Plurals

Plurals are the forms we use when we mean more than one person, animal, thing, or idea. In English, they are often made by adding -s or -es to a singular noun, so one book becomes two books and one bus becomes several buses. Some nouns change in less regular ways, such as child becoming children, while others look the same in both forms, like sheep. Understanding plurals helps you recognise how nouns behave and how quantity is shown in everyday English, from simple descriptions to more precise writing.

Using plurals correctly matters because they affect grammar, agreement, and clarity. A sentence sounds unfinished or confusing if singular and plural forms do not match, especially when nouns work with verbs, determiners, and possessives. If you are speaking or writing for study, work, or daily life, accurate plural forms make your meaning easier to follow and give your English a more natural rhythm. On this page, you can explore the main patterns, common exceptions, and useful examples so you can spot the rules, notice the irregular forms, and practise using plurals with confidence in your own sentences.

4,980 entries in this category

Abstract Nouns

35
ideaideas

"Her ideas helped the team solve the problem."

reasonreasons

"The reasons for the delay were explained clearly."

planplans

"The plans changed after the meeting."

goalgoals

"The players set clear goals for the season."

dreamdreams

"Their dreams kept them motivated."

hopehopes

"The community still has hopes for a better future."

fearfears

"He faced his fears and spoke in public."

loveloves

"Her loves in life are family, books, and music."

hatehates

"The child voiced several hates during the game."

truthtruths

"The novel explores uncomfortable truths."

factfacts

"We checked the facts before publishing the report."

opinionopinions

"Everyone shared their opinions at the table."

decisiondecisions

"The board announced its decisions on Friday."

choicechoices

"Her choices reflected careful thinking."

promisepromises

"They kept their promises to help."

doubtdoubts

"He had doubts about the results."

trusttrusts

"The two trusts support local charities."

faithfaiths

"The museum displayed artifacts from different faiths."

couragecourages

"The story celebrates the courages of ordinary people."

honorhonors

"The school gave honors to the top students."

prideprides

"Their city takes pride in its traditions."

justicejustices

"The court system seeks justices for all citizens."

freedomfreedoms

"The bill protects basic freedoms."

peacepeaces

"The treaty aimed to create lasting peaces between the nations."

warwars

"The book describes the causes of past wars."

workworks

"Her works were displayed in the gallery."

effortefforts

"Their efforts finally paid off."

progressprogresses

"The company reviewed its progresses over time."

successsuccesses

"The group celebrated several successes."

failurefailures

"We learned more from our failures than from our wins."

problemproblems

"The teacher solved the problems quickly."

questionquestions

"The student asked thoughtful questions."

answeranswers

"The test included many answers to check."

changechanges

"The changes improved the design."

growthgrowths

"The report tracked the growths of the company over a decade."

Animals

37
pigpigs

"The pigs rolled in the mud."

rabbitrabbits

"The rabbits nibbled the grass."

lionlions

"The lions rested in the shade."

tigertigers

"The tigers paced behind the glass."

bearbears

"The bears came out of the cave."

duckducks

"The ducks swam across the pond."

swanswans

"The swans glided across the water."

eagleeagles

"The eagles circled above the cliff."

hawkhawks

"The hawks watched from the tree."

crowcrows

"The crows gathered in the field."

sparrowsparrows

"The sparrows hopped along the path."

owlowls

"The owls called from the dark woods."

frogfrogs

"The frogs croaked near the pond."

toadtoads

"The toads sat on the damp stones."

snakesnakes

"The snakes slipped under the rocks."

lizardlizards

"The lizards warmed themselves in the sun."

turtleturtles

"The turtles moved slowly through the sand."

frogmouthfrogmouths

"The frogmouths are known for their wide mouths."

otterotters

"The otters played in the river."

beaverbeavers

"The beavers built a dam."

hamsterhamsters

"The hamsters ran in their wheels."

ratrats

"The rats slipped into the cellar."

batbats

"The bats flew out at twilight."

camelcamels

"The camels carried supplies across the desert."

donkeydonkeys

"The donkeys brayed in the stable."

monkeymonkeys

"The monkeys swung through the trees."

apeapes

"The apes shared the fruit."

zebrazebras

"The zebras stood near the watering hole."

hippohippos

"The hippos stayed in the river."

sealseals

"The seals basked on the rocks."

whalewhales

"The whales surfaced near the boat."

dolphindolphins

"The dolphins leaped beside the ship."

sharksharks

"The sharks circled far below."

crabcrabs

"The crabs scuttled across the sand."

lobsterlobsters

"The lobsters were kept in a tank."

antants

"The ants carried crumbs away."

chickenchickens

"The chickens pecked at the grain."

Animals & Nature

36
antelopeantelopes

"Antelopes ran swiftly across the open grassland."

chipmunkchipmunks

"Chipmunks darted between the rocks near the trail."

ferretferrets

"Ferrets played in the straw-lined enclosure."

grasshoppergrasshoppers

"Grasshoppers jumped through the tall grass."

hedgehoghedgehogs

"Hedgehogs curled up beneath the hedge."

hummingbirdhummingbirds

"Hummingbirds flashed past the feeder."

iguanaiguanas

"Iguanas basked on the warm stones."

minkminks

"Minks slipped along the riverbank."

peacockpeacocks

"Peacocks fanned their feathers in the courtyard."

squirrelsquirrels

"Squirrels buried nuts beneath the oak tree."

swallowswallows

"Swallows skimmed low over the field."

tadpoletadpoles

"Tadpoles wriggled in the shallow pond."

cranecranes

"Cranes stalked through the marsh."

finchfinches

"Finches gathered at the feeder."

clamclams

"Clams buried themselves in the sand."

badgerbadgers

"Badgers live in underground burrows."

porcupineporcupines

"Porcupines use their quills for defense."

lemurlemurs

"Lemurs gathered in the treetops."

chimpanzeechimpanzees

"Chimpanzees used sticks to reach food."

orangutanorangutans

"Orangutans swung from branch to branch."

baboonbaboons

"Baboons traveled in large troops."

crocodilecrocodiles

"Crocodiles basked along the muddy bank."

alligatoralligators

"Alligators slipped into the water."

snailsnails

"Snails left silver trails on the path."

salamandersalamanders

"Salamanders hid under damp stones."

newtnewts

"Newts appeared after the rain."

pumapumas

"Pumas live in rocky mountain regions."

polar bearpolar bears

"Polar bears roam across the Arctic ice."

coyotecoyotes

"Coyotes howled from the hills."

harehares

"The hares darted away across the field."

yakyaks

"The yaks climbed the mountain trail."

stagstags

"Stags clashed antlers in the rut."

spiderspiders

"The spiders spun webs in the corner."

fungifungi

"The fungi spread quickly in the warm, wet soil."

platypusplatypuses, platypus

"The platypuses swam quietly along the bank."

ladybugladybugs

"The ladybugs rested on the leaf."

Body & Health

47
intestineintestines

"The intestines absorb most of the nutrients."

bladderbladders

"Older adults sometimes need to monitor their bladders."

pancreaspancreases

"The pancreas helps regulate blood sugar."

brainbrains

"Scientists studied how the brains responded to the stimulus."

skullskulls

"The fossils included several intact skulls."

bonebones

"Calcium-rich diets help keep bones strong."

arteryarteries

"Blocked arteries can lead to serious illness."

arteriolearterioles

"Blood flows through the arterioles into capillaries."

capillarycapillaries

"Capillaries deliver oxygen to nearby tissues."

eyelasheyelashes

"Mascara can make eyelashes look longer."

eyeballeyeballs

"The exam checked both eyeballs for inflammation."

gumgums

"Healthy gums are important for good oral health."

foreheadforeheads

"Cold compresses were placed on their foreheads."

browbrows

"Sweat ran down their brows."

thighthighs

"The athlete's thighs were sore after training."

waistlinewaistlines

"The tailor measured their waistlines."

cartilagecartilages

"Some cartilages harden with age."

teethteeth

"The dentist cleaned the children's teeth."

lipidlipids

"The test measured lipids in the blood."

glandglands

"Swollen glands can be a sign of illness."

bicepbiceps

"He flexed his biceps in the mirror."

shinshins

"He scraped both shins on the stone."

coughcoughs

"Several coughs echoed in the quiet room."

symptomsymptoms

"The patient described her symptoms clearly."

bone marrowbone marrows

"The doctors examined the bone marrows carefully."

circulationcirculations

"The tests showed improved circulations in both patients."

fingertipfingertips

"The nurse checked the color of his fingertips."

immune systemimmune systems

"Healthy immune systems help fight infection."

pulsepulses

"The nurse checked both pulses."

painpains

"She felt sharp pains in her side."

salivasalivas

"Samples of salivas were collected for testing."

sweatsweats

"After the workout, their sweats soaked through their shirts."

bruisebruises

"The bruises faded after a few days."

tumortumors

"The tests showed the tumors were benign."

bacteriabacterias

"Bacterias spread quickly in warm, damp places."

treatmenttreatments

"New treatments are being developed each year."

bandagebandages

"We bought more bandages for the first-aid kit."

castcasts

"The children signed the casts with markers."

clinicclinics

"Several clinics opened in the neighborhood this year."

buttockbuttocks

"The exercise targets the buttocks."

pelvispelves, pelvises

"The scans showed no damage to their pelvises."

nervous systemnervous systems

"Injuries can affect the nervous systems of many animals."

blood vesselblood vessels

"Tiny blood vessels carry oxygen throughout the body."

vein valvevein valves

"Damaged vein valves can cause swelling in the legs."

muscle fibermuscle fibers

"Hard training can enlarge muscle fibers."

bicepsbiceps

"His biceps were tired after lifting weights."

saliva glandsaliva glands

"Inflammation of the saliva glands can be painful."

Body Parts

35
headheads

"The heads of the statues were carved from marble."

facefaces

"Their faces lit up when they heard the news."

eyeeyes

"She closed her eyes and took a deep breath."

earears

"The rabbit's ears stood straight up."

nosenoses

"Their noses were red from the cold."

mouthmouths

"The babies opened their mouths for food."

tonguetongues

"The children stuck out their tongues playfully."

liplips

"Her lips curved into a smile."

chinchins

"They rested their chins on their hands."

necknecks

"The giraffes stretched their necks toward the leaves."

shouldershoulders

"He carried the boxes on his shoulders."

armarms

"The dancers raised their arms together."

elbowelbows

"She tucked her elbows close to her body."

wristwrists

"The nurse checked their wrists carefully."

handhands

"We washed our hands before dinner."

thumbthumbs

"They gave their thumbs a rest after the game."

backbacks

"The hikers had sore backs after the climb."

chestchests

"The soldiers stood with their chests out."

stomachstomachs

"Their stomachs rumbled during the long meeting."

waistwaists

"The belts fit tightly around their waists."

hiphips

"The dancers swayed their hips to the music."

leglegs

"The runners stretched their legs before the race."

kneeknees

"She knelt down and scraped her knees."

ankleankles

"He twisted both ankles during training."

heelheels

"Her heels were sore after the long walk."

toetoes

"He wiggled his toes in the sand."

spinespines

"The doctor examined their spines carefully."

jawjaws

"The dog opened its jaws wide."

cheekcheeks

"The wind burned their cheeks as they walked."

eyebroweyebrows

"She raised her eyebrows in surprise."

eyelideyelids

"The medicine helped soothe their eyelids."

nostrilnostrils

"Cold air filled their nostrils."

throatthroats

"Their throats were dry after the hike."

ribribs

"The x-ray showed several ribs clearly."

hipbonehipbones

"The doctor pressed gently on their hipbones."

Clothing & Accessories

26
jacketjackets

"We bought new jackets for the trip."

capcaps

"The caps are on the shelf."

bootboots

"The boots are covered in mud."

beltbelts

"These belts are made of leather."

tieties

"The ties are too colorful for the office."

glovegloves

"The gloves are in my pocket."

sweatersweaters

"The sweaters are folded on the table."

skirtskirts

"The skirts are on sale this week."

jeanjeans

"The jeans are on the chair."

vestvests

"The vests are part of the uniform."

suitsuits

"The suits are hanging in the wardrobe."

blouseblouses

"The blouses are made of silk."

brabras

"The bras are in the top drawer."

underwearunderwear

"The underwear is packed in the suitcase."

ringrings

"The rings are kept in a small box."

braceletbracelets

"The bracelets are made of silver."

earringearrings

"The earrings are missing one pair."

pursepurses

"The purses are on the counter."

umbrellaumbrellas

"The umbrellas are by the door."

sunglassessunglasses

"The sunglasses are on the table."

trousertrousers

"His trousers are hanging neatly."

blazerblazers

"Those blazers are very formal."

pajamapajamas

"Their pajamas are still on the bed."

apronaprons

"The aprons are clean and folded."

pocketpockets

"His pockets are full of coins."

collarcollars

"The collars are too tight for him."

Clothing & Home

42
cardigancardigans

"The cardigans are folded on the sofa."

swimsuitswimsuits

"The swimsuits are packed in the travel bag."

nightgownnightgowns

"The nightgowns are made of silk."

bathrobebathrobes

"The bathrobes are hanging on the bathroom door."

mittenmittens

"The mittens are wet from the snow."

loaferloafers

"The loafers are polished for the meeting."

zipperzippers

"The zippers are stuck on both jackets."

sleevesleeves

"The sleeves are rolled up for work."

slipperslippers

"The slippers are next to the bed."

seamseams

"The seams are reinforced for durability."

quiltquilts

"The quilts are kept in the top drawer."

roberobes

"The robes were folded in the bathroom."

jumpsuitjumpsuits

"The jumpsuits were hanging in a row."

coatdresscoatdresses

"The coatdresses were tailored for formal events."

tanktoptanktops

"The tanktops were packed for summer."

bootsboots

"The boots were muddy after the hike."

duvetduvets

"The duvets were stored in vacuum bags."

placematplacemats

"The placemats were set for dinner."

pillowcasepillowcases

"The pillowcases were embroidered with flowers."

bedsheetbedsheets

"The bedsheets were changed this morning."

dresserdressers

"The dressers were painted white."

faucetfaucets

"The faucets were repaired this morning."

hoodiehoodies

"The hoodies are all black."

tiebacktiebacks

"The tiebacks are used for the curtains."

bathtubbathtubs

"The bathtubs are being remodeled."

sandalssandals

"The sandals were left on the porch."

capecapes

"The capes fluttered in the wind."

tiepintiepins

"The tiepins were kept in a small box."

corsetcorsets

"The corsets were displayed in the exhibit."

slacksslacks

"The slacks were hanging on a wooden hanger."

nightshirtnightshirts

"The nightshirts were laid out on the bed."

mittmitts

"The mitts were knitted from wool."

lingerielingeries

"The lingeries were displayed in a glass case."

smocksmocks

"The smocks protected their clothes during painting."

fleecefleeces

"The fleeces were warm enough for the camp."

trenchcoattrenchcoats

"The trenchcoats looked elegant in the rain."

doormatdoormats

"The doormats were soaked after the storm."

bikinibikinis

"The bikinis were on sale last week."

blindblinds

"The blinds were drawn against the sun."

underskirtunderskirts

"The underskirts were trimmed with lace."

dressmakerdressmakers

"The dressmakers worked on several gowns at once."

mannequinmannequins

"The mannequins wore bright summer outfits."

Compound Nouns

245
postmanpostmen

"The postman delivered the package before noon."

firemanfiremen

"A fireman climbed the ladder to reach the roof."

policemanpolicemen

"The policeman directed traffic at the intersection."

chairmanchairmen

"The chairman opened the meeting with a brief speech."

spokesmanspokesmen

"The spokesman answered reporters' questions."

sportsmansportsmen

"He was admired as a fair sportsman."

statesmanstatesmen

"The statesman was respected for his diplomacy."

townsmantownsmen

"Each townsman knew the old market square."

salesmansalesmen

"The salesman explained the warranty clearly."

freshmanfreshmen

"The freshman found the campus easy to navigate."

workmanworkmen

"A workman repaired the broken gate."

watchmanwatchmen

"The watchman checked the doors at midnight."

mailmanmailmen

"The mailman brought letters and magazines."

boatmanboatmen

"The boatman guided us across the river."

milkmanmilkmen

"The milkman left bottles at the doorstep."

fishermanfishermen

"The fisherman returned with a full net."

snowmansnowmen

"The children built two snowmen in the yard."

bedroombedrooms

"The house has three bedrooms."

bathroombathrooms

"The bathrooms were cleaned every morning."

bookshopbookshops

"There are several bookshops on that street."

bookcasebookcases

"The bookcases were lined with old novels."

weekendweekends

"We spent three weekends fixing the garden."

sunbeamsunbeams

"Sunbeams came through the open curtains."

raincoatraincoats

"Bring your raincoats if the weather turns wet."

necklacenecklaces

"Her necklaces were displayed in a velvet box."

schoolboyschoolboys

"The schoolboys lined up for assembly."

schoolgirlschoolgirls

"The schoolgirls rehearsed for the concert."

landownerlandowners

"Several landowners attended the hearing."

householderhouseholders

"Householders received a notice about the repairs."

passerbypassersby

"A passerby stopped to help the lost tourist."

lighthouselighthouses

"The lighthouses along the coast flashed at night."

railwayrailways

"The old railways crossed the valley."

seashoreseashores

"We walked along the seashores at sunset."

roadsideroadsides

"Wildflowers grew beside the roadsides."

marketplacemarketplaces

"The marketplaces were crowded on Saturday."

playgroundplaygrounds

"The playgrounds were full of children after school."

yardstickyardsticks

"We used yardsticks to measure the boards."

safeguardsafeguards

"The company added safeguards to protect customer data."

borderlandborderlands

"The borderlands were once controlled by rival groups."

fieldworkfieldworks

"His fieldwork took him into remote villages."

newspapernewspapers

"The newspapers reported the election results."

mother-in-lawmothers-in-law

"My mother-in-law is visiting this weekend."

brother-in-lawbrothers-in-law

"His brother-in-law helped paint the kitchen."

son-in-lawsons-in-law

"Her sons-in-law carried the heavy furniture."

passbookpassbooks

"The bank stamped our passbooks after each deposit."

sister-in-lawsisters-in-law

"Her sisters-in-law organized the reunion."

daughter-in-lawdaughters-in-law

"The daughters-in-law handled the catering."

editor-in-chiefeditors-in-chief

"The editors-in-chief approved the final draft."

attorney generalattorneys general

"Several attorneys general issued a joint statement."

court-martialcourts-martial

"The courts-martial were held last month."

lookoutlookouts

"The hikers set up lookouts near the ridge."

bookshelfbookshelves

"The bookshelves are full of old novels."

teaspoonteaspoons

"Add three teaspoons of sugar."

streetlightstreetlights

"The streetlights came on at dusk."

fireplacefireplaces

"The cottages each have fireplaces."

doorbelldoorbells

"The doorbells rang at the same time."

wheelbarrowwheelbarrows

"The gardeners filled two wheelbarrows with soil."

toothbrushtoothbrushes

"Our hotel provided fresh toothbrushes."

headacheheadaches

"Stress can cause frequent headaches."

blackboardblackboards

"The blackboards were wiped clean after class."

whiteboardwhiteboards

"The office has two whiteboards for planning."

rainfallrainfalls

"Seasonal rainfalls vary from year to year."

stockroomstockrooms

"The stockrooms are kept locked overnight."

newcomernewcomers

"The newcomers settled in quickly."

wildflowerwildflowers

"Wildflowers bloomed along the path."

wheelchairwheelchairs

"The clinic has several wheelchairs for patients."

hairbrushhairbrushes

"He left his hairbrush on the sink."

sunflowersunflowers

"The field was full of bright sunflowers."

seashellseashells

"The children collected seashells at the beach."

handbaghandbags

"She kept her phone in her handbag."

raindropraindrops

"Raindrops tapped against the window."

haircuthaircuts

"He needs a haircut before the wedding."

teacupteacups

"She bought a set of porcelain teacups."

mailboxmailboxes

"I checked the mailbox after lunch."

starfishstarfish

"We saw a starfish in the tide pool."

basketballbasketballs

"Several basketballs were stored in the gym."

footpathfootpaths

"The footpath leads to the station."

earthquakeearthquakes

"The region has experienced several earthquakes."

windmillwindmills

"Old windmills line the ridge."

houseboathouseboats

"The harbor was crowded with houseboats."

milkshakemilkshakes

"They ordered chocolate milkshakes."

sandcastlesandcastles

"The twins built sandcastles near the shore."

schoolhouseschoolhouses

"The old schoolhouse is now a museum."

headlightheadlights

"One of the car's headlights was dim."

eyeglasseyeglasses

"She cleaned her eyeglasses with a cloth."

roadmaproadmaps

"The team followed a clear roadmap."

jellyfishjellyfish

"A jellyfish drifted past the pier."

snowflakesnowflakes

"Tiny snowflakes settled on her coat."

overcoatovercoats

"He hung his overcoat by the door."

skylightskylights

"Sunlight poured through the skylight."

pickuppickups

"The store offers free pickups on weekdays."

crosswalkcrosswalks

"Please use the crosswalk to cross the street."

cowboycowboys

"The cowboy rode slowly across the ranch."

moonlightmoonlights

"Moonlight silvered the lake."

bedspreadbedspreads

"The shop sells colorful bedspreads."

starburststarbursts

"The fireworks ended in bright starbursts."

passer-bypassers-by

"Several passers-by stopped to watch the parade."

commander-in-chiefcommanders-in-chief

"The commanders-in-chief met to discuss strategy."

cupfulcupfuls

"Add two cupfuls of flour to the bowl."

mouthfulmouthfuls

"He took only a small mouthful of soup."

handfulhandfuls

"She gathered a handful of berries."

truckloadtruckloads

"The warehouse received several truckloads of timber."

blackbirdblackbirds

"Blackbirds sang in the garden at dawn."

fireflyfireflies

"Fireflies lit up the summer evening."

teaspoonfulteaspoonfuls

"Use four teaspoonfuls of sugar in the recipe."

runner-uprunners-up

"The runners-up received medals and applause."

poet laureatepoets laureate

"Several poets laureate read their work at the festival."

bookkeeperbookkeepers

"The bookkeepers checked the accounts before closing time."

armchairarmchairs

"We moved the armchairs into the living room."

windshieldwindshields

"The mechanic replaced both windshields."

bypassbypasses

"The new bypasses have reduced traffic in town."

cornfieldcornfields

"The cornfields stretched to the horizon."

doorwaydoorways

"We stood in the doorways during the drizzle."

passwordpasswords

"Please reset your passwords regularly."

pineconepinecones

"The pinecones covered the forest path."

railroadrailroads

"The railroads connect the two cities."

roadblockroadblocks

"The roadblocks delayed our trip for an hour."

snowstormsnowstorms

"The snowstorms made travel difficult."

tableclothtablecloths

"The tablecloths are folded in the drawer."

toothpicktoothpicks

"He put several toothpicks beside the plate."

turncoatturncoats

"History remembers the turncoats as traitors."

woodlandwoodlands

"The woodlands are home to many birds."

workshopworkshops

"The workshops begin at nine o'clock."

earthwormearthworms

"The earthworms improved the garden soil."

sandpapersandpapers

"He bought several sandpapers for the project."

railcarrailcars

"The railcars were loaded with equipment."

playroomplayrooms

"The playrooms were full of toys and books."

schoolbusschoolbuses

"Two schoolbuses waited at the curb."

candlelightcandlelights

"Candlelights flickered in the windows."

starlightstarlights

"Starlights glimmered above the desert."

nightfallnightfalls

"The nightfalls came earlier in winter."

backyardbackyards

"Our backyards share the same fence."

courtroomcourtrooms

"The courtrooms were silent before the hearing."

rainstormrainstorms

"Rainstorms flooded the roads last night."

sidewalksidewalks

"The sidewalks were covered with leaves."

horseshoehorseshoes

"The barn was decorated with old horseshoes."

bluebirdbluebirds

"Bluebirds nested in the orchard."

crossroadcrossroads

"The crossroads were marked by a stone monument."

babysitterbabysitters

"The babysitters arrived early for the evening."

brainstormbrainstorms

"The team held several brainstorms before finalizing the design."

breastplatebreastplates

"The museum displayed several ornate breastplates."

campfirecampfires

"We sat around the campfires and told stories."

carportcarports

"Several carports were added to the new building."

daybreakdaybreaks

"The hikers watched the daybreaks from the ridge."

doorstepdoorsteps

"The packages were left on the doorsteps."

draughtboarddraughtboards

"The draughtboards were set out for the tournament."

dustbindustbins

"The dustbins were emptied before noon."

eyewitnesseyewitnesses

"Several eyewitnesses testified in court."

fingernailfingernails

"Her fingernails were painted bright red."

flagpoleflagpoles

"The flagpoles stood outside the school."

footbridgefootbridges

"The footbridges crossed the stream at two points."

forewordforewords

"The forewords explained the history of the collection."

fruitcakefruitcakes

"The fruitcakes were wrapped and ready to ship."

homeworkhomeworks

"The teacher collected the students' homeworks."

honeymoonhoneymoons

"The newlyweds took their honeymoons in Italy."

laptoplaptops

"The laptops were updated overnight."

motorboatmotorboats

"The motorboats raced across the lake."

oatcakeoatcakes

"The oatcakes were served with cheese."

pickpocketpickpockets

"The pickpockets were caught on the train."

postcardpostcards

"The postcards arrived from three different countries."

skateboardskateboards

"The skateboards were stored in the garage."

snowploughsnowploughs

"The snowploughs cleared the streets by dawn."

snowballsnowballs

"The children threw snowballs at each other."

carriagewaycarriageways

"The new bridge has four carriageways."

stormcloudstormclouds

"Dark stormclouds gathered over the hills."

candleholdercandleholders

"She polished the brass candleholders."

workbenchworkbenches

"The garage contains two sturdy workbenches."

bus stopbus stops

"There are two bus stops near the museum."

houseplanthouseplants

"She waters her houseplants every Sunday morning."

booksellerbooksellers

"Local booksellers gathered for the annual fair."

sideburnsideburns

"His sideburns were neatly trimmed."

barnyardbarnyards

"The children ran through the barnyards behind the farmhouse."

drawbridgedrawbridges

"The drawbridges opened for the ships."

farmhousefarmhouses

"The farmhouses stood on the hill."

gatehousegatehouses

"The gatehouses guarded the entrance."

ghost townghost towns

"The ghost towns attracted curious visitors."

grasslandgrasslands

"The grasslands stretched to the horizon."

hearthstonehearthstones

"The hearthstones were warm from the fire."

kitchen sinkkitchen sinks

"The kitchen sinks were clogged by dinner dishes."

motorbikemotorbikes

"The motorbikes were parked outside."

outerwearouterwears

"The outerwears were stored in the closet."

paintbrushpaintbrushes

"The paintbrushes were rinsed in the sink."

sailboatsailboats

"The sailboats bobbed in the harbor."

shoelaceshoelaces

"The shoelaces came untied."

teardropteardrops

"The teardrops fell onto the page."

boyfriendboyfriends

"Her boyfriends all had very different tastes in music."

checkbookcheckbooks

"The checkbooks were kept in a locked drawer."

childcarechildcares

"The childcares at the center were well organized."

clockmakerclockmakers

"The clockmakers repaired antique watches."

cupholdercupholders

"Both cupholders were broken in the car."

eggheadeggheads

"The eggheads debated the problem for hours."

footprintfootprints

"The footprints led across the snow."

friendshipfriendships

"Their friendships lasted for decades."

homeownerhomeowners

"The homeowners voted against the proposal."

in-lawin-laws

"My in-laws visited for the weekend."

paintboxpaintboxes

"The paintboxes were opened on the table."

penknifepenknives

"The penknives were sharpened before the hike."

shopkeepershopkeepers

"The shopkeepers closed early for the holiday."

somebodysomebodies

"The author turned famous nobodies into somebodies."

sunlightsunlights

"The sunlights were filtered through the curtains."

typewritertypewriters

"The typewriters sat in a museum exhibit."

carparkcarparks

"The city has several underground carparks."

headrestheadrests

"The seats have adjustable headrests."

shoeboxshoeboxes

"He keeps old photos in shoeboxes."

subwaysubways

"The city is expanding its subways."

skyscraperskyscrapers

"Modern skylines are crowded with skyscrapers."

sunrisesunrises

"The artist painted several sunrises."

staircasestaircases

"The hotel has two staircases at either end."

bookwormbookworms

"The club is full of bookworms."

watchtowerwatchtowers

"Soldiers guarded the valley from watchtowers."

headboardheadboards

"The new beds have wooden headboards."

workroomworkrooms

"The workrooms are located behind the shop."

moonbeammoonbeams

"Moonbeams lit the path through the garden."

filmstripfilmstrips

"Old filmstrips are stored in the archive."

bookplatebookplates

"The collector designed custom bookplates for her library."

toothbrush holdertoothbrush holders

"The bathroom shelf has two toothbrush holders."

coffee cupcoffee cups

"The café shelves were stacked with coffee cups."

train stationtrain stations

"Several train stations were closed for repairs."

mystery novelmystery novels

"She checked out three mystery novels from the library."

road signroad signs

"New road signs were installed at the intersection."

wallet chainwallet chains

"Some bikers wear wallet chains for style."

streetlampstreetlamps

"The streetlamps came on at dusk."

wedding ringwedding rings

"The couple exchanged wedding rings during the ceremony."

tree housetree houses

"The backyard has two tree houses."

coffee makercoffee makers

"The kitchen has two coffee makers, one for home and one for travel."

apple treeapple trees

"The orchard is full of apple trees."

book shelfbook shelves

"We bought new book shelves for the study."

farmyardfarmyards

"The farmyards were busy with tractors and animals."

paper clippaper clips

"She kept a box of paper clips in her desk drawer."

city hallcity halls

"Several city halls were illuminated for the festival."

door handledoor handles

"The mechanic replaced both door handles."

brick wallbrick walls

"The old courtyard has tall brick walls."

laptop baglaptop bags

"The store sells laptop bags in many colors."

fire enginefire engines

"Three fire engines arrived within minutes."

orange juiceorange juices

"The café offers several orange juices with different flavors."

garden pathgarden paths

"The garden paths wind between the flower beds."

ice creamice creams

"The shop introduced five new ice creams this summer."

fish tankfish tanks

"The pet store has several fish tanks near the entrance."

notebook computernotebook computers

"The office ordered new notebook computers for the interns."

baby strollerbaby strollers

"The shop sells lightweight baby strollers."

dog parkdog parks

"The city opened two new dog parks."

cloud covercloud covers

"The forecast mentions several cloud covers moving across the region."

wine glasswine glasses

"The table was set with six wine glasses."

picture framepicture frames

"They bought matching picture frames for the hallway."

notary publicnotaries public

"The notaries public checked our signatures."

Consonant + y (-ies)

198
babybabies

"The baby slept through the night."

citycities

"The city was busy at rush hour."

partyparties

"We went to a birthday party."

storystories

"She told us a funny story."

countrycountries

"Several countries joined the agreement."

familyfamilies

"Their family lives nearby."

librarylibraries

"The library closes at six."

factoryfactories

"The factory makes bicycles."

companycompanies

"The company hired two new workers."

berryberries

"We picked berries in the forest."

cherrycherries

"She ate a cherry for dessert."

memorymemories

"That song brings back memories."

puppypuppies

"The puppies were playful and loud."

cityscapecityscapes

"The artist painted a bright cityscape."

abilityabilities

"He has many useful abilities."

qualityqualities

"Honesty is one of her best qualities."

realityrealities

"The film explores different realities."

hobbyhobbies

"Birdwatching is his favorite hobby."

prioritypriorities

"Safety is our top priority."

difficultydifficulties

"The team faced several difficulties."

varietyvarieties

"The market sells many varieties of cheese."

enemyenemies

"The soldiers defeated their enemies."

gallerygalleries

"We visited three galleries downtown."

industryindustries

"Several industries depend on tourism."

elderberryelderberries

"The cake was topped with elderberries."

activityactivities

"The camp offers many outdoor activities."

identityidentities

"People value their identities and traditions."

opportunityopportunities

"She looked for new opportunities."

necessitynecessities

"Water is a necessity for life."

communitycommunities

"The communities worked together after the storm."

dependencydependencies

"The software has several dependencies."

lonelylonelies

"No correct plural noun exists for this adjective, so this entry should not be used."

ladyladies

"The ladies met for tea."

countycounties

"The road crosses two counties."

applyapplies

"This word is a verb, not a noun."

muddymuddies

"This word is not a noun in the intended sense."

skyskies

"The skies were clear and blue."

spyspies

"The spies worked in secret."

buddybuddies

"The buddies went fishing together."

trophytrophies

"The team lifted three trophies."

butterflybutterflies

"Butterflies fluttered over the flowers."

copycopies

"Please make two copies of the letter."

delaydelays

"The train had several delays."

handyhandies

"This is not a noun headword."

recoveryrecoveries

"Her recovery took several months."

melodymelodies

"A soft melody played in the background."

storylinestorylines

"The movie has a simple storyline."

penaltypenalties

"The referee gave two penalties."

audacityaudacities

"His audacity surprised everyone in the room."

certaintycertainties

"There are no certainties in life."

clarityclarities

"The report lacked clarity."

crueltycruelties

"Cruelty to animals is illegal."

dutyduties

"It is your duty to tell the truth."

entropyentropies

"The scientist explained the entropies of the system."

injuryinjuries

"He recovered quickly from the injury."

daisydaisies

"The daisies bloomed in spring."

holidayholidays

"The holidays were relaxing."

valleyvalleys

"The valleys were covered in snow."

pennypennies

"He found two pennies on the floor."

pitypities

"He showed no pity in the end."

bodybodies

"The bodies were identified quickly."

policypolicies

"The school updated its policies."

ponyponies

"The ponies ran across the field."

societysocieties

"Different societies develop different customs."

supplysupplies

"The supplies arrived before dawn."

replyreplies

"His replies were brief but polite."

mysterymysteries

"The mysteries of the old house fascinated them."

comedycomedies

"We watched two comedies last night."

agencyagencies

"The agencies shared the same data."

currencycurrencies

"Several currencies rose against the dollar."

efficiencyefficiencies

"The efficiencies saved the company money."

prodigyprodigies

"The prodigies performed with remarkable skill."

dirtydirties

"The dirty cloths were sorted by hand."

tragedytragedies

"The tragedies inspired a serious discussion."

remedyremedies

"The remedies worked better than expected."

cavitycavities

"The dentist filled two cavities."

academyacademies

"The academies offered evening classes."

piracypiracies

"Modern piracies still threaten shipping lanes."

gravitygravities

"The gravities of the two planets differ greatly."

beautybeauties

"The beauties of the landscape were unforgettable."

safetysafeties

"New safeties were added to the machine."

propertyproperties

"These properties belong to the city council."

quantityquantities

"Large quantities of water were stored underground."

sympathysympathies

"She expressed her sympathies to the family."

responsibilityresponsibilities

"Responsibilities were divided among the team."

unityunities

"The group valued its unities and shared goals."

modestymodesties

"Her modesties aside, the report was excellent."

anxietyanxieties

"Their anxieties eased after the announcement."

diarydiaries

"Her diaries filled an entire shelf."

armyarmies

"The armies advanced at dawn."

salarysalaries

"Their salaries increased last month."

summarysummaries

"Please read the summaries before class."

theorytheories

"Scientists tested several theories."

deliverydeliveries

"The deliveries arrived late today."

boundaryboundaries

"The boundaries were marked with posts."

dairydairies

"The dairies supplied fresh milk."

juryjuries

"The juries reached a verdict."

marshymarshies

"The marshies are difficult to cross."

berryyberryies

"The berryy word is not a normal English noun."

taxiwaytaxiways

"The taxiway led to the runway."

chimneychimneys

"Smoke rose from the chimneys."

porcupineyporcupineies

"The porcupiney form is not standard English."

weedyweedies

"The weedies grew quickly after rain."

ministryministries

"The ministries announced new plans."

knaveryknaveries

"His knaveries caused plenty of trouble."

bakerybakeries

"Two bakeries opened on the same street."

galleryygalleryies

"The galleryy form is not standard English."

everyeveries

"The word every is usually not used as a noun."

candycandies

"The shop sold colorful candies."

studystudies

"His studies took most of the evening."

piggypiggies

"The piggies stayed close to their mother."

accountabilityaccountabilities

"Different roles come with different accountabilities."

acidityacidities

"The two acidities were measured separately."

airwayairways

"The patient's airways were checked first."

auntyaunties

"The aunties arrived early for dinner."

balkybalkies

"The balkies in the machine slowed the process."

braverybraveries

"He spoke of the braveries of earlier times."

caddycaddies

"The caddies carried the clubs to the green."

crannycrannies

"Dust collected in the crannies of the shelf."

curiositycuriosities

"Museum curators displayed the curiosities carefully."

dignitydignities

"They defended the dignity of every worker."

entityentities

"The two entities merged last year."

fancyfancies

"Her fancies changed from day to day."

fillyfillies

"Two fillies ran across the field."

follyfollies

"The follies of youth are easy to forgive."

garrygarries

"The garries were listed in the archive."

hardyhardies

"The hardies survived the coldest weather."

hurryhurries

"There were no hurries in the conversation."

jiffyjiffies

"We finished the job in jiffies."

larrylarries

"The larries were unfamiliar to the younger staff."

latencylatencies

"The latencies varied from one system to another."

adversityadversities

"They overcame many adversities together."

authorityauthorities

"The authorities issued a new warning."

bulkybulkies

"The bulkies were stacked in the corner."

flyflies

"The flies gathered near the window."

hollyhollies

"The hollies kept their leaves through winter."

merrymerries

"The merries were rare in that old tale."

obesityobesities

"The report compared obesities across regions."

amnestyamnesties

"The government announced amnesties for certain offenders."

brotherlybrotherlies

"His brotherlies were unusual in the old chronicle."

busynessbusynesses

"The busynesses of the season made everyone tired."

disharmonydisharmonies

"The team’s disharmonies became obvious during the meeting."

fortyforties

"They met again in their forties."

harmonyharmonies

"The harmonies in the choir were beautiful."

holinessholinesses

"The holinesses of the temple were described in the text."

nannynannies

"The nannies took the children to the park."

parodyparodies

"The parodies made the audience laugh."

solitarysolitaries

"The solitaries lived far from the village."

cronycronies

"The cronies sat together at the back table."

sunnysunnies

"The sunnies were too bright for his eyes."

dummydummies

"The dummies were used to test the equipment."

chillychillies

"The chillies were stored in the pantry."

loyaltyloyalties

"Her loyalties were divided between two teams."

envyenvies

"His envies were obvious to everyone in the room."

cloudycloudies

"The cloudies made the afternoon sky look dull."

parityparities

"The parities between the two systems were carefully checked."

tidytidies

"She tidies the classroom before lunch."

carpentrycarpentries

"The carpentries in this region are known for fine work."

pantypanties

"The panties were packed in a small drawer."

savorysavories

"The savories were served before dessert."

trendytrendies

"The trendies crowded the new café on Friday night."

dustydusties

"The dusties were cleared from the top shelf."

ladybirdladybirds

"The ladybirds settled on the leaves."

countrymancountrymen

"The countrymen worked together to rebuild the bridge."

neighborlyneighborlies

"The neighborlies is not a standard noun, so this entry is invalid."

chivalrychivalries

"The chivalries of the age are discussed in the lecture."

dugoutdugouts

"The dugouts were filled with equipment."

crankycrankies

"The crankies are becoming a family joke."

deficiencydeficiencies

"The deficiencies were noted in the report."

flurryflurries

"Light flurries fell in the evening."

hairyhairies

"The hairies are a playful nickname in the group."

nervynervies

"The nervies are an informal term in the story."

pattypatties

"The patties were cooked on a hot grill."

sandysandies

"The sandies collected near the shore."

tinytinies

"The tinies were lined up on the shelf."

worryworries

"The worries faded by evening."

burglaryburglaries

"The burglaries shocked the neighborhood."

pharmacypharmacies

"The pharmacies opened at eight."

pittypitties

"The pitties were not allowed in the park."

queryqueries

"The queries were answered by email."

treasurytreasuries

"The treasuries reported higher revenues."

trysttrysts

"The trysts were kept secret."

windywindies

"The windies made the boat hard to steer."

zestyzesties

"The zesties added a bright note to the menu."

creditcredits

"The credits rolled after the film ended."

currycurries

"We ordered three curries and rice."

smellysmellies

"The smellies were removed from the room."

mistymisties

"The misties made the hills hard to see."

securitysecurities

"The securities rose in value."

potterypotteries

"The town is known for its potteries."

constancyconstancies

"The constancies of his routine made him easy to predict."

funnyfunnies

"The book is full of funnies and cartoons."

equalityequalities

"The report discusses social equalities across the country."

laitylaities

"The laities were invited to the discussion."

deitydeities

"Ancient deities were often linked to natural forces."

calamitycalamities

"The region has survived many calamities."

rarityrarities

"Those coins are true rarities today."

eccentricityeccentricities

"His eccentricities made him memorable to everyone."

Ending in -f / -fe (-ves)

99
knifeknives

"Please pass me a knife."

lifelives

"They talked about life in the city."

wifewives

"His wife is a doctor."

leafleaves

"The tree dropped a leaf."

calfcalves

"The calf stayed close to its mother."

halfhalves

"We ate half the cake."

selfselves

"You should be true to yourself."

shelfshelves

"The books are on the shelf."

wolfwolves

"A wolf howled in the distance."

thiefthieves

"The thief escaped through the back door."

chiefchiefs

"The chiefs met to discuss the plan."

loafloaves

"She bought a loaf of bread."

scarfscarves

"I need a scarf for winter."

dwarfdwarves

"In the story, a dwarf guards the treasure."

wharfwharves

"The ferry left from the wharf."

knife-edgeknife-edges

"The debate was on a knife-edge."

hoofhooves

"The horse's hoof was muddy."

proofproofs

"We still need proof of address."

beliefbeliefs

"Her beliefs are very important to her."

griefgriefs

"The family shared their grief."

chefchefs

"The chef prepared a fresh salad."

reefreefs

"Divers explored the coral reef."

poufpoufs

"The pouf sat beside the sofa."

beefbeeves

"The old word beeves appears in historical texts."

daisdaises

"The speakers stood on the dais."

gulfgulfs

"A wide gulf separated the two groups."

cliffcliffs

"We climbed to the top of the cliff."

roofroofs

"The roof needs repairs."

safesafes

"The documents are kept in a safe."

wifehoodwifehoods

"The concept of wifehood is discussed in the essay."

life-formlife-forms

"Scientists searched for life-forms in the ocean."

barefbareves

"The rare dialect word bareves is not common in modern English."

shafshaves

"The archaic word shaf is rarely used today."

strifestrifes

"The agreement reduced strife in the community."

midwifemidwives

"The midwife was calm and experienced."

sheafsheaves

"He carried a sheaf of papers."

waifwaifs

"The novel follows a lonely waif."

fifefifes

"A fife played in the parade."

riferifes

"Rumors are rife in the office."

hyfhyves

"The obsolete form hyf is occasionally cited in historical linguistics."

leafletleaflets

"She handed out a leaflet at the station."

self-esteemself-esteems

"Good feedback can improve self-esteem."

knife-makerknife-makers

"The knife-maker sold his work at the market."

wolfhoundwolfhounds

"The wolfhound waited by the gate."

housewifehousewives

"My grandmother was a skilled housewife."

shelf-lifeshelf-lives

"The shelf-life of the medicine is two years."

reliefreliefs

"After the rain, there was a sense of relief."

muffmuffs

"She wore a fur muff to keep her hands warm."

oafoafs

"He acted like an oaf at the dinner table."

handkerchiefhandkerchiefs

"He wiped his forehead with a handkerchief."

briefbriefs

"The lawyer prepared several briefs for court."

divebomb-proofdivebomb-proofs

"The crop cover is designed to be divebomb-proof."

chafing-dishchafing-dishes

"A chafing-dish kept the food warm at the buffet."

belief-systembelief-systems

"The class discussed different belief-systems."

giraffegiraffes

"A giraffe reached for the leaves above."

baton-fifebaton-fifes

"The parade featured a baton-fife performance."

scurfscurves

"The doctor treated the scurf on his scalp."

kerchiefkerchiefs

"She tied a kerchief over her hair."

heiferheifers

"The heifer grazed in the field."

mischiefmischiefs

"The children were full of mischief."

clefclefs

"The melody begins in the treble clef."

glyphglyphs

"The stone bore a strange glyph."

briefcasebriefcases

"He left his briefcase by the door."

gulfstreamgulfstreams

"The pilot tracked the gulfstream across the ocean."

life-jacketlife-jackets

"Everyone wore a life-jacket on the boat."

wife-beaterwife-beaters

"He wore a plain white wife-beater under his shirt."

calfskincalfskins

"The book was bound in calfskin."

shelf-spaceshelf-spaces

"Shelf-space is limited in the small kitchen."

loafingloafings

"There was no room for loafing during harvest."

thief-takerthief-takers

"The thief-taker followed the clues carefully."

wolfishnesswolfishnesses

"The novel captures the wolfishness of the character."

leafageleafages

"The leafage was thick and green in summer."

halflinghalflings

"The halfling lived in a quiet village."

scalefscalves

"The old dialect word scalef had a rare plural form."

shelfmarkshelfmarks

"The archivist wrote the shelfmark on the card."

wolfmanwolfmen

"The legend spoke of wolfmen in the forest."

staffstaffs

"The museum uses several staffs for special ceremonies."

half-lifehalf-lives

"The half-life of the isotope is only a few hours."

bellybellies

"The pregnant sheep had round bellies."

lifeformlifeforms

"Scientists searched for unknown lifeforms on the planet."

silfsilves

"The old manuscript mentions several silves."

knife-bladeknife-blades

"The knife-blades were stored separately."

proofreaderproofreaders

"The proofreaders found several errors."

hoofprinthoofprints

"The hoofprints led across the muddy field."

dieting selfdieting selves

"The therapy group discussed their dieting selves."

life-sizelife-sizes

"The museum displayed several life-sizes of the statue."

calfhoodcalfhoods

"The brothers reminisced about their calfhoods on the farm."

dikedikes

"Engineers reinforced the dikes before the storm."

selfieselfies

"The tourists took selfies beside the monument."

cuffcuffs

"He buttoned the cuffs of his shirt."

delfdelfs

"The museum displayed old delfs in glass cases."

behalfbehalves

"The proposal was presented on all their behalves."

pilafpilafs, pilau

"The pilafs were served with roasted vegetables."

ploughploughs

"The ploughs sat in the barn after harvest."

stiffstiffs

"The stiffs were an odd but useful term in the report."

warfwarfs

"The warfs were listed in the old harbor map."

banefbanefs

"The banefs were mentioned only in the archive."

spifspifs

"The spifs were catalogued by the curator."

sniffsniffs

"The dog gave two quick sniffs at the door."

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