buttress
as in:
a flying buttress
The buttress wall supports the main wall while preserving an open feel in the house.
buttress = an architectural feature that supports the wall of a building
Word Statistics
| Library | 0 uses in 10 avg bks |
flying buttress
At that time, the English used the flying buttress more elegantly.†
flying buttress = an arch or half-arch that transfers thrust from an upper part of a wall to a lower support
Word Statistics
| Library | 0 uses in 10 avg bks |
truss
The same trusses carry the weight of the roof and the ceiling.†
trusses = a structural form (rigid, web-like assembly of smaller — usually triangular members) that supports a roof, bridge or other structure
Word Statistics
| Library | 2 uses in 10 avg bks |
computer-aided design
AutoCAD is a popular computer-aided design software package.†
computer-aided design = the use of computer software in designing products — especially involving graphic display of the product being designed
Word Statistics
| Library | 0 uses in 10 avg bks |
masonry
Falling masonry is dangerous in an earthquake.
masonry = stone or brick parts of a structure such as a building or wall; or the craft of building with such materials
Word Statistics
| Library | 1 uses in 10 avg bks |
cornice
It is inscribed on the school building's cornice.†
cornice = a decorative border along the top of a building's exterior wall
or:
a decorative molding between the ceiling and the top of a wall
or:
hardened snow that hangs over a ridge or precipice
or:
a decorative molding between the ceiling and the top of a wall
or:
hardened snow that hangs over a ridge or precipice
Word Statistics
| Library | 1 uses in 10 avg bks |
facade
Beneath the facade of ideology was an individual who wanted absolute power.†
facade = face or visible appearance
Word Statistics
| Library | 8 uses in 10 avg bks |
cupola
Possibly the most famous cupola is that at Saint Peter's Cathedral at the Vatican.
cupola = an architectural feature at the top of a roof, usually dome-shaped and opened by windows or columns
Word Statistics
| Library | 2 uses in 10 avg bks |
cantilevered
Frank Lloyd Wright liked to cantilever his buildings.†
cantilever = of a projecting horizontal beam fixed at one end only
Word Statistics
| Library | 0 uses in 10 avg bks |
landmark
It was a landmark Supreme Court decision.
landmark = very important
Definition
Generally landmark means:something very important
or:
something easily recognized (such as a monument, building, or geographic feature) — especially one that helps one to know where she is; or that is a tourist destination
or:
something easily recognized (such as a monument, building, or geographic feature) — especially one that helps one to know where she is; or that is a tourist destination
Word Statistics
| Library | 5 uses in 10 avg bks |
symmetry
The building has multiple local symmetries.
symmetries = balance among the parts of something
Definition
Generally symmetry means:balance among the parts of something
or more specifically:
having an exact reflection of form on opposite sides of a dividing line or plane
or more specifically:
having an exact reflection of form on opposite sides of a dividing line or plane
Word Statistics
| Library | 2 uses in 10 avg bks |
Bauhaus
Bauhaus had a major influence on modern design.†
Bauhaus = German style of architecture begun by Walter Gropius in 1918 and a strong influence on modern architecture
Word Statistics
| Library | 0 uses in 10 avg bks |
partition
a movable partition can divide the ballroom into two smaller rooms†
partition = something that divides space, the act of dividing into parts, or a divided part
Word Statistics
| Library | 4 uses in 10 avg bks |
transverse
About one in 300 pregnancies have a transverse fetus at delivery.†
transverse = in a crosswise direction (at a right angle to the long axis)
Word Statistics
| Library | 0 uses in 10 avg bks |
piazza
They filmed it at the Piazza Navona in Rome.
piazza = Italian term for a plaza (large open square created or defined by several buildings forming a perimeter enclosure)
Definition
Generally piazza means:architecture: Italian term for a plaza (large open square created or defined by several buildings forming a perimeter enclosure)
Word Statistics
| Library | 2 uses in 10 avg bks |
anteroom
He was searched again in the anteroom before entering her office.
anteroom = a room leading to a larger or more important room
Definition
Generally anteroom means:a room leading to a larger or more important room — especially a waiting room
Word Statistics
| Library | 1 uses in 10 avg bks |
postmodernism
with regard to architecture
Postmodern architects may consider many modern buildings to be soulless.
postmodern = aims to please, surprise or amuse by dismissing the logic, simplicity, and order inherent in modernist architecture and by combining different styles or shapes in unexpected ways
Word Statistics
| Library | 0 uses in 10 avg bks |
Gothic architecture
Gothic architecture flourished during the mid and late medieval period.†
Gothic architecture = a style of architecture characterized by slender vertical piers and counterbalancing buttresses and by vaulting and pointed arches — famously popularized in European cathedrals built between the 12th and 16th centuries
Word Statistics
| Library | 0 uses in 10 avg bks |
neoclassicism
She experimented with neoclassicism.†
neoclassicism = revival of a classical style (in art or literature or architecture or music) but from a new perspective or with a new motivation
Word Statistics
| Library | 0 uses in 10 avg bks |
acoustic
2 meanings
as in:
auditorium acoustics
The auditorium has fabulous acoustics.
acoustics = sound quality based on such things as the surfaces off of which sound bounces
Definition
Generally this sense of acoustic means:sound quality or its study based on such things as the surfaces off of which sound bounces — such as how well a voice on stage can be heard in the back of an auditorium, or how noisy a restaurant sounds
Word Statistics
| Library | 2 uses in 10 avg bks |
as in:
acoustic guitar
She plays an acoustic guitar.
acoustic = not using electricity to amplify sound
Definition
Generally this sense of acoustic means:of a guitar or other musical instrument: not using electricity to amplify sound
Word Statistics
| Library | 1 uses in 10 avg bks |
insulate
as in:
insulate the attic
We had his bedroom insulated before winter came.
insulated = added material to reduce heat transfer
Definition
Generally this sense of insulate means:to separate two things to prevent passage of something such as heat, cold, noise, or electricity — often by covering one of the things with a material
Word Statistics
| Library | 1 uses in 10 avg bks |
insolation
Tall windows facing the equator increase insolation in the winter relative to the summer because the sun is lower in the sky during the winter.†
insolation = exposure to sunlight — especially for a therapeutic purpose
or:
sunstroke (collapsing from excessive exposure to the sun or to heat)
or:
engineering & astronomy: the rate of solar radiation on a surface
or:
sunstroke (collapsing from excessive exposure to the sun or to heat)
or:
engineering & astronomy: the rate of solar radiation on a surface
Word Statistics
| Library | 0 uses in 10 avg bks |
seismic
They are reviewing old seismic surveys with new software.†
seismic = subject to or caused by an earthquake or earth vibration
Word Statistics
| Library | 1 uses in 10 avg bks |
annex
as in:
annex of the main building
The YMCA added an annex where younger children can play.
annex = an addition that extends a main building
Definition
Generally this sense of annex means:an addition that extends a main building
or:
to attach something — especially to something larger or more important
or:
to attach something — especially to something larger or more important
Word Statistics
| Library | 1 uses in 10 avg bks |
keystone
the keystone of campaign reform was the ban on soft money
keystone = something of importance upon which other things depend
Definition
Generally keystone means:something of importance upon which other things depend
or:
architecture or masonry: the central building block at the top of an arch or vault (providing pressure to lock the other blocks into place)
or:
architecture or masonry: the central building block at the top of an arch or vault (providing pressure to lock the other blocks into place)
Word Statistics
| Library | 2 uses in 10 avg bks |
fresco
I love Michelangelo's ceiling fresco in the Sistine Chapel.†
fresco = a method of artistic painting on a wall by using watercolors on wet plaster; or the painting made in such a manner
Word Statistics
| Library | 2 uses in 10 avg bks |
alcove
a beautiful room with an alcove window
alcove = a recessed or secluded space — such as in a room or garden
Word Statistics
| Library | 6 uses in 10 avg bks |
ratio
There is much interesting study on the predictive value of the ratio of the length of the index finger to the ring finger within a given gender and race.
ratio = relative lengths
Definition
Generally ratio means:the relative magnitudes of two quantities — often expressed as a:b (which could also be expressed as the fraction a/b)
Word Statistics
| Library | 4 uses in 10 avg bks |
| SAT® | top 1000 |
coefficient
as in:
coefficient of thermal expansion
Determine the coefficient of friction between the two objects.
coefficient = physics: a constant number that serves as a measure of some property or characteristic (such as the coefficient of thermal expansion)
Word Statistics
| Library | 0 uses in 10 avg bks |
prominent
as in:
a prominent politician
She is a prominent member of our community.
prominent = well-known and respected
Definition
Generally this sense of prominent means:well-known or important — especially of a person who is respected
Word Statistics
| Library | 4 uses in 10 avg bks |
colonnade
It was raining, so they stayed under the colonnade as they walked along the rose garden.†
colonnade = a series of regularly spaced columns
Word Statistics
| Library | 1 uses in 10 avg bks |
peristyle
The peristyle is paved with white marble.†
peristyle = a colonnade (series of regularly spaced columns) surrounding a building or enclosing a courtyard
Word Statistics
| Library | 0 uses in 10 avg bks |
compliant
as in:
compliant with the law
The company was fined for not being regulation 4.3 compliant.
compliant = conforming to rules
Word Statistics
| Library | 1 uses in 10 avg bks |
| SAT® | top 2000 |
pavilion
We're meeting for a picnic under the pavilion at the park.
pavilion = large roofed structure without walls
Definition
Generally pavilion means:a large structure separate from a main structure
in various senses, including:
- a large roofed structure without walls — often found in parks
- a temporary structure — such as a large tent to house exhibits at a fair, to provide sports facilities, or to put on a show
- a section of a large hospital or office complex adjacent to other parts
Word Statistics
| Library | 6 uses in 10 avg bks |
auxiliary
We have an auxiliary power system in case of a blackout.†
auxiliary = functioning in a subsidiary or supporting capacity
Word Statistics
| Library | 2 uses in 10 avg bks |
basilica
We visited St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City.
basilica = in Roman architecture, a public building for assemblies
or:
a Roman Catholic church or cathedral given certain privileges (typically architecturally similar to earlier Roman public buildings of the same name)
or:
a Roman Catholic church or cathedral given certain privileges (typically architecturally similar to earlier Roman public buildings of the same name)
Definition
Generally basilica means:in Roman architecture, a public building for assemblies
or:
a Roman Catholic church or cathedral accorded certain privileges (typically architecturally similar to earlier Roman basilica)
or:
a Roman Catholic church or cathedral accorded certain privileges (typically architecturally similar to earlier Roman basilica)
Word Statistics
| Library | 0 uses in 10 avg bks |
rule of thumb
As a rule of thumb, we estimate that employees cost 150% of their hourly wage.†
rule of thumb = a simple procedure used to approximating a value or make a good decision
Word Statistics
| Library | 0 uses in 10 avg bks |
condemn
as in:
condemned the building
The building was condemned by the inspector.
condemned = found a building not suitable to be occupied
Definition
Generally this sense of condemn means:an official government finding that a building is not suitable to be occupied
Word Statistics
| Library | 5 uses in 10 avg bks |
render
as in:
rendered interpretation
The pianist rendered the Beethoven sonata beautifully.
rendered = played (portrayed or gave her interpretation of)
Definition
Generally this sense of render means:to portray or create something in a particular way; or to interpret, translate, or extract from
The exact meaning of this sense of render depends upon its context. For example:
- "Each artist will render a different interpretation when painting a portrait." — create in a particular way
- "A Supreme Court judge may render his own interpretation of the Constitution." — interpret in a particular way
- "The computer you are using, rendered this page from software instructions." — created through interpretation
- "A graph is rendered from the underlying data." — made
- "Fat can be rendered (extracted) by cooking meat slowly." — extracted from
Word Statistics
| Library | 6 uses in 10 avg bks |
| SAT® | top 1000 |
corrosion
The bridge is painted each year to protect the steel from salt air corrosion.†
corrosion = a state of deterioration — especially in metals
Word Statistics
| Library | 1 uses in 10 avg bks |
protrude
Metal spikes protrude from the dog's collar.
protrude = stick out
Definition
Generally protrude means:to stick out from
Word Statistics
| Library | 8 uses in 10 avg bks |
conduit
Building codes requires the wires be run in a conduit.†
conduit = passageway
Definition
Generally conduit means:a passageway
in various senses, including:
- a pipe or channel for water
- a protective pipe through which electrical wires are run
- someone or something that conveys information or goods
Word Statistics
| Library | 2 uses in 10 avg bks |
foreman
She complained to the shop foreman.
foreman = a person who is in charge of other workers
or:
a juror in a court case who is selected by other jurors to head the jury
or:
a juror in a court case who is selected by other jurors to head the jury
Word Statistics
| Library | 7 uses in 10 avg bks |
ordinance
The city passed an ordinance to increase the minimum wage to $15 per hour.
ordinance = law
Definition
Generally this sense of ordinance means:a rule or law — typically enacted by city government
Word Statistics
| Library | 1 uses in 10 avg bks |
abut
The property is zoned for commercial use, but it abuts residential property.†
abuts = is adjacent to another (shares a boundary)
Definition
Generally abut means:adjacent (share a boundary)
Word Statistics
| Library | 1 uses in 10 avg bks |
contiguous
Texas is the largest of the contiguous 48 states.
contiguous = sharing boundaries
Definition
Generally contiguous means:with a common boundary; or very close in space or time
Word Statistics
| Library | 0 uses in 10 avg bks |
proximity
They selected the offices for their proximity to D.C. political power.†
proximity = close together — in space or time
Word Statistics
| Library | 6 uses in 10 avg bks |
continuity
Despite maintaining continuity in an alternate world, each episode can stand alone as a complete story.
continuity = consistency
Definition
Generally continuity means:consistency or lacking interruption
Word Statistics
| Library | 1 uses in 10 avg bks |
juxtaposition
Shakespeare often makes us think by juxtaposing contrasting concepts like youth and age or freedom and responsibility.
juxtaposing = positioning dissimilar things side-x-side (usually to contrast)
Definition
Generally juxtaposition means:the act of positioning dissimilar things side-x-side (usually to contrast)
Word Statistics
| Library | 1 uses in 10 avg bks |
lattice
The house has a decorative lattice fence in front.
lattice = a pattern made from crisscrossing two sets of lines diagonally
Definition
Generally lattice means:an object or pattern made from crisscrossing two sets of lines — leaving diamond- or square-shaped spaces where they do not overlap
or:
an arrangement of points or particles or objects in a regular periodic pattern
or:
an arrangement of points or particles or objects in a regular periodic pattern
Word Statistics
| Library | 2 uses in 10 avg bks |
contract
as in:
legal contract
She signed the contract.
contract = a written agreement that is enforceable by law
Definition
Generally this sense of contract means:an agreement - typically written and enforceable by law
Word Statistics
| Library | 12 uses in 10 avg bks |
| SAT® | top 1000 |
apex
It was written during the apex of Roman power, wealth, and stability.
apex = the highest point
Definition
Generally apex means:the highest point of something
Word Statistics
| Library | 1 uses in 10 avg bks |
| SAT® | top 2000 |
perimeter
Don't go beyond the perimeter of the campgrounds.
perimeter = outer edges
Definition
Generally perimeter means:the outer edge
The exact meaning of perimeter can depend upon its context. For example:
- "Stay inside the defensive perimeter." — the outer edges of the area that is defended
- "It is common on the city's perimeter." — the outer edges of the city
- "What is the perimeter of the square?" — the sum of the length of the sides of a geometric shape
Word Statistics
| Library | 12 uses in 10 avg bks |
premise
as in:
located on the premises
She was injured on the premises of the defendant.
premises = property
Definition
Generally this sense of premises means:land and/or buildings — especially of a business or organization
Word Statistics
| Library | 1 uses in 10 avg bks |
deteriorate
The situation could quickly deteriorate.
deteriorate = become worse
Word Statistics
| Library | 5 uses in 10 avg bks |
coherent
She presented a compelling and coherent plan.
coherent = sensible and clear
Definition
Generally coherent means:sensible and clear; or describing parts as fitting together in a consistent or pleasing manner
Word Statistics
| Library | 6 uses in 10 avg bks |
| SAT® | top 1000 |
constraint
I will devote my full energy to the project, without constraint.
constraint = limitation
Definition
Generally constraint means:limitation (something that limits something else)
Word Statistics
| Library | 2 uses in 10 avg bks |
| SAT® | top 2000 |
arbor
The arbor provided a shady resting place in the park.
arbor = a framework that supports climbing plants
Definition
Generally this sense of arbor means:a framework that supports climbing plants; or a shady rest area made by such a framework or by trees and shrubs
Word Statistics
| Library | 1 uses in 10 avg bks |
medieval
The story takes place during medieval times.
medieval = relating to or belonging to the Middle Ages
Word Statistics
| Library | 6 uses in 10 avg bks |
contemporary
as in:
contemporary design
It's easier to find outstanding books when selecting from those that have been in print for a long time, but were it not for that I would prefer modern literature with its contemporary language, issues, and ideas.
contemporary = characteristic of or belonging to the present time
Word Statistics
| Library | 2 uses in 10 avg bks |
| SAT® | top 1000 |
renaissance
2 meanings
(with a lowercase "r")
When she was elected, she promised a renaissance in Detroit.†
renaissance = a revival of learning and culture — especially in the arts
Word Statistics
| Library | 1 uses in 10 avg bks |
(with an uppercase "R")
We're visiting the museum to see the exhibit of Renaissance art.
Renaissance = the period of European history known for a revival of intellectual and artistic achievement (14th through mid-17th centuries)
Word Statistics
| Library | 1 uses in 10 avg bks |
facilitate
After the initial answers, the moderator will facilitate an open discussion of the topic.†
facilitate = make easier
Word Statistics
| Library | 3 uses in 10 avg bks |
| SAT® | top 500 |
aesthetic
It was not aesthetically pleasing.
aesthetically = related to beauty or good taste
Definition
Generally aesthetic means:related to beauty or good taste — often referring to one's appreciation of beauty or one's sense of what is beautiful
or:
beautiful or tasteful
or:
beautiful or tasteful
Word Statistics
| Library | 4 uses in 10 avg bks |
| SAT® | top 1000 |
criteria
We're considering five primary criteria as we compare job applicants.
criteria = reference points against which things can be evaluated
Word Statistics
| Library | 2 uses in 10 avg bks |
| SAT® | top 1000 |
transparent
as in:
transparent shower door
The transparent shower door shows water spots.
transparent = capable of being seen through with clarity
Definition
Generally this sense of transparent means:able to be seen through with clarity
Word Statistics
| Library | 4 uses in 10 avg bks |
| SAT® | top 1000 |
opaque
as in:
opaque shower door
They are engineering a window that can convert from transparent to opaque with the push of a button.
opaque = unable to be seen through
Definition
Generally this sense of opaque means:not able to see through
Word Statistics
| Library | 2 uses in 10 avg bks |
translucent
I could see a vague form through the translucent glass.
translucent = almost transparent; allowing light to pass through diffusely
Word Statistics
| Library | 7 uses in 10 avg bks |
mosaic
The museum preserved a beautiful mosaic floor.
mosaic = art consisting of a design made of small pieces of colored stone or glass
Definition
Generally mosaic means:art consisting of a design made of many pieces of colored material such as stone or tile
or more rarely:
anything made of many differing parts of equal importance, but varying appearance
or more rarely:
anything made of many differing parts of equal importance, but varying appearance
Word Statistics
| Library | 2 uses in 10 avg bks |
flexible
The job has flexible working hours.
flexible = adaptable to different conditions
Definition
Generally flexible means:bendable or adaptable
in various senses, including:
- easily bent without physical damage or injury — as of a hose or gymnast
- able to adjust readily to different conditions — as of a plan
- willing to make concessions — as of a negotiator or a boss
Word Statistics
| Library | 5 uses in 10 avg bks |
| SAT® | top 1000 |
plumb
Don't assume ghosts if your door swings by itself. It is probably not plumb.
plumb = exactly vertical or straight
Word Statistics
| Library | 2 uses in 10 avg bks |
comprised
The university is comprised of six colleges.
comprised = made up of (composed of)
Definition
Generally comprised means:made up of (composed of); or included
Word Statistics
| Library | 4 uses in 10 avg bks |
| SAT® | top 1000 |
vertical
The architect used long vertical lines to pull the eye upward.
vertical = oriented straight up and down (90 degrees relative to the floor)
Word Statistics
| Library | 9 uses in 10 avg bks |
horizontal
Paintings in which horizontal lines dominate, tend to be relaxing.
horizontal = in line with the floor, horizon, or another flat base
Word Statistics
| Library | 6 uses in 10 avg bks |
diagonal
The artist used diagonal lines to create tension.†
diagonal = a straight line connecting opposite corners of a rectangle; or any slope that could connect the corners of an imaginary rectangle that has one side parallel to the floor
Word Statistics
| Library | 5 uses in 10 avg bks |
derivative
a highly derivative prose style
derivative = something developed from something else
Definition
Generally derivative means:something developed from something else
in various senses, including:
- a word based on another word — as in "Quickly is a derivative of quick."
- a mathematical value from a function — as in "We can derive X from Y," or "X is a derivative of Y."
- a type of investment whose value is based on another value — as in "We provide various derivatives that can protect against inflation."
- a work of art such as a film or painting that lacks ideas not previously expressed in other works of art — as in "Her work is too derivative to interest me."
- work based upon or influenced by prior work — as in "The book surveys psychological ideas derivative of, but not totally dependent on B.F. Skinner."
Word Statistics
| Library | 1 uses in 10 avg bks |
right angle
The lines intersect at right angles.†
right angles = an angle measuring 90 degrees (like the angle between a classroom floor and wall)
Word Statistics
| Library | 2 uses in 10 avg bks |
acute
as in:
an acute angle
Roofs at acute angles are common in snow country.
acute angles = sharp (pointed)
Definition
Generally this sense of acute angle means:ending in a narrow point or angle; or describing an angle measuring less than 90 degrees
Word Statistics
| Library | 2 uses in 10 avg bks |
obtuse angle
He wanted a roof with a more obtuse angle, so it would be safer to walk on it.†
obtuse angle = an angle measuring between 90 and 180 degrees
Word Statistics
| Library | 0 uses in 10 avg bks |
convex
Convex mirrors make things look smaller and farther away than they are.†
convex = angled or curving outward
Word Statistics
| Library | 0 uses in 10 avg bks |
invert
We rode an inverted loop roller coaster.
inverted = turned in the opposite position — such as upside down, inside out
Definition
Generally invert means:to turn something in the opposite position — such as upside down, inside out, or (of two things) in switched position
Word Statistics
| Library | 2 uses in 10 avg bks |
fabricate
as in:
fabricate metal parts
A full machine shop allows them to quickly fabricate parts and create test fixtures.
fabricate = make or manufacture
Definition
Generally this sense of fabricate means:to make or manufacture something — especially by assembling components
Word Statistics
| Library | 2 uses in 10 avg bks |
ostentatious
Although wealthy, the family is not ostentatious.
ostentatious = showy (trying to attract notice and impress others in a manner seen as in bad taste)
Definition
Generally ostentatious means:intended to attract notice and impress others — especially with wealth in a vulgar way
Word Statistics
| Library | 2 uses in 10 avg bks |
utilitarian
She likes plain utilitarian kitchenware.
utilitarian = designed for usefulness rather than beauty or style
Word Statistics
| Library | 1 uses in 10 avg bks |
synthetic
The couch is covered with synthetic leather.
synthetic = artificial (man-made rather than natural)
Definition
Generally synthetic means:artificial (man-made rather than natural); or not genuine
Word Statistics
| Library | 4 uses in 10 avg bks |
| SAT® | top 1000 |
foliage
It's difficult to spot the birds in the foliage.
foliage = plant leaves
Word Statistics
| Library | 5 uses in 10 avg bks |
ingenious
It is an ingenious solution to the problem. It is as reliable as it is easy.
ingenious = showing cleverness and originality
Word Statistics
| Library | 4 uses in 10 avg bks |
elegant
2 meanings
as in:
an elegant gown
She was an elegant bride.
elegant = refined and tasteful
Definition
Generally this sense of elegant means:refined and tasteful in appearance, behavior or style
Word Statistics
| Library | 12 uses in 10 avg bks |
as in:
as elegant equation
It is an elegant solution that will reduce complexity and save material.
elegant = a solution that is simpler (and often more comprehensive) than most would anticipate
Word Statistics
| Library | 12 uses in 10 avg bks |
promenade
The ladies promenaded along the beach
promenaded = walked leisurely in a public place
Definition
Generally promenade means:a public pathway for leisurely walking — especially one near the ocean
or:
walking leisurely — especially in a public place
or:
walking leisurely — especially in a public place
Word Statistics
| Library | 1 uses in 10 avg bks |
obstruct
obstruct the path
obstruct = block
Definition
Generally obstruct means:to block or hinder
The exact meaning of obstruct can depend upon its context. For example:
- "obstruct the path" — block passage through
- "obstruct justice" — hinder or prevent the progress or accomplishment of
- "obstruct her view" — get in the way so as to hide from sight
Word Statistics
| Library | 2 uses in 10 avg bks |
linear
a linear measurement
linear = relating to a line
Definition
Generally linear means:relating to a line
The exact meaning of linear can depend upon its context. For example:
- "linear foot" — measured along a straight line (in one dimension)
- "linear arrangement" — placed along a straight line
- "linear thinking" — in a clear, straightforward sequence
- "linear programming" — describing a proportional relationship that can be graphed with a straight line (described mathematically as an equation whose terms are of the first degree)
Word Statistics
| Library | 1 uses in 10 avg bks |
bronze
as in:
bronze won't corrode in salt water
The sculpture of a bull on Wall Street is made of bronze.
bronze = a brownish metal that is made of copper and (usually) tin
Definition
Generally this sense of bronze means:a brownish-colored metal with red or yellow hues that is made of copper and (usually) tin
Word Statistics
| Library | 4 uses in 10 avg bks |
bevel
a beveled mirror
beveled = two surfaces meeting at an angle (that isn't 90 degrees)
(editor's note: See the Google Images link on the word detail page to see samples.)
(editor's note: See the Google Images link on the word detail page to see samples.)
Definition
Generally this sense of bevel means:two surfaces meeting at an angle (that isn't 90 degrees)
See this Google Images link for beveled edge to see samples.
See this Google Images link for beveled edge to see samples.
Word Statistics
| Library | 1 uses in 10 avg bks |
colleague
The surgeon consulted his colleagues.
colleagues = fellow workers
Definition
Generally colleague means:fellow worker — especially in a respected profession such as teaching, medicine, or law
Word Statistics
| Library | 21 uses in 10 avg bks |
| SAT® | top 1000 |
sheer
as in:
a sheer blouse
In the kitchen, I want sheer curtains that I can see through.
sheer = so thin and delicate as to be transparent
Definition
Generally this sense of sheer means:typically of fabric: very thin and delicate — often transparent
Word Statistics
| Library | 6 uses in 10 avg bks |
| SAT® | top 1000 |
optimal
It is the optimal solution.†
optimal = most desirable possible — often given the circumstances
Word Statistics
| Library | 1 uses in 10 avg bks |
ornate
The hotel is decorated with ornate furniture, lots of carved designs, and gold leaf gilding.
ornate = having lots of decorative detail
Definition
Generally ornate means:of a thing: having lots of decorative detail
of speech: more complicated than necessary because of unusual words and phrases (fans might call it flowery or finely finished, but most would call it too complicated or showy)
of speech: more complicated than necessary because of unusual words and phrases (fans might call it flowery or finely finished, but most would call it too complicated or showy)
Word Statistics
| Library | 7 uses in 10 avg bks |
| SAT® | top 500 |
concentric
Stonehenge consists of massive stones arranged into concentric circles.†
concentric = shapes having a common center, axis or origin with one inside the other
Word Statistics
| Library | 1 uses in 10 avg bks |