Online English Dictionary Free Words Starting with Letter E

E 

E1  n. (also e) (pl. Es or e's) 1 fifth letter of the alphabet. 2 mus. Third note of the diatonic scale of c major.

E2  abbr. (also e.) 1 east, eastern. 2 see +e-number.

E-  prefix see +ex-1 before some consonants.

Each  —adj. Every one of two or more persons or things, regarded separately (five in each class). —pron. Each person or thing (each of us). [old english]

Each other  pron. One another.

Each way  adj. (of a bet) backing a horse etc. To win or to come second or third.

Eager  adj. Keen, enthusiastic (eager to learn; eager for news). ~ eagerly adv. Eagerness n. [latin acer keen]

Eager beaver  n. Colloq. Very diligent person.

Eagle  n. 1 a large bird of prey with keen vision and powerful flight. B this as a symbol, esp. Of the us. 2 score of two strokes under par at any hole in golf. [latin aquila]

Eagle eye  n. Keen sight, watchfulness. ~ eagle-eyed adj.

Eaglet  n. Young eagle.

E. & o. E.  Abbr. Errors and omissions excepted.

Ear1  n. 1 organ of hearing, esp. Its external part. 2 faculty for discriminating sounds (an ear for music).  3 attention, esp. Sympathetic (give ear to; have a person's ear). ~ all ears listening attentively. Have (or keep) an ear to the ground be alert to rumours or trends. Up to one's ears (often foll. By in) colloq. Deeply involved or occupied. [old english]

Ear2  n. Seed-bearing head of a cereal plant. [old english]

Earache  n. Pain in the inner ear.

Eardrum  n. Membrane of the middle ear.

Earful  n. (pl. -s) colloq. 1 prolonged amount of talking. 2 strong reprimand.

Earl  n. British nobleman ranking between marquis and viscount. ~ earldom n. [old english]

Earl marshal  n. President of the college of heralds, with ceremonial duties.

Early  —adj. & adv. (-ier, -iest) 1 before the due, usual, or expected time. 2 a not far on in the day or night, or in time (early evening; at the earliest opportunity). B prompt (early payment appreciated). 3 not far on in a period, development, or process of evolution; being the first stage (early english architecture; early spring). 4 forward in flowering, ripening, etc. (early peaches). —n. (pl. -ies) (usu. In pl.) Early fruit or vegetable. ~ earliness n. [old english: related to +ere]

Early bird  n. Colloq. Person who arrives, gets up, etc. Early.

Early days  n.pl. Too soon to expect results etc.

Early on  adv. At an early stage.

Earmark  —v. Set aside for a special purpose. —n. Identifying mark.

Earn  v. 1 bring in as income or interest. 2 be entitled to or obtain as the reward for work or merit. ~ earner n. [old english]

Earnest  adj. Intensely serious. ~ in earnest serious, seriously, with determination. ~ earnestly adv. Earnestness n. [old english]

Earnings  n.pl. Money earned.

Earphone  n. Device applied to the ear to receive a radio etc. Communication.

Earpiece  n. Part of a telephone etc. Applied to the ear.

Ear-piercing  —adj. Shrill. —n. Piercing of the ears for wearing earrings.

Earplug  n. Piece of wax etc. Placed in the ear to protect against water, noise, etc.

Earring  n. Jewellery worn on the ear.

Earshot  n. Hearing-range (within earshot).

Ear-splitting  adj. Excessively loud.

Earth  —n. 1 a (also earth) the planet on which we live. B land and sea, as distinct from sky. 2 a the ground (fell to earth). B soil, mould. 3 relig. This world, as distinct from heaven or hell. 4 connection to the earth as the completion of an electrical circuit. 5 hole of a fox etc. 6 (prec. By the) colloq. Huge sum; everything (cost the earth; want the earth). —v. 1 cover (plant-roots) with earth. 2 connect (an electrical circuit) to the earth. ~ come back (or down) to earth return to realities. Gone to earth in hiding. On earth colloq. Existing anywhere; emphatically (the happiest man on earth; looked like nothing on earth; what on earth have you done?). Run to earth find after a long search. ~ earthward adj. & adv. Earthwards adv. [old english]

Earthbound  adj. 1 attached to the earth or earthly things. 2 moving towards the earth.

Earthen  adj. Made of earth or baked clay.

Earthenware  n. Pottery made of fired clay.

Earthling  n. Inhabitant of the earth, esp. In science fiction.

Earthly  adj. 1 of the earth or human life on it; terrestrial. 2 (usu. With neg.) Colloq. Remotely possible (is no earthly use; there wasn't an earthly reason). ~ not an earthly colloq. No chance or idea whatever.

Earth mother  n. Sensual and maternal woman.

Earthquake  n. Convulsion of the earth's surface as a result of faults in strata or volcanic action.

Earth sciences  n.pl. Those concerned with the earth or part of it.

Earth-shattering  adj. Colloq. Traumatic, devastating. ~ earth-shatteringly adv.

Earthwork  n. Artificial bank of earth in fortification or road-building etc.

Earthworm  n. Common worm living in the ground.

Earthy  adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 of or like earth or soil. 2 coarse, crude (earthy humour). ~ earthiness n.

Ear-trumpet  n. Trumpet-shaped device formerly used as a hearing-aid.

Earwig  n. Small insect with pincers at its rear end. [from +ear1, because they were once thought to enter the head through the ear]

Ease  —n. 1 facility, effortlessness. 2 a freedom from pain or trouble. B freedom from constraint. —v. (-sing) 1 relieve from pain or anxiety. 2 (often foll. By off, up) a become less burdensome or severe. B begin to take it easy. C slow down; moderate one's behaviour etc. 3 a relax; slacken; make a less tight fit. B move or be moved carefully into place (eased it into position). ~ at ease 1 free from anxiety or constraint. 2 mil. In a relaxed attitude, with the feet apart. [latin: related to +adjacent]

Easel  n. Stand for an artist's work, a blackboard, etc. [dutch ezel ass]

Easement  n. Legal right of way or similar right over another's land. [french: related to +ease]

Easily  adv. 1 without difficulty. 2 by far (easily the best). 3 very probably (it could easily snow).

East  —n. 1 a point of the horizon where the sun rises at the equinoxes. B compass point corresponding to this. C direction in which this lies. 2 (usu. The east) a countries to the east of europe. B states of eastern europe. 3 eastern part of a country, town, etc. —adj. 1 towards, at, near, or facing the east. 2 from the east (east wind). —adv. 1 towards, at, or near the east. 2 (foll. By of) further east than. ~ to the east (often foll. By of) in an easterly direction. [old english]

Eastbound  adj. Travelling or leading eastwards.

East end  n. Part of london east of the city. ~ east ender n.

Easter  n. Festival (held on a variable sunday in march or april) commemorating christ's resurrection. [old english]

Easter egg  n. Artificial usu. Chocolate egg given at easter.

Easterly  —adj. & adv. 1 in an eastern position or direction. 2 (of a wind) from the east. —n. (pl. -ies) such a wind.

Eastern  adj. Of or in the east. ~ easternmost adj.

Eastern church  n. Orthodox church.

Easterner  n. Native or inhabitant of the east.

East-north-east  n. Point or direction midway between east and north-east.

East-south-east  n. Point or direction midway between east and south-east.

Eastward  —adj. & adv. (also eastwards) towards the east. —n. Eastward direction or region.

Easy  —adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 not difficult; not requiring great effort. 2 free from pain, trouble, or anxiety. 3 free from constraint; relaxed and pleasant. 4 compliant. —adv. With ease; in an effortless or relaxed manner. —int. Go or move carefully. ~ easy on the eye (or ear etc.) Colloq. Pleasant to look at (or listen to etc.). Go easy (foll. By with, on) be sparing or cautious. I'm easy colloq. I have no preference. Take it easy 1 proceed gently. 2 relax; work less. ~ easiness n. [french: related to +ease]

Easy chair  n. Large comfortable armchair.

Easygoing  adj. Placid and tolerant.

Easy street  n. Colloq. Affluence.

Eat  —v. (past ate; past part. Eaten) 1 a take into the mouth, chew, and swallow (food). B consume food; take a meal. C devour (eaten by a lion). 2 (foll. By away, at, into) a destroy gradually, esp. By corrosion, disease, etc. B begin to consume or diminish (resources etc.). 3 colloq. Trouble, vex (what's eating you?). —n. (in pl.) Colloq. Food. ~ eat one's heart out suffer from excessive longing or envy. Eat out have a meal away from home, esp. In a restaurant. Eat up 1 eat completely.

Eatable  —adj. Fit to be eaten. —n. (usu. In pl.) Food.

Eater  n. 1 person who eats (a big eater). 2 eating apple etc.

Eating apple  etc. N. Apple etc. Suitable for eating raw.

Eau-de-cologne  n. Toilet water orig. From cologne. [french, = water of cologne]

Eaves  n.pl. Underside of a projecting roof. [old english]

Eavesdrop  v. (-pp-) listen to a private conversation. ~ eavesdropper n.

Ebb  —n. Movement of the tide out to sea. —v. (often foll. By away) 1 flow out to sea; recede. 2 decline (life was ebbing away). [old english]

Ebonite  n. Vulcanite. [from +ebony]

Ebony  —n. Heavy hard dark wood of a tropical tree. —adj. 1 made of ebony. 2 black like ebony. [greek ebenos ebony tree]

Ebullient  adj. Exuberant. ~ ebullience n. Ebulliency n. Ebulliently adv. [latin: related to +boil1]

Ec  abbr. 1 east central. 2 european community.

Eccentric  —adj. 1 odd or capricious in behaviour or appearance. 2 (also excentric) a not placed, not having its axis placed, centrally. B (often foll. By to) (of a circle) not concentric (to another). C (of an orbit) not circular. —n. 1 eccentric person. 2 disc at the end of a shaft for changing rotatory into backward-and-forward motion. ~ eccentrically adv. Eccentricity n. [greek: related to +centre]

Eccles cake  n. Round cake of pastry filled with currants etc. [eccles in n. England]

Ecclesiastic  —n. Clergyman. —adj. = +ecclesiastical. [greek ekklesia church]

Ecclesiastical  adj. Of the church or clergy.

Ecg  abbr. Electrocardiogram.

Echelon  n. 1 level in an organization, in society, etc.; those occupying it (often in pl.: upper echelons). 2 wedge-shaped formation of troops, aircraft, etc. [french, = ladder, from latin scala]

Echidna  n. Australian egg-laying spiny mammal. [greek, = viper]

Echinoderm  n. (usu. Spiny) sea animal of the group including the starfish and sea urchin. [greek ekhinos sea-urchin, derma skin]

Echo  —n. (pl. -es) 1 a repetition of a sound by the reflection of sound waves. B sound so produced. 2 reflected radio or radar beam. 3 close imitation or imitator. 4 circumstance or event reminiscent of an earlier one. —v. (-es, -ed) 1 a (of a place) resound with an echo. B (of a sound) be repeated; resound. 2 repeat (a sound) thus. 3 a repeat (another's words). B imitate the opinions etc. Of. [latin from greek]

Echo chamber  n. Enclosure with sound-reflecting walls.

Echoic  adj. (of a word) onomatopoeic.

Echolocation  n. Location of objects by reflected sound.

Echo-sounder  n. Depth-sounding device using timed echoes.

Echt  adj. Genuine. [german]

Éclair  n. Small elongated iced cake of choux pastry filled with cream. [french, = lightning]

Eclampsia  n. Convulsive condition occurring esp. In pregnant women. [ultimately from greek]

Éclat  n. 1 brilliant display. 2 social distinction; conspicuous success. [french]

Eclectic  —adj. Selecting ideas, style, etc., from various sources. —n. Eclectic person or philosopher. ~ eclectically adv. Eclecticism n. [greek eklego pick out]

Eclipse  —n. 1 obscuring of light from one heavenly body by another. 2 loss of light, importance, or prominence. —v. (-sing) 1 (of a heavenly body) cause the eclipse of (another). 2 intercept (light). 3 outshine, surpass. [greek ekleipsis]

Ecliptic  n. Sun's apparent path among the stars during the year.

Eclogue  n. Short pastoral poem. [greek: related to +eclectic]

Eco-  comb. Form ecology, ecological (ecoclimate).

Ecology  n. 1 the study of the relations of organisms to one another and to their surroundings. 2 the study of the interaction of people with their environment. ~ ecological adj. Ecologically adv. Ecologist n. [greek oikos house]

Economic  adj. 1 of economics. 2 profitable (not economic to run buses on a sunday). 3 connected with trade and industry (economic geography). ~ economically adv. [greek: related to +economy]

Economical  adj. Sparing; avoiding waste. ~ economically adv.

Economics  n.pl. (as sing.) 1 science of the production and distribution of wealth. 2 application of this to a particular subject (the economics of publishing).

Economist  n. Expert on or student of economics.

Economize  v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 be economical; make economies; reduce expenditure. 2 (foll. By on) use sparingly.

Economy  n. (pl. -ies) 1 a community's system of wealth creation. B particular kind of this (a capitalist economy). C administration or condition of this. 2 a careful management of (esp. Financial) resources; frugality. B instance of this (made many economies). 3 sparing or careful use (economy of language). [greek oikonomia household management]

Economy class  n. Cheapest class of air travel.

Economy-size  adj. (of goods) consisting of a larger quantity for a proportionally lower cost.

Ecosystem  n. Biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment.

Ecstasy  n. (pl. -ies) 1 overwhelming joy or rapture. 2 slang type of hallucinogenic drug. ~ ecstatic adj. Ecstatically adv. [greek ekstasis standing outside oneself]

Ect  abbr. Electroconvulsive therapy.

Ecto-  comb. Form outside. [greek ektos]

Ectomorph  n. Person with a lean body. [greek morphe form]

-ectomy  comb. Form denoting the surgical removal of part of the body (appendectomy). [greek ektome excision]

Ectoplasm  n. Supposed viscous substance exuding from the body of a spiritualistic medium during a trance. [from +ecto-, +plasma]

Ecu  n. (also ecu) (pl. -s) european currency unit. [abbreviation]

Ecumenical  adj. 1 of or representing the whole christian world. 2 seeking worldwide christian unity. ~ ecumenically adv. Ecumenism n. [greek oikoumenikos of the inhabited earth]

Eczema  n. Inflammation of the skin, with itching and discharge. [latin from greek]

Ed.  Abbr. 1 edited by. 2 edition. 3 editor. 4 educated.

-ed1  suffix forming adjectives: 1 from nouns, meaning ‘having, wearing, etc.’ (talented; trousered). 2 from phrases of adjective and noun (good-humoured). [old english]

-ed2  suffix forming: 1 past tense and past participle of weak verbs (needed). 2 participial adjectives (escaped prisoner). [old english]

Edam  n. Round dutch cheese with a red rind. [edam in holland]

Eddy  —n. (pl. -ies) 1 circular movement of water causing a small whirlpool. 2 movement of wind, smoke, etc. Resembling this. —v. (-ies, -ied) whirl round in eddies. [old english ed- again, back]

Edelweiss  n. Alpine plant with white flowers. [german, = noble-white]

Edema  n. (brit. Oedema) accumulation of excess fluid in body tissues, causing swelling. [greek oideo swell]

Eden  n. Place or state of great happiness, with reference to the abode of adam and eve at the creation. [hebrew, originally = delight]

Edentate  —adj. Having no or few teeth. —n. Such a mammal. [latin dens dent- tooth]

Edge  —n. 1 boundary-line or margin of an area or surface. 2 narrow surface of a thin object. 3 meeting-line of surfaces. 4 a sharpened side of a blade. B sharpness. 5 brink of a precipice. 6 edge-like thing, esp. The crest of a ridge. 7 effectiveness, incisiveness; excitement. —v. (-ging) 1 advance, esp. Gradually or furtively. 2 a provide with an edge or border. B form a border to. 3 sharpen (a tool etc.). ~ have the edge on (or over) have a slight advantage over. On edge tense and irritable. Set a person's teeth on edge (of taste or sound) cause an unpleasant nervous sensation. Take the edge off make less intense. [old english]

Edgeways  adv. (also edgewise) with edge uppermost or foremost. ~ get a word in edgeways contribute to a conversation when the dominant speaker pauses.

Edging  n. Thing forming an edge or border.

Edgy  adj. (-ier, -iest) irritable; anxious. ~ edgily adv. Edginess n.

Edible  adj. Fit to be eaten. ~ edibility n. [latin edo eat]

Edict  n. Order proclaimed by authority. [latin edico proclaim]

Edifice  n. Building, esp. An imposing one. [latin aedis dwelling]

Edify  v. (-ies, -ied) improve morally or intellectually. ~ edification n. [latin aedifico build]

Edit  v. (-t-) 1 assemble, prepare, or modify (written material for publication). 2 be editor of (a newspaper etc.). 3 take extracts from and collate (a film etc.) To form a unified sequence. 4 a prepare (data) for processing by a computer. B alter (a text entered in a word processor etc.). 5 a reword in order to correct, or to alter the emphasis. B (foll. By out) remove (a part) from a text etc. [latin edo edit- give out]

Edition  n. 1 edited or published form of a book etc. 2 copies of a book, newspaper, etc. Issued at one time. 3 instance of a regular broadcast. 4 person or thing similar to another (a miniature edition of her mother).

Editor  n. 1 person who edits. 2 person who directs the preparation of a newspaper or broadcast news programme or a particular section of one (sports editor). 3 person who selects or commissions material for publication. 4 computer program for entering and modifying textual data. ~ editorship n.

Editorial  —adj. 1 of editing or editors. 2 written or approved by an editor. —n. Article giving a newspaper's views on a current topic. ~ editorially adv.

Edp  abbr. Electronic data processing.

Educate  v. (-ting) 1 give intellectual, moral, and social instruction to. 2 provide education for. ~ educable adj. Educability n. Educative adj. Educator n. [latin educo -are rear]

Educated  adj. 1 having had an (esp. Good) education. 2 resulting from this (educated accent). 3 based on experience or study (educated guess).

Education  n. 1 systematic instruction. 2 particular kind of or stage in education (a classical education; further education). 3 development of character or mental powers. ~ educational adj. Educationally adv.

Educationist  n. (also educationalist) expert in educational methods.

Educe  v. (-cing) literary bring out or develop from latency. ~ eduction n. [latin educo -ere draw out]

Edwardian  —adj. Of or characteristic of the reign of edward vii (1901–10). —n. Person of this period.

-ee  suffix forming nouns denoting: 1 person affected by the verbal action (employee; payee). 2 person concerned with or described as (absentee; refugee). 3 object of smaller size (bootee). [french -é in past part.]

Eec  abbr. European economic community.

Usage  ec is the more correct term.

Eeg  abbr. Electroencephalogram.

Eel  n. Snakelike fish. [old english]

-eer  suffix forming: 1 nouns meaning ‘person concerned with’ (auctioneer). 2 verbs meaning ‘be concerned with’ (electioneer). [french -ier from latin -arius]

Eerie  adj. (eerier, eeriest) gloomy and strange; weird (eerie silence). ~ eerily adv. Eeriness n. [old english]

Ef-  see +ex-1.

Efface  v. (-cing) 1 rub or wipe out (a mark, recollection, etc.). 2 surpass, eclipse. 3 refl. (usu. As self-effacing adj.) Treat oneself as unimportant. ~ effacement n. [french: related to +face]

Effect  —n. 1 result or consequence of an action etc. 2 efficacy (had little effect). 3 impression produced on a spectator, hearer, etc. (lights gave a pretty effect; said it just for effect). 4 (in pl.) Property. 5 (in pl.) Lighting, sound, etc., giving realism to a play, film, etc. 6 physical phenomenon (doppler effect; greenhouse effect). —v. Bring about (a change, cure, etc.). ~ bring (or carry) into effect accomplish. Give effect to make operative. In effect for practical purposes. Take effect become operative. To the effect that the gist being that. To that effect having that result or implication. With effect from coming into operation at (a stated time). [latin: related to +fact]

Usage  effect should not be confused with affect which, as a verb, has more meanings and is more common, but which does not exist as a noun.

Effective  adj. 1 producing the intended result. 2 impressive, striking. 3 actual, existing. 4 operative. ~ effectively adv. Effectiveness n.

Effectual  adj. 1 producing the required effect. 2 valid. ~ effectually adv.

Effeminate  adj. (of a man) womanish in appearance or manner. ~ effeminacy n. Effeminately adv. [latin femina woman]

Effervesce  v. (-cing) 1 give off bubbles of gas. 2 be lively. ~ effervescence n. Effervescent adj. [latin: related to +fervent]

Effete  adj. Feeble, lanquid; effeminate. ~ effeteness n. [latin]

Efficacious  adj. Producing the desired effect. ~ efficacy n. [latin efficax: related to +efficient]

Efficient  adj. 1 productive with minimum waste or effort. 2 (of a person) capable; acting effectively. ~ efficiency n. Efficiently adv. [latin facio make]

Effigy  n. (pl. -ies) sculpture or model of a person. ~ burn in effigy burn a model of a person. [latin effigies from fingo fashion]

Effloresce  v. (-cing) 1 burst into flower. 2 a (of a substance) turn to a fine powder on exposure to air. B (of salts) come to the surface and crystallize. C (of a surface) become covered with salt particles. ~ efflorescence n. Efflorescent adj. [latin flos flor- +flower]

Effluence  n. 1 flowing out of light, electricity, etc. 2 that which flows out. [latin fluo flux- flow]

Effluent  —adj. Flowing out. —n. 1 sewage or industrial waste discharged into a river etc. 2 stream or lake flowing from a larger body of water.

Effluvium  n. (pl. -via) unpleasant or noxious outflow. [latin: related to +effluence]

Effort  n. 1 use of physical or mental energy. 2 determined attempt. 3 force exerted. 4 colloq. Something accomplished. [latin fortis strong]

Effortless  adj. Easily done, requiring no effort. ~ effortlessly adv. Effortlessness n.

Effrontery  n. (pl. -ies) impudent audacity. [latin frons front- forehead]

Effulgent  adj. Literary radiant. ~ effulgence n. [latin fulgeo shine]

Effuse  v. (-sing) 1 pour forth (liquid, light, etc.). 2 give out (ideas etc.). [latin fundo fus- pour]

Effusion  n. 1 outpouring. 2 derog. Unrestrained flow of words. [latin: related to +effuse]

Effusive  adj. Gushing, demonstrative. ~ effusively adv. Effusiveness n.

Efl  abbr. English as a foreign language.

Eft  n. Newt. [old english]

Efta  n. (also efta) european free trade association. [abbreviation]

E.g.  Abbr. For example. [latin exempli gratia]

Egalitarian  —adj. Of or advocating equal rights for all. —n. Egalitarian person. ~ egalitarianism n. [french égal +equal]

Egg1  n. 1 a body produced by females of birds, insects, etc. And capable of developing into a new individual. B egg of the domestic hen, used for food. 2 biol. Ovum. 3 colloq. Person or thing of a specified kind (good egg). ~ with egg on one's face colloq.

Egg2  v. (foll. By on) urge. [old norse: related to +edge]

Eggcup  n. Cup for holding a boiled egg.

Egg-flip  n. (also egg-nog) drink of alcoholic spirit with beaten egg, milk, etc.

Egghead  n. Colloq. Intellectual; expert.

Eggplant  n. = +aubergine.

Eggshell  —n. Shell of an egg. —adj. 1 (of china) thin and fragile. 2 (of paint) with a slight gloss.

Egg-white  n. White part round the yolk of an egg.

Eglantine  n. Sweet-brier. [latin acus needle]

Ego  n. (pl. -s) 1 the self; the part of the mind that reacts to reality and has a sense of individuality. 2 self-esteem; self-conceit. [latin, = i]

Egocentric  adj. Self-centred.

Egoism  n. 1 self-interest as the moral basis of behaviour. 2 systematic selfishness. 3 = +egotism. ~ egoist n. Egoistic adj. Egoistical adj. Egoistically adv.

Usage  the senses of egoism and egotism overlap, but egoism alone is used as a term in philosophy and psychology to mean self-interest (often contrasted with altruism).

Egotism  n. 1 self-conceit. 2 selfishness. ~ egotist n. Egotistic adj. Egotistical adj. Egotistically adv.

Usage  see note at egoism.

Ego-trip  n. Colloq. Activity to boost one's own self-esteem or self-conceit.

Egregious  adj. 1 extremely bad. 2 archaic remarkable. [latin grex greg- flock]

Egress  n. Formal 1 exit. 2 right of going out. [latin egredior -gress- walk out]

Egret  n. A kind of heron with long white feathers. [french aigrette]

Egyptian  —adj. Of egypt. —n. 1 native of egypt. 2 language of the ancient egyptians.

Egyptology  n. The study of the language, history, and culture of ancient egypt. ~ egyptologist n.

Eh  int. Colloq. 1 expressing enquiry or surprise. 2 inviting assent. 3 asking for repetition or explanation. [instinctive exclamation]

Eider  n. Any of various large northern ducks. [icelandic]

Eiderdown  n. Quilt stuffed with soft material, esp. Down.

Eight  adj. & n. 1 one more than seven. 2 symbol for this (8, viii, viii). 3 size etc. Denoted by eight. 4 eight-oared rowing-boat or its crew. 5 eight o'clock. [old english]

Eighteen  adj. & n. 1 one more than seventeen. 2 symbol for this (18, xviii, xviii). 3 size etc. Denoted by eighteen. 4 (18) (of films) suitable only for persons of 18 years and over. ~ eighteenth adj. & n. [old english]

Eightfold  adj. & adv. 1 eight times as much or as many. 2 consisting of eight parts.

Eighth  adj. & n. 1 next after seventh. 2 one of eight equal parts of a thing. ~ eighthly adv.

Eightsome  n. (in full eightsome reel) lively scottish dance for eight people.

Eighty  adj. & n. (pl. -ies) 1 eight times ten. 2 symbol for this (80, lxxx, lxxx). 3 (in pl.) Numbers from 80 to 89, esp. The years of a century or of a person's life. ~ eightieth adj. & n. [old english]

Einsteinium  n. Artificial radioactive metallic element. [einstein, name of a physicist]

Eisteddfod  n. Congress of welsh poets and musicians; festival for musical competitions etc. [welsh]

Either  —adj. & pron. 1 one or the other of two (either of you can go; you may have either book). 2 each of two (houses on either side of the road). —adv. & conj. 1 as one possibility (is either right or wrong). 2 as one choice or alternative; which way you will (either come in or go out). 3 (with neg.) A any more than the other (if you do not go, i shall not either). B moreover (there is no time to lose, either). [old english]

Ejaculate  v. (-ting) (also absol.) 1 exclaim. 2 emit (semen) in orgasm. ~ ejaculation n. Ejaculatory adj. [latin ejaculor dart out]

Eject  v. 1 expel, compel to leave. 2 (of a pilot etc.) Cause oneself to be propelled from an aircraft as an emergency measure. 3 cause to be removed, drop out, or pop up automatically from a gun, cassette-player, etc. 4 dispossess (a tenant). 5 emit, send out. ~ ejection n. [latin ejicio eject- throw out]

Ejector  n. Device for ejecting.

Ejector seat  n. Device in an aircraft for the emergency ejection of a pilot etc.

Eke  v. (eking) ~ eke out 1 supplement (income etc.). 2 make (a living) or support (an existence) with difficulty. [old english]

Elaborate  —adj. 1 minutely worked out. 2 complicated. —v. (-ting) work out or explain in detail. ~ elaborately adv. Elaborateness n. Elaboration n. [latin: related to +labour]

Élan  n. Vivacity, dash. [french]

Eland  n. (pl. Same or -s) large african antelope. [dutch]

Elapse  v. (-sing) (of time) pass by. [latin elabor elaps- slip away]

Elastic  —adj. 1 able to resume its normal bulk or shape after contraction, dilation, or distortion. 2 springy. 3 flexible, adaptable. —n. Elastic cord or fabric, usu. Woven with strips of rubber. ~ elastically adv. Elasticity n. [greek elastikos propulsive]

Elasticated  adj. (of fabric) made elastic by weaving with rubber thread.

Elastic band  n. = +rubber band.

Elastomer  n. Natural or synthetic rubber or rubber-like plastic. [from +elastic, after isomer]

Elate  v. (-ting) (esp. As elated adj.) Make delighted or proud. ~ elatedly adv. Elation n. [latin effero elat- raise]

Elbow  —n. 1 a joint between the forearm and the upper arm. B part of a sleeve covering the elbow. 2 elbow-shaped bend etc. —v. (foll. By in, out, aside, etc.) 1 jostle or thrust (a person or oneself). 2 make (one's way) thus. ~ give a person the elbow colloq. Dismiss or reject a person.  [old english: related to +ell, +bow1]

Elbow-grease  n. Colloq. Vigorous polishing; hard work.

Elbow-room  n. Sufficient room to move or work in.

Elder1  —attrib. Adj. (of persons, esp. When related) senior; of greater age. —n. 1 older of two persons (is my elder by ten years). 2 (in pl.) Persons of greater age or venerable because of age. 3 official in the early christian church and some modern churches. [old english: related to +old]

Elder2  n. Tree with white flowers and dark berries. [old english]

Elderberry  n. (pl. -ies) berry of the elder tree.

Elderly  adj. Rather old; past middle age.

Elder statesman  n. Influential experienced older person, esp. A politician.

Eldest  adj. First-born; oldest surviving.

Eldorado  n. (pl. -s) 1 imaginary land of great wealth. 2 place of abundance or opportunity. [spanish el dorado the gilded]

Elecampane  n. Plant with bitter aromatic leaves and roots. [latin enula this plant, campana of the fields]

Elect  —v. (usu. Foll. By to + infin.) 1 choose. 2 choose by voting. —adj. 1 chosen. 2 select, choice. 3 (after the noun) chosen but not yet in office (president elect). [latin eligo elect- pick out]

Election  n. 1 electing or being elected. 2 occasion of this.

Electioneer  v. Take part in an election campaign.

Elective  adj. 1 chosen by or derived from election. 2 (of a body) having the power to elect. 3 optional, not urgently necessary.

Elector  n. 1 person who has the right to vote in an election. 2 (elector) hist. (in the holy roman empire) any of the german princes entitled to elect the emperor. ~ electoral adj.

Electorate  n. 1 body of all electors. 2 hist. Office or territories of a german elector.

Electric  —adj. 1 of, worked by, or charged with electricity; producing or capable of generating electricity. 2 causing or charged with excitement. —n. (in pl.) Colloq. Electrical equipment. [greek elektron amber]

Electrical  adj. Of electricity. ~ electrically adv.

Electric blanket  n. Blanket heated by an internal electric element.

Electric chair  n. Electrified chair used for capital punishment.

Electric eel  n. Eel-like fish able to give an electric shock.

Electric eye  n. Colloq. Photoelectric cell operating a relay when a beam of light is broken.

Electric fire  n. Electrically operated portable domestic heater.

Electric guitar  n. Guitar with a solid body and built-in pick-up rather than a soundbox.

Electrician  n. Person who installs or maintains electrical equipment for a living.

Electricity  n. 1 form of energy occurring in elementary particles (electrons, protons, etc.) And hence in larger bodies containing them. 2 science of electricity. 3 supply of electricity. 4 excitement.

Electric shock  n. Effect of a sudden discharge of electricity through the body of a person etc.

Electrify  v. (-ies, -ied) 1 charge with electricity. 2 convert to the use of electric power. 3 cause sudden excitement (news was electrifying). ~ electrification n.

Electro-  comb. Form of, by, or caused by electricity.

Electrocardiogram  n. Record traced by an electrocardiograph. [german: related to +electro-]

Electrocardiograph  n. Instrument recording the electric currents generated by a heartbeat.

Electroconvulsive  adj. (of therapy) using convulsive response to electric shocks.

Electrocute  v. (-ting) kill by electric shock. ~ electrocution n. [from +electro-, after execute]

Electrode  n. Conductor through which electricity enters or leaves an electrolyte, gas, vacuum, etc. [from +electric, greek hodos way]

Electrodynamics  n.pl. (usu. Treated as sing.) The study of electricity in motion. ~ electrodynamic adj.

Electroencephalogram  n. Record traced by an electroencephalograph. [german: related to +electro-]

Electroencephalograph  n. Instrument that records the electrical activity of the brain.

Electrolyse  v. (us -yze) (-sing, us -zing) subject to or treat by electrolysis.

Electrolysis  n. 1 chemical decomposition by electric action. 2 destruction of tumours, hair-roots, etc., by this process. ~ electrolytic adj.

Electrolyte  n. 1 solution able to conduct electricity, esp. In an electric cell or battery. 2 substance that can dissolve to produce this.

Electrolyze  v. (brit. -yse) (-zing, brit. -sing) subject to or treat by electrolysis.

Electromagnet  n. Soft metal core made into a magnet by passing an electric current through a coil surrounding it.

Electromagnetic  adj. Having both electrical and magnetic properties. ~ electromagnetically adv.

Electromagnetism  n. 1 magnetic forces produced by electricity. 2 the study of these.

Electromotive  adj. Producing or tending to produce an electric current.

Electromotive force  n. Force set up in an electric circuit by a difference in potential.

Electron  n. Stable elementary particle with a charge of negative electricity, found in all atoms and acting as the primary carrier of electricity in solids.

Electronic  adj. 1 a produced by or involving the flow of electrons. B of electrons or electronics. 2 (of music) produced by electronic means and usu. Recorded on tape. ~ electronically adv.

Electronic mail  n. The sending of messages by a computer system; such messages.

Electronics  n.pl. (treated as sing.) Science of the movement of electrons in a vacuum, gas, semiconductor, etc., esp. In devices in which the flow is controlled and utilized.

Electronic tagging  n. The attaching of electronic markers to people or goods, enabling them to be tracked down.

Electron lens  n. Device for focusing a stream of electrons by means of electric or magnetic fields.

Electron microscope  n. Microscope with high magnification and resolution, using electron beams instead of light.

Electronvolt  n. A unit of energy, the amount gained by an electron when accelerated through a potential difference of one volt.

Electroplate  —v. (-ting) coat with a thin layer of chromium, silver, etc., by electrolysis. —n. Electroplated articles.

Electroscope  n. Instrument for detecting and measuring electricity, esp. As an indication of the ionization of air by radioactivity. ~ electroscopic adj.

Electro-shock  attrib. Adj. (of therapy) by means of electric shocks.

Electrostatics  n.pl. (treated as sing.) The study of electricity at rest.

Electrotechnology  n. Science of the application of electricity in technology.

Electrotherapy  n. Treatment of diseases by use of electricity.

Elegant  adj. 1 tasteful, refined, graceful. 2 ingeniously simple. ~ elegance n. Elegantly adv. [latin: related to +elect]

Elegiac  —adj. 1 used for elegies. 2 mournful. —n. (in pl.) Elegiac verses. ~ elegiacally adv.

Elegy  n. (pl. -ies) 1 sorrowful poem or song, esp. For the dead. 2 poem in elegiac metre. [latin from greek]

Element  n. 1 component part; contributing factor. 2 any of the substances that cannot be resolved by chemical means into simpler substances. 3 a any of the four substances (earth, water, air, and fire) in ancient and medieval philosophy. B a being's natural abode or environment. 4 electr. Wire that heats up in an electric heater, kettle, etc. 5 (in pl.) Atmospheric agencies, esp. Wind and storm. 6 (in pl.) Rudiments of learning or of an art etc. 7 (in pl.) Bread and wine of the eucharist. ~ in one's element in one's preferred situation, doing what one does well and enjoys. [french from latin]

Elemental  adj. 1 of or like the elements or the forces of nature; powerful. 2 essential, basic.

Elementary  adj. 1 dealing with the simplest facts of a subject. 2 unanalysable.

Elementary particle  n. Physics subatomic particle, esp. One not known to consist of simpler ones.

Elephant  n. (pl. Same or -s) largest living land animal, with a trunk and ivory tusks. [greek elephas]

Elephantiasis  n. Skin disease causing gross enlargement of limbs etc.

Elephantine  adj. 1 of elephants. 2 a huge. B clumsy.

Elevate  v. (-ting) 1 raise, lift up. 2 exalt in rank etc. 3 (usu. As elevated adj.) Raise morally or intellectually. [latin levo lift]

Elevation  n. 1 a elevating or being elevated. B angle with the horizontal. C height above sea level etc. D high position. 2 drawing or diagram showing one side of a building.

Elevator  n. 1 us lift. 2 movable part of a tailplane for changing an aircraft's altitude. 3 hoisting machine.

Eleven  adj. & n. 1 one more than ten. 2 symbol for this (11, xi, xi). 3 size etc. Denoted by eleven. 4 team of eleven players at cricket, football, etc. 5 eleven o'clock. [old english]

Elevenfold  adj. & adv. 1 eleven times as much or as many. 2 consisting of eleven parts.

Eleven-plus  n. Esp. Hist. Examination taken at age 11–12 to determine the type of secondary school a child would enter.

Elevenses  n. Colloq. Light refreshment taken at about 11 a.m.

Eleventh  adj. & n. 1 next after tenth. 2 each of eleven equal parts of a thing. ~ eleventh hour last possible moment.

Elf  n. (pl. Elves) mythological being, esp. One that is small and mischievous. ~ elfish adj. Elvish adj. [old english]

Elfin  adj. Of elves; elflike.

Elicit  v. (-t-) draw out (facts, a response, etc.), esp. With difficulty. [latin elicio]

Elide  v. (-ding) omit (a vowel or syllable) in pronunciation. [latin elido elis- crush out]

Eligible  adj. 1 (often foll. By for) fit or entitled to be chosen (eligible for a rebate). 2 desirable or suitable, esp. For marriage. ~ eligibility n. [latin: related to +elect]

Eliminate  v. (-ting) 1 remove, get rid of. 2 exclude from consideration. 3 exclude from a further stage of a competition through defeat etc. ~ elimination n. Eliminator n. [latin limen limin- threshold] (-ting) 1 remove, get rid of. 2 exclude from consideration. 3 exclude from a further stage of a competition through defeat etc. ~ elimination n. Eliminator n. [latin limen limin- threshold]

Elision  n. Omission of a vowel or syllable in pronunciation (e.g. In we'll). [latin: related to +elide]

Élite  n. 1 (prec. By the) the best (of a group). 2 select group or class. 3 a size of letters in typewriting (12 per inch). [french: related to +elect]

Élitism  n. Recourse to or advocacy of leadership or dominance by a select group. ~ élitist n. & adj.

Elixir  n. 1 a alchemist's preparation supposedly able to change metals into gold or (in full elixir of life) to prolong life indefinitely. B remedy for all ills. 2 aromatic medicinal drug. [latin from arabic]

Elizabethan  —adj. Of the time of queen elizabeth i or ii. —n. Person of this time.

Elk  n. (pl. Same or -s) large deer of northern parts of europe, n. America, and asia. [old english]

Ell  n. Hist. Measure = 45 in. [old english, = forearm]

Ellipse  n. Regular oval, resulting when a cone is cut obliquely by a plane. [greek elleipsis deficit]

Ellipsis  n. (pl. Ellipses) 1 omission of words needed to complete a construction or sense. 2 set of three dots etc. Indicating omission.

Ellipsoid  n. Solid of which all the plane sections through one axis are circles and all the other plane sections are ellipses.

Elliptic  adj. (also elliptical) of or in the form of an ellipse. ~ elliptically adv.

Elm  n. 1 tree with rough serrated leaves. 2 its wood. [old english]

Elocution  n. Art of clear and expressive speech. [latin loquor speak]

Elongate  v. (-ting) lengthen, extend. ~ elongation n. [latin longus long]

Elope  v. (-ping) run away to marry secretly. ~ elopement n. [anglo-french]

Eloquence  n. Fluent and effective use of language. [latin loquor speak]

Eloquent  adj. 1 having eloquence. 2 (often foll. By of) expressive. ~ eloquently adv.

Else  adv. 1 (prec. By indefinite or interrog. Pron.) Besides (someone else; nowhere else; who else?). 2 instead (what else could i say?). 3 otherwise; if not (run, (or) else you will be late). ~ or else see +or1. [old english]

Elsewhere  adv. In or to some other place.

Elucidate  v. (-ting) throw light on; explain. ~ elucidation n. Elucidatory adj. [latin: related to +lucid]

Elude  v. (-ding) 1 escape adroitly from (danger, pursuit, etc.). 2 avoid compliance with (a law etc.) Or fulfilment of (an obligation). 3 baffle (a person or memory etc.). ~ elusion n. [latin ludo play]

Elusive  adj. 1 difficult to find or catch. 2 difficult to remember. 3 avoiding the point raised. ~ elusiveness n.

Elver  n. Young eel. [from +eel, +fare]

Elves  pl. Of +elf.

Elvish  see +elf.

Elysium  n. 1 (also elysian fields) (in greek mythology) abode of the blessed after death. 2 place of ideal happiness. ~ elysian adj. [latin from greek]

Em  n. Printing unit of measurement equal to the width of an m. [name of the letter m]

Em-1 ,2 see +en-1,2.

'Em  pron. Colloq. Them.

Emaciate  v. (-ting) (esp. As emaciated adj.) Make abnormally thin or feeble. ~ emaciation n. [latin macies leanness]

Email  n. (also e-mail) = +electronic mail.

Emanate  v. (-ting) (usu. Foll. By from) issue or originate (from a source). ~ emanation n. [latin mano flow]

Emancipate  v. (-ting) 1 free from social or political restraint. 2 (usu. As emancipated adj.) Free from the inhibitions of moral or social conventions. 3 free from slavery. ~ emancipation n. Emancipatory adj. [latin, = free from possession, from manus hand, capio take]

Emasculate  —v. (-ting) 1 deprive of force or vigour. 2 castrate. —adj. 1 deprived of force. 2 castrated. 3 effeminate. ~ emasculation n. [latin: related to +male]

Embalm  v. 1 preserve (a corpse) from decay. 2 preserve from oblivion. 3 make fragrant. ~ embalmment n. [french: related to +balm]

Embankment  n. Bank constructed to keep back water or carry a road, railway, etc.

Embargo  —n. (pl. -es) 1 order forbidding foreign ships to enter, or any ships to leave, a country's ports. 2 official suspension of an activity. —v. (-es, -ed) place under embargo. [spanish: related to +bar1]

Embark  v. 1 (often foll. By for) put or go on board a ship or aircraft (to a destination). 2 (foll. By on, in) begin an enterprise. ~ embarkation n. (in sense 1). [french: related to +barque]

Embarrass  v. 1 make (a person) feel awkward or ashamed. 2 (as embarrassed adj.) Encumbered with debts. 3 encumber. ~ embarrassment n. [italian imbarrare bar in]

Embassy  n. (pl. -ies) 1 a residence or offices of an ambassador. B ambassador and staff. 2 deputation to a foreign government. [french: related to +ambassador]

Embattled  adj. 1 prepared or arrayed for battle. 2 fortified with battlements. 3 under heavy attack or in trying circumstances.

Embed  v. (also imbed) (-dd-) (esp. As embedded adj.) Fix firmly in a surrounding mass.

Embellish  v. 1 beautify, adorn. 2 enhance with fictitious additions. ~ embellishment n. [french bel, +beau]

Ember  n. (usu. In pl.) Small piece of glowing coal etc. In a dying fire. [old english]

Ember days  n.pl. Days of fasting and prayer in the christian church, associated with ordinations. [old english]

Embezzle  v. (-ling) divert (money etc.) Fraudulently to one's own use. ~ embezzlement n. Embezzler n. [anglo-french]

Embitter  v. Arouse bitter feelings in. ~ embitterment n.

Emblazon  v. 1 portray or adorn conspicuously. 2 adorn (a heraldic shield). ~ emblazonment n.

Emblem  n. 1 symbol. 2 (foll. By of) type, embodiment (the very emblem of courage). 3 heraldic or representative device. ~ emblematic adj. [greek, = insertion]

Embody  v. (-ies, -ied) 1 make (an idea etc.) Actual or discernible. 2 (of a thing) be a tangible expression of. 3 include, comprise. ~ embodiment n.

Embolden  v. Make bold; encourage.

Embolism  n. Obstruction of an artery by a clot, air-bubble, etc. [latin from greek]

Embolus  n. (pl. -li) object causing an embolism.

Emboss  v. Carve or decorate with a design in relief. ~ embossment n. [related to +boss2]

Embouchure  n. Way of applying the mouth to the mouthpiece of a musical instrument. [french: related to +en-1, bouche mouth]

Embrace  —v. (-cing) 1 a hold closely in the arms. B (absol., of two people) embrace each other. 2 clasp, enclose. 3 accept eagerly (an offer etc.). 4 adopt (a cause, idea, etc.). 5 include, comprise. 6 take in with the eye or mind. —n. Act of embracing, clasp. ~ embraceable adj. [latin: related to +brace]

Embrasure  n. 1 bevelling of a wall at the sides of a window etc. 2 opening in a parapet for a gun etc. ~ embrasured adj. [french embraser splay]

Embrocation  n. Liquid for rubbing on the body to relieve muscular pain. [greek embrokhe lotion]

Embroider  v. 1 decorate (cloth etc.) With needlework. 2 embellish (a narrative). ~ embroiderer n. [anglo-french from germanic]

Embroidery  n. (pl. -ies) 1 art of embroidering. 2 embroidered work. 3 inessential ornament. 4 fictitious additions (to a story etc.).

Embroil  v. (often foll. By with) involve (a person etc.) In a conflict or difficulties. ~ embroilment n. [french brouiller mix]

Embryo  n. (pl. -s) 1 a unborn or unhatched offspring. B human offspring in the first eight weeks from conception. 2 rudimentary plant in a seed. 3 thing in a rudimentary stage. 4 (attrib.) Undeveloped, immature. ~ in embryo undeveloped. ~ embryonic adj. [greek bruo grow]

Embryology  n. The study of embryos.

Emend  v. Edit (a text etc.) To make corrections. ~ emendation n. [latin menda fault]

Usage  see note at amend.

Emerald  —n. 1 bright-green gem. 2 colour of this. —adj. Bright green. [greek smaragdos]

Emerald green  adj. & n. (as adj. Often hyphenated) bright green.

Emerald isle  n. Ireland.

Emerge  v. (-ging) 1 come up or out into view. 2 (of facts etc.) Become known, be revealed. 3 become recognized or prominent. 4 (of a question, difficulty, etc.) Become apparent. ~ emergence n. Emergent adj. [latin: related to +merge]

Emergency  n. (pl. -ies) 1 sudden state of danger etc., requiring immediate action. 2 a condition requiring immediate treatment. B patient with this. 3 (attrib.) For use in an emergency. [medieval latin: related to +emerge]

Emeritus  adj. Retired but retaining one's title as an honour (emeritus professor). [latin mereor earn]

Emery  n. Coarse corundum for polishing metal etc. [greek smeris polishing powder]

Emery-board  n. Emery-coated nail-file.

Emetic  —adj. That causes vomiting. —n. Emetic medicine. [greek emeo vomit]

Emf  abbr. (also e.m.f.) Electromotive force.

Emigrant  —n. Person who emigrates. —adj. Emigrating.

Emigrate  v. (-ting) leave one's own country to settle in another. ~ emigration n. [latin: related to +migrate]

Émigré  n. Emigrant, esp. A political exile. [french]

Eminence  n. 1 distinction; recognized superiority. 2 piece of rising ground. 3 title used in addressing or referring to a cardinal (your eminence; his eminence). [latin: related to +eminent]

Éminence grise  n. (pl. Éminences grises pronunc. Same) person who exercises power or influence without holding office. [french, = grey cardinal (orig. Of richelieu's secretary)]

Eminent  adj. Distinguished, notable, outstanding. [latin emineo jut out]

Emir  n. (also amir) title of various muslim rulers. [french from arabic 'amir]

Emirate  n. Rank, domain, or reign of an emir.

Emissary  n. (pl. -ies) person sent on a diplomatic mission. [latin: related to +emit]

Emit  v. (-tt-) give or send out (heat, light, a smell, sound, etc.); discharge. ~ emission n. [latin emitto emiss-]

Emollient  —adj. That softens or soothes the skin, feelings, etc. —n. Emollient substance. [latin mollis soft]

Emolument  n. Fee from employment, salary. [latin]

Emote  v. (-ting) show excessive emotion.

Emotion  n. 1 strong instinctive feeling such as love or fear. 2 emotional intensity or sensibility (spoke with emotion). [french: related to +motion]

Emotional  adj. 1 of or expressing emotions. 2 especially liable to emotion. 3 arousing emotion. ~ emotionalism n. Emotionally adv.

Usage  see note at emotive.

Emotive  adj. 1 arousing emotion. 2 of emotion. [latin: related to +motion]

Usage  although the senses of emotive and emotional overlap, emotive is more common in the sense ‘arousing emotion’, as in an emotive issue, and is not used at all in sense 2 of emotional.

Empanel  v. (also impanel) (-ll-; us -l-) enter (a jury) on a panel.

Empathize  v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) (usu. Foll. By with) exercise empathy.

Empathy  n. Ability to identify with a person or object. ~ empathetic adj. [as +pathos]

Emperor  n. Sovereign of an empire. [latin impero command]

Emperor penguin  n. Largest known penguin.

Emphasis  n. (pl. Emphases) 1 importance or prominence attached to a thing (emphasis on economy). 2 stress laid on a word or syllable to make the meaning clear or show importance. 3 vigour or intensity of expression, feeling, etc. [latin from greek]

Emphasize  v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) put emphasis on, stress.

Emphatic  adj. 1 forcibly expressive. 2 of words: a bearing the stress. B used to give emphasis. ~ emphatically adv.

Emphysema  n. Disease of the lungs causing breathlessness. [greek emphusao puff up]

Empire  n. 1 large group of states or countries under a single authority. 2 supreme dominion. 3 large commercial organization etc. Owned or directed by one person. 4 (the empire) hist. The british empire. [latin imperium dominion]

Empire-building  n. Purposeful accumulation of territory, authority, etc.

Empirical  adj. (also empiric) based on observation, experience, or experiment, not on theory. ~ empirically adv. Empiricism n. Empiricist n. [greek empeiria experience]

Emplacement  n. 1 putting in position. 2 platform for guns. [french: related to +place]

Employ  —v. 1 use the services of (a person) in return for payment. 2 use (a thing, time, energy, etc.) To good effect. 3 keep (a person) occupied. —n. (in phr. In the employ of) employed by. ~ employable adj. Employer n. [latin implicor be involved]

Employee  n. Person employed for wages.

Employment  n. 1 employing or being employed. 2 person's trade or profession.

Employment office  n. (formerly employment exchange) state-run employment agency.

Emporium  n. (pl. -s or -ria) 1 large shop or store. 2 centre of commerce, market. [greek emporos merchant]

Empower  v. Give authority to.

Empress  n. 1 wife or widow of an emperor. 2 woman emperor. [french: related to +emperor]

Empty  —adj. (-ier, -iest) 1 containing nothing. 2 (of a house etc.) Unoccupied or unfurnished. 3 (of a vehicle etc.) Without passengers etc. 4 a hollow, insincere (empty threats). B without purpose (an empty existence). C vacuous (an empty head). 5 colloq. Hungry. —v. (-ies, -ied) 1 remove the contents of. 2 (often foll. By into) transfer (contents). 3 become empty. 4 (of a river) discharge itself. —n. (pl. -ies) colloq. Empty bottle etc. ~ emptiness n. [old english]

Empty-handed  adj. (usu. Predic.) 1 bringing or taking nothing. 2 having achieved nothing.

Empty-headed  adj. Foolish; lacking sense.

Empyrean  —n. The highest heaven, as the sphere of fire or abode of god. —adj. Of the empyrean. ~ empyreal adj. [greek pur fire]

Ems  abbr. European monetary system.

Emu  abbr. Economic and monetary union; european monetary union.

Emu  n. (pl. -s) large flightless australian bird. [portuguese]

Emulate  v. (-ting) 1 try to equal or excel. 2 imitate. ~ emulation n. Emulative adj. Emulator n. [latin aemulus rival]

Emulsify  v. (-ies, -ied) convert into an emulsion. ~ emulsification n. Emulsifier n.

Emulsion  n. 1 fine dispersion of one liquid in another, esp. As paint, medicine, etc. 2 mixture of a silver compound in gelatin etc. For coating photographic plate or film. 3 emulsion paint. [latin mulgeo milk]

Emulsion paint  n. Water-thinned paint.

En  n. Printing unit of measurement equal to half an em. [name of the letter n]

En-1  prefix (also em- before b, p) forming verbs, = +in-2: 1 from nouns, meaning ‘put into or on’ (engulf; entrust; embed). 2 from nouns or adjectives, meaning ‘bring into the condition of’ (enslave); often with the suffix -en (enlighten). 3 from verbs: a in the sense ‘in, into, on’ (enfold). B as an intensifier (entangle). [french en-, latin in-]

En-2  prefix (also em- before b, p) in, inside (energy; enthusiasm). [greek]

-en  suffix forming verbs: 1 from adjectives, usu. Meaning ‘make or become so or more so’ (deepen; moisten). 2 from nouns (happen; strengthen). [old english]

Enable  v. (-ling) 1 (foll. By to + infin.) Give (a person etc.) The means or authority. 2 make possible. 3 esp. Computing make (a device) operational; switch on.

Enact  v. 1 a ordain, decree. B make (a bill etc.) Law. 2 play (a part on stage or in life). ~ enactive adj.

Enactment  n. 1 law enacted. 2 process of enacting.

Enamel  —n. 1 glasslike opaque ornamental or preservative coating on metal etc. 2 a smooth hard coating. B a kind of hard gloss paint. C cosmetic simulating this, esp. Nail varnish. 3 hard coating of a tooth. 4 painting done in enamel. —v. (-ll-; us -l-) inlay, coat, or portray with enamel.

Enamor  v. (brit. Enamour) (usu. In passive; foll. By of) inspire with love or delight. [french amour love]

Enamour  v. (us enamor) (usu. In passive; foll. By of) inspire with love or delight. [french amour love]

En bloc  adv. In a block; all at the same time. [french]

Encamp  v. Settle in a (esp. Military) camp. ~ encampment n.

Encapsulate  v. (-ting) 1 enclose in or as in a capsule. 2 express briefly, summarize. ~ encapsulation n. [related to +capsule]

Encase  v. (-sing) enclose in or as in a case. ~ encasement n.

Encaustic  —adj. (of painting etc.) Using pigments mixed with hot wax, which are burned in as an inlay. —n. 1 art of encaustic painting. 2 product of this. [greek: related to +caustic]

-ence  suffix forming nouns expressing: 1 a quality or state or an instance of this (patience; an impertinence). 2 an action (reference). [french -ence, latin -erie]

Encephalitis  n. Inflammation of the brain. [greek egkephalos brain]

Encephalogram  n. = +electroencephalogram.

Encephalograph  n. = +electroencephalograph.

Enchant  v. 1 charm, delight. 2 bewitch. ~ enchantedly adv. Enchanting adj. Enchantingly adv. Enchantment n.

Enchanter  n. (fem. Enchantress) person who enchants, esp. By using magic.

Encircle  v. (-ling) 1 surround. 2 form a circle round. ~ encirclement n.

Enclave  n. Territory of one state surrounded by that of another. [latin clavis key]

Enclose  v. (-sing) 1 a surround with a wall, fence, etc. B shut in. 2 put in a receptacle (esp. In an envelope with a letter). 3 (usu. As enclosed adj.) Seclude (a religious community) from the outside world. [latin: related to +include]

Enclosure  n. 1 act of enclosing. 2 enclosed space or area, esp. At a sporting event. 3 thing enclosed with a letter. [french: related to +enclose]

Encode  v. (-ding) put into code.

Encomium  n. (pl. -s) formal or high-flown praise. [greek komos revelry]

Encompass  v. 1 contain; include. 2 surround.

Encore  —n. 1 audience's demand for the repetition of an item, or for a further item. 2 such an item. —v. (-ring) 1 call for the repetition of (an item). 2 call back (a performer) for this. —int. Again, once more. [french, = once again]

Encounter  —v. 1 meet unexpectedly. 2 meet as an adversary. —n. Meeting by chance or in conflict. [latin contra against]

Encourage  v. (-ging) 1 give courage or confidence to. 2 urge. 3 promote. ~ encouragement n. [french: related to +en-1]

Encroach  v. 1 (foll. By on, upon) intrude on another's territory etc. 2 advance gradually beyond due limits. ~ encroachment n. [french croc +crook]

Encrust  v. 1 cover with or form a crust. 2 coat with a hard casing or deposit, sometimes for decoration. [french: related to +en-1]

Encumber  v. 1 be a burden to. 2 hamper. [french from romanic]

Encumbrance  n. 1 burden. 2 impediment.

-ency  suffix forming nouns denoting quality or state (efficiency; fluency; presidency). [latin -entia]

Encyclical  —adj. For wide circulation. —n. Papal encyclical letter. [greek: related to +cycle]

Encyclopedia  n. (also -paedia) book, often in a number of volumes, giving information on many subjects, or on many aspects of one subject. [greek egkuklios all-round, paideia education]

Encyclopedic  adj. (also -paedic) (of knowledge or information) comprehensive.

End  —n. 1 a extreme limit. B extremity (to the ends of the earth). 2 extreme part or surface of a thing (strip of wood with a nail in one end). 3 a finish (no end to his misery). B latter part. C death, destruction (met an untimely end). D result. 4 goal (will do anything to achieve his ends). 5 remnant (cigarette-end). 6 (prec.

Endanger  v. Place in danger.

Endangered species  n. Species in danger of extinction.

Endear  v. (usu. Foll. By to) make dear. ~ endearing adj.

Endearment  n. 1 an expression of affection. 2 liking, affection.

Endeavor  (brit. Endeavour) —v. (foll. By to + infin.) Try earnestly. —n. Earnest attempt. [from +en-1, french devoir owe]

Endeavour  (us endeavor) —v. (foll. By to + infin.) Try earnestly. —n. Earnest attempt. [from +en-1, french devoir owe]

Endemic  adj. (often foll. By to) regularly or only found among a particular people or in a particular region. ~ endemically adv. [greek en- in, demos the people]

Ending  n. 1 end or final part, esp. Of a story. 2 inflected final part of a word.

Endive  n. Curly-leaved plant used in salads. [greek entubon]

Endless  adj. 1 infinite; without end. 2 continual (endless complaints). 3 colloq. Innumerable. 4 (of a belt, chain, etc.) Having the ends joined for continuous action over wheels etc. ~ endlessly adv. [old english: related to +end]

Endmost  adj. Nearest the end.

Endo-  comb. Form internal. [greek endon within]

Endocrine  adj. (of a gland) secreting directly into the blood. [greek krino sift]

Endogenous  adj. Growing or originating from within.

Endometrium  n. Membrane lining the womb. [greek metra womb]

Endomorph  n. Person with a soft round body. [greek morphe form]

Endorse  v. (also indorse) (-sing) 1 approve. 2 sign or write on (a document), esp. Sign the back of (a cheque). 3 enter details of a conviction for an offence on (a driving-licence). ~ endorsement n. [latin dorsum back]

Endoscope  n. Instrument for viewing internal parts of the body.

Endow  v. 1 bequeath or give a permanent income to (a person, institution, etc.). 2 (esp. As endowed adj.) Provide with talent, ability, etc. [anglo-french: related to +dower]

Endowment  n. 1 endowing. 2 endowed income. 3 (attrib.) Denoting forms of life insurance with payment of a fixed sum on a specified date, or on the death of the insured person if earlier.

Endowment mortgage  n. Mortgage linked to endowment insurance.

Endpaper  n. Either of the blank leaves of paper at the beginning and end of a book.

End-product  n. Final product of manufacture etc.

Endue  v. (also indue) (-dues, -dued, -duing) (foll. By with) provide (a person) with (qualities etc.). [latin induo put on clothes]

Endurance  n. 1 power of enduring. 2 ability to withstand prolonged strain. [french: related to +endure]

Endure  v. (-ring) 1 undergo (a difficulty etc.). 2 tolerate. 3 last. ~ endurable adj. [latin durus hard]

Endways  adv. (also endwise) 1 with end uppermost or foremost. 2 end to end.

Enema  n. 1 introduction of fluid etc. Into the rectum, esp. To flush out its contents. 2 fluid etc. Used for this. [greek hiemi send]

Enemy  n. (pl. -ies) 1 person actively hostile to another. 2 a (often attrib.) Hostile nation or army. B member of this. 3 adversary or opponent (enemy of progress). [latin: related to +in-2, amicus friend]

Energetic  adj. Full of energy, vigorous. ~ energetically adv. [greek: related to +energy]

Energize  v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 give energy to. 2 provide (a device) with energy for operation.

Energy  n. (pl. -ies) 1 capacity for activity, force, vigour. 2 capacity of matter or radiation to do work. [greek ergon work]

Enervate  v. (-ting) deprive of vigour or vitality. ~ enervation n. [latin: related to +nerve]

En famille  adv. In or with one's family. [french, = in family]

Enfant terrible  n. (pl. Enfants terribles pronunc. Same) indiscreet or unruly person. [french, = terrible child]

Enfeeble  v. (-ling) make feeble. ~ enfeeblement n.

Enfilade  —n. Gunfire directed along a line from end to end. —v. (-ding) direct an enfilade at. [french: related to +file1]

Enfold  v. 1 (usu. Foll. By in, with) wrap; envelop. 2 clasp, embrace.

Enforce  v. (-cing) 1 compel observance of (a law etc.). 2 (foll. By on) impose (an action or one's will, etc.) On. ~ enforceable adj. Enforcement n. Enforcer n. [latin: related to +force1]

Enfranchise  v. (-sing) 1 give (a person) the right to vote. 2 give (a town) municipal rights, esp. Representation in parliament. 3 hist. Free (a slave etc.). ~ enfranchisement n. [french: related to +frank]

Engage  v. (-ging) 1 employ or hire (a person). 2 a (usu. In passive) occupy (are you engaged tomorrow?). B hold fast (a person's attention). 3 (usu. In passive) bind by a promise, esp. Of marriage. 4 arrange beforehand to occupy (a room, seat, etc.). 5 a interlock (parts of a gear etc.). B (of a gear etc.) Become interlocked. 6 a come into battle with. B bring (troops) into battle with. C come into battle with (an enemy etc.). 7 take part (engage in politics). 8 (foll. By that + clause or to + infin.) Undertake. [french: related to +gage1]

Engaged  adj. 1 pledged to marry. 2 (of a person) occupied, busy. 3 (of a telephone line, toilet, etc.) In use.

Engagement  n. 1 engaging or being engaged. 2 appointment with another person. 3 betrothal. 4 battle.

Engaging  adj. Attractive, charming. ~ engagingly adv.

Engender  v. Give rise to; produce (a feeling etc.). [related to +genus]

Engine  n. 1 mechanical contrivance of parts working together, esp. As a source of power (steam engine). 2 a railway locomotive. B = +fire-engine. [latin ingenium device]

Engineer  —n. 1 person skilled in a branch of engineering. 2 person who makes or is in charge of engines etc. (ship's engineer). 3 person who designs and constructs military works; soldier so trained. 4 contriver. —v. 1 contrive, bring about. 2 act as an engineer. 3 construct or manage as an engineer. [medieval latin: related to +engine]

Engineering  n. Application of science to the design, building, and use of machines etc. (civil engineering).

English  —adj. Of england or its people or language. —n. 1 language of england, now used in the uk, us, and most commonwealth countries. 2 (prec. By the; treated as pl.) The people of england. [old english]

Englishman  n. (fem. Englishwoman) person who is english by birth or descent.

Engorged  adj. 1 crammed full. 2 congested with fluid, esp. Blood. [french: related to +en-1, +gorge]

Engraft  v. (also ingraft) 1 bot. (usu. Foll. By into, on) graft. 2 implant. 3 (usu. Foll. By into) incorporate.

Engrave  v. (-ving) 1 (often foll. By on) carve (a text or design) on a hard surface. 2 inscribe (a surface) thus. 3 (often foll. By on) impress deeply (on a person's memory). ~ engraver n. [from +grave3]

Engraving  n. Print made from an engraved plate.

Engross  v. 1 absorb the attention of; occupy fully. 2 write out in larger letters or in legal form. ~ engrossment n. [anglo-french: related to +en-1]

Engulf  v. Flow over and swamp; overwhelm. ~ engulfment n.

Enhance  v. (-cing) intensify (qualities, powers, etc.); improve (something already good). ~ enhancement n. [anglo-french from latin altus high]

Enigma  n. 1 puzzling thing or person. 2 riddle or paradox. ~ enigmatic adj. Enigmatically adv. [latin from greek]

Enjoin  v. 1 command or order. 2 (often foll. By on) impose (an action). 3 (usu. Foll. By from) law prohibit by injunction (from doing a thing). [latin injungo attach]

Enjoy  v. 1 take pleasure in. 2 have the use or benefit of. 3 experience (enjoy good health). ~ enjoy oneself experience pleasure. ~ enjoyment n. [french]

Enjoyable  adj. Pleasant. ~ enjoyably adv.

Enkephalin  n. Either of two morphine-like peptides in the brain thought to control levels of pain. [greek egkephalos brain]

Enkindle  v. (-ling) cause to flare up, arouse.

Enlarge  v. (-ging) 1 make or become larger or wider. 2 (often foll. By on, upon) describe in greater detail. 3 reproduce a photograph on a larger scale. ~ enlargement n. [french: related to +large]

Enlarger  n. Apparatus for enlarging photographs.

Enlighten  v. 1 (often foll. By on) inform (about a subject). 2 (as enlightened adj.) Progressive.

Enlightenment  n. 1 enlightening or being enlightened. 2 (the enlightenment) 18th-c. Philosophy of reason and individualism.

Enlist  v. 1 enrol in the armed services. 2 secure as a means of help or support. ~ enlistment n.

Enliven  v. Make lively or cheerful; brighten (a picture etc.); inspirit. ~ enlivenment n.

En masse  adv. All together. [french]

Enmesh  v. Entangle in or as in a net.

Enmity  n. (pl. -ies) 1 state of being an enemy. 2 hostility. [romanic: related to +enemy]

Ennoble  v. (-ling) 1 make noble. 2 make (a person) a noble. ~ ennoblement n. [french: related to +en-1]

Ennui  n. Mental weariness from idleness or lack of interest; boredom. [french: related to +annoy]

Enormity  n. (pl. -ies) 1 monstrous wickedness; monstrous crime. 2 serious error. 3 great size. [latin enormitas]

Usage  sense 3 is commonly found, but is regarded as incorrect by some people.

Enormous  adj. Extremely large. ~ enormously adv. [latin enormis: related to +norm]

Enough  —adj. As much or as many as required (enough apples). —n. Sufficient amount or quantity (we have enough). —adv. 1 adequately (warm enough). 2 fairly (sings well enough). 3 quite (you know well enough what i mean). ~ have had enough of want no more of; be satiated with or tired of. Sure enough as expected. [old english]

En passant  adv. In passing; casually (mentioned it en passant). [french, = in passing]

Enprint  n. Standard-sized photograph. [enlarged print]

Enquire  v. (-ring) 1 seek information; ask; ask a question. 2 = +inquire. 3 (foll. By after, for) ask about (a person, a person's health, etc.). ~ enquirer n. [latin quaero quaesit- seek]

Enquiry  n. (pl. -ies) 1 act of asking or seeking information. 2 = +inquiry.

Enrage  v. (-ging) make furious. [french: related to +en-1]

Enrapture  v. (-ring) delight intensely.

Enrich  v. 1 make rich or richer. 2 make more nutritive. 3 increase the strength, wealth, value, or contents of. ~ enrichment n. [french: related to +en-1]

Enrol  v. (us enroll) (-ll-) 1 enlist. 2 a write the name of (a person) on a list. B incorporate as a member. C enrol oneself, esp. For a course of study. ~ enrolment n. [french: related to +en-1]

Enroll  v. (brit. Enrol) (-ll-) 1 enlist. 2 a write the name of (a person) on a list. B incorporate as a member. C enrol oneself, esp. For a course of study. ~ enrolment n. [french: related to +en-1]

En route  adv. On the way. [french]

Ensconce  v. (-cing) (usu. Refl. Or in passive) establish or settle comfortably. [from sconce small fortification]

Ensemble  n. 1 a thing viewed as the sum of its parts. B general effect of this. 2 set of clothes worn together. 3 group of performers working together. 4 mus. Concerted passage for an ensemble. [latin simul at the same time]

Enshrine  v. (-ning) 1 enclose in a shrine. 2 protect, make inviolable. ~ enshrinement n.

Enshroud  v. Literary 1 cover with or as with a shroud. 2 obscure.

Ensign  n. 1 banner or flag, esp. The military or naval flag of a nation. 2 standard-bearer. 3 a hist. Lowest commissioned infantry officer. B us lowest commissioned naval officer. [french: related to +insignia]

Ensilage  —n. = +silage. —v. (-ging) preserve (fodder) by ensilage. [french: related to +silo]

Enslave  v. (-ving) make (a person) a slave. ~ enslavement n.

Ensnare  v. (-ring) catch in or as in a snare. ~ ensnarement n.

Ensue  v. (-sues, -sued, -suing) happen later or as a result. [latin sequor follow]

En suite  —adv. Forming a single unit (bedroom with bathroom en suite). —adj. 1 forming a single unit (en suite bathroom). 2 with a bathroom attached (seven en suite bedrooms). [french, = in sequence]

Ensure  v. (-ring) 1 make certain. 2 (usu. Foll. By against) make safe (ensure against risks). ~ ensurer n. [anglo-french: related to +assure]

Ent  abbr. Ear, nose, and throat.

-ent  suffix 1 forming adjectives denoting attribution of an action (consequent) or state (existent). 2 forming agent nouns (president). [latin -ent- present participial stem of verbs]

Entablature  n. Upper part of a classical building supported by columns including an architrave, frieze, and cornice. [italian: related to +table]

Entail  —v. 1 necessitate or involve unavoidably (entails much effort). 2 law bequeath (an estate) to a specified line of beneficiaries so that it cannot be sold or given away. —n. Law 1 entailed estate. 2 succession to such an estate. [related to +tail2] 

Entangle  v. (-ling) 1 catch or hold fast in a snare, tangle, etc. 2 involve in difficulties. 3 complicate. ~ entanglement n.

Entente  n. Friendly understanding between states. [french]

Entente cordiale  n. Entente, esp. Between britain and france from 1904.

Enter  v. 1 go or come in or into. 2 come on stage (also as a direction: enter macbeth). 3 penetrate (bullet entered his arm). 4 write (name, details, etc.) In a list, book, etc. 5 register, record the name of as a competitor (entered for the long jump). 6 a become a member of (a society or profession). B enrol in a school etc. 7 make known; present for consideration (enter a protest). 8 record formally (before a court of law etc.). 9 (foll. By into) a engage in (conversation etc.). B subscribe to; bind oneself by (an agreement, contract, etc.). C form part of (a calculation, plan, etc.). D sympathize with (feelings). 10 (foll. By on, upon) a begin; begin to deal with. B assume the functions of (an office) or possession of (property). [latin intra within]

Enteric  adj. Of the intestines. ~ enteritis n. [greek enteron intestine]

Entry  n. (pl. -ies) 1 a going or coming in. B liberty to do this. 2 place of entrance; door, gate, etc. 3 passage between buildings. 4 a item entered in a diary, list, etc. B recording of this. 5 a person or thing competing in a race etc. B list of competitors. [romanic: related to +enter]

Entryphone  n. Propr. Intercom at the entrance of a building or flat for callers to identify themselves.

Entwine  v. (-ning) twine round, interweave.

E-number  n. E plus a number, the ec designation for food additives.

Enumerate  v. (-ting) 1 specify (items). 2 count. ~ enumeration n. Enumerative adj. [latin: related to +number]

Enumerator  n. Person employed in census-taking.

Enunciate  v. (-ting) 1 pronounce (words) clearly. 2 express in definite terms. ~ enunciation n. [latin nuntio announce]

Enuresis  n. Involuntary urination. [greek enoureo urinate in]

Envelop  v. (-p-) 1 wrap up or cover completely. 2 completely surround. ~ envelopment n. [french]

Envelope  n. 1 folded paper container for a letter etc. 2 wrapper, covering. 3 gas container of a balloon or airship.

Enviable  adj. Likely to excite envy, desirable. ~ enviably adv.

Envious  adj. Feeling or showing envy. ~ enviously adv. [anglo-french: related to +envy]

Environment  n. 1 surroundings, esp. As affecting lives. 2 circumstances of living. 3 computing overall structure within which a user, computer, or program operates. ~ environmental adj. Environmentally adv. [french environ surroundings]

Environmentalist  n. Person concerned with the protection of the natural environment. ~ environmentalism n.

Environs  n.pl. District round a town etc.

Envisage  v. (-ging) 1 have a mental picture of (a thing not yet existing). 2 imagine as possible or desirable. [french: related to +visage]

Envoy  n. 1 messenger or representative. 2 (in full envoy extraordinary) diplomatic agent ranking below ambassador. [french envoyer send, from latin via way]

Envy  —n. (pl. -ies) 1 discontent aroused by another's better fortune etc. 2 object of this feeling. —v. (-ies, -ied) feel envy of (a person etc.). [latin invidia, from video see]

Enwrap  v. (-pp-) (often foll. By in) literary wrap, enfold.

Enzyme  n. Protein catalyst of a specific biochemical reaction. [greek enzumos leavened]

Eocene  geol. —adj. Of the second epoch of the tertiary period. —n. This epoch. [greek eos dawn, kainos new]

Eolian harp  n. (brit. Aeolian) stringed instrument or toy sounding when the wind passes through it. [latin aeolus wind-god, from greek]

Eolithic  adj. Of the period preceding the palaeolithic age. [greek eos dawn, lithos stone]

Eon  var. Of +aeon.

Ep  abbr. Extended-play (gramophone record).

Epaulet  n. (brit. Epaulette) ornamental shoulder-piece on a coat etc., esp. On a uniform. [french épaule shoulder]

Epaulette  n. (us epaulet) ornamental shoulder-piece on a coat etc., esp. On a uniform. [french épaule shoulder]

Épée  n. Sharp-pointed sword, used (with the end blunted) in fencing. [french: related to +spathe]

Ephedrine  n. Alkaloid drug used to relieve asthma, etc. [ephedra, genus of plants yielding it]

Ephemera  n.pl. Things of only short-lived relevance. [latin: related to +ephemeral]

Ephemeral  adj. Lasting or of use for only a short time; transitory. [greek: related to +epi-, hemera day]

Epi-  prefix 1 upon. 2 above. 3 in addition. [greek]

Epic  —n. 1 long poem narrating the adventures or deeds of one or more heroic or legendary figures. 2 book or film based on an epic narrative. —adj. 1 of or like an epic. 2 grand, heroic. [greek epos song]

Epicene  —adj. 1 of, for, denoting, or used by both sexes. 2 having characteristics of both sexes or of neither sex. —n. Epicene person. [greek koinos common]

Epicenter  n. (brit. Epicentre) 1 point at which an earthquake reaches the earth's surface. 2 central point of a difficulty. [greek: related to +centre]

Epicentre  n. (us epicenter) 1 point at which an earthquake reaches the earth's surface. 2 central point of a difficulty. [greek: related to +centre]

Epicure  n. Person with refined tastes, esp. In food and drink. ~ epicurism n. [medieval latin: related to +epicurean]

Epicurean  —n. 1 disciple or student of the greek philosopher epicurus. 2 (epicurean) devotee of (esp. Sensual) enjoyment. —adj. 1 of epicurus or his ideas. 2 (epicurean) characteristic of an epicurean. ~ epicureanism n. [latin from greek]

Epidemic  —n. Widespread occurrence of a disease in a community at a particular time. —adj. In the nature of an epidemic. [greek epi against, demos the people]

Epidemiology  n. The study of epidemic diseases and their control. ~ epidemiologist n.

Epidermis  n. Outer layer of the skin. ~ epidermal adj. [greek derma skin]

Epidiascope  n. Optical projector capable of giving images of both opaque and transparent objects. [from +epi-, +dia-, +-scope]

Epidural  —adj. (of an anaesthetic) introduced into the space around the dura mater of the spinal cord. —n. Epidural anaesthetic. [from +epi-, +dura mater]

Epiglottis  n. Flap of cartilage at the root of the tongue, depressed during swallowing to cover the windpipe. ~ epiglottal adj. [greek glotta tongue]

Epigram  n. 1 short poem with a witty ending. 2 pointed saying. ~ epigrammatic adj. [greek: related to +-gram]

Epigraph  n. Inscription. [greek: related to +-graph]

Epilepsy  n. Nervous disorder with convulsions and often loss of consciousness. [greek lambano take]

Epileptic  —adj. Of epilepsy. —n. Person with epilepsy. [french: related to +epilepsy]

Epilogue  n. 1 short piece ending a literary work. 2 speech addressed to the audience by an actor at the end of a play. [greek logos speech]

Epiphany  n. (pl. -ies) 1 (epiphany) a manifestation of christ to the magi. B festival of this on 6 january. 2 manifestation of a god or demigod. [greek phaino show]

Episcopacy  n. (pl. -ies) 1 government by bishops. 2 (prec. By the) the bishops.

Episcopal  adj. 1 of a bishop or bishops. 2 (of a church) governed by bishops. ~ episcopally adv. [church latin: related to +bishop]

Episcopalian  —adj. 1 of episcopacy. 2 of an episcopal church or (episcopalian) the episcopal church. —n. 1 adherent of episcopacy. 2 (episcopalian) member of the episcopal church. ~ episcopalianism n.

Episcopate  n. 1 the office or tenure of a bishop. 2 (prec. By the) the bishops collectively. [church latin: related to +bishop]

Episiotomy  n. (pl. -ies) surgical cut made at the vaginal opening during childbirth, to aid delivery. [greek epision pubic region]

Episode  n. 1 event or group of events as part of a sequence. 2 each of the parts of a serial story or broadcast. 3 incident or set of incidents in a narrative. [greek eisodos entry]

Episodic  adj. 1 consisting of separate episodes. 2 irregular, sporadic.~ episodically adv.

Epistemology  n. Philosophy of knowledge. ~ epistemological adj. [greek episteme knowledge]

Epistle  n. 1 joc. Letter. 2 (epistle) any of the apostles' letters in the new testament. 3 poem etc. In the form of a letter. [greek epistole from stello send]

Epistolary  adj. Of or in the form of a letter or letters. [latin: related to +epistle]

Epitaph  n. Words written in memory of a dead person, esp. As a tomb inscription. [greek taphos tomb]

Epithelium  n. (pl. -s or -lia) tissue forming the outer layer of the body and lining many hollow structures. ~ epithelial adj. [greek thele teat]

Epithet  n. 1 adjective etc. Expressing a quality or attribute. 2 this as a term of abuse. [greek tithemi place]

Epitome  n. 1 person or thing embodying a quality etc. 2 thing representing another in miniature. [greek temno cut]

Epitomize  v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) make or be a perfect example of (a quality etc.).

Epns  abbr. Electroplated nickel silver.

Epoch  n. 1 period of history etc. Marked by notable events. 2 beginning of an era. 3 geol. Division of a period, corresponding to a set of strata. ~ epochal adj. [greek, = pause]

Epoch-making  adj. Remarkable; very important.

Eponym  n. 1 word, place-name, etc., derived from a person's name. 2 person whose name is used in this way. ~ eponymous adj. [greek onoma name]

Epos  abbr. Electronic point-of-sale (equipment recording stock, sales, etc. In shops).

Epoxy  adj. Relating to or derived from a compound with one oxygen atom and two carbon atoms bonded in a triangle. [from +epi-, +oxygen]

Epoxy resin  n. Synthetic thermosetting resin.

Epsilon  n. Fifth letter of the greek alphabet (e, e). [greek]

Epsom salts  n. Magnesium sulphate used as a purgative etc. [epsom in s. England]

Equable  adj. 1 not varying. 2 moderate (equable climate). 3 (of a person) not easily disturbed. ~ equably adv. [related to +equal]

Equal  —adj. 1 (often foll. By to, with) the same in quantity, quality, size, degree, level, etc. 2 evenly balanced (an equal contest). 3 having the same rights or status (human beings are essentially equal). 4 uniform in application or effect. —n. Person or thing equal to another, esp. In rank or quality. —v. (-ll-; us -l-) 1 be equal to. 2 achieve something that is equal to. ~ be equal to have the ability or resources for. [latin aequalis]

Equality  n. Being equal. [latin: related to +equal]

Equalize  v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 make or become equal. 2 reach one's opponent's score. ~ equalization n.

Equalizer  n. (also -iser) equalizing score or goal etc.

Equally  adv. 1 in an equal manner (treated them equally). 2 to an equal degree (equally important).

Usage  in sense 2, construction with as (e.g. Equally as important) is often found, but is considered incorrect by some people.

Equal opportunity  n. (often in pl.) Opportunity to compete on equal terms, regardless of sex, race, etc.

Equanimity  n. Composure, evenness of temper, esp. In adversity. [latin aequus even, animus mind]

Equate  v. (-ting) 1 (usu. Foll. By to, with) regard as equal or equivalent. 2 (foll. By with) be equal or equivalent to. ~ equatable adj. [latin aequo aequat-: related to +equal]

Equation  n. 1 equating or making equal; being equal. 2 statement that two mathematical expressions are equal (indicated by the sign =). 3 formula indicating a chemical reaction by means of symbols.

Equator  n. 1 imaginary line round the earth or other body, equidistant from the poles. 2 = +celestial equator. [medieval latin: related to +equate]

Equatorial  adj. Of or near the equator.

Equerry  n. (pl. -ies) officer attending the british royal family. [french esquierie stable]

Equestrian  —adj. 1 of horse-riding. 2 on horseback. —n. Rider or performer on horseback. ~ equestrianism n. [latin equestris from equus horse]

Equi-  comb. Form equal. [latin: related to +equal]

Equiangular  adj. Having equal angles.

Equidistant  adj. At equal distances.

Equilateral  adj. Having all its sides equal in length.

Equilibrium  n. (pl. -ria or -s) 1 state of physical balance. 2 state of composure. [latin libra balance]

Equine  adj. Of or like a horse. [latin equus horse]

Equinoctial  —adj. Happening at or near the time of an equinox. —n. (in full equinoctial line) = +celestial equator. [latin: related to +equinox]

Equinox  n. Time or date (twice each year) at which the sun crosses the celestial equator, when day and night are of equal length. [latin nox noctis night]

Enterprise  n. 1 undertaking, esp. A challenging one. 2 readiness to engage in such undertakings. 3 business firm or venture. [latin prehendo grasp]

Enterprising  adj. Showing enterprise; resourceful, energetic. ~ enterprisingly adv.

Entertain  v. 1 occupy agreeably. 2 a receive as a guest. B receive guests. 3 cherish, consider (an idea etc.). [latin teneo hold]

Entertainer  n. Person who entertains, esp. Professionally.

Entertaining  adj. Amusing, diverting. ~ entertainingly adv.

Entertainment  n. 1 entertaining or being entertained. 2 thing that entertains; performance.

Enthral  v. (us enthrall) (-ll-) captivate, please greatly. ~ enthralment n. [from +en-1, +thrall]

Enthrall  v. (brit. Enthral) (-ll-) captivate, please greatly. ~ enthralment n. [from +en-1, +thrall]

Enthrone  v. (-ning) place on a throne, esp. Ceremonially. ~ enthronement n.

Enthuse  v. (-sing) colloq. Be or make enthusiastic.

Enthusiasm  n. 1 (often foll. By for, about) strong interest or admiration, great eagerness. 2 object of enthusiasm. [greek entheos inspired by a god]

Enthusiast  n. Person full of enthusiasm. [church latin: related to +enthusiasm]

Enthusiastic  adj. Having enthusiasm. ~ enthusiastically adv.

Entice  v. (-cing) attract by the offer of pleasure or reward. ~ enticement n. Enticing adj. Enticingly adv. [french enticier probably from romanic]

Entire  adj. 1 whole, complete. 2 unbroken. 3 unqualified, absolute. 4 in one piece; continuous. [latin: related to +integer]

Entirely  adv. 1 wholly. 2 solely.

Entirety  n. (pl. -ies) 1 completeness. 2 (usu. Foll. By of) sum total. ~ in its entirety in its complete form.

Entitle  v. (-ling) 1 (usu. Foll. By to) give (a person) a just claim or right. 2 give a title to. ~ entitlement n. [latin: related to +title]

Entity  n. (pl. -ies) 1 thing with distinct existence. 2 thing's existence in itself. [latin ens ent- being]

Entomb  v. 1 place in a tomb. 2 serve as a tomb for. ~ entombment n. [french: related to +tomb]

Entomology  n. The study of insects. ~ entomological adj. Entomologist n. [greek entomon insect]

Entourage  n. People attending an important person. [french]

Entr'acte  n. 1 interval between acts of a play. 2 music or dance performed during this. [french]

Entrails  n.pl. 1 bowels, intestines. 2 innermost parts of a thing. [latin inter among]

Entrance1  n. 1 place for entering. 2 going or coming in. 3 right of admission. 4 coming of an actor on stage. 5 (in full entrance fee) admission fee. [french: related to +enter]

Entrance2  v. (-cing) 1 enchant, delight. 2 put into a trance. ~ entrancement n. Entrancing adj. Entrancingly adv.

Entrant  n. Person who enters (an examination, profession, etc.). [french: related to +enter]

Entrap  v. (-pp-) 1 catch in or as in a trap. 2 beguile. ~ entrapment n. [related to +en-1]

Entreat  v. Ask earnestly, beg. [related to +en-1]

Entreaty  n. (pl. -ies) earnest request.

Entrecôte  n. Boned steak off the sirloin. [french, = between-rib]

Entrée  n. 1 dish served between the fish and meat courses. 2 us main dish. 3 right of admission. [french]

Entrench  v. 1 a establish firmly (in a position, office, etc.). B (as entrenched adj.) (of an attitude etc.) Not easily modified. 2 surround with a trench as a fortification. ~ entrenchment n.

Entrepôt  n. Warehouse for goods in transit. [french]

Entrepreneur  n. 1 person who undertakes a commercial venture. 2 contractor acting as an intermediary. ~ entrepreneurial adj. Entrepreneurialism n. (also entrepreneurism). [french: related to +enterprise]

Entropy  n. 1 physics measure of the disorganization or degradation of the universe, resulting in a decrease in available energy. 2 physics measure of the unavailability of a system's thermal energy for conversion into mechanical work. [greek: related to +en-2, trope transformation]

Entrust  v. (also intrust) 1 (foll. By to) give (a person or thing) into the care of a person. 2 (foll. By with) assign responsibility for (a person or thing) to (a person) (entrusted him with my camera).

Equip  v. (-pp-) supply with what is needed. [old norse skipa to man a ship]

Equipage  n. 1 archaic a requisites. B outfit. 2 hist. Carriage and horses with attendants. [french: related to +equip]

Equipment  n. 1 necessary articles, clothing, etc. 2 equipping or being equipped. [french: related to +equip]

Equipoise  n. 1 equilibrium. 2 counterbalancing thing.

Equitable  adj. 1 fair, just. 2 law valid in equity as distinct from law. ~ equitably adv. [french: related to +equity]

Equitation  n. Horsemanship; horse-riding. [latin equito ride a horse]

Equity  n. (pl. -ies) 1 fairness. 2 principles of justice used to correct or supplement the law. 3 a value of the shares issued by a company. B (in pl.) Stocks and shares not bearing fixed interest. [latin aequitas: related to +equal]

Equivalent  —adj. 1 (often foll. By to) equal in value, amount, importance, etc. 2 corresponding. 3 having the same meaning or result. —n. Equivalent thing, amount, etc. ~ equivalence n. [latin: related to +value]

Equivocal  adj. 1 of double or doubtful meaning. 2 of uncertain nature. 3 (of a person etc.) Questionable. ~ equivocally adv. [latin voco call]

Equivocate  v. (-ting) use ambiguity to conceal the truth. ~ equivocation n. Equivocator n. [latin: related to +equivocal]

Er  abbr. Queen elizabeth. [latin elizabetha regina]

Er  symb. Erbium.

Er  int. Expressing hesitation. [imitative]

-er1  suffix forming nouns from nouns, adjectives, and verbs, denoting: 1 person, animal, or thing that does (cobbler; poker). 2 person or thing that is (foreigner; four-wheeler). 3 person concerned with (hatter; geographer). 4 person from (villager; sixt

-er2  suffix forming the comparative of adjectives (wider) and adverbs (faster). [old english]

-er3  suffix used in a slang distortion of the word (rugger). [probably an extension of +-er1]

Era  n. 1 system of chronology reckoning from a noteworthy event (christian era). 2 large period, esp. Regarded historically. 3 date at which an era begins. 4 major division of geological time. [latin, = number (pl. Of aes money)]

Eradicate  v. (-ting) root out; destroy completely. ~ eradicable adj. Eradication n. Eradicator n. [latin radix -icis root]

Erase  v. (-sing) 1 rub out; obliterate. 2 remove all traces of. 3 remove recorded material from (magnetic tape or disk). [latin rado ras- scrape]

Eraser  n. Thing that erases, esp. A piece of rubber etc. For removing pencil etc. Marks.

Erasure  n. 1 erasing. 2 erased word etc.

Erbium  n. Metallic element of the lanthanide series. [ytterby in sweden]

Ere  prep. & conj. Poet. Or archaic before (of time) (ere noon; ere they come). [old english]

Erect  —adj. 1 upright, vertical. 2 (of the penis etc.) Enlarged and rigid, esp. In sexual excitement. 3 (of hair) bristling. —v. 1 set up; build. 2 establish. ~ erection n. Erectly adv. Erectness n. [latin erigere erect- set up]

Erectile  adj. That can become erect (esp. Of body tissue in sexual excitement). [french: related to +erect]

Erg  n. Unit of work or energy. [greek ergon work]

Ergo  adv. Therefore. [latin]

Ergonomics  n. The study of the relationship between people and their working environment. ~ ergonomic adj. [greek ergon work]

Ergot  n. Disease of rye etc. Caused by a fungus. [french]

Erin  n. Poet. Ireland. [irish]

Erm  abbr. Exchange rate mechanism.

Ermine  n. (pl. Same or -s) 1 stoat, esp. When white in winter. 2 its white fur, used to trim robes etc. [french]

Ernie  n. Device for drawing prize-winning numbers of premium bonds. [electronic random number indicator equipment]

Erode  v. (-ding) wear away, destroy gradually. ~ erosion n. Erosive adj. [latin rodo ros- gnaw]

Erogenous  adj. (of a part of the body) particularly sensitive to sexual stimulation. [greek (as +erotic), +-genous]

Erotic  adj. Of or causing sexual love, esp. Tending to arouse sexual desire or excitement. ~ erotically adv. [greek eros sexual love]

Erotica  n.pl. Erotic literature or art.

Eroticism  n. 1 erotic character. 2 use of or response to erotic images or stimulation.

Err  v. 1 be mistaken or incorrect. 2 do wrong; sin. [latin erro stray]

Errand  n. 1 short journey, esp. On another's behalf, to take a message, collect goods, etc. 2 object of such a journey. [old english]

Errand of mercy  n. Journey to relieve suffering etc.

Errant  adj. 1 erring. 2 literary or archaic travelling in search of adventure (knight errant). ~ errantry n. (in sense 2). [from +err: sense 2 ultimately from latin iter journey]

Erratic  adj. 1 inconsistent in conduct, opinions, etc. 2 uncertain in movement. ~ erratically adv. [latin: related to +err]

Erratum  n. (pl. Errata) error in printing or writing. [latin: related to +err]

Erroneous  adj. Incorrect. ~ erroneously adv. [latin: related to +err]

Error  n. 1 mistake. 2 condition of being morally wrong (led into error).  3 degree of inaccuracy in a calculation etc. (2% error). [latin: related to +err]

Ersatz  adj. & n. Substitute, imitation. [german]

Erse  —adj. Irish or highland gaelic. —n. The gaelic language. [early scots form of +irish]

Erstwhile  —adj. Former, previous. —adv. Archaic formerly. [related to +ere]

Eructation  n. Formal belching. [latin ructo belch]

Erudite  adj. Learned. ~ erudition n. [latin eruditus instructed: related to +rude]

Erupt  v. 1 break out suddenly or dramatically. 2 (of a volcano) eject lava etc. 3 (of a rash etc.) Appear on the skin. ~ eruption n. Eruptive adj. [latin erumpo erupt- break out]

-ery  suffix (also -ry) forming nouns denoting: 1 class or kind (greenery; machinery; citizenry). 2 employment; state or condition (dentistry; slavery). 3 place of work or cultivation or breeding (brewery; rookery). 4 behaviour (mimicry). 5 often derog. A

Erysipelas  n. Disease causing fever and a deep red inflammation of the skin. [latin from greek]

Erythrocyte  n. Red blood cell. [greek eruthros red, +-cyte]

Es  symb. Einsteinium.

Escalate  v. (-ting) 1 increase or develop (usu. Rapidly) by stages. 2 make or become more intense. ~ escalation n. [from +escalator]

Escalator  n. Moving staircase consisting of a circulating belt forming steps. [latin scala ladder]

Escalope  n. Thin slice of boneless meat, esp. Veal. [french, originally = shell]

Escapade  n. Piece of reckless behaviour. [french from provençal or spanish: related to +escape]

Escape  —v. (-ping) 1 (often foll. By from) get free of restriction or control. 2 (of gas etc.) Leak. 3 succeed in avoiding punishment etc. 4 get free of (a person, grasp, etc.). 5 avoid (a commitment, danger, etc.). 6 elude the notice or memory of (nothing escapes you; name escaped me). 7 (of words etc.) Issue unawares from (a person etc.). —n. 1 act or instance of escaping. 2 means of escaping (often attrib.: escape hatch). 3 leakage of gas etc. 4 temporary relief from unpleasant reality. [latin cappa cloak]

Escape clause  n. Law clause specifying conditions under which a contracting party is free from an obligation.

Escapee  n. Person who has escaped.

Escapement  n. Part of a clock etc. That connects and regulates the motive power. [french: related to +escape]

Escape velocity  n. Minimum velocity needed to escape from the gravitational field of a body.

Escapism  n. Pursuit of distraction and relief from reality. ~ escapist n. & adj.

Escapology  n. Techniques of escaping from confinement, esp. As entertainment. ~ escapologist n.

Escarpment  n. Long steep slope at the edge of a plateau etc. [french from italian: related to +scarp]

Eschatology  n. Theology of death and final destiny. ~ eschatological adj. [greek eskhatos last]

Escheat  hist. —n. 1 reversion of property to the state etc. In the absence of legal heirs. 2 property so affected. —v. 1 hand over (property) as an escheat. 2 confiscate. 3 revert by escheat. [latin cado fall]

Eschew  v. Formal avoid; abstain from. ~ eschewal n. [germanic: related to +shy1]

Escort  —n. 1 one or more persons, vehicles, etc., accompanying a person, vehicle, etc., for protection or as a mark of status. 2 person accompanying a person of the opposite sex socially. —v. Act as an escort to. [french from italian]

Escritoire  n. Writing-desk with drawers etc. [french from latin scriptorium writing-room]

Escudo  n. (pl. -s) chief monetary unit of portugal. [spanish and portuguese from latin scutum shield]

Escutcheon  n. Shield or emblem bearing a coat of arms. [latin scutum shield]

Eskimo  —n. (pl. Same or -s) 1 member of a people inhabiting n. Canada, alaska, greenland, and e. Siberia. 2 language of this people. —adj. Of eskimos or their language. [algonquian]

Usage  the eskimos of n. America prefer the name inuit.

Esn  abbr. Educationally subnormal.

Esophagus  n. (brit. Oesophagus) (pl. -gi or -guses) passage from the mouth to the stomach; gullet. [greek]

Esoteric  adj. Intelligible only to those with special knowledge. ~ esoterically adv. [greek eso within]

Esp  abbr. Extrasensory perception.

Espadrille  n. Light canvas shoe with a plaited fibre sole. [provençal: related to +esparto]

Espalier  n. 1 lattice-work along which the branches of a tree or shrub are trained. 2 tree or shrub so trained. [french from italian]

Esparto  n. (pl. -s) (in full esparto grass) coarse grass of spain and n. Africa, used to make good-quality paper etc. [greek sparton rope]

Especial  adj. Notable. [latin: related to +special]

Especially  adv. 1 in particular. 2 much more than in other cases. 3 particularly.

Esperanto  n. An artificial language designed for universal use. [latin spero hope]

Espionage  n. Spying or use of spies. [french: related to +spy]

Esplanade  n. 1 long open level area for walking on, esp. Beside the sea. 2 level space separating a fortress from a town. [latin planus level]

Espousal  n. 1 (foll. By of) espousing of (a cause etc.). 2 archaic marriage, betrothal.

Espouse  v. (-sing) 1 adopt or support (a cause, doctrine, etc.). 2 archaic a (usu. Of a man) marry. B (usu. Foll. By to) give (a woman) in marriage. [latin spondeo betroth]

Ex-servicewoman  n. Woman formerly a member of the armed forces.

Extant  adj. Still existing. [latin ex(s)to exist]

Extemporaneous  adj. Spoken or done without preparation. ~ extemporaneously adv. [from +extempore]

Extemporary  adj. = +extemporaneous. ~ extemporarily adv.

Extempore  adj. & adv. Without preparation. [latin]

Extemporize  v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) improvise. ~ extemporization n.

Extend  v. 1 lengthen or make larger in space or time. 2 stretch or lay out at full length. 3 (foll. By to, over) reach or be or make continuous over a specified area. 4 (foll. By to) have a specified scope (permit does not extend to camping). 5 offer or accord (an invitation, hospitality, kindness, etc.). 6 (usu. Refl. Or in passive) tax the powers of (an athlete, horse, etc.). ~ extendible adj. (also extensible). [latin extendo -tens-: related to +tend1]

Extended family  n. Family including relatives living near.

Extended-play  adj. (of a gramophone record) playing for somewhat longer than most singles.

Extension  n. 1 extending or being extended. 2 part enlarging or added on to a main building etc. 3 additional part. 4 a subsidiary telephone on the same line as the main one. B its number. 5 additional period of time. 6 extramural instruction by a university or college.

Extensive  adj. 1 covering a large area. 2 far-reaching. ~ extensively adv. Extensiveness n. [latin: related to +extend]

Extent  n. 1 space over which a thing extends. 2 range, scope, degree. [anglo-french: related to +extend]

Extenuate  v. (often as extenuating adj.) Make (guilt or an offence) seem less serious by reference to another factor. ~ extenuation n. [latin tenuis thin]

Exterior  —adj. 1 of or on the outer side. 2 coming from outside. —n. 1 outward aspect or surface of a building etc. 2 outward demeanour. 3 outdoor scene in filming. [latin]

Exterminate  v. (-ting) destroy utterly (esp. A living thing). ~ extermination n. Exterminator n. [latin: related to +terminal]

External  —adj. 1 a of or on the outside or visible part. B coming from the outside or an outside source. 2 relating to a country's foreign affairs. 3 outside the conscious subject (the external world). 4 (of medicine etc.) For use on the outside of the body. 5 for students taking the examinations of a university without attending it. —n. (in pl.) 1 outward features or aspect. 2 external circumstances. 3 inessentials. ~ externality n. Externally adv. [latin externus outer]

Externalize  v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) give or attribute external existence to. ~ externalization n.

Extinct  adj. 1 that has died out. 2 a no longer burning. B (of a volcano) that no longer erupts. 3 obsolete. [latin ex(s)tinguo -stinct- quench]

Extinction  n. 1 making or becoming extinct. 2 extinguishing or being extinguished. 3 total destruction or annihilation.

Extinguish  v. 1 cause (a flame, light, etc.) To die out. 2 destroy. 3 terminate. 4 wipe out (a debt). ~ extinguishable adj.

Extinguisher  n. = +fire extinguisher.

Extirpate  v. (-ting) root out; destroy completely. ~ extirpation n. [latin ex(s)tirpo from stirps stem of tree]

Extol  v. (-ll-) praise enthusiastically. [latin tollo raise]

Extort  v. Obtain by coercion. [latin torqueo tort- twist]

Extortion  n. 1 act of extorting, esp. Money. 2 illegal exaction. ~ extortioner n. Extortionist n.

Extortionate  adj. (of a price etc.) Exorbitant. ~ extortionately adv.

Extra  —adj. Additional; more than usual or necessary or expected. —adv. 1 more than usually. 2 additionally (was charged extra). —n. 1 extra thing. 2 thing for which an extra charge is made. 3 person engaged temporarily for a minor part in a film. 4 special issue of a newspaper etc. 5 cricket run scored other than from a hit with the bat. [probably from +extraordinary]

Extra-  comb. Form 1 outside, beyond. 2 beyond the scope of. [latin extra outside]

Extra cover  n. Cricket 1 fielding position on a line between cover-point and mid-off, but beyond these. 2 fielder at this position.

Extract  —v. 1 remove or take out, esp. By effort or force. 2 obtain (money, an admission, etc.) Against a person's will. 3 obtain (a natural resource) from the earth. 4 select or reproduce for quotation or performance. 5 obtain (juice etc.) By pressure, distillation, etc. 6 derive (pleasure etc.). 7 find (the root of a number). —n. 1 short passage from a book etc. 2 preparation containing a concentrated constituent of a substance (malt extract). [latin traho tract- draw]

Extraction  n. 1 extracting or being extracted. 2 removal of a tooth. 3 lineage, descent (of indian extraction). [latin: related to +extract]

Extractive  adj. Of or involving extraction.

Extractor  n. 1 person or machine that extracts. 2 (attrib.) (of a device) that extracts bad air etc.

Extracurricular  adj. Not part of the normal curriculum.

Extraditable  adj. 1 liable to extradition. 2 (of a crime) warranting extradition.

Extradite  v. (-ting) hand over (a person accused or convicted of a crime) to the foreign state etc. In which the crime was committed. ~ extradition n. [french: related to +tradition]

Extramarital  adj. (esp. Of sexual relations) occurring outside marriage.

Extramural  adj. Additional to normal teaching or studies, esp. For non-resident students.

Extraneous  adj. 1 of external origin. 2 (often foll. By to) a separate from the object to which it is attached etc. B irrelevant, unrelated. [latin extraneus]

Extraordinary  adj. 1 unusual or remarkable. 2 unusually great. 3 (of a meeting, official, etc.) Additional; specially employed. ~ extraordinarily adv. [latin]

Extrapolate  v. (-ting) (also absol.) Calculate approximately from known data etc. (others which lie outside the range of those known). ~ extrapolation n. [from +extra-, +interpolate]

Extrasensory  adj. Derived by means other than the known senses, e.g. By telepathy.

Extraterrestrial  —adj. Outside the earth or its atmosphere. —n. (in science fiction) being from outer space.

Extravagant  adj. 1 spending money excessively. 2 excessive; absurd. 3 costing much. ~ extravagance n. Extravagantly adv. [latin vagor wander]

Extravaganza  n. 1 spectacular theatrical or television production. 2 fanciful literary, musical, or dramatic composition. [italian]

Extreme  —adj. 1 of a high, or the highest, degree (extreme danger). 2 severe (extreme measures). 3 outermost. 4 on the far left or right of a political party. 5 utmost; last. —n. 1 (often in pl.) Either of two things as remote or as different as possible. 2 thing at either end. 3 highest degree. 4 math. First or last term of a ratio or series. ~ go to extremes take an extreme course of action. In the extreme to an extreme degree. ~ extremely adv. [french from latin]

Extreme unction  n. Last rites in the roman catholic and orthodox churches.

Extremist  n. (also attrib.) Person with extreme views. ~ extremism n.

Extremity  n. (pl. -ies) 1 extreme point; very end. 2 (in pl.) The hands and feet. 3 condition of extreme adversity. [latin: related to +extreme]

Extricate  v. (-ting) (often foll. By from) free or disentangle from a difficulty etc. ~ extricable adj. Extrication n. [latin tricae perplexities]

Extrinsic  adj. 1 not inherent or intrinsic. 2 (often foll. By to) extraneous; not belonging. ~ extrinsically adv. [latin extrinsecus outwardly]

Extrovert  —n. 1 outgoing person. 2 person mainly concerned with external things. —adj. Typical of or with the nature of an extrovert. ~ extroversion n. Extroverted adj. [latin verto turn]

Extrude  v. (-ding) 1 (foll. By from) thrust or force out. 2 shape metal, plastics, etc. By forcing them through a die. ~ extrusion n. Extrusive adj. [latin extrudo -trus- thrust out]

Exuberant  adj. 1 lively, high-spirited. 2 (of a plant etc.) Prolific. 3 (of feelings etc.) Abounding. ~ exuberance n. Exuberantly adv. [latin uber fertile]

Exude  v. (-ding) 1 ooze out. 2 emit (a smell). 3 display (an emotion etc.) Freely. ~ exudation n. [latin sudo sweat]

Exult  v. Be joyful. ~ exultation n. Exultant adj. Exultantly adv. [latin ex(s)ulto from salio salt- leap]

Eye  —n. 1 organ of sight. 2 eye characterized by the colour of the iris (has blue eyes). 3 region round the eye (eyes swollen from weeping). 4 (in sing. Or pl.) Sight. 5 particular visual ability (a straight eye). 6 thing like an eye, esp.: a a spot on a peacock's tail. B a leaf bud of a potato. 7 calm region at the centre of a hurricane etc. 8 hole of a needle. —v. (eyes, eyed, eyeing or eying) (often foll. By up) watch or observe closely, esp. Admiringly or with suspicion. ~ all eyes watching intently. An eye for an eye retaliation in kind. Have an eye for be discerning about. Have one's eye on wish or plan to procure. Have eyes for be interested in; wish to acquire. Keep an eye on 1 watch. 2 look after. Keep an eye open (or out) (often foll. By for) watch carefully. Keep one's eyes open (or peeled or skinned) watch out; be on the alert. Make eyes (or sheep's eyes) (foll. By at) look amorously or flirtatiously at. One in the eye (foll. By for) disappointment or setback. See eye to eye (often foll. By with) agree. Set eyes on see. Up to the (or one's) eyes in deeply engaged or involved in. With one's eyes shut (or closed) with little effort. With an eye to with a view to. [old english]

Eyeball  —n. Ball of the eye within the lids and socket. —v. Us slang look or stare (at).

Eyeball to eyeball  adv. Colloq. Confronting closely.

Eyebath  n. Small vessel for applying lotion etc. To the eye.

Eyebright  n. Plant used as a remedy for weak eyes.

Eyebrow  n. Line of hair on the ridge above the eye-socket. ~ raise one's eyebrows show surprise, disbelief, or disapproval.

Eye-catching  adj. Colloq. Striking.

Eyeful  n. (pl. -s) colloq. 1 (esp. In phr. Get an eyeful (of)) good look; as much as the eye can take in. 2 visually striking person or thing. 3 thing thrown or blown into the eye.

Eyeglass  n. Lens to assist defective sight.

Eyehole  n. Hole to look through.

Eyelash  n. Each of the hairs growing on the edges of the eyelids.

Eyelet  n. 1 small hole for string or rope etc. To pass through. 2 metal ring strengthening this. [french oillet from latin oculus]

Eyelid  n. Either of the folds of skin closing to cover the eye.

Eye-liner  n. Cosmetic applied as a line round the eye.

Eye-opener  n. Colloq. Enlightening experience; unexpected revelation.

Eyepiece  n. Lens or lenses to which the eye is applied at the end of an optical instrument.

Eye-shade  n. Device to protect the eyes, esp. From strong light.

Eye-shadow  n. Coloured cosmetic applied to the eyelids.

Eyesight  n. Faculty or power of seeing.

Eyesore  n. Ugly thing.

Eye strain  n. Fatigue of the eye muscles.

Eye-tooth  n. Canine tooth in the upper jaw just under the eye.

Eyewash  n. 1 lotion for the eyes. 2 slang nonsense; insincere talk.

Eyewitness  n. Person who saw a thing happen and can tell of it.

Eyrie  n. 1 nest of a bird of prey, esp. An eagle, built high up. 2 house etc. Perched high up. [french aire lair, from latin agrum piece of ground]

F

Espresso  n. (also expresso) (pl. -s) strong black coffee made under steam pressure.  [italian, = pressed out]

Esprit  n. Sprightliness, wit. ~ esprit de corps devotion to and pride in one's group. [french: related to +spirit]

Espy  v. (-ies, -ied) catch sight of. [french: related to +spy]

Esq.  Abbr. Esquire.

-esque  suffix forming adjectives meaning ‘in the style of’ or ‘resembling’ (kafkaesque). [french from latin -iscus]

Esquire  n. 1 (usu. As abbr. Esq.) Title added to a man's surname when no other title is used, esp. As a form of address for letters. 2 archaic = +squire. [french from latin scutum shield]

-ess  suffix forming nouns denoting females (actress; lioness). [greek -issa]

Essay  —n. 1 short piece of writing on a given subject. 2 (often foll. By at, in) formal attempt. —v. Attempt. ~ essayist n. [latin exigo weigh: cf. +assay]

Essence  n. 1 fundamental nature; inherent characteristics. 2 a extract got by distillation etc. B perfume. ~ of the essence indispensable. In essence fundamentally. [latin esse be]

Essential  —adj. 1 necessary; indispensable. 2 of or constituting the essence of a person or thing. —n. (esp. In pl.) Basic or indispensable element or thing. ~ essentially adv. [latin: related to +essence]

Essential oil  n. Volatile oil derived from a plant etc. With its characteristic odour.

-est  suffix forming the superlative of adjectives (widest; nicest; happiest) and adverbs (soonest). [old english]

Establish  v. 1 set up (a business, system, etc.) On a permanent basis. 2 (foll. By in) settle (a person or oneself) in some capacity. 3 (esp. As established adj.) A achieve permanent acceptance for (a custom, belief, etc.). B place (a fact etc.) Beyond dispute. [latin stabilio make firm]

Established church  n. The church recognized by the state.

Establishment  n. 1 establishing or being established. 2 a business organization or public institution. B place of business. C residence. 3 a staff of an organization. B household. 4 organized body permanently maintained. 5 church system organized by law. 6 (the establishment) social group with authority or influence and resisting change.

Estate  n. 1 property consisting of much land and usu. A large house. 2  modern residential or industrial area with an integrated design or purpose. 3 person's assets and liabilities, esp. At death. 4 property where rubber, tea, grapes, etc., are cultivated. 5 order or class forming (or regarded as) part of the body politic. 6 archaic or literary state or position in life (the estate of holy matrimony). ~ the three estates lords spiritual (the heads of the church), lords temporal (the peerage), and the commons. [french estat, from latin sto stat- stand]

Estate agent  n. Person whose business is the sale or lease of buildings and land on behalf of others.

Estate car  n. Car with a continuous area for rear passengers and luggage.

Estate duty  n. Hist. Death duty.

Usage  estate duty was replaced in 1975 by capital transfer tax and in 1986 by inheritance tax.

Esteem  —v. 1 (usu. In passive) have a high regard for. 2 formal consider (esteemed it an honour). —n. High regard; favour. [latin: related to +estimate]

Ester  n. Chem. A compound produced by replacing the hydrogen of an acid by an organic radical. [german]

Estimable  adj. Worthy of esteem; admirable. [latin: related to +esteem]

Estimate  —n. 1 approximate judgement, esp. Of cost, value, size, etc. 2 statement of approximate charge for work to be undertaken. —v. (-ting) (also absol.) 1 form an estimate or opinion of. 2 (foll. By that) make a rough calculation. 3 (often foll. By at) form an estimate; adjudge. ~ estimator n. [latin aestimo fix the price of]

Estimation  n. 1 estimating. 2 judgement of worth. [latin: related to +estimate]

Estonian  —n. 1 a native or national of estonia in eastern europe. B person of estonian descent. 2 language of estonia. —adj. Of estonia, its people, or language.

Estrange  v. (-ging) 1 (usu. In passive; often foll. By from) alienate; make hostile or indifferent. 2 (as estranged adj.) (of a husband or wife) no longer living with his or her spouse. ~ estrangement n. [latin: related to +strange]

Estrogen  n. (brit. Oestrogen) 1 sex hormone developing and maintaining female characteristics of the body. 2 this produced artificially for use in medicine. [greek oistros frenzy, +-gen]

Estrus  n. (also estrum, brit. Oestrus) recurring period of sexual receptivity in many female mammals ~ oestrous adj. [greek oistros frenzy]

Estuary  n. (pl. -ies) wide tidal river mouth. [latin aestus tide]

Eta  abbr. Estimated time of arrival.

Eta  n. Seventh letter of the greek alphabet (h, h). [greek]

Et al.  Abbr. And others. [latin et alii]

Etc.  Abbr. = +et cetera.

Et cetera  (also etcetera) —adv. 1 and the rest. 2 and so on. —n. (in pl.) The usual extras. [latin]

Etch  v. 1 a reproduce (a picture etc.) By engraving it on a metal plate with acid (esp. To print copies). B engrave (a plate) in this way. 2 practise this craft. 3 (foll. By on, upon) impress deeply (esp. On the mind). ~ etcher n. [dutch etsen]

Etching  n. 1 print made from an etched plate. 2 art of producing these plates.

Eternal  adj. 1 existing always; without an end or (usu.) Beginning. 2 unchanging. 3 colloq. Constant; too frequent (eternal nagging). ~ eternally adv. [latin aeternus]

Eternal triangle  n. Two people of one sex and one person of the other involved in a complex emotional relationship.

Eternity  n. (pl. -ies) 1 infinite (esp. Future) time. 2 endless life after death. 3 being eternal. 4 colloq. (often prec. By an) a very long time. [latin: related to +eternal]

Eternity ring  n. Finger-ring esp. Set with gems all round.

Ethanal  n. = +acetaldehyde.

Ethane  n. Gaseous hydrocarbon of the alkane series. [from +ether]

Ether  n. 1 chem. Colourless volatile organic liquid used as an anaesthetic or solvent. 2 clear sky; upper regions of the air. 3 hist. A medium formerly assumed to permeate all space. B medium through which electromagnetic waves were formerly thought to be transmitted. [greek aitho burn]

Ethereal  adj. 1 light, airy. 2 highly delicate, esp. In appearance. 3 heavenly. ~ ethereally adv. [greek: related to +ether]

Ethic  —n. Set of moral principles (the quaker ethic). —adj. = +ethical. [greek: related to +ethos]

Ethical  adj. 1 relating to morals, esp. As concerning human conduct. 2 morally correct. 3 (of a drug etc.) Not advertised to the general public, and usu. Available only on prescription. ~ ethically adv.

Ethics  n.pl. (also treated as sing.) 1 moral philosophy. 2 a moral principles. B set of these.

Ethiopian  —n. 1 native or national of ethiopia in ne africa. 2 person of ethiopian descent. —adj. Of ethiopia.

Ethnic  adj. 1 a (of a social group) having a common national or cultural tradition. B (of music, clothing, etc.) Inspired by or resembling those of an exotic people. 2 denoting origin by birth or descent rather than nationality (ethnic turks). ~ ethnically adv. [greek ethnos nation]

Ethnology  n. The comparative study of peoples. ~ ethnological adj. Ethnologist n.

Ethos  n. Characteristic spirit or attitudes of a community etc. [greek ethos character]

Ethyl  n. (attrib.) A radical derived from ethane, present in alcohol and ether. [german: related to +ether]

Ethylene  n. A hydrocarbon of the alkene series.

Etiolate  v. (-ting) 1 make (a plant) pale by excluding light. 2 give a sickly colour to (a person). ~ etiolation n. [latin stipula straw]

Etiology  n. (brit. Aetiology) study of causation or of the causes of disease. ~ aetiological adj. [greek aitia cause]

Etiquette  n. Conventional rules of social behaviour or professional conduct. [french: related to +ticket]

Etruscan  —adj. Of ancient etruria in italy. —n. 1 native of etruria. 2 language of etruria. [latin etruscus]

Et seq.  Abbr. (also et seqq.) And the following (pages etc.). [latin et sequentia]

-ette  suffix forming nouns meaning: 1 small (kitchenette). 2 imitation or substitute (flannelette). 3 female (usherette). [french]

Étude  n. = +study n. 6. [french, = study]

Etymology  n. (pl. -ies) 1 a derivation and development of a word in form and meaning. B account of these. 2 the study of word origins. ~ etymological adj. Etymologist n. [greek etumos true]

Eu  symb. Europium.

Eu-  comb. Form well, easily. [greek]

Eucalyptus  n. (pl. -tuses or -ti) (also eucalypt pl. -s) 1 tall evergreen australasian tree. 2 its oil, used as an antiseptic etc. [from +eu-, greek kaluptos covered]

Eucharist  n. 1 christian sacrament in which consecrated bread and wine are consumed. 2 consecrated elements, esp. The bread. ~ eucharistic adj. [greek, = thanksgiving]

Eugenics  n.pl. (also treated as sing.) Improvement of the qualities of a race by control of inherited characteristics. ~ eugenic adj. Eugenically adv. [from +eu-, greek gen- produce]

Eukaryote  n. Organism consisting of a cell or cells in which the genetic material is contained within a distinct nucleus. ~ eukaryotic adj. [from +eu-, karyo- from greek karuon kernel, -ote as in +zygote]

Eulogize  v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) praise in speech or writing. ~ eulogistic adj.

Eulogy  n. (pl. -ies) 1 speech or writing in praise of a person. 2 expression of praise. [latin from greek]

Eunuch  n. Castrated man, esp. One formerly employed at an oriental harem or court. [greek, = bedchamber attendant]

Euphemism  n. 1 mild or vague expression substituted for a harsher or more direct one (e.g. Pass over for die). 2 use of such expressions. ~ euphemistic adj. Euphemistically adv. [greek pheme speaking]

Euphonium  n. Brass instrument of the tuba family. [related to +euphony]

Euphony  n. (pl. -ies) 1 pleasantness of sound, esp. Of a word or phrase. 2 pleasant sound. ~ euphonious adj. [greek phone sound]

Euphoria  n. Intense feeling of well-being and excitement. ~ euphoric adj. [greek phero bear]

Eurasian  —adj. 1 of mixed european and asian parentage. 2 of europe and asia. —n. Eurasian person.

Eureka  int. I have found it! (announcing a discovery etc.). [greek heureka]

Euro-  comb. Form europe, european. [abbreviation]

Eurodollar  n. Dollar held in a bank outside the us.

European  —adj. 1 of or in europe. 2 originating in, native to, or characteristic of europe. —n. 1 a native or inhabitant of europe. B person descended from natives of europe. 2 person favouring european integration. [greek europe europe]

Europium  n. Metallic element of the lanthanide series. [from the name europe]

Eustachian tube  n. Tube from the pharynx to the cavity of the middle ear. [eustachio, name of an anatomist]

Euthanasia  n. Bringing about of a gentle death in the case of incurable and painful disease. [greek thanatos death]

Ev  abbr. Electronvolt.

Evacuate  v. (-ting) 1 a remove (people) from a place of danger. B empty (a place) in this way. 2 make empty. 3 (of troops) withdraw from (a place). 4 empty (the bowels etc.). ~ evacuation n. [latin vacuus empty]

Evacuee  n. Person evacuated.

Evade  v. (-ding) 1 a escape from, avoid, esp. By guile or trickery. B avoid doing (one's duty etc.). C avoid answering (a question). 2 avoid paying (tax). [latin evado escape]

Evaluate  v. (-ting) 1 assess, appraise. 2 find or state the number or amount of. ~ evaluation n. [french: related to +value]

Evanesce  v. (-cing) literary fade from sight. [latin vanus empty]

Evanescent  adj. Quickly fading. ~ evanescence n.

Evangelical  —adj. 1 of or according to the teaching of the gospel. 2 of the protestant school maintaining the doctrine of salvation by faith. —n. Member of this. ~ evangelicalism n. Evangelically adv. [greek: related to +eu-, +angel]

Evangelism  n. Preaching or spreading of the gospel.

Evangelist  n. 1 writer of one of the four gospels. 2 preacher of the gospel. ~ evangelistic adj.

Evangelize  v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 (also absol.) Preach the gospel to. 2 convert to christianity. ~ evangelization n.

Evaporate  v. (-ting) 1 turn from solid or liquid into vapour. 2 (cause to) lose moisture as vapour. 3 (cause to) disappear. ~ evaporable adj. Evaporation n. [latin: related to +vapour]

Evaporated milk  n. Unsweetened milk concentrated by evaporation.

Evasion  n. 1 evading. 2 evasive answer. [latin: related to +evade]

Evasive  adj. 1 seeking to evade. 2 not direct in one's answers etc. ~ evasively adv. Evasiveness n.

Eve  n. 1 evening or day before a festival etc. (christmas eve; eve of the funeral). 2 time just before an event (eve of the election). 3 archaic evening. [= +even2]

Even1  —adj. (evener, evenest) 1 level; smooth. 2 a uniform in quality; constant. B equal in amount or value etc. C equally balanced. 3 (of a person's temper etc.) Equable, calm. 4 a (of a number) divisible by two without a remainder. B bearing such a number (no parking on even dates). C not involving fractions; exact (in even dozens). —adv. 1 inviting comparison of the assertion, negation, etc., with an implied one that is less strong or remarkable (never even opened [let alone read] the letter; ran even faster [not just as fast as before]). 2 introducing an extreme case (even you must realize it). —v. (often foll. By up) make or become even. ~ even now 1 now as well as before. 2 at this very moment. Even so nevertheless. Even though despite the fact that. Get (or be) even with have one's revenge on. ~ evenly adv. Evenness n. [old english]

Even2  n. Poet. Evening. [old english]

Even chance  n. Equal chance of success or failure.

Even-handed  adj. Impartial.

Evening  n. End part of the day, esp. From about 6 p.m. To bedtime. [old english: related to +even2]

Evening dress  n. Formal dress for evening wear.

Evening primrose  n. Plant with pale-yellow flowers that open in the evening.

Evening star  n. Planet, esp. Venus, conspicuous in the west after sunset.

Even money  n. Betting odds offering the gambler the chance of winning the amount staked.

Evens  n.pl. = +even money.

Evensong  n. Service of evening prayer in the church of england. [from +even2]

Event  n. 1 thing that happens. 2 fact of a thing's occurring. 3 item in a (esp. Sports) programme. ~ at all events (or in any event) whatever happens. In the event as it turns (or turned) out. In the event of if (a specified thing) happens. In the event that if it happens that. [latin venio vent- come]

Usage  the phrase in the event that is considered awkward by some people. It can usually be avoided by rephrasing, e.g. In the event that it rains can be replaced by in the event of rain.

Eventful  adj. Marked by noteworthy events. ~ eventfully adv.

Eventide  n. Archaic or poet. = +evening. [related to +even2]

Eventing  n. Participation in equestrian competitions, esp. Dressage and showjumping. [see +event 3]

Eventual  adj. Occurring in due course, ultimate. ~ eventually adv. [from +event]

Eventuality  n. (pl. -ies) possible event or outcome.

Eventuate  v. (-ting) (often foll. By in) result.

Ever  adv. 1 at all times; always (ever hopeful; ever after). 2 at any time (have you ever smoked?; nothing ever happens). 3 (used for emphasis) in any way; at all (how ever did you do it?). 4 (in comb.) Constantly (ever-present). 5 (foll. By so, such) colloq. Very; very much (ever so easy; thanks ever so). ~ did you ever? Colloq. Did you ever hear or see the like? Ever since throughout the period since. [old english]

Usage  when ever is used with a question word for emphasis it is written separately (see sense 2). When used with a relative pronoun or adverb to give it indefinite or general force, ever is written as one word with the relative pronoun or adverb, e.g. However it's done, it's difficult.

Evergreen  —adj. Retaining green leaves all year round. —n. Evergreen plant.

Everlasting  —adj. 1 lasting for ever or for a long time. 2 (of flowers) keeping their shape and colour when dried. —n. 1 eternity. 2 everlasting flower.

Evermore  adv. For ever; always.

Every  adj. 1 each single (heard every word). 2 each at a specified interval in a series (comes every four days). 3 all possible (every prospect of success). ~ every bit as colloq. (in comparisons) quite as. Every now and again (or then) from time to time. Every other each second in a series (every other day). Every so often occasionally. [old english: related to +ever, +each]

Everybody  pron. Every person.

Everyday  attrib. Adj. 1 occurring every day. 2 used on ordinary days. 3 commonplace.

Everyman  n. Ordinary or typical human being. [name of a character in a 15th-c. Morality play]

Everyone  pron. Everybody.

Every one  n. Each one.

Everything  pron. 1 all things. 2 most important thing (speed is everything).

Everywhere  adv. 1 in every place. 2 colloq. In many places.

Evict  v. Expel (a tenant etc.) By legal process. ~ eviction n. [latin evinco evict- conquer]

Evidence  —n. 1 (often foll. By for, of) available facts, circumstances, etc. Indicating whether or not a thing is true or valid. 2 law a information tending to prove a fact or proposition. B statements or proofs admissible as testimony in a lawcourt. —v. (-cing) be evidence of. ~ in evidence conspicuous. Queen's (or king's or state's) evidence law evidence for the prosecution given by a participant in the crime at issue. [latin video see]

Evident  adj. Plain or obvious; manifest. [latin: related to +evidence]

Evidential  adj. Of or providing evidence.

Evidently  adv. 1 seemingly; as it appears. 2 as shown by evidence.

Evil  —adj. 1 morally bad; wicked. 2 harmful. 3 disagreeable (evil temper). —n. 1 evil thing. 2 wickedness. ~ evilly adv. [old english]

Evildoer  n. Sinner. ~ evildoing n.

Evil eye  n. Gaze that is superstitiously believed to cause harm.

Evince  v. (-cing) indicate, display (a quality, feeling, etc.). [latin: related to +evict]

Eviscerate  v. (-ting) disembowel. ~ evisceration n. [latin: related to +viscera]

Evocative  adj. Evoking (esp. Feelings or memories). ~ evocatively adv. Evocativeness n.

Evoke  v. (-king) inspire or draw forth (memories, a response, etc.). ~ evocation n. [latin voco call]

Evolution  n. 1 gradual development. 2 development of species from earlier forms, as an explanation of their origins. 3 unfolding of events etc. (evolution of the plot). 4 change in the disposition of troops or ships. ~ evolutionary adj. [latin: related to +evolve]

Evolutionist  n. Person who regards evolution as explaining the origin of species.

Evolve  v. (-ving) 1 develop gradually and naturally. 2 devise (a theory, plan, etc.). 3 unfold. 4 give off (gas, heat, etc.). [latin volvo volut- roll]

Ewe  n. Female sheep. [old english]

Ewer  n. Water-jug with a wide mouth. [latin aqua water]

Ex1  prep. (of goods) sold from (ex-works). [latin, = out of]

Ex2  n. Colloq. Former husband or wife. [see +ex-1 2]

Ex-1  prefix (also before some consonants e-, ef- before f) 1 forming verbs meaning: a out, forth (exclude; exit). B upward (extol). C thoroughly (excruciate). D bring into a state (exasperate). E remove or free from (expatriate; exonerate). 2 forming nouns from titles of office, status, etc., meaning ‘formerly’ (ex-president; ex-wife). [latin from ex out of]

Ex-2  prefix out (exodus). [greek]

Exacerbate  v. (-ting) 1 make (pain etc.) Worse. 2 irritate (a person). ~ exacerbation n. [latin acerbus bitter]

Exact  —adj. 1 accurate; correct in all details (exact description). 2 precise. —v. 1 demand and enforce payment of (money etc.). 2 demand; insist on; require. ~ exactness n. [latin exigo exact- require]

Exacting  adj. 1 making great demands. 2 requiring much effort.

Exaction  n. 1 exacting or being exacted. 2 a illegal or exorbitant demand; extortion. B sum or thing exacted.

Exactitude  n. Exactness, precision.

Exactly  adv. 1 precisely. 2 (said in reply) i quite agree.

Exact science  n. A science in which absolute precision is possible.

Exaggerate  v. (-ting) 1 (also absol.) Make (a thing) seem larger or greater etc. Than it really is. 2 increase beyond normal or due proportions (exaggerated politeness). ~ exaggeration n. [latin agger heap]

Exalt  v. 1 raise in rank or power etc. 2 praise highly. 3 (usu. As exalted adj.) Make lofty or noble (exalted aims; exalted style). ~ exaltation n. [latin altus high]

Exam  n. = +examination 3.

Examination  n. 1 examining or being examined. 2 detailed inspection. 3 test of proficiency or knowledge by questions. 4 formal questioning of a witness etc. In court.

Examine  v. (-ning) 1 inquire into the nature or condition etc. Of. 2 look closely at. 3 test the proficiency of. 4 check the health of (a patient). 5 formally question in court. ~ examinee n. Examiner n. [latin examen tongue of a balance]

Example  n. 1 thing characteristic of its kind or illustrating a general rule. 2 person, thing, or piece of conduct, in terms of its fitness to be imitated. 3 circumstance or treatment seen as a warning to others. 4 problem or exercise designed to illustrate a rule. ~ for example by way of illustration. [latin exemplum: related to +exempt]

Exasperate  v. (-ting) irritate intensely. ~ exasperation n. [latin asper rough]

Ex cathedra  adj. & adv. With full authority (esp. Of a papal pronouncement). [latin, = from the chair]

Excavate  v. (-ting) 1 a make (a hole or channel) by digging. B dig out material from (the ground). 2 reveal or extract by digging. 3 (also absol.) Archaeol. Dig systematically to explore (a site). ~ excavation n. Excavator n. [latin excavo: related to +cave]

Exceed  v. 1 (often foll. By by an amount) be more or greater than. 2 go beyond or do more than is warranted by (a set limit, esp. Of one's authority, instructions, or rights). 3 surpass. [latin excedo -cess- go beyond]

Exceedingly  adv. Extremely.

Excel  v. (-ll-) 1 surpass. 2 be pre-eminent. [latin excello be eminent]

Excellence  n. Outstanding merit or quality. [latin: related to +excel]

Excellency  n. (pl. -ies) (usu. Prec. By your, his, her, their) title used in addressing or referring to certain high officials.

Excellent  adj. Extremely good.

Excentric  var. Of +eccentric (in technical senses).

Except  —v. Exclude from a general statement, condition, etc. —prep. (often foll. By for) not including; other than (all failed except him; is all right except that it is too long). —conj. Archaic unless (except he be born again). [latin excipio -cept- take out]

Excepting  prep. = +except prep.

Usage  excepting should be used only after not and always; otherwise, except should be used.

Exception  n. 1 excepting or being excepted. 2 thing that has been or will be excepted. 3 instance that does not follow a rule. ~ take exception (often foll. By to) object. With the exception of except.

Exceptionable  adj. Open to objection.

Usage  exceptionable is sometimes confused with exceptional.

Exceptional  adj. 1 forming an exception; unusual. 2 outstanding. ~ exceptionally adv.

Usage  see note at exceptionable.

Excerpt  —n. Short extract from a book, film, etc. —v. (also absol.) Take excerpts from. ~ excerption n. [latin carpo pluck]

Excess  —n. 1 exceeding. 2 amount by which one thing exceeds another. 3 a overstepping of accepted limits of moderation, esp. In eating or drinking. B (in pl.) Immoderate behaviour. 4 part of an insurance claim to be paid by the insured. —attrib. Adj. Usu. 1 that exceeds a limited or prescribed amount. 2 required as extra payment (excess postage). ~ in (or to) excess exceeding the proper amount or degree.

Excess baggage  n. (also excess luggage) baggage exceeding a weight allowance and liable to an extra charge.

Excessive  adj. Too much or too great. ~ excessively adv.

Exchange  —n. 1 giving of one thing and receiving of another in its place. 2 giving of money for its equivalent in the money of the same or another country. 3 centre where telephone connections are made. 4 place where merchants, bankers, etc. Transact business. 5 a office where information is given or a service provided. B employment office. 6 system of settling debts without the use of money, by bills of exchange. 7 short conversation. —v. (-ging) 1 (often foll. By for) give or receive (one thing) in place of another. 2 give and receive as equivalents. 3 (often foll. By with) make an exchange. ~ in exchange (often foll. By for) as a thing exchanged (for). ~ exchangeable adj. [french: related to +change]

Exchange rate  n. Value of one currency in terms of another.

Exchequer  n. 1 former government department in charge of national revenue. 2 royal or national treasury. 3 money of a private individual or group. [medieval latin scaccarium chessboard]

Usage  with reference to sense 1, the functions of this department in the uk now belong to the treasury, although the name formally survives, esp. In the title chancellor of the exchequer.

Excise1  —n. 1 tax on goods produced or sold within the country of origin. 2 tax on certain licences. —v. (-sing) 1 charge excise on. 2 force (a person) to pay excise. [dutch excijs from romanic: related to latin +census tax]

Excise2  v. (-sing) 1 remove (a passage from a book etc.). 2 cut out (an organ etc.) By surgery. ~ excision n. [latin excido cut out]

Excitable  adj. Easily excited. ~ excitability n. Excitably adv.

Excite  v. (-ting) 1 a rouse the emotions of (a person). B arouse (feelings etc.). C arouse sexually. 2 provoke (an action etc.). 3 stimulate (an organism, tissue, etc.) To activity. [latin cieo stir up]

Excitement  n. 1 excited state of mind. 2 exciting thing.

Exciting  adj. Arousing great interest or enthusiasm. ~ excitingly adv.

Exclaim  v. 1 cry out suddenly. 2 (foll. By that) utter by exclaiming. [latin: related to +claim]

Exclamation  n. 1 exclaiming. 2 word(s) exclaimed. [latin: related to +exclaim]

Exclamation mark  n. Punctuation mark (!) Indicating exclamation.

Exclamatory  adj. Of or serving as an exclamation.

Exclude  v. (-ding) 1 keep out (a person or thing) from a place, group, privilege, etc. 2 remove from consideration (no theory can be excluded). 3 make impossible, preclude (excluded all doubt). ~ exclusion n. [latin excludo -clus- shut out]

Exclusive  —adj. 1 excluding other things. 2 (predic.; foll. By of) not including; except for. 3 tending to exclude others, esp. Socially. 4 high-class. 5 not obtainable elsewhere or not published elsewhere. —n. Article etc. Published by only one newspaper etc. ~ exclusively adv. Exclusiveness n. Exclusivity n. [medieval latin: related to +exclude]

Excommunicate  —v. (-ting) officially exclude (a person) from membership and esp. Sacraments of the church. —adj. Excommunicated. —n. Excommunicated person. ~ excommunication n. [latin: related to +common]

Excoriate  v. (-ting) 1 a remove skin from (a person etc.) By abrasion. B strip off (skin). 2 censure severely. ~ excoriation n. [latin corium hide]

Excrement  n. Faeces. ~ excremental adj. [latin: related to +excrete]

Excrescence  n. 1 abnormal or morbid outgrowth on the body or a plant. 2 ugly addition. ~ excrescent adj. [latin cresco grow]

Excreta  n.pl. Faeces and urine. [latin: related to +excrete]

Excrete  v. (-ting) (of an animal or plant) expel (waste matter). ~ excretion n. Excretory adj. [latin cerno cret- sift]

Excruciating  adj. Causing acute mental or physical pain. ~ excruciatingly adv. [latin crucio torment]

Exculpate  v. (-ting) formal (often foll. By from) free from blame; clear of a charge. ~ exculpation n. Exculpatory adj. [latin culpa blame]

Excursion  n. Journey (usu. A day-trip) to a place and back, made for pleasure. [latin excurro run out]

Excursive  adj. Literary digressive.

Excuse  —v. (-sing) 1 try to lessen the blame attaching to (a person, act, or fault). 2 (of a fact) serve as a reason to judge (a person or act) less severely. 3 (often foll. By from) release (a person) from a duty etc. 4 forgive (a fault or offence). 5 (foll. By for) forgive (a person) for (a fault). 6 refl. Leave with apologies. —n. 1 reason put forward to mitigate or justify an offence. 2 apology (made my excuses). ~ be excused be allowed to leave the room etc. Or be absent. Excuse me polite preface to an interruption etc., or to disagreeing. ~ excusable adj. [latin causa accusation]

Ex-directory  adj. Not listed in a telephone directory, at one's own request.

Execrable  adj. Abominable. [latin: related to +execrate]

Execrate  v. (-ting) 1 express or feel abhorrence for. 2 (also absol.) Curse (a person or thing). ~ execration n. [latin exsecror curse: related to +sacred]

Execute  v. (-ting) 1 carry out, perform (a plan, duty etc.). 2 carry out a design for (a product of art or skill). 3 carry out a death sentence on. 4 make (a legal instrument) valid by signing, sealing, etc. [latin sequor follow]

Execution  n. 1 carrying out; performance. 2 technique or style of performance in the arts, esp. Music. 3 carrying out of a death sentence. [latin: related to +execute]

Executioner  n. Official who carries out a death sentence.

Executive  —n. 1 person or body with managerial or administrative responsibility. 2 branch of a government etc. Concerned with executing laws, agreements, etc. —adj. Concerned with executing laws, agreements, etc., or with other administration or management. [medieval latin: related to +execute]

Executor  n. (fem. Executrix) person appointed by a testator to administer his or her will. ~ executorial adj.

Exegesis  n. (pl. Exegeses) critical explanation of a text, esp. Of scripture. ~ exegetic adj. [greek hegeomai lead]

Exemplar  n. 1 model. 2 typical or parallel instance. [latin: related to +example]

Exemplary  adj. 1 fit to be imitated; outstandingly good. 2 serving as a warning. 3 illustrative. [latin: related to +example]

Exemplify  v. (-ies, -ied) 1 illustrate by example. 2 be an example of. ~ exemplification n.

Exempt  —adj. (often foll. By from) free from an obligation or liability etc. Imposed on others. —v. (foll. By from) make exempt. ~ exemption n. [latin eximo -empt- take out]

Exercise  —n. 1 activity requiring physical effort, done to sustain or improve health. 2 mental or spiritual activity, esp. As practice to develop a faculty. 3 task devised as exercise. 4 a use or application of a mental faculty, right, etc. B practice of an ability, quality, etc. 5 (often in pl.) Military drill or manoeuvres. —v. (-sing) 1 use or apply (a faculty, right, etc.). 2 perform (a function). 3 a take (esp. Physical) exercise. B provide (an animal) with exercise. 4 a tax the powers of. B perplex, worry. [latin exerceo keep busy]

Exert  v. 1 bring to bear, use (a quality, force, influence, etc.). 2 refl. (often foll. By for, or to + infin.) Use one's efforts or endeavours; strive. ~ exertion n. [latin exsero exsert- put forth]

Exeunt  v. (as a stage direction) (actors) leave the stage. [latin: related to +exit]

Exfoliate  v. (-ting) 1 come off in scales or layers. 2 throw off layers of bark. ~ exfoliation n. [latin folium leaf]

Ex gratia  —adv. As a favour; not from (esp. Legal) obligation. —attrib. Adj. Granted on this basis. [latin, = from favour]

Exhale  v. (-ling) 1 breathe out. 2 give off or be given off in vapour. ~ exhalation n. [french from latin halo breathe]

Exhaust  —v. 1 consume or use up the whole of. 2 (often as exhausted adj. Or exhausting adj.) Tire out. 3 study or expound (a subject) completely. 4 (often foll. By of) empty (a vessel etc.) Of its contents. —n. 1 waste gases etc. Expelled from an engine after combustion. 2 (also exhaust-pipe) pipe or system by which these are expelled. 3 process of expulsion of these gases. ~ exhaustible adj. [latin haurio haust- drain]

Exhaustion  n. 1 exhausting or being exhausted. 2 total loss of strength.

Exhaustive  adj. Thorough, comprehensive. ~ exhaustively adv. Exhaustiveness n.

Exhibit  —v. (-t-) 1 show or reveal, esp. Publicly. 2 display (a quality etc.). —n. Item displayed, esp. In an exhibition or as evidence in a lawcourt. ~ exhibitor n. [latin exhibeo -hibit-]

Exhibition  n. 1 display (esp. Public) of works of art etc. 2 exhibiting or being exhibited. 3 scholarship, esp. From the funds of a school, college, etc.

Exhibitioner  n. Student who has been awarded an exhibition.

Exhibitionism  n. 1 tendency towards attention-seeking behaviour. 2 psychol. Compulsion to display one's genitals in public. ~ exhibitionist n.

Exhilarate  v. (often as exhilarating adj. Or exhilarated adj.) Enliven, gladden; raise the spirits of. ~ exhilaration n. [latin hilaris cheerful]

Exhort  v. (often foll. By to + infin.) Urge strongly or earnestly. ~ exhortation n. Exhortative adj. Exhortatory adj. [latin exhortor encourage]

Exhume  v. (-ming) dig up (esp. A buried corpse). ~ exhumation n. [latin humus ground]

Exigency  n. (pl. -ies) (also exigence) 1 urgent need or demand. 2 emergency. ~ exigent adj. [latin exigo +exact]

Exiguous  adj. Scanty, small. ~ exiguity n. [latin]

Exile  —n. 1 expulsion from one's native land or (internal exile) native town etc. 2 long absence abroad. 3 exiled person. —v. (-ling) send into exile. [french from latin]

Exist  v. 1 have a place in objective reality. 2 (of circumstances etc.) Occur; be found. 3 live with no pleasure. 4 continue in being. 5 live. [latin existo]

Existence  n. 1 fact or manner of being or existing. 2 continuance in life or being. 3 all that exists. ~ existent adj.

Existential  adj. 1 of or relating to existence. 2 philos. Concerned with existence, esp. With human existence as viewed by existentialism. ~ existentially adv.

Existentialism  n. Philosophical theory emphasizing the existence of the individual as a free and self-determining agent. ~ existentialist n. & adj.

Exit  —n. 1 passage or door by which to leave a room etc. 2 act or right of going out. 3 place where vehicles can leave a motorway etc. 4 actor's departure from the stage. —v. (-t-) 1 go out of a room etc. 2 leave the stage (also as a direction: exit macbeth). [latin exeo exit- go out]

Exit poll  n. Poll of people leaving a polling-station, asking how they voted.

Exo-  comb. Form external. [greek exo outside]

Exocrine  adj. (of a gland) secreting through a duct. [greek krino sift]

Exodus  n. 1 mass departure. 2 (exodus) biblical departure of the israelites from egypt. [greek hodos way]

Ex officio  adv. & attrib. Adj. By virtue of one's office. [latin]

Exonerate  v. (-ting) (often foll. By from) free or declare free from blame etc. ~ exoneration n. [latin onus oner- burden]

Exorbitant  adj. (of a price, demand, etc.) Grossly excessive. [latin: related to +orbit]

Exorcize  v. (also -ise) (-zing or -sing) 1 expel (a supposed evil spirit) by prayers etc. 2 (often foll. By of) free (a person or place) in this way. ~ exorcism n. Exorcist n. [greek horkos oath]

Exordium  n. (pl. -s or -dia) introductory part, esp. Of a discourse or treatise. [latin exordior begin]

Exotic  —adj. 1 introduced from a foreign country; not native. 2 strange or unusual. —n. Exotic person or thing. ~ exotically adv. [greek exo outside]

Exotica  n.pl. Strange or rare objects.

Expand  v. 1 increase in size or importance. 2 (often foll. By on) give a fuller account. 3 become more genial. 4 set or write out in full. 5 spread out flat. ~ expandable adj. [latin pando pans- spread]

Expanse  n. Wide continuous area of land, space, etc.

Expansible  adj. That can be expanded.

Expansion  n. 1 expanding or being expanded. 2 enlargement of the scale or scope of a business.

Expansionism  n. Advocacy of expansion, esp. Of a state's territory. ~ expansionist n. & adj.

Expansive  adj. 1 able or tending to expand. 2 extensive. 3 (of a person etc.) Effusive, open. ~ expansively adv. Expansiveness n.

Expat  n. & adj. Colloq. Expatriate. [abbreviation]

Expatiate  v. (-ting) (usu. Foll. By on, upon) speak or write at length. ~ expatiation n. Expatiatory adj. [latin spatium +space]

Expatriate  —adj. 1 living abroad. 2 exiled. —n. Expatriate person. —v. (-ting) 1 expel (a person) from his or her native country. 2 refl. Renounce one's citizenship. ~ expatriation n. [latin patria native land]

Expect  v. 1 a regard as likely. B look for as appropriate or one's due (i expect cooperation). 2 colloq. Think, suppose. ~ be expecting colloq. Be pregnant (with). [latin specto look]

Expectancy  n. (pl. -ies) 1 state of expectation. 2 prospect. 3 (foll. By of) prospective chance.

Expectant  adj. 1 hopeful, expecting. 2 having an expectation. 3 pregnant. ~ expectantly adv.

Expectation  n. 1 expecting or anticipation. 2 thing expected. 3 (foll. By of) probability of an event. 4 (in pl.) One's prospects of inheritance.

Expectorant  —adj. Causing expectoration. —n. Expectorant medicine.

Expectorate  v. (-ting) (also absol.) Cough or spit out (phlegm etc.). ~ expectoration n. [latin pectus pector- breast]

Expedient  —adj. Advantageous; advisable on practical rather than moral grounds. —n. Means of attaining an end; resource. ~ expedience n. Expediency n. [related to +expedite]

Expedite  v. (-ting) 1 assist the progress of. 2 accomplish (business) quickly. [latin expedio from pes ped- foot]

Expedition  n. 1 journey or voyage for a particular purpose, esp. Exploration. 2 people etc. Undertaking this. 3 speed. [latin: related to +expedite]

Expeditionary  adj. Of or used in an expedition.

Expeditious  adj. Acting or done with speed and efficiency.

Expel  v. (-ll-) (often foll. By from) 1 deprive (a person) of membership etc. Of a school, society, etc. 2 force out, eject. 3 order or force to leave a building etc. [latin pello puls- drive]

Expend  v. Spend or use up (money, time, etc.). [latin pendo pens- weigh]

Expendable  adj. That may be sacrificed or dispensed with; not worth preserving or saving.

Expenditure  n. 1 spending or using up. 2 thing (esp. Money) expended.

Expense  n. 1 cost incurred; payment of money. 2 (usu. In pl.) A costs incurred in doing a job etc. B amount paid to reimburse this. 3 thing on which money is spent. ~ at the expense of so as to cause loss or harm to; costing. [latin expensa: related to +expend]

Expense account  n. List of an employee's expenses payable by the employer.

Expensive  adj. Costing or charging much. ~ expensively adv. Expensiveness n.

Experience  —n. 1 observation of or practical acquaintance with facts or events. 2 knowledge or skill resulting from this. 3 event or activity participated in or observed (a rare experience). —v. (-cing) 1 have experience of; undergo. 2 feel. [latin experior -pert- try]

Experienced  adj. 1 having had much experience. 2 skilled from experience (experienced driver).

Experiential  adj. Involving or based on experience. ~ experientially adv.

Experiment  —n. Procedure adopted in the hope of success, or for testing a hypothesis etc., or to demonstrate a known fact. —v. (often foll. By on, with) make an experiment. ~ experimentation n. Experimenter n. [latin: related to +experience]

Experimental  adj. 1 based on or making use of experiment. 2 used in experiments. ~ experimentalism n. Experimentally adv.

Expert  —adj. 1 (often foll. By at, in) having special knowledge of or skill in a subject. 2 (attrib.) Involving or resulting from this (expert advice). —n. (often foll. By at, in) person with special knowledge or skill. ~ expertly adv. [latin: related to +experience]

Expertise  n. Expert skill, knowledge, or judgement. [french]

Expiate  v. (-ting) pay the penalty for or make amends for (wrongdoing). ~ expiable adj. Expiation n. Expiatory adj. [latin expio: related to +pious]

Expire  v. (-ring) 1 (of a period of time, validity, etc.) Come to an end. 2 cease to be valid. 3 die. 4 (also absol.) Breathe out (air etc.). ~ expiration n. Expiratory adj. (in sense 4). [latin spirare breathe]

Expiry  n. End of validity or duration.

Explain  v. 1 a make clear or intelligible (also absol.: let me explain). B make known in detail. 2 (foll. By that) say by way of explanation. 3 account for (one's conduct etc.). ~ explain away minimize the significance of by explanation. Explain oneself 1 make one's meaning clear. 2 give an account of one's motives or conduct. [latin explano from planus flat]

Explanation  n. 1 explaining. 2 statement or circumstance that explains something.

Explanatory  adj. Serving or designed to explain.

Expletive  n. Swear-word or exclamation. [latin expleo fill out]

Explicable  adj. That can be explained.

Explicate  v. (-ting) 1 develop the meaning of (an idea etc.). 2 explain (esp. A literary text). ~ explication n. [latin explico -plicat- unfold]

Explicit  adj. 1 expressly stated, not merely implied; stated in detail. 2 definite. 3 outspoken. ~ explicitly adv. Explicitness n. [latin: related to +explicate]

Explode  v. (-ding) 1 a expand suddenly with a loud noise owing to a release of internal energy. B cause (a bomb etc.) To explode. 2 give vent suddenly to emotion, esp. Anger. 3 (of a population etc.) Increase suddenly or rapidly. 4 show (a theory etc.) To be false or baseless. 5 (as exploded adj.) (of a drawing etc.) Showing the components of a mechanism somewhat separated but in the normal relative positions. [latin explodo -plos- hiss off the stage]

Exploit  —n. Daring feat. —v. 1 make use of (a resource etc.). 2 usu. Derog. Utilize or take advantage of (esp. A person) for one's own ends. ~ exploitation n. Exploitative adj. Exploiter n. [latin: related to +explicate]

Explore  v. (-ring) 1 travel through (a country etc.) To learn about it. 2 inquire into. 3 surgery examine (a part of the body) in detail. ~ exploration n. Exploratory adj. Explorer n. [latin exploro search out]

Explosion  n. 1 exploding. 2 loud noise caused by this. 3 sudden outbreak of feeling. 4 rapid or sudden increase. [latin: related to +explode]

Explosive  —adj. 1 able, tending, likely to explode. 2 likely to cause a violent outburst etc.; dangerously tense. —n. Explosive substance. ~ explosiveness n.

Expo  n. (also expo) (pl. -s) large international exhibition. [abbreviation of +exposition 4]

Exponent  n. 1 person who promotes an idea etc. 2 practitioner of an activity, profession, etc. 3 person who explains or interprets something. 4 type or representative. 5 raised symbol beside a numeral indicating how many of the number are to be multiplied together (e.g. 23 = 2 x 2 x 2). [latin expono +expound]

Exponential  adj. 1 of or indicated by a mathematical exponent. 2 (of an increase etc.) More and more rapid.

Export  —v. Sell or send (goods or services) to another country. —n. 1 exporting. 2 a exported article or service. B (in pl.) Amount exported. ~ exportation n. Exporter n. [latin porto carry]

Expose  v. (-sing) (esp. As exposed adj.) 1 leave uncovered or unprotected, esp. From the weather. 2 (foll. By to) a put at risk of. B subject to (an influence etc.). 3 photog. Subject (a film) to light, esp. By operation of a camera. 4 reveal the identity or fact of. 5 exhibit, display. ~ expose oneself display one's body, esp. One's genitals, indecently in public. [latin pono put]

Exposé  n. 1 orderly statement of facts. 2 revelation of something discreditable. [french]

Exposition  n. 1 explanatory account. 2 explanation or commentary. 3 mus. Part of a movement in which the principal themes are presented. 4 large public exhibition. [latin: related to +expound]

Ex post facto  adj. & adv. With retrospective action or force. [latin, = in the light of subsequent events]

Expostulate  v. (-ting) (often foll. By with a person) make a protest; remonstrate. ~ expostulation n. Expostulatory adj. [latin: related to +postulate]

Exposure  n. (foll. By to) 1 exposing or being exposed. 2 physical condition resulting from being exposed to the elements. 3 photog. A exposing a film etc. To the light. B duration of this. C section of film etc. Affected by it.

Expound  v. 1 set out in detail. 2 explain or interpret. [latin pono posit- place]

Express  —v. 1 represent or make known in words or by gestures, conduct, etc. 2 refl. Communicate what one thinks, feels, or means. 3 esp. Math. Represent by symbols. 4 squeeze out (liquid or air). 5 send by express service. —adj. 1 operating at high speed. 2 also definitely stated. 3 delivered by a specially fast service. —adv. 1 at high speed. 2 by express messenger or train. —n. 1 express train etc. 2 us service for the rapid transport of parcels etc. ~ expressible adj. Expressly adv. (in sense 2 of adj.). [latin exprimo -press- squeeze out]

Expression  n. 1 expressing or being expressed. 2 word or phrase expressed. 3 person's facial appearance, indicating feeling. 4 conveying of feeling in music, speaking, dance, etc. 5 depiction of feeling etc. In art. 6 math. Collection of symbols expressing a quantity. ~ expressionless adj. [french: related to +express]

Expressionism  n. Style of painting, music, drama, etc., seeking to express emotion rather than the external world. ~ expressionist n. & adj.

Expressive  adj. 1 full of expression (expressive look). 2 (foll. By of) serving to express. ~ expressively adv. Expressiveness n.

Expresso  var. Of +espresso.

Expressway  n. Us motorway.

Expropriate  v. (-ting) 1 take away (property) from its owner. 2 (foll. By from) dispossess. ~ expropriation n. Expropriator n. [latin proprium property]

Expulsion  n. Expelling or being expelled. ~ expulsive adj. [latin: related to +expel]

Expunge  v. (-ging) erase, remove (objectionable matter) from a book etc. [latin expungo prick out (for deletion)]

Expurgate  v. (-ting) 1 remove objectionable matter from (a book etc.). 2 remove (such matter). ~ expurgation n. Expurgator n. [latin: related to +purge]

Exquisite  adj. 1 extremely beautiful or delicate. 2 keenly felt (exquisite pleasure). 3 highly sensitive (exquisite taste). ~ exquisitely adv. [latin exquiro -quisit- seek out]

Ex-serviceman  n. Man formerly a member of the armed forces.

Online English Dictionary Free Words Starting with Letter E

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