P Flashcards
(782 cards)
0
Q
pace (v)
A
(v) 1. To walk with a slow or regular pace. 2. To walk to and fro across (a room etc.) 3. To measure by pacing, (pace it out). 4. To set the pace for (a runner etc.). Pace (n), pacer (n). Keep pace: to advance at an equal rate. Put a person through his paces: to test his ability.
1
Q
pachyderm
A
(n) a thick-skinned animal, especially an elephant or rhinoceros.
2
Q
pacific
A
(adj) peaceful, making or loving peace. Pacifically (adv).
3
Q
pacifist
A
(n) a person who totally opposes war, believing that disputes should be settled by peaceful means. Pacifism (n).
4
Q
pacify
A
(v) (pacified, pacifying) 1. To calm and quieten. 2. To establish peace in. Pacification (n).
5
Q
paddock
A
(n) 1. A small field where horses are kept. 2. An enclosure at a racecourse where horses or racing-cars are brought together before a race. 3. (Australia & N.Z.) a field, a plot of land.
6
Q
paddy
A
(n) (informal) rage, temper.
7
Q
padlock
A
(n) a detachable lock with a U-shaped bar or a chain etc. that fastens through the loop of a staple or a ring. (v) to fasten with a padlock.
8
Q
paean
A
(n) a song of praise or triumph.
9
Q
paediatrics
A
(n) the branch of medicine dealing with children and their diseases. Paediatric (adj).
10
Q
pagan
A
(adj) heathen. (n) a heathen. Paganism (n).
11
Q
page
A
(n) 1. A liveried boy employed to go on errands or act as door attendant etc. 2. A boy attendant of a person of rank or a bride. (v) to summon (a person) by means of a page or by calling his name until he is found.
12
Q
pageant
A
(n) a public show consisting of a procession of people in costume, or an outdoor performance of a historical play. Pageantry (n).
13
Q
put paid to
A
(informal) to put an end to the hopes or prospects or activities of.
15
Q
pains
A
(n) careful effort, trouble taken (take pains with the work).
16
Q
painstaking
A
(adj) careful, using or done with great care and effort.
17
Q
pair off
A
To form into pairs.
18
Q
Paisley
A
(adj) having a pattern of tapering petal-shaped figures with much detail.
19
Q
palaeolithic
A
(adj) of the early part of the Stone Age.
20
Q
palate
A
(n) 1. The roof of the mouth. 2. The sense of taste. Note: Do not confuse with palette and pallet.
21
Q
palatial
A
(adj) like a palace, spacious and splendid.
22
Q
palette
A
(n) a thin board, with a hole for the thumb by which it is held, on which an artist mixes colours when painting.
23
Q
palindrome
A
(n) a word or phrase that reads the same backwards as forwards (e.g. rotator, nurses run).
24
Q
paling
A
(n) 1. Fencing made of wooden posts or railings. 2. One of its uprights.
25
palisade
(n) a fence of pointed stakes. Palisade cells or layers: a layer of long cells that are parallel to each other and often at right angles to the surface of the structure (especially a leaf) of which they form part.
26
pall
(pr pawl) (n) 1. A cloth spread over a coffin. 2. Something forming a dark heavy covering (a pall of smoke). (v) To become uninteresting or boring (the subject began to pall on us). Pallbearer: (n) one of the people carrying or walking beside the coffin at a funeral.
27
palliate
(v) to make less intense or less severe. Palliation (n).
28
pallid
(adj) pale, especially from illness.
29
pally
(adj) (informal) friendly.
30
palm off
(informal) to cause to accept or be accepted fraudulently.
31
palpable
(adj) 1. Able to be touched or felt. 2. Easily perceived, obvious. Palpably (adv), palpability (n).
32
palpitate
(v) 1. To pulsate, to throb rapidly. 2. (of a person) to quiver with fear of excitement. Palpation (n).
33
palsy
(n) paralysis, especially with involuntary tremors. Palsied: (adj) affected with palsy.
34
paltry
(adj) (paltrier, paltriest) worthless, trivial, contemptible.
35
pan out
(of circumstances or events) to turn out, to be successful in outcome.
36
panacea
(n) a remedy for all kinds of diseases or troubles.
37
panache
(n) a confident stylish manner.
38
pandemic
(adj) (of a disease) occurring over a whole country or the whole world.
39
pandemonium
(n) uproar.
40
pander
(v) to gratify a person's weakness or vulgar tastes (pandering to the public interest in scandal).
41
Pandora's box
(in Greek mythology) a box which, when opened, let loose all kinds of misfortunes upon mankind.
42
panelling
(n) 1. A series of panels in a wall. 2. Wood used for making panels.
43
panic-stricken
(adj) affected with panic.
44
pang
(n) a sudden sharp feeling of pain or a painful emotion (pangs of jealousy).
45
panoply
(n) a splendid array.
46
panorama
(n) 1. A view of a wide area, a picture or a photograph of this. 2. A view of a constantly changing scene or series of events. Panoramic (adj).
47
pansy
(n) a garden plant of the violet family, with broad flat rounded richly-coloured petals.
48
pantaloons
(pl) (n) (humorous & Amer.) trousers.
49
pantry
(n) 1. A room in which china, glasses, cutlery, table-linen, etc. are kept. 2. A larder.
50
papal
(adj) of the pope or the papacy.
51
on paper
In writing; in theory, when judged from written or printed evidence (the scheme looks good on paper).
52
paper money
Banknotes and money orders etc. as distinct from coin.
53
paper over the cracks
To seek to conceal flaws or disagreements.
54
paper tiger
A person or thing that has a threatening appearance but can do no harm.
55
paperwork
(n) routine clerical work and record-keeping.
56
on a par with
On an equal footing with.
57
parable
(n) A story told to illustrate a moral or spiritual truth.
58
parachute (v)
To descend by parachute, to drop (supplies etc.) by parachute. Parachutist (n).
59
on parade
Taking part in a parade.
60
paradigm
(n) something serving as an example or model of how things should be done.
61
paradox
(n) a statement etc. that seems to contradict itself or to conflict with common sense but which contains a truth (e.g. 'more haste, less speed'). Paradoxical (adj), paradoxically (adv).
62
paragon
(n) a model of excellence, an apparently perfect person or thing.
63
parallel (n)
1. An imaginary line on the earth's surface or a corresponding line on a map parallel to and passing through all points equidistant from the equator. 2. A person or situation etc. that is parallel to another. 3. A comparison (drew a parallel between the two situations).
64
paralysis
(n) 1. Loss of the power of movement, caused by disease or injury to nerves. 2. Inability to move normally.
65
paramount
(adj) chief in importance, supreme.
66
parang
(n) a heavy Malayan sheath-knife.
67
paranoia
1. A mental disorder in which a person has delusions e.g. of grandeur or persecution. 2. An abnormal tendency to suspect and mistrust others.
68
parapet
(n) a low protective wall along the edge of a balcony or roof or bridge etc.
69
paraphrase
(v) to express the meaning (of a passage) in other words. (n) re-wording in this way, a re-worded passage.
70
paraplegia
(n) paralysis of the legs and part or all of the trunk. Paraplegic (adj & n).
71
parasite
(n) 1. An animal or plant that lives on or in another from which it draws its nourishment. 2. A person who lives off another or others and gives no useful return. Parasitic (adj).
72
parasol
(n) a light umbrella used to give shade from the sun.
73
paratroops
(pl) (n) parachute troops. Paratrooper: (n) a member of these. Note: It is incorrect to use 'a paratroop' to mean 'a paratrooper'.
74
parch
(v) to make hot and dry or thirsty.
75
parchment
(n) 1. A heavy paper-like material made from animal skins. 2. A kind of paper resembling this.
76
pare
(pr pair) (v) 1. To trim by cutting away the edges of, to peel. 2. To reduce little by little (pared down their expenses). Parings: (pl) (n) pieces pared off (nail parings).
77
parentage
(n) descent from parents, ancestry.
78
in parenthesis
between brackets as a parenthesis; as an aside or digression in a speech etc.
79
par excellence
More than all others, in the highest degree. Note: From French.
80
pariah
(n) an outcast.
81
parlance
(n) phraseology.
82
parley
(n) (pl parleys) a discussion, especially between enemies or opponents to settle points in dispute. (v) (parleyed, parleying) to hold a parley.
83
parliament
(n) an assembly that makes the laws of a country; Parliament, that of the UK, consisting of the House of Commons and the House of Lords.
84
parlour
(n) 1. (old use) the sitting-room of a family in a private house. 2. A room in a mansion or convent etc. where people may receive visitors and converse privately. 3. A place for milking cows. Parlour game: An indoor game.
85
parochial
(adj) 1. Of a church parish. 2. Merely local, showing interest in a limited area only. Parochialism (n).
86
parody
(n) 1. A comic imitation of a well-known person or literary work or style etc. 2. A grotesque imitation, a travesty. (v) (parodied, parodying) to mimic humorously, to compose a parody of.
87
parole
(n) 1. A person's word of honour. 2. A prisoner's promise that he will not try to escape if given a limited freedom. 3. Release of a convicted person from a prison before his sentence has expired, on condition of good behaviour. (v) to release on parole.
88
paroxysm
(n) a spasm, a sudden attack or outburst of pain or rage or laughter etc.
89
parquet
(n) flooring of wooden blocks arranged in a pattern.
90
parry
(v) (parried, parrying) 1. To ward off (an opponent's weapon or blow) by using one's own weapon etc. to block the thrust. 2. To evade (an awkward question) skilfully. (n) parrying.
91
parsimonious
(adj) stingy, very sparing in the use of resources. Parsimoniously (adv), parsimony (n).
92
in part
partly.
93
part and parcel of
an essential part of.
94
part company
to go different ways after being together; to cease to associate.
95
part time
(adj) for or during only part of the working day or week.
96
part with
to give up possession of, to hand over.
97
partake
(v) (partook, partaken, partaking) 1. To participate, 2. To take a part or portion, especially of food. Partaker (n).
98
partial
(adj) 1. In part but not complete or total (a partial eclipse). 2. Biased, unfair. Partially (adv). Be partial to: to have a strong liking for.
99
particular
(adj) 1. Relating to one person or thing, as distinct from others, individual (this particular tax is no worse than others). 2. Special, exceptional (took particular trouble). 3. Selecting carefully, insisting on certain standards (is very particular about what he eats). (n) a detail, a piece of information (gave particulars of the stolen property). Particularly (adv), particularity (n). In particular: particularly, especially (we liked this one in particular); specifically (did nothing in particular).
100
partisan
(n) 1. A strong and often uncritical supporter of a person or group or cause. 2. A guerilla. Partisanship (n).
101
partition (v)
(v) 1. To divide into parts, to share out in this way. 2. To divide (a room etc.) by means of a partition.
102
party line
a shared telephone line; the set policy of a political party.
103
pass off
to cease gradually; (of an event) to take place and be completed; to offer or dispose of under false pretences (passed it off as his own); to evade or dismiss (an awkward remark etc.) lightly.
104
pass out
to complete one's military training; (informal) to faint.
105
pass over
to disregard; to ignore the claims of (a person) to promotion etc.
106
pass up
(informal) to refuse to accept (an opportunity etc.).
107
passable
(adj) 1. Able to be passed; 2. Satisfactory, fairly good but not outstanding. Passably (adv).
108
passive resistance
resistance by refusal to cooperate.
109
passkey
(n) 1. A key to a door or gate. 2. A master-key.
110
past it
(slang) too old to be able to do it, too decrepit to be usable.
111
would not put it past him
(informal) regard him as morally capable of doing it.
112
pastiche
(n) a musical or other composition made up of selections from various sources.
113
pastime
(n) something done to pass time pleasantly, a recreation.
114
pastor
(n) a clergyman in charge of a church or congregation.
115
pastoral
(adj) 1. Of shepherds or country life (a pastoral scene). 2. Of a pastor, concerned with spiritual guidance of Christians.
116
pasty
(adj) 1. Of or like paste. 2. Unhealthily pale (pasty-faced).
117
a pat on the back
praise, congratulations.
118
stand pat
to stick firmly to what one has said.
119
patch up
to repair with patches; to put together hastily or as a makeshift; to settle (a quarrel etc.).
120
patchy
(adj) 1. Having patches, existing in patches (patchy fog). 2. Uneven in quality. Patchily (adv), patchiness (n).
121
pate
(n)(old use) the head.
122
pâté
(n) paste of meat etc.
123
patent
(adj)1. Obvious, unconcealed, (his patent dislike of the plan). 2. Protected by a patent, (patent medicines). (v) to obtain or hold a patent for. Patently (adv). Patent leather: leather with a glossy varnished surface.
124
paternalism
(n) the policy of governing or controlling people in a paternal way, providing for their needs but giving them no responsibility. Paternalistic (adj).
125
paternity
(n)1. Fatherhood, being a father. 2. Descent from a father.
126
pathetic
(adj)1. Arousing pity or sadness. 2. Miserably inadequate. Pathetically (adv).
127
pathogenic
(adj) causing disease.
128
pathological
(adj)1. Of pathology. 2. Of or caused by a physical or mental disorder, (a pathological liar). Pathologically (adv).
129
pathos
(n) a quality that arouses pity or sadness.
130
have no patience with
to feel irritated by.
131
patio
(n)(pl patios) 1. An inner courtyard, open to the sky, in a Spanish or Spanish-American house. 2. A paved area beside a house, used for outdoor meals or relaxation.
132
patois
(n) a dialect.
133
patrimony
(n)1. Property inherited from one's father or ancestors, a heritage. 2. A church's endowed income or property.
134
patriotic
(adj) loyally supporting one's country. Patriotically (adv), patriotism (n).
135
patron
(n)1. A person who gives encouragement or financial or other support to an activity or cause etc. 2. A regular customer of a shop or restaurant etc. 3. A patron saint. Patroness (n). Patron saint: a saint regarded as giving special protection to a person or place or activity. Patronage (n).
136
patronise
(v)1. To act as a patron towards, to support or encourage. 2. To be a regular customer at (a shop etc.) 3. To treat in a condescending way. Patronising (adj): condescending. Patronisingly (adv).
137
patter
1. (v)1. To make a series of light quick taps. 2. To run with short quick steps. (n) a series of light quick tapping sounds.
2. (n) rapid and often glib or deceptive speech, eg. that used by a conjuror or salesman etc.
138
paucity
(n) smallness of supply or quantity.
139
pave the way
to prepare the way for changes etc.
140
paw (v)
(v)1. To strike with a paw. 2. To scrape (the ground) with a hoof. 3. (informal) to touch awkwardly or rudely with the hands.
141
pawn
1. (n)1. A chess-man of the smallest size and value. 2. A person whose actions are controlled by others.
2. (v) to deposit (a thing) with a pawnbroker as security for money borrowed. (n) something deposited as a pledge. Pawnbroker (n): a person licensed to lend money on the security of personal property deposited with him. Pawn-shop (n): his place of business.
142
pay-as-you-earn
(n) a method of collecting income tax by deducting it at source from wages or interest etc.
143
pay for
to suffer or be punished because of (a mistake etc.).
144
paying guest
one who pays for his board and lodging.
145
pay its way
to make enough profit to cover expenses.
146
pay off
to pay in full and be free from (a debt) or discharge (an employee); to yield good results, (the risk paid off); (pay off old scores), to get even with a person for past wrongdoing.
147
pay one's way
not get into debt.
148
pay-packet
(n) a packet containing an employee's wages.
149
pay-roll
(n) a list of a firm's employees receiving regular pay.
150
pay up
to pay in full; to pay what is demanded.
151
payable
(adj) which must or may be paid.
152
payload
(n)1. The part of an aircraft's load from which revenue is derived (eg. passengers or cargo). 2. The total weight of bomb or instruments carried by an aircraft or rocket etc.
153
paymaster
(n) an official who pays troops or workmen etc.
154
payola
(n)1. A bribe offered to one who promotes a commercial product by dishonestly making use of his position or influence etc. 2. Bribery of this kind.
155
peaceable
(adj)1. Not quarrelsome, desiring to be at peace with others. 2. Peaceful, without strife, (a peaceable settlement). Peaceably (adv).
156
peacemaker
(n) a person who brings about peace.
157
peak (1)
(n)1. A pointed top, especially of a mountain. 2. The mountain itself. 3. Any shape or edge or part that tapers to form a point. 4. A projecting part of the edge of a cap. 5. The point of highest vase or achievement or intensity etc., (at the peak of his career); (peak hours), the hours when traffic is heaviest or consumption of electricity current etc. is at its highest. (v) to reach its peak in value or intensity etc.
158
peal
(n)1. The loud ringing of a bell or set of bells. 2. A set of bells with different notes. 3. A loud burst of thunder or laughter. (v) to sound or cause to sound in a peal.
159
cast pearls before swine
to offer a good thing to someone who is incapable of appreciating it.
160
peasant
(n)(in some countries) a member of the class of farm labourers and small farmers. Peasantry (n) peasants.
161
peat
(n) vegetable matter decomposed by the action of water in bogs etc. and partly carbonised, used in horticulture or cut in pieces as fuel. Peaty (adj).
162
peccadillo
(n)(pl peccadilloes) a trivial offence.
163
pecking order
a series of ranks of status or authority in which people dominate those below themselves and are dominated by those above (as observed among domestic fowls).
164
peckish
(adj)(informal) hungry.
165
peculiar
(adj)1. Strange, eccentric. 2. Belonging exclusively to a particular person or place or thing, (customs peculiar to the 18th century). 3. Particular, special, (a point of peculiar interest). Peculiarity (n). Peculiarly (adv) (peculiarly annoying).
166
pecuniary
(adj) of or in money, (pecuniary aid).
167
pedagogue
(n)(contemptuous) a person who teaches in a pedantic way.
168
pedant
(n) a person who parades his learning or who insists unimaginatively on strict observances of formal rules and details in the presentation of knowledge. Pedantry (n), pedantic (adj), pedantically (adv).
169
pedestal
(n)1. A base supporting a column or pillar or statue etc. 2. Each of the two supports of a knee-hole table or desk. Put a person on a pedestal: to admire or respect him greatly.
170
pedigree
(n) a line or list of ancestors, especially of a distinguished kind. (adj)(of animals) having a recorded line of descent that shows pure breeding.
171
pedlar
(n) a person who goes from house to house selling small articles usually carried in a pack.
172
peer
1. (v)1. To look searchingly or with difficulty. 2. To peep out.
2. (n)1. A member of the peerage (nobility) in Britain, a duke, marquis, earl, viscount, or baron, also called (peers of the realm), with the right to sit in the House of Lords. 2. One who is the equal of another in rank or merit or quality etc. Peeress (n): a female peer, a peer's wife. Peer group: a group of people who are associated and of equal status.
173
peerless
(adj) without equal, superb.
174
peeved
(adj)(slang) annoyed. Peevish (adj): irritable. Peevishly (adv). Peevishness (n).
175
off the peg
(of clothes) ready-made.
176
take a person down a peg
to reduce his pride, to humble him.
177
pejorative
(adj) disparaging, derogatory. Pejoratively (adv).
178
pelagic
(adj)(of fish etc.) living near the surface of the open sea.
179
pellet
(n)1. A small rounded closely-packed mass of a soft substance. 2. A slug (roundish lump of metal) of small shot (missile). Pelleted (adj): formed into pellets.
180
pell-mell
(adv & adj) in a hurrying disorderly manner, headlong.
181
pen-pushing
(n)(informal) clerical work.
182
penal
(adj) of or involving punishment, especially according to law; (a penal offence), one for which the law imposes a punishment; (penal taxation), heavy taxation inflicted as if intended to be a punishment. Penalise (v)1. To inflict a penalty on. 2. To place at a serious disadvantage. Penalisation (n). Penalty (n).
183
penchant
(n) a liking or inclination, (has a penchant for Indian music).
184
pendant
(n) a hanging ornament, especially one attached to a chain worn round the neck.
185
pending
(adj)1. Waiting to be decided or settled. 2. About to come into existence, (patent pending). (prep)1. During, (pending these negotiations). 2. Until, (pending his return).
186
penetrable
(adj) able to be penetrated. Penetrability (n).
187
penetrating
(adj)1. Having or showing great insight. 2. (of a voice or sound) loud and carrying, piercing.
Penetrative (adj): able to penetrate, penetrating.
188
peninsula
(n) a piece of land that is almost surrounded by water or projecting far into the sea. Peninsular (adj). (Peninsular Malaysia - as opposed to East Malaysia, in Borneo)
189
penitent
(adj) feeling or showing regret that one has done wrong. (n) a penitent person. Penitently (adv), penitence (n). Penitential (adj): of penitence or penance. Penitentiary (n): (Amer.) a State prison or federal prison.
190
pennant
(n) a long tapering flag flown on a ship.
191
penny-pinching
(adj) niggardly, (n) niggardliness.
192
penny wise and pound foolish
careful in small matters but wasteful in large ones.
193
pension
1. (n) an income consisting of a periodic payment made by the State to people who are above a certain disabled age or widowed or to certain disabled people, or by an employer to a retired employee. (v)1. To pay a pension to. 2. To dismiss or allow to retire with a pension, (pensioned him off). Pensionable (adj). Pensioner (n).
2. A boarding-house on the Continent.
194
pensive
(adj) deep in thought, thoughtful and gloomy. Pensively (adv), pensiveness (n).
195
pent
(adj) shut in a confined space, (pent in/ up). Pent-up (adj): shut in; kept from being expressed openly, (pent-up anger).
196
pentagon
(n)1. A geometric figure with five sides. 2. (the Pentagon), a five-sided building near Washington DC, headquarters of the USA Department of Defence and of the leaders of the armed forces; the department itself.
197
pentathlon
(n) an athletic contest in which each competitor takes part in the five events it includes.
198
penultimate
(adj) last but one.
199
penurious
(adj)1. Poverty-stricken. 2. Stingy. Penury (n): extreme poverty.
200
pep
(n) vigour, energy. (v)(pepped, pepping) to fill with vigour, to enliven, (pep it up). Pep talk: a talk urging the hearer(s) to great effort or courage.
201
perambulate
(v)1. To walk through or over or round (an area), to travel through and inspect. 2. To walk about. Perambulation (n). Perambulator (n): a child's pram.
202
perceive
(v) to become aware of, to see or notice.
203
perceptible
(adj) able to be perceived. Perceptibly (adv), perceptibility (n).
204
perception
(n) perceiving, ability to perceive.
205
perceptive
(adj) having or showing insight and sensitive understanding. Perceptively (adv), perceptiveness (n), perceptivity (n).
206
perchance
(adv)(old use) perhaps.
207
percolate
(v)1. To filter or cause to filter, especially through small holes. 2. To prepare (coffee) in a percolator. Percolation (n).
208
perdition
(n) eternal damnation. (Fr: perder= lose/ be lost)
209
peregrine
(n) a kind of falcon. Peregrination (n): travelling, a journey.
210
peremptory
(adj) imperious, insisting on obedience. Peremptorily (adv).
211
perennial
(adj)1. Lasting a long time or for ever, constantly recurring, (a perennial problem). 2. (of a plant) living for several years. (n) a perennial plant. Perennially (adv).
212
perfection
(n)1. Making or being perfect. 2. A person or thing considered perfect. To perfection: perfectly. Perfectionist (n): a person who is satisfied with nothing less than what he thinks is perfect. Perfectionism (n).
213
perfidious
(adj) treacherous, disloyal. Perfidy (n).
214
perforate
(v)1. To make a hole or holes through, to pierce with a row or rows of tiny holes so that part(s) can be torn off easily. 2. To penetrate. Perforation (n).
215
perforce
(adv) by force of circumstances, necessarily.
216
perfunctory
(adj)1. Done as a duty or routine but without much care or interest. 2. (of a person) acting in this way. Perfunctorily (adv), perfunctoriness (n).
217
pergola
(n) an arbour (shady place among trees) or covered walk formed of climbing plants trained over trellis-work.
218
peril
(n) serious danger. Perilous (adj): full or risk, dangerous. Perilously (adv).
219
peripatetic
(adj) going from place to place.
220
periphery
(n)1. The boundary of a surface or area, the region immediately inside or beyond this. 2. The fringes of a subject etc. Peripheral (adj):1. Of or on the periphery. 2. Of minor but not central importance to something.
221
perish
(v)1. To suffer destruction, to become extinct, to die a violent or untimely death. 2. To rot, to lose or cause (rubber) to lose its normal qualities. 3. To distress or wither by cold or exposure. Perishable (adj): liable to decay or go bad in a short time. Perishables (pl n): perishable foods.
222
perjury
(v) perjure oneself: to make a perjured (involving perjury: the deliberate giving of false evidence while on oath, the evidence itself) statement.
223
perk up
to regain or cause to regain courage or confidence or vitality; to smarten up.
224
permafrost
(n) the permanently frozen subsoil in polar regions.
225
permanency
(n)1. Permanence. 2. A permanent thing or arrangement.
226
permeate
(v) to pass or flow or spread into every part of. Permeation (n).
227
permissible
(adj) such as may be permitted, allowable. Permissibly (adv).
228
permissive
(adj)1. Giving permission. 2. Tolerant, allowing much freedom in social conduct and sexual matters. Permissiveness (n).
229
pernicious
(adj) having a very harmful effect.
230
pernickety
(adj)(informal) fastidious, scrupulous.
231
perpetual
(adj)1. Lasting for a long time, not ceasing. 2. (informal) frequent, often repeated, (this perpetual quarrelling). Perpetually (adv). Perpetuity (n). In perpetuity: for ever.
232
perpetrate
(v) to commit (a crime or error), to be guilty of (a blunder etc.) perpetration (n), perpetrator (n).
233
perpetuate
(v) to preserve from being forgotten or from going out of use. Perpetuation (n).
234
perplex
(v)1. To bewilder, to puzzle. 2. To make more complicated. Perplexedly (adv): in a perplexed way.
235
perquisite
(n) an allowance or privilege etc. given or looked upon as one's right in addition to wages or salary.
236
persecute
(v)1. To subject to constant hostility or cruel treatment, especially because of religious or political beliefs. 2. To harass. Persecution (n), persecutor (n).
237
persevere
(v) to continue steadfastly, especially in something that is difficult or tedious. Perseverance (n).
238
persiflage
(n) banter.
239
persistent
(adj) persisting (continuing firmly/obstinately; continuing to exist). Persistently (adv), persistence (n), persistency (n).
240
personable
(adj) good-looking.
241
personage
(n) a person, especially one of importance or distinction.
242
persona grata
a person who is acceptable, especially a diplomat acceptable to a foreign government. Persona non grata: one who is not acceptable.
243
personal column
a column of private messages or advertisements in a newspaper.
244
personalise
(v)1. To make personal, especially by marking as one's own property. 2. To personify.
245
personally
(adv)1. In person, not through an agent, (showed us round personally). 2. As a person, in a personal capacity, (we don't know him personally). 3. In a personal manner, (don't take it personally). 4. As regards oneself, (personally, I like it).
246
personify
(v)(personified, personifying)1. To represent (an idea) in human form or (a thing) as having human characteristics, (Justice is personified as a blindfolded woman holding a pair of scales). 2. To embody in one's life or behaviour, (he was meanness personified). Personification (n).
247
personnel
(n) 1. The body of people employed in any work, staff. 2. The department (in a business firm etc.) dealing with employees and their welfare.
248
perspective
(n) 1. The art of drawing solid objects on a flat surface so as to give the right impression of their relative position, size, solidity, etc. 2. The apparent relationship between visible objects as to position, distance, etc. 3. A view of a visible scene of facts and events. 4. A mental picture of their relative importance of things. In perspective: drawn according to the rules of perspective, with its relative importance understood
249
perspicacious
(adj) having or showing great insight. Perspicaciously (adv), perspicacity (n).
250
perspicuity
(n) 1. Clearness of statement or explanation. 2. (incorrect use) perspicacity.
251
perspicuous
(adj) 1. Expressed or expressing things clearly. 2. (incorrect use) perspicacious. Perspicuously (adv), perspicuousness (n).
252
persuadable
(adj) able to be persuaded.
253
persuasion
(n) 1. Persuading, being persuaded. 2. Persuasiveness. 3. Belief, especially religious belief, (people of the same persuasion).
254
persuasive
(adj) able or trying to persuade people. Persuasively (adv), persuasiveness (n).
255
pert
(adj) 1. Cheeky. 2. (Amer.) lively. Pertly (adv), pertness (n).
256
pertain
(v) 1. To be relevant, (evidence pertaining to the case). 2. To belong as part, (the mansion and lands pertaining to it).
257
pertinent
(n) (adj) pertaining, relevant. Pertinently (adv), pertinacity (n).
258
perturb
(v) to disturb greatly, to make anxious or uneasy. Perturbation (n).
259
peruse
(v) to read (a document etc.) carefully. Perusal (n).
260
pervade
(v) to spread or be present throughout, to permeate, (a pervading atmosphere of optimism). Pervasion (n).
261
perverse
(adj) 1. Obstinately doing something different from what is reasonable or required, intractable. 2. Indicating or characterised by a tendency of this kind, (a perverse satisfaction). Perversely (adv), perverseness (n), perversity (n).
262
pervert
(v) 1. To turn (a thing) from its proper course or use, (pervert the course of justice). 2. To lead astray from right behaviour or beliefs, to corrupt.
(n) a perverted person.
263
pervious
(adj) permeable, allowing something to pass through.
264
pester
(v) to make persistent requests, to annoy with frequent requests or questions.
265
pestilence
(n) a deadly epidemic disease.
266
pestle
(n) a club-shaped instrument for pounding substances in a mortar.
267
petite
(adj) (of a woman) of small dainty build.
268
petition
(n) 1. An earnest request, 2. A formal document appealing to an authority for a right or benefit etc., especially one signed by a large number of people. 3. A formal application made to a court of law for a writ or order etc. (v) To make or address a petition to. Petitioner (n).
269
petrify
(v) (petrified, petrifying) 1. To change or cause to change into a stony mass. 2. To paralyse or stun with astonishment or fear etc. Petrification (n).
270
petrodollar
(n) a dollar earned by a country that exports petroleum (= oil).
271
petticoat
(n) a woman's or girl's dress-length undergarment worn hanging from the shoulders or waist beneath a dress or skirt.
272
petty
(adj) (pettier, pettiest) 1. Unimportant, trivial, (petty details). 2. Minor, on a small scale. 3. Small-minded, (petty spite). Pettily (adv). Petty cash: a small amount of money kept by an office etc. for or from small payments. Petty officer: an NCO in the navy. Petty sessions: a meeting of magistrates for summary trial of minor offences.
273
petulant
(adj) peevish, unreasonably impatient. Petulantly (adv), petulance (n).
274
pew
(n) 1. One of the long bench-like seats with a back and sides, usually fixed in rows, for the congregation in a church. 2. (informal) a seat, (take a pew).
275
phalanx
(n) 1. A number of people forming a compact mass or banded together for a common purpose. 2. (pl phalanges) any of the bones in the fingers or toes.
276
phallic
(adj) of or resembling a model of the penis in erection, symbolising generative power in nature.
277
phantom
(n) 1. A ghost, an apparition. 2. Something without reality, as seen in a dream or vision, (phantom ships).
278
Phrarisee
(n) 1. A member of an ancient Jewish sect represented in the New Testament as making a show of sanctity and piety. 2. (pharisee), a hypocritical self-righteous person. Pharisaical (adj).
279
pharmacopoeia
(n) 1. A book containing a list of medicinal drugs with directions for their use. 2. A stock of medicinal drugs.
280
phase in/out
To bring gradually into or out of use.
281
pheasant
(n) 1. A long-tailed game-bird with bright feathers. 2. Its flesh as food.
282
phenomenal
(adj) extraordinary, remarkable. Phenomenally (adv).
283
phenomenon
(n) (pl phenomena) 1. A fact or occurrence or change perceived by any of the sense or by the mind, (snow is a common phenomenon in winter). 2. A remarkable person or thing, a wonder.
284
philander
(v) (of a man) to flirt. Philanderer (n).
285
philanthropic
(adj) 1. Benevolent. 2. Concerned with human welfare and the reduction of suffering. Philanthropically (adv), philanthropist (n), philanthropy (n).
286
philately
(n) stamp-collecting. Philatelist (n), philatelic (adj).
287
philharmonic
(adj) (in names of symphony orchestras and music societies) devoted to music.
288
philology
(n) the scientific study of languages and their development. Philological (adj), philologist (n).
289
philosophy
(n) 1. The search, by logical reasoning, for understanding of the basic truths and principles of the universe, life, and morals, and of human perception and understanding of these. 2. A system of ideas concerning this or a particular subject, a system of principles for the conduct of life. 3. Advanced learning in general, (Doctor of Philosophy). 4. Calm endurance of misfortune etc. Philosopher (n), philosophical (adj), philosophically (adv), philosophise (v).
290
phlegm
(n) thick mucus in the throat and bronchial passages, ejected by coughing.
291
phlegmatic
(adj) 1. Not easily excited or agitated. 2. Sluggish, apathetic. Phlegmatically (adv).
292
phobia
(n) a lasting abnormal fear or great dislike of something.
293
phoney
(adj) (phonier, phoniest) (slang) sham, not genuine, insincere. (n) (slang) a phoney person or thing.
294
phonograph
(n) (Amer.) a record-player.
295
phosphorescent
(adj) luminous, glowing with a faint light without burning or perceptible heat. Phosphorescence (n), phosphoresce (v).
296
phraseology
(n) wording, the way something is worded.
297
physician
(n) a doctor, especially one who practises medicine (as distinct from surgery) or is a specialist in this (as distinct from a general practitioner).
298
physicist
(n) an expert in physics.
299
physics
(n) the scientific study of the properties and interactions of matter and energy. (pl n) these properties etc.
300
physiognomy
(n) the features of a person's face.
301
physiology
(n) 1. The scientific study of the bodily functions of living organisms and their parts. 2. These functions. Physiological (adj).
302
physiotherapy
(n) treatment of a disease or injury or deformity or weakness by massage, exercises, heat etc. Physiotherapist: (n) an expert in physiotherapy.
303
physique
(n) a person's physical build and muscular development.
304
phytic acid
a substance found in plants, especially in the seeds of cereals, that is important in the body's use of calcium.
305
phtoplankton
(n) plankton consisting of tiny plants.
306
piazza
(n) a public square in an Italian town.
307
piccaninny
(n) 1. A small Black child. 2. An Australian Aboriginal child.
308
pick a lock
to open it with a tool other than a key.
309
pick a person's brains
to extract ideas or information from him for one's own use.
310
pick a person's poket
to steal its contents while he is wearing the garment.
311
pick a quarrel
to provoke one deliberately.
312
pick holes in
to find fault with.
313
pick-me-up
(n) a tonic to restore health or relieve depression.
314
pick off
to pluck off; to select and shoot or destroy etc. as the opportunity arises.
315
pick on
to single out, especially as a target for nagging or harassment.
316
pick out
to take from among a number of things; to recognise; to distinguish from surrounding objects or areas; to play (a tune) by searching for the right notes.
317
pick over
to select the best of.
318
pick up
to lift or take up; to call for and take with one, to take aboard (passengers or freight etc.); (of police etc.) to catch, to find and take into custody; to get or acquire by chance or casually; to meet casually and become acquainted with; to succeed in seeing or hearing by means of apparatus; to recover health, to show an improvement; (pick up speed, accelerate).
319
pick-a-back
(adv) so as to be carried on the shoulders and back or on the top of a larger object.
320
pickaxe
(n) a tool consisting of a curved iron bar with one or both ends pointed, mounted at right angles to its handle, used for breaking up hard ground or stones etc.
321
picket
(n) 1. A pointed stake set into the ground, e.g. as part of a fence. 2. An outpost of troops, a party of sentries. 3. One of more persons stationed by strikers outside their place of work to dissuade others from entering. (v) (picketed, picketing) 1. To secure or enclose with a stake or stakes. 2. To station or act as a picket during a strike.
322
pickings
(pl n) 1. Scraps of good food etc. remaining. 2. Odd gains or perquisites.
323
pictogram/ pictograph
(n) 1. A pictorial symbol used as a form of writing. 2. A chart using pictures to represent statistical information.
324
pictorial
(adj) 1. Of or expressed in a picture or pictures. 2. Illustrated by pictures. 3. Picturesque. (n) a newspaper or magazine in which pictures are the main feature. Pictorially (adv).
325
picture (v)
1. To represent in a picture. 2. To describe vividly. 3. To form a mental picture of, (picture to yourself a deserted beach).
326
in the picture
fully informed, (let me put you in the picture).
327
picturesque
(adj) 1. Forming a striking and pleasant scene, (picturesque villages). 2. (of words or a description) very expressive, vivid. Picturesquely (adv), picturesqueness (n).
328
pie in the sky
a prospect (considered unrealistic) of future happiness.
329
go to pieces
(of a person) to lose one's strength or ability etc., to collapse.
330
in one piece
not broken.
331
a piece of one's mind
a reproach or scolding giving one's frank criticisms.
332
piece-work
(n) work paid according to the quantity done, not by the time spent on it.
333
pièce de résistance
1. The principal dish at a meal. 2. The most important or remarkable item.
334
piecemeal
(adj & adv) done piece by piece, part at a time.
335
piety
(n) piousness.
336
pig-headed
(adj) obstinate, stubborn.
337
pigeon-toed
(adj) having the toes turned inwards.
338
pike
(n) 1. A long wooden shaft with a pointed metal head. 2. A pointed or peaked summit of a hill, especially in the Lake District, (Langdale Pikes). 3. (pl pike) a large voracious freshwater fish with a long narrow snout.
339
pile
(n) a heavy beam of metal or concrete or timber driven vertically into the ground as a foundation or support for building or bridge. Pile-driver: (n) a machine for driving piles into the ground.
340
pile (v)
1. To heap or stack or load. 2. To crowd, (they all piled into one car). Pile it on: (informal) to exaggerate. Pile up: to accumulate; to run (a ship) on the rocks or aground; to cause (a vehicle) to crash. Pile-up: (n) a collision of several motor vehicles.
341
pilfer
(v) to steal small items or in small quantities. Pilferer (n).
342
pilgrim
(n) a person who travels to a sacred or revered place as an act of religious devotion.
343
bitter pill
a humiliation.
344
pill (v)
(of fabric) to form tiny balls of fibre on the surface.
345
pillage
(v) to plunder. (n) plunder. Pillager (n).
346
pillion
(n) a saddle for a passenger seated behind the driver of a motor cycle. Ride pillion: to ride on this as a passenger.
347
pillory
(n) a wooden framework with holes for the head and hands, into which offenders were formerly locked for exposure to public ridicule. (v) (pilloried, pillorying) 1. To put into the pillory as a punishment. 2. To hold up to public ridicule or scorn.
348
pilot (adj)
experimental, testing (on a small scale) how a scheme etc. will work, (a pilot project).
349
pin down
to establish clearly; to make (a person) agree to keep to a promise or arrangement etc. or declare his intentions definitely.
350
pin-point
(n) the point of a pin, something very small or sharp. (adj) showing or needing care and precision. (v) to locate or identify precisely.
351
pincers
(pl n) 1. A tool for gripping and pulling things, consisting of a pair of pivoted jaws with handles that are pressed together to close them. 2. A claw-like part of a lobster etc. Pincer movement: an attack in which forces converge from each side on an enemy position.
352
at a pinch
in time of difficulty or necessity.
353
pine (v)
(v) 1. To waste away through grief or yearning. 2. To feel an intense longing.
354
pinnacle
(n) 1. A pointed ornament on a roof. 2. A peak. 3. The highest point.
355
pint
(n) 1. A measure for liquids, 1/8 of a gallon (in Britain 4546 cc, in the USA 3785 cc). 2. This quantity of liquid, especially milk or beer.
356
pioneer
(n) a person who is one of the first to enter or settle a new region or to investigate a new subject or method etc. (v) to be a pioneer, to take part in (a course of action etc.) that leads the way for others to follow.
357
pious
(adj) 1. Devout in religion. 2. Ostentatiously virtuous. Piously (adv), piousness (n).
358
pip (v)
(pipped, pipping) (informal) 1. To hit with a shot. 2. To defeat. Pip at the post: to defeat at the last moment.
359
pipe down
(informal) to cease talking, to become less noisy or less insistent.
360
pipe-dream
(n) an impractical hope or scheme.
361
pipe up
to begin to play a pipe or to sing or speak.
362
pipeline
(n) 1. A pipe for conveying petroleum etc. to a distance. 2. A channel of supply or information. In the pipeline: on the way, in the process of being prepared.
363
piping hot
(of water of food) very hot.
364
piquant
(adj) 1. Pleasantly sharp in its taste or smell. 2. Pleasantly stimulating or exciting to the mind. Piquantly (adv), piquancy (n).
365
pique
(v) 1. To hurt the pride or self-respect of. 2. To stimulate, (their curiosity was piqued). (n) a feeling of hurt pride.
366
pirouette
(n) a spinning movement of the body while balanced on the point of the toe or the ball of the foot. (v) to perform a pirouette.
367
pitch-black, pitch-dark
(adjs) quite black, with no light at all.
368
pitch in
(informal) to begin to work vigorously.
369
pitchfork
(n) a long-handled fork with two prongs, used for pitching hay. (v) 1. To lift or move (a thing) with a pitchfork. 2. To thrust (a person) forcibly into a position or office etc.
370
piteous
(adj) deserving or arousing pity. Piteously (adv).
371
pithy
(adj) (pithier, pithiest) 1. Like pith, containing much pith. 2. Brief and full of meaning, (pithy comments). Pithily (adv).
372
pitiable/ pitiful
(adj) deserving or arousing pity or contempt. Pitiably (adv), pitifully (adv).
373
pittance
(n) a very small allowance of money.
374
pitter-patter
(n) a light tapping sound.
375
pivotal
(adj) of a pivot.
376
placard
(n) a poster or other notice for displaying.
377
placate
(v) to pacify, to conciliate. Placatory (adj).
378
in place of
instead of.
379
out of place
in the wrong position or environment; unsuitable.
380
placement
(n) placing.
381
placid
(adj) calm and peaceful, not easily made anxious or upset. Placidly (adv), placidity (n).
382
plagiarise
(v) to take and use (another person's ideas or writings or inventions) as one's own. Plagiarism (n).
383
plague
(n) 1. A deadly contagious disease, especially the bubonic plague in London in 1665. 2. An infestation of a pest, (a plague of caterpillars). 3. (informal) a nuisance. (v) to annoy, to pester.
384
plaice
(n) (pl plaice) a kind of flat-fish used as food.
385
plaid
(n) 1. A long piece of woollen cloth, usually with a tartan or similar pattern, worn over the shoulder as part of Highland dress. 2. This pattern.
386
plain clothes
civilian clothes, as distinct from uniform or official dress.
387
plain sailing
a course of action that is free from difficulties.
388
plain-spoken
(adj) frank.
389
plaintiff
(n) the party that brings an action in a lawsuit (opposed to the defendant).
390
plaintive
(adj) sounding sad. Plaintively (adv).
391
plantain
(n) a common wild plant with broad flat leaves, bearing seeds that are used as food for cage-birds. (n) a tropical tree and fruit resembling the banana.
392
plaque
(n) 1. A flat metal or porcelain plate fixed on a wall as an ornament or memorial. 2. Film on teeth, where bacteria can live.
393
plateau
(n) (pl plateaux or plateaus) 1. An area of fairly level high ground. 2. A state in which there is little variation following an increase, (the firm's export trade reached a plateau).
394
platinum blonde
a woman with very light blonde hair.
395
platitude
(n) a commonplace remark, especially one uttered solemnly as if it were new. Platitudinous (adj).
396
Platonic
(adj) of the ancient Greek philosopher Plato (4th century BC) or his doctrines; (platonic love or friendship), affection (not involving sexual love) between a man and a woman.
397
platoon
(n) a subdivision of a military company.
398
plaudits
(pl n) applause, an emphatic expression of approval.
399
plausible
(adj) 1. (of a statement) seeming to be reasonable or probably but not proved. 2. (of a person) persuasive but deceptive. Plausibly (adv), plausibility (n).
400
play along
to pretend to cooperate.
401
play at
to perform in a trivial or half-hearted way.
402
play down
to minimise the importance of.
403
play for time
to seek to gain time by delaying.
404
play into someone's hands
to do something that unwittingly gives him an advantage.
405
play off
to play an extra match to decide a drawn position; (play off one person against another), to oppose one person to another in order to serve one's own interests.
406
play on
to affect and make use of (a person's sympathy etc.).
407
play safe
to avoid taking risks.
408
play the game
to keep the rules; to behave honourably.
409
play up to
to try to win the favour of or encourage (a person) by flattery etc.
410
play with
to toy with; (play with fire), to treat frivolously something that could prove dangerous.
411
playfellow
(n) a playmate.
412
playwright
(n) a person who writes plays, a dramatist.
413
plaza
(n) a public square in a Spanish town.
414
plea
(n) 1. A formal statement (especially of 'guilty' or 'not guilty') made by or on behalf of a person charged in a lawcourt. 2. An appeal or entreaty, (a plea for mercy). 3. An excuse, (on the plea of ill health).
415
plead
(v) (pleaded (Scottish & Amer. pled), pleading) 1. To put forward as a plea in a lawcourt. 2. To address a lawcourt as an advocate, to put forward (a case) in court. 3. To make an appeal or entreaty; (plead with a person), to entreat him. 4. To put forward as an excuse, (pleaded a previous engagement).
416
pleasantry
(n) being humorous, a humorous remark.
417
please oneself
to do as one chooses.
418
pleasurable
(adj) causing pleasure. Pleasurably (adv).
419
with pleasure
willingly, gladly.
420
plebeian
(adj) 1. Of the lower social classes, especially in ancient Rome. 2. Uncultured, vulgar, (plebeian tastes). (n) a member of the lower classes.
421
pledge
(n) 1. A thing deposited as security for payment of a debt or fulfilment of a contract etc., and liable to be forfeited in case of failure. 2. A token of something, (as a pledge of his devotion). 3. A toast drunk to someone's health. 4. A solemn promise, (under pledge of secrecy). (v) 1. To deposit (an article) as a pledge. 2. To promise solemnly. 3. To drink to the health of.
422
plenary
(adj) attended by all members, (a plenary session of the assembly).
423
plenipotentiary
(n) an envoy with full powers to take action or make decisions etc. on behalf of the government he represents. (adj) having these powers.
424
plethora
(n) an overabundance.
425
pliable
(adj)1. Bending easily, flexible. 2. Easily influenced. Pliable (adv). Pliability (n).
426
pliant
(adj) pliable. Pliantly (adv), pliancy (n).
427
pliers
(pl n) pincers having jaws with flat surfaces that can be brought together for gripping small objects or wire etc.
428
plight
(n) a serious and difficult situation. (v)(old use) to pledge.
429
plinth
(n) a block or slab forming the base of a column or a support for a vase etc.
430
plod
(v)(plodded, plodding) 1. To walk doggedly or laboriously, to trudge. 2. To work at a slow but steady rate. (n) plodding. Plodder (n).
431
plonk (1)
(v) to throw or place or drop down heavily.
432
plot (v)
(v) (plotted, plotting) 1. To make a plan or map of. 2. To mark on a chart or diagram. 3. To plan secretly, to contrive a secret plan. Plotter (n).
433
plough back
to turn (growing grass etc.) into the soil to enrich it; to reinvest (profits) in the business that produced them.
434
ploy
(n)(informal) 1. An undertaking or occupation. 2. A cunning manoeuvre to gain an advantage.
435
pluck up courage
to summon up one's courage.
436
plucky
(adj)(pluckier, pluckiest) showing pluck (courage, spirit), brave. Pluckily (adv).
437
plug away
to work diligently or persistently.
438
plumage
(n) a bird's feathers.
439
plume
(n)1. A feather, especially a large one used for ornament. 2. An ornament of feathers or similar material. 3. Something resembling this, (a plume of smoke). (v) to preen. Plume oneself: to pride oneself.
440
plummet
(n) a plumb or plumb-line. (v)(plummeted, plummeting) to fall or plunge steeply.
441
plump
1. (adj) having a full rounded shape. (v) to make or become plump. Plumpness (n).
2. (v) to drop or plunge abruptly, (plumped down). (adv) with a sudden or heavy fall. Plump for: to choose or vote for while-heartedly, to decide on.
442
plunder
(v) to rob (a place or person) forcibly or systematically, to steal or embezzle. (n)1. The taking of goods or money etc. in this way. 2. The goods etc. acquired. Plunderer (n).
443
take the plunge
to take a bold decisive step.
444
plush
(n) a kind of cloth with long soft nap, used in furnishings. (adj)1. Made of plush. 2. Plushy (adj: luxurious). Plushiness (n).
445
ply (v)
(v)(plied, plying)1. To use or wield (a tool or weapon). 2. To work at, (ply one's trade). 3. To work steadily. 4. To keep offering or supplying, (plied her with food or with questions). 5. To go to and fro regularly, (the boat plies between the two harbours). 6. (of a taxi-driver or boatman etc.) to stand or drive or row about looking for custom, (ply for hire).
446
poach (2)
(v)1. To take (game or fish) illegally from private land or water. 2. To trespass or encroach on something that properly belongs to another person. Poacher (n).
447
out of pocket
having lost in a transaction.
448
podium
(n)(pl podia) a pedestal or platform.
449
pogrom
(n) an organised massacre.
450
poignant
(adj) arousing sympathy, deeply moving to the feelings, keenly felt, (poignant grief). Poignantly (adv), poignancy (n).
451
a case in point
one that is relevant to what has just been said.
452
make a point of
to treat as important, to do something with ostentatious care.
453
on the point of
on the very verge of (an action).
454
point of no return
the point in a long-distance journey at which one must continue onward because supplies are insufficient to enable one to return to the starting point; the point after which one cannot withdraw from an action.
455
point of view
a way of looking at a matter.
456
point out
to indicate, to draw attention to.
457
to the point
relevant, relevantly.
458
pointed
(adj)1. Tapering or sharpened to a point. 2. (of a remark or manner) clearly aimed at a particular person or thing, emphasised. Pointedly (adv).
459
pointless
(adj)1. Without a point. 2. Having no purpose or meaning. Pointlessly (adv).
460
poise
(v)1. To balance or be balanced. 2. To hold suspended or supported. (n)1. Balance, the way something is poised. 2. A dignified and self-assured manner.
461
poison pen
a person who writes malicious or slanderous anonymous letters.
462
poke one's nose into something.
to pry or intrude.
463
poker-face
(n) a face that does not reveal thoughts or feelings; a person with such a face.
464
poky
(adj)(pokier, pokiest) small and cramped, (poky little rooms).
465
be poles apart
to differ greatly.
466
polemic
(n) a verbal attack on a belief or opinion. (adj)1. Controversial. 2. Argumentative. Polemical (adj).
467
policy (1)
(n) the course or general plan of action adopted by a government or party or person.
468
polish off
to finish off
469
polished
(adj) elegant, refined, perfected, (polished manners); (a polished performance).
470
politic
(adj) showing good judgement, prudent. The body politic: the State or a similar organised system.
471
political
(adj)1. Of or engaged in politics. 2. Of the way a country is governed, (its political system). Politically (adv). Political asylum: refuge in foreign territory for refugees from political persecution. Political prisoner: a person imprisoned for a political offence.
472
politician
(n) a person who is engage in politics, an MP.
473
politics
(n)1. The science and art of governing a country. 2. Political affairs or life. 3. Manoeuvring for power etc. within a group, (office politics). (pl n) political principle or affairs or tactics. Not practical politics: unlikely to occur; liable to meet practical difficulties.
474
pollute
(v)1. To make dirty or impure, especially by adding harmful or offensive substances. 2. To corrupt, (polluting the mind). Pollution (n).
475
poltergeist
(n) a ghost or spirit that throws things about noisily.
476
poly-
(prefix)1. Many. 2. Polymerised.
477
polyglot
(adj) knowing or using or written in several languages. (n) a person who knows several languages.
478
polytechnic
(n) an institution giving instruction in many subjects at an advanced level.
479
pompous
(adj) full of ostentatious dignity and self-importance. Pompously (adv), pomposity (n).
480
poncho
(n)(pl ponchos) 1. A blanket-like piece of cloth with a slit in the centre for the head, worn as a cloak. 2. A garment shaped like this.
481
ponderous
(adj)1. Heavy, unwieldy. 2. Laborious in style. Ponderously (adv).
482
pondok
(pondokkie) (ns) (in Southern Africa) a hut or shack made of oddments of wood, corrugated iron, etc.
483
pong
(n)(slang) a stink. (v)(slang) to stink.
484
pontiff
(n)1. A bishop or chief priest. 2. The pope.
485
pontificate
(v) to speak in a pontifical (pompously dogmatic (adv: pontifically) way.
486
pontoon (1)
(n)1. A kind of flat-bottomed boat. 2. One of a number of boats or hollow metal cylinders etc. used to support a temporary bridge.
487
pool (v)
(v) to put into a common fund or supply, for sharing.
488
poorly
(adv) in a poor way, badly. (adj) unwell, (feeling poorly).
489
poppycock
(n)(slang) nonsense.
490
populace
(n) the general public.
491
popularise
(v)1. To make generally liked. 2. To make generally known, to present (a subject etc.) so that it can be understood by ordinary people. Popularisation (n). Populariser (n).
492
populate
(v) to supply with a population, to form the population of.
493
populous
(adj) thickly populated.
494
pore (2)
(v) pore over: to study (a thing) with close attention.
495
pornography
(n) writings or pictures or films etc. that are intended to stimulate erotic feelings by description or portrayal of sexual activity. Pornographic (adj).
496
portal
(n) a doorway or gateway, especially an imposing one. Portal vein: a vein carrying blood to the liver or to any organ other than the heart.
497
portend
(v) to foreshadow.
498
portent
(n) an omen, a significant sign of something to come. Portentous (adj).
499
portfolio
(n)(pl portfolios)1. A case for holding loose sheets of paper or drawings etc. 2. A set of investments held by one investor. 3. The position of a minister of State. Minister without portfolio: a Cabinet Minister who is not in charge of any department of State.
500
portico
(n)(pl porticoes) a structure consisting of a roof supported on columns, usually forming a porch to a building.
501
portly
(adj)(portlier, portliest) stout and dignified. Portliness (n).
502
portray
(v)1. To make a picture of. 2. To describe in words or represent in a play etc. Portrayal (n).
503
pose (v)
(v)1. To put into or take a desired position for a portrait or photograph etc. 2. To take a particular attitude for effect. 3. To pretend to be, (posed as an expert). 4. To put forward, to present, (pose a question/ problem).
504
poser
(n) a puzzling question or problem.
505
poseur
(n) a person who poses for effect or behaves affectedly.
506
posh
(adj)(slang) very smart, luxurious.
507
position
(n)1. The place occupied by a person or thing. 2. The proper place for something, (in or out of position). 3. An advantageous location, (manoeuvring for position). 4. The way in which a thing or its parts are placed or arranged. 5. A situation in relation to other people or things, (this puts me in a difficult position). 6. a point of view, (what is their position about tax reform?) 7. Rank or status, high social standing, (people of position). 8. Paid employment, a job. (v) to place in a certain position.
508
posse
(n) a body of constables, a strong force or company.
509
keep a person posted
to keep him informed.
510
post-date
(v) to put a date on (a document or cheque etc.) that is later than the actual one.
511
poste restante
a department in a post office where letters are kept until called for.
512
posterior
(adj) situated behind or at the back. (n) the buttocks.
513
posterity
(n)1. future generations. 2. A person's descendants.
514
post-haste
(adv) with great speed or haste.
515
posthumous
(adj)1. (of a child) born after its father's death. 2. Coming or happening after a person's death, (a posthumous award). Posthumously (adv).
516
post-mortem
(adv & adj) after death. (n)1. An examination made after death to determine its cause. 2. (informal) a detailed discussion of something that is over.
517
postscript
(n) a paragraph added at the end of something (especially in a letter, after the signature).
518
postulate
1. (v) to assume (a thing) to be true, especially as a basis for reasoning. Postulation (n). 2. (n) something postulated.
519
post
(n) a small bunch of flowers.
520
pot-shot
(n) a shot aimed casually.
521
potable
(adj) drinkable.
522
potent
(adj) having great natural power or influence, able to have a strong effect, (potent drugs). Potency (n).
523
potentate
(n) a monarch or ruler.
524
pot-pourri
(n)1. A scented mixture of dried petals and spices. 2. A literary or musical medley.
525
pouffe
(n) a padded stool.
526
poulterer
(n) a dealer in poultry and game.
527
poultice
(n) a soft heated mass of bread or kaolin etc. applied to an inflamed or sore area of skin. (v) to apply a poultice to.
528
pout (1)
(v) to push out one's lips, (of lips) to be pushed out, especially as a sign of annoyance or sulking. (n) a pouting expression.
529
poverty line
the minimum income level needed to obtain the necessities of life.
530
poverty-stricken
(adj) affected by poverty.
531
poverty trap
the condition of being so dependent on State benefits that an increase in income merely means that one loses some of these and is no better off.
532
practicable
(adj) able to be done. Practicability (n).
533
out of practice
no longer possessing a former skill.
534
practised
(adj) experienced, expert.
535
practitioner
(n) a professional or practical worker, especially in medicine.
536
pragmatic
(adj) treating things from a practical point of view, (a pragmatic approach to the problem). Pragmatically (adv).
537
prairie
(n) a large treeless tract of grassland, especially in North America.
538
prance
(v) to move springily in eagerness.
539
prattle
(v) to chatter in a childish way. (n) childish chatter.
540
preamble
(n) a preliminary statement, the introductory part of a document or law etc,
541
precarious
(adj) unsafe, not secure. Precariously (adv).
542
precaution
(n) something done in advance to avoid a risk; (take precautions), do things as a precaution. Precautionary (adj).
543
precede
(v) to come or go or place before in time or order etc. Precedence (n): priority in time or order. Take precedence (n): to have priority. Precedent (n): a previous case that is taken as an example to be followed.
544
precept
(n) a command, a rule of conduct.
545
precinct
(n)1. An enclosed area, especially around a place of worship. 2. A district where traffic is prohibited in a town, (pedestrian precinct). 3. (Amer.) a subdivision of a country or city or ward for election and police purposes. Precincts (pl n): the area surrounding a place, (in the precincts of the forest).
546
precipice
(n) a very steep or vertical face of a cliff or rock etc.
547
precipitate (v)
(v)1. To throw down headlong. 2. To send rapidly into a certain state or condition, (precipitated the country into war). 3. To cause to happen suddenly or soon, (this action precipitated a crisis). 4. To cause (a substance) to be deposited in solid form from a solution in which it is present. 5. To condense (vapour) into drops which fall as rain or dew etc. Precipitation (n).
548
precipitous
(adj) like a precipice, steep. Precipitously (adv).
549
précis
(n)(pl précis) a summary. (v)(précised, précising) to make a précis of.
550
preclude
(v) to exclude the possibility of, to prevent.
551
precocious
(adj)1. (of a child) having developed certain abilities earlier than is usual. 2. (of abilities etc.) showing such development. Precociously (adv), precocity (n).
552
preconceived
(adj)(of an idea or opinion) formed beforehand, formed before full knowledge or evidence is available. Preconception (n): a preconceived idea.
553
pre-condition
(n) a condition that must be fulfilled before something else can happen.
554
precursor
(n)1. A person or thing that precedes another, a forerunner. 2. A thing that precedes a later and more developed form, (rocke bombs were the precursors of space-probes).
555
predestine
(v) to destine beforehand, to appoint as if by fate. Predestination (n).
556
predicament
(n) a difficult or unpleasant situation.
557
predilection
(n) a special liking, a preference.
558
predispose
(v)1. To influence in advance; (we are predisposed in his favour), inclined to favour him. 2. To render liable, eg. to a disease. Predisposition (n): a state of mind of body that renders a person liable to act or behave in a certain way or to be subject to certain diseases.
559
predominant
(adj) predominating. Predominately (adv), predominance (n).
560
pre-eminent
(adj) excelling others, outstanding. Pre-eminently (adv), pre-eminence (n).
561
pre-empt
(v) to take possession of (a thing) before anyone else can do so. Pre-emption (n). Pre-emptive (adj): pre-empting; (a pre-emptive attack), one intended to disable an enemy and so prevent him from attacking.
562
preen
(v)(of a bird) to smooth (its feathers) with its beak. Preen oneself, to groom oneself; to congratulate oneself, to show self-satisfaction.
563
preface
(n) an introductory statement at the beginning of a book or speech. (v)1. To provide or introduce with a preface. 2. To lead up to (an event), (the music that prefaced the ceremony).
564
prehistoric
(adj) of the ancient period before written records of events were made.
565
prejudge
(v) to form a judgement on (a person or action etc.) before a proper inquiry is held or before full information is available.
566
prejudice
(n)1. An unreasoning opinion or like or dislike of something; (racial prejudice), prejudice against people of other races. 2. Harm to someone's rights etc. (v)1. To cause (a person) to have a prejudice. 2. To cause harm to, (it may prejudice our rights). Prejudiced (adj): having a prejudice. Prejudicial (adj): harmful to someone's rights or claims etc.
567
premature
(adj) occurring or done before the usual or proper time, too early; (premature baby), one born between 3 and 12 weeks before the expected time. Prematurely (adv).
568
premeditated
(adj) planned beforehand. Premeditation (n).
569
premise (= premiss)
(n) a statement on which reasoning is based.
570
at a premium
above the nominal or usual price; highly valued or esteemed.
571
put a premium on
to provide an incentive to (a certain action etc.); to attach especial value to.
572
premonition
(n) a presentiment
573
preoccupied
(adj) having one's thoughts deeply engaged in something, inattentive in manner because of this.
574
preponderant
(adj) preponderating (preponderate (v): to be greater than others in number or intensity). Preponderantly (adv), preponderance (n).
575
prepossessing
(adj) attractive, making a good impression, (not very prepossessing).
576
preposterous
(adj) utterly absurd, outrageous.
577
prerequisite
(adj) required as a condition or in preparation for something else. (n) a prerequisite thing.
578
prerogative
(n) a right or privilege belonging to a particular person or group.
579
prescribe
(v)1. To advise the use of (a medicine etc.) 2. To lay down as a course or rule to be followed. Prescript (n): a law or rule or command.
580
presence of mind
ability to act quickly and in a practical way in an emergency.
581
presentiment
(n) a feeling of something that is about to happen, a foreboding.
582
presently
(adv)1. Soon, after a short time. 2. (Scottish & Amer.) now.
583
preside
(v) to be president or chairman, to have the position of authority or control.
584
be pressed for
to have barely enough of, (we are pressed for time).
585
press conference
an interview given to journalists by a person who wishes to make an announcement or answer questions.
586
pressing
(adj)1. Urgent, (a pressing need). 2. Urging something strongly, (a pressing invitation). (n) a thing made by pressing, a gramophone record or series of these made at one time.
587
prestige
(n) respect for a person resulting from his good reputation, past achievements, etc. Prestigious (adj): having or bringing prestige.
588
presumptuous
(adj) behaving with impudent boldness, acting without authority. Presumptuously (adv), presumptuousness (n).
589
pretender (n)
(n)1. A person who pretends. 2. A person who claims a throne or title etc.; (the Old Pretender and Young Pretender), the son and grandson of James II, claimants to the British throne.
590
pretentious
(adj) showy, pompous. Pretentiously (adv), pretentiousness (n).
591
preternatural
(adj) outside the ordinary course of nature, unusual. Preternaturally (adv).
592
pretext
(n) a reason put forward to conceal one's true reason.
593
prevail
(v)1. To be victorious, to gain the mastery. 2. To be more usual or frequent than others, to exist or occur generally, (the prevailing wind). Prevail on: to persuade.
594
prevalent
(adj) existing or occurring generally, widespread. Prevalently (adv), prevalence (n).
595
prevaricate
(v) to speak in an evasive or misleading way. Prevarication (n), prevaricator (n).
596
a price on someone's head/ life
a reward offered for his capture or killing.
597
at a price
at a high cost.
598
price oneself out of the market
to charge such a high price for one's goods or services that no one will buy them.
599
pricey
(adj)(pricier, priciest) (informal) expensive.
600
prick up one's ears
(of a dog) to raise the ears erect when on the alert; (of a person) to become suddenly attentive.
601
priceless
(adj)1. Invaluable. 2. (slang) very amusing or absurd.
602
prickly
(adj)(pricklier, prickliest)1. Having prickles. 2. (of a person) irritable, touchy. Prickliness (n).
603
pride oneself on
to be proud of.
604
pride of place
the most prominent position.
605
prig
(n) self-righteous person, one who displays or demands exaggerated correctness, especially in behaviour. Priggish (adj).
606
prim / prissy
(adj)(primmer, primmest) stiffly formal and precise in manner or appearance or behaviour, disliking what is rough or improper. Primly (adv), primness (n).
607
prima
(adj) prima ballerina: the chief female dancer in a ballet. Prima donna: the chief female singer in an opera.
608
prima facie
at first sight, based on a first impression; (made out a prima facie case against him), one that seemed, at first sight, to be valid.
609
primal
(adj)1. Primitive, primeval (adj: of the earliest times of the world, ancient/ primordial). 2. Chief, fundamental.
610
princely
(adj)1. Of a prince, worthy of a prince. 2. Splendid, generous.
611
principality
(n) a country ruled by a prince; (the Principality), Wales.
612
in principle
as regards the main elements but not necessarily the details.
613
on principle
because of the principles of conduct one accepts, (we refused on principle).
614
in print
available from a publisher, not out of print.
615
out of print
all copies have been sold.
616
prior (1)
(adj) earlier, coming before another or others in time or order or importance. (adv) prior to: before, (prior to that date).
617
prise
(v) to force out or open by leverage.
618
prismatic
(adj)1. Of or like a prism. 2. (of colours) formed or distributed as if by a prism, rainbow-like. Prismatically (adv).
619
pristine
(adj) in its original and unspoilt condition, fresh as if new.
620
private enterprise
management of business by private individuals or companies (contrasted with State ownership or control); an individual's initiative.
621
private eye
(informal), a private detective.
622
privation
(n) loss or lack of something, especially of the necessaries of life.
623
privilege
(n) a special right or advantage granted to one person or group. Privileged (adj): having privileges.
624
privy
(adj)(old use) hidden, secret. (n)(old use & Amer.) a lavatory. Privily (adv). Be privy to: to be sharing in the secret of (a person's plans etc.).
625
probation
(n)1. The testing of a person's behaviour or abilities etc. 2. A system whereby certain offenders are supervised by an official (probation officer) as an alternative to imprisonment. Probationary (adj). Probationer (n): a person who is undergoing a probationary period of testing eg. a hospital nurse at an early stage of training.
626
probe
(n)1. A device for exploring an otherwise inaccessible place or object etc., a blunt-ended surgical instrument for exploring a wound; (space probe), an unmanned exploratory spacecraft transmitting information about its environment etc. 2. A penetrating investigation, (ordered a probe into their expense accounts). (v)1. To explore with a probe. 2. To penetrate with something sharp. 3. To make a penetrating investigation of.
627
probity
(n) honesty, integrity.
628
proceedings
(pl n)1. A lawsuit, (start proceedings for divorce). 2. What takes place at a formal meeting of a society etc. 3. A published report of a discussion or conference etc., (Proceedings of the Royal Society).
629
procession
(n) a number of people or vehicles or boats etc. going along in an orderly line. Processional (adj).
630
proclaim
(v)1. To announce officially or publicly, to declare. 2. To make known unmistakably as being, (his accent proclaimed him a Scot). Proclamation (n).
631
procrastinate
(v) to postpone action, to be dilatory. Procrastination (n), procrastinator (n).
632
procreate
(v) to bring (a living thing) into existence by the natural process of reproduction, to generate. Procreation (n).
633
procure
(v) to obtain by care or effort, to acquire. Procurement (n).
634
prod
(v)(prodded, prodding)1. To poke. 2. To urge or stimulate into action. (n)1. A poke. 2. A stimulus to action. 3. A pointed instrument for prodding things.
635
prodigal
(adj)1. Recklessly wasteful or extravagant. 2. Lavish. (n) a recklessly extravagant person. Prodigally (adv), prodigality (n).
636
prodigious
(adj)1. Marvellous, amazing, (a prodigious achievement). 2. Enormous, (spent a prodigious amount). Prodigiously (adv).
637
prodigy
(n)1. A person with exceptional qualities or abilities, a child with abilities very much beyond those appropriate to his age. 2. A marvellous thing, a wonderful example of something.
638
productive
(adj) tending or able to produce things, especially in large quantities. Productively (adv), productiveness (n).
639
productivity
(n) productiveness, efficiency in industrial production.
640
profane
(adj)1. Secular, not sacred. 2. Irreverent, blasphemous. (v) to treat (a thing) with irreverence or lack of due respect. Profanely (adv), profanity (n).
641
profess
(v)1. To state that one has (a quality or feeling etc.), to pretend, (she professed ignorance/ to be ignorant of this law). 2. To affirm one's faith in (a religion). Professed (adj).
642
professionalism
(n) the qualities or skills of a profession or professionals.
643
proffer
(v) to offer. (n) an offer.
644
proficient
(adj) doing something correctly and competently through training or practice, skilled. Proficiently (adv), proficiency (n).
645
profile
(n)1. A side view, especially of the human face. 2. A drawing or other representation of this. 3. An outline. 4. A vertical cross-section of a structure. 5. A short account of a person's character or career.
646
profit
(n)1. An advantage or benefit obtained from doing something. 2. Money gained in a business transaction, the excess of returns over outlay. (v)(profited, profiting)1. To bring advantage to. 2. to obtain an advantage or benefit.
Profitable (adj): bringing profit or benefits. Profitably (adv), profitability (n).
647
profiteer
(n) a person who makes excessive profits, especially by taking advantage of times of difficulty or scarcity (eg. in war). Profiteering (n) being a profiteer.
648
profound
(adj)1. Deep, intense, (takes a profound interest in it). 2. Having or showing great knowledge of or insight into a subject. Profoundly (adv), profundity (n).
649
profuse
(adj)1. Lavish, extravagant, (profuse gratitude). 2. Plentiful, (a profuse variety). Profusely (adv), profuseness (n). Profusion: (n) abundance, a plentiful supply, (a profusion of roses).
650
progeny
(n) offspring, descendants.
651
prognosis
(n) an advance indication, a forecast of the course of a disease.
652
progressive
(adj)1. Making continuous forward movement. 2. Proceeding steadily or in regular degrees, (a progressive improvement). 3. (of a card-game or dance etc.) with a periodic change of partners. 4. (of a disease) gradually increasing in its effect. 5. Advancing in social conditions or efficiency etc., (a progressive firm). 6. Favouring rapid progress or reform. (n) one who favours a progressive policy. Progressively (adv), progressiveness (n).
653
prohibitive
(adj) preventing or intended to prevent the use or abuse or purchase of something, (prohibitive taxes).
654
projection
(n)1. Projecting, being projected. 2. Something that projects from a surface. 3. A thing that is projected. 4. A representation of the surface of the earth on a plane surface. 5. An estimate of future situations or trends etc. based on a study of present ones.
655
projectile
(n)1. An object thrown into the air. 2. A missile (eg. a bullet or arrow or rocket) that can be projected forcefully.
656
proletariat
(n) the working class (contrast with the bourgeoisie). Proletarian (adj & n).
657
proliferate
(v) to produce new growth or offspring rapidly, to multiply. Proliferation (n).
658
prolific
(adj) producing much fruit or many flowers or offspring; (a prolific writer), one who writes many works. Prolifically (adv).
659
prominent
(adj)1. Jutting out, projecting. 2. Conspicuous. 3. Important, well-known. Prominently (adv), prominence (n).
660
promiscuous
(adj)1. Indiscriminate 2. Having sexual relations with many people. Promiscuously (adv), promiscuity (n).
661
promontory
(n) high land jutting out into the sea or a lake.
662
promote
(v)1. To raise (a person) to a higher rank of office. 2. To initiate or help the progress of, (promote friendship between nations). 3. To publicise (a product) in order to sell it. Promoter (n). Promotion (n)' promotional (adj).
663
promulgate
(v) to make known to the public, to proclaim. Promulgation (n).
664
prong
(n) one of the projecting pointed parts of a fork. Pronged (adj): having a certain number or kind of prongs, (a three-pronged attack), in three areas.
665
pronounced
(adj) definite, noticeable, (walks with a pronounced limp).
666
pronto
(adv) (slang) immediately.
667
proof-reader
(n) a person employed to read and correct proofs.
668
prop (1)
(n)1. A support used to keep something from falling or sagging. 2. A person or thing depended on for support or help. (v)(propped, propping) to support with or as if with a prop, to keep from falling or failing, (prop it up).
669
propaganda
(n) publicity intended to spread ideas or information that will persuade or convince people.
670
propagate
(v)1. To breed or reproduce from parent stock, (propagate these plants from seeds or cuttings). 2. To spread (news or ideas etc.) 3. To transmit, (the vibrations are propagated through the rock). Propagation (n), propagator (n).
671
propensity
(n) a tendency or inclination, (a propensity to laziness).
672
prophesy
(v)(prophesied, prophesying) to declare beforehand (what will happen), to foretell things as if by divine inspiration. Prophecy (n). Prophetic (adj): prophesying the future.
673
prophet
(n) 1. A person who foretells the future. 2. A religious teacher inspired by God. Prophetess (n). The Prophet: Muhammad. Prophetical (adj), prophetically (adv).
674
propitious
(adj) favourable, giving a good omen or a suitable opportunity. Propitiously (adv).
675
proposition
(n)1. A statement, an assertion. 2. A proposal, a scheme proposed. 3. (informal) a problem or undertaking, something to be dealt with, (not a paying proposition). (v) (informal) to put a proposal to (a person).
676
propound
(v) to put forward for consideration. Propounder (n).
677
proprietary
(adj)1. Manufactured and sold by one particular firm, usually under a patent, (proprietary medicines). 2. Of an owner or ownership. Proprietor (n): the owner of a business. Proprietress (n).
678
propriety
(n)1. Being proper or suitable. 2. Correctness of behaviour or morals; (the proprieties), the requirements of correct behaviour in society.
679
propulsion
(n) the process of propelling or being propelled.
680
pro rate
proportional, proportionally, (if costs increase, there will be a pro rata increase in prices or prices will increase pro rata).
681
prorogue
(v) to discontinue the meetings of (parliament or similar assembly) without dissolving it. Prorogation (n).
682
prosaic
(adj) lacking poetic beauty or fantasy, unimaginative, plain and ordinary. Prosaically (adv).
683
prosecute
(v)1. To take legal proceedings against (a person etc.) for a crime. 2. To carry on or conduct, (prosecuting their trade). Prosecutor (n). Prosecution (n):1. Prosecuting, being prosecuted. 2. The party prosecuting another for a crime.
684
proselyte
(n) a convert to a religion or opinion etc., especially to the Jewish faith. Proselytise (v): to try to convert people to one's beliefs or opinions.
685
prospectus
(n) a printed document describing and advertising the chief features of a school or business enterprise.
686
prostrate
1. (adj)1. Face downwards. 2. Lying horizontally. 3. Overcome, exhausted, (prostrate with grief). 2. (v) to cause to be prostrate;(prostrate oneself), to cast oneself face downward on the ground in humility or adoration. prostration (n).
687
protagonist
(n)1. One of the chief contenders in a contest. 2. An advocate or champion of a cause etc.
688
protectionism
(n) the policy of protecting home industries from foreign competition, eg. by controlling imports. Protectionist (n).
689
protectorate
(n) a weak or under-developed country that is under the official protection and partial control of a stronger one.
690
protégé
(n) someone who is being helped by a person taking an interest in his welfare or career. Protégée (n): a female protégé.
691
pro tem
(informal) for the time being, temporarily.
692
Protestant
(n) a member of any of the Christian bodies that separated from the Church of Rome in the Reformation, or any of their later branches. Protestantism (n).
693
protract
(v) to prolong in duration. Protraction (n).
694
protuberant
(adj) bulging outwards from a surface. Protuberance (n): a bulging part.
695
provenance
(n) a place of origin.
696
proverbial
(adj)1. Of or like a proverb, mentioned in a proverb. 2. Well-known, notorious, (his meanness is proverbial). Proverbially (adv).
697
providence
(n)1. Being provident (adj: showing wise forethought for future needs or events, thrifty). 2. God's or nature's care and protection. 3. (providence), God.
698
provincial
(adj) 1. Of a province or provinces, (provincial government). 2. Having only limited interests and narrow-minded views, (provincial attitudes).
699
provisional
(adj) arranged or agreed upon temporarily but possibly to be altered later. Provisionally (adv).
700
proviso
(n)(pl provisos) something that is insisted upon as a condition of an agreement.
701
provoke
(v)1. To make angry. 2. To rouse or incite (a person) to action. 3. To produce as a reaction or effect, (the joke provoked laughter). Provoking (adj): annoying. Provocation (n), provocative (adj), provocatively (adv).
702
prow
(n) the projecting front part of a ship or boat.
703
prowess
(n) great ability or daring.
704
proximity
(n) 1. Nearness. 2. Neighbourhood, (in the proximity of the station). Proximate (adj): nearest, next before or after.
705
proxy
(n) a person authorised to represent or act for another, the use of such a person, (voted by proxy).
706
prudent
(adj) showing carefulness and foresight, avoiding rashness. Prudently (adv), prudence (n), prudential (adj).
707
prudish
(adj) like a prude (a person of extreme or exaggerated propriety concerning behaviour or speech, one who is easily shocked by sexual matters), showing prudery. Prudishly (adv), prudishness (n).
708
pry (1)
(v)(pried, prying) to inquire or investigate or peer impertinently (and often furtively).
709
pseudo
(adj) false, insincere.
710
pseudonym
(n) a false name used by an author.
711
psyche
(n)1. The human soul or spirit. 2. The human mind.
712
psychiatry
(n) the study and treatment of mental disease. Psychiatric (adj). psychiatrist (n): a specialist in psychiatry.
713
psychedelic
(adj) of or producing hallucinations and similar experiences, full of vivid or luminous colours.
714
psychic
(adj)1. Of the soul or mind. 2. Concerned with processes that seem to be outside physical or natural laws, having or involving extra-sensory perception or occult powers. Psychical (adj) (psychical research). Psychically (adv).
715
psychology
(n)1 the study of the mind and how it works. 2. Mental characteristics. Psychologist (n): a specialist or expert in psychology. Psychological (adj), psychologically (adv). Psychological warfare: actions or propaganda etc. designed to weaken an enemy's morale.
716
public relations
the promotion of goodwill between an organisation etc. and the general public.
717
public spirit
readiness to do things for the benefit of people in general. Public-spirited (adj): showing public spirit.
718
publicity
(n)1. Public attention directed upon a person or thing. 2. The process of drawing public attention to a person or thing, the spoken or written or other material by which this is done. Publicise (v).
719
pucker
(v) to come together in small wrinkles or bulges, to cause to do this. (n) a wrinkle or bulge made in this way.
720
pudgy
(adj)(pudgier, pudgiest) podgy.
721
pugilist
(n) a professional boxer. Pugilism (n), pugilistic (adj).
722
pugnacious
(adj) eager to fight, aggressive. Pugnaciously (adv), pugnacity (n).
723
pull a fast one
(slang) to act unfairly in order to gain an advantage.
724
pull a person's leg
to tease him.
725
pull off
to succeed in achieving or winning something, (pull it off).
726
pull oneself together
to regain one's self-control.
727
pull one's punches
to avoid using one's full force.
728
pull one's weight
to do one's fair share of work.
729
pull out
to withdraw or cause to withdraw; (of a train), to move out of a station; (of a vehicle) to move away from the side of a road, or from behind another vehicle to overtake it.
730
pull rank
to make unfair use of one's senior rank in demanding obedience.
731
pull strings
to use one's influence, often secretly.
732
pull through
to come or bring successfully through an illness or difficulty.
733
pull together
to co-operate.
734
pull up
to stop or cause (a person or vehicle etc.) to stop; to reprimand.
735
pulpit
(n) a raised enclosed platform in a church, used for preaching from.
736
pulsate
(v) to expand and contract rhythmically, to vibrate, to quiver. Pulsation (n), pulsator (n).
737
pulverise
(v)1. To crush into powder. 2. To become powder. 3. To defeat thoroughly. Pulverisation (n).
738
pummel
(v)(pummelled, pummelling) to strike repeatedly, especially with the fist(s).
739
pun
(n) a humorous use of a word to suggest another that sounds the same, eg. 'the sole has no feet and therefore no sole, poor soul'. Punning (adj & n): making a pun or puns.
740
punctilious
(adj) very careful to carry out duties or details of ceremony etc. correctly, conscientious. Punctiliously (adv), punctiliousness (n).
741
pundit
(n) a person who is an authority on a subject.
742
punish
(v)1. To cause (an offender) to suffer for his offence. 2. To inflict a punishment for, (vandalism should be severely punished). 3. To treat roughly, to test severely, (the race was run at a punishing pace). Punishable (adj): liable to be punished, especially by law, (punishable offences).
743
punitive
(adj) inflicting or intended to inflict punishment.
744
punt (1)
a flat-bottomed boat propelled by thrusting a long pole against the bottom of a river. (v)1. To propel (a punt) with a pole in this way. 2. To carry or travel in a punt. Punter (n).
745
puny
(adj)(punier, puniest) undersized, feeble.
746
purchase
(v) to buy. (n)1. Buying. 2. Something bought. 3. A firm hold to pull or raise something or prevent it from slipping, leverage. Purchaser (n).
747
purge
(v)1. To cause emptying of the bowels of (a person) by means of a purgative. 2. To rid of people or things considered undesirable or harmful. 3. To atone for (an offence, especially contempt of court). (n) purging, ridding of undesirable things etc.
748
puritan
a person who is extremely strict in morals and who looks upon some kinds of fun and pleasure as sinful. Puritanical (adj).
749
purloin
(v)(formal or humorous use) to steal.
750
purport
1. (n) the meaning or intention of something said or written.
2. (v) to press, to be indeed to seem, (the letter purports to come from you). Purportedly (adv).
751
pursuance
(n) performance or carrying out of something, (in pursuance of my duties). Pursuant (adv) - pursuant to: in accordance with.
752
purvey
(v)(purveyed, purveying) to supply (articles of food) as a trader. Purveyor (n).
753
be pushed for
(informal) to have barely enough of, (I'm pushed for time).
754
push around
to treat contemptuously and unfairly; to bully.
755
push one's luck
(informal) to take undue risks.
756
push-over
(n)(informal) something that is easily done; a person who is easily convinced or charmed etc.
757
pushing
(adj)(of a person)1. Pushful (self-assertive, determined to get on). 2. (informal) having nearly reached a certain age, (pushing forty).
758
pusillanimous
(adj) timid, cowardly.
759
pussyfoot
(Amer.)1. To move stealthily. 2. To act cautiously, to avoid committing oneself.
760
be hard put
to have difficulty in doing or providing something.
761
put across
to succeed in communicating (an idea etc.), to make seem acceptable.
762
put down
to suppress by force or authority; to snub; to have (an animal) destroyed; to enter (a person's name) as one who will subscribe; to reckon or consider, (put him down as a fool); to attribute, (put it down to nervousness).
763
put in
to make (an appearance); to enter (a claim); to spend (time) working.
764
put it across a person
(slang) to make him believe something false.
765
put it on
(informal) to pretend an emotion.
766
put off
to postpone; to make excuses and try to avoid; to dissuade, to repel, (the smell puts me off).
767
put on
to stage (a play etc.); to increase, (putting on weight); to cause to operate.
768
put one's foot down
to insist on something; to accelerate a motor vehicle.
769
put one's foot in it
to make a blunder.
770
put out
to disconcert or annoy or inconvenience (a person); to extinguish (a light or fire ); to dislocate (a joint).
771
put through
to complete (a business transaction) successfully; to connect by telephone; to cause to undergo, (put it through severe tests).
772
put two and two together
to draw a conclusion from the facts one knows.
773
put up
to construct or build; to display (a notice); to raise the price of; to provide or contribute; to make (a prayer); to offer for sale; to present as an idea or proposal; to give or receive accommodation; to pack up into a parcel or receptacle; to attempt or offer, (they put up no resistance).
774
put up to
to instigate (a person) in, (who put him up to it?)
775
put up with
to endure, to tolerate.
776
putative
(adj) reputed, supposed, (his putative father).
777
putrefy
(v)(putrefied, putrefying) to rot, to decay or cause to decay. Putrefaction (n).
778
putrid
(adj)1. Decomposed, rotting. 2. Foul-smelling. 3. (slang) very distasteful or unpleasant.
779
pygmy
(n)1. A person or thing of unusually small size. 2. (Pygmy), a member of a dwarf negroid people of equatorial Africa. (adj) very small.
780
pylon
(n)1. A tall lattice-work structure used for carrying overhead electricity cables or as a boundary. 2. A structure marking a path for aircraft.
781
pyre
(n) a pile of wood etc. for burning a corpse as part of a funeral rite.
782
pyrotechnic
(adj) of or like fireworks. Pyrotechnics (pl n): a firework display.
