S (part two) Flashcards
(601 cards)
0
Q
somatic
A
(adj) of the body
1
Q
solitary
A
(adj)1. Alone, without companions. 2. Single, (a solitary example). 3. Not frequented, lonely, (a solitary valley). (n) a recluse. Solitarily (adv). solitary confinement: isolation in a separate cell as a punishment. Solitude (n): being solitary.
2
Q
sombre
A
(adj) dark, gloomy, dismal. Sombrely (adv).
3
Q
sombrero
A
(n)(pl sombreros) a felt or straw hat with a very wide brim, worn especially in Latin-American countries.
4
Q
something like
A
approximately, (it cost something like £10); rather like, (it is something like a rabbit).
5
Q
somnambulist
A
(n) a sleep-walker
6
Q
somnolent
A
(adj) sleepy, asleep. Somnolence (n).
7
Q
sonar
A
(n) a device for detecting objects under water by reflection of sound-waves.
8
Q
songster
A
(n)1. A singer. 2. A songbird.
9
Q
sonic boom
A
a loud noise heard when the shock wave caused by an aircraft travelling at supersonic speed reaches the hearer.
10
Q
sonny
A
(n)(informal) a form of address to a boy or young man.
11
Q
sonorous
A
(adj) resonant, giving a deep powerful sound.
12
Q
sophisticated
A
(adj)1. Characteristic of fashionable life and its ways, experienced in this and lacking natural simplicity. 2. Complicated, elaborate, (sophisticated devices). Sophistication (n).
13
Q
sophistry
A
(n) clever and subtle but perhaps misleading reasoning.
14
Q
soporific
A
(adj) tending to cause sleep. (n) a medicinal substance that causes sleep.
15
Q
soppy
A
(adj)1. Very wet. 2. (informal) sentimental in a sickly way. Soppiness (n).
16
Q
sorcerer
A
(n) a magician, especially one supposedly aided by evil spirits. Sorceress (n).
17
Q
sordid
A
(adj)1. Dirty, squalid. 2. (of motives or actions) lacking dignity, not honourable, mercenary. Sordidly (adv), sordidness (n).
18
Q
sorely
A
(adv) severely, (I was sorely tempted).
19
Q
sorry (adj2)
A
(adj)2. Wretched, (in a sorry plight).
20
Q
of a sort/ of sorts
A
not fully deserving the name given.
21
Q
out of sorts
A
slightly unwell or depressed.
22
Q
sort out
A
to disentangle; to select from others; (slang) to deal with or punish.
23
Q
sortie
A
(n)1. An attack by troops coming out from a besieged place. 2. A flight of an aircraft on a military operation.
24
sought
(see 'seek'). sought-after (adj) much sought for purchase or use etc.
25
soul mates
people ideally suited to each other.
26
soul-searching
(n) examination of one's conscience.
27
soulful
(adj)1. Having or showing deep feeling. 2. Emotional. Soulfully (adv).
28
soulless
(adj)1. Lacking sensitivity or noble qualities. 2. Dull, uninteresting.
29
sound out
to question (a person) cautiously.
30
sound (2)
(adj)1. Healthy, not diseased or damaged. 2. Correct, logical, well-founded, (sound reasoning). 3. Financially secure, (a sound investment). 4. Thorough, (a sound thrashing); (sound asleep), deep and unbroken. (adv) soundly, (is sound asleep). Soundly (adv), soundness (n).
31
sounding (2)
(adj & n) resounding. Sounding-board (n): a board to reflect sound or increase resonance.
32
soup up
(informal) to increase the power of (an engine); to enliven.
33
in the soup
(slang) in difficulties.
34
soup-kitchen
(n) a place where soup and other food is supplied free to the needy in times of distress.
35
sour grapes
said when a person pretends to despise something he cannot have. (from the fable of the fox who wanted some grapes but found that they were out of reach and so pretended that they were sour and undesirable anyway.)
36
at source
at the point of origin.
37
sourpuss
(n)(slang) a sour-tempered person.
38
souse
(v)1. To steep in pickle. 2. To plunge or soak in liquid, to drench, to throw (liquid) over a thing.
39
southern lights
the aurora australis.
40
sou'wester
(n) a waterproof hat, usually of oilskin, with a broad flap at the back.
41
sovereign
(n)1. A king or queen who is the supreme ruler of a country. 2. A British gold coin, nominally worth £1. (adj)1. Supreme, (sovereign power). 2. Possessing sovereign power, independent, (sovereign states). 3. Very effective, (a sovereign remedy). Sovereignty (n).
42
sow
1. (v)(sowed, sown/ sowed, sowing)1. To plant or scatter (seed) for growth, to plant seed in (a field etc.) 2. To implant or spread (feelings or ideas), (they sowed hatred among the people). Sower (n).
2. (n) a fully-grown pig.
43
spa
(n) a curative mineral spring, a place with such a spring.
44
spacious
(adj) providing much space, roomy. Spaciousness (n).
45
call a spade a spade
to call a thing by its proper name, to speak plainly or bluntly.
46
span (v)
(v)(spanned, spanning)1. To extend across, to bridge. 2. To stretch one's hand across in one span, (span an octave on the piano).
47
spangle
(n) a small thin piece of glittering material, especially one of many ornamenting a dress etc. (v): to cover with spangles or sparkling objects.
48
spanking
(n) slapping repeatedly on the buttocks. (adj)(informal) brisk, lively, (a spanking pace).
49
throw a spanner into the works
to sabotage a scheme.
50
spar (3)
(v)(sparred, sparring)1. To box, especially for practice. 2. To quarrel or argue. Sparring partner: a boxer employed to give another boxer practice; a person with whom one enjoys frequent arguments.
51
sparing
(adj) economical, not generous or wasteful. Sparingly (adv).
52
spark off
to trigger off.
53
sparse
(adj) thinly scattered, not dense. Sparsely (adv), sparsity (n), sparseness (n).
54
spartan
(adj)(of conditions) simple and sometimes harsh, without comfort or luxuries. (named after the citizens of Sparta in ancient Greece, who were renowned for hardiness).
55
spasm
(n)1. A strong involuntary contraction of a muscle. 2. A sudden brief spell of activity or emotion, (a spasm of coughing). Spasmodic (adj): 1. Occurring at irregular intervals. 2. Of or like a spasm, characterised by spasms. Spasmodically (adv).
56
spastic
(adj) physically disabled because of cerebral palsy, a condition in which there are faulty links between the brain and the motor nerves, causing jerky or involuntary movements through difficulty in controlling the muscles. (n) a person suffering from this condition. Spasticity (n).
57
spate
(n) a sudden flood or rush, (a spate of orders).
58
spatial
(adj) of or relating to space, existing in space. Spatially (adv).
59
spatter
(v)1. To scatter or fall in small drops. 2. To splash with drops, (spattered her dress with mud). (n) a splash or splashes, the sound of spattering.
60
spatula
(n)1. A tool like a knife with a broad blunt flexible blade. 2. a strip of stiff material used by a doctor for pressing down the tongue etc. Spatulate (adj): shaped like a spatula, with a broad rounded end.
61
spawn
(n)1. The eggs of fish or frogs or shellfish. 2. (contemptuous) offspring. 3. The thread-like matter from which fungi grow, (mushroom spawn). (v)1. To deposit spawn, to produce from spawn. 2. To generate, especially in large numbers, (the committee spawned reports).
62
spay
(v) to sterilise (a female animal) by removing the ovaries).
63
be on speaking terms
to be on friendly terms with each other.
64
so to speak
if I may express it this way.
65
speak for oneself
to give one's own opinion.
66
speak one's mind
to give one's opinion frankly.
67
speak out
to speak loudly or freely; to speak one's mind. Speak up: to speak more loudly, to speak out.
68
spearhead
(n) the foremost part of an attacking or advancing force. (v) to be the spearhead of.
69
speciality
(n) a special quality or characteristic or product, an activity in which a person specialises.
70
specialise
(v)1. To become a specialist. 2. To have a product etc. to which one devotes special attention, (the shop specialises in sports goods). 3. To adapt for a particular purpose, (specialised organs such as the ear). Specialisation (n).
71
specific
(adj)1. Particular, clearly distinguished from others, (the money was given for a specific purpose). 2. Expressing oneself in exact terms, not vague, (please be specific about your requirements). (n) a specific aspect or influence, a remedy for a specific disease or condition. Specifically (adv).
72
specification
(n)1. Specifying, being specified. 2. The details describing something to be done or made. Specify (v)(specified, specifying): to mention (details, ingredients, etc.) clearly and definitely, to include in a list of specifications.
73
specimen
(n)1. A part or individual taken as an example of a whole or of a class, especially for investigation or scientific examination. 2. A quantity of a person's urine etc. taken for testing.
74
specious
(adj) seeming good or sound at first sight but lacking real merit, (specious reasoning). Speciously (adv).
75
spectacle
(n)1. A striking or impressive sight, (a magnificent spectacle). 2. A lavish public show or pageant. 3. A ridiculous sight, (made a spectacle of himself). Spectacular (adj). Spectacularly (adv).
76
spectre
(n)1. A ghost. 2. A haunting fear of future trouble, (the spectre of defeat loomed over them).
77
spectrum
(n)(pl spectra)1. The bands of colour as seen in a rainbow, forming a series according to their wavelengths. 2. A similar series of bands of sound. 3. An entire range of related qualities or ideas etc., (the whole spectrum of science).
78
speculate
(v)1. To form opinions about something without having definite knowledge or evidence. 2. To buy or sell goods or stocks and shares etc. in the hope of making a profit but with risk of loss, to do this rashly. Speculation (n), speculator (n). Speculative (adj): 1. Of or based on speculation, (speculative reasoning). 2. Involving financial speculations and risk of loss. Speculatively (adv).
79
speechless
(adj) silent, unable to speak because of great emotion. Speechlessly (adv), speechlessness (n).
80
at speed
rapidly.
81
spell (n)(v3)(3)
(n) 1. Words supposed to have magic power 2. The state of being influenced by this, (under a spell). 3. Fascination, (the spell of eastern countries).
(v) 3. To have as a necessary result, (these changes spell ruin to the farmer).
3. (n)1. A period of time. 2. A period of a certain type of weather, (during the cold spell). 3. A period of a certain activity, (did a spell of driving). 4. (Austral.) a rest period. (v) to relieve (a person) in work etc. by taking one's turn.
82
spellbound
(adj) with the attention held as if by a spell, entranced.
83
spendthrift
(n) a person who spends money extravagantly and wastefully.
84
spent (adj)
(adj) used up, having lost its force or strength; (a spent match), one that has been struck and extinguished and is now useless.
85
spew
(v)1. To vomit. 2. To cast out in a stream.
86
sphere
(n)1. A perfectly round solid geometric figure. 2. Something shaped like this. 3. A field of action or influence or existence, a person's place in society, (took him out of his sphere). Spherical (adj). Spheroid (n): a sphere-like but not perfectly spherical solid. Spheroidal (adj).
87
sphinx (n4)
(n)4. A person who does not reveal his thoughts and feelings.
88
spice
(n)1. A substance (obtained from plants) with a strong taste or smell, used for flavouring food. 2. Such substance collectively, (the spice market). 3. A thing that adds zest or excitement, (variety is th spice of life). (v) to flavour with spice.
89
spice and span / spick
(adj) neat and clean, new-looking.
90
spicy
(adj)(spicier, spiciest)1. Like spice, flavoured with spice. 2. (of stories) slightly scandalous or improper. Spiciness (n).
91
spidery
(adj)1. Having thin angular lines like a spider's legs. 2. Like a cobweb. 3. Full of spiders.
92
spiel
(n)(Amer. slang) a glib or lengthy speech, usually intended to persuade.
93
spill blood
to shed blood in killing or wounding.
94
spill the beans
(slang) to let out information indiscreetly.
95
spillage
(n) spilling, the amount spilt.
96
spin a yarn
to tell an invented story, especially in order to deceive someone.
97
spin-off
(n) a benefit or product produced incidentally from a larger process or while developing this.
98
spindly
(adj) long or tall and thin.
99
spine-chiller
(n) a book or film etc. that causes a thrill of terror. Spine-chilling (adj).
100
spineless
(adj)1. Having no backbone. 2. Lacking determination or strength of character. Spinelessness (n).
101
spinnaker
(n) a large triangular extra sail on a racing-yacht.
102
spinneret
(n) the organ of a spider's or silkworm's body that spins threads.
103
spinning-wheel
(n) a household device for spinning fibre into yarn, with a spindle driven by a wheel.
104
spinster
(n) a woman who has not married.
105
spiral
(adj) advancing or ascending in a continuous curve that winds round a central point or axis. (n)1. A spiral line, a thing of spiral form. 2. A continuous increase or decrease in two or more quantities alternately because of their dependence on each other, (the spiral of rising wages and prices). (v)(spiralled, spiralling) to move in a spiral course. Spirally (adv).
106
spire
(n) a pointed structure in the form of a tall cone or pyramid, especially on a church tower.
107
spirit (v)
(v) to carry off swiftly and secretly, (spirited him away).
108
spirits (pl n)
(pl n) a person's feeling of cheerfulness or depression, (raised their spirits); strong distilled alcoholic drink, eg. whisky, gin.
109
spirited
(adj)1. Full of spirit, lively, ready to assert oneself. 2. Having mental spirit or spirits of a certain kind, (a poor-spirited creature). Spiritedly (adv).
110
spiritual
(adj)1. Of the human spirit or soul, not physical or worldly. 2. Of the Church or religion. (n) a religious folk-song of American Blacks or one resembling this. Spiritually (adv), spirituality (n).
111
spit (1)
(v)(spat/ spit, spitting)1. To eject from the mouth, to eject saliva. 2. To make a noise like spitting as a cat does when angry or hostile, (of a person) to show anger. 3. To utter violently, (spat curses at me). 4. To fall lightly, (it's spitting with rain). (n)1. Spittle (saliva, especially that ejected from the mouth). 2. The act of spitting. 3. An exact likeness, (he is the dead spit of his father). Spitting image: an exact likeness. Spittoon (n): a receptacle for spitting into. Sputum (n): spittle, matter that is spat out.
112
spite
(n) malicious desire to hurt or annoy or humiliate another person. (v) to hurt or annoy etc. from spite. In spite of: not being prevented by, (enjoyed ourselves in spite of the weather). Spiteful (adj). Spitefully (adv), spitefulness (n).
113
spitfire
(n) a fiery-tempered person.
114
splash (v5,6)
(v)5. To display in large print, (the news was splashed across the Sunday papers). 6. To spend (money) freely and ostentatiously.
115
splatter
(v) to splash noisily. (n) a noisy splashing sound.
116
splay
(v) to spread apart, to slant (the sides of an opening) so that the inside is wider than the outside or vice versa; (splayed his feet), placed them with the toes turned outwards not forwards. (adj) splayed.
117
splendour
(n) brilliance, magnificent display or appearance, grandeur.
118
splice
(v)1. To join (two ends of rope) by untwisting and interweaving the strands of each. 2. To join (pieces of film or timber etc.) by overlapping the ends. (n) a join made by splicing.
119
splint
(n) a strip of rigid material bound to an injured part of the body to prevent movement, eg. while a broken bone heals. (v) to secure with a splint.
120
splinter
(n) a thin sharp piece of wood or stone etc. broken off from a larger piece. (v) to break or become broken into splinters. Splintery (adj). Splinter group: a small group that has broken away from a larger one, eg. in a political party.
121
split one's sides
to laugh very heartily.
122
split second
a very brief moment.
123
split the difference
to take an amount half-way between two proposed amounts.
124
splitting
(adj)(of a headache) very severe, feeling as if it will split one's head.
125
splotch
(n) a splash or blotch on material etc. (v) to mark with splotches.
126
splurge
(n) an ostentatious display, especially of wealth. (v) to make a splurge, to spend money freely.
127
splutter; sputter
(v)1. To make a rapid series of spitting sounds. 2. To speak or utter rapidly or indistinctly (eg. in rage). (n) a spluttering sound.
128
be spoiling for
to desire eagerly, (he is spoiling for a fight).
129
spoils (n)
(pl n) plunder; benefits gained by a victor, profitable advantages of an official position.
130
put a spoke in a person's wheel
to thwart his intentions.
131
sponge (v)
(v)1. To wipe or wash with a sponge. 2. To live off the generosity of others, to cadge, (to sponge on people). Sponger (n): a person who sponges on others.
132
sponsor
(n)1. A person who makes himself responsible for another who is undergoing training etc. 2. A godparent. 3. A person who puts forward a proposal, eg. for a new law. 4. A person or firm that provides funds for a broadcast or for a musical, artistic, or sporting event. 5. A person who subscribes to charity in return for a specified activity by another person. (v) to act as sponsor for. Sponsorship (n).
133
spontaneous
(adj) resulting from natural impulse, not caused or suggested from outside, not forced. Spontaneously (adv), spontaneity (n).
134
spoof
(n)(slang) a hoax, a humorous imitation.
135
spook
(n)(informal) a ghost. Spooky (adj): (informal) ghostly, eerie.
136
spool
(n) a reel on which something is wound, eg. yarn or photographic film.
137
spoon-feed
(v)(spoon-fed, spoon-feeding) 1. To feed with liquid food from a spoon. 2. To give excessive help to (a person etc.) so that the recipient does not need to make any effort.
138
sporadic
(adj) occurring here and there, scattered. Sporadically (adv).
139
a sporting chance
a reasonable chance of success.
140
sportsmanlike
(adj) behaving fairly and generously.
141
in a spot
(slang) in difficulties.
142
on the spot
without delay or change of place; at the scene of action; (of a person) alert, equal to dealing with a situation; (put a person on the spot), to put him in a difficult position, to compel him to take action or justify himself.
143
spot check
a check made suddenly on something chosen at random.
144
spot-on
(adv)(informal) precisely.
145
spotless
(adj) free from stain or blemish, perfectly clean. Spotlessly (adv).
146
spotlight (v)
(v)(spotlighted, spotlighting)1. To direct a spotlight on. 2. To draw attention to, to make conspicuous.
147
spouse
(n) a person's husband or wife.
148
spout (v)
(v)1. To come or send out forcefully as a jet of liquid. 2. To utter or speak lengthily.
149
spread eagle
the figure of an eagle with legs and wings extended, as an emblem. Spread-eagle (v): to spread out (a person's body) in this way.
150
spree
(n)(informal) a lively outing, some fun; (a shopping/ spending spree), an outing or period in which one shops or spends freely.
151
sprig (1)
(n)1. A small branch, a shoot. 2. An ornament or decoration in this form.
152
sprightly
(adj)(sprightlier, sprightliest) lively, full of energy. Sprightliness (n).
153
springboard
(n) a flexible board for giving impetus to a person who jumps on it, used in gymnastics and in diving.
154
spring (v2,5,6)
(v)2. To grow or issue, to arise, (weeds sprang up); (their discontent springs from distrust of their leaders). 5. To cause to operate suddenly, (sprang the trap). 6. To produce or develop suddenly or unexpectedly, (sprang a surprise on us).
155
spring a leak
to develop a leak.
156
sprite
(n) an elf or fairy or goblin.
157
sprocket
(n) one of a series of teeth on a wheel, engaging with links on a chain.
158
sprout (v)
(v)1. To begin to grow or appear, to put forth shoots. 2. To put forth as a growth, (has sprouted horns).
159
spruce (1)
(adj) neat and trim in appearance, smart. (v) to smarten, (spruce oneself up). Sprucely (adv), spruceness (n).
160
spry
(adj)(spryer, spryest) active, nimble, lively. Spryly (a), spryness (n).
161
spume
(n) froth, foam.
162
spur (v)(n1)
(v)(spurred, spurring)1. To urge (one's horse) on by pricking it with spurs (n1: a pricking device with a projecting point or toothed wheel, worn on a horseman's heel). 2. To urge on, to incite, (spurred the men to greater effort). On the spur of the moment: in an impulse, without previous planning.
163
spurious
(adj) not genuine or authentic. Spuriously (adv).
164
spurn
(v) to reject scornfully.
165
spurt
(v)1. To gush, to send out (a liquid) suddenly. 2. To increase one's speed suddenly. (n)1. A sudden gush. 2. A short burst of activity, a sudden increase in speed.
166
squabble
(v) to quarrel in a petty or noisy way, as children do. (n) a quarrel of this kind.
167
squad
(n) a small group of people working or being trained together.
168
squalid
(adj)1. Dirty and unpleasant, especially because of neglect or poverty. 2. Morally degrading. Squalidly (adv), squalor (n).
169
squall
(n)1. A harsh cry or scream, especially of a baby. 2. A sudden storm of wind, especially with rain or snow or sleet. (v) to utter a squall. Squally (adj).
170
squander
(v) to spend wastefully.
171
square peg in a round hole
a person who is not fitted for his job.
172
square up to
to assume a boxer's fighting attitude; to face and tackle (a difficulty) resolutely.
173
square (adj4-10)
(adj)4. Of comparatively broad sturdy shape, (a man of square frame). 5. Properly arranged, tidy, (get things square). 6. Equal, with no balance of advantage or debt etc. on either side, (the golfers were all square at the fourth hole). 7. Straightforward, uncompromising, (got a square refusal). 8. Substantial, (a square meal). 9. Fair, honest, (a square deal). 10. (slang) old-fashioned, conventional.
174
squash (1)
(v)1. To crush, to squeeze or become squeezed flat or into pulp. 2. To pack tightly, to crowd, to squeeze into a small space. 3. To suppress, (squashed the rebellion). 4. To silence with a crushing reply. (n)1. A crowd of people squashed together. 2. The sound of something being squashed. 3. A crushed mass, a fragment of tissue crushed in a slide for study under a microscope. 4. A fruit-flavoured soft drink. 5. Squash rackets. Squashy (adj).
175
squatter
(n)1. One who sits in a squatting posture. 2. A person who settles on unoccupied land in order to acquire a legal right to it. 3. a person who takes temporary possession of unoccupied buildings for living in, without authority. 4. (in Australian history) a person who settled on land to which he had no formal right, or who occupied pastoral land as a tenant of the Crown. 5. (Austral.) a sheep-farmer.
176
squawk
(n) a loud harsh cry. (v) to utter a squawk.
177
a narrow squeak
(informal) a narrow escape from danger or failure.
178
squeal
(n) a long shrill cry or sound. (v) to utter a squeal, to make this sound. 2. (slang) to protest sharply.
179
squeamish
(adj)1. Easily sickened or disgusted or shocked. 2. Excessively scrupulous about principles. Squeamishness (n).
180
squeeze (n4-6)
(n)4. a crowd or crush, the pressure of this. 5. Hardship or difficulty caused by shortage of money or time etc. 6. Restrictions on borrowing etc. during a financial crisis.
181
squelch
(v) to make a sound like someone treading in thick mud. (n) this sound.
182
damp squib
something intended to impress people but failing to do so.
183
squint (n)
(n)1. A squinting (having an eye turned abnormally from the line of gaze of the other) position of an eye. 2. A stealthy or sideways glance. 3. (informal) a look, (have a squint at this). (adj)(informal) askew.
184
squire
(n)1. A country gentleman, especially the chief landowner in a district. 2. (as an informal form of address) sir.
185
squirm
(v)1. To wriggle or writhe. 2. To feel embarrassment or uneasiness. (n) squirming movement.
186
squirt
(v)1. To send out (liquid) or be sent out from or as if from a syringe, to wet in this way. (n)1. A syringe. 2. A jet of liquid.
187
stab (1)
(v)(stabbed, stabbing)1. To pierce or wound with a pointed tool or weapon. (a stabbing pain); (felt a stab of fear).
188
stabilise
(v) to make or become stable. Stabilisation (n).
189
stack (v)
(v)1. To pile in a stack or stacks. 2. To arrange (cards) secretly for cheating; (the cards were stacked against him), circumstances put him at a disadvantage. 3. To instruct (aircraft) to fly round the same point at different altitudes while waiting to land.
190
staff (n3,4)
(n)3. A group of assistants by whom a business is carried on, those responsible to a manager or person of authority. 4. People in authority within an organisation (as distinct from pupils etc.), or those doing administrative work as distinct from manual work. (v) to provide with a staff of employees or assistants.
191
stag-party
(n) a party of or for men only.
192
stagger
(v)1. To move or go unsteadily, as if about to fall. 2. To shock deeply, to cause astonishment or worry or confusion to, (we were staggered by the news). 3. To place in a zigzag or alternating arrangement; (a staggered junction), a crossroads where the side-roads are not exactly opposite each other. 4. To arrange (people's holidays or hours of work etc.) so that their times do not coincide exactly. (n) an unsteady staggering movement.
193
staggering
(adj) bewildering, astonishing.
194
stagnant
(adj)1. (of water) not flowing, still and stale. 2. Showing no activity, (business was stagnant). Stagnancy (n).
195
stagnate
(v)1. To be stagnant. 2. (of a person) to become dull through inactivity and lack of variety or opportunity. Stagnation (n).
196
staid
(adj) steady and serious in manner, tastes, etc., sedate.
197
at stake
being risked, depending on the outcome of an event.
198
stake a claim
to claim or obtain a right to something.
199
stale
(adj)1. Lacking freshness, dry or musty or unpleasant because not fresh. 2. Uninteresting because not new or because heard often before, (stale news/ jokes). 3. Having one's ability to perform spoilt by too much practice. (v) to make or become stale. Stalely (adv), staleness (n).
200
stalemate
(n)1. A drawn position in chess, in which a player can make no move without putting his king in check. 2. A deadlock, a drawn contest. (v) to bring to a position of stalemate or deadlock.
201
stalk (2)
(v)1. To walk in a stately or imposing manner. 2. To track or pursue (game etc.) stealthily. Stalker (n).
202
stall (v)
(v)1. To place or keep (an animal) in a stall, especially for fattening. 2. (of an engine) to stop suddenly because of an overload or insufficient fuel. 3. (of an aircraft) to begin to drop because the speed is too low for the plane to answer to its controls. 4. To cause (an engine or aircraft) to stall. 5. To use delaying tactics in order to gain time, to stave off (a person or request) in this way.
203
stallion
(n) an uncastrated male horse, especially one kept for breeding.
204
stalwart
(adj)1. Sturdy. 2. Strong and faithful, (stalwart supporters). (n) a stalwart person.
205
stamp (v5, n4)
(v)5. To give a certain character to, (this achievement stamps him as a genius). (n)4. A distinguishing mark, a clear indication, (the story bears the stamp of truth). Stamp on: to crush by stamping; to quell. Stamp out: to extinguish by stamping, (stamped out the fire); to suppress (a rebellion etc.) by force.
206
stampede
(n)1. A sudden rush of a herd of frightened animals. 2. A rush of people under a sudden common impulse. (v) to take part or cause to take part in a stampede, to cause to act hurriedly.
207
stance
(n) the position in which a person or animal stands, a player's attitude for making a stroke.
208
stanch
(v) to restrain the flow of (blood etc.) or from (a wound).
209
it stands to reason
it is obvious or logical.
210
stand a chance
to have a chance of success.
211
stand alone
to be unequalled.
212
stand by
to look on without interfering; to support or side with (a person) in a difficulty or dispute; to stand ready for action; to keep to (a promise or agreement). Stand-by (adj) ready for use or action as a substitute etc., (n) a person or thing available as a substitute or in an emergency.
213
stand down
to withdraw (eg. from a competition).
214
stand for
to represent, ('US' stands for 'United States'); (informal) to tolerate.
215
stand in
to deputise. Stand-in (n): a person who takes the place of an actor while lighting etc. is arranged; (informal) a person who deputises for another.
216
stand off
to remain at a distance; to lay off (employees) temporarily. Stand-offish (adj): (informal) aloof in manner.
217
stand on
to insist on formal observance of, (stand on ceremony).
218
stand on end
(of hair) to become erect from fear or horror.
219
stand on one's own feet
to be independent.
220
stand one's ground
not yield.
221
stand out
to be conspicuous; to persist in opposition or in one's demands, (they stood out for a ten per cent rise).
222
stand over
to supervise (a person or thing) closely; to be postponed.
223
stand to
to stand ready for action.
224
stand up
to come to or place in a standing position; to be valid, (that argument won't stand up); (stand a person up), fail to keep an appointment with him.
225
stand up for
to defend or support (a person or opinion).
226
stand up to
to resist courageously; to remain durable in (hard use or wear).
227
standard of living
the level of material comfort enjoyed by a person or group.
228
standardise
(v) to cause to conform to a standard. Standardisation (n).
229
standing
(adj)1. Upright; (standing corn), not yet harvested. 2. (of a jump) performed without a run. 3. Permanent, remaining effective or valid, (a standing invitation). (n)1. Status, (people of high standing). 2. Past duration, (a friendship of long standing). Standing-room: (n) space for people to stand in.
230
standpoint
(n) a point of view.
231
standstill
(n) a stoppage, inability to proceed.
232
staple (2)
(adj) principal, standard, (rice is their staple food). (n) a staple food or product etc.
233
stark
(adj)1. Stiff in death. 2. Desolate, cheerless, (stark prison conditions). 3. Sharply evident, (in stark contrast). 4. Downright, complete, (stark madness). 5. Completely naked. (adv) completely, wholly, (stark raving mad). Starkly (adv), starkness (n).
234
starling
(n) a noisy bird with glossy blackish speckled feathers.
235
starry-eyed
(adj) romantically enthusiastic; enthusiastic but impractical.
236
start up
to start; to set in motion, to start an activity etc.
237
startle
(v) to cause to make a sudden movement from surprise or alarm, to take by surprise. Startling (adj): surprising, astonishing.
238
stash
(v)(slang) to stow.
239
state (n, v)
(n)1. The quality of a person's or thing's characteristics or circumstances. 2. An excited or agitated condition of mind, (she got into a state). 3. A grand imposing style, (arrived in state). 4. (often State) an organised community under one government (the State of Israel) or forming part of a federal republic (States of the USA). 5. Civil government, (matters of state). (v)1. To express in spoken or written words. 2. To fix or specify, (must be inspected at stated intervals).
240
stateless
(adj)(of a person) not a citizen or subject of any country.
241
stately
(adj)(statelier, stateliest) dignified, imposing, grand. Stateliness (n).
242
statement
(n)1. Stating. 2. Something stated. 3. A formal account of facts, a written report of a financial account.
243
statesman
(n)(pl statesmen) a person who is skilled or prominent in the management of State affairs. Statesmanship (n), stateswoman (n).
244
static (adj)
(adj)1. Of force acting by weight without motion (as opposed to dynamic). 2. Not moving, stationary. 3. Not changing. (n)1. Atmospherics. 2. =Static electricity: electricity present in a body and not flowing as current.
245
station (n5)
(n)5. Position in life, status, (she had ideas above her station).
246
stationer
(n) one who sells writing materials (paper, pens, ink, etc.).
247
statuesque
(adj) like a statue in size or dignity or stillness.
248
statuette
(n) a small statue.
249
stature
(n)1. The natural height of the body. 2. Greatness gained by ability or achievement.
250
status
(n)(pl statuses)1. A person's position or rank in relation to others, a person's or thing's legal position. 2. High rank or prestige. Status symbol: a possession or activity etc. regarded as evidence of a person's high status.
251
status quo
The state of affairs as it is or as it was before a recent change, (restore the status quo). (Latin, status quo ante= the state in which something was previously.)
252
statute
(n)1. A law passed by Parliament or a similar body. 2. One of the rules of an institution.
253
statutory
(adj) fixed or done or required by statute.
254
staunch
(adj) firm in attitude or opinion or loyalty. Staunchly (adv).
255
stave off
to ward off permanently or temporarily, (we staved off disaster).
256
stay (v4-6, n2)
(v)4. To postpone, (stay judgement). 5. To pause in movement or action or speech. 6. To show endurance, eg. in a race or task; (stay the course), be able to reach the end of a race etc. (n)2. A postponement, eg. of carrying out a judgement, (was granted a stay of execution).
257
staying-power
(n) endurance.
258
stead
(n) in a person's/ thing's stead: instead of him or it. Stand a person in good stead: to be of great advantage or service to him.
259
steadfast
(adj) firm and not changing or yielding, (a steadfast refusal). Steadfastly (adv), steadfastness (n).
260
steady (adj, v)
(adj)(steadier, steadiest)1. Firmly supported or balanced, not shaking or rocking or tottering. 2. Done or operating or happening in a uniform and regular manner, (a steady pace). 3. Behaving in a serious and dependable manner, not frivolous or excitable. (adv) steadily. (v)(steadied, steadying) to make or become steady. Steadily (adv), steadiness (n).
261
steal the show
to outshine other performers unexpectedly.
262
stealthy
(adj)(stealthier, stealthiest) acting or done in a quiet or secret way so as to avoid being noticed. Stealthily (adv), stealthiness (n).
263
steamroller
(n) a heavy slow-moving engine with a large roller, used in road-making. (v) to crush or defeat by weighty influence.
264
steed
(n)(poetical) a horse.
265
steely
(adj)(steelier, steeliest) like steel in colour or hardness.
266
steep
1. (v)1. To soak or be soaked in liquid. 2. To permeate thoroughly, (the story is steeped in mystery).
2. (adj)1. Sloping sharply not gradually. 2. (informal, of a price) unreasonably high. Steeply (adv), steepness (n).
267
steeple
(n) a tall tower with a spire on top, rising above the roof of a church.
268
steer clear of
to take care to avoid.
269
stellar
(adj) of a star or stars.
270
stem from
to arise from, to have as its source.
271
stench
(n) a foul smell.
272
stenographer
(n) a person who can write shorthand, one employed to do this.
273
in step/ out of step
stepping in time with other people in marching or dancing; conforming to what others are doing/ not in step.
274
step in
to intervene.
275
step on it
(slang) to hurry.
276
step up
to increase, (step up the voltage).
277
steppe
(n) a level grassy plain with few trees, especially in south-east Europe and Siberia.
278
stepping-stone
(n)1. A raised stone providing a place to step on in crossing a stream etc. 2. A means or stage of progress towards achieving something.
279
stereotype
(n)1. A printing-plate cast from a mould of type. 2. An idea or character etc. that is standardised in a conventional form without individuality. Stereotyped (adj): standardised and hackneyed, (stereotyped phrases such as 'it takes all sorts to make a world').
280
sterile
(adj)1. Barren. 2. Free from micro-organisms. 3. Unproductive, (a sterile discussion). Sterility (n). Sterilise (v), sterilisation (n).
281
sterling
(n) British money. (adj)1. (of precious metal) genuine, of standard purity. 2. Excellent, of solid worth, (her sterling qualities).
282
stet
(v)(placed beside a word that has been crossed out by mistake) let it stand as written or printed. (Latin= let it stand.)
283
stevedore
(n) a man employed in loading and unloading ships.
284
steward
(n)1. A person employed to manage another's property, especially a great house or estate. 2. One whose job is to arrange for the supply of food to a college or club etc. 3. A passengers' attendant and waiter on a ship or aircraft or train. 4. One of the officials managing a race-meeting or show etc. Stewardess (n): a woman attendant and waitress on a ship or aircraft.
285
stick at it
(informal) to continue one's efforts.
286
stick in one's throat
to be against one's principles.
287
stick-in-the-mud
(n) a person who will not adopt new ideas etc.
288
stick it out
to endure to the end in spite of difficulty or unpleasantness.
289
stick one's neck out
to expose oneself deliberately to danger or argument.
290
stick out
to stand above the surrounding surface; to be conspicuous; (informal) to persist in one's demands.
291
stick to
to remain faithful to (a friend or promise etc.); to abide by and not alter, (he stuck to his story); (stick to it), stick at it; (stick to one's guns), hold one's position against attack or argument.
292
stick up
(slang) to rob by threatening with a gun. Stick-up (n): (slang) a robbery of this kind.
293
stick up for
(informal) stand up for.
294
stickler
(n) a person who insists on something, (a stickler for punctuality).
295
sticky (adj3)
(adj)3. (informal) making objections, (he was very sticky about giving me leave).
296
stiff
(adj)1. Not bending or moving or changing its shape easily. 2. Not fluid, thick and hard to stir, (a stiff dough). 3. Difficult, (a stiff examination). 4. formal in manner, not pleasantly sociable or friendly. 5. (of a price or penalty) high, severe. 6. (of a breeze) blowing briskly. 7. (of a drink or dose) strong. 8. (informal) to an extreme degree, (bored stiff). Stiffly (adv), stiffness (n). Stiff-necked (adj): obstinate; haughty. Stiff upper lip: fortitude in enduring grief etc.
297
stifle
(v)1. To suffocate, to feel or cause to feel unable to breathe for lack of air. 2. To restrain or suppress, (stifled a yawn). Stifling (adj).
298
stigma
(n)(pl stigmas)1. A mark of shame, a stain on a person's good reputation. 2. The part of a pistil that receives the pollen in pollination.
299
stillborn
(adj)1. Born dead. 2. (of an idea or plan) not developing.
300
stilted
(adj) stiffly or artificially formal, (written in stilted language). Stiltedly (adv).
301
stimulate
(v) 1. To make more vigorous or active. 2. To apply a stimulus to. Stimulation (n), stimulator (n). Stimulative (adj): stimulating. Stimulus (n) (pl stimuli).
302
stingy
(adj)(stingier, stingiest) spending or giving or given grudgingly or in small amounts. Stingily (adv), stinginess (n).
303
stinker
(n)1. A person or thing that stinks. 2. (slang) something offensive or severe or difficult to do.
304
stint
(v) to restrict to a small allowance, to be niggardly, (don't stint them of food) or (stint in food). (n)1. A limitation of supply or effort, (gave help without stint). 2. A fixed or allotted amount or work, (did her stint of filing).
305
stipend
(n) a salary, a clergyman's official income. Stipendiary (adj): receiving a stipend.
306
stipulate
(v) to demand or insist upon as part of an agreement. Stipulation (n): 1. Stipulating. 2. Something stipulated.
307
stir
(v)(stirred, stirring)1. To move or cause to move, (not a leaf stirred); (wind stirred the sand). 2. To mix or move (a substance) by moving a spoon etc. round and round in it. 3. To arouse or excite or stimulate, (the story stirred their interest); (stir up trouble). (n)1. The act or process of stirring, (give the soup a stir). 2. A commotion or disturbance, excitement, (the news caused a stir). Stirring (adj): exciting, stimulating.
308
in stitches
(informal) laughing uncontrollably.
309
stock (n1-4,7)(adj)
(n)1. An amount of something available for use, (has a stock of jokes). 2. The total of goods kept by a trader or shopkeeper. 3. Livestock. 4. A line of ancestry, (a woman of Irish stock). 7. A person's standing in the opinion of others; (his stock is high), he is well thought of. (adj)1. Kept in stock and regularly available, (one of our stock items). 2. Commonly used, (a stock argument).
310
in stock/ out of stock
available in a shop etc. without needing to be obtained specially. Out of stock: sold out.
311
stock-room
(n) a room where goods kept in stock are stored.
312
stock size
one of the standard sizes in which ready-made garments are made.
313
stock-still
(adj) motionless.
314
stock-taking
(n) making an inventory of the stock in a shop etc.; review of one's position and resources.
315
stock up
to assemble a stock of (goods etc.).
316
stockade
(n) a protective fence of upright stakes.
317
stockpile
(n) an accumulated stock of goods or materials etc. kept in reserve. (v) to accumulate a stockpile of.
318
stocky
(adj)(stockier, stockiest) short and solidly built. Stockily (adv), stockiness (n).
319
stodgy
(adj)(stodgier, stodgiest)1. (of food) heavy and filling, indigestible. 2. (of a book etc.) written in a heavy uninteresting way. 3. (of a person) uninteresting, not lively. Stodgily (adv), stodginess (n).
320
stoical
(adj) calm and not excitable, bearing difficulties or discomfort without complaining. Stoically (adv). Stoicism (n): being stoical. Stoic (n): a member of the group of ancient Greek philosophers who held that virtue was the highest good and that pleasure and pain should be borne calmly. (adj) of the Stoics. stoic (n): a stoical person.
321
stoke
(v) to tend and put fuel on (a furnace or fire etc.).
322
stolid
(adj) not feeling or showing emotion, not excitable. Stolidly (adv), stolidity (n).
323
stomp
(v) to tread heavily.
324
leave no stone unturned
to try every possible means.
325
stone's throw
a short distance.
326
stonewall
(v) to obstruct by stonewalling. (n) batting in cricket without attempting to score runs; obstructing a discussion etc. by non-committal replies.
327
stony
(adj)(stonier, stoniest)1. Full of stones. 2. Hard as stone, unfeeling. 3. Not responsive, (a stony gaze). Stonily (adv).
328
stooge
(n)(slang)1. A comedian's assistant, used as a target for jokes. 2. A subordinate who does routine work. 3. A person whose actions are entirely controlled by another. (v)(slang)1. To act as a stooge. 2. To wander about aimlessly.
329
stools
(pl n) faeces.
330
stoop
(v)1. To bend forwards and down. 2. To condescend, to lower oneself morally, (he would not stoop to cheating). (n) a posture of the body with shoulders bend forwards, (he walks with a stoop).
331
stop at nothing
to be completely ruthless or unscrupulous.
332
pull out all the stops
make all possible efforts. (stop: a row of organ pipes providing tones of one quality, the knob or lever controlling these).
333
stop-go
(n) alternate stopping and progressing.
334
stop off/ over
to break one's journey. Stop-over (n): this break, especially for a night.
335
stop-press
(n) late news inserted in a newspaper after printing has begun.
336
stopgap
(n) a temporary substitute.
337
stoppage
(n)1. Stopping, being stopped. 2. An obstruction.
338
put a stopper on
to cause to cease.
339
in store
being stored; kept available for use; destined to happen, imminent, (there's a surprise in store for you).
340
set store by
to value greatly.
341
storehouse
(n) a building where things are stored; (a storehouse of information), a book etc. containing much information.
342
storm (v)
(v)1. (of wind or rain) to rage, to be violent. 2. To move or behave violently or very angrily, to rage. 3. To attack or capture by storm, (they stormed the citadel).
343
storm-centre
(n) the area at the centre of a storm; the centre of a disturbance or trouble.
344
storm in a teacup
great agitation over a trivial matter.
345
storm-window
(n) an additional window outside another for extra protection against storms.
346
take by storm
to capture by a violent attack; to captivate rapidly.
347
story-teller
(n) a person who narrates stories; (informal) a liar.
348
stoup
(n) a stone basin for holy water, especially in the wall of a church.
349
stout
(adj)1. Of considerable thickness or strength, (a stout stock). 2. (of a person) solidly built and rather fat. 3. Brave and resolute, (a stout heart). (n) a strong dark beer brewed with roasted malt or barley. Stoutly (adv), stoutness (n).
350
stow
(v) to place in a receptacle for storage. Stow away: to put away in storage or in reserve; to conceal oneself as a stowaway. Stowaway (n): a person who conceals himself on a ship or aircraft etc. so as to travel without charge or unseen. Stowage (n): 1. Stowing, being stowed. 2. Space available for this. 3. The charge for it.
351
straddle
(v)1. To sit or stand across (a thing) with legs apart, to extend across on supports. 2. To stand with the legs wide apart. 3. To drop shots or bombs short of and beyond (a certain point).
352
straggle
(v)1. To grow or spread in an irregular or untidy manner, not remaining compact. 2. To go or wander separately not in a group, to drop behind others. Straggler (n), straggly (adj).
353
go straight
to live an honest life after being a criminal.
354
straight face
a face without a smile even though amused.
355
straight fight
a contest between only two candidates.
356
straightforward
(adj)1. Honest, frank. 2. Without complications. Straightforwardly (adv), straightforwardness (n).
357
strain (n)
1. (n)1. Straining, being strained, the force exerted. 2. An injury caused by straining a muscle etc. 3. A severe demand on one's mental or physical strength or on one's resources, exhaustion caused by this. 4. A passage from a tune. 5. The tone or style of something written or spoken, (continued in a more cheerful strain). Strain at the leash: to be eager to begin.
2. (n)1. A line of descent of animals or plants or micro-organisms, a variety or breed of these, (a new strain of flu virus). 2. A slight or inherited tendency in a character, (there is a strain of insanity in the family).
358
strained
(adj) (of behaviour or manner) produced by effort, not arising from genuine feeling; (strained relations), unpleasant tension between people.
359
strait
(adj)(old use) narrow, restricted. (n) a narrow stretch of water connecting two seas. Straits (pl n): a strait; a difficult state of affairs, (in dire straits). Straitened (adj): made narrow, not spacious enough. Straitened circumstances: barely sufficient money to live on.
360
strait-jacket
(n) a strong jacket-like garment put round a violent person to restrain his arms. (v)1. To restrain by a strait-jacket. 2. To restrict severely.
361
strait-laced
(adj) very prim and proper.
362
strand (2)
(n) a shore. (v) to run or cause to run aground. Stranded (adj): left in difficulties, eg. without funds or means of transport.
363
stranger (n)
(n)1. A person in a place or company etc. that he does not belong to, a person one does not know. 2. One who is unaccustomed to a certain feeling or experience or task, (a stranger to poverty).
364
stranglehold
(n) a strangling grip.
365
strapping (adj)
(adj) tall and healthy-looking. (n)1. Straps, material for making these. 2. Sticking-plaster etc. used for binding wounds or injuries.
366
stratagem
(n) a cunning method of achieving something, a piece of trickery.
367
strategy
(n)1. The planning and directing of the whole operation of a campaign or war. 2. A plan or policy of this kind or to achieve something, (our economic strategy). Strategic/ strategical (adj):1. Of strategy. 2. Giving an advantage, (a strategic position). Strategically (adv).
368
stratum
(n)(pl strata)1. One of a series of layers, especially of rock in the earth's crust. 2. A social level or class, (the various strata of society).
369
a straw in the wind
a slight indication of how things may develop.
370
straw poll
(Amer.) an unofficial poll as a test of general feeling.
371
stray (adj)
(adj)1. Having strayed (stray: to leave one's group or proper place with no settled destination or purpose, to roam; to deviate from a direct course or from a subject). 2. Isolated, occurring here and there not as one of a group, (a stray taxi). (n) person or domestic animal that has strayed, a stray thing.
372
streak
(n)1. A thin line or band of a different colour or substance from its surroundings; (a streak of lightning), a flash. 2. An element in a person's character, (has a jealous streak). (v)1. To mark with streaks. 2. To move very rapidly. 3. To run naked through a public place as a humorous o defiant act. Streaker (n). Streaky (adj).
373
stream (v)
(v)1. To flow or move as a stream. 2. To emit a stream of, to run with liquid, (the wound streamed blood). 3. To float or wave at full length. 4. To arrange (schoolchildren) in streams. On stream: in active operation or production.
374
streamer
(n)1. A long narrow flag. 2. A long narrow ribbon or strip of paper attached at one end or both ends.
375
streamline
(v)1. To give a streamlined form to. 2. To make more efficient by simplifying, removing superfluities, etc. Streamlined (adj): having a smooth even shape that offers the least resistance to movement through air or water.
376
in strength
in large numbers.
377
on the strength of
on the basis of, using (a fact etc.) as one's support.
378
strenuous
(adj)1. Energetic, making great efforts. 2. Requiring great effort, (a strenuous task). Strenuously (adv), strenuousness (n).
379
at a stretch
without interruption.
380
at full stretch
working to the utmost of one's powers. (also 'fully stretched')
381
stretch a point
to agree to something beyond the limit of what is normally allowed.
382
stretch one's legs
to go walking as a relief from sitting or lying.
383
strew
(v)(strewed, strewn/ strewed, strewing) to scatter over a surface, to cover with scattered things.
384
stricken
(adj) affected or overcome by an illness or shock or grief, (stricken with flu).
385
stricture
(n)1. Severe criticism or condemnation. 2. Abnormal constriction of a tubelike part of the body.
386
stride
(v)(strode, stridden, striding)1. To walk with long steps. 2. To stand astride. (n)1. A single long step, the length of this. 2. A person's manner of striding. 3. Progress, (has made great strides towards independence). Get into one's stride: to settle into a fast and steady pace of work. Take it in one's stride: to do it without needing a special effort.
387
strident
(adj) loud and harsh. Stridently (adv), stridency (n).
388
strike (v9-12, n1-4)
(v)(struck, striking)9. To occur to the mind of, to produce a mental impression on, (an idea struck me); (she strikes me as being efficient). 10. To lower or take down (a flag or tent etc.). 11. To stop work in protest about a grievance. 12. To penetrate or cause to penetrate, to fill with sudden fear, etc. (n)1. An act or instance of striking. 2. An attack. 3. A workers' refusal to work, in protest about a grievance.
389
strife
(n) quarrelling, conflict.
390
on strike
(of workers) striking.
391
strike off
to cross off; to remove (a person) from a professional register because of misconduct.
392
strike lucky
to be successful by chance.
393
strike out
to cross out.
394
strike up
to begin playing or singing; to start (a friendship etc.) rapidly or casually.
395
striking
(adj) sure to be noticed, attractive and impressive. Strikingly (adv).
396
string along
(informal) to deceive.
397
string along with
(informal) to accompany.
398
string bag
a network shopping-bag.
399
string out
to spread out in a line.
400
stringent
(adj)1. (of a rule) strict. 2. (of financial conditions) tight. Stringently (adv), stringency (n).
401
strive
(v)(strove, striven, striving)1. To make great efforts. 2. To carry on a conflict.
402
strong language
forcible language, oaths or swearing.
403
strong-minded
(adj) having a determined mind.
404
strong point
a thing in which one excels.
405
strong-room
(n) a room designed for storage and protection of valuables against fire or theft.
406
strong suit
a suit (in a hand of cards) in which one can take tricks; a thing at which one excels.
407
stronghold
(n)1. A fortified place. 2. A centre of support for a cause etc.
408
stroppy
(adj)(slang) bad-tempered, awkward to deal with.
409
struck on
(slang) impressed with, liking.
410
strung up
mentally tense or excited.
411
strut
(n)1. A bar of wood or metal inserted into a framework to strengthen and brace it. 2. A strutting walk. (v)(strutted, strutting) to walk in a pompous self-satisfied way.
412
stub (v)
(v)(stubbed, stubbing) to strike against a hard object, (stub one's toe); (stub out a cigarette), extinguish it by pressing it against something hard.
413
stubble
(n)1. The lower ends of the stalks of cereal plants left in the ground after the harvest is cut. 2. A short stiff growth of hair or beard, especially that growing after shaving. Stubbly (adj).
414
stubby
(adj) short and thick.
415
stuck-up
(adj)(slang) conceited, snobbish.
416
stud (v)
(v)(studded, studding) to decorate with studs or precious stones set into a surface, to strengthen with studs.
417
studied (adj)
(adj) carefully and intentionally contrived, (answered with studied indifference).
418
study (v)
(v)(studied, studying)1. To give one's attention to acquiring knowledge of (a subject). 2. To examine attentively. 3. To give care and consideration to, (she studies the convenience of others).
419
stuffed shirt
(informal) a pompous person.
420
knock the stuffing out of
(informal) to make feeble or weak, to defeat utterly.
421
stuffy
(adj)(stuffier, stuffiest)1. Lacking fresh air or sufficient ventilation. 2. Dull, uninteresting. 3. (of the nose) blocked with secretions so that breathing is difficult. 4. (informal) old-fashioned and narrow-minded. 5. (informal) showing annoyance. Stuffily (adv), stuffiness (n).
422
stultify
(v)(stultified, stultifying) to impair or make ineffective, (their uncooperative approach has stultified the discussions). Stultification (n).
423
stump
(n)1. The base of a tree remaining in the ground when the rest has fallen or been cut down. 2. A corresponding remnant of broken tooth or amputated limb or of something worn down. 3. One of the three uprights of a wicket in cricket. (v)1. To walk stiffly or noisily. 2. (in cricket..) 3. (informal) to be too difficult for, to baffle, (the question stumped him). Stump up: (slang) to produce (an amount of money), to pay what is required. Stumpy (adj), stumpiness (n).
424
stunt
1. (v) to hinder the growth or development of.
| 2. (n)(informal) something unusual or difficult done as a performance or to attract attention, (a publicity stunt).
425
stupefy
(v)(stupefied, stupefying)1. To dull the wits or senses of. 2. To stun with astonishment. Stupefaction (n).
426
stupendous
(adj) amazing, exceedingly great. Stupendously (adv).
427
stupor
(n) a dazed or almost unconscious condition brought on by shock, drugs, drink, etc.
428
sturdy
(adj)(sturdier, sturdiest) strongly built, hardy, vigorous. Sturdily (adv), sturdiness (n).
429
in style
elegantly, luxuriously.
430
stylistic
(adj) of literary or artistic style. Stylistically (adv).
431
stylised
(adj) made to conform to a conventional style.
432
suasion
(n) persuasion. Moral suasion: a strong recommendation that is not an order.
433
suave
(adj) smooth-mannered. Suavely (adv), suavity (n).
434
subconscious
(adj) of our own mental activities of which we are not fully aware. (n) the part of the mind in which these activities take place. Subconsciously (adv).
435
subcontinent
(n) a large land-mass that forms part of a continent.
436
subculture
(n) a social culture within a larger culture.
437
subdue
(v)1. To overcome, to bring under control. 2. To make quieter or less intense; (subdued lighting), not strong or intense.
438
subject (adj)(v)
(adj)1. Not politically independent, (subject peoples). 2. Owing obedience to, under the authority of, (we are all subject to the laws of the land). (v)1. To bring (a country) under one's control. 2. To cause to undergo or experience, (subjecting the metal to severe tests). Subjection (n).
439
subject to
liable to, (trains are subject to delay during fog); depending upon as a condition, (subject to your approval); (subject to contract), provided that a contract is made.
440
subjective
(adj)1. Existing in a person's mind and not produced by things outside it, not objective. 2. Depending on personal taste or views etc. Subjectively (adv).
441
sublime (adj)
(adj)1. Of the most exalted or noble or impressive kind. 2. Extreme, lofty, like that of a person who does not fear the consequences, (with sublime indifference). Sublimely (adv), sublimity (n).
442
submissive
(adj) submitting to power or authority, willing to obey. Submissively (adv), submissiveness (n).
443
submit
(v)(submitted, submitting)1. To yield (oneself) to the authority or control of another, to surrender. 2. To subject (a person or thing) to a process. 3. To present for consideration or decision.
444
subnormal
(adj)1. Less than normal. 2. Below the normal standard of intelligence.
445
subordinate (1)
(adj)1. Of lesser importance or rank, not the main one. 2. Working under the control or authority of another person. (n) a person in a subordinate position. Subordination (n).
446
subpoena
(n) a writ commanding a person to appear in a lawcourt. (v)(subpoenaed, subpoenaing) to summon with a subpoena.
447
subscribe
(v)1. To contribute (a sum of money). 2. To sign, (subscribe one's name); (subscribe a document). 3. To express agreement, (we cannot subscribe to this theory). Subscriber (n), subscription (n).
448
subsequent
(adj)1. Following in time or order or succession, coming after. 2. (of a stream) flowing in the direction in which the land slopes after its surface has been eroded (contrasted with 'consequent'). Subsequently (adv).
449
subservient
(adj)1. Subordinate. 2. Servile, obsequious. Subservience (n).
450
subside
(v)1. To sink to a lower or to the normal level. 2. (of land) to sink, eg. because of mining operations underneath. 3. To become less active or intense. 4. (of a person) to sink into a chair etc. Subsidence (n).
451
subsidiary
(adj)1. Of secondary importance. 2. (of a business company) controlled by another. (n) a subsidiary thing.
452
subsidy
(n) a grant of money paid to an industry or other cause needing help, or to keep down the price at which commodities etc. are sold to the public. Subsidise (v): to pay a subsidy to or for, to support by subsidies.
453
subsist
(v) to exist or continue to exist, to keep oneself alive. Subsistence (n): subsisting, a means of doing this. Subsistence level: merely enough to supply the necessities of life.
454
substance
(n)1. Matter, with more or less uniform properties, a particular kind of this. 2. The essence of something spoken or written, (the substance of this argument). 3. Reality, solidity. 4. (old use) wealth and possessions, (waste one's substance).
455
substandard
(adj) below the usual or required standard.
456
substantial
(adj)1. Of solid material or structure. 2. Of considerable amount or intensity or validity, (a substantial fee); (substantial reasons). 3. Possessing much property or wealth, (substantial farmers). 4. In essentials, virtual, (we are in substantial agreement). Substantially (adv). Substantiate (v): to support (a statement or claim etc.) with evidence, to prove. Substantiation (n).
457
subterfuge
(n) a trick or excuse used in order to avoid blame or defeat, trickery.
458
subterranean
(adj) underground.
459
subtle
(adj)1. Slight and difficult to detect or analyse. 2. Making or able to make fine distinctions, having acute perception, (a subtle mind). 3. Ingenious, crafty. Subtly (adv), subtlety (n).
460
subtropical
(adj) of regions bordering on the tropics.
461
suburban
(adj)1. Of a suburb or suburbs (suburb: a residential district lying outside the central part of a town). 2. Having only limited interests and narrow-minded views. Suburbanite: (n) a person who lives in a suburb. Suburbia (n): suburbs and their inhabitants.
462
subvert
(v) to overthrow the authority of (a religion or government etc.) by weakening people's trust or belief. Subversion (n), subversive (adj).
463
successive
(adj) following one after another, in an unbroken series. Successively (adv).
464
successor
(n) a person or thing that succeeds (to come next to in time or order, to follow, to take the place previously filled by) another.
465
succinct
(adj) concise, expressed briefly and clearly. Succinctly (adv).
466
succour
(n) help given in time of need. (v) to give such help.
467
succulent
(adj)1. Juicy. 2. (of plants) having thick fleshy leaves or stems. (n) a succulent plant.
468
succumb
(v) to give way to something overpowering.
469
such
(adj)1. Of the same kind or degree, (people such as these). 2. Of the kind or degree described, (there's no such person). 3. So great or intense, (it gave her such a fright). (pronoun) that, the action or thing referred to, (such being the case, we can do nothing). Such-and-such (adj): particular but not now specified, (says he will arrive at such-and-such a time but is always late).
470
suchlike
(adj)(informal) of the same kind.
471
suckling
(n) a child or animal that is not yet weaned.
472
sue
(v)(sued, suing)1. To begin legal proceedings against. 2. To make an application, (sue for peace).
473
suffice
(v) to be enough, to meet the needs of.
474
suffrage
(n) the right to vote in political elections. Suffragette (n): a woman who, in the early 20th century, agitated for women to have the right to vote in political elections.
475
suggestible
(adj)1. Easily influenced by people's suggestions. 2. That may be suggested. Suggestibility (n).
476
suggestive
(adj)1. Conveying a suggestion. 2. Tending to convey an indecent or improper meaning. Suggestively (adv).
477
suicidal
(adj)1. Of suicide. 2. (of a person) liable to commit suicide. 3. Destructive to one's own interests. Suicidally (adv).
478
suitor
(n)1. A man who is courting a woman. 2. A person bringing a lawsuit.
479
sulky
(adj)(sulkier, sulkiest) sullen, silent or aloof because of resentment or bad temper. Sulkily (adv), sulkiness (n). Sulk (v).
480
sullen
(adj)1. Gloomy and unresponsive from resentment or bad temper. 2. Dark and dismal, (sullen skies). Sullenly (adv), sullenness (n).
481
sully
(v)(sullied, sullying) to stain or blemish, to spoil the purity or splendour of.
482
sultan
(n) the ruler of certain Muslim countries.
483
sultana
(n)1. A seedless raisin; (sultana grape), the small yellow grape from which it is produced. 2. The wife, mother, sister, or daughter of a sultan.
484
sultry
(adj)(sultrier, sultriest)1. Hot and humid. 2. (of a woman) of dark mysterious beauty. Sultriness (n).
485
sum up
to give the total of; to summarise; (of a judge) to summarise the evidence or argument; to form an opinion of, (sum a person up).
486
summary (adj)
(adj)1. Brief, giving the main points only, (a summary account). 2. Done or given without delay or attention to detail or formal procedure, (summary execution). Summarily (adv).
487
summit conference
a meeting between heads of two or more governments.
488
summons
(n)1. A command to do something or appear somewhere. 2. An order to appear in a lawcourt, a document containing this. (v) to serve with a summons.
489
sumptuous
(adj) splendid and costly-looking. Sumptuously (adv), sumptuousness (n).
490
sunder
(v) to break or tear apart, to sever.
491
sundry
(adj) various, several. All and sundry: everyone. Sundries (pl n): various small items not named individually.
492
the sunny side
the more cheerful aspect of circumstances.
493
sup
(v)(supped, supping)1. To take (liquid) by sips or spoonfuls. 2. To eat supper. (n) a mouthful of liquid, (neither bite nor sup).
494
super-
(prefix)1. Over, beyond. 2. Extremely.
495
superannuate
(v)1. To discharge (an employee) into retirement with a pension. 2. To discard as too old for use.
496
superb
(adj) of the most impressive or splendid kind, excellent. Superbly (adv).
497
supercharge
(v) to increase the power of (an engine) by using a device that supplies air or fuel at above the normal pressure. Supercharger (n).
498
supercilious
(adj) with an air of superiority, haughty and scornful. Superciliously (adv), superciliousness (n).
499
superfluous
(adj) more than is required. Superfluously (adv).
500
superhuman
(adj)1. Beyond ordinary human capacity or power. 2. Higher than humanity, divine.
501
superimpose
(v) to lay or place on top of something else. Superimposition (n). (also 'superpose' and 'superposition')
502
superintend
(v) to supervise. Superintendence (n). superintendent (n)1. A person who superintends. 2. A police officer next above the rank of inspector.
503
superlative
(adj)1. Of the highest degree or quality, (a man of superlative wisdom). 2. Of a grammatical form that expresses the highest or a very high degree of a quality, eg. (dearest, shyest, best). (n) a superlative form of a word. Superlatively (adv).
504
superpower
(n) one of the most powerful nations of the world.
505
supersede
(v)1. To take the place of, (cars have superseded horse-drawn carriages). 2. To put or use in place of (another person or thing).
506
supersonic
(adj) of or having a speed greater than that of sound.
507
superstar
(n) a great star in entertainment etc.
508
superstition
(n)1. Belief that events can be influenced by certain acts or circumstances that have no demonstrable connection with them, an idea or practice based on this. 2. A belief held by a number of people but without foundation. Superstitious (adj), superstitiously (adv).
509
supervise
(v) to direct and inspect (work or workers or the operation of an organisation). Supervision (n), supervisor (n), supervisory (adj) (eg. supervisory duties).
510
superstructure
(n) a structure that rests upon something else, a building as distinct from its foundations.
511
supplant
(v) to oust and take the place of.
512
supple
(adj) bending easily, flexible, not stiff. Supplely (adv), suppleness (n).
513
supplement
1. (n)1. A thing added as an extra or to make up for a deficiency. 2. A part added to a book etc. to give further information or to treat a particular subject, a set of special pages issued with a newspaper.
2. (v) to provide or be a supplement to. Supplementation (n).
514
supplicate
(v) to ask humbly for, to beseech. Supplication (n).
515
supporting price
the minimum price guaranteed to farmers etc. and made up (if necessary) by government subsidy.
516
supposition
(n) supposing (to be inclined to think, to accept as true or probable), what is supposed, (the article is based on supposition not on fact).
517
suppress
(v)1. To put an end to the activity or existence of, especially by force or authority, (suppress the rebellion). 2. To keep from being known or seen, (suppress the truth). Suppression (n). Suppressible (adj), suppressor (n).
518
supremacy
(n) being supreme, the position of supreme authority or power.
519
surcharge
(n)1. payment demanded in addition to the usual charge. 2. An additional or excessive load. 3. A mark printed over a postage stamp, changing its value. (v)1. To make a surcharge on, to charge extra. 2. To overload. 3. To print a surcharge on (a stamp).
520
sure enough
certainly, in fact.
521
sure-footed
(adj) never slipping or stumbling.
522
to be sure
it is admitted, certainly, (she is not perfect, to be sure).
523
surety
(n)1. A guarantee. 2. A person who makes himself responsible for another person's payment of a debt or performance of an undertaking.
524
surface mail
mail carried by sea not by air.
525
surfeit
(n) too much of something (especially food and drink), a feeling of discomfort arising from this. (v) to cause to take too much of something, to satiate, to cloy.
526
surge
(v) to move forward in or like waves, to increase in volume or intensity. (n) a wave, a surging movement or increase, an onrush.
527
surly
(adj)(surlier, surliest) bad-tempered and unfriendly. Surlily (adv), surliness (n).
528
surmise
(n) a conjecture. (v) to conjecture.
529
surmount
(v) to overcome (a difficulty), to get over (an obstacle). Be surmounted by: to have on or over the top, (the spire is surmounted by a weather-vane). Surmountable (adj): able to be overcome.
530
surpass
(v) to do or be better than, to excel. Surpassing (adj): greatly excelling or exceeding others. Surpassingly (adv).
531
surplus
(n) an amount left over after what is required has been used, especially an excess of public revenue over expenditure during a financial year.
532
surrealism
(n) a 20th-century movement in art and literature that seeks to express what is in the subconscious mind by depicting objects and events as seen in dreams etc. Surrealist (n), surrealistic (adj).
533
surreptitious
(adj) acting or done stealthily. Surreptitiously (adv).
534
surrender (v3)
(v)3. to give way to an emotion, (surrendered herself to grief).
535
surrogate
(n) a deputy.
536
surveillance
(n) supervision or close observation, especially of a suspected person.
537
survey (1)
(v)1. To look at and take a general view of. 2. To make or present a survey of, (the report surveys progress made in the past year). 3. To examine the condition of (a building etc.). 4. To measure and map out the size, shape, position, and elevation etc. of (an area of the earth's surface).
538
sus (v)
(v)(sussed, sussing) (slang) sus out: to investigate or reconnoitre.
539
susceptible
(adj)1. Liable to be affected by something; (susceptible to colds), catching colds easily. 2. Impressionable, falling in love easily. 3. Able to undergo something; (susceptible of proof), able to be proved. Susceptibility (n). Susceptibilities (pl n): a person's feelings that may be hurt or offended. Susceptive (adj): susceptible.
540
suspend
(v)1. To hang up. 2. To keep from falling or sinking in air or liquid etc., (particles are suspended in the fluid). 3. To postpone, (suspend judgment). 4. To put a temporary stop to. 5. To deprive temporarily of a position or right. Suspension (n).
541
suspense
(n) a state or feeling of anxious uncertainty while awaiting news or an event etc.
542
suspension bridge
a bridge suspended from cables that pass over supports at each end.
543
sustain
(v)1. To support. 2. To keep alive; (sustaining food), food that keep up one's strength. 3. To keep (a sound or effort etc.) going continuously. 4. To undergo, to suffer, (sustained a defeat). 5. To endure without giving way, (sustained the attack). 6. To confirm or uphold the validity of, (the objection was sustained).
544
sustenance
(n)1. The process of sustaining life by food. 2. The food itself, nourishment.
545
suture
(n)1. Surgical stitching of a wound, a stitch or thread etc. used in this. 2. A line where two bones etc. join edge to edge, eg. in the skull. (v) to stitch (a wound).
546
suzerain
(n)1. A country or ruler that has some authority over another country which is self-governing in its internal affairs. 2. An overlord in feudal times. Suzerainty (n).
547
svelte
(adj)(of a person) slender and graceful.
548
swab
(n)1. A mop or absorbent pad for cleansing or drying or absorbing things. 2. A specimen of a secretion taken with this. (v)(swabbed, swabbing) to cleanse or wipe with a swab.
549
swaddle
(v) to swathe in wraps or clothes or warm garments. Swaddling-clothes (pl n) strips of cloth formerly wrapped round a new-born baby to restrain its movements.
550
swagger
(v) to walk or behave in a self-important manner, to strut. (n) a swaggering walk or way of behaving. (adj)(informal) smart, fashionable.
551
swallow (v)
(v)1. To cause or allow (food etc.) to go down one's throat, to work the muscles of the throat as when doing this. 2. To take in so as to engulf or absorb, (she was swallowed up in the crowd). 3. To accept; (swallow a story), believe it too easily. 4. To repress (a sound or emotion etc.), (swallowed a sob).
552
swami
(pl swamis) a Hindu religious teacher.
553
swan-song
(n) a person's last performance or achievement or composition. (from the old belief that a swan sang sweetly when about to die.)
554
swank
(n)(informal)1. Boastful behaviour, ostentation. 2. A person who behave in this way. (v)(informal) to behave with swank. Swanky (adj).
555
swarm (v)
(v) 1. To move in a swarm, to come together in large numbers. 2. (of bees) to cluster in a swarm. 3. (of a place) to be crowded or overrun, (swarming with tourists).
556
swarthy
(adj) having a dark complexion. Swarthiness (n).
557
swashbuckling
(adj) swaggering aggressively.
558
swastika
(n) an ancient symbol formed by a cross with the ends bent at right angles, used as a Nazi emblem.
559
swat
(v)(swatted, swatting) to hit hard with something flat, to crush (a fly etc.) in this way. Swatter (n).
560
swathe
(v) to wrap in layers of bandage or wrappings or warm garments.
561
sway
(v)1. To swing or cause to swing gently, to lean from side to side or to one side. 2. To influence the opinions or sympathy or actions of, (his speech swayed many voters). 3. To waver in one's opinion or attitude. (n)1. A swaying movement. 2. Influence, power, (hold sway).
562
swear by
(informal) to have great confidence in.
563
swear in
to admit (a person) to office etc. by causing him to take an oath.
564
sweat-shop
(n) a place where sweated labour (labour of workers who have to endure long hours and low wages and poor conditions) is used.
565
make a clean sweep
to get rid of everything or of all staff etc.; to win all the prizes.
566
sweeping (adj)
(adj)1. Of great scope, comprehensive, (sweeping changes). 2. (of a statement) making no exceptions or limitations, (sweeping generalisations).
567
sweepstake
(n)1. A form of gambling on horse-races etc. in which the money staked is divided among those who have drawn numbered tickets for the winners. 2. A race etc. with betting of this kind.
568
sweetbread
(n) an animal's thymus gland or pancreas used as food.
569
swelled head
(slang) conceit.
570
swelter
(v) to be uncomfortably hot, to suffer from the heat.
571
swerve
(v) to turn or cause to turn aside from a straight course. (n) a swerving movement or direction.
572
swig
(v)(swigged, swigging) (informal) to take a drink or drinks of, (swigging beer). (n) (informal) a drink or swallow.
573
swill
(v)1. To pour water over or through, to wash or rinse. 2. (of water) to pour. 3. To drink in large quantities. (n)1. A rinse, (give it a swill). 2. A sloppy mixture of waste food fed to pigs.
574
in the swim
active in or knowing what is going on.
575
swimmingly
(adv) with easy unobstructed progress.
576
swindle
(v) to cheat (a person) in a business transaction, to obtain by fraud. (n) a piece of swindling, a fraudulent person or thing. Swindler (n).
577
swine
(pl n) pigs. (n)(pl swine) (informal) a hated person or thing.
578
in full swing
with activity at its greatest.
579
swipe
(v)(informal)1. To hi with a swinging blow. 2. To steal, especially by snatching. (n) (informal) a swinging blow.
580
swirl
(v) to move or flow or carry along with a whirling movement. (n) a swirling movement.
581
swish
(v) to strike or move or cause to move with a hissing sound. (n) a swishing sound. (adj)(informal) smart, fashionable.
582
switchback
(n)1. A railway used for amusement at fairs etc. with a series of alternate steep descents and ascents. 2. A road with alternate ascents and descents.
583
switchboard
(n) a panel with a set of switches for making telephone connections or operating electric circuits.
584
swivel
(n) a link or pivot between two parts enabling one of them to revolve without turning the other. (v)(swivelled, swivelling) to turn on or as if on a swivel.
585
swoon
(v) to faint. (n) a faint.
586
swoop
(v) to come down with a rushing movement like a bird upon its prey, to made a sudden attack. (n) a swooping movement or attack.
587
sworn (adj)
(adj) open and determined in devotion or enmity, (sworn friends); (sworn foes).
588
swot
(v)(swotted, swotting) (school slang) to study hard. (n) (school slang)1. Hard study. 2. A person who studies hard.
589
sycophant
(n) a person who tries to win people's favour by flattering them. Sycophantic (adj), sycophantically (adv).
590
syllogism
(n) a form of reasoning in which a conclusion is reached from two statements, as in 'All men must die; I am a man; therefore I must die'.
591
symbiosis
(n) a condition in which two kinds of organism live in close association, especially when they both benefit from or depend on this. Symbiotic (adj).
592
symbolise
(v)1. To be a symbol of. 2. To represent by means of a symbol. Symbolism (n). Symbolic/ symbolical (adj), symbolically (adv).
593
sympathetic
(adj)1. Feeling or expressing or resulting from sympathy. 2. Likeable, (he's not a sympathetic character). 3. Showing approval or support, (he is sympathetic to our plan). Sympathetically (adv).
594
symptomatic
(adj) serving as a symptom (a sign of the existence of a condition, especially a perceptible change from what is normal in the body or its functioning, indicating disease or injury).
595
synchronous
(adj)1. Existing or occurring at the same time. 2. Operating at the same rate and simultaneously.
596
syndicate
(n) an association of people or firms combining to carry out a business or commercial undertaking. (v)1. To combine into a syndicate. 2. To publish through an association that acquires stories, articles, cartoons, etc. for simultaneous publication in numerous newspapers and periodicals. Syndication (n).
597
syndrome
(n)1. A set of signs and symptoms that together indicate the presence of a disease or abnormal condition. 2. A combination of opinions, behaviour, etc. that are characteristic of a particular condition.
598
synonymous
(adj) equivalent in meaning.
599
systematic
(adj) methodical, according to a plan and not casually or at random. Systematically (adv).
600
systemic
(adj)1. Of or affecting the body as a whole. 2. (of a fungicide etc.) entering a plant by way of the roots or shoots and passing into the tissues.
