English300

on condition that with the stipulation that : he proposed deep cuts in offensive forces, on condition that an agreement be reached.

on course following the intended route : he battled to keep the ship on course | figurative to get back on course, I relied on one of my stock questions.

on cue at the correct moment : right on cue the door opened.

on demand as soon as or whenever required : he promised us endless coffee on demand.

on (or off) duty engaged (or not engaged) in one's regular work : the doorman had gone off duty and the lobby was unattended.

on edge tense, nervous, or irritable : never had she felt so on edge before an interview.

on end 1 continuing without stopping for a specified period of time : sometimes they'll be gone for days on end. 2 in an upright position : he brushed his hair, leaving a tuft standing on end.

on (or at or in) every corner everywhere : there were saloons on every corner | it's difficult to readjust when the past assaults you at every corner | young executives sprouted in every corner.

on fire in flames; burning. � in a state of excitement : Wright is now on fire with confidence.

on guard on duty to protect or defend something. � (also on one's guard) prepared for any contingency; vigilant : we must be on guard against such temptation.

on impulse (or on an impulse) suddenly and without forethought; impulsively.

on no account under no circumstances : on no account let anyone know we're interested.

on one's (or the) doorstep situated very close by : the airport is on my doorstep, so flying is easy.

on one's own ground in one's own territory or concerning one's own range of knowledge or experience : I feel reasonably relaxed if I'm interviewed on my own ground.

on ( or according to) schedule on time; as planned or expected.

on target accurately hitting the thing aimed at. � proceeding or improving at a good enough rate to achieve an objective : the new police station is on target for a June opening.

on the �� side tending toward being ��; rather �� (used to qualify an adjective) : these shoes are a bit on the tight side.

on the agenda scheduled for discussion at a meeting : the rights of minorities would be high on the agenda at the conference. � likely or needing to be dealt with or done : his release was not on the agenda | national problems loomed large on the domestic

on the alert vigilant and prepared : the security forces must be on the alert for an upsurge in violence.

on the back (or front) burner informal having low (or high) priority : he wants the matter to be put on the back burner.

on the brink of about to experience something, typically a disastrous or unwelcome event : the country was on the brink of a constitutional crisis.

on (or quite) the contrary used to intensify a denial of what has just been implied or stated : there was no malice in her; on the contrary, she was very kind.

on the dot informal exactly on time : he arrived on the dot at nine o'clock.

on the downgrade in decline : profits are on the downgrade.

on the face of it without knowing all of the relevant facts; at first glance : on the face of it, these improvements look to be insignificant.

on the drawing board (of an idea, scheme, or proposal) under consideration and not yet ready to put into practice : there are plans to enlarge the runway, but at present all this remains on the drawing board.

on the horizon just imminent or becoming apparent : trouble could be on the horizon.

on the increase becoming greater, more common, or more frequent.

on the right (or wrong) track acting or thinking in a way that is likely to result in success (or failure) : we are on the right track for continued growth.

on the shelf (of people or things) no longer useful or desirable : an injury that has kept him on the shelf.

on the tip of one's tongue used to indicate that someone is almost but not quite able to bring a particular word or name to mind : his name's on the tip of my tongue! � used to indicate that someone is about to utter a comment or question but thinks bette

on the whole taking everything into account; in general.

on something is not complete

on thin ice in a precarious or risky situation : you're skating on thin ice.

on tiptoe (or tiptoes) (also on one's tiptoes) with one's heels raised and one's weight on the balls of the feet, esp. in order to move quietly or make oneself taller : Jane stood on tiptoe to kiss him | the children danced on their tiptoes.

on top of 1 on the highest point or uppermost surface of : a town perched on top of a hill. � so as to cover; over : trays stacked one on top of another. � in close proximity to : we all lived on top of each other. 2 in command or control of : he couldn't

all at once 1 without warning; suddenly : all at once the noise stopped. 2 all at the same time : scared and excited all at once. at once 1 immediately : I fell asleep at once. 2 simultaneously : computers that can do many things at once. for once (or thi

one after another (or the other) following one another in quick succession : one after another the buses drew up. one and all everyone : well done one and all! one and only unique; single (used for emphasis or as a designation of a celebrity) : the title

one or another (or the other) denoting or referring to a particular but unspecified one out of a set of items : not all instances fall neatly into one or another of these categories. one or two informal a few : there are one or two signs worth watching fo

one of those days a day when several things go wrong.

( just) one of those things informal used to indicate that one wishes to pass over an unfortunate event or experience by regarding it as unavoidable or to be accepted.

unfairly giving or dealing with only one side of a contentious issue or question; biased or partial : the press was accused of being one-sided, of not giving a balanced picture.

one step ahead managing to avoid competition or danger from someone or something : I try to keep one step ahead of the rest of the staff.

one thing leads to another used to suggest that the exact sequence of events is too obvious to need recounting, the listener or reader being able to guess easily what happened.

(of a task, duty, or responsibility) involving an amount of effort and difficulty that is oppressively burdensome : he found his duties increasingly onerous.

on (one included) must be done again

a nonparticipating observer; a spectator : a crowd of fascinated onlookers.

2 [with infinitive ] with the negative or unfortunate result that : she turned into the parking car, only to find her way blocked.

only too �� used to emphasize that something is the case to an extreme or regrettable extent : you should be only too glad to be rid of him | they found that the rumor was only too true.

the beginning of something, esp. something unpleasant : the onset of winter.

a fierce or destructive attack : a series of onslaughts on the citadel.

used to refer to something that is one's duty or responsibility : the onus is on you to show that you have suffered loss.

the quality of being exciting, energetic, or sexually attractive : he showed entrepreneurial oomph.

(of a fluid) slowly trickle or seep out of something; flow in a very gradual way : blood was oozing from a wound in his scalp | honey oozed out of the comb. � [ intrans. ] slowly exude or discharge a viscous fluid : her mosquito bites were oozing and itch

not able to be seen through; not transparent : the windows were opaque with steam. � figurative (esp. of language) hard or impossible to understand; unfathomable : technical jargon that was opaque to her.

� [ predic. ] ( open to) likely to suffer from or be affected by; vulnerable or subject to : the system is open to abuse.

� [ predic. ] ( open to) receptive to : the union was open to suggestions for improvements. � [ predic. ] ( open to) admitting of; making possible : the message is open to different interpretations. � freely available or accessible; offered without restri

2 spread out; unfold : the eagle opened its wings and circled up into the air | the tail looks like a fan when it is opened out fully.

� make available : the new plan proposed to open up opportunities to immigrants.

close (or shut) the door on (or to) exclude the opportunity for : she had closed the door on ever finding out what he was feeling.

leave the door open ensure that there is still an opportunity for something : he is leaving the door open for future change. open the door to create an opportunity for : her research has opened the door to a deeper understanding of the subject.

close (or shut) one's eyes to refuse to notice or acknowledge something unwelcome or unpleasant : he couldn't close his eyes to the truth�he had cancer.

open someone's eyes enlighten someone about certain realities; cause someone to realize or discover something : the letter finally opened my eyes to the truth.

having no determined limit or boundary : the return invitation was open-ended. � (of a question or set of questions) allowing the formulation of any answer, rather than a selection from a set of possible answers : the interview includes both open-ended an

� figurative clear-sighted; perceptive; fully aware : an open-eyed approach to political manipulation.

expressing or displaying one's warm and kindly feelings without concealment : Betty's open-hearted goodwill.

open-minded adjective willing to consider new ideas; unprejudiced.

open one's mind to be receptive to : he opened his mind to the ways of the rest of the world.

open question noun a matter on which differences of opinion are possible; a matter not yet decided.

open to dispute not definitely decided : such estimates are always open to dispute.

without concealment, deception, or prevarication, esp. where these might be expected; frankly or honestly : he could no longer speak openly of his problems.

� [ intrans. ] be in effect : there is a powerful law that operates in politics. � (of a person or organization) manage and run (a business) : many foreign companies operate factories in the U.S.

1 the fact or condition of functioning or being active : the construction and operation of power stations | some of these ideas could be put into operation. � an active process; a discharge of a function : the operations of the mind. � a business organiza

in or ready for use : the new laboratory is fully operational.

1 functioning; having effect : the transmitter is operative | the mining ban would remain operative.

ophthalmology |??f?al?m?l?d?i| noun the branch of medicine concerned with the study and treatment of disorders and diseases of the eye.

hold and state as one's opinion : [with direct speech ] "The man is a genius," he opined | [with clause ] the critic opined that the most exciting musical moment occurred when the orchestra struck up the national anthem.

be of the opinion that believe or maintain that : economists are of the opinion that the economy could contract. a matter of opinion something not capable of being proven either way.

� ( opinion of) an estimation of the quality or worth of someone or something : I had a higher opinion of myself than I deserved.

� a person who disagrees with or resists a proposal or practice : an opponent of the economic reforms.

(of a time) well-chosen or particularly favorable or appropriate : he couldn't have arrived at a less opportune moment. See note at timely .

a person who exploits circumstances to gain immediate advantage rather than being guided by consistent principles or plans : most burglaries are committed by casual opportunists.

exploiting chances offered by immediate circumstances without reference to a general plan or moral principle : the change was cynical and opportunistic.

disapprove of and attempt to prevent, esp. by argument : those of you who oppose capital punishment. � actively resist or refuse to comply with (a person or a system) : off-roaders who adamantly opposed new trail restrictions.

2 diametrically different; of a contrary kind : a word that is opposite in meaning to another | currents flowing in opposite directions.

in opposition in contrast or conflict : they found themselves in opposition to federal policy.

keep (someone) in subservience and hardship, esp. by the unjust exercise of authority : a system that oppressed working people | [as adj. ] ( oppressed) oppressed racial minorities.

unjustly inflicting hardship and constraint, esp. on a minority or other subordinate group : an oppressive dictatorship.

make a choice from a range of possibilities : consumers will opt for low-priced goods | : [with infinitive ] students opting to continue with physics.

opt out choose not to participate in or carry on with something : they had both opted out of the medical plan.

optic |??pt?k| adjective of or relating to the eye or vision.

1 of or relating to sight, esp. in relation to the physical action of light : optical illusions.

best or most favorable; optimum : seeking the optimal solution.

make the best or most effective use of (a situation, opportunity, or resource) : to optimize viewing conditions the microscope should be correctly adjusted.

most conducive to a favorable outcome; best : the optimum childbearing age.

� [in sing. ] the freedom, power, or right to choose something : she was given the option of resigning or being dismissed | he has no option but to pay up.

keep (or leave) one's options open not commit oneself. not be an option not be feasible : traveling by road is not an option here.

available to be chosen but not obligatory : a wide range of optional excursions is offered.

ostentatiously rich and luxurious or lavish : the opulent comfort of a limousine. � wealthy : his more opulent tenants.

or (or and) otherwise indicating the opposite of or a contrast to something stated : we don't want a president, elected or otherwise.

or whatever informal or anything similar : use chopped herbs, nuts, garlic, or whatever.

or worse used to suggest a possibility that is still more serious or unpleasant than one already considered, but that the speaker does not wish or need to specify : the child might be born blind or worse.

1 by word of mouth; spoken rather than written : they had reached an oral agreement.

� the state of being on or moving in such a course : the earth is in orbit around the sun.

(of a celestial object or spacecraft) move in orbit around (a star, planet, or moon) : Mercury orbits the Sun.

2 arrange or direct the elements of (a situation) to produce a desired effect, esp. surreptitiously : the developers were able to orchestrate a favorable media campaign.

2 order or decree (something) officially : equal punishment was ordained for the two crimes.

1 a painful or horrific experience, esp. a protracted one : the ordeal of having to give evidence.

� a state in which the laws and rules regulating the public behavior of members of a community are observed and authority is obeyed : the army was deployed to keep order. � [with adj. ] the overall state or condition of something : the house had just been

� a particular social, political, or economic system : if only the peasantry would rise up against the established order | the social order of Britain. � the prescribed or established procedure followed by a meeting, legislative assembly, debate, or court

2 an authoritative command, direction, or instruction : he was not going to take orders from a mere administrator | [with infinitive ] the skipper gave the order to abandon ship.13 (often orders) a social class : the upper social orders.

3 (often orders) a social class : the upper social orders.

1 [ reporting verb ] give an authoritative direction or instruction to do something : [ trans. ] she ordered me to leave | [with direct speech ] "Stop frowning," he ordered | [with clause ] the court ordered that the case should be heard at the end of Aug

3 [ trans. ] arrange (something) in a methodical or appropriate way : all entries are ordered by date | [as adj. in combination ] ( -ordered) her normally well-ordered life.

by order of according to directions given by the proper authority : he was released from prison by order of the court.

in order for so that : employees must be committed to the change in order for it to succeed.

of the order of 1 approximately : sales increases are of the order of 20%. 2 Mathematics having the order of magnitude specified by.

a class in a system of classification determined by size, each class being a number of times (usually ten) greater or smaller than the one before : values might be compared by order of magnitude, a staple in making ballpark estimates. � relative size, qua

neatly and methodically arranged : an orderly arrangement of objects.

ordinal number noun a number defining a thing's position in a series, such as "first," "second," or "third." Ordinal numbers are used as adjectives, nouns, and pronouns. Compare with cardinal number .

1 a piece of legislation enacted by a municipal authority : a city ordinance banned smoking in nearly all types of restaurants.

out of the ordinary unusual : nothing out of the ordinary happened.

1 of, relating to, or derived from living matter : organic soils.

3 denoting a relation between elements of something such that they fit together harmoniously as necessary parts of a whole : the organic unity of the integral work of art. � characterized by continuous or natural development : companies expand as much by

2 make arrangements or preparations for (an event or activity); coordinate : the union organized a 24-hour general strike | social and cultural programs are organized by the committee.

� form (a number of people) into a labor union, political group, etc. : an attempt to organize unskilled workers | [ intrans. ] campaigns brought women together to organize.

� a whole with interdependent parts, likened to a living being : the upper strata of the American social organism.

a wild party, esp. one involving excessive drinking and unrestrained sexual activity : he had a reputation for drunken orgies.

1 [ trans. ] (often be oriented) align or position (something) relative to the points of a compass or other specified positions : the fires are oriented in direct line with the midsummer sunset. � adjust or tailor (something) to specified circumstances or

� familiarization with something : their training and orientation comes out of magazine and newspaper distribution. � a program of introduction for students new to a school or college : she attended freshman orientation. � the direction of someone's inter

1 the beginning of something's existence : a novel theory about the origin of oil | the name is Norse in origin. � a person's social background or ancestry : they will be asked about their ethnic origin | a voice that betrays his Southern origins.

1 something serving as a model or basis for imitations or copies : the portrait may be a copy of the original | one set of originals and four photocopies.

the ability to think independently and creatively : a writer of great originality. � the quality of being novel or unusual : he congratulated her on the originality of her costume.

have a specified beginning : the word originated as a marketing term. � [ trans. ] create or initiate (something) : he is responsible for originating this particular clich�.

� a quality or person adding grace, beauty, or honor to something : the design would be a great ornament to the metropolis. � decoration added to embellish something, esp. a building : it served more for ornament than for protection.

serving or intended as an ornament; decorative : an ornamental fountain.

made in an intricate shape or decorated with complex patterns : an ornate wrought-iron railing. � (of literary style) using unusual words and complex constructions : peculiarly ornate and metaphorical language.

� a person or thing bereft of protection, position, etc. : radioactive wastes are the main orphan of the nuclear era.

orphanage |???f(?)n?d?| noun a residential institution for the care and education of orphans.

1 authorized or generally accepted theory, doctrine, or practice : monetarist orthodoxy | he challenged many of the established orthodoxies.

1 move or swing back and forth at a regular speed : a pendulum oscillates about its lowest point. � [with adverbial ] figurative waver between extremes of opinion, action, or quality : he was oscillating between fear and bravery.

stated or appearing to be true, but not necessarily so : the delay may have a deeper cause than the ostensible reason.

characterized by vulgar or pretentious display; designed to impress or attract notice : books that people buy and display ostentatiously but never actually finish.

exclude (someone) from a society or group : a group of people who have been ridiculed, ostracized, and persecuted for centuries.q

someone (or something or somehow, etc.) or other some unspecified or unknown person, thing, manner, etc. (used to express vagueness or uncertainty) : they were protesting about something or other.

other (or all) things being equal provided that other factors or circumstances remain the same : it follows that, other things being equal, the price level will rise.

1 in circumstances different from those present or considered : the collection brings visitors who might not come to the college otherwise. � [as conjunctive adv. ] or else : I'm not motivated by money, otherwise I would have quit.

3 in a different way : he means mischief�it's no good pretending otherwise | pretending that they are otherwise engaged.

of or relating to an imaginary or spiritual world : music of an almost otherworldly beauty.

drive out or expel (someone) from a position or place : he ousted a long-term incumbent by only 500 votes. See note at eject .

1 moving or appearing to move away from a particular place, esp. one that is enclosed or hidden : he walked out into the street | watch the stars come out. � situated or operating in the open air, not in buildings : the search-and-rescue team have been ou

1 not at home or at one's place of work : if he called, she'd pretend to be out. 2 revealed or made public : the secret was soon out. � (of a flower) in bloom; open. � published : the book should be out before the end of the month. � informal in existence

out-of-body experience noun a sensation of being outside one's own body, typically of floating and being able to observe oneself from a distance.

out of breath gasping for air, typically after exercise : he arrived on the top floor out of breath.

out of bounds |??a?d ?v ?ba?ndz| (of a place) outside the limits of where one is permitted to be : his kitchen was out of bounds to me at mealtimes. � Sports outside the regular playing area : he hit his third shot out of bounds at the 17th. � figurative

out of context without the surrounding words or circumstances and so not fully understandable : comments that aides have long insisted were taken out of context.

out of control no longer possible to manage : fires burning out of control.

old-fashioned : everything in her wardrobe must be hopelessly out of date | an out-of-date kitchen. � no longer valid or relevant : your passport is out of date.

out of line informal behaving in a way that breaks the rules or is considered disreputable or inappropriate : he had never stepped out of line with her before.

out of order |?a?d ?v ??rd?r| 1 (of an electrical or mechanical device) not working properly or at all. 2 not in the correct sequence. 3 not according to the rules of a meeting, legislative assembly, etc. � informal (of a person or their behavior) unaccep

out of place not in the proper position; disarranged. � in a setting where one is or feels inappropriate or incongruous.

out of proportion in the wrong relation to the size, shape, or position of other things : the sculpture seemed out of proportion to its surroundings. � greater or more serious than is necessary or appropriate : the award was out of all proportion to the a

out of (or beyond) reach outside the distance to which someone can stretch out their hand. � beyond the capacity of someone to attain or achieve something : she thought college was out of her reach.

out of service not available for use.

out of shape 1 (of an object) not having its usual or original shape, esp. after being bent or knocked : check that the pipe end and compression nut are not bent out of shape. 2 (of a person) in poor physical condition; unfit.

out of sight 1 not visible : she saw them off, waving until the car was out of sight. 2 (also outasight) [often as exclam. ] informal extremely good; excellent : [as adj. ] these stereophones are an out-of-sight choice.

out of the blue (or out of a clear blue sky) informal without warning; unexpectedly : she phoned me out of the blue. [ORIGIN: with reference to a "blue" (i.e., clear) sky, from which nothing unusual is expected.]

out of the picture no longer involved; irrelevant : hostages were better left out of the picture.

out of the question too impracticable or unlikely to merit discussion.

out of touch lacking knowledge or information concerning current events and developments : he seems surprisingly out of touch with recent economic thinking. � lacking in awareness or sympathy : we have been betrayed by a government out of touch with our v

outage |?a?t?d?| noun a period when a power supply or other service is not available or when equipment is closed down.

the sudden or violent start of something unwelcome, such as war, disease, etc. : the outbreak of World War II.

a sudden release of strong emotion : "she screamed at him about it one day," said one source who witnessed the outburst. � a sudden outbreak of a particular activity : a wild outburst of applause.

outcast |?a?tk??st| noun a person who has been rejected by society or a social group.

outclass |a?t?kl??s| verb [ trans. ] be far superior to : they totally outclassed us in the first half.

the way a thing turns out; a consequence : it is the outcome of the vote that counts.

surpass (someone) in competition : they were outcompeted by their foreign rivals.

an exclamation or shout : an outcry of spontaneous passion. � a strong expression of public disapproval or anger : the public outcry over the bombing.

outdated |a?t?de?t?d| adjective out of date; obsolete.

be more successful than : the men tried to outdo each other in their generosity | not to be outdone, Vicky and Laura reached the same standard.

2 drive a vehicle better or faster than (someone else) : he knew he couldn't outdrive the police.

outside; external : the outer door. � further from the center or inside : the outer hall at the museum's main entrance.

a set of clothes worn together, typically for a particular occasion or purpose : a riding outfit.

� figurative outwit : an attempt to outflank the opposition.

grow too big for (something) : babies outgrow their first car seat at six to nine months. � leave behind as one matures : is it a permanent injury, or will the colt outgrow it? � grow faster or taller than : the more vigorous plants outgrow their weaker n

1 a trip taken for pleasure, esp. one lasting a day or less : they would go on family outings to the movies. � a brief journey from home : her daily outing to the stores.

1 looking or sounding bizarre or unfamiliar : outlandish brightly colored clothes | the most outlandish ideas.

ban; make illegal : Maryland outlawed cheap small-caliber pistols | [as adj. ] ( outlawed) the outlawed terrorist group.

a person or thing situated away or detached from the main body or system : less accessible islands and outliers.

� a draft of a diagram, plan, proposal, etc., summarizing the main points : draw up an outline for the essay. � the main features or general principles of something : the main outlines of Elizabeth's career.

(of a person) live longer than (another person) : women generally outlive men. � survive or last beyond (a specified period or expected lifespan) : the organization had largely outlived its usefulness.

a person's point of view or general attitude to life : broaden your outlook on life. � a view : the pleasant outlook from the lodge window. � a place from which a view is possible : emerging onto a cliffy outlook over a river. � the prospect for the futur

predict on the basis of current information : streamflow for the upcoming runoff season is presently outlooked to be much below average.

evade (an opponent) by moving faster or with greater agility : the YF-22 can outmaneuver any fighter flying today. � use skill and cunning to secure an advantage over (someone) : he would be able to outmaneuver his critics.

be more numerous than : women outnumbered men by three to one.

perform better than : an experienced employee will outperform the novice. � (of an investment) be more profitable than : silver has outperformed the stock market.

play better than : they outshot and in general just outplayed us.

exceed in speed, amount, or extent : demand for trained clergy is outracing the supply.

an extremely strong reaction of anger, shock, or indignation : her voice trembled with outrage. � an action or event causing such a reaction : the decision was an outrage.

arouse fierce anger, shock, or indignation in (someone) : he was outraged at this attempt to take his victory away from him.

1 shockingly bad or excessive : an outrageous act of bribery. � wildly exaggerated or improbable : the outrageous claims made by the previous administration. 2 very bold, unusual, and startling : her outrageous leotards and sexy routines.

have a higher rank than (someone else) : a father figure to many of the junior officers theoretically outranking him. � be better, more important, or more significant than : fishing provided the chief employment, outranking both clothing and canning.

� an organization's involvement with or activity in the community, esp. in the context of social welfare : her goal is to increase educational outreach | [as adj. ] Phoenix's outreach effort to educate renters and homebuyers about their rights.

1 altogether; completely : logging has been banned outright. � without reservation; openly : she couldn't ask him outright. 2 immediately : the impact killed four horses outright. � not by degrees or installments : they decided to buy the company outright

open and direct; not concealed : an outright refusal. � total; complete : the outright abolition of the death penalty. � undisputed; clear : an outright victory.

be sold in greater quantities than : his first foray into the assassin/thriller area could well outsell his other books.

the start or beginning of something : a field of which he had known nothing at the outset and learned on the job.

� be much better than (someone) in a particular area : it is a shame when a mother outshines a daughter.

outside of informal beyond the boundaries of : a village 20 miles outside of New York. � apart from : outside of his family, nobody cares too much about him.

1 situated on or near the exterior or external surface of something : put the outside lights on.

the outer parts of a town or city : the park was built on the outskirts of New York in 1857. � the fringes of something : he likes to be on the outskirts of a discussion.

defeat or get the better of (someone) by being clever or cunning : content with the illusion that they can outsmart the market.

frank in stating one's opinions, esp. if they are critical or controversial : he has been outspoken in his criticism.

1 exceptionally good : the team's outstanding performance. � clearly noticeable : works of outstanding banality.

extend or stretch out (something, esp. a hand or arm) : I walked with my arms outstretched. � go beyond the limit of : their good intentions far outstretched their capacity to offer help.

1 of, on, or from the outside : the vehicle's outward and interior appearance. � relating to the external appearance of something rather than its true nature or substance : an outward display of friendliness.

away from the center or a particular point; toward the outside : a window that opens outward | the solar wind that rushes outward from the sun.

be heavier than : Bob outweighed him by more than twenty-five pounds. � be greater or more significant than : the advantages greatly outweigh the disadvantages.

deceive or defeat by greater ingenuity : Ray had outwitted many an opponent.

ovary |???v(?)ri| noun ( pl. -ries) a female reproductive organ in which ova or eggs are produced, present in humans and other vertebrates as a pair.

1 extending directly upward from : I saw flames over Berlin. � above so as to cover or protect : an oxygen tent over the bed | ladle this sauce over fresh pasta. � extending above (a general area) from a vantage point : views over Hyde Park. � at the othe

be over no longer be affected by : we were over the worst.

do better than is expected, esp. in academic work : David continued to overachieve all through high school.

(of an actor) act a role in an exaggerated manner : a weepy actress with a strong tendency to overact | : [as n. ] ( overacting) there was a certain amount of overacting.

total : an overall cut of 30 percent. � taking everything into account : the overall effect is impressive.

1 excessively; to an unwanted degree : overambitious | overcareful. � completely; utterly : overawe | overjoyed. 2 upper; outer; extra : overcoat | overtime. � overhead; above : overcast | overhang.

� (usu. be overcome) (of an emotion) overpower or overwhelm : she was obviously overcome with excitement.

excessively or unreasonably confident : mistakes made through being overconfident.

fill (accommodations or a space) beyond what is usual or comfortable : [as adj. ] ( overcrowded) overcrowded dormitories | : [as n. ] ( overcrowding) trying to eliminate overcrowding in the downtown area.

carry to excess; exaggerate : dramatic yet never overdone. � use too much of (something) : I'd overdone the garlic in the curry. � ( overdo it/things) exhaust oneself by overwork or overexertion : I'd simply overdone it in the gym.

not yet having arrived, happened, or been done, though after the expected time : reform is now overdue. � (of a payment) not having been made, though required : the rent was nearly three months overdue.

estimate (something) to be better, larger, or more important than it really is : his influence cannot be overestimated.

1 make too long : at nine minutes plus the song is somewhat overextended.

(esp. of a liquid) flow over the brim of a receptacle : chemicals overflowed from a storage tank | [ trans. ] the river overflowed its banks. � (of a container) be so full that the contents go over or extend above the sides : a bath had overflowed upstair

1 [in sing. ] the excess or surplus not able to be accommodated by an available space : to accommodate the overflow, five more offices have been built. � the flowing over of a liquid : there was some overflow after heavy rainfall | an overflow of sewage.

grow or spread over (something), esp. so as to choke or stifle it : the mussels overgrow and smother whatever is underneath.

a thorough examination of machinery or a system, with repairs or changes made if necessary : a major overhaul of environmental policies.

1 take apart (a piece of machinery or equipment) in order to examine it and repair it if necessary : a company that overhauls and repairs aircraft engines | figurative moves to overhaul the income tax system.

1 situated above the level of the head : the sun was directly overhead | overhead power cables. 2 (of a driving mechanism) above the object driven : an overhead cam four-cylinder engine. 3 [ attrib. ] (of a cost or expense) incurred in the general upkeep

hear (someone or something) without meaning to or without the knowledge of the speaker : I couldn't help overhearing your conversation.

extend over so as to cover partly : the canopy overlaps the house roof at one end | [ intrans. ] the curtains overlap at the center when closed. � [ intrans. ] cover part of the same area of interest, responsibility, etc. : their duties sometimes overlapp

a part or amount that overlaps : an overlap of about half an inch. � a common area of interest, responsibility, etc. : there are many overlaps between the approaches | there is some overlap in requirements.

on the other side of the page : an information sheet is printed overleaf.

load with too great a burden or cargo : [as adj. ] ( overloaded) overloaded vehicles are dangerous. � give too much of something, typically something undesirable, to (someone) : the staff is heavily overloaded with casework. � put too great a demand on (a

1 fail to notice (something) : he seems to have overlooked one important fact. See note at neglect . � ignore or disregard (something, esp. a fault or offense) : she was more than ready to overlook his faults.

excessively : she was a jealous and overly possessive woman.

for the duration of a night : they refused to stay overnight. � during the course of a night : you can recharge the battery overnight. � very quickly; suddenly : attitudes will not change overnight.

pay (someone) too highly : many fans think our top players are overpaid.

populate (an area) in too large numbers : the country was overpopulated. � [ intrans. ] (of an animal) breed too rapidly : without natural predators, deer would overpopulate.

charge too high a price for : overpriced hotels.

1 produce more of (a product or commodity) than is wanted or needed : our unplanned manufacturing system continually overproduces consumer products.

overprotective |??v?pr??t?kt?v| adjective having a tendency to protect someone, esp. a child, excessively.

2 continue beyond or above (an expected or allowed time or cost) : he mustn't overrun his budget.

1 an instance of something exceeding an expected or allowed time or cost : an unexpectedly large cost overrun in the program. � the amount by which this happens : a $2.7 billion overrun on development and production.

have a higher opinion of (someone or something) than is deserved : dismissing the work as pompous and overrated.

respond more emotionally or forcibly than is justified : they are urging people not to overreact to the problem.

1 use one's authority to reject or cancel (a decision, view, etc.) : the legislature's insistence on overriding his budget vetoes. � interrupt the action of (an automatic device), typically in order to take manual control : you can override the cutout by

3 a cancellation of a decision by exertion of authority or winning of votes : the House vote in favor of the bill was ten votes short of the requisite majority for an override.

reject or disallow by exercising one's superior authority : the Supreme Court overruled the lower court. � reject the decision or argument of (someone) : he was overruled by his senior managers.

supervise (a person or work), esp. in an official capacity : a trustee appointed to oversee Corrie's finances.

� figurative cast a gloom over : it is easy to let this feeling of tragedy overshadow his story. � appear much more prominent or important than : his competitive nature often overshadows the other qualities. � (often be overshadowed) be more impressive or

simplify (something) so much that a distorted impression of it is given : a false and oversimplified view of human personality.

bigger than the usual size : an oversized T-shirt.

sleep longer or later than one intended : we talked until the early hours and consequently I overslept.

spend too much : she overspent on her husband's funeral. � [ trans. ] spend more than (a specified amount) : the department can see that it is going to overspend its budget.

express or state too strongly; exaggerate : I may have overstated my case to make my point.

� violate (a rule or standard of behavior) : he has overstepped the bounds of acceptable discipline.

(esp. in a manufacturing or retailing context) a supply or quantity in excess of demand or requirements : factory overstock | publishers' overstocks and remainders.

subject to an excessive demand on strength, resources, or abilities : there was a risk he might overstrain his heart.

done or shown openly; plainly or readily apparent, not secret or hidden : an overt act of aggression | in untreated cases, overt psychosis may occur.

1 remove forcibly from power : military coups which had attempted to overthrow the king. � put an end to (something), typically by the use of force or violence : their subversive activities are calculated to overthrow parliamentary democracy.

1 [in sing. ] a removal from power; a defeat or downfall : plotting the overthrow of the government.

force (a body of rock) over another : [as n. ] ( overthrusting) the increased overburden resulting from overthrusting. � (of a body of rock) be forced over (another formation) : the shales are overthrust by Carboniferous rocks.

in addition to normal working hours : they were working overtime to fulfill a big order | figurative his brain was working overtime.

1 catch up with and pass while traveling in the same direction : the driver overtook a line of vehicles. � become greater or more successful than : Germany rapidly overtook Britain in industrial output. 2 (esp. of misfortune) come suddenly or unexpectedly

1 an introduction to something more substantial : the talks were no more than an overture to a long debate.

1 tip (something) over so that it is on its side or upside down : the crowd proceeded to overturn cars and set them on fire. � [ intrans. ] turn over and come to rest upside down, typically as the result of an accident : a large housetrailer overturned in

use too much : young children sometimes overuse "and" in their writing.

� fix the value of (something, esp. a currency) at too high a level : sterling was overvalued against the dollar.

a general review or summary of a subject : a critical overview of the scientific issues of our time.

above a weight considered normal or desirable : he's forty pounds overweight.

� Finance invest in (a market sector, industry, etc.) to a greater than normal degree : we have overweighted the banking sector | [as adj. ] we were overweighted in technology last year.

bury or drown beneath a huge mass : the water flowed through to overwhelm the whole dam and the village beneath. � defeat completely : his teams overwhelmed their opponents. � (often be overwhelmed) give too much of a thing to (someone); inundate : they w

exhaust with too much work : executives who are overworked and worried | [as adj. ] ( overworked) tired, overworked, demoralized staff. � [ intrans. ] (of a person) work too hard : the doctor advised a complete rest because he had been overworking.

1 write on top of (other writing) : many names had been scratched out or overwritten.

� be under a moral obligation to give someone (gratitude, respect, etc.) : I owe it to him to explain what's happened | [with two objs. ] I owe you an apology. � ( owe something to) have something because of (someone or something) : he owed his success no

owe someone one informal feel indebted to someone for a favor done : thanks, I owe you one for this.

owing to because of or on account of : his reading was hesitant owing to a stammer.

2 consistent and continuous speed in walking, running, or moving : most traffic moved at the pace of the riverboat | [in sing. ] walking at a comfortably fast pace. � the speed or rate at which something happens, changes, or develops : the children work s

walk at a steady and consistent speed, esp. back and forth and as an expression of one's anxiety or annoyance : we paced up and down in exasperation | [ trans. ] she had been pacing the room.

� [ trans. ] move or develop (something) at a particular rate or speed : the action is paced to the beat of a perky march | [as adj. in combination ] ( -paced) our fast-paced daily lives.

change of pace a change from what one is used to : the magenta is a change of pace from traditional red. keep pace with move, develop, or progress at the same speed as : fees have had to be raised a little to keep pace with inflation.

set the pace be the fastest runner in the early part of a race. � lead the way in doing or achieving something : space movies have set the pace for the development of special effects.

quell the anger, agitation, or excitement of : he had to pacify angry spectators. � bring peace to (a country or warring factions), esp. by the use or threatened use of military force : the general pacified northern Italy.

1 a small cardboard or paper container and the items contained within it : a pack of cigarettes.

� a collection of related documents, esp. one kept in a folder : an information pack.

� (often be packed) cram a large number of things into (a container or space) : it was a large room, packed with beds jammed side by side. � [often as adj. ] ( packed) (of a large number of people) crowd into and fill (a room, building, or place) : the wa

� a packet : a package of peanuts. � (also package deal) a set of proposals or terms offered or agreed to as a whole : a package of economic reforms.

put into a box or wrapping, esp. for sale : choose products that are packaged in recyclable materials | [as adj. ] ( packaged) packaged foods.

pact |pakt| noun a formal agreement between individuals or parties.

1 a thick piece of soft material used to reduce friction or jarring, enlarge or change the shape of something, or hold or absorb liquid : sterile gauze pads.

1 [ intrans. ] move through the water in a boat using a paddle or paddles : he paddled along the coast.

paddy |?padi| noun ( pl. -dies) (also rice paddy) a field where rice is grown.

secure with such a lock : a padlocked door.

pagan |?pe?g(?)n| noun a person holding religious beliefs other than those of the main world religions.

leaf through (a book, magazine, or newspaper) : she was paging through an immense pile of Sunday newspapers.

page-turner noun informal an exciting book.

1 physical suffering or discomfort caused by illness or injury : she's in great pain | those who suffer from back pain.

� (also pain in the neck or vulgar slang pain in the ass) [in sing. ] informal an annoying or tedious person or thing : she's a pain.

cause mental or physical pain to : it pains me to say this | her legs had been paining her.

not causing or suffering physical pain : a painless death. � involving little effort or stress : a painless way to travel.

a set of two things used together or regarded as a unit : a pair of gloves.

� two people related in some way or considered together : a company run by a pair of brothers | every naughty thing the pair of them did made their faces look worse | students work alone or in pairs.

join or connect to form a pair : a cardigan paired with a matching skirt. � [ intrans. ] (of animals) mate : they bought a rooster to pair with the hen. � [ intrans. ] ( pair off/up) form a couple : Rachel has paired up with Tommy.

(of food or drink) pleasant to taste : a very palatable local red wine. � (of an action or proposal) acceptable or satisfactory : a device that made increased taxation more palatable.

1 become pale in one's face from shock or fear : I paled at the thought of what she might say. 2 seem less impressive or important : all else pales by comparison | his own problems paled into insignificance compared to the plight of this child.

� (of a person's face or complexion) having less color than usual, typically as a result of shock, fear, or ill health : she looked pale and drawn.

have (or hold) someone in the palm of one's hand have someone under one's control or influence : she had the audience in the palm of her hand.

able to be touched or felt : the palpable bump at the bridge of the nose. See note at tangible . � (esp. of a feeling or atmosphere) so intense as to be almost touched or felt : a palpable sense of loss. � clear to the mind or plain to see : to talk of da

(of the heart) beat rapidly, strongly, or irregularly : it wakened him in the night with a palpitating heart. � shake; tremble : she was palpitating with terror.

(of an amount) small or meager : she would earn a paltry $33 more each month. � petty; trivial : naval glory struck him as paltry.

� an amount of something contained in such a container : a pan of hot water.

pan out (of gravel) yield gold. � turn out well : Harold's idea had been a good one even if it hadn't panned out. � end up; conclude : he's happy with the way the deal panned out.

a solution or remedy for all difficulties or diseases : the panacea for all corporate ills | the time-honored panacea, cod liver oil.

2 informal flatten or become flattened : [ intrans. ] the hotel had pancaked into a heap of concrete.

pane |pe?n| noun a single sheet of glass in a window or door.

� a thin piece of metal forming part of the outer shell of a vehicle : body panels for the car business. � a flat board on which instruments or controls are fixed : a control panel. � a decorated area within a larger design containing a separate subject :

2 a small group of people brought together to discuss, investigate, or decide on a particular matter, esp. in the context of business or government : we assembled a panel of experts.

a sudden sharp pain or painful emotion : Lindsey experienced a sharp pang of guilt | the snack bar will keep those hunger pangs at bay.

be affected by panic : the crowd panicked and stampeded for the exit. � [ trans. ] cause to feel panic : talk of love panicked her.

sudden uncontrollable fear or anxiety, often causing wildly unthinking behavior : she hit him in panic | [in sing. ] he ran to the library in a blind panic. � widespread financial or commercial apprehension provoking hasty action : he caused an economic p

affected with panic; very frightened : the panic-stricken victims rushed out of their blazing homes.

a complete or impressive collection of things : a deliciously inventive panoply of insults. � a splendid display : all the panoply of Western religious liturgy.

an unbroken view of the whole region surrounding an observer : the tower offers a wonderful panorama of Prague.

express or represent (something) by extravagant and exaggerated mime : the clown candidates pantomimed different emotions.

breathe with short, quick breaths, typically from exertion or excitement : he was panting when he reached the top. � [with adverbial of direction ] run or go in a specified direction while panting : they panted up the stairs. � [with direct speech ] say s

extremely thin or insubstantial : paper-thin pancakes | her sophistication was

on a par with equal in importance or quality to; on an equal level with : this home cooking is on a par with the best in the world.

above (or below or under) par better (or worse) than is usual or expected : poor nutrition can leave you feeling below par.

parable |?par?b(?)l| noun a simple story used to illustrate a moral or spiritual lesson, as told by Jesus in the Gospels.

parabola |p??rab(?)l?| noun ( pl. -las or -lae |-li?|) a symmetrical open plane curve formed by the intersection of a cone with a plane parallel to its side. The path of a projectile under the influence of gravity ideally follows a curve of this shape.

1 drop or cause to drop from an aircraft by parachute : [ intrans. ] airborne units parachuted in to secure the airport | [ trans. ] an air operation to parachute relief supplies into Bosnia.

walk or march in public in a formal procession or in an ostentatious or attention-seeking way : officers will parade through the town center. � [ trans. ] walk or march in such a way along (the streets of a town) : carefree young men were parading the str

1 beside; adjacent to : parameter | parataxis | parathyroid. � Medicine denoting a disordered function or faculty: : paresthesia. � distinct from, but analogous to : paramilitary | paraphrase | paratyphoid. � beyond : paradox | paranormal | parapsychology

(of lines, planes, surfaces, or objects) side by side and having the same distance continuously between them : parallel lines never meet | the road runs parallel to the Ottawa River.

1 a person or thing that is similar or analogous to another : a challenge that has no parallel in peacetime this century. � a similarity : he points to a parallel between biological evolution and cognitive development. � a comparison : he draws a parallel

(of something extending in a line) be side by side with (something extending in a line), always keeping the same distance : a big concrete gutter that paralleled the road. � be similar or corresponding to (something) : U.S. naval and air superiority was p

� render (someone) unable to think or act normally, esp. through panic or fear : some people are paralyzed by the thought of failure | [as adj. ] ( paralyzing) her paralyzing shyness. � bring (a system, place, or organization) to a standstill by causing d

� inability to act or function in a person, organization, or place : the paralysis gripping the country.

paramedic |?par??m?d?k| noun a person who is trained to do medical work, esp. emergency first aid, but is not usually a fully qualified physician.

(of an unofficial force) organized similarly to a military force : soldiers and police have been killed in conflicts with the drug cartels and their paramilitary allies.

more important than anything else; supreme : the interests of the child are of paramount importance. � [ attrib. ] having supreme power : a paramount chief.

of, characterized by, or suffering from the mental condition of paranoia : paranoid schizophrenia. � unreasonably or obsessively anxious, suspicious, or mistrustful : you think I'm paranoid but I tell you there is something going on.

express the meaning of (the writer or speaker or something written or spoken) using different words, esp. to achieve greater clarity : you can either quote or paraphrase literary texts.

q(of an organism) living as a parasite : mistletoe is parasitic on trees. � resulting from infestation by a parasite : mortality from parasitic diseases.

make (something) into a parcel by wrapping it : he parceled up his only winter suit to take to the pawnbroker. � ( parcel something out) divide into portions and then distribute : they will start parceling out radio frequencies for digital cordless teleph

make or become dry through intense heat : [ trans. ] a piece of grassland parched by the sun | [ intrans. ] his crops parched during the last two summers.

the action of forgiving or being forgiven for an error or offense : he obtained pardon for his sins. � a remission of the legal consequences of an offense or conviction : he offered a full pardon to five convicted men.

forgive or excuse (a person, error, or offense) : I know Catherine will pardon me. See note at absolve . � release (an offender) from the legal consequences of an offense or conviction, and often implicitly from blame : he was pardoned for his treason.

beg someone's pardon express polite apology : I beg your pardon for intruding. pardon me (or I beg your pardon) used to indicate that one has not heard or understood something. � used to express one's anger or indignation at what someone has just said.

1 an outcast : they were treated as social pariahs.

trim (something) by cutting away its outer edges : Carlo pared his thumbnails with his knife. � cut off the outer skin of (something) : pare off the rind using a peeler. � reduce (something) in size, extent, quantity, or number, usually in a number of sma

(in the Christian Church) a small administrative district typically having its own church and a priest or pastor : [as adj. ] a parish church.

1 the state or condition of being equal, esp. regarding status or pay : parity of incomes between rural workers and those in industrial occupations.

relating to, enacted by, or suitable for a parliament : parliamentary legislation.

2 [usu. with adj. ] a shop or business providing specified goods or services : an ice-cream parlor | a funeral parlor.

of or relating to a church parish : the parochial church council.

produce a humorously exaggerated imitation of (a writer, artist, or genre) : his specialty was parodying schoolgirl fiction. � mimic humorously : he parodied his friend's voice.

1 the release of a prisoner temporarily (for a special purpose) or permanently before the completion of a sentence, on the promise of good behavior : he committed a burglary while on parole.

release (a prisoner) on parole : he was paroled after serving nine months of a two-year sentence.

repeat mechanically : encouraging students to parrot back information.

(of two things) move away from each other : his lips parted in a smile. � divide to leave a central space : at that moment the mist parted. � [ trans. ] cause to divide or move apart, leaving a central space : she parted the ferns and looked between them.

for my (or his, her, etc.) part used to focus attention on one person or group and distinguish them from others involved in a situation : for my part I was glad when the end of September came.

on the part of (or on my, their, etc., part) used to ascribe responsibility for something to someone : there was a series of errors on my part.

join in (an activity) : visitors can partake in golfing or clay pigeon shooting.

2 favoring one side in a dispute above the other; biased : the paper gave a distorted and very partial view of the situation. � [ predic. ] ( partial to) having a liking for : you know I'm partial to bacon and eggs.

unfair bias in favor of one thing or person compared with another; favoritism : an attack on the partiality of judges. See note at bias . � a particular liking or fondness for something : she spoke openly, not concealing her partiality for him.

1 a minute portion of matter : tiny particles of dust.

the quality of being individual : the central figures of his novels are stripped of their particularity. � fullness or minuteness of detail in the treatment of something : parties must present their case with some degree of accuracy and particularity. � (

partisan |?p??t?zan| |?p??t??zan| noun 1 a strong supporter of a party, cause, or person.

(esp. with reference to a country with separate areas of government) the action or state of dividing or being divided into parts : the country's partition into separate states.

divide into parts : an agreement was reached to partition the country. � divide (a room) into smaller rooms or areas by erecting partitions : the hall was partitioned to contain the noise of the computers. � ( partition something off) separate a part of a

to some extent; not completely : the result is partly a matter of skill and partly of chance | you're only partly right.

be the partner of : young farmers who partnered Isabel to the village dance. � [ intrans. ] associate as partners : I never expected to partner with a man like you.

partygoer noun a person attending a party.

1 [ intrans. ] move in a specified direction : he passed through towns and villages | the shells from the Allied guns were passing very low overhead.

� [ intrans. ] die (used euphemistically) : his father had passed to the afterlife | she passed away peacefully in her sleep | a good and decent man has passed on.

2 [ trans. ] go past or across; leave behind or on one side in proceeding : she passed a rest area with a pay phone | the two vehicles had no room to pass each other | [ intrans. ] we will not let you pass.

� happen; be done or said : not another word passed between them | [with complement ] this fact has passed almost unnoticed. � [ trans. ] spend or use up (a period of time) : this was how they passed the time.

4 [ trans. ] transfer (something) to someone, esp. by handing or bequeathing it to the next person in a series : your letter has been passed to Mr. Rich for action | please pass the fish | [with two objs. ] he passed her a cup.

� [ intrans. ] be accepted as adequate; go uncensured : she couldn't agree, but let it pass | her rather revealing dress passed without comment. � [ intrans. ] ( pass as/for) be accepted as or taken for : he could pass for a native of Sweden.

6 [ trans. ] (of a legislative or other official body) approve or put into effect (a proposal or law) by voting on it : the bill was passed despite fierce opposition. � (of a proposal or law) be examined and approved by (a legislative body or process) : b

9 [ intrans. ] forgo one's turn in a game or an offered opportunity : we pass on dessert and have coffee.

� informal an amorous or sexual advance made to someone : she made a pass at Stephen.

pass someone by happen without being noticed or fully experienced by someone : sometimes I feel that life is passing me by. pass off (of proceedings) happen or be carried through in a specified, usually satisfactory, way : the weekend had passed off entir

pass out 1 become unconscious : he consumed enough alcohol to make him pass out

pass someone over ignore the claims of someone to promotion or advancement : he was passed over for a cabinet job. pass something over avoid mentioning or considering something : I shall pass over the matter of the transitional period. pass something up r

2 (of a route or road) clear of obstacles and able to be traveled along or on : the road was passable with care.

1 the act or process of moving through, under, over, or past something on the way from one place to another : there were moorings for boats wanting passage through the lock. � the act or process of moving forward : despite the passage of time she still lo

3 the process of transition from one state to another : an allegory on the theme of the passage from ignorance to knowledge.

4 a short extract from a book or other printed material : he picked up the newspaper and read the passage again.

no longer fashionable; out of date : miniskirts are pass��the best skirts are knee-length.

passerby (also passer-by) noun ( pl. passersby ) a person who happens to be going past something, esp. on foot.

� an intense desire or enthusiasm for something : the English have a passion for gardens.

to or on the further side of : he rode on past the crossroads. � in front of or from one side to the other of : he began to drive slowly past the houses. � beyond in time; later than : by this time it was past 3:30. � no longer capable of : he is past giv

an activity that someone does regularly for enjoyment rather than work; a hobby : his favorite pastimes were shooting and golf.

1 (esp. of land or a farm) used for or related to the keeping or grazing of sheep or cattle : scattered pastoral farms. � associated with country life : the view was pastoral, with rolling fields and grazing sheep.

touch quickly and gently with the flat of the hand : he patted him consolingly on the shoulder | [ trans. ] a nurse washed her all over and patted her dry.

1 a light stroke with the hand : giving him a friendly pat on the arm, she went off to join the others.

3 informal a period of time seen as a distinct unit with a characteristic quality : he may have been going through a bad patch.

1 mend or strengthen (fabric or an item of clothing) by putting a piece of material over a hole or weak point in it : her jeans were neatly patched.

� (usu. be patched) cover small areas of (a surface) with something different, causing it to appear variegated : the grass was patched with sandy stretches. � ( patch someone/something up) informal treat someone's injuries or repair the damage to somethin

existing or happening in small, isolated areas : patchy fog. � not of the same quality throughout; inconsistent : your coursework was patchy. � incomplete : my knowledge of Egyptology is patchy.

obtain a patent for (an invention) : an invention is not your own until it is patented.

of or appropriate to a father : he reasserted his paternal authority. � showing a kindness and care associated with a father; fatherly : my elders in the newsroom kept a paternal eye on me.

� the course or direction in which a person or thing is moving : the missile traced a fiery path in the sky | figurative a chosen career path. � a course of action or conduct : an ordered, gradual path toward economic liberalization.

pathogen |?pa??d?(?)n| noun Medicine a bacterium, virus, or other microorganism that can cause disease.

pathology |p????l?d?i| noun the science of the causes and effects of diseases, esp. the branch of medicine that deals with the laboratory examination of samples of body tissue for diagnostic or forensic purposes.

1 the capacity to accept or tolerate delay, trouble, or suffering without getting angry or upset : you can find bargains if you have the patience to sift through the dross.

� a man who is the oldest or most venerable of a group : Hollywood's reigning patriarch rose to speak. � a man who behaves in a commanding manner : Cunningham's authoritative energy marks him out as patriarch within his own company.

2 of, relating to, or characteristic of a system of society or government controlled by men : patriarchal values.

having or expressing devotion to and vigorous support for one's country : the wave of relief and patriotic euphoria that followed the president's cease-fire declaration.

� the action of keeping watch over an area by walking or driving around it at regular intervals : the policemen were on patrol when they were ordered to investigate the incident.

keep watch over (an area) by regularly walking or traveling around or through it : the garrison had to patrol the streets to maintain order | [ intrans. ] pairs of men were patrolling on each side of the thoroughfare.

1 the support given by a patron : the arts could no longer depend on private patronage. 2 the power to control appointments to office or the right to privileges : recruits are selected on merit, not through political patronage.

1 [often as adj. ] ( patronizing) treat with an apparent kindness that betrays a feeling of superiority : "She's a good-hearted girl," he said in a patronizing voice | she was determined not to be put down or patronized. 2 frequent (a store, theater, rest

1 [usu. as adj. ] ( patterned) decorate with a recurring design : rosebud patterned wallpapers | violet-tinged flowers patterned the grassy banks.

a temporary stop in action or speech : she dropped me outside during a brief pause in the rain | the admiral chattered away without pause.

interrupt action or speech briefly : she paused, at a loss for words.

give someone pause cause someone to think carefully or hesitate before doing something : public outrage has given him pause.

pave the way for create the circumstances to enable (something) to happen or be done : the proposals will pave the way for a speedy resolution to the problem.

cover (a piece of ground) with concrete, asphalt, stones, or bricks; lay paving over : the yard at the front was paved with flagstones | [as adj. ] ( paved) chrysanthemums provide a cheerful border for the paved area | figurative the streets of the big ci

(of an animal) feel or scrape with a paw or hoof : the horse rose on its strong haunches, its forelegs pawing the air | [ intrans. ] young dogs may paw at the floor and whine.

� (of work, an investment, etc.) yield or provide someone with (a specified sum of money) : jobs that pay $5 or $6 an hour.

� [ intrans. ] (of a business or undertaking, or an attitude) be profitable or advantageous to someone : crime doesn't pay | [with infinitive ] it pays to choose varieties carefully.

2 [ intrans. ] suffer a loss or other misfortune as a consequence of an action : the destroyer responsible for these atrocities would have to pay with his life.

3 [with two objs. ] give or bestow (attention, respect, or a compliment) on (someone) : no one paid them any attention. � make (a visit or a call) to (someone) : she has been prevailed upon to pay us a visit.

pay its (or one's) way (of an enterprise or person) earn enough to cover its (or one's) costs : some students are paying their way through college.

pay someone back repay a loan to someone : a regular amount was deducted from my wages to pay her back. � figurative take revenge on someone : a terrorist group had decided to pay him back for short-changing them. � reward someone for something done earli

pay off informal (of a course of action) yield good results; succeed : all the hard work I had done over the summer paid off.

pay something off pay a debt in full : you may have saved up enough to pay off your second mortgage.

pay lip service to express approval of or support for (something) without taking any significant action.

1 (of money) required to be paid; due : interest is payable on the money owing | send a check, payable to the ASPCA. 2 able to be paid : it costs just $195, payable in five monthly installments.

1 financial return or reward, esp. profit equal to the initial outlay of an investment : a long time lag between investment and payback.

1 the action or process of paying someone or something, or of being paid : ask for a discount for payment by cash | three interest-free monthly payments. 2 an amount paid or payable : an interim compensation payment of $2500.

a list of a company's employees and the amount of money they are to be paid : there are just three employees on the payroll.

� mental calm; serenity : the peace of mind this insurance gives you.

� freedom from civil disorder : police action to restore peace.

at peace 1 free from anxiety or distress. � dead (used to suggest that someone has escaped from the difficulties of life). 2 in a state of friendliness : a man at peace with the world.

the active maintenance of a truce between nations or communities, esp. by an international military force : the 2,300-strong UN peacekeeping force.

the pointed top of a mountain : the snowy peaks rose against the blue of a cloudless sky. � a mountain, esp. one with a pointed top : the rocky outcrops of peaks such as the Cassongrat offer a challenge to rock climbers.

reach a highest point, either of a specified value or at a specified time : its popularity peaked in the 1940s | the rate of increase peaked at 34 percent last autumn.

greatest; maximum : he did not expect to be anywhere near peak fitness until Christmas. � characterized by maximum activity or demand : at peak hours, traffic speeds are reduced considerably.

peasant |?p?z(?)nt| noun a poor farmer of low social status who owns or rents a small piece of land for cultivation (chiefly in historical use or with reference to subsistence farming in poorer countries).

pebble |?p?b(?)l| noun a small stone made smooth and round by the action of water or sand.

a hierarchy of status seen among members of a group of people or animals, originally as observed among hens : the luxurious office accentuated the manager's position in the pecking order.

1 strange or odd; unusual : his accent was a peculiar mixture of Cockney and Irish. � [ predic. ] informal slightly and indefinably unwell; faint or dizzy : I felt a little peculiar for a while, but I'm absolutely fine now. 2 [ predic. ] ( peculiar to) be

an odd or unusual feature or habit : for all his peculiarities, she finds his personality quite endearing. � a characteristic or quality that is distinctive of a particular person or place : his essays characterized decency as a British peculiarity.

of, relating to, or consisting of money : he admitted obtaining a pecuniary advantage by deception. See note at financial .

of or relating to teaching : they show great pedagogic skills.

the method and practice of teaching, esp. as an academic subject or theoretical concept : the relationship between applied linguistics and language pedagogy | subject-based pedagogies.

move by working the pedals of a bicycle : they pedaled along the canal towpath.

� figurative a position in which one is greatly or uncritically admired : the heroes they have created and placed on pedestals.

pedestrian |p??d?str??n| noun a person walking along a road or in a developed area.

pedigree |?p?d?gri?| noun 1 the record of descent of an animal, showing it to be purebred.

look quickly, typically in a furtive manner : faces peeked from behind the curtains.

1 a quick and typically furtive look : a peek through the window showed that the taxi had arrived.

peekaboo |pi?k??bu?| (also peek-a-boo) noun a game played with a young child, which involves hiding behind something and suddenly reappearing, saying "peekaboo.

� remove (the outer covering or skin) from a fruit or vegetable : peel off the skins and thickly slice the potatoes. � [ intrans. ] (of a fruit or vegetable) have a skin that can be removed : oranges that peel easily. � ( peel something away/off) remove o

2 [ intrans. ] (of a surface or object) lose parts of its outer layer or covering in small strips or pieces : the walls are peeling.

look quickly and furtively at something, esp. through a narrow opening : the door was ajar and she couldn't resist peeping in.

expressing contempt or disapproval : permissiveness is used almost universally as a pejorative term.

pelvis |?p?lv?s| noun ( pl. -vises or -ves |-vi?z|) 1 the large bony structure near the base of the spine to which the hind limbs or legs are attached in humans and many other vertebrates.

the pen is mightier than the sword proverb writing is more effective than military power or violence.

a strong or habitual liking for something or tendency to do something : he has a penchant for adopting stray dogs.

awaiting decision or settlement : nine cases were still pending. � about to happen; imminent : with a presidential election pending, it would be wrong to force the changes through now | the pending disaster.

� figurative used to refer to the tendency of a situation or state of affairs to oscillate regularly between one extreme and another : the pendulum of fashion.

succeed in forcing a way into or through (a thing) : the shrapnel had penetrated his head and chest | [ intrans. ] tunnels that penetrate deep into the earth's core.

� infiltrate (an enemy group or rival organization) in order to spy on it : the U.S. media had been penetrated by Soviet stooges. � (of a company) begin to sell its products in (a particular market or area) : Honda has succeeded in penetrating Western mot

1 the action or process of making a way through or into something : the plant grows in clear, still waters where there is strong sunlight penetration. � the ability to do this : a weapon that combines the power and penetration of radiation with the precis

penmanship noun the art or skill of writing by hand.

penniless |?p?n?l?s| adjective (of a person) having no money; very poor.

engaged in, involving, or reflecting deep or serious thought : a pensive mood.

penthouse |?p?ntha?s| noun 1 an apartment on the top floor of a tall building, typically luxuriously fitted and offering fine views.

people person noun informal a person who enjoys or is particularly good at interacting with others.

energy and high spirits; liveliness : he was an enthusiastic player, full of pep and fight.

pep talk noun informal a talk intended to make someone feel more courageous or enthusiastic.

sprinkle or season (food) with pepper : [as adj. ] ( peppered) peppered beef. � (usu. be peppered with) cover or fill with a liberal amount of scattered items : the script is peppered with four-letter words.

1 through; all over : percuss | perforation | pervade. � completely; very : perfect | perturb. � to destruction; to ill effect : perdition | pervert. 2 Chemistry having the maximum proportion of some element in combination : peroxide | perchloric | perman

for each year (used in financial contexts) : an average growth rate of around 2 percent per annum.

1 become aware or conscious of (something); come to realize or understand : his mouth fell open as he perceived the truth | [with clause ] he was quick to perceive that there was little future in such arguments. � become aware of (something) by the use of

� any proportion or share in relation to a whole : only a small percentage of black Americans have Caribbean roots.

(esp. of a slight movement or change of state) able to be seen or noticed : a perceptible decline in public confidence. See note at tangible .the ability to see, hear, or become aware of something through the senses : the normal limits to human perception

the ability to see, hear, or become aware of something through the senses : the normal limits to human perception. � the state of being or process of becoming aware of something in such a way : the perception of pain. � a way of regarding, understanding,

having or showing sensitive insight : an extraordinarily perceptive account of their relationship.

of or relating to the ability to interpret or become aware of something through the senses : a patient with perceptual problems who cannot judge distances.

� a place where someone or something rests or sits, esp. a place that is high or precarious : Marian looked down from her perch in a beech tree above the road.

(of a bird) alight or rest on something : a herring gull perched on the mast. � (of a person) sit somewhere, esp. on something high or narrow : Eve perched on the side of the armchair.

lasting or existing for a long or apparently infinite time; enduring : his perennial distrust of the media. � (of a plant) living for several years : tarragon is perennial. Compare with annual , biennial .

make (something) completely free from faults or defects, or as close to such a condition as possible : he's busy perfecting his bowling technique.

the condition, state, or quality of being free or as free as possible from all flaws or defects : the satiny perfection of her skin | his pursuit of golfing perfection. � a person or thing perceived as the embodiment of such a condition, state, or quality

to perfection in a manner or way that could not be better; perfectly : a blue suit that showed off her blonde hair to perfection.

a fragrant liquid typically made from essential oils extracted from flowers and spices, used to impart a pleasant smell to one's body or clothes : I caught a whiff of her fresh lemony perfume | musk-based perfumes.

1 around; about : pericardium | perimeter | peristyle. 2 Astronomy denoting the point nearest to a specified celestial body : perihelion | perilune. Compare with apo- .

serious and immediate danger : his family was in peril | a setback to the state could present a peril to the regime. � ( perils) the dangers or difficulties that arise from a particular situation or activity : she first witnessed the perils of pop stardom

at one's peril at one's own risk (used esp. in warnings) : neglect our advice at your peril. in (or at) peril of very likely to incur or to suffer from : the movement is in peril of dying. � at risk of losing or injuring : anyone linked with the Republica

full of danger or risk : a perilous journey south. � exposed to imminent risk of disaster or ruin : the economy is in a perilous state.

1 the continuous line forming the boundary of a closed geometric figure : the perimeter of a rectangle. � the length of such a line : the rectangle has a perimeter of 30 cm. � the outermost parts or boundary of an area or object : the perimeter of the gar

� [with adj. ] a set period of time during which a particular activity takes place : the training period is between 16 and 18 months.

1 appearing or occurring at intervals : the periodic visits she made to her father.

of, relating to, or situated on the edge or periphery of something : the peripheral areas of Europe. � of secondary or minor importance; marginal : she will see their problems as peripheral to her own.

peripheral nervous system noun Anatomy the nervous system outside the brain and spinal cord.

peripheral vision noun side vision; what is seen on the side by the eye when looking straight ahead.

suffer death, typically in a violent, sudden, or untimely way : a great part of his army perished of hunger and disease. � suffer complete ruin or destruction : the old regime had to perish.

perjury |?p??d?(?)ri| noun ( pl. -ries) Law the offense of willfully telling an untruth in a court after having taken an oath or affirmation.

money, goods, or other benefit to which one is entitled as an employee or as a shareholder of a company : many agencies are helping to keep personnel at their jobs by providing perks.

(of a material or membrane) allowing liquids or gases to pass through it : a frog's skin is permeable to water.

spread throughout (something); pervade : the aroma of soup permeated the air | [ intrans. ] his personality has begun to permeate through the whole organization.

permitted; allowed : it is permissible to edit and rephrase the statement.

consent; authorization : they had entered the country without permission | [with infinitive ] he had received permission to go to Brussels. See note at liberty . � an official document giving authorization : permissions to reproduce copyright material.

1 allowing or characterized by great or excessive freedom of behavior : I was not a permissive parent | the permissive society of the 60s and 70s. See note at lenient .

give authorization or consent to (someone) to do something : the law permits councils to monitor any factory emitting smoke | [with two objs. ] he would not permit anybody access to the library. � [ trans. ] authorize or give permission for (something) :

permit me dated used for politeness before making a suggestion or expressing an intention : permit me to correct you. �� permitting if the specified thing does not prevent one from doing something : weather permitting, guests can dine outside on the veran

1 at an angle of 90� to a given line, plane, or surface : dormers and gables that extend perpendicular to the main roofline. � at an angle of 90� to the ground; vertical : the perpendicular cliff.

a straight line at an angle of 90� to a given line, plane, or surface : at each division, draw a perpendicular representing the surface line.

carry out or commit (a harmful, illegal, or immoral action) : a crime has been perpetrated against a sovereign state.

1 never ending or changing : deep caves in perpetual darkness. � [ attrib. ] denoting a position, job, or trophy held for life rather than a limited period, or the person holding it : a perpetual secretary of the society.

2 occurring repeatedly; so frequent as to seem endless and uninterrupted : their perpetual money worries.

(of something complicated or unaccountable) cause (someone) to feel completely baffled : she was perplexed by her husband's moodiness | [as adj. ] ( perplexing) a perplexing problem.

subject (someone) to hostility and ill-treatment, esp. because of their race or political or religious beliefs : Jews who had been persecuted by the Nazi regime.

1 steadfastness in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success : his perseverance with the technique illustrates his single-mindedness | medicine is a field which requires dedication and perseverance.

continue in a course of action even in the face of difficulty or with little or no prospect of success : his family persevered with his treatment.

continue firmly or obstinately in an opinion or a course of action in spite of difficulty, opposition, or failure : the minority of drivers who persist in drinking | we are persisting with policies that will create jobs for the future. � continue to exist

firm or obstinate continuance in a course of action in spite of difficulty or opposition : companies must have patience and persistence, but the rewards are there. � the continued or prolonged existence of something : the persistence of huge environmental

1 continuing firmly or obstinately in a course of action in spite of difficulty or opposition : one of the government's most persistent critics. � [ attrib. ] characterized by a specified habitual behavior pattern, esp. a dishonest or undesirable one : th

the aspect of someone's character that is presented to or perceived by others : her public persona. In psychology, often contrasted with anima .

2 cause (something, esp. an issue, argument, or debate) to become concerned with personalities or feelings rather than with general or abstract matters : the mass media's tendency to personalize politics.

in (or out of) perspective showing the right (or wrong) relationship between visible objects. � correctly (or incorrectly) regarded in terms of relative importance : these expenses may seem high, but they need to be put into perspective.

2 a particular attitude toward or way of regarding something; a point of view : most guidebook history is written from the editor's perspective.

give out sweat through the pores of the skin as the result of heat, physical exertion, or stress : Will was perspiring heavily.

the process of sweating : it causes perspiration and a rapid heartbeat. � sweat : perspiration ran down his forehead.

� [ trans. ] cause (someone) to believe something, esp. after a sustained effort; convince : they must often be persuaded of the potential severity of their drinking problems | [ trans. ] he did everything he could to persuade the police that he was the r

good at persuading someone to do or believe something through reasoning or the use of temptation : an informative and persuasive speech.

be appropriate, related, or applicable : matters pertaining to the organization of government. � chiefly Law belong to something as a part, appendage, or accessory : the premises, stock, and all assets pertaining to the business.

relevant or applicable to a particular matter; apposite : she asked me a lot of very pertinent questions | the unreleased section of tape was not pertinent to the investigation.

1 (often be perturbed) make (someone) anxious or unsettled : they were perturbed by her capricious behavior | [ trans. ] they were perturbed that the bank had begun switching some of its problem loans. 2 subject (a system, moving object, or process) to an

read thoroughly or carefully : the pursed lips of an auditor perusing an unsatisfactory set of accounts.

(esp. of a smell) spread through and be perceived in every part of : a smell of stale cabbage pervaded the air. � (of an influence, feeling, or quality) be present and apparent throughout : the sense of crisis that pervaded Europe in the 1930s.

(esp. of an unwelcome influence or physical effect) spreading widely throughout an area or a group of people : ageism is pervasive and entrenched in our society.

alter (something) from its original course, meaning, or state to a distortion or corruption of what was first intended : he was charged with conspiring to pervert the course of justice.

(of a substance) allowing water to pass through; permeable : pervious rocks.

causing trouble; annoying : pesky mosquitoes.

trouble or annoy (someone) with frequent or persistent requests or interruptions : she constantly pestered him with telephone calls.

pesticide |?p?st?s??d| noun a substance used for destroying insects or other organisms harmful to cultivated plants or to animals.

decrease or fade gradually before coming to an end : the storm had petered out.

a formal written request, typically one signed by many people, appealing to authority with respect to a particular cause : she was asked to sign a petition against plans to build on the local playing fields.

make or present a formal request to (an authority) with respect to a particular cause : Americans who moved west petitioned Congress for admission to the Union as states | [ trans. ] leaders petitioned the government to hold free elections soon.

1 make (someone) so frightened that they are unable to move or think : his icy controlled quietness petrified her | [as adj. ] ( petrified) the petrified child clung to her mother.

1 of little importance; trivial : the petty divisions of party politics. � (of behavior) characterized by an undue concern for trivial matters, esp. in a small-minded or spiteful way : he was prone to petty revenge on friends and family.

(of a person or their manner) childishly sulky or bad-tempered : he was moody and petulant | a petulant shake of the head.

1 ( pl. phalanxes ) a group of people or things of a similar type forming a compact body or brought together for a common purpose : he headed past the phalanx of waiting reporters to the line of limos.

a ghost : a phantom who haunts lonely roads | figurative the centrist and conservative parties were mere phantoms in 1943 | [as adj. ] a phantom ship.

pharmacist |?f??m?s?st| noun a person who is professionally qualified to prepare and dispense medicinal drugs.

� a stage in a person's psychological development, esp. a period of temporary unhappiness or difficulty during adolescence or a particular stage during childhood : you are not obsessed, but you are going through a phase.

� ( phase something in/out) introduce into (or withdraw from) use in gradual stages : our armed forces policy was to be phased in over 10 years.

1 very remarkable; extraordinary : the town expanded at a phenomenal rate.

phlegm |fl?m| noun the thick viscous substance secreted by the mucous membranes of the respiratory passages, esp. when produced in excessive or abnormal quantities, e.g., when someone is suffering from a cold.

rise like a phoenix from the ashes emerge renewed after apparent disaster or destruction.

not genuine; fraudulent : I thought your accent was a bit phony.

photosynthesis |?f??t?(?)?s?n??s?s| noun the process by which green plants and some other organisms use sunlight to synthesize foods from carbon dioxide and water. Photosynthesis in plants generally involves the green pigment chlorophyll and generates oxy

1 [in sing. ] an act or the right of selecting something from among a group of alternatives : take your pick from our extensive menu | Laura should have first pick.

1pick someone's brains (or brain) informal obtain information by questioning someone who is better informed about a subject than oneself.

pick a fight (or quarrel) talk or behave in such a way as to provoke an argument or fight.

pick up speed (or steam) (of a vehicle) go faster; accelerate.

pick someone/something out distinguish someone or something among a group of people or things : Lester picked out two familiar voices. � (of a light) illuminate an object by shining directly on it. � (usu. be picked out) distinguish shapes or letters from

pick up the tab informal pay for something : my company will pick up the tab for all moving expenses.q

steal from the pockets of (someone) : she stopped in New Orleans where she skillfully pickpocketed tourists.q1

fastidious, esp. excessively so : she had been a picky eater as a child.

of or expressed in pictures; illustrated : feelings presented in a pictorial form. See note at graphic .

� figurative an impression of something formed from an account or description : a full picture of the disaster had not yet emerged.

� describe (someone or something) in a certain way : the markets in London and New York are usually pictured in contrasting terms.

get the picture informal understand a situation.

visually attractive, esp. in a quaint or pretty style : the picturesque covered bridges of New England. See note at graphic . � (of language) unusual and vivid : his picturesque speech contrasted with his rough appearance.

a portion of an object or of material, produced by cutting, tearing, or breaking the whole : a piece of cheese | the dish lay in pieces upon the floor | she tore his letters to pieces. See note at fragment .

� one of the items that were put together to make something and into which it naturally divides : take a car to pieces.

� an instance or example : a crucial piece of evidence. � a financial share : each employee owns a piece of the company. � a written, musical, or artistic creation or composition : a hauntingly beautiful piece of music.

1 ( piece something together) assemble something from individual parts : the children took turns piecing together each other's jigsaw puzzle. � slowly make sense of something from separate facts and pieces of evidence : Daniel had pieced the story togethe

characterized by unsystematic partial measures taken over a period of time : [as adj. ] the village is slowly being killed off by piecemeal development | [as adv. ] some can only be had as part of a package, while others can be installed piecemeal.

(of a sharp pointed object) go into or through (something) : a splinter had pierced the skin. � prick (something) with a sharp instrument : she pierced the meat with a fork. � make (a hole) with a sharp instrument : I had to pierce another hole in my belt

� force or cut a way through : they were seeking to pierce the antiballistic-missile defenses | a shrill voice pierced the air.

piety |?p???ti| noun ( pl. -ties) the quality of being religious or reverent : acts of piety and charity.

pigment |?p?gm(?)nt| noun the natural coloring matter of animal or plant tissue.

a heap of things laid or lying one on top of another : he placed the books in a neat pile. � informal a large amount of something : the growing pile of work.

1 [ trans. ] place (things) one on top of another : she piled all the groceries on the counter. � ( be piled with) be stacked or loaded with : his in-box was piled high with papers. � ( pile up) [ intrans. ] increase in quantity : the work has piled up. �

pilgrim |?p?lgr?m| noun a person who journeys to a sacred place for religious reasons.

� steal (something) using violence, esp. in wartime : artworks pillaged from churches and museums.

� a person or thing regarded as reliably providing essential support for something : he was a pillar of his local community.

1 done as an experiment or test before introducing something more widely : a two-year pilot study.

pimp |p?mp| noun a man who controls prostitutes and arranges clients for them, taking part of their earnings in return.

pimple |?p?mp(?)l| noun a small hard inflamed spot on the skin.

� fasten (something) with a pin or pins in a specified position : her hair was pinned back.

� hold someone firmly in a specified position so they are unable to move : she was standing pinned against the door.

hear a pin drop used to describe absolute silence.

� grip the skin of a part of the body of (someone) in such a way : Rosa pinched her hard.

1 an act of gripping the skin of someone's body between finger and thumb : he gave her a gentle pinch. � an amount of an ingredient that can be held between fingers and thumb : add a pinch of salt.

� the most successful point; the culmination : he had reached the pinnacle of his career.

a tiny dot or point : a pinpoint of light from a flashlight.

absolutely precise; to the finest degree : this weapon fired shells with pinpoint accuracy. � tiny : a pinpoint laser beam.

find or locate exactly : one flare had pinpointed the target | figurative it is difficult to pinpoint the source of his life's inspiration.

� making a hypocritical display of virtue : there'll be no pious words said over her.

1 [ trans. ] convey (water, gas, oil, or other fluid substances) through a pipe or pipes : water from the lakes is piped to several towns.

pipe dream noun an unattainable or fanciful hope or scheme.

a feeling of irritation or resentment resulting from a slight, esp. to one's pride : he left in a fit of pique.

1 ( pit someone/something against) set someone or something in conflict or competition with : a chance to pit herself against him.

1 the quality of a sound governed by the rate of vibrations producing it; the degree of highness or lowness of a tone : a car engine seems to change pitch downward as the vehicle passes you.

� [ intrans. ] be a pitcher : she pitched in a minor-league game | [ trans. ] he pitched the entire game.

pitch in informal vigorously join in to help with a task or activity. � join in a fight or dispute.

1 the feeling of sorrow and compassion caused by the suffering and misfortunes of others : her voice was full of pity. 2 [in sing. ] a cause for regret or disappointment : what a pity we can't be friends.

of crucial importance in relation to the development or success of something else : the alliance that played a pivotal role in the revolution.

� [usu. in sing. ] a person or thing that plays a central part in an activity or organization : the pivot of community life was the chapel.

placate |pl??ke?t| |?plake?t| |?ple?-| verb [ trans. ] make (someone) less angry or hostile : they attempted to placate the students with promises. See note at pacify .

� the regular or proper position of something : lay each slab in place.

� [often with negative ] somewhere where it is appropriate or prudent for someone to be or for something to occur : that street at that time was no place for a lady.

� [usu. with negative ] a right or privilege resulting from someone's role or position : I'm sure she has a story to tell, but it's not my place to ask.

� the degree of priority given to something : accurate reportage takes second place to lurid detail.

� the position of a figure in a series indicated in decimal or similar notation, esp. one after the decimal point : calculate the ratios to one decimal place.

1 [ trans. ] put in a particular position : a newspaper had been placed beside my plate. � cause to be in a particular situation : enemy officers were placed under arrest | you are not placing yourself under any obligation. � used to express the attitude

� ( be placed) used to indicate the degree of advantage or convenience enjoyed by someone or something as a result of their position or circumstances : [with infinitive ] the company is well placed to seize the opportunity.

out of place not in the proper position; disarranged. � in a setting where one is or feels inappropriate or incongruous.

a contagious bacterial disease characterized by fever and delirium, typically with the formation of buboes (see bubonic plague ) and sometimes infection of the lungs ( pneumonic plague): : an outbreak of plague | they died of the plague.

cause continual trouble or distress to : the problems that plagued the company | he has been plagued by ill health. � pester or harass (someone) continually : he was plaguing her with questions.

1 not decorated or elaborate; simple or ordinary in character : good plain food | everyone dined at a plain wooden table. � without a pattern; in only one color : a plain fabric. � bearing no indication as to source, contents, or affiliation : donations c

4 [ attrib. ] sheer; simple (used for emphasis) : the main problem is just plain exhaustion.

clearly; unequivocally (used for emphasis) : perhaps the youth was just plain stupid.

plain and simple informal used to emphasize the statement preceding or following : she was a genius, plain and simple.

plain-spoken (also plainspoken) adjective outspoken; blunt.

plaintiff |?ple?nt?f| noun Law a person who brings a case against another in a court of law. Compare with defendant .

go according to plan happen as one arranged or intended.

of, relating to, or belonging to a planet or planets : the laws of planetary motion. � of or relating to the earth as a planet : planetary air pollution and climatic change.

2 a place where an industrial or manufacturing process takes place : the company has 30 plants in Mexico.

2 [ trans. ] place or fix in a specified position : she planted a kiss on his cheek. � ( plant oneself) position oneself : she planted herself on the arm of his chair. � establish (an idea) in someone's mind : the seed of doubt is planted in his mind.

� ( plaster something with/in) coat or cover something with (a substance), esp. to an extent considered excessive : a face plastered in heavy makeup.

� an amount of food on such a dish : a plate of spaghetti.

1 cover (a metal object) with a thin coating or film of a different metal : she had already taken the coin to a jeweler to be plated | [as adj., in combination ] ( -plated) the cylinder is nickel-plated.

� figurative a state of little or no change following a period of activity or progress : the peace process had reached a plateau.

reach a state of little or no change after a time of activity or progress : the industry's problems have plateaued out.

a remark or statement, esp. one with a moral content, that has been used too often to be interesting or thoughtful : she began uttering liberal platitudes. � the quality of being dull, ordinary, or trite : educators willing to violate the bounds of platit

(of an argument or statement) seeming reasonable or probable : a plausible explanation | it seems plausible that one of two things may happen. See note at believable .

� figurative the state of being active, operative, or effective : luck comes into play.

play something by ear perform music without having to read from a score. � ( play it by ear) informal proceed instinctively according to results and circumstances rather than according to rules or a plan.

play by the rules follow what is generally held to be the correct line of behavior.

play it cool informal make an effort to be or appear to be calm and unemotional.

play something down represent something as being less important than it in fact is : he tried to play down the seriousness of his illness.

play hard to get informal deliberately adopt an aloof or uninterested attitude, typically in order to make oneself more attractive or interesting.

play (or play it) safe take precautions; avoid risks.

play second fiddle to take a subordinate role to someone or something in a way often considered demeaning : she had to play second fiddle to the interests of her husband.

play the �� card exploit the specified issue or idea mentioned, esp. for political advantage : he saw an opportunity to play the peace card.

fond of games and amusement; lighthearted : a playful tomboy who loves to dress up.

1 a request made in an urgent and emotional manner : he made a dramatic plea for disarmament. � a claim that a circumstance means that one should not be blamed for or should not be forced to do something : her plea of a headache was not entirely false.

1 [ reporting verb ] make an emotional appeal : [ intrans. ] they pleaded with Carol to come home again | [with direct speech ] "Don't go," she pleaded | [with infinitive ] Anne pleaded to go with her. See note at beg .

2 . [ trans. ] present and argue for (a position), esp. in court or in another public context : using cheap melodrama to plead the case for three prisoners.

� [ intrans. ] Law state formally in court whether one is guilty or not guilty of the offense with which one is charged : he pleaded guilty to the drug charge.

1 cause to feel happy and satisfied : he arranged a fishing trip to please his son | [ trans. ] it pleased him to be seen with someone in the news.

� [ intrans. ] wish or desire to do something : feel free to wander around as you please.

as �� as you please informal used to emphasize the manner in which someone does something, esp. when this is seen as surprising : she walked forward as calm as you please. if you please 1 used in polite requests : follow me, if you please. 2 used to expre

at someone's pleasure as and when someone wishes : the landlord could terminate the agreement at his pleasure.

take pleasure in derive happiness or enjoyment from : they take a perverse pleasure in causing trouble.

with pleasure gladly (used to express polite agreement or acceptance).

1 a solemn promise or undertaking : [with infinitive ] the conference ended with a joint pledge to limit pollution. � a promise of a donation to charity : the company's pledge of 10% of profits to environmental concerns. � ( the pledge) a solemn undertaki

1 [ trans. ] commit (a person or organization) by a solemn promise : the government pledged itself to deal with environmental problems. � [with clause ] formally declare or promise that something is or will be the case : the president pledged that 20,000

existing in or yielding great quantities; abundant : the wine is good, cheap, and plentiful. See note at prevalent .

an abundance : the farm boasts a plenitude of animals and birds. � the condition of being full or complete : the plenitude of the pope's powers.

used to emphasize the degree of something : she has plenty more ideas.

an excess of (something) : a plethora of committees and subcommittees.

a dangerous, difficult, or otherwise unfortunate situation : we must direct our efforts toward relieving the plight of children living in poverty.

1 [ trans. ] set down heavily or carelessly : she plonked her glass on the table. � ( plonk oneself) sit down heavily and without ceremony : he plonked himself down on the sofa.

1 a plan made in secret by a group of people to do something illegal or harmful : [with infinitive ] there's a plot to overthrow the government.

1 secretly make plans to carry out (an illegal or harmful action) : the two men are serving sentences for plotting a bomb campaign | [ intrans. ] Erica has been plotting against me all along.

1 turn up the earth of (an area of land) with a plow, esp. before sowing : Uncle Vic plowed his garden | [as adj. ] ( plowed) a plowed field. � cut (a furrow or line) with or as if with a plow : icebergs have plowed furrows on the seabed. � (of a ship or

2 [ intrans. ] (esp. of a vehicle) move in a fast and uncontrolled manner : the car plowed into the side of a van. � advance or progress laboriously or forcibly : they plowed their way through deep snow | the students are plowing through a set of grammar

a cunning plan or action designed to turn a situation to one's own advantage : the president has dismissed the referendum as a ploy to buy time.

take hold of (something) and quickly remove it from its place; pick : she plucked a blade of grass | he plucked a tape from the shelf. � catch hold of and pull quickly : she plucked his sleeve | [ intrans. ] brambles plucked at her jeans.

1 an obstruction blocking a hole, pipe, etc. : somewhere in the pipes there is a plug of ice blocking the flow.

1 block or fill in (a hole or cavity) : trucks arrived loaded with gravel to plug the hole and clear the road | figurative the new sanctions are meant to plug the gaps in the trade embargo. � insert (something) into an opening so as to fill it : the baby

pull the plug 1 informal prevent something from happening or continuing : the company pulled the plug on the deal because it was not satisfied with the terms. 2 informal remove (a patient) from life support : we'll be talking to people who pulled the plug

having a full rounded shape : the berries were plump and sweet.

shake or pat (a cushion or pillow) to adjust its stuffing and make it rounded and soft : she plumped up her pillows. � [ intrans. ] ( plump up) become rounder and fatter : stew the dried fruits gently until they plump up.

1 [ intrans. ] jump or dive quickly and energetically : our daughters whooped as they plunged into the sea. � fall suddenly and uncontrollably : a car swerved to avoid a bus and plunged into a ravine. � embark impetuously on a speech or course of action :

take the plunge informal commit oneself to a course of action about which one is nervous.

an act of jumping or diving into water : we went straight from the sauna to take a cold plunge. � a swift and drastic fall in value or amount : the bank declared a 76% plunge in its profits.

2 an advantage : knowing the language is a decided plus | [as adj. ] on the plus side, the employees are enthusiastic and good-natured.

plus or minus used to define the margin of error of an estimate or calculation : the coral was estimated to be 840 years old, plus or minus 40 years.

plutocracy |plu??t?kr?si| noun ( pl. -cies) government by the wealthy.

� take or acquire in an unfair or clandestine way : employers risk having their newly trained workers poached by other companies.

evoking a keen sense of sadness or regret : a poignant reminder of the passing of time. See note at moving . � keenly felt : the sensation of being back at home was most poignant in the winter.

3 a particular spot, place, or position in an area or on a map, object, or surface : turn left at the point where you see a sign to Apple Grove | the furthermost point of the gallery | the check-in point. � a particular moment in time or stage in a proces

� ( the point of) the verge or brink of (doing or being something) : she was on the point of leaving. � [usu. with adj. ] a stage or level at which a change of state occurs : it is packed to the bursting point.

� an argument or idea put forward by a person in discussion : he made the point that economic regulation involves controls on pricing. � an interesting or convincing idea : you must admit he does have a point. � (usu. the point) the significant or essenti

� a unit used in measuring value, achievement, or extent : the shares index was down seven points. � an advantage or success in an argument or discussion : she smiled, assuming she had won her point.

1 [ intrans. ] direct someone's attention to the position or direction of something, typically by extending one's finger : the boys were nudging each other and pointing at me | he gripped her arm and pointed to the seat | it's rude to point. � [with adver

beside the point irrelevant.

case in point an instance or example that illustrates what is being discussed : the "green revolution" in agriculture is a good case in point.

get the point understand or accept the validity of someone's idea or argument : I get the point about not sending rejections.

make one's point put across a proposition clearly and convincingly.

the point of no return the point in a journey or enterprise at which it becomes essential or more practical to continue to the end instead of returning to the point of departure.

to the point relevant : his evidence was brief and to the point.

point something out direct someone's gaze or attention toward something, esp. by extending one's finger. � [ reporting verb ] say something to make someone aware of a fact or circumstance : [with clause ] she pointed out that his van had been in the parki

a particular attitude or way of considering a matter : I'm trying to get Matthew to change his point of view. � (in fictional writing) the narrator's position in relation to the story being told : this story is told from a child's point of view. � the pos

1 having a sharpened or tapered tip or end : his face tapers to a pointed chin. 2 (of a remark or look) expressing criticism in a direct and unambiguous way : pointed comments were made about racial discrimination within the army.

� a hint as to what might happen in the future : the figures were a pointer to gradual economic recovery. � a small piece of advice; a tip : here are some pointers on how to go about the task.

1 having little or no sense, use, or purpose : speculating like this is a pointless exercise | [with infinitive ] it's pointless to plan too far ahead.

be or cause to be balanced or suspended : [ intrans. ] he poised motionless on his toes | [ trans. ] figurative the world was poised between peace and war. � ( be poised) (of a person or organization) be ready to do something : [with infinitive ] teachers

1 [ trans. ] jab or prod (someone or something), esp. with one's finger : he poked Benny in the ribs and pointed | [ intrans. ] they sniffed, felt, and poked at everything they bought. � [ trans. ] jab (one's finger) at someone or into something : keep ad

poke one's nose into informal take an intrusive interest in.

3 divide or cause to divide into two sharply contrasting groups or sets of opinions or beliefs : [ intrans. ] the cultural sphere has polarized into two competing ideological positions | [ trans. ] Vietnam polarized political opinion.

the property of having poles or being polar : it exhibits polarity when presented to a magnetic needle. � the relative orientation of poles; the direction of a magnetic or electric field : the magnetic field peaks in strength immediately after switching p

� enforce regulations or an agreement in (a particular area or domain) : a UN resolution to use military force to police the no-fly zone. � enforce the provisions of (a law, agreement, or treaty) : the regulations will be policed by factory inspectors.

� improve, refine, or add the finishing touches to : he's got to polish up his French for his job.

� [in sing. ] an act of rubbing something to give it a shiny surface : I could give the cabinet a polish. � smoothness or glossiness produced by rubbing or friction : the machine refines the shape of the stone and gives it polish. � refinement or elegance

cause (an activity or event) to become political in character : art was becoming politicized | attempts to politicize America's curricula. � make (someone) politically aware, esp. by persuading them of the truth of views considered radical : we successful

pollinate |?p?l?ne?t| verb [ trans. ] convey pollen to or deposit pollen on (a stigma, ovule, flower, or plant) and so allow fertilization.

1 (often the polls) the process of voting in an election : the country went to the polls on March 10.

polygamy |p??l?g?mi| noun 1 the practice or custom of having more than one wife or husband at the same time.

polyglot |?p?l?gl?t| adjective knowing or using several languages : a polyglot career woman.

polymath |?p?l?ma?| noun a person of wide-ranging knowledge or learning.

affectedly and irritatingly grand, solemn, or self-important : a pompous ass who pretends he knows everything.

think about (something) carefully, esp. before making a decision or reaching a conclusion : I pondered the question of what clothes to wear for the occasion [ intrans. ] : she sat pondering over her problem.

1 used to convey the suddenness with which someone or something disappears : once you've used it, poof�it's gone. 2 used to express contemptuous dismissal : "Oh, poof!" said Will. "You say that every year.

� a small, shallow patch of liquid lying on a surface : a pool of blood | figurative the lamps cast pools of light on the wet streets.

1 a supply of vehicles or goods available for use when needed : the oldest vehicle in the motor pool. � a group of people available for work when required : the typing pool. � a group of people considered as a resource : a nationwide pool of promising hig

(of two or more people or organizations) put (money or other assets) into a common fund : they entered a contract to pool any gains and invest them profitably. � share (things) for the benefit of all those involved : [as n. ] ( pooling) a pooling of ideas

1 [ intrans. ] make a sudden, sharp, explosive sound : corks popped, glasses tinkled, and delicate canap�s were served. � [ trans. ] cause (something) to burst, making such a sound : they were popping balloons with darts.

2 [ intrans. ] go somewhere, typically for a short time and often without notice : she popped in to see if she could help. � [ trans. ] put or move (something) somewhere quickly : he popped his head around the door.

1 a sudden sharp explosive sound : at first there were just a few pops, perhaps from pistols.

pop up 1 appear or occur suddenly and unexpectedly : these memories can pop up from time to time. 2 hit a baseball high into the air but not deep, providing an easy catch : in three at bats, he struck out twice and popped up.

pop-eyed adjective informal (of a person) having bulging eyes.

cause (something) to become generally liked : his books have done much to popularize the sport.

form the population of (a town, area, or country) : the island is populated by scarcely 40,000 people | [as adj., with submodifier ] ( populated) a densely populated area. � figurative fill or be present in (a place, environment, or domain) : the spirit o

� figurative not retentive or secure : he ran through a porous defense to score easily.

� a part of something divided between two or more people; a share : she wanted the right to decide how her portion of the allowance should be spent. � an amount of food suitable for or served to one person : a portion of ice cream | burger joints offering

divide (something) into shares to be distributed among two or more people : the fish are portioned out to the different families. � [usu. as adj., with submodifier ] ( portioned) serve (food) in an amount suitable for one person : generously portioned lun

� a representation or impression of someone or something in language or on film : the writer builds up a full and fascinating portrait of a community.

depict (someone or something) in a work of art or literature : the author wanted to portray a new type of hero. � (of an actor) represent or play the part of (someone) on film or stage : he tossed his affable TV persona aside to portray a merciless mobste

� divide (a room) into smaller rooms or areas by erecting partitions : the hall was partitioned to contain the noise of the computers. � ( partition something off) separate a part of a room from the rest by erecting a partition : partition off part of a l

1 [ trans. ] present or constitute (a problem, danger, or difficulty) : the sheer number of visitors is posing a threat to the area. � raise (a question or matter for consideration) : a statement that posed more questions than it answered.

elegant or stylishly luxurious : a posh Munich hotel. � chiefly Brit. typical of or belonging to the upper class of society : she had a posh accent.

1 [ trans. ] assume as a fact; put forward as a basis of argument : the Confucian view posits a perfectible human nature | [with clause ] he posited that the world economy is a system with its own particular equilibrium. � ( posit something on) base somet

� the location where someone or something should be; the correct place : the lid was put into position and screwed down | make sure that no slates have slipped out of position.

2 a particular way in which someone or something is placed or arranged : he moved himself into a reclining position | a cramp forced her to change position.

3 a situation or set of circumstances, esp. one that affects one's power to act : the company's financial position is grim | [with infinitive ] we felt we were not in a position to judge the merits of the case.

� a person's place or rank in relation to others, esp. in a competitive situation : he made up ground to finish in second position. � high rank or social standing : a woman of supposed wealth and position.

4 a person's particular point of view or attitude toward something : the official U.S. position on Palestine.

put or arrange (someone or something) in a particular place or way : he pulled out a chair and positioned it between them | she positioned herself on a bench. � promote (a product, service, or business) within a particular sector of a market, or as the fu

of, relating to, or determined by position : the team will be forced to make several positional changes.

� have as an ability, quality, or characteristic : he did not possess a sense of humor | ( be possessed of) a fading blonde possessed of a powerful soprano voice.

1 the state of having, owning, or controlling something : are you in possession of any items over $500 in value? | he had taken possession of one of the sofas | the book came into my possession. � Law visible power or control over something, as distinct f

1 demanding someone's total attention and love : as soon as she'd been out with a guy a few times, he'd get possessive | she was possessive of our eldest son. � showing a desire to own things and an unwillingness to share what one already owns : young chi

display (a notice) in a public place : a curt notice had been posted on the door | the exam results were posted this morning. � announce or publish (something, esp. a financial result) : the company posted a $460,000 loss.

1 [ trans. ] chiefly Brit. send (a letter or parcel) via the postal system : I've just been to post a letter | post off your order form today.

1 a position of paid employment; a job : he resigned from the post of foreign minister | a teaching post.

of or relating to the post office or the mail : increased postal rates | postal services. � chiefly Brit. done through the mail : a postal ballot | a postal survey.

1 chiefly Anatomy, technical further back in position; of or nearer the rear or hind end, esp. of the body or a part of it : the posterior part of the gut

all future generations of people : the victims' names are recorded for posterity. � [in sing. ] archaic the descendants of a person : God offered Abraham a posterity like the stars of heaven.

cause or arrange for (something) to take place at a time later than that first scheduled : the visit had to be postponed for some time | [with present participle ] the judge postponed sentencing a former government spokesman for fraud.

1 suggest or assume the existence, fact, or truth of (something) as a basis for reasoning, discussion, or belief : his theory postulated a rotatory movement for hurricanes | [with clause ] he postulated that the environmentalists might have a case.

a position of a person's body when standing or sitting : he stood in a flamboyant posture with his hands on his hips | good posture will protect your spine.

� figurative a particular way of dealing with or considering something; an approach or attitude : labor unions adopted a more militant posture in wage negotiations. � figurative a particular way of behaving that is intended to convey a false impression; a

� the contents of any of such containers : a pot of coffee.

1 a container, typically rounded or cylindrical and of ceramic ware or metal, used for storage or cooking : clay pots for keeping water cool in summer | a cooking pot.

potbelly (also pot belly) noun a large, protruding, rotund stomach.

1 having great power, influence, or effect : thrones were potent symbols of authority | a potent drug | a potent argument.

1 a small bag or other flexible receptacle, typically carried in a pocket or attached to a belt : a tobacco pouch | webbing with pouches for stun grenades.

poultry |?p??ltri| noun domestic fowl, such as chickens, turkeys, ducks, and geese.

(of an animal or bird of prey) spring or swoop suddenly so as to catch prey : the wolf pounced on the rat | she looked like a vulture waiting to pounce. � (of a person) spring forward suddenly so as to attack or seize someone or something : the gang pounc

strike or hit heavily and repeatedly : Patrick pounded the couch with his fists | U.S. gunships pounded the capital | [ intrans. ] pounding on the door, she shouted at the top of her voice. � crush or grind (something) into a powder or paste by beating it

� [ trans. ] serve (a drink) in this way : she poured out a cup of tea | [with two objs. ] Harry poured her a drink. � [ intrans. ] (of rain) fall heavily : the storm clouds gathered and the rain poured down [ trans. ] : it's pouring rain. � (of people or

� [ trans. ] ( pour something into) donate something, esp. money, to (a particular enterprise or project) in large amounts : Belgium has been pouring money into the company. � [ trans. ] ( pour something out) express one's feelings or thoughts in a full a

when it rains it pours proverb misfortunes or difficult situations tend to follow each other in rapid succession or to arrive all at the same time.

push one's lips or one's bottom lip forward as an expression of petulant annoyance or in order to make oneself look sexually attractive : she lounged on the steps, pouting | [ trans. ] he shrugged and pouted his lips. � (of a person's lips) be pushed forw

extremely poor : thousands of poverty-stricken people.

� suitable for a particular purpose : a practical, stylish kitchen. � (of a person) sensible and realistic in their approach to a situation or problem : I'm not unfeeling, just trying to be practical.

1 the quality or state of being practical : there are still major doubts about the practicality of the proposal. 2 ( practicalities) the aspects of a situation that involve the actual doing or experience of something rather than theories or ideas : the pr

1 virtually; almost : the risk of default was practically zero | the place was practically empty.

1 the actual application or use of an idea, belief, or method as opposed to theories about such application or use : the principles and practice of teaching | he put his self-defense training into practice by helping police arrest the armed robber. � the

2 carry out or perform (a particular activity, method, or custom) habitually or regularly : we still practice some of these rituals today. � actively pursue or be engaged in (a particular profession or occupation) : he began to practice law | [ intrans. ]

practice makes perfect used to convey that regular exercise of an activity or skill is the way to become proficient in it, esp. when encouraging someone to persist in it.

dealing with things sensibly and realistically in a way that is based on practical rather than theoretical considerations : a pragmatic approach to politics.

express warm approval or admiration of : we can't praise Chris enough�he did a brilliant job.

the expression of approval or admiration for someone or something : the audience was full of praise for the whole production.

deserving approval and admiration : they displayed a praiseworthy sense of responsibility.

(of a horse) move with high springy steps : the pony was prancing around the paddock. � (of a person) walk or move around with ostentatious, exaggerated movements : she pranced around the lounge impersonating her favorite pop stars.

prankster |?pra?kst?| noun a person fond of playing pranks. � a solemn request for help or expression of thanks addressed to God or an object of worship : I'll say a prayer for him | the peace of God is ours through prayer. practice, as distinguished from

before (in time, place, order, degree, or importance) : preadolescent | precaution | precede.

deliver a sermon or religious address to an assembled group of people, typically in church : he preached to a large congregation | [ trans. ] our pastor will preach the sermon. � [ trans. ] publicly proclaim or teach (a religious message or belief) : a ch

a preliminary or preparatory statement; an introduction : what she said was by way of a preamble | I gave him the bad news without preamble.

1 not securely held or in position; dangerously likely to fall or collapse : a precarious ladder. 2 dependent on chance; uncertain : she made a precarious living by writing.

a measure taken in advance to prevent something dangerous, unpleasant, or inconvenient from happening : he had taken the precaution of seeking legal advice.

come before (something) in time : a gun battle had preceded the explosions. � come before in order or position : take time to read the chapters that precede the recipes | [as adj. ] ( preceding) the preceding pages. � go in front or ahead of : he let her

the condition of being considered more important than someone or something else; priority in importance, order, or rank : his desire for power soon took precedence over any other consideration.

an earlier event or action that is regarded as an example or guide to be considered in subsequent similar circumstances : there are substantial precedents for using interactive media in training | breaking with all precedent.

1 a general rule intended to regulate behavior or thought : moral precepts | the legal precept of being innocent until proven guilty | children learn far more by example than by precept.

1 cause (an event or situation, typically one that is bad or undesirable) to happen suddenly, unexpectedly, or prematurely : the incident precipitated a political crisis. � [ trans. ] cause to move suddenly and with force : suddenly the ladder broke, prec

done, made, or acting suddenly or without careful consideration : I must apologize for my staff�their actions were precipitate. � (of an event or situation) occurring suddenly or abruptly : a precipitate decline in cultural literacy.

1 dangerously high or steep : the precipitous cliffs of the North Atlantic coast. � (of a change to a worse situation or condition) sudden and dramatic : the end of the war led to a precipitous decline in exports.

to be precise used to indicate that one is now giving more exact or detailed information : there were not many�five, to be precise.

the quality, condition, or fact of being exact and accurate : the deal was planned and executed with military precision.

prevent from happening; make impossible : the secret nature of his work precluded official recognition. See note at prohibit . � ( preclude someone from) (of a situation or condition) prevent someone from doing something : his difficulties preclude him fr

(of an idea or opinion) formed before having the evidence for its truth or usefulness : the same set of facts can be tailored to fit any preconceived belief.

a condition that must be fulfilled before other things can happen or be done : a precondition for peace.

1 (usu. be preconditioned) condition (an action) to happen in a certain way : inquiries are always preconditioned by cultural assumptions.

a person or thing that comes before another of the same kind; a forerunner : a three-stringed precursor of the violin | [as adj. ] precursor cells.

preceding something in time, development, or position; preliminary : precursory seismic activity.

relating to or denoting an animal or animals preying naturally on others : predatory birds. � figurative seeking to exploit or oppress others : a life destroyed by predatory biographers and yellow journalists.

a person who held a job or office before the current holder : the new president's foreign policy is very similar to that of his predecessor. � a thing that has been followed or replaced by another : the chapel was built in 1864 on the site of its predeces

defined, limited, or established in advance : predefined styles for tables, outlines, paragraphs, and graphics.

establish or decide in advance : closed questions almost predetermine the response given | [as adj. ] ( predetermined) a predetermined level of spending.

1 a difficult, unpleasant, or embarrassing situation : the club's financial predicament.

relating to or having the effect of predicting an event or result : predictive accuracy | rules are not predictive of behavior.

present as the strongest or main element : its predominant color was white. � having or exerting control or power : the predominant political forces.

the state or condition of being greater in number or amount : the demographic predominance of the Muslims | [in sing. ] there is a predominance of female teachers.

serving or intended to preempt or forestall something, esp. to prevent attack by disabling the enemy : preemptive action | a preemptive strike. � relating to the purchase of goods or shares by one person or party before the opportunity is offered to other

1 take action in order to prevent (an anticipated event) from happening; forestall : the government preempted a coup attempt.

provide (a book) with a preface : the book is prefaced by a quotation from William Faulkner.

of or involving preference or partiality; constituting a favor or privilege : preferential interest rates may be offered to employees. � (of regulations or rates) favoring particular countries : preferential trade terms.

of, relating to, or denoting the period before written records : prehistoric man.

without prejudice Law without detriment to any existing right or claim : the payment was made without any prejudice to her rights.

denoting an action or event preceding or done in preparation for something fuller or more important : preliminary talks | the discussions were seen as preliminary to the policy paper.

an action or event preceding or preparing for something fuller or more important : the bombardment was resumed as a preliminary to an infantry attack.

1 an action or event serving as an introduction to something more important : education cannot simply be a prelude to a career.

serve as a prelude or introduction to : the bombardment preluded an all-out final attack.

first in importance, order, or position; leading : Germany's premier rock band | the premier national publication.

a previous statement or proposition from which another is inferred or follows as a conclusion : if the premise is true, then the conclusion must be true. � an assertion or proposition which forms the basis for a work or theory : the fundamental premise of

base an argument, theory, or undertaking on : the reforms were premised on our findings. � state or presuppose (something) as a premise : [with clause ] one school of thought premised that the cosmos is indestructible.

before birth; during or relating to pregnancy : prenatal development.

existing or occurring before marriage : prenuptial pregnancy.

pre..

(of a matter or subject) dominate or engross the mind of (someone) to the exclusion of other thoughts : his mother was preoccupied with paying the bills | [as adj. ] ( preoccupied) she seemed a bit preoccupied.

serving as or carrying out preparation for a task or undertaking : more preparatory work is needed.

a thing that is required as a prior condition for something else to happen or exist : sponsorship is not a prerequisite for any of our courses.

(of a medical practitioner) advise and authorize the use of (a medicine or treatment) for someone, esp. in writing : Dr. Greene prescribed magnesium sulfate | [with two objs. ] the doctor prescribed her a drug called amantadine.

1 an instruction written by a medical practitioner that authorizes a patient to be provided a medicine or treatment : he scribbled a prescription for tranquilizers | antidepressants available only by prescription | [as adj. ] prescription drugs. � the act

1 of or relating to the imposition or enforcement of a rule or method : these guidelines are not intended to be prescriptive.

the state or fact of existing, occurring, or being present in a place or thing : her presence still comforts me | the presence of chlorine in the atmosphere | the memorial was unveiled in the presence of 24 veterans. � a person or thing that exists or is

make one's presence felt have a strong and obvious effect or influence on others or on a situation.

1 [ predic. ] (of a person) in a particular place : a doctor must be present at the ringside | the speech caused embarrassment to all those present. � (often present in) (of a thing) existing or occurring in a place or thing : organic molecules are presen

1 ( present something to) give something to (someone) formally or ceremonially : a top executive will present an award to employees who built the F-150.

� formally introduce (someone) to someone else : may I present my wife? � proffer (compliments or good wishes) in a formal manner : may I present the greetings of my master?

2 bring about or be the cause of (a problem or difficulty) : this should not present much difficulty. � exhibit (a particular state or appearance) to others : the EC presented a united front over the crisis. � represent (someone) to others in a particular

� ( present itself) (of an opportunity or idea) occur and be available for use or exploitation : when a favorable opportunity presented itself, he would submit his proposition.

of or relating to the current period of time : present-day technological developments.

clean, well dressed, or decent enough to be seen in public : I did my best to make myself look presentable.

� the manner or style in which something is given, offered, or displayed : the presentation of foods is designed to stimulate your appetite.

1 after a short time; soon : this will be examined in more detail presently. 2 at the present time; now : there are presently 1,128 people on the waiting list

maintain (something) in its original or existing state : all records of the past were zealously preserved | [as adj. ] ( preserved) a magnificently preserved monastery. � retain (a condition or state of affairs) : a fight to preserve local democracy. � ma

the action of preserving something : the preservation of the city's green spaces | food preservation. � the state of being preserved, esp. to a specified degree : the homestead is in a fine state of preservation.

set or adjust (a value that controls the operation of a device) in advance of its use : the water is heated quickly to a preset temperature.

1 be in the position of authority in a meeting or gathering : Bishop Herbener presided at the meeting | [as adj. ] ( presiding) the sentence imposed by the presiding judge. � ( preside over) be in charge of (a place or situation) : he presided over a peri

1 move or cause to move into a position of contact with something by exerting continuous physical force : [ trans. ] he pressed his face to the glass | [ intrans. ] her body pressed against his.

� [ intrans. ] ( press on/ahead) figurative continue in one's action : he stubbornly pressed on with his work.

� make strong efforts to persuade or force (someone) to do or provide something : when I pressed him for precise figures, he evaded the subject | [with infinitive ] the marketing directors were pressed to justify their expenditure | [ intrans. ] they cont

� ( be pressed) have barely enough of something, esp. time : I'm very pressed for time.

3 ( the press) [treated as sing. or pl. ] newspapers or journalists viewed collectively : the press was notified | [as adj. ] press coverage. � coverage in newspapers and magazines : there's no point in demonstrating if you don't get any press | [in sing.

attempt to persuade or coerce (someone) into doing something : it might now be possible to pressure him into resigning | [ trans. ] she pressured her son to accept a job offer from the bank.

2 the use of persuasion, influence, or intimidation to make someone do something : the proposals put pressure on Britain to drop its demand | the many pressures on girls to worry about their looks. � the influence or effect of someone or something : oil p

2 the use of persuasion, influence, or intimidation to make someone do something : the proposals put pressure on Britain to drop its demand | the many pressures on girls to worry about their looks. � the influence or effect of someone or something : oil p

1 [with clause ] suppose that something is the case on the basis of probability : I presumed that the man had been escorted from the building | [ trans. ] the two men were presumed dead when the wreck of their boat was found. � take for granted that somet

used to convey that what is asserted is very likely though not known for certain : the Yakima Indians presumably came from Asia by way of the Bering Strait.

1 an act or instance of taking something to be true or adopting a particular attitude toward something, esp. at the start of a chain of argument or action : the presumption of guilt has changed to a presumption of innocence. � an idea that is taken to be

(of a person or their behavior) failing to observe the limits of what is permitted or appropriate : I hope I won't be considered presumptuous if I offer some advice. See note at bold .

1 an attempt to make something that is not the case appear true : his anger is masked by a pretense that all is well | they have finally abandoned their secrecy and pretense. � a false display of feelings, attitudes, or intentions : he asked me questions

attempting to impress by affecting greater importance, talent, culture, etc., than is actually possessed : a pretentious literary device.

a reason given in justification of a course of action that is not the real reason : the rebels had the perfect pretext for making their move.

on (or under) the pretext giving the specified reason as one's justification : the police raided Grand River on the pretext of looking for moonshiners.

pretty much (or nearly or well) informal very nearly : the case is pretty well over.

prove more powerful than opposing forces; be victorious : it is hard for logic to prevail over emotion. � be widespread in a particular area at a particular time; be current : an atmosphere of crisis prevails | [as adj. ] ( prevailing) the prevailing poli

widespread in a particular area at a particular time : the social ills prevalent in society today.

designed to keep something undesirable such as illness, harm, or accidents from occurring : preventive medicine.

an inspection or viewing of something before it is bought or becomes generally known and available : you can get a sneak preview of the pictures on sale.

display (a product, movie, play, etc.) before it officially goes on sale or opens to the public : the company will preview an enhanced version of its database.

fall prey to be hunted and killed by : small rodents fell prey to domestic cats. � be vulnerable to or overcome by : he would often fall prey to melancholy.

� a person or thing easily injured or taken advantage of : he was easy prey for the two con men. � a person who is vulnerable to distressing emotions or beliefs : the settlers become prey to nameless fears.

decide the amount required as payment for (something offered for sale) : the watches in this range are priced at $14.50.

at any price no matter what expense, sacrifice, or difficulty is involved : they wanted peace at any price. at a price requiring great expense or involving unwelcome consequences : his generosity comes at a price.

put a price on determine the value of : you can't put a price on what she has to offer.

what price ��? used to ask what has become of something or to suggest that something has or would become worthless : what price justice if he were allowed to go free?

expensive : boutiques selling pricey clothes.

1 make a small hole in (something) with a sharp point; pierce slightly : prick the potatoes with a fork. � [ intrans. ] feel a sensation as though a sharp point were sticking into one : she felt her scalp prick and her palms were damp. � (of tears) cause

(of a person's skin or a part of the body) experience a tingling sensation, esp. as a result of strong emotion : the sound made her skin prickle with horror. � [ trans. ] cause a tingling or mildly painful sensation in : I hate the way the fibers prickle

1 a feeling or deep pleasure or satisfaction derived from one's own achievements, the achievements of those with whom one is closely associated, or from qualities or possessions that are widely admired : the team was bursting with pride after recording a

1 the fact of being primary, preeminent, or more important : the primacy of air power in the modern war.

essential; fundamental : for me, writing is a primal urge. � relating to an early stage in evolutionary development; primeval : primal hunting societies.

1 of chief importance; principal : the government's primary aim is to see significant reductions in unemployment. 2 earliest in time or order of development : the country was in the primary stage of socialism. � not derived from, caused by, or based on an

the chief bishop or archbishop of a province : Cardinal Glemp, the primate of Poland.

1 of first importance; main : her prime concern is the well-being of the patient. � from which another thing may derive or proceed : Diogenes' conclusion that air is the prime matter. 2 [ attrib. ] of the best possible quality; excellent : a prime site in

1 [in sing. ] a state or time of greatest strength, vigor, or success in a person's life : you're in the prime of life | he wasn't elderly, but clearly past his prime.

pri..

1 first in order of importance; main : the country's principal cities. 2 (of money) denoting an original sum invested or lent : the principal amount of your investment.

1 a fundamental truth or proposition that serves as the foundation for a system of belief or behavior or for a chain of reasoning : the basic principles of Christianity. � (usu. principles) a rule or belief governing one's personal behavior : struggling t

2 a fundamental source or basis of something : the first principle of all things was water. � a fundamental quality or attribute determining the nature of something; an essence : the combination of male and female principles.

in principle as a general idea or plan, although the details are not yet established or clear : the government agreed in principle to a peace plan that included a cease-fire. � used to indicate that although something is theoretically possible, it may not

� figurative fix (something) firmly or indelibly in someone's mind : his face, with its clearly drawn features, was printed on her memory.

� produce (text or a picture) in such a way : the words had been printed in blue type. � (of a newspaper or magazine) publish (a piece of writing) within its pages : the article was printed in the first edition.

� write (text) clearly without joining the letters : print your name and address on the back of the check | [ intrans. ] it will be easier to read if I print.

1 the text appearing in a book, newspaper, or other printed publication, esp. with reference to its size, form, or style : squinting at the tiny print | bold print.

� the state of being available in published form : the news will never get into print.

suitable or fit to be printed or published : break photographs up into printable form | few people had a good, or even printable, word for him.

prior to before a particular time or event : she visited me on the day prior to her death.

existing or coming before in time, order, or importance : he has a prior engagement this evening.

� the fact or condition of being regarded or treated as more important : the safety of the country takes priority over any other matter.

� determine the order for dealing with (a series of items or tasks) according to their relative importance : age affects the way people prioritize their goals | [ intrans. ] are you able to prioritize?

a building (or vessel) to which people are legally committed as a punishment for crimes they have committed or while awaiting trial : he died in prison | both men were sent to prison.

in its original condition; unspoiled : pristine copies of an early magazine. � clean and fresh as if new; spotless : a pristine white shirt.

� the state of being free from public attention : a law to restrict newspapers' freedom to invade people's privacy.

in private with no one else present : I've got to talk to you in private.

in a private way, manner, or capacity : I must insist we speak privately | his research is privately financed.

transfer (a business, industry, or service) from public to private ownership and control : a plan for privatizing education.

� something regarded as a rare opportunity and bringing particular pleasure : I have the privilege of awarding you this scholarship.

sharing in the knowledge of (something secret or private) : he was no longer privy to her innermost thoughts.

1 favoring; supporting : pro-choice | pro-life. 2 acting as a substitute or deputy for; on behalf of; for : proconsul | procure. 3 denoting motion forward, out, or away : proceed | propel | prostrate.

before in time, place, order, etc. : proactive | prognosis | program.

for the public good : [as adv. ] the burden they carried pro bono publico. � (usu. pro bono) denoting work undertaken for the public good without charge, esp. legal work for a client with a low income : [as adv. ] the attorneys are representing him pro bo

opposing abortion and euthanasia : she is a pro-life activist. Compare with pro-choice .

(of a person, policy, or action) creating or controlling a situation by causing something to happen rather than responding to it after it has happened : be proactive in identifying and preventing potential problems.

� Mathematics the extent to which an event is likely to occur, measured by the ratio of the favorable cases to the whole number of cases possible : the area under the curve represents probability | a probability of 0.5.

in all probability used to convey that something is very likely : he would in all probability make himself known.

based on or adapted to a theory of probability; subject to or involving chance variation : the main approaches are either rule-based or probabilistic.

likely to be the case or to happen : it is probable that the economic situation will deteriorate further | the probable consequences of his action.

the release of an offender from detention, subject to a period of good behavior under supervision : I went to court and was put on probation.

� an investigation into a crime or other matter : a probe into the maritime industry by the FBI.

physically explore or examine (something) with the hands or an instrument : researchers probing the digestive glands of mollusks. � [ intrans. ] seek to uncover information about someone or something : he began to probe into Donald's whereabouts | [ trans

make into or regard as a problem requiring a solution : he problematized the concept of history.

� a series of actions conducted in a certain order or manner : the standard procedure for informing new employees about conditions of work.

begin or continue a course of action : we can proceed with our investigation. � [ intrans. ] move forward, esp. after reaching a certain point : the ship could proceed to Milwaukee. � [with infinitive ] do something as a natural or seemingly inevitable ne

� (of an action) be started : negotiations must proceed without delay. � (of an action) be carried on or continued : as the excavation proceeds, the visible layers can be recorded and studied.

be in the process of doing something be continuing with an action already started : a hurricane that was in the process of devastating South Carolina. in the process as an unintended part of a course of action : she would make him pay for this, even if sh

1 a number of people or vehicles moving forward in an orderly fashion, esp. as part of a ceremony or festival : a funeral procession. � the action of moving forward in such a way : the fully robed civic dignitaries walk in procession. � figurative a relen

announce officially or publicly : the joint manifesto proclaimed that imperialism would be the coalition's chief objective [ trans. ] : army commanders proclaimed a state of emergency. See note at announce . � declare something one considers important wit

a public or official announcement, esp. one dealing with a matter of great importance : Eisenhower signed a proclamation admitting Alaska to the Union.

delay or postpone action; put off doing something : it won't be this price for long, so don't procrastinate.

1 obtain (something), esp. with care or effort : food procured for the rebels | [with two objs. ] he persuaded a friend to procure him a ticket. See note at get . � obtain (someone) as a prostitute for another person : he was charged with procuring a mino

poke (someone) with a finger, foot, or pointed object : he prodded her in the ribs to stop her snoring | [ intrans. ] a woman prods at a tiger with a stick. � stimulate or persuade (someone who is reluctant or slow) to do something : he has been trying to

1 a poke with a finger, foot, or pointed object : he gave the wire netting an experimental prod. � an act of stimulating or reminding someone to do something : he'll need a little prod to get back to the task at hand.

a person, esp. a young one, endowed with exceptional qualities or abilities : a Russian pianist who was a child prodigy in his day. � an impressive or outstanding example of a particular quality : Germany seemed a prodigy of industrial discipline.

2 cause (a particular result or situation) to happen or come into existence : no conventional drugs had produced any significant change.

� a person whose character and identity have been formed by a particular period or situation : an aging academic who is a product of the 1960s.

1 the action of making or manufacturing from components or raw materials, or the process of being so manufactured : the production of chemical weapons | it is no longer in production. � the harvesting or refinement of something natural : nonintensive meth

2 the process of or financial and administrative management involved in making a movie, play, or record : the movie was still in production | [as adj. ] a production company.

producing or able to produce large amounts of goods, crops, or other commodities : the most productive employees. � relating to or engaged in the production of goods, crops, or other commodities : the country's productive capacity. � achieving or producin

the state or quality of producing something, esp. crops : the long-term productivity of land | agricultural productivity. � the effectiveness of productive effort, esp. in industry, as measured in terms of the rate of output per unit of input : workers ha

1 relating or devoted to that which is not sacred or biblical; secular rather than religious : a talk that tackled topics both sacred and profane. � (of a person) not initiated into religious rites or any esoteric knowledge : he was an agnostic, a profane

blasphemous or obscene language : an outburst of profanity.

1 claim openly but often falsely that one has (a quality or feeling) : he had professed his love for her | [with infinitive ] I don't profess to be an expert | [with complement ] ( profess oneself) he professed himself amazed at the boy's ability.

1 an outline of something, esp. a person's face, as seen from one side : the man turned and she caught his profile.

� a graphical or other representation of information relating to particular characteristics of something, recorded in quantified form : the blood profiles of cancer patients. � a short article giving a description of a person or organization, esp. a publi

1 describe (a person or organization, esp. a public figure) in a short article : he was to profile each candidate.

competent or skilled in doing or using something : I was proficient at my job | she felt reasonably proficient in Italian.

obtain a financial advantage or benefit, esp. from an investment : the only people to profit from the entire episode were the lawyers. � obtain an advantage or benefit : not all children would profit from this kind of schooling.

at a profit making more money than is spent buying, operating, or producing something : fixing up houses and selling them at a profit.

� [ trans. ] be beneficial to : it would profit us to change our plans.

1 (of a state, quality, or emotion) very great or intense : profound social changes | profound feelings of disquiet. � (of a disease or disability) very severe; deep-seated : a case of profound liver failure. 2 (of a person or statement) having or showing

a person or thing from which a person, animal, or plant is descended or originates; an ancestor or parent : his sons and daughters were the progenitors of many of Scotland's leading noble families. � a person who originates an artistic, political, or inte

1 ( program) provide (a computer or other machine) with coded instructions for the automatic performance of a particular task : it is a simple matter to program the computer to recognize such symbols.

� (often be programmed) figurative cause (a person or animal) to behave in a predetermined way : all members of a particular species are programmed to build nests in the same way.

forward or onward movement toward a destination : the darkness did not stop my progress | they failed to make any progress up the narrow estuary. � advance or development toward a better, more complete, or more modern condition : we are making progress to

move forward or onward in space or time : as the century progressed, the quality of telescopes improved. � advance or develop toward a better, more complete, or more modern state : work on the pond is progressing.

in progress in the course of being done or carried out : a meeting was in progress.

a movement or development toward a destination or a more advanced state, esp. gradually or in stages : the normal progression from junior to senior status | their mode of progression through the forest. � a succession; a series : counting the twenty-four

1 happening or developing gradually or in stages; proceeding step by step : a progressive decline in popularity. � (of a disease or ailment) increasing in severity or extent : progressive liver failure.

formally forbid (something) by law, rule, or other authority : laws prohibiting cruelty to animals. � ( prohibit someone/something from doing something) formally forbid a person or group from doing something : he is prohibited from being a director. � (of

2 (esp. of a law or rule) forbidding or restricting something : prohibitive legislation.

1 (usu. be projected) estimate or forecast (something) on the basis of present trends : spending was projected at $72 million. � [often as adj. ] ( projected) plan (a scheme or undertaking) : a projected exhibition of contemporary art. 2 [ intrans. ] exte

� imagine (oneself, a situation, etc.) as having moved to a different place or time : people may be projecting the present into the past. 4 present or promote (a particular view or image) : he strives to project an image of youth.

1 an estimate or forecast of a future situation or trend based on a study of present ones : plans based on projections of slow but positive growth | population projection is essential for planning. 2 the presentation of an image on a surface, esp. a movie

increase rapidly in numbers; multiply : the science-fiction magazines which proliferated in the 1920s. � (of a cell, structure, or organism) reproduce rapidly : the Mediterranean faces an ecological disaster if the seaweed continues to proliferate at its

� rapid reproduction of a cell, part, or organism : we attempted to measure cell proliferation. � [in sing. ] a large number of something : stress levels are high, forcing upon them a proliferation of ailments.

1 (of a plant, animal, or person) producing much fruit or foliage or many offspring : in captivity, tigers are prolific breeders. See note at fertile . � (of an artist, author, or composer) producing many works : he was a prolific composer of operas. � (o

extend the duration of : an idea that prolonged the life of the engine by many years. � (usu. be prolonged) rare extend in spatial length : the line of his lips was prolonged in a short red scar.

continuing for a long time or longer than usual; lengthy : the region suffered a prolonged drought.

1 the state of being important or famous : she came to prominence as an artist in the 1960s | [in sing. ] the commission gave the case a prominence which it might otherwise have escaped.

1 important; famous : she was a prominent member of the city council. 2 projecting from something; protuberant : a man with big, prominent eyes like a lobster's. � situated so as to catch the attention; noticeable : the new housing developments are promin

1 derogatory (of a person) having many sexual relationships, esp. transient ones : she's a wild, promiscuous girl. � (of sexual behavior or a society) characterized by such relationships : they ran wild, indulging in promiscuous sex and experimenting with

2 [ trans. ] give good grounds for expecting (a particular occurrence or situation) : forthcoming concerts promise a feast of music from around the world | [with infinitive ] it promised to be a night that all present would long remember. � (of a person,

I promise (or I promise you) informal used for emphasis, esp. so as to reassure, encourage, or threaten someone : oh, I'm not joking, I promise you.

showing signs of future success : a promising actor | a promising start to the season.

1 further the progress of (something, esp. a cause, venture, or aim); support or actively encourage : some regulation is still required to promote competition. � give publicity to (a product, organization, or venture) so as to increase sales or public awa

2 (often be promoted) advance or raise (someone) to a higher position or rank : she was promoted to general manager.

1 activity that supports or provides active encouragement for the furtherance of a cause, venture, or aim : disease prevention and health promotion.

2 the action of raising someone to a higher position or rank or the fact of being so raised : majors designated for promotion to lieutenant colonel | a promotion to divisional sales director. �1 (of an event or fact) cause or bring about (an action or fee

promote or make widely known (an idea or cause) : these objectives have to be promulgated within the organization. See note at announce . � put (a law or decree) into effect by official proclamation : in January 1852, the new constitution was promulgated.

1 [ predic. ] ( prone to/prone to do something) likely to or liable to suffer from, do, or experience something, typically something regrettable or unwelcome : years of logging had left the mountains prone to mudslides | he is prone to jump to conclusions

� figurative each of the separate parts of an attack or operation : the three main prongs of the new government's program.

pierce or stab with a fork : pronging the bread with a fondue fork.

1 make the sound of (a word or part of a word), typically in the correct or a particular way : Gerry pronounced the hero's name "Cahoolin" | a refugee whose name no one could pronounce. 2 declare or announce, typically formally or solemnly : allow history

pro...

� figurative a person or thing that is a major source of support or assistance : the second institutional prop of conservative Spain was the army.

position something underneath (someone or something) for support : she propped her chin in the palm of her right hand. � position (something or someone) more or less upright by leaning it against something else : a jug of milk with a note propped against

prop someone/something up provide support or assistance for someone or something that would otherwise fail or decline : foreign aid tends to prop up incompetent governments.

1 breed specimens of (a plant, animal, etc.) by natural processes from the parent stock : try propagating your own houseplants from cuttings. � [ intrans. ] (of a plant, animal, etc.) reproduce in such a way : the plant propagates freely from stem cutting

drive, push, or cause to move in a particular direction, typically forward : the boat is propelled by using a very long paddle | [as adj. in combination ] ( -propelled) a rocket-propelled grenade launcher. � [ trans. ] figurative spur or drive into a part

1 a thing or things belonging to someone; possessions collectively : she wanted Oliver and his property out of her house | the stolen property was not recovered. � a building or buildings and the land belonging to it or them : he's expanding now, buying p

a prediction : a bleak prophecy of war and ruin. � the faculty, function, or practice of prophesying : the gift of prophecy.

1 a person regarded as an inspired teacher or proclaimer of the will of God : the Old Testament prophet Jeremiah.

a person who advocates a theory, proposal, or project : a collection of essays by both critics and proponents of graphology.

a part, share, or number considered in comparative relation to a whole : the proportion of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere is rising. � the relationship of one thing to another in terms of quantity, size, or number; the ratio : the proportion of exams

in proportion according to a particular relationship in size, amount, or degree : each region was represented in proportion to its population. � in comparison with; in relation to : the cuckoo's eggs are unusually small in proportion to its size. � in the

corresponding in size or amount to something else : the punishment should be proportional to the crime.

1 a plan or suggestion, esp. a formal or written one, put forward for consideration or discussion by others : a set of proposals for a major new high-speed rail link.

1 [ trans. ] put forward (an idea or plan) for consideration or discussion by others : he proposed a new nine-point peace plan | [with infinitive ] we propose to be away for six months | [with clause ] I proposed that the government should retain a 51 per

propose a toast ask a group of people at a social occasion to drink to the health and happiness of a specified person : I hereby propose a toast to the bride and groom.

1 a statement or assertion that expresses a judgment or opinion : the proposition that all men are created equal.

2 a suggested scheme or plan of action, esp. in a business context : a detailed investment proposition.

of or relating to an owner or ownership : the company has a proprietary right to the property. � (of a product) marketed under and protected by a registered trade name : proprietary brands of insecticide.

the action of driving or pushing forward : they dive and use their wings for propulsion under water.

1 written or spoken language in its ordinary form, without metrical structure : a short story in prose | [as adj. ] a prose passage.

1 institute legal proceedings against (a person or organization) : they were prosecuted for obstructing the highway. � institute legal proceedings in respect of (a claim or offense) : the state's attorney's office seemed to decide that this was a case wor

1 the institution and conducting of legal proceedings against someone in respect of a criminal charge : Olesky faces prosecution on charges he spied for Russian intelligence | they lacked the funds to embark on private prosecutions. � ( the prosecution) [

prosecutor |?pr?s?kju?t?| noun a person, esp. a public official, who institutes legal proceedings against someone.

1 the possibility or likelihood of some future event occurring : there was no prospect of a reconciliation | training that offered a prospect of continuous employment. � [in sing. ] a mental picture of a future or anticipated event : this presents a distu

(of a person) expected or expecting to be something particular in the future : she showed a prospective buyer around the house. � likely to happen at a future date; concerned with or applying to the future : a meeting to discuss prospective changes in gov

successful in material terms; flourishing financially : prosperous middle-class professionals. See note at wealthy . � bringing wealth and success : we wish you a prosperous New Year.

prostate |?pr?ste?t| (also prostate gland) noun a gland surrounding the neck of the bladder in male mammals and releasing prostatic fluid.

1 an artificial body part, such as a leg, a heart, or a breast implant : his upper jaw was removed and a prosthesis was fitted.

� the main figure or one of the most prominent figures in a real situation : in this colonial struggle, the main protagonists were Great Britain and France. � an advocate or champion of a particular cause or idea : a strenuous protagonist of the new agric

keep safe from harm or injury : he tried to protect Kelly from the attack | [ intrans. ] certain vitamins may protect against heart disease.

the action of protecting someone or something, or the state of being protected : the B vitamins give protection against infection | his son was put under police protection. � a person or thing that prevents someone or something from suffering harm or inju

capable of or intended to protect someone or something : protective gloves are worn to minimize injury. � having or showing a strong wish to keep someone or something safe from harm : I felt protective toward her | Marco wrapped a protective arm around he

a person who is guided and supported by an older and more experienced or influential person : he was an aide and prot�g� of the former Tennessee senator.

an emphatic declaration that something is or is not the case : her protestations of innocence were in vain | no amount of protestation to the contrary made any difference. � an objection or protest : he was warned by the referee for his loud protestations

1 a statement or action expressing disapproval of or objection to something : the Hungarian team lodged an official protest | two senior scientists resigned in protest.

1 [ intrans. ] express an objection to what someone has said or done : she wouldn't let him pay, and he didn't protest. � publicly demonstrate strong objection to a policy or course of action adopted by those in authority : doctors and patients protested

2 [ reporting verb ] declare (something) firmly and emphatically in the face of stated or implied doubt or in response to an accusation : [with direct speech ] "I'm not being coy!" Lucy protested | [ trans. ] she has always protested her innocence.

original; primitive : prototherian | prototype. � first; anterior; relating to a precursor : protomartyr | protozoan.

1 the official procedure or system of rules governing affairs of state or diplomatic occasions : protocol forbids the prince from making any public statement in his defense. � the accepted or established code of procedure or behavior in any group, organiz

1 prolong : he had certainly taken his time, even protracting the process.

lasting for a long time or longer than expected or usual : a protracted and bitter dispute.

extend beyond or above a surface : something like a fin protruded from the water. See note at bulge .

do someone proud informal act in a way that gives someone cause to feel pleased or satisfied : they did themselves proud in a game that sent the fans home happy. � treat someone very well, typically by lavishly feeding or entertaining them.

1 [ trans. ] demonstrate the truth or existence of (something) by evidence or argument : the concept is difficult to prove | [as adj. ] ( proven) a proven ability to work hard.

� [ trans. ] demonstrate by evidence or argument (someone or something) to be : innocent until proven guilty.

� ( prove oneself) demonstrate one's abilities or courage : a new lieutenant, very green and very desperate to prove himself.

(of a word or phrase) referred to in a proverb or idiom : I'm going to stick out like the proverbial sore thumb. � well known, esp. so as to be stereotypical : the Welsh people, whose hospitality is proverbial.

on the condition or understanding that : cutting corners was acceptable, provided that you could get away with it.

� present or yield (something useful) : neither will provide answers to these problems. 2 [ intrans. ] ( provide for) make adequate preparation for (a possible event) : new qualifications must provide for changes in technology. � supply sufficient money t

1 a principal administrative division of certain countries or empires : Chengdu, capital of Sichuan province.

1 of or concerning a province of a country or empire : provincial elections. � of or pertaining to a style of architecture or furniture in fashion in the provinces of various European countries : French Provincial furnishing.

1 the action of providing or supplying something for use : new contracts for the provision of services. � ( provision for/against) financial or other arrangements for future eventualities or requirements : farmers have been slow to make provision for thei

3 a condition or requirement in a legal document : a key provision in civil rights law | an appraisal under the provisions of the National Housing Act.

1 arranged or existing for the present, possibly to be changed later : a provisional government | a provisional construction permit.

1 action or speech that makes someone annoyed or angry, esp. deliberately : you should remain calm and not respond to provocation | he burst into tears at the slightest provocation.

causing annoyance, anger, or another strong reaction, esp. deliberately : a provocative article | his provocative remarks on race.

stimulate or give rise to (a reaction or emotion, typically a strong or unwelcome one) in someone : the decision provoked a storm of protest from civil rights organizations | [as adj., in combination ] ( -provoking) anxiety-provoking situations. � stimula

1 skill or expertise in a particular activity or field : his prowess as a fisherman.

(of a person or animal) move around (a place) in search of or as if in search of prey : black bears prowl the canyons. � [ intrans. ] (of a person or animal) move stealthily or restlessly as or like a hunter : committee members prowling around the offices

nearness in space, time, or relationship : do not operate microphones in close proximity to television sets.

1 the authority to represent someone else, esp. in voting : they may register to vote by proxy.

acting with or showing care and thought for the future : no prudent money manager would authorize a loan without first knowing its purpose. See note at economical .

� cut away (a branch or stem) in this way : prune back the branches. � reduce the extent of (something) by removing superfluous or unwanted parts : reduction achieved by working harder or pruning costs. � remove (superfluous or unwanted parts) from someth

inquire too closely into a person's private affairs : I'm sick of you prying into my personal life | [as adj. ] ( prying) she felt there was no place where she could escape from the prying eyes.

1 supposed or purporting to be but not really so; false; not genuine : pseudonym | pseudoscience. 2 resembling or imitating : pseudohallucination | pseudo-French.

pseudonym |?sju?d?n?m| noun a fictitious name, esp. one used by an author.

variant spelling of pseudo- reduced before a vowel (as in pseudepigrapha).

1 [ trans. ] informal mentally prepare (someone) for a testing task or occasion : we had to psych ourselves up for the race.

1 relating to or denoting faculties or phenomena that are apparently inexplicable by natural laws, esp. involving telepathy or clairvoyance : psychic powers. � (of a person) appearing or considered to have powers of telepathy or clairvoyance : I could sen

having a psychological origin or cause rather than a physical one : psychogenic ill health.

psychopath |?s??k?pa?| noun a person suffering from chronic mental disorder with abnormal or violent social behavior.

go public 1 become a public company. 2 reveal details about a previously private concern : Bates went public with the news at a press conference.

the preparation and issuing of a book, journal, piece of music, or other work for public sale : the publication of her first novel. � a book, journal, etc. issued for public sale : scientific publications. � the action of making something generally known

make (something) widely known : use the magazine to publicize human rights abuses. � give out publicity about (a product, person, or company) for advertising or promotional purposes : Judy had started to publicize books and celebrities.

the notice or attention given to someone or something by the media : the case attracted wide publicity in the press. � public exposure; notoriety : the only passage that has been found worthy of nationwide publicity. � the giving out of information about

(esp. of a person's face or a facial feature) tightly gather or contract into wrinkles or small folds : her brows puckered in a frown. � [ trans. ] cause to do this : the baby stirred, puckering up its tiny face.

1 a small pool of liquid, esp. of rainwater on the ground : splashing through deep puddles | figurative a little puddle of light.

1 a short, explosive burst of breath or wind : a puff of wind swung the weathervane around. � the sound of air or vapor escaping suddenly : the whistle and puff of steam. � a small quantity of vapor or smoke, emitted in one blast : the fire breathed out a

1 [ intrans. ] breathe in repeated short gasps : exercises that make you puff. � [with adverbial ] (of a person, engine, etc.) move with short, noisy breaths or bursts of air or steam : the train came puffing in. � smoke a pipe, cigarette, or cigar : he p

2 ( puff something out/up or puff out/up) cause to swell or become swollen : [ trans. ] he suddenly sucked his stomach in and puffed his chest out | [ intrans. ] when he was in a temper, his cheeks puffed up and his eyes shrank.

1 (esp. of part of the body) unusually swollen and soft : her eyes were puffy and full of tears. � soft, rounded, and light : small puffy clouds. � (of a garment or part of a garment) padded or gathered to give a rounded shape : a puffy blue ski jacket.

1 exert force on (someone or something), typically by taking hold of them, in order to move or try to move them toward oneself or the origin of the force : he pulled the car door handle and began to get out | [ intrans. ] the little boy pulled at her skir

2 [ intrans. ] (of a vehicle or person) move steadily in a specified direction or to reach a specified point : the bus was about to pull away | the boy pulled ahead and disappeared around the corner. � [with adverbial of direction ] ( pull oneself) move i

1 an act of taking hold of something and exerting force to draw it toward one : give the hair a quick pull, and it comes out by the roots. � a handle to hold while performing such an action : the Cowboy Collection offers hand-forged iron drawer pulls. � a

pull someone's leg deceive someone playfully; tease someone.

pull the plug 1 informal prevent something from happening or continuing : the company pulled the plug on the deal because it was not satisfied with the terms. 2 informal remove (a patient) from life support : we'll be talking to people who pulled the plug

pull strings make use of one's influence and contacts to gain an advantage unofficially or unfairly. pull the strings be in control of events or of other people's actions.

pull back (or pull someone/something back) retreat or cause troops to retreat from an area : the pact called on the rival forces to pull back and allow a neutral force to take control. � ( pull back) withdraw from an undertaking : the party pulled back fr

pull someone/something in 1 succeed in securing or obtaining something : the Reform Party pulled in 10% of the vote. � informal earn a sum of money : you could pull in $100,000. 2 informal arrest someone : I'd pull him in for questioning. 3 use reins to c

a soft, wet, shapeless mass of material : boiling with soda will reduce your peas to pulp.

beat (or smash) someone to a pulp beat someone severely.

a rhythmical throbbing of the arteries as blood is propelled through them, typically as felt in the wrists or neck : the doctor found a faint pulse.

� the rate of this throbbing, used to ascertain the rate of someone's heartbeat and so their state of health or emotions : the idea was enough to set my pulse racing.

take (or feel) the pulse of determine the heart rate of (someone) by feeling and timing the pulsation of an artery : a nurse came in and took his pulse. � figurative ascertain the general mood or opinion of : he hopped around the country to visit stores a

strike repeatedly, typically with the fists : Bob did not fight back for the fifteen minutes that the half-dozen men pummeled him. � informal criticize adversely : he has been pummeled by the reviewers.

� [in sing. ] an instance of moving something or being moved by or as if by such a machine : the pump of blood to her heart.

1 [ trans. ] force (liquid, gas, etc.) to move in a specified direction by or as if by means of a pump : the blood is pumped around the body | [ intrans. ] if we pump long enough, we should bring the level up. � [ intrans. ] move in spurts as though drive

pump out produce or emit (something) in large quantities or amounts : that little printing press pumped out our brochures for more than twenty years. pump up inflate (a tire, balloon, etc.) � informal increase : she needs to read and pump up her political

make a joke exploiting the different possible meanings of a word : his first puzzle punned on composers, with answers like "Handel with care" and "Haydn go seek" [as adj. ] ( punning): a punning riddle.

a joke exploiting the different possible meanings of a word or the fact that there are words that sound alike but have different meanings : the pigs were a squeal (if you'll forgive the pun).

1 strike with the fist : he punched her in the face and ran off. � drive with a blow from the fist : he punched the ball into his own goal.

� [in sing. ] informal the power to impress or startle : photos give their arguments an extra visual punch.

1 having an immediate impact; forceful : his style is journalistic, with short punchy sentences.

a small hole in a tire resulting in an escape of air : she was on her way home when she had a puncture. � a small hole in something such as the skin, caused by a sharp object : surgeons operate through small punctures in the skin | [as adj. ] a puncture w

make such a hole in (something) : one of the knife blows had punctured a lung. � [ intrans. ] sustain such a small hole : the tire had punctured and it would have to be replaced.

1 an expert in a particular subject or field who is frequently called on to give opinions about it to the public : a globe-trotting financial pundit.

having a sharply strong taste or smell : the pungent smell of frying onions.

inflict a penalty or sanction on (someone) as retribution for an offense, esp. a transgression of a legal or moral code : I have done wrong and I'm being punished for it.

inflicting or intended as punishment : he called for punitive measures against the Eastern bloc. � (of a tax or other charge) extremely high : a current punitive interest rate of 31.3%.

� figurative a person, party, or state under the control of another person, group, or power : the new Shah began his reign as an Anglo-Soviet puppet.

1 the action of buying something : the large number of videos currently available for purchase | we carefully make our purchases after consulting each other.

pure and simple and nothing else (used for emphasis) : it was revenge, pure and simple.

� mental anguish or suffering : this was purgatory, worse than anything she'd faced in her life.

rid (someone) of an unwanted feeling, memory, or condition, typically giving a sense of cathartic release : Bob had helped purge Martha of the terrible guilt that had haunted her.

� remove (a group of people considered undesirable) from an organization or place, typically in an abrupt or violent manner : he purged all but 26 of the central committee members.

remove contaminants from : the filtration plant is able to purify 70 tons of water a day | [as adj. ] ( purified) purified linseed oil. � make ceremonially clean : a ritual bath to purify the soul. � rid (something) of an unwanted element : Mao's campaign

freedom from adulteration or contamination : the purity of our our drinking water. � freedom from immorality, esp. of a sexual nature : white is meant to represent purity and innocence.

appear or claim to be or do something, esp. falsely; profess : she is not the person she purports to be.

having or showing determination or resolve : the purposeful stride of a great lawyer. � having a useful purpose : purposeful activities. � intentional : if his sudden death was not accidental, it must have been purposeful.

� a person's sense of resolve or determination : there was a new sense of purpose in her step as she set off.

� having no aim or plan : his purposeless life.

tighten (or loosen) the purse strings restrict (or increase) the amount of money available to be spent.

1 the action of following or pursuing someone or something : the cat crouched in the grass in pursuit of a bird | those whose business is the pursuit of knowledge.

provide or supply (food, drink, or other goods) as one's business : shops purveying cooked food | figurative this magazine feels like a concerted effort to purvey gloom and doom.

the scope of the influence or concerns of something : such a case might be within the purview of the legislation. � a range of experience or thought : social taboos meant that little information was likely to come within the purview of women generally.

1 [ trans. ] exert force on (someone or something), typically with one's hand, in order to move them away from oneself or the origin of the force : she pushed her glass toward him | he pushed a card under the door | [ intrans. ] he pushed at the skylight,

1 an act of exerting force on someone or something in order to move them away from oneself : he closed the door with a push.

push (or press) someone's buttons informal arouse or provoke a reaction in someone : stay cool and don't allow them to push your buttons.

push on continue on a journey : the light was already fading, but she pushed on.

push the envelope informal approach or extend the limits of what is possible : these are extremely witty and clever stories that consistently push the envelope of TV comedy. [ORIGIN: originally aviation slang, relating to graphs of aerodynamic performance

� [usu. with adj. ] a playful or coquettish girl or young woman : you old snuggle puss.

1 move to or place in a particular position : Harry put down his cup | I put my hand out toward her | watch where you're putting your feet! � cause (someone or something) to go to a particular place and remain there for a time : India has put three experi

put something behind one get over a bad experience by distancing oneself from it : they have tried to put their grief behind them and rebuild their lives. put the clocks back (or forward) adjust clocks or watches backward (or forward) to take account of o

put something across (or over) communicate something effectively. put something aside 1 save money for future use. 2 forget or disregard something, typically a feeling or a past difference.

put someone forward recommend someone as a suitable candidate for a job or position : he put me forward as head of publicity. put something forward submit a plan, proposal, or theory for consideration.

put someone in appoint someone to fulfill a particular role or job : he was put in to rescue the company by the stockbrokers. � (in team sports) send a player out to participate into a game. put something in/into 1 present or submit something formally : t

put something on 1 place a garment, glasses, or jewelry on part of one's body : Julie had put on a cotton dress. � attach or apply something : she put on fresh makeup. 2 cause a device to operate : shall I put the light on? � start cooking something : she

put someone out 1 cause someone trouble or inconvenience : would it put you out too much to let her visit you for a couple of hours? � (often be put out) upset or annoy someone : he was not put out by the rebuff. 2 (in sports) defeat a player or team and

put someone through 1 connect someone by telephone to another person or place : put me through to the mayor, please. 2 subject someone to an unpleasant or demanding experience : I hate Brian for what he put me through. 3 pay for someone to attend school o

put something to 1 submit something to (someone) for consideration or attention : we are making a takeover bid and putting an offer to the shareholders. � 2 devote something to (a particular use or purpose) : they put the land to productive use.

put something together make something by assembling different parts or people : he can take a clock apart and put it back together again | they decided to put a new band together. � assemble things or people to make something : a carpenter puts together s

put something up 1 construct or erect something : I put up the tent and cooked a meal. 2 raise one's hand to signal that one wishes to answer or ask a question. 3 display a notice, sign, or poster. � present a proposal, theory, or argument for discussion

put a good (or brave or bold) face on something act as if something unpleasant or upsetting is not as bad as it really is : he tried to put a good face on the financial picture.

put a (or the) lid on informal put a stop to or be the culmination of : it's time to put the lid on all the talk.

put (or place) a premium on regard or treat as particularly valuable or important : he put a premium on peace and stability.

put a price on determine the value of : you can't put a price on what she has to offer.

put an end to cause someone or something to stop existing : injury put an end to his career.

put into action put into effect; carry out.

put on (or lose) weight become fatter (or thinner).

put (or lay) one's cards on the table be completely open and honest in declaring one's resources, intentions, or attitude.

put one's hands up raise one's hands in surrender.

put (or set) one's mind to direct all one's attention to (achieving something) : she'd have made an excellent dancer, if she'd have put her mind to it.

put someone to shame disgrace or embarrass someone by outdoing or surpassing them : she puts me to shame, she's so capable.

put (or set) someone's mind (or doubts or fears) at rest relieve someone of anxiety or uncertainty; reassure someone.

put someone/something out of one's mind deliberately forget someone or something.

put something into words express something in speech or writing : he felt a vague disappointment which he couldn't put into words.

put something behind one get over a bad experience by distancing oneself from it : they have tried to put their grief behind them and rebuild their lives.

cause (someone) to feel confused because they without any reduction in intensity or strength : the storm was raging unabated. understand or make sense of something : one remark he made puzzled me | [as adj. ] ( puzzling) that was the most puzzling aspect

denoting an outstanding or supreme example of a particular kind of person or thing : an uberbabe | the uberregulator.

being or happening at the end of a process; final : their ultimate aim was to force his resignation. � being the best or most extreme example of its kind : the ultimate accolade. � basic or fundamental : the ultimate constituents of anything that exists a

a final demand or statement of terms, the rejection of which will result in retaliation or a breakdown in relations : the UN Security Council ultimatum demanding Iraq's withdrawal from Kuwait | a "Marry me or else" ultimatum.

1 beyond; on the other side of : ultramontane. Often contrasted with cis- . 2 extreme; to an extreme degree : ultramicroscopic | ultraradical.

1 (added to adjectives, participles, and their derivatives) denoting the absence of a quality or state; not : unabashed | unacademic | unrepeatable. � the reverse of (usually with an implication of approval or disapproval, or with another special connotat

not embarrassed, disconcerted, or ashamed : he was unabashed by the furor his words provoked.

without any reduction in intensity or strength : the storm was raging unabated.

(of a text) not cut or shortened; complete : an unabridged edition.

not satisfactory or allowable : unacceptable behavior.

having no companion or escort : no unaccompanied children allowed. � (of a piece of music) sung or played without instrumental accompaniment : an unaccompanied violin elegy.

1 unable to be explained : a strange and unaccountable fact.

not included in (an account or calculation) through being lost or disregarded : a substantial amount of money is unaccounted for.

not recognized as having attained an acceptable standard : a mail-order degree from an unaccredited correspondence school.

not familiar or usual; out of the ordinary : they finished their supper with unaccustomed speed. � [ predic. ] ( unaccustomed to) not familiar with or used to : the visitors were unaccustomed to country roads.

not adapted : animals unadapted for surviving shocks.

(esp. of figures or statistics) not adjusted or refined : the unadjusted jobless total increased last month.

un....

1 not considered or dealt with : wider questions remain unaddressed.

not mixed or diluted with any different or extra elements; complete and absolute : pure, unadulterated jealousy. � (of food or drink) having no inferior added substances; pure : unadulterated whole-milk yogurt.

1 feeling or showing no effects or changes : the walks are suitable only for people who are unaffected by vertigo. 2 (of a person) without artificiality or insincerity : his manner was natural and unaffected.too expensive to be afforded by the average per

too expensive to be afforded by the average person : medical care has become unaffordable.

needing or having no assistance; without help : she can no longer walk unaided.

remaining the same; unchanged : many buildings survive unaltered.

not responding in a positive way to something intended to be amusing; feeling somewhat annoyed or disapproving : she was unamused by some of the things written about her.

(of two or more people) fully in agreement : the doctors were unanimous in their diagnoses.

not made known; not publicized : the company has justified its recent unannounced addition of chlorine to its water. � without previous notice or arrangement and therefore unexpected : he arrived unannounced.

unable to be answered : unanswerable questions concerning our own mortality. � unable to be disclaimed or proved wrong : the case for abolishing the fee is unanswerable.

not answered or responded to : unanswered letters.

not acknowledging or expressing regret : he remained unapologetic about his decision.

not fully understood, recognized, or valued : she had been brought up in a family where she felt unappreciated and undervalued.

not officially accepted or sanctioned : they deposit waste on unapproved sites.

not open to disagreement; indisputable : unarguable proof of conspiracy. �not equipped with or carrying weapons : he was shooting unarmed civilians. not mentioned or coherently expressed : repressed hurt and previously unarticulated anger are explored.

expressed or acting openly and without guilt or embarrassment : an unashamed emotionalism.

unable to be attacked, questioned, or defeated : an unassailable lead.

not allocated or set aside for a specific purpose : as cellular phones proliferate, the number of unassigned numbers is being exhausted.

not helped by anyone or anything : medically unassisted births | I could never find the place unassisted. � (of a play in a team sport) done by one player, without an assist from another player : he made two unassisted tackles.

not able to be reached or achieved : an unattainable goal.

not noticed or dealt with : her behavior went unnoticed and unattended to. � not supervised or looked after : it is not acceptable for parents to leave children unattended at that age.

not able to be avoided, prevented, or ignored; inevitable : the natural and unavoidable consequences of growing old.

having no knowledge of a situation or fact : they were unaware of his absence.

� upset or disturb the equilibrium of (a state of affairs or someone's state of mind) : this sharing can often unbalance even the closest of relationships.

� (of an account) not giving accurate, fair, or equal coverage to all aspects; partial : this may give an unbalanced impression of the competition.

not able to be endured or tolerated : the heat was getting unbearable.

not able to be defeated or exceeded in a contest or commercial market : the shop sells bikes at unbeatable prices. � extremely good; outstanding : views from the patio are unbeatable.

not defeated or surpassed : they were the only team to remain unbeaten.

unbiased |?n?b???st| (also chiefly Brit. unbiassed) adjective showing no prejudice for or against something; impartial.

unbundle |?n?b?nd(?)l| verb [ trans. ] 1 market or charge for (items or services) separately rather than as part of a package.

not able to be relied on; not known or definite : an uncertain future. � (of a person) not completely confident or sure of something : I was uncertain how to proceed.

not disputed or questioned : the report's findings did not go unchallenged. � (esp. of a person in power) not opposed or defeated : a position of unchallenged supremacy.

(esp. of something undesirable) not controlled or restrained : unchecked population growth.

not arranged in or assigned to classes or categories : many texts remain unclassified or uncatalogued.

not easy to see, hear, or understand : the motive for this killing is unclear. � not obvious or definite; ambiguous : their future remains unclear. � having or feeling doubt or confusion : users are still unclear about what middleware does.

out of the ordinary; unusual : prostate cancer is not uncommon in men over 60 | an uncommon name. � [ attrib. ] remarkably great (used for emphasis) : an uncommon amount of noise.

(of a person or expense) not compensated or reimbursed : the plaintiff remained uncompensated for his original injuries. � (of an action) not compensated for : uncompensated exploitation of the Third World. � (of work) unpaid : workers who performed uncom

showing a lack of worry or interest, esp. when this is surprising or callous : Scott seemed unconcerned by his companion's problem.

not subject to any conditions : unconditional surrender.

not conscious : the boy was beaten unconscious. � done or existing without one realizing : he would wipe back his hair in an unconscious gesture of annoyance. � [ predic. ] ( unconscious of) unaware of : "What is it?" he said again, unconscious of the rep

too many to be counted (usually in hyperbolic use) : she'd spent uncountable nights in this very bed.

remove a cover or covering from : he uncovered the face of the dead man. � discover (something previously secret or unknown) : further evidence has been uncovered.

(of a person) not having made a decision : the jury remained undecided. � not settled or resolved : the match was still undecided.

not publicly announced, admitted, or acknowledged : his undeclared candidacy, which surged in the polls last spring.

not clear or defined : undefined areas of jurisdiction | he felt an undefined longing.

1 below; beneath : underclothes | undercover. � lower in status; subordinate : undersecretary. 2 insufficiently; incompletely : undernourished.

1 extending or directly below : vast stores of oil under Alaska | the streams that ran under the melting glaciers. � below (something covering or protecting) : under several feet of water | a hot plate under an insulated lid. 2 at a lower level or layer t

under way |??nd?r ?we?| having started and making progress. � (of a boat) moving through the water : no time was lost in getting under way. [ORIGIN: mid 18th cent. (as a nautical term): from Dutch onderweg.]

under attack subject to aggressive, violent, or harmful action : his paintings have come under attack for their satanic content.

under consideration being thought about : a bird under consideration for being listed as endangered.

under control (of a danger or emergency) being dealt with successfully and competently : it took two hours to bring the blaze under control.

under fire being shot at : observers sent to look for the men came under heavy fire. � being rigorously criticized : the president was under fire from all sides.

under the impression that believing, mistakenly or on the basis of little evidence, that something is the case : he was under the impression that they had become friends.

under the influence informal affected by alcoholic drink; drunk : he was charged with driving under the influence.

underachieve |?nd?r??t?i?v| verb [ intrans. ] do less well than is expected, esp. in schoolwork.

cook (something) insufficiently : undercooked meats.

(of a person or their activities) involved in or involving secret work within a community or organization, esp. for the purposes of police investigation or espionage : an undercover police operation.

1 offer goods or services at a lower price than (a competitor) : these industries have been undercut by more efficient foreign producers. 2 cut or wear away the part below or under (something, esp. a cliff). � figurative weaken; undermine : the chairman d

not fully developed : underdeveloped kidneys | the community services are underfunded and underdeveloped.

underdog |??nd?d?g| noun a competitor thought to have little chance of winning a fight or contest.

un and under

place insufficient emphasis on : history is underemphasized in the curriculum.

estimate (something) to be smaller or less important than it actually is : the administration has grossly underestimated the extent of the problem. � regard (someone) as less capable than they really are : he had underestimated the new president.

experience or be subjected to (something, typically something unpleasant, painful, or arduous) : the baby underwent a life-saving brain operation.

beneath the surface of the ground : miners working underground. � in or into secrecy or hiding, esp. as a result of carrying out subversive political activities : many were forced to go underground by the government.

1 a group or movement organized secretly to work against an existing regime : I got involved with the French underground.

place something under (something else), esp. to support or raise it : the green fields are underlaid with limestone | figurative a whine underlaid by an occasional choking sob.

� be the cause or basis of (something) : the fundamental issue that underlies the conflict | [as adj. ] ( underlying) the underlying causes of poverty and drug addiction.

� figurative damage or weaken (someone or something), esp. gradually or insidiously : this could undermine years of hard work.

1 situated directly below (something else) : [as prep. ] our bedroom is right underneath theirs | [as adv. ] his eyes were red-rimmed with black bags underneath | [as adj. ] on longer hair, the underneath layers can be permed to give extra body. � situate

having insufficient food or other substances for good health and condition : undernourished children.

� [ trans. ] increase in value less than : the shares have underperformed the market.

� support, justify, or form the basis for : the theme of honor underpinning the two books.

underestimate the extent, value, or importance of (someone or something) : a very underrated film.

provide (an organization) with too few staff members to operate effectively : [as adj. ] ( understaffed) the department is understaffed and overworked.

understandably |-bl?| |??nd?r?st�nd?bli| adverb : [ sentence adverb ] understandably, Richard did not believe me.

the ability to understand something; comprehension : foreign visitors with little understanding of English. � the power of abstract thought; intellect : a child of sufficient intelligence and understanding. � an individual's perception or judgment of a si

describe or represent (something) as being smaller, worse, or less important than it actually is : the press has understated the extent of the problem.

commit oneself to and begin (an enterprise or responsibility); take on : a firm of builders undertook the construction work. � [usu. with infinitive ] promise to do a particular thing : the firm undertook to keep price increases to a minimum.

rate (something) insufficiently highly; fail to appreciate : the skills of the housewife remain undervalued in society. � underestimate the financial value of (something) : the company's assets were undervalued in its balance sheet.

apply too little weight to (something) : we feared the hot-air balloon had been underweighted. | figurative clinicians tend to overweight parent and underweight child information when deriving diagnoses.

� undertake to finance or otherwise support or guarantee (something) : they were willing to underwrite the construction of a ship.

not wanted or desirable because harmful, objectionable, or unpleasant : the drug's undesirable side effects.

1 unfasten, untie, or loosen (something) : the knot was difficult to undo.

2 not having the appropriate legal document or license : undocumented immigrants.

not questioned or doubted by anyone : her undoubted ability.

take off one's clothes : she undressed and climbed into bed | I went into the bathroom to get undressed.

unwarranted or inappropriate because excessive or disproportionate : this figure did not give rise to undue concern.

move with a smooth wavelike motion : her body undulated to the thumping rhythm of the music. � [usu. adj. ] ( undulating) have a wavy form or outline : delightful views over undulating countryside.

unwarranted or inappropriate because excessive or disproportionate : this figure did not give rise to undue concern.

� discover (something hidden, lost, or kept secret) by investigation or searching : they have done all they can to unearth the truth.

1 unnatural or mysterious, esp. in a disturbing way : unearthly quiet. 2 informal unreasonably early or inconvenient : a job that involves getting up at an unearthly hour.

anxiety or discontent : public unease about defense policy.

causing or feeling anxiety; troubled or uncomfortable : she felt guilty now and a little uneasy | an uneasy silence.

wasteful of money or other resources; not economical : the old buses eventually become uneconomical to run.

not having or showing strong feelings : a flat, unemotional voice.

not able to be tolerated or endured : cries of unendurable suffering.

1 not equal in quantity, size, or value : two rooms of unequal size | unequal odds. � not fair, evenly balanced, or having equal advantage : the ownership of capital is unequal in this country. 2 [ predic. ] not having the ability or resources to meet a c

superior to all others in performance or extent : a range of facilities unequaled in Chicago | trout of unequaled quality.

leaving no doubt; unambiguous : an unequivocal answer | he was unequivocal in condemning the violence.

not morally correct : it is unethical to torment any creature for entertainment.

not level or smooth : the floors are cracked and uneven. � not regular, consistent, or equal : the uneven distribution of resources. � (of a contest) not equally balanced : Fran struggled briefly but soon gave up the uneven contest.

not out of the ordinary; usual : an unexceptional movie.

not expected or regarded as likely to happen : his death was totally unexpected | [as n. ] ( the unexpected) he seemed to have a knack for saying the unexpected.

(of resources) not used to maximum benefit : unexploited reserves of natural gas.

not based on or behaving according to the principles of equality and justice : at times like these the legal system appears inhumane and unfair. � unkind, inconsiderate, or unreasonable : you're unfair to criticize like that when she's never done you any

not known or recognized : his voice was unfamiliar to her. � unusual or uncharacteristic : the yellow taxicab was an unfamiliar sight on these roads.

1 expressing or showing a lack of approval or support : single mothers are often the target of unfavorable press attention. 2 adverse; inauspicious : it would be unwise to sell the company while the economic circumstances are so unfavorable.

genuine; sincere : a broad smile of unfeigned delight.

release from restraint or inhibition : his imagination is unfettered by the laws of logic.

1 not having been filtered : unfiltered tap water.

not finished or concluded; incomplete : her last novel is unfinished.1 [ predic. ] (of a thing) not of the necessary quality or standard to meet a particular purpose : the land is unfit for food crops. � (of a person) not having the requisite qualities or

open or spread out from a folded position : [ trans. ] he unfolded the map and laid it out on the table | [ intrans. ] a Chinese paper flower that unfolds in water. � [ trans. ] reveal or disclose (thoughts or information) : Miss Eva unfolded her secret e

� [ intrans. ] (of information or a sequence of events) be revealed or disclosed : there was a fascinating scene unfolding before me.

impossible to forget; very memorable : that unforgettable first kiss.

so bad as to be unable to be forgiven or excused : losing your temper with him was unforgivable.

having no foundation or basis in fact : her persistent fear that she had cancer was unfounded.

1 not producing good or helpful results; unproductive : the meeting was unfruitful.

not carried out or brought to completion : it was his unfulfilled ambition to write.

1 (of a house or apartment) without furniture, esp. available to be rented without furniture : an unfurnished apartment.

not or no longer stuck : grease particles come unglued from the plate. | figurative it was only a matter of time before the whole operation came unglued. � informal (of a person or state of mind) confused and emotionally strained : it had been a long day,

1 not polite or friendly : after Anna's kindness I wouldn't want to seem ungracious.

not feeling or showing gratitude : she's so ungrateful for everything we do. � not pleasant or acceptable : he turned to the ungrateful task of forming a police cordon.

1 having no basis or justification; unfounded : ungrounded fears.

without protection or a guard : the museum was unguarded at night. � not well considered; careless : an unguarded remark.

harmful to health : an unhealthy diet. � not having or showing good health : his face looked pale and unhealthy.

not heard or listened to : my protests went unheard. � ( unheard of) not previously known of or done : sales tax was unheard of in Kansas up until 1937 | wines from unheard-of villages.

� not holy; unconsecrated : an unholy marriage. � denoting an alliance with potentially harmful implications between two or more parties that are not natural allies : an unholy alliance between economic and political power. � informal awful; dreadful (use

not clean or sanitary : damp, unhygienic accommodations.

one; having or consisting of one : unicellular | unicycle.

make or become united, uniform, or whole : [ trans. ] the government hoped to centralize and unify the nation | [ intrans. ] opposition groups struggling to unify around the goal of replacing the regime | [as adj. ] ( unified) a unified system of national

1 not changing in form or character; remaining the same in all cases and at all times : blocks of stone of uniform size | the decline in fertility was not uniform across social classes. � of a similar form or character to another or others : a uniform pac

1 the distinctive clothing worn by members of the same organization or body or by children attending certain schools : airline pilots in dark blue uniforms | an officer in uniform.

the quality or state of being uniform : an attempt to impose administrative and cultural uniformity.

1 (of an action or decision) performed by or affecting only one person, group, or country involved in a particular situation, without the agreement of another or the others : unilateral nuclear disarmament.

difficult or impossible to imagine or comprehend : lives of almost unimaginable deprivation.

not weakened or damaged : unimpaired mobility.

not eligible for insurance coverage : some risky activities are uninsurable at any price.

not interested in or concerned about something or someone : I was totally uninterested in boys | an uninterested voice.

without a break in continuity : an uninterrupted flow of traffic.

(of a person) attending somewhere or doing something without having been asked : their privacy was disrupted by a series of uninvited guests.

1 simultaneous performance of action or utterance of speech : "Yes, sir," said the girls in unison.

1 an individual thing or person regarded as single and complete, esp. for purposes of calculation : the family unit. � each of the individuals or collocations into which a complex whole may be divided : large areas of land made up of smaller units | the s

1 single; uniform : a sort of unitary wholeness. � of or relating to a system of government or organization in which the powers of the separate constituent parts are vested in a central body : a unitary rather than a federal state.

come or bring together for a common purpose or action : [ intrans. ] he called on the party to unite | [ trans. ] they are united by their love of cars. � come or bring together to form a unit or whole, esp. in a political context : [ intrans. ] the two G

1 the state of being united or joined as a whole, esp. in a political context : European unity | economic unity. � harmony or agreement between people or groups : their leaders called for unity between opposing factions. � the state of forming a complete

by everyone; in every case : progress is not always universally welcomed.

not based on or behaving according to what is morally right and fair : resistance to unjust laws.

(esp. of a person) having an untidy or disheveled appearance : they were unwashed and unkempt.

inconsiderate and harsh to others : you were terribly unkind to her | he was the butt of some unkind jokes | it was unkind of her to criticize.

not knowing or aware : the lions moved stealthily toward their unknowing victims.

unknown to without the knowledge of : unknown to Miller, the police had taped their telephone conversation.

release from a leash or restraint : we unleashed the expose the true character of or hidden truth about : the trial unmasked him as a complete charlatan. and carried it down to our car | figurative the failure of the talks could unleash more fighting.

not having an official license : unlicensed weapons.

not limited or restricted in terms of number, quantity, or extent : the range of possible adaptations was unlimited.

1 remove goods from (a vehicle, ship, container, etc.) : she hadn't finished unloading the car. � remove (goods) from a vehicle, ship, container, etc. : the men unloaded the wheat into the bays. � [ intrans. ] (of a vehicle, ship, container, etc.) have go

� make (something previously inaccessible or unexploited) available for use : the campaign has helped us unlock rich reserves of talent among our employees.

difficult or impossible to manage, manipulate, or control : his behavior was becoming unmanageable at home.

not manly; weak or cowardly : unmanly behavior.

expose the true character of or hidden truth about : the trial unmasked him as a complete charlatan.

not matched or equaled : he has a talent unmatched by any other politician.