Wednesday, April 20, 2011

Dictionary [M]


WordDefinition
mabbleto wrap up
mabsoothappy
macadamizeto cover a road with small broken stones
macarisma beatitude; taking pleasure in another's joy
macarizeto declare to be happy or blessed
macaronicmuddled or mixed-up
macerateto steep or soak; to break up; to emaciate
maceratora person who fasts and becomes emaciated
machairlow-lying sandy beach
machairodontsabre-toothed
machicolationspace between corbels in a parapet
machinuletool used by surveyors to obtain right angle
maciesatrophy
macilentlean; excessively thin
mackinawheavy napped and felted wool cloth
mackintoshlightweight rubberized waterproof cotton
maconsmoked salted mutton
macrobianlong-lived
macrobiotelong-lived organism
macrocephalichaving an abnormally large head
macrocephaloushaving a large head
macrocosmlarge and complex structure considered as a whole
macrographyviewing an object with the naked eye
macrologymuch talk with little to say; redundancy; pleonasm
macromancydivination using large objects
macromaniadelusion that objects are larger than natural size
macrophobiafear of prolonged waiting
macropodineof, like or pertaining to kangaroos
macropteroushaving large wings or fins
macroscianone with a long shadow; one who inhabits polar regions
macrotousbig-eared
macruralhaving a long tail
mactationkilling or slaughter of a sacrificial victim
macularspotted; patchy
maculationthe act of spotting or staining
maculomancydivination using spots
maculosespotted
madapollamfine cotton cloth
madarosisloss of eyelashes or eyebrows
madderred dye made from brazil wood; a reddish or red-orange colour
madefyto moisten or make wet
maderizationwine becoming rusty in colour and flat in taste
madescentgrowing damp
madidwet; dank
madolinevegetable slicer with adjustable blade
madrasfine plain-woven cotton or silk
maelidapple-nymph
maenadicfurious; bacchanalian
maffickto celebrate exuberantly and boisterously
magadisancient bridged stringed instrument
maggotoriumplace where maggots are bred for sale to fishers
magianismteachings or philosophy of the magi
magiricsart of cookery
magisterialin the manner of a teacher or magistrate
magisteriumteaching function of the Catholic church
magistralof, like or pertaining to a master or teacher
magnalitywonderful or great thing
magnanerieart of raising silkworms
magneticsstudy of magnetism
magnetographinstrument for recording measurements of magnetic fields
magnetometerinstrument for measuring intensity of magnetic fields
magnetonunit of the quantized magnetic moment of a particle
magnicaudatehaving a long tail
magnificatcanticle in praise of the Virgin Mary
magniloquentspeaking in a grand or pompous style
magpietygarrulousness
mahoutone who rides or drives elephants
maidanopen plain; open space near a town
maieuticbringing out latent thoughts; socratic
maieuticsmidwifery
maillottights worn by a ballet dancer
mainmastsailing ship's principal mast
mainourstolen goods discovered on thief
mainpernorone who gives mainprise
mainprisesurety for the appearance of a prisoner at trial
mainsailprincipal sail on a ship's mainmast
mainsheetrope by which mainsail is trimmed and secured
mainstaystay that extends from the main-top to the foot of the foremast
majolicaelaborate glazed Italian pottery
malabathrumdried leaf used in ancient times to make perfumed ointments
malacissationact of making soft or supple
malacoidmade of a soft or fleshy substance
malacologystudy of molluscs
malacophilouspollinated by snails
malacophonoussoft-voiced
malagmaemollient plaster
malaguenaSpanish dance performed by a couple, similar to the fandango
malapertbold; forward; saucy
malapropismmisapplication of words without mispronunciation
malarof, like or pertaining to the cheek
malariologystudy of malaria
malaxagesoftening of clay by kneading it
malaxateto soften by kneading, rubbing or mixing with a liquid
malchusshort cutting sword
maledicentcursing
maleficdoing mischief; producing evil
malfeasanceevil-doing; illegal activities
malgréin spite of
maliferousharmful; unhealthy
malingerto feign sickness in order to avoid duty or work
malismthe belief that the world is evil
malisona curse
malleationhammering; a hammer-mark or dent
malleiformshaped like a hammer
mallophagouseating wool or fleece
malloseismicsuffering from frequent and severe earthquakes
malmcalcareous loam used in making brick
malmseysweet perfumed wine
malthathick mineral pitch
maltsterone who makes or deals in malt
malvaceousof, like or pertaining to the mallow family of plants
malversationcorruption in office; corrupt administration; misconduct
mamboCuban ballroom dance resembling the rumba or cha-cha
mamellerounded hill
mamelonrounded hill or protuberance
mammalogystudy of mammals
mammerto stammer; to waver; to be undecided
mammetryidolatry; idols collectively
mammiferoushaving breasts
mammiformshaped like a breast
mammilanipple
mammiliformshaped like a nipple
mammockscrap or shred; a broken piece
mammogenicpromoting growth of the milk glands
mammonriches; the wealthy; the upper classes
mammonismdevotion to pursuit of wealth
mammoseshaped like a breast
mammothreptspoiled child
mamzerillegitimate child
manalof, like or pertaining to the hand
mancipationlegal transfer by actual or symbolic sale
manciplesteward of a college or monastery; purveyor
mandamentcommand; order
mandamuswrit instructing that an action should be performed
mandarismgovernment with a large bureaucracy
mandativeof, like or pertaining to commands or leadership
mandibuliformshaped like a mandible or jaw-bone
mandorlaoval panel containing a work of art; elliptical halo around holy person
mandrelaxle of a circular saw
mandriarchfounder or leader of a monastic order
manducateto chew or eat
mandylionloose outer garment worn over armour
manègethe art of horsemanship
manganiferousbearing manganese
mangonelmedieval war engine for throwing stones
manicatehaving a woolly growth that can be peeled off
manicismleft-handedness
maniformhaving the shape of a hand
manipleclerical vestment worn on the left arm
manometerinstrument for measuring pressure of a liquid or gas
manquéhaving had unfulfilled ambition; failing to achieve expectation
manroperope used as a handrail on a ship
mansionaryresidence; mansions
mansuetudemeekness; tameness; sweetness of temper
manswornperjured
mantellettaknee-length sleeveless garment worn by Catholic cardinals and bishops
manticof, like or pertaining to divination; prophetic; divinely inspired
mantissadecimal part of logarithm
mantologyfortune-telling
manubrialshaped like a handle
manubriumany handle-like structure
manuductioncareful guidance; leading by hand
manumissionemancipation; freedom from slavery
manurancecultivation
manustuprationmasturbation
mappemondmap of the world
maquettesmall model of something to be made on a larger scale
maquisguerrilla resistance force
maraboutthin downy silk
maragingprocess by which alloy is slowly cooled in the air
marahbitterness; something bitter
marasmuswasting away of the body; emaciation due to malnutrition
marcrefuse from winemaking
marcellacotton or linen in twill weave
marcescentwithering without falling off
marchpaneold name for marzipan
marciditystate of great leanness
marcottagepropagation of trees by stripping ring of bark and covering with moss
maremmamarsh; miasma
margaricpearl-like
margaritiferouspearl-bearing
margaritomancydivination using pearls
maricolousliving in the sea
mariculturecultivation of aquatic flora and fauna
marigenousproduced by or in the sea
marigraphinstrument for recording tide levels
Mariolatryworship of the virgin mother
Mariologystudy of the Virgin Mary
maritageright of feudal lord to arrange marriages of vassals
mariticidekilling or killer of one's husband
maritodespotismruthless domination by a husband
marivaudagepreciosity in literary style or expression
marlclay used as fertilizer
marlinesmall rope wound about larger rope to keep it from fraying
marmarosisconversion of limestone into marble
marmorealof or like marble
marocainribbed crepe fabric
marquetryfurniture inlaid with multicoloured wood, ivory, or metal
marquisettesheer meshed cloth
marranoJew converted to Christianity to avoid persecution
marryexpression of surprised agreement
martellocircular fort for coastal defence
martextignorant preacher
martineta strict disciplinarian; one who adheres to rules
martingalelower stay of rope used to sustain strain of the forestays
martingalestrap between horse's forelegs to keep its head down
martletheraldic representation of a bird without feet
martyriumshrine erected in memory of a martyr
martyrolatryexcessive devotion to martyrs
martyrologystudy of martyrs
marvermarble or iron slab on which molten glass is rolled
mascarongrotesque face on a door-knocker
maschalephidrosismassive sweating of the armpits
masclediamond-shaped plate or scale
masconconcentration of dense mass beneath the moon's surface
maskirovkause of deception or camouflage as military stratagem
massetermuscle used to move the lower jaw
masteratedegree or title of a master
masticateto chew; to knead mechanically
mastigophorousbearing a whip
mastoidlike a nipple or teat
mastologystudy of mammals
matachinSpanish ritualised sword-dance or battle dance
matelasséhaving a quilted ornamentation; fabric with raised pattern as if quilted
materialismbelief that matter is the only extant substance
materteralof or resembling an aunt
mathemancydivination by counting
mathematicasterminor or inferior mathematician
mathesismental discipline; learning or wisdom
matinalof, like or pertaining to the morning
matinsprayer service held in early morning hours
matrasslong-necked chemical flask
matricalof, like or pertaining to a womb or a matrix
matricularof, like or pertaining to a register
matriheritalof, like or pertaining to inheritance along the female line
matriotismlove for country or other institution when regarded as a mother
matripotestalof, like or pertaining to the power of mothers
matroclinicmore like the mother than the father
matryoshkaRussian hollow wooden doll
matterypurulent
mattockpickaxe for loosening soil
mattoidperson on borderline between sanity and insanity
maturescentbecoming mature
matutinalof, like or pertaining to the morning; happening early in the day
matutolypeagetting up on the wrong side of the bed
maudlintearfully sentimental
maugrein spite of
maugrein spite of; notwithstanding
maulstickstick used by painters to steady the hand
maunderto grumble; to drivel; to mutter
maundycustom of sovereign washing feet of poor or giving alms
mavrodaphnesweet dark red Greek wine
maxillaryof, like or pertaining to a jaw
maximalismuncompromising adherence to extreme demands
maxixeBrazilian ballroom dance resembling the two-step
maxwellunit of magnetic flux
mayaillusion; the world of phenomena
mayhapperhaps
mazarinerich blue or reddish-blue colour
mazerhardwood drinking bowl
mazologymammalogy; study of mammals
mazopathiaany disease of the placenta
mazurkaPolish folk dance in moderate triple measure
mazutpetroleum residue after distillation
mazydizzy; confused; labyrinthine; convoluted
mazzardwild sweet cherry
mazzebahancient Jewish sacred stone pillar
mbalaxWest African popular music
mbaqangajazz-influenced southern African popular music style
meableeasily penetrable
meatusopening of a passage or canal
mecateold Mexican measure of about one-tenth of an acre
mechanismbelief that life is explainable by mechanical forces
mechanolatryworship of machines
mechanomorphichaving the form of a machine
mecometerinstrument for measuring length
meconiumfirst feces of a newborn child
meconologystudy of or treatise concerning opium
meconomancydivination using sleep
meconophagistconsumer of opium or heroin
mediagenicable to present a good image in the media
medianicof, like or pertaining to spiritualists, mediums or prophets
medicamentexternally applied curative treatment
medicasterquack; charlatan
meditabundabsorbed in meditation
mediusthe middle finger
medullaryconsisting of or resembling marrow or pith
medusiformresembling a jellyfish
meedlessundeserving; unrewarded
meetfitting; proper
megacerineextinct giant deer
megachiropteranof, like or pertaining to fruit bats
megalithlarge rough stone used as a monument
megameterinstrument for determining longitude by observing stars
megaprosopoushaving a large face
megascopeinstrument for projecting an enlarged image
megascopicvisible to the naked eye
megathermicsurviving only in tropical climates
megistothermplant requiring very high temperatures
megrimdizziness; migraine; low spirits
meharicamel used for racing
meiosisunderstatement of size or importance for rhetorical effect
mekometerrange-finder
melhoney
melalgiapain in the limbs
melanicblack; very dark
melaniferouscontaining or bearing melanin
melanoabnormally dark person or animal
melanochroicdark-skinned
melasmadark patch of skin
meldometerinstrument for measuring melting points of substances
meleagrineof, like or pertaining to turkeys
melicto be sung; lyric
melichroushaving a honey-like colour
melinecanary-yellow
meliorismthe belief the world tends to become better
meliphagousfeeding upon honey
melismatune; melodic embellishment; ornamentation
melismaticflorid in melody
melittologystudy of bees
mellaginousof, like or pertaining to or resembling honey
melliferousproducing or forming honey
mellificationhoney-making
mellisonantsweet-sounding
mellivoroushoney-eating
melologuerecitation with musical accompaniment
melomaniacraze for music
melopeponany of various kinds of squash
melopoeiacomposition of music
meltonstrong and smooth heavy woollen cloth
membralof, like or pertaining to the limbs rather than the trunk
memoriterfrom memory; by heart
menaldspeckled; spotted
menarchefirst menstruation
mendacityinsincerity; inclination to tell falsehoods
mendicantmember of impoverished religious order
mendiloquenceartful lying
menisciformshaped like a crescent
meniscuscrescent-shaped object; concave lens
menologyregister or calendar of saints' days
mensalof, like or pertaining to the dinner-table; monthly
menstruumsolvent used in the preparation of drugs
mensurationmeasuring to find the dimensions of things
mentalof, like or pertaining to the chin
mentalismbelief that the world can be explained as aspect of the mind
mentatiferoustelepathic
mentationthought; cogitation; cognition
menticidereduction of mind by psychological pressure
mentumthe chin
mephiticfoul-smelling
meraciouspure; unmixed
mercedarypertaining to the giving or receiving of wages
mercerdealer in small wares or textiles
mercurialvolatile; fluctuating
merdivorousdung-eating
merdurinouscomposed of urine and feces
merengueCaribbean ballroom dance in which feet are frequently dragged
mereologystudy of part-whole relationships
meretriciousof, like or pertaining to prostitution; superficially attractive but lacking value
merinosoft wool of the merino sheep; any soft merino-like wool or wool and cotton cloth
merismrhetorical device of contrasting two parts of a whole
meristicdivided into parts or segments
meritocracygovernment by the meritorious
merkinpubic wig
merlonnarrow wall in battlement between embrasures
merocracygovernment by a part of the citizenry
merogenesissegmentation
meromorphicfractional
meronymword whose relation to another is a part to the whole
meropiapartial blindness
mersiondipping; as in baptism
merycismrumination
mésallianceunsuitable marriage
meseemsit seems to me
mesialmiddle
mesicadapted to life with a moderate supply of moisture
mesnaltyfeudal estate
mesochroichaving skin colour intermediate between light and dark
mesocracygovernment by the middle classes
mesologyecology
mesothermplant living only in moderate climates
mesquinmean; ungracious
messalinesoft lightweight silk with a satin weave
messianismbelief in a single messiah or saviour
messuagehouse with land and auxiliary buildings
metabasistransition; transfer
metabiosisreliance of an organism on another for environment
metachronisman error of dating an event too late
metachrosisability of animals to change colour
metageofficial weighing of goods; charge for such weighing
metagnomydivination
metagnosticincomprehensible; beyond understanding
metagraphytransliteration
metagrobolizeto mystify; to puzzle out
metalepsismetonymy of a double or indirect kind
metalliferousbearing metal
metallogenicmetal occurring as an ore as opposed to in rocks
metallogenystudy of the origin and distribution of metal deposits
metallographystudy of the structure and constitution of metals
metallurgystudy of alloying and treating metals
metamericof, like or pertaining to serial division or segmentation of body
metanalysisincorrect placement of 'n' at start of word following a nindefinite article
metanoiarepentance; fundamental change in character
metanomenmetaphorical name
metaphonyumlaut; change in vöwel sound due to nearby consonant
metaphraseturning of prose into verse or vice versa
metaphrastone who produces a metaphrase
metaphysicsstudy of principles of nature and thought
metaphysischange in form; metamorphosis
metaplasmalteration in spelling of a word
metapoliticsstudy of politics in theory or abstract
metapsychologystudy of nature of the mind
metastasisremoval from one place to another
metasthenichaving strong haunches or hindquarters
metastrophemutual exchange
metathesistransposition of sounds or letters of a word
métayagesystem of agricultural labour with share of produce as wages
metempiricalbeyond the scope of knowledge
metempsychosispassing of soul after death into another body
metemptosisomission of day from calendar to correct lunar calendar
metensomatosismovement of soul into new body before or after death
meteorismabdominal cramps and swelling due to flatulence
meteoriticsthe study of meteors
meteorographinstrument recording a variety of meteorological observations
meteoromancydivination by studying meteors
methanometerinstrument for detecting presence of methane
metheglinmead; honey ale
methinksI believe; I think
methomaniamorbid craving for alcohol
methysisdrunkenness
métierprofession, occupation, calling or business
metonymyfigurative use of word to name an attribute of its subject
metopefront, forehead or frontal surface
metopicof, like or pertaining to the forehead
metopomancydivination using the forehead or face
metoposcopyfortune-telling or judgement of character by the lines of the forehead
metricsstudy of versification
metrocracygovernment by mothers or women; matriarchy
metrologyscience of weights and measures
metromaniainsatiable desire for writing verse
metronymysystem of naming after the mother's or female line
metrophobiafear of poetry
metropolitanarchbishop holding authority over other bishops
meusespace through which animal track passes
mewto shed, moult or change
mewlingcrying feebly
mezzotintmethod of copper engraving with even gradation of tones
mhounit of electrical conductance
miasmafoul vapours from rotting matter; unwholesome air
micaceousconsisting of or made of mica
micranderdwarf male plant
microanatomystudy of microscopic tissues
microbarographinstrument for recording minute changes in atmospheric pressure
microbiologystudy of microscopic organisms
microcalorimeterinstrument for measuring tiny quantities of heat
microcephalichaving a very small head
microclimatologystudy of local climates
micrographinstrument used to write on a very small scale
microlithvery small stone tool
micrologystudy or discussion of trivialities
micromancydivination using small objects
micromaniapathological self-deprecation or belief that one is very small
micrometerinstrument for measuring very small distances
micronometerinstrument for measuring short periods of time
micropalaeontologystudy of microscopic fossils
microphagousfeeding on small creatures or plants
microphylloushaving small leaves
microphytologystudy of very small plant life
micropodalhaving extremely small feet
micropolissmall city
micropsiadisease causing objects to appear smaller than actual size
micropylemicroscopic orifice
microscopystudy of minute objects
microseismographinstrument for recording small or distant earthquakes
microseismometerinstrument for measuring small or distant earthquakes
microsomatoushaving a small body
microtomeinstrument used to cut very small sections of something
micrurgydissection under magnification or under a microscope
micturitionthe act of urinating
midalarva of the bean-fly
midinetteshop-girl
midlentingcustom of giving gifts to parents on mid-Lent Sunday
mienair or look; manner
mignonsmall and dainty
migraineurone who suffers from migraines
milunit of 1/1000 inch used for measuring thickness of wire
mileometerinstrument for recording distance travelled in miles
miliarylike or concerning millet seeds
militastersoldier without skill or ability
millefloriglassware made of coloured rods embedded in clear glass
millenarianismbelief that an ideal society will be produced in the near future
millesimalthousandth; consisting of thousandth parts
milliadmillennium; period of a thousand years
milliammeterinstrument for recording very small electrical currents
millionocracygovernment by millionaires
millocracygovernment by mill owners
milquetoastvery timid; unassertive person
miltfish spawn
milvineof, like or pertaining to kites and similar birds
mimprim, demure
mimaturemimicry
mimeticimitative; of, like or pertaining to mimicry
mimographywritten representation of signs
minaciousthreatening
minargentalloy of copper, silver and aluminum
minatorythreatening
minauderiedisplay of affectation
mineralogystudy of minerals
miniaceouscolour of reddish lead
miniateto decorate with rubrics; to illuminate a manuscript
miniaturistone who paints miniature pictures
minifyto diminish, in appearance or reality
minimunit of liquid volume equal to 1/480 fluid ounces
minimifidianhaving the smallest possible degree of faith
minimisminclination to reduce a dogma to the least possible
minimusculartiny
miniumvermilion; red lead
miniverermine in winter coat; ermine or squirrel fur
minnesingermedieval troubadour or poet
minsterchurch associated with a monastery
minuendnumber from which another is to be subtracted
minuetslow and stately Baroque dance in 3/4 time
minutiouspaying undue attention to minutiae
miosisabnormal contraction of the pupil of the eye
miothermicof, like or pertaining to temperature conditions of the present day
mirabiliawonders
mirabiliarymiracle worker
miradorbelvedere or watchtower; architectural feature with good view
mirdto meddle
mirificwonder-working; marvellous
mirlitonreed pipe
misacceptationmisinterpretation
misandryhatred of men
misauntermisadventure or mishap
misbeseemto be unsuited or unsuitable to
miscegeneperson of mixed racial heritage
miscellanarianwriter of miscellanies
misericordledge in church to lean against while standing; forgiveness or mercy
misfeasancedoing of a lawful act in a wrongful manner
mislightto lead astray by a light
misocapnichating tobacco or its smoke
misoclereone who hates the clergy
misogallichating France or the French
misologyhatred of reason or knowledge
misoneismhatred of novelty
misopaediahatred of children
misosophyhatred of knowledge or wisdom
misotheismhatred of God or deities
mispriseto scorn; to slight; to undervalue
misprisionmistake; overlooking of a crime of another
missalbook containing complete service for mass
mistetchbad habit
mistigrisvariation of poker where blank card can have any value
misyoketo yoke or marry unsuitably
miterhigh headdress worn by bishop or archbishop
mithridateantidote to poison
mithridatismimmunity to poison by taking increasingly large doses
miticideagent which kills mites
mitogeniccausing cell division
mitrailleurmachine-gunner
mitrateshaped like a mitre or bonnet
mitriformmitre-shaped
mittimuswarrant granted for sending a charged person to jail
mixendunghill
mixotrophiccombining different modes of nutrition
mizmazelabyrinth; bewilderment
mizzenthree-masted vessel; aft sail of such a vessel
mizzenmastmast aft or next aft of the mainmast in a ship
mizzleto rain in small drops
mnemonunit of memory, largely hypothetical
mnemonistone from whose memory nothing is erased
mnemotechnysystem for improving memory
mnesicof, like or pertaining to memory
mobocracygovernment by mobs or crowds
mockadoinferior quality woollen fabric
modalismbelief in unity of Father, Son and Holy Spirit
modenacrimson
modillionornamental bracket under Corinthian or other column
modishfashionable; stylish
modistea maker or seller of fashionable dresses and hats
modiuscylindrical headdress of the gods
modulusnumber leaving same remainder when divided into two others
mofettevolcanic opening in the earth emitting carbon dioxide
mofussilprovincial; rural
mogadoreribbed silk used in making neckties
mogigraphiawriting only with difficulty
mogilaliaspeaking only with difficulty
mohairfabric made from silky hair of angora goats
moilsomelaborious
moineausmall flat bastion that protects fortification when being built
moirewatered silk
moiréwatered appearance on cloth or metal
moirologistmourner for hire
molariformshaped like a molar
molendinarof, like or pertaining to a mill or miller
molendinarymill
moleskinheavy durable cotton
molimengreat effort, especially in performing natural functions
molinaryof, like or pertaining to mills or grinding
molinologystudy of mills and milling
mollescentsoftening
mollipilosedowny; soft; having soft plumage
mollitiessoftness; softening
mollitiousluxurious; sensuous
molluscicidekilling of mollusks
mollycoddlean effeminate man
molochizeto sacrifice
molossusverse foot of three long syllables
molybdosislead poisoning
momentaneousmomentary; instantaneous
momilogystudy of mummies
Momussatirist; critic
monJapanese family crest
monachiseto cause to become a monk
monachismmonasticism
monadismtheory that there exist ultimate units of being
monandrymarriage to only one man at a time
monanthoushaving only a single flower
monaxialhaving only one axis
mondainworldly; fashionable; such a person
monepiccomprising only one word or single-word sentences
monergismtheory that the Holy Spirit alone can act
moneyocracygovernment by the monied classes
mongerytrafficking or marketing, especially in discreditable ways
moniala nun
moniliformshaped like a string of beads
monismbelief that all things can be placed in one category
monitioncaution; warning
monitoryletter containing a warning
monkerymonks in general; monasticism; behaviour of monks
monoblepsiacolour-blindness for all but one colour
monocarpicproducing fruit only once
monoceroushaving only one horn
monochordmusical instrument having only one string
monochroicof one colour
monochromasycomplete colour-blindness
monochroniccontemporaneous
monocracygovernment by one individual
monoculturegrowing of one agricultural crop only
monoculusone-eyed person
monodontone-tusked
monodramaone-man show; play having only one actor
monodymournful ode or poem performed by a single mourner
monoecioushaving both male and female reproductive organs
monogenesisorigin of offspring from identical parent
monogoneutichaving only a single brood or litter
monogonyasexual reproduction
monoideismobsession or fixation on a single idea or thought
monolatryworship of one god without excluding belief in others
monoliteralcomprising only one letter
monolithlarge single stone in form of monument, obelisk or column
monologyhabit of offering soliloquies or monologues
monomachysingle combat; a duel
monomaniaabnormal obsession with a single thought or idea
monomorphichaving only one form
monoousianhaving the same substance
monophagousfeeding on only one type of food
monophobiafear of being alone
monophylleticderived from common ancestry or parentage
monophysitismbelief that Christ was primarily divine but in human form
monopodeone-footed person with foot large enough to be a sunshade
monopolyloguedramatic work in which one actor plays many roles
monopsonycase of only one buyer for products of several sellers
monopsychismbelief that individuals have a single eternal soul
monopteroncircular temple with one ring of columns
monoptoteword with one form for all cases; indeclinable noun
monorhymeseries of lines all rhyming together
monoschemichaving the same metrical pattern throughout
monostichousin one line; in one row
monostrophepoem in which all stanzas share an identical structure
monostylarconsisting of a single shaft
monosyseparation of parts normally fused
monotheismbelief in only one God
monotheletismbelief that Christ had only one will
monotheliouspolyandrous
monotrochwheelbarrow
monoxyloncanoe made from one log
monstrancevessel used to expose the Eucharist
montanemountainous; mountain-dwelling
montantvertical member in panelling or framing
monterohuntsman
montgolfierballoon using fire for propulsion
monticlea little hill
monticolousmountain-dwelling
montiformshaped like a mountain
montrevisible pipes of an organ
monturemounting, setting or frame
mooncalffalse conception or fleshy mass in the womb
moonrakertopmost sail of a ship, above the skyscraper
moorlogdeposit of decayed woody material under a marsh
mootmeeting; gathering; meeting-hall
mopsicalshort-sighted
moquettethick piled fabric used in upholstery and carpeting
morhumus layer formed by slow decomposition in acidic soil
moradelay
morassicof, like or pertaining to a morass
morbidezzaan extreme delicacy and softness
morbiferousdisease-bringing
morbillimeasles
morbilliformlike or resembling measles
morbusdisease
morcellateto divide into small portions
mordaciousgiven to biting; biting in quality
mordantbiting; caustic; incisive; corrosive
mordentrapidly alternating a tone with one half-tone lower; reverse trill
moreenstout corded wool or cotton
moreldark-coloured horse; blackish colour
morescoa Moorish dance or morris-dance
morganunit of inferred distance between genes on a chromosome
morganaticof, like or pertaining to a marriage between those of unequal rank
morganiseto secretly do away with
morgenunit of land area slightly more than two acres
morguehaughtiness; arrogance
moriafolly
morientdying
moriformshaped like a mulberry
morigerationdeferential behaviour
morigerousobsequious or deferent
morionopen helmet without visor
morioplastyrestoration of lost parts of the body
morkinanimal that has died by accident
morlingsheep dead from disease; its wool
mormalinflamed sore
mornedismal; gloomy; sombre
morologynonsense
morosispathological feeble-mindedness
morosophyfoolish pretence of wisdom
morphallaxisregeneration in a changed form
morpheanof, like or pertaining to dreams
morphewskin eruption
morphinomaniahabitual craving or desire for morphine
morphogenesisorigin or development of a body part or organ
morphologystudy of forms and the development of structures
morphometrymeasurement of form or shape
morphonomylaws governing biological morphology
morphoticof, like or pertaining to formation or development
morrisvigorous English dance performed by costumed men
morrorounded hill or headland
morsalof, like or pertaining to the cutting edge of a knife
morsewalrus
morsitationact of biting or gnawing
morsurea bite
mortalismbelief that the soul is mortal
mortiferousdeath-bringing; fatal
mortisehole or recess made in wood to receive a tenon
mortmainrestrictive influence of the past on the present
moschatehaving a musky odour
moschiferousproducing musk
moslingsthin strips taken off when dressing skins
motableconstantly moving
motatorycontinually moving
motiferousconveying motion
motilecapable of moving spontaneously as a whole
motographold telegraph or telephone receiver
motrixfemale motor
motteartificial mound upon which a castle is built
mottleto variegate blotchily
moucharabyprojecting latticed window
mouchardpolice spy
mouillésounded in a liquid manner; palatized
mouldwarpmole
moulinshaft in a glacier caused by water running down a crack
moulinetmachine for bending a crossbow
mountenanceamount; distance
mournivalset of four things
mousselinefine sheer fabric
mousselinevery fine glassware
moutonsheepskin processed to look like the fur of another animal
moventmoving; capable of causing motion
mowto make a grimace
moyavolcanic mud
mozzettashort cape with ornamental hood worn by Catholic prelates
mucagomucus; mucilage
mucedinousmouldy; mildewy
muchitygreat size or bulk
mucidmouldy; musty
muciferousconveying or secreting mucus
mucilageany sticky substance
mucivorousfeeding on plant juices
mucopurulentof mucus and pus
mucorrhoeadischarge of mucus
mucronateterminating in a sharp point
mucronestiff sharp point forming an abrupt end
mucroniformlike, having or resembling a sharp point
muculentlike mucus
muffineerdish for keeping muffins hot
mugientbellowing; braying
mugwumpone who is neutral politically
mulciberianof, like or pertaining to metalworking
mulctto swindle; to obtain by fraud
mulctuarypunishable by a fine
muleteermule-driver
muliebrilewomanly; feminine
muliebritywomanhood
mulismobstinate quirk or habit
mullsoft fine sheer cotton or silk fabric
mullto moisten leather to make it more supple
mullerflat heavy stone or iron pulverizing tool
mulletfive-pointed star in heraldry; ridiculous hairstyle
mulleyhornless
mulligrubsa despondent or ill-tempered mood
mullionupright division between window panes
mullockwaste earth or rock from a mine
mulmorganic sediment at bottom of an aquarium
mulseboiled wine with honey
multanimoushaving a many-sided mind
multarticulatemany-jointed
multeitymanifoldness; very great numerousness
multicapitatemany-headed
multicipitalmany-headed
multifarioushaving great diversity; manifold
multifidhaving many divisions
multiflorousmany-flowered
multilocationappearance in many places simultaneously
multiloculatemany-chambered
multiloquenttalkative; garrulous
multiparoushaving given birth to multiple children
multiplicativeindicating repetition or augmentation
multipotenthaving the power to do many things
multiscienceknowledge of many things
multisonantproducing many or very loud sounds
multisulcatemany-furrowed
multitarianhaving many forms but one central essence
multiviousleading in many directions; offering many different paths
multivocalhaving many meanings
multivolenthaving several differing opinions; disagreeing
multivoltinehaving several broods in one season
multurefee for grinding grain
mumpsimusview stubbornly held even when shown to be wrong
mundificativea cleansing or purifying medicine
mundifyto cleanse; to purify; to heal
mundungusfoul-smelling tobacco
mungowaste produced in a woollen-mill
munificencemagnificent liberality in giving
munifyto fortify
munimentmeans of defence; record fortifying or proving a claim
muntingvertical framing piece between door panels
muoniumpositively-charged muon attached to an electron
muragetax for the upkeep of walls
murallyby means of walls; on or from a wall
murcoushaving the thumb cut off
murdrumkilling of a human being in a secret manner
murengerofficial in charge of ensuring city walls are repaired
muriatedpickled; preserved
muriaticbriny
muricaterough or warty with sharp points
muriformresembling a mouse or rat
murineof, like or pertaining to mice and rats
muriphobiafear of mice
murrainepidemic or plague affecting livestock
murrhineclear glassware containing pieces of coloured glass
musalof, like or pertaining to poetry or the Muses
muscariformshaped like a brush
muscicapineof, like or pertaining to flycatchers and related birds
muscicidesubstance for killing flies
muscidof, like or pertaining to house-flies
muscoidof, like or pertaining to mosses; moss-like
muscologythe study of mosses
museologythe study of museums
musicastera mediocre musician
muslinplain-woven fine cotton
musomaniaobsession with music
musrolnose-band of a bridle
mussitateto mutter
mussitationmurmuring; grumbling
mustelidotters, badgers and weasels
mustelineof, like or pertaining to weasels, martens and badgers
mutagenesisorigin or induction of mutation
mutativeindicating a change of place or state
mutchkinold unit of liquid measurement equal to 3/4 of an imperial pint
muticlacking normal defensive parts or organs
mutivitytendency to alter
mutualismbelief in mutual dependence of society and the individual
mvulekind of African tree like a mulberry; hard wood of that tree
myastheniamuscular weakness or debility
mycetismfungus poisoning
mycologystudy of funguses
mycophagouseating fungus
mycosisdisease due to the growth of a fungus
myctericof, like or pertaining to the nostrils
mycterismsneering
mydriasismorbid dilatation of the pupil of the eye
myelicof, like or pertaining to the spinal cord
myogenichaving a muscular origin
myographinstrument for recording muscular contractions
myologystudy of muscles
myomancydivination from the movements of mice
myophobiafear of mice
myosisexcessive contraction of the pupil of the eye
myoxineof, like or pertaining to dormice
myriacanthoushaving many prickles
myriadthbeing a one-ten-thousandth part of a whole
myriarchygovernment by ten thousand individuals
myringaeardrum
myringoscopeinstrument for viewing the eardrum
myrioramapicture consisting of many interchangeable parts
myristicivorousfeeding upon nutmegs
myrmecoidantlike
myrmecologystudy of ants
myrmecophagidof, like or pertaining to anteaters
myrmecophagousfeeding on ants
myrmecophiloushaving a symbiotic relationship with ants
myrmicineof, like or pertaining to ants
myrmidonfollower; hireling; mercenary
myropologistone who sells perfume
mysophobiafear of contamination or dirt
mystacialhaving a mustache-like stripe
mystagogicalof, like or pertaining to religious ritual initiation
mysteriosophysystem of knowledge concerning secrets and mysteries
mythoclastdestroyer of myths
mythogenesisorigin of myths
mythographydescriptive study or representation of myths
mythomanialying or exaggerating to an abnormal extent
mythopoeicgiving rise to myths

Dictionary [L]


WordDefinition
labarummoral standard; ecclesiastical banner bearing Christ's monogram
labefactationa weakening decay; overthrow
labeorphilycollection and study of beer bottle labels
labidometerinstrument for measuring size of the head of a fetus
labileadaptable; unstable
labilityplasticity; openness to change or breakdown
labiomancylip reading
labretlip ornament
labrosethick-lipped
labtebricoleliving in holes
lacdark red transparent resin used to make shellac
laccolithmass of igneous rock intruded between two sedimentary beds
lacertiformshaped like a lizard
lacertilianof, like or pertaining to lizards
lachesnegligence or undue delay in fulfilling legal duty
lachrymatorynarrow-necked bottle or vase
lachrymiformshaped like a tear
lachrymogeniccausing tears or weeping
lachrymoseshedding tears
laciniatecut into narrow lobes; slashed; fringed
laciniformshaped like a fringe
lacisnetwork
lackadayexpression of regret or deprecation
laconicumsauna
lactariumdairy farm or milking operation
lacteousmilky
lactescentsecreting milk
lactiferousmilk-bearing
lactifluousflowing with milk
lactogenicproducing milk
lactometerinstrument for testing relative density of milk
lactoscopeinstrument for measuring purity or richness of milk
lacunaa blank space or missing part
lacunarsunken panel or coffer in a ceiling
lacuscularof, like or pertaining to pools
lacustrineof, like or pertaining to lakes
ladronismbanditry; robbery
laeotropicturning to the left
laevoductionmovement leftwards
lagancargo jettisoned from ship but marked by buoys for recovery
laganwreckage or goods at the bottom of the sea
lagenaflask
lageniformshaped like a flask
lagerphonepercussion instrument with bottlecaps loosely nailed to pole
lagniappegratuity
lagostomaharelip
lagotichaving ears like a hare's
laicof, like or pertaining to lay people rather than clergy
laicisationprocess of returning a clergyman to lay status
laicismdoctrine of opposition to clergy and priests
lairwitefine given to married women for adultery
laitancemilky deposit on top of fresh concrete
lallationchildish speech; mispronunciation of speech sounds
lambdoidshaped like the letter lambda (^) or "L"
lambentmoving about as if touching lightly; flickering; glowing
lambertunit of brightness of light
lambitivetaken by licking up with the tongue
lambrequindrapery over a window or doorway; veil over a helmet
laméfabric in which metallic threads are interwoven
lamellathin plate or layer
lamelliformshaped like a plate or layer
lamiaceousminty; of, like or pertaining to the mint plant
laminathin plate or layer
laminaryof, like or pertaining to thin plates or layer
lamisterfugitive
lammergeiergiant vulture-like bird of prey
lampadlamp, candlestick or torch
lampadedromytorch-race
lampadephoretorchbearer
lampadomancydivination by flame
lampiondecorated oil lamp
lamprophonyspeaking in loud and clear tones
lampyridineof, like or pertaining or pertaining to glow-worms or fireflies
lanaiprivate balcony in a hotel room
lanameterinstrument for measuring quality of wool
lanatewoolly
lanceolateshaped like a lance-head
lanciformshaped like a lance
lancinateto lacerate; to pierce
lancinationsharp; shooting pain
landauhorse-drawn carriage with folding top
landocracygovernment by the propertied class; timocracy
langlaufcross-country skiing or running
langleyunit of solar radiation
languescentgrowing languid
languettongue-like object or part
languorlistlessness; weariness
laniaryof teeth or claws designed for tearing (canine teeth)
laniferouswool-bearing
lanigerousbearing wool
lanuginosedowny; covered with fine soft hair
lanyardrope or line for fastening something in a ship
lanyardcord for hanging a knife or whistle around the neck
Laodiceanlukewarm; half-hearted
lapacticpurgative
laparoscopeinstrument for viewing interior of peritoneal cavity
lapicidestonecutter
lapidarianof, like or pertaining to stones; inscribed on stones
lapidarygem-cutter
lapidateto pelt with stones; to kill by stoning
lapideousstony
lapidescentbecoming stone; petrifying
lapifidicationpetrifaction
lapilliformshaped like a small stone
lapillussmall stone ejected by volcanic eruption
lappaceousprickly
lappetfold or flap on a garment or headdress worn by priest
laqueariapanelled ceiling
larlocal god of a house
larboardleft side of a ship
lardaceousof, like or pertaining to lard
lareslocal Roman gods
largificalample; bountiful
largiloquenttalkative; full of words
largitiongiving of largess
larineof, like or pertaining to gulls
larithmicsstudy of population statistics
laroidof, like or pertaining to gulls
larriganhigh oil-tanned leather boot or moccasin
larrupto flog or thrash
larvicidekilling of larvae
larviparousgiving birth to larvae
larvivorousfeeding on larvae
laryngologystudy of larynx
laryngoscopeinstrument for examining interior of the larynx
lasherweir
lassitudestate of being tired or weary
lastageroom for stowing goods in a ship
lastingsturdy cotton or worsted cloth
latebricoleliving in holes
lateentriangular sail rigged on ship's spar
laterigraderunning or moving sideways
lateritiousbrick-red
latescentbecoming latent
laticiferouscontaining or conveying latex
latidentatehaving broad teeth
latifundiagreat landed estates
latinitastera petty scholar of Latin
latipennatehaving broad wings
latitantlurking; lying in wait; hibernating
latitatwrit based on supposition that person is in hiding
latitudinarianone having tolerant or free religious views
latitudinarianismdoctrine of broad liberality in religious belief and conduct
latitudinousbroad or wide interpretation
lativeindicating motion up to or as far as
latrantbarking
latrationthe act of yelping or barking
latriahighest degree of veneration, assigned to God over saints
latrocinateto engage in highway robbery
lattenmetal in thin plates
latticinioglass having white veins
laudanuman opium preparation
laudsprayer service held at dawn following matins
lauriferousbearing laurels
lautenclavicymbellute harpsichord with gut strings
lautitioussumptuous
lavaboceremony in which priest washes his hands; basin for the ceremony
lavaderoplace for washing gold ore
lavalierejeweled pendant worn round the neck; pendant microphone
lavatorywash-basin for washing bodies of newly dead; room where lavabo kept
laveerto sail against the wind
laverlarge vessel for washing, especially for ritual purification
lavicof, like or pertaining to lava
lavoltalively bouncy dance for two persons
lavragroup of recluses' cells
lawnfine sheer plain-woven cotton or linen
laxismbelief that an unlikely opinion may be safely followed
layettebaby's complete set of clothing
laystallplace for depositing dung or rubbish
lazarleper or person with similar pestilential disease
lazaretspace in ship between decks used for storage
lazarettohospital for lepers
leaarable land left fallow or used for pasture
lecanomancydivination using water in a basin or pool
lecanoscopystaring at pool of water as means of self-hypnosis
lecithalhaving a yolk
lecterndesk or stand from which church lessons are read
lectionreading; lesson read in church
lectisterniumsacrifice where images of gods placed on couches and offered food
lectricefemale reader in church
lectualrequiring bed rest or confinement to bed
leeboardwood or metal planes attached to hull to prevent leeway
leecha vertical edge of a square sail
legalismbelief that salvation depends on strict adherence to the law
legatineof, like or pertaining to a legate
legeritylightness; nimbleness
legistperson knowledgeable about the law
leguleianlike a lawyer; underhanded and legalistic
leiotrichousstraight-haired
leisterthree-pronged spear or trident used for fishing
lemana lover, sweetheart or paramour
lemmapreliminary proposition, theme, argument or headword
lemuresspirits of the dead
lemurineof, like or pertaining to lemurs
lenifyto mitigate or assuage
lenitivesoothing; laxative; mitigating
lenitymildness; clemency
lenoopen-woven fabric
lenticassociated with standing water
lentiformshaped like a lens
lentiginoseminutely dotted; freckled
lentigofreckle
lentitudelethargy; slowness
lentorsluggishness; viscidity
leonineof, like or pertaining to lions
leonineof or like a lion; rhyming last two or three syllables in a line
leontiasisform of leprosy in which the face becomes wrinkly and somewhat lion-like
leoponcrossbreed between a leopard and a lion
lepadoidresembling a barnacle
lepidpleasant; charming; amusing
lepidinecomposed of scales
lepidopterologystudy of butterflies and moths
lepidopteroushaving four wings, such as a moth or butterfly
leporiformresembling or shaped like a hare
leporineof, like or pertaining to the hare
leprologystudy of leprosy
leprosariumhospital for lepers
leprosescaly; scurfy
leptochrousabnormally thick-skinned
leptometerinstrument for measuring oil viscosity
leptosomeperson with a slight or slender build
letheoblivion; forgetfulness
lethiferouscausing death; carrying or bearing death
lethologicainability to remember the right word
lethonomiatendency to forget names
leucochroicwhite or pale-coloured
leucomelanoushaving dark hair and eyes but fair skin
leucousalbino; having fair or pale hair or complexion
levantto run away from a debt
levereta hare in its first year; a mistress
levigateto smooth; to grind to a fine powder; to polish; to lighten
levinlightning
leviratecustom of compulsory marriage with brother's widow
lexerlaw student
lexicologystudy of words and their meanings
lexigramsign which represents a word
lexigraphyart of definition of words
lexigraphysystem of writing in which each sign represents a word
lexiphanicbombastic; sesquipedalian; using many long words
lexisway in which a piece of writing is expressed in words
leymystical straight line between features of landscape
liardgrey; dapple-grey
liasfossil-bearing limestone
libaniferousyielding or bearing incense
libanomancydivination by watching incense smoke
libanotophorousproducing incense
libecciosouthwest wind
libellantone who brings a charge of libel
liberphloem or fibre from tree
liberticidedestruction of liberty
libertinagedebauchery
libidinistlewd person
libkenplace to sleep in
librateto oscillate; to be poised
librationapparent oscillation of moon's visible surface
libriformshaped like a book
lichenologystudy of lichens
lickerishlecherous; lusty; greedy
lictorancient Roman magistrate's attendant
lidobathing beach; open-air swimming pool
liefsoon; gladly
lienalof, like or pertaining to the spleen
lienterydischarge of partially digested food
ligationthe act of binding; the state of being bound
liggerhorizontal timber of a scaffolding
lighterlarge open boat used in loading and unloading ships
lighteragecargo carried by or fee for carrying cargo by lighter
ligneouswoody; wooden
ligniformof the form or shape of wood
lignifyto make woody; to turn into wood
ligniperdousdestructive of wood
lignitewoody coal
lignivorousfeeding on wood
ligulateresembling or shaped like a strap
ligyrophobiafear of loud noises
limaciformslug-like
limacineof, like or pertaining to slugs
limacologystudy of slugs
limationpolishing or smoothing; correction of astronomical errors
limaxslug
limbatepossessing a border
limbusborder
limesborder
limicolineliving on a shore; of, like or pertaining to wading birds
limicolousliving in mud
limitrophenear the frontier or border
limivorouseating mud
limnto portray, paint or delineate
limnerpainter of portraits
limneticliving in fresh water; pertaining to fresh water
limnobiologystudy of freshwater ecosystems
limnologystudy of bodies of fresh water
limnophilousliving in ponds or marshes
limoniadmeadow nymph
limophoitosinsanity due to lack of food
limosisabnormally ravenous appetite
limousmuddy; slimy
limpidclear; transparent
linaceousof, like or pertaining to flax
linchpinperson or thing vital to an organization
lincrustathick embossed wallpaper
lindy hoplively dance closely resembling the jitterbug and famous for its aerials
lineamentdistinctive feature or characteristic
lineolatemarked with fine lines
lingualof, like or pertaining to language, speech or the tongue
linguiformshaped like a tongue
linonophobiafear of string
linseycoarse linen and wool blend
linsey-woolseythin coarse fabric of wool and linen
lintelhorizontal beam supporting the load above a door
lioncellesmall lion used as a bearing
lionismlion-like appearance symptomatic of leprosy
lipogrampiece of writing in which a certain letter is excluded
lipographyaccidental omission of letter or syllable in wrting
lipomatosisobesity
lipothymyswoon
lippitudesoreness of the eyes
lipsanographerone who writes about relics
lipsanothecacontainer for relics
liquateto melt; to subject to liquation
liquescentbecoming liquid
liquifacientliquifying agent
liquifactionthe act of liquefying something
liripipelong tail of a graduate's hood; a part or lesson committed to memory
lissomelithe; nimble; flexible
lissotrichoussmooth-haired
litanyprayer of supplication in responsive style
literatimletter for letter
literationrepresentation of sounds by letters
literatordabbler in learning
literosespuriously or affectedly literary
lithochromypainting upon stone
lithoclaststone breaker; tool for breaking rocks
lithodomousliving in burrows in rocks
lithogenousrock-building
lithoglyphengraving on stone
litholatrystone-worship
lithologystudy of rocks
lithomancydivination by stones or meteorites
lithophagousstone-swallowing; rock-boring; eating rock
lithophilousliving among stones
lithophyteplant that grows on rock
litotesunderstatement by affirming using negation of the contrary
littoralof, like or pertaining to the shore of a body of water
lituratespotted
liturgicianone who studies or recites church rituals
liturgiologystudy of liturgical forms and church rituals
liturgistleader in public worship
livedopathological blueness of skin
lixiviationleaching
loan-wordword borrowed from another language
lobarof, like or pertaining to a lobe
lobatehaving a lobe or lobes
lobcockbumpkin, boor or lout
lobularshaped like a lobe
locandalodging-house; inn
locativeindicating location or place where
locellatedivided into small compartments
locellussmall compartment of a cell
locheticwaiting in ambush
lochletlittle loch
lockramcoarse linen
lockstepmethod of marching in tight formation
locomobileself-propelling machine; early automobile
loculatehaving loculi
loculussmall compartment or recess for holding an urn
locumclergyman temporarily replacing regular priest
locupletewell-stored
locutoryroom for conversation
lodenheavy waterproof woollen fabric
lodesmanpilot
loessdeposit of rich and fertile soil
loganrocking-stone
loganamnosismania for trying to recall forgotten words
logarithmancydivination by means of algorithms
loggiacovered open arcade
logiacollection of sayings
logicastera petty logician
logocracygovernment of words
logodaedalusartificer in words
logodaedalyverbal legerdemain
logogogueone who issues laws or rules regarding words
logogramsingle sign standing for word or phrase
logogriphriddle in which word is found from other words' letters
logomachycontention about words or in words
logomancydivination using words
logomaniapathological loquacity
logopedicsspeech therapy
logophilea lover of words
logorrheaexcessive flow of words; uncontrollable garrulity
logosdivine rational principle
logotypebody of text with frequently occurring word or syllable
loimicof, like or pertaining to plagues
loimologystudy of plagues and epidemics
lollopto bound about wildly
longanimityforbearance; patience
longerope used in training horses
longeronlongitudinal membrane of an airplane
longiloquencelong-winded language
longiniquityremoteness
longueurperiod of dullness or tedium
loranthaceousof, like or pertaining to the mistletoe
lordolatryworship of nobility
lordosisconvex curvature of the spine
loreallocated in the area between the eyes and the nose or snout
lorettecourtesan
lorgnetteeyeglasses with a handle
lorgnonan eyeglass
loricatearmoured with plates or scales; to coat or armour protectively
lorimersaddlemaker
loselworthless fellow; scamp
loticassociated with or living in running water
lotophagousfeeding on lotuses; indolent; lazy; dreamy
louchesquinting; ambiguous; shady
louchettesspectacles used to reduce glare and prevent squinting
loupejeweller's magnifying glass worn on the eye-socket
lourto look sullen or threatening
louvresloping slat placed across an opening
lovatgrey-green; blue-green
loxodographdevice used to record ship's travels
loxodromeline on the globe equally oblique to all meridians
loxodromystudy of sailing along rhumb-lines
loxophthalmussquint
loxoticdistorted; oblique
lubriciousslippery; lewd
lubricitygreasiness; wiliness
lubritoriumservice station
lucarnedormer window
lucentshining; bright
lucernalof, like or pertaining to lamps
luciferouslight-bringing; light-giving
luciformlike light
lucifugousshunning or avoiding light
lucigenlamp burning oil mixed with air in a spray
lucimeterinstrument for measuring light intensity
luciphyllouslight-absorbing or consuming
lucresordid gain; riches
lucriferouslucrative; yielding profit
lucripetouseager for gain
luctationstruggle
lucubrationstudy protracted late into the night
luculentbright; clear; convincing
ludibrycontempt; derision
ludibundplayful
ludicspontaneously and aimlessly playful
ludicrismburlesque
luffwindward side of a ship; forward edge of fore-and-aft sail
lugsailfour-sided sail bent to an obliquely hanging yard
lugubriousmournful; dismal
lumbriciformshaped like a worm; worm-like
lumbricineof, like or pertaining to earthworms
lumenunit of luminous flux
luminiferousbearing or bringing light
luministartist who uses the effects of light; impressionist
lunaristone who believes that the moon affects the weather
lunatecrescent-shaped
lunationlunar month; interval between successive new moons
lunettecrescent-shaped space where a vault meets a wall
lunisolarpertaining jointly to the moon and sun
lunisticetime when moon is farthest north or south each month
lunulaBronze Age crescent necklace; white part of fingernail base
lunulateshaped like a small crescent
lupanarianof, like or pertaining to a brothel
lupicidekilling of a wolf
lupiformshaped like a wolf
lupineof, like or pertaining to wolves
lupulicof, like or pertaining to hops
lurdanlazy and dull individual
luridred-yellow; yellow-brown
lusoryplayful
lustrateto purify by sacrifice
lustrationritual washing; ablution
lustringglossy silk
lustrumperiod of five years; periodic purification of Roman empire
lutaceousof, like or pertaining to or comprised of mud
lutariousinhabiting mud
lutchetfitting on ship's deck to allow mast to pivot to pass under bridges
luteolousyellowish
luteousgolden-yellow
lutescentyellowish
lutestringplain glossy silk
luthiermaker of stringed instruments
lutosecovered with mud or clay; muddy
lutrineof, like or pertaining to otters
lutulentthick; muddy
luxunit of illumination equal to one lumen per square meter
luxateto displace or dislocate
luxationdislocation of an anatomical part
luxmeterinstrument for measuring illumination
luxuriantoverabundant in growth
lycanthropymythical ability of humans to turn into wolves; werewolfism
lyceumschool of philosophical instruction
lychgateroofed gate of a churchyard
lychnobiteone who works at night and sleeps in the day
lychnoscopelow side window
Lydianeffeminate; luxurious
lygophilialove of darkness
lygophobiafear of darkness
lynceanlynx-like; sharp-sighted
lyophileeasily dispersed in a suitable medium
lyophilizationfreeze-drying
lypemaniaextreme pathological mournfulness
lyratelyre-shaped
lyrichordkind of obsolete harpsichord
lyriconelectronic wind instrument like a large obverse flute
lysardenold wind instrument like a cornett or serpent
lysigeniccaused by the breaking down of cells
lysimeterinstrument for measuring percolation of water through soil
lysisdisintegration; destruction
lyssophobiaabnormal fear of hydrophobia
lyterianindicating the end of a disease
lythcoopauction of household goods

Dictionary [K]


WordDefinition
kainotophobiafear of change
kaiserinwife of a kaiser
kakidrosisbody odour
kakistocracygovernment by the worst
kakorrhaphiophobiafear of failure
kalamkarifabric coloured by repeated dyeing
kaleidophoneinstrument for demonstrating sound waves by lines of light
kalologystudy of beauty
kalonbeauty that is more than skin deep
kalpisa water jar
kalyptraveil worn by Greek women
kamesteep irregular ridge
kamelaukiontall cylindrical hat worn by Orthodox priests
kameradto surrender
kamikknee-length sealskin boot
kanehHebrew measure of 6 cubits
kantarTurkish unit of weight equal to approximately 100 pounds
kanteleFinnish zither
kantikoyto dance as an act of worship
kapnographymeans of producing designs on smoked glass surfaces
karabinersteel link with clip on side used in mountaineering
karezzaprolonged sex avoiding orgasm
karrozzinMaltese horse-drawn carriage
karstrough limestone country with underground drainage
karyokinesisdivision of cell nucleus
karyologystudy of cell nuclei
karyotypeappearance, number and arrangements of chromosomes
kashaporridge or gruel-like dish made from crushed buckwheat
katabasisgoing down; military retreat
katabothronunderground water-channel
katathermometerinstrument for measuring the cooling power of air
katharometerinstrument measuring changes in composition of gases
kathenotheismpolytheism in which each god is considered single and supreme
katzenjammerhangover; uproar; clamour
kausiaMacedonian felt hat with broad brim
kavanarcotic drink prepared from Polynesian plant
kazachocSlavic fast dance in which dancer squats and kicks out legs alternately
kazatzkaSlavic folk dance performed by a couple
kebewe that gives birth to stillborn lamb
kebbiea shepherd's crook
keckto retch; to feel disgust
keckleto protect by binding with rope
kedwingless fly that feeds on livestock
kedgesmall anchor to keep a ship steady
keelhaulto punish by dragging under keel of ship
keelsonlengthwise wooden or steel beam in ship for bearing stress
keevea large tub
kefstate of dreamy or drug-induced repose
keffela horse; a nag
keisterburglar's tool kit
keloidhard scar tissue which grows over injured skin
kelpiemischievous water spirit
keltcoarse fabric made of black and white wool
kembto comb
kempcoarse, rough strand of wool
kennebeckerknapsack
kenodoxythe love or study of vain-glory
kenophobiafear of empty spaces
kenosisChrist's rejection of his divine side upon assuming human form
kenotismdoctrine that Christ rid himself of divinity in becoming human
kenspeckleeasily recognizable or distinguishable
kent-buglean obsolete keybugle
kentehand-woven African silk fabric
kentledgepig-iron used as ballast in ship's hold
kepto catch an approaching object or falling liquid
kephalonomancydivination using a baked ass's head
kerasinehorny; made of horn
keratogeniccausing growth of horn, skin or hair
keratometerinstrument for measuring curvature of the cornea
keraunographinstrument for recording distant thunderstorms
keraunoscopiadivination using thunder
kerfcut, notch or groove; quantity of something cut at the same time
kermesbrilliant red colour; a red dye derived from insects
kermessecycle race held in an urban area
kermisindoor charity fair
kernIrish foot-soldier
kernpart of typeface letter that sticks out beyond its body
kernto granulate
kerseycoarse woollen cloth
kerseymeretwilled fine wool
kerygmapreaching of the Christian gospel
kerygmaticof, like or pertaining to preaching the Gospel
ketcarrion; matted wool
ketchsmall two-masted sailing vessel
ketjaktraditional Balinese dance accompanied by male chorus
kettlestitchstitch made at head and tail of section of book to connect sections
kexdry hollow plant stalk
keybuglebugle with keys
keylineoutline showing shape and position of an illustration
keystoneto double the wholesale price for retail
khaddarhomespun cotton cloth
khora dry watercourse; a ravine
kibblethe bucket of a well
kibbleto grind cereal coarsely
kibechapped area of skin
kickie-wickiea wife
kickshawsa trinket; a cheap, worthless article
kiddera forestaller; a huckster
kiddlestake-fence set in stream for catching fish
kidleta very little kid
kidologystudy of kidding
kierbleaching vat
kifdrug like marijuana smoked in North Africa
kilderkinold unit of capacity equal to 1/2 barrel or 18 gallons
kilfud-yokinga fireside disputation
killasclay slate
killcowa bully; a swaggerer
killcropgreedy insatiable baby; a changeling
killocksmall anchor
kilobaseunit of measure of length of nucleic acid chain equal to 1000 base pairs
kinchina child
kincobembroidered silk with gold and silver threads
kindergraphphotograph of a child
kinderspiela children's cantata or play
kinecows
kinematicsstudy of motion
kinescopecathode ray tube for a television
kinesicsstudy of gestural communication
kinetheodolitetheodolite used in tracking missiles and satellites
kineticsstudy of forces producing or changing motion
kinetogeniccausing movement
kinetoscopeinstrument for producing curves by combination of circular movements
kingpostperpendicular beam in frame of roof
kinklea slight kink
kipskin of a young animal
kipunit of weight equivalent to 1000 pounds
kippagestate of displeasure or anger
kirdrink of black currant syrup and white wine
kirkingfirst attendance of a couple at church after marriage
kirpansmall sword or dagger worn by Sikhs
kirschliqueur made from the wild cherry
kirtleman's or woman's tunic or coat
kishsolid graphite that separates from pig-iron
kismetfate; destiny
kisselthickened fruit purée dessert
kistvaentomb covered with stone slabs
kita small pocket violin
kithknowledge; one's native land; one's friends
kitthogeleft-handed; awkward
klangfarbetone-colour; timbre
klaxonloud mechanical horn
klendusicable to withstand disease due to protective mechanism
kleptocracygovernment by thieves
klopemaniakleptomania
knackishcunning; crafty
knagknot in wood
knarredgnarled; knotty
knickerbockersloose breeches gathered in at the knee
knick-knackatorycollection of knick-knacks
knickpointdiscontinuity in river profile due to intersection of new erosion curve
knissomancydivination using burning incense
knitchbundle of wood tied together
knobbera stag in its second year
knoploop or tuft in yarn
knospunopened bud of a flower; ornament shaped like a bud
knoutto flog; to scourge
knubbleto beat with the fists
knurknob or knot in wood
knurlsmall excrescence or protuberance; to make knurls on
koannonsensical question given to Buddhist students for contemplation
koboldspirit of the mines
kohleye-shadow; mascara
kohlrabivariety of cabbage
koinedialect that spreads to become common language of a region
koloCentral European folk dance having a ring of dancers
komatiksled with wooden runners
konimeterinstrument measuring amount of dust in air
koniologystudy of atmospheric pollutants and dust
koniscopeinstrument for measuring dust in air
kopbank of terracing at a football field
koramusical instrument similar to a harp
koreancient Greek statue of a draped maiden
kotoobnoxious-sounding Japanese stringed instrument
kourosstatue of a nude male
krakenlegendary sea monster
krasisaddition of water to sacramental wine
kraurosisshrivelling of the skin
kreatophagiaeating of raw meat
kremlina Russian citadel
krengwhale carcass after blubber is removed
kriegspielwar-game used to teach strategy
krimmertightly curled grey or black lamb's wool
kritarchygovernment by judges
krobylostuft of hair on the top of the head
krummhornancient double-reed wind instrument
krypsisdoctrine that Christ secretly exercised divine powers
ktenologyscience of putting people to death
kumissfermented mare's milk
kummelcumin-flavoured liqueur
kurganprehistoric burial mound
kurtosisrelative degree of sharpness of peak of distribution curve
kurubrain disease transmitted by cannibalism
kvassEastern European rye beer
kwashiorkortropical disease of infants due to protein deficiency
kylenarrow strait
kylinChinese mythical animal
kyllosisclub foot
kyloesmall long-haired cattle
kymatologystudy of wave motion
kymographinstrument for recording fluid pressure
kyphorrhinoshumped nose
kyphosishunchbacked condition
kyriereligious petition for mercy
kyriellestring of short lines in stanzas all ending with the same word
kyriolexythe use of literal expressions