Word Meanings 20190830


tenet
/ˈtɛnɪt/
Learn to pronounce
noun
plural noun: tenets
a principle or belief, especially one of the main principles of a religion or philosophy.
"the tenets of classical liberalism"
synonyms: principle, belief, doctrine, precept, creed, credo, article of faith, dogma, canon, rule; More
Tip
Similar-sounding words
tenets is sometimes confused with tenants

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undaunted
/ʌnˈdɔːntɪd/
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adjective
adjective: undaunted
not intimidated or discouraged by difficulty, danger, or disappointment.
"they were undaunted by the huge amount of work needed"
synonyms: unafraid, undismayed, unalarmed, unflinching, unshrinking, unabashed, unfaltering, unflagging, fearless, dauntless, intrepid, bold, valiant, brave, stout-hearted, lionhearted, courageous, heroic, gallant, doughty, plucky, game, mettlesome, gritty, steely, indomitable, resolute, determined, confident, audacious, daring, daredevil; More
antonyms: afraid, fearful

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iffy
/ˈɪfi/
Learn to pronounce
adjectiveINFORMAL
full of uncertainty; doubtful.
"the prospect for classes resuming next Wednesday seems iffy"
synonyms: tentative, undecided, unsettled, unsure, unreliable, unresolved, in doubt, in the balance; informal: up in the air
"that date is a bit iffy"
of doubtful quality or legality.
"a good wine merchant will change the iffy bottles for sound ones"
synonyms: substandard, second-rate, low-grade, low-quality, of low quality, of poor quality; More

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polarizing figure:

A polarizing figure is someone whose personality has a tendency to divide, to sharply split opinions into opposite sides.

The antonym is a unifying figure, someone who integrates.

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sulk
/sʌlk/
Learn to pronounce
verb
be silent, morose, and bad-tempered out of annoyance or disappointment.
"he was sulking over the break-up of his band"
synonyms: mope, brood, pout, be sullen, have a long face, be in a bad mood, be put out, be out of sorts, be out of humour, be grumpy, be despondent, be moody, be resentful, pine, harbour a grudge, eat one's heart out, moon about/around; More
noun
a period of sulking.
"she was in a fit of the sulks"
synonyms: bad mood, fit of bad humour, fit of ill humour, fit of pique, pet, mood, pout, temper, bad temper, the sulks, the doldrums, the blues; More

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contempt
/kənˈtɛm(p)t/
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noun
noun: contempt
the feeling that a person or a thing is worthless or beneath consideration.
"Pam stared at the girl with total contempt"
synonyms: scorn, disdain, disrespect, deprecation, disparagement, denigration, opprobrium, odium, obloquy, scornfulness; More
antonyms: respect
disregard for something that should be considered.
"this action displays an arrogant contempt for the wishes of the majority"
synonyms: disrespect, disregard, slighting, neglect; contumacy
"he is guilty of contempt of court"
antonyms: respect
the offence of being disobedient to or disrespectful of a court of law and its officers.
plural noun: contempts; noun: contempt of court; plural noun: contempts of court
"when he was found to have lied to the House this was a contempt"
Phrases
beneath contempt
utterly worthless or despicable. "tawdry trash that is beneath contempt"
hold someone in contempt
judge someone to have committed the offence of contempt of court. "the advocate was held in contempt for subpoenaing the judge"
hold someone/something in contempt
consider someone or something to be unworthy of respect or attention. "the speed limit is held in contempt by many drivers"
Origin

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contemptuous
/kənˈtɛm(p)tʃʊəs/
Learn to pronounce
adjective
adjective: contemptuous
showing contempt; scornful.
"she was intolerant and contemptuous of the majority of the human race"
synonyms: scornful, disdainful, disrespectful, insulting, insolent, full of contempt; More
antonyms: respectful
Origin

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sneering
/ˈsnɪərɪŋ/
Learn to pronounce
adjective
contemptuous or mocking.
"he made a sneering comment about their closeness"
noun
the action of smiling or speaking in a contemptuous or mocking manner.
"it will take a concerted effort from many to lay off the sneering—and try understanding"

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quill
/kwɪl/
Learn to pronounce
noun
1.
any of the main wing or tail feathers of a bird.
2.
the hollow sharp spines of a porcupine, hedgehog, or other spiny mammal.
verb
form (fabric) into small cylindrical folds.

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placate
/pləˈkeɪt,ˈplakeɪt,ˈpleɪkeɪt/
Learn to pronounce
verb
verb: placate; 3rd person present: placates; past tense: placated; past participle: placated; gerund or present participle: placating
make (someone) less angry or hostile.
"they attempted to placate the students with promises"
synonyms: pacify, calm, calm down, appease, mollify, soothe, win over, quiet, conciliate, propitiate, make peace with, humour; More
antonyms: provoke, anger
Origin

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conciliatory
/kənˈsɪlɪətəri/
Learn to pronounce
adjective
adjective: conciliatory
intended or likely to placate or pacify.
"a conciliatory approach"
synonyms: propitiatory, placatory, appeasing, pacifying, pacific, mollifying, so as to pour oil on troubled waters, peacemaking, reconciliatory; More
antonyms: antagonistic

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privy
/ˈprɪvi/
Learn to pronounce
adjective
adjective: privy
1.
sharing in the knowledge of (something secret or private).
"he was no longer privy to her innermost thoughts"
synonyms: aware of, acquainted with, in on, informed of, advised of, apprised of, in the know about, cognizant of; More
2.
ARCHAIC
hidden; secret.
"a privy place"
noun
noun: privy; plural noun: privies
1.
a toilet located in a small shed outside a house or other building.
2.
LAW
a person having a part or interest in any action, matter, or thing.
Origin

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abysmally
/əˈbɪzməli/
Learn to pronounce
adverb
adverb: abysmally
in an extremely bad way; appallingly.
"she treats me abysmally at times"

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subsume
/səbˈsjuːm/
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verb
past tense: subsumed; past participle: subsumed
include or absorb (something) in something else.
"most of these phenomena can be subsumed under two broad categories"
Origin

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incredulous
/ɪnˈkrɛdjʊləs/
Learn to pronounce
adjective
(of a person or their manner) unwilling or unable to believe something.
"an incredulous gasp"
synonyms: disbelieving, unbelieving, doubtful, dubious, unconvinced; More

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ramification
/ˌramɪfɪˈkeɪʃ(ə)n/
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noun
plural noun: ramifications
a complex or unwelcome consequence of an action or event.
"any change is bound to have legal ramifications"
synonyms: consequence, result, aftermath, outcome, effect, upshot, issue, sequel; More
a subdivision of a complex structure or process.
"an extended family with its ramifications of neighbouring in-laws"
FORMAL•TECHNICAL
the action of ramifying or the state of being ramified.
"a coronary angiogram showed ramification of the right coronary artery close to the ostium"

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pro forma
/prəʊ ˈfɔːmə/
noun
plural noun: pro formas
a pro forma document or form.
"please return the enclosed pro forma"
Origin

early 16th century: from Latin.

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pro forma
adjective [ before noun ], adverb formal UK ​  /ˌprəʊ ˈfɔː.mə/ US ​  /ˌproʊ ˈfɔːr.mə/
​
Pro forma words or actions are usual or done in the usual way:

a pro forma declaration of loyalty
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elucidate
/ɪˈl(j)uːsɪdeɪt/
Learn to pronounce
verb
make (something) clear; explain.
"work such as theirs will help to elucidate this matter"
synonyms: explain, make clear, make plain, illuminate, throw/shed light on, clarify; More

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appointee
/əpɔɪnˈtiː/
Learn to pronounce
noun
plural noun: appointees
1.
a person to whom a job or role is assigned.
"an appointee to to the federal judiciary"
2.
LAW
a person empowered by the owner of property to decide the disposition of that property.
"an appointee will arrange to receive your state benefits and pay your bills"

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homeostasis
/ˌhɒmɪə(ʊ)ˈsteɪsɪs,ˌhəʊmɪə(ʊ)ˈsteɪsɪs/
Learn to pronounce
noun
noun: homeostasis; plural noun: homeostases; noun: homoeostasis; plural noun: homoeostases
the tendency towards a relatively stable equilibrium between interdependent elements, especially as maintained by physiological processes.
Origin

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rampant
/ˈramp(ə)nt/
Learn to pronounce
adjective
adjective: rampant
1.
(especially of something unwelcome) flourishing or spreading unchecked.
"political violence was rampant"
synonyms: uncontrolled, unrestrained, unchecked, unbridled, widespread, pandemic, epidemic, pervasive; More
antonyms: controlled, under control
unrestrained in action or performance.
"rampant sex"
synonyms: vehement, strong, violent, forceful, raging, wild, intense, fanatical, passionate
"that first interested glance had been replaced by one of rampant dislike"
antonyms: mild
(of a plant) lush in growth; luxuriant.
"a rich soil soon becomes home to rampant weeds"
synonyms: luxuriant, exuberant, lush, rank, rich, riotous, profuse, lavish, vigorous, productive; informaljungly
"rampant vegetation"
2.
HERALDRY
(of an animal) represented standing on one hind foot with its forefeet in the air (typically in profile, facing the dexter side, with right hind foot and tail raised).
"two gold lions rampant"
synonyms: upright, standing (up), erect, rearing, vertical, perpendicular, upended, on end
"two large stone pillars surmounted by rampant lions"
Origin

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tenacity
/tɪˈnasɪti/
Learn to pronounce
noun
noun: tenacity
the quality or fact of being able to grip something firmly; grip.
"the sheer tenacity of the limpet"
synonyms: persistence, pertinacity, determination, perseverance, doggedness, tenaciousness, single-mindedness, strength of will, firmness of purpose, strength of purpose, fixity of purpose, bulldog spirit, tirelessness, indefatigability, resolution, resoluteness, resolve, firmness, patience, purposefulness, staunchness, steadfastness, constancy, staying power, application, diligence, assiduity, sedulousness, insistence, relentlessness, inexorability, inexorableness, implacability, inflexibility; More
antonyms: irresolution, lack of resolve
the quality or fact of being very determined; determination.
"you have to admire the tenacity of these two guys"
the quality or fact of continuing to exist; persistence.
"the tenacity of certain myths within the historical record"

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capitulation
/kəpɪtjʊˈleɪʃ(ə)n/
Learn to pronounce
noun
noun: capitulation; plural noun: capitulations
the action of ceasing to resist an opponent or demand.
"she gave a sigh of capitulation"
synonyms: surrender, submission, yielding, giving in, succumbing, acquiescence, laying down of arms; More
antonyms: resistance
HISTORICAL
an agreement or set of conditions.

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cutlery
/ˈkʌtləri/
Learn to pronounce
noun
noun: cutlery
knives, forks, and spoons used for eating or serving food.
NORTH AMERICAN
cutting utensils, especially knives for cutting food.
Origin

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remit
verb
verb: remit; 3rd person present: remits; past tense: remitted; past participle: remitted; gerund or present participle: remitting
/rɪˈmɪt/
1.
cancel or refrain from exacting or inflicting (a debt or punishment).
"the excess of the sentence over 12 months was remitted"
synonyms: cancel, set aside, revoke, repeal, rescind, abrogate, suspend
"the fines imposed on the Earl of Lancaster were remitted"
THEOLOGY
forgive (a sin).
"God's act of remitting the sins of guilty men"
synonyms: pardon, forgive; More
2.
send (money) in payment or as a gift.
"the income they remitted to their families"
synonyms: send, dispatch, forward, transmit, convey; More
3.
refer (a matter for decision) to an authority.
"the request for an investigation was remitted to a special committee"
synonyms: pass (on), refer, send on, transfer, hand on, direct, assign, commit, entrust
"the case was remitted to the Court of Appeal"
LAW
send back (a case) to a lower court.
LAW
send (someone) from one tribunal to another for a trial or hearing.
"it remits an offender to another court after convicting him"
ARCHAIC
postpone.
"the movers refused Mr Tierney's request to remit the motion"
synonyms: postpone, defer, put off, put back, shelve, delay, hold over/off, stand over, suspend, prorogue, reschedule, keep in abeyance; More
ARCHAIC
consign again to a previous state.
"thus his indiscretion remitted him to the nature of an ordinary person"
4.
ARCHAIC
diminish.
"phobias may remit spontaneously without any treatment"
synonyms: diminish, lessen, decrease, ease (up), abate, moderate, dwindle, wane, ebb, subside
"the fever remitted"
noun
noun: remit; plural noun: remits
/ˈriːmɪt,rɪˈmɪt/
1.
BRITISH
the task or area of activity officially assigned to an individual or organization.
"the committee was becoming caught up in issues that did not fall within its remit"
synonyms: area of responsibility, area of activity, sphere, orbit, scope, ambit, province, territory, realm, department, turf; More
2.
an item referred to someone for consideration.
"a remit on the question failed"
Origin

late Middle English: from Latin remittere ‘send back, restore’, from re- ‘back’ + mittere ‘send’. The noun dates from the early 20th century.

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gravitas
/ˈɡravɪtas,ˈɡravɪtɑːs/
Learn to pronounce
noun
noun: gravitas
dignity, seriousness, or solemnity of manner.
"a post for which he has the expertise and the gravitas"
synonyms: dignity, seriousness, solemnity, gravity, loftiness, grandeur, decorum, sobriety, sedateness
"a man of gravitas"
antonyms: frivolity

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herring
/ˈhɛrɪŋ/
Learn to pronounce
noun
noun: herring; plural noun: herrings
a fairly small silvery fish which is most abundant in coastal waters and is of widespread commercial importance.
Origin

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wary
/ˈwɛːri/
Learn to pronounce
adjective
feeling or showing caution about possible dangers or problems.
"dogs which have been mistreated often remain very wary of strangers"
synonyms: cautious, careful, circumspect, on one's guard, chary, alert, on the alert, on the lookout, on the qui vive, prudent; More
Tip
Similar-sounding words
wary is sometimes confused with weary

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“There is only one good, knowledge and one evil, ignorance.” - Socrates

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woe
/wəʊ/
nounLITERARY
plural noun: woes
great sorrow or distress (often used hyperbolically).
"the Everton tale of woe continued"
synonyms: misery, sorrow, distress, wretchedness, sadness, unhappiness, heartache, heartbreak, despondency, desolation, despair, dejection, depression, gloom, melancholy; More
things that cause sorrow or distress; troubles.
"to add to his woes, customers have been spending less"
synonyms: trouble, difficulty, problem, trial, tribulation, burden, cross to bear, misfortune, stroke of bad luck, setback, reverse, blow, misadventure, mishap, vicissitude, failure, accident, disaster, tragedy, catastrophe, calamity, adversity, affliction
"the company's recent financial woes"

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Impossiblity is just someone's opinion, not a fact.

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genotype
/ˈdʒɛnətʌɪp,ˈdʒiːnətʌɪp/
Learn to pronounce
BIOLOGY
noun
noun: genotype; plural noun: genotypes
1.
the genetic constitution of an individual organism.
verb
verb: genotype; 3rd person present: genotypes; past tense: genotyped; past participle: genotyped; gerund or present participle: genotyping
1.
investigate the genetic constitution of (an individual organism).
"the person appointed will be responsible for maintaining and genotyping many different lines of zebra fish"
Origin

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nutso
/ˈnʌtsəʊ/
INFORMAL•NORTH AMERICAN
adjective
adjective: nutso
1.
mad.
"if you had to work at those screens all day you'd go nutso"
noun
noun: nutso; plural noun: nutsos
1.
a mad or eccentric person.

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bluster
/ˈblʌstə/
Learn to pronounce
verb
verb: bluster; 3rd person present: blusters; past tense: blustered; past participle: blustered; gerund or present participle: blustering
1.
talk in a loud, aggressive, or indignant way with little effect.
"you threaten and bluster, but won't carry it through"
synonyms: rant, thunder; More
2.
(of a storm, wind, or rain) blow or beat fiercely and noisily.
"a winter gale blustered against the sides of the house"
synonyms: blow fiercely, blast, gust, storm, roar, rush
"in winter the storms bluster in from the Mediterranean"
noun
noun: bluster
1.
loud, aggressive, or indignant talk with little effect.
"their threats contained a measure of bluster"
synonyms: ranting, hectoring, thundering, threatening, threats, bullying, domineering; More
Origin

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daft
/dɑːft/
Learn to pronounce
adjectiveINFORMAL•BRITISH
adjective: daft; comparative adjective: dafter; superlative adjective: daftest
silly; foolish.
"don't ask such daft questions"
synonyms: absurd, preposterous, ridiculous, ludicrous, farcical, laughable, risible; More
antonyms: sensible
infatuated with.
"I was daft about him"
synonyms: infatuated with, enamoured of, obsessed by, smitten with, besotted by, doting on, very fond of; More
Origin

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burrow
/ˈbʌrəʊ/
Learn to pronounce
noun
noun: burrow; plural noun: burrows
1.
a hole or tunnel dug by a small animal, especially a rabbit, as a dwelling.
synonyms: warren, tunnel, hole, lair, set, den, earth, retreat, excavation, cave, dugout, hollow, scrape
"the rabbits' burrow"
verb
verb: burrow; 3rd person present: burrows; past tense: burrowed; past participle: burrowed; gerund or present participle: burrowing
1.
(of an animal) make a hole or tunnel, typically for use as a dwelling.
"moles burrowing away underground"
synonyms: tunnel, dig (out), excavate, grub, mine, bore, drill, channel; More
dig into or through something solid.
"worms that burrow through dead wood"
hide underneath or press close to something.
"the child burrowed deeper into the bed"
make a thorough inquiry; investigate.
"journalists are burrowing into the prime minister's business affairs"
Origin

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precarious
/prɪˈkɛːrɪəs/
Learn to pronounce
adjective
adjective: precarious
not securely held or in position; dangerously likely to fall or collapse.
"a precarious ladder"
dependent on chance; uncertain.
"he made a precarious living as a painter"
synonyms: uncertain, insecure, unreliable, unsure, unpredictable, undependable, risky, hazardous, dangerous, unsafe, hanging by a thread, hanging in the balance, perilous, treacherous, on a slippery slope, on thin ice, touch-and-go, built on sand, doubtful, dubious, delicate, tricky, problematic; More
antonyms: safe, secure
Origin

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apotheosis
/əˌpɒθɪˈəʊsɪs/
Learn to pronounce
noun
noun: apotheosis; plural noun: apotheoses
1.
the highest point in the development of something; a culmination or climax.
"his appearance as Hamlet was the apotheosis of his career"
synonyms: culmination, climax, crowning moment, peak, pinnacle, summit, zenith, apex, acme, apogee, high point, highest point, height, high water mark
"his appearance as Hamlet was the apotheosis of his career"
antonyms: nadir
2.
the elevation of someone to divine status.
"death spared Pompey the task of having to account for the apotheosis of Caesar"
Origin

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earnest1
/ˈəːnɪst/
Learn to pronounce
adjective
resulting from or showing sincere and intense conviction.
"an earnest student"
synonyms: serious, serious-minded, solemn, grave, sober, humourless, staid, steady, intense; More

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fug
/fʌɡ/
nounINFORMAL•BRITISH
noun: fug; plural noun: fugs
a warm, stuffy or smoky atmosphere in a room.
"the cosy fug of the music halls"
synonyms: stuffiness, fustiness, frowstiness, staleness, stuffy atmosphere
"the fug of the bar"
antonyms: airiness
Origin
late 19th century (originally dialect and schoolchildren's slang): of unknown origin.

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exacerbate
/ɪɡˈzasəbeɪt,ɛkˈsasəbeɪt/
Learn to pronounce
verb
verb: exacerbate; 3rd person present: exacerbates; past tense: exacerbated; past participle: exacerbated; gerund or present participle: exacerbating
make (a problem, bad situation, or negative feeling) worse.
"the exorbitant cost of land in urban areas only exacerbated the problem"
synonyms: aggravate, make worse, worsen, inflame, compound; More
antonyms: calm, reduce

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figment
/ˈfɪɡm(ə)nt/
Learn to pronounce
noun
a thing that someone believes to be real but that exists only in their imagination.
"it really was Ross and not a figment of her overheated imagination"
synonyms: invention, production, creation, concoction, fabrication; More

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variety
/vəˈrʌɪəti/
Learn to pronounce
noun
1.
the quality or state of being different or diverse; the absence of uniformity or monotony.
"it's the variety that makes my job so enjoyable"
synonyms: diversity, variation, diversification, multifariousness, heterogeneity, variegation, many-sidedness, change, difference
"his mother introduced more variety into his diet"
2.
BIOLOGY
a taxonomic category that ranks below subspecies (where present) or species, its members differing from others of the same subspecies or species in minor but permanent or heritable characteristics. Varieties are more often recognized in botany, in which they are designated in the style Apium graveolens var. dulce .

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necrophilia:
noun. sexual attraction for or sexual intercourse with dead bodiesAlso called: necromania, necrophilism. 

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sorcery
/ˈsɔːs(ə)ri/
Learn to pronounce
noun
the use of magic, especially black magic.
synonyms: (black) magic, the black arts, witchcraft, wizardry, the occult, occultism, enchantment, spell, incantation, necromancy, divination, voodooism, voodoo, hoodoo, witching, medicine, shamanism; More

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unflappable
/ʌnˈflapəb(ə)l/
Learn to pronounce
adjectiveINFORMAL
having or showing calmness in a crisis.
"I prided myself on being unflappable even in the most chaotic circumstances"
synonyms: imperturbable, unexcitable, cool, calm, collected, cool, calm, and collected, controlled, self-controlled, self-possessed, cool-headed, level-headed, relaxed, insouciant, serene, stoical, phlegmatic, unmoved; More

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stonewall
/ˈstəʊnwɔːl,stəʊnˈwɔːl/
Learn to pronounce
verb
gerund or present participle: stonewalling
delay or obstruct (a request, process, or person) by refusing to answer questions or by being evasive.
"she has also stonewalled queries about her love life"
CRICKET
bat extremely defensively.

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poker face
noun
an impassive expression that hides one's true feelings.
a person with a poker face.

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hyperbolic
/ˌhʌɪpəˈbɒlɪk/
Learn to pronounce
adjective
adjective: hyperbolic
1.
relating to a hyperbola.
MATHEMATICS
denoting trigonometrical functions defined with reference to a hyperbola rather than a circle.
2.
(of language) deliberately exaggerated.

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fling
/flɪŋ/
Learn to pronounce
verb
1.
throw or hurl forcefully.
"he picked up the debris and flung it away"
synonyms: throw, toss, sling, hurl, cast, pitch, lob, bowl, launch, flip, shy, send, propel, project, aim, direct, catapult, fire, send flying, let fly with; More
noun
1.
a short period of enjoyment or wild behaviour.
"one final fling before a tranquil retirement"
synonyms: good time, binge, spree, bit of fun, bit of amusement, night on the town; More
2.
short for Highland fling.

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epoxy
/ɪˈpɒksi,ɛˈpɒksi/
Learn to pronounce
noun
noun: epoxy; plural noun: epoxies; noun: epoxy resin; plural noun: epoxy resins
1.
any of a class of adhesives, plastics, or other materials that are polymers of epoxides.
adjective
adjective: epoxy
1.
consisting of epoxy.
"epoxy cement"
verb
verb: epoxy; 3rd person present: epoxies; past tense: epoxied; past participle: epoxied; gerund or present participle: epoxying
1.
glue (something) using epoxy resin.
"the wire is epoxied to the top of the nut"
Origin

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missive
/ˈmɪsɪv/
Learn to pronounce
noun
plural noun: missives
HUMOROUS
a letter, especially a long or official one.
"yet another missive from the Foreign Office"
synonyms: message, communication, letter, word, note, memorandum, line, report, bulletin, communiqué, dispatch, intelligence, piece of information, news, notification, announcement, greeting, epistle; More
SCOTS LAW
a document in the form of a letter exchanged by the parties to a contract.
Origin

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kook
/kuːk/
Learn to pronounce
nounINFORMAL•NORTH AMERICAN
noun: kook; plural noun: kooks
a mad or eccentric person.
Origin

1960s: probably from cuckoo.

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deflated
/dɪˈfleɪtɪd/
Learn to pronounce
adjective
1.
having been emptied of air or gas.
"a deflated balloon"
2.
having suddenly lost confidence or optimism.
"the news left him feeling utterly deflated"

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dissension
/dɪˈsɛnʃ(ə)n/
Learn to pronounce
noun
disagreement that leads to discord.
"these issues caused bitter dissension in the party"
synonyms: disagreement, difference of opinion, dispute, dissent, variance, conflict, friction, strife, discord, discordance, discordancy, disunion, disaffection, rivalry, antagonism; More

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collate
/kəˈleɪt/
Learn to pronounce
verb
1.
collect and combine (texts, information, or data).
"all the information obtained is being collated"
synonyms: collect, gather, accumulate, assemble; More
2.
appoint (a member of the clergy) to a benefice.

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A child prodigy is defined in psychology research literature as a person under the age of ten who produces meaningful output in some domain to the level of an adult expert.

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trepidation
/ˌtrɛpɪˈdeɪʃ(ə)n/
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noun
noun: trepidation
1.
a feeling of fear or anxiety about something that may happen.
"the men set off in fear and trepidation"
synonyms: fear, apprehension, dread, fearfulness, apprehensiveness, agitation, anxiety, worry, nervousness, tension, misgivings, unease, uneasiness, foreboding, disquiet, disquietude, perturbation, discomposure, dismay, consternation, alarm, panic, trembling, jumpiness; More
antonyms: calm, equanimity, composure
2.
ARCHAIC
trembling movements or motion.
Origin

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frantically
/ˈfrantɪkli/
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adverb
adverb: frantically
in a distraught way owing to fear, anxiety, or other emotion.
"women wept as they frantically searched for missing children"
in a hurried, excited, or disorganized manner.
"the two ladies competing for his attention waved frantically at him"

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suave
/swɑːv/
Learn to pronounce
adjective
adjective: suave; comparative adjective: suaver; superlative adjective: suavest
(especially of a man) charming, confident, and elegant.
"all the waiters were suave and deferential"
synonyms: charming, sophisticated, debonair, urbane, worldly, worldly-wise, polished, refined, poised, self-possessed, dignified, civilized, gentlemanly, gallant; More
antonyms: unsophisticated, rude

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foment
/fə(ʊ)ˈmɛnt/
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verb
gerund or present participle: fomenting
1.
instigate or stir up (an undesirable or violent sentiment or course of action).
"they accused him of fomenting political unrest"
synonyms: instigate, incite, provoke, agitate, excite, stir up, whip up, arouse, inspire, encourage, urge, actuate, initiate, generate, cause, prompt, start, bring about, kindle, spark off, trigger off, touch off, fan the flames of; More
2.
ARCHAIC
bathe (a part of the body) with warm or medicated lotions.
Origin
late Middle English (in foment (sense 2)): from French fomenter, from late Latin fomentare, from Latin fomentum ‘poultice, lotion’, from fovere ‘to heat, cherish’.

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plough
/plaʊ/
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verb
past tense: plowed; past participle: plowed
1.
turn up the earth of (an area of land) with a plough, especially before sowing.
"the fields had all been ploughed up"
synonyms: cultivate, till, work, furrow, harrow, ridge, break up, turn up
"the fields had been ploughed"
cut (a furrow or line) with or as if with a plough.
"icebergs have ploughed furrows on the seabed"
(of a ship or boat) travel through (an area of water).
"cruise liners plough the long-sailed routes"
unearth something while using a plough.
"some day someone will plough up the bomb and lose a leg"
2.
(especially of a vehicle) move in a fast and uncontrolled manner.
"the car ploughed into the side of a van"
synonyms: career, plunge, crash, smash, bulldoze, hurtle, cannon, lurch, drive, run, careen; More
advance or progress laboriously or forcibly.
"they ploughed their way through deep snow"
synonyms: trudge, plod, toil, clump, push one's way, wade, flounder, press, move laboriously; More
continue steadily despite difficulties or warnings to stop.
"he ploughed on, trying to outline his plans"
3.
NORTH AMERICAN
clear snow from (a road) using a snowplough.
"he could use the car only in summer because the roads weren't ploughed in winter"
4.
INFORMAL•DATED
fail (an examination).
"not many people plough Greats and become a professor of Latin"
Origin

late Old English plōh, of Germanic origin; related to Dutch ploeg and German Pflug . The spelling plough became common in England in the 18th century; earlier (16th–17th centuries) the noun was normally spelled plough, the verb plow .
ploughed
/plaʊd/
Learn to pronounce
adjective
adjective: plowed
1.
(of an area of land) having had the earth turned up with a plough, especially before sowing.
"a ploughed field"
2.
NORTH AMERICAN
(of a road) having been cleared of snow using a snowplough.
"we remained on the town's ploughed streets rather than venturing onto the country roads"

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backstop
/ˈbakstɒp/
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noun
noun: backstop; plural noun: backstops; noun: back-stop; plural noun: back-stops
1.
a thing placed at the rear of something as a barrier or support.
"pull back harder until you reach the backstop on the stick"
BASEBALL
a high fence or similar structure behind the home plate area.
BASEBALL
a catcher.
an emergency precaution or last resort.
"the human operator has to act as the ultimate backstop when things go badly wrong"
verb
verb: backstop; 3rd person present: backstops; past tense: backstopped; past participle: backstopped; gerund or present participle: backstopping; verb: back-stop; 3rd person present: back-stops; past tense: back-stopped; past participle: back-stopped; gerund or present participle: back-stopping
1.
BASEBALL
act as backstop for.
ICE HOCKEY
act as goaltender for.
"the man who backstopped the Edmonton Oilers"
support or reinforce.
"the founding banks were backstopping the loans"

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imbue
/ɪmˈbjuː/
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verb
past tense: imbued; past participle: imbued
inspire or permeate with (a feeling or quality).
"his works are invariably imbued with a sense of calm and serenity"
synonyms: permeate, saturate, diffuse, suffuse, pervade; More

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magnanimous
/maɡˈnanɪməs/
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adjective
adjective: magnanimous
generous or forgiving, especially towards a rival or less powerful person.
"she should be magnanimous in victory"
synonyms: generous, charitable, benevolent, beneficent, open-handed, big-hearted, great-hearted, munificent, bountiful, liberal, handsome, princely, altruistic, kind, kindly, philanthropic, chivalrous, noble; More
antonyms: mean-spirited, selfish
Origin

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heyday
/ˈheɪdeɪ/
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noun
noun: heyday; plural noun: heydays
the period of a person's or thing's greatest success, popularity, activity, or vigour.
"the paper has lost millions of readers since its heyday in 1964"
synonyms: prime, peak, height, high point, high spot, peak of perfection, pinnacle, acme, zenith, day, time, bloom, flowering, culmination, crowning point; More
antonyms: low point
Origin

late 16th century (denoting good spirits or passion): from archaic heyday!, an exclamation of joy, surprise, etc.

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philanderer
/fɪˈland(ə)rə/
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noun
plural noun: philanderers
a man who readily or frequently enters into casual sexual relationships with women; a womanizer.
"he was known as a philanderer"
synonyms: womanizer, Casanova, Don Juan, Lothario, flirt, ladies' man, playboy, Romeo, seducer, rake, roué, libertine, debauchee; More

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kayak
/ˈkʌɪak/
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verb
gerund or present participle: kayaking
travel in or use a kayak.
"the centre is ideal for kayaking"
Origin

mid 18th century: from Inuit qayaq .

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Still rivers run deep. 

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debonair
/ˌdɛbəˈnɛː/
Learn to pronounce
adjective
(of a man) confident, stylish, and charming.
"all the men looked debonair and handsome in white tie and tails"
synonyms: suave, urbane, sophisticated, cultured, self-possessed, self-assured, confident, charming, gracious, well mannered, civil, courteous, gallant, chivalrous, gentlemanly, refined, polished, well bred, genteel, dignified, courtly; More

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palpitation
/palpɪˈteɪʃ(ə)n/
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noun
plural noun: palpitations
a noticeably rapid, strong, or irregular heartbeat due to agitation, exertion, or illness.
"the stimulants gave me palpitations"
Origin

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veneer
/vɪˈnɪə/
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noun
1.
a thin decorative covering of fine wood applied to a coarser wood or other material.
"a fine-grained veneer"
2.
DENTISTRY
a crown in which the restoration is placed over the prepared surface of a natural crown.
verb
1.
cover (something) with a decorative layer of fine wood.
"factories employed cabinetmakers to veneer looking glasses"

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proselytize
/ˈprɒsɪlɪtʌɪz/
Learn to pronounce
verb
gerund or present participle: proselytising
convert or attempt to convert (someone) from one religion, belief, or opinion to another.
"the programme did have a tremendous evangelical effect, proselytizing many"
synonyms: evangelize, convert, seek/make converts, bring to God/Christ, bring into the fold, spread the gospel/word (to), propagandize, preach (to), win over, recruit; brainwash
"I'm not here to proselytize"
advocate or promote (a belief or course of action).
"Davis wanted to share his concept and proselytize his ideas"
synonyms: promote, present, spread, proclaim, peddle, propound, preach, back, urge, suggest, support, advocate, endorse, champion, sponsor, espouse, advance, further, assist, aid, help, contribute to, foster, boost
"they are preoccupied with proselytizing a liberal view"
proselytizing
/ˈprɒsɪlɪtʌɪzɪŋ/
Learn to pronounce
noun
noun: proselytising
the action of attempting to convert someone from one religion, belief, or opinion to another.
"no amount of proselytizing was going to change their minds"

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chagrin
/ˈʃaɡrɪn,ʃəˈɡrɪn/
Learn to pronounce
noun
noun: chagrin
1.
annoyance or distress at having failed or been humiliated.
"to my chagrin, he was nowhere to be seen"
synonyms: annoyance, irritation, vexation, exasperation, displeasure, pique, spleen, crossness, anger, rage, fury, wrath; More
antonyms: delight
verb
past participle: chagrined; verb: chagrin; 3rd person present: chagrins; gerund or present participle: chagrinning; past tense: chagrinned; past participle: chagrinned
1.
feel distressed or humiliated.
"he was chagrined when his friend poured scorn on him"
synonyms: annoyed, irritated, cross, angry, vexed, exasperated, irked, piqued, displeased, put out, fed up, disgruntled, in a bad mood, in a temper, testy, in high dudgeon, huffy, in a huff, resentful, aggrieved; More
Origin

mid 17th century (in the sense ‘melancholy’): from French chagrin (noun), literally ‘rough skin, shagreen’, chagriner (verb), of unknown origin.

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objective
/əbˈdʒɛktɪv/
Learn to pronounce
adjective
1.
(of a person or their judgement) not influenced by personal feelings or opinions in considering and representing facts.
"historians try to be objective and impartial"
synonyms: impartial, unbiased, unprejudiced, non-partisan, disinterested, non-discriminatory, neutral, uninvolved, even-handed, equitable, fair, fair-minded, just, open-minded, dispassionate, detached, impersonal, unemotional, clinical
"an interviewer must try to be objective"
2.
GRAMMAR
relating to or denoting a case of nouns and pronouns serving as the object of a transitive verb or a preposition.
noun
1.
a thing aimed at or sought; a goal.
"the system has achieved its objective"
synonyms: aim, intention, purpose, target, goal, intent, object, end, end in view, grail, holy grail; More
2.
GRAMMAR
the objective case.

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What is a duodenal ulcer? A duodenal ulcer is a sore that forms in the lining of the duodenum. Your duodenum is the first part of your small intestine, the part of your digestive system that food travels through straight after it leaves your stomach. You can get an ulcer in your stomach as well as in your duodenum.

A sore that develops on the lining of the oesophagus, stomach or small intestine.

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gird1
/ɡəːd/
Learn to pronounce
verbLITERARY
encircle (a person or part of the body) with a belt or band.
"a young man was to be girded with the belt of knighthood"
secure (a garment or sword) on the body with a belt or band.
"a white robe girded with a magenta sash"
synonyms: fasten, belt, bind, tie
"Sir Hector girded on his sword"
surround; encircle.
"the ruins are girded by two deep gorges"
synonyms: surround, enclose, encircle, circle, ring, encompass, circumscribe, border, bound, edge, skirt, fringe, form a ring around, form a barrier round; More

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wrap (one's) head around
To comprehend something that one considers challenging, confusing, or a foreign concept.

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detestable
/dɪˈtɛstəb(ə)l/
Learn to pronounce
adjective
adjective: detestable
deserving intense dislike.
"I found the film's violence detestable"
synonyms: abhorrent, detested, hateful, hated, loathsome, loathed, despicable, despised, abominable, abominated, execrable, execrated, repellent, repugnant, repulsive, revolting, disgusting, distasteful, horrible, horrid, horrifying, awful, heinous, reprehensible, obnoxious, odious, nauseating, offensive, contemptible
"such behaviour is detestable and despicable"
antonyms: lovable, admirable
Origin

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creep
/kriːp/
Learn to pronounce
verb
1.
move slowly and carefully in order to avoid being heard or noticed.
"he crept downstairs, hardly making any noise"
synonyms: crawl, move on all fours, move on hands and knees, pull oneself, inch, edge, slither, slide, squirm, wriggle, writhe, worm, worm one's way, insinuate oneself More
2.
(of a negative characteristic or fact) occur or develop gradually and almost imperceptibly.
"errors crept into his game"
noun
1.
INFORMAL
a detestable person.
"I thought he was a nasty little creep"
synonyms: rogue, villain, wretch, reprobate; More
2.
slow steady movement, especially when imperceptible.
"an attempt to prevent this slow creep of costs"

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spearhead
/ˈspɪəhɛd/
Learn to pronounce
verb
past tense: spearheaded; past participle: spearheaded
lead (an attack or movement).
"he's spearheading a campaign to reduce the number of accidents at work"
synonyms: lead, head, front, be the driving force behind; More

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gimmick
/ˈɡɪmɪk/
Learn to pronounce
noun
a trick or device intended to attract attention, publicity, or trade.
"it is not so much a programme to improve services as a gimmick to gain votes"
synonyms: publicity device, stunt, contrivance, eye-catching novelty, scheme, trick, dodge, ploy, stratagem; More

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the gift of gab:

UK informal (US the gift of gab) the ability to speak easily and confidently in a way that makes people want to listen to you and believe you: She's got the gift of the gab - she should work in sales and marketing.

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flair
/flɛː/
Learn to pronounce
noun
1.
a special or instinctive aptitude or ability for doing something well.
"she had a flair for languages"
synonyms: aptitude, talent, gift, knack, instinct, natural ability, ability, capability, capacity, faculty, facility, skill, bent, feel, genius
"an activist with a flair for publicity"
2.
stylishness and originality.
"she dressed with flair"
synonyms: style, stylishness, panache, verve, dash, elan, finesse, poise, elegance, sparkle, brio; More
Tip
Similar-sounding words
flair is sometimes confused with flare

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ribbing
/ˈrɪbɪŋ/
Learn to pronounce
noun
noun: ribbing
1.
a riblike structure or pattern.
"a fleecy sweatshirt with ribbing at neck, cuffs, and hem"
2.
INFORMAL
good-natured teasing.
"he took a good deal of ribbing with the utmost good humour"
rib
/rɪb/
verb
gerund or present participle: ribbing
1.
mark with or form into ridges.
"the road was ribbed with furrows of slush"
provide with ribs.
"the aisle vaults are lower, but are also ribbed and painted"
2.
INFORMAL
tease good-naturedly.
"the first time I appeared in the outfit I was ribbed mercilessly"
Origin

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dingy
/ˈdɪn(d)ʒi/
Learn to pronounce
adjective
adjective: dingy; comparative adjective: dingier; superlative adjective: dingiest
gloomy and drab.
"a dingy room"
synonyms: gloomy, drab, dark, dull, badly/poorly lit, dim; More
antonyms: bright, clean
Origin

mid 18th century: perhaps based on Old English dynge ‘dung’.

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drab1
/drab/
Learn to pronounce
adjective
adjective: drab; comparative adjective: drabber; superlative adjective: drabbest
1.
lacking brightness or interest; drearily dull.
"the landscape was drab and grey"
synonyms: colourless, grey, greyish, dull, dull-coloured, washed out, neutral, pale, muted, lacklustre, lustreless, muddy, watery; More
antonyms: bright, cheerful, interesting
2.
of a dull light brown colour.
"drab camouflage uniforms"
noun
noun: drab
1.
fabric of a dull light brown colour.
clothes, especially trousers, made of drab.
plural noun: drabs
"a young man dressed in drabs"
Origin

mid 16th century (as a noun denoting undyed cloth): probably from Old French drap ‘cloth’ (see drape).
drab2
/drab/
Learn to pronounce
nounARCHAIC
noun: drab; plural noun: drabs
1.
a slovenly woman.
2.
a prostitute.
Origin

early 16th century: perhaps related to Low German drabbe ‘mire’ and Dutch drab ‘dregs’.

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