the table."
- 1.a root vegetable
"We roasted a turnip with carrots for dinner."
- 2.a bulbous storage organ
"The tulip bulb stores food underground like a turnip."
- 1.a small bite of food
"She took a morsel of bread and smiled."
- 2.a small amount or piece
"He offered a morsel of advice before leaving."
- 1.a kitchen heating appliance
"The stove warmed the whole kitchen on winter nights."
- 2.to bathe in steam
"After the hike, we stove in the sauna."
- 1.chopped food mixture
"Mom made a hash of potatoes and onions."
- 2.a confused mess
"The paperwork became a hash after the merger."
- 1.materials used for filling
"We packed the boxes with soft stuff for shipping."
- 2.things or matter in general
"There was stuff everywhere after the garage cleanup."
- 3.to fill tightly
"Please stuff the pillow until it feels firm."
- 1.to break violently
"One hard blow can smash the glass instantly."
- 2.a crushed food mixture
"She served a smash of bananas and cream."
- 1.the yellow center of an egg
"The yolk was bright gold in the fried egg."
- 2.the part of an egg used in cooking
"Use only the yolk for this custard recipe."
- 1.coagulated milk
"Warm milk began to curd after adding lemon."
- 2.to form curds
"The cream will curd if heated too quickly."
- 1.an appetizer
"We started with soup as the starter tonight."
- 2.a device that starts a machine
"The lawnmower needs a new starter before it runs again."
- 1.a toasted sandwich
"She made a toastie for lunch with cheese and tomato."
- 2.warm and cozy, informal
"After the fire, they felt toastie by the hearth."
- 1.a thin soup stock
"The broth simmered gently with herbs and vegetables."
- 2.a family or social group
"That argument split the broth into two rival camps."
- 1.to cut meat into slices
"Carve the roast before serving everyone at dinner."
- 2.to shape by cutting
"He can carve intricate birds from oak wood."
- 1.liquid from fruit or meat
"Fresh orange juice dripped onto the kitchen counter."
- 2.energy or power
"That old engine still has enough juice to climb hills."
- 1.a light tap
"She gave the dog a gentle pat on the head."
- 2.a small piece or lump
"The sauce had a pat of butter melting on top."
- 1.a small open fruit pie
"We shared a warm apple tart after dinner."
- 2.sharp or sour in taste
"The lemon was too tart for my taste."
- 1.sour liquid made from alcohol
"He splashed vinegar into the salad dressing."
- 2.a sharp-tongued person
"Don't be a vinegar; everyone is already nervous."
- 1.food eaten at a time
"We ate a hearty meal after the concert."
- 2.coarsely ground grain
"He ground the meal into flour for bread."
- 1.a room for storing food
"Please put the milk back in the pantry."
- 2.the office of a pantryman
"The pantry held canned soup, flour, and pasta."
- 1.a liquid food dish
"He ordered chicken soup for lunch."
- 2.to increase engine power informally
"The mechanic decided to soup the engine for racing."
- 3.to denature a photograph chemically
"The lab will soup the photo to darken the image."
- 1.underground storage room
"We kept the jam in the cool cellar."
- 2.to store in a cellar
"They cellar the wine every autumn."
- 3.to sell at a low price
"The store will cellar the jackets this weekend."
- 1.edible grain
"Rice is served with curry at dinner."
- 2.to force someone to do something by pressure
"The boss tried to rice him into resigning."
- 3.to praise excessively
"She kept trying to rice the committee with compliments."
- 1.to flow out
"Water began to pour from the cracked pipe."
- 2.to serve a drink
"Please pour the tea into my cup."
- 3.to rain heavily
"It will pour all afternoon, so bring an umbrella."
- 1.rendered pig fat
"The stew tasted richer with a spoonful of lard."
- 2.to smear with lard
"She would lard the pan before baking."
- 3.to fill or stuff heavily
"He tried to lard the report with too many details."
- 1.to cook with dry heat
"She will bake bread every Sunday morning."
- 2.a baked dish
"The cook made a savory bake for supper."
- 3.to become hot under the sun
"We sat there and began to bake in the sun."
- 1.put into a jar
"She jarred the peaches with cinnamon and sugar."
- 2.shaken abruptly
"The truck jarred violently over the broken bridge."
- 1.the outer skin of fruit or cheese
"The orange rind was bitter, so she peeled it."
- 2.the hard outer layer of something
"The tree bark had a hard rind after winter."
- 1.a large cooking pot
"She lifted the soup in a heavy stockpot."
- 2.a pot used for making stock
"The chef simmered bones all day in one stockpot."
Homonyms beginning with A
78- 1.to influence
"Cold weather can affect how quickly cars start."
- 2.to pretend to feel
"She tried to affect sadness, but smiled too soon."
- 3.an outward emotional display
"His affect was flat during the interview."
- 1.to descend and settle
"The bird will alight on the branch at dusk."
- 2.to be on fire
"The dry grass began to alight after the lightning strike."
- 1.a partner or supporter
"Canada became a wartime ally of Britain."
- 2.to join or connect
"A small metal ring can ally two chains together."
- 1.a device that holds a ship in place
"The anchor kept the boat steady in the harbor."
- 2.a trusted news presenter
"The anchor delivered the evening news calmly tonight."
- 3.to secure firmly
"Workers anchor the cabinet to the wall."
- 1.a heavenly being
"The statue looked like an angel in the sunlight."
- 2.a very kind person
"You were an angel to stay and help me."
- 3.a large financial supporter
"The museum thanked its angel with a special plaque."
- 1.the space between two lines
"A right angle measures ninety degrees exactly."
- 2.a viewpoint or approach
"We need a fresh angle for this advertising campaign."
- 3.to fish with a hook and line
"They angle for trout along the rocky stream."
- 1.a request for help or support
"She sent an appeal for donations after the fire."
- 2.a quality of being attractive
"The mural's bright colors gave the cafe real appeal."
- 3.to challenge a decision
"They decided to appeal the verdict next month."
- 1.creative skill or work
"Painting and sculpture are forms of art."
- 2.a practical method or knack
"He has the art of calming angry customers."
- 1.speech to the audience
"She made an aside to the audience about fate."
- 2.something set apart or reserved
"The velvet chair was kept aside for guests."
- 3.to put to one side
"Please set the boxes aside until tomorrow."
- 1.a test for metal content
"The lab performed an assay to measure the ore's gold content."
- 2.an analysis or examination
"Her essay was an assay of modern urban loneliness."
- 3.to attempt or try
"They will assay to cross the river before dusk."
- 1.protection granted to refugees
"The country offered asylum to families fleeing the war."
- 2.a hospital for the mentally ill
"The old asylum closed after new treatments replaced it."
- 1.a book of maps
"I packed an atlas for our cross-country road trip."
- 2.the top vertebra of the spine
"He fractured the atlas vertebra during the accident."
- 3.a supporting pillar
"The marble atlas held up the balcony above."
- 1.the smallest unit of an element
"A carbon atom is the smallest unit of that element."
- 2.a tiny amount
"Only an atom of salt remained in the bowl."
- 1.a room under a roof
"We stored old photographs in the dusty attic."
- 2.relating to ancient Athens
"The historian studied attic pottery and sculpture styles."
- 1.an omen or sign
"The rainbow was taken as an auspice of good weather."
- 2.protection or sponsorship
"Under the university's auspice, the festival became annual."
- 1.a typical amount
"His average salary barely covered the rent."
- 2.the arithmetic mean
"The teacher calculated the average of three quiz scores."
- 3.to work out a mean
"Researchers average the data before publishing the results."
- 1.a prize or honor
"She received an award for community service."
- 2.to grant legally or officially
"The court will award custody to the mother."
- 1.a jump in skating
"He landed a clean axel in the skating routine."
- 2.a vehicle axle
"The mechanic replaced the broken axel on the truck."
- 1.an imaginary line of rotation
"Earth spins around its axis once every twenty-four hours."
- 2.a central or main line of organization
"The river valley formed the axis of the region's trade."
- 1.yes
"Aye, I'll help you move on Saturday."
- 2.a vote in favor
"The committee passed the motion by a loud aye."
- 1.a tool for chopping
"He swung the axe to split the oak logs."
- 2.to cut or cancel
"Managers will axe three departments next month."
- 1.to present reasons in debate
"I argue that public transit should be expanded."
- 2.to show by reasoning
"The size of the library argues its importance to town life."
- 1.a fleet of warships
"An armada of warships blocked the harbor at dawn."
- 2.a large organized group
"An armada of volunteers cleaned the beach after sunrise."
- 1.the buttocks
"He fell hard on his arse after slipping."
- 2.a foolish person
"Don't be such an arse in meetings."
- 1.skillful and clever
"She gave an artful answer that solved everything."
- 2.cunning or sly
"His artful remarks hid a much meaner plan."
- 1.to attribute to a source
"Critics ascribe the novel's success to its vivid dialogue."
- 2.to credit as caused by
"She ascribe her recovery to the new treatment."
- 1.a particular part or feature
"One important aspect of asthma is careful inhaler use."
- 2.a way of viewing something
"From a historical aspect, the war changed everything."
- 1.toward the rear of a ship or aircraft
"The cargo shifted astern as the ship hit waves."
- 2.behind
"The dog trotted astern of us on the path."
- 1.to break into tiny particles
"The blast can atomize the metal into fine dust."
- 2.to reduce to small separate units
"Policy changes atomize the workforce into isolated contractors."
- 1.upper chambers of the heart
"The atria pump blood into the heart's lower chambers."
- 2.entrance halls or courtyards
"We met in the atria beneath the glass roof."
- 1.a distinctive atmosphere
"The town has an aura of sleepy seaside calm."
- 2.a supposed glow around a person or thing
"Witnesses claimed a faint aura surrounded the statue."
- 1.relating to birds
"Avian influenza spreads quickly among wild birds."
- 2.a birdlike creature in fiction
"The novel featured an avian guiding the hero home."
- 1.granted as a prize
"She was awarded a scholarship for her research."
- 2.decided in favor of
"The court awarded custody to the mother yesterday."
- 1.use or benefit
"There is little avail in arguing with him."
- 2.to help or serve
"The ladder will avail you during the inspection."
- 1.a slow relaxed walk
"They took an evening amble along the river."
- 2.to move at an easy pace
"We amble home after dinner whenever the weather is warm."
- 1.likely or inclined
"He is apt to forget names in crowds."
- 2.quick to learn
"She is apt for chemistry and learns fast."
- 3.appropriate or fitting
"Blue curtains are apt for this small room."
- 1.a shady garden shelter
"They sat under the arbor to escape the sun."
- 2.a porch or leafy bower
"The arbor dripped with roses beside the porch."
- 1.a banded gemstone
"The ring held a blue agate set in gold."
- 2.a type of print size in old typography
"Printers once used agate for tiny classified advertisements."
- 1.having the ability
"She is able to lift the box alone."
- 2.having a tilted back
"The chair is able at the back for reclining."
- 1.concerning a topic
"We're talking about your travel plans tonight."
- 2.moving around
"The dog ran about the yard until sunset."
- 1.pronunciation feature
"Her accent marked her as being from Dublin."
- 2.emphasis mark or stress
"Add an accent over the final letter here."
- 1.to combine numerically
"If you add three and four, you get seven."
- 2.to attach or include
"Please add your signature to the bottom line."
- 1.guidance or counsel
"My advice is to bring water on the hike."
- 2.a business notice or statement
"The newspaper printed advice about the new tax rule."
- 1.a warning signal
"The smoke alarm woke everyone before dawn."
- 2.sudden fear or concern
"Her alarm grew as the storm clouds thickened."
- 1.a foreigner
"As a legal alien, she renewed her visa yearly."
- 2.an extraterrestrial being
"The comic claims an alien landed behind the barn."
- 1.a metallic mixture
"Copper and nickel form a durable alloy for coins."
- 2.to lessen purity or quality
"That rumor could alloy his reputation and honesty."
- 1.to change
"Plans may alter after new evidence arrives."
- 2.to tailor clothes
"The tailor can alter your jacket sleeves quickly."
- 1.to entertain
"The clown will amuse the children with tricks."
- 2.to occupy pleasantly
"Reading novels can amuse her on rainy afternoons."
- 1.to connect in thought
"People often associate rain clouds with storms."
- 2.a colleague or companion
"She is a trusted associate in the firm."
- 1.indicating location
"We met at the station before dawn."
- 2.indicating a target or state
"He stared at the goal with determination."
- 1.an official examination of accounts
"The university will audit last year's spending carefully."
- 2.to attend a class without credit
"She chose to audit chemistry without earning credit."
- 1.a writer
"Shakespeare is a famous author of tragedies."
- 2.to originate or create
"The committee can author new safety rules today."
- 1.a flower in the daisy family
"Purple asters bloomed along the garden fence."
- 2.a star-shaped symbol
"Place an aster beside the typo in your draft."
- 3.a star in astronomy
"The aster shone faintly in the night sky."
- 1.consumed food
"She ate lunch quickly before the meeting started."
- 2.destroyed or used up
"The fire ate through the dry wooden shed."
- 3.the past tense of 'eat'
"He ate the apple after school yesterday."
- 1.a seabird
"The auk nested on the rocky coastal ledge."
- 2.a fool or simpleton
"Everyone called him an auk after that silly mistake."
- 3.a prank or hoax
"The auction turned into a cruel auk on buyers."
- 1.a pointed tool for making holes
"Use an awl to punch holes in the leather."
- 2.a small furrow or scratch
"The horse's flank had a tiny awl from brushing the fence."
- 3.to pierce with an awl
"He awl-ed the canvas carefully before stitching it."
- 1.a rod on which wheels turn
"The broken axle kept the cart from moving."
- 2.a central supporting axis
"The axle of command ran through the entire company."
- 3.a pivot point
"The dancer used the stage as an axle for turns."
- 1.help or assistance
"The shelter offered aid after the storm."
- 2.to assist or support
"Three volunteers aid the rescue crew every weekend."
- 3.an assistant or helper
"She was the doctor's best aid in surgery."
- 1.money given to the poor
"She handed alms to the beggar outside church."
- 2.charitable gifts
"The village collected alms for flood victims."
- 3.a donation for relief
"His alms helped buy blankets for displaced families."
- 1.fossilized tree resin
"Amber preserved the insect perfectly for scientists."
- 2.a yellow-brown color
"Her amber necklace caught the light beautifully."
- 3.a traffic signal meaning caution
"The light turned amber, so drivers slowed down."
- 1.a stake put up before a game
"The poker game began with a ten-dollar ante."
- 2.to contribute beforehand
"Players ante before each round starts tonight."
- 3.something paid in advance
"He paid the ante for tomorrow's tournament."
- 1.a part of a circle
"Draw a sharp arc between the two points."
- 2.a lightning discharge
"The storm sent a blue arc across the sky."
- 3.a curved movement or path
"Her arm traced an arc through the air."
- 1.exist; be
"Living in peace and freedom, all people are equal."
- 2.a unit of area
"This garden covers an area of two are."
- 3.plural present tense of 'be'
"They are ready for dinner after school."
- 1.a variant of 'ace' in some dialects
"In some dialects, ase means ace at cards."
- 2.a very small quantity
"Add only a tiny ase of salt."
- 3.to wither or diminish
"The flowers ase quickly in the hot wind."
- 1.a donkey
"The farmer led the ass back to the stable."
- 2.a foolish person
"Stop acting like an ass in front of everyone."
- 3.the buttocks
"He fell and landed hard on his ass."
- 1.in the past
"That happened many years ago, long before I was born."
- 2.before now; earlier
"I finished dinner ago before the movie started."
- 3.a former state or period
"In his ago, the village had no paved roads."
- 1.to calm or reduce
"The coach's words allay the team's worries before kickoff."
- 2.to soothe fear or pain
"Her gentle voice allay the child's fear of needles."
- 3.to lessen intensity
"Cool water can allay the burn's intense pain."
- 1.a sacred table in worship
"Candles burned quietly beside the altar during prayer."
- 2.a place of sacrifice
"Ancient tribes used the altar for offerings to gods."
- 3.a focal point of ritual
"The altar became the focus of the wedding ritual."
- 1.an old collectible object
"She found an antique at the flea market today."
- 2.belonging to an earlier period
"That antique clock still works after a century."
- 3.to give something an aged appearance
"The designer tried to antique the cabinet with paint."
- 1.in the role of
"She worked as a nurse in a busy clinic."
- 2.while or when
"As the sun set, the birds grew silent."
- 3.because
"He left early as he felt suddenly ill."
- 1.a sweet aromatic herb
"Anise grows well in warm gardens."
- 2.a flavoring seed used in cooking
"She added anise to the cookies for extra flavor."
- 3.the taste or scent of the plant
"The tea had a sweet anise scent."
- 1.decrease in intensity
"The pain began to abate after midnight."
- 2.make less severe
"Warm tea can abate the soreness."
- 3.to weaken
"The winds abate as the storm moves east."
- 1.give up a throne
"The king decided to abdicate the throne."
- 2.formally renounce power
"Under pressure, she chose to abdicate power."
- 3.step down from rule
"The monarch will abdicate next spring."
- 1.kidnap
"The kidnappers planned to abduct the diplomat at dawn."
- 2.carry off by force
"Bandits abduct travelers from the mountain road by force."
- 3.take away illegally
"The clerk tried to abduct office funds from the accounts."
- 1.not present
"She was absent from school all week."
- 2.away from a place
"He stayed absent from the office during the storm."
- 3.missing
"The report is absent a crucial signature."
- 1.existing in thought only
"Her fear of ghosts was purely abstract, not real."
- 2.a summary of a document
"I read the abstract before tackling the full article."
- 3.theoretical and not concrete
"The professor discussed abstract ideas about justice and freedom."
- 1.the ability to enter
"Her key card gives her access to the lab."
- 2.a way in
"A hidden tunnel provided access into the castle."
- 3.permission to use
"Only engineers have access to the control software."
- 1.agreement
"The two neighbors reached accord after long talks."
- 2.a formal treaty
"They signed a peace accord ending the border conflict."
- 3.to give as a favor
"He would accord her special treatment on her birthday."
Homonyms beginning with B
10- 1.a cluster of things tied together
"She tied the flowers into a neat bunch."
- 2.a group of people
"A bunch of students gathered after class."
- 1.a soothing ointment
"She applied balm to soothe the dry skin."
- 2.comfort or relief
"His kind words brought balm after the bad news."
- 1.a brass horn
"The bugle sounded at sunrise across camp."
- 2.a plant in the mint family
"Blue bugle grows beautifully in the shaded garden."
- 1.to break open suddenly
"The balloon burst when it hit the nail."
- 2.a sudden short period
"We had a burst of laughter during dinner."
- 1.money for temporary release from custody
"They paid bail and left the courthouse."
- 2.to scoop water out of a boat
"He bailed water from the leaking rowboat."
- 1.a baby's small bed
"The newborn slept peacefully in the bassinet."
- 2.a light boat's cradle?
"We secured the small boat in the bassinet."
- 1.a low woody plant
"A bush grew beside the garden gate."
- 2.pubic hair
"He felt embarrassed to find a bush there."
- 1.a wheelbarrow
"He hauled soil in a rusty barrow."
- 2.a burial mound
"Ancient bones lay beneath the old barrow."
- 1.an offensive slur
"That slur is hateful, so don't say beaner."
- 2.a bean-shaped object?
"The beaner rolled off the counter and cracked."
- 1.to cry loudly
"The child began to bawl after falling."
- 2.to shout
"He will bawl orders across the noisy yard."
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